The Oracle - March 9, 2023

DISTRICT 2 REPUBLICANS ELECT NEW

By Justin LaBar

On Wednesday, March 1st, the District 2 Republicans convened a reorganization meeting in Tioga. Meetings such as this occur every two years, as state law requires. The fundamental purpose of such a meeting is to elect party leadership.

Serving as the District 2 Chair for the last six years has been my privilege. While such a responsibility comes with challenges, it has also been rewarding. I have had the tremendous opportunity to meet and work with some of the finest people I have ever met. These folks are true patriots who love their country, understand the proper role of government, and want a better future for our children and grandchil dren.

Make no mistake; we are engaged in a battle for the heart and soul of our nation.

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In addition, there are challenges also facing our state and party. The question for us is whether freedom-loving Republicans in North Dakota will step up, get involved, and make a difference.

Despite the mischaracterizations in the media about District 2, I assure you that the people I met at the District 2 reorganization on Wednesday care. They are not “extremists,” as one political blogger has suggested they are. Unless you call it extreme to believe in things

like America first, limited government, low taxes, life, and the Second Amendment.

It was not easy for me to step away as District Chair. I was born and raised here. District 2 is important to me. Yet, I know there is value in allowing new leadership to step in and have the opportunity to do things I have yet been unable to do.

In addition to my stepping away, our Vice Chair, Jessica Steele, did not run for reelection, nor did our Treasurer, Chelsea Carr. I cannot express enough my

(Story Continues on Page 2)

New Beginnings For Superintendent Carolyn Eide & Tioga High School

Living Free: Dina Edwards Shares Her Story of Hope and Life Beyond Alcohol

By Michelle Svangstu

For everyone struggling with alcoholism, Dina Edwards shares her own story of hope to inspire those in need.

Page 9

KateLynn Skor: Athletic and Academic Superstar

By Rachel Venture

By Heather Earles Superintendent, Carolyn Eide,

is

retiring from Tio-

ga's High School on July 1st, 2023. However, that's not where her story begins

(Story Continues on Page 3)

Having a busy sports schedule is no challenge for KateLynn Skor. She has recently received the distinguished North Dakota Academic AllState award and is looking forward to a career in nursing.

Page 8

Calcium: Health Benefits, Deficiency, Foods, Supplements

By Heather Earles

Learn more about what calcium is and why your body needs this fifth most abundant element in the human body.

Page 5

Alkabo & the Alienists

By Alexa Althoff-Garro

If you’ve never heard of “alienists”, you would be amongst many readers who are also unfamiliar with the term. Although it may evoke feelings of Area 51 or extraterrestrials, it has nothing to do with tiny green men.

Page 10

“THE BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS IN THE WORLD CANNOT BE SEEN OR EVEN TOUCHED – THEY MUST BE FELT WITH THE HEART.” - HELEN KELLER

Tioga High School Superintendent, Carolyn Eide

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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: 701641-8891

RAY

Saturday, March 11th- Ray Fire Dept. Social/ Raffle with Dueling Pianos at Ray Auditorium 5:30pm7:30pm

CROSBY

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

LIGNITE

Saturday, March 18th-

Leprechaun Loop Fun Bus and Ted & Kari at 109 Club

WILLISTON

Thursday, March 9th- Williston Chamber Business After Hours At Be Mobile 5:30pm-7:30pm

Saturday, March 11 at 12PM: Vocella Bridal Expo at Old Armory

Friday, March 24 at 5:40 PM: Free Kids Craft Night

DISTRICT 2 REPUBLICANS ELECT NEW LEADERSHIP

appreciation for these two remarkable women. They have greatly supported me and have always been an asset to District 2.

The four candidates running for District 2 offices all ran unopposed, and each won by unanimous ballot. Our new District Chair is Jerol Gohrick. Jerol is a farmer and local business owner. Alexa Althoff, the former owner of The Oracle, was elected as Vice Chair. Cathy Cartier of the Williston area won reelection as Secretary. Cathy has long served in this capacity and is active in her church and other organizations. Rounding out the new District 2 team as Treasurer is Nicole Skabo. Nicole is a former teacher and has a service mindset.

I’m confident that the new officers will serve District 2 well.

While the election of officers was the fundamental reason for our reorganization meeting, other business also needed to be conducted. Our District 2 Rules (often called

bylaws) required a revision. The state party had asked me some time ago to work on updating them. I was determined to accomplish that by the end of my term, and I am happy to report that we did. We adopted the revised bylaws without opposition.

There are several things I wish I could have accomplished in the last six years, but I was unable to do so. Yet, I am proud of the work that we did. Even when things did not go my way as a member of the State Committee, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a voice of reason and an advocate of limited government. I will never apologize for that.

We have a lot of work left to do in the North Dakota Republican Party and our state. I hope that conservative Republicans in District 2 will rise to the occasion, get involved, and demand better of those who represent us. We have allowed the government to impose its will on us for too long. It is time that we reestablish the

proper role of government and send reminders that the government is there to serve us, not the other way around. Never forget this important statement from President Ronald Reagan: “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States, where men were free.”

God bless the people of District 2.

Did You Know?

during Burgers by James Memorial Art Center at Moose Lodge #239

Saturday, March 25 at 10AM: Luck of the Irish Craft & Vendor Show

TIOGA

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

Tioga Community Center Schedule

Mondays: Yoga Flow

9:30am-10:30am

Wrestling practice 3pm6:30pm

Tuesdays: Wrestling practice 3-6:30pm Pickleball 6pm-8pm

Wednesdays: Youth Group 6pm-9pm

NORTH DAKOTA GAME AND FISH ANNOUNCES

North Dakota Game & Fish

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department developed a new mobile app that allows outdoor enthusiasts instant access in the field to their licenses, hunting and fishing regulations and other important information.

