The Vocella Graphic - February 15, 2024 by Vocella, Inc.

Vol. 1 Issue 16

Thursday, February 15, 2024

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A Community Newspaper Serving Williston and the Bakken Area

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

In this issue About Us

ocella, Inc. (pronounced vō-chellä) is a multimedia company that aims to engage, excite, and empower people through compelling and entertaining products and services with a hyperlocal focus on community, business, arts, culture, and entertainment. We are delighted to introduce the latest chapter in our journey: the Vocella Graphic. This newly designed newspaper boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic, featuring stunning artwork and informative articles. Crafting this visually captivating paper has been a labor of love, with our dedicated team painstakingly perfecting every aspect, from its appearance and tone to its expanded coverage area. Furthermore, nestled inside, you will still find the trusted Community Shopper, complete with all the familiar content you’ve come to rely on. This includes classified ads featuring help wanted listings, rummage sales, and more, as well as business news, events, and community updates. So, thank you for joining us as we continue to grow and do our very best to serve our communities.

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This Issue

Dear Valued Readers, Has anyone ever said to you, “You’re so strong, I don’t know how you do it?” And all you can think to yourself is, “I don’t know either,” or “I really don’t want to be anymore?” I’ve been there. Unfortunately, sometimes we just don’t have a choice. So how do we get through those difficult seasons without feeling like we’re drowning? Practice self-compassion. I know I’ve touched on this before, but remember to put away those self-criticizing thoughts, especially when you are facing challenges. Grant yourself the grace you would give to someone else when looking in from the outside. Everyone struggles sometimes. Develop a growth mindset. As a homeschooling mom and recovering perfectionist myself, I’ve delved into this one a bit for my children’s benefit as well as my own. Instead of seeing challenges as impossible or focusing on “I can’t,” look at those obstacles as chances for growth, and change it to, “I can’t yet.” Maybe it’s a chance to learn a new skill or gain experience. I have a sign in our dining room that reads, “Mistakes are proof that you are trying.” Even adults need this reminder sometimes. Build a strong support network. This one is so important. As an introvert, I can be a bit of a loner sometimes. Luckily, I have a wonderful husband who encourages me, two adult children who are my cheerleaders, and a few other close friends and family who are always there when I need them. Don’t let pride keep you from reaching out and asking for help. Sometimes just feeling less alone makes all the difference. Finally, remember to add “right now” to the end of any statement when you’re struggling. I’m just not getting enough sleep, right now. I’m feeling kind of lost, right now. Finances are tight, right now. It reminds you that any situation is temporary and it won’t stay that way forever. May you find the tools you need to weather any storm. Stay strong, dear readers.

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PROFILES — Chatter Pediatrics

NEWS & UPDATES 04 — Carbon pipeline fight — Record number geese wintering OIL & AG 05 — Agridime scams ND farmers LIFESTYLE 06 — UMVF sensory friendly day — Understanding SPD HEALTH & WELLNESS — Wellness Wednesday: Bones & Joints

CULTURE 08 — Williston Concert Association — The Bookshelf book review THE COMMUNITY SHOPPER Announcements 02 Classifieds 03 Job listings 03 - 04 Puzzles 05 Community Calendars 06 To Do About Town 07 Realty 08

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Profiles

Chatter clinics filling the gaps PRACTICE PROVIDING FOR PATIENTS AND COMMUNITY

It’s never changed for me, I love to help people. -KATIE KRINGEN, OWNER OF CHATTER

