The Oracle - June 7, 2023

Upcoming Divide County Fair Filled With Fun For Everyone

USDA's Rural Energy for America Program Empowers TIOGA'S Agricultural Producers and Small Businesses

By Chelsy Weisz, Economic Development Director for the City of Tioga, ND. Page 3.

CRAFTS-4-U

By Michelle Svangstu

The county fair is a staple of fun in rural America, and Divide County fair board member Amy Shaw says this year’s fair looks to be full of exciting events for all ages.

“We really wanted to bring in some new activities this year that appeal to a broader age group,” says

Shaw. Friday kicks off with the judging of open-class exhibits, the 4-H Horse Show at 10am, followed by the 1pm opening of the petting zoo, inflatable attractions, and Miss Bows Messy Mania/Mini Ninjas.

“This year’s petting zoo will not only have animals to pet and play with, but they will also be offering

pony rides,” notes Amy. In addition to the petting zoo, she says, a new inflatables company will be bringing fun to the midway. “Montana Premier Entertainment is not only bringing in a new set of inflatables, they will also be bringing in some fun things for teens and even adults, such as the

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Single Orders

Reunions

USE OUR DESIGN BOOK OR DESIGN YOUR OWN

Choose from items On-Hand or Our Catalogs

MEMORIAL

DAY CELEBRATION

By

Alyssa Stromberg

Alyssa shares how her grandfather created a Veteran’s Memorial in Kootenai County.

Page 5

BURGUM REQUESTS PRESIDENTIAL MAJOR DISASTER DELCARATION FOR DAMAGE RELATED TO SPRING FLOODING

North Dakota Governor’s Office Press Release

Spring flooding is estimated to have caused more than $5 million in damage to North Dakota roads and other public infrastructure.

Page 7

DAKOTA GARDENER: A GREAT ROSE FOR NORTH DAKOTA

By Kelsey Deckert, horticulture agent. NDSU Extension

If you have a bare spot in your garden or if you want to add a special accent to your container planting, consider moss rose.

Page 13

MONTANA ROLLS BACK ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTIONS

By

Mark Moran, Big Sky Connection

Law allows Montana to ignore climate-change impacts when building power plants and coal mines.

Page 14

“THE BEST PREPARATION FOR TOMORROW IS DOING YOUR BEST TODAY.” H. JACKSON BROWN, JR.

The Putting underwear on a goat during the 2022 Youth Ranch Rodeo (Photo courtesy Don Anderson/ Divide County Fair Facebook Page

LOCAL EVENTS SPONSORED BY

FORTUNA

Every Tuesday- Range Night at Northwest Sportsman Club

RAY

Thursday June 8th - Boys Basketball

Summer Workouts 6:30am at Ray High School Gym

Thursday June 8th - Girls Basketball

Summer Workouts 9:30am at Ray High School Gym

Wednesday June 14th - Boys Basketball Summer Workouts 6:30am at Ray High School Gym

Wednesday June 14th - Girls Basketball Summer Workouts 9:30am at Ray High School Gym

Wednesday June 14th - School Board

Meeting 6:00pm at Ray High School

Thursday June 15th - Boys Basketball

Summer Workouts 6:30am at Ray High School Gym

Friday June 16th - Girls Basketball

Summer Workouts 9:30am at Ray High School Gym

CROSBY

Wednesday June 7th - Crosby Area Chamber Meeting 8:00am at Divide County Courthouse

Monday June 12th - Mac-A-Bee’s Book Club 5:15pm-6:15pm at Crosby Self

Serve

Wednesday June 14th - Divide County Jobs Development Authority Meeting 8:00am-9:00am at Divide County Courthouse Conference Room

Wednesdays:

Storytime at the Divide County Library 10:00am - 10:45am

Summer Reading Program at Divide County Public Library 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Fridays: Cards & Games at Divide County Senior Citizens Center 1:30-2:30pm Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

Saturdays: Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

Sundays: Movie at Dakota Theater 7:30pm

LIGNITE

Tuesday June 13th - School Board

Elections

Wednesday June 14th - School Board Meeting 7:00pm

WILLISTON

Thursday June 8th - Williston Basin

Speedway Dirt Track Racing Tougher

Than Dirt Tour 6:00pm at Upper Missouri Valley Fairgrounds

Saturday June 10th - 2nd Annual

Splish Splash Summers Back & Chow

Down Fest 10a-5p at Raymond Family

Community Center

June 15th - June 18th - 2023 Fort Union Rendezvous at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

June 16th - June 18th - Monster Mash

Deer Application Deadline June 7

PRESS RELEASENORTH DAKOTA GAME & FISH

The deadline for submitting applications for the 2023 deer gun season is June 7.

Applicants for regular deer gun, gratis, youth and muzzleloader can apply online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s website at gf.nd.gov.

A general game and habitat license is required when applying. If the applicant has not already purchased one for the 2023-24 season, the license will be added to their cart at checkout. The applicant has the option of having the general game and habitat license refunded if their deer license is not drawn in the lottery.

