The Oracle - March 16, 2023

COCO WITH THE POPO: COCOA, COOKIES & COMPETITION

By Josh Nelson, Tioga Chief of Police

The 2nd Annual Coco with the Popo event was a great success in fostering positive relationships between the community and the local police officers.

Page 5

DC CLASSIC AMATEUR BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

By Rachel Venture

This tenth annual memorial event is sure to delight and entertain this year!

Page 6

GLOBAL COOKING CLASSES BRING CULTURAL FLAVOR TO CROSBY

Kevin Litten is stanLey’s newest PoLice chief

By J.C. LaBar

Kevin Litten has made a dynamic career change, having just been appointed Stanley’s new Chief of Police. He was appointed to the new position on Wednesday, March 8th, resigned from the Williams County Sheriff’s Department, and started work in his new role the following day. Litten also serves as Commission Board President for Tioga - an esteemed position he achieved through write-in success at last June’s munic-

The Right to READ With Your Local Library

ipal election. Litten brings a wealth of experience from his twenty-six year in public safety, nineteen years of which have been as a Law Enforcement Officer. Litten has served the last two and half years as Williams County Sheriff’s Department deputy.

Attending Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Litten emerged four years later with a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration focusing on state and local policy. He began his

career as a 911 dispatcher in Tucson, using his computer expertise to streamline the agency’s dispatching software and mobile technologies. During Litten’s career in Tucson, he served as School Resource Officer for a year, working with 120 other officers and looking out for the safety of 2,500 students. His commitment continued when he accepted the position of Community Resource Coordinator. As a frontline supervi-

An Open Letter to the Forum’s

By Michelle Svangstu

Meet the T E A C H E R MY NAME IS DOMINIC JONES

Crosby, North Dakota isn’t known for its variety of ethnic foods, but some locals are bringing new

Page 7

COURAGE AND DETERMINATION: AMBROSE LODGE NO. 97

By Alexa Althoff-Garro

One of the quieter, but ever-present, aspects of growth on the plains is the presence of Freema sons. Come with us as we explore the history of the Ambrose Freemason Lodge.

Page 10

House Bill 1205 and Senate Bill 2360 threaten to remove thousands of books from library shelves with vague language that does not outline specific parameters.

Rob Port

Get

Kevin Litten, current President of the Tioga’s City Commission, is now the new Chief of Police for Stanley, ND, as well.

(Story Continues on Page 2)

Justin LaBar addresses inaccuracies printed about himself and the Distrct 2 Republicans. Page 9.

Story by Alex McCann Johnson continues on Page 3

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FORTUNA

Every Tuesday- Range Night at Northwest Sportsman Club

March 17th & 18th- Annual Mike Selle Memorial Pool Tournament at The Teachers Lounge

March 24th & 25th- 3rd Annual Fortuna Curling Club Women’s Bonspiel. Contact Cassie Rauser to sign up your team: 701-641-8891

CROSBY

March 15th, 16th, & 17th- Spring Break at Divide County Schools

Tuesday March 21st - Divide County Food Pantry at Concordia Lu-

theran Church 10:00AM - 1:00PM

Thursday March 23rd - Veteran and Community Resource Fair Crosby Community Center 4:00-7:00PM

Friday March 24th - Cards & Games at Crosby Senior Citizen Center 1:30-2:30PM

Saturday March 25th - Annual Country Club Smoker at the Crosby Moose Lodge 5:00-8:00PM

WILLISTON

Friday, March 17-19 2023 Williston Sport & Rec Show, Raymond Family Community Center

Saturday, March 18 at 7:009:00PM: Out Loud @ The James! Open Mic Night at James Memorial Art Center

Sunday, March 19 at 2:00PM: 2nd Annual Pub to Pit 5k/1Mile at Busted Knuckle Brewery

Friday, March 24 at 5:40 PM: Free Kids Craft Night during Burgers by James Memorial Art Center at Moose Lodge #239

Satuday, March 25 at 4:00PM: 2023 United Sportsmen of Williston Annual Banquet at Upper Missouri Fairground

Saturday, March 25 at 10AM: Luck

of the Irish Craft & Vendor Show

LIGNITE

Saturday, March 18th- Leprechaun Loop Fun Bus and Ted & Kari at 109 Club

TIOGA

Thursday, March 16 - Tioga Historical Society Meeting 6:30PM

Friday, March 17 - Blood Drive 10:00AM to 3:00PM Tioga Medical Center Clinic Bottom Level Tioga Community Center Schedule

Mondays: Yoga Flow 9:30am10:30am

Wrestling practice 3pm-6:30pm

Tuesdays: Wrestling practice 3-6:30pm

Pickleball 6pm-8pm

Wednesdays: Youth Group 6pm9pm

Thursdays: Wrestling practice 3pm6:30pm

Slow Flow 6pm-7pm

Friday, March 10th- Community Blood Drive at Tioga Medical Center 10:00 am - 3:00pm

Bantams State: Fri - Sun; March 10th - 12th in Fargo

Spring Break March 15th - 17th

Kevin Litten is stanLey’s newest PoLice chief

sor of 90 volunteers, Litten was responsible for ensuring the safety and success of all involved in his program. On top of that commitment, Litten worked as Law Enforcement Academy instructor at a local college where he taught students on topics ranging from traffic stops to search and seizure procedures. He held particular expertise as the Defensive Tactics Program coordinator.

After serving his community in Oregon, Kevin Litten’s friend persuaded him to move their family to Williston. What originally started as a visit soon became love at first sight for them both; its slower pace and family-friendly environment made it perfect for raising a family. While working with the Williams County Sheriff’s Office, one position Litten held was as a school resource deputy. In that position, he served in eight schools across five townships.