BY ERICA KINGSTON ekingmediawriter@gmail.com

ealthcare is a consistent concern that affects every age and stage of life, from well-check visits to therapy, diagnosis to treatment. The word healthcare itself often comes with the negative connotations of feelings of fear, the idea of sitting in waiting rooms and dealing with insurance. But one private practice has made it their business to break those stigmas and bring hope and a positive outlook to those they care for. Chatter Pediatric Therapy and Walk-In Clinic was born as a fulfillment to a need one woman saw in her community. Owner Katie Kringen and her team of providers have brought a pop of color and comfort to healthcare in the region through the pediatric and adult services they provide. Almost a decade ago, Chatter began for the first time in Williston, being one of the first pediatric therapy services with a range of therapies for kids outside of the school system. What started as a one-room, single therapist clinic based out of MonDak Sports, her husband Josh’s business, has now, only nine years later, expanded to an entire building at 221 University Avenue in Williston, including a walk-in clinic, and locations in Dickinson, Jamestown and Minot. Williston’s Chatter Pediatric Therapy offers speech and language therapy, mental health therapy for kids as well as adults and parents and child psychology. Dr. Wilert, a child and adolescent psychologist at Chatter, came to the practice through a mental health grant. Kringen said Williston is fortunate to have his type expertise in this rural area, as he can test and diagnose a very wide range of psychological issues. Chatter’s walk-in clinic also opened as an answer to a problem Kringen was adamant on fixing. When her own children were sick and she wasn’t able to get them seen by local providers, there wasn’t a walk-in available and they were sent to the emergency room, Kringen told her husband she was

MIRIAH HAAS FROM ALL THE RAGE SALON HAS HELPED CHATTER PUT ON HAIRCUT EVENTS FOR KIDS WITH SENSORY SENSITIVITIES | SUBMITTED PHOTO.

going to open a walk-in clinic. Soon after, construction was started in the basement level of Chatter’s building and the ball got rolling. In 2020, Chatter Walk-in Clinic opened its doors. “I seriously wanted moms to have the ability to drive their car right up to the door, not have to go in an elevator or take 10 more steps,” Kringen said. “I wanted a place that was clean and friendly and not scary … I had to make that place feel good. I wanted a place where ‘It’s ok, these people help you,’ instead of ‘I’m scared.’” Currently, Cristina Babic is one of the nurse practitioners at the walk-in. Known for her empathetic nature and comforting

bedside manner, Babic has been at Chatter for one year and is originally from Moldova, now making Williston her family’s home. Leslie Aide, Kringen’s sister-in-law, has just finished up her studies and will begin at the clinic as a nurse practitioner at the end of February. Both FNP’s are working toward specializations in mental health and medicine management, Aide for adults and Babic in pediatrics. JoAnn Bakken, FNP and longtime provider in Williston, also came out of retirement to work parttime at the clinic. “They go out of their way and have a heart for the patients they see,”

Kringen said of the women at Chatter’s walk-in. True to Kringen’s character, Chatter has been known to be a big presence in the community from volunteering and giving back to sponsoring and donating to school and sporting events. Some of their events have helped a demographic that may otherwise be overlooked: those with sensory sensitivities. Throughout the years, Chatter has taken what most consider ordinary activities and made them adaptable to those with sensory issues. They have hosted events of haircuts, Sensitive Santa, sled hockey, sensory-free movie theater and a trick-or-treat sensitive event. Through these, kids have been able to visit with Santa and trick-or-treat without being scared or having to wear a costume and go on the ice for the first time. “The movie theater was awesome to us,” Kringen said. “We popped the popcorn before the movie so the smells and the loud popping wasn’t there. We left the lights on and turned the volume way down. And they could do alternative seating, so they could sit on a bouncy ball and didn’t have to sit in their seat, and there was no judgment … And the movie was shortened, because who can sit for two hours?” Miriah Haas from All the Rage salon has come to Chatter to do sensory haircuts. “The kids get to swing and slide and play and Miriah runs around and cuts their hair with the therapists (help,)” Kringen said. Even through the valleys and peaks of life and business, Kringen remains optimistic and hopeful for what Chatter can continue to offer the community. “The fulfillment in this keeps me going,” she said. “It’s never changed for me, I love to help people. I love people and I love helping.” Chatter Pediatric Therapy services, providers and events can be found on their website at chattertherapy.com. The walk-in clinic can be found on the ground level of 221 University Avenue Suite 102 and is open from 8 a.m-5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Same-day appointments can be made by calling 701-609-2004 and walk-ins are welcome.

