North Dakota LIVING June 2012

These Hands are Experienced.

Precise. Trusted.

Christopher C. Phillips MD, FACS, FCCP, FACC

These are the tools of Christopher Phillips, MD, cardiovascular surgeon at Trinity Health’s Heart and Lung Center.

Combining the latest technology and newest approaches with the skills of Dr. Phillips and our whole heart team, Trinity Health’s Heart and Lung Center is taking heart surgery in North Dakota to a higher level. Dr. Phillips came to us from the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, the country’s top heart program, and has already performed a number of procedures new to our region.

The Heart and Lung team at Trinity Health; exceptional hands working together to repair and heal the special hearts of our patients.

Heart and Lung Center

Heath Center - West 101 3rd Ave SW Suite 202 Minot, ND (701) 857-3655 www.trinityhealth.org

MOR-GRAN-SOU ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE INC.

CURRENT NEWS Serving Morton, Grant and Sioux counties

JUNE 2012

Active, involved and PROUD

FLOURISHING AFTER THE FLOOD A

INSIDE: • Tenth annual birding festival • Meet your new director • Co-op wins national award

fter a winter of rec Arrowwood Nation overwhelmed with personnel from three sta back their errant waters, topped those dikes and f headquarter office and o Now, three years later $8 million in funding thr Act (ARRA), the refuge’s campus, served by Nort visitor center that includ classrooms overlooking shop, 8,400 square-foot In this first of a threevisitor center that now si sweeping plains, and lea discover how the refuge equipment that enabled i certified facilities. And i see how Northern Plains and wildlife.

NORTH DAKOTA JUNE 2012 Volume 58, No. 12

JUNE 2012

g Daring to dream farmer says cooperatives

JUNE ISSUE

are important, and why YOU, the member-owner, should get involved.

• Co-ops: an extension of the farm • Take care around transformers • Hunt for treasure June 15-16

LIVIng

• Meeting minutes … and more!

MOR-GRAN-SOU ELECTRIC NEWS , JUNE 2012 C1

www.morgransou.com

www.nplains.com

Sisters Kendra, left, and Krista perform at the Belle for the Belle Mehus Project.

www.roughriderelectric.com

ROUGHRIDER ELECTRIC NEWS , APRIL 2012 C1

pages C1-C8

YOUR LOCAL COOPERATIVE NEWS C1-C8

Center 8-page section, following page 22

(most editions)

FEATURES 4 8-21

Editorial by Dennis Hill

NDAREC represents, protects members’ interests

Valley Living

Advanced science fuels Fargo company Little Pekin swells with art every summer Machinery builder prospers in Devils Lake, Maddock

Red River Valley Fair in West Fargo, July 10-15

page 16

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N.D. electric cooperatives have high impact,

26

Dairy Month looks at high-tech partner

FAVORITES

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NORTH DAKOTA LIVIng Educates members of electric cooperatives in North Dakota Publishes articles of interest to co-op members and all North Dakotans Presents local co-op news in center pages (most editions) Features articles for telecommunications cooperative members Published by

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North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

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Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative www.twitter.com/ndarec Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative www.youtube.com/ndarec Supported by

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News Connections

NISC, Great River Energy develop smart grid project

Country Line

Telecom leaders take FCC concerns to Congress

Inspired Living by Roxanne Henke

Living a legacy

Reader Reply

“Share a fact or memory about a small town in North Dakota, and what makes it special.”

Teen-2-Teen

Make it great

36 38

Calendar of Events Recipe Roundup

40

Farm Byline by Al Gustin The impact of air seeders

42 43 44

Marketplace Forum Advertisers’ Index Co-op Country

Shortcuts personalize cookbook

Saturday in the park

ON THE COVER Meagan Gelinske, microbiologist for Aldevron, works with plasmid DNA in a specialized cabinet. See story, page 8. (Photo by Carrie Carney)

North Dakota Association of Telecommunications Cooperatives

www.ndatc.com

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NORTH DAKOTA LIVING  JUNE 2012 1

NEWS CONNECTIONS

NISC, Great River Energy develop smart grid project

N

ational Information Solutions Cooperative, an IT and software solution provider to more than 650 community-owned utilities and telephone organizations, has been selected

by Great River Energy, a generation and transmission (G&T) co-op based in Maple Grove, Minn., for an important project.

NISC is to provide Great River Energy with meter data management (MDM) and demand response management solutions in a smart grid demonstration project.

The effort is part of a $34 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, coordinated by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Cooperative Research Network.

“NISC has been providing meter data

management services to our distribution system members and customers for almost two years,” said Vern Dosch, NISC’s CEO. “We are pleased to be working with a G&T, Great River Energy, to provide MDM services to its smart grid demonstration project.”

“We’re also glad to be bringing our demand response partner, Lockheed Martin, into the project,” Dosch added.

“NISC’s MDM is fully integrated with the Lockheed Martin solution and together we look forward to contributing to

that information can be challenging,” said Gary Connett, director of demand side management and member services at Great River Energy. The power generation cooperative operates the Coal Creek power station near Stanton. Coal Creek Station has more than 200 employees.

NISC has corporate offices in Mandan, as well as Lake St. Louis, Mo. NRECA, Arlington, Va., represents the nation’s more than 900 electric cooperatives. Lockheed Martin, Bethesda, Md., is a global security company engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems. 

Your Touchstone Energy the success ofCooperative GRE and

its member cooperatives’ efforts.” The two cooperatives taking part in the project – Lake Region Electric Cooperative, Pelican Rapids, Minn., and Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative, Jordan, Minn. – are also members of NISC and use its MDM system.

“There is a tremendous amount of data delivered to electric cooperatives by smart meters and managing

Sheyenne Valley Riverbend Farm

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Cass County Electric Cooperative, Fargo.

Former North Dakotans Bob and Marion Rieth, now in the state of Washington, own Riverbend Farm, and visit it several times a year. A special part of Riverbend Farm is its chapel – the former Elim Evangelical Free Church. The retired

JUNE 2012  NORTH DAKOTA LIVING

church was moved from near Litchville to Riverbend Farm in 2005.

Mary Lee Robinson, Valley City, is the manager of Riverbend Farm. “It’s a very peaceful, beautiful country setting,” she says. The site also features: an event center, a guest inn (original farmhouse), school cabin (old country school); RV parking; and picnic areas.

Contact Information: 701-845-1377; 3716

COURTESY PHOTO

n the placid prairie landscape, near a gently flowing river, Sheyenne Valley Riverbend Farm currently presents a comfortable country venue for a wide variety of group outings. Located three miles south of Valley City on Kathryn Road, Riverbend Farm is a farmstead which has been converted into buildings for business meetings, weddings, reunions, small conferences or celebrations.

The facility is served by

Sheyenne Valley Riverbend Farm presents a peaceful group gathering location near Valley City.

117th Ave. S.E., P.O. Box 456 Valley City, ND 58072; www. riverbendfarm.com.  w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

Medora sends out a big ‘howdy!’

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PHOTO COURTESY TRMF

012 is the 100th birthday of the late Harold Schafer, legendary North Dakota entrepreneur and architect of the wonderful western community of Medora, which is served by Roughrider Electric Cooperative.

The Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation (TRMF), which manages the Medora attractions, uses “Preserve – Present – Serve” as the energetic words driving the three powerful sections of its mission statement. Randy Hatzenbuhler, TRMF president, says 2012 and the 100th birthday presented a fitting opportunity to recharge the TRFM mission with some Harold Schafer inspiration.

So, the first plank of the mission statement now says TRMF will: “Preserve the experience of the badlands, the historic character of Medora and the heritage of Theodore Roosevelt and Harold Schafer.”

“So many people still connect to Medora through the memory of Harold Schafer,” Hatzenbuhler said. “Harold understood the real history and the real beauty of this land, and he also understood that we need to have services and points of interest for visitors.”

Hatzenbuhler said his current travels and visits with North Dakotans point to their optimism and eagerness to explore the state this summer.

He encourages visitors

The Medora Musical continues to be a high energy, patriotic celebration of western North Dakota values.

to Medora and western North Dakota to do more trip planning regarding accommodations, due to increased oil exploration activity. TRMF has taken steps to make sure abundant motel/hotel rooms are available for the traveling public. These are a few of the major features at Medora: n Medora Musical – The all new musical will be performed nightly from June 8 through Sept. 8, at 8:30 p.m. MDT. Enjoy family entertainment while enjoying the outdoor splendor of the North Dakota Badlands in the 2,852-seat Burning Hills Amphitheatre. This professionally produced, Western-style, patriotic musical is proudly dedicated to the legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt and his time in North Dakota’s Badlands. Audiences are treated to an exciting array of song and dance routines performed by the Burning Hills Singers and accompanied by the onstage band, the Coal

Diggers. Kids days, senior days, military specials and college specials provide admission discounts. n Pitchfork Steak Fondue – Nationally acclaimed Pitchfork Steak Fondue is served nightly, at the Tjaden Terrace, adjacent to the Burning Hills Amphitheatre.

Chefs load ribeye steaks onto pitchforks and fondue them western-style, served with heaping side dishes and sweet desserts. The spectacular evening views of the Badlands and serenading sounds of Medora Musical cast members make the dining experience memorable. New in 2012 will be the Thursday night Cowboy Cookout, featuring roasted chicken, barbecued ribs and buffalo roast. n Theodore Roosevelt National Park – Named for the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is managed by the National Park Service. It covers 110 square miles of the vistas and savage beauty of the North Dakota Badlands.

The South Unit Visitor Center, open year-round, is located at the South Unit’s entrance in Medora and includes a museum and theater. Through the park, there is a 36-mile scenic loop drive, and opportunities for sightseeing on foot, horseback are also available.

And, the Family Fun Center is a new Medora offering this year, featuring a water slide, bungee jumping and a rock climbing wall.

For more information on all the guest services and features of Medora, go to: www. medora.com. Or call 1-800-MEDORA-1. n

North Dakota’s largest rummage sale June 15-16

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he state’s largest rummage sale event, the 11th annual Highway 21 Treasure Hunt, is set for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT June 15 and 16.

“With approximately 100 rummage sales over the 100-mile route, this is a fun event,” says coordinator Luann Dart, Elgin.

During the event, communities along Highway 21 in southwestern North Dakota host citywide rummage sales along Highway 21. Participating communities include St. Anthony, Flasher, Carson, Elgin, New Leipzig, Mott, Regent and New England.

For more information, contact Luann Dart at 701-584-2172. n

NORTH DAKOTA LIVING n june 2012 3

EDITORIAL

BY

DENNIS HILL

NDAREC represents, protects members’ interests

I

PHOTO BY PHYNE PHOTOGRAPHY

t’s not often that one of my editorials provokes controversy, but I struck a nerve with some readers with the April editorial which called for defeat of Measure 2. Several people took the time to call me directly to let me know they strongly disagreed with me on the likely impacts of the measure. That some folks disagreed was no surprise. What did surprise me were those who said our association has no business taking a position on Measure 2. In my view, this reflects a misunderstanding of the Dennis Hill role of a trade association, such as the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC).

One of our primary functions as a trade association is to represent the interests of our members before legislative bodies. In recent years, NDAREC has worked with its member-cooperatives to defeat unfair territorial bills, to oppose burdensome regulatory requirements, and to pass tax legislation that treats our electric cooperatives fairly. On these issues, we have enjoyed strong support from our cooperative-consumers. In the Legislature and in Congress, we are pleased to represent you on issues affecting the business you own: your local electric cooperative.

