The Oracle - May 17, 2023

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WESTBY WATCH

By Heidi Whitney Track, golf, and state music results, as well as a look at the Westby Graduates.

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SPRING SPORTS

WRAP UP

By Alyssa Stromberg

Spring sports including golf and track are coming to a close as the school year ends.

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NDSU STUDY SEEKS

FAMER/RANCHER INPUT ON WELL-BEING

NDSU Extension

North Dakota farmers and ranchers are invited to participate in a focus group interview to investigate how a worksite well-being program could be designed to effectively decrease stress and increase well-being.

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Consumed By Fire Set to Light Up Crosby Saturday Night

By Michelle Svangstu

It isn’t very often that an artist whose hits have recently claimed the #1 spot on national radio, iTunes and been in the top 40 on the Billboard Charts comes to NW North Dakota…but that’s exactly what’s happening on Saturday, May 20th when Christian Rock/ Pop Artist “Consumed By

Fire” brings their music –and their message – to Crosby.

Crosby resident Mark Valentin, who has strong ties to the music industry and had worked with the band previously, shared that the group reached out to him, looking to book another location to share their

(Story Continues on Page 8)

DAKOTA GARDENER:

Great seeds lead to great gardens

By Tom Kalb,

(Continues on Page 14)

Tom Kalb, NDSU Extension horticulturist (NDSU photo)

Since 2008, NDSU Extension has worked with hundreds of families to identify the best varieties for our state.

Horticulturist, NDSU Extension

LOCAL EVENTS SPONSORED BY

FORTUNA

Every Tuesday- Range Night at Northwest Sportsman Club

RAY

Thursday May 18th - 7-12th Semester

Tests (Evens)

Thursday May 18th - Grade 6 Field Trip to New Town

Thursday May 18th - 7th & 8th Student

Appreciation Assembly 2:15pm

Friday May 19th - End of Quarter 4/

Semester 2 Ray Schools

Friday May 19th - Last Day of School

Friday May 19th - Varsity Golf 10:00am at Stanley

Saturday May 20th - Baseball Region

Tourney at DLB

Saturday May 20th - Track & Field

Regionals 11:00am at Minot

Sunday May 23rd - 2023 Ray High

School Graduation

May 22nd-24th - Baseball Region

Tourney at DLB

May 22nd-24th - Softball Region

Tourney at Minot

May 23rd-25th - Wrestling Camp at Ray

High School Gym

May 25th-27th - Track & Field State

Meet at Bismarck State College

CROSBY

Thursday May 18th - Divide County

Commission Meeting 8:00am

Friday May 19th - Planning & Zoning

Commission 9:00am

Friday May 19th - Cards and Games at Crosby Senior Citizen Center 1:302:30pm

May 19th-21st - Movie at Dakota

Theater 7:30pm

Saturday May 20th - Consumed by Fire

Concert 7:00pm at Concordia Lutheran

Church

Sunday May 21st - Divide County

Graduation 2:00pm at Divide County High School

Wednesday May 24th - Storytime at the Divide County Library 10:00am10:45am

Wednesday May 24th - Summer Reading Program 1:00pm-2:00pm Divide County Library

Friday May 26th - Cards and Games at Crosby Senior Citizen Center 1:302:30pm

May 26th-28th - Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

LIGNITE

Friday May 19th - Last Day of School

Friday May 19th - High School Awards 1:00pm at Burke Central

Friday May 19th - Elementary School Awards 2:00pm at Burke Central

Friday May 19th - Buses will be running around 2:30pm after the Elementary Awards

Sunday May 21st - Graduation 4:00pm

WILLISTON

Saturday May 20th - 2023 Community Sale at Raymond Family Community Center

Saturday May 20th - 2023 Williston

Rural Fire Association Spring Walleye

Classic at Lewis & Clark State Park

Monday May 22nd - Regular Board

Meeting Williston High School 5:30pm6:30pm

Tuesday May 23rd - End of Quarter 4

Williston High School

Thursday May 25th - Last Day of School

Sunday May 28th - Williston High School Graduation

TIOGA

Thursday May 18th - Free Landfill for Clean Up Week 10:00am - 7:00pm at Tioga Lanfill

Thursday May 18th - Tioga Historical Society Meeting 6:30pm at Tioga Museum

Thursday May 18th - Airport Authority

Meeting 7:00pm at 2237 Aviator Way

Tioga, ND 58852

Thursday May 18th - Slow Yoga 6:00pm-7:00pm at Tioga Community

Center

Saturday May 20th - ONLY Playroom

Open 10:00am - 5:30pm

Saturday May 20th - Library Open 10:00am - 4:00pm

Monday May 22nd - Tioga Municipal Court 6:30pm at Tioga Commission Hall

Monday May 22nd - Learn English Class 10:00am Tioga Community Center

Monday May 22nd - Pickleball 5:00pm8:00pm Tioga Community Center

Wednesday May 24th - Storytime 10:30am - 11:00am Tioga Community Center

Thursday May 25th - Yoga Nidra 6:00pm-7:00pm Tioga Community Center

Tioga Community Center Schedule

Mondays: Yoga Flow 9:30am-10:30am

Tuesdays: Pickleball 6pm-8pm

Thursdays: Slow Flow 6pm-7pm

WIC Program Announces New Income Levels for Eligibility

Income eligibility guidelines for the North Dakota Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) have increased based on changes in the federal poverty levels. The change increases the amount of income a family can make and still qualify for services. Effective May 1, 2023, a family of four can earn up to $4,625 each month (or $55,500 annually) and meet the new WIC income eligibility requirements.