Chatter

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

News & Updates

ND law at center of carbon pipeline fight now under scrutiny

Record numbers of geese remained in North Dakota’s warm winter

BY MIKE MOEN, PRAIRIE NEWS SERVICE

BY VOCELLA STAFF news@vocella.com

NORTH DAKOTA — A North Dakota lawmaker is calling into question a state law change that drew a lot of attention this week. At issue is a regulatory decision for a planned underground pipeline to store carbon dioxide. North Dakota’s Public Service Commission said local ordinances to set route restrictions for such of projects are preempted by state rules. At least two counties have adopted ordinances for a pipeline proposed by Summit Carbon Solutions. The company wants to transfer carbon dioxide from ethanol plants and store it underground in North Dakota. Rep. SuAnn Olson, R-Baldwin, wonders whether recent changes to the law tied to the decision should be in place anymore. “It was never envisioned, I’m sure, to be this far-reaching,” Olson contended. “No doubt the PSC, all they can do is wrestle with what the current Century Code said. What it said to me is that the Legislature really needs to look at that, this next session.” The Legislature is not expected to meet

again until next year, and Olson could not speak to whether a special session is necessary. Public hearings on the latest permit proposal from Summit could begin several weeks from now. The company said the project would have several benefits, including environmental. But skeptics are dubious about the claim and cited worries about safety and landowner rights. Summit has argued the local ordinances are unreasonably restrictive, and contended it will use strong safety measures. But Olson, who represents an area along the proposed route, does not feel reassured. “If there is a breach, this pipeline is near so much population -- or has the ability to touch so many people -- that the route they’re proposing, north of Bismarck, is untenable, in my view,” Olson asserted. After its initial permit application was denied by North Dakota regulators, the company submitted a new plan to reroute almost 10 miles north of Bismarck city limits. Summit noted it addresses concerns about city growth and future development. Meanwhile, an attorney representing landowners fighting the project said his team plans to appeal the Public Service Commission decision.

NORTH DAKOTA — This winter has been unusually warm in North Dakota, which has led to a record-breaking number of waterfowl staying in the state instead of migrating south. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s annual midwinter waterfowl survey, conducted in early January, found that biologists counted over 300,000 Canada geese, significantly surpassing the previous record. “Our old record was about 222,000 Canada geese, so we blew that out of the water,” said Mike Szymanski, North Dakota Game and Fish Department migratory game bird management supervisor. In contrast to the previous year’s harsh winter conditions, which prompted early migration, this year’s milder weather provided plenty of open water along the Missouri River System. Last winter Lake Sakakawea had ice on Dec. 18, which was one of the earliest ice over dates in recent years.

Buffalo Soldiers lecture at MissouriYellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center FORT BUFORD STATE HISTORIC SITE NORTH DAKOTA — The Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center is launching its 2024 History and Nature Lecture Series with “The Mustering of Buffalo Soldiers” set for Feb. 18, at 2 p.m. The program is free and open to the public.

Calvin Henderson, public outreach coordinator, will talk on the formation of Buffalo Soldier Army regiments and the ways these African American soldiers impacted western Dakota Territory, as well as what it was like during their time at Fort Buford. The Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center is part of Fort Buford State Historic Site managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota and is open Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Kindergarten

Got News? BY VOCELLA STAFF news@vocella.com WILLISTON — The Vocella Graphic wants to hear from YOU. If you’ve got story ideas or information, but don’t like to write, send your tips to news@vocella.com! Like to write? We gladly welcome reader submissions and press releases for the important news and events happening in our communities. Send your submissions to news@vocella.com for your chance to see it in print and online at vocellagraphic.com.

WHY CHOOSE TRINITY CHRISTIAN?

Registration

• Clear Statement of Faith • Open Enrollement

Looking to register your kindergartener at Ray Elementary for the 2024-2025 school year? Do you know a friend, family member, or neighbor with a rising Kindergartener? Will they turn five years old before August 1, 2024?

• Low teacher/student ratio • Caring and qualiﬁed teachers • Preschool - 12th grades • K-5 After school program from 4:00 5:30pm

Kindergarten registration will be open on Wednesday, February 21 and Friday, February 23, 2024 in the Ray Public School office. If possible, please bring your child’s immunization and birth records when registering.

