Vol. 3 - Issue 36
October 4, 2023
A Community Newspaper a Serving N orthwest North Dakot “WHAT YOU DO, WHO YOU’RE WITH, AND HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE WORLD AROUND YOU IS COMPLETELY UP TO YOU.” — MIKE ROWE MAIN STREET MUSINGS: FALL INSPIRED FOLIAGE FOR YOUR PORCH By Alyssa Stromberg
Enhancing your porch with fall plants is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Page 5 DATA SHOW HOME-OWNERSHIP DISPARITIES IN ND By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service The lack of affordable housing in North Dakota and around the nation is being felt by many populations. However, finding security through homeownership remains a barrier for marginalized residents, and a North Dakota group says gaps at the state level are eye-opening. Page 6 FEDS CRACK DOWN ON INSURANCE PROVIDERS FOR LIMITING MENTAL HEALTH CARE BENEFITS By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service
Grief is difficult for anyone to manage. When it comes to children, it can be hard to know what to do. . Page 7
Tioga High School students confront harsh reality of road safety in mock car crash demonstration By Chelsy Weisz, Editor Tioga, N.D. - In an effort to emphasize the critical importance of safe driving habits, Tioga High School students from grades 9 to 12 gathered at the Tioga Community Center's parking lot for a dramatic and eye-opening event – a mock car crash. This impactful demonstration, initiated in 2021, aims to drive home the message of vigilance on the road. The event, which took place on Sept. 27 at the Tioga Community Center, was orchestrated with meticu(Continues Page 3)
Photo by Chelsy Weisz.
Nashville comes to North Dakota: a bluegrass extravaganza in Tioga
By Chelsy Weisz, Editor Tioga, N.D., is primed to host an extraordinary musical spectacle as two of the nation's preeminent touring bluegrass bands converge for an exceptional six-day tour. Seth Mulder & Midnight Run and The Waddington Brothers will come together at the Tioga Community Center on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. This event promises (Continues Page 3)
CRAFTS-4-U
30th Anniversary
2 • The Oracle •October 4, 2023
LOCAL EVENTS SPONSORED BY To Have Your Community Event Added Email: info@vocella.com
FORTUNA
Tuesday October 10th - Elem Football at
Wednesday October 11th - Divide County
TIOGA
ing @ Central Library 6:30pm
Every Tuesday- Range Night at North-
Tioga 6:30pm
Jobs Authority Meeting 8:00am at Divide
Friday October 6th - Football at Dunseith
Wednesday October 11th - Company
west Sportsman Club
Wednesday October 11th - T-4 Event at
County Courthouse Conference Room
7:00pm
Meeting 6:00 - 10:00am at Tioga Com-
Saturday October 7th - Volleyball NWC
munity Center October 12th & 13th - GYM + ACT
Parshall (Juniors) RAY
Wednesday October 11th - UMDHU Flu
Wednesdays:
at Stanley High School
Thursday October 5th - Elem Volleyball
Shots 10:00am - 12:00pm
Storytime at the Divide County Library
Saturday October 7th - JH Volleyball
(H) vs. Tioga 5:30pm
Wednesday October 11th - Parent Teach-
10:00am - 10:45am
Tournament at Berthold 9:30am
Thursday October 5th - JH Football at
er Conference at Ray Public School
Fridays:
Saturday October 7th - Cross Country -
Tioga 5:00pm
3:30pm
Cards & Games at Divide County Senior
Rugby Invite 11:00am at Rugby
Friday October 6th - Football (H-Ray) vs.
