The Vocella Oracle - October 26, 2023

Vol. 3 - Issue 39

October 26, 2023

A Community Newspaper a Serving N orthwest North Dakot “A SNOW DAY LITERALLY AND FIGURATIVELY FALLS FROM THE SKY, UNBIDDEN, AND SEEMS LIKE A THING OF WONDER.” — SUSAN ORLEAN

Tioga City Commission approves new kayak dock and launch

By Kevin Litten, Tioga City in the spring of 2024.

This development is a Commission President testament to our commitment to making Tioga an Dear Tioga Residents, I am thrilled to share even more vibrant and acsome exciting news that cessible place for residents will enhance our commu- and visitors alike. nity’s access to the beautiful Tioga dam and its pris- Key Features of the New tine waters. At the latest Kayak Dock and Launch: city commission meeting, Safety First: The kayak we unanimously approved dock will feature sturdy the construction of a state- railings to ensure the safety of-the-art kayak dock and of all users. We understand launch, along with the in- the importance of feeling stallation of kayak rental ki- secure while enjoying the osks, all set to be completed (Continues Page 2)

Burgum: Senate squanders

Fall taxpayers $46M per year opportunity to save

North Dakota Governor, Doug Burgum

by killing tax relief bill Read Governor Burgum’s full press release on page 6

PREPARING FOR SEASONS IN NORTHEAST MONTANA

Main Street Musings

by Alyssa Stromberg

Page 5

HEALTH LITERACY MONTH: GET INFO FROM THE RIGHT SOURCES

By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service

Page 7

LEGENDS OFFROAD:

CRAFTS-4-U

THIS FALL, OLDER

A JOURNEY FROM HUR- ADULTS SHOULD PROTECT THEIR HEALTH DLES TO SUCCESS

By Rachel Venture

Page 8

Statepoint Media

Page 9

2 • The Oracle •October 26, 2023

LOCAL EVENTS SPONSORED BY To Have Your Community Event Added Email: info@vocella.com

FORTUNA

Army Band Assembly (K-12 in HS

Cards & Games at Divide County

Tuesday October 31st - Down-

Monday October 30th - GYM +

Every Tuesday- Range Night at

Gym) 9:30-11:00am at Ray Public

Senior Citizens Center 1:30-

town Williston Trail of Treats 3-5p

ACT CLOSED for Event Cleanup

Northwest Sportsman Club

School

2:30pm

Downtown Williston

at Tioga Community Center

Tuesday October 31st - Pre-ACT:

Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

RAY

8th Grade at Ray Public School

Saturdays:

TIOGA

October 26th & 27th - District

Thursday November 2nd - Picture

Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

Thursday October 26th - K-6

16 Volleyball Tournament at

Retake Day at Ray Public School

Sundays:

Kenmare

Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

Thursday October 26th - Red

CROSBY

Ribbon Week Presentation &

Wednesday November 1st -

Speaker (Grades 7-12) at Ray

October 30th - November 4th -

Lyceum 9:00 - 10:00 am Friday October 27th - Lion’s Club Vision Screenings K-6 8:45am -

National FFA Convention Tioga Community Center Schedule Mondays: Yoga Flow 9:30am-

3:00pm

10:30am

WILLISTON

Friday October 27th - State Cross

Learn English Class 10:00am-

Crosby Area Chamber Meeting

October 26th & 27th - Women

Country at Jamestown 2:00pm

11:00am

Public School

8:00-9:00am at Divide County

in Leadership (WiL) Expo 2023

October 26th - 28th - GYM + ACT

Tuesdays: Pickleball 5:00pm-

Friday October 27th - State Cross

Courthouse

at The Grand Williston Hotel &

CLOSED at Tioga Community

8:00pm

Center

Wednesdays: Storytime

October 26th - 30th - District 16

10:30am-11:00am

Volleyball Tournament

Youth Group 6:00-9:00pm

Sunday October 29th - Commu-

Thursdays: Slow Flow 6:00pm7:00pm

Country at Jamestown

Conference Center

Monday October 30th - District

Wednesdays:

Saturday October 28th -Hocus

16 Volleyball Tournament at

Storytime at the Divide County

Pocus Craft & Vendors Show

Kenmare

Library 10:00am - 10:45am

11a-5p at the Raymond Family

nity Halloween Party at Tioga

Monday October 30th - 188th

Fridays:

Community Center

Community Center

explore the joys of kay- we have chosen not to parTIOGA KAYAK toaking. take in revenue sharing, enRental Kiosks: Speaking suring that rentals are priced DOCK FROM PAGE 1

water.