Gratis applications re- ceived on or before the regular deer gun lottery application deadline will qualify for an any-legal-deer license. As per state law, gratis applications received after the deadline will be processed based on licenses remaining after the lottery. Generally, only antlerless licenses remain.

at Lewis and Clark State Park

TIOGA

Wednesday June 7th - Storytime 10:30am - 11:00am Tioga Community

Center

Thursday June 8th - Visitor Promotion

Meeting 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM at City Hall - 16 1st St NE, Tioga, ND 58852

Saturday June 10th - Come Experience

Pentecost! 5:00pm - 9:30pm Tioga

Community Center

Monday June 12th - Planning & Zoning

Meeting 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM City Hall16 1st St NE, Tioga, ND 58852

Tuesday June 13th - Tioga Fund Meet-

ing 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM City Hall - 16 1st St NE, Tioga, ND 58852

Thursday June 15th - Tioga Historical

Society Meeting 6:30pm at Tioga

Museum

Thursday June 15th - Airport Authority Meeting 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM 2237

Aviator Way Tioga, ND 58852

Thursday June 15th - Marketing Class:

MASTERING BRAND DESIGN 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM City Hall- use Welo St Door

Tioga Community Center Schedule

Mondays: Yoga Flow 9:30am-10:30am Learn English Class 10:00am-11:00am

Tuesdays: Wrestling practice 3-6:30pm Pickleball 5:00pm-8:00pm Wednesdays: Youth Group 6:00pm9:00pm

Storytime 10:30am-11:00am

Thursdays: Wrestling practice 3:00pm6:30pm Slow Flow 6:00pm-7:00pm

USDA's Rural Energy for America Program Empowers Tioga's Agricultural Producers and Small Businesses

By Chelsy Weisz, Economic Development Director for the City of Tioga, ND

In a recent meeting with the USDA Rural Development State Director Erin Oban, I had the opportunity to learn about the incredible federal programs available to small businesses in our area. One program that stood out was the USDA's Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Renewable Energy Systems & Energy Efficiency Improvement Loans & Grants. This program offers guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements.

Under the REAP program, agricultural producers and small businesses in Tioga and the surrounding areas have the chance to receive financial support for a wide range of projects. These projects include the purchase and installation of renewable energy systems such as biomass, geothermal, hydropower, hydrogen, wind, solar, and ocean generation. Additionally, funds can be utilized for energy efficiency improvements,

such as HVAC systems, insulation, lighting, cooling units, doors, windows, and more.

One notable aspect of this program is its flexibility in supporting the needs of our local farmers. Many farmers in our region have been utilizing the REAP program to purchase or upgrade grain dryers, enabling them to improve their agricultural production and processing methods. With access to these funds, they can enhance their operations while also contributing to the adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficient practices.

Small businesses in Tioga can also benefit significantly from the REAP program. By upgrading windows, doors, and insulation, they can improve energy efficiency within their establishments, leading to substantial cost savings on heating bills during our harsh sub-zero winters. These improvements not only make economic sense but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable community.

To be eligible for the REAP program, agricultur-

al producers must derive at least 50 percent of their gross income from agricultural operations. Small businesses must be located in eligible rural areas and meet the Small Business Administration size standards. It is crucial to note that applicants must have no outstanding delinquent federal taxes, debt, judgment, or debarment.

The program offers loan guarantees of up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs, with loans approved in Fiscal Year 2023 receiving an 80 percent guarantee. Grants are available for up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs. For qualifying projects, a combination of grant and loan guarantee funding can cover up to 75 percent of the project costs.

To ensure the success of the program, applicants must meet underwriting requirements that include credit evaluation, risk mitigation assessment, and analysis of credit factors such as character, capacity, capital, collateral, and conditions. Energy efficiency projects require an energy audit or assessment, while all projects must undergo an environmental review before receiving funding.

For grants, the minimum amounts are $2,500 for renewable energy system projects and $1,500 for energy efficiency projects. The maximum grant amounts are $1 million and $500,000, respectively. However, applicants must provide matching funds if applying for a grant only.

The USDA's REAP program presents a remarkable opportunity for Tioga's agricultural producers and small businesses to embrace renewable energy and energy efficiency. By taking advantage of the available

financial support, our community can enhance sustainability, reduce operating costs, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.

If you are an agricultural producer or a small business owner in Tioga looking to invest in renewable energy systems or energy efficiency improvements, I strongly encourage you to explore the USDA's REAP program. The application windows for this program in North Dakota are as follows: June 30, 2023; September 30, 2023; December 31, 2023; March 31, 2024; June 30, 2024; September 30, 2024.

By leveraging the REAP program, you can access the necessary funding to implement projects that will not only benefit your business but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Whether you're a farmer seeking to upgrade your grain dryers or a small business owner aiming to improve your energy efficiency, this program can make a significant difference.

To learn more about the program's eligibility criteria, application process, and project requirements, I encourage you to visit the USDA Rural Development website or reach out to the USDA Rural Development

State Office in North Dakota. Their dedicated team will be more than willing to guide you through the application process and provide valuable insights to help you make the most of this opportunity.

Tioga has always been a community that values innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. By embracing the USDA's REAP program, we can continue to foster these values while simultaneously supporting our local agricultural producers and small businesses. Together, let's build a brighter, more energy-efficient future for Tioga and its surrounding areas.

Remember, the application windows for the REAP program are time-sensitive, so don't delay in exploring this incredible opportunity. Take the first step towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for your business and our community.

For more information on the USDA's REAP program, you can contact Grady Borth, the Business and Cooperative Program Specialist for North Dakota. Phone:701-530-2047 or by email Grady.Broth@usda. gov

Chelsy Weisz, Economic Development Director for the City of Tioga

THE WESTBY WATCH

Mark Your Calendars!

