Veterans and Friends of The Old Armory
Kick Off Stair Renovation Fundraiser
J.C. LABAR JCLABAR@VOCELLA.COM
The Veterans and Friends of the Old Armory Board has launched a fundraising campaign to restore the west staircase of the historic Old Armory. This landmark has been a cornerstone for the Williston community for over a century.
The Old Armory, a 109-year-old building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, needs significant renovations to its west stairs, which have deteriorated beyond repair. The proposed $350,000 project includes replacing the staircase with a design approved by the North Dakota Historical Society to preserve the building’s architectural integrity.
“This building represents an unrivaled connection to Williston,” said Steve Slocum, a board member for the Veterans and Friends of the Old Armory. “It’s where Willis-
ton sent its first young men to World War I, where many learned to dribble a basketball and where scores of theater youngsters earned the praise and applause of audiences.”
The fundraiser officially began with a mixer at the Old Armory, where community members gathered to celebrate its history, envision its future and enjoy an exceptional performance by local singer Alina Aminova. The event un-
derscored the building’s importance hosting dances, basketball games, military drills and community gatherings for generations.
In recent years, the Veterans and Friends Board has made notable upgrades to the building, including replacing the roof, installing new windows and doors and restoring the auditorium floor. These efforts, made possible through grants, donations and commu-
nity support, have helped preserve the Old Armory’s functionality and historical value. However, the deteriorating west stairs remain a pressing concern, posing safety risks and limiting the building’s accessibility.
“We’re asking the community for their support and, more importantly, to help us get the word out to the people of Williston about this critical initiative,” said Alan Billehus,
board president.
The campaign has already received an EDC grant for $40,000 to fund the development of architectural plans for the staircase. Still, the community must raise the remaining funds through donations and sponsorships.
“This project is about more than just a staircase—it’s about preserving the heart of our community and honoring the legacy of the Old Armory,” Billehus added.
Community members are encouraged to contribute, with all donations going directly to the staircase replacement. For more information, contact Alan Billehus, Diane Hagen or B. Michael Quale at 701-5770278.
Updates on the campaign’s progress will be featured in this publication and the monthly Williston Graphic. Keep an eye on the Old Armory’s profile on WillistonGraphic.com to learn more about how you can support this vital project.
Discover the New Frontier in Local Advertising!
We’re combining the power of a weekly print paper, The Shopper; a monthly, full-color publication delivered to every home and business in Williston, The Williston Graphic; a dynamic, member-driven online platform, WillistonGraphic.com; and one of the largest social media groups in the Bakken, Williston Connections. Each platform brings something unique:
The Shopper — Keeping it local with SHOP LOCAL deals and promotions.
WILLISTON Graphic — Sharing Local Voices and Local Stories that matter to our community.
WILLISTONGraphic com — Connecting businesses and consumers in one place, bringing Williston’s best together online, while giving individuals a place to share their voices.
Williston Connections — Join over 47,000 other members and share it all on the original Facebook group connecting buyers and sellers in the Bakken.
It’s a whole new world of advertising — reaching new heights while staying firmly rooted right here in Williston.
AIRPORT
Williston Basin International (XWA) 14127 Jensen Ln
Williston (701) 875-8594
APARTMENTS
Williston Housing Authority 1801 8th Ave. W
Williston (701) 572-2006
APPLIANCES
Ekblad Appliance 22 W Broadway
Williston (701) 572-3769
AUTO DEALERSHIPS
Red Rock Ford 410 32nd Ave W
Williston (701) 577-2142
BOOK STORES
Books on Broadway 121/2 West Broadway
Williston (701) 572-1433
BOUTIQUES
Dakota Dreamin' Williston (701) 641-2913
CONSTRUCTION
Williston Roofing 904 2nd St. W
Williston (701) 339-2345
COURIER SERVICES
Tony's Transfer
Minot/Williston (701) 721-7930
DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY
Model Cleaners 1129 2nd Ave W
Williston (701) 572-3734
FINANCIAL
American State Bank & Trust
223 Main St
Williston (701) 774-4165
First State Bank & Trust 22 4th St E
Williston (701) 577-2113
Stifel Nicolaus 322 Main St.
