$4.50
Vol. 13, No. 3 • November 2008
The Official Publication Of The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame
What’s inside: Page 2 Annual Meeting Information
Page 4 CHF's Bismarck office moves
Page 5 NDCHF license plates on the way
Pages 12-17 Galleries
Pages 19-22 Obituaries
Ty Breuer
HIGH SCHOOL RODEO STAR
Page 2 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Helping Preserve Yesterday and Today for Tomorrow
NDCHF Annual meeting activities Best Western Seven Seas Hotel
Friday, February 20, 2009 7:00-9:00 p.m. CT Ice cream social and entertainment
Saturday, February 21, 2009 1:00 p.m. Annual membership meeting 2:30 p.m. Trustees meeting 5:30 p.m. Social and auctions 7:00 p.m. Banquet and entertainment Introduction of NDRA Board members and year-end champions Live auction
NDRA joins NDCHF Annual meeting activities The North Dakota Rodeo Association Board of Directors has voted to hold the NDRA Board meeting in conjunction with the 2009 NDCHF Annual meeting in Mandan. NDRA President Chad Smith, Killdeer, says his Board took the action because, “we felt the Hall of Fame and NDRA should be working together. The Hall of Fame is working to preserve our history, and that’s important.” The NDRA Board meeting will be held on Saturday afternoon, February
21, at the Best Western Seven Seas Hotel while the NDCHF Annual Membership and Trustees meetings are taking place. The NDRA Board and general members have been invited to the NDCHF Annual meeting and banquet. NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says, “The NDRA Board members and the group’s 2008 event champions will be introduced at the Saturday evening banquet, and we are excited to be working more closely with NDRA.”
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 3
B it from the board
NDCHF hosts book signing
Dear Members and Friends: When I proposed to her in 1994 about starting a N. Dak. Rodeo Hall of Fame, the cowgirl said “Let’s do it.” When I questioned her about whether she was ready to tackle such a huge undertaking after all the years with her husband doing just about everything western, she said “Phil, I’d rather wear out than rust!!” By now you already know, she finally wore out. Our dear friend and NDCHF co-founder, Evelyn Neuens, passed away on Monday morning, Aug. 11, 2008, at age 96. To be sure, I feel a certain measure of sadness about her leaving us. I also have a strong sense of celebrating the great life she had. Evelyn grew up in the Medora Badlands, rode horses her entire life, married a very compatible man with equal interests, raised a family of cowboys, operated a western store on both sides of the river, and saw just about every horse, rodeo and western event in North Dakota. Her home was always open to relatives and friends so that, more times than not, you thought she might be running a stage coach station. At various stages of her life, she was stalked by a wolf, tried unsuccessfully to bake bread for a boy caller (she admitted she’d rather be in the corrals than in the kitchen), outran a pyromaniac-infatuated student to his father’s house when she was a teacher, watched her future husband make a great “impression” on her father’s new car and rode a horse into a bar. She witnessed catastrophic flooding of the family ranch, shipped horses to the East Coast because of drought, and busted her collarbone and shoulder blade in a wreck with her cutting horse. She also received an Indian name (Pretty Flower) after participating in the late 1950s western heritage drama, “Trails West,” held south of Mandan. As a rodeo timer, she had a front seat
to many great rodeo events and scenes. And then, some years down the road, she helped start one more great adventure--the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. As a member and supporter, you’ve been an important player in that adventure and so you know “the rest of the story.” What you might not know, though, is that I promised her a shot of whiskey when the Hall was finally built. After ribbon-cutting ceremonies in 2005, Evelyn and I toasted in the conference room with Crown Royal. I’ll admit I was quicker at the draw with our celebratory swallow. Like all of you, I will miss our “daughter of Medora.” I will also remember what a great life she had. I thank all of you again for your support in getting Evelyn inducted with the first NDCHF Legacy Award while she was still with us to appreciate the well-deserved recognition. The world will know who she was and what she did. With her departure from this life, I saw this picture of a youthful Evelyn, energetically and with great anticipation, walking up to the “Pearly Gates.” There, a youthful Walt is mounted horseback and has a second horse saddled - her cutting horse, Miss Choctaw. Evelyn steps up into the saddle and eases her right boot into the stirrup. I see ‘em joining hands real slowly, like it’s been awhile coming, and smiling at each other. Then they ease slowly into the direction of a bright light. In the distance, there is a colored haze of dust like there is another great western event going on just over the hill. With a very subtle “dig” of their boot heels, Walt and Evelyn are off to another great adventure, courtesy of the Good Lord. We should all be so lucky. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I will always remember Evelyn’s words of wisdom about life--“I’d rather wear out than rust.” These will carry me the rest of my life and hopefully yours. In memory of Evelyn and Walt Neuens, I am humbly…. Phil Baird, President
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . Darrell Dorgan Medora Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathy Miller
Board of Directors
President. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phil Baird, Mandan Vice-president . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert Tibor, Hebron Secretary/Treasurer . . Russell Danielson, Harwood
Board Members
Virginia Eck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bismarck Laura Griffin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Medora Shirley Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dickinson Ray Morrell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mandan Robyn Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pembina Walter Piehl, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minot Ross Rolshoven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Forks Willard Schnell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dickinson Arlen Sommers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Valley City Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cathy A. Langemo WritePlus Inc., Bismarck Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United Printing Inc. Bismarck
Editorial Advisory Committee Phil Baird Pat Grantier Ray Morrell Willard Schnell Robert Tibor Send Letters, Address Changes, Memberships and Contributions to: North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame 120 N. 3rd St., Ste. 85 Bismarck, ND 58501 Phone: 701-250-1833 Fax: 701-250-1835 Medora Office: PO Box 137 Medora, ND 58645-0137 Phone: 701-623-2000 Fax: 701-623-2001 Website: www.northdakotacowboy.com E-mail: info@northdakotacowboy.com
Vision People of all Nations and cultures will come to understand and appreciate North Dakota’s ranching, rodeo and Native American cultures through the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Mission Statement The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame will strive to preserve and educate about the western history and cultural heritages of North Dakota’s Native American, ranching and rodeo communities.
Operating Hours May-Sept. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. MDT. Oct.-Apr. Open upon request.
Page 4 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
A
few words from darrell
NDCHF hosts book signing
The summer is over, and we held our own. Despite gas prices that drove down attendance at many tourism locations across the state, we managed to keep pace with last year. That, in itself, is a victory. In addition to the high fuel prices, we were in the midst of a drought in much of western North Dakota, and the situation in the financial markets gave rise to a lot of uncertainties. One of the problems would have been challenging enough; combining them all meant we had to work extra hard and be innovative. The new “Guns of Dakota” exhibit drew crowds, and we’ll keep it for at least another year. We will also be adding to it in 2009 and have another, and what turned out to be very popular, Gun Road Show in June. There are also changes in the works for 2009. We’ll be updating exhibits in the Rodeo Gallery, as well as working on our archives room. We also received some wonderful gifts this summer. The Bueling family from Sheldon, N. Dak., contributed an outstanding platform rocker made of horns from the Scottish Highland cattle raised by Russell Bueling. Russ died in July, leaving behind a rare
and wonderful piece of folk art, which will now become part of the Ranching Gallery. Trustee Rick Stern and his family of Fargo donated a wonderful immigrant’s trunk that once belonged to his greatgrandfather Herman Stern, who came to the U.S. in 1903. Herman helped establish the Straus Clothing stores. In 1935, using his own resources and whatever else it took, Stern helped 150 relatives escape Nazi Germany and the Holocaust. Trustee Sandi Frenzel of Dickinson was also instrumental in loaning various artifacts for our Homestead exhibit, including a trunk and personal and household items used by homesteaders in their day-to-day living. Anyone else have a trunk that's in good condition they would like to donate? They make great display cases, and we would like to have three or four more. Kathy Miller, the Medora site-manager, and Chesna Nistler, assistant site manager, did a great job in booking events for the Hall of Fame in 2008 and are already taking bookings for 2009. There are dates open for meetings, reunions and weddings, but these will go fast. If you’re interested in renting the patio or meeting rooms, call 701-6232000 to reserve the date. Speaking of dates, we’re making a major change in our annual induction program. For 11 years, we’ve had the program on the first Saturday in August.
We’ve now decided to move it to the last Saturday in June (June 27 in 2009). It was a business decision--the weather is cooler, and we won’t be competing with hundreds of other events. Changing the date means that the nomination process for potential inductees and inductee voting will change slightly. As usual, we began accepting nominations on November 1, and forms have been sent to the NDCHF Trustees. We will be inducting in seven categories for 2009, including Pre-1940 ranching, Modern-era ranching, Pre-1940 rodeo, Modern-era rodeo, Special Achievement, Great Westerner of North Dakota and Cowboy Long Rider. The deadline for submission will be Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009. The Board will review nominations, and the names for the ballot will be announced at the Trustees meeting on Saturday, Feb. 21. Ballots will be sent to Trustees in early April and must be postmarked on or before Saturday, May 9. The names of the 2009 inductees will be announced on Memorial Day weekend, rather than on the 4th of July as in the past. The induction ceremony is planned for Saturday, June 27, in Medora. Mark your calendar now for these new dates. Thanks for your help in 2008, and I look forward to working with you in 2009. Darrell Dorgan Executive Director
Hall of Fame’s Bismarck Office moves The NDCHF’s Bismarck office had been located on College Drive for 11 years. After that many years, it was time for a change, and the office moved to downtown Bismarck in late October. NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says, “We didn’t need as much space, and the new location puts us in closer contact with the banking and energy industry.” He says, “Hall of Fame benefactor
Joe Hauer, who owns several buildings in Bismarck, suggested his Logan building for the CHF office and is subsidizing the rent for the next three years. It’s a nice fit for both of us.” If you’re coming to visit us, you will now find us at 120 N. 3rd Street, Suite 85 (the lower level of the Logan’s on Third building). Come see our new digs soon!
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 5
F undraising Show your support with a NDCHF license plate
NDCHF Trustee Jerry Schlosser installs new license plate.
NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan is excited these days about the new NDCHF license plate. He says, “The plate, available in a few weeks, proudly displays the NDCHF logo and will be an excellent marketing tool for the Cowboy Hall of Fame.” Fifty applications for the special plate were required to get the process moving. Judith Hammer, project manager, says, “We received 58 applications, and I delivered them to the ND Department of Transportation office in late Sept. After reviewing a couple of sample plates, we signed off on one
in mid-Oct., and I sent it on to the ND DOT.” In case you are wondering, it’s not too late to order the NDCHF license plate. If you need a form, call the Bismarck office (701-250-1833) or go to www.dot.nd.gov. Simply click on Application for Organization Plate (SFN 54397), complete the form and mail it to the ND DOT. Remember—NDCHF gets $15 of each special license plate ordered.
Roosevelt saddle raffle offers joint project with Cowboy Poetry group
"Pony Bill" Engen and Bill Lowman.
Raffle tickets for the 2009 fundraising raffle went out in the mail to Trustees on Oct. 16. But this year, rather than a horse, NDCHF has joined forces with Belfield saddle maker “Pony Bill” Engen and the famed Medora Cowboy Poetry Gathering to raffle a handmade saddle. Engen, recently the subject of a story in a National Geographic book, spent three years making this oneof-a kind saddle. The hand-tooled saddle commemorates the Theodore
NDCHF’s 200 Trustees have tickets Roosevelt’s arrival in the Badlands and, if others would like tickets to 125 years ago. Numerous scenes in Roosevelt’s life sell, they can contact Judith Hammer at the Hall of Fame office in Bismarck have been worked into the saddle, on (701-250-1833). which Engen spent about 600 hours. The person selling the most tickets A beautiful hand-tooled headstall and will receive an engraved Winchester martingale also come with it. 30-30 lever-action rifle. The rifle He donated the saddle to the has been won the past two years by Cowboy Poetry Gathering to help Trustee Vic Wilhelm of Halliday. fund the popular Memorial Day weekend event. Poetry Gathering producers Bill and JoAnn Lowman asked the Hall of Fame to help with tickets sales and then split the net proceeds. NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan notes, “The Gathering is a wonderful family event. If we can help raise some money to keep ticket prices down, while helping Bill and JoAnn keep the popular weekend growing, we’re in.” Roosevelt saddle.
