The Borderland Press, Friday, June 27, V4, N25

AMBLE, COSLEY COMPETE IN 51ST ANNUAL SHRINE BOWL The official newspaper of Cavalier County Theborderlandpress.com

In this issue:

Friday, June 27, 2025

Volume 4, Number 25

Mysteries of the Nekoma Pyramid Owner of Bitzero Blockchain Inc. appears in tech-news sphere again this month

By Nick Vorlage

Bitzero Blockchain Inc., the ESG-focused data center company which presently owns the Stanley R. Mickelson Safeguard Complex outside of Nekoma, was in the tech-news sphere again earlier this month.

News: Walhalla is gearing up for four days of celebrations, Pg. A2

Opinion: The games people play: The missing finger, Pg. A4

On June 3, the Vancouver-based company announced the recent expansion of their data center offerings with a new site based in Pori, Finland.

Currently, Bitzero has four data center locations. The Nekoma site is the company’s sole data center in North America with the other three located in Norway and Finland. All four locations were selected due to their relatively colder climates.

The recent news rekindled interest for a number of residents in the Borderland who had been waiting to hear any updates about the SRMSC since Bitzero acquired the Cold War era-missile base in 2022.

The press release also caused some confusion, as it wasn’t entirely clear if the data center was somehow already in operation.

Sports: Walhalla native scores first ever hole-in-one, Pg. B2

The Borderland News Center reached out to Bitzero for more information about the current state of the SRMSC. This week, the company provided a statement from Bitzero President and CEO Mohammed Bakhashwain.

The complete statement reads:

According to Bitzero President and CEO Mohammed Bakhashwain, the Nekoma site is “uniquely positioned to meet rising demand for secure, high-performance data infrastructure.” The company also stated that they are evaluating a range of options for the site, including a potential sale, joint venture, or lease. Photo by Larry Stokke.

At Bitzero, we view our data center in North Dakota as a long-term, strategic investment. While the success of our Nordic operations has led us to prioritize development there, we continue to actively explore strategic opportunities for our unique Nekoma Pyramid data center in North Dakota.

In 2024, we engaged with Cushman & Wakefield to evaluate a range of options for the site, including a potential sale, joint venture, or lease. The site currently has 2.5MW of available capacity and can quickly scale up by

an additional 30MW with substation development. With a total capacity of approximately 300MW, access to a diversified energy mix, and enhanced physical security—thanks to its origins as the U.S.’s first anti-ballistic missile defense system—the Nekoma site is uniquely positioned to meet rising demand for secure, high-performance data infrastructure.

ment support for digital infrastructure. Overall, we continue to see a rising demand for reliable data centers and a push for more sustainable energy use in AI and crypto mining.

At launch, we were focused primarily on Bitcoin mining, but as demand grew from AI and cloud workloads, we started adapting our infrastructure for broader use.

We anticipate strong interest given the growing need for domestic data center space and continued govern-

Cushman and Wakefield is a Chicago-based global real estate company cont’d. on page A9

SIXTH ANNUAL WALHALLA DEMOLITION DERBY DRAWS A CROWD AND CRUSHES EXPECTATIONS

By Rebecca Davis

Meat raffle to be hosted in support of Munich’s Engines roared, metal clashed, and who traveled the farthest to partici- Oktoberfest cheers echoed through the Walhalla Industrial Park as the Sixth Annual Walhalla Demolition Derby took place on Saturday, June 21, 2025. A crowd of excited fans packed the park for a day of high-impact action, fierce competition, and community spirit.

Organized with support from North Central North Dakota Demolition Derby Association and local sponsors, the derby continues to gain momentum each year, drawing drivers from across the region to test their machines and their mettle in full-size, compact, and power wheels classes.

The derby featured a strong lineup of drivers and unforgettable performances across multiple categories: Best Paint: Rob Price rolled in with an eye-catching Jurassic Park design that earned him top honors for style before the first hit even landed.

Full-Size Class: 1st – Kyle Arends #181 2nd – Cody Hoffart #69 3rd – Travis Lehmann #53 Mad Dog – Andrew Lemar 16L MWFA Class: 1st – Ashton Vaughn #36 2nd – Dalton Demontigny #35D (also took Mad Dog honors) 3rd – Ethan Stegman #3 Compact Class: 1st – Brian Laporte #11x (also won Mad Dog), driving the official raffle car 2nd – Cullen Blair #54 3rd – Samantha Hedstrand #3 Brian Laporte poses for a photo after winning the compact class in his #11 car.

Photo by Jessica Reidhammer.

Hedstrand also received the Longest Haul award, recognizing the driver

pate. Her dedication was just one of many examples of the passion that fuels the derby scene.

By Hilary Nowatzki

Mini Drivers with big dreams The Power Wheels Derby gave the youngest drivers their chance in the spotlight—and they didn’t disappoint.

Ages 4–6: 1st- Mick 2nd- Teddy 3rd- Hudson Ages 7–9: 1st Jett 2nd Dannika 3rd Kain Each kid brought energy and enthusiasm to the pit, showing that the future of derby driving is in very good (and fearless) hands.

On to Rugby The derby season isn’t over yet. The next stop in the MWFA points series is set for June 28 in Rugby, and organizers are encouraging fans to follow the action. The Walhalla Demolition Derby Association is part of the North Central North Dakota Demolition Derby Association.

“Give these guys the support they gave to us,” said event organizer Austin Dearinger. “It’s about more than just smashing cars—it’s about community and having a good time.”

As the smoke cleared and the dust settled, Walhalla’s Sixth Annual Demolition Derby once again proved itself a can’t-miss summer tradition, growing louder, tougher, and more unforgettable each year.

Mark and Kyza Zimmer pose together for a photo at last year’s Oktoberfest in Munich.

Fundraising for the community event is underway with a meat raffle on Monday, June 30 at the Munich City Plaza. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Come August, it will be time for the men to get out their lederhosen and for the ladies to dress up in their dirndl for Munich’s third annual Oktoberfest! Although the excitement is still a few months away, fundraising is underway now with a meat raffle on Monday, June 30 at the Munich City Plaza.

“This Monday, June 30, we’re having a meat raffle fundraiser just to help defray some of the expenses that go into Oktoberfest,” stated Kyza Zimmer, one of the event’s organizers.

“And what this is is people have an opportunity to win different packages of meat. And what we will do is they will buy a ticket, and if their ticket number is drawn, they will win that particular bundle.”

There will be a variety of meat packages and ticket prices for people, rangcont’d. on page B8

News

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A2

The Borderland Press

Walhalla’s Fourth of July Celebration CURRICULUM CUTS AVOIDED AT LAS offers four days of family fun

By Hilary Nowatzki

By Rebecca Davis

tions, big-time fun Morning Fun Run & Fundraiser Meal The day kicks off bright and early with a 5K Fun Run organized by Walhalla’s Close Up students and supported by Choice Bank. The event features prizes for first place, best decorated wagon or stroller, and best dressed. It’s a family-friendly way to start the celebration and support local youth. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., and the race begins at 8 a.m. It is a free-will entry fee, but the suggested donation is $20. The first 50 registrants will get a free gift. All proceeds will benefit the Close Up group.

Walhalla is gearing up for four days of celebrations from July 2-6 which will feature theater, fireworks, classic cars and historic reenactments, and much, much more!

Excitement is building in Walhalla as the community gets ready to celebrate Independence Day with four days of festivities from July 2–6. From theater and fireworks to classic cars and historic reenactments, the holiday lineup is packed with small town charm and entertainment for all ages.

“The Walhalla Area Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to come celebrate with us,” said Chamber President Desiree Kintyhtt. “There are so many great opportunities to enjoy time with family and friends throughout the weekend.”

Wednesday, July 2 – A theatrical kickoff Festivities begin with a special preview performance of ‘Fame The Musical’ by Frost Fire Summer Theatre.

The show takes place at 7 p.m. at the historic Walla Theatre with admission by free-will donation. Guests are invited to get a first look at this energetic summer production before it opens at the Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks.

From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., head to the Walhalla American Legion Hall for an Indian taco meal, also hosted by the Close Up group. All proceeds go toward educational travel opportunities for local students.

Afternoon activities on Main Street Main Street will be bustling from noon to 5 p.m. with vendors and free children’s activities, including bounce houses, an inflatable obstacle course, and a bungee run. Dean Willits Productions will provide live music throughout the afternoon, adding to the entertainment.

Friday, July 4 – Small-town tradi-

cont’d. on page B7

News briefs

appearance bond with conditions.

cal authorities if a bear is spotted.

Grand Forks Border Patrol apprehends seven The US Border Patrol Grand Forks Sector is commending the recent work of their agents. On June 16, the Patrol reported agents in Bemidji apprehended seven illegal aliens who hailed from countries including Mexico, Guatemala, and Ecuador, who had criminal histories including DUIs, felony battery, and fleeing. All seven are reportedly in removal proceedings.

Cavalier resident pleads guilty Cavalier resident Kent Charles Morden, 40, took a plea agreement in Northeast District Court on Tuesday, pleading guilty to possessing marijuana and conspiracy to possess with intention to deliver methamphetamine – 50g grams or more. For pleading guilty, the court dismissed a possession of a hallucinogenic misdemeanor charge. Sentencing for Morden was 20 years with the Department of Corrections, first serving five with 79 days credit and two years supervised probation.

New behavioral health center breaks ground Governor Kelly Armstrong took part in the groundbreaking ceremony at the Altru Behavioral Health Center in Grand Forks on Tuesday. The Center’s expansion is estimated to cost $18 million to complete with the goal of doubling the number of inpatient beds at the facility from 24 to 48. The expansion is expected to be completed by fall 2026.

From The Borderland News Center

New York man arrested in Walhalla has preliminary hearing A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for July 14 for Robert Michael Noyer Jr., 30, of Woodside, N.Y. On May 2, Noyer was arrested in Walhalla and charged with solicitation and luring a minor, the alleged victim being a 14-year old girl. Noyer appeared for a bond reduction hearing on Monday.

He is currently released on a $25,000

Bear sightings increase More bears have been spotted in the area this week with the Cavalier Police Department confirming one had been seen just north of the city Monday morning. Residents across our broadcast region are being reminded to keep their distance from the animals.