Williston (701) 572-4527
Western Cooperative Credit Union 1300 Bison Drive
Williston (701) 572-4000
FUNERAL HOMES
Everson-Coughlin Funeral Home 112 4th St E
Williston (701) 577-3738
Fulkerson Stevenson Funeral Home 218 W Highlan Drive
Williston (701) 572-6329
GARDEN/GREENHOUSES
Handy Andy's Nursery 3515 W Front St. Williston (701) 572-6083
HEALTHCARE
CHI St. Alexius 1301 15th Ave W Williston (701) 572-7651
McKenzie Health 3-4th St. E
Williston (701) 577-6377
HEATING & PLUMBING
Braaten Plumbing 5237C 134th Ave NW
Williston (701) 774-0070
Haskin Heating & Cooling 2407 2nd Ave W, Suite D Williston (701) 770-4516
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Williston Home & Lumber
320 26th St E
Williston (701) 572-8356
INDUSTRIAL SERVICES
IESS
314 42nd St West
Williston (701) 572-2393
JEWELERS
Ritter Brothers 319 Main St Williston (701) 572-2051
LAND SURVEYORS
49th Latitude Land Survey 1411 West Dakota Pkwy, Unit 111 & 112, Suite 2b, Williston (701) 580-2651
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Williams County Williston (701) 577-4500 (Auditor)
OILS & LUBRICANTS
Advanced Filtration 4502 139th Ave W Alexander, ND (701) 770-2275
PAINT
Finesse Painting Williston (205) 441-0009
Etch Your Sketch Williston (701) 609-0839
PEST CONTROL
Pro Safe Services 725 8th Ave W Williston (701) 774-3167
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
Rugby Homes & RV Center 321 Gate Ave
Williston (701) 572-2250
Arnie's Powersports & Cycle 413 2nd St W Williston (701) 572-3382
RETAIL
Second Opportunity ReStore 2124 2nd Ave W Williston (701) 774-2537
Talon Smoke Shop 1804 W Trenton, ND (701) 572-5110
SEPTIC
Braaten Plumbing 5237C 134th Ave NW Williston (701) 774-0070
TRAILER SERVICES
MLD Trailer 1909 44th St. West Williston (701) 651-9742
TRANSPORTATION
Northwest Dakota Public Transit Williston (701) 577-6753 Watford City (701) 842-3440
UTILITIES
Mountrail-Williams Electric Coop Williston, ND (701) 577-3765
Sheridan Electric Co-op Medicine Lake, MT (406) 789-2231
WEED CONTROL
Master of None LLC Williston, ND (701) 580-5664
Books on Broadway Continues Holiday Tradition
ZECHARIAH LABAR SALES@VOCELLA.COM
For 27 years, Books on Broadway owner Chuck Wilder has been spreading holiday cheer to the children of Williston through an annual event that has grown into a beloved community tradition. What began in the late 1990s as a small gathering for around 140 children has blossomed into a magical celebration that draws over 500 young attendees each year.
(701) 572-1433 | E-mail: bksbdwy@nemontel.net
& Instagram: @booksonbroadwaywilliston
This year’s festivities began with Wilder warmly welcoming the children into the bookstore, setting the tone for a memorable morning filled with holiday magic. Kathy Ahmann, a skilled storyteller, brought Christmas tales to life with her animated readings, captivating the young audience with each page.
Topping off the event was a musical performance by Pete Fust, a longtime friend of Wilder’s from college. Fust’s cheerful holiday songs had the children singing along, adding an extra layer of festive spirit to the event.
Following the stories and songs, Wilder invited the children to the store’s coffee bar, where they enjoyed juice and cookies—a simple treat that added to the warmth and hospitality of the occasion.
As the event drew to a close, Wilder handed each child a Ty Beanie Baby, a
heartfelt tradition that has become synonymous with the event.
“It’s a little gift they can take home as a reminder of the day,” Wilder said. Wilder’s late wife, Robin Wilder, and Holly Radtke launched the tradition in the late 1990s.
“Back then, we had about 140 kids. Now, we host over 500,” Wilder explained. “It grew over time. As Holly taught at different schools, more kids started joining us.”