Litten’s first year in

Williston unexpectedly opened the door for his wife Sara to pursue her lifelong dream. When Chief Nelson of Tioga Police Department mentioned an opening, Sara eagerly applied and was offered a position as a police officer at the beginning of 2021. This singular opportunity forever changed their lives. Shortly after she accepted, they moved to Tioga so she could start living out her long-held ambitions in law enforcement. She now serves as the department’s only detective.

In June of last year, a friend of Kevin’s informed him about an opening for the position of Police Chief with the Stanley Police Department. The job became vacant after Chris Halvorson announced his retirement. Litten applied for the role, but Demetrius Jamerson, interim Police Chief, was later moved into the position full-time. Months passed before Litten learned there was yet another chance to apply

since Demetrius had given his notice after accepting a job with the Three Affiliated Tribes. Kevin reached out again and accepted the position on Wednesday, March 8th.

Regarding his wife’s plans, Litten said, “Sara loves her job with the department and has made it clear that she isn’t interested in leaving. Her supervisor Josh is outstanding to work with, and she will not leave as long as he’s there.” As such, they will be living between their communities - no issue for Kevin, who has experienced similar arrangements before, “It’s always worked out,” said Litten. “I’m not concerned about it at all.”

Litten remains committed to the Tioga City Commission Board and promises transparency and accountability as he fulfills his Presidential term. “I haven’t been asked to resign. I promised the community I would fulfill my term,” said Litten, “I hope to finish my

term, which ends next year.” He’s hoping that despite any personal struggles that may come up before it concludes next year, he can honor his commitment.

The incoming Chief of Police has an impressive background in law enforcement which will serve him well in his new career. However, the first challenge he’ll face involves handling Dusty - the department’s loyal K9 dog. Dusty has a strong bond with his handler, Demetrius Jamerson, which Litten says cannot be ignored. When asked about his plans for this unique situation, Litten declared, “my biggest goal is to do right by Demetrius and Dusty,” affirming their significance.

Litten expressed recognition that harming their relationship would be not only irresponsible but also unacceptable.

With Stanley’s changing of hands in leadership comes an abundance of scrutiny and expectation.

Kevin Litten plans to meet

the challenge head-on as police chief, proclaiming his commitment to restoring trust by becoming “extremely involved” with community events and community policing. “I want to restore trust in the department,” said Litten, “we’re all a part of the community, and it’s our responsibility to make it the way we want it.” His advice for the Stanley community? “Get to know me and allow me to show you who I am. Help me and my officers make this community the best it can be.”

The Right to READ

By Alex McCann Johnson

The state of North Dakota is one of many where lawmakers are targeting local libraries for the contents within. Right now, library workers are in an uncomfortable position regarding how these bills are presented. Library workers are tasked with upholding the First Amendment, the freedom of speech, by providing information to the community in various ways. This includes audiobooks, printed books, technology, and even programs. To most librarians, this means that when they come to work, they keep this work side of them separate. They are providing a service to the community and must leave their personal beliefs out of it.

Andrea Placher, the Library Director of The Williston Community Library, faces this very uncertain time for libraries. As a library representative, she feels these bills could lead us down a slippery slope. That slope is the vagueness of these bills. The language

in them could be more specific. A sense of ambiguity in a bill such as this will ultimately lead to confusion that even lawmakers may not think of. Who is tasked with deciding what is allowed in the library and what is not, and is that from that person's personal opinion? Isn't this too subjective when it is not clarified in the bill? These are just some of the worries

that the library staff has had on their minds since legislation introduced them.

House Bill 1205 and Senate Bill 2360 are the two bills being voted on. House Bill 1205 will ban public libraries from containing books with sexual material, including anything from depictions of deviant sexual intercourse, sexual intercourse, and any obscene

material of the standards of the average North Dakotan person. The bill states that works of literary, artistic, political, and scientific significance could be exempt. The vagueness also does not cover whether it is only in young adult and children's books, which means that adult fiction will also be affected.

Senate Bill 2360 is very similar to 1205, except that it removes the exception for schools and libraries from the obscenity control law, meaning that library staff could be charged with a misdemeanor. This also adds in policies for digital and online resources offered by school districts and state agencies.

Most may not know that libraries have policies in place to protect different age groups from seeking books that may not be appropriate, and that is sectioning off the different age groups. At the Williston Community Library, the children's section is actually separated from other sections. There

are policies in the library if someone deems a book inappropriate, in which the library director meets with the person to discuss. If it is not resolved, it goes to the Library Board of Directors. In the twelve years that Andrea has been in the library, there has not been a case to go to the library board. Most of the books in the library are also there at the community's request. She has always prided herself, and the library on being an open place of discussion when it comes to the library's contents and has always been supportive of keeping books that are inclusive to the entirety of the Williston community. If these bills were to pass, thousands of books would likely be taken out of circulation. These books are all at risk, from romance novels in the adult section to books like Captain Underpants and Babar in the children's section. What's your favorite book? It may be on the list to be cut from your local library.

ND Rolls Out Child-Care Cost-Sharing Program

By Mike Moen, Prairie News Service

As policymakers consider solutions to North Dakota’s child care crisis, a state agency is moving forward with incentives they hope will compel more workplaces to help staff with care costs.

The Health and Human Services department is asking employers to participate in a pilot program. It offers matching funds when a business provides at least $300 in monthly benefits to an employee who has a child between zero and three years old and signed up for care at a licensed fa-

cility.