Page 6 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
F undraising NDCHF sells theater chairs He says, “It will be ‘first come, first served,’ just like the patio tables. Fourteen chairs have been sold so far, with forty-five to go.” Chairs have been purchased honoring the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • Would you like to put your name or the name of a friend or loved one on a piece of the Cowboy Hall of Fame? There’s now an opportunity for those who missed out on a patio table to do so. People can purchase a chair in the Tom Leach Theater at the
Cowboy Hall of Fame for $500. NDCHF Executive Director Darrell Dorgan says, “This is your chance to add your name or a family member or friend’s name to the Cowboy Hall of Fame. For $500, you can have a brass plaque put on a theater chair.”
•
L. Ray Baird Paige Baker Sr. & Cora Baker Robert & Ruth Bayer Henry & Margaret Breuer Emmet & Dorothy Dorgan Don & Delanis Eckroth Sandi Frenzel (2 chairs) Kenneth & Irene Henry Preston & Sharon Leingang A. Lynn McMillan Jim & Jean Nesheim Nickadomus Senn & Lorance Wolf Kurt & Madonna (Tescher) Tibor & family
Call the Bismarck office (701-2501833) for more information or to purchase a chair.
2008 raffle horse stays in North Dakota Vic Wilhelm and Phil Baird
The Cowboy Hall of Fame Trustees raised more than $21,500 this summer selling tickets for the annual horse raffle. And this year, the horse stayed in N. Dak. with raffle winner Jim Danks, an NDCHF Trustee who lives in Killdeer.
The one-year-old gray filly, Badlands Sugar Yuhoo, was donated by NDCHF supporters Bud and Marcia Sperry and their family. The Sperry family raises cutting horses, as well as pleasure riding steeds, on their ranch near Beach. The rifle, given to the trustee who sells the most tickets, was again won by Vic Wilhelm, Halliday, who sold 52 books of tickets and narrowly nudged out Sue Mosser. Wilhelm also won the rifle the past two years. Thanks to all the Trustees who sold and bought tickets and congratulations to Vic Wilhelm for being the top seller.
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 7
F undraising NDCHF sells original display boards If you are not interested, but there are others you know who might be, please let them know. Those display boards still for sale include:
Last spring, we did some updating in the NDCHF Hall of Honorees. And, as part of that effort, we made minor changes to the beautifully framed and matted inductee display boards. New display boards, that also have bios, photos and brands, replaced those that had hung in the Hall of Honorees since it opened four years ago. We are now offering the original display boards to families or friends of inductees. The original boards are in wonderful condition, have been shrink wrapped and are ready to be mailed to anyone interested in purchasing them for $200 each. Many inductees and families and friends of inductees have already purchased some of the display boards. However, others chose not to or may have forgotten about the offer. For others, there are no descendants. If you are interested in purchasing any of the original display boards that hung on the Hall of Honorees walls the past four years, the price is $200.00 each. Upon receipt of payment, we will box the display board and send it to you.
Pre-1940 Ranching Andrew Johnston Donald Stevenson John Leakey Frank Keogh James William Follis Benton Bird William Taylor Margaret Barr Roberts Ted Albers Modern-era Ranching Ole Solberg Leonard Davis Freida Bohnsack Harris Goldsberry Brooks Keogh Jack Dahl Raymond “Butch” Luger Pre-1940 Rodeo George Defender Robert McLeod Scott Gore George Gardner Joseph Wicks Lyndon Marshall Modern-era Rodeo Duane Howard Jack Chase Alvin Nelson Almit Breuer Pete Fredericks Wilfred “Sonny” Ehr Jr. Delvin Reich Dale Jorgenson Tex Appledoorn James Johnston Harold Olson
Special Achievement Killdeer Mountains Round-up Rodeo Dickinson Match of Champions HOTR Champions Ride Sanish Rodeo Minot Y’s Men’s Rodeo Mandan Rodeo Rodeo Producers Fettig Brothers Rodeo John Stevenson Leslie “Jim” Barnhart Rodeo Livestock Old Shep Figure Four Old Fitzgerald Whiz Bang Leaders of Ranching & Rodeo George Christensen Earl Northrop Pearl Cullen James Jefferies Samuel Rhoades Great Westerners of ND Theodore Roosevelt Ray Schnell Sr. Sakakawea Sitting Bull Ranches Cannonball Ranch VVV Ranch Eaton Brothers Custer Trail Ranch Eaton Ranch-Towner Birdhead Ranch Long X Ranch Cowboy Long Rider Donald Hart
The display boards would make great Christmas gifts. If you are interested in any of them, send payment to the Bismarck office, and we will have the board(s) packaged and sent to you.
Page 8 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
Inductions
Front row (L-R):Wanda Riekens, Cleo Charging, Leona Sheets, Vicki Zimmerman, Grayce Dvirnak, Janet Connolly, Nola Weekes Price. Back Row (L-R): Duaine Voigt, LeRoy Fettig, Arnold Charging, Mervel Hall, Don Hall, Steve Tomac, Alick Dvirnak, J. Mike Connolly r.
elde Sr. Thomas W
Connallys, Elli s, Baird, Bob Tibor.
Rodeo Queens.
rum Group.
Ft. Berthold D
Dorgan presen ts Fran Armstro clock to ng.
Mervel Hall.
Darrell Dorga
n.
Links treated to
new hats.
Entertainment.
Fettigs, Ellis &
Baird.
Tomacs, Lin
aird. dy Ellis, Phil B
Darrell Dorga Anne & Rex C n, ook
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 9
B OOK
Review
By Darrell Dorgan, Bismarck, ND
From the Banat to North Dakota: A History of the GermanHungarian Pioneers in Western North Dakota by David Dreyer and Josette S. Hatter. Institute for Regional Studies NDSU, 2006, 231 pages, hardcover.
This is a wonderful history of a brave group of people written by two of their proud descendants. The Banat Germans comprise a large segment of the population of western North Dakota. Yet, they are often confused with the Germans from Russia or just plain ethnic Germans who grabbed at opportunity and a piece of the American Dream. The Banat Germans began immigrating in the 1890s, coming from the Banat region of the old Hapsburg Empire, which was made up of parts of Austria and Hungary. Today, the area is largely within the borders Romania. They, like the Germans from Russia, were farmers and were good at what they did. They immigrated
to the Banat region of the Hapsburg Empire area from Germany in the early 1700s. They prospered and were noted for their clean, prosperous villages and the crops and horses they raised. However, by 1885, the Banat Germans were running out of land, and they began seeing the railroad pamphlets offering free land in the U.S. Their quest for land and opportunity overrode the fear of a new land, a new language and the great unknown. They sold what they had and left villages with names like Baskowa (the German spelling) or Bakovar (Hungarian spelling) and headed for a new homeland. The Kilzers, Lefors, Jungers, Sicklers and Brauns joined the exodus, bringing children, prized possessions, their deeply held religious beliefs and in-laws with them to the land of promise. The first of the Banat Germans in western North Dakota settled in the
Richardton area and in communities along the railroad and built their towns to look like those they had left behind. The community of Lefor, about 25 miles south of Gladstone, was a community filled with Banaters. The church, town square and celebrations like the Kirwei were brought from their native Hungarian villages and carried on in this new land. The list of churches, communities and families who make up this important ethnic group is long. Their heritage and their contributions to building North Dakota are wonderful. The book lists the family names, the Banat communities they came from and the western North Dakota areas they settled in. It’s a well written and researched book for anyone who wants to study the ethnic patterns of western North Dakota. From the Banat to North Dakota can be purchased at the Hall of Fame gift shop, Medora’s Western Edge Bookstore or on-line.
Page 10 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
T alkin' with trustees
NDCHF hosts book signing
Vic Wilhelm, Halliday, ND NDCHF District: 2 First rodeo experience: At Twin Buttes where we rode bareback horses for $5/head. I took 11 head out that day. Special ranching/rodeo memories: Raising and showing registered Hereford cattle. My sons showed at all major shows in the country. We won State Champion in N. Dak. and a buckle in Newcastle, Wyo. It was one of my best memories.
Vic Wilhelm
Family: My wife, Donna, and three sons, one daughter and one stepdaughter. Occupation: Retired rancher. How did you choose your line of work: I was born and raised in ranching and farming. Did you grow up in ranching or rodeo? We raised and trained Quarter horses. I also rodeoed all my life until age 62. I competed in high school, amateur and some pro. My first win was in Killdeer in bareback riding. I also rode at the invitational in Newcastle, Wyo. First horse: It was an orphan colt given to me by my Uncle Pete. I rode and broke this horse myself as a kid. He retired and died on my dad’s ranch. Favorite rodeo event: Saddle bronc.
When you were a teenager, what did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a good cowboy and rancher. I am proud of the cattle we’ve raised and of my cowboy accomplishments. I wanted to raise my children in a good, clean sport. First job: Ran a shovel in my dad’s coal mine. Advice to young people: Live a good, clean, educated life and follow in the footsteps of a good role model in whatever field they set their goals on. Favorite free-time activities: Rodeo, playing cards, being with family and friends and helping with the NDCHF. Last book you read: Louis L’Amour short stories. Your greatest learning experience:
What it took to be a good rancher and cowboy. If you won the ND lottery, how would you spend it? I would help our children and grandchildren and, of course, donate to the NDCHF. I would like to think that I would spend the money wisely and enjoy the rest of the life that I have to live. One unique thing about you that most people don’t know: My wife would say that it is that I have never met a stranger. Honors and accomplishments: Raising champion cattle, being an NDCHF Trustee, being invited to the PRCA Hall of Fame induction ceremony and being a member of the 50 Years in the Saddle Club. Why do you support the NDCHF? I believe that N. Dak. has raised a lot of champion cowboys and rodeo people. I believe in what the NDCHF stands for and want to help in whatever small way I can. I think there are a lot of people and a lot of history that need to be preserved.
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 11
T alkin' with trustees
NDCHF hosts book signing
Bob Knudson, Minot, ND NDCHF District: 5 trainers would allow me to run with them in practice, and my mare would stay with those American saddle-bred horses for the first quarter mile. We raised eight colts from her, all sired by American saddle-bred studs. Favorite rodeo event: Bareback horses and bulls. Those were the events my sons participated in professionally and in high school, college and CNFR. First rodeo experience: I never competed in rodeos myself, but I helped organize, produce and work at many of them. Bob Knudson
Family: My wife, Connie, and three sons—Andy, Casey and Peter. Occupation: Building design and construction contractor. How did you choose your line of work? From the time I was a kid, I always enjoyed designing and building construction projects. Did you grow up in ranching or rodeo? My family had a hobby farm with horses and other animals. After I was discharged from the U.S. Army and graduated from college, I purchased a couple of quarters of land and started a cow-calf operation. First horse: A fast bay mare about 15 hands that came from Elbowoods. I was seven years old and always rode her bareback. When they had the race horse barn and track at the Minot Fairgrounds, I occasionally rode down there, and the
Special ranching/rodeo memories: We were trailing a herd of about 2,500 head of yearlings that we had spent five days rounding up in the area south of East Glacier. They were spooked at a ford crossing, turned and stampeded. I was riding a green-broke two year old at the rear of the herd, along with my friend who owned the cattle. We managed to turn the herd and completed the drive to the sorting pens. I learned a new appreciation for a horse that could move like he did in rough terrain and keep out of badger holes. When you were a teenager, what did you want to be when you grew up? An architect. First job: Mixing and finishing concrete at age 13. Advice to young people: Don’t be afraid to try something new or
different. The experience you gain should pay dividends sometime in your life. Favorite free-time activities: Riding in the N. Dak. Badlands, fishing, hunting and activities with my family. Things you like the most: Spending time with my family, all types of fishing and hunting, attending sporting events, traveling and working on carpentry projects. Last book you read: The Way It Was: Book 3, The Cowboy and Ranches by Jerome Tweton and Everett Albers (the entire series is good reading). Your greatest learning experience: Traveling in China last year and mixing with the Chinese people. If you won the ND lottery, how would you spend it? Share portions with my sons, church and the NDCHF. One unique thing about you that most people don’t know: I served with an Army group behind the Iron Curtain in Berlin during the Cold War from 1957-1959. Why do you support the NDCHF? There is so much rich history in N. Dak. that has its roots in the horse culture and that needs to be preserved. We can’t wait any longer to get it recorded for fear of losing part of it, and the NDCHF can get much of this accomplished.