As the nation’s most successful public health nutrition program, WIC has been providing healthy food, nutrition education

and community support for more than 40 years. The WIC Program has improved children’s health, growth

and development by providing nutritious foods, including milk, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, 100% fruit

juices, beans, whole grains and cereals and fresh fruits and vegetables. WIC supports breastfeeding as the optimal way to feed infants. Infants who are not breastfeeding receive iron-fortified formula and older infants receive baby food.

“Helping to keep families healthy is a main goal of WIC,” said Amanda Varriano, WIC program director with the North Dakota Health and Human Services. “WIC ensures that mothers and young children have access to healthy foods, breastfeeding support, accurate information and referrals to other services.”

If you are pregnant, have

a new baby, or have children under the age of 5 years, you might be eligible for WIC. WIC is available to working and non-working families. Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants are automatically income eligible. Families may qualify for WIC by meeting the income guidelines for the household.

Visit the North Dakota WIC website to find out more about WIC and how you may qualify: www.hhs. nd.gov/food-programs/WIC

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Strengthening Bike Safety for Tioga: A

Call to Drivers and Community Involvement

Tioga Police Department

As the academic year draws to a close, it is essential for us to prioritize the safety of our community's young cyclists. With students traveling to and from school on their bicycles, it becomes paramount for both drivers and cyclists to exercise caution and adhere to road safety practices. In this article, we will explore the importance of bike safety and encourage drivers to remain vigilant, ensuring the well-being of our community's children as they embark on their cycling journeys. Together, let us create a secure environment where our young riders can thrive.

Safety First: Cycling Tips for Students

For our community kid-

dos who ride their bikes to school, it's crucial to instill safe cycling habits. Here are some essential tips for young cyclists:

1. Always wear a properly fitted helmet to protect the head in case of a fall or collision.

2. Obey traffic rules and signals, just like any other vehicle on the road.

3. Ride in a single file, in the same direction as traffic, and use designated bike lanes when available.

4. Use hand signals to indicate turns or stops, giving motorists ample warning.

5. Stay visible by wearing bright clothing and using reflectors and lights, especially during lowlight conditions.

Driver Awareness: Sharing the Road Responsibly

As responsible drivers, it is crucial to be attentive and vigilant, especially during school dismissal times when children may be cycling home. Here are some tips for drivers to promote bike safety:

1. Slow down in school zones and residential areas, especially during pick-up and drop-off times.

2. Look for cyclists before opening car doors and when turning at intersections.

3. Leave a safe distance when passing cyclists, providing at least three feet of space.

4. Be patient and avoid honking unnecessarily, as sudden loud noises

Did You Know?

can startle young cyclists.

5. Avoid distractions such as texting or using electronic devices while driving, as it impairs focus and reaction time.

As the school year concludes, let's prioritize bike safety and ensure the well-being of our community’s kiddos. Educating young cyclists about safe

riding practices, promoting driver awareness, and fostering a collaborative approach can create a secure environment where our children can enjoy the benefits of cycling while remaining safe on the roads. Let's work together to make Tioga a model of bike safety and protect our most precious assets.

Bar Hours: 11AM -1AM 7 days a week

Grill Hours: 11AM - 9:45PM 7 days a week.

A good joke can liven up any social engagement, but the value of humor goes well beyond breaking the ice at parties and other get-togethers. According to the Cleveland Clinic, laughter can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to lower heart rate and help people breathe more easily. Given such benefits, it’s no surprise that laughter has been linked to a host of medical benefits, including stress relief and improved heart health.

Westby High School Class of 2023

Graudation Ceremony: Westby School Gym, May 19, 7:00pm

Class Colors: Purple Gold, and Black

Class Motto: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

- Eleanor Roosevelt

Commencement Speaker: Jennifer Pulvermacher, Math Instructor at Westby High School

District Track Results: Folvag Breaks Thunder Record Twice

The District 2-C track meet was held in Lambert May 9 with the following results:

Boys:

• Thomas Arnson: 6th in triple jump

• Victor Christian: 7th in 1600m

• Elliot Rudningen: 8th in discus

• Graham Wright: 2nd in triple jump; 6th in100m; 7th in 200m

• Arnson, Andrew Petersen, Rudningen, and Wright:

Two Thunder GOLFERS Head to State

Adam Paine came in 3rd and Tavyn Jacobson 18th to qualify for state at the divisional golf meet on Monday, May 8 in Laurel.

At press time, they are both competing at the state golf meet in Great Falls.

Head coach of MonDak golf is Blake Lampert; assistant is Joe Paine.

7th in 4x100 relay; 8th in 4x400 relay.

Girls:

• Zoe Brandenburger: 6th in 100m

• Erika Christian 4th in 1600m; 5th in 800m

• Katelynn Folvag: 3rd in 100m hurdles; 5th in 300m hurdles

• Sydney Rudningen: 7th in high jump; 7th in javelin; 8th in 400m

• Sayler Stewart:1st in 800m; 2nd in 3200m

• Bradenburger, Christian,

Folvag, and Stewart: 5th in 4x100m relay

• Bradenburger, Folvag, Rudningen, and Stewart: 2nd in 4x400m relay

Coach Susan Meyer also reported that Katelynn Folvag broke the Thunder’s 100m hurdle record held by Jenna Rust twice in six days; the second being at the district meet.

The Montana Eastern C Divisional Track Meet will be held May 18 in Lambert.