Accessibility: We are proud to announce that the dock will be ADA-compliant, making it accessible to everyone in our community.

This inclusivity is a priority for us, and we want to ensure that everyone can enjoy the dam.

Kayak Launch: The kayak launch is a fantastic addition that will make it easy for anyone, whether they have their kayak or are renting one, to access the water.

We hope this feature will encourage more residents

of renting, in the spring of 2024, we will introduce kayak rental kiosks at the dam. Using the convenient rent.fun app, residents and visitors can sign a waiver and rent kayaks by the hour.

Each locker will contain a kayak, a paddle, and a lifejacket. After use, users will simply return everything to the locker and verify that all items are correctly replaced via a photo. If something is missing, maintenance will be dispatched promptly.

Affordable Fun: We understand the importance of keeping recreational activities accessible. That’s why

at an affordable $10-12 per hour. We want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Tioga’s waters without breaking the bank.

As we look ahead to the spring of 2024, we are excited about the opportunities these developments will bring to Tioga. We believe they will not only enhance our recreational offerings but also bring our community closer together.

Thank you for your continued support, and we can’t wait to see you out on the water in the near future.

October 26, 2023•The Oracle • 3

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4 • The Oracle •October 26, 2023

THE WESTBY WATCH By Heidi Whitney Volleyball Headed to Districts

HOT DISH!

Please contact Heidi Whitney at 406-672-5696 to add an event!

Thur Oct 26-Sat Oct 28: –District Volleyball Tournament at Plentywood.

The MonDak Netters will open the district tournament against Lustre Christian on Thursday at 4:30 pm in Plentywood.

The girls closed out their regular season on October 17th with a loss on the road against Plentywood in three sets. They will come into the tournament in 8th place out of 12 teams.

Thur Oct 26: District Volleyball at Plentywood vs. Lustre Christian, 4:30 pm.

Sat Oct 28: Thunder Football Playoff Game @ Big Sandy, 1 pm.

Sun Oct 29: Services at Assembly of God, 10:30 am.

Coffee hour and Sunday School at Immanuel, 10:30 am. Services at 11:30 am.

MonDak Gridders Clinch Playoff Spot be presented by Tina Kahrs, a family support specialist with Hi-

Westby Adult Education Presents: Autism 101. This class will Line Home Programs. The event will take place from 6:30 - 7:30 pm on October 29th at the Westby Community Center. Cost to attend is $20.00.

Don’t forget coffee time at the Westby Community Center on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 am -10 am!

A Word from the WHS Reunion Committee MonDak Thunder football defeated Bainville 4014 on October 20, securing a playoff berth to begin Saturday in Big Sandy.

State Cross Country Results

Three MonDak country Boys' State Results runners earned trips to the (Place out of 113): state meet at Kalispel OctoVictor Christian - 21:39 ber 14.

(73rd Place) Results were as follows: Thadious Bahny-Huff-

man - 22:41 (91st Place) Girls' State Results (Place out of 75): Erika Chrisitan - 25:39 (33rd Place)

Executive board member Brenda Ryals proposed a challenge at the inaugural meeting of the WHS all school reunion committee on October 16th. The challenge for herself and each of the other 13 in attendance?

— for each person to invite 3 others to the next meeting on November 13th; a hefty goal (supposing no one invites the same people).

The meeting will take place at the Westby Community Center at 6:30 pm.

The hope for the recently formed grassroots group is to get as many people involved as possible in planning for the event, making everyone’s share of the load light enough for all to enjoy the big event come June 2025!

October 26, 2023•The Oracle • 5

Preparing for seasons in northeast Montana

As residents of northeast Montana, we are well acquainted with the dramatic shifts in weather and landscapes that accompany the changing seasons. From the frigid winters to the blossoming springs, and the scorching summers to the colorful autumns, preparing for these transitions is not just a necessity but an art form. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of the upcoming cold season and prepare for the inevitable changes that lie ahead.

Winter: Winters in northeast Montana can be harsh, with sub-zero temperatures and snowstorms that blanket the region in white. To prepare for this season, make sure your home is well-insulated and that your heating systems are in top-notch condition. Stock up on winter essentials such as warm clothing, snow shovels and plenty of firewood if you have a fireplace.

Don’t forget to check your vehicle to ensure it is winter ready, with snow tires and an

emergency kit. Check your emergency kit to make sure everything is in working order and still in place.