• Daily Bible lessons and weekly chapel • K-12 Supervision from 7:45am 4:00pm • NWEA MAP testing in September and April to measure growth

Contact Judy Knox with questions at 701-568-3301 judy.knox@rayschools.com. We are looking forward to welcoming our newest Ray Jays to school!

central time; Sunday 1-5 p.m. central; and closed Monday-Tuesday. Fort Buford is currently closed. The Interpretive Center is located southwest of Williston at 15349 39th Ln NW. For more information, contact Calvin Henderson at 701-572-9034 or visit the website at history.nd.gov/events for upcoming programs from the State Historical Society.

The prolonged open water allowed for more birds to remain in the state comfortably with no feeding limitations, contributing to the higher wintering waterfowl estimates. The department’s survey also recorded an unexpected presence of snow geese, with over 9,000 spotted. “That was kind of surprising. We’ve always had some snow geese here and there, but most years we have zero,” Szymanski said. “To have sizable numbers like that is pretty interesting.” Mallard numbers were also up from the typical annual amount of 5000-10,000, with 43,000 birds counted during this year’s survey. Sharp-tailed grouse have been observed on their mating grounds ahead of schedule, an indicator of the unusual warmth’s impact on wildlife behavior. Biologists are monitoring these developments, particularly as spring approaches. Concerns have arisen as to the effect a cold blast or snow may have on these birds as well as the potential for increased risk of bird flu due to the unprecedented number of birds congregating in the region.

Ray Public School

• Multi-student discount • Aﬀordable tuition

ENROLLEMENT

Feb. 7th: Current students Feb. 9th: Siblings Feb. 12th: Alumni Feb. 14th: Open

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Oil & Ag

Agridime attracted cattle investors despite red flags

Variety of factors made 30% profits, with no work involved, plausible

BEEF CATTLE ROAM IN A PASTURE ON TOM MURPHY’S RANCH NEAR KILLDEER, NORTH DAKOTA, ON FEB. 1, 2024. (JEFF BEACH/NORTH DAKOTA MONITOR)

BY JEFF BEACH NORTH DAKOTA MONITOR KILLDEER, N.D. — An advertisement from the cattle company Agridime included the phrase: “We know it sounds too good to be true.” Despite that, the company was still able to entice investors with the promise of returns of 15% to 20% — even as high as 32% — in the cattle market without having to do any of the work. The Securities and Exchange Commission took over the assets in December, and a complaint against the company said Agridime diverted tens of millions of dollars in investor funds to make Ponzi scheme payments to prior investors. The complaint says Agridime owes $191 million to investors in 15 states. About $40 million, or more than 20%, is owed to North Dakota investors, the North Dakota Securities Department said. So if it sounded too good to be true, how did so many investors get hooked? In North Dakota, it can be attributed in part to Agridime using a trusted cattle broker as a sales agent. Taylor Bang of Killdeer had worked with ranchers in North Dakota for years before getting involved with Agridime. “One hundred percent up and up,” Killdeer beef producer Tom Murphy said of his 20 years of doing business with Bang. Agridime was incorporated in Texas in 2017. Murphy said he was skeptical of Agridime at first, but neighbors who had invested said Agridime was holding up its end of the deal. Here was the deal: Invest $2,000 with Agridime, and in 12 months, get a 15% to 20% return. With a $100,000 investment, a 20% profit was guaranteed. Murphy got pulled in, and after his first contract paid off as promised, he reinvested. But his third contract is due to pay off in May. “That one isn’t looking so good,” he said. Murphy said he has benefited from North Dakota’s revitalized oil industry, giving him money to invest that would not have available before. He said other western North Dakota landowners are in the same situation.