Further, residents should contact lo-

Man sentenced after kidnapping woman A prison sentence of 20 years was ordered today in Grand Forks County Court for Crookston resident Angel Alberto Torres-Sosa, 33. In October 2023, Torres-Sosa kidnapped a woman from a bar, attacked her, and attempted to sexually assault her.

Torres-Sosa will be on supervised probation for five years once released from prison.

Classic cars, accordion music, and burgers

Tough topics were up for discussion at Langdon Area Schools most recent school board meeting held Monday, June 23. Following the failure of a referendum vote which would have seen a nearly 20 million dollar bond for deferred maintenance and needed upgrades around both the elementary and high school buildings, the school is now looking for other avenues for funding. “[We have] seven board members and our administration that have to make very hard decisions tonight, the next meeting, and into the future,” said Dave Hart, school board president, while opening the meeting. “We had 704 people that in this community have voted no against our referendum, and those people have decided that we have to make hard decisions on how to fund the school in the future.”

As previously mentioned by Daren Christianson, superintendent, the school is having to review its curriculum for efficiency - essentially reevaluating what non-state required programs the school will now offer.

Whispers of the future of the art program at the elementary and high schools have been in question for the last couple of weeks.

Numerous community members showed up at the board meeting and were given three minutes each to express their concerns. Overall, 54 individuals were present at the meeting, filling the room.

Mindi Lill, who has been the art teacher at Langdon Elementary and High School for 17 years, was the first to speak at the meeting. She discussed how in a world full of grim events, terrifying news, and where screens are more dominant in life than ever, that students need art in their lives and the lessons it teaches.

“Elementary students need that brain break, the play and the exploration that art provides. They need to know that it's okay to mess up, to take risks in the name of learning, to try again, that it's okay not to be perfect,” Lill

The Valley Cruisers Car Club will be showcasing an impressive array of classic and vintage cars. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to come chat, admire, and explore vehicles from decades past. The Museum’s historic car collection, featuring models from the 1920s through the 1960s, will also be on display.

In honor of Lawrence Welk Day offi-

cially proclaimed for July 2 throughout North Dakota and in Pembina County, the evening will include a “Tribute to the Accordion King” beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the Bathgate Depot deck. Drayton native Aimee Klein and fellow Fargo musician Bill Balsley, performing as “Aimee & Bill’s Multiple Personalities,” will deliver an entertaining mix of accordion music, comedy, candy, prizes, and audience participation. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own accordions and join in on classic tunes like the Beer Barrel Polka or Chicken Dance.

Have a Lawrence Welk Show story?

Share it during the tribute!

The Burger Night Fundraiser begins at 5:00 p.m. Enjoy a full meal including a burger with all the fixings, beans, chips, bars, and a beverage for $15.

The Pembina County Museum is located at 13572 Highway 5, Cavalier and is open to the public 11-5 daily; appointments can be scheduled outside regular hours. For more details, contact 701-265-4941 or pchsm@polarcomm.com.

“For some students, the art room is the only place they feel safe, comfortable and seen,” Lill stated.

Eleven community members spoke in support of the art program at the meeting. Nine students were also in attendance in solidarity.

The school board held an executive session from 6:30 until 7:07 p.m. in which they discussed teacher contracts up for approval, one of which being Mrs. Lill’s.

The board reopened the meeting by reading off the teachers’ names who had been approved for rehire; Mrs. Lill’s name was on that list, along with all other teachers from last year. The board decided no cuts would be made for this coming school year when it comes to curriculum and staff, but there will only be two sections of 2nd grade, instead of three that had been discussed.

“We're going to ask the board to give the Activities Committee authority to come back with efficiencies, short of cutting any programs in that,” said Hart. “As of right now, we are going to try to squeeze every cent out of a turnip so that we can hold off on any cuts.”

The tension in the room lifted with those words, and happy tears were seen in the crowd.

“Our goal is to not cut any programs.

Our goal is to be very, very efficient with the money we have coming in for everything that we have that we are moving forward with,” concluded Hart.

Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving

is crucial to also make plans for a sober ride home and completely rule out drinking and driving,” said Steph Welsh, CCHD director. “We’re partnering with NHTSA to remind drivers that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Celebrating our nation's independence safely is our biggest responsibility.”

Proceeds benefit the renovation of the kitchen in the Biliske Building, which has served breakfast at the Annual Pioneer Machinery Show for the past 31 years. The renovation will feature updated serving spaces, lighting, storage, and locally-sawn lumber from the Museum’s Arnold Sawmill.

PCHS president Scot Becker encourages everyone to come out to the Museum on July 3 for a toe-tapping, gear-turning, belly-filling evening of community fun!

Lill would continue to explain that children crave the different kinds of challenges art provides. For some students, she said, art is the only bright spot in their school day.

NHTSA and Cavalier County Health District remind drivers that

A night of fun for the whole family to be hosted at the Pembina County Museum Join the Pembina County Historical Society on Thursday, July 3, for an evening of vintage cars, lively music, and great food at the Pembina County Museum Grounds, 13572 Highway 5, Cavalier. The celebration kicks off at 5:00 p.m. and runs through 7:30 p.m., featuring a variety of attractions the whole family will enjoy.

emphasized. “High school students crave the breath of fresh air that art classes provide. They walk into my room and visibly relax, ready to escape into their own heads for a minute free of the world's noise.”

Langdon, ND — As the nation celebrates Independence Day, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is warning drivers about the dangers of drinking and driving. Help NHTSA and Cavalier County Health District share this message: “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.”

Drivers should be safe during this Independence Day holiday by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment and drivers should secure a designated sober driver for a sober ride home.

Every year, the Fourth of July holiday ranks as one of the deadliest periods on the nation’s roads. From 2019 to 2023, there were 2,653 traffic fatalities during the holiday period, 1,679 of whom were the driver. Thirty-eight percent (643) of those drivers were drunk. Of the 1,679 drivers killed, the 21-34 age group had the highest percentage (48%) of drunk drivers.

If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact the Cavalier County Sheriff’s Department by calling 911.

“Impaired driving is never acceptable.

For some people, even one drink is too many to drive safely. While everyone is making plans with friends and family for Fourth of July festivities, it

Drive 100% sober, because Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/ drunk-driving.

Agriculture

The Borderland Press

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A3

Preparation is key in protecting ruminant livestock from heat stress Proactive management of livestock prior to and during heat events is critical in protecting livestock from heat stress.

Fertilizer markets disrupted by geopolitical tensions – Global strife is impacting fertilizer supplies.

“Ukraine made an attack on major Russian nitrogen production facilities,” said StoneX Vice President of Fertilizer Josh Linville. “Qatar sits in the Persian Gulf near Iran. Iran, of course, their production is offline because of the attacks back and forth.

China normally exports 5 million to 5.5 million tons per year, but last year they only exported 262,000 tons.”

The fall phosphate and potash markets are also a worry. “Phosphate, if you look at where prices are today in the Gulf and you compare that against where December ’26 corn is, this is the worst relationship between those two products we’ve ever seen for June. These ratios surpass what we saw back in 2008, and that’s going to be a very hard thing for the farmer to swallow.”

Fungicide decisions – The combination of moisture, cool temperatures, and favorable dew periods at night has resulted in good wheat-growing conditions. The frequent moisture has also increased the risk of leaf diseases, such as leaf rust and stripe rust. “The good news this year is rust reports have not been as far past as Nebraska yet,” said Andrew Friskop, plant pathologist at NDSU Extension.

“It is a disease that blows up from the south, so we’re in pretty low risk for rust right now. In most cases, you could probably start focusing on when you’re going to make that Fusarium

head flight application.”

FHB alert – The prospects are good for the spring wheat crop in the region, which is increasing demand for scab management. Syngenta Crop Protection District Sales Manager Marc Rinke says that may change the fungicide strategy. “This is a year to use premium brands,” said Rinke.

“There’s quite a price spread as to what you can use, but like anything in agriculture, and in life for that matter, you get what you pay for. Don’t let a dollar or two scare you away from a decision on a product when that, in turn, could mean that it returns three, four, five times on that original spend.”

Aggies seek more input on MAHA effort – More than 250 farm, ranch and agrochemical groups are urging the Trump administration to include their input in future work of the Make America Healthy Again Commission.

In a letter sent Tuesday, the groups criticized the commission’s first report for creating “unfounded fears about the safety of our food supply” and said it lacked adequate input from the agricultural sector. The MAHA Commission, launched in February and aligned with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., suggested pesticides may pose health risks. The farm sector is calling for more transparency, public comment, and formal representation in future commission reports.

A perennial wheat

By Dijoun Bartley

Kernza Con 2025, hosted week before last, brought together farmers, researchers, food companies and supply chain leaders to explore kernza’s impact and future as the first commercial perennial grain in the US. Kernza offers major environmental benefits. It reduces erosion, conserves water, enriches soil and eliminates yearly tilling. Randy Melhoff, from the NDSU Research Extension Center in Langdon said they've been working with kernza for over a year.

“What's really nice about it is it's a perennial wheat. It's the only one, and it grows good wheat. You don't have to fertilize every year. You don't have to put all those inputs on every year,” said Melhoff. “It sounds like in the UK, they're using it for three years, and then they're probably replanting. I think it was two years ago we planted an acre of it here, so we actually have an acre of kernza planted here.”

Another bright spot concerning kernza is its ability to thrive in alkaline fields. However, it's not something that will happen immediately, according to Melhoff.

“We actually planted that acre in an alkaline spot. It's growing out there, but like I said, it takes a couple years, you know, to see what's going on. Because soil health isn't something that can happen overnight, it takes years, sometimes decades,” explained Melhoff.

Although it may take time, often, other things will not grow in areas with such concentrated salinity.

Health Tip

Provided by Cavalier County Health District June 27 – Making multi-unit housing smoke-free can reduce secondhand smoke exposure among children and non-smoking adults. Studies also indicate that these policies can help smokers quit and can reduce cleaning and repair costs for owners.

Kernza has a bright future as the first commercial perennial grain in the US.

“But this is an area that grew nothing because of the salinity, and we got kernza growing there, yeah, and it's definitely one of those popular deals.

It almost sounds too good to be true.

That's our job out here. When new things like that come up, you know, we need to test them out,” said Melhoff.

North Dakota State University Extension livestock specialists encourage livestock owners to monitor weather forecasts and anticipate when conditions may pose a significant risk to livestock. Such conditions exist when above-average temperatures collide with increased humidity. Recently, many cities are experiencing temperatures 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than reported averages for this time of year.