For Wilder, the event is about much more than the stories, songs and gifts— it’s about creating a sense
of community and making memories that last a lifetime. “It’s become a tradition for the community,” he said. “It’s fun seeing the kids come in, especially because it’s their first field trip for many of them. Their enthusiasm is contagious.”
Books on Broadway continues to bring the magic of the holidays to life, year after year, with its dedication to the joy, connection and tradition of the season. For families across Williston, this cherished event has become a hallmark of the season, leaving young hearts full of holiday cheer.
KATHY AHMANN DELIGHTS CHILDREN WITH CHRISTMAS STORIES. | PHOTO BY ZECHARIAH LABAR
Investing in Their Future: Financial Gifts for Kids and Grandkids Finance
Let’s be honest— there are only so many toys a child can shove into a closet before it turns into a mini avalanche zone. This year, consider skipping the plastic gizmos and giving a gift that keeps on giving: a step toward financial security. Not only will your grandkids (or kids) thank you later, but you’ll also win major cool points with their future selves.
Savings Bonds: OldSchool Cool
Remember those savings bonds Grandma used to hand out with a wink? They’re still a solid option! While they’ve modernized a bit (hello, online purchases), they remain a low-risk way to grow money over time. Series I Savings Bonds, for instance, are inflation-protected and earn interest for up to 30 years. They might not come with flashing lights or sound effects, but they’re the financial equivalent of a long hug from the future.
Custodial Accounts: Future MVPs
Open a custodial account under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act or Uniform Gifts to Minors Act. This type of account allows you to gift money, stocks or mutual funds while maintaining control until your pint-sized prodigy reaches adulthood. Check with local institutions like Western Cooperative Credit Union, First National Bank and Trust or American State Bank and Trust for account options tailored to your needs.
529 College Savings Plans: Tuition Tamer
If you’ve looked at college tuition prices recently and audibly gasped, you’re not alone. A 529 Plan allows you to sock away funds specifically for education expenses, and the best part? Earnings grow tax-free when used for qualifying costs like tuition or books. Your local financial institutions can also help you set up these plans, ensuring your gift keeps pace with the cost of higher education. Teach the Value of Saving For younger kids, consid-
er opening a savings account in their name. Stop by one of our community-minded financial partners to get them started. Take them along to the bank and explain how deposits earn interest over time. It's a lesson in saving disguised as a gift. Pair It with a Financial Book
Wrap your monetary gift with a financial book for an extra boost of wisdom. Local favorite Books on Broadway carries excellent options, and can order in whatever you’re looking for, like Ramit Sethi’s “I Will Teach You to Be Rich” or Tori Dunlap’s “Financial Feminist.” For younger ones, try “The Lemonade War” by Jacqueline Davies, or for teens, “Rich Dad Poor Dad for Teens.” These are gifts that keep on giving long after the holidays are over.
This season, think beyond the toy aisle. With a little help from our local experts and resources, you can give a gift that grows in value—because there’s no better gift than a bright financial future.
Wellness Wednesday: Stay Active this Winter
KATELYN JESPERSEN
WILLIAMS COUNTY FAMILY & COMMUNITY WELLNESS EXTENSION AGENT
During cold weather, we might prefer to lounge on the couch with a hot cup of cocoa or tea and a good book instead of venturing outdoors to go to a gym or indoor walking track. However, we all know the value of fitness.
When cold winter temperatures keep us indoors, what can we do to stay fit? All adults should aim for at least 2.5 hours or 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Every little bit of fitness adds to the goal. Remember, doing something is better than doing nothing. Here are some tips:
Start a physical activity tradition. Instead of cozying up by the TV, bundle up and take a walking tour of holiday lights after dinner.
Think differently about seasonal chores. Make tasks
such as shoveling and house cleaning to prepare for guests fun. Set a timer for 10 minutes and see how much you can get done as a team.
Be a kid again. Go sledding, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Make a snowman, a snow fort or snow angels. Holiday gift idea: Check out secondhand sporting goods stores for discounted prices on skates, skis, snowshoes and other outdoor equipment.
