Vol. 1 Issue 1
Thursday, November 2, 2023
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A Community Newspaper Serving Williston and the Bakken Area
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In this issue About Us Vocella, Inc. (pronounced vō-chel-lä) 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.
From the Editor
This Issue
As the new editor at Vocella, Inc., I’m excited to lead the Vocella team into a new era, focusing on change, innovation, and delivering quality journalism while providing a platform for advertisers. We’re dedicated to upholding the tradition of community storytelling while embracing digital frontiers.
PROFILES — Tim Ritter
I invite you to explore our newly revamped website, subscribe to our digital edition, and engage with our online community. If you’re a local business, consider advertising with us to reach a wide audience as we expand our reach. Your participation is crucial as we embark on this transformative journey together. Join us today and be part of the future of community storytelling and engagement. — Chelsy
Socials Find us on Facebook and Instagram: @thevocellagraphic and @thecommunityshopper
Web Visit us online at www.vocellagraphic.com and www.communityshopper.com
Office Hours Reach us by email or phone: Monday - Thursday | 9:00am to 5:00pm & Friday | 9:00am - Noon Office hours are by appointment. Call 701.572.4851
Publishing & Sales Team
News & Press Releases
J.C. & Susan LaBar
news@vocella.com
Chelsy Weisz
Advertising
Owners/Publishers
Editor/Business Development Manager
Falon Justice
sales@vocella.com
Managing Engagement Editor
Billing
Erica Kingston
billing@vocella.com
Copy Editor/Writer
Karolyn Moltzan
Lead Design/Production
General Inquiries info@vocella.com
McKenna Layne
Design/Social Media
Vonni Anderson
Accounts Receivable
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Contact Us PO Box 389 1411 West Dakota Parkway, 2A Williston, ND 58801 701.572.4851
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NEWS — Tioga K-9 unit — Ray volleyball — Stanley one-act play
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OIL & AG — Chevron purchases Hess — BLM oil & gas lease sale — Honey bees predict winter
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LIFESTYLE — Olive Motherhood
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ND INTEREST — ND Property Tax — ND Childcare
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THE COMMUNITY SHOPPER Community Calendar 02 Announcements 02 Classifieds 03 Help Wanted 04-05 Classifieds 07 Real Estate 8
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Profiles
Tim Ritter retiring after 50 years in the jewlery business RITTER
BROTHERS
IN
THE
HANDS
OF
THE
NEXT
“I’ve loved this business, the best part is the people.”
- Tim Ritter
By Erica Kingston Tim Ritter’s first love in life was music. Many hours were spent sitting in front of the record player listening to the 45s his mom had bought him. He learned to play piano, and in the early ‘6os, when his dad gave him a guitar, he started a band that called themselves “The Strangers.” “We were one of the very first rock bands in the area,” Tim said. “And we rocked, I’m telling ya.” In college, he played in a jazz band that ended up playing in midwest cities with Liza Minelli. But the realities of life and a career caught up with Tim in the early ‘70s. Being swayed by his dad, who was a dentist, Ritter had started college off on that path. But needing the creative outlet that music had provided, he decided to follow his own path by taking an apprenticeship in the trade of diamond cutting. For 50 years, that choice allowed him a beloved career, provided Williston with a trusted jeweler and made a legacy he could eventually hand down to his two sons through Ritter Brothers Diamond Cutters. “In ‘73 (my brother Steven and I) got accepted to an apprenticeship with an old Dutch-Jew diamond cutter in Nevada,” Tim said. “In those days, and I think in these days, if you don’t have a Jewish uncle, you aren’t going to be a diamond cutter. It’s a completely secret trade and it’s passed on by apprenticeship only.” While in Nevada, Tim learned silver-
Tim Ritter and sons, Ethan & Evan. Photo by Erica Kingston. smithing and how to make jewelry. The days were spent in diamond cutting school, while also taking advantage of the geography to further hone their skills. “We’d go up in the hills and dig for turquoise and amethyst and whatever rocks we could find up there and we’d cut those, too, and make jewelry out of them,” Tim said. After diamond cutting school, Tim took classes at the Gemological Institute of America in Los Angeles. By 1976, the Ritter brothers moved back to Williston and opened a small diamond cutting shop in the upstairs of what is now the Cooks on Main building, as their dad had his dental offices in the front. There, referrals would be sent in from all over the country for their expertise in diamond cutting. After about a year, the brothers opened a small retail shop where the custom jewelry came to the forefront.