Year-round preparedness: No matter the season, having a well-stocked emergency kit is essential, especially in rural areas where help may be farther away. Include items like non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights and blankets. Additionally, keeping up with the local news and weather forecasts can help you stay ahead of any unexpected changes.

In northeast Montana, we are fortunate to experience the full spectrum of seasons, each with its unique charm and challenges. By being prepared and making the most of what each season has to offer, we can truly embrace the beauty of change.

So, as we gear up for the next seasonal transition, let’s remember that change is not to be feared, but celebrated, for it is the essence of life in northeast Montana.

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Bringing nature’s beauty indoors: Fresh flowers can boost one’s mood. Photo by Alyssa Stromberg

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Check out our online directory at communityshopper.com or scan the QR code, today!

Although it may seem strange, it can snow in Montana almost all year, thanks to its high altitudes. While it certainly is rare, Cooke City, a small city nestled in the mountains of Montana, has had snowfall in June.

Snowfall in July or August is rare, especially towards the eastern side of the state, where the terrain is lower.

As a result, it’s most common to find snow sometime in September, usually before the first official day of fall.

6 • The Oracle •October 26, 2023

TAX RELIEF KILLED

billion – $288 million more than what the Legislature thought was available in April. The projected ending FROM PAGE 1 fund balance for the current 2023-25 biennium is $417 Press Release million.

BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. “This tax relief was a Doug Burgum today exno-brainer: The citizens pressed disappointment for have the need, and we defithe citizens of North Dakota nitely have the resources. after state Senate members rejected an income tax re- The chambers of the North Dakota Senate. The Senate has 47 members, one from each of North Dakota’s Current information shows lief bill that would have 47 legislative districts. At the top of the photo, seated in the center of the desk, is the President of the Sen- our state’s financial position ate who also serves as the Lieutenant Governor of the state. (Don Anderson) Photo & description source: is stronger than ever,” Bursaved taxpayers $46 million NDStudies.gov gum said. “When state govin tax year 2024 and effecour overflowing coffers.

Supreme Court issued an agency operations will conernment collects more than tively eliminated the state taxpaying it needs to operate and has tinue without interruption,” Hardworking, opinion Sept.

28 voiding the income tax for an additionNorth Dakotans deserved overfilled its reserves, our Burgum said. al 50,000 wage earners and OMB bill, ruling it violated Despite the House over- better.” first option should always small business owners filing the state Constitution’s sinBurgum urged lawmakwhelmingly approving the gle-subject rule. Lawmakbe to return money to the as individuals. income tax relief in House ers to pass income tax relief taxpayers.” ers passed 14 separate bills Burgum called lawBill 1549 on a 71-19 vote in his State of the State AdFor perspective, Burmakers to Bismarck for to address the OMB budget dress on Monday, The bill Tuesday, the Senate voted this week’s special session and other provisions in the 16-31 to defeat the bill to- was introduced by Rep. Jar- gum noted that the $46 million in proposed tax relief to address the 2023-2025 voided bill. ed Hagert and co-sponsored represented only 3% of the day.

“We’re grateful to Maappropriations bill for the “This is a missed oppor- by House Majority Leader state Office of Management jority Leaders Hogue and tunity. Senators could have Mike Lefor, Senate Major- $1.488 billion June 30 endand Budget (OMB), as well Lefor for their collaboration followed the House’s lead ity Leader David Hogue, ing fund balance, or less as to make strategic invest- to fix the OMB bill in an ef- and deliver much-needed Reps. Craig Headland, Mike than 5% of the record-high ments in tax relief and infra- ficient manner and ensure tax relief to North Dakotans Motschenbacher and Jere- $944 million balance in the structure. The North Dakota that services to citizens and struggling with high infla- my Olson and Sens. Jordan rainy-day Budget Stabilization Fund, or less than 10% tion. Instead, they squan- Kannianen and Scott Meyof the biennial earnings dered that opportunity and er. The governor thanked from the state’s nearly $10 ensured this special session the sponsors for bringing billion-and-growing Legacy will be remembered for the bill forward.

Fund.