While Measure 2 is an initiated constitutional amendment, it is really just another form of legislation that will be decided by the voters instead of legislators.

As a trade association, it’s our job to determine whether a measure is beneficial or detrimental to our members’

NORTH DAKOTA JUNE 2012 Volume 58, No. 12 Circulation: 92,000

LIVIng

Published monthly by white type >>>

North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives 3201 Nygren Dr. N.W., P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554 © Copyright 2012 NDAREC; North Dakota Living Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative (ISSN-1539-0063) Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative Your Touchstone Contact us: Energy Cooperative

800-234-0518; 701-663-6501; www.ndarec.com Your Touchstone Energy Cooperative

Staff:

Your Touchstone Cooperative Dennis Hill, CCC, Energy editor-in-chief Kent Brick, CCC, editor Your Touchstone Edna Stoltz, local Energy pages & Cooperative publications services mgr.

Tammy Kear, editorial assistant J.C. Balcom, production & graphic services mgr.

Carmen Devney, CCC, communications specialist Clark A. Van Horn, advertising mgr.

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JUNE 2012 

interests, to educate our members, and then to work to pass or defeat the measure. When a bill is introduced in the Legislature, we have a third alternative. We can seek to amend the legislation to make it better. With Measure 2, no matter how poorly drafted or deeply flawed it may be, it cannot be amended except by a future vote on a constitutional amendment.

One of the flaws of Measure 2 is that it proposes to repeal assessed property taxes, but it fails to address other forms of taxation based on property ownership, such as the millions of dollars electric cooperatives pay each year on their generation, transmission and distribution facilities. Passage of Measure 2 would be very unfair to electric cooperatives and their consumers who would be paying taxes not paid by other utility customers. Addressing a news report that two cooperative-generation companies were paying their in lieu property taxes under protest because Measure 2, if passed, would be retroactive to Jan. 1, a recent editorial in The Forum noted: “This is the kind of revenue disruption and bureaucratic nightmare North Dakotans will be in for if the measure [Measure 2] is approved.”

As an association representing the electric cooperative you own, it is our duty to let you know when we believe an initiated measure is detrimental to your interests as a cooperative member-owner. It is in this spirit that we let you know we believe you should vote NO on Measure 2.  Dennis Hill, editor-in-chief of North Dakota Living, is executive vice president and general manager of the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives, Mandan. Comments can be mailed to Dennis Hill, NDAREC, P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554-0727 or by email to dhill@ndarec.com.

Public Relations Advisory Committee:

Christine Peterson, chairwoman, North Central Electric Cooperative Russ Berg, Cass County Electric Cooperative David Sigloh, Upper Missouri G&T Electric Cooperative Don Franklund, Innovative Energy Alliance, LLC Clayton Hoffman, Innovative Energy Alliance, LLC Lauren Klewin, Slope Electric Cooperative Jeanette Hoff, Reservation Telephone Cooperative

Advertising sales:

Paid advertising accepted, in conformity with NDAREC policy. Rates, editorial calendar, specifications, deadlines, contacts available at www.ndliving.com. Direct advertising orders, questions, comments about ad content to: Clark A. Van Horn, cvanhorn@ndarec.com; 800-234-0518.

NDAREC neither endorses nor guarantees products or services described in these advertisements.

Subscriptions:

Members of electric cooperatives subscribe to North Dakota Living as part of their membership with and service from the cooperative. Non-members of electric cooperatives may purchase subscriptions at these levels: 12 issues - $14.50; 36 issues: $40. Single copies: $2, plus postage. Subscription purchase information is available by calling 800-234-0518; or at www.ndarec.com.

NORTH DAKOTA LIVING

Addresses/address changes/subscription terminations: when the member terminates service from the electric cooperative, the North Dakota Living subscription terminates. Non-member subscribers should communicate with NDAREC about address changes; send magazine label with former address, a note bearing new address to North Dakota Living Subscriptions, P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554; or contact tkear@ndarec.com.

U.S. Postal Service

Periodicals nonprofit postage paid at Mandan, N.D., and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to: North Dakota Living, P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554.

In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture Policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

No portion of the editorial or advertising content of North Dakota Living may be reproduced without permission. w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

COUNTRY LINE

A

by

Kent Brick

Telecom leaders take FCC concerns to Congress

t a time when federal policy supporting rural telecommunications is changing dramatically, North Dakota rural telecom leaders are redoubling their efforts to help shape these changes. This describes the mission of North Dakotans who went to Washington, D.C., this spring, to participate in the annual legislative conference of the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association (NTCA).

committed to extending broadband connectivity in their areas, and said loss of federal program support is impairing this effort. Aslakson said congressional staff members, in general, understand what the rural telecom companies are trying to accomplish and what fair Universal Service Fund support means in that effort.

Aslakson also said the FCC ruling is also resulting in a decrease in the traditional compensation

photoS by rick snider

Sen. John Hoeven, speaking, Sen. Kent Conrad and Rep. Rick Berg met with N.D. rural telecom leaders during their work in Washington, D.C.

Royce Aslakson, general manager of Reservation Telephone Cooperative (RTC), Parshall, was among North Dakotans participating in the NTCA conference. Aslakson, along with Harley Overseth, a director for West River Telecommunications, Hazen, visited the offices of four members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

The policy changes Aslakson and other rural telecom leaders addressed at Congressional offices relate to recent regulatory rulings from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Last November, the FCC changed the financial support rural telecommunications companies derive through intercarrier compensation and the federal Universal Service Fund.

The change has meant less financial support for many rural telecom companies, including those in North Dakota. In offices they visited, Aslakson and Overseth urged staff members to pay attention to how these regulations are hurting rural companies, in the hope of formulating congressional support for regulatory change.

“We received a very positive reception from the congressional aides we visited,” Aslakson said. He and Overseth discussed how rural telecom companies are 6

RTC and other rural telecom companies are receiving for other carriers’ use of the rural telecom facilities.

Aslakson said previous intercarrier compensation formulas helped assure that his company could keep up its investment in telecom facilities. The FCC regulation is hurting rural telecom companies in this regard, and Aslakson and Overseth conveyed this point to congressional staff members.

“We have to be compensated for the use of our facilities,” Aslakson said.

Congressional offices Aslakson and Overseth visited include: Rep. Sam Farr (D-CA); Rep. Richard Hastings (R-WA); Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA); and Rep. Dave Reichert (R-WA).

Reflecting on his visits to these offices, Aslakson said he felt the staff members – from parts of the country very different than North Dakota – sincerely care about current rural telecom issues. He said this disposition is instrumental in enlisting support from Members of Congress.

‘Don’t forget us’ Paul Schuetzler, general manager, Consolidated Telcom, Dickinson, also led a team of North Dakotans in visits to congressional offices. His team consisted

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Paul Schuetzler, left, Consolidated Telcom, and his team visit with Isiah Wilson, right, assistant to Rep. Steve Rothman (D-NJ).

From left: Royce Aslakson, Reservation Telephone, and Harley Overseth, West River Telecom, visit with Nick Choate, legislative director, Rep. Jim Costa (D-CA).

of Consolidated Telcom personnel, including: Marilyn Burwick, customer service representative; and Mark Beaudoin, combination technician.

Congressional offices this team visited included: Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-CA); Rep. Steve Rothman (D-NJ); Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-CA); and Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA).

Like Aslakson, Schuetzler said he was very pleased with the attentiveness and concern his team experienced from congressional staff members during the visits.

“They were attentive, they listened and they seemed to be very receptive to the issues and big challenges we are facing with the FCC order,” Schuetzler said.

Schuetzler said the congressional staff members do grasp the dilemma rural telecom companies are experiencing. He said current presidential and congressional pronouncements favor widespread broadband buildout nationwide, but current regulation is hurting rural telecom companies in their efforts to accomplish this.

“The walk and talk don’t match up,” Schuetzler said.

“They talk about wanting to get broadband out to rural America and to all America, and yet the policies that are being put in place seem to be contradictory to that.”

For Schuetzler, who represents North Dakota rural telecom companies on the NTCA board of directors, congressional office visits during the legislative conference provide valuable reminders.

“We take the opportunity to say ‘Hey, don’t forget us – don’t forget about the impact your decisions have on people living out here across America,’ ” Schuetzler said.

In all, 13 teams made up of 42 rural telecom leaders from North Dakota, participated in congressional visits during the NTCA legislative conference. During the conference, the rural telecom leaders also held a luncheon meeting with the North Dakota congressional delegation, including Sen. Kent Conrad, Sen. John Hoeven and Rep. Rick Berg.  Kent Brick is editor of North Dakota Living. He may be reached at kbrick@ndarec.com.

NORTH DAKOTA ASSOCIATION OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVES 3201 Nygren Drive N.W. Box 1144 Mandan, N.D. 58554

(701) 663-1099 www.ndatc.com

Cooperatives

BEK Communications Cooperative .................................................Steele Consolidated Telcom Cooperative ............................................Dickinson Dakota Central Telecommunications Cooperative................... Carrington Dickey Rural Networks .............................................................. Ellendale Nemont Telephone Cooperative.........................................Scobey, Mont.

Northwest Communications Cooperative .......................................... Ray Polar Communications Cooperative ........................................Park River Red River Rural Telephone Association............................... Abercrombie Reservation Telephone Cooperative ........................................... Parshall SRT Communications Cooperative................................................. Minot United Telephone Mutual Aid Corporation ................................. Langdon West River Telecommunications Cooperative ................................Hazen w w w. n d l i v i n g . c o m

NDATC Officers

Stanley Vangsness, President............................. SRT Communications Ron German, First Vice President ............... Red River Rural Telephone Jeanette Hoff, Second Vice President............................................. RTC Lorena Lambrecht, Secretary/Treasurer... Northwest Communications Leo Meier, Director.............................................. BEK Communications Jon Hendrickson, Director ....................................Consolidated Telcom Rodney Suko, Director .....................................Dakota Central Telecom Kent Klima, Director ......................................... Dickey Rural Telephone Larry Mahler, Director .............................................. Nemont Telephone Ron Steinke, Director ........................................ Polar Communications Lorne Field, Director................................................... United Telephone Randy Christmann, Director................................... West River Telecom NORTH DAKOTA LIVING  JUNE 2012 7

Valley Living

PHOTOS BY CARRIE CARNEY

John Ballantyne, left, and Michael Chambers are two young scientists who have turned a dream into commercial reality.

Fargo company puts dream to reality BY

CARRIE CARNEY

T

wo young scientists had a dream to create a company where they could do the research they were passionate about. It was a dream to cure diseases, create vaccines, and pursue other lifesaving inventions.

Their idealism took a slight detour along the way, but now they run a successful company that produces biologicals for customers worldwide.

Their reality is partly a dream come true. Their products help other companies in the pursuit of curing and preventing disease, or rapidly identifying disease markers.

The start of something big John Ballantyne and Michael Chambers met at North Dakota State University (NDSU) in 1996. Michael

8

was a biotechnology student and John, who is originally from New Zealand, has a doctorate degree in pharmaceutical sciences. Together they found a common interest in what would lead them to create their business, Aldevron, of Fargo, served

by Cass County Electric Cooperative.

The two knew they wanted to start a company, they just weren’t quite sure how. They were fresh out of college and neither of them had much background in business.

They were two scientists who knew what they wanted for an outcome, but weren’t sure how to get there, or more importantly, how to pay for it.

“Two students just out of college weren’t exactly prime candidates for funding. That was a big struggle,” Chambers said.