To download the app, go to Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search NDGF or North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

Brian Hosek, Department business operations manager, said for those who download the app to their phone or other mobile device, the first thing they should do is add a profile.

“It’s basically the same account information that you’ve added when using the online services, bringing in your first name, last name, date of birth, and adding that profile to the device,” he said.

And if users have multiple hunters and anglers in their household, they can add those profiles to the phone or other mobile device as well.

“The benefit of pulling the license information over to the device from other hunters and anglers in their household is that they’ll have that

MOBILE APP

information available perhaps if they’re ever offline or need to access the license information,” Hosek said.

There are other valuable features on the mobile app that will certainly benefit outdoor users.

“We begin the homepage with sunrise, sunset times and some weather forecast information,” Hosek said. “This information is widely searched on our website, so it was important to bring this information over to the device.”

While users can view or download guides, regulations, proclamations and maps through the mobile app, there is also a buy and apply section, offering quick access to apply in Game and Fish lotteries, purchase licenses, register watercraft, the list goes on.

And like many mobile apps, it uses your location services to bring information back to the user.

“It could be hunting units, for example, that you’re based in depending on your location,” Hosek said. “Or it could be contact information for the warden in the area that you’re in or the location of the closest Game and Fish district office.”

New Beginnings For Superintendent Carolyn Eide & Tioga High School

or ends. As Carolyn tells it, "I grew up in eastern South Dakota about an hour north of Sioux Falls. My dad was a farmer there, and I graduated from South Dakota State in Brookings. I got married, and as my husband, Bob, was in ROTC (the Army), we lived in West Germany for three years. While he was in the Army, I taught soldiers basic skills, English and math." Carolyn said the soldiers would get referred and work towards getting a diploma as you didn't need one to be enlisted at that time. Or they would work towards a GED to improve their status to get a better job after the military.

Once back in the states, the couple moved to Kansas, as Carolyn's husband was stationed at Fort Riley. Here, she began her music teaching career at a little school called Wakefield, Kansas. "I was there eight years, teaching K-12 music, and really enjoyed it. Also, while I was there, I got my master's degree at Kansas State University in Manhattan for Educational Leadership."

Her husband was deployed to the first Persian Gulf War, and when he returned, the couple decided that was it for the military and started a new chapter moving to northeast South Dakota to a little town called Milbank.

Carolyn taught in two small towns/schools. Summit, South Dakota, and Revillo. There, she taught K-12 music for three years. "And at that time, I decided I wanted to get some administrative experience, so I applied and was hired as grades 8-12 principal and the band director, which is a pretty fun job." Carolyn did that at Rosholt, South Dakota, which is clear up in the northeast corner, about six miles from North Dakota and around eight miles from the Minnesota borders. After four years, she was hired to be the

superintendent, which she did for ten years.

At this point, Carolyn said she needed a change. "I wanted to try a different state. I got hired in Whiting, Iowa as the superintendent and elementary principal. I was there three years when North Dakota opened, and I found out Tioga was looking. So, I threw my hat in the ring and applied. I was interviewed, and they hired me in the 2014 to 15 school year, where I've been the superintendent ever since."

Talking to Carolyn about her plans once she retires this Summer, she was very animated. "We bought a house down by Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in a little town called Parker about 35 miles from Sioux Falls. We know the town, although we weren't from the area. My husband, Bob, has been living there for about a year and a half which is nice as he's gotten to know people. Bob retired in June after working with a company for a long time. We plan to spend quite a bit of time with family, and we want to travel. Living in Germany kind of whetted my appetite for traveling." As any person might, Carolyn has been making a list. "There are a lot of places on my bucket list I want to see."

Curious about what some of those places are, Carolyn said, "I want to go to New York City, really bad, and see a Broadway show! I want to go to New England. I've never been to the New England states, and like so many, I want to see it in the fall. Germany again. We went in 2010, but I want to visit where we lived, which was pretty close to some touristy areas. My husband really wants to take some sort of cruise. We know people who went down the Nile River, and he's kind of thinking that's what he wants to do."

Carolyn laughed and said, "I suppose I'm gonna have to do

some things he wants to do too." The couple has always loved adventuring together and plans to take in a lot of the United States.

The couple has one son who lives in Brookings, SD, with his wife and two young children and one daughter who lives in Eau Claire, WI, with her husband and two young children. Spending time with them is more precious than anything. The couple plans to spend quality time with their family.

"We decided we're going to quit giving Christmas gifts, and we're going to give time gifts. My daughter's gotten into our Norwegian heritage and is interested in rosemaling, so we're going to Iowa in September to take a rosemaling class in Iowa or Minnesota."

Speaking of heritage, Carolyn and Bob want to research where their families came from and go to Norway. Many adventures, both in the country and abroad, await the couple.

Other activities Carolyn mentioned were crafting and taking care of their new house. "I got a lot of my background from crafting from 4-H. And my family was very talented, a very artsy family. I mean, we weren't professional or anything, but we did a lot of singing in the evenings. My mom was really active in 4-H as a leader. I won a national 4-H award when I was a senior in high school and got to go on a trip and received a scholarship."

A light-hearted chuckle escaped as she said, "My kids call me the 4-H queen."

Perhaps from the evenings singing with her family or the love of teaching music, Carolyn directed a church choir in Tioga and enjoyed getting to know the people. Understandably, however, she expressed, "My one criteria after retirement is I want to be able to say no and not feel guilty. I don't want

to work full-time," although there is a part-time job in her new town, she may consider.