Thursday October 12th - 2JH, C, JV, V
Citizens Center 1:30-2:30pm
October 8th & 9th - FBLA Fall Leadership
DLB (HOMECOMING)
Volleyball at Kenmare 3:00pm
Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm
Conference Bismarck ND
Saturday October 7th - Volleyball NWC
Thursday October 12th - Elem Volleyball
Saturdays:
Monday October 9th - Temple Home-
at Stanley
at Stanley 6:00pm
Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm
makers Meeting 12:30 - 4:00pm at Tioga
Saturday October 7th - Elem Football at
Friday October 13th - Football at Velva
Sundays:
Community Center
Williston 10:00am
7:00pm
Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm
Monday October 9th - Planning and Zoning Meeting 5:30 - 6:30pm at City
Saturday October 7th - Elem Football at
CLOSED at Tioga Community Center Thursday October 12th - Visitor Promotion Meeting at 5:30 - 6:30 pm at City Hall - 16 1st St NE, Tioga, ND 58852 Thursday October 12th - Volleyball at Powers Lake 4:00pm Friday October 13th - Cross Country West Region at Standing Rock Indian Reservation 1:00pm Friday October 13th - Football vs. Lewis & Clark 7:00pm
Sidney, MT 11:00am
CROSBY
WILLISTON
Hall - 16 1st St NE, Tioga, ND 58852
Monday October 9th - City Commission
Thursday October 5th - Volleyball at
October 6th & 7th - 2023 Lewis & Clark
Monday October 9th - JH & JV Football
Meeting at Ray City Hall
Tioga 3:00pm
Big 10 Showdown Lewis & Clark State
vs. Surrey Sawyer (H) 4:30pm
Monday October 9th - JH Football at DLB
Friday October 6th - Football at Central
Park
Monday October 9th - Volleyball vs.
5:00pm
McLean 7:00pm
Saturday October 7th - Artini Goes to
Alexander (H) 4:45pm
Monday October 9th - Elem Volleyball
Saturday October 7th - JV Volleyball
Margaritaville James Memorial Art Center
Tuesday October 10th - Tioga Fund
(H) vs Powers Lake 5:30pm
Tournament at Our Redeemers Minot
Friday October 13th - James Skinner
Meeting 6:00 - 7:00pm at City Hall - 16
Wednesdays: Storytime 10:30am-
Monday October 9th - Parent Teacher
Saturday October 7th - Varsity Volleyball
Mixed Media Workshop 5-9p James
1st St NE, Tioga, ND 58852
11:00am
Conference at Ray Public School 5:30pm
NWC at Stanley
Memorial Art Center
Tuesday October 10th - Powderpuff
Youth Group 6:00-9:00pm Thursdays: Slow Flow 6:00pm-7:00pm
Tuesday October 10th - JH, JV, V Volley-
Monday October 9th - Mac-A-Bee’s Book
Volleyball
ball vs. WTC (H) 5:00pm
Club 5:15 - 6:15pm
Wednesday October 11th - Fat-C Meet-
Tioga Community Center Schedule Mondays: Yoga Flow 9:30am-10:30am Learn English Class 10:00am-11:00am Tuesdays: Pickleball 5:00pm-8:00pm
Fall Cleanup Events Eligible for Earth Day Patch
PRESS RELEASE. ND GAME & FISH — Are you planning a fall cleanup event at your school or in your community? Your cleanup group is eligible for the 2023 Earth Day patch. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has for years encouraged students to design Earth Day patches to bring greater awareness to the environment in the state and elsewhere. Yet, like Earth Day, which began in 1970 and kicked-started the environmental movement, the concern for our outdoor places isn’t simply a once-a-year-
thing, but ongoing. Understanding this, the Game and Fish Department has initiated Earth Day, Every Day to promote continual awareness about the environment. Groups that engage in environmental clean-up projects, landscaping or other efforts that promote environmental awareness, will receive an Earth Day patch for all participants. The patches are used to recognize groups that work to celebrate the Earth Day concept, and everyone is encouraged to participate in Earth Day, Every Day
awareness campaign. For more information about Earth Day, Every Day, or to request patches for your project, contact Sherry Niesar, Earth Day coordinator, at 701-5273714 or sniesar@nd.gov.