JUNE 2012  NORTH DAKOTA LIVING

The two met with investors.

They tried to be creative to fund the company, but it was ultimately a side job that fi nanced and became a core component of what Aldevron is today.

One of Chamber’s mentors, from the Pasteur Institute in France, was an expert in the burgeoning field of DNA vaccines. Through a referral, the pair were asked to produce some plasmid DNA. NDSU had lab space available for their use, so they took on the job and from word-of-mouth advertising, more jobs were sent their way. Many times, they’d work at night because then they had free rein of the lab and equipment. They could start the process and wouldn’t have to stop. “It was the first real incubator situation at NDSU,” Chambers said.

“Something that we thought was going to be funding research projects became our business.” w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

Ian Donaghy, production scientist, tests DNA purification levels.

Worldwide business and success Plasmid DNA is at the center of DNA vaccine research. These small loops of DNA are expanded in safe bacterial hosts and then purified through an exacting process. “The plasmids contain ‘genes of interest’ that, when delivered to a host, carry the code to produce proteins,” Ballantyne explained. “If it is for a vaccine, the sequence might encode for a piece of the outer shell that the body would generate an immune response against in the course of a normal infection. In gene therapy, the code may be for an enzyme that would then function properly to augment or supersede the faulty one associated with the condition.”

Researchers typically request Aldevron’s services because they don’t have the time, expertise or equipment to produce the DNA. “And we believe they need our services because we make the best material that you can get,” Chambers explained. “Researchers are utilizing the material in pre-clinical and clinical projects and we’re excited to be part of supporting research from bench to the clinic.”

The company keeps growing and has expanded. They have protein production services, mostly done in Madison, Wis. They also purchased a company in Frieberg, Germany, that makes highly specialized antibodies for researchers. Worldwide, Aldevron has about 85 employees; about 50 of those are in Fargo.

The protein production and antibody services are similar to what Aldevron does in Fargo with the plasmid DNA in that they too are custom services. Many times, proteins and antibodies are the next stage of material for researchers. “We w w w. n d l i v i n g . c o m

have built up a continuum of services,” Chambers remarked. “The DNA can be used in animal studies to find the best sequences. These sequences can then be used to make proteins that are often more powerful vaccines in different systems at our site in Madison. Ultrahigh-quality antibodies that are required for testing the proteins can be made in Germany and these can in turn be used as a form of rapid treatment for those already exposed to viruses.”

“Biotechnology is an endlessly diverse spectrum of science based around the use of living systems to generate or be modified by molecules that cover a range of complexity,”

Ballantyne said. “Companies in our sector are oftentimes at the fulcrum between ideas and reality. Every day, researchers working on a diverse array of concepts contact us. If you had told me 14 years ago that we would be collaborating with, not just manufacturing for, people working on using bacterial toxins to treat a currently untreatable form of cancer or purifying antibodies from duck eggs to counteract massively lethal doses of deadly viruses, I would never have believed you.” continued on page 10

NORTH DAKOTA LIVING n june 2012 9

Joe Anundson, microbiologist, operates an incubated shaker where plasmid DNA bacteria is grown.

continued from page 9

North Dakota work ethic behind world presence Aldevron began as a small group of 20-somethings. Being a young company, in more ways than one, was a struggle and a good thing as well. “We’ve grown up with the company. It was challenging at the beginning to walk in and be a 24-year-old and be the president of the company. How could we establish credibility? We’ve always been serious. Now, I think we’re there,” Ballantyne said.

“A lot of the trial and error was

experienced in the first years, and it still occurs. Last year, we had a client that needed 10,000 plasmids in two months. That is where we test not only our flexibility, but also our ideal of continuous improvement.

We question: How can we change our system? It’s a credit to every employee. They all have ideas; they are doing this every day. They bring different experiences to the position. Everyone brings something to the table,” Chambers said.

The company’s website states: “The inspiration of the honeybee has been integral to growing the high-value service business model

10 j u n e 2 0 1 2 n N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

that Aldevron adheres to.” Chambers grew up near Carrington in a family of beekeepers. His respect for the business and the bees that are “engineers, chemists, mathematicians, nurses, guards and stewards” serves as a guiding principles for the business and its future. Precision, follow-through, compliance and working in harmony are all things the bees do on a day-to-day basis, and so does Aldevron. n Carrie Carney is the communications coordinator for Cass County Electric Cooperative, Fargo.

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Life is too beautiful not to smile.

Dr. Everett Heringer is the most trusted family dentist in the region and an expert at keeping smiles on little faces! Call us today at 701.255.4850 or 866.503.3883 or visit online at drheringer.com! w w w. n d l i v i n g . c o m

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G n j u n e 2 0 1 2 11

Valley Living

Little Pekin casts giant arts shadow BY

KENT BRICK

T

hough tiny in population, Pekin has a heart and soul for art that makes it a giant cultural contributor in North Dakota.

Pekin, with about 80 residents, sits at the intersection of state highways 1 and 15, an hour west of Grand Forks. Each summer since 1993, Pekin has played host to the Pekin Days Art Show, which now draws about 1,000 visitors and artists each year. This year, the Pekin

Days Art Show takes place June 20-24.

The Nelson County Arts Council operates the Pekin Days Art Show.

Brenda Bjorlie, the council’s executive director, was instrumental in putting on the first show in 1993, and has been a part of its growth ever since.

“I appreciated art, but I didn’t know anything about art,” Bjorlie says, describing herself before the show gelled. With growing support from North Dakota’s finest artists

12 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

for the Pekin Days Art Show, Bjorlie’s appreciation of artistic achievement grew. “It’s been very gratifying being taught by these people about art and the different types of art, and for me to gain the knowledge that I’ve gained over these years,” Bjorlie says.

“The Nelson County Arts Council has done a wonderful job of activating not only the audience, but the artists,” says Jon Offutt, a glassworks artist and regular at the Pekin Days Art Show. “There’s an amazing diversity of national class w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

COURTESY PHOTO

Elmer Bjorlie and “Old Tyme Kings” bring musical sounds to the Pekin Days Art Show while (inset photo) artwork is on display in the auditorium.

Pekin Days Art Show June 20-24

work there, from some of North Dakota’s best artists.”

Bjorlie fondly recalls the first show, in 1993, featuring the works of 16 area artists – but only two of them living at the time.

The Texas native landed in Pekin by virtue of marriage to Elmer Bjorlie, a Pekin native.

Brenda and Elmer returned to his hometown in 1992 to retire, following his insurance career in Montana. In Pekin, Brenda got acquainted with longtime residents and with pieces of art which area homesteaders produced.

Members of area homestead farm

Pekin, Nelson County, at crossing of N.D. Highways 1 and 15 Opening reception - June 20 Art show and sale - June 21-22, city auditorium Art vendor display and sale June 23-24, outdoors For more information, go to www.pekinnd.com.

families painted scenes of their past on slabs of wood and other available surfaces. Brenda and others undertook the task of cleaning the city auditorium, and working with local families, so that these works could be put on display.

They also borrowed art pieces from Parshall’s Paul Broste Rock Museum for display as well.

“That was our first show and people enjoyed it so much, they asked us to do it the following year,” Brenda says. This prompted their efforts to reach out to area artists to enlist their participation.

“I would go all over North Dakota,

Glassworks artist Jon Offutt, and other leading North Dakota artists, are regulars at the Pekin Days Art Show.

PHOTO BY DANI FROELICH, BSC PHOTOJOURNALIST STUDENT

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to different arts and craft shows, and when I saw a fi ne artist there, I would get their business card,” she says.

The rising number of paying art exhibitors enabled the Nelson County Fine Arts group to establish a judged competition with cash prizes. That was a boost to artists’ participation. Another boost to artists’ participation occurred when the group was able to enlist and sustain a roster of guaranteed purchasers for the show.

Bjorlie says this worked well.

These days, an exclusive group of 14 guaranteed purchasers are given first choice of pieces at the show. They are followed by a group of 50 purchasers, who have bought tickets enabling them to have this next exclusive opportunity to buy art pieces.

Bjorlie said sales to the public are made all four days of the show. She says there is even a “$25 and under” section in the art show, where purchases of art pieces for relatively small amounts of money can be accomplished.

On the weekends, artists may also set up booths and tents to make direct sales of their pieces.

Don and Theresa Paul, Edgeley, drive a restored 1928 REO Speedwagon to the show and Theresa sells her fine art jewelry from inside of it.

This environment encouraging the sale of high-quality and a wide continued on page 14

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 13

continued from page 13

At the Pekin Days Art Show, children observe pottery demonstrations and create their own boxes for a parade.

COURTESY PHOTO

variety of artwork is a great draw for artists.

“What motivates the artists is having people who are willing to purchase – it makes it worthwhile to transport work there and to participate,” Offutt says. When not touring the country in his mobile glassblowing studio, Offutt is busy as the owner and operator of the House of Mulciber Glass Studio in Fargo. Offutt regularly displays his glassblowing techniques and products at the Pekin show.

In recent years, the Pekin Days Art Show has added features for children, including pottery demonstrations and a box decoration and parade, Brenda adds. A community craft show, musical entertainment and authors have also become part of the show. Brenda’s husband, Elmer, and “Old Tyme Kings” are one of the musical features at the show.

There are community feeds for the public and a meal for the artists

and their patrons. Brenda said the long weekend has the feel of a retreat for the artists, and those that enjoy art. “We cook a big meal, and partake, and just sit around and tell stories, discuss art and give each other ideas,” she says.

For Brenda, this is all a source of personal and community pride.

“Having the opportunity to meet artists from throughout North Dakota, and other states, and to see the art that is produced, gives me

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For the 80 “regular” Pekin residents – with their solitary church, elevator and post office – the annual art show is their spark. “It gives us a sense of pride,” Brenda says. 

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N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 15

Valley Living

Summers Manufacturing continues as family BY

KENT BRICK

PHOTOS BY KENT BRICK

A welder at Summers Manufacturing in Devils Lake works on a piece of equipment.

A

bout 50 years ago, when Harley Summers started a business to manufacture and market farm equipment, the core workforce was his family. Now, with three interstate locations, more than 200 employees and customers worldwide, Summers Manufacturing still relies on the family model for its success.

Current Summers Manufacturing President Deb Anderson

– Harley and Viola’s daughter – recalls that her father was once just a Maddock area blacksmith.

He developed a knack for creating tractor-drawn implements and other farm equipment. In 1965, he purchased patent rights for Goebel truck and pickup hoists from Goebel Brothers of Lehr. These hoists, produced in the blacksmith shop the first year, were distributed nationwide.

With growing sales, and success at fashioning what is now known

16 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

as the acclaimed Herman Harrow, Summers moved the business out of the blacksmith shop. He went looking for larger quarters and a management team. Anderson says her dad convinced his two sons – one was in the military and one was selling insurance – to join the growing business.

“I was the baby of the family and I came in because it was growing, and then my sister came back in and then the entire family was involved in the business,” Anderson says. w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

Company President Deb Anderson — Harley Summers’ daughter — and Brian Perkuhn, vice president of sales, provide executive leadership for Summers Manufacturing.

Brian Perkuhn, today’s vice president of sales for Summers Manufacturing, affirms that family dynamics are still central to their operations. “We have a good culture here,” Perkuhn says. “We’re employee-owned, we try to promote teamwork and team building, and we’re a family-oriented business. So when you come to work here, it’s not just a job, it’s more like a family.”