Kay Larson, early childhood section director for the department, said they hope removing the cost burden will prevent parents from taking long pauses in their careers.

“Families with young children often face the greatest economic pressure, and they’re making critical decisions about how and if they can reenter the workforce,” Larson observed. “And then they’re considering that cost of tuition. “

According to Kids Count researchers, North Dakota families each year are paying between nearly

$8,000 and nearly $10,000 on average for child care. The pilot program is being funded with federal pandemic relief aid. State lawmakers are considering a similar long-term initiative as they debate a range of child care proposals this session.

As for the current funding, Larson noted they anticipate it will last for at least the next couple of years.

“North Dakota set aside just over $9 million for this,” Larson pointed out. “We’re anticipating we can help over 1,000 infants and toddlers in this process.”

In getting payments

from both the state and their employer, she emphasized it could make a big dent in monthly child care costs for families. There are eligibility requirements for workers to receive cost-share subsi-

dies. While employers can go as high as they want in offering monthly child care benefits, North Dakota’s limit for matching funds is $300.

Display cart in the Williston Community Library. All these and more could be removed, even classics such as Romeo & Juliet.

By Heidi Whitney

your

Taste of Westby” is March 25

Who: Come one and all!

What: Chili and Soup Cook Off

When: March 25 at 5:30 pm (Mountain)

Where: Westby Community Center

Why: To have a blast and raise funds for the annual Westby Parade of Lights and Festival of Trees, How: Drop by to sample and vote for your favorite.

Cost is a FREE WILL DONATION

To enter as a contestant contact Brenda Ryals at 406-385-7973. There is no cost to enter. Prizes awarded.

A blizzard was predicted for the Westby area on Friday March 10.

Mother nature delivered. Send your snow drift pictures to heidilynnwittmayer@gmail.com for an upcoming report.

Shown here is a picture submitted by Stephanie Paine of Westby taken on March 12. Paine reported, “Underneath the drift is the big hay feeder and the Ritchie waterer.”

Coco with the Popo:

Cocoa, Cookies, & Competition

By Josh Nelson, Tioga Chief of Police

Our police department had some very unique training last month with the help of the community members. On February 25th more than thirty kids ranging from 2 to 16 years old joined the Tioga Police Department for our 2nd annual Coco with the Popo event sponsored by Cash Wise. During this event families were provided with hot chocolate, lunch, and cookies which were served by the Cash Wise employees. After filling their bellies, children, and even some parents picked up a laser gun, chose a team, and went to battle. *Insert dramatic music here.*

Officers and kids partic-

ipated in multiple friendly but competitive games of laser tag at the Tioga Community Center during the three hour event. The Tioga Police Department Officers put up a good fight but were no match for the children of Tioga and surrounding towns.

Did You Know?

James Doohan (who played Scotty on Star Trek) was shot several times by friendly fire on D-Day after surviving the storming at Juno Beach. He lost a finger as a result, which was mostly (but not always) hidden using camera angles while filming Star Trek 21 years later.

This event amongst others is geared toward fostering relationships between children and our officers. Our police department strives to build police-community relations by building a positive rapport with members of the community.

DIVIDE COUNTY NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

BLOOD DRIVE

MARCH 21ST, 2023

11:30-3:00

Come join us at Divide County High School for a Vitalant blood drive hosted by Divide County National Honor Society. You must be at least 16 years old to donate. However, if you are 16, you also need parental consent. The permission form can be picked up at the High School office. To sign up for a time, please contact Kiyah Wolter 701-339-0862

Parents, kids, and officers all pose for a piture during the Coco with the Popo event. Photo courtesy Chelsey Weisz.

DC CLASSIC AMATEUR BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

By Rachel Venture Friendship is one of the

greatest gifts to mankind.

Friendship is extraordinary at times when two people like each other just because they do. Even when two friends are separated by distance, time and even heaven, friendship has a powerful way of bringing good things to the world.

Dalyss Hanson is one of those people that seems to epitomize friendship. He has a unique ability to make friends

and cherishes those people in a way that brings good things to our community.

The ten year anniversary of the D.C. Classic Amateur Tournament just happens to be one of those wonderful community events, and certainly holds a special place in Mr. Hanson’s heart. For a decade, this memorial event has brought guests to the hotels and restaurants of Crosby and enriched the lives of people all over the Bakken right when

Meet the T E A C H E R

NAME IS DOMINIC JONES

winter seems to be never ending.

The tournament begins Thursday, March 30th in Crosby with a movie screening of “A Hoopers Dream” at the Dakota Theater at 7:00 PM. On Friday, the games begin at 6:00 PM and are free to all attendees with a small donation opportunity for those who desire to contribute. The teams are a mix of anyone over 18 years of age and the weekend event is known to locals to be quite the spectacle. This year features 12 teams from all over the Bakken who will battle it out on the courts for the title of number one.

Perhaps a little sportsmanship, camaraderie and dancing can help the snow melt a little faster and if that doesn’t work, maybe the town spaghetti dinner at the Crosby Moose Lodge at 6:00 PM on Saturday will.

There is also a sports memorabilia auction on Satur-

day at 7:00 PM, the proceeds of which provide scholarships to local kids who enjoy basketball and teamwork wishing to pursue a further education. This gesture is made greater by your presence, though, so make your hotel reservation today and sit courtside for this altruistic event we are all lucky to look forward to.