“In those days, the dentists made a lot of their own gold crowns and bridges in their labs,” Tim said. “So, a jewelry lab and a dental lab were almost identical because everything is done with a lost wax casting process.” Steven eventually left the business when the oil boom came. Tim purchased the current Ritter Brothers location in 1978, a prime main street location. For years, countless watches, clocks and pieces of jewelry were repaired and Williston was provided with silver, fine china, flatware and giftware. When the bust in oil happened in the early 1980’s, Steven came back to join his brother in the business and stayed until he passed away. About a decade ago, a younger generation of Ritter brothers came on scene; after going to jewelry school and learning the arts Ethan and Evan Ritter joined their dad.
GENERATION
And now, the time has come for Tim to pass the business on to them. “The lads have decided they would like to continue on in the jewelry business and I’m tickled pink about it,” Tim said. “They are tradesmen and good craftsmen … (they) can communicate well on any level, with any age group.” Tim will officially retire in January of 2024 when Ethan and Evan start their own jewelry store in the same location. There may be a few changes to the aesthetic and name of the store, but it will largely remain the same business that Williston has come to know and trust over the years. Ultimately, this step has been a long time coming and both Ethan and Evan are excited and ready for steps forward. With this change, will come all new inventory. To start fresh, Ritter Brothers Diamond Cutters is having a sale with the entire store up to 70% off. Items from throughout the 50 years of business will be brought out to the floor for this sale that will run Nov. 9 through Dec. 30. “It’s going to be a goodin’,” Tim said. “All the treasures are coming out of the vault.” In his retirement, Tim can be found still playing music and fishing at his cabin on Lake Sakakawea. “I’ll tell you, I’ve loved this business,” Tim said. “The greatest part is the people. I’ve gone through generations — I’ve serviced the grandfathers, the fathers and the sons in many of these families. It’s been a tremendously rewarding experience.”
Tim
Online Directory | Buy, Sell, Trade - Locally and Online | communityshopper.com
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News & Updates
Meet Izzy
Ray volleyball
Tioga’s newest crime fighting companion off to Region 8 Tournament By Chelsy Weisz, Editor TIOGA N.D. — In a promising development for the Tioga Police Department, a lively and spirited two-year-old black Labrador named Izzy has joined their ranks. With Officer Walker Koropatnicki as her dedicated handler, this dynamic duo is all set to become an invaluable asset to law enforcement in Tioga. Their journey began just last week when Koropatnicki traveled to Fargo, N.D., to welcome Izzy into their team. The focus right now is on Izzy’s training, with plans for her to become certified in drug detection, tracking and article searches. It’s important to note that she won’t be trained for apprehension, in consideration of the city’s stance on canine apprehension following past experiences with bite dogs. The funding for Izzy’s acquisition came through AKC Reunite, a program dedicated to supporting law enforcement agencies in acquiring K9 partners. A significant figure in this process was Pete Nielsen, who played a pivotal role in establishing and growing the West Fargo Police Department’s K-9 program back in 2011. As of Oct. 2, Pete Nielsen now holds the position of Chief of Police for West Fargo. Koropatnicki’s enthusiasm for Izzy’s arrival is palpable, and he eagerly anticipates their upcoming training. Earlier this year, he attended the highly regarded Desert Snow training, a three-day workshop celebrated for its comprehensive approach to vehicle searches during traffic stops. The training equips attendees with the skills necessary to
Officer Walker Koropatnicki & Izzy. Submitted photo.
detect criminal activity and uncover illegal contraband concealed within hidden compartments. Koropatnicki’s participation in this training underscores his commitment to providing the highest level of service and safety to the Tioga community. Izzy’s impact isn’t confined to the city limits alone. Presently, Tioga PD often has to wait 45 minutes to one and a half hours for an outside agency’s K9 unit to respond to calls. Izzy and Koropatnicki will be prepared to assist surrounding agencies with call-outs, significantly reducing response times and enhancing safety across the region. As Tioga welcomes Izzy and Koropatnicki into their fold, there’s an undeniable sense of excitement and anticipation. Together, they’re poised to make a positive impact in ensuring the safety and security of the community. Keep an eye out for this dynamic duo on the streets of Tioga, as they embark on their mission to serve and protect.
Ray Varsity Volleyball team. Photo source ndhsaanow.com.