October 4, 2023•The Oracle • 3
teams and even Fulkerson collaborative efforts of the coordination ensured the awareness of the real-life
MOCK CRASH Stevenson Funeral Home, Tioga Police Department, event's success. Initially consequences of careless FROM PAGE 1
lous attention to detail. Two vehicles, generously donated by U R Next Towing, were positioned in the parking lot, setting the stage for a strikingly realistic scenario. The North Dakota Highway Patrol played a pivotal role in the event, conducting an accident reconstruction of the mock collision with the use of a drone. Actors assumed the drivers' and passengers roles, complete with makeup to simulate injuries. The event further incorporated the vital services of the fire department, ambulance
creating an eerily authentic atmosphere for the students. "This event is designed to evoke emotion,” said Chief Josh Nelson of the Tioga Police Department, a driving force behind the initiative. “It's traumatic to witness, but it's intended to vividly illustrate the gravity of what can happen on the road." Traditionally, such mock car crashes are held before major school events like prom, homecoming or large sporting gatherings. However, the stark reality is that accidents can occur at any time of the year. The success of this event was made possible through the
Reality Check: A Powerful Reminder of the Consequences. In this eye-opening series of photos by Chelsy Weisz, we see how students were brought face to face with the sobering aftermath of a mock car crash. These gripping images serve as a stark reminder that every choice we make behind the wheel has real-life consequences. Let’s commit to safe driving and protect our futures. #DriveSafe #ChooseLife
Williams County Sheriff's Department, North Dakota Highway Patrol, Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home, U R Next Towing, City of Tioga Streets Department and Tioga Fire and Ambulance services. A special recognition goes to Detective Sara Litten, whose dedication and
scheduled for spring 2023, the event was rescheduled to the fall due to unexpected snow last spring. The Tioga High School mock car crash serves as a reminder for students that responsible driving is a year-round commitment. It's an event that leaves a lasting impact, raising the
actions on the road. In the spirit of community safety, Tioga, N.D., continues to invest in educating its young residents about the value of safe driving habits. This initiative prepares students for the future and fosters a culture of responsible road behavior.
4 • The Oracle •October 4, 2023
THE WESTBY WATCH By Heidi Whitney
ATTENTION WESTBY!
HOT DISH!
Please contact Heidi Whitney at 406-672-5696 to add an event! ALL TIMES ARE MOUNTAIN Thurs Oct 5: Thunder Volleyball @ Bainville. Junior High: 4:30 pm. Junior Varsity: 20 min. after the end of JH. Varsity: 20 min after JV. Fri Oct 6: Thunder Volleyball @ Westby v. Culbertson. SENIOR NIGHT. Junior High: 4:00 pm. Junior Varsity: 20 min. after the end of JH. Varsity: 20 min after JV. Sat Oct 7: Thunder Football @ Brockton, 1 pm. Varsity Volleyball Tourney @ Lambert, TBD. Thunder Cross Country @ Sidney, 10 am. Sun Oct 8: Services at Assembly of God, 10:30 am.
Please attend an open meeting regarding an important upcoming celebration: 100 years of Westby High School Graduates! Join us at the Westby Community Center at 6:30 pm on Monday, October 16th to become part of the team!
Coffee hour and Sunday School at Immanuel, 10:30 am. Services at 11:30 am. Don’t forget coffee time at the Westby Community Center on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 am -10 am!
We will be discussing possible dates for the event, as well as forming committees to serve in different areas. The event will be held in the SUMMER of 2025.
Writer ns o i s s i m b u S Wanted Want the chance to see your writing in the Oracle? email submissions to news@vocella.com
Whatever time: Day. Night. Weekend. Whatever the reason: Mental health distress. Substance use crisis.
October 4, 2023•The Oracle • 5
Fall inspired foliage
for a decorative porch
Enhancing your porch with fall plants is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Mums (Chrysanthemums): Mums are a classic choice for fall porch decor. They come in various colors, including vibrant reds, oranges and yellows, and can be potted in decorative containers to add a pop of autumnal color to your porch. Pumpkins and gourds: Large pumpkins and colorful gourds make excellent porch decorations. You can arrange them in clusters or use them as a base for other potted plants or fall wreaths. Carved or painted pumpkins can also add a creative touch. Ornamental kale and cabbage: These leafy greens offer unique textures and colors, with foliage that turns vivid shades of pink, purple and white as temperatures drop. They look great in pots or as part of a mixed container display. Fall-friendly foliage plants: Consider plants like ornamental grasses, heucheras (coral bells) or dusty miller. These foliage-focused plants can provide a beautiful backdrop for your porch decor and add a touch of elegance. Asters: Asters produce daisy-like flowers in various shades of purple, blue and pink, making them
an excellent choice for late-season porch blooms. They pair well with other fall plants and can be potted in containers or planted in the ground. Pansies and violas: These cool-weather annuals come in a variety of fall-appropriate colors and can be used in pots or hanging baskets to bring a burst of color to your porch. Corn stalks and hay bales: For a rustic touch, consider stacking corn stalks and hay bales around your porch. These elements can serve as a backdrop for other fall decorations. Fall wreaths: Hanging a fall-themed wreath on your front door is a quick and easy way to add a touch of fall to your porch. You can find wreaths adorned with autumn leaves, berries and other seasonal accents. Herbs: Potting fragrant herbs like rosemary or sage in decorative containers not only adds greenery but also provides you with fresh herbs for cooking during the fall season. Remember to choose containers, pots or baskets that complement your porch’s style and color scheme. Mixing and matching various fall plants and decor elements can help you create a visually appealing and cozy autumn porch display that welcomes both you and your guests.