If you need just one more reason to attend, Big Skillet will be performing at 9:30pm, and that’s no fool - even if it is April 1st! Mr. Hanson was lucky enough to snag this stellar group out of Deadwood, SD, after hearing them open for the likes of Lynyrd Skynyrd and Buckerry last year at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. This traditional country and classic rock band’s sound is sure to fit right in with the snow shaking good time that awaits, so mark your calendars now. You won’t want to miss this exciting weekend in Crosby!

Global Cooking Classes

Bring Cultural Flavor to Crosby

Slinger’s Pizza - 4pm - 9pm

Mar. 16, 17 (Irish Ruben Pizza), 24, 29, 30, & 31

Burger Nights: March 20

Sunday, March 19th

Aiden’s New Heart Journey “Tiny but Mighty”

Moose Club Breakfast Benefit 10am - 1pm

Saturday, March 25th

Crosby Country Club Smoker

By Michelle Svangstu

Crosby, North Dakota isn’t known for its variety of ethnic foods. “You get a lot of Norwegian and German foods here,” laughs Jessalyn Thomas. “And although I really do love them, I was missing the variety of ethnic foods I’ve experienced in other places.”

Jessalyn grew up in Utah, but has also lived in Washington state, Georgia and across the world in the country of Chile. “I’ve had the opportunity to experience a lot of different cultures and foods, and I really missed it,” says Thomas. “As I’ve gained friends here in Crosby, many of whom did not grow up here, I started thinking about ways they could share their culture with the community and broaden the horizons of our small town – and since food always seems to bring people together, I just thought ‘what better way than a cooking class?’”

That idea started coming to life, and on March 2nd, Jessalyn, along with friend Norma Knudson held the first “Let’s Cook Global” cooking class, with a focus on Peruvian foods. Norma shared her recipe and technique for making an authentic Peruvian salad, along with a dish called “arroz chaufa,’ a food similar to what Americans would call fried rice. “It was delicious – even the kids liked the

[the food]” shares Thomas. “Norma shared about her culture, life growing up and the foods as she cooked, and the attendees volunteered to take turns helping with the cooking process, stirring, mixing etc. It was just a really great, diverse group of people from the [Divide County] area. I was pleasantly surprised that we had such a variety of people there – men and women, all ages, even a few kids. Everyone seemed genuinely interested and it was great seeing the group connect. Norma said a prayer in Spanish, and we all sat down and shared a meal together once the food was ready. It was nice to relax and be able to visit and get to know each other.”

“It’s just so cool how the community has been accepting of and excited about the class,’ says Thomas. “So many people have reached out and let me know that they couldn’t

make it in March, but love the idea and hope to try for next month. People have also been contacting me and asking ‘have you talked to this person, or that person’? We tend to think of Crosby as some place that doesn’t have much cultural variety, but we actually have a lot of people living here from around the US and even the globe. Peru, Honduras, Mexico, Thailand, Philippines, Hawaii, South Africa, the deep south of the US, and of course the Norwegians and Germans. I hope this will be more than just a cooking class – it’s an opportunity for us to gain understanding about other cultures, hear someone’s story about their life and how they got here, and for us to grow and get to know the diverse culture we have right here in our own community.”

Thomas is already planning to hold future classes on the first Thursday of each month, with April being an exception due to Maundy Thursday. “Our April class will feature Honduran foods and be held on Thursday, April 13th from 5:30-8pm at Concordia Lutheran Church” she notes. Classes are $10 per person, with ages 7 and under being free to attend. Limited spots are available, and anyone interested in attending can contact Jessalyn directly at 770713-9734.

Attendees of the first “Let’s Cook Global” class; Photo Courtesy Jessalyn Thomas

Norma Knudson Mixes up Arrozo Chaufa; Photo Courtesy Jessalyn Thomas

Studies underscore oil and gas industry’s significant impact on

ICE FISHING SEASON CLOSING SOON

By Rachel Venture

North Dakota’s economy, communities

BISMARCK, N.D. – The oil and gas industry in North Dakota remains a powerhouse for the state’s economy, accounting for more than $42.6 billion in gross business volume, nearly 50,000 jobs and $3.8 billion in state and local tax revenues in 2021, according to two studies highlighted today by Gov. Doug Burgum, researchers from North Dakota State University and industry officials.

“The oil and natural gas industry continues to be a game-changer for North Dakota,” Burgum said. “Taxes and royalties paid by the industry support our state’s significant investments in infrastructure, schools, communities, tax relief and the Legacy Fund, among other areas. The industry’s resiliency in the face of challenges such as the pandemic, extreme weather, volatile prices and misguided federal policies, demonstrates that it will continue to play a critically important role in North Dakota’s economy for generations to come.”

North Dakota State University researchers Dean Bangsund and Nancy Hodur studied the economic contribution of oil and gas exploration, extraction, transportation, processing and capital investments to the state in 2021, the most recent data available. Similar studies have been conducted every two years since 2005.

Their findings show North Dakota’s oil and gas industry directly employed 14,200 people in 2021, while economic activity from the indirect and induced effects of the industry supported an additional 35,185 jobs, for a total of 49,385 jobs attributed to the industry. Employment compensation, which includes wages, salaries and employee benefits, was estimated at $3.9 billion.

Total gross business volume, which includes direct sales in the oil and gas in-

dustry and business generated from indirect and induced economic activity throughout North Dakota, was estimated at $42.58 billion – an increase of $2.38 billion over 2019 and over 30% of the state’s overall gross business volume.

Bangsund said that while the pandemic made the last few years challenging, the oil and gas industry has learned how to maintain production through efficiencies and most of the industry’s key economic metrics are at or near preCOVID levels.