The Westby Development Corporation (WDC) has set the date for their annual Halfway to Christmas Bash for July 9 at Onstad Memorial Park in Westby.

The party starts at 1:30 pm and includes a double-elimination cornhole

tournament and free-will offering BBQ at 5 pm.

To register your team, contact the WDC on Facebook, or text Heidi Whitney at 406-672-5696.

Make sure to get your tickets to win a set of handmade cornhole boards

By Heidi Whitney

(made by Lyndyn Lagerquist) at Westby Grocery, City Hall, and New Century Ag from now until the event.

Proceeds will support Westby’s 6th annual Parade of Lights and Festival of Trees this December.

Clifford Johnson | 1944 - 2023

Obituary

A graveside funeral service will be held for Clifford Allen Johnson on June 17, 2023 at the Daneville Cemetery near Westby, Montana, at 10:00 am MST.

Clifford, 78, a Westby resident, died March 16th at Sheridan Memorial Hospital in Plentywood.

At his wishes, his body has been cremated.

All are welcome to attend the service and meet with Clifford’s family at a reception to be held at the Westby Immanuel Lutheran Church following the burial.

Born June 5, 1944 in Crosby, North Dakota, he was the son of Raymond and Elna (Madsen) Johnson. He was a graduate of Westby High School and later served in the US Navy from 1962-1966.

He married Theresa Frickson on August 4,1967 in Plentywood and began working as a lineman for Sheridan Electric for 35 years until he retired.

His favorite pastimes were hunting, fishing and designing metal signs, which are scattered from the east and west coast to Canada.

His highlights in the summer were fishing with his grandchildren and hunting in the fall.

Clifford was always willing to help family and friends if he could. He was a member of the Westby City Council, served on the Westby School Board, and was a member of the Fortuna Gun Club.

Survivors include his wife Theresa of 55 years and two children; Sheldon

of Tioga, ND, and Shannon Gebhardt of Westby. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Trent and Evan Johnson of Grand Rapids MN, and Cole and Rylie Rose Gehardt of Westby. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Elna Johnson; one brother, Richard Johnson; and father and mother-in-law, Major and Rose Frickson.

Memorial Day Celebration

By Alyssa Stromberg

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings, and participating in parades. Around the areas we call home, those that paid the ultimate price for our freedom were remembered.

I am proud to say I come from a long line of military veterans: my dad, my grandpa, my sister and brother-in-law, and cousins. While they all have come home, we all take pride in attending and remembering those who didn’t.

My grandfather, who served as a United States Marine, was a combat veteran of World War 2 and

Korea. Grandpa was a survivor of the devastating battle of the Chosin Reservoir in Korea. He dedicated countless hours, his own money, and raised money from donations to create a Veteran’s Memorial in Kootenai County. My grandpa passed before the completion, but my mom took over to see the important project through. The commissioners at the time renamed and dedicated the memorial in honor of his memory. On May 30, 2005, it became The Ronald D. Rankin Veteran’s Memorial Plaza. It is a place to go, reflect, honor, and read the names of those that both served and gave their life for their country. If you’re ever in Kootenai County, go experience this memorial in honor of the sacrifices those soldiers made.

For more information on The Ronald D. Rankin Veteran’s Memorial Plaza, go to kcgov.us.

Photos: Top: Medicine Lake VFW members raising the flag after the Memorial Day Service. Bottom: Bagpipes played Amazing Grace to conclude the service.

Burgum plans to deploy ND National Guard to southern border to assist in Operation Lone Star

PRESS RELEASE. BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum is planning to deploy approximately 100 North Dakota National Guard members to Texas to help secure the U.S.-Mexico border in support of Operation Lone Star.

Today’s announcement comes in response to a request made by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in a May 16 letter asking for states to send available resources to combat illegal activity at the border and ensure the safety and security of all Americans in the absence of action by the Biden administration to address the border crisis.

“The threat to national security grows every day that the Biden administration abdicates the responsibility of the federal government to secure our borders – failing to enforce existing immigration laws and failing to dedicate the resources needed to stop the tide of il-

legal immigration and drug trafficking that endangers lives in communities across our country,” Burgum said.

“If the White House won’t address this crisis, governors will, and we commend Gov. Abbott for taking the lead in the absence of federal action. The North Dakota National Guard has already deployed two units to the southern border in the past two years, and these additional military and law enforcement resources announced today will further strengthen efforts to secure the border and keep Ameri-

cans safe.”

The planned deployment is expected to last approximately 30 days and take place this coming fall. North Dakota will continue to communicate with Texas to determine the most effective timeframe for deploying North Dakota’s resources to the area.

The National Guard will be deployed under the governor’s emergency authority based on the risk to public safety due to drug trafficking and human trafficking, including deadly fentanyl making its way across the southern border and into U.S. communities. Funding to cover the cost of the deployment will be requested through the North Dakota

Emergency Commission.

Currently about 125 members from the North Dakota National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 112th Aviation Regiment are aiding efforts to secure the southern border. They followed 125 members of the 957th Engineer Company’s MultiRole Bridge Company who returned in September 2022 after assisting U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the border for about a year as requested by the U.S. Army through the National Guard Bureau and with Burgum’s authorization. The Jamestown-based 817th Engineer Company also will deploy to the southern border with approximately 125 soldiers in October for approximate-

ly one year.