Take 10. Do at least 10 minutes of activity at a time. Take a 10-minute walk at lunchtime or after school.
Turn off the TV. Set a rule that no one can spend longer than two hours per day playing video games, watching TV and using the computer (except for schoolwork).
Play indoor physical activity games. Go on scavenger hunts or play charades. For example, be an Olympic skater or a star basketball player.
Find an indoor place to walk. Check if a local school
gym is open to the public for walking. Walk at a gym or even at a store. Just don’t be enticed to buy items, overspend your budget, or get high-calorie snacks on route.
Turn your kitchen into a gym. Use your countertop for balance and stretching exercises. Try doing toe stands. Stand with legs shoulder width apart. Stand on your tiptoes for a minute. March or jog in place. Using cans of vegetables as weights, do sets of 10 arm raises or as many as you can. Take a break to dance with your cooking partner.
Help others while building your fitness minutes. Volunteer at a senior center, help with holiday drives or help assemble food or gift baskets. Write it down and chart your progress on a calendar. Holiday gift idea: Invest in pedometers (step counters) for the family. Write down your steps every day on a calendar or chart. Build to 10,000 steps a day. You can
do the same thing with many phones. What can you do in your community? Until next time, continue extending knowledge and changing lives with NDSU Extension.
Health & Wellness MRI Services
From “Healthy Communities Alive” – December 2024, by Julie Garden-Robinson.
Through a Lutheran Lens
MERRY CHRISTMAS: THE CHARLIE BROWN CHURCH
PASTOR ZACH HARRIS FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH
My first exposure to “A Charlie Brown Christmas” took place two weeks after my third birthday, on December 9, 1965. I’m sure I was enraptured with it as much as one could be at that age, but to be honest, my real recollections of the Peanuts gang resonate a few years later in the latter years of the 60s. There are matching photos of myself and my brother (probably taken at the Sears photo studio) wearing Peanuts shirts while he was about two and I was about five. I was more taken with the Snoopy character perhaps than any other due to his wacky avant garde sensibilities: WWI Flying Ace (I still have a model that was a birthday present of him flying his doghouse from back then), in his space suit (in recognition of Apollo 10’s Lunar Module—I had the one you see in pictures atop a console in Mission Control on the first day of its lunar orbit), and as Joe Cool among other personas. But despite the abundance of exposure through the years, that 1965 work still stands the test of time as one of my top classic Christmas traditions as well as the epitome of what Charles Schulz was about in relaying his messaging through the Peanuts gang.
And lest you think my affinity runs the risk of irony by making Peanuts Christmas decorations just the latest “pink aluminum Christmas tree” version of consumerism, it has nothing to do with décor or action figures, but everything to do with the theological underpinnings of a human creator’s messaging about the Creator’s intent toward Creation through that human creator’s creation. Need I say more? Uh, yeah, maybe.
You see, in the late 1960s and early 1970s at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
in Goldsboro, NC, we had a young Pastor who was trying to use the modern zeitgeist to get his message across. As it turned out, the newly ordained Rev. David Martin had an affinity for drawing, you guessed it, the Peanuts characters. And he would use a magic marker and a flip chart to tell his own Peanuts adventures as part of his sermon on some Sundays. It’s the kind of thing that makes me wonder a) if that could have influenced a six-yearold who would one day become a Pastor to use similar characters in a similar way (a realization only occurring as I’m writing this now) and b) if that might be why there has never been any doubt for me of the actual theological intent of Charles Schulz to share his Christianity.
It used to be that “A Charlie Brown Christmas” would show once a year on CBS. Even so, I would make sure to watch it. Then it came out on video so you could watch it more than once each Christmas season. And now with streaming, the ways you can see it are overwhelming! In fact, having come to First Lutheran here in Williston, I not only was reminded that there is a live action play, but that it has become a tradition at First Lutheran spearheaded by Eric Oines who passed away only a few months ago. He had already started gearing up for this season, and was dreaming of another moment for the message to be shared.
So, partly in Eric’s honor, and partly in the honor of using the Creator’s gift to be creative in sharing God’s Love, this coming Sunday, December 8, at 7 p.m., First Lutheran will once again host “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by a cast and crew of dedicated talent whose simple desire is to instill the same warmth and wonder that first complimented other Christmas traditions 59 years ago!