Fall pots can add charm to your porch. Photo submitted by Alyssa Stromberg.
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6 • The Oracle •October 4, 2023 THE
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Data show home-ownership
disparities in ND
By Mike Moen Prairie New Service As the U.S. navigates a prolonged housing crisis, a North Dakota organization is highlighting data showing significant homeownership disparities. According to the High Plains Fair Hous-
ing Center, North Dakota has the largest racial gap in the nation when it comes to owning a home. The state's gap is more than 20% higher than the U.S. average. Jade Eagle, fair housing specialist with High Plains Fair Housing Center, said
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families of color were more likely than white families to have their applications denied or withdrawn. Both groups had common factors, but a lack of sufficient employment was higher for racial groups. She added there needs to be more job opportunities for these individuals. "And I believe that lenders also need to be willing to work with people who have less traditional employment history, such as people who work for Uber, who have gig economy-type setups," she explained. As for those submitting mortgage applications, the report says there are some eye-opening numbers, such as Native Americans accounting for just 1% of lending requests. That is despite the fact that they represent more than 5% of the state's population. Census Bureau data, covering last year, was a key source for much of the findings. Eagle said there are some key assistance programs that can help close these gaps, but added awareness can be an issue. "Especially the Section 184 program from HUD I think that that is a huge game changer, potentially for Native families," she continued. "And I just feel like not many people know about it." The HUD program she is referring to provides low down-payment requirements and flexible financing for American Indian and Alaska Native families. Other leaders with the Center say these programs, and those assigned to carry them out, often have to balance using their limited budgets to advertise the aid and securing enough resources to assist applicants.
Feds crack down on insurance
providers
for
limiting mental health care benefits By Mike Moen Prarie News Service In rural states such as North Dakota, accessing mental-health care can be extremely difficult. Federal officials say it's even worse when someone's benefits for such care are improperly denied. They're ramping up enforcement under a law aimed to address the issue. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, in place since 2008, requires most health plans - offering coverage for behavioral health or substance use disorders - to not make those benefits more restrictive than those for standard medical care. Lisa Gomez, assistant secretary for the Employee Benefits Security Administration, said their investigations have found that providers are still falling short in providing equal access. "For example," said Gomez, "there were plans that were excluding coverage for nutritional counseling, if you were seeking that coverage for an eating disorder." However, the plan in question was not restricting coverage for those seeking that type of counseling for help with a physical health issue such as diabetes. In fiscal year 2022, Gomez's agency investigated nearly 150 plans and found
As the public becomes more aware of mental-health care needs in the United States, federal officials say it's not just an issue of not having enough counselors to see patients. They say there is still a lack of parity when it comes to approving insurance benefits for those seeking care. (Adobe Stock)
almost two dozen violations. An EBSA report suggests correcting these situations is significant because in some cases, hundreds of plan participants were affected by a single provision not in compliance. Report authors say forcing the provider to make good on the claim can be a life-changer for those struggling with a mental-health issue. Gomez said for underserved populations, such as rural areas, getting rid of obstacles helps that individual make their situation more manageable. She added that the last they need is to have to wait for something like a co-pay error to be sorted out. "We've seen what mental-health conditions and
substance-use disorders can do to a person, to a family," said Gomez. "And so, it's really important that we try to use the tools that we have available to us and work together to try to address these issues." Gomez acknowledged that while there is progress, it isn't moving fast enough to remove these specific coverage hurdles. Various federal agencies are trying to finalize proposed rules that would strengthen provisions under the law. Outside of benefits roadblocks, Kaiser Family Foundation data show that in North Dakota, only 19% of mental-health care patients' needs are being met due to provider shortages.
“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.
October 4, 2023•The Oracle • 7
Slinger’s Pizza 4pm - 9pm
Wednesday - Saturday October: 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27
Closed Oct. 19th & 28th for private event.
BURGER NIGHT CROSBY MOOSE LODGE Hours Monday - Saturday Open at 3PM Sunday Open 11AM for NFL Happy Hour: 5-7pm Happy Hour Special: $.50 off all drinks!