A temperature-humidity index chart can help ranchers identify when livestock are most at risk for developing heat stress. Livestock begin to experience moderate heat stress at a temperature humidity index of 82 to 83, severe heat stress at 84 to 86 and extreme heat stress at 87 or greater. A temperature-humidity index chart can be found at ndsu.ag/heat-stress.

A Cattle Comfort Index forecast map is also available from the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN) at https://ndawn.info/agriculture_cci.html. During times of heat caution and heat danger, producers can expect to see decreased production, reduced conception and possible deaths.

Heat stress can significantly impact animal performance, health and welfare, making it critical to prepare a proactive management plan for unavoidable heat events. Heat stress occurs when an animal’s cumulative heat load outweighs the animal’s ability to dissipate heat, causing body temperature to rise.

NDSU Extension livestock specialists recommend several heat event action plans: Access to quality water sources Water availability and quality are essential to managing heat stress in livestock. Each animal should have at least two inches of linear water trough access. For example, a pen with 200 animals should have 400 inches of linear water space. Evaluating water supply lines and ensuring sufficient water pressure and flow capacity to keep troughs full during peak water consumption is also important. The amount of water livestock need depends on the animal type and production stage, with requirements often doubling during heat events. Specific water requirements for livestock can be found at ndsu.ag/livestock-water.

During heat events, producers should be evaluating water sources regularly.

Livestock whose sole source of water comes from tanks or troughs should be checked daily. If livestock have not had access to water for an extended period of time and then are allowed to drink ad libitum, this can result in fatal salt toxicity. In severe heat events, livestock without access to water

for 24 hours or less can be at risk. If you suspect this has occurred, gradual rehydration is necessary to avoid potentially fatal brain swelling.

Consult your veterinarian to determine a plan for gradual rehydration, which may take several days.

Shade infrastructure and fly control Livestock owners should consider placing temporary or permanent shade structures for livestock in confinement operations or open pastures with little to no tree cover. Each animal should have a minimum of 20 feet of shade space (10 feet for small ruminants) to prevent animal grouping and co-mingling of sick animals. Spraying for flies prior to a heat event will also be a vital step in reducing animal grouping.

Importantly, shade This calf exhibits a high panting score and foaming of the mouth structures should caused by heat stress. (NDSU photo) not impede air movement, and wind barriers should be feeding multiple times daily, consider removed to promote better air move- feeding a small meal in the morning ment. Livestock in confinement bene- and a larger portion of the diet later in fit from mounds that provide elevated the afternoon. Decrease the amount of feed offerings during and for sevwind access. eral days after heat stress to allow animals ample opportunity to recover.

Surface cooling strategies Proactive management of pen surface temperature can be an effective Knowing when to intervene way to reduce the risk of heat stress. Livestock suffering from heat stress These strategies include dampening will exhibit several signs of distress the pen with water or adding light-col- as their body works to return to hoored bedding (straw or corn stalks) meostasis. Ruminant livestock, into reduce the temperature of the cluding sheep and cattle experiencing ground. Sprinkler systems are a pop- extreme heat stress, will exhibit inular way to cool ground temperatures creased respiration rate and panting in confinement cattle operations. This score, foaming around the mouth, strategy should be implemented well down head and lethargic appearance. before a heat event and before peak Livestock owners should keep in conheat on high-temperature days. Large tact with their local veterinarian and water droplet size is important to contact them immediately if they have animals in severe distress. Animals avoid increasing humidity. should be gradually cooled by moving to nearby shaded areas with ample Animal handling Any type of livestock handling, pro- air movement. Rapid cooling (such cessing or transportation should be as spraying with cold water) can have avoided during heat events as much severe consequences for livestock in as possible. If working with livestock severe distress. is absolutely necessary, livestock handling should be limited to the ear- The U.S. Department of Agriculture ly morning hours (prior to 10 a.m.). has a heat stress forecast tool availCalm animal handling techniques will able at https://www.ars.usda.gov/ be important to minimize stress relat- plains-area/clay-center-ne/marc/ ed to handling, and livestock owners documents/heat-stress/main/. should consider working with smaller groups of livestock at a time to pre- For more information on dealing with vent crowded facilities. Working facil- heat stress in cattle, see the NDSU ities, including holding pens, should Extension publication, “Dealing with have ample access to water, and per- Heat Stress in Beef Cattle Operasonnel should be dedicated to mon- tions,” at ndsu.ag/heat-stress. itoring livestock stress status. Avoid working livestock in the evenings For more information on dealing with during a heat event to give livestock heat stress in small ruminants, see time to recover and cool down during “Heat Stress in Small Ruminants” from South Dakota State Universicooler periods of the day. ty Extension at https://extension. sdstate.edu/heat-stress-small-rumiAdjusting feed intake timelines Livestock owners should consider nants and “Managing Heat Stress in moving livestock feeding time to late Sheep and Goats” from Nebraska Exafternoon or evening. This will allow tension at https://extensionpubs.unl. rumen fermentation to occur during edu/publication/g2355/2023/html/ cooler night temperatures and in- view. crease the animal lung capacity during hotter daytime temperatures. If

Opinion

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A4

The Borderland Press

Letter from the Publisher ern states. Last week at the radio station, we were hearing bits and pieces about storm chasers heading our way.

What? Why? Surely they will be sadly disappointed when they realize they are quite far north to see anything of interest related to weather.

It’s been a tough week reading, hearing and watching the details of the horrific tornadoes that devastated parts of our beautiful state. The loss of three lives adds to the sorrow one feels after hearing the details. We don’t expect this here; it’s much more common in the south-

Well, they know what they’re doing.

Spot on. Maybe the weather service should be on their contact lists, being so accurate and all. Those folks can predict what’s happening, and if that warning had gone out a day or two earlier, those lives could have been saved. Next time we hear they’re heading our way, maybe we should stop what we’re doing and look into why and where. The Borderland Press and the Simmons Stations extend our sympathy to all involved and pray they

will find the strength to put their lives back together. One thing is for sure, the affected communities are coming together and helping their neighbors in big ways. That’s heartwarming and very impressive; thanks to you all.

We weren’t at our lake place but were watching the weather, concerned about high winds, rain and hail which were headed directly for Red Willow Lake. We’ve had some pretty serious wind and thunderstorms there in previous years, leaving more trees down than one can count and flipping pontoons, docks and boat lifts, leading to lots of cleanup. We were fortunate, though; it was bad enough but no serious damage. The power got knocked out for the night and into the next day - that we can handle. Thanks to

the lineman that probably spent the biggest part of their night and next day getting electricity restored to the 100+ cabins and lake homes there.

As I’m sure you’ve noticed, June just started a few minutes ago and here we are, the last weekend. As they say ‘time flies when you’re having fun!’

Well, I must be having a blast. By the time I write again, it will be Independence Day! I feel a week off coming on!

equipment passing by them. I do feel the truck drivers are being quite diligent about watching out for others, and I’ve heard some pretty fun stories about the kind things they’ve done for a few folks in our community. Grateful for that!

Grateful and appreciative is the theme of this week’s writing, I guess.

I hope you’ve had the same kind of week. Thanks for reading; happy last weekend of June!

As the street project continues I just want to remind everyone to have another talk with their kids, mainly regarding bike riding. My heart drops to my feet a few times a week seeing an itty bitty on their bike, focused on their destination with big trucks and

Diane Simmons

spotted a bobber on the move, and Callen grabbed the reel, bringing in a beautiful rainbow trout! That was the only catch of the day, but it was totally worth it to see them all light up at that one catch. In between untangling lines and helping bait hooks, Nancy, Sarah, Grandpa, Terry and I all got to chat and catch up with each other, which was lovely as well.

To end today’s piece, I thought I’d give you a teaser for the shenanigans you’re about to see below mine and Diane’s columns. Picture this - Bob Simmons walks downstairs and says, “I need a finger.” The next day, I had to send this email to our wonderful layout designer, which is probably the most unusual she has ever gotten from a coworker, “Can you upload simply because I needed to see what the finger in the ear looked like in greyscale.”

Publisher publisher@theborderlandpress.com

Letter from the Editor:

I had a wonderful weekend and especially loved attending the Walhalla Demolition Derby. I’m a bit ashamed that at my age I’ve never made it to one of these derbies. I totally enjoyed the carnage and the

friendly, fun sportsmanship displayed by all the drivers and volunteers. If I enjoyed it, I can only imagine how younger boys and car enthusiasts feel to be a part of such an adrenaline pumping, wild event. I mean, it’s just adult bumper cars! I think driving a derby car would be an absolute blast.

However, when it comes to mechanics, I’m a bit clueless, so I wouldn’t be much help around a shop or garage.

region that you, nor I, don’t want to miss!

It was a HOT day out last Saturday, but I loved the summer sun and getting a chance to hang out with some great friends. I’ve decided that this year I’m going to participate in way more summer activities than I did last year.

There’s so much going on around our

Callen is 8, and Elin is 11, and this was the first time they had ever been fishing! We met up around 9 am, and they both learned how to cast.

Then they learned what fishing was all about - the waiting! All of their patience made it worth it when grandpa

On Thursday of last week, I had the pleasure of going out to the Langdon City Pond to attend Ole’s Fishing Academy, held that day on the pond’s pier.

We were accompanied by my aunt, Nancy; cousin Cade; as well as Sarah and Terry (Rat) Hinnenkamp and their two children, Callen and Elin.

In other news, the coffee hoodlums have stuck me with coffee the past two Thursdays in a row! Can you believe that?! My dice-shaking game has obviously been off - they told me it was payback for calling them “old farts” in a previous column!

There’s never a boring day here…

Hilary Nowatski Editor

editor@theborderlandpress.com

The Morning Stroll and Cuppa Joe: Make your bed

Several years ago when Ella was still in elementary school, I picked her up after school to find her distraught. She’d had a tough day. At one point, she had called because she forgot a pair of socks for gym class, and I was out of town, so I don’t know what she ended up doing. Did she go sockless? Borrow a pair from a friend? I have no idea.

On top of that, she had forgotten an assignment at home because that

morning she had gotten up late and was in a rush to get ready for school.

Overall, it was a very bad day for my little fifth grader. As we made our way home, Ella had a light bulb moment.

She turned to me and said, “You know why I had a bad day? I didn’t make my bed this morning.” I started to laugh until I realized she was serious.