By Erica Kingston RAY N.D. — On Monday, the Ray Jays volleyball team went 3-1 against Powers Lake - Burke Central to take the win at the Class B District 16 tournament in Kenmare, N.D. Ray has earned a spot in the Class B Region 6 games where they will play against Williston’s Trinity Christian on Nov. 6 at Williston State College. “I feel that we really came together as a team and played as one unit,” head coach Angie Cancade said. “The girls showed they had some grit and took advantage of some key momentum swings when it mattered to come out on top.” The Jays had an impressive 30 collective kills throughout the night, led by Myia Knox with 11. Knox had an ACL tear last year and has only been back playing for one month. The Jay’s serving was on point with only five missed serves, while dropping 13 aces over
the net, with five by Brinlee Cancade alone. With 11 wins and 17 losses for the season, Cancade said their season has been one of ups and downs with some wins they didn’t think they’d take and some upsetting losses. “I think we have learned from all of it and have a much better team as a whole this season,” Cancade said. “These girls really enjoy each other’s company on and off the court and that can make all the difference.” Ray will take on Williston Trinity Christian for their first game of the Region 8 tournament at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6 at Williston State College. The two teams have matched up twice this season, resulting in a split at the NWC tournament and a 3-0 win for Ray during the regular season. “(Trinity Christian is) a team that doesn’t just give up and is very scrappy,” Cancade said. “They have pretty solid defense and my girls are going to have to be very aggressive to pull off the win.”
Stanley students taking
one-act play to regional competition By Erica Kingston STANLEY N.D. — A group of students from Stanley have worked hard to prepare and are ready to take their efforts to the next level by hitting the road with their theatrical comedy performance about a protagonist who is put in front of a jury. Stanley high school’s group of eight students and advisor Chase Gluekert will perform their one-act play of “Hero on Trial” at the Region 9 one-act play competition in New Town, N.D., on Nov. 8. “Hero on Trial” is a play written by John Kendall that tells the story of Beth, who falls asleep in a library only to fall into a dream where a hero gets put on trial and other characters such as a villain, villager and a lady in distress give testimonies in front of a judge. Eight schools will compete at regionals
in New Town in front of judges who will give feedback and placements. The top two teams will continue on to the state competition. In 2019, Stanley school took their one-act play all the way to state, winning the championship. Gluekert, the social studies teacher and one-act advisor, is no stranger to the stage as he has performed with Entertainment, Inc! out of Williston, during highschool with the Williston High School theater program and during his college career. “I’ve done theater for a long time and I’m really happy to bring it here to this community,” Gluekert said. The “Hero on Trial” actors will do a test run for the school before heading to regionals. The community can enjoy a performance put on for the public at the Stanley High School gym on Nov. 9 at 6:30 p.m.
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Oil & Ag
Energy powerhouse: BLM announces oil Chevron’s $53 billion acquisition of Hess
and gas lease sale in North Dakota
I
T
By Chelsy Weisz, Editor
n a significant development, Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX) has announced its acquisition of Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) in an all-stock deal worth $53 billion, with a total enterprise value, including debt, of $60 billion. Under the agreement, each Hess shareholder will receive 1.0250 shares of Chevron for each Hess share. This acquisition will substantially upgrade and diversify Chevron’s portfolio, enhancing its position in the energy sector. One of the highlights of this deal is the inclusion of the Tioga Gas Plant, a key energy facility in North Dakota. Constructed by Hess Corporation in 1954, it stands as one of the largest natural gas processing plants in the state. Significantly, the plant’s capacity to produce natural gas has more than doubled, and the propane supply to North Dakota tripled through major investments in 2014 and 2019. These upgrades also led to a reduction in wasteful flaring of natural gas liquids. Additionally, the Stabroek block in Guyana, known for its industry-leading cash margins and low carbon intensity, is part of the acquisition. This asset is expected to drive production growth well into the next decade. The merger will also strengthen Chevron’s presence in the U.S. shale sector, thanks to Hess’ Bakken assets, which complement Chevron’s operations in the DJ and Permian basins. The combined company is projected to achieve faster and longer-lasting
production and free cash flow growth rates, extending beyond Chevron’s existing fiveyear guidance. Chevron’s Chairman and CEO, Mike Wirth, emphasized the shared values and culture of both companies, focusing on safety, integrity, community involvement and financial excellence. Pierre Breber, Chevron’s CFO, anticipates that this addition will significantly expand Chevron’s free cash flow growth, supporting higher dividend per share growth and increased share repurchases. John Hess, CEO of Hess Corporation, expressed his pride in the company’s accomplishments. He emphasized their valuable growth portfolios, especially in Guyana, home to the largest oil discovery of the past decade, and the Bakken shale, where they hold a leading position in oil and gas production. With this merger, Hess expects to create a company that is stronger across all dimensions, better equipped to navigate the energy transition, and committed to delivering substantial shareholder value in the years to come. This strategic move underscores Chevron’s commitment to advancing its portfolio and leadership in the energy sector, solidifying its position as a global leader in the industry. Stay tuned for further updates on this transformative agreement between Chevron and Hess, including its impact on North Dakota’s energy landscape.