In response to lawmakspending taxpayer dollars Under the bill, the into fix a legislative mistake,” ers’ concerns about potenKristi Haugenoe, Agent tial 965-6319 economic downturns come thresholds for the Burgum said. “Rather than Bus: (701) bottom (zero percent) tax and provide $46 million a year 17 Main St Sbeing able to balance bracket would have inbudgets, Burgum notin income tax relief and Crosby,future ND 58730 ed the state has record re- creased from $44,725 to eliminate state income tax khaugeno@amfam.com MARK YOU CALENDARS! THE for an additional 50,000 fil- serve funds and wrapped up $60,000 for single filers and ers, they left town without the 2021-23 biennium with from $74,570 to $100,000 Saturday, October 28th sending so much as a penny a record-high general fund for married couples filing “Star-studded” of relief to taxpayers despite ending balance of $1.488 jointly. This would have Halloween saved single filers up to Live Music with Ted & Kari $298 per year and married Dress as your favorite music artist and couples filing jointly up to come walk the red carpet with us!

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Health Literacy Month: Get info from the right sources

By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service October is Health Literacy Month, and a North Dakota official says there are key things you can do to ensure you're getting the right information to live a healthier life.

This time of year is meant to help providers do a better job of getting information across to patients. But leaders say health service customers can do their part, too.

Stephanie Welsh, administrator with the Cavalier County Health District in the northeastern part of the state, said coming out of the pandemic awareness month serves as a good reminder for people to consider the sources they're using for health information, and stressed finding out whether they're credible, non-biased institutions that rely on scientific data.

"We have more information at our fingertips than ever before and, unfortunately, some of that is misinformation and disinformation," she said.

Welsh added the well-documented public debate over COVID-19 vaccines is a good example of how faulty information through social media can impact a person's mindset. Beyond primary-care doctors, she said well-known health systems, such as Mayo

Join usg, Sailin

­

October 26, 2023•The Oracle • 7

During Health Literacy Month, experts say providers should learn tips such as using plain language and encouraging questions to make sure patients understand what they're being told. (Adobe Stock)

Clinic, are good places to turn to, and said when looking at research, finding out if a study has been peer-reviewed can go a long way in knowing if the data is reliable.

As for navigating insurance providers and healthcare systems, Welsh says you shouldn't feel intimidated to try to learn how they work.

"Whether it's your local hospital, your clinic, your pharmacy or your long-term care facility, or if you have a social services agency that's

local - those local names and faces - they're there to help you and they'll do a good job in helping you find the answers you need," she explained.

As for personal health, Welsh recommends learning more about preventive care and added not only does it help defend against infectious diseases such as COVID, but it also prevents chronic illnesses that can have a big impact on quality of life.

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8 • The Oracle •October 26, 2023

Legends Offroad: A Journey from hurdles to success

By Rachel Venture Small business is a huge part of what makes Williston such a wonderful place to live. Businesses with similar models that would normally be competitive and cut throat anywhere else have found that in Williston it is better for everyone if owners and employees work together and support each other. Business owners in Williston seem to put aside their differences to help one another succeed and thrive.

Kevin Whitman, owner and operator of Legends Offroad has had a similar experience in opening his new shop. Legends Offroad tailors to offroad vehicles of all types. They also tint the windows on just about anything with glass, including homes. His signature show truck is complete with a logoed orange, black and white wrap and is often seen around town. This signature

Legends Offroad; Kevin Whitman & Brianna Davis. Photo source: Rachel Venture

vehicle is an example of what Whitman has accomplished, despite some life altering setbacks.

After leaving high school, a building collapse in Western Montana meant Whitman’s guaranteed good job was now gone. Undeterred, he heard that a boom was on its way in Williston so he packed up and moved to seek a job in non-destructive testing. This move soon

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turned into another hurdle to overcome when the job didn’t take on new hires and everyone else seemed to want experienced rig hands.

Again, undeterred, Whitman worked a humble job at Pizza Hut cooking pizzas where he met most of the friends he still keeps today.

In summer of 2009 he got his oilfield chance at B&G Roustabout. After that, he and a friend settled

at Braun Intertec where he was a weld inspector with high certifications. He was working almost 100 hours a week so when a family came into play, he had to find a way to cut back while still having a successful career.

His fiancé, Brianna Davis, is a talented window tinter herself and a mother of four.

She enjoys the time having a family business allows her with her family and is learning new skills every day.

After dabbling in another aftermarket car parts business, Whitman decided he wanted his own business.

“With no investors and no bank loans it’s been slow but the community has been so supportive that we’ve been booked every day since day one,” Whitman said. “We have a great location to build our truck for SEMA and our regular business.”