Summers Manufacturing started with a manufacturing center in Maddock, created an additional, larger plant in Devils Lake and has a service, parts and set-up facility in Aberdeen, S.D. In all, there are just over 200 employees; twothirds work in the Devils Lake facility, which is served by Nodak w w w. n d l i v i n g . c o m

Electric Cooperative. Summers builds several types of field treatment implements.

“All of our products are towed implements pulled by a tractor,” Perkuhn says. Summers is a builder in the truest sense. “We do it all – from raw steel to painted fi nished parts,” he says. The current 13 product lines include: spring tillage; fall tillage; spring residue management; fall residue management; field spraying equipment; soil conditioning; land rollers; rock removal equipment; no-till; minimum-till; conventional-till; vertical tillage; and seedbed preparation.

These product lines feature a combined 57 different equipment types. Summers has a strong

commitment to research, product development and working directly with farmers and monitoring results closely.

“We’re always evolving – that’s the way I see us,” Anderson says.

“We’re always coming up with ways to serve a customer better, including products for conditions they face.”

Perkuhn says Summers has an engineering and sales staff rooted in agriculture. Engineers look closely at equipment performance a farmer needs, and help move Summers in that direction. The sales staff has a similar approach. “A lot of our sales staff has been born and raised on farms, so they’re in tune with farmers’ needs, can relate to them, can see the need for product changes and help us adapt with new products,” Perkuhn says.

This full and dynamic catalog of products began growing rapidly with the Summers Manufacturing official incorporation in 1969. Harley Summers’ collaboration with area farmer, Ardon Herman, led to the Herman Harrow, an effective piece of light tillage equipment.

In 1973, the company moved into a newly built 20,000-squarefoot plant and offices in Maddock.

It more than doubled this square footage by 1975. During the next 10 years, Summers added a major rock picker line; built and opened the Devils Lake facility; added a field sprayer line in 1983; and, in 1984, started making the Herman Diamond Disk, a disk harrow made in a diamond shape to reduce blade breakage from rocks.

In 2007, the Summers family and the employees made the determination that employee ownership continued on page 18

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 17

continued from page 17

was the appropriate operating mode for the business. Anderson says the employee ownership model works because of the emphasis on sharing key information, and on wide, inclusive discussion of operational matters.

“We try not to stress the organizational structure as much as that we’re all owners. I think it’s a good culture because we understand what we do affects the bottom line,” Anderson says.

Anderson leads a Summers team of employees in analyzing and planning strategically. The company planning team is made up of 14 individuals, each one undertaking a close look at part of the company’s work. The result is a strategic plan, which, Anderson says, is “not just put on the shelf.”

“Our strategic plan takes us out to 2020,” Perkuhn says. He says widespread popularity of corn and soybean varieties, and equipment needed to perform with these varieties, are the drivers of the plan. He says the marketing principles they employ are closely allied with the products they put out into fields.

“It comes down to product and customer service,” Perkuhn says. “We pride ourselves on the quality product we build, on its strength and durability. We get good feedback and repeat customers for that.”

Anderson sums up the overall Summers Manufacturing effort by pointing to their people, the Summers owners and family atmosphere. “I like to look at our mission statement, because it’s very passionate. It says ‘We’re going to build field-tested tough agricultural equipment to help farmers feed and fuel the world.’

That gives us the deeper meaning of what we’re doing here,” Anderson concludes. n Kent Brick is editor of North Dakota Living. He may be reached at kbrick@ ndarec.com.

Employees at Summers’ Devils Lake plant work on a hydraulic fold land roller.

The Summers name on field equipment reflects the pride of the employeeowned company.

Summers Manufacturing milestones over five decades

1965 Summers Manufacturing

is founded by Harley Summers, who purchases patent rights for Goebel truck and pickup hoists from the Goebel Brothers of Lehr.

1977 Summers introduces the

Agri-sprayer, used in conjunction with the Herman culti-harrow to incorporate herbicides and liquid fertilizer.

1984 Herman Diamond Disk, a

disk harrow made in a diamond shape to reduce blade breakage from rocks, comes off the assembly line.

18 j u n e 2 0 1 2 n N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

1994

A 50- by 125-foot addition to the Maddock factory is completed.

Construction begins on a 24,576square-foot addition to the Devils Lake factory, which enables the company to increase production of truck-mounted and pull-type supersprayers and rockpickers.

2000 Company introduces

the Supercoulter, the innovative solution for excessive field residue management on no-till, minimumtill, and conventional-till farming operations. w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

SUMMERS FIELD TESTED TOUGH!

®

2510 DT DIAMOND TILLAGE Low Concavity Notched Blades provide non-stop tillage in your toughest conditions with this Summers Diamond Disk.

Proven diamond shaped to “float” over rocks without damage. and the triangular wheel arrangement and floating hitch eliminates ridging, skipping and gouging.

Other features include: Positive depth control, Superflex™ C-type bearing standards, ductile cast spools and bearing holders mounted on a heavy 4” x 6” frame.

Units are available in working widths ranging from 18 to 47 ft. and can be equipped with Summers® Mounted Harrows or Rolling Baskets

16’ to 28’ DISK CHISEL DISKCHISEL

Individually hub mounted Disk Blades, with hydraulic depth control, size residue ahead of rugged chisel shanks. Measuring 1-1/4 in. x 2 in., the chisel shanks are formed “on edge” to reduce draft and improve residue flow. They are spaced on 12 in. centers and give over 34 in. of frame-to-sweep tip clearance. Springs keep sweeps at preset levels for consistant working depths.

A Narrow Hydraulic Hitch on the 16’ through 28’ provides stability and maneuverability and fitted with the 4-Bar Model 106 Summers Mounted Harrow sections, the DiscChisel provides smoother surfaced fields with evenly spread residue.

For more information on these and other Summers Products check our web site: www.summersmfg.com or call us at: 1 (800) 732-4347, ext. 4015

Valley Living

BY

LUANN DART

P

lan to play at the 2012 Red River Valley Fair July 10-15, screaming on the extreme carnival rides or watching a newly hatched chick cheep its first peep.

“You can have a stay-cation right here in your own backyard. We have nationally recognized entertainment and a fantastic carnival coming in with big, extreme rides.

And you can get your fill of fair food, too,” says General Manager Bryan Schulz.

Traditional family fun in the Red River Valley means a visit to the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo, where fairgoers will find affordable grandstand entertainment, thrilling carnival rides and lots of moments to make memories.

A new feature this year will be a wine garden, where visitors can sample different varieties of wines and learn more about North Dakota’s viticulture. Located in the middle of the fairgrounds, the wine garden will be open from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

The fair also features the local talents of those exhibiting food, art or livestock from the Red River Valley, and showcases the contributions of North Dakota’s farmers.

Visitors should note that 4-H exhibits will now be displayed in the newly named 4-H Expos Center (formerly the Commercial Building), while commercial vendors will be located in the Hartl Ag Building.

Offering great grandstand acts

While the Red River Valley Fair will be a six-day fair rather than the traditional nine-day event this year, grandstand entertainment fills the schedule. All grandstand shows, which begin at

20 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

8 p.m., are free with a paid gate admission: $7 for adults (ages 12 and older); $3 for children ages 6-11; and ages 5 and under admitted free.

Grandstand acts include:  Tuesday, July 10 – Arch Allies  Wednesday, July 11 – The Band Perry  Thursday, July 12 – Hairball  Friday, July 13 – Jerrod Niemann  Saturday, July 14 – Chevelle  Sunday, July 15 – Justin Moore

w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

Bringing the farm to town

“For those who have never had the experience of seeing baby pigs or lambs, we have the ag education center,” Schulz says. “We’re doing a lot of neat things there, too, this year, along with the hatching of the baby chicks.”

The Cass County Farm Bureau’s Ag Education Center, open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, allows families to learn about the Red River Valley’s agriculture and livestock. The 16,000-square-foot facility located south of the Schollander Pavilion provides educational experiences for both children and adults. Fairgoers can watch poultry hatch, meet the newborn farm animals or milk a cow.

“Every year, it continues to grow and we get more people who want to be a part of it. They’re excited about it,” Schulz says.

Returning this year is the “Thank a Farmer” show, which combines humor, magic and education to bridge the gap between rural and urban people of all ages. Focusing on the importance of farmers in our everyday lives, the shows will be held at 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. daily in the Ag Education Center. A special performance is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 10.

Bringing endless entertainment

From alligators to bears, an enchanted wagon to comical magic, families will find free stage entertainment for all ages.

Here’s a preview of the acts:  Zerebko Petting Zoo – Pet and feed exotic animals or ride a pony from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.  Swampmaster Gator Show – Watch as the swampmaster catches an eight-foot, 200-pound alligator with his bare hands. Hold a baby alligator and learn more about these great creatures at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily.  Welde Big Bear Show – The Welde family shares an educational presentation and exhibit filled with facts while showing the natural beauty and comical antics of these majestic animals.

Shows are at 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily.  Steve, the Pretty Good – Magic and comedy combine for family entertainment as the show gives classic magic a funny twist and transforms the audience into hilarious magical assistants. Strolling shows will be held daily

with stage shows at 1 p.m. Tuesday and 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.  The Enchanted Wagon – This enchanting interactive strolling puppet act will appear on the grounds from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Zipping on the Zipper

From the Zipper to the Tornado, fairgoers will find lots of thrills at the Murphy Brothers carnival. A new ride to the Red River Valley Fair is the Vertigo, which is a swing ride rising into the sky. And plenty of food vendors will provide unique fair food, too.

Special days have been set aside for fairgoers, including:  Day Care Day, July 10: The carnival will open at 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 10, which is Day Care Day.  Senior Day, July 11: The Krigen Accordion Band will perform at the StopN-Go Stage and the grandparents essay contest winners will be revealed.  Family Day, July 14: Bring the family to enjoy a day of fun at the fair.  Souper Sunday, July 15: Bring a minimum of two nonperishable food items for $2 off the gate admission fee.

Getting competitive

Not only will the fair host the traditional livestock shows and competitive exhibits, there are also lots of daily contests scheduled.

Fill a cookie jar, race a rubber duck or decorate an egg. Write an essay about your grandparents or create a feather bouquet. Decorate a pair of shoes, make a batch of knoephla soup or put your imagination into a Lego creation. Sing or make salsa. And this year, the salsa contest winners’ recipes will be featured on the menu for a month at the Mezzaluna, a Fargo restaurant.

“There are so many things to do that you could spend a couple days at the fair and still not see or do everything,” Schulz says.  Luann Dart is a freelance writer and editor living near Elgin.

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N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 21

E N E R GY C O N N E C TI O N S

Our powerful network

FROM

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www.bdec.coop

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North Central Electric www.nceci.com

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Verendrye Electric

www.nodakelectric.com

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McKenzie Electric www.mckenzieelectric.com

REPORTS

2012 finds North Dakota’s Touchstone Energy ® Cooperatives strong and well-respected. These pages carry updates on cooperatives in this network.