Winter’s arrival:
Honey bees and Farmers’ Almanac in perfect harmony By Chelsy Weisz, Editor
A
s winter arrives earlier than many in North Dakota hoped for, the intriguing insights of honey bees into the season’s severity are coming to fruition. While the Farmers’ Almanac had already predicted a cold winter with above-normal snowfall, recent events in the northwest part of the state confirm the bees’ forecast with a winter storm that blanketed the region with over eight inches of snow and led to school closures. A few weeks ago, the venerable Farmers’ Almanac released its much-anticipated winter outlook for North Dakota, leaving little room for interpretation: it called for a frigid winter with above-average snowfall. The Almanac’s predictions have been known to be remarkably accurate over the years, making them a respected source for weather forecasting. Turning attention to a surprising source of weather forecasting, honey bees have been known to exhibit unusual behavior in anticipation of harsh winters. These diligent insects adjust their activities to ensure their colony’s survival during the cold months, including storing ample honey reserves. Researchers suggest that bees manage and predict weather by their sensitivity to changes in barometric pressure that gives them this uncanny ability. As a cold front approaches, air pressure drops, prompting bees
to become more active in their foraging. They instinctively gather extra nectar and pollen, anticipating the lean foraging opportunities that winter will bring. Additionally, bees have been observed reinforcing their hives with extra propolis, a resin-like substance collected from trees. This strengthening and insulation of the hive are done with greater diligence before a severe winter sets in, creating a protective barrier against the cold. Another noteworthy behavior is the early expulsion of drone bees from their hives as winter approaches. This year, many home beekeepers reported seeing drones kicked out up to six weeks earlier than in past years. This phenomenon adds to the intrigue of how honey bees adapt to impending winter conditions, further emphasizing their remarkable ability to anticipate and prepare for the colder months ahead. As winter unfolds, The Graphic will be closely monitoring both the Farmers’ Almanac and the honey bees to see how their predictions hold up. In the meantime, let’s appreciate the changing seasons and the incredible wisdom of the natural world around us.
Bureau of Land Management Press Release
he Bureau of Land Management Montana-Dakotas State Office today announced an oil and gas lease sale scheduled for Dec. 5, 2023, to offer 12 oil and gas parcels totaling 3,650.81 acres in North Dakota. The BLM completed scoping on these parcels in July 2023 and held a public comment period in August 2023 on the parcels, potential deferrals, and the related environmental analysis. A 30-day public protest period to receive additional public input opened today and will close Nov. 20, 2023. The parcels the BLM has analyzed, as well as maps and instructions on how to submit a protest are available on the BLM’s ePlanning website at: https://eplanning.blm. gov/eplanning-ui/project/2024323/510. As authorized under the Inflation Re-
duction Act, BLM will apply a 16.67 percent royalty rate for any new leases from this sale. More information about the Act is available on BLM’s online fact sheet. Leasing is the first step in the process to develop Federal oil and gas resources. Before development operations can begin, an operator must submit an application for permit to drill detailing development plans. The BLM reviews applications for permits to drill, posts them for public review, conducts an environmental analysis and coordinates with State partners and stakeholders. All parcels leased as part of an oil and gas lease sale include appropriate stipulations to protect important natural resources. Information on current and upcoming BLM lease sales is available through the National Fluid Lease Sale System.
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Lifestyle
Olive Motherhood Foundation Providing a village for moms By Erica Kingston
F
or years, the oilfield has brought an influx of men in search of work to Williston. In more recent years, with those men, come their families. While the hours are long and often require days gone at a time, there is a demographic in an oilfield community that is often overlooked. Families who uproot and come for work are often young and just starting out. In a lot of situations, moms are raising young kids away from their support system and with a dad who works long hours, which can leave a mother feeling lonely and isolated. Olive Motherhood Foundation was formed as a way to wrap those moms in community and become the village essential to raising children. Run by president Jocci Rice and a board of seven moms, the non-profit organization
Our goal is to provide opportunities for moms. -Jocci Rice
Olive Motherhood Foundation’s 2022 murder mystery event. Submitted photo.