Two out of my three kids make their beds every single morning. I’d call that a parenting win. However, those same two kids that make their beds every single day refuse to learn how to cook. The third kid, who never makes his bed, wants to learn how to cook and has successfully made at least three or four different meals in the past month since he’s been home.

So - as with everything else in the parenting world - you win some and you lose some.

H. McRaven. Although I’ve never read the book, I remember when my friend, Leah, read it. She was going through a tough time – divorce, moving, a new career, a young daughter to take care of. It was a lot. She was searching for a self-help book, and this one popped up on the list. At only 146 pages, it was a quick, meaningful read. She summarized the whole thing by saying, “just make your damn bed.” That’s it.

If you can’t find the motivation to do a single other thing during the day, you can at least feel good about getting one thing done, and that’s making your bed. The premise is that if you can at the very least make your bed, you’ll go on to accomplish a few other things, and those things will lead to even more things. Pretty soon, you’ll have accomplished more than you thought you would.

There’s a book called “Make Your Bed,” by the author Admiral William

Apparently, the original, made-foradults version of “Make Your Bed”

was so popular, Admiral McRaven decided to write a children’s book named “Make Your Bed with Skipper the Seal.” Skipper is a young seal who learns important life lessons during Navy SEAL training, including taking risks, dealing with failure, and persevering through challenges – all while remembering to make his bed. I don’t know much about being a Navy SEAL, but something tells me that Skipper doesn’t remember to make his bed, he is ordered to make his bed. Whatever…it’s an Admiral writing the book, so clearly he can do whatever the hell he wants and tell his story however he wants.

I had this memory of Ella pop up in my mind because she had asked me to make sure she was getting up at a certain time each day to attend her numerous summer activities. Every time I went into her room to check, she was already up and making her

bed. She’s like my little Skipper the Seal, ready to take on the day and its challenges. If this made you feel guilty for not making your bed, you’re welcome. Now go do it.

Sara Goodman is an avid walker who says her best ideas come to her after a morning pot of coffee. She grew up on a cattle ranch in Watford City, N.D. After many years working in healthcare, she now writes, is a substitute teacher and occasionally lends a hand to her hard-working hubby on the farm. She volunteers on several boards and committees in the Langdon community and attends social outings as much as possible.

The Goodman house has two kids at home, one in college and two spoiled cats.

The games people play an alternate column in Drayton. The bottom line here is whichever paper you’re reading, I want to say THANK YOU for carving out a few minutes to thumb through these pages each week. As you can imagine, we occasionally receive tips from readers for feature story ideas, photo submissions, etc., and for those, we are grateful.

By Bob Simmons, CEO, Simmons Multimedia In case you’re unaware, this column appears in both of our co-owned weekly periodicals, The Borderland Press in Langdon and Valley News & Views in Drayton. I write from my home base, Bob Simmons World Headquarters, which is located in Langdon. For the most part, the same column appears in both papers each week, but when my writings are specific to Langdon, we run

The predecessor to The Borderland Press was the Cavalier County Republican, which closed its doors in December of 2022. A popular recurring weekly feature in the Republican was a contest called ‘The Hidden Pencil.’

Each week a picture of a pencil would be hidden amongst the text or advertisements within the paper. A prize of $5 in Langdon Bucks was claimed by the first reader to locate the pencil and contact the paper.

Often when former Republican readers talk to me about The Borderland Press, the Hidden Pencil is men-

tioned.

The conversation usually goes like this - “Bob, why don’t you stop writing those stupid articles of yours each week and give us what we really want to see, BRING BACK the Hidden Pencil!”

Okay, I hear you, BUT, here’s the thing - in the world of marketing and promotion, I consider myself a bit of an expert. After all - it is my job, and I’ve been doing this for a very long, long time. The best games or contests are engaging, fun and may even be a bit edgy. The idea is to get people excited and talking. I’ve been thinking about asking this paper’s publisher (my wife) and editor (Hilary Nowatzki) to consider bringing back the Hidden Pencil but revamped to better fit our current times.

Maybe I’m overthinking this, but do young people even know what a pencil is? Would they know how to hold one or what to do with it? When I was in second grade, I remember taking

turns with my other classmates emptying the pencil sharpener. This was a big deal and a coveted assigned duty. It was a huge responsibility to keep the pencil sharpener container cleaned and clear of shavings. This job was right up there with cleaning the chalkboard and chalk tray. Hell, I don’t think they even have chalk boards anymore. See the problem? I want the kids to be able to relate to the Hidden Pencil, but I’m not sure they can or will want to. Pencils are old school and uncool. So I’ve been wracking my brain to come up with an alternative idea, and it came to me recently as I was using my chainsaw to clear some brush at the lake place.

Are you ready!? Here it is! My million dollar idea - I give you – The Missing Finger! You read it right! Each week (if they’ll let me) I will hide a finger amongst the pages of this fine award winning newspaper.

Unfortunately, I have no major prize budget to work with because both Di-

ane and Hilary in Langdon and daughter Andrea in Grafton are a bunch of cheapskates. After scouring the internet I have been able to procure a number of fashionable, fun and fiscally inexpensive rubber fingers. So until the supply of fake digits runs out, they lock me up or fire my sorry ass, we’ll play find ‘The Missing Finger’ here each week. The first person to text us a picture of the page in The Borderland Press or Valley News & Views that includes that papers’ ‘Missing Finger’ will win. Good luck, and you’re welcome. Be sure to send your texts to 701-368-7470.

The missing finger, which will now appear on a various page of the paper each week. Find the finger? Take a photo and send it to us - you’ll win your very own finger!

Community

The Borderland Press

Pembilier Nursing Center: Church services

By Heather Duerre, Life Enrichment Director

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A5

Walhalla Public Library news

By Tammy Olson, Director

Our Summer Reading Program this week was about planting seeds. Carol Castleberry from Nature's Berries and Blooms hosted this week. I read the book ‘In the Garden’ and ‘Down in the Dirt.’ Then the kids all got to plant pumpkin seeds. They also got a beautiful butterfly to decorate their pots. For lunch, they had sandwiches, fruit cups, and lemonade. Thank you, again, Carol for hosting; the kids really enjoyed it.

Greetings from all of us here at PNC! This week I would like to highlight some of our local ministers that provide our residents with church ser-

Rick Warren once said “Christianity is not a religion or a philosophy but a relationship and a lifestyle. The core of that lifestyle is thinking of others, as Jesus did, instead of ourselves.”

I am grateful to the people that think of our residents rather than themselves when they selflessly give of their time. Thank you especially to Elsie Magnus, Sharon Carpenter, Alan Klitzke, Shilice Larsen, Curtis Stegman, Deacon Keith Due, and Father Asselin. You provide a service to our residents that is immeasurable.

These photos are of our beautiful chapel and some of the décor that adorns the walls.

Carol Castleberry from Nature's Berries and Blooms hosted Story Hour this week.

The important nutritional component you may be missing in your diet

By Liz Sillers, FNP

regular; however, our humble fiber friend does much more for our bodies. Fiber helps protect us from chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, certain cancers and can improve our immunity. Unfortunately, it is well known in the medical community that the vast majority of Americans have a fiber deficient diet. Diet and nutrition are interrelated and complex concepts with many components—vitamins, minerals, fats, protein, carbs and fiber, which we tend to overlook.

Since our diet directly impacts our nutrition, let’s delve into what fiber can do for our bodies and how we can add more of it to our diet.

What is fiber? Fiber is the material in plant based foods that can’t be broken down. It is found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and legumes.

How might it help you? Fiber reduces cholesterol, stabilizes blood sugars and can help maintain weight. Fiber rich diets are associated with lower risks of cardiovascular diseases like strokes and heart attacks. Higher fiber foods have more vitamins, minerals and other healthy ingredients, which further contributes to health.

Fiber is good medicine.

Fiber’s effects on our bodies are significant. For example, you may have heard of medications such as Ozempic or Wegovy. These medications increase GLP-1, which is a gut satiation hormone telling us we are full. One of the natural benefits of fiber consumption is its ability to increase the

amount of GLP-1 released in our gut.

Fiber is a natural trigger of GLP-1! So naturally, individuals who consume more fiber tend to eat fewer calories which, in turn, helps us maintain a healthy weight.

Fiber also feeds the biome in our intestines. The biome is a fascinating community of trillions of bacteria that keeps us healthy. Our biomes help regulate our metabolism, digest food, control our immunity and also communicate with our brains, which affects our mental health. Guess what healthy intestinal biomes are fed?

You guessed it: Healthier biomes are fed more fiber.

So how much fiber do we need? The American Heart Association recommends 25-30 grams/day for adults as a general recommendation. Children’s recommendations vary by age with approximately 14 gm/day for toddlers and 25-31 gm/day for teens.

Unfortunately, most adults are getting 9-14 grams per day. It is good practice to check on your own grams/day to see where you are at; it may surprise you.

So, what can we do to increase our fiber consumption? Here are a few suggestions: choose less processed foods and more whole foods—opting for whole wheat instead of white bread, choose brown rice instead of white rice and consider adding whole wheat or high fiber pasta. Eat fruits, vegetables and nuts daily, and finally, add legumes such as beans and lentils, which are an amazing source of fiber.

The expression, ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ most definitely has some merit as that medium-sized apple with the skin intact, has about 5 grams of fiber. Cheers to adding more fiber to your diet; your body will thank you!

Our son was in St. Cloud for baseball and was calling back and forth. At 2am he called and said they were heading home, as he wasn't going to sleep and was really worried about the damage.

Bruce and Lawson had to remove several trees from the driveway in the dark so they could get in the yard. Eric's boat and lift are by the water, but no one was able to get there until a skid steer went down the road pushing trees off to the side. There was no damage down by the lake, but many houses and trees along the road had damage.

Our sons-in-law live down the road from them. They don't have much for trees anyway, but the corner of the roof was lifted, and there was insulation everywhere. Not as bad as many others but bad enough. I didn't go into town; the street lights were out, and I had nothing to go there for. Eric was at Menards by 5:30 but was unable to buy anything like a generator at that time, and by the time he got back, only the store model was there. When they tried to put it together, there were parts missing. Our Grand Forks sonsin-law live by Mentor, and they had two generators Eric could borrow. I made a quick trip to Mentor. They had two generators fueled up, so I turned around and headed back. I stopped in Bagley for gas and groceries. Gas lines in a couple smaller towns outside of Bemidji were about 15 cars deep.