Sometimes it's hard for people to talk about themselves, so it took a minute, but when asking where Carolyn's heart and soul, her purpose were, she said, " I feel like I was put on this earth to help people. And it might be something very simple. My dad was extremely kind and honest. I really have always tried to follow that. Be truthful to people but do it kindly. Don't lie. For instance, I had to help at the office today because we don't have a secretary. But I am always very kind and helpful to people who come in. It's not their fault that I have to be here. So that's something that defines me. I'm helpful. I try to be kind, honest, and a good person. That's what I strive to be."

Carolyn's mom died from cancer early on, but her dad lived until he was 92. Like most essential people in our lives, they shape who we are and the lesson we adhere to or try. "My dad was such a good man. He never took advantage of people. When I was pretty young, and as he was a pig farmer, he would sell baby pigs to people. Well, there was a man who was quite socially inept. People took advantage of him a lot. But my dad told me more than once he never took advantage of the man. Lloyd was his name. He always gave him a fair price and the best quality baby pigs. He disliked how people overcharged Lloyd because he would pay it and never question them."

Carolyn's dad came back from World War II to college and met her mother. "He was four years older, so everyone assumed the older persons would go first. Not the case." Carolyn's father lived on the farm till the last couple weeks of his life, as any farmer or rancher would pre-

fer. Integrity is something lost at times, but the spirit of her dad's love and soul still guide Carolyn today.

As to the direction of Tioga High School, they hired a new superintendent on Saturday, February 25th. Paul Olson will start on June 30th and comes from Arizona. Carolyn stated, "I think the plan is I'm going to spend a week with him walking him through so that he will be coming that last week of June. I put a lot of my heart and life into Tioga, and we've made good changes. I want to see that continue. Improving for the better to help our students." She has noted she will be available if anyone has questions to make this transition smooth and right for everyone.

As to the start of something new for Carolyn and her husband, just like all new adventures, there is a little bit of the unknown. "I'm a little worried about the transition," she admitted, "I've worked for 39 years, and for the last 22 of those, I worked all year round. That's what I do is work. So, it'll be a bit of a transition. Six months ago, my husband said, 'you know, we've lived in many different places and done many different things for the last 40 years, we'll get it figured out, and we'll be okay.'

Strong leaders make a legacy and the love and time they put into people and a place. Carolyn is grateful for her time with the people of Tioga and is now looking forward to making additional time for her family.

"The greatest legacy one can pass on to one's children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one's life, but rather a legacy of character and faith."

- Billy Graham

THE WESTBY WATCH

Lady Thunder End Season at Divisional

On Wednesday March 3rd, the Lady Thunder ended their 2022-2023 season in Wolf Point at the Eastern C.

The girls opened the tournament on March 1st against the undefeated North Country Mavericks. It was a tough battle for the Thunder that ended in a 32-66 loss. Junior Erika Christian was the top scorer for MonDak with 12 points, and freshman Abby Lowes chipped in with 10.

The loss to the Mavericks pitted the Thunder against the Lustre Christian Lions on Thursday morning. Leading at the end of each stanza, the Thunder pulled away with the win, 50-33. Senior Kiarra Brunelle led the Thunder in scoring with 15, also pulling down 9 rebounds. Abby Lowes ended the game with a double-double, 10 points and 10 rebounds.

In an attempt to earn a spot in the consolation

By Heidi Whitney

Coaches Dylan and Haley MacLean are shown here with the 5 Thunder seniors on “Pack the Place in Purple” night February 11 honoring sportscaster Jim Nielsen, who is currently battling cancer.

From

are Olivia Christian, Emma Smart, Sayler Stewart, Kira Baker, and Kiarra Brunelle.

game on Friday night, the Thunder were up against the Scobey Spartans Friday morning. The Thunder struggled against the Spartans throughout the game, the final score reading 2439 in Scobey’s favor. Erika

Christian led the Thunder in points with 7.

Scobey went on to take 3rd place in the consolation game that evening, while North Country defeated Plentywood in the title game.

MLS FFA STUDENTS ATTEND BIG MUDDY DISTRICT FFA LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

By Alyssa Stromburg

February 27, Medicine

Lake FFA members with their advisor Mrs. Moberg traveled to Plentywood for the Big Muddy District FFA Leadership Development Events.

The Parli Pro team of

Landon Kelm, Kash Ator, Caden Kelm, Avery Johnson, Daniel Forizs and Zoey Ator received 3rd place honors.

Avery Johnson and Kash Ator received All Star Awards; Avery Johnson Allstar Parli Pro Secretary and Kash Ator Allstar Parli Pro

Member.

Teegan Fossum took 2nd place in the Jr Creed and is headed to state.

The JV Farm and Agribusiness Management team of Teegan Fossum, Lilli Barrick, Avery Johnson, and Zoey Ator took 2nd place.

left to right

Medicine Lake FFA Members.

Sheridan Electric’s Footprint

By Scott Westlund CEO/ General Manager

On March 1st, 2023, I received a visitor from Crosby who sat down for a conversation. Being who we are, and who we focus on, all stuff on my desk went to the wayside and I had a conversation with Jill Vassen. Jill is the sales Manager for the Oracle, a paper that we subscribe to here at this site in Medicine Lake.

It was a conversation that quickly spread into many topics and found her to be a face to face individual who believes in people. Looking for a specific topic to conquer, Jill was traveling this area, looking for people to write about what is going on in the communities.

From Westby, to Plentywood, to Medicine Lake she traveled, until she made a stop at Sheridan Electric.

Quickly striking up a conversation with Tasha, she explained her reason for

the visit, and was sent directly to me.

We talked about what this co-op does and how we do it. We talked about school programs that help with future schooling, like scholarships, as well as teaching young folks what co-ops are and why we are here.

We talked about community involvement and teaching life skills to kids to be used in the future. I even touched on the topic that we go into schools and teach resume and interview skill sets.

We talked about building a workforce here, at home, instead of looking outside and bringing them in. I even stated that we do not have trouble hiring critical positions because we grow our own.