Page 12 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
N ATIVE AMERICAN Gallery Fischer excels in three events
Fischer heading.
Terry “Fish” Fischer is one of North Dakota’s premier Indian rodeo stars, excelling in three rodeo events. Named the world champion of the Indian National Finals Rodeo in 1990 and 2004, he ranches near Cannonball and lives there a few months of the year. The rest of the year, he travels to rodeos throughout the U.S & Canada.
In the beginning
Fischer started riding horse at age two or three and won his first rodeo saddle at age nine. That was in the Junior All-around at the Standing Rock Rodeo Association (SRRA) rodeo, where he participated in all of the events. He graduated from Fort Yates High School, where he participated in NDHSRA. When Fischer was younger, he participated in all of the events. However, he didn’t like bull riding very much and eventually settled on three events—calf roping, steer wrestling and team roping.
His family
Fischer ranches with his uncle, Al Two Bears. He says, “With Al on the
ranch, I can travel and rodeo the rest of the year.” Together, they raise cows, bucking horses and roping calves, contracting some of the livestock to the Prairie Knights Casino and Lodge rodeos near Fort Yates. Fischer’s parents, Tom and Gloria Fischer, both team roped, and they also ranch near Cannonball. They recently opened a bar & grill in Cannonball, along Highway 1806. His Uncle Al and wife both team roped, also. Other family members did steer wrestling and bull riding. Fischer also has one brother and one sister.
Fischer rodeos most of the year
Fischer typically signs up for three events at the rodeos he attends--team roping, calf roping and steer wrestling. Over his rodeo career, Fischer has won about 100 saddles and over 100 buckles. He says, “My performance is pretty consistent, and that helps.” Fischer, who will be 38 years old in Dec., has been fortunate in his rodeo career. He has had only one injury so
far—a torn ACL in high school, which he had surgery on. He says, “So far, my knees are doing well.” Fischer winters in the southwestern U.S., participating in rodeos until Feb. when he heads to Florida for a month of rodeos. By Mar., he’s back to the ranch to help with calving season. Fischer says he participates in about 100 rodeos each year. He is a member of PRCA, AIRA, NDRA, SDRA, NRCA (Northwest Rodeo Cowboys Association) and the GPIRA (Great Plains Indian Rodeo Association). Fischer’s partner, Twila Keester, from South Dakota and his two-yearold daughter travel with him. He says, “My daughter keeps me young.” A few highlights of Fischer’s rodeo career • Two-time INFR world champion in team roping--1990 and 2004. • Sept. 2005, NDRA Finals, 1st place in calf roping. • During the 2006 Crazy Horse Stampede, Fischer won allaround honors. • 2006 Great Plains Indian Rodeo Association (GPIRA)-2nd in calf roping and tied for 1st in team roping with Don Bettleyoun. • Bill Osceola Memorial Rodeo in Big Cypress, Fla., in Feb. 2006. Fischer took 2nd place in team roping with Mike Smith in the Eastern Indian Rodeo Association (EIRA).
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 13
He says, “Being in three events makes rodeos fun.” Fischer travels with four Quarter horses. He’s also a ferrier and shoes horses while on the road and back home. He learned the trade at the Oklahoma State Horse Shoeing School.
Fischer’s rodeo goal
About his rodeo career goal, Fischer says, “I’ve won horse trailers and a car. Now I’d like to win a pick up-that’s my goal.” He says, “I will probably be involved in rodeo in some way until I die.” When he’s done traveling the country for rodeos, he plans to retire to the ranch near Cannonball.
Fischer heeling.
• •
• •
NDRA reserve team roping champion--2007. Jan. 2008 Great Plains Indian Rodeo Association (GPIRA) in Rapid City--team roping with Jake Longbrake. NRCA in June 2008—1st place in steer wrestling. In August 2008, Fischer won the extreme timed event in Rapid City, where participants perform in four events, with three rounds in each--calf roping, steer wrestling and team roping (heading and heeling). He was proud to have his name on the board next to
•
Paul Tierney’s, who won in 2007. Fischer entered the Sept. 17, 2008, 3rd Annual Timed Event Challenge in Rapid City, S. Dak. Each participant performs in four events--calf roping, steer wrestling and team roping (heading and heeling). The Top 10 from the 1st 2 rounds come back for the 3rd. In the final, Fischer led by only 3/10th of a second.
Favorite events When asked what his favorite event is, Fischer says all three. But then he says, “Probably more steer wrestling now.”
The annual Indian National Finals Rodeo is held in early Oct. each year in Las Vegas. The INFR includes 10 regions throughout the U.S. and Canada and features over 350 Indian cowboys and cowgirls competing in 8 events. After the four rounds, with two performances each day, the world champions are crowned. Established in 1975, the INFR gives Indian participants the recognition they deserve. It has grown considerably and now has a national office in Las Vegas. It has united several regional Indian rodeo associations. Now the world’s largest and oldest Indian rodeo organization, the INFR includes a variety of youth rodeo associations, the National High School Rodeo Association and the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. The INFR allows athletes to move through the ranks of rodeo from youth to high school, college and then professional. Contestants compete for over $1 million in prize money and awards throughout the year.
Lunches & Full Dinners
Page 14 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
R ANCHING Gallery Wade was key to settlement of South Central North Dakota
Anchor Ranch.
William Vose Wade helped settle much of south-central North Dakota. He was a friend of white men and Indians alike. Wade later described many of his early experiences in Dakota Territory in writing, which his daughter compiled and published in a book, Paha Sapa Tawoytake (or Wade’s Stories). Wade was born in 1851 in the County of Plymouth, Massachusetts. His mother died when Wade was just three years old. He and his baby sister were then raised by their maternal grandmother. Wade’s father was a wanderer and was at sea aboard sailing ships and fishing boats.
Wade starting working at young age
At age 10, Wade worked for the
railroad near Boston and, with only four years of schooling and five years of work on land and sea, at age 19, he began working his way west in 1870. In the lake country where he was trapping, Wade met Don Stevenson who had a contract with the government to furnish wood and hay to the government forts being built along the Missouri River in Dakota Territory. He was offered a job and agreed to work for one year. They loaded 20 wagons drawn by horse and oxen and loaded with supplies for the soldiers and cavalry. The crew made its way by horse- and oxen-drawn wagons from Osakis, Minnesota, to Fort Rice, south of present-day Mandan, a journey of 350 miles. Wade swung an axe, put up hay and hunted meat for his camp. By 1873,
he was working for various wood yards and the government putting up buildings at the Standing Rock Indian Agency and Fort Yates. In 1875, Wade was assigned by the government to accompany a band of Sioux Indians from Fort Yates to a council meeting with Red Cloud’s agency south of the Black Hills. In 1878, on a Minnesota cattle drive for H.S. Parks, he met the cattle owner’s school-teacher daughter.
Wade falls in love
Ordelia Parks later moved with her family to Emmons County, where she taught for two years. Wade had purchased some cattle and sheep of his own, which he drove along with the Parks’ herd into present-day Emmons County. About this same time, Wade was
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 15
appointed Deputy U.S. Marshal in Dakota Territory and later, when Emmons County was organized, he was appointed sheriff in 1883 and
then elected for one term. In 1884, Wade finally persuaded the school teacher to be his bride, and they were married in Bismarck, Dakota Territory.
Wade crosses Missouri River
In 1889, Wade took a hard of cattle and horses to free-grazing land along the Cannonball River. There he built a log cabin 50 miles from civilization. Later he built a stone house on the ranch. When Grant County was settled, Wade claimed the land, establishing the Anchor Ranch about 13 miles southwest of Shields.
By 1890, his wife, son Frank and daughter Mamie, both born in the pioneer town of Winona, N. Dak., joined him. During the Sitting Bull scare of that year, he moved his family and a herd of good horses back across the Missouri to Winona. He then returned to the Anchor Ranch to take care for the cattle. The long journey for mail and supplies prompted the opening of the Wade Post Office in January 1893 and a small store. The Wades continued to raise Hereford cattle on the ranch and trailed them to the train in Mandan for rail shipment to Chicago.
He serves county and state
In 1900 and again in 1902, Wade represented Morton and Oliver counties in the State Legislature. He was a long-time official of the Standing Rock Indian Agency and was one of Grant County’s first commissioners in 1916 when the county was organized. Wade lived a full life and loved the land he homesteaded. He died on May 7, 1927, at age 76. The Anchor Ranch he built is now owned by NDCHF Trustee Duaine Voigt of Shields.
Berger wins top PBR award Chad Berger (of the Berger Bucking Bulls, Mandan) and Clay Struve have been named 2008 Top PBR Stock Contractor of the Year. The PBR announced the coveted honor at the PBR Finals in Las Vegas last week. Berger received the 2007 award, also, and is just as proud of it this year, especially because the recipient is determined by a vote of the top 45 bull riders in the world. PBR co-founder and livestock director says of Berger, “He’s just into it in a bigger way than most guys . . . He’s got a great eye for talent and he’ll scout out some bulls that are maybe a little under the radar . . .” Berger views the award as a crowning reward for decades of effort. He says, “This is a team effort from my family, veterinarians, drivers and business partners. I could not have done it without them.”
NDCHF Commemorative Pistol We are now taking orders for this limited edition commemorative pistol. For more information call or visit us online at: 1-800-619-5729 or www.sspromotionalgroup.com
WE PUT THE WORLD AT YOUR FEET www.carpetworld.com • www.carpetworldbismarck.com
Largest Selection of Quality Men’s Clothing in North Dakota! featuring:
Hart Schaffner Marx CLOTHING 1879
www.dakotacommunitybank.com
Page 16 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
R ODEO Gallery Future of North Dakota rodeo Ty Breuer & Bobbi Grann practicing on the spur board two times a week and, at college, practices on real horses once a week. Breuer is a member of the NDRA, NationalIntercollegiate Rodeo Association, PRCA and RRA.
Breuer’s achievements •
• •
•
Ty Breuer Ty Breuer grew up on a cattle ranch near St. Anthony and 28 miles southwest of Mandan, along with his parents, Penny & Ed Breuer, his siblings and his grandparents, Ed and Dallas Breuer. Breuer graduated from Mandan High School in May 2008 and is now attending Central Wyoming College in Riverton. He is majoring in welding and is on the rodeo team at the two-year school. He started out on a Shetland horse named Patches. He says, “I had that horse for four years and liked it a lot.”
Rodeo runs in the family
Bareback riding seems to run in the family. Breuer says, “My dad and uncle were both bareback riders. And my brother Casey and cousin Cody, both high school juniors, are bareback riders, too.” Breuer started out riding steers, calves, sheep & Lil Rowdy Rodeo bulls. However, he didn’t like bull riding. Then he started bareback riding in his sophomore year and, as the saying goes, “the rest is history.” He keeps up his rodeo skills by
•
•
• •
2006 - ND High School Rodeo bareback champion, Roughrider Rodeo Association Junior bareback champion and qualified for the NHSFR in Springfield, Ill. 2007 – NDHSRA bareback champion. Went on to win a round at the PRCA in Rapid City. He was the Roughrider Rodeo Association Junior bareback champion and qualified for the NPRA and NDRA finals. NHSFR – Breuer ended 1st in the short go with 81 points, the high bareback score of the rodeo and was Reserve National Bareback Champion of NHSFR and NDRA bareback champion. NHSFR in Farmington, N. Mex., in July 2008-he was tied for overall lead in bareback riding at 69 points. On Friday night, Breuer made a 73-point ride. Breuer was named champion bareback rider at the NDRA rodeo finals in Watford City in Sept. 2008. Placed 2nd in the 2008 NHSFR, losing by 1 point out of 150 riders. Fall 2008 – Breuer went to Central Wyoming College to
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 17
•
rodeo in the Central Rocky Mountain Region. Breuer was proud to be selected to ride in the PRCA Chris LeDoux tribute rodeo in Casper, Wyo., on Nov. 1-2. He says, “It is an open event, but it is hard to get into.”