Bruce's 90-year-old aunt and uncle live north of town. He said the damage was worse out there. He spent the afternoon moving trees with a chainsaw and bobcat just so they could get in and out as needed. A friend brought fuel, and his wife brought lemon meringue pie. Both were very appreciated. We left when they got their generator hooked up. We took the bypass to #2 and saw where businesses had their roofs peeled back like sardine cans. All the trees were gone from the high school, and dugouts were blown to cement pieces. It was true devastation.

LPH PROVIDER CONNECTION

Fiber is a rather unglamourous nutrient, mainly associated with keeping us, ahem…

By Tammy Berg

The word for this week is devastation.

We were in Bemidji on Friday with our grands when we were hit by a massive wind storm. They said it wasn't a tornado, but winds at the airport were about 106 mph. Their electricity went out about midnight Friday, and as of Monday afternoon, it is still out. The only time we saw anything out was from the heat lightning. We could see many trees down in the neighbor’s yard and a large tree fell on their house. It fell with a thump, but no damage was done.

Kids planting pumpkin seeds after Story Hour last week.

vices every week. Many of our residents are Christians and have been accustomed to attending church services during their lifetime. That’s why it’s such a vital part of their lives now, even while living at PNC.

Hello from Edmore!

I heard the radio say it covered over 400 miles from Montana to Minnesota. WOW!!! No injuries or deaths have been reported. Thank God for that. Please keep everyone in your prayers. It will be a huge process getting cleaned up. God's blessings to them all. More next week. Take care, and do something nice for someone!!!

Story Hour attendees working on planting their pumpkins.

Community

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A6

The Borderland Press

Safe canning reminders

By Katie Henry, Family and Community Wellness Agent, NDSU Extension – Cavalier County

There was a social media post from NDSU Extension - Nutrition a couple of days ago talking about safe canning methods. It was a great reminder to get some information out there so that we can all experience delicious foods from our garden abundance that we will hopefully get this year!

It’s important to follow safety guidelines when canning and preserving food. If things are done correctly, then food can be preserved for up to 18 months and eaten without concern of botulism. Botulism is a toxin that affects the nervous system and can be deadly. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, double/blurry vision, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, and more. Following scientific guidelines for safety while preserving food will help eliminate the chance of contracting it. Even if a method has never made you sick in the past, all it takes is one time for it to be a life-threatening experience.

Let’s be safe this canning season!

Despite what you might have seen on social media, canning in a bathtub, a pressure cooker, a dishwasher, an oven, a slow cooker, or using the sun are NOT safe methods for canning.

Do NOT use any of those methods.

Those processes may seal the jars, but they do not get the pressure and heat required to kill harmful bacteria.

The seal is not the only thing needed for safety. The safe methods must be used in order to avoid illness. The great news is that it just takes a little knowledge and small adjustments to help make safety happen.

The first thing to consider is to make

sure to use the appropriate method for canning. Use a pressure canner to process low acid foods, which include green beans, corn, carrots, and meats, etc. Pressure cookers are NOT the same as pressure canners. Also, make sure to get your pressure gauge checked for accuracy. We can do that at our NDSU Extension office here in Cavalier County free of charge. Just simply call 256-2560 to set up an appointment. It would be best to have your gauges and seals checked every year. Make sure to use the instructions for pressure canners as well as recipes from a reliable source.

Hot water bath canning is acceptable for high acid foods, which include pickles, salsa, jellies, and fruits. As with pressure canning, be sure to use the appropriate equipment and follow research-based recipes. It is a little simpler process than pressure canning but still be sure to follow the procedures for times and recommendations for this process as well.

One interesting fact about hot water bath canning is that tomatoes can be canned using this method, but additional acidity needs to be added. The recommendation is to use two tablespoons of bottled lemon juice or ½ teaspoon of citric acid per quart of tomatoes.

The second thing to consider is to only use research-based canning recipes to ensure safety. Old recipes that have been passed down or recipes that are just randomly found on the internet cannot be considered safe.

Knowing the large number of safe recipes available from reliable sources, I’m sure you can find a safe recipe that is just like what Grandma used to do, so no worries. Just make sure you follow the safe recipe instead of the others. Those safe recipes, as well as safe procedures, can be found at The National Center for Home Food Preservation website at https://nchfp.urg.edu or any university Extension website, including NDSU Extension https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ extension.

If you would like to try your hand at drying or freezing instead of canning, you can sure do that, too! Both the National Center for Home Food Pres-

ervation as well as the NDSU Extension site have information to help you with that as well. Drying is easiest to do using a food dehydrator, but an oven can be used as well. Fruits, vegetables, and herbs can all be dried for later use. Though the length of time to dry is much longer than with other methods, it’s often easier to store than freezing, and items can be rehydrated or added to dishes for additional nutrition and flavor. It is not the same as freeze-drying, so no expensive equipment is needed in order to enjoy dehydrated foods.

Freezing is fairly simple to do but needs freezer space. A power outage could spoil the preserved food, but if you have a backup generator, none should be lost. Of all preservation methods, freezing typically maintains the most nutrients, which is an added bonus. No special equipment is required, and another benefit is that most foods can be frozen (there are a few exceptions like cucumbers and lettuce). The freezing process usually only requires these simple steps: preparing the produce, blanching (a quick dip in boiling water to inactivate enzymes), a quick cool down in ice/ water bath to stop cooking process, then packaging in freezer safe containers (with removal of air for best quality). The process is not lengthy, is super easy, and more nutritious.

The gardens are really starting to look lush, so produce should be starting soon. July is berry month, so let food preservation begin!

Strawberries, juneberries, and raspberries will all be ripe for the picking. Visit the National Center for Home Food Preservation website at https://nchfp.uga.edu for all your food preservation needs. The website includes science based safe methods for canning, jams and jellies, pickling, fermenting, freezing, drying, curing and smoking, and storing. It’s simple to use, and you can find almost anything you need on there. You can also visit our NDSU Extension website at https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/extension. We have publications and information on just about anything you could think of. And, remember that you can always give me a call at the office at 256-2560, email me at katie.d.henry@ndsu.edu, or stop

into our NDSU Extension office here in the Cavalier County Courthouse for more information.

Here is a traditional Native American berry sauce recipe you could try this year. The Lakota and Dakota people traditionally prepared it with chokecherries and thickened with flour from prairie roots. It can be used with sweet and savory foods, and I’ve heard it’s delicious on bread as well as chicken and ice cream. Enjoy!

Wojapi (Berry Sauce) 3 1/2 c. mixed berries 3/4 c. plus 2 Tbsp. granulated white sugar 1/4 c. plus 1 Tbsp. Clear Jel 1 c. cold water 3 1/2 tsp. bottled lemon juice 1. Wash hands with soap and water.

2. Prepare jars and keep hot.

3. Wash lids as directed by manufacturer.

4. Bring 8 cups of water to a boil.

5. Wash berries, drain and add them to the pot.

6. Boil for one minute and drain water thoroughly.

7. Cover drained berries to keep warm.

8. In a heavy pan, add sugar, Clear Jel and water.

9. Cook on medium-high heat until thick and bubbly.

10. Add lemon juice and boil for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.

11. Fold in berries and fill a 1-quart jar (or two 1-pint jars), leaving 1 inch of headspace.

12. Add lids and rings. Tighten fingertip tight, and process immediately according to the directions in Table 1.

Makes 1 quart or 2 pints. Can the pints and the quarts for the same length of time in the water bath canner.

Table 1. Process time for fruit pie filling at different altitudes 0-1,000 feet for 30 minutes 1,001-3,000 feet for 25 minutes 3,001-6,000 feet for 40 minutes Nutrition: Makes sixteen 1/4-cup servings.

Each serving has 90 calories, 0 g fat, 0 g protein, 22 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber and 10 mg sodium.

LIFT Program opens applications in business loan funding The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the opening of the Legacy Investment for Technology (LIFT) application process on June 16. This funding opportunity drives economic growth in our state by fueling innovative North Dakota businesses.

The LIFT fund received a $10 million appropriation for the 2025-27 biennium.

“We are grateful for the support from the North Dakota 69th Legislative Assembly,” said Commerce Economic Development Deputy Director/ Head of Investments and Innovation Shayden Akason. “Supporting North Dakota companies that are commercializing intellectual property continues to be a strong component of the state’s economic development.”

LIFT is an innovation loan fund that supports technology advancement by providing financing for commercialization of intellectual property within the state of North Dakota. The use of the loan funds is available to enhance capacity and to the extent possible, leverage state, federal and private sources of funding.

Commerce collaborates with the Bank of North Dakota to manage and administer the loan fund. LIFT loan terms include 0% interest for the first three years of the loan, and 2% interest for the next two years, and an interest rate equal to a standard Bank of North Dakota loan for all subsequent years. The program is open to North Dakota companies working in advanced computing and data management, agriculture technology, autonomous and unmanned vehicles and technologies, energy, health care, value-added agriculture, value-added energy, and any area specifically identified by the LIFT committee as contributing to the diversification of the state’s economy.

Since its launch in 2019, the LIFT committee has awarded $44 million to 71 innovative companies, propelling North Dakota’s economic growth.

Applications for the LIFT program will be accepted through July 25, 2025.

For more information, application guidelines and program details, visit https://belegendary.link/LIFT.

Lifestyle

The Borderland Press

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A7

Prairie Fare: Seasoned to perfection – Why cast iron cookware remains in style

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

The aroma of grilling food often fills neighborhoods at this time of year, bringing a wave of nostalgia with the scent of outdoor cooking.

When I was growing up, we did not have a grill until I was nearly in college. My dad was the chef for outdoor cooking. He brought out the cast iron frying pans and a propane cooking stove and a lot of solid white shortening.

Back then, I wasn’t even strong enough to lift those hefty pans.

Our Fourth of July menu consisted of “raw fries” and steak. We even ventured to state parks with our cookware and food.

Raw fries, by the way, were peeled, sliced potatoes that became browned and crispy on the outside when fried in hot fat. I was the official taste-tester. The steak was fried, too. We were not exactly following today’s food preparation recommendations. I have some of those pans in my kitchen from my family and my husband’s, but I don’t use them to fry steak and

potatoes outdoors.

might take a couple of treatments.