Murphy and North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring both noted that cattle markets have been on the upswing, making the idea of larger-than-usual profit margins seem attainable. But Murphy admits that the Agridime profit margins seemed high. “There’s never been 30% profit margin in the history of the cattle market, ever,” he said. And then there was the Agridime business model. Agridime worked with feedlots in several states to bring cattle up to market weight but said it had its own meat packing plants in Kansas, Texas and Arizona. It also had its own distribution system and was marketing its meat as a premium product. By eliminating some of the steps in getting beef to market — cutting out the middleman — the company told Murphy it could achieve those profits. “They said they had their own packing facilities and were marketing directly over the internet,” Murphy said. “And they said that’s how come there was such a profit margin.” Farmers “do feel like the middleman is getting too much, and quite frankly, I get where that mentality comes from,” said Goehring, who is also a beef producer. “So it’s easy to get lulled into the ‘I’m getting screwed,’” way of thinking, Goehring said. Consolidation in the industry has left just four large meatpacking companies. Producers complain that the lack of competition hurts producers and benefits the packers. “The packers make as much money on that calf in 14 days as we do in a year,” Murphy said. Murphy said he still believes the Agridime model could have succeeded. “I don’t think it started off as a Ponzi scheme,” Murphy said. “I think it started off as a business they probably could have pulled off.” Jeff Beach’s original article for The North Dakota Monitor, “Agridime attracted cattle investors despite red flags” can be found at https://northdakotamonitor.com/2024/02/11/agridime-attracted-cattle-investors-despite-red-flags/

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Lifestyle

Upper Missouri Valley Fair announces a sensory friendly day

BY ERICA KINGSTON ekingmediawriter@gmail.com

very summer, folks flock to the county fair for an experience unlike any other. The lights of the midway, the smell of frying funnel cakes and the music box songs coming from each ride are a once-a-year occasion not to be missed. But going to the fair can be overbearing and overstimulating for those with a sensory processing disorder. The Upper Missouri Valley Fair has just announced that they will be hosting a sensory friendly portion during this year’s fair. By having minimal noise and lights, those who may benefit from this will be able to attend the fair for free in a sensory friendly environment. Having a big response from their announcement on Facebook last week, fair board member and event manager Brandy Heller said that they are excited to bring this event to Williston and to learn how to better tailor it for the community in future years. “There are some adults that commented

NEHEMIAH JOHNS ENJOYING THE FERRIS WHEEL AT THE UPPER MISSOURI VALLEY FAIR. | SUBMITTED BY BRANDY HELLER

on the post that said ‘I’d like to enjoy the fair but it’s too much for me as well,’” Heller said. The idea for this sensory friendly time came from the carnival themselves. Dreamland Carnival Company had done something similar at another location and asked

the fair board if they might be interested; their answer was a unanimous yes. The fair will choose one weekday and from 12-2 p.m. that day there will be no use of music or lights. Those participating will get in the gate and receive a rides bracelet free of charge, with a max of 150 bracelets

given out to keep numbers low. “There will be at least 300 people there if everyone brings one kid and there is one chaperone,” Heller said. “So it’s going to be (that many people) but the grounds are so big.” The fair will have a sign up on their website for those to reserve bracelets. Once in the gate, people are free to ride the rides and get lunch on the grounds with food vendors opening at 11 a.m. Heller said most days the fairgrounds are pretty quiet before 3 p.m. “It will for sure benefit without the noise and the music and the flashing lights of the rides — it’s going to be a lot quieter,” Heller said. “We are excited to see what it brings and maybe next year we are going to have to go to two days, we’ll just gauge the interest this year.” Keep watch of the UMVF Facebook page for more updates or contact the board at 701-572-3338 for more information and how to sign up.

Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder BY VOCELLA STAFF news@vocella.com What is neurodiversity? According to Harvard Health Publishing, neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in different ways; there is no one "right" way of thinking, learning and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits. For millions of people it has given a name for the things they’ve experienced for years that they may have felt set them apart or made them feel different. What is Sensory Processing Disorder? In the realm of neurodiversity, there's a lesser-known condition that significantly impacts individuals' daily lives, yet often flies under the radar: Sensory Processing Disorder. It's like having a unique sensitivity dial for experiencing the world, where everyday sensations can become overwhelming or muted, making navigating the environment more difficult for those affected.