There are any number of reasons that this production has become such an essential
to the Christmas season. Perhaps it’s the ever more relevant theme of consumerism and commercialization taking priority over the message at Christmas. Perhaps it’s the jazzy score by Vince Guaraldi. Maybe it’s the everyman status of Charlie Brown himself who never can seem to catch a break, even with the best of intentions, but who finally gets the accolades in the end. Or maybe, it is simply the heart of the messaging: the Charlie Brown Christmas tree that only needs a little love to fill up and shine to its full potential; the true meaning of Christmas as told in the second chapter of Luke or as many or us call it “the Linus speech;” or in the end, the ultimate purpose of it all—that redemption is possible for a worn down tree, a down on
his luck Charlie Brown, and a gang of self-absorbed kids (and a dog) once the Word has been unshackled. Am I overstating it to say that just now, for the 59th year in a row, I still have the same experience of warmth fill me up as I experience the same words again. How radical was it in 1965 to have a cartoon character quote scripture to move hearts everywhere (and estimated 15 million at that first airing)? And then to punctuate that feeling with that cast of characters singing an actual Christmas Carol, “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” as the credits rolled? And does this telling of the story not do exactly what the scripture it quotes is intended to do each year: to speak anew with the same words and same sto-
WILLISTONGRAPHIC.COM
ry to new ears in a new era?
This Sunday. 7 p.m. First Lutheran. Show up a half an hour early for hot apple cider and cookies as a prelude to warm your stomachs and your hearts for the message that you, like Charlie Brown, may be seeking: “Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” You are invited this Sunday to come find out! Indeed, come and see!
Pastor Zach Harris has been an ordained minister for 33 years and currently serves First Lutheran Church in Williston. His column, “Through a Lutheran Lens: A Pastor’s Perspective,” will appear regularly in The Shopper.
Energy-Efficient Home Improvements for Cold Weather
North Dakota winters aren’t for the faint of heart—or poorly insulated homes. If your heating bill is giving you chest pains faster than the holiday fudge, it’s time to take control. The good news? A few energy-efficient upgrades can keep the heat in, the cold out and your wallet happy.
Seal It Up Tight
Think of your home as a giant thermos—it only works if it’s sealed properly. Check windows, doors and even electrical outlets for drafts. Weatherstripping and caulking are affordable fixes that make a big difference. Your local hardware store probably has everything you need— and maybe some advice from someone who’s been through a North Dakota blizzard or ten.
Insulation: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
If your attic or walls are under-insulated, you might as well toss your heating dollars out the window. Adding insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. While it’s not the most glamorous upgrade, it’s a solid investment that pays off every time the temperature drops below zero.
Upgrade Your Windows
Single-pane windows are no match for North Dakota winters. If replacing them isn’t in the cards, consider adding storm windows or using insulating film. Look for these options at local businesses— you’ll get expert advice and the satisfaction of supporting your neighbors.
Programmable Thermostats: Your Wallet’s Best Friend
Cranking the heat up to tropical levels might feel great in the moment, but it’s a nightmare for your energy bill. A programmable thermostat keeps things comfortable and efficient, adjusting automatically when you’re asleep or away. It’s tech-savvy without being rocket science—and you can find plenty of options locally.
Don’t Forget the Water
Heater
Wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket to keep it from losing heat. It’s a small change that makes a big impact on your energy usage. You can even get one at a local hardware store, where someone might share a story about their own freezing-cold shower saga.
Shop Smart, Shop Local Making your home more
energy-efficient isn’t just good for you; it’s good for your community. When you shop at local stores, you’re supporting the businesses that keep Williston thriving—even when the weather outside is frightful. A few upgrades now, and you’ll be toasty warm all winter—without feeling like you’re burning money to stay that way.
All
Ironhide
Job Listings & Classifieds
In the Kitchen
Make-Ahead Magic: Meal Prep Strategies to Save Your Holiday Week
The holidays are here, and life is a whirlwind of shopping, decorating, attending events and trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy. It’s enough to make anyone want to order takeout every night—and blow the budget. But there’s a better way to stay sane and well-fed during the busiest time of year: meal prep!