Cast iron cookware has remained popular because it is very durable and holds heat. You can make stew, fry foods or even bake cornbread in it.

When I think of cast iron, the image of heavy pots hanging over campfires in old west TV shows or movies comes to mind. Cast iron cookware is much older than the Wild West.

Sometimes, you can’t bring an old rusty pot back to life. It could become a rustic decoration on a wall.

Cast iron dates back a couple thousand years, with many historians tracing the origin to China. In the early 1700s, Abraham Darby of Great Britain patented a manufacturing method for cast iron pans. The popular cookware nourished generations.

Later, lighter-weight cookware such as aluminum and nonstick pans became popular. Some nonstick-coated cookware might pose some health risks, so stainless steel and cast iron pots and pans have become popular again.

Cast iron cookware requires a little tender loving care. Sometimes I see rusty cast iron cookware at thrift stores or garage sales. The rusty pans can be scrubbed with coarse salt or briefly soaked in vinegar. Then the old pots should be washed in soapy water, rinsed and thoroughly dried before phase two — seasoning.

Properly seasoning cast iron takes a little patience, but it’s worth the effort for a naturally nonstick surface.

Coat the entire pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil and heat in a hot (450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit) oven for about an hour. Put a layer of aluminum foil in the bottom of the oven to catch any drips of oil. Seasoning

You can use your nonstick cast iron pan for frying, roasting or slow cooking. However, avoid long, slow cooking of acidic foods such as tomato-based dishes in your seasoned cast iron, because the chemical reaction can break down the protective oil coating.

Most cookware experts do not recommend soaking black cast iron pans in soap and water. A good scraping and wiping down with a paper towel or cloth as soon as the pan has cooled will keep your pans useful for many years.

If you decide to wash the pot by hand, be sure to dry it carefully with a paper towel, followed by setting it on a hot burner. Do not leave any water in the cast iron pan, and do not put a cast iron pan in the dishwasher. After drying, rub the pot with a thin layer of oil.

Cast iron pans can add a little iron to your diet, and that is especially good for people who are anemic (low in iron). As you are cooking with cast iron, be cautious because the handle can become very hot. Use a couple of hot pads and two hands to remove the pans from the oven.

ment that can last for generations — just like the memories they help create.

Here’s a family favorite recipe that can be made in a cast iron skillet or a standard baking pan.

Golden Cornbread 1 cup cornmeal 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup sugar 4 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 egg 1 cup milk 4 tablespoons butter Preheat the oven to 375 F. Melt butter in a 10-inch iron skillet. In a bowl, mix together all the dry ingredients.

Stir in the egg and slowly add milk.

If you plan to bake in the skillet, swirl the butter around the skillet so the bottom of the pan is coated. Add the melted butter from the skillet to the batter and mix. Pour into the hot skillet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

Alternative directions: Melt the butter in a microwave oven and mix as directed. Spray the bottom of a 9-inch round or square pan with nonstick cooking spray (or use oil or shortening).

Makes eight servings. Each serving has 210 calories, 7 grams (g) of fat, 5 g of protein, 33 g of carbohydrate, 2 g of fiber and 590 milligrams of 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.

Be sure to cook on a burner that is about the size of the cast iron pan. After cleaning the pan, store it in a dry place. Be careful not to drop the pans, especially on your foot. Dropping a cast iron pan could crack the pan and seriously hurt your foot.

Whether you’re reviving an old family pan or trying cast iron for the first time, these pans are a kitchen invest-

Whether you’re reviving an old family pan or trying cast iron for the first time, these pans are a kitchen investment that can last for generations. (Pixabay photo)

Prairie Doc® Perspective: Oral health is a gateway to general wellness

By Paul Meyer, DDS, MS

health is intimately tied to overall well-being.

Studies of centenarians—people who live into their 100s—have shown a correlation between good oral health and longevity. While flossing alone may not extend your life, oral hygiene often reflects broader patterns of selfcare. People who maintain their teeth through regular checkups and good habits tend to engage in other positive health behaviors, supporting the idea that oral health is a gateway to general wellness.

For much of modern healthcare, dentistry has existed apart from the broader medical system.

Patients commonly have separate providers for medical and dental care, and this division is reflected in insurance models, education, and even cultural perception. Yet biologically, this separation is artificial. The mouth is a central part of the body, and its

Beyond its connection to systemic health, oral health also has a major psychosocial impact. A healthy smile can influence confidence, job opportunities, and social interactions.

Teeth support essential functions like speech, eating, and self-expression— all of which contribute to quality of life at any age. This means not only is there a reason to maintain your teeth with brushing and flossing, but there are also benefits to improving them

for both esthetics and function.

One way to enhance a smile is by improving tooth alignment, which can benefit both function and appearance. Orthodontics—the dental specialty focused on straightening teeth and correcting bite issues—is often associated with adolescence, but treatment is increasingly common among adults. Advances in digital imaging and clear aligner therapy have made orthodontics more accessible and discreet. For many patients, even minor adjustments, such as moving one tooth or closing a small space, can be completed efficiently and comfortably with modern treatment options.

These treatment options can now range from simple corrections to comprehensive care using either clear aligners or traditional braces. Importantly, they are often more convenient than people expect, with flexible solutions to fit different lifestyles and goals.

The first step toward improving your oral health—or enhancing your smile— is establishing or re-establishing a dental home. Regular dental evaluations help detect and address prob-

lems early, before they become more serious or expensive to treat. Once a foundation of oral health is in place, patients can explore options to improve the shape, color, alignment, or function of their teeth.

Whether you’re considering tooth whitening, replacing missing teeth, or straightening your smile, having a trusted relationship with a dental provider makes all the difference. Open

conversations, regular care, and modern dental tools make it possible to achieve not only a healthier mouth but a healthier life overall Paul Meyer, DDS, MS, is an orthodontist proudly serving the Brookings, South Dakota community. After earning his dental degree from the University of Minnesota and completing his orthodontic residency at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Meyer returned to his hometown to carry on the family practice at Meyer Orthodontics. He is honored to continue the practice founded by his father, Dr. David Meyer, providing expert, personalized orthodontic care to patients of all ages. Follow The Prairie Doc® at www.prairiedoc.org, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Threads. Prairie Doc Programming includes On Call with the Prairie Doc®, a medical Q&A show (most Thursdays at 7pm streaming on Facebook), two podcasts, and a Radio program (on SDPB), providing health information based on science, built on trust.

Dakota Gardener: Attract bees to your vegetable garden

By Tom Kalb, Horticulturist, NDSU Extension

person you’re memorializing? Be cautious.

And what did I do when my own dad died? Of course, I planted a tree. The tree’s doing okay, but the woodpeckers have been tough on it. And I laugh at my own inconsistency.

I’m writing this on Memorial Day, 2025. This holiday is intended to honor and mourn those who died in military service to our country. My Uncle Jim was one of those people, killed in the Korean War. Dad rarely talked about losing his older brother, but I know it affected him for the rest of his life.

Trees are often planted in memory of loved ones who have died, whether in service to the country or just in remembrance. Trees are long-lived.

They’re tough, yet flexible. Sometimes, those are the qualities we remember in our loved ones.

In recent years, funeral homes have begun offering the option of planting a memorial tree for the deceased. I’ve never chosen that option, but I always wonder – what tree gets planted and where?

Planting memorial trees is a lovely gesture, but I always caution people – there are many things that can attack and kill trees, and if that happens, will that affect your memories of the

After World War I, elms were planted in many locations in North Dakota, memorializing those young men who were killed during the conflict. Many of those trees were planted at our universities – including NDSU and Minot State University – and at the State Capitol. Unfortunately, records weren’t kept regarding what trees were planted and where. We can only make an educated guess as to which trees might still be around. Usually, American elms were planted.

The tradition of memorial trees goes back much further. There’s a story that President Andrew Jackson planted two magnolia trees at the White House in memory of his late wife, Ra-

of tree would survive having a part of its root system cut away every few years, when a new burial takes place?

That question is easy to answer – no tree would do well in that situation.

Trees are great for those cemetery sections that are full and won’t have any additional burials. They shouldn’t

When I was an undergraduate student, I remember participating in a

provide a hindrance for mowers, but instead can be planted to enhance the view and provide shade for mourners who come to grieve.

Surprisingly, many cemeteries around the country are actually accredited arboretums. An example is Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum in Cincinnati, Ohio. The 733-acre location is the third-largest cemetery in the United

chel, who died a few months before he took office. Historical evidence suggests the trees were planted by a later president. Regardless, it’s still a great story.

Rebecca Davis

I was once asked what type of tree would do best in a cemetery in North Dakota. I had never thought of that before!

I spun the question around – What type

States and contains nearly two dozen Champion Trees from either the National Register or the state Register of Champion Trees.

Almost all cucumber, melon, pumpkin and squash flowers require pollination by bees to produce fruit. (Flickr photo by Swallowtail Garden Seeds)

Memorial Day service at Spring Grove.

The trees were impressive. The veterans I met impressed me even more. It was a day of remembrance for them, for the friends they lost, and a day of hope for a peaceful future.

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A8

Church

The Borderland Press

From the Pastor’s Desk: Choose the lens of abundance

By Pastor Jodi Myrvik

has its downside.

Most of us are familiar with the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000. For reference, you can find it in your Bibles in Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6:30-44, Luke 9:10-17, and John 6:1-14. In this story, we witness Jesus transforming a scarcity mindset into one of abundance. The disciples, overwhelmed by the needs of a crowd of 5,000 with only five loaves and two fish, see only their limitations. Yet, Jesus took their meager offering, blessed it, and miraculously provided enough for everyone with leftovers to spare.

It is so easy to see the world from a place of scarcity; we do not have enough - enough people, enough money, enough energy, enough time.

We often hear people talking about how there is not enough. If we turn on the television or if we sit down for conversation with strangers or friends, we will hear the same theme. There is not enough time, we don’t get enough out of our jobs, our partner doesn’t do enough of the chores, we don’t have enough resources, we simply just don’t have enough. Think for a moment about the story of Jesus feeding the thousands with just a few loaves and fishes. The disciples, the crowds, everyone doubted that there would be enough. Surely there wasn’t enough.

It’s easy to fall into the scarcity model of thinking and ask along with the disciples, “How on earth are we going to do this? We are up a creek without a paddle.” In the midst of all that is happening in the world around us, it is easy to recall all the things that are lacking in our relationships, in our lives, in our job, in our communities.