SEMA, or Specialty

“Vocella, Inc Classified Advertising” For more information call 701-572-4851 or email sales@vocella.com Deadline: Fridays, 3PM for Classifieds 2PM for Display Ads.

Visit us at 24 Railroad Ave Ray, ND or call 701.568.2266

Equipment Market Association, is a massive three day expo in Las Vegas where dealers, specialty vehicle manufacturers, race car enthusiasts and vendors from Amsoil to Zendex Tool Corp come together to see the latest tech, equipment and automotive art. This year Legends Offroad will be bringing a decked out 2015 Chevy Duramax 2500 to SEMA and employee Russell Reigler is on the ball getting the truck in tip top shape with all the bells and whistles.

Legends Offroad is always making appointments for tinting and aftermarket installations and hopes to cater to more fleets of pickups in the future. Stop in and say hi to the whole family at 503 Second Street West and see the progress on the beast for SEMA before it leaves around Halloween.

Ch Check out all of the Beautiful Fall Arrivals!

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This Fall, Older Adults Should Protect Their Health

(StatePoint) With cold and flu season upon us, it’s time to protect yourself, not only from those seasonal threats, but also from other health risks.

“During the holidays, our lives get very busy with family and friends,” said Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare business. “Before then, please take time to ensure you get the preventive care you need to stay healthy.”

Preventive care is critical for everybody, but particularly for older adults, and especially in fall when risks can increase, Sobel said. Recommendations vary based on age, gender and health status, but the following are some of the most common for seniors, according to Sobel.

Vaccinations There are a number of vaccines older adults need to consider to protect themselves. Flu and pneumonia, for example, are among some of the most common causes of senior deaths. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to vaccination. Timing and frequency vary, depending on your health history. Ask your health care provider which vaccines are appropriate for you.

• Flu. This vaccine is administered annually, generally before the end of October, and is designed to match the latest circulating flu strains.

• Pneumonia. Administration varies based on health history. If you’re 65 or older and you’ve never had the vaccine before, then you’ll likely need two shots, which are administered a year apart.

• Shingles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine for healthy adults aged 50 and older, spaced two to six months apart, to prevent shingles and related complications.

• COVID-19. Ask your doctors about current recommendations for prevention of COVID-19 infections.

• RSV. Earlier this year, the Federal Drug Administration approved two separate vaccines to address respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in older adults. RSV, a common respiratory infection, usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, but can be more severe in older adults and children. Talk to your doctor about whether you should get an RSV vaccine.

Health Screenings The following health screenings are commonly recommended for older adults.

• Mammogram. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States, according to the CDC. Every woman is at risk, and risk increases with age. Fortunately, breast cancer can often be treated successfully when found early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends women 50 to 74-years-old at average risk get a mammogram every two years.

• Colorectal screening. Col-

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orectal cancer risk increases with age. Screenings can find precancerous polyps early, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. The USPSTF recommends colorectal cancer screening for adults age 45 to 75. Though colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test, there are other options you may consider with the help of your provider.

• Bone density scan. USPSTF recommends women aged 65 and older, and women 60 and older at increased risk, be routinely screened for osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become weak and brittle. Screening may facilitate treatment that helps prevent fractures.

• Eye exam. Routine eye exams can identify early signs of eye disease that are more likely as people age. People with diabetes in particular are prone to retinopathy, which leads to vision loss. It’s recommended that people with diabetes have annual retinal screenings.

• Mental health checkup. Many people experience seasonal depression during fall. Mental health is strongly linked to physical health. Talk to your health care provider about both, including your personal and family history. They can connect you with additional mental health resources.

To prevent unpleasant surprises, Sobel suggests talking with your health care provider, pharmacist or insurer about preventive care costs. Fortunately, costs are often covered fully by Medicare or Medicare Advantage, he said.

The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.

October 26, 2023•The Oracle • 9 Photo Credit: Girl Scout Scuba Troop 40348 Facebook

Positive Pulse:

Bright Stories for a Better World

Girl Scout Scuba Troop in Central Texas Champions Conservation In Central Texas, Girl Scout Troop 40348 is making waves by combining environmental conservation and gender equality in a unique way. This pioneering “Scuba Troop” has injected new life into traditional Girl Scout activities by taking them underwater, proving that conservation can be both fun and impactful.

Troop 40348 is believed to be the first and only scuba Girl Scout troop in the country. These girls, aged 12 to 17, have become certified scuba divers, exploring depths of up to 130 feet while learning about aquatic ecosystems and examining the environmental impact of substances like sunscreen and zebra mussels.