“The North Dakota oil and natural gas industry’s economic contribution to our state has been very stable even through challenges, and it remains incredibly resilient,” said Bangsund, a research scientist in agribusiness and applied economics at NDSU.

According to another recent study conducted for the Western Dakota Energy Association (WDEA) and North Dakota Petroleum Foundation, tax revenues paid by the oil and natural gas industry in North Dakota from fiscal years 2008 to 2022, supported $5.9 billion for local communities and infrastructure, over $1.8 billion for K-12 education, $1.4 billion for water and flood control projects, over $1 billion for property tax relief, and $32 million for outdoor heritage projects across the state. Additionally, $8 billion in oil and gas taxes went into the Legacy Fund, which benefits future generations.

“The impact of the oil

and natural gas industry can be seen throughout the state. From education funding to property tax relief to infrastructure funding, every county and community has and continues to benefit from this industry,” WDEA Executive Director Geoff Simon said.

Ron Ness, president of the North Dakota Petroleum Council, noted that North Dakota’s oil and natural gas industry pays more than half of all state taxes collected and provides nearly 50,000 good paying jobs in the state.

“Thanks to innovation, the tremendous resource of the Bakken, and billions of dollars invested in infrastructure by our industry, the state can count on us to continue to be a major force in the North Dakota economy for years to come,” Ness said.

As the ice crack echoes intensify across the Bakken, the tell tale signs of spring are starting to emerge. The snow is having its last go at winter and the temperatures are steadily refusing to drop into the negative numbers. This gradual melting means this weekend is the last weekend to leave your ice shack unattended at a body of water in North Dakota. This doesn’t mean you can’t keep ice fishing, you just have to take your things back off the ice when you leave. In fact, the state of North Dakota is having a statewide challenge to bring a new person ice fishing. Beginning December 16, 2022, ND Fish and Game announced the 2023 Take Someone New Ice Fishing Challenge.

The rules of the challenge include writing a short story and taking accompanying pictures of the trip. “Stories submitted must include/refer to a new North Dakota angler. Both North Dakota residents and nonresidents can complete the challenge. Anglers do not need to pre-register to participate in the 2022-23 Take Someone New Challenge. Anglers must visit gf.nd.

gov/take-someone-new and complete the submission form.” A winner will be chosen at random from the submissions so get out there and fish your heart out. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2023 and the winners will receive a brand new Runnings collapsible ice house to keep warm out on the ice.

When ice fishing season is over, the first tournament will be the Walleye Wizards Fishing League Catch & Photo & Release tournament on the Missouri River April 1 through May 31 2023, organized by Mike Klug in Mandan and sponsored by Scheels and Wahus Construction. Until then, as spring progresses, signs will be posted at entrances to bodies of water and online when it is no longer safe to drive vehicles on the ice. Some folks crossing the bridges at highway 85 or 58 have probably noticed the open water on the river, these are examples of places to stay away from for ice fishing. The old saying “when in doubt, go without” is very important as the season warms. If you can’t tell if an area is safe to fish in, just don’t go on the ice. Ice fishing is only fun if everyone makes it back home safe and sound. Any questions for park rangers are welcome at parkrec@nd.gov or at 701.328.5357 and never hesitate to call in a suspicious or dangerous looking situation to local authorities.

Young ice-fisherman, Jon Moltzan, shows off his Northern Pike. Lake McLeod, Ray, ND 2022.

An Open Letter to The Forum’s (Fargo) Rob Port

Justin LaBar

A note to our readers: Justin LaBar originally submitted this to the Fargo Forum. Understanding that it is of interest to our readership as well, he has made it available to The Oracle for reprint.

Dear Rob,

I’m writing this letter to clear up a number of inaccuracies that you’ve recently published in your columns in relation to myself and the District 2 Republicans. It’s terribly unfortunate that your integrity is so severely lacking that you apparently don’t even bother taking the time to try and get all the facts.

I learned long ago that saying or publishing inaccuracies about a person can take place in a matter of seconds, minutes, sentences, or paragraphs. Setting the record straight or repairing the damage done by such things takes much more effort and is often impossible. You should keep that in mind when you do what you do. Or maybe you have and you just don’t care?

I’ll begin by addressing point by point the mischaracterizations and inaccuracies from your article dated March 8th, “A Republican Party Dedicated to Defeating… Other Republicans?”.

1. You continue to frame your articles about me as being one who is “Donald Trump-aligned”. It’s amazing that you pretend to know so much about me when, in fact, you obviously know so little. Did you know that

I didn’t support Donald Trump in 2016? You should have. I was a Ted Cruz supporter at the 2016 North Dakota Republican State Convention, and you were there. After Trump won the nomination, I couldn’t bring myself to vote for him. I’ll not explain my reasons as to why, but I didn’t. It was something I was pretty vocal about on Facebook back then. In case you’re wondering, I DID NOT vote for Hillary Clinton either. By the time the 2020 election rolled around, I did cast my ballot for President Trump. He gained enough of my trust on the issues to feel comfortable doing that. And I sure as heck wasn’t going to vote for Joe Biden. After all, I’m a Republican. In addition to all of this, Donald Trump isn’t my candidate of choice heading into 2024 either. While I think he’d still be better than anything the Democrats can put up for a candidate, I think it’s time for Republicans to move on. I know that some of my Republican friends won’t like hearing that, but that’s how I feel. Your readers wouldn’t know that by how you mischaracterized me.