In April 2022, Burgum signed a memorandum of understanding with 25 fellow governors to create the American Governors’ Border Strike Force to better address the humanitarian crisis at the southern border and the negative impacts of increased illegal immigration on public safety and crime in states including North Dakota. North Dakota law enforcement agencies participating in a joint detail in August 2022 as part of the Border Strike Force seized more than 50 pounds of illegal drugs, including enough fentanyl to potentially kill every North Dakotan more than twice over.

North Dakota Governor, Doug Burgum

Burgum requests presidential major disaster declaration for damage related to spring flooding

PRESS RELASE. BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum today requested a presidential major disaster declaration for spring flooding estimated to have caused more than $5 million in damage to North Dakota roads and other public infrastructure. The request follows an executive order Burgum issued April 10 declaring a statewide flood emergency.

In a letter today directed to President Joe Biden through the Federal Emer-

gency Management Agency (FEMA), Burgum requested a major disaster be declared for the period of April 10 to May 6 for 21 counties: Barnes, Burke, Dickey, Dunn, Golden Valley, Grand Forks, Hettinger, LaMoure, McHenry, Mercer, Morton, Mountrail, Nelson, Pembina, Ransom, Richland, Sargent, Steele, Towner, Walsh and Wells.

Those 21 counties reported about $4.1 million in flood-related damage, with FEMA validating nearly

$2.5 million in damage so far. Total damage estimates exceed $5 million, but several counties didn’t meet the per-capita damage threshold to be included in the disaster request.

In the request, Burgum noted that seasonal snowfall records were broken in 58 locations in North Dakota, with Dickinson breaking its all-time record and Bismarck and Grand Forks experiencing their second snowiest winters on record. The statewide snowfall average fell just 0.4 inches short of the all-time record, producing flooding that caused significant damage to roads, culverts and other infrastructure in North

Dakota counties – many of which were still recovering from the spring 2022 winter storm and flooding that cost nearly $97 million in damage and was the fifth-largest disaster since 1997.

“As they always do when facing a potential disaster, North Dakotans worked together to protect lives and property from major river flooding and overland flooding, which would have been far worse if not for the enormous investments in flood protection made throughout our state in recent years,” Burgum said. “We appreciate the consideration of this disaster request and are grateful for everyone who worked

with the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services to assess damages and make the case for federal assistance to help local jurisdictions recover.”

If granted, a presidential declaration would unlock FEMA public assistance to help cities, counties and townships pay for the costs of repairing roads and other infrastructure damaged by flooding.

In addition, Burgum also is asking that the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program be implemented on a statewide basis to help communities pay for flood mitigation projects that increase resiliency and reduce costs in the long run.

ND Farm Communities See Brighter Path with Food Business Centers

By Mike Moen Prairie News Service

Rural development leaders say getting healthy, locally grown food to underserved areas is a challenge in states like North Dakota.

They hope a new federal initiative that creates regional food business centers will help smaller communities and producers.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced the launch of a dozen hubs that will provide technical assistance and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers and other food businesses access new markets.

Lori Capouch is the rural development director for the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives.

She said food access

woes had been growing in smaller communities before supply-chain problems became very evident over the past few years.

"Having trouble getting food to grocery stores and schools and restaurants in the very smaller cities," said Capouch. "But the pandemic accelerated that and suddenly we had schools that couldn't get ground beef although we have a ton of producers in our state."

There are other regional partners assisting with the food center, including the North Dakota Farmers Union.

It says a primary focus will involve developing

critical infrastructure for small and mid-sized livestock and fruit and vegetable processing, along with storage options.

South Dakota and Minnesota will be part of the regional hub serving north-central states.

Capouch said involving smaller farmers and ranchers within the region should be a "big win" economically speaking.

"Those dollars then stay in our state," said Capouch. "and they benefit the people that live here."

Capouch said the regional food business center will largely operate in virtual fashion, and that over the next several months, they will bring organizations together to hear from producers and stakeholders about what their goals and needs are.

Upcoming Divide County Fair Filled With Fun For Everyone

Gyro.” The “Human Gyroscope” is the same gyro used by NASA for training astronauts, and is sure to give thrill seekers a wild spin of a ride. They will also be setting up games with prizes on the midway such as “Zorb Bowling” and the “Fun Derby,” - where you can mount your inflatable horse and race your friends and family down the track to victory.

Miss Bows Messy Mania and Mini Ninjas is a free STEAM and STEM Educational Area for kid’s ages 10 and under. “Messy Mania” features non-toxic, kid-friendly mixtures that offer hands-on opportunities to feel and smell a variety of textures, including “slimes and oozes,…dry materials and water play.” Each mixture set-up also includes a variety of toys to scoop, shovel and mix and pour for extra-fun sensory play. In addition to Messy Mania, a “Mini Ninjas” course will be set up for young children to burn off some of their extra energy and keep them entertained in between events. The course offers an opportunity for kids to jump, crawl, run and climb their way to the big red buzzer, which tells each child their run time. Both Messy Mania and Mini Ninjas are free to attendees, and families are welcome to come and go as they please throughout the day.