State Music Results

Seventeen Westby High School students attended the Eastern Montana State Music Festival May 5-6 in Billings. Seniors Sayler Stewart and Faith Olson (pictured in Class of 2023)

each received Superior (I) ratings on their vocal solos. The Westby Drum Line received an Excellent (II) rating. Westby band and choir are directed by Ken Whitney.

There’s a 12,500 to 1 chance of a typical golfer making a Hole-in-One. Even professional players can go their whole career without making one!

By Heidi Whitney

Sayler Stewart

Kira Baker, Valedictorian

Andrew Petersen

Braden Pulvermacher

Faith Olson

Olivia Christian

Cole Gebhardt, Salutatorian

Edward LeRoy Retzer of Crosby, North Dakota | 1943 - 2023 | Obituary

Edward LeRoy Retzer

(Ed) passed away May 3, 2023 at the Halstad Nursing Home, Halstad Minnesota.

Prayer service will be held Wednesday May 17 at 5:00 p.m. at the Stakston-Martin Funeral Home, Crosby ND. A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday May 18 at Concordia Lutheran Church, Crosby ND. Pastor Zach Shipman will officiate the service. Arrangements entrusted to Stakson-Martin Funeral Home of Crosby, ND.

Ed was born March 23,1943 in Moorhead to John and Helen (Billing) Retzer.

He attended Eldridge elementary school and graduated in 1961 from Jamestown High School where he was involved in band and orchestra. He gained the nickname “Smiley”

because he was always smiling.

He went on to earn his degrees in music and english at Valley City State Teachers College graduating in 1965. He taught music and english in Gwinner, Wishek and Rollette ND schools before moving to Westby Montana where he taught also in Plentywood, Montana.

He served as director of the North West Chorus for many

years, there he met Doris Fosland. Unbeknownst to many family and friends they were married December 20,1986 in Jamestown ND. It was a happy Christmas surprise. They moved from Westby Montana to Crosby ND where he continued his teaching of music and choir.

He was a wonderful and well respected choir and band teacher.

Ed was very active in Concordia Lutheran Church where he was the organist and choir director and served as council president.

He was the manager of the Dakota Theater.

Ed loved music and loved to sing, sometimes making up his own words as he sang along.

Ed loved life and lived it

to the fullest. He had a great sense of humor and a quick wit. He loved his little red Buick tooling around town wearing his shorts and Birkenstock sandals no matter the weather.

He will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

He was a loving and caring brother, son, uncle, friend, father-figure and grandpa Ed. He is survived by two brothers, Gary (Lana) of Wahpeton ND, Ken, of Orange Grove Texas and one sister, LuAnna Lund, Wahpeton ND; sisterin-law Sherrill Fosland, of Crosby, ND; Many nieces and nephews, several great and great great nieces and nephews, who he loved dearly. Always remembering them on their birthdays and holidays.

He was preceded in death

Lynn (Tangedal) McGhan | 1955 - 2023 | Obituary

Lynn Marie McGhan’s earthly journey began on January 14, 1955.

Born Lynn Marie Tangedal to Elton and Yvonne (Willard) Tangedal in Plentywood, MT, she was the third of six children; Jerry (Kathy) Tangedal, Steven Tangedal, Luanne Tangedal, Douglas Tangedal, Craig (Tracy) Tangedal, entering the world as a farmer’s daughter, she grew up on the family farm in Elkorn Township, Divide County, North Dakota.

She was baptized at Oslo Lutheran Church and confirmed at First Lutheran Church, in Westby, MT.

Growing up on the farm with five siblings, there was always something to do, as they had their own fun, whether that was baseball, exploring the hills, sledding, ice skating, snowmobiling or playing board games and cards. When her older brother, Steven, started school, he would come home and teach her everything. She could read fluently before going to first grade. So, after only a short time, she was put in second grade. Lynn soon

then took piano lessons. After progressing in her lessons, she was always accompanying her siblings at their annual family Christmas programs at the farm. In high school she was active in band with her saxophone skills. She would play her saxophone, as well as sing in many choirs at State music festival events over the years.

Lynn was a cheerleader for the 1972 State champion Ranger basketball team. She also attended State track meets for hurdles and relay. Her relay team held the Westby school record for many years. Title 9 was effective the month after

she graduated, otherwise her unsanctioned basketball play may have been recognized. She started out with girl’s half court play in physical education class.

Graduating Westby high school in 1972 she then attended Minot State College where she caught the eye of and fell in love with Eugene (Gene) McGhan of Crosby, ND, marrying in 1974 and soon thereafter becoming a loving & caring mother of two sons; Eugene (Geno) Elton (Melissa) McGhan and Matthew Alan (Lisa) McGhan & a little further down the path, a grandmother of 6 grandchildren; Maegan, Wils, Mia, Caitlynn, Leslie, and Evelyn, who were the jewels of her heart and pride & joy.

The time and miles traveled between were filled with a full life with many stops. She and Gene traveled to all 50 states, singing songs and harmonizing along the way. Many roads were traversed to, and with, her many nieces and nephews and cousins filling the time with love as well as taking care of many friends

by his wife, Doris, parents John and Helen Retzer; brother-in-law John Fosland and Glen Lund; and very good friend Jim Weiler.

Memorials may be given to the North West Choir.

SERVICES

Prayer Service

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 5:00 PM

Stakston-Martin Funeral Home of Crosby

710 S Main St Crosby, ND 58730

Memorial Service

Thursday, May 18, 2023 10:00 AM

Concordia Lutheran Church 204 Main Street N.E. Crosby, Northa Dakota 58730

and family along the way.