Olive Motherhood Foundation was founded in 2022 with the sole purpose of providing a sense of community for moms in the Williston area. “Our goal is to provide opportunities for moms to just embrace motherhood and remember their identity outside of it,” Rice said. OMF puts on events weekly, whether through mom’s coffee meets, mom’s night outs, book club or community events. They often offer classes to learn different skills and get togethers for mom-and-me activities. OMF sets up Meal Trains to provide multiple days of meals to families who have welcomed a new baby or if a mother is laid up
and unable to provide. Their website itself is an index of resources that moms may need — prenatal and postpartum care, a list of walk-in clinics, help hotlines, childcare and schooling options, activities for moms and children, local shopping and restaurants and professional services ranging from photographers to notaries. OMF also provides support for local families in need through a confidential online submission form to apply for assistance from the foundation. Others can apply on behalf of a family as well. “We want to offer support to moms,” Rice said. “We don’t want anyone to feel embarrassed about needing it and coming forward.”
OMF is hosting their annual fundraiser on Nov. 10 with a “Hollywood Scandal” themed murder mystery party. Attendees can come dressed in character to this 21-andover event and participate in a silent auction, candy bar sale with big prizes and whiskey ring toss all while mingling around the room to find clues to solve the mystery. Funds raised will go toward OMF’s 2024 budget to help throw more free community events. To purchase tickets to the Hollywood Scandal, visit OMF’s website olivemotherhoodfoundation.com. All other events put on by the foundation can be found on the website as well. To get involved with OMF, message them on Facebook.
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North Dakota Interest
ND property tax plan
ND childcare crisis:
By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service
NORTH DAKOTA — North Dakota’s special legislative session on budget technicalities did not bring many surprises. Groups wanting to see more action on child care funding said solutions were left on the table, and they plan to keep the conversation going. Prior to last week’s session, the state adopted a child care plan in the spring, which included $66 million to address access and affordability issues. Advocates said it will help but more resources are needed to rescue families and providers from a situation they claim is beyond “crisis mode.” Amy Jacobson, executive director of the policy group Prairie Action ND, said a proposal is still out there to ensure workers feel supported. “That would help to ensure that child care workers receive a living wage and that they have benefits,” Jacobson explained. “We’re recruiting talented people who enjoy working with children and will nurture the next generation.” Jacobson pointed out it would come through a proposed stabilization fund which was reintroduced but did not advance. The next regular legislative session is more than a year away, and she said families and providers affected by worker shortages need to band together to keep telling their stories. While it might not result in immediate statewide action, it might prompt responses from local governments.
spurs debate about hurting local schools, What’s the next step during session gap? By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service governments NORTH DAKOTA — There are warnings of cuts to municipal governments and schools, and some loss of local control for budget decisions, amid efforts to eliminate property taxes in North Dakota. Organizers of a possible ballot question downplay those concerns. Petitions are being circulated to get the issue on the 2024 ballot, asking voters to do away with property taxes by way of a constitutional amendment. Nick Archuleta, president of the teacher’s union North Dakota United, said the state would have to replace around one-anda-half billion dollars in lost funding, some of which includes money for schools, and added not only does it make it harder to address teacher shortages, but the Legislature would have to play favorites. “The smaller school districts across the state will be at a disadvantage in going to the Legislature for capital improvements like new schools,” he explained. He added future planning would be taken out of the hands of local officials. But leaders behind the petition say political subdivisions would still have flexibility to raise revenue through fee hikes. They add the state is overspending and that property owners need relief. Earlier this year, North Dakota adopted a $500 million package to help reduce the impact of income and prop-
erty taxes. Matt Gardner, executive director of the North Dakota League of Cities, which also opposes the ballot question effort, said there needs to be time for the recent tax package to bring the relief that was promised. In the meantime, he added if the petition ends up being successful, communities would be hindered in trying to thrive. “If you don’t have these resources available to you or other options, you’re probably going to stagnate. I mean, some communities may find value in their community center and might be OK with property tax increases,” he continued. He said local governments might find it harder to maintain public safety services, such as buying new fire trucks. Meanwhile, petition organizers say any arguments about hurting responses to emergency situations, such as major snow events, don’t add up. They contend property tax decisions are typically based on long-term strategies, not immediate operating expenses.
The North Dakota Child Care Action Alliance said the state needs about 10,000 more childcare slots to meet the demand for young children with working parents. (Adobe Stock)
Jacobson noted cities like West Fargo are responding to cries for more support. She suggested hearing examples from constituents could compel action elsewhere. “One person’s story really reflects the experience of thousands of other people in North Dakota,” Jacobson asserted. In West Fargo, the city is rolling out a grant program to help child care providers increase capacity. In the long term, Jacobson hopes there is enough pressure when the Legislature reconvenes in early 2025 to take a similar approach seen in states like Minnesota. Earlier this year, policymakers there approved funding for monthly grant payments to child care providers.