Breuer’s plan for the future
Breuer says, “My plan is to take one horse at a time and keep on going as long as my body can. After two years at Central Wyoming College, I will probably go rookie in the PRCA and, hopefully, the NFR after that.” On the temptation to go to the bigger rodeos instead of the high school ones, Breuer’s advice to other young rodeo participants is to “go to the high school rodeos first. This is the only time you can do high school rodeo; you can do the others later.” Breuer says he’s lucky because his parents support his rodeo activities and help him out quite a bit.
Bobbi Grann N. Dak. high school rodeo star Bobbi Grann and her family (her parents Donna and John Grann, sister Lacey and two brothers Ben and Johnny) live on a ranch near Sheyenne.
A senior at New Rockford High School, Grann plans to go to a college where she can rodeo and play basketball. She wants to go into prevet and later on to veterinary school. Grann’s parents met at a rodeo so she has been around it her whole life.
She says, “I grew up around animals and on a horse.” Her first horse was named Old Ben. She says, “He was a gift from heaven. He took care of me and was my best friend.” When Grann was five years old, she started competing in the Roughrider Rodeo Association rodeos in N. Dak. She says, “That’s an opportunity for younger kids to start competing in rodeos with younger age groups and smaller divisions. That association is definitely what I thank for getting my start.” Grann is also grateful to her parents for their support. She says, “My mom and dad are always there for me and allow me to travel and ride amazing horses. My sister holds the goat for me when I practice. And I have an awesome goat tying horse, Pouch, that I got reserve champion on last year and won nationals on this year.”
tough and exciting. “The NDHSRA finals in Bowman is a blast because all my rodeo friends are in one place for three days, and it’s a good time.” She says, “The Nationals is the chance of a lifetime, and it is so exciting. It is an honor to make it there, and it is probably my favorite rodeo.”
Grann excels at goat tying
Grann’s achievements
Though she enjoys all of her events, Grann says, in terms of performance, her favorite is goat tying. She admits she wouldn’t be anywhere without her goat tying coach, Connie Soderholm, and says of her support, “She is always there for me to help me whenever I need it.” During the summer, Grann practices every day. She either exercises her horses, ropes the dummy, ground ties the goat or whatever she needs to work on. She says, “It takes about four hours to get a really good practice in that involves all of my events.” Grann belongs to the Roughrider Rodeo, North Dakota Rodeo and North Dakota and National High School Rodeo associations. She says, “The RRA finals in Devils Lake have always been so much fun for me because it is near where I live and my classmates, family and friends get to come and see me.” Grann also likes the NDRA finals in Watford City because it’s intense,
In 2007, she was the reserve champion in goat tying at the National High School finals, and this year she won the national championship. Grann says, “I won the state championship in goat tying the past two years and pole bending in 2007.” She has also won some year-end titles in the RRA. Her rodeo goal is to “make it back to the national finals next summer and do my best there again.” Her advice to others is to “practice, practice, practice.” But she also says, “Have fun and respect all that your horses do for you. Smoothness and consistency are the keys to success.” Grann also loves basketball and is involved in Future Business Leaders of America. She also enjoys school. She says, “Rodeo is an amazing sport that can give you so many opportunities. I meet people from all over the world who share the love of rodeo and competing and working with animals. I know that I will be rodeoing for many, many years to come!”
Page 18 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
P laques Family honors loved one with plaque
Appreciation Note We take this opportunity to say a big “thank you” to all the folks who offered cards, prayers and memorials with the passing of our mother and grandmother, Patricia L. Evans, in August. These gestures of kindness, compassion and generosity are appreciated more than you will ever know.
The following is being honored with a plaque: George William Landsberger was born August 8, 1903, in New Trier, Minnesota. In 1916, his parents, John and Susanna (Rischette) Landsberger, moved the family to Hazelton, North Dakota, where they farmed and ranched on the Sunshine Ranch. They lived in a structure that was part living quarters and part barn until the family home was built. George worked at Bill McCarty’s Custer Trail Ranch in 1926-27. He rode the range, tended to Bill’s buffalo and did all sorts of chores. His most unpleasant job was managing the mule teams. He loved the cowboy life, and his favorite horse, “Buck” (Buckskin), was decked out in silver-inlaid bit and bridle. The two spent countless hours together working, hunting and enjoying each other. George bought the family ranch from his parents in 1940. He then married Anne B. Gregoryk of Wilton,
Phil Baird and the Wase Wakpa (Red Paint River) Tiospaye of Patricia L. Evans
Note of thanks on October 18, 1941, and they had five children: Mary Sue, Ruth Anne, George Thomas, Rita Lorraine and Richard John. George was active on the local election board and as township clerk and county assessor. He farmed and ranched until 1961 when he developed multiple sclerosis. They sold the ranch in 1981 and moved to Mandan, where George died on December 1, 1981.
Thank you all so much for your many expressions of sympathy on my son, Brian’s, death. The number of cards, calls, food deliveries and memorials were amazing to us, and we truly appreciate each one of them. Again, many thanks. Cathy A. Langemo & all of Brian’s family
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 19
O bituaries NDCHF loses Board member and Trustees Founding President Evelyn Neuens, 96, Bismarck, died Aug. 11. Born July 16, 1912, in Medora, she was the daughter of Dan and Olive (Syverson) Connell. She was raised on the family ranch, attended area schools and received a teaching certificate from Dickinson State Teachers College. She married Walt Neuens in 1931, and they ranched on the Neuens family homestead until 1947. They moved to Bismarck and operated a western store in Mandan and, in 1961, opened Neuens Western Shop in Bismarck. They also ran the Ranchorama and the Ferris Store in Medora. Neuens was active in the Bismarck community and in many organizations, including the De Mores Riders; Badlands Trail Riders; Bismarck Horse Club and Mounted Police; Downtowners; ND Rodeo, ND Stockmen’s and ND Cutting Horse associations; Zonta Club; Daughters of the American Revolution; Miss Rodeo North Dakota pageants; and Dakota Zoo. Along with the Schnell family, she helped start the Home On The Range Champions Ride. She and Walt served as Baron and Baroness von Folkfest in 1986. She was especially proud of being the founding president of the ND Cowboy Hall of Fame. Neuens enjoyed horseback riding until her final years. She was dedicated to her activities that benefited the cowboy way of life and to her community. She grew up on horseback and passed the joys of riding on to her grandchildren.
She is survived by her four sons— Bill, Don, Ken and Gene—and their families, including 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Trustee Gilman Peterson, 95, Dickinson, died Sept. 6. Born April 14, 1913, to Halvor and Emma (Hoff) Peterson, he was raised and educated near Daglum and New England. He attended the Fisher District School and Hempell Diesel School, Chicago. Peterson worked on the family farm with his father and brothers Roman, Noble and Stewart. He added to the farm and purchased the original homestead from his brothers in 1956. He married Beatrice Olson in 1937, and they had five daughters—Nancy, Diane, Sonia, Vicki and Debra. In addition to their daughters, the couple grew wheat and other small grains and raised Hereford cattle. Flagstaff Farms eventually grew to over 3,000 acres. Peterson was noted for trying new farming practices and equipment, and he won awards from the Soil Conservation District. In the 1990s, he leased the farming operation to Doug Tarpo, who purchased the Peterson homestead. Peterson was active in community and statewide organizations, serving on many civic and local government boards and in the State Legislature from 1960-62. He was a member of the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and enjoyed restoring old John Deere tractors, the company of good friends and family, reading and talking politics. He is survived by his wife,
Monica; his five daughters; and many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. NDCHF inductee and Trustee Tom Tescher, 82, of western North Dakota, died Sept. 25. Born Jan. 24, 1926, to Matt and Antoinette Tescher, he was raised in the Sentinel Butte area. He married Lorraine Pendleton in 1946, and they raised 10 children while ranching in the Badlands. Tescher rode saddle broncs in rodeos across the country during the 1950s and 1960s, finishing in the top 10 during six consecutive pro-rodeo seasons. In 1959, he qualified for the first National Finals Rodeo. He then qualified for the 1960 NFR, but did not compete because it meant being away from home on Christmas Day, which he preferred to spend with his family. Tescher continued playing softball into his 50s and team roping into his 70s. He was active in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Medora and on many civic and county boards. Tescher was a PRCA gold card holder and helped start the Home On The Range Champions Ride. He was a resident expert on the wild horses in the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. He rounded them up, catalogued their bloodlines and tracked their long history. Tescher is survived by his wife, 10 children, 22 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Page 20 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
O bituaries Donald M. Adams, 71, Dickinson, died Oct. 2. He was born April 6, 1937, to William and Margaret (Blakely) Adams at Grassy Butte and was raised on the family ranch northeast of Grassy Butte. Adams joined the U.S. Army in 1955. After his discharge, he returned and participated in rodeo events throughout the Upper Midwest. Adams married Randi Lawhead in 1961. He worked in the oil fields in seven states and moved back to N. Dak. in Feb. 2008. He enjoyed traveling, World War II history, following rodeo events and spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren. Adams is survived by his wife and three children—Dean, Wade and Beth. Ruby Bruington, 96, Mandan, died June 17. Born May 26, 1912, in Lark, she was the daughter of Frank and Anna (Hedstrom) Wagner. She married George Bruington in 1932 and they ranched north of Lark, moved to St. Anthony in 1975 and later to rural Mandan. Bruington taught school for 42 years, beginning in a rural school in 1930. The Bruingtons enjoyed their own children and many others. Their home was always open. She was an avid reader and an excellent cook. She was also known for her strong faith, ready wit, positive attitude and sense of humor. Bruington is survived by her daughters Cynthia Barstad and NDCHF Trustee Kay Sorensen and son Herbert. Russell Bueling, 89, died July 25 in Enderlin. Born April 3, 1919, to Charles and Tillie Bueling, he lived in Barnes and Ransom counties. Bueling graduated from Sheldon High School in 1937. He married Violet Bjugstad. They farmed most of their married lives. After retirement, Bueling continued to
spend much of his time on the farm/ ranch, where he enjoyed working with the BueLingo Cattle he helped develop. He enjoyed community service and was involved with the ND Stockmen’s Assn., Ransom County Soil Conservation and Fair boards, Ransom County Crop and Livestock Assn., Dakota Sand Hills Feeders, Sheldon School and Farmer’s Elevator boards, and founding member of The BueLingo Cattle Society. Bueling was recognized as the Society of Range Management’s Ranger Man of the Year, Ransom County Crop and Livestock Assn. Man of the Year and was inducted into the ND Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2005. He is survived by his wife Violet, son Lance and daughter Tracy Jordet. Patricia L. Evans, 59, Aberdeen, S. Dak., died Aug. 28. She was born on July 16, 1949, in Rosebud, S. Dak., to Alfred and Della (McGhee) Lytle. She grew up near the Pukwana, S. Dak., and married Wallace Wells. They had seven children. Evans then lived in Vermillion, where she married Wayne Evans Sr. in 2000, and they had four children. Evans attended the University of S. Dak., earning a B.A. degree in English and a Masters degree in administration. She was the co-director of Sacred Circle/Women’s Advocacy Network in Rapid City and taught at the Lower Brule Community College. Evans was active in the Wase Wakpa and Vermillion communities and sponsored many events promoting the life of Native Americans. She is survived by her husband; 11 children and her Hunka sons Phil Baird, NDCHF President, and Nick Swan. Adrian Foote Sr., 81, died June 26. He was born Feb. 21, 1927, in Elbowoods to James Foote Sr. and