How does SPD affect everyday life? SPD involves difficulties in how the nervous system receives and responds to sensory information. This can manifest in various ways, including hypersensitivity (heightened sensitivity to stimuli) or hyposensitivity (diminished sensitivity), affecting any or all of the senses: sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. Lights can feel blindingly bright, sound may pierce like a siren or textures might seem unbearable to touch. Stigma can surround SPD, with the belief that individuals with sensory sensitivities are merely picky or overreacting, overlooking the neurological basis of their experiences. Misconceptions can lead to exclusion, ridicule or even bullying, expanding the challenges already inherent in navigating a world that feels overwhelming. Those affected with SPD may need to create sensory-friendly environments by controlling lighting, noise levels and textures, using tools like noise-canceling headphones or weighted blankets for comfort, or

support for those living with SPD.

practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress. What is the cause of SPD? SPD is not a behavioral choice or a form of attention-seeking. It's a neurobiological condition rooted in differences in brain function, much like autism or ADHD. Understanding this distinction can dismantle misconceptions and promote empathy and

How can we empathize with those who deal with sensory issues? Providing an inclusive environment entails acknowledging and accommodating diverse sensory needs. Recognizing that what may seem trivial to some can be profoundly distressing to others — and that's okay. Building a community that embraces neurodiversity involves valuing each individual's unique experiences and finding ways to support them. Education and awareness play an important role in understanding and empathy for those with SPD. By spreading accurate information and challenging stereotypes, the barriers that perpetuate stigma and discrimination can be broken down. Empowering individuals with SPD to advocate for their needs and promoting a culture of acceptance and accommodation are steps toward creating a more inclusive society.

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Health & Wellness

Wellness Wednesday Bone & Joint Health

elcome back to “Wellness Wednesday” with NDSU Extension. I am Katelyn Jespersen, the family and community wellness extension agent for Williams County. This week’s topic of bone and joint health comes from the NDSU Nourish program. Do you know anyone with arthritis or osteoporosis? These bone and joint conditions are painful and can make daily life more difficult. It can even cause a loss of independence if an individual becomes injured or has to rely on someone else to help with tasks. Let’s learn about bones and joints to better understand how to care for them. Bones Did you know that bones are living tissue? They are constantly changing by breaking down old bone and building new bone. Since they are living, they need nour-

ishment to continue making new, strong bones. In order to know how strong your bones actually are, you can have your bone density measured. The more dense the bone is, the harder it is to break. To build strong bones, consider eating right, exercising and adding supplements to your diet. Bones need lots of Calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin K, as well as the minerals Magnesium, Boron and Zinc. These nutrients need to be consumed in a healthy diet or added with supplements. Nearly everyone this far north is Vitamin D deficient due to lack of direct sunlight, and therefore need to consume it in their diet. Make sure to do weight-bearing exercise, as using force on your bones increases the density. Joints We would not be able to move without our joints because bone would be grinding against bone. Joints are made mostly of car-

tilage and fluid and allow our bones to pivot and move. Joint problems occur as early as age 20 with inflammation, wear-and-tear, swelling, stiffness and pain. There is a saying “use it or lose it,” well that is very true for joints. If joints are not exercised and maintained, then they will deteriorate and lose flexibility. For exercising, it is important not to work joints too hard as this can cause damage, but try new exercises slowly, stretch to warm up and change up routines to work different joints. It is also important to drink plenty of water to keep joints lubricated and cushioned and consider taking supplements with collagen, omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) or glucosamine. Join me next week as I highlight eye health as the next topic from the Nourish program. Until then, continue extending knowledge and changing lives with NDSU Extension.

KATELYN JESPERSEN WILLIAMS COUNTY FAMILY & COMMUNITY WELLNESS EXTENSION AGENT

Online Directory | Buy, Sell, Trade - Locally and Online | communityshopper.com

Thursday, February 15, 2024

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Culture

Williston Concert Association brings Divas3 to the stage on Feb. 23 BY ERICA KINGSTON ekingmediawriter@gmail.com

rom Adele to Abba, a trio of powerhouse vocals will be hitting the stage in Williston to perform hits from some of music’s greatest divas. Divas3 are set to perform on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. in the Central Campus (Bakken Elementary Auditorium) as the second to last event of the 2023-2024 concert series put on by the Williston Concert Association. “We like the energy these guys bring to the stage and the wide repertoire they have,” said Jean Lindvig, board member and public relations for WCA. “We like to find something for everyone and I think this is kind of all of it in one package.” Divas3 are three female singers based out of Las Vegas. Each member of the group has starred in shows on the Vegas strip and together have performed in Vegas as well as headlined on cruise ships. Currently touring, the trio is on the road to midwest towns until May performing well known hits from music history’s