This year’s free stage attractions, which happen throughout the weekend, are still being finalized but will include the “One Man Circus,” an intriguing act that includes balancing acts, incredible illusions, and magic tricks. Local musician and recent DCHS graduate Emily Jeglum will be performing, and Shaw notes they are hoping to bring in local vocalists the Songbirds as well as the

West Park Band. In addition, she says, “if anyone is interested in performing on the free stage, they can contact the fair board. We’re always looking for new talent.” Amy also notes that “Up Your Axe” axe throwing will be open Friday and Saturday on the Midway.

“This is a great option for teens and adults to do something different than the typical summer sports they usually take in,” she says.

Friday evening festivities kick off at 5:30pm,

when the Divide County Rodeo Ag Olympics makes it’s debut, followed by Barrel Racing at 7pm. Singer Ashley Wineland rounds out the night at The Watering Hole. “There isn’t a cover change for any of the live music,” says Amy. And while The Watering Hole is only for adults 21 and older, there will be an outdoor area set up for teens to hang out and enjoy the music each night.

Saturday’s celebrations fire-up with the annual main

street parade, beginning at noon, followed by the Mud

Blitz run at 1:15pm and the opening of the mid-way at 1pm. “We encourage everyone to pre-register their parade entries,” says Shaw, “but people can enter the day of.” Floats are asked to line up and check-in at the DCHS Parking lot starting at 10:30am. “We want to be ready to hit main street as soon as the noon whistle blows,” she notes. Other Saturday activities include the FBLA annual fundraisers, “Bessie’s Business,” and “Tie Dye a T-Shirt.” The rodeo ramps up again at 1:30pm with the first annual Roy Olin Memorial Shootout, which will also feature a women’s breakaway event. For those looking for some extra help with summer projects, the annual 4H/FFA livestock and labor auction begins at 3pm. “Money in the Straw”

The Gyro Extreme is Sure to Provide Thrill-Seekers a Wild Ride.

will be held for the youth at 5pm, and Demolition Derby fans can watch their favorite drivers rev up the track at 7pm in the Grandstand. And for those little racers in your life, a kid’s “Power Wheels Derby” will be one of the night’s featured events. To end your action-packed small-town Saturday night, sing and dance the night away to Eli Alger and the Faster Horses down at the Water Hole.

Sunday morning will feature a new opportunity for breakfast, shares Shaw, with the Boy Scouts hosting a Pancake Feed from 8-11am. The annual community church service will be held at 9am on the free stage and is open to every-

one. The Divide County Rodeo kicks off it’s final day with the Youth Ranch Rodeo beginning at 10am, followed by Mutton Bustin’ for your little ranchhands. Finally, get ready for action-packed entertainment when your favorite cowboys and cowgirls take the arena and compete for bragging rights in the Adult Ranch Rodeo, slated to begin at 3pm.

The weekend will conclude with the Fortuna Curling Club’s annual Steak Fry at the Water Hole, beginning at 5pm. “Everyone is welcome to come to the steak fry,” says Shaw. “It’s a family event for all ages. And for those wishing to channel their inner-rock

star, Booming Prairie Karaoke and Sound will be set up for your final night of entertainment.

“The fair board has worked really hard this year to provide something everyone in the community can enjoy, and we are so grateful to all our sponsors,” says Shaw. “It really does take a village, and we’re always in need of volunteers, whether it be prepping the fairgrounds at our work-bee on June 10th, sitting at a ticket booth or emptying garbages. Every person is appreciated.”

For Derby or any other fair information, or to volunteer, please check out the Divide County Fair Facebook page. “People can

message the page with any questions and we’ll make sure it gets to the right person,” notes Shaw. Rodeo entries should contact Tabitha @ 701-641-0521.

All Ranch Rodeo entries

must be received by June 15th. Fans and participants can also follow their Facebook page, Divide County Rodeo.

Find more info on page 10!

Did You Know?

Hummingbirds have no sense of smell. While they can’t sniff out feeders, they do have good color vision. Some birds like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird prefer orange or red flowers. Despite this, red dye should not be used in nectar as it could harm the birds. Instead, plant naturally red or orange flowers or use feeders that have red coloring in their structure.

NORTH

DAKOTA

INVITES VISITORS TO KICKOFF SUMMER WITH UNBELIEVABLE VIEWS

Dakota Tourism

From the rolling prairies of North Dakota Badlands to the tall bends near the Pembina River, North Dakota’s awe-inspiring views and off-the-beaten path adventures pair together for a summer to remember. Embark in the state’s wide-open spaces, revel in sunflower fields as far as the eye can see and watch in awe as majestic wildlife roam in their natural environments. Home to some of the country’s most inspiring terrain, summer is an ideal time to explore the legendary wonders that make the state a restorative escape.

Crow Flies High Butte –New Town, ND

Just west of New Town, this outlook provides unobstructed views of Lake Sakakawea and the Badlands bluffs. The view is breathtaking no matter what time of year and includes a glimpse of the Four Bears Memorial Bridge spanning across the water. Along with stunning views, Crow Flies High Butte also has historical significance as it was once used as a lookout by famous explorers Lewis and Clark.

Starry Nights – Bottineau, ND

Experience not only some of the darkest skies in the U.S. but some of the nation’s best views of the spectacular aurora borealis also known as Northern Lights. Camp under the stars at Lake Metigoshe State Park in Bottineau and make a stop at the nearby town of Rugby’s Northern Lights Tower and Interpretive Center, which is dedicated to the dancing night skies. Visitors to the region can also partake in the Lake Metigoshe Outdoor Learning Center,

which offers hands-on programming related to history, nature and recreation.