Elsie Fredericks Foote. He belonged to the Low Cap Clan and was a child of the Knife Clan. Foote attended Lucky Mound Day School and Marty Indian School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 16 and served during World War II. Foote married Dorothy Marie McKay in 1953, and they had five children. He worked at various jobs and served on the Three Affiliated Tribes Business Council and UTTC boards and as a lobbyist in D.C. Foote married Virginia Alberts in 1961, and they served as 4-H leaders and were named Foster Parents of the Year. He enjoyed rodeo and competed in saddle bronc and bareback starting in 1943. He served as president of the AllAmerican Indian Activities Assn. and on the board for the ND High School Rodeo Assn. Foote also had a stock contracting business and rodeo company, with horses that went to the PRCA National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. He was inducted into the Fort Berthold Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2001. He is survived by his wife Virginia and his 10 children—Gary, Denise, Adrian, Blaine, Joni, Tony, Dustin, Julie, Rosario and Mary. Allen Hanson, 80, Enderlin, died July 1. He was born Sept. 25, 1927, to Leon and Geneva (Dahl) Hanson, Englevale. He graduated from Verona High School and received a teaching certificate from Valley City Teachers College. Hanson married Evelyn Schlader in 1948 and taught near Enderlin and Lisbon. He then worked for the Soo Line Railroad as an engineer, retiring in 1986. Hanson also was a custom sheep shearer, raised Arabian horses and operated a tree farm. He was active in First Lutheran Church of Enderlin, the 7th Cavalry
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 21
O bituaries re-enactment and SodBusters. He also enjoyed singing and traveling. Hanson is survived by his wife; 3 sons—Steve, Jesse and Leon and 2 daughters—Rebecca and Elsa. Melvin Jarrette Johnson, 64, Mandaree, died Aug. 7. He was born in Elbowoods on Nov. 28, 1943, to Eloise (Mandan) Johnson and Melvin Johnson. He was a descendant of Chief Red Cow and a member of the Low Cap Clan. Johnson learned his horsemanship skills at a young age. He graduated from Stephan Indian Mission School in Stephan, S. Dak., and worked in Calif. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and, after discharge, worked in the oilfields at New Town and in Alaska and Calif. In 1989, Johnson married Barbra Kennedy, and they lived near Mandaree. In 1990, he retired and raised horses, enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and friends and riding. He is survived by his wife and four children—Jim, Jerry, Shane and Jennifer. Olive Kinmark, 96, Klamath Falls, Ore., died Sept. 8. She was born Sept. 14, 1911, near Medora to Byron and Gertrude Connell. She graduated from Medora High School and earned a teaching certificate from Dickinson State Normal School. She taught in rural schools. She married Ronald Kinmark in 1931, and they had one son, Ronald “Lee”. Her husband’s road construction work kept them moving throughout the Dakotas, Neb. and Minn. until 1942, when they moved to Vancouver, Wash. There she worked as a postal clerk. After the war, they moved to Klamath Falls, Ore., where she worked for Montgomery Wards and the County Engineer’s office, retiring in 1976. After Ronald’s retirement, the couple
traveled for several years through many states. Kinmark was an active member of the Congregational Church and enjoyed singing, traveling and visiting with friends. She is survived by her son and his wife. Doris Kubik, 88, Dickinson, died July 30. She was born on the family farm on Feb. 26, 1920, to Emma and W.K. Zander. She graduated from Dickinson High School in 1937 and attended Dickinson State Teachers College. In 1939, she married Frank Kubik, and they had three children—Karen, Jeff and Jane. The couple worked together for 40 years on the Kubik Polled Hereford Ranch near Manning, retiring in the early 1980s. Kubik enjoyed gardening, reading, sewing, baking, dancing and ranch life. She and Frank were two of the original major contributors to the NDCHF. She is survived by her husband, two children. Brian Langemo, 38, Bismarck, died Aug. 30. Born Jan. 27, 1970, in Valley City, he was the son of Cathy A. (Herman) Langemo, Bismarck, and Larry P. Langemo, Valley City. He attended Bismarck schools and graduated from Bismarck High School in May 1988 and the welding program at Bismarck State College in 1990. Brian worked in the restaurant industry for a short time; for Unique Hardwood Floors, Bismarck; and in the Seattle, Wash., area. He returned in April 1994 to Bismarck, where he owned and operated Custom Hardwood Floors until his death. Brian is survived by his wife, Cathi Jo (Fitzgerald) Langemo, whom he married in 1998; his children David Fitzgerald and Kieler and Alison Langemo; his parents; his brother
Barrett and family; and many other family members and friends. Virginia Marback, 80, Mandan, died Aug. 17 in Wahpeton. She was born Feb. 6, 1928, in Fargo to Carl and Edith (Lachleiter) Shea. The family moved to Mandan shortly thereafter. She worked at Sweet Heart Bakery, where she met George Marback. They married in 1948 and started George’s Bakery, where they worked together for 50 years. She was a cake decorator and bookkeeper. Marback enjoyed wearing jewelry, dressing up, and helping in the community. She is survived by her husband and her daughters—Patty and Mary. Marvin Martel, 77, Fargo, died July 24. He was born Mar. 22, 1931, near Medina to Christian and Elizabeth (Klein) Martel. Martel graduated from Medina High School in 1949 and attended Valley City Teachers College. He taught school for three years near Medina and then entered the U.S. Army. He married Irene Andres in 1953. After his discharge, he worked for Gamble Robinson Grocery and Produce Company, transferring to Williston, Fargo and Minneapolis. He retired in 1999. In 2000, the couple moved to Fargo. Martel was active in the Sheyenne Red River High School Rodeo Club and enjoyed hunting, fishing and being creative. He is survived by his wife and daughter Rene. Clem McSpadden, 82, Chelsea, Okla., died July 7. He was general manager of the National Finals Rodeo for 18 years, a past president of the Rodeo Cowboys Assn. and one of the sport’s legendary announcers for more than 50 years.
Page 22 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
O bituaries As an announcer, McSpadden worked the National Finals Steer Roping a record 27 times from 1963-2000. He announced rodeos throughout North America and became the first American to announce at the Calgary Stampede and the Canadian Finals Rodeo. In 1986, McSpadden was named the PRCA Announcer of the Year and Cowboy Hall of Fame Man of the Year. He was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1990. McSpadden graduated from Okla. State University and served in the U.S. Navy from 1944-46, the Okla. Senate for 18 years and the U.S. House of Representatives. He is survived by his wife, Donna, and children Kay, Bart and Paul. Rodger Nupen, 61, of Longmont, Colo., died Sept. 23. He was born July 6, 1947, in Killdeer to Arthur and Olga (Sloan) Nupen. He was raised on the family ranch in Whetstone, near Killdeer. He married Donna Gabbert in 1969, and they farmed and ranched near Killdeer, along with their three children—Sara, Justin and Amy. They moved to Longmont in 1998 where he ranched and was a heavy equipment operator. Nupen enjoyed time with his family, outdoors activities, horses, rodeos and his home in N. Dak. He is survived by his wife and three children. Jiggs O’Connell, 85, Dickinson, died Sept. 3. He was born Oct. 1, 1922, near Pedro, S. Dak., to Jim and Doris (Daly) O’Connell. He graduated from Rapid City High School and worked on the family ranch. O’Connell purchased the Badlands Bar in Wall, S. Dak., and then the Rendezvous Club in Miles City, Mont. He later bought a ranch and raised cattle with his brother in Ismay, Mont.
In 1958, O’Connell bought the Alvin Tescher (Tom Porter) ranch in the Badlands. He married Ardene Wheeler in 1958, and they had two children— Kathy and Scotty. Jiggs worked to get telephone service to the area and served on the Medora Grazing and the Billings County School boards. He was a member of Belfield Lutheran Church, St. John’s Lutheran, the Elks Club and the ND Stockgrowers. He enjoyed his family and his Black Angus cattle. O’Connell is survived by his wife and two children. John Rognlien, 86, Bottineau, died April 29. He was born May 5, 1921, in McHenry County to Martin M. and Agnes “Mary” (Dugan) Rognlien. He was raised in rural McHenry County and attended country school. Rognlien broke horses for his father and other area ranchers. He joined the U.S. Army in 1942 and served in Europe. After his discharge, he returned to the Towner-Berwick area to ranch, break horses and herd turkeys. He married Josephine “Josie” Burkhartsmeier in 1953. They purchased a ranch northeast of Towner and, in 1971, ran a hog operation north of Towner. They semi-retired to a ranch north of Denbigh and then moved to Bottineau in 2005. Rognlien was a member of St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church, Towner, and St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Bottineau. He was also a member of the VFW, American Legion, Ranchers Scale Assn., Knights of Columbus, Towner Rodeo Assn. He enjoyed horses, hunting, fishing, storytelling and the outdoors. He is survived by his wife, son John, and two daughters—Marie and Marlene.
Levi Wisness, 27, Keene, died Aug. 3. He was born April 21, 1981, in Williston to Milo and Julie (Stenehjem) Wisness and was raised on the family ranch north of Keene. He attended school at Johnson Corners and in Watford City, where he excelled in wrestling, football and rodeo. In 1999, he was a state champion in three sports and received the Reserve Champion All-around Cowboy award at the ND High School Rodeo Assn. state finals. His true love was rodeo and he began riding sheep when he was six years old. He was also an honor student, active in FFA and 4-H and a member of Keene First Lutheran Church. Wisness attend S. Dak. State University on a rodeo scholarship and, in 2001, transferred to Eastern Wyo. College and then the University of Wyo. In 2003, Wisness won the National Collegiate Championship. He graduated from the University of Wyo. in 2004 with a B.S. degree in Ag Business. Wisness is survived by his parents and many family members and friends.
O b i t u a ry
policy
If you are aware of the recent death of a NDCHF member; a N. Dak. cowboy, cowgirl or rancher; or a friend of western heritage, please inform us and, if possible, provide an obituary. Obituaries can be sent to: NDCHF, 120 N. 3rd St., Ste. 85, Bismarck, ND 58501. Space availability may determine inclusion and length.
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 23
Custer Heritage Days
Hammer becomes new Miss Rodeo ND
The Cowboy Hall of Fame hosted the 7th Cavalry re-enactors during Custer Heritage Days in Medora June 14-15. Visitors had an opportunity to see a variety of vintage women’s clothing from the 7th Cavalry era, and the Cowboy Action Performers from Bismarck/Mandan excited the crowd with a shoot out.
Jessinta Hammer, Kathryn, has reached a long-held dream of reigning as Miss Rodeo North Dakota. As Miss Rodeo Thunder Bird Ranch, she competed at the Badlands Circuit Finals Rodeo in Minot Oct. 9-12. Hammer became interested in becoming Miss Rodeo ND when she was 13. Her next goal is to win Miss Rodeo America in Dec. 2010 after her year as Miss Rodeo ND. A 2004 Lisbon High School alumna, Hammer is working toward a master’s degree in agricultural economics and enjoys farming with her dad. She also has a bachelor’s in Spanish and a minor in business. The pageant contestants were judged on horse and rodeo knowledge, rodeo and North Dakota history, scrapbooks, appearance, congeniality and horsemanship.