We talked about the man hours that are expended just in the schools, and they are many. In fact, the member service side of the

MEDICINE LAKE FCCLA HOSTS

ARRIVE ALIVE

business between my member service manager and myself, are countless hours of school involvement, even on the weekends.

Jill’s request was simple; “I want writers to write about the communities in Western North Dakota, and Eastern Montana, where we live.”

Jill further explains that it is the communities that drive rural North Dakota and Eastern Montana, and we are important.

She asked to have articles written about training, integrity, schools, and employee development at this cooperative.

She asked for direct, and intricate problem-solving stories that involve many people, and what that solution may be.

In short, she was looking for stories for this region.

So, with this introductory article, we will see where it goes.

The members of Sheridan Electric and this employee group know that I like to write. This writing is mostly for the Rural Montana magazine but have agreed to help Jill out.

We will write about the cooperative principles and how they fit into rural life. On this topic we will see how we use them, and not just state them.

We will talk about members, and this extraordinary employee group, as well as their successes.

I have stated it many time in the past, and will state it now;

We may not serve the schools and communities energy, but we do serve them. Schools, businesses, community projects, and service to governments across many towns (school boards, city councils, credit union boards, community organizers etc…). This is because Sheridan Electric is not a poles and wires com-

Scott Westland, CEO/General Manager

pany but rather a customer service company that just so happens to use a few poles and wires.

Sheridan Electrics Employee group are servants to Northeastern Montana. Pure and simple.

I look forward to talking about what we do, and how we do it.

We are honored that Jill stopped in and will be a part of her project.

Calcium: Health Benefits, Deficiency, Foods, Supplements

By Heather Earles

To begin, let’s break down what calcium is and why your body needs it.

Medicine Lake students after the Arrive Alive presentation and activities

By Alyssa Stromburg

Medicine Lake FCCLA

brought in the Arrive Alive organization Thursday February 23, 2023. The Arrive Alive Organization is based out of Michigan and is funded through FCCLA, GHSA, General Motors and MDT.

The presentation is for students grades 5 through 12th and students gain insight into how driving impaired or distracted affects response times and percep-

tions.

The organization has been traveling through the state of Montana; Glasgow, Plentywood, and Scobey also brought the Arrive Alive Organization into their schools.

Ms. Hoffman, the Medicine Lake FCCLA advisor had the support of the school’s administration who were excited to have the learning opportunity brought to the school.

Calcium is a chemical element with the symbol Ca. It is the most plentiful metal and the fifth-most abundant element in the human body. As electrolytes, calcium ions play a vital role in organisms’ and cells’ physiological and biochemical processes. In short, calcium is good for your cells and bones and is crucial in maintaining the immune system. Calcium also makes up teeth and bones.

Calcium Deficiency

There are many groups at risk of calcium deficiency, in particular, the elderly. Bones become brittle in old age because your body takes

what it needs from calcium out of your bones.

Checking with your general, homeopathic, or natural doctor is a smart move if you think you are deficient or just want to know where your calcium numbers are.

What Are Some Benefits of Calcium?

When your calcium numbers are in good shape, that helps your body ward off destructive diseases. It

also keeps certain organs healthy. For instance, it helps:

• Prevent osteoporosis and helps to treat the condition once symptoms manifest.

• Prevents cancer

• Useful in the treatment of high blood pressure

• Prevents heart disease

• useful in treating arthritis

• Helps to keep skin healthy

• Alleviates leg cramps

• Encourages regular beating of the heart

• Soothes insomnia

• Helps the body to metabolize iron

• Necessary for nerve-impulse transmission and muscular function.

-The Illustrated Ency-

(Story Continues on Page 7)

of Seheridan Electric

Heather Earles

KEEPING THE TIOGA COMMUNITY CONNECTED

WHAT’S TO COME:

By Haley Felber, Tioga Community Center Director

It’s starting to get nice out! However, with warmer temperatures comes melting ice, which means March may be the last month for any ice skating. To ensure the safety of all patrons, we will lock the warming house as needed. Please watch the Tioga Community Center Facebook page for updates on rink/warming house closures and other events.

Spring break is March 15th-17th, and we will be

open during our regular hours. Feel free to shoot some hoops, walk laps, check out the library, play board games, and more! There’s always something to do at the community center.

Don’t miss out on Pre-K storytime! Our library director, Sandy Clark, always has a fun book to read and follows it with an art craft related to the book. Storytime is every Wednesday at 10:30 am. Follow the Tioga Community Library Facebook page for updates.

Wrestling practice continues to take place inside

Farmer’sClothingDaughter Store

GIRL POWER

the facility every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 3-6:30pm. The library and playroom will remain open to the public; parental supervision is required.

Like January, pickleball will continue every Tuesday from 6-8pm. We are starting with half court on the east side until wrestling practice is done at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome! We only ask that you bring a clean pair of shoes.

LOOKING BACK

January was a busy month! Out of the 27 days we were open, we had 1,482 people utilize the facility. Our busiest day was Saturday, January 7th with 95 people coming through our doors.

The Williams and Ree Comedy Show was a success on Friday, February 10th. Bruce and Terry had the crowd laughing all night long! What should we do next? If you have any ideas, big or small, we’d love to hear them!

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW

Did you know that birthday parties are one of the most popular rentals in our facility? We held five parties in 2020 (thanks to Covid), eleven parties in 2021, and THIRTY parties in 2022; that’s almost triple from the year before. So far, in 2023, we’ve held six and have many more on the schedule. For details on how to reserve one of our spaces for your children’s next birthday, please call us at 701-664-3192, message us on Facebook, or send an email to: communitycenter@cityoftioga.com

Gaby Cline

By Rachel Venture

The energy industry is what powers the Bakken and gives us all the jobs and opportunities we enjoy here. From natural gas to the emerging solar farm industry, we are so fortunate to be in a place that produces something everyone on the planet uses: energy. Women started breaking into this industry long ago and opportunities for women to make money and follow their dreams are readily available in the Bakken.