When not busy with traveling her life revolved around bowling, softball, but more importantly, caring for those around her, beginning with her two boys — moving to Craig, Colorado in 1979 — she soon thereafter began to take care of special education needs children through the 10 years of living near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Making a big move east to Virginia, as her boys were finishing middle & high school, she leveled up her caretaking skills and got her degree in Physical Therapy, Magnum Cum Laude, from John Tyler College to then take care of those in need in Central Virginia. She took that love of caretaking with her on the next big move back out west to La Center, Washington and eventually over to the foothills in and around Spokane, Washington until retirement.

During those waypoints you could typically find her being a cheerleader for her favorite sports teams, Minnesota Twins and Vikings, Montana State University Bobcats

or Gonzaga Bulldogs as well as being the best fisher in the family.

Nana/Grandma Sister, as her grandchildren lovingly called her, was on an eventual farewell road trip, in warm & sunny Florida cheering on her Minnesota Twins, with her boys by her side when she left this earth to begin her new journey, on April 30, 2023, to fish with her dad and many other family members preceding her in heaven.

A private Ash Scattering Gathering will take place this summer at the Oslo Cemetery near Westby.

Surviving family members include her husband, sons, mother, and all of her siblings, along with her beloved grandchildren and daughters-in law. She also has many special cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death was her father and his siblings, a niece, Randi Tangedal, and her grandparents, Hannah and Bill Willard and Erling and Gertie Tangedal.

SPRING SPORT SEASON IS WRAPPING UP WITH SOME ATHLETES HEADED TO STATE

By Alyssa Stromberg

As is pretty standard in northeast Montana, track and golf season is usually delayed due to weather conditions, this year was no different. The Redhawk track team made every meet count. The Top 10 track meet was in Glasgow, and there were five athletes that qualified; Carolyne Christoffersen in shot and discus, Max Engelke in 300 hurdles and 400, Joey Boyd in high

jump and long jump, Mason Dethman in shot, Joseph Robertson in 2-mile. The

boys’ relay team officially broke the Froid School record for the 4×100 relay.

They ran 46.63, the old record, which has stood since 1976, was 46.70. Congratu-

lations Max Engelke, Mason Dethman, Landen Kelm, and Daniel Forizs! Then at the district track meet the weather was perfect, and the boys’ 4x100 relay again broke their record from just the week prior! The boys’ team took third overall in the district and first in their 4x100 relay. The Redhawks had several athletes on the podium and several of them achieved personal records.

The Redhawk golf team has had some beautiful weather to hit the courses. Divisional golf happened at the Laurel Golf Club and it is one tough course. Patton Bighorn shot 128, Sol 117, Trent Williams 130, and Austen Hobbs 133. Makaylee Elvsaas had 170 and Addison Elvsaas with 127. Addison placed 18th out of the top 25 for girls qualifying her for State in Great Falls. Sol Grainger was 6 places away from making State! This year they all have improved tremendously.

Daniel, Max, Mason and Landon 4x100 relay team.

Left: Addison Elvsaas

Tick-Borne Illness on the Rise Across the U.S.

The National Pest Management Association is educating consumers on the threats posed by ticks during Tick Awareness Week.

Fairfax, VA (May 8, 2023) – Ticks are dangerous pests capable of transmitting debilitating diseases at increasingly alarming rates. In fact, one in five (22%) Americans know someone who has contracted Lyme disease from a tick bite, according to a recent NPMA survey conducted by The Harris Poll. In honor of Tick Awareness Week, May 7 – 13, 2023, the National Pest Management Associ-

ation (NPMA) is spreading awareness about health risks associated with these experienced hitchhikers. There are nearly 100 different tick species in the United States, with a handful posing specific health threats, including anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Powassan virus, tularemia, and more. Notably, there are two tick-borne illnesses on the rise across the nation: Lyme Disease: is the most common vector-borne disease in the U.S. According to the CDC, nearly half a million Americans are diagnosed and treated

for Lyme disease annually. This concerning disease is transmitted by blacklegged (deer) ticks and is often recognized by a red “bull’s eye” rash near the bite site.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): is one of the deadliest tickborne diseases in the region. Transmitted by different tick species, including the Rocky Mountain wood tick, brown dog tick and American dog tick, RMSF can pose serious health problems if not treated early.

“As people head outdoors more this season, it is essential to remain vigilant

about the threats posed by ticks,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for NPMA. “In most cases, ticks must be attached for more than 24 hours before transmitting any pathogen. Thus, removing all ticks in a timely manner is critical to preventing disease.”

NPMA is offering the following prevention tips to stay protected this tick season: Keep grass cut low, including around fences, sheds, trees, shrubs and swing sets.

When outdoors, use bug

spray containing at least 20% DEET and wear longsleeved shirts and pants, preferably light in color, so ticks are easier to detect.

Once indoors, inspect your entire body, clothing, family and pets for ticks.

If you suspect a tick infestation on your property, contact a qualified pest control professional immediately.

For more information about ticks, visit TickTalk. org and PestWorld.org.

Did You Know?

Ticks are not insects. Ticks are classified as a species of arachnids, or relatives of spiders, scorpions and mites. If you look closely at a tick, you’ll notice it has four pairs of legs and no attenae.

Steaks,

Consumed By Fire Set to Light Up Crosby Saturday Night

newest EP, “First Things First.” The Oklahoma natives were a little surprised to find themselves possibly coming to a city “almost in Canada,” but nonetheless booked the date and set the planning in motion.