Spending a couple of hours over the weekend prepping meals can save you precious time (and money) on busy weeknights. You’ll thank yourself when you have a warm, home-cooked meal ready to go after a long day of holiday cheer—or chaos, depending on how things went at the office gift exchange. Pick a Few Favorites:
Don’t overcomplicate things. Choose two or three recipes your family loves and that reheat well. Think hearty soups, casseroles or protein-packed grain bowls. Bonus points for meals that
make use of pantry staples or holiday leftovers—hello, turkey soup!
Batch It Out: Cook in batches to save time and reduce cleanup.
Roasting vegetables, grilling chicken or whipping up a big pot of chili in one go is much easier than making individual portions every day. Store these in portioned containers so everything is grab-and-go.
Add Some Variety: Mix up your meals to keep things interesting. For example, one batch of rice can become part of a stir-fry one day and a burrito bowl the next. Play with different sauces and seasonings for a whole new flavor profile.
Prep Breakfast and Snacks:
Don’t forget the first meal of the day. Overnight oats, egg muffins and smoothie packs are lifesavers on busy mornings. Portion out healthy snacks like cut-up veggies, cheese, or trail mix to keep everyone from raiding
the holiday cookie tin before dinner.
Tools of the Trade Invest in good-quality food storage containers, preferably ones that are freezerand microwave-safe. A slow cooker or Instant Pot is also a meal prepper’s best friend, taking the “slow” out of slowcooked meals.
Stress Less, Enjoy More Meal prep isn’t just about saving time; it’s about giving yourself the gift of calm amid the chaos. When dinner is already done, you can sit down, light a festive candle and enjoy a meal without worrying about what’s next on your todo list.
So grab those containers, fire up the stove and start prepping—it’s a small investment of time now for a huge payoff later. And if you’ve got a favorite local grocery store or butcher, don’t forget to stock up there and support your community while you’re at it.
Calendar & Events
NOVEMBER
Events and special promotions happening in the coming weeks!
Thursday, December 5
Hansens’ Crocheters & Knitters Group
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Hansens Unlimited
Entertainment Inc! The Game’s Afoot Dec. 5 - 7 | 7:00 PM The Old Armory
Magical Medora Christmas Performance
7:30 PM Williston High School
Friday, December 6
Reindeer Games Family Fun Night
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM 822 18th St E
Artists Receptions: WHS Art Students 6:00 PM James Memorial Art Center Saturday, December 7
Winter Wonderland Vendor Show 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Raymond Family Community Center
Tiers of Cheer 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Handy Andy’s Nursery
Tuba Christmas 1:00 PM | The Old Armory 2:00 PM | Downtown Williston 2:30 PM | Arbor House 3:15PM | Briarwood
10th Annual Festival of Trees
5:00 PM - 12:30 AM Williston ARC
Sunday, December 8
Ugly Sweater Open Skate 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Raymond Family Community Center Williston Concert Choral Christmas Concert 2:00 PM First Lutheran Church Entertainment Inc! The Game’s Afoot 2:00 PM The Old Armory Williston Wind Ensemble Concert 4:00
Bakken Area Communities
RAY
Thursday December 5th - Wrestling Triangular in Stanley
Thursday December 5th - JH, JV, V GBB vs NSP 4:30 - 9:00pm
December 6th & 7th - Girls Wrestling Tournament at Velva
December 6th & 7th - Wrestling Tournament at Velva
Friday December 6th - Santa Saturday Setup
5:30 - 10:00pm Ray Public School Elem. Gym
Friday December 6th - JH GBB vs Williston
6:30pm at Ray Public School
Thursday, December 12
Fall 2024 Student
Wednesdays: Storytime at the Divide County Library 10:00am - 10:45am
Fridays: Cards & Games at Divide County Senior Citizens Center 1:30-2:30pm
Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm: FridaySunday
TIOGA
Thursday December 5th - Wrestling Triangular in Stanley
Thursday December 5th - Garden Club at Tioga Community Center in the Conference Room 9:30 - 11:30am
Saturday December 7th - Santa Saturday Ray Public School Elem. Gym
