The Vocella Graphic - April 4, 2024

Vocella, 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.

KARY MOLTZAN, GM & Lead Design news@vocella.com

Dear Valued Readers,

I’m knocking on wood as I type this again, but I think spring is waiting for us just around the corner. Now, for the disclaimer: I am in no way, shape or form a weather person and have zero guarantee of this prediction… so don’t come after me with pitchforks if it snows again! Perhaps it is just my wishful thinking or the ever optimistic hope of sitting around the firepit in the glowing dusk of a warm spring evening that has me feeling this way — but if we haven’t got hope, what have we got?

A word of caution, however, is to remember that cold and flu season is far from over. I know that is a bummer of a statement, but it’s just not quite time to let our guards down when it comes to our health. Of course, we can catch colds and flu (influenza) as well as other catchy viruses any time of year, but it’s known that the winter months tend to be worse than the warmer spring and summer months. While cases are down overall from the peak in December, they can remain elevated as late as May. Those late spring colds are just no fun when you want to be outside soaking up the fresh air and sunshine.

While there’s no way to avoid them completely unless you’re prepared to live in a bubble, the usual steps can help prevent illness. These include eating well and taking in the proper amounts of vitamins and nutrients to help your body function at its best. Take advantage of the increasing daylight hours and spend some time in the sun. Get plenty of sleep each night. Wash your hands often to prevent the spread of germs, especially if you’ve been around someone else who is ill or you, yourself, are ill. As always, the best way to prevent the spread is to stay home if you’re sick.

Stay healthy friends!

Kary Moltzan

Profiles From Camp UMM to Springbrook Bible Camp

EPPING

OUTDOOR MINISTRY ANNOUNCES NEW NAME, SAME PURPOSE

In the minds of many are fond childhood memories of time spent at summer camp: the smell of the mess hall, late nights around the campfire, swimming with new friends, sleeping bags. Kids from local communities are making those same memories during their time atUpper Missouri Lutheran Bible Camp.

While the campfire songs and cabin friendships will always remain the same, one detail has changed: the Epping camp, formerly known as Camp UMM, now goes by its new name of Springbrook Bible Camp after a brand build out, logo and website update.

Interim executive director Hannah Johnson said this change had been a long time coming as the previous name no longer reflected their location or purpose. With “upper Missouri” as part of the name, confusion from prospective campers and staff was met over the camp’s actual geographical location, with many thinking it was located in Missouri. The word “ministry” also had some thinking the organization was a seminary.

“The name just didn't really identify with a lot of people anymore,” Johnson said. “So we were looking for a name to clear up where we are located and also what we do.”

What started as the need for a new website, became the right timing and opportunity for the camp to take a step into their future.

“‘Springbrook’ is a location that is iden-

tifiable, people can google (it) and easily tell where that is,” Johnson said. “We can now identify where we are, location based, and ‘Bible Camp’ just clearly says our main focus; that we are a summer Bible camp.”

The camp had talked with multiple marketing firms, but quickly settled with local company Spruce Row Solutions to help bring the vision to fruition.

New name, same camp, same purpose.

“It’s really important to take into consideration the history that has made the camp or organization what it is today,” said Alissa Renner, president of Spruce Row Solutions. “That heritage and legacy is something that we always want to maintain. So in the situation of Springbrook Bible Camp, it was really important to us to dive into what makes the camp a unique place, what ties does it have to the area and also what are the forward goals and visions for the next season? It’s a very reflective look backwards as well as a visionary look forward and finding a name and brand that will tie those together and will lead them into the next chapter.”

With their rebranding launch announcement on Facebook, the camp assured that their mission, values and

legal name of Upper Missouri Lutheran Bible Camp will all remain the same and that the new look reflects their commitment to adapt and grow. Being in operations since 1946, the camp has gone by many different names throughout the years: Epping Bible Camp, Upper Mo, Upper Missouri Ministries, Camp UMM and now Springbrook Bible Camp. The new logo is an open Bible with a cross in the middle and a child on each side, representing the camp’s core values, spirit and traditions. The colors of green and blue were chosen as a connection between nature and their heritage. Johnson said the public feedback on these changes have been mostly positive.