While an outdoor concert venue was considered, Crosby native and current Pastor at Crosby Assembly of God, Les Anderson knows all too well the unpredictability of May weather in North Dakota. “We are fortunate to be able to partner with Pastors Zach and Emily [Shipman] and Concordia Lutheran Church to host this incredible event,” notes Pastor Les. In addition to "Consumed By Fire", a few familiar faces will be hitting the stage as “The West Park Band,” a local Divide County favorite, will be the opening act.

Consumed by Fire consists of three brothers. Caleb, Josh and Jordan Ward grew up spending much of their lives on the road as their parents traveled across the world to share the hope of Jesus with others. In 2010, the brothers set out on their musical journey, releasing their first album

“Something Real.” A few years later, in 2016, the brothers released the “Lean On Me” EP, which earned radio and Billboard successes. Their March 2023 EP release, “First Things

First,” was heavily influenced by the life and legacy left behind by their dad, who passed away in 2022 after battling for three years after a debilitating stroke. Songs such as their chart-topping hit single “First Things

First” were written from a deeper, more personal perspective – surrendering it all to God in-spite-of whatever their current circumstances looked like….and it seems that the message resonates with listeners, too.

“First Things First” has climbed to the top of the Christian radio charts, at times earning the #1 spot on KLove and Air1 Radio as well as iTunes, and staying in the top 20 songs in Christian music for several weeks in a row. Other chart-topping hits include “Goodbye Ole Me” and “Hope Says,” a song that was written to encourage others that there is hope, even during times of despair and desperation.

In a recent YouTube video, “Get to Know Consumed by Fire,” Jordan says that he hopes that people who hear their music “feel the freedom that comes in relationship with Jesus.”

Brother Caleb agrees: “The freedom, the grace mindset, we definitely want that for our listeners…to know that they’re loved just as they are.” “You’d be surprised, “shares Jordan, “at how many people think God’s mad at them, so our message at the end of our journey…. is that God isn’t mad at you, God’s mad about you…….

God Loves You.”

The concert opens at

7PM on May 20th, 2023 at Concordia Lutheran Church. Admission is FREE to all and open to the public, no tickets will be sold. ALL ages are WELCOME. For questions, please contact

Pastor Les at 701-965-6535.

*Band information compiled from the following websites: consumedbyfire.com, www.20thecountdown.com, and www. thechristianbeat.com

Every meal – $150-$250

additional

West Park Band, Photo Courtesy Zach Shipman via Facebook

North Dakota Game & Fish: New LeGisLatioN

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department tracked 20 outdoors-related bills during the 2023 legislative session, 12 passed both chambers and signed into law.

The following bills take effect Aug. 1, except Senate Bill 2297 carries an emergency clause, and House Bill 1538 begins the following licensing year, April 1, 2024. A complete list of bills is on the Game and Fish website, gf.nd.gov.

HB 1014 – Provides an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the industrial commission and agencies under its control. This includes Outdoor Heritage Fund at $15 million.

HB 1134 – Nonresident current North Dakota national guard members are eligible to receive resident licenses, except lottery permits.

HB 1224 – Allows a dog handler to carry a hand-

gun in the recovery of a big game animal while in the presence of a dog. The dog handler cannot use the handgun to assist in the recovery of the animal and must have permission from the landowner or individual authorized by the landowner before entering private land for the recovery of a big game animal.

HB 1233 – Allows a 11-, 12- and 13-year-old antlerless white-tailed deer youth hunter to also hunt during the regular deer gun season.

HB 1260 – Develops agreements to compensate

private landowners for the development of habitat on private property for addressing fish and wildlife populations. In addition, allows the Game and Fish director to issue special antlerless elk depredation management licenses to landowners upon payment of the fee required for a resident big game license. To be eligible for this license, a landowner cannot charge a fee for elk hunting and must allow reasonable public access as determined by the director.

HB 1366 – Allows an individual engaged in barefoot skiing or surfing to wear a wet suit. A life preserver must be on board the towing vessel for an individual barefoot skiing or surfing.

HB 1409 – A nonresident youth who is less than 16 years of age may purchase a resident general

game hunting license and may hunt small game and waterfowl, except swans and wild turkeys, during the entire regular small game and waterfowl seasons. The accompanying adult family member or legal guardian does not have to be licensed.

HB 1538 – Relates to fishing. Established a $50 entry fee for a fishing contest, an application fee of $75 for all tournaments, a conservation fee of an amount to be determined between the tournament sponsor and a representative of the fishing tournament (except for nonprofits), post contest reporting requirements, Game and Fish establishes a fishery conservation fund, and a surcharge of $5 on each nonresident fishing license. Effective April 1, 2024.

SB 2017 – Establishes an appropriation of $107,611,466 to the Game

and Fish Department for the biennium beginning July 1, 2023, and ending June 30, 2025.

SB 2097 – Requires a political subdivision to notify the Game and Fish director, among others, before engaging in meetings with federal agencies to have any water body in the state designated a wild, scenic or recreational river under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

SB 2297 – Certified game and fish volunteer instructors who have maintained active status in the state for 30 years are eligible to receive complimentary fishing and certain hunting licenses. Emergency clause carried; effective immediately.

SB 2382 – Provides clarity to the motorboat numbering exemptions section of the North Dakota Century Code.

Williams County releases community resource, “Where in Williams County?”

WILLISTON, N.D.

(May 12, 2023): Williams County is excited to release a new resource for potential residents, newcomers, as well as current residents, called Where in Williams County?. Designed to illustrate all aspects of living in northwestern North Dakota,

including winter, the guide provides information about jobs, housing, education, childcare, and things to do.