In addition to their conservation efforts, the troop is actively challenging gender stereotypes within the scuba diving community, bridging the gender gap and showcasing the potential of young females. Through their various projects, they are effectively raising awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. These projects include removing invasive plants from local water bodies, cleaning up lakeside areas, and educating communities about the harmful effects of single-use plastics in aquatic environments.

The Scuba Scouts are not limited to underwater activities alone. They are involved in diverse environmental projects, advocating for reef-safe sunscreen and encouraging local restaurants to adopt eco-friendly practices such as going strawless and using biodegradable straws to protect waterways.

Their leader, Karina Erickson, highlights that these scouts are not only challenging stereotypes but also working tirelessly to preserve the environment for future generations. Their dedication to raising awareness and driving meaningful change underscores the potential of young individuals in safeguarding our planet. Whether they’re donning scuba gear underwater or actively engaged on land, Girl Scout Troop 40348 in Central Texas is making a positive impact and paving the way for a more environmentally conscious and gender-equal world.

10 • The Oracle •October 26, 2023

NATIONAL & WORLD HEADLINES

ELDERLY FEMALE ISRAELI

China’s Defense Minister, Li

responders working to clear the

HOSTAGES

BY

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has

been

officially

crash sites. Visibility improved

ONGOING

dismissed

by

the

country’s

as the fog lifted, but the duration

NEGOTIATIONS

leadership, raising concerns about

Hamas released two elderly Israeli

turbulence in the ruling Communist

of the marsh fires’ impact was

hostages on Monday, making them

Party. Li had disappeared from the

the third and fourth civilians freed

public eye for about two months

from the group of 222 captured by

prior to his dismissal. While

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Hamas over two weeks. Sadly,

the Chinese leadership did not

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Hamas and Israel regarding the

had also gone missing earlier and

release of 50 dual-citizen civilian

was replaced in July, was stripped

diverted after an off-duty pilot

hostages. Hamas has demanded

of his state councilor position.

in the cockpit allegedly tried to

fuel deliveries and humanitarian

These abrupt changes suggest

disable the engines. The flight,

aid to Gaza in exchange for

uncertainties among the top ranks

operated by Horizon Airlines, took

the release of a larger group

of China’s leadership, although

off from Everett, Washington,

of hostages, with 54 aid trucks

they are not expected to affect

entering

President Xi Jinping’s power.

and was en route to San

HAMAS

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Word of the Day bloviate: (verb)

1. to speak pompously; to talk at length, especially in an inflated or empty way

FREED

AMID

Gaza

by

Tuesday.

Israel insists on the release of

PET of the

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all hostages before permitting

DEADLY ‘SUPERFOG’ PILEUP:

fuel deliveries. Separately, the

7 KILLED, 25 INJURED IN

U.S. sent a Marine three-star

158-VEHICLE CRASH AMID

general and other military officers

LOUISIANA MARSH FIRES

to advise the Israeli military. The

At least seven people were killed

death toll in Gaza has exceeded

and 25 injured in massive car

5,000, while in Israel, it’s at least

crashes involving 158 vehicles

1,400, with Israel reporting over

on a Louisiana interstate due to a

320 strikes in Gaza since Sunday.

“superfog” caused by smoke from

uncertain. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards called for blood donors and prayers for those affected.

OFF-DUTY PILOT’S ATTEMPT TO

DISABLE

ENGINES

FORCES ALASKA AIRLINES FLIGHT DIVERSION An Alaska Airlines flight was

Francisco when it was diverted to Portland, Oregon. The off-duty pilot attempted to disrupt engine operation but was subdued by the crew. The incident was described as a credible security threat, and the off-duty pilot was arrested. He faces charges including 83 counts of attempted murder, reckless endangerment, and endangering

marsh fires and dense fog. Videos

an aircraft. All passengers were

CHINA DISMISSES DEFENSE

of the wreckage showed a chaotic

later able to travel on a different

MINISTER AMID LEADERSHIP

scene with crushed vehicles,

flight.

CONCERNS

some engulfed in flames, and first

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK:

We often see a winter storm as an inconvenience - and it’s true it’s more than that, it’s dangerous for those who must be out in it — the people keeping the rest of us safe.

But, for the rest of us, we should see it as mother nature telling us it’s time to slow down. Pause. Take a deep breath. Our lives are filled with hustle and bustle. For just a moment, enjoy the peace, solitude, and slower pace a blizzard generously gives us.

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