Campers will start heading to camp the week of June 16. Springbrook Bible Camp offers camps for children preschool aged all the way through those graduating from high school with camps geared toward topics of S.T.E.M, sports and the beach, a week for family camp and day camps for younger campers. All of what Springbrook Bible Camp has to offer can be found on their new

Erica is a freelance writer and copy editor. She is a wife and mother of four and loves road trips and being out on the prairies of North Dakota.

website of www.springbrookbiblecamp.com

The camp is staffed by four year-round employees and summer staff. Summer workers are recruited through job fairs at colleges such as UND, Concordia, Williston State as well as the Williston High School job fair. Camp also has the opportunity to find staff through international programs and will be having a student from Jamaica, Spain and Mexico helping with the different weeks of camp.

In addition to regularly scheduled camp and events, in the past year the Upper Missouri Lutheran Bible Camp has begun a new endeavor to bring people to the camp: hydroponic container gardening. Through a grant from Strengthen N.D., the camp started a container farm and has been growing different varieties of lettuce that are used for camp meals and can also be found in the Williston High School salad bar.

With the goal being to bring people to camp to learn about science and hydroponics while also seeing what they have to offer, the camp gives group tours of the farm, as it runs 24/7 on its own software all year long.

To register for camp and view upcoming events, visit their website at www.springbrookbiblecamp.org or visit their Facebook page of Springbrook Bible Camp.

Springbrook Bible Camp

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY SPRINGBROOK BIBLE CAMP.

ERICA KINGSTON ekingmediawriter@gmail.com

News Briefs

Spring Clean Williston scheduled for April 27

com.

WILLISTON — The City of City of Williston’s annual spring Clean Williston event is scheduled for April 27 from 8 a.m. to noon.

This annual event invites the public to volunteer to beautify the city by signing up for zone within Williston to clean.

“To make Clean Williston a success, it takes all of us living in the community to lend a hand and make a difference,” said Marc Mohr, streets and refuse superintendent for the City of Williston.

Each year, businesses, organizations and groups of residents have donated their time to the Clean Williston effort. Clean Williston is held biannually in the spring and fall and continues a more than 20-year tradition.

"The spring Clean Williston event is one of two opportunities for citizens to show that you've got pride in the community,“ said Williston Mayor Howard Klug. "But it's important to remember that Clean Williston is not just two days a year, it's an ongoing effort to show that we're proud of our city and we want to keep it looking its best. I encourage not just the people of Williston to get out and help clean Williston, but the business owners as well."

Individuals and groups interested in participating in this year’s spring Clean Williston event can register online for one of 40 zones. Register online at http://bit.ly/ CleanWilliston. Those unable to attend on April 27 are still encouraged to clean a zone during the week prior to the event. Contact Public Works to pick up safety materials and arrange garbage pickup.

In the event of inclement weather, Clean Williston will be held on May 4. This change will be announced on City of Williston social media and www.cityofwilliston.

Volunteers are asked to meet at 8 a.m. at Williston Public Works located at 1121 Fifth Street East in the north lot on the day of the event. Individuals who do not register for a zone in advance are welcome and will be assigned to a zone. Volunteers will receive a free Clean Williston t-shirt (limited quantities and sizing available), a light breakfast and ice cream afterwards courtesy of CHI St. Alexius and Suzie Q’s Ice Cream Truck. Public Works will provide safety vests, gloves and garbage bags.

Full garbage bags can be left on the side of the road in each zone for pickup or individuals can bring their bags to Public Works for disposal. Participants are also asked to return their safety vests, gloves and any unused garbage bags either to Public Works, or to leave these items with their full garbage bags.

In addition to collected trash, the following will also be accepted at Public Works:

• Wood – Two containers (trees and construction material) will be available. This service is free.

• Metal – One container provided by Pacific Steel and Recycling will be available. This service is free. Items that cannot be loaded by hand will be redirected to either recycling facility.