Burke-Divide Electric

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Northern Plains Electric

McLean Electric

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Roughrider Electric www.roughriderelectric.com

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Network by the numbers 16 distributuon cooperatives operating in North Dakota  Serve  Own

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61,000 miles of distribution power lines

50 percent all retail electricity in North Dakota $  Invested 1 billion in distribution facilities  Employ more than 650 people  Sell

5 generation and transmission cooperatives     

Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bismarck, www.basinelectric.com Central Power Electric Cooperative, Minot, www.centralpwr.com Great River Energy, Maple Grove, MN, www.greatriverenergy.com Minnkota Power Cooperative, Grand Forks, www.minnkota.com Upper Missouri G&T Electric Cooperative, Sidney, MT, www.uppermo.com

Generation and transmission cooperatives

4,200 miles of transmission line  Represent nearly 90 percent of all coal-based generation $  Invested more than 5 billion in North Dakota’s energy industry  Employ approximately 1,600 people in North Dakota $  Invested more than 800 million in environmental equipment and controls  Own

24 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

North Dakotans hold electric co-ops in high esteem

N

w w w. n d l i v i n g . c o m

PHOTO by carmen devney

orth Dakotans like electric cooperatives. They really do. That’s one of the main findings from the results of a professional telephone survey of 600 randomly selected people from across the state, conducted earlier this year by the University of North Dakota’s Bureau of Governmental Affairs.

The survey found that if given a choice of utilities to provide their electricity, 54 percent of survey respondents said they would prefer service from an electric cooperative, compared to 27 percent for investor-owned utilities (IOUs), and 10 percent for municipal utilities.

Previous public opinion surveys also revealed this cooperative preference, but the preference gap for cooperatives over other utilities has steadily widened.

In 2000, the first year the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) sponsored its public opinion survey, respondents said they preferred cooperatives over IOUs by a slim margin of 39 percent to 37 percent. The survey has been repeated every two years since, with the preference margin for co-ops increasing in every survey.

What is the reason for the cooperatives’ preference advantage? The survey results suggest two reasons: The difference in loyalty of cooperative members compared to customers of other utilities, and the broad public view that electric cooperatives operate with greater integrity, accountability and commitment to their local communities.

First, with respect to loyalty, cooperative members are six times more likely to prefer service from their cooperatives than from an IOU. By contrast, IOU customers are just as likely to prefer service from an electric cooperative as from their current utility provider, and municipal customers expressed a preference for electric cooperatives by a two-to-one margin over their current provider.

Second, electric cooperatives are increasingly seen as the utilities that operate with values that are important to consumers. The Touchstone Energy ® co-branding program began in 1999, the year before NDAREC’s first public opinion survey. Beginning in 2002, the NDAREC-sponsored surveys included questions designed to measure public perceptions on how electric utilities compare in meeting customer expectations, including the core values of Touchstone

Energy: integrity, accountability, commitment to community and innovation.

The 2002 survey results gave higher ratings to cooperatives over IOUs by about a two-to-one margin on commitment to community and accountability to customers. Cooperatives bested the IOUs on integrity by about a 10 percent margin, but nearly half of those responding said they did not know which utility type showed the greatest integrity. Finally, IOUs rated higher than cooperatives on innovation by a nearly two-to-one margin, with a large percentage undecided.

In the current survey, by a margin of about 2.5 to one, cooperatives rated higher than IOUs on commitment to communities, accountability and integrity. n N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G n j une 2 0 1 2 25

Robotic milking frees family

5

a.m. and 5 p.m. Every day. For 32 years. That was milking time at the Hoff dairy farm, where Harvey and Janal Hoff and their six children lived their daily schedule tethered to the clock and the cows.

Then something rather miraculous happened on the Richardton dairy farm – robotic milking.

Today, the Hoffs don’t have to be in the barn at milking time, because milking time is whenever a cow voluntarily enters the robotic milking station.

Watching the clock Both raised on dairy farms, Harvey and Janal married and started their own Grade A dairy farm in 1980 with a rainbow of dairy breeds. Strong supporters of the state’s dairy industry, the Hoffs are also founding members of the North Dakota Dairy Coalition.

As a third-generation dairy farmer continuing a farmstead purchased by his grandfather in 1918, Harvey had invested 32 years in building his herd, so quitting didn’t seem like an option.

“You work 30 years to put a herd together, then you want to let it go? I don’t know,” Harvey sighs.

Then in April 2011, Janal registered Harvey for a tour of three Minnesota dairies where robotics milked the cows. Grumbling the entire 450 miles, Harvey drove to tour the farms.

“It was something you never thought you’d do. I wasn’t even interested, but she gave me a pass to take the days off, so I went,” he says with a laugh. “Fifteen minutes into the first stop, I was hooked.”

Janal and Harvey Hoff use robotic milking equipment on their Richardton dairy.

Two robotic milking stations in the loafing barn allow the cows to voluntarily enter, driven either by a full udder or enticed by the highenergy pellets and roasted soybeans dropped into a feeder when they step inside.

The gate shuts and the cow’s transponder, worn on a collar around her neck, is scanned by the robot. That cow’s information is downloaded into a computer which Harvey and Janal monitor.

A soft brush swings out, washes the udder, then is sanitized between each scrubbing. Then the robotic milker goes to work. First, a laser scans the cow’s udder. The robotic arm carrying the milker zigs and zags until the milker is aligned perfectly, then the four milkers pop out and suction onto their targets.

Each quarter of the udder is milked

Hiring a robot Lely, the Netherlands company which manufactures robotic milking and feeding systems, installed its first robotic milking system in North Dakota on the Hoff dairy farm this winter.

BY

LUANN DART

to perfection while the cow eats, and any movement by the cow is matched by the robotic arm. Then the milker drops off and the front gate opens for the cow to exit. Gates adjust and the station is ready for the next cow to voluntarily wander into the station.

As the pulsating robotic milkers do their job, the 109 cows in the loafing barn either rest on mattresses, eat from the concrete feed bunk or wait patiently for their turn in the milking stations.

It’s an unhurried, serene scene that practically defies logic, as little human intervention is needed.

Milking around the clock, each robot is capable of handling 65 cows. The system only shuts down half an hour at noon and midnight for cleaning. The robotic system’s motors use less energy than the former double-eight herringbone parlor, and also uses less water and chemical for cleaning. Milk is piped into the 2,000-gallon holding tank, then is sold to Dairy Farmers of America.

And the Astronaut 3 Next system, with a six-year payback, provides astronomical management information on the herd.

By monitoring the computer, the Hoffs know every detail on each cow. Her name, number, milk yield, time milked, udder health, weight and other statistics are recorded each time she enters the milking station. Each animal is weighed in the station, and any weight loss is noted by the computer.

Some cows step into the station five times a day, some only two, but the herd’s average has increased to 2.8 milkings per day since the robotics were installed. The herd’s production also increased from 70 to 74 pounds per cow per day in just three months.  Luann Dart is a freelance writer and editor from near Elgin.

A robotic milker functions at Hoff Dairy.

26 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

INSPIRED LIVING

by

Roxanne Henke

Living a legacy

E

PHOTO BY KEN RADA

xcept for a few years back and forth to college, I have lived in the same small town in rural North Dakota my whole life. That’s 58 years of living.

Fifty-odd years of getting the mail, going to the grocery store, walking around my little town, crossing paths with many of the same people over and over again.

Sure, there were more than a few years when I longed to break away from my little town. I wanted to live somewhere BIG. Somewhere where I didn’t know practically everyone in town. Somewhere Roxanne Henke where practically everyone in town didn’t know me. There were times when I thought it might be fine to be a little bit anonymous.

But, the older I get, the more I understand the value of long-term relationships. Sometimes I find myself walking the streets of my little town and I’m overcome with nostalgia.

I walk by the white, two-story house on main street and remember, “Harriet lived there.” She and her husband owned the local grocery store. I recall the time right after my dad died (I was 17) and Mother’s Day was approaching. Harriet stopped me in the aisle of the grocery store and reminded me that my dad always got Mom a corsage for Mother’s Day. Could she help me pick one out? Even though I thought I knew everything as a teenager, I didn’t know to get a corsage for my mom. Harriet helped me.

On Sundays, I go to church. I sit in the same pew my grandpa sat for all the years I knew him. We have pew cushions now, but back then we didn’t. Grandpa always left a green knitted pillow in the pew to sit on.

I have that pillow now in my home. Sometimes it’s almost as if I can see him still sitting there in what is now “my” pew. My grandpa’s legacy of quiet faith still guides me.

I like to get to church early, mostly to have a few moments to calm my thoughts, to listen to the organ as it soothes my soul. I glance over at the organ and I remember. In my mind, I see Henry, the man who played the church organ as I grew up. His hands and feet danced across the keyboard and pedals every Sunday. My dad battled cancer most of my growing-up

years. Often it was painful and difficult for him to sit very long. Henry knew this. Henry also knew my dad’s favorite hymns and when he saw my dad in church, Henry played my dad’s favorite songs. From Henry, I learned that music can be a gift to the troubled in body and in soul.

Then there was Ervin. Nowadays, people might stick a label on him and call him mentally challenged. But, around my little town he was simply, Ervin. He knew everyone and everyone knew him. He often walked the streets of town putting up auction posters for the local auctioneer, greeting everyone with a wave, a hello and a giggle that was Ervin’s alone. One time as a young mom, I was standing in my driveway, struggling to get my lawn mower started. Ervin walked by, saw me struggling and started the mower for me. I am a better person for knowing Ervin. Without saying a word, without doing a single thing, he taught me compassion for those we often think are less-abled. I doubt I would have gotten to know Ervin had I gotten my wish to live anonymously in a big town.

All these folks from my past are no longer living, but their legacy lives on in me.

Sometimes I walk around town and I’m flooded with memories of these people from my past. I wonder if the young people in my little town are going to have the same kind of memories, be touched and influenced by the same kinds of people I got to know.

And just about the time I’ve convinced myself that no one could possibly affect our young people as much as the people of my past, it dawns on me that now I’m in the position of the Harriets, and Henrys and Ervins of my past. Now it’s my turn to influence the young people of my community.

My own kids are gone from home, and I’m not as plugged into the youth of my community as much as I used to be. But, I hope, I can still be an encourager and an example. I hope I exemplify my grandpa’s steady faith. Ervin’s friendliness whether he knew you or not.

Harriet’s way of looking out for someone going through a hard time. Henry’s gift of soothing a soul, maybe not with music, but with my words.

They say “it takes a village to raise a child.” It’s true.

I can attest to that. And knowing what I know about North Dakota, I’d venture to say any town in North Dakota can do a great job, too.

Live well enough to leave a legacy. n Roxanne (Roxy) Henke writes from her home in rural North Dakota, where she lives with her husband and an aging English cocker spaniel, Gunner. Roxy is the author of eight novels. She can be reached by email at roxannehenke@yahoo.com or you can find her on the Web at www.roxannehenke.com.

28 j u ne 2 0 1 2 n N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

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Classic Western Caribbean for Seniors Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel and a day on a fantastic private island

• Are your knees very stiff in the morning?

February 2-10, 2013

• Do your knees hurt when going up and down stairs?

Join Jack & Hazel Jensen, the owners of Jensen Travel, on a sunfilled, fun-filled, winter fling to the Classic Western Caribbean.

• Do you frequently take Ibuprofen or Aspirin for your knee pain?

There is no better unspoiled corner of the Caribbean than this area.

We’re excited about showing you the pristine sights, wildlife and culture of these unique ports of call. Of course, we’ll be onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, there is no other way to cruise. No dress up, no fixed seating for dinner, 13 dining rooms to choose from, all with a different menu. 15

• Do the activities you enjoy cause pain around your knees?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, we offer a successful NON-OPERATIVE treatment program to relieve your knee pain.

Call today for a consultation on this new and exciting program combining Hyalgan lubricant injections with Theraciser Rehabilitation.

entertainment venues each evening. We’ve often heard, “we’re too old for island hopping.” This is for seniors (one person over 50 in the room).

Come join us, we’re seniors, and we’ll show you just how much fun you can have! Our major reason for hosting this event is “We want to do this trip!”, so why not surround ourselves with people just like us, who we’ll love spending time with.