Rendezvous Region Scenic Backway – Walhalla, ND

Located in northeast North Dakota, this backway is a special place with a storied history, recreation and scenic beauty. Winding along the banks of the Pembina River this scenic backway offers several opportunities to take in the panoramic views of the Pembina Gorge. Recreation in the Pembina Gorge includes canoeing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and wildlife observing.

Badlands Overlook – Medora, ND

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a place where visitors become fully immersed in the one-of-a-kind terrain that mesmerized our nation’s “conservation president.” The old western town of Medora, where Theodore Roosevelt once wore the boots of a deputy sheriff, is the gateway to the national park. This year, take part in the park’s 69th Annual Birdwalk on Sunday, June 4. Participants depart from the South Unit and are invited to take in the sights of more than 40 different bird species.

Painted Canyon Overlook –Belfield, ND

There is no hiking required to see one of the state’s most iconic views. Painted Canyon Overlook, right off Interstate 94 near Medora, offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Badlands. Known for its formation of red, brown, white and orange rock, this is a must-see vista while exploring the region. Complete with a visitors center featuring information and exhibits, Painted Canyon Overlook is one of the most accessible areas of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and is free to the public.

For more information on North Dakota’s scenic views and to plan a one-of-a-kind summer road trip, visit NDTourism.com or browse the 2023 Travel Guide.

Follow North Dakota Tourism on Facebook at facebook.com/TravelND, on Instagram at instagram.com/ northdakotalegendary/, or on Twitter at twitter.com/ NorthDakota and get tips on what to see and do all year long.

Read this article on the ND Tourism website for all the interactive links to the attractions mentioned here

The Little Missouri River cuts through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota. Adobe Stock.

Prairie Fare: Enjoy more leafy greens

Dark leafy greens are rich in carotenoid pigments and vitamin K.

will be ready to harvest within a month or two of planting. Check the seed packet for information on planting and estimated harvest time.

We have many varieties of lettuce seeds available as you peruse the seeds in your favorite store. One of my favorites is a “mesclun mix” that includes several types of lettuce. It allows you to make a salad with green and purple leaves with lots of texture and flavor.

kind of “fluffy” (less dense) when measured in a cup.

Take that as an encouragement to eat more leafy greens.

How about iceberg lettuce, the old standby on many buffet lines? It provides crunch and barely any calories. I think of it as a “carrier” for salad dressing, which is not always the most healthful item in your salad.

“What kind of lettuce was that?” my friend asked.

We had some leftover food from taste tests in the refrigerator. She had tried some of the salad.

By the tone of her voice and her wrinkled nose, I could tell she did not like it.

“One of my students made an arugula salad,” I said.

“It was bitter and peppery,” she said bluntly.

I agreed. I was wondering if the salad would be appealing.

“We probably needed to blend the arugula with a milder flavored lettuce,” I said.

“Or leave it out,” she added with a grin.

The recipe did not make it on a publication.

Originally, lettuce was used as a medicinal herb in ancient Roman and Greek times. They were ahead of their time in recognizing the contributions of nutrient-rich plant food to health.

Lettuce is very satisfying to grow in a home garden. After a long winter I am happy to see a green lawn and even happier to place seeds in my hand and plant them in warm soil.

Many types of lettuce

Most of the time, this mix also includes our slightly peppery leafy green, arugula, that adds a little zest to salads.

Lettuce varieties include looseleaf, butterhead or Boston, summer crisp or Batavian, Romaine, and iceberg or crisphead. They vary in their shape, color and texture.

When choosing leafy greens, aim for some variety in color or texture. Consider some beet greens, Swiss chard and spinach.

Most of the time, the darker the color, the more nutritious the green. Most of us shortchange ourselves on eating adequate amounts of dark green leafy vegetables and orange-gold vegetables.

Romaine lettuce and kale are darker green in color and are rich sources of carotenoid pigments that our bodies convert to vitamin A. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy eyes and skin.

These dark green leafy vegetables also provide vitamin K, which is an important component in blood clotting.

On average, adults and older children need about 2 to 3 cups of vegetables per day. Two cups of leafy greens is equal to one cup of most other vegetables because leafy greens are

Unfortunately, iceberg lettuce doesn’t contribute as many nutrients as its darker-green “cousins.” On the positive side, it is usually budget-friendly and lasts a fair amount of time in your refrigerator.

Commercial leafy greens have been linked with many foodborne illness outbreaks, usually due to cross-contamination somewhere in the farm to table continuum. Be sure to clean leafy greens under running cool water. You might need to place the leafy greens in a bowl of cool water and let them soak a couple of minutes, then re-rinse. No one likes gritty salads.

Salad spinners were an excellent invention. If you do not have one, you can remove excess moisture by blotting the lettuce with a paper towel. Bagged produce is considered “ready to eat” and you do not need to re-rinse the salad mixture before serving.

See “From Garden to Table: Leafy Greens” co-written with my colleague Esther McGinnis from NDSU Extension. I shared a very condensed version of some of the highlights from that publication in this column. The publication also includes some “make your own” salad dressing recipes.

Here’s a tasty recipe that goes well with your favorite

grilled protein on a warm summer day. This could be a main dish with strips of grilled steak, chicken, salmon or other protein.