Open to the public | $5 per plate
helping you love your home
Burger night is the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. October 3rd & 17th 5:30 - 7:30pm
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your home with our autumn-inspired designs autumn Transform
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Hours: 10am - 6pm Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm Sat
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8 • The Oracle •October 4, 2023
BLUEGRASS FROM PAGE 1
an unforgettable evening steeped in the tradition of live bluegrass music and riveting performance. To secure attendance to this musical extravaganza, contact the Tioga Community Center main office at 701-664-3192 or stop in to purchase tickets. Get tickets now, as this event represents a unique opportunity to be immersed in the resplendent world of bluegrass right here in North Dakota. Seth Mulder is at the helm of one of the most captivating and acclaimed young bluegrass bands on the contemporary circuit. Originating from Hillsboro, N.D., Mulder ventured to the epicenter of bluegrass, East Tennessee, where he founded Midnight Run. The ensemble's roster includes Colton Powers, responsible
Event Details: • Date: Tuesday, October 24 • Time: 7 p.m. • Location: Tioga Community Center
for banjo and vocals, Chevy Watson on guitar and vocals, Max Silverstein handling the fiddle and vocals and Tyler Griffith commanding the upright bass and vocals. Renowned for their electrifying stage presence, harmonies and deep audience connection, Seth Mulder & Midnight Run currently hold the prestigious Song of the Year title from the 2023 SPBGMA Awards in Nashville.
Disc���� ��� ��is��� � ��� �x��i�i�� �ed��n� c��e�, h�nd�r��e� t� ��r�ec�i�� . Picture your dream cake brought to life, just like the stunning masterpiece in the photo. Your special day deserves a special cake. Book your wedding cake orders now and make your celebration unforgettable. Tas�� ��� ���e��es� � y��� l��� st��� �i�� P��� S��� Sug�� Cust�� C��e�. Visit us at 24 Railroad Ave Ray, ND or call 701.568.2266
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The Waddington Brothers, a seasoned quartet of four brothers from southwest North Dakota, These brothers have captivated audiences since their inception in 2004. The ensemble includes Seth, Jacob, Ethan and Jon Waddington, collectively producing a versatile musical experience encompassing dynamic western harmonies reminiscent of Bob Nolan and The Sons of the Pioneers.
liance, spotlighting the diverse tapestry of bluegrass. Come to the Tioga Community Center on Oct. 24 for a remarkable night of live music and entertainment by two extraordinary bands. Their musical proficienTickets on sale now. cy extends from spirited bluegrass performances to mellifluous melodies. The Waddington Brothers' exceptional sibling harmonies and instrumental dexterity earned them the esteemed blue ribbon at the 2023 International Bluegrass Band Championship in Nashville. Call or email Nashville Comes to North Dakota assures an today! evening of musical bril-
Calling All Freelance Writers! Vocella, Inc., parent company of The Oracle and Community Shopper publications, is in search of talented individuals with a passion for writing. If you’re experienced and enthusiastic about showcasing your work in our publication, reach out to us today at news@vocella. com or 701-572-4851.
Print a Classified in the Oracle for $7 up to 25 words. Place it in the Community Shopper, also, for $10 total.
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October 4, 2023•The Oracle • 9
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finding employees with adequate critical thinking skills while 55% and 54% said respectively that
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The United States has over 4 million acres of National Forests in dire need of reforestation. The National Forest Foundation (NFF) has taken a significant step in the right direction by accomplishing the remarkable feat of planting over 8 million trees in the past year. These trees encompass a diverse array of 25 different species and have played a pivotal role in rehabilitating more than 21,000 acres of land. The NFF is an organization with a mission to foster a personal and profound connection between the American public and our National Forests. These forests, hosting a staggering 170 million annual visits, serve as the bedrock of America’s outdoor recreation heritage. They provide vital resources such as water, clean air, carbon storage, timber, minerals, oil, and gas. Without these magnificent forests, the American landscape would be profoundly altered, making the NFF’s dedicated preservation efforts all the more crucial. Beyond their reforestation efforts, the NFF has been actively engaged in critical wildfire prevention work. They have successfully raised an impressive $117 million for fire mitigation initiatives in the North Yuba Landscape of the Tahoe National Forest. These endeavors involve reducing the tree population in overcrowded forests, a crucial measure in averting widespread forest fires. This news brings hope and optimism for the future of our natural environments. Challenges such as pest infestations, drought, and devastating wildfires have made it increasingly difficult for forests to regenerate naturally. The tree planting and reforestation initiatives led by the NFF not only contribute to cleaner air and water but also promote healthier ecosystems. Furthermore, these endeavors leave a lasting legacy for future generations, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and the invaluable natural resources within our precious forests.