All flights, gratuities, meals, transfers and entertainment included.

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JENSEN TRAVEL North Dakota’s Caribbean Specialist

800-261-6674

Your home away from home

89

$

95

1-2 adults/1 queen bed with this coupon

• Two Complimentary, hot, cooked-to-order breakfasts • Free access to wireless high-speed internet • Indoor pool, whirlpool, exercise room & sauna Must present coupon at check-in. Not good with suites, during special events, or with any other discounts. Expires 6-30-2012. .

perfect

for every occasion 1635 42nd St S, Fargo

701-277-9000 1300 E. Capitol Ave. • Bismarck, ND

www.ramadafargo.com www.facebook.com/fargoramada

(800) DAYS-INN

or (701) 223-9151 www.daysinn.com/hotel/06755

Conveniently located off Exit 159 at the intersection of Hwy. 83 & I-94.

June w w w. n d l i v i n g . c o m

www.basies.com

Located across from West Acres Shopping Center, we are proud to offer guest rooms and specialty suites with comforts designed with you in mind - from high speed wireless Internet to deluxe beds, linens and spa-inspired bath amenities. Basies Restaurant features superior steaks and seafood, unsurpassed in the FM area. Our Coconut Cove features a 150’ waterslide, kiddie cascade, whirlpool, sauna and fitness facility. Coconut Cabana offers pizza, snacks and beverages, as well as Basies menu items. A business and event destination with flexible meeting and conference space plus a 24/7 business center, Ramada is perfect for any occasion. Whether your stay is for business or pleasure, our staff excels in meeting your needs.

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G n j u n e 2 0 1 2 29

R E A D E R R E P LY

This month, we asked our readers to submit replies to the following...

“Share a fact or memory about a small town in North Dakota, and what makes it special.”

Question submitted by Shelly Ventsch, New Town, Mountrail-Williams Electric Cooperative

Belden I grew up on a farm not far from Belden — a wide spot in the road, about halfway between Stanley and New Town on Highway 8. Now it is in the middle of a busy oil patch. It has one family living there, a hunter’s lodge, a quick-stop eatery made from the old post office building, and a church. Gone are the loving Finnish families who once raised the population to almost 40 people, their decaying houses a mute testimony of their lives. The store that was there is gone now, but not the memory of the cheerful face of Marvin as he packed groceries, clothing and other things he kept on hand.

Recently I made a fast trip there, and my heart beat a little faster as it came into view. It is just a lonely,

nearly empty town now — and what makes it special? It was home.

Donna LaBrant Johnson, Braddock KEM Electric Cooperative and BEK Communications Cooperative

Regent The Hettinger County Historical Society Museum is a highlight on Main Street in Regent. It consists of five buildings of historical artifacts that have been purchased and/ or donated by residents to preserve area history for future generations.

Some of the items include an actual drug store, church, school, old time Main Street, Norwegian and German memorabilia plus farm equipment, tools, and many miscellaneous items dating back to the early 1900s.

Guided tours are available.

Regent is in the southwestern corner of the state and can be

reached by traveling south of Gladstone on the Enchanted Highway.

Marlene Kouba, Regent Consolidated Telephone Cooperative

UPCOMING READER REPLY QUESTIONS: JULY: “If money wasn’t a consideration, where would you take a vacation this summer, and why?”

Deadline for submission: June 15 AUGUST: “Facebook and Skype have surged in popularity. Tell us if and how you are using these communications tools, and share lessons learned about their effectiveness and value.”

Deadline for submission: July 16 WE WANT TO HEAR YOU: We pay $25 for each letter we print. Send responses via email to: cdevney@ ndarec.com or mail to: Reader Reply, North Dakota Living, P.O. Box 727, Mandan ND 58554-0727. 

Naomi Rossow, Broker

701-290-3931 Email: naomi@valleytel.net Licensed in North Dakota and South Dakota

View additional listings at www.landofdakota.com

PRIME HORSE PROPERTY located 15 miles west of Killdeer. Price reduced to $765,500. Forty acres with two approaches off of Highway 200. Beautiful ranch style rambler with designer kitchen and two family rooms with gas fireplaces. Steel beamed barn with Priefert box stalls, heated office, restroom, and vet room. Heated shop and additional buildings for equipment storage.

Buyer has option of leasing adjoining pasture. More information and photos at www.landofdakota.com.

WORKING CATTLE RANCH in south central ND. 7600 deeded ranch supports 600-650 cow/calf pairs under current management. Outstanding working facilities and ranch style home (2004). Miles of new trees, 17 wells, many dams and two pipelines. One hour from Bismarck.

OUTLAW RANCH. Tastefully remodeled country home plus rustic hunting lodge. This 1120 acre cattle ranch is located in the sand hills of north central ND, an hour east of Minot. Pasture land, hayground, good water and working facilities. Lucrative outfitting business with excellent 2012 income so far. Trophy bull elk included in sale. OUTLAW RANCH business name and website transfer with sale. $1,750,000.

NEW LISTINGS IN BELFIELD, ND. 40-unit trailer park.

Full capacity with excellent residual income. $1,500,000.

Campground, partially completed and platted for 72 units, parking, washroom, dump stations and garbage collection. $1,500,000.

RAY ND. Farmstead including 5 BR home, heated shop and outbuildings on 20 acres. Additional 55 acres of raw land available. Both within minutes of Ray, ND. Pricing and photos at www.landofdakota.com.

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JUNE 2012  NORTH DAKOTA LIVING

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TEEN-2-TEEN

by

Kimberly Ellwein

Make it great

B

PHOTO BY kimephotography

right sun, cool water, sweet shades, and endless days that always seem to end too soon. All of these things describe only one thing: summer. Last month, many students including myself were sitting on the edge of our seats, just waiting for that final bell to ring and release us to the glory days of summer. Now that it’s here, we need to make a few “New Summer’s Resolutions” before we go racing to the lake. Like the New Year’s challenge, making resolutions is a great tool. School may be over for the summer, but that doesn’t mean we should forget everything we have learned.

The following list contains resoluKimberly Ellwein tions for myself and other students.

Resolution One: Keep learning. Whether it’s getting a jump start on your summer reading list or turning everyday things into great learning experiences, we need to keep our noggins in shape.

Resolution Two: Stop fretting about what other people think. Just know you’re rocking that swimsuit, music recital or whatever it may be.

Resolution Three: Expand your horizons. From making

a new friend to getting a job, amazing adventures are waiting to be unraveled.

Resolution Four: Keep track. If you tend to forget, starting journals or photo albums can be a great way to look back on your life and reflect.

Resolution Five: Last but definitely not least, make smart choices. We all know summer leads to fun things. But sometimes having fun can turn into, what do I do now? Make sure you take the time to think before you do. If you don’t think your actions through, the consequences could be overwhelming.

These are my top five New Summer’s Resolutions. I hope I can accomplish them, and inspire you to make a list of your own. No matter what you do, always remember that summer is what you make of it — so get out there and make it great. n Kimberly Ellwein, 16, is a sophomore at Hazen High School where she participates in band, choir, speech, drama, science Olympiad, student council, FFA and FBLA. She enjoys volunteering at the nursing home or participating in Walk MS, and is employed at Union State Bank. Kimberly is the daughter of Jeff and Connie Ellwein, who are members of Roughrider Electric Cooperative.

Get away for a weekend of fun!

• Indoor waterpark with 150-foot waterslide and hot tub • Nickel’s Lounge and Seasons Cafe • Directly across the street from Kirkwood Mall • Exercise facilities, sauna, and virtual arcade • High-speed Internet available in all rooms

Bismarck’s Best Western Ramkota Hotel offers the ultimate weekend getaway

800 S 3rd St | Bismarck | 701.258.7700

94

$

+ tax per night for up to four people

Must present coupon at check in.

Expires 7-31-2012

800 S 3rd St | Bismarck | 701.258.7700

32 j u n e 2 0 1 2 n N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

eng North Dakota Farmers UNioN

excursion tours!

Hawaiian Adventure

Jan 24 - Feb 2, 2013 3 Islands - Oahu, Kauai, & Maui 10 days, 13 meals, land & air inclusive

with optional 2 night Big Island Post Tour Extension

Highlights • Pearl Harbor

USS Arizona and USS Missouri

Link to in-home support and services for older adults and adults with physical disabilities.

Toll-free

1-855-GO2LINK

check www.ndfu.org for upcoming county tours.

(1-855-462-5465)

www.carechoice.nd.gov

ND Relay TTY 1-800-366-6888

north d akota

depa r t me n t of hu man services

FALL EXPLORER - NEW RIVER TRAIN October 17-23, 2012

• Shipshewana - Amish/Mennonite • Amish Thresher Meal w/Buggy Ride • The Wilds - Guided Safari Tour • Fenton Glass Shop • Holl’s Swiss Chocolatier • Authentic Sternwheeler Ride JUDY’S LEISURE • Blennerhassett Island/Mansion • Railroad Museum TOURS INC. • New River Train - West Virginia • 5 Breakfasts / 5 Dinners Group travel at its best.

• Pullman Square Dinner on Train

Call for details. 701-232-3441 • 800-598-0851 • judysleisuretoursinc.com

Spring Building Specials!

Post Frame Building for Town, Country and Commercial Applications

“The Tough Ones”

24’ x 32’ x 10’, 1-9’ x 8’ overhead door, 1 entry door ...................................................$10,230 30’ x 40’ x 10’, 1-12’ x 9’6” 1 pc. slide door 1-entry door ..................................................$12,670 40’ x 64’ x 10’, 1-12’ x 9’6” 1-pc. slide door Serving the tri-state area since 1982 1-entry door ..................................................$20,800 Freight, state sales tax & crew travel not included

R&S Building Systems, Inc. Call for a free price quote

34

• Waikiki Beach • Dole Plantation • Waimea Canyon • Fern Grotto • Steelgrass Chocolate Farm • Polynesian Luau

605.341.5998 • 800.929.5998 rsbuildings.com

JUNE 2012  NORTH DAKOTA LIVING

Go to www.ndfu.org for details or call 800-366-8331 ext 108, Susan or ext 111, Jeff

JULY 28 - 29 TWINS vs CLEVELAND INDIANS AUGUST 11 - 12 TWINS VS TAMPA BAY RAYS Motorcoach from Bismarck, picking up in Jamestown, Valley City and Fargo

Steamboating is back!

The Grand American Queen is again sailing the Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee Rivers.

We sell tours starting in ND for New England Fall Folilage, Branson, New York City and more 2 for 1 prices on Viking Cruise Line for Europe. Great Deals Call or email for prices and reservations on these travel ideas as well as Amtrak, airlines and cruises on the rivers, lakes seas and oceans of the world.

800-365-9737 Globe Travel

(701) 252-5757

www.GlobeVacations.com E-mail: globetravel@globetravel1.webmail.com P.O. Box 1529 • Jamestown, ND 58401 w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

ALASKA JULY 12-20, 2013

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT

JUNEAU • SKAGWAY • KETCHIKAN VICTORIA, BC

A spectacular day at Sawyer Glacier and a cruise through the Inside Passage. All flights, gratuities, meals, transfers and entertainment included.

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Join Jack and Hazel Jensen, the owners of Jensen Travel, on our annual, but once-in-a-lifetime, ALASKAN CRUISE EXPERIENCE. We will be hosting approximately 40 to 60 North Dakotans on this spectacular journey to North America’s most beautiful scenic spots. Experience all the scenery, wildlife and beauty that only Alaska can offer, while enjoying the five-star dining, entertainment and hospitality that only NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE and your host and hostess can offer.