Page 24 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
F undraising Members Contribute to NDCHF The following are new or renewing NDCHF members from June 20, 2008, through October 13, 2008, deposits. To contribute to the sustaining drive, the building fund or the NDCHF Foundation, please complete and mail the form on page 26. Pledges/Capital Fund Greg* & Debbie Childs MDU Resources Foundation Theater Chairs ($500) (donor listed in parentheses) A. Lynn McMillan (Jon & Jeannen McMillan Sandi Frenzel (2 chairs) General Donation ConocoPhillips Co. Memberships Diamond Saddle ($1,000-$4,999 annually) Gold Buckle ($500-$999) Richard Dietrich* LeRoy & Carla Fettig, Williston Basin Oil & Title H.L. & Shirley Meschke Silver Buckle ($250-$499 annually) Gov. John & Mikey Hoeven Harry Anderson* Terry & Joyce Baker Sue Steen Christiansen* & Randy Christiansen Robert & Catherine Gruman Alan & Peggy Gustin Kenneth* & Marlys Radenz Duaine Voigt* Trophy Spurs ($200-$249 annually) Beverley Adams & Tim Flakoll Travis Brown & Teresa Barger
Brown Paul Carey Richard & Vicki* Clarys Delbert* & Donna Eszlinger Joyce Fossum* Juanita (Fredericks) Warden* Pete Fredericks* Rodney* & Kathryn Froelich Jennifer Janecek-Hartman Bruce & Kathleen Kautzman J. Stephen Lee* Melvin, Luella & Todd Leland Phyllis Leutz* L. Curtis* & Jill Luchsinger Sue* & Randy Mosser John & Karen Richter Sheila Robinson Jim* & Gini Stevens Jimi Lou* & Gary Woodard Vonny Young* Ranch Boss ($100-$199 annually) Bud & Pam Anderson Dale & Joanne Beckman Yvonne Bender Sharon Bendish Keath* & Cynthia Borchert David Breuer (paid by Mark Shoemaker) Steve Brooks* G.J. Carlson & D.J. Trnovec, Southwood Veterinary Clinic Richard & Vicki* Clarys Cordell Dick & Mary AndersonDick Bryan & Cindy Dvirnak Carol E. Green (paid by Mark
Shoemaker) Ed & Jean Hall Mel Hauck Kristin Hedger Carol Hoovestol Allen Jacobson Harold & Patricia Jacobson Travis Jacobson Gary & Gayle Jeffrey Ingomar Johansson (paid by Mark Shoemaker) Dale* & Barbara Jorgenson Clyde Krebs Darwin & Jean Krenz Barbara Lang* Norvel & Barbara Larson Robert* & Bonnie Lee Preston & Sharon Leingang Roger Leutz Andrew & Stacy Majerer Mandan Progress Org./Mandan Rodeo Charles & Carol Olson Kevin Pifer, The Pifer Group, Inc. Stanley & Joan Pope, TP Ranch Nola J. Price Barry & Donna Ronningen, Ronningen Farms Richard & Jo Ann Ruud Ronald Ryberg Alois & Nancy Schall Thomas & Pamela Schmid Jason Schmidt, J.S. Custom Feeding Donald Sillerud* Roger Stuber Charles & Myrna Thompson
Art Todd* Ron & Carol Torgerson Lee & Sharon Wall Ernest J. Ward Wrangler ($50-$99 annually) Raymond & Mary Ann Berntson Floyd Boutrous, The Bourtrouses Group LLC Wanda & Rory Brown (paid by Robert & Donna Irwin) Wade & Kasey Carlin Darcy & Gary Catalano John & Shane Christiansen (paid by Sue Steen Christiansen* & Randy Christiansen) Adrian Crowfeather Dianne K. Dronen Jerry & Carolyn Erickson James & Jane Forthun Curtis & Susan Hanson Orlin & Lola Hanson Elizabeth Hill
The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. All contributions are tax deductible. • Kid Corral –––––––––––––––– $10-49 annually • Wrangler Club ––––––––––––– $50-99 annually • Ranch Boss Club –––––––– $100-199 annually • Trophy Spurs Club ––––––– $200-249 annually • Silver Buckle Club –––––––– $250-499 annually
• Gold Buckle Club –––––––– $500-999 annually • Diamond Saddle Club –––– $1,000-4,999 annually • Trail Drivers Club ––––– $5,000-9,999 annually • Bronc Rider Club –––––––––– $10,000+ annually
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 25 Arnie Irwin (paid by Robert & Donna Irwin) John & Susie Irwin (paid by Robert & Donna Irwin) Duane & Deloris Johnson, Rosedale Apiaries Gloria Johnson James* & Elva Lou Johnston John & Lina Lamsters Tom & Kathleen Langemo Lyle & Sharon Leiseth Gary & Linda Majeres Lynnie Melena George & Joyce Monson Douglas Munski Norma Nelson*, Nelson Sunrise Ranch Mary & Robert Nistler Richard & Fern Pokorny Patrick Porter Doug Quick Gary & Lois Ridenhower Gary Schaner* Sonya Schaner (paid by Gary Schaner*)
Allen & Lorraine Schmidt Cindy Stockwell Marlo & Jane Sveen Vernon Vejtasa (paid by Audrey Lorenz) Lois & George Welsch, Big Hat Society Steve & Deb Weninger Pat & Lawrence Wilson C.H. Winkler Kid’s Corral ($10 annually) Alex Giffen (paid by Kenneth* & Marlys Radenz) Benjamin Giffen (paid by Kenneth* & Marlys Radenz)
* Denotes NDCHF Trustees **Denotes NDCHF Board Members (Please notify the NDCHF of any errors or omissions by calling 701-250-1833.)
L-R: Phil Baird, Ashley Andrews and Deb Knuth On behalf of the NDCHF, President Phil Baird accepted the original oil painting of Ashley Andrews, Miss Rodeo America 2007. The presentation was made during the opening ceremonies of the 2008 Mandan Rodeo on July 2. Baird thanked the Mandan Rodeo Committee and artist Deb Knuth, of Wilton, for the gift.
Page 26 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
F undraising NDCHF gifts honor loved ones
The NDCHF has received honorariums/memorials for the following individuals. To honor a loved one, see the memorial/contribution form below. (This information includes deposits for June 20, 2008, through October 13, 2008, deposits only.) In memory of Don Adams Many family and friends In memory of Lloyd Belling Jim & Gini Stevens In memory of Ruby Bruington Fran Armstrong In memory of Russell Bueling Russ & Helen Danielson Don & Janice Rustad In memory of George Charging Anita Charging
In memory of Patricia L. Evans Phil Baird Greg & Debbie Childs Darrell Dorgan Laura & Bud Griffin Joan Hoffman Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch In memory of Virginia George Douglas Munski In memory of Marilyn Greenwood American State Bank, Williston
In memory of Madeline Childs Phil Baird Alice Connolly Darrell Dorgan K. & A. Lundblad Clair Michels
In memory of Allen Hanson Curtis & Sandra Nielsen
In memory of Charlotte Cymbaluk Nancy & Darrell Hermanson Sue & Randy Mosser Joan & William Emery Patrick Robert & Vicki Ridl
In memory of Ralph “Doc” Hubbard Mary R. Hubbard & Family
In memory of Delmar Erickson Irene Hamilton Dean & Arlene Helling Arlyce Schulte
In memory of Orville Haugen Mon Dak Quarter Horse Assn./Williston Saddlery Inc.
In memory of Melvin Jarrette Johnson Tex & Pauline Appledoorn Phil Baird James Danks Darrell Dorgan Betty Grantier Kelly & Hazel Jorgenson
Susan Lundin & family, Lundin Ranch Alvin & Kaye Nelson Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch Philip & Sharleen Thompson Kathleen Wachter In memory of Viola Kennedy Phil Baird Darrell Dorgan Gene & Elaine Fedorenko Mark & Jessanne Knutson Donald & Sandra Sivertson Harley Thompson Phil & Sharleen Thompson In memory of Olive (Connell) Kinmark Howard & Chloris Amidon Fay & Lynn Connell Guy & Caroline Connell Sydney Hegge Michael Kimbro Sylvia Roper Darrel & Jane Rusth L. Paul & Veronta St. Clair Dona J. (Connell) Wood Derwin & Carmen Zuroff In memory of Lyle Knudson Phil Baird Darrell Dorgan Becky & Walter Piehl Jr.
In memory of Doris Kubik Darrell Dorgan Gene & Elaine Fedorenko Willard & Linda Schnell In memory of William Landsberger Rita Landsberger In memory of Brian Langemo Greg & Debbie Childs Darrell Dorgan Mary Ann & Patrick Durick Joan Hoffman Joyce Kitt & Gordon Albers In memory of Jay Lewis Dave Laaveg In memory of Jewel Linderman Brenda Loken In memory of Virginia Marback Phil Baird Darrell Dorgan Fredrick & Ruth (Uden) Green Ordean & Jean Wangrud In memory of Marr Martel Don & Janice Rustad In memory of E.C. “Doc” Meiers William & Kay Fortier, Willow Lake Ranch Robert & Cynthia Stauffer
THINK OF NDCHF DURING YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Membership/Memorials Membership Contribution of $ _______________________ Category ____________________________ Memorial gift of $ _________________ in honor of ___________________________________________ Theater Chairs Fund $ _______________ Building Fund $ ________________ Foundation $________________ Name _______________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________ State ________ Zip Code ________ Phone __________________ Credit Card ___________________________________________________ Exp. Date ______________________ Mail, fax or email this form (or a copy of it), along with your check or credit card number, to: North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, 120 N. 3rd St., Ste. 85, Bismarck, N.D. 58501
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 27 In memory of LaMarr Myers Donald Entzel In memory of Jenny Nagel Mary Ann & Pat Durick In memory of Evelyn Neuens Bud & Pam Anderson Phil Baird Terrald & Carol Bang, Terrald Bank Ranch Bank Center First Investment Centers Advertising Julia Barth Darlene Birdett & family Bismarck Horse Club Robert & Virginia Bubel Rodger & Mavis Buchholz Dalores & Jack Burau Arnold & Sharon Burian Mr. & Mrs. Clark Butler Bonnie & David Buzza & family Kathy Cloud Fay & Lynn Connell Guy & Caroline Connell Russ & Helen Danielson Kristin & Jason Eisenzimmer Amy Fast Steven Fischer Blanche Flynn William & Kathleen Foster Robert & Wilma Freise Larry & Linda Fritz, Third Creek Ranch LLC Colette & Casey Gjermundson A.G. Golden Patricia & Steve Goodall Marjorie, Charles & Bob Gratton Laura & Bud Griffin Joyce Harnden Donald & Patricia Hedger Madeline Heer Sydney Hegge Patricia Higgins Caudel Joan Hoffman Carol Hoovestol Gerald & Betty Hopfauf Toby & Ellen Huber Robert & Donna Irwin & family Wayne & Gail Johnson-Weishaar
George Jr. & Helen Kary Barbra Kennedy Johnson Loren Kopseng Robert & Kitty Lee Mary & Barry Lesmeister Gail Lindgren Carlson Art & Grace Link L. Curtis & Jill Luchsinger Magnus & Viona Lutness Minot Y’s Men’s Rodeo Sue & Randy Mosser Alvin & Kaye Nelson ND Cattle Women Ardene & Jiggs O’Connell Laif & Kathleen Olson Roger Peet Don & Diana Peterson Brenda Pickett Walter Piehl Jr., Ft. Union Artist Associates Sherry Plummer Karen Pullen Gladys Rausch Gary Reile Arthur & La Donna Rode Don & Janice Rustad Robert & Edna Sand William & Kay Schlosser Jerry & Barb Schlosser Willard & Linda Schnell Sheila Marie A. James Silbernagel Julie Smith Bernard Solberg Loretta Tescher Richard & Theresa Tokach, Tokach Angus Ranch Dawne Voigt Roberta Wachter Luanne Wald Lisa Weigel Linda Weiss & family Janine White Bonnie & Woody Wilson & family Larry & Pat Wilson & family Vonny Young James Zoller Carmen Zuroff In memory of Jiggs O’Connell James & Donna Fritz
Gordon & Sharon Gerbig Laura & Bud Griffin Cary & Margie Hande B.J. Kadrmas Ardene O’Connell David & Renee Paasch Sheila Marie, Painted Badlands Ranch Norman & Gail Stevens Ventyx Inc. In memory of Aagot Pelton Sheila Marie In memory of Ruth Rausch Ervin & Norma Ely Iva Slag In memory of John Rognlien Ryan & Nicole Taylor In memory of Lloyd Salter End of the Trail Saddle Club In memory of David N. Stevenson Barbara & Gerald Walla In memory of Doris Strom Laura & Bud Griffin Larry & Peg Njos In memory of George Tank Kathy Wachter In memory of Tom Tescher Fran Armstrong Phil Baird James Danks Laura & Bud Griffin Cary & Margie Hande David & Debra Harsche Barbra Kennedy Johnson Gordon & Marlyn Langerud Roger & Peggy Myers, Myers Ranch Alvin & Kaye Nelson Patrick & Leanne Rafferty Don & Janice Rustad Linda & Willard Schnell
Sheila Marie Roger Stuber Al & Joyce Stude Derwin & Carmen Zuroff In memory of Andrew Voigt Roberta Bosch Richard & Vicki Clarys In memory of Jim Wachter Roger C. Smith In memory of Anna Weinberger Phil Baird In memory of Levi Wisness Robert & Debarah Dwyer Gene & Elaine Fedorenko Barbra Kennedy Johnson Patti Leiseth Bill Madison Sue & Randy Mosser Alvin & Kaye Nelson NDRA Doreen & Dale Orf Frank & Stephanie Pape Greg & Rhonda Pennington Donald & Sandra Sivertson Elmo & Elinor Sorenson Connie & Ed Sundby Cory & Suzanne Thompson, Paige & Brady Harley Thompson Philip & Sharleen Thompson Kathleen Wachter Lynn & Linda Wold In memory of Wesley Wold Lynn & Linda Wold In memory of Danny Woods Darrel & Jerry Meyer In memory of Horace Woods Darrel & Jerry Meyer In memory of Pat Woods Darrel & Jerry Meyer
Page 28 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
M EMBER News Andrews featured in Guideposts Ashley Andrews, former Miss Rodeo America 2007, was featured in an article in a recent issue of Guideposts. The article was about Andrews and her fight against cancer.