greatest divas. Covering over four decades, from the 60s through the 90s, the women cover music from Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, Cher, Dolly Parton, Abba and on. Along with their merchandise table, Divas3 will be in the lobby during intermission

to share coffee, cookies and conversation. “That’s always nice to chat,” Lindvig said. “Our concerts are really a social event. For a lot of people, that’s when they see each other. The most fantastic thing that I’ve seen, especially after Covid, is you can hardly set-

tle the people down to get ready for the concert — they are talking and laughing and enjoying each other.” Rounding out the season, Quartetto Gelato will perform on March 21 as the final event in this year’s series. Internationally renowned, the quartet brings music and humor to the stage with musicians performing accordion, cello, violin and clarinet. “It’s good family entertainment and we try to have a good balance of genres and offerings for the community,” Lindvig said. “That’s how we started — to bring quality, classic, cultural entertainment to this community.” The box office will open at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 23, with concert tickets on sale for $30 for adults and $10 for students for those who do not hold season tickets. A membership can be purchased at the door or by contacting Janet Erlandsen at 701572-2701. Members can enjoy reciprocity to Watford City, Dickinson and Crosby, N.D. concert series. For more information visit WCA online at concertassociation.net/ willistonnd.

The Bookshelf

Book review: The Rose Code by Kate Quinn

’m a historical fiction nut, especially around the World Wars. There’s a lot of pain associated with the World Wars but also great bravery and heroism that just make World War stories so compelling. Kate Quinn is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical fiction writers and “The Rose Code” is definitely part of the reason. I’ve read two books by her now and they were both just amazing. I could gush on and on about them both. I actually have a third book by her waiting on my shelf for when I just need my history fix.

try to pick up the pieces of their lives, Beth, Mab and Osla are yanked back to their time at Bletchley Park by encrypted messages. When the encrypted messages also spell out the story of a mysterious traitor, the girls must return to the long-ago betrayal that destroyed their friendship and sent one to the asylum to uncover the truth.

Title: “The Rose Code” Author: Kate Quinn Genre: Historical Fiction Summary In 1940, as England prepares to fight the Nazis, everyone is doing their part. For three very different girls, their part is answering the mysterious summons from Bletchley Park where brilliant minds broke German military codes. Beautiful, wealthy debutante Osla has everything, even the young Prince Philip’s heart it seems. But everything isn’t enough, she wants a purpose, to be able to help. She puts her fluency in German to work at Bletchley as a translator of decoded enemy secrets. Mab has lived in poverty her whole life but at Bletchley, she’s the queen

THE ROSE CODE BY KATE QUINN. HISTORICAL FICTION.

and puts her skills to work on the legendary code-breaking machines. Billeted together, Mab and Osla are quick to see the potential in the daughter of who they’re billeted with. Beth is a shy spinster but her shyness just conceals her brilliant ability with puzzles. Soon, Beth is spreading her wings as one of the Park’s few female cryptanalysts. In 1947, war, loss and the pressure of secrecy has torn the three girls apart. As they

Review This book was filled with so many great and uniquely different characters. There was no cookie-cutting the girls and it filled it with so much realisticness. Mab is probably my favorite. She’s such a strong, no nonsense character right from the start. But her story of love, heartbreak, and the way it changes her is just so well-written. Osla also goes through quite a bit of struggle with her relationship but she struggles more with her identity. She’s sick of being known as a silly or stupid debutante and despite all that she’s done and continues to do, she’s still called that. She struggles the same as the other girls but I think her struggles were less difficult. I’m not trying to take away from her struggle, though. It’s just a different kind of struggle from the other two. Osla’s biggest struggle is probably when her and Mab’s friendship broke apart. She also struggled with her relationship with Prince Philip.

Reviewd by MCKENNA WALTER Beth had the most growth out of the girls. She started off as shy, not stepping out of line, etc. But then she takes the job at Bletchley Park and stops letting her mother belittle her. She even starts a relationship. She becomes a strong, determined character. You could call her obsessed with the way she has to break all the codes. Her downfall and then having to rebuild herself is great, too.