• Tires – Individuals are limited to four tires per person. Chamley Pipe and Salvage will shred for free.

The City of Williston Recycle Center trailer will also be onsite and will accept the following free of charge:

• Cardboard – Please break down boxes.

• Tin and aluminum cans – Loose cans are preferred vs bagged.

• White paper – Loose is preferred vs bagged. This paper will not be shredded.

Multi-company Oil & Gas Job Fair comes to Williston April 11th

er. "The attending companies are looking forward to filling their open positions across the region at this hiring event."

Williston residents asked to schedule appointment for new water meter

BY VOCELLA STAFF news@vocella.com

WILLISTON — The City of Williston will be working on putting in new water meters beginning April 26 and residents are asked to make an appointment for installation. As this has been an ongoing project, those who have already had meters replaced do not need to take action.

The current water meters have been in service for 15 to 30 years and have reached the end of their useful lives. As water meters age, they lose accuracy, resulting in incorrect billing, non-revenue water loss and eventually water rate increases. The new meters, which have an expected 20-year battery life, will ensure accurate readings and billing.

The City has contracted with Raines Meter Menders to execute the new meter installation and to schedule appointments. They will need to enter the residence and

gain access to the water meter. Raines Meter Menders will carry identification and will be driving marked vehicles.

Residents can see available times and dates and can reserve an appointment time on their website at www.rainesmetermendersllc.com or alternately call Raines Meter Menders at 701-954-9329. They will be experiencing high call volumes but residents are encouraged to leave a message and they will return the call when available.

Installation will begin on April 26. These meters are inside the home, in a crawl space or in the basement. To avoid being disconnected, make an appointment soon. This water meter replacement is mandatory and funded through water meter rates and no additional charges will be billed.

For more information, contact the Water Department at 701-577-8105 or email the City at citywater@ci.williston.nd.us.

WILLISTON — Jobseekers in the oil and gas industry will have the chance to explore a variety of career opportunities at the upcoming Oil & Gas Job Fair scheduled for April 11. The event will take place from 9am to 1pm at the Grand Williston Hotel & Conference Center.

Recruiters will be hiring entry-level & experienced candidates for onshore, offshore, field-based & office-based positions. Examples of some of the available jobs include electronics techs, field operators, truck drivers, HSE roles, shop technicians, field service techs, parts coordinators, floorhands, captains, cooks, apprentices, and more.

"We are proud to facilitate the connection between companies and jobseekers at oil & gas job fairs across the US," said Jen Schamble, Events Manag-

The job fair is free for candidates, who are encouraged to bring multiple copies of their resume. Interviews will be taking place on-site, providing jobseekers with the opportunity to engage directly with hiring managers from industry leaders such as Stage 3 Separation, Halliburton, American Well Service, Inc, Cactus Wellhead, FlexSteel Pipe, Archrock, Seafarers International Union, and more. Job Service North Dakota – Williston will also be onsite to discuss the many resources available to jobseekers.

Booth spaces are still available for interested companies. Those wishing to exhibit should contact events@ rigzone.com for further information. For more information about the event, including registration details, visit rigzone. com/events.

NDSU Extension offers Youth Farm Safety Camps

BY MIKE MOEN Prairie News Service

NORTH DAKOTA — North Dakota State University Extension is addressing the pressing need for farm safety training among youth with a series of farm safety camps across the state in 2024. These camps, strategically located in three different regions, aim to equip young farm workers with essential knowledge and hands-on experience in safe farming and ranching practices. With alarming statistics highlighting the high risk of injuries and fatalities in agriculture, these camps play a crucial role in mitigating such risks.

Participants in these camps will receive comprehensive training covering various aspects of farm safety, including safe tractor and machinery operation, livestock handling, emergency preparedness, farm stress management, and hazard identification. Beyond imparting practical skills, the program also addresses legal requirements, ensuring that youth aged 14 and 15 receive certification prior to employment on farms operated by anyone other than a parent or guardian, in compliance with federal law under the HOOA.