10 • The Oracle •October 4, 2023
NATIONAL & WORLD HEADLINES
Word of the Day frisson: (noun)
1. A sudden strong feeling of excitement or fear; a thrill.
PET of the
Meet APRIL!
April is one of Leslee’s five ducks. Her favorite thing to do is sit in the water dish! Want to feature your pet? Email news@vocella.com with your submission!
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KANSAS RAID CHIEF RESIGNS In August, The Marion Record, a hardhitting newspaper in Kansas known for its scrutiny of public officials, was subjected to a police raid while it was actively investigating local police chief Gideon Cody. Cody subsequently resigned shortly after being suspended for undisclosed reasons in September. Body camera footage from the raid revealed an officer going through desk drawers and summoning Cody to inspect a reporter’s files. The files belonged to a reporter who was investigating him. Cody had obtained warrants for the raid by citing potential identity theft and other crimes related to the dissemination of information about a local restaurant owner’s driving record. Nevertheless, the newspaper and its attorney have raised the possibility that Cody’s true motive may have been to uncover the newspaper’s findings about his past as a police captain in Kansas City, Missouri. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation has taken charge of the probe, though they have not yet disclosed the status of their inquiry.
AMAZON LAWSUIT Five Black and Hispanic electricians who worked on an Amazon warehouse construction site in Connecticut have filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Amazon, as well as contractors Wayne J. Griffin Electric and RC Andersen. In April 2021, the workers were horrified when they found rope shaped like a noose hanging from the ceiling when coming
into work at an Amazon warehouse site. They allege that Amazon and the contractors failed to take the issue seriously and implement measures that could’ve stopped the harassment. The electricians also claim they faced workplace retaliation and hostility after reporting the nooses. Amazon has said that they’ve supported local law enforcement in their investigation of the incident. When the FBI became involved, assisting the local police, there are claims that the managers at Griffin Electric and RC Anderson accused the electronics of hanging the nooses. According to the complaint, this is not the first time concerns about nooses arose involving Amazon and the two companies. An investigation by The Washington Post revealed that a combined total of 55 nooses were found at construction sites in the United States and Canada during the period spanning from 2015 to 2021. Those incidents rarely lead to arrests. The suit seeks unspecified financial compensation, and the FBI investigation into the incident remains open.
100 DOLPHINS In the Brazilian Amazon rainforest this past week, more than 100 dolphins have died from high water temperatures. The area is also grappling with a severe drought. A research group of Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, the Mamiraua group, reported two more dead dolphins found on Monday around Tefe Lake. The lake is key for mammals and fish in the area.
Thousands of fish have also died. The deaths are believed to be caused by the high water temperatures, which, since last week, have exceeded 102 degrees fahrenheit in the Tefe Lake region. Workers have been recovering the carcassess of the dolphins in the region where dry rivers have impacted impoverished riverside communities. Amazonas Gov. Wilson Lima declared a state of emergency due to the drought. A STEP FOR LGBQ+ CATHOLICS Pope Francis has suggested the idea of blessing same-sex unions in response to conservative cardinals who challenged him on church teachings regarding homosexuality. The Vatican released a letter from the Pope, dated July 11, where he indicated that such blessings could be explored, provided they don’t blur the line with sacramental marriages. This marks a significant shift from the Vatican’s previous stance that ruled out blessings for gay unions. While Pope Francis reiterated the traditional view of marriage as between a man and a woman, he stressed the importance of pastoral compassion and dealing with such issues on a case-by-case basis. LGBTQ+ advocates see this as a step towards greater inclusion in the Catholic Church, especially as discussions about LGBTQ+ Catholics’ role in the church are on the agenda at a major Vatican synod.
THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: “In a very general way, our society has fallen out of love with the skilled trades. Part of the problem is a myriad of myths and misperceptions that surround the jobs themselves, but the biggest cause is our stubborn belief that a fouryear degree is the best path for the most people.” - Mike Rowe
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