INFORMAL – CASUAL FILLING FAST!

Call us for ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS. We are the price beaters! ✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰✰

JENSEN TRAVEL North Dakota’s Alaska Specialist (800) 261-6674

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 35

C A LEN D A R O F E V EN T S june

10, 17, 24 n Front Porch Chat, 2 p.m., Stutsman County Memorial Museum, Jamestown. 800-2224766 or 701-251-9145.

11 n Race the Red, 1701 Fifth St. S., Fargo.

701-235-2895.

11-15, 18-22, 25-29 n Summer Art Camps, Theo Art School, Bismarck. 701-222-6452.

11-22 n Printmaking Education and Research Studio Workshop, North Dakota State University, Fargo.

701-231-7932.

11-Sept. 7 n “Bully – The Play,” 4 p.m. MDT Monday-Friday, Old Town Hall Theater, Medora.

800-633-6721 or 701623-4444.

12-July 31 n Bandshell Concert Series, 7 p.m., Whitney Bandshell at Youngs Park, Dickinson. 800-279-7391 or 701-483-4542.

13-14 and 20-21 n Junior Master Horseman Class, 12:30-5 p.m., NDSU Extension Service, Burleigh County Office and 4-H Building, Bismarck. 701-221-6865.

13-17 n Potholes and Prairie Birding Festival, Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge, Carrington. 888-921-2473 or 701-652-2524.

14 n All-Horse Flag Day Parade, Medora.

701-623-4910.

14-16 n Downtowners’ Rip Roarin’ Ribfest, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, Civic Center, Bismarck.

701-223-1958.

15 n Midwest Kid Fest, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Island Park, Fargo. 701499-7788.

15-16 n Highway 21 Treasure Hunt, 8 a.m.5 p.m. MDT daily, St. Anthony, Flasher, Carson, New Leipzig, Elgin, Mott, Regent, New England.

701-584-2172.

15-16 n Missouri River Bluegrass Festival, Cross Ranch State Park, Center. 701-794-3731.

15-17 n Balta Centennial and All-School Reunion, Balta. 701542-3201.

15-17 n Bike the Border Bicycle Tour, 5 p.m. registration June 14, Mohall. 701-756-6298.

15-17 n Page Community Days, Page. 701668-3189.

15-17 n Rally in the Valley, 250 Main St. W., Valley City. 888-288-1891 or 701-845-1891.

16 n Art and Wine Walk, 1-5 p.m., downtown, Grand Forks. 701746-0444.

16-17 n N.D. Farm Toy Show, Auction and Craft Show, 9 a.m. start on Saturday and 10 a.m.2 p.m. Sunday, LaMoure School Gymnasium and Civic Center, LaMoure.

800-533-8293 or 701883-5206.

16-17 n Motorcycle Ride-In, Main Street, Cavalier. 701-265-4559.

16-17 n Horse Races, 1:30 p.m., Chippewa Downs Race Track, southwest of Belcourt.

701-244-2400, ext. 108.

16, 23, 30 n Stock Car Races, 7 p.m., Jamestown Speedway, Jamestown. 800-2224766 or 701-251-9145.

16, 30 n Saturday Night Races, 7 p.m., Southwest Speedway, Dickinson. 701-483-8722.

16-29 n Town Square Farmers Market, 9 a.m.2 p.m., corner of DeMers Avenue and Third Street, Grand Forks. 218-7791382.

17 n Father’s Day at the Railroad Museum, 1-5 p.m., 3102 37th St. N.W., Mandan. 701663-9322.

21-24 n Summer Fest, Mayville. 701-430-3180.

21-24 n Summer Fest, Grafton. 701-352-0781.

22 n Performance Horse and Colt Sale, 3 p.m. horse preview and 6 p.m. sale, Broken Arrow Saddle Club Arena, Hebron. 701-878-4001.

22-23 n Homefest, Watford City. 701444-5804.

22-23 n Antique Classic Car Show, east side of Badlands Motel, Medora. 800-633-6721 or 701-623-4444.

22-24 n St. John Days, St. John. 701-244-2400, ext. 108.

22-24 n Walleye Fishing Tournament, Grahams Island, Devils Lake.

800-233-8048 or 701662-4903.

22-July 4 n Roughrider Days Fair and Expo, Dickinson. 800-279-7391 or 701-483-7721.

36 j u n e 2 0 1 2 n N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

PHOTO BY JOANN CARIK

5 and 19 n Garden to Table Summer Youth Program, noon-5 p.m., NDSU Extension Service, Burleigh County Office and 4-H Building, Bismarck. 701-221-6865.

8-Sept. 8 n Pitchfork Steak Fondue, 6:15 p.m.

MDT, Tjaden Terrace, Medora. 800-633-6721 or 701-623-4444.

8-Sept. 8 n Medora Musical, 8:30 p.m. MDT, Burning Hills Amphitheatre, Medora. 800-6336721 or 701-623-4444.

9 n Putnam House Wine Tasting and Auction, 533 Main St., Carrington. 701-652-1213.

9 n 75th Anniversary and Visitor Appreciation Day, Lake Metigoshe State Park, Bottineau.

701-263-4651.

9 n Bully Run 5-k and 10-k, 8 a.m. registration at the Chuckwagon and 9:30 a.m. race outside the Rough Riders Hotel, Medora. 800-633-6721 or 701-623-4444.

9 n Rhubarb Festival, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., University Lutheran Church, Grand Forks. 701-775-4745.

9 n Saturday Night at the Hall, 13571 Hwy. 5, Cavalier. 701-265-4561.

9 n The Sound of Science, 1-4 p.m., Gateway to Science Center, Bismarck. 701-258-1975.

9, 23 n Wild West Shootout, 3 p.m., Frontier Village, Jamestown. 701-320-2725.

9-10 n Buggies-nBlues, 4 p.m.-midnight Saturday and 11 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday, Main Street, Mandan. 701-7512983 or 701-426-3340.

9-10 n Horse Races, 1:30 p.m., Chippewa Downs Race Track, southwest of Belcourt.

701-244-2400, ext. 108.

9-10 n Grand Cities Art Fest, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday and 10 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday, downtown, Grand Forks. 701738-8354.

9-10 n Kite Festival, Meidinger Park Field, Jamestown. 701252-3982.

9-10 n Soap Box Derby, 250 Main St. W., Valley City. 888-288-1891 or 701-845-1891.

10 n Youth Rodeo, Carrington. 701-652-2524.

10 n Classical Music Festival, 1-6 p.m., Trollwood Park, Fargo.

701-499-7788.

Nancy Jenson and Lacey Hinkle led approximately 1,700 motorcycles back to Cavalier during last year’s Motorcycle Ride In. This year’s event will be held June 16-17 on Main Street in Cavalier. For more information, call 701-265-4559.

23 n Professional Bull Ride, 7 p.m., rodeo grounds, Binford.

701-676-2552.

26 n Prairie Lake Festival, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Garrison High School, Garrison. 701-337-2246.

23 n Blues on the Red, 6-10 p.m., Town Square, Grand Forks. 701-7460444.

26-28 n Foster County Fair, Carrington. 701652-2524.

23 n Great American Campout, Lake Metigoshe State Park, Bottineau. 701-263-4651.

27-28 n 8th Street Art, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Davy Memorial Riverfront Park, Moorhead, Minn. 701820-0426.

23 n Integrity Jazz Festival, 1020 S. Broadway, Minot. 701852-2787.

27-28 n Kaleidoscope Variety Show, 7 p.m., auditorium, Mandan High School, Mandan. 701426-3340.

23 n Rendezvous Rib Fest, parking lot, Walhalla Inn, Walhalla. 701-5493939 or 701-549-2700.

23-24 n Frontier Military Days, Fort Stevenson State Park, Garrison.

701-337-5576.

23-24 n Horse Races, 1:30 p.m., Chippewa Downs Race Track, southwest of Belcourt.

701-244-2400, ext. 108.

23-25 n Prometheus Motorcycle Zoo Run, 1004 R.J. Hughes Dr., Wahpeton. 701-642-8709.

23-July 23 n “Key Ingredients: America by Food – A Smithsonian Institution Exhibit,” New Rockford. 800-3386543 or 701-255-3360.

June 24 n First Lutheran Church of Willow City 125th Anniversary, Willow City. 701-3664625.

24-30 n Fort Seward Wagon Train, Jamestown. 701-424-3744.

25-July 25 n Student Concerts, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturdays, International Music Camp, Dunseith.

701-838-8472.

27-July 1 n Greater Grand Forks County Fair, 3-11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 3 p.m.-midnight Friday, 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday and noon-6 p.m.

Sunday, Grand Forks.

701-330-1238.

28 n Bull-a-Rama, Carrington. 701-652-2524.

28 n Clover Classic Golf Tournament, 1 p.m., Prairie West Golf Course, Mandan. 701231-8569.

28-July 1 n Willow City Quasquicentennial and All School Reunion, Willow City.

701-366-4625.

29 n International Brass Quintet, 8 p.m., International Music Camp, Dunseith. 701-838-8472.

29-30 n Kickin’ Cancer Motorcycle Ride and Rally, Wolfie’s Place, Center. 701-400-4827.

29-July 1 n 125th Anniversary “Celebrating Our Legacy,” Fullerton.

701-375-6049.

30 n Junk Jubilee and Flea Market, 9 a.m.-

2 p.m., Stutsman County Fairgrounds, Jamestown.

701-320-6781.

30 n Grenade Launchers Car Show, McIntosh County Heritage Center, Ashley. 701-709-0727.

30 n McLeod Stampede, 5 p.m.-1 a.m., 6992 149th Ave. S.E., McLeod. 701-439-2651.

30-July 1 n Horse Races, 1:30 p.m., Chippewa Downs Race Track, southwest of Belcourt.

701-244-2400, ext. 108.

july 1 n Bike Parade, Lake Metigoshe State Park, Bottineau. 701-263-4651.

1-4 n Mandan Rodeo Days Celebration, downtown and Dakota Centennial Park, Mandan.

701-751-2983.

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 n Front Porch Chat, 2 p.m., Stutsman County Memorial Museum, Jamestown. 800-2224766 or 701-251-9145.

2-6, 9-13, 16-20, 23-27 n Summer Art Camps, Theo Art School, Bismarck. 701-222-6452.

3-4 n Fourth of July Celebration, Mirror Lake Park, Hettinger.

701-567-2531.

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4 n Fierce Fun on the Fourth, Main Street, Walhalla. 701-549-3939.

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4 n Sertoma Fun Fourth and Fireworks, 11 a.m.-dusk, downtown, Grand Forks. 701-7460052 or 218-779-3666.

4 n Fireworks, Sky Dancer Hotel and Casino, Belcourt. 701-244-2400, ext. 108.

4-7 n Fourth of July Celebration, New Rockford. 701-947-2205.

4-8 n White Cloud Birthday Celebration and Tatanka Festival, National Buffalo Museum, Jamestown. 701252-8648. w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

RECIPE ROUNDUP

Shortcuts personalize cookbook

by Carmen Devney

PHOTO BY DEBORAH BANISH

Some American Legion Auxiliary members taste-test the Garage Bar-B-Que recipe including (from left) Carolyn Christensen, Pam Maloney, Joan Lee and Joanne Harris. The recipe can be found on page 222 of this month’s featured cookbook.