2. You claim in your article that plans have been announced to “break [the] district party off from the statewide NDGOP, and to campaign against elected Republicans.” The idea that we’re breaking off from the state party is lunacy. I never announced such a thing. In fact, we passed new District Rules at the meeting that include a section on our purpose. Guess what #1 in that section is? “To promote – and foster loyalty to – the ideals of the North Dakota Republican Party.” In the final section of those rules, they also state that our meetings “shall be governed by the District 2 Rules, the North Dakota Republican

Party’s Rules, and Robert's Rules of Order”. Kind of a funny statement to include if we’re breaking off from the NDGOP, don’t you think?

3. Your quote from Mr. Orledge makes it appear as though I called the entirety of the state party leadership an “embarrassment”. That’s not accurate. My comment in regards to that was specifically towards our State Party Chair, Perrie Schafer, not the entirety of the state party leadership.

4. My work schedule did determine the scheduling of our reorganization meeting. First of all, that “disaster” at my “business venture”, that Senator Rust mentioned, is a reality. I have a new hobby business (more hobby than business at this point). Due to a broken water line, I ended up with 5.5 feet of water in the basement of the building I work out of. This happened right at reorg time. And I’m still dealing with the aftermath of it. In addition, I work three other jobs and have other responsibilities as well. Both state law and our District Rules say that I determine the date of the meetings, not the legislators. Furthermore, I had to chair the meeting, not them.

5. In your effort to “read between the lines”, you speculate that I have “political aspirations of [my] own, including running for the Legislature.” Again, you pretend to know so much about me when, in fact, you know so little. While our Secretary did make an off-handed comment in her brief acceptance speech about me being in the legislature some day, it was done in a complimentary way while showing appreciation for her time in serving with me. When she said it, I shook my head no. I’ve been asked a number of

times over the years to run for office and my answer has been the same each time— “No.” There’s a number of reasons for that, but chief among them is that my first priority is as a husband and father of 11 children. The issue was most certainly not “openly discussed during the district’s convention”. Your claim of “personal ambition” is bunk.

6. You claim that I am “actively campaigning against the Republican lawmakers [my] district elected.” Rob, there’s no campaign going on because it’s not election season. But those same legislators you referred to campaigned against me in my bid for reelection as District Chair back in 2021. That is when things really began to change in our district. I was baffled that they allowed themselves to be drug into the statewide hoopla that was going on with reorgs at the time. I had supported them, voted for them, and even defended them. As you say, Rob, who is the divider, again? Who stabbed who in the back?

7. You accuse me of not really being a Republican. This is laughable. Not only am I a Republican, but I’m quite comfortable putting my Republicanism up against the voting records of our lawmakers (both state and federal) any time.

Just because you think the “tent” should be so big that our party essentially stands for nothing, doesn’t mean I have to share in that belief. Nor does it mean I’m not a Republican. Your claim is irrational.

8. You claim that I’m “comfortable with the politics of violent rhetoric and intimidation”. This is outright baseless lunacy. And, in fact, there’s no better illustration that you don’t know me. When have I ever

advocated for violent rhetoric or supported intimidation? Good luck finding an example. It simply doesn’t exist. Unless you believe what the Tioga Tribune completely misreported and had to be corrected for.

It seems as though you think I should kiss the rings of our State Party Chair, state legislators, and representation in DC simply because they were elected by the people. Are they somehow beyond reproach by virtue of their offices or because of vote totals or lack of opposition? I don’t believe they are. In fact, I don’t believe that about any elected official. Not even the “darling” Rep. Rick Becker that you refer to. Instead, I think we need to reestablish the proper relationship between the people and those we elect. In other words, they are our servants, not the other way around.

When it comes to the District 2 legislators and our representation in DC, I’ve voted for all of them in the past. And I’ll consider doing so again. But in the meantime, I reserve the right to speak out when I feel any one of them is off course or could do better. Why? Because I believe that the things we say that we believe as Republicans should matter. After all, I pay my dues to an organization with a stated purpose. How am I the bad guy when I expect those we elect as Republicans to actually act like Republicans?

Now, to be very clear, I’m not satisfied with our State Party Chair. I said that I believe he should be replaced, and I stand by that. Honestly, there’s much more that should be said.

As you’ve often told others, Rob— Do better. Sincerely,

Justin LaBar White Earth

COURAGE AND DETERMINATION: AMBROSE LODGE NO. 97

By Alexa Althoff-Garro

Ambrose was once the shining example of what a growing city on the North Dakota frontier should be. The streets were large thoroughfares, devoid of refuse, and new businesses popped up constantly along Main Street during the early 1900s. Although it was later denied the County Seat due to a terrible alignment of circumstances, it’s easy to imagine what Ambrose could have been like today had its initial upward trajectory continued. By 1910, Ambrose was home to a staggering 320 people and rose to its height of 389 by 1920. In 2020, the Census showed only 24 residents.

One of the quieter, but ever-present, aspects of growth on the plains is the presence of Freemasons. From Alkabo to Fortuna, Crosby to Portal, and just about any town you could name, there were Masons. Many were businessmen and elected officials in the various towns.

The story of the Ambrose Lodge is a fascinating study of the ambition and perseverance of our local forefathers. Why is Ambrose Lodge No. 97 so significant that we should be reading about it today? This author would proffer it is one of the best examples of exceptionalism and perseverance of early community-builders. Today, Freemasons might be easy fodder for conspiracy theorists. But in the 1910s, it was considered a very revered fraternal order in this area.

The “Golden Age of Fraternalism” occurred in the latter third of the 19th century and continued into the first part of the 20th. At its peak, it was suggested that as much as 40% of the

certainly did.

One year later, Ambrose had 20 charter members. By 1921, membership had jumped to 84 members.

adult male population held membership in at least one fraternal order.