Spinach Salad With Poppy

Seed Dressing

• 8 cups bite-sized pieces of fresh spinach

• ½ cup julienne strips of jicama or carrot sticks

• ½ cup sliced fresh radishes

• 1 medium mango or 3 medium fresh oranges, peeled, seeded and cut up

• Optional: ½ hardcooked egg, chopped, on each serving

• Optional: strawberries as garnish

If using fresh-from-garden spinach or unbagged spinach from the grocery store, rinse thoroughly and remove excess water. Spinach that is ready-to-eat does not need to be rinsed. Rinse and then prepare other ingredients as noted.

Dressing

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

• 2 tablespoons finely diced onion

• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1/3 cup canola oil

In tightly covered container, shake all dressing ingredients. In a large bowl, toss dressing and remaining ingredients. Garnish with egg and/or strawberries if desired.

Makes eight servings. With carrot and ½ egg per serving, each serving has 330 calories, 25 grams (g) fat, 9 g protein, 22 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber and 320 milligrams sodium.

(Julie Garden-Robinson, Ph.D., R.D., L.R.D., is a North Dakota State University Extension food and nutrition specialist and professor in the Department of Health, Nutrition and Exercise Sciences. Follow her on Twitter @jgardenrobinson)

NDSU Agriculture Communication – June 1, 2023

Source: Julie Garden-Robinson, 701-231-7187, julie. garden-robinson@ndsu.edu

Editor: Elizabeth Cronin, 701-231-7881, elizabeth. cronin@ndsu.edu

https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/ news/columns/prairie-fare/ prairie-fare-enjoy-moreleafy-greens

By Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU Extension food and nutrition specialist

When choosing leafy greens, aim for some variety in color or texture. (Pixabay photo)

DAKOTA GARDENER: A GREAT ROSE FOR NORTH DAKOTA

If you have a bare spot in your garden or if you want to add a special accent to your container planting, consider moss rose.

My love for moss roses started at a young age. My grandma always grew moss roses in her gardens and I was astonished at their glistening petals.

I love going to greenhouses and seeing the colorful flowers for sale. With all the varieties available, I struggle with deciding which plants will come home with me. I like to grab different flower packs and hold them up together to see which ones will complement each other.

Although the choices at a greenhouse seem endless, there is one flower that is always guaranteed a spot in my shopping cart: moss rose. It’s bright, easy to grow and thrives here in the Dakotas.

What really bumped this annual up to the top spot of my favorite list is the summer my mom planted them around a statue in her garden. There was a severe drought that summer. Despite my mom watering regularly, all of her flowers struggled except for the moss roses. They were the showstopper of her yard that year!

This proved to me that moss rose is perfect for us in the Dakotas where hot and dry summers are common.

Moss roses get their name from their creeping habit and rose-like flowers. The low-growing plants have thick, spiky leaves with waxy blooms appearing in wonderful shades of orange, yellow, pink and white.

Moss roses tolerate infertile soil and requires minimal care. Set it in a sunny, well-drained spot and give

it an occasional drink of water. The plants will quickly spread and beautify your garden.

This plant is a great choice for rock gardens and in the front of a garden bed. It does well in container arrangements as its vines will cascade over the edges of a container.

Very few pests will bother moss rose but watch out for aphids and slugs. Be careful not to overwater this succulent.

The flowers of moss rose have the tendency to close when the weather is cool or cloudy. The Sundial series is popular because

its flowers are more likely to stay open under overcast conditions. The Happy Hour series is another favorite as it has a full habit, large flowers and blooms early. Other noteworthy series include Calypso, Fairy Tale and Yubi Summer Joy.

If you have a bare spot in your garden or if you want to add a special accent to your container planting, consider moss rose. This “rose” is easy to grow and perfect for North Dakota gardeners.

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 31, 2023

Source: Kelsey Deckert, 701-221-6865, 701-6673340, kelsey.j.deckert@ ndsu.edu

Editor: Kelli Anderson, 701-231-7881, kelli.c.anderson@ndsu.edu

https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/ news/columns/dakota-gardener/dakota-gardener-a-great-rose-for-dakota

By Kelsey Deckert, horticulture agent. NDSU ExtensionBurleigh and Morton Counties

If you have a bare spot in your garden or if you want to add a special accent to your container planting, consider moss rose. (Pixabay photo)

TRACING THE ORIGINS OF ND’S ANTI-TRANSGENDER LAWS

By Mike Moen Prairie News Service

Human rights voices are calling attention to new North Dakota laws deemed hostile toward LGBTQ+ individuals, saying it is part of a movement led by national groups, and does not align with how the state governs itself.

The recent legislative session saw North Dakota and its GOP-led Legislature take a big leap into so-called "culture wars" by passing laws such as one banning gender-affirming care for transgender youths.

Geoff Wetrosky, national campaign director for the Human Rights Campaign, said in the U.S., there have been nearly 1,700 such bills in the past decade. He pointed out organizations such as the Family Policy Alliance are working hard to get them passed in conservative statehouses.

"These organizations have a worldview that just does not comport with a

pluralistic society where LGBTQ people are allowed to live freely and not be discriminated against," Wetrosky explained.

In 2021, a trio of the groups joined forces to fund policy efforts, citing the need to protect children's bodies and minds.

Wetrosky noted they often have template legislation for lawmakers to

use while pledging to help pay for legal costs if a state ends up facing a legal challenge. Local opponents of the movement say it runs counter to past arguments from those who decried the influence of outside groups in trying to craft North Dakota policy.