Where in Williams County? is intended to provide employers with a resource to attract and recruit new candidates as well as those who have just chosen Wil-

Our Services:

liams County as their new home to get settled quickly. Features of the guide, such as Newcomer 101, provide new residents with answers to frequently asked questions like where to get a drivers license, who are the Internet providers, and where can one can open a new bank.

Where in Williams County? was developed by Williams County and AE2S, with contributions and input from numerous individuals

and organizations including Ashley Sevre Photography, the City of Epping, the City of Grenora, the City of Ray, the City of Tioga, the City of Williston, the Williston Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), and the Williston Area Chamber of

Commerce. The guide will be a living resource, meaning it will be updated often. The guide is currently available online at whereinwilliamscounty.com and a printed version will be available for distribution in the coming weeks.

Changes to the Homestead Property Tax Credit Program

WILLISTON, N.D.

(May 12, 2023): On April 27, 2023, Governor Doug Burgum signed House Bill 1158 into law. This legislation broadens the eligibility requirements and maximum reduction amounts for those applying for the North Dakota Homestead Property Tax Credit program. This program is aimed at homeowners 65 years of age and older or those who are permanently and totally disabled.

The credit does not reduce the liability of any person for special assessments levied upon any property.

With this new legislation, the asset limit of $500,000 has been removed. Applications must be submitted yearly for approval.

If an individual has already applied for the credit this year, the application will be adjusted to reflect the new percentages.

If an individual qual-

ifies for the program and would like to apply, contact the Williams County Tax Director at (701) 577-4555 or via this online form. For more information about credit and exemption programs, visit the Property Tax Exemptions and Credits webpage.

Tribal Advocates Secure Settlement for Local Elections in ND County

By Mike Moen Prairie News Service

For nearly two decades, a North Dakota county elected local commissioners in a way that did not comply with a consent decree concerning Native American interests. Advocates say a settlement has been reached to ensure that a fair system is re-established. The Native American Rights Fund recently announced the pending agreement with Benson County. In 2000, a court order spurred by a Department of Justice filing said the county's choice of an "at-large" election process diminished the political power of Natives in the area. But in 2004, the county went back to that process.

Michael Carter, staff attorney with the Native American Rights Fund, said recent Census figures show

Natives deserve greater representation.

"The county had a majority Native American population," Carter said. "However there was only one Native American serving on the board."

The group, which represented the Spirit Lake Tribe, contends the county's actions violated the federal Voting Rights Act. The Benson County state's attorney calls the settlement a good result. He notes that in 2004, the commission responded to a shift in Native population numbers and did not think the original decree was permanent.

In a phased-in structure,

the new agreement gives Native voters an opportunity to elect three candidates of their choice to the Benson County Board of Commissioners. Carter said cases like this one stem from a project NARF launched in 2020 to work with tribes around the country on redistricting efforts and the need for fair political maps.

"These are ongoing issues that require the local voters to stay engaged and stay informed about what county and local officials are doing," he said.

The organization is involved in a pair of other legal cases concerning redistricting in North Dakota and its impact on Native American voters. Those lawsuits are related to legislative seats, and Carter added one they filed is scheduled to o to trial in June.

MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATES CLAIM SUCCESS AT MT LEGISLATURE

State lawmakers address many of Montana’s most pressing mental-health needs.

By Mark Moran Big Sky Connection

Montana's mental health advocates said state lawmakers addressed many of the state's pressing needs in the just-completed legislative session, but more work remains to be done.

The Montana Legislature addressed increasing funding for youth suicide prevention, adding beds at crisis care centers, improving Medicaid reimbursement rates for community behavioral health providers, increasing the number of community behavioral health centers and reworking conditional-release programs for offenders with serious mental health conditions.

Matt Kuntz, executive director of the National

Alliance on Mental Illness-Montana, said it is exactly how lawmakers should address the state's critical mental health needs.

"There was a big, bipartisan push for mental health," Kuntz acknowledged. "There's a lot of things our country doesn't agree about right now. There's a lot of things our state doesn't agree about right now. But to see bipartisan agreement on mental health is really positive."

Kuntz pointed out while lawmakers did a lot to support mental health issues in the state, he and other advocates are already thinking about how to make more progress in the next legislative session.

While Medicaid reimbursement rates are slight-

Report: ND Sees Boost in Economic Value of Unpaid Caregivers

ly higher than they have been, Kuntz explained because reimbursement rates are still below where they should be, caregiver wages stay low, making it hard to attract providers to the profession.

"It's going to be a challenge to keep moving forward with increasing the number of care providers, both clinicians and technical staff," Kuntz cautioned. "Getting those bodies to serve and care for the people and make mental health their career is a long-term challenge, especially coming out of COVID."

Kuntz added he and other advocates are already planning to ask for higher Medicaid reimbursement rates moving forward.

By Mike Moen Prairie News Service

North Dakota's population includes 16% of its residents aged 65 and older, with demographers predicting the number will increase, and a new report showed family members caring for many older residents are doing so with a large economic value.

The latest AARP estimate found the unpaid care provided by family caregivers in North Dakota is pegged at $1 billion, based on the average weekly hours they put in. The group said it highlights the challenges caregivers face amid an aging population.

Vel Rae Burkholder, an AARP volunteer and retiree in Fargo, was a caregiver for both her adult son and husband when they each had cancer at different points. She said for her husband, there was a lot to juggle at times.

"It was a never-ending struggle with trying to do everything that had to be done like grocery shopping," Burkholder recounted.

The number of North Dakota family caregivers declined in the most recent estimate, but the economic value of their care went up by $20 million. AARP pushed for support measures in the recent legislative session, including a tax credit to reduce the financial burden for these households. At the federal level, President Joe Biden recently signed an executive order designed to offer more caregiver assistance.