Gaby Cline grew up in Texas watching her beloved father create a fast tracked career in the wind energy field. As a greenhorn, he worked hard and was able to rise up the ranks quickly. This inspired Gaby to pursue her own career in wind energy. “My dad did this as I was growing up. I saw his career develop so fast and loved traveling. I knew this is what I wanted to do.”

With a U-Haul and some hope, Gaby uprooted her life in Texas and moved to Wildrose in late 2020. She soon found a quaint apartment in the former Wildrose School House. This historic renovated series of adorable apartments and studios is a wonderful example of the resourcefulness and ingenuity one can find in the Bakken and it fit Gaby perfectly.

From her home base, Gaby began to master her job as a turbine tech from the training she had received earlier in the

year. “ I was here for the construction and erecting part of the site and then came back a year later to become a tech for Nordex. The site is owned by a company called Enel.”

The Aurora wind farm in Tioga began operations in late 2020, it is roughly 48,000 acres in Mountrail County and Williams County near the Enel’s Lindahl wind farm. 71 turbines create approximately 1.3 terawatt-hours of sustainable energy per year. This is similar to the energy requirements of 100,000 American households yearly. Successful operation could reduce carbon emissions by 850,000 tons. This is not the same as the illusive “green” energy. Sustainable energy means using oil products in a way that does not destroy the resources of future generations. Wind turbines still create waste and require petroleum products in their lubrication and repair. Diversity of energy production is something the Bakken prides itself on and diversity of employment goes right along with it.

Girl power in the Bakken is on the rise and Gaby embodies the role of the modern, independent woman in a rough and tumble place. The harsh temperatures and rugged terrain are constant tests to overcome. They build character and a sense of pride in a hard work ethic. As energy needs change and expansion, hopefully more jobs will be filled by girl power.

Print a Classified in the Oracle for $7 up to 25 words. Place it in the Community Shopper, also, for $10 total.

Calcium: Health Benefits, Deficiency, Foods, Supplements

clopedia of Healing Remedies

High Calcium Food Sources

If you are looking to increase your calcium through your food, the best sources are milk, beans, nuts, tofu, salmon, cheese, yogurt, dairy products, leafy green vegetables, tinned fish, and eggs.

How Much Should a Person Take?

1,000mg. Per day is recommended when you are taking calcium in a supplement form. However, more calcium is needed for women who are in their childbearing years, breastfeeding or have just gone through menopause.

How Much is Too much?

A person should not go over 2,000mg per day. If you do, it may cause hypercalcemia (calcium deposits in the kidneys). However, this is not likely unless you are also taking vitamin D, as excess calcium excretes itself through the body.

There are multiple cases where people become deficient, so don’t assume if you aren’t elderly, you don’t need to know what your calcium numbers look like. Besides calcium, it is important to know what all your vitamin levels are, as deficiencies in any of them can cause significant problems and side effects inside and outside of your body.

In Summary

“Calcium is used in forming bones, also known as bone mineralization, and in the proper formation and maintenance of teeth. It

is important in nerve impulse transmission, blood coagulation, and muscle contraction. Calcium functions in the body, solidity of the body, essential to fetal growth during pregnancy, found in cartilage, fluids and tissues and body alkalinity.

Signs of possible deficiency — weakness, fatigue, hemorrhaging, rickets, catarrh, bone softening, cramps, digestive disorders, abscesses, and excessive sweating.

Classical chiropractic conditions of the lumbar 5 areas known to receive nerve fibers from this spinal segment are lower legs, ankles, feet, toes, and arches. Some of the conditions that can follow a pressure on or interference with these nerves include poor circulation in the legs, swollen ankles, weak ankles and arches, cold feet, weakness in the legs, and leg cramps.”

-Minerals for the Genetic Code

Magnesium helps calcium to not form rock candy in your kidneys, causing kidney stones. After all a kidney stone is a calcium saturated kidney. So think of Magnesium as a twin to Calcium. When you take one you should be taking the other. Magnesium keeps calcium in solution form so there is no build-up.

The main goal is you and your health, so investigate pairing supplements, and keep your body and mind on the correct track.

Until next time, stay healthy and free.

District 2 DemocraticNPL Party Meeting

District 2 Democrats are meeting on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 4 pm for the purpose of electing district party leaders for the 2023-2024 election cycle. The meeting will be held at the Bypass Restaurant in Crosby, North Dakota. Democrats residing in ND Legislative District 2 are encouraged to attend.

Did You Know?

Mountain Dew, Fresca, and other food had been banned in the EU and Japan for containing brominated vegetable oil (BVO) - bromine is also commonly used as a flame retardant. Over consumption has resulted in medical attention needed for memory loss and nerve disorders, amongst other issues.

KateLynn Skor: nd AcAdemic SuperStAr

The Bakken produces letes. From basketball to hockey, sports are a staple in the family community, ple don’t notice or care that fessional teams. The radio stations broadcast games from the local schools with the same zeal as any NBA or NHL announcer. Kids munity in the same way that ships and that also reflects well on the academic role school is for. Most schools will not allow kids to play without good grades, incentivising kids to pay attention and work hard for those grades so they can play with their peers. One student who excels at this is KateLynn Skor. She has recently received the distinguished North Dakota Academic All-State award, recommended to her by her principal Matthew Heier and proven by her amazing abilities.

“The Academic AllState program is designed to recognize those student-athletes who excel in both school and athletics,” according to the North Dakota Association of Secondary School Principals. It is awarded to 50 graduating North Dakota Seniors based on grade-point averages,community activities, ACT/SAT scores, community involvement, and leadership qualities.