In 2020, a proposed ballot initiative aiming to bolster election access was

criticized for the involvement of out-of-state groups, but Wetrosky asserted the LGTBQ+ policy efforts are largely driven by organizations with addresses outside of North Dakota.

He noted such groups are also active in backing candidates who are receptive to the movement.

"In the midterm elections last year, we tracked

over $60 million in spending on attack ads that attack transgender folks," Wetrosky reported. "The bulk of those resources was spent in Republican primaries."

Megan Langley, founder and executive director of Strengthen ND, which focuses on helping rural areas thrive, said while her group is not involved in such policy debates, she agreed with some sentiments they can serve as a distraction. She feels North Dakota does better when the state looks inward to address more pressing issues.

"Some of the noise created during particular legislative times can take away from what's going on within communities," Langley contended. "It removes folks away from who their neighbors are."

The Family Policy Alliance could not be reached for comment.

Montana Rolls Back Environmental Protections

Law allows Montana to ignore climate-change impacts when building power plants and coal mines

By Mark Moran, Big Sky Connection

Montana's environmental advocates are criticizing Gov. Greg Gianforte for signing a bill they said will allow the state to ignore the impacts of climate change when developers construct large-scale energy projects such as coal mines and power plants. The measure received a lot of attention during the legislative session, most of it in opposition.

House Bill 971 builds on a decade-old law prohibiting the state from including actual or potential impacts which are "regional, national or global in nature" in environmental reviews of

big energy projects.

Anne Hedges, spokesperson for the Montana Environmental Information Center, said the measure is a direct attack on the state's most precious natural resources and leaves them unprotected.

"You're telling the public and you're telling the state their rights don't matter," Hedges asserted. "That they don't really have a right to a clean and healthful environment and the state has no obligation to protect people from the very real dangers of the climate crisis."

The bill prohibits regulators such as the state's environmental quality department from measuring

greenhouse-gas emissions and the effects of climate change when they review the overall impacts of large projects such as coal mines and power plants. The bill's supporters argued they are trying to avoid excessive state regulation and contend measuring and regulating greenhouse-gas emissions and other impacts on the climate should be left up to federal laws like the Clean Air Act.

Hedges countered the state understands local issues better than the federal government does, and added the whole purpose of Montana's environmental agencies doing these sorts of studies is to be able to

educate residents who live here about the impacts of a major energy project.

"On the land, on the air, water, wildlife, economy, cultural resources, et cetera," Hedges outlined.

Hedges pointed out ul-

timately, the bill will create longer and more dangerous wildfire seasons, a shrinking snowpack, and reduced stream flows as emissions from power plants add to a warming climate and unstable atmosphere.

An increase in average global temperatures above 1.5 degrees Celsius risks sea-level rise, extreme weather and the loss of species and habitats, as well as food scarcity and increasing poverty for millions of people worldwide, according to ClientEarth. (Adobe Stock)

TENNESSEE ANTI-DRAG LAW REJECTED AS TOO BROAD AND VAGUET

Tennessee moved to create first-in-the-nation law designed to place strict limitations on drag shows. However, the law was rejected late on Friday, June 2nd. U.S. District Judge Thomas Parker, appointed by former President Donald Trump, ruled that the law is both “unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad” and encouraged “discriminatory enforcement”. The actual word “drag” doesn’t appear in the law. The state’s definition of adult cabaret was changed by lawmakers to be “adult-oriented performances that are harmful to minors.” Male or female impersonators were also classified as a form of adult cabaret, comparing them to strippers. Performers or impersonators who broke the law risked a misdemeanor or felony for a repeat offense.

TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT DIES AFTER MEDS WERE DENIED TO HIM IN JAIL

While being arrested, Dexter Barry told officers that he needed his anti-rejection meds for his heart transplant. Bodycam footage confirms that he told them. Barry pleaded with the arresting officers seven times and alerted the jail nurse and court judge. He was held in prison for two days and died three days after his release due to acute rejection of his heart transplant. Barry’s family plans to file a lawsuit against the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office soon.

TRAIN CRASH IN INDIA LEAVES HUNDREDS DEAD AND HUNDREDS MORE INJURED

Two passenger trains crashed in India’s Eastern state of Odisha on Friday night in what is the country’s deadliest train crash in decades. At least 275 people were killed and

more than 1,000 were injured. 2,000 passengers were on board at the time of the crash. Rescuers searched through the destroyed cars, pushing to bring out hundreds of trapped passengers. Hospitals in the town of Balasore and surrounding cities were flooded with the injured. Air force choppers and Indian army soldiers are helping rescuers and transporting the injured to hospitals.

AT LEAST 500 UKRAINIAN CHILDREN KILLED IN RUSSIAN INVASION

After 16 months of war, Russia’s war has killed at least 500 Ukrainian Children, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The exact number of children who are casualties to the Russian invasion is impossible to establish due to ongoing hostilities and Russia’s occupation of some areas.

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK:

“Your choices and efforts, be they small or grand, mould and define who you are. Poor choices and minimal effort will result in the poorest version of you. Mediocre choices combined with doing just-enough-to-get-by will create a mediocre you. To be the best version of yourself, to reach your greater potential, make the very best choices possible. Put forth your highest efforts in everything. Be intentionally productive with the time you have. Work to do your best!”

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