Tuesday December 10th - City Commission
Meeting at Ray City Hall
Tuesday December 10th - Bookmobile
9:00am - 2:00pm at Ray Public School
Tuesday December 10th - JH, JV, V GBB at PL 4:30 - 9:30pm
Wednesday December 11th - Municipal Court
1:30 - 3:00pm at Ray City Hall
Thursday December 12th - JH, JV, V GBB vs Trenton 4:30 - 9:00pm
CROSBY
Monday December 9th - Mac-A-Bee’s Book
Club 5:15 - 6:15pm at Crosby Self Serve
Wednesday December 11th - Community
Coffee 2:00 - 3:30pm at Crosby Community Center
December 6th & 7th - JV/V Velva Wrestling Tournament
Friday December 6th - Girls Wrestling Tournament at Velva
Friday December 6th - Gymnastics at Dickinson
Friday December 6th - GBB at Surrey 5:45pm
Friday December 6th - A Magical Medora
Christmas 7:00 - 9:00pm at the Tioga Community Center
Saturday December 7th - Holiday Vendor
Show 10:00am - 4:00pm at Tioga Community Center
Saturday December 7th - FTC Scrimmage at THS
Saturday December 7th - JH Vevla Wrestling
Tournament
Saturday December 7th - JHGBB at Williston Trinity Christian School 11:00am
added, email: info@vocella.com
Experience the Magic: The Williston Downtowners Holiday Stroll
The holiday season is in full swing, and there’s no better way to soak up the festive spirit than at the Williston Downtowners Association’s annual Holiday Stroll! Mark your calendars for Dec.13, from 5 to 8 p.m., and prepare to experience an evening packed with cozy charm, cheerful sounds, and delicious treats—all right in the heart of downtown Williston.
Whether you're a longtime fan of the Holiday Stroll or this will be your first visit, the event promises to deliver something magical for everyone. Imagine the clip-clop of hooves as horse-drawn carriages glide down Main Street, the warmth of s’mores roasting over an open fire at Hedderich’s and the sweet, nostalgic melodies of local carolers filling the crisp winter air.
And, of course, no holiday stroll would be complete without the big man himself—San-
ta Claus will be making special appearances throughout the evening! Keep an eye out for him and his merry helpers spreading holiday cheer. The centerpiece of the night is the much-anticipat-
Digital Detox:
ed Hot Chocolate Competition, where local businesses put their best mugs forward. From rich and creamy classics to creative cocoa concoctions, you’ll get to sip and savor your way through downtown. Don’t forget to cast your vote for
the most divine cup and help crown this year’s Hot Cocoa Champion!
With many downtown shops staying open late, this is the perfect chance to knock out some holiday shopping
Because Your Brain Hasn't
Your brain needs more than memes and viral videos to thrive. Give it a break from the constant pings and notifications. Go for a jog, meditate, read something that isn’t on a screen. It’s like restarting your brain, but without the blue light.
Warning: Side effects may include clearer thoughts, reallife fun, and improved sanity.
while supporting local businesses. Whether you're hunting for unique gifts or treating yourself, the stroll offers plenty of opportunities to discover something special.
Need another reason to join? It’s a free, family-friendly event! Bring the kids, bring your friends or bring a date and dress warmly because the best holiday memories are made with a little chill in the air and a warm cup of cocoa in hand.
The Holiday Stroll is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Williston’s vibrant community spirit. It’s about gathering together, sharing laughter, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the season. So bundle up, head downtown, and let the magic of the holidays light up your night.
See you on Main Street! Don’t forget to bring your holiday cheer—and your appetite for hot chocolate!
LAND AUCTION
Wed., December 18 | 1:00PM
Location: Pines Scout Building Venue 440 Reservoir Rd. Stanley, ND
O ering 548.80+- acres approximately 7 miles south of Stanley, ND on Hwy 8 in Purcell Township of Mountrail County, ND to be o ered in 3 tracts.
Auction to be conducted live in person.
For more info call Kevin at 701-240-8763 or 701-838-3733
Auction conducted by Northern Auction Inc., Minot, ND
Midwestauctions.com/northern for complete information.