Ms. Skor has played hockey and volleyball and is quite talented at both though she definitely has a favorite. “ I enjoy playing volleyball and hockey a lot. Although I have played volleyball longer than hockey, I have found a greater emotional connection with the hockey community. I have always been more of a defensive athlete, being the libero on my volleyball team and the goalie on my hockey team. For some odd reason, I enjoy the adrenaline rush from being on the line of the ‘last defense’,” she said, reflecting on her years in sports.

Ms. Skor doesn’t want to stop there. She has big plans for her future. She is committed to attending the University of North Dakota autumn 2023 for her degree as an RNA. “I have already been accepted into the nursing program through direct admission. In the future, I plan on furthering my education by studying anesthesiology and becoming a nurse anesthetist.” This drive to help others is a clear quality of what the Academic All-State represents and an example to young people in the Bakken. She hopes others will be inspired to

give to society what they learn and accomplish. To those wishing to progress in a similar way she says “

I strongly believe that if you prioritize your assignments and education early on, you can develop significant learning skills such as accountability, critical thinking, and organization at an early age. These skills are essential for becoming a successful student-athlete. The advice that I would give to younger children is to use their resources: write down every math example, take all of the history notes, study specific sports drills, and, above all, do not be afraid to ask questions in class or at practice.” Perhaps not just a nurse but a teacher as well, Ms. Skor certainly has the qualities of both.

KateLynn Skor

LIVING FREE:

By Michelle Svangstu

“I’m not sure how long I had questioned my relationship with alcohol,” notes Dina Edwards. “Most of my life, I followed the crowd. Growing up in a small [northwest North Dakota] town, it was a common part of things a lot of us did, even as kids. I didn’t really think it about – I got caught up in drinking when I was in high school, and it followed me to college. I didn’t drink all the time, but sometimes I’d skip class to go drink with friends or show up to class hungover.”

ing just became a coping mechanism. I’d drink until I felt numb and the pain went away – but no matter what, that pain always came back, my anxiety would worsen and I would sink further into depression. I didn’t love myself for those things, but I also didn’t think it was that bad – I was comfortably uncomfortable.”

It wasn’t until the birth of her daughter that Edwards says she realized something needed to change. “The way I was living my life wasn’t what I wanted for her - I didn’t want her to make the same mistakes I had.”

Dina Edwards Shares Her Story of Hope and Life Beyond Alcohol

this,’ but after a few days I was right back to where I had been the weekend or golf night before.”

Then, about seven years ago, Edwards says she got a desperately needed wakeup call.

“For my 21st birthday,” remembers Edwards, “a bunch of us went out to the bar to celebrate and my friends gifted me a customized, screen-printed t-shirt of Disney’s Pocahontas with leaves flying all around her, only they had changed the leaves to Bud Light bottle caps and the picture to say ‘Socahontas,’ you know, for being an alcohol ‘soak.’ At the time I thought it was hilarious - a decade later, I looked back at it and was honestly embarrassed that’s what my friends thought of me.”

“And then,” continues Dina, “when I lost my brother to suicide, I think drink-

Recognizing the need for change, however, didn’t make it easy. “I spent years trying to hold on to and justify my drinking. I would Google ‘What is an alcoholic?’ and because I didn’t fit the typical definition of an alcoholic, I convinced myself that I wasn’t one,” shares Dina. “I was insecure and extremely socially awkward, often drinking before even leaving the house to ease myself into a night out. I was just trying to find my place in this world.”

“Many of the people close to me didn’t think I had problem because I could go days without drinking. But I was on a vicious cycle – I’d not drink for days, then go out, binge drink and wake up hungover - feeling guilty and ashamed yet again about my choices. I’d tell myself ‘I need to change

“There were a lot of tough things going on in my life, most of which I was solely responsible for. My anxiety and depression were escalating quickly, and it was becoming detrimental to my health and relationships. I finally realized that if I didn’t change my drinking habits, I could lose everything that mattered most to me,” recounts Dina.

Unsure of what steps to take, she cried out to God for help and started attending a local church. “I had always believed in God, but I grew up stuck in a box of rules and ‘religion,’ not realizing I could have a personal relationship with Him. I had always believed I was just too lost and broken, that I wasn’t worthy - but God spoke to my heart and it was powerful. Church became more than just a checklist item. Finding God in a different way, having a relationship with Him really changed me – I realized I couldn’t do this on my own strength, I needed God’s help.”

As she grew in her faith and sought out a new counselor, Dina also turned to social media and joined a women’s sober curious group on Facebook. Edwards notes, “I figured ‘what’s the worst that could happen?’ I could relate to their stories and realized I wasn’t alone in my struggle. It was in that group I met my sober coach, who takes a faith-based approach to

sobriety. She helped me grow stronger in my faith and believe that I actually could quit [drinking] for good. My counselor and sober coach helped me determine what my core values really are – the “why” behind why I want to live a life of sobriety.”

Soon afterwards, Dina decided to start sharing her sobriety journey on social media. “I’ve been a fitness coach since 2013 and have a passion for helping other women believe in themselves, overcome their struggles and [find] purpose. Sharing the rest of my story just seemed like a natural next step,” remarks Edwards. “Of course, I was nervous and worried about what others might think. Not everyone in my life understood my decision to get sober. They didn’t understand why I needed to do this, and [as a result] some of my relationships have changed. I’ve just realized that people sometimes see things through a different lens. They’re not always sure what to do or say, and ultimately NO ONE can know or fully understand an internal battle you may be fighting- and that’s ok.”

want to face the reality of their relationship with alcohol or didn’t think sobriety was possible.”