The book titled “Masonry in North Dakota 18041964” by Harold Sackett Pond, P.G.M., states:

"The splendid history of Ambrose Lodge No. 97, written by W. Brother William S. Bailard, W. M. in 1953 and secretary from 1954-1960, and from which this account is taken, reads like the Book of Job in the Holy Bible. The example of patience and courage displayed by its membership, with smiling faces, over the years, in spite of the adverse forces of nature being turned against them, is one for future generations to venerate and follow."

In April of 1910, men gathered to discuss the possibility of organizing a Masonic lodge instead of traveling 60 miles to Portal. This was approved by September of 1910 and members would hold meetings on the second floor of the Miller building in Ambrose. This two-story brick building was also home to the Opera House.

In this year, Crosby only had a population of 206 people, much less than Ambrose. For those living today, it may be hard to imagine that Ambrose once had the upper hand, but it

In 1914, it was decided to break ground on their own building, and work commenced in the spring of 1915 for a total cost of $3,185.00. Today, that would be approximately $100,000.00. The looming brick building with a full basement was dedicated on June 8th of 1915 to much celebration. (SEE FIGURE 2)

Just one year after the lodge was finished, a massive “hurricane” would wipe out the south wall. Causing great damage from Ambrose to Canada, this horrendous weather phenomenon would kill one man and destroy an untold amount of property. (SEE FIGURE 3). Then, a few years later (date unknown) the south wall once again suffered great damage due to a storm and was repaired once more.

Masonry in North Dakota 1804-1964 added:

"Many other things have happened over the years; disastrous fires in the business section causing losses which have not been replaced; never sufficient moisture for abundant crops and many complete failures; families moving away and no replacements; a county sear town within six miles always cutting in on business, church and lodge. A discouraging situation, but one met with courage and determination. God bless them all.”

Nine years after the book was published, the Ambrose Lodge No. 97 would give up its charter in 1973 and the members would join the Crosby Ma-

sonic Lodge No. 108 A.F. & A.M [Ancient Free and Accepted Masons].

Tabitha Jozwiak, Mayor of Ambrose, noted that the building would eventually fall into disrepair and was torn down just a few years ago.

The old lodge stood near where the park in Ambrose is today. Many small towns like Ambrose find it difficult to save historic structures when their population is just a fraction of what it once was.

Although it may bring a tinge of sadness to no longer have a building that a considerable amount of early residents worked so hard for, we can always honor its existence by remembering why it was constructed in the first place.

Courtesy of an anonymous Freemason source [to whom many thanks are given] quoted scholar Albert Mackey as saying, “The purpose of the organization was to make good men better.”

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

By Rachel Venture

There is no rule that says art can’t be functional. Humans have been creating art since before the discovery of fire. It is a communicative language older than us all. Functional art has been seen all over the world and all over history. From the ancient Egyptian painted hair combs and chairs of the Aswan river basin, to the jade styluses of ancient Japan, humans have wanted to make their everyday objects more pleasant to look at almost as a point of habit. Kids often doodle on desks or in notebooks and a dull meeting seems more interesting when your syllabus has a couple smiley faces on it. As a matter of fact, Williston prides itself on adding artwork to everyday objects and buildings. We deco-

rated our electrical boxes with representations of our community and its history, made old pianos that would have been dumpster fodder into colorful musical masterpieces, and residents love to take old tree stumps and create statues of modern art. Indeed, the Bakken has made itself the canvas, so it’s no surprise that The James Memorial Art Center is auctioning off college classroom style chairs dec-

orated elaborately by locals to support and fund future art exhibits.

Ten chairs native to the James Memorial Arts Center left their home to be covertly embellished by some creative minds in the area. They will be on display at the James Memorial along with accompanying photos online from March 20th to March 26th. Bidders are invited to come down to the James or check out the website to see the auction for themselves. The James Memorial Art Center is a 501C non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible. Any businesses wishing to sponsor the James or make a donation can contact Pam Elliot at 701-774-3601 or email at jmps@nemont. net

The History of St. Patrick’s Day

By J.C. LaBar

Saint Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious celebration held every year on March 17th to com memorate the life and legacy of Saint Patrick, a fifth-century priest known as the patron saint of Ireland. He was born in 4th century Roman Britain near what is now Wales. He was enslaved at 16 and taken to Ireland as a captive for six years before escaping. He later founded schools, churches and monasteries and dedicated his remaining years to bringing Christianity across all of Ireland. He died on March 17, 461 CE in Saul, Downpatrick, Ireland.

DID YOU KNOW?: The patron saint and national apostle of Ireland was never officially canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church. This lack of official sainthood is

because there was no formal canonization process in the 400s. Instead, people were regarded as saints by popular approval.

By the end of the 7th century, tales had spread far and wide about Patrick's miracles. He is credited with banishing all snakes from Ireland with faith alone and raising 33 dead men to life again through prayer; a feat further authenticated by his personal writings. He was also said to have prayed for food for hungry sailors traveling by land, after which a herd of swine miraculously appeared.

The celebration of St. Patrick's Day can be traced back to the ninth or tenth century - making it one of Christianity's oldest feast days. By the early 17th century, it had become an official Church holiday and by the

1700s was taking a more festive approach than originally intended. The St. Patrick’s Day celebration we know today is largely the invention of Irish-Americans. It wasn't until 1903 that Ireland declared St Patrick’s day as a public holiday, expanding the religious celebration to the secular realm. Today we celebrate this iconic day with parades and pubs filled with Guinness beer and merriment galore.