Baird speaks at Heritage Center Phil Baird and UTTC President David Gipp presented at the North Dakota First Nations Day at the Heritage Center on Oct. 10. First Nations Day is part of Native American Heritage Month.
Bosch Lumber receives DSU award Paul, Joel and Troy Bosch of Bosch Lumber, Dickinson, received the Blue Feather Award from Dickinson State University in Sept. for their support of DSU and the Dickinson community.
Danielson receives honor NDCHF Board member Russ Danielson was inducted as an honorary ND Stockmen’s Association member on Sept. 27. He is a long-time NDSU animal science professor.
Julie was recently named Executive Vice-president of the ND Stockmen’s Association.
Stockmen’s Association announces awards Slope County ranchers Wayne and Karen Gerbig and their son Neil and family were named North Dakota Stockmen’s Association Environmental Stewardship Award winners recently. Long-time brand inspectors Ken Halvorson and Jon Hendrickson were recognized as Outstanding Local Brand Inspectors. Halvorson is a NDCHF Trustee. Steve Brooks of Bowman and NDCHF member was appointed to the NDSA Brand Board in July.
Gjermundson receives DSU Alumni Fellow honor Brad Gjermundson, four-time PRCA
title winner and inductee into the North Dakota Sports Hall of Fame was named a 2008 Alumni Fellow at Dickinson State University.
Olands recognized Kent and Judy Oland and their family were recognized recently in the North Dakota Stockman for their comprehensive cross-breeding program. They lease the famed (Freida) Bohnsack Ranch in southeastern North Dakota.
Piehl featured NDCHF Board member and Minot artist Walter Piehl Jr. was featured in the October/November issue of Fine Living Review. The article, “The art of Walter Piehl—Horses, bulls and riders explode in color” discussed Piehl’s contemporary vision of Western Americana art and showed his studio in downtown Minot.
Rolshovens win races
Eck chosen to work with mustangs Tate Eck, an equine science lecturer at ND State University, has been selected for the Extreme Mustang Makeover challenge, which aired in Sept. He was the only N. Dak. horse trainer among the 199 participants.
Ellingsons receive award Chad and Julie Ellingson, St. Anthony, received the Bismarck State College National Alumni Association’s Rising Star Award in May.
NDCHF Board Member Ross Rolshoven ran in the opening of the Twin City Power Boat Association race in Detroit Lakes, Minn., in June, finishing 3rd and 2nd. Ashley Rolshoven, Ross’ daughter, placed 1st in field of 400 barrel racers in Texas, qualifying her for the World Barrel Racing finals.
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 29
L-R: Doug Wicklund, NRA, and Mark Halvorson, SHSND. As an added feature to the “Guns of Dakota” exhibit at the Cowboy Hall of Fame this past summer, the NDCHF hosted a “Gun Road Show” with one of the nation’s top firearms experts on June 28. Doug Wicklund, curator of the National Firearms Museum, was on hand to evaluate the many interesting and historic firearms that area gun owners brought in for examination. Wicklund is in charge of the National Rifle Association’s 4,500-piece collection at its museum in Virginia. The NRA and the State Historical Society of North Dakota provided guns for the "Guns of Dakota" exhibit, which will continue in the summer of 2009.
We don’t just break the news.
CORRECTION The cutline for the photo (top row, right-hand side) on page 30 of the July 2008 issue of the Cowboy Chronicle should have read:
We put it back together. NPR® News goes beyond the headlines so you know why things happen, not just that they happened. Our coverage isn’t just current – it’s complete. Tune your radio to Prairie Public every day to hear the latest from NPR® News.
Members of the Blaisdell Rodeo Club present donation to NDCHF. Our sincerest apologies for the error. Cathy A. Langemo, editor
radio for your world Visit www.prairiepublic.org/radio for a daily glimpse of North Dakota history with Dakota Datebook. 90.5fm Bismarck • 91.9fm Beach • 91.9fm Bowman • 89.5fm Crary • 91.9fm Crosby • 91.5fm Devils Lake 89.9fm Dickinson • 91.9fm Fargo • 89.3fm Grand Forks • 91.9fm Harvey • 91.9fm Hettinger • 91.5fm Jamestown 91.7fm Lakota • 88.9fm Minot • 88.3fm Thief River Falls • 91.9fm Tioga • 89.5fm Williston • 91.9fm Plentywood, MT
Page 30 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
2008 Wild West Series comes to close Grand Champion Futurity Horse
L-R: Darrell Dorgan, (Official) John Hovde, Williston, ND; Dianne Reece, TN; and DCB Rep.
The NDCHF Wild West Series continues to grow. More than 100 barrel racers from the Dakotas, Montana and Canada came to Medora on June 28-29 for the 2008 Wild West Series barrel racing event. The schedule for the NDCHF’s Third Annual Open Barrel Racing event was planned with the contestants from the annual barrel racing at the Upper Missouri Valley Fair in Williston in mind. They were able to travel to Medora for the Saturday evening and Sunday competition. The Medora event was sanctioned by both the Northwest Barrel Racing and National Barrel Horse associations and also featured an open 4-D division, with a purse of more than $4,300. Mark Bugni of Dickinson took first place both days in the 1-D division competition and received two Wild West Series jackets from the NDCHF. Saturday winners • 1-D – Mark Bugni, ND. • 2-D – June Tibbetts, MT. • 3-D - Debbie Myers, SD. • 4-D – Kathy Wootan, MT. Youth winners were: • 1-D - Kaitlyn Schaffner, ND. • 3-D - Alicia Palaniuk, ND.
Senior winners were: • 1-D – June Tibbetts, MT. • 2-D – Betty Knight, MT. • 3-D – Linda Vigen, ND. • 4-D - Mary Tofteland, MT. Sunday’s winners In Sunday’s competition, Mark Bugni again won the 1-D division. Other winners were: • 2-D – Cathy Frei, ND. • 3-D – Tari Azure, ND. • 4-D – Cathy Roesler, MT. In the senior division, the winners were: • 1-D – Lynn Hastings, ND. • 2-D – Christine Becker, ND • 4-D – Mary Tofteland, ND. Sunday’s youth winners were: • 1-D – Katelyn Schaffner, ND. • 2-D – Sierra Marquez, ND. • 3-D – Shelby Jorgenson, ND. • 4-D – Michaela Kathrein, MT. NDCHF Trustee Bill Lowman announced the event on Saturday and Executive Director Darrell Dorgan on Sunday. Trustee Sue Mosser and NBHA District 3’s Lisa Heiser handled the office work. Many thanks also to George Welsch
and Roger Clemmens for their assistance and to Allan Heiser for bringing and operating his arena equipment. NDCHF Board member Ginny Eck, with the help of the Medora Cowboy Hall of Fame staff, produced the successful two-day event and says it was a great weekend for barrel racers. She says, “We plan to coordinate the NDCHF barrel racing with the Williston event again next year. It allows competitors two days of competition in the same area and is affordable for barrel racers from across the region.” Next year’s event will be the same weekend as the NDCHF Induction ceremony and related activities (June 26-28). Plan on attending both and seeing barrel racing at its best. Labor Day weekend barrel racing event The NDCHF, Dakota Community Bank, Woody’s Feed, Roper Apparel and Footwear and Circle Diamond Ranch Supply joined forces to sponsor the Fourth Annual North Dakota Barrel Racing Futurity/Derby over Labor Day weekend. Held at Bismarck’s Walt Neuens arena on Saturday and, because of rain, at Bill Beard’s arena south of Menoken on Sunday, the event drew over 50 contestants from 8 states. The event was produced by NDCHF Board Member Ginny Eck. Darrell Dorgan was the announcer and, according to Eck, did an excellent job. Derby winners The average Grand Champion derby winner (horses seven years old and under) was Rayna Rice, from MT, on Action for Cash RB. The team took home $850 in winnings. Reserve champion derby winner was Shelly Christensen, of SD, on Miss Heidibear ($510 in winnings). Futurity winners Dianne Reece, of TN, placed 1st in the average for the futurity, riding KN Docs Gray Gold, owned by Donnie & Dianne Reece. They took home $2,430.52 in winnings.
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 31
ND Bred Horse
L-R: John Hovde; DCB Rep.; Owner & Rider, Carole Holler (Horse-Cutter Little Jerry); Darrell Dorgan.
Reserve champion winner was Streakin Possibility, owned by Judy Myllymaki, MT, and ridden by Rayna Rice ($1,464.16 in winnings). Carole Holler, SD, was the Futurity amateur winner on Cutter Little Jerry and received a horse blanket sponsored by Diamond W Animal Essentials. Placing 2nd through 10th were: • 2nd - Rayna Rice, MT, on Streakin Possibility (owner Judy Myllymaki, MT). • 3rd - Rayna Rice, MT, on Frenchmens Frost (owner Alan Woodbury, ND). • 4th - Carole Holler, SD, on Cutters Little Jerry. • 5th - Lainee Shearer, SD, on Famous Wild One, owned by Butch Webb, SD. • 6th - Lynn Kohr, WY, on Lady Long Chance. • 7th - Bailee Thompson, SD, on Guys Special Shoes, owned by Kevin Kosel, SD. • 8th - Hallie Melvin, SD, on Famous Charmer. • 9th - Bailee Thompson, SD,
on Frenchmans Bar Girl, owned by Kevin Kosel, SD. • 10th - Amy Schimke, SD, on One Sharp Floozie. The total payout for the futurity was $8,785. The N. Dak.-bred Futurity horse was French Ta Dash, owned by Alan Woodbury, ND, and ridden by Rayna Rice, MT. Open Jackpot winners There were 53 entries in the Saturday night kick-off open barrel racing, and winners were: • 1-D – 1st place – Melanie Graber, WY. • 2-D – 1st place – Lynn Kohr, WY. • 3-D – 1st place – Amy Schimke, SD. • 4-D – 1st place – Rachel Fast, ND.
• 2-D – Renae Smith, SD. • 3-D – Cassandra Bauske, ND. • 4-D – Lynn Kohr, WY. The Sunday youth competition included 1st-place winner Madison Huber and 2nd-place winner Lexi Winters. Melanie Graber, WY, took the average for the two days, with Tracy Bridwell, ND, placing 2nd. The total payout for the open event was $3,300. Eck says plans are already underway for the 2009 Labor Day weekend futurity/derby. She says, “This has grown larger and faster than any of us ever imagined, and it’s likely to get much larger.” Volunteers assisting with the event were NDCHF Trustee Jimi Lou Woodard; members Amanda Schaff, John Hovde, Donavan and Pat Eck and Tracy Bridwell; veterinarian Dr. Margo Kunz; and Bobbi Bingemann.