“Sobriety has been so freeing,” notes Dina. “Insecurity, self-doubt, depression - they’re not the norm for me anymore. I’m still finding my way, but I can be who I am, who God created me to be. I feel I have more clarity, more direction, and more hope. While I wish I had quit sooner, I realize now that God was trying to teach me something through the struggle. Had I not had to fight as hard and long as I did, I’m not sure it all could have kept me sober and maybe my voice would not be as heard.”

Edwards is hopeful her story will continue to impact others. “I’m training to become a faith-based life coach, and I want to write a book about how God moved in my life and helped me find freedom from alcohol. I want people to know they’re not alone, and that if I could do this after all this time, they could, too.”

“There is help and hope out there for you. Alcohol may be your struggle but it does not define who you are.”

What started out as a 100 Day Sobriety Challenge has become a journey over a year in the making. Dina posts about her struggles and path to sobriety at least weekly on her Facebook page. “I was really surprised at how many people reached out to encourage me, many that I didn’t know or know very well - and also at the number of people who have reached out to thank me for sharing my struggles because they’ve felt the same way, or didn’t

For anyone struggling with alcohol, Dina offers a message of hope:

“There is help and hope out there for you. Alcohol may be your struggle but it does not define who you are. There are so many avenues to find help; books on sobriety like ‘This Naked Mind’ by Annie Grace, online Sober Curious groups, AA [Alcoholics Anonymous], life and sober coaches, counselors, Recovery Reinvented [North Dakota], your local Pastor [etc.]. Confide in someone you trust to get it out there and stop hiding in the guilt, shame and secrecy of a toxic relationship with alcohol. You can do this.”

Dina Edwards

“I’d tell myself ‘I need to change this,’ but after a few days I was right back to where I had been...”

Alkabo and Alienists

By Alexa Althoff-Garro

If you’ve never heard of “alienists”, you would be amongst many readers who are also unfamiliar with the term. Although it may evoke feelings of Area 51 or extraterrestrials, it has nothing to do with tiny green men.

Starting around the mid-nineteenth century, psychiatrists were referred to as "alienists." It was the alienist's job to study, understand, care for, and assist patients in overcoming their "mental alienation" or illness.

While not commonly mentioned in newspapers in western North Dakota, they did make some appearances. These brief mentions came mostly in the way of jesting at the profession. (See figure 1 & 2)

Other than a joke here and there, a few brief mentions of alienists came in the way of breaking news, often about murder or trials. (See figure 3)

An Alkabo man who most likely would have come into contact with an alienist was a man named Richard Harkins. A homesteader in the Writing Rock area, Harkins appeared to have found success and at one time drilled a well (which found water at only 30ft) and owned a large threshing machine.

Harkins had a wife, although no children were mentioned, and frequently

traveled to Crosby, Ambrose, and Fortuna.

He and his wife were mentioned several times in the social section of newspapers from 1913 to 1916. However, in 1917, something terrible happened to the Harkin family. (See figure 4).

There was no major in-

dication in the newspapers that Harkins was experiencing psychological difficulties, but that’s not odd considering many small town papers sought to protect the reputation of local residents and businessmen.

By March of 1917, the “County Insanity Board” adjudged Harkins insane and he was sent to the Jametown Asylum for the Insane, which had opened in 1885.

One of the first aliensts to be employed at Jamestown was Dr. Adolphus W. Guest. We can get a feeling for Guest and his practice from North Dakota History and People published in 1917. It stated:

“He has the confidence

of both the general public and his professional brethren and is up-to-date and progressive in his methods, as he is constantly studying along medical lines. He has given special attention to nervous diseases and is known as one of the best alienists in the southern part of the state. He holds membership in the Stutsman County Medical Society, of which he has served as president for two terms, in the North Dakota Medical Society and in the American Medical Association. In addition to his lucrative practice he has other interests, owning valuable land in this state.”

Since Harkins was sent to Jamestown the same year this was published, we can assume that he received a high level of care at the asy-

lum. The early years of the asylum are remembered as very clean, with low numbers of residents. However, its history would take a dark turn later in the 1920’s with overcrowding and disease taking hold.

Nothing else of Harkins is noted in area newspapers, however his wife appeared to remain in the region until roughly 1920.

The story of Alkabo and alienists is another fascinating example of the myriad difficulties in homesteading our beautiful region. Alongside the pastoral images of threshing machines and bountiful harvests lives dark and curious undertones. We would be remiss to not remember the more tragic parts of history as well as the venerable ones.

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

Figure 3.

Figure 4.

BARBARA LOUISE COTTON

Part 4 of 4: Missing Person Barbara Cotton - How YOU Can Help!

By Krisin Miller

To this day Barb has never been found. Her family and loved ones have continued in their search efforts in hopes that a new lead or a breakthrough happens. The saying “it takes a village” couldn’t be more true to keep things going. Barb's sister Kathy willingly had her DNA taken at the WPD to be put in the database after her mother died in 2004. Her best friends Sandee and Diane have never given up hope of finding their friend. Barb’s siblings and family members have continued to do all they can to find answers.

One thing that seems to be a common problem with cold cases is a lack of records maintained by police. However, with the many new advances in the technology used in cases like these, records are better maintained and new types

of evidence can be uncovered. That’s why it is so important to bring a voice to these cases. In Barb’s case, the WPD deemed her a runaway. This led to a lack of records due to many people in Barb’s life not being interviewed until the last few years. In 2019 WPD had 3 new detectives assigned to Barb’s case and they have taken a deeper look into all

the files. That year, Barb’s brother, Kent, was finally interviewed by the WPD for the first time. Barb’s sister, Diane, was also interviewed for the first time in 2020. With over 40 years since Barb went missing, this unfortunately means many people that needed to be questioned have passed away.