C

reating a cookbook can be a gargantuan task. There’s no doubt about it! But if the idea of typing and proofing ingredients and directions overwhelms you, there are shortcuts you might consider to minimize the work.

This month, North Dakota Living features the American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook submitted by Deborah Banish, Rutland. The original cookbook was published in 1952, and some Auxiliary members expanded and enhanced the cookbook for Rutland’s 125th anniversary in 2007.

Bonnie Anderson, an Auxiliary member and Dakota Valley Electric Cooperative member from Rutland, spearheaded the cookbook reprint.

She says what makes this cookbook unique is that all of the recipes are hand-written, so typing and proofreading were not required. If there are errors, they were made by the recipe submitter.

To start the project, Anderson contacted Rutland High School alumni and sent them a border template. If they wanted to participate in the cookbook reprint, they were asked to make copies of the border, hand-write their recipes inside the border and send the recipes back to her. She used the same template found in the original cookbook, to give the old and new recipes a uniform appearance.

After Anderson received the recipes, she and Auxiliary member Susan Fust and friend Sheila Wyum organized the book. They placed the original recipes in the beginning of the book (through page 58), and then sorted the new recipes before submitting to J&M Printing, Gwinner, for publication.

The result is a cookbook with a simple design and spiral bind. But personalization is evident in the cursive scroll and neat print of each individual recipe submitter.

Even though organizing and for-

38 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

matting the cookbook reprint was still a lot of work, Anderson confides she is pleased with the final product.

“A couple years ago, I made a family cookbook. I knew [the Auxiliary cookbook] would be a lot of work,” she conveys. “I did it because I like cookbooks. I collect them.”

North Dakota Living features two recipes from the American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook. The first is Garage Bar-B-Que, found on page 222, and the second is Cherry Dump Cake, found on page 100. North Dakota Living staff prepared and taste-tested both recipes, and found both to be full of flavor.

We thank Deborah Banish for submitting the American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook, and hope it inspires our readers to tackle a cookbook project if they have wanted to create one but have been intimidated by the work.  Carmen Devney is a communications specialist for the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives, Capital Electric Cooperative and Mor-Gran-Sou Electric Cooperative. w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

BEHIND THE COOKBOOK

T

PHOTO BY J.C. BALCOM

GARAGE BAR-B-QUE 4 ⁄4 1 ⁄2 1 1 1 ⁄4 2 1

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon salt 2 teaspoons vinegar 1 ⁄2 teaspoon dry mustard Buns

pounds hamburger cup onion cup celery 14-ounce bottle ketchup cup water or less* cup lemon juice tablespoons brown sugar

Brown hamburger, and add onion and celery; drain. Combine remaining ingredients and simmer.

Bev’s test notes: If the barbeque simmers for an hour or longer, add the full cup of water*; otherwise add only ¼ cup. I prepare this recipe ahead of time for Kulzer farm meetings later in the day. The men love it.

Bev Kulzer, Rutland page 222, American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook

North Dakota Living test notes: To boost the flavor, consider adding barbecue sauce, garlic or other seasonings of preference.

CHERRY DUMP CAKE 1 12-ounce can pineapple 1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling 1 box yellow cake mix, dry 1 cup nuts, chopped

1 stick butter Whipped topping or ice cream, optional

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Grease a 13x9x2 pan and mix pineapple and pie filling evenly. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over fruit. Shake pan to level. Spread nuts over cake mix. Cut butter over nuts, spreading evenly. Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes.

Serve hot or cold as is, or with whipped topping or ice cream.

Gwen Young, Rutland page 100, American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook

North Dakota Living test notes: This recipe is very tasty and easy to make.

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The American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook was enhanced and republished for Rutland’s 125th anniversary in 2007.

Proceeds from the cookbook went to the Rutland Community Club, which used some of the money to remodel the town’s hall to make it handicap accessible.

Rutland resident Bonnie Anderson estimates approximately 150 people live in or near Rutland, and she says it’s an active community.

“There’s something going on all the time,” she relays, including an annual Easter egg hunt, Rib fest, softball tournament, Uffda Days and various fundraisers. During the annual Uffda Days, which honor the community’s Norwegian heritage, Anderson says 4,000 lefse are sold and consumed, as well as scalloped potatoes and ham made with real cream. “That’s what Rutland is known for,” she shares.

Anderson encourages people to visit Rutland and tour the general store and Baptist parsonage.

“The general store sells a lot of quilting materials, and serves breakfast and lunch and afternoon coffee. It also has some antiques.

The old Baptist parsonage is filled with antiques as well; it’s a beautiful place,” she recommends.

A member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Bonnie says the Auxiliary also remains active. The members meet monthly and put on programs for Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Copies of the American Legion Auxiliary Cookbook may be purchased for $15. The price includes shipping and handling. To order a copy, send a check or money order to the Rutland Community Club, P.O. Box 53, Rutland, ND 58067, email rutlandnd@yahoo. com or visit www.rutlandnd.com for more information. 

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 39

FA R M BY LI N E

BY

AL GUSTIN

The impact of air seeders

W

PHOTO BY LAYN MUDDER

hile driving to town recently, I passed a load of old farm machinery, headed for the junkyard.

High prices for scrap steel have resulted in many people getting rid of the “junk” from the tree rows or behind the hill. This particular load included a three-bottom plow and press drill.

My first thought was of how many hours I’d spent pulling an outfit like that. It also occurred to me that if we haul away all the junk, our grandchildren will never be able to climb onto the machinery Al Gustin we used when we were their age.

Today’s young people will learn about air seeders. It’s been suggested that the invention of the air seeder was one of the pivotal developments in modern agriculture.

I remember vividly the first time I saw an air seeder in operation. The technology seemed so revolutionary.

And it was. It was basically a chisel plow with a tube that carried seed, under pressure, down each shank.

The thing that air seeder technology permitted was much wider seeding units. With box drills, you were limited to the width of a country road, unless you hooked on the end and pulled it sideways. You can’t

40 J U N E 2 0 1 2  N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G

very well fold up a box drill, at least not vertically.

But you can fold up a chisel plow and you can fold up an air seeder. Potential seeding widths suddenly jumped to 40 or 60 feet or more.

A farm equipment dealer says a big impact of air seeders was the fact that you could deliver a lot more fertilizer through an air drill. He says the growth we’ve seen in average yields can be credited to that fact, along with the fact that one-pass farming has saved soil moisture.

But the big impact had to be width. Today, 70-foot air seeders are common. Seeders that wide don’t work on the 10-rod strips that we farmed when I was growing up. And so strip cropping is gone. Field windbreaks are being removed.

One person can seed so many more acres now than in the past. A 50-acre day used to be a big day. With today’s labor situation, acres per man-hour is critical.

But that also has allowed farms to get bigger. Bigger farms means fewer farms; and the resulting impact on small towns, rural schools and churches.

There are many reasons why we’ve lost farms and much of the rural fabric that existed 40 years ago. But if you made a list, air seeders would be on that list.  Al Gustin is farm news director for KBMR and KFYR Radio in Bismarck.

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N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 41

M A R K E T P L A C E F O R U M R E A L E S TAT E • F A R M & R A N C H • W A N T E D • F O R S A L E • T R AV E L REAL ESTATE FOR SALE • 139 acres of commercial- and industrial-zoned land approx. three miles north of Dickinson bordering Highway 22.

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Acme Tools ............................................. 41 Aging & Disability Resource Link ........... 34 Bank of North Dakota.............................. 11 Basin Electric Power Cooperative ........... 27 Best Western Ramkota Hotel, Bismarck .. 32 Cowell Steel Structures, Inc.................... 35 Days Inn, Bismarck ................................. 29 Deadwood Gulch Gaming Resort............ 35 Fargo-Moorhead CVB ............................ 11 Globe Travel ............................................ 34 Grand International Inn, Minot ................ 14 Heringer Dentistry .................................. 11 Jensen Travel .................................... 29, 35 Judy’s Leisure Tours Inc. ........................ 34 KFYR Radio ............................................ 40 Kvamme Travel & Cruises ...................... 15 Legacy Steel Buildings ........................... 41 Luter’s Supply......................................... 35 Medora Area CVB ................................... 5 Medora Musical...................................... 15 Naomi Rossow Realty LLC ..................... 30 National Information Solutions Cooperative ............................ 33 ND Beef Commission ............................. 37 ND Farmers Union Tours ........................ 34 Prairie Public Radio ................................ 41 R&S Building Systems, Inc .................... 34 Radisson Hotel, Bismarck ....................... 15 Ramada Plaza & Suites, Fargo ............... 29 Red River Valley Fair ............................... 22 Satrom Travel & Tour ........................ 30, 32 Sleep Inn & Suites, Minot....................... 31 Spine & Pain Center ............................... 29 St. Alexius PrimeCare/ MidDakota Clinic PrimeCare ..... Back cover Summers Manufacturing ........................ 19 Trinity Health ................... Inside front cover Valley City CVB ...................................... 14 WaterFurnace International ..................... Inside back cover Western North Dakota CVBs .................. 23

N O R T H D A K O T A L I V I N G  J U N E 2 0 1 2 43

CO - OP COUNTRY

Saturday in the park sliding, swinging, climbing — with so many adventures and RNorthunning, activities, every day at the park feels like the Fourth of July for these Dakota Living kids. 

SUPER HEROES: Don’t be fooled by the Thomas the Train pants. These costumed crime fighters can climb and shoot webs like Spider-Man. Twins Jaxon and Parker Sletten are the sons of Jacob and Nicci Sletten and grandsons of Chuck and Kathy Schorsch. Kathy submitted the photo; she and Chuck are members of Roughrider Electric Cooperative.

SWINGING SMILE: It’s official. Pumping his legs and heart, Zach Selensky likes to fly high. He is the son of Dean and Sara Selensky, and the grandson of Ruth and Dean Lindgren and James and Bernice Selensky, who are all members of Northern Plains Electric Cooperative. Ruth submitted the photo.

PRICELESS: Stained shirt: $4. Torn jeans: $11. Carter Teigen’s debut face-first down a slide: priceless. A “total farm kid” who loves to get dirty, Carter is the son of David and Jennifer Teigen, and grandson of James and Rita Teigen and Ron and Barb Fjellanger, who are all members of Northern Plains Electric Cooperative. Jennifer submitted the photo.

ENERGIZING RIDE: Who needs a Van de Graaff generator? A slide sparks a learning opportunity for Kenedy Trostad, who generates static electricity. She is the daughter of Jeremy and Amber Trostad and granddaughter of Shawn and Janelle Marcotte, Karsten Schweitzer, and Randy and Deb Trostad. Janelle submitted the photo; she is an employee of Northern Plains Electric Cooperative.

North Dakota Living is seeking photos of kids related to summer, vacations and grandparents!

Of course, we also want other family favorites for upcoming Co-op Country pages. We’ll select and print them as space allows.

Those whose submissions appear on this page will receive a check for $10 following publication of the magazine. We prefer high-resolution digital photos emailed to cdevney@ndarec.com, but you may also mail entries to Co-op Country, North Dakota Living, P.O. Box 727, Mandan ND 58554-0727. Readers, North Dakota Living will not publish low-quality photos such as those taken on cell phones. When submitting photos, please include the following information: your complete name and address, your daytime phone number, and the name of your electric and/or telephone co-op. We will contact you prior to publication. NOTE: Please keep a duplicate photo, negative or file; the magazine is no longer able to return submitted photos.  44

JUNE 2012  NORTH DAKOTA LIVING

w w w. n d a r e c . c o m

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