Meanwhile, Burkholder suggested it would be helpful for government agencies and aid groups to create more awareness about services tied to respite care.

"That would be a great thing if they would provide some more knowledge about how you can get home health care so that you can go out and get away for a little bit," Burkholder recommended.

According to AARP, there are more than 60,000 family caregivers in North Dakota. More than 60% of them have full- or part-time jobs.

Did You Know?

“One in six U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year. Half of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24. Depression alone costs the nation about $210.5 billion annually. The average delay between onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment is 11 years.”

Source: https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/external/2020/11/10-surprising-mental-health-statistics-from-2020/#:~:text=One%20in%20six%20U.S.%20 youth,and%20treatment%20is%2011%20years.

NDSU STUDY SEEKS FARMER/ RANCHER INPUT ON WELL-BEING

North Dakota farmers and ranchers are invited to participate in a focus group interview to investigate how a worksite well-being program could be designed to effectively decrease stress and increase well-being.

NDSU Extension

Do you deal with a lot of stress in farming or ranching? You are not alone.

Change is everywhere in agriculture. While some changes are anticipated, such as fluctuations in market prices, others, such as unpredictable weather events or unexpected disease, can be hard to cope with.

To better understand how the opportunities and constraints faced in their daily operations impact well-being, Caroline Homan, doctoral student in Human Development and Family Science at North Dakota State University, is seeking North Dakota farmers and ranchers to participate in a focus group.

“Responding to change in agriculture requires flexibility,” says Homan. “It can be a challenge that stimulates personal and organizational growth, or it can be a source of severe stress that has devastating effects on families."

North Dakota farmers and ranchers over the age of 18 are invited to participate in a 60-minute focus group interview to investigate how a worksite well-being program could be designed to effectively decrease stress

and increase well-being.

The goal of this research is to learn how to best support farmers and ranchers’ physical health, social relationships, psychological well-being and work adjustment.

The focus group interview will be held virtually using Zoom. Six to 10 participants will be in each group. Participants will not use their real names and will agree to respect the privacy of others, and all identifying records will be kept private.

Prior to the focus group, participants will complete a brief online questionnaire to gather demographic information and consider questions related to topics to be

discussed during the focus group, such as, “What are your primary sources of strength?”

To participate, please email caroline.homan@ ndsu.edu. Each participant will receive a $20 Amazon gift card as a small token of gratitude.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – May 5, 2023. https:// www.ag.ndsu.edu/news/newsreleases/2023/may/ndsustudy-seeks-farmer-rancherinput-on-well-being

North Dakota farmers and ranchers over the age of 18 are invited to participate in a 60-minute focus group interview to investigate how a worksite well-being program could be designed to effectively decrease stress and increase well-being.

DAKOTA GARDENER: Great seeds lead to great gardens

By Tom Kalb, Horticulturist, NDSU Extension

Do you want to grow a great garden this year?

You need to start with great seeds. Great seeds can lead to big yields, early harvests and delicious vegetables.

How do you find the best seeds for North Dakota?

There are a few key traits to look for.

Look for a variety that ripens early. This is especially important this year because we are off to a late start.

The description of the variety should say it produces high yields. We want a big harvest.

Look for varieties that resist diseases. Nobody enjoys spraying fungicides in the garden. I recommend you sow modern varieties because they resist many diseases.

This bring us to the issue of heirlooms. Be cautious about growing heirlooms.

In general, heirlooms are less productive and much more susceptible to diseases.

The last and most important trait to look for is to find a variety that has been proven to grow well in North Dakota.

Since 2008, North Dakota State University Extension has worked with hundreds of families to identify the best varieties for our state. Our recommendations are posted on the website of the North Dakota Home Garden Variety Trials at https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/ homegardenvarietytrials.

This year alone, a team of over 280 gardeners have

received seeds of promising varieties they will test in their gardens this summer. You can join our team, too. Everyone is welcome.

Over 40 different vegetable and flower trials are available to participate in.

Our most popular trial this year is a comparison of snap peas. The best snap pea variety in our trials has always been Sugar Ann. It is productive, ripens early, tastes sweet and crunchy, and does not require a trellis.

This year we are comparing Sugar Ann to Snak Hero, a new award-winning variety that is reported to be very sweet. The pods of

Snak Hero look like beans but have the taste and texture of peas. Is Snak Hero any good? We don’t know today, but we will find out after 100 families in North Dakota test it this summer.

We are testing melons developed in North Dakota, lettuce that can produce all summer long, premium quality beans, colorful carrots, squash with superior flavor, cucumbers that produce fruits without bees, pumpkins of all sizes and colors, and lots of flowers, too.

Each trial is a comparison of two varieties. For example, if you want to grow the snap pea trial, you will receive a packet of Sugar Ann and Snak Hero. You grow them side-by-side in your garden.

There is no complicated data to collect. You’ll receive a score sheet along with your seeds. Check off which variety germinated better, was healthier, ripened first, produced more and tasted better. Lastly, tell us which variety you recommend for gardeners in North Dakota. It’s that simple.

Gardeners in our program report they are introduced to new varieties, produce higher yields and enjoy healthier diets.

It’s a fun project for kids, too. About 300 youth participate every year. Parents say their kids spend more time outdoors, develop skills in science and eat more vegetables while doing these simple experiments.

Seed supplies are limited. To look over our catalog and order your seeds, go to the North Dakota Home Garden Variety Trials website listed above.

For more information about gardening, contact your local NDSU Extension agent. Find the Extension office for your county at www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ extension/county-extension-offices.