Testimonials from participants underscore the positive impact of these camps, emphasizing how discussions on farm safety issues and the review of safety plans have contributed to improved organizational safety measures. Open to youth from all North Dakota counties, the camps aim to cultivate a culture of safety within the farming community and promote a safer agricultural future. Families interested in enrolling their youth are encouraged to register before the April 15 deadline, with a registration fee of $300 per participant.

Additionally, businesses and organizations are invited to explore sponsorship opportunities to support the provision of personal protective equipment and farm safety supplies for participants. Angie Johnson, the farm and ranch safety coordinator at NDSU Extension, can provide further details on how to contribute to this vital initiative. For more information or to register for the farm safety camps, individuals can visit ndsu.ag/ youthfarmsafety or scan the QR code with your smartphone.

Morning sun routine

BY KARY MOLTZAN news@vocella.com

While researching the benefits of morning sun, I came across this reel from Danielle Hamilton Health. Danielle explains her morning routine, including the morning sunlight discussed in the article on this page, with the addition of a few other tips and helpful information that can help balance cortisol levels, glucose levels, improve metabolism and more.

Before starting any new routines for health and wellness, it’s important to talk to your doctor. You can find a lot of interesting and helpful information online, but you may not always be able to determine what has been tested, what is safe, and even if the person telling you is qualified. It’s always best to discuss what’s best for you with your own physician.

For more from Slow Living Homestead, follow the QR code by scanning with your smartphone and view the original reel on Instagram.

Lifestyle

Morning sunlight can brighten your whole day

BY KARY MOLTZAN news@vocella.com

Iam not a morning person. I often use that joke, “I’m not a night owl, nor a morning person. I’m some kind of perpetually tired pigeon.” I have tried in the past to shift my routine, force myself out of bed, and really, force myself to be something I’m not. It doesn’t work.

What I am, however, is a lover of sunshine. The best part of living in western North Dakota for me was being so close to the time zone change, meaning on the longest days of summer there was still a sliver of light on the horizon well past 10 p.m. I envy my pets who can find the patch of sunshine on the floor to bask in its warmth all day. As cliché as it may sound, that lovely ball of burning gas not only warms my skin, it warms my soul.

With the days getting longer, and the sun starting to hint at its coming as I wake up each morning, it gets far easier for me to feel motivated to open my eyes and start my day. I read someone’s social media post a few weeks ago about her intentionally spending time outside in the morning, even when it’s cold outside. Now, I’m not sure she was in the frigid north like we are, so I’m not sure it’s feasible to be out doing this in the dead of winter, but her reports of the overall well being she felt after spending 30 minutes outside during sunrise every single morning, had me intrigued. I decided to do a little research and see if this was purely anecdotal or if there were any scientific reports to back up the idea. Turns out there is plenty of evidence of the positive benefits of soaking up the sunshine, specifically in the morning, not long after waking. Our lives now are fast paced and often we feel incredibly rushed in the morning. Many spend hours in poorly lit offices (or at least poorly windowed) in front of a screen and under artificial lights. Most of us are also glued to our phones as we go to bed, despite being told numerous times how the light is negatively impacting our brains and circadian rhythms. Exposure to natural sunlight in the morning can help counteract some of

these negatives by helping synchronize our internal clocks, signaling our bodies to wake up and start the day. It can also align our sleep-wake cycle by matching it with the natural light-dark cycle to improve sleep quality.

That “warming my soul” I mentioned earlier maybe isn’t so cliché after all. It’s been proven that sunlight exposure triggers the release of serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone. Increased levels of serotonin can elevate your mood, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and promote a sense of well-being. By basking in the morning sunlight much like our pets, we can kickstart our day on a positive note.

Another crucial benefit of sunlight exposure is its role in vitamin D synthesis. When sunlight hits our skin, it triggers the production of vitamin D, an essential nutrient that plays a key role in maintaining bone health, supporting the immune system and reducing the risk of various chronic diseases. Adequate vitamin D levels are crucial for overall health and well-being, and the morning sun provides an excellent natural source to meet our body’s needs.