WILLISTON SPORTS & REC SHOW

By Rachel Venture

Spring is in the air! The snow on the trails is starting to melt and the campsites are being groomed for campers to arrive so that must mean it’s time for the Sports and Recreation show at the Raymond Family Community Center. This Saint Patrick’s Day weekend is the 36th annual Williston Sports and Recreation show, organized by the Williston Convention and Visitors Bureau. This three day event is a lot more than some nice motorhomes in a sports pavilion, it will feature local food vendors with tasty treats like mini donuts, mini golf, prizes for

kids and adults and a small craft vendor show upstairs.

Local businesses like Arnie’s Powersport & Cycle will show off some of the latest dirtbike and ATV models and the kids won’t want to miss out on the ot-

ters. Yes, otters. Otter Adventure of North Carolina, part of a traveling circus group Artists & Attractions, will be bringing their trained furry aquatic friends to delight children of all ages.

Entry into the event was $3 in 2022 so bring a little cash. There is lots to do and elevators so bring the whole family and the stroller to this fun, petrol filled weekend. If you are a vendor, there is a waitlist for last minute cancelation and you can add your business to that list by emailing morgang@ci.williston.nd.us

2023 CRP SIGNUP

PRESS RELEASE

North Dakota Game & Fish

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for its voluntary Conservation Reserve Program. Private landowners can apply at their local USDA Farm Service Agency office through April 7.

Cropland not currently enrolled in CRP may be offered during this general enrollment period. In addition, producers with CRP contracts expiring Sept. 30, 2023, may also be eligible.

CRP acres in the state peaked 15 years ago at nearly 3.4 million acres. With just 1.1 million CRP acres across North Dakota’s rural landscape today, the availability of critical nesting and fawning habitat required by many wildlife species has fallen significantly by comparison.

USDA has implemented changes in recent years to make CRP offers more appealing to landowners. Improved rental rates and new incentives have been added to encourage more land enrollment. CRP can provide haying or grazing opportunities when certain drought conditions are met, and many practices now allow grazing to occur every other year.

“The habitat created by CRP makes it a great fit for the Game and Fish Department’s Private Land Open To Sportsmen program,” said Kevin Kading, private lands section leader.

Producers interested in enrolling their CRP into the PLOTS program for additional financial incentives should contact a Department private land biologist in their area.

PET of the

Meet Adonis from Crosby, ND!

TRUSTED STONEWORK METHODS OVER MILLENNIA STILL MAKING THE NEWS

Archeologists at the great pyramid of Giza detected a hollow spot above the main entrance in 2017 using Muon tomography. This is like a stronger x-ray that utilizes base radiation existing in various amounts in all matter but the technology was doubted by some. A group of researchers with the Scan Pyramids Mission team has inserted a super high tech Japanese fiber optic camera into the secret chamber, giving the world a peek at a space unseen for thousands of years. The pyramid itself is roughly 5,000 years old and would have already been ancient by the time Cleopatra was meeting Alexander for the first time. Zahi Hawas, a leader with the bureau of Egyptian tourism, has speculated that this newly discovered yet empty chamber is actually a passage to another tomb shared with pharaoh Khufu. However, most archaeologists, archaeological architects and modern architects believe this is what’s commonly knows as a “relief chamber” as it sits directly above a passage used by humans to enter and exit the structure. This

is an empty space, usually unseen to the aesthetic of the architecture, that relieves weight in heavy stone structures. This relief of weight helps to prevent stress fractures and is also observed in the “King and Queens” chambers within the pyramid as well Greek and Roman stone architecture millenia later. Perhaps the most exciting part is that the Muon scans were proven accurate by ground penetrating radar, ultrasound and now video proof.

NEW AGE ADDICTION: TIKTOK

TikTok is owned by a Chinese company called ByteDance. American users are beginning to discover that the version of TikTok available to Chinese users is drastically different from the version available to them. If a Chinese user is under 14 years old, they are shown at home science experiments, short cooking lessons and other educational tidbits. These super short videos fly by quickly so young users are limited to 40 minutes a day to protect their developing minds. In the US, TikTok users spend an conservative average of 95 minutes each day just scrolling. This is occurring at the same time

the US is seeing a drastic reduction in attention span. The average human attention span decreased by roughly 25% from 2000 to 2015, according to a Treetop therapy survey. In a recent 60 minutes episode, Tristan Harris Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Center for Humane Technology equated the comparison of the Chinese and American versions of TikTok to “Spinach and Opium” in their effect on a child’s brain.

DALLAS JOURNALIST FIRED FOR CALLING MAYOR ‘BRUH’ ON TWITTER

Meghan Mangrum said she was sacked as Dallas Morning News education reporter after she responded to a Feb. 11 tweet from Mayor Eric Johnson claiming local media had “no interest” in reporting a drop in violent crime. She stated, “Bruh, national news is always going to chase the trend. Cultivate relationships with quality local news partnerships.” “Bruh,” made popular in part due to memes on the defunct social media platform Vine, is meant to “convey frustration or disappointment at something,” according to KnowYourMeme.

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK:

I miss drive-in movie theaters! They got us out of the house for an evening with friends, they were cheaper, plus you got a double feature for double the fun. Add adjustable seats, temp control, and snacks galore in your car. Talk about luxury.

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North Dakota Serving

Publishing Team Publisher / Editor: J.C. LaBar

Associate Editor: Heather Calkins heather@vocella.com

Copy Editor: Alexa Althoff-Garro

Journalist: Heidi Whitney

Reporters: Rod Schofield, Michelle Svangstu, & Rachel Venture

Sports Contributors: Nick Ator & Kristen Ator

Sales Team Sales Manager: Jill Vassen jill@vocella.com

Production Team

Lead Design: Kary Moltzan

classifieds,

“He has about 10 different names we call him; Bugsley, Donald, Buggy, or Donny,” says owner Ava Coston. “He is the best boy ever!”