NDSU Agriculture Communication. May 9, 2023. https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/ news/columns/dakota-gardener/dakota-gardenergreat-seeds-lead-to-greatgardens

Make sure trees, shrubs are winter hardy before purchasing

BISMARCK – Agriculture

Commissioner Doug Goehring is encouraging homeowners to research products before buying and planting nursery stock for their property.

“With warmer weather finally approaching, homeowners may be anxious to add trees and shrubs to their landscapes,” Goehring said. “Many varieties of trees and shrubs adapt well to North Dakota’s climate and soils, but before you plant, you may want to talk with a trusted nursery dealer, horticulturist or local extension agent. They will help you select nursery stock that you will enjoy for years to come.”

Goehring said the North Dakota Department of Agriculture receives numerous complaints every year from both consumers and dealers about non-hardy stock being sold in the state. North Dakota is in plant hardiness zones 3 and 4. Using a trusted source to verify that the plant tag shows the correct hardiness zone for that plant species is recommended.

State law requires that all trees and shrubs, designated by the agriculture commissioner as non-hardy must be labeled “non-hardy in North Dakota.”

“Selling unlabeled non-hardy stock is bad behavior, predatory in nature

and a waste of the consumer’s money,” Goehring said. “Consumers who purchase unlabeled non-hardy stock should return it for a full refund.”

The penalty for violating the law is up to $500 per incident. Repeated violations can result in denial or revocation of a nursery license.

“Some plants are not adapted to surviving our North Dakota winters when the temperature can drop to 25 degrees below zero and colder,” Goehring said. “Some plants may not tolerate our soil types or dry winter conditions. Plants not adapted to our environment can also make them more

susceptible to plant pests and diseases.”

The most common, non-hardy trees and shrubs offered for sale in North Dakota include emerald arborvitae, dwarf Alberta spruce, eastern redbud, oakleaf hydrangea, Japanese snowball (Viburnum plicatum), dappled willow and certain varieties of fruit trees, such as peaches and sweet cherries. Emerald arborvitae and dwarf Alberta spruce are sometimes labeled as hardy from 30 to 40 degrees below zero, but they tend to winter burn badly resulting in death or severe dieback.

NDDA nursery inspectors will be out visiting

nurseries and checking for non-hardy nursery stock as well as other compliance with North Dakota nursery law, including proper labeling, pests and disease, and plant health and viability.

A more detailed listing of non-hardy trees and shrubs and a list of all licensed nurseries is available on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture website at https://www.ndda.nd.gov/ nursery-program. A plant hardiness zone map is available at http://planthardiness. ars.usda.gov/

Did You Know?

There are more microorganisms in one teaspoon of soil than there are people on earth.

Since 2008, NDSU Extension has worked with hundreds of families to identify the best varieties for our state.

Snak Hero is a new snap pea variety being evaluated by gardeners in North Dakota. (Photo courtesy of All-America Selections)

NATIONAL & WORLD HEADLINES

UNDERWATER LIVING

Scientist, Joe Dituri, from University of South Florida had broken the world record for longest time spent living underwater in a fixed habitat. He had spent 73 days underwater as of Monday, May 15. He plans to stay underwater for a total of 100 days and will resurface on June 9. When he resurfaces, he will undergo an in-depth examination by doctors to learn more about how the human body responds to living in these conditions. Joe has been staying at Undersea Lodge, a glass and metal structure 30 feet below the surface in a Lagoon in Key Largo, Florida, and has been youtubing and instagramming his experience.

BIDEN BECOMES THE 2ND PRESIDENT TO VISIT HIROSHIMA

On August 6, 1945, President Truman ordered a nuclear bomb dropped on Hiroshima, killing 100,000 people and quickening the end of World War II. On the 75th Anniversary of the event, during his election campaign, Biden marked

THOUGHT OF THE

Spring is a glorious reminder that even the most delicate seedlings must push through dirt in order to ‘live their best lives’, and that while the darkness of winter can seem unbearably long... sunshine and warmth are waiting for us, encouraging us to grow, reaching ever upward.

the event by stating that the images “still horrify us” and saying “They reach through history to remind us of the hideous damage nuclear weapons can inflict, and our collective responsibility to ensure that such weapons are never again used.” Now President, Biden is headed to Hiroshima for the G-7 Summit where he and other world leaders will discuss a range of issues including the ongoing conflict with Russia and climate change. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, hopes the location will also bring focus to the danger of nuclear weapons.

DON’T FORGET THE HOLOCAUST

75 years ago on January 27, 1945, the largest concentration and extermination camp run by Nazi Germany, Auschwitz was liberated by Allied Forces. An estimated 1.3 million people were sent to Auschwitz with around 1.1 million dying in the camp, including 960,000 Jews. In recent years, more stories are being shared. The survivors fear the world

will forget the Holocaust’s horrors if their stories are not made public. When arriving at the camp, they were forced to strip down, their hair was shaved, and they were tattooed. Many were sent to their deaths upon arrival at the camp. Now Auschwitz is a museum, serving as a reminder of the horrific events of World War II.

TWO RUSSIAN OFFICERS KILLED IN UKRAINE

The Donetsk region has seen some of the fiercest fighting of the war. An assault lasting months by Russian Forces has left the area devastated and driven thousands from their homes. Russia has been unable to take total control of the region despite the amount of manpower being used. They have also suffered significant losses. These loses now include Col. Vyacheslav Makarov and Col. Yevgeny Brovko. The Russian Defense Ministry didn’t specify when or where they were killed other than while leading troops in the Donetsk Region.

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