Sunlight exposure also stimulates the production of cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate energy levels and wakefulness. By soaking in the morning sun, we can boost our energy levels, enhance mental alertness, and feel more prepared to tackle the day ahead. Whether you enjoy your coffee outside on the porch in the morning, or even pair it with some exercise like a quick walk, you’ll feel more awake and alert as you start your day.

In addition to its mood-boosting effects, morning sunlight exposure has been linked to improved cognitive function. Research suggests that exposure to natural light can enhance concentration, memory and overall mental performance. By starting our day with sunlight exposure, we can sharpen our focus, improve productivity and set ourselves up for greater success in our daily tasks and endeavors. If you struggle with the feeling of brain fog, or just not feeling sharp, a little sunlight may go a long way.

For anyone suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, most of this information is probably old hat. SAD is a type of depression

that occurs during a specific season, particularly in the winter months. Morning sunlight exposure can offer relief for those experiencing SAD. Light therapy is a common treatment for SAD, and some sufferers will even be prescribed special lights that help mimic sunlight when it can’t be found. If you think you may suffer from SAD don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.

The intensity of direct sunlight, like getting outside, will give you the maximum benefits when it comes to early morning sun exposure. Unobstructed morning light measures at 100,000 lux, which is the unit for measuring the brightness of light. Many typical lamps inside will give a measly 100200 lux. Even on overcast days, rays do leak through the clouds and are more powerful than indoor lights. If you simply have to be inside, like when it’s 40 below and the wind is blowing, you can still get some benefit from sitting near an unobstructed window facing the sunlight.

Although any amount of sunlight exposure in the morning is going to be beneficial, you should shoot for a minimum of 30 minutes. In fact, there seems to be a sweet spot right around 90 minutes of early morning sunlight, but even 10 minutes is better than none. In addition to early morning sun, there is evidence to suggest that getting outside for a bit during the early to mid afternoon also helps encourage your circadian rhythm to regulate. Getting early morning sun then sitting in a dark corner the rest of the day may not help your brain distinguish between what are supposed to be waking and sleeping hours.

Try not to wear sunglasses, however, it’s important to not to stare at the sun, of course. Gazing somewhere else while the sunlight bathes your face is plenty. Looking directly at the sun will serve little purpose but to burn your retinas. It is also better to not wear sunscreen, but do apply it if you are going to be exposed long enough to cause sunburn. Finding the balance between under and overexposure is going to be key.

I plan to make a better effort to get outside and enjoy that morning sunlight, and I hope you do, too!

MORNING SUNLIGHT CAN HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ON YOUR MOOD AND HEALTH. IDEALLY, AIM FOR EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT WITHIN 15 - 20 MINUTES (BUT UP TO 1 HOUR) OF WAKING.

Wellness Wednesday

April is Child Abuse Prevention month

Child Abuse Prevention month is a time to observe the importance of families and communities to work together to prevent child abuse and neglect and to promote the overall wellbeing of children. There are several events happening throughout the month to help provide education and bring awareness to child abuse issues in North Dakota.

The impacts of child abuse and neglect last a lifetime. There are many factors that can change how abuse affects children, including the child’s age, development level, type of abuse, duration and frequency and severity, but these are a few of the long lasting consequences:

• Physical — abuse can cause vision, motor or cognitive impairments; poor physical health leading to chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancers.

• Psychological — poor mental and emotional health, social difficulties and academic difficulties. Up to 80% of adults who have been abused experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, eating and substance disorders or suicide.

• Behavioral — risky behaviors, delinquency, drug and alcohol abuse, relationship difficulties and repeat of abusive behavior. Abuse victims are one and a half times more likely to use illicit drugs and are more likely to repeat the behavior as adults.

• Economic — the estimated average lifetime cost per victim is $210,000,

including costs in health care, special education, criminal justice, welfare and loss in productivity as an adult.

What is child abuse? North Dakota law defines an abused child as a person, under the age of 18 who is “suffering from serious physical harm or traumatic abuse caused by other than accidental means by a person responsible for the child’s welfare.” Harm is also defined as “negative changes in a child’s health” such as causing or allowing physical or mental injury including excessive corporal punishment. A neglected child is defined as a child without parental care or control, subsistence, education or other care necessary for the child’s physical, mental or emotional health.