Sunday’s open jackpot winners were: • 1-D - Roxanne Ripley, SD.
Top Futurity Avg. Winner
L-R: unidentified; unidentified; John Hovde; DCB Rep.; (Horse-KN Does Gray Gold);Dianne Reece; Rayna Rice; Carole Holler; Lainee Shearer; Hallie Melvin; Lyn Kohr; Amy Schimke.
Get
noticed
with
brochures
5000 brochures for $440 Prices based on disk provided artwork. Layout & Design additional.
For a limited time, United Printing is offering an 8.5 x 11 double-sided, full-color, glossy brochure at this reduced rate. 117 West Front Ave., Bismarck, ND 58504 • p: 701-223-0505 w: unitedprinting.com
Page 32 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
Cutters meet in Medora
All cutters.
The final event of the 2008 Wild West Series was the North Dakota Cutting Horse Association (NDCHA) competition in Medora on Sept. 20-21, which brought out 140 entries in 13 classes. NDCHA Secretary Deb Dwyer of Alexander called the two-day event one of the best the organization has ever had, noting there were riders and horses from the Dakotas, Montana, Minnesota, Wyoming and Wisconsin.
The two-day average winners were:
Darrell Chruszch. ND.
• $3,000 Novice Horse Class – Shez A Wild Mate, owned by Robby and Merton Hansen and ridden by Robby Hansen, ND.
• $10,000 Novice Horse/Non-pro Rider Class – Highbrows Gift, owned and ridden by Donald Weeding, MT.
• $10,000 Novice Horse Class Smart Tax Money, owned and ridden by David Scribner, MN.
• $20,000 Non-pro Class Highbrows Gift, owned and ridden by Donald Weeding, MT.
• $3,000 Novice Horse/Non-pro Rider Class – Playboys Handle Bar, owned and ridden by
• $10,000 Amateur Class – Lectro Uno owned and ridden by Susan Asch, MN. • $2,000 Limit Rider Class – Blazing Mate, owned by Clyde Krebs and ridden by Darrell Parsons, ND. • $1,000 Novice Horse Class – Peppys Don Quixote, owned and ridden by Brad Shaw, ND. • Circuit Award Winner in the $500 Limit Rider Class – Dixie Flyer MS, owned by Kevin Jantzen, SD, and ridden by Bailey Kahl, ND. • Two-handed Ranch Class winner – Our Little Ricochet, owned and ridden by Rex Cook.
L-R: Kathy Miller and Marcie and Pat Roehrich, Washburn, winner of horse blanket door prize donated by NDCHF.
• Specialty Bridleless Class winner – Shez A Wild Mate, owned by Robby and Merton
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 33
Hansen and ridden by Robby Hansen, ND. The NDCHF added $1,000 in prize money for the competition and provided four winner’s jackets, which went to Robby Hansen, David Scribner, Darrell Chruszch and Donald Weeding. Buckles were presented to Darrell Parsons ($2,000 Limit Rider) (sponsored by Brad Shaw’s Cutting Horses) and Robby Hansen (Specialty Bridleless Class) (sponsored by John Hovde Horsemanship and Circle K Feed and Grain Inc.). The NDCHF also provided a barbecue and a tour of the Hall of Fame. Many said it was the best cutting they had ever attended, and they would like to return. The 2009 NDCHF Wild West Series cutting has tentatively been set for Sept. 19-20.
L-R: John Hovde, president of NDCHA; Kathy Miller, NDCHF site manager; David Scribner, MN, on Smart Tax Money; Darrell Dorgan, NDCHF Executive director; and Chesna Nistler, Medora assistant manager.
Unidentified.
Unidentified.
Unidentified.
Page 34 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
ND rodeo results – 2008 season ND High School Rodeo Assn. State Finals results, Bowman:
ND Rodeo Association Men’s All Around – Preston Billadeau Women’s All Around – Britany Fleck
Bareback
1st 2nd
Casey Breuer Cody Breuer
Bareback – Ty Breuer Bareback Reserve – Josh Pennington
Saddle Bronc
1st 2nd
Trell Shypkoski Wyatt Gifford
Calf Roping – Robert Sperry Calf Roping Reserve – Seth Murphy
Bull Riding
1st nd
Nathan Schaper Bucky Kukla
Ladies Breakaway – Brandi Guttormson Ladies Breakaway – Kayla Nelson
Steer Wrestling
1st nd
2
Gales Strecker Seth Jorgenson
Tie Down Roping 1st 2nd
2
Roughrider Rodeo Association Men’s All Around 1st 2nd
Robert Mohagen Joe Schmidt
Women’s All 1st Around 2nd
Brandi Guttormson Bobbi Grann
Junior Boys’ All Around
1st 2nd
Tyler Thorson Wayde Eckroth
Saddle Bronc – Clay Schaeffer Saddle Bronc Reserve – Trell Shypkoski
Junior Girls’ 1st All Around 2nd
Brookelle Christman Thane Hollenbeck
Caleb Strecker Tate Schwagler
Steer Wrestling – Preston Oyloe Steer Wrestling Reserve – Chad Smith
Calf Roping
1st 2nd
John Pfaff Blake Eggl
Team Roping 1st 2nd
Cotey Joe Hanson Levi O’Keeffe
Team Roping Header – Preston Billadeau Team Roping Header Reserve – Turner Harris
Steer Wrestling
1st 2nd
Todd Nelson `Jason Lawrence
Boy’s Cow Cutting 1st 2nd
Jake Bauman Jayce Doan
Team Roping Heeler – Jesse Fredrickson Team Roping Heeler Reserve – Tom Jorgenson
Team Roping (Headers)
1st 2nd
Shawn Knight Greg Carlson
Girl’s Cow Cutting 1st 2nd
Maren Larson Audri Orwig
Ladies Barrel Racing – Britany Fleck Ladies Barrel Racing Reserve – Alison Miller
Team Roping 1st (Heelers) 2nd
Jesse Fredrickson Aaron Enervold
Barrel Racing
1st 2nd
Whitney Sprunk Barb Waagen
Goat Tying
1st 2nd
Whitney Eckroth Courtney Sletten
Barrel Racing
1st 2nd
Breakaway Roping 1st 2nd Pole Bending
Bobbi Grann Katelyn Fitzgerald
1st nd
Mamie Kieson Codi Miller
1st nd
Bobbi Grann Sadie Gjermundson
2
Goat Tying 2 Boy’s All Around
Sydnee Fjelstad Bobbi Grann
1st nd
Jake Bauman Caleb Strecker
1st nd
Bobbi Grann Katelyn Fitzgerald
2
Girl’s All Around 2
Congratulations to Billie Jo Miller, who placed 3rd in the barrel racing at the Junior Wrangler High School National Finals in Gallup, NM.
Senior Men’s Breakaway – Frank Whitecalfe Senior Men’s Breakaway Reserve – Len Hofer Bull Riding – Nathan Schaper Bull Riding Reserve – Abe Dillman Rookie Cowboy – Seth Jorgenson Rookie Cowgirl – Whitney Sprunk Series 1 – Chad Smith Series 2 – Robert Sperry Finals Winners Bareback – Lee Dunford Calf Roping – Seth Murphy Ladies Breakaway – Tess Haugen Saddle Bronc – Clay Schaeffer Steer Wrestling – Preston Oyloe Ladies Barrel Racing – Britany Fleck Team Roping – Layne & Chase Carson Senior Men’s Breakaway – Len Hofer Bull Riding – Bucky Kukla
Breakaway 1st 2nd
Jodi Bohmback Brandi Guttormson
Junior Breakaway
1st 2nd
Tyler Thorson Whitney Eckroth
Junior Bareback
1st 2nd
Casey Breuer Cody Breuer
Junior Bull Riding 1st 2nd
Tyler Thorson Tate Smith
Junior Saddle Bronc 1st 2nd
Wyatt Gifford Matt Bleich
Junior Calf Roping 1st 2nd
Wayde Eckroth Patrick Monson
1st 2nd
Ashley Wessels Josey Clark
Junior Barrel Racing
November 2008 • The Cowboy Chronicle • Page 35
Horse-related events (NDCHF and other) Nov. 18-22 – WPRA World Finals, Tulsa, OK Dec. 1-3 – ND Legislative Pre-session, Bismarck
Dec. – 6-7 – Medora Old-fashioned Cowboy Christmas Jan. 10-25 – National Western Stock Show & Rodeo, Denver Jan. 28-30 – KMOT Ag Expo, Minot
Dec. 3 – NDSA Board of Directors meeting, Mandan
Jan. 30-Feb. 8 – Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo, Rapid City
Dec. 4-7 – 4th Annual North Star Classic, Valley City
Feb. 20-21 – NDCHF Annual Meeting, Mandan
Dec. 4-13 – NFR, Las Vegas
Feb. 21 – NDRA Board meeting, Mandan
Dec. 5-6 – Chamber of Commerce Old-Fashioned Cowboy Christmas, Medora Dec. 5-7 – Celebration of 50th Wrangler NFR, Las Vegas
STEFFES AUCTIONEERS SINCE 1960 iAUCTIONEERS iAPPRAISERS iREAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS iTWO OFFICES TO SERVE YOU FARGO ND—LITCHFIELD MN
Mar. 3-8 - ND Winter Show, Valley City May 15 – NDCHF Season Opening
Steffes Auctioneers Inc., 3509 Interstate Blvd. SW, Fargo ND & 24400 MN Hwy 22 South, Litchfield MN (701) 237-9173 & (320) 693-9371 www.steffesauctioneers.com
THE POWER OF.... Cattlemen know what to expect when you integrate great genetics!
Livestock Procurement & Sales Management
Pifer’s
What happens when you combine great companies?
AUCTION & REALTY
• Marketing Efficiencies • Dynamic Sales Team • Extensive Market Experience • Quality Catalogs • Premier Advertising • Purchasing Power • Strong Buyer Base •Quality Photography • Comprehensive Mailing List
Our Services Include: Livestock Auction & Sales Management Consulting Services Auction Services Buy & Sell Cattle for Commercial & Purebred Breeders
Bryan Gill
Pifer’s
Sales Manager 701.730.0134 bigredgenetics@hotmail.
LIVESTOCK MARKETING & AUCTIONEERING
Kevin Pifer Auctioneer 701.238.5810 kpifer@pifers.com
Andy Mrnak
Sales Manager/Auctioneer 701.206.1095 andy@pifers.com
1506 29th Ave South Moorhead, MN 56560 218.477.1968
“Call us today and we will come to your ranch at no obligation.”
Book your 2009 Sales/Auctions Now! 877.700.4099
www.pifers.com
Page 36 • The Cowboy Chronicle • November 2008
Medora’s 13th Annual Old-fashioned Cowboy Christmas Fri. & Sat., Dec. 5-6, 2008 Medora Community Center
Friday, Dec. 5
Oyster Stew – 4:30 PM MT until food runs out - Cowboy Café Wreath Ceremony - 6:30 PM – Streets of Medora - ending at MCC (Medora Community Center) Jamboree - 7:00 PM & Dance following Jamboree, approx. 8:30 PM) - MCC Music by Thunder Road Military Veterans Award – during Jamboree
Saturday, Dec. 6
Hay Wagon Rides - 10 AM until 3 PM – pickup at MCC Quilt Show - Americinn NDCHF Activities - 10 AM until 4 PM Chateau de Mores Activities - 10 AM until 4 PM Theodore Roosevelt National Park Activities – 10 AM until 4 PM Eats on the Streets - 11 AM until 2 PM Fowl Fling – 1 PM - MCC Mass - 4 PM - MCC Christmas Dinner – 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM - MCC Winter Wonderland Fireworks - 7:30 PM - Bluffs east of MCC Christmas Dance - 8:00 PM - MCC The Cowboy Chronicle
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame 120 N. 3rd St., Ste. 85 Bismarck, North Dakota 58501 Address Service Requested
2007 NORTH DAKOTA TOURIST ATTRACTION OF THE YEAR
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID BISMARCK, ND PERMIT NO. 256