Green, Shamrocks and the Four-Leaf Clover

Green wasn’t always the color associated with Saint Patrick’s Day. Linking to Ireland's ancient flag, blue was the original color of Saint Patrick's Day. However, the Irish Rebellion of 1798 changed this when Irish rebels donned green as a symbol of liberty to show their rebellion against the British and

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their red uniforms, making it the 'Irish' holiday hue it is today!

The shamrock is an iconic symbol of Ireland, known for the three leaves that were famously used by Saint Patrick to explain the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Over time, this clover has become a unifying force within Irish culture thanks to its beautiful green color and representation in their landscape – becoming synonymous with both luck and loyalty throughout much of Irish history.

With its unique fourleafed foliage, the four-leaf clover is a rare mutant variety of clover which has long been associated with luck, remaining an enchanting symbol desired by many. The druids of ancient Celtic tradition believed that this mutation promised protection from malevolent forces - a sentiment mostly forgotten today. Folklore purports that each leaflet represents the four components of life - hope,

love, good fortune and belief.

Legend of the Leprechaun: Fact of Fiction?

The Leprechaun is an iconic symbol of Irish folklore, said to be a mythical fairy who usually appears as a mischievous old man with a beard, garbed in a hat, red coat, and green pants. A survey conducted by the Irish whiskey brand Cooley Distillery revealed that 33% of Irish people believe these mythical beings exist - lending further credence to centuries-old tales about elusive leprechauns hiding pots of gold at rainbows' ends. According to the Irish Post, in 2009 a significant number of Leprechauns were granted unique protection by Europe - an indication that Ireland is determined to preserve its cultural heritage for years to come. Although it may be hard for some folks outside Ireland to accept their reality, the leprechaun remains an integral part of Irish culture today!

PET of the

This is Piper Zo from Far-

Türkiye is officially back in talks with Sweden and Finland over their NATO membership bid after leaders of the nation reacted vehemently to the countries’ applications. The two countries need approval from Türkiye and Hungary before being admitted into NATO. Finland has voted in high favor of the bid to join NATO and is prepared to move forward alone though parliament has stated that it would prefer to go forward with the bid in unison with its ally Sweden. The three countries have already agreed to a number of conditions during the talks like removing an embargo of arms to Türkiye, but representatives in Türkiye say more negotiations and guarantees are needed before an agreement can be made. Sweden and Finland have also agreed to help Türkiye in their struggle with terrorist groups plaguing the country. Both countries have put forth legislation that would make violent acts in the names of the groups terrorist acts and financial support to these groups will carry a 4 year prison sentence. No real decisions about the county’s entry into NATO is likely to be made until after elections in Türkiye on May 14, 2023.

WOMEN’S DAY IN PAKISTAN

taken out of school before age 10 and some do not get to go at all meaning roughly 45 million women in Pakistan cannot read or write. Young women and girls alike are often married off to settle land debt or gambling debts and girls are often never seen by their siblings again. Birth control has only recently become widely available in Pakistan and most women still obtain the permission of their husbands and mother-in-laws to gain a prescription. A counter march was organized to support Islamic values of chastity and submission to one’s family but the Women’s march leaders think they are missing the point. One rally goer with her face covered for fear of retaliation stated “it’s about being a housewife if you want to or a doctor if you want to. No one is saying you can’t be a housewife but stop telling us we can’t go to school to be doctors.”

SHOOTING AS US DEFENSE

SECRETARY VISITS TEL AVIV WOUNDS THREE

The protests began Saturday night local time and people began to fill the streets quickly. Now daily protests and labor strikes are backing up the original demonstration as thousands more have taken to the streets. All gun owners in Israel are required to have a simple permit and authorities are looking into the incident further. The name and political affiliations of the gunman have not been revealed.

CHINA FACES REPOPULATION CRISIS

So owner let her have it. Definitely loved.

Women in Pakistan came together to rally over the Islamic influenced laws in Pakistan this week in what has become a yearly street celebration since 2018. Laws in Pakistan allow for the marriage of prepubescent girls to old men, forced labor, and the right of a father or husband to deny a woman an education. Girls are often

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK:

All this time I thought it was Spiderman who made the upside-down kiss popular. In fact, it was Mr. Blarney. Considering there are so many people who wait in line to kiss The Blarney Stone, I wonder if it’s disinfected after each kiss.

Police in Tel Aviv Israel “neutralized a gunman” after he shot and wounded three people. This comes on the heels of large scale protests erupting in the area against the new conservative government attempting to reform the judiciary branch. The new laws, if enacted, would limit the Israeli supreme court’s power and allow for political influence to help in the selection of judges. Crowds of protesters blocked the main roads to the international airport in Tel Aviv, this blockage imposed a detour on the motorcade of prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and visiting US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

As of 2022, the population of China officially capped out at roughly 1.4 billion people, began to decrease and is now projected to continue to decrease over the next 100 years. A smaller and much older population means fewer workers which threatens China’s claim to the pedestal of the world’s manufacturer of inexpensive products and the wealth that generates. For 35 years, families were only allowed one child until China changed to a two child policy in 2016 then the free child policy in 2021. Citizens of China are still very much in the mentality of the one child policy and the new policies are not taking hold as desired by the government in Beijing. The Chinese government has offered tax discounts and financial aid to families wishing to have more than one child but these incentives have had a poor response as people are wary of big changes the government makes. Covid - 19 lockdowns have also isolated couples and morale to reproduce seems to be lacking over desire to work and be away from home.

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go ND. Owner is Carol Ann Aaberg Vandal. Piper is sporting a red turtle neck sweater in Arizona!!! Well it was Xmas!!