How do I know when or how to report it? There are several occupations that are considered mandated reporters, which means that they must report any suspected abuse or neglect (even if it is in the past) or face criminal charges for failing to do so. These include any medical professional, educator, counselor, religious/clergy personnel, childcare worker, law enforcement or social worker. However, any person having reasonable cause should report.

If you suspect abuse or neglect, but

are not sure, report it or discuss your concerns with the county social service office. Reporting it allows the social service agency to evaluate the situation and can provide support for the families. If you are worried about the outcomes or retaliation, any person that reports in good faith is immune to liability and can be kept anonymous. The best outcome is to correct any issues through education for the parent or caregiver and to keep families together, with the child’s best interests at heart.

To report, call the statewide toll-free Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Line at 1-833-958-3500, between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Events to take part in this month:

• Fridays – Help spread awareness by wearing blue

• Thursdays noon-1:30 p.m. – Join free virtual series with experts

• April 4 – Child sexual abuse prevention

• April 11 – Safeguarding children online

• April 18 – Being my best self

• April 25 – Connections matter

WILLIAMS COUNTY FAMILY & COMMUNITY WELLNESS EXTENSION AGENT

• April 16 6-7:30 p.m. – Attend presentation on keeping children safe from sexual abuse.

• Education and conversation at the LB Church in Williston

To signup for the events or learn more about Child Abuse Prevention visit these websites for more information: The Prevention Child Abuse North Dakota website at www.pcand.org and the North Dakota Health and Human Services Website for Child and Family Services atwww.hhs. nd.gov/cfs. Until next time, continue extending knowledge and changing lives with NDSU Extension.

KATELYN JESPERSEN

Culture

"God of Carnage": A must-see comedy comes to Williston

BY J.C. LABAR, DIRECTOR

Entertainment, Inc! is proud to present a production that encapsulates the spirit of our times: "God of Carnage." Directed by myself, an actor at heart and a director by craft, this edgy modern comedy is a first of its kind for our local adult community theatre, promising not just laughs but a mirror to our collective experiences.

A global sensation since its debut, "God of Carnage," a masterpiece by Yasmina Reza, is praised for its piercing humor and uncanny ability to strip down societal niceties to reveal the raw human condition beneath. Its original Broadway run featured the formidable talents of Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis, James Gandolfini and Marcia Gay Harden, each delivering performances that contributed to the play's widespread acclaim, including a Tony Award for Best Play.

The comedy's heart lies in its setting—a meeting between two couples discussing their sons' playground altercation, which spirals into chaotic, hilarious madness. This unflinching look at the complexities of human nature and relationships has resonated with audiences and critics alike, praised for its sharp wit and biting commentary on societal norms.

Bringing this celebrated work to Williston, especially during a time when our community has navigated through notable challenges within our school system, is a testament to the power of theatre to reflect, challenge and transform. The strong language and themes, while edgy, is a deliberate choice, underscoring the play's relevance and the truth that art, in its most authentic form,

2008 TONY AWARD WINNER

GOD carnage of

A comedy of manners... without the manners

By Yasmina Reza

Translated by Christpher Hampton

Directed by JC LaBar Sponsored by Handy Andy’s Nursery

APRIL 11 - 13 | 7:00 PM

APRIL 14 | 2:00 PM

imitates life. Theatre challenges us and pushes the boundaries of comfort and complacency, opening our eyes to new perspectives.

"God of Carnage" does just that—it's funny, irreverent and undeniably poignant, striking a chord that will resonate with audiences.

Our exceptional cast features Gio Johnson as Michael, Anna Nelson as Veronica, Steve Johnson as Alan and my wife, Susan LaBar, as Annette. Their dedication and talent have breathed life into these complex characters, making this production a true actor's showcase. Behind the scenes, Assistant Director Sarah Favorite has been indispensable, and her insight and hard work have helped shape this into a production Williston will talk about for years to come.