Every person, every relationship, every job, and every wall of our house

On any given day we could think of 10 reasons not to get out of bed. On any given day we could also think of all we have to be thankful for in life.

There are two roads. One is thinking inside the box and asking “How on God’s earth are we going to feed all these people?” The other is thinking outside the box, looking at all the options, then asking “How many loaves and fishes do we have?” The difference in approach makes all the difference. It’s all about looking around and seeing all that we have instead of looking around and seeing what we don’t have.

This is a message that is important for all of us in every aspect of life. The overwhelming narrative is telling us, “we do not have enough.” The narrative is so powerful, it makes seeing all that we do have extremely difficult and, at times, impossible. Perhaps what we need is a new way of measuring our abundance...a new way of seeing all that we have and the ways in which our lives and communities are thriving.

Philippians 4:8 does not say... “whatever is lacking, whatever is a problem, whatever is painful, whatever is not there—meditate on these things.” It does, however, say and I take the liberty to paraphrase, “Whatever is true, wherever the spirit is moving, whatever is amazing, meditate on these things. Think about all the things you can praise God for and be glad about them.” You see, the Bible is filled with stories of thinking outside the box and with stories of abundance…the feeding of the five thousand…turning water into wine…the miraculous healings. At first glance, all were stories of scarcity that result in stories of abundance!

May each of us in our own way unlearn scarcity as we open our eyes to the blessings before us and the abundance around us. May we always find ways to look “outside the box.” May we learn to count our blessings instead of our woes. Because when we learn to focus on what we have and what is right before our eyes, it changes everything.

Obituaries

The Borderland Press

Beverly A. White

Beverly A. White, 79, formerly of Walhalla, N.D., passed away unexpectedly on June 17, 2025, at St. Anthony Health and Rehab Center in St. Anthony, Minn.

Beverly Ann White was born in Walhalla, N.D., to Michael and Agnes (Ducioame) White. She was the last of 12 children. Beverly grew up and attended school in Walhalla. She was baptized and confirmed at the St. Boniface Catholic Church in Walhalla where she embraced her Cath-

Lorrayne Kathryn Zobrak

A Celebration of Life was held April 19, 2025, in Great Falls, Mont., for Lorrayne Kathryn Zobrak, 88, who passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, at Highgate Senior Living Center in Great Falls. Interment was at Union Cemetery in Osnabrock, N.D. Lorrayne was born March 23, 1937, in Osnabrock, N.D., to Fred and Kathryn (Haug) Poier. After graduating from Osnabrock High School, she earned her standard teaching certificate from Moorhead State and began her teaching career in Wolf Point,

Mont. She met her husband, Ronald Zobrak, while he was stationed at Malmstrom AFB. They were married in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and spent many years living abroad in Italy, Germany, Taiwan, and various states across the U.S. as part of their Air Force life. Together, they raised three children: Rochelle, Ronald and Shawn.

Following Ron’s passing in 1979, Lorrayne returned to Great Falls and earned her Bachelor of Education from the College of Great Falls. She resumed her teaching career in Wolf Point, where she touched the lives of hundreds of students.

olic faith. She later moved to Fridley, Minn., but was always proud to be from Walhalla.

Beverly loved to shop and to go to the casinos with her sisters. Her Native American heritage was very important to her, and she enjoyed talking about her Native American roots with her family.

Surviving Beverly are many nieces and nephews. Preceding her are her parents and siblings.

She was known to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as “Nana” and brought joy and laughter to every room. She was a lifelong member of Eastern Star and a proud supporter of Shriners Children’s Hospitals and Boys Town.

Survivors include her children: Rochelle (Art) Nyberg of Minot, N.D., Ronald (Rhonda) Zobrak of Great Falls, Mont., and Shawn (Angie) Zobrak of Las Vegas, Nev.; her grandchildren: Brie Nyberg, Lacie Nyberg, Halie (Franco) Goicochea, Mitchell (Alyssa), Nathan, Taylor, Grant, Emily,

DAKOTA DATEBOOK: Bismarck Indian School Closure June 30, 2025 – For thirty years, Bismarck, North Dakota was home one of 30 non-reservation boarding schools for native students in the US. The Bismarck Indian School was established in 1907 between the Missouri River and the city’s Northern Pacific Railroad tracks. Students largely came from the Fort Berthold Reservation, but also Standing Rock and Turtle Mountain, and some from other states too.

The school had a tumultuous history, including five superintendents within a five-year span, from 1917 to 1922.

The school’s first superintendent, W.R. Davis was reported as a popular

with the students. Every student and teacher crowded the train platform to see him off after he retired in 1914.

The school closed for a short time in 1918, partly due to the Great War. School staff often doubled up on jobs, as in the case of a blacksmith/carpenter and a seamstress/cook. Many employees sought transfers, and resigned simply because they didn’t want to stay. Poor maintenance also plagued the school.

The Bismarck Indian School served up to 125 students. It was under the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Girls learned about housework and sewing, while

Walhalla Senior Meals Menu Monday, June 30 Chicken Kiev•Rice Pilaf•Peas•Peaches•1 WW Bread Tuesday, July 1 Lemon Pepper Fish•Sweet Potatoes•Coleslaw•Fruit Wednesday, July 2 Swedish Meatballs•Mashed Potatoes•Mixed Vegetables•Mandarin Oranges Thursday, July 3 Turkey/Dressing•Mashed Potatoes•Sweet Potatoes•Pumpkin Dessert•Cranberries•1 WW Bread Friday, July 4 Hot Dog on WW Bun•Potato Salad•Baked Beans•Watermelon This is a menu for the Walhalla Title III Older Americans Act Food Program. The full cost of the meal is $13.00. Suggested donation for those 60 and older is $4.00. EBT/SNAP accepted. Under 60 are required to pay $13.00. Meal site is Waters Family Restaurant, 1108 Central Ave., Walhalla. Call 701-549-2443 before 10:00 a.m. to place an order for congregate, pick up, or home delivered meals.

boys were taught about livestock and carpentry. Students were often treated poorly and punished for thefts, escapes and other behavior. Punishments included confinement and strappings.

Many students and their families resisted the school’s forced assimilation into Euro-American society.

Turtle Mountain families in particular resisted the school and often refused to send their children. Fort Berthold families threatened organized opposition against the school. As one of its superintendents wrote, the school had “one of the rottenest reputations” he had ever encountered.

In 1922, the school became an all-girl institution. It closed on this date in 1937, with the site later becoming a temporary camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps and military grounds.

Dakota Datebook by Jack Dura “Dakota Datebook” is a radio series from Prairie Public in partnership with the State Historical Society of North Dakota and with funding from the North Dakota Humanities Council. See all the Dakota Datebooks at prairiepublic.org, subscribe to the “Dakota Datebook” podcast, or buy the Dakota Datebook book at shopprairiepublic.org.

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A9 Burial will be held at the St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery.

Do not think of me as gone I am with you still in each new dawn.

Native American Prayer I give you this one thought to keep I am with you still, I do not sleep I am a thousand winds that blow I am the diamond glints on snow I am the sunlight on the ripened grain I am the gentle autumn rain When you awaken in the morning hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight I am the soft stars that shine at night

Online guestbook available at www. askewfuneralhome.com.

Max Zobrak, and Hanna Nyhus; four great-grandchildren: Elijah and Noah Goicochea, Ava and Hudson Moore; niece and nephew Kathy (Mike) Schoen and Mark (Lori) Gross; and many dear friends including Betty and Grant Nelson, Carolyn Schields, and Roberta (David) Nyhus. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Ron; sister Marlys; brother-inlaw Leonard Gross; and close friend Jack Schields.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospitals or Boys Town.

Cont’d. From Page A1 Mysteries of the Nekoma Pyramid which operates in 60 different countries.

At time of writing, Bitzero has not made any announcements if their data center has been sold or leased to another entity.

The Borderlands New Center also asked about previous claims made by the company’s former CEO Akbar Sanjay that the data center could create upwards of 250 jobs. As of print, no comment on this matter has been received.

Bitzero’s acquisition of SRMSC was facilitated through the Cavalier County Job Development Authority. As Bitzero is a private entity, the CCJDA has no involvement in the company’s plans for the data center.

Region

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page A10

The Borderland Press

Mini-doc popularity mirrors growing interest in regenerative agriculture Two North Dakota farmers highlighted for shift to regenerative practices

By Michael Standaert/North Dakota News Cooperative

Chris Walberg (left) and Tyler Zimmerman, lifelong friends who have turned to regenerative agriculture together, were featured in a mini-documentary that’s been viewed nearly 600,000 times in the past six months. Photo provided by Kiss the Ground.

A shift in consumer mindset toward foods grown with less chemicals, fertilizers and pesticides is driving greater interest in a switch to regenerative agriculture for some farmers across the country.

Two farmers attempting to make the switch to regenerative agriculture near Leonard, North Dakota in the southern Red River Valley are the focus of a mini-documentary that’s garnered nearly 600,000 views on YouTube in just the past six months.

Farmers Tyler Zimmerman and neighbor Chris Walberg turned to no-till farming several years back, but an interest in restoring soil health to an area where over 50% of the topsoil has been lost over the past 120 years led them deeper into their soil journey.

For Zimmerman and Walberg, no-till progressed to cover cropping, which then went to including cereals and specialty crops, rotating crops, and grazing livestock on cover crops, as well as experimenting with other aspects of regenerative farming, all while continuing to reduce chemical and fertilizer inputs.

“Everything just kept connecting and we kept going down that road, and pretty soon here you are doing all these different things that the conventional farmer isn’t doing,” Zimmerman said.

every day we’re learning more.”

Zimmerman is in year 10 of the switchover on his 3,000-acre farm raising corn, soybeans, sunflowers, wheat, cereal rye and millet, alfalfa, as well as oats, barley

and some radish and flax in the past.

Regenerative farming aims to repair, restore and grow the biological diversity of local soils so that crops can be produced with increasingly minimal amounts of pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizer inputs.

When he first started farming, “I didn’t really know how alive the soil is and the biology aspect of the soil,” Zimmerman said.

When it came to crop inputs, “Everything that we used to use is trying to kill something,” he said, “so here we’re trying to grow and build our soil and keep it alive, to in turn, to give us the nutrients and everything that it can give us.”

Having a neighbor in lifelong friend Walberg who is also making the transition helps create a powerful sharing partnership for the two farmers. It’s also been an enjoyable process, Zimmerman said.

“It’s made farming a lot more fun because we’re doing a lot of different things,” Zimmerman said. “It makes it fun because we’re doing different things and learning, we’ve got to keep on the learning side of things because

Letter to the Editor: Gov. Armstrong won this battle, it’s up to us to win the war On June 14, Governor Armstrong was censured by the leaders of the ND Republican Party for vetoing Senate Bill 2307, the recent book ban bill that was defeated due to the Governor’s veto. This censure means bills like SB 2307 will come back and our work at Right to Read ND must continue in earnest.

The wildest part of the resolution is that it doesn’t even mention books or libraries. The resolution says the focus of the bill was to “safeguard children from dangerous, irreversible medical interventions and harmful ideologies that threaten their health, identity, and development.”

This is not how North Dakotans saw the bill; they overwhelmingly saw it as lawmakers taking away their freedom to access information at their libraries. Hundreds of North Dakotans submitted testimony opposing the bill; over 1,000 showed up in person on a cold day in March to read out-

lead to a transition of around 76 million more acres to regenerative farming.

different agronomy tours, with organic and regenerative farming among the focuses.

Walsh County Three Rivers Conservation District will also host a soil health tour on July 17, which includes a regenerative farm visit as well as a variety of soil health speakers.

Through the documentaries, consumer guides and other resources, Kiss the Ground focuses on educating the public about the possibilities of regenerative agriculture.

Qasim Khan, an organic cropping systems agronomist at North Dakota State University’s Carrington Research Extension Center, has also been tracking the shift in consumer demand for organic products and food produced with no pesticides.

According to the most recent data he has, around 35% of US consumers seek out products grown without pesticides.

Evan Harrison, CEO for Kiss the Ground, sees a parallel between farmers and artists. Both are always striving but never really arriving, he said, just like Zimmerman and Walberg.

“I think the trajectory is in that direction,” Khan said, toward more and more consumers wanting food produced through regenerative practices.

“I think what we were able to bring across in the film is that ‘welcomeness’ they give off,” Harrison said.

While consumers may be driving some of this change, farmers have to weigh the costs and benefits of switching over to more sustainable, regenerative farming, Khan said.

“We try to get demonstrations of people who are transferring to no till or minimum tillage, incorporating cover crops and a diversity of species so that there are living roots and a diverse mix of species that hopefully kind of mimics or takes inspiration from the prairie,” Anderson said.

The viral mini-documentary is part of a series of documentaries supported by the Kiss the Ground nonprofit, which promotes regenerative agriculture and soil health as a viable solution for better health, better water quality and climate resiliency.

“People might look at them and say they’re experts, but they look at it and say we’re on a journey and we’re just constantly trying to figure it out,” he said.

While statistics vary on the amount of land considered regenerative agriculture in the U.S. - figures range from around 14 million to up to 30 million acres out of the around 900 million acres of agricultural land - awareness is increasing quickly, Harrison said.

Just a year and a half ago, only around 4% of U.S. adults understood what regenerative agriculture is, according to a survey Kiss the Ground commissioned. That figure has increased to around 7% in the nonprofit’s most recent survey.

Harrison said the tipping point for a real shift will be around 15 to 20% in awareness, and once reached, could

Bigger changes would likely come from the next generation of farmers making a choice to move to regenerative agriculture, he said. Those who’ve been farming for 30, 40 or 50 years likely won’t change practices, but their sons and daughters might.

On July 22, Khan and his team in Carrington will host a field day with four

In his 40-year career, Scott has held instrumental roles for several North Dakota businesses. His experience as an office manager and in accounting, including his role as Chief Financial Officer, provides him with insight into successfully working with employees and customers. He has also held numerous volunteer positions over the years, including foundations, fire departments, the church, the food pantry, and the Community of Care.

We are so thankful he did. By vetoing this bill, Governor Armstrong protected our First Amendment rights, curtailed attacks on our librarians, supported limited government, and affirmed that North Dakotans can parent their own kids at the library.

Thank you, Governor Armstrong.

By Mariah Ralston and Randi Monley, Right to Read ND co-chairs

In some areas of the country, farmers have turned to regenerative practices out of necessity as chemical inputs could no longer control weeds that had become immune to them. Restoring soil health through regenerative agriculture has been the only way to turn in these cases.

Scott Kroeger newly elected to Polar Board

side their local libraries in opposition to the bill; and over 2,200 people took our action alert urging the Governor to veto the bill.

We know the fight will continue. This vote shows that a majority of those in the ND Republican Party’s leadership want to revisit this issue in the 2027 Legislative Session, no matter how unpopular it is with North Dakotans.

We will be ready for that fight when it comes. Join us at righttoreadnd.org/ join-us.

“Sometimes you’re forced to change or you willingly want to go more for sustainable or regenerative agriculture,” Khan said.

PARK RIVER, N.D. (June 24) – At its recent annual meeting held on June 5, 2025, Scott Kroeger of Arthur, N.D., was elected as a director for the District 3 position on the Polar board.

“I hope for Polar to remain very successful and continue to be a leading-edge service provider,” said Kroeger when asked what his goals for Polar are.

Josh Anderson, Walsh County district conservation manager, said tours like this are part of cultivating a conversation about and creating greater awareness around soil health.

A link to the Kiss the Ground video featuring Zimmerman and Walberg at YouTube is available here: https://bit. ly/44eZTHb

The North Dakota News Cooperative is a non-profit news organization providing reliable and independent reporting on issues and events that impact the lives of North Dakotans. The organization increases the public’s access to quality journalism and advances news literacy across the state.

For more information about NDNC or to make a charitable contribution, please visit newscoopnd.org.

Letter to the Editor: Title IX “You’ve come a long way, baby,” the 1968 slogan for Virginia Slims cigarettes, acknowledged that great strides had been made for women, beginning with the right to vote over 50 years earlier.

Almost as impactful was the passage of Title IX in 1972, which significantly expanded educational and athletic opportunities for women and girls. In the 1970s, I was one of those athletes, competing on the girls’ swim team for six years. At the end of the pool hung two plaques, one for the girls’ team and one for the boys’; each plaque listed the name and record time for every event. Although the members of both teams spent the same amount of time in practice, the boys outperformed the girls in every event. But that was okay, because we had our plaque.

Today, we can’t sing, We’ve Come a Long Way Baby, when the accomplishments to prevent sex discrimination for girls and women are being erased throughout our country. June 23 marks the 53rd anniversary of the passage of Title IX, yet female athletes sidelined as male athletes compete in girls’ sports. A recent example of discrimination occurred earlier this month when the Champlin Park Softball Team received the Minnesota Girls Softball State Title with a male pitcher who identified as female.

It is illogical and unfair that male athletes are receiving girls’ scholarships, using girls’ locker rooms, replacing records, and winning championships in girls’ sports. Thankfully, our governor and state legislators have enacted laws to protect girls’ and women’s sports in North Dakota. Celebrate the passing of Title IX. Contact your federal legislators, and ask them to support legislation that protects female athletes based on the biological truth of being male or female, in every state.

Linda Thorson, State Director, Concerned Women for America of North Dakota

Summer SPORTS Amble, Cosley help East teams to 2025 Shrine Bowl football wins

By Jake Kulland, Sports Editor

The 51st Annual Shrine Bowl was held at Mayville State University on June 21, where the best football players from eastern North Dakota met the best from the west. The East won both the 11-man and 9-man games by scores of 10-7 and 24-8, respectively.

Cody Amble of Langdon-Munich was a big part of the 11-man win, as he had an interception and long return to set a touchdown and a big catch just before halftime to make the winning field goal possible late in the second quarter. He played extensively on both sides of the ball.

Grant Cosley of North Border also saw plenty of action, and he returned two punts for 30 yards. Logan Werner of Cavalier had five tackles on the night, and NB Eagles head coach Tim Hartje was a part of the coaching staff that helped get the win.

North Border head coach Tim Hartje and Eagles player Grant Cosley were both invited to the 51st North Dakota Shrine Bowl held in Mayville on June 21.

Langdon-Munich senior Cody Amble with his huge family cheering section, led by parents Marty and Sheri Amble of Sarles. What a great crew!

Cody Amble had a great reception under pressure down close to the goal line at the end of the half. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Here’s Coach Hartje with five players from Region 3 that played in the 9-man game (L-R): Kayden Rose and Logan Werner from Cavalier, Coke Henderson of North Prairie, Grant Cosley of North Border, and Ben Gudajtes from Midway-Minto.

Cody Amble with an interception thrown by the West Team stopping a touchdown.

Photo by Larry Stokke.

Jake’s Take on Sports 10:30am There is your parade guide, and so many things are coming up later in July, like the Pembina County Fair, Nekoma’s 120th Celebration, and, of course, Musicfest in Langdon. There are just tons of things to do; now let’s get to some sports info.

By Jake Kulland, Sports Editor Hampden Days this weekend then 4th of July celebrations in every direction What a week ahead we have coming up. The summer festivities hit high gear all over the place. It starts off with Hampden Days this weekend then 4th of July celebrations in Walhalla, Pembina, Park River, Rolla, and even Mount Carmel Dam. There are so many events and activities happening at them all, it would take three newspapers worth to list them all here. What I thought I would do is give you a nice clean list of parades at all of them, then you can decide how many you want to attend. Here we go: -- Hampden Days, June 28, 10:00am -- Mount Carmel Dam 2nd Annual Golf Cart Parade, July 4, 10:30am -- Park River 4th of July Parade, July 4, 11:00am -- Rolla Ragtop Festival Parade, July 4, 12:00pm -- Pembina 4th of July Parade, July 4, 3:00pm -- Walhalla 4th of July Parade, July 5,

Shrine Bowl sees Amble, Cosley, area players shine The 51st Annual North Dakota Shrine Bowl All-Star Football Game is in the books. It was held at Mayville State University on June 21. Several area players were involved in both the 11man and 9-man contests, which featured the best football players from the eastern and western sides of the state. The East team beat the West in both games, and we are happy to say that all of our area players had big parts in both wins.

Cody Amble of Langdon-Munich played both ways, on offense and defense, on his 11-man squad. He had a key interception in the first half and a big catch late in the second quarter that helped set up the only scores