As we approach opening night, our team's and the community's anticipation builds. “God of Carnage” is more than just a play; it's an experience, a shared journey that promises laughter, reflection and perhaps a new way of viewing the world. This production runs from April 11 through April 14, with evening performances at 7 p.m. and a special Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.. Don’t wait; tickets are limited and go on sale now—reserve seats online at www.entertainmentinc. org or by calling the box office at 701-5773179.

Take advantage of this unparalleled blend of comedy and commentary, a production that entertains and enlightens, reflecting our community's challenges and triumphs. Join us for "God of Carnage"—a play that is as meaningful as it is hilarious, a testament to the resilience, spirit, and, most importantly, the sense of humor of our community. “God of Carnage” is one theatrical experience you won't want to miss.

The Bookshelf Book review: “The Bitter Kingdom”

Reviewed by MCKENNA WALTER mckenna@vocella.com

Prepare for an exhilarating finale in “The Bitter Kingdom,” the final book of “The Girl of Fire and Thorns” trilogy by Rae Carson. Carson once again delivers a compelling conclusion that skillfully ties up the loose ends of the story. Even though we say goodbye to the characters we’ve become familiar with, we don’t have to say goodbye to this world. Carson continues to write about the adventures of those in this world in her next book, “The Empire of Dreams.”

Title: “The Bitter Kingdom”

Author: Rae Carson

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Summary

Elisa, having harnessed and subsequently eradicated the power of magic, now encounters a series of new challenges that demand trust in her instincts and reliance on her allies. As her nation teeters on the brink of civil war and her beloved is taken captive, Elisa confronts a cascade of obstacles. Her objectives are clear: first, journey to the enemy's gate to rescue Lord-Commander Hec-

tor; second, thwart the impending devastation orchestrated by enemy forces; and third, reclaim her kingdom from the treacherous Lord-Conde Eduardo. Racing against time, Elisa grapples with the tasks of safeguarding her loved ones and preserving the hard-won kingdom she fought tirelessly to secure. Armed with confidence and wit, Elisa embarks on this tumultuous journey, poised to be the beacon of salvation her realm desperately needs.

Review

“The Bitter Kingdom” is a steady but action packed conclusion to “The Girl of Fire and Thorns” series. You’re immediately immersed in action as Elisa and her allies must race against the clock. As you follow her journey you travel over mountains, through forests, in mines and beyond while you meet new and interesting characters. Elisa has much growth between the first two books. By the end of “Crown of Embers” you’d think she’d be at her peak. However, Carson continues to push her growth, to test her, and to strengthen her. Elisa’s cleverness shines throughout this book as she finds herself stripped of those who used to guide her — Ximena, Hector, her father and more. As you read from her perspective, you get snip-

pets of her plans that twine together to create a satisfying reveal.

Another aspect of the book that I greatly enjoyed was the inclusion of Hector’s perspective which added a lot of weight. His thinking is short, concise, and logical while he works through his situation and how to help Elisa. We also get to see both sides of their relationship. Rae doesn’t continue to push the tension between them but instead pushes into portraying them as partners and equals who work well together.

While Carson continues the growth of her characters, she also continues the growth of this world she created. “The Bitter kingdom” showcases her world-building abilities as Carson explores more of the past and the present. We get a deeper exploration of Ivierne as she touches on the religious beliefs of the countries involved and how that affects the ways they interact with each other. She also displays different cultures, diplomacy and the adaptation to co-existence. As with each of the other two books, this one contains politics and political intrigue. However, now Elisa has learned how to play the game and masterfully controls the political scene.

While the conclusion of a beloved series is always sad, “The Bitter Kingdom” is

a thrilling and satisfying end to “The Girl of Fire and Thorns” series. Carson takes readers on a journey with her immersive action, world-building, and character development. Elisa’s evolution throughout the books into a leader is so well complemented by the characters that surround her. Even though bidding farewell to these amazing characters is bittersweet, Carson leaves the door open for future exploration of this richly imagined world. Overall, “The Bitter Kingdom” is a testament to Carson’s great achievement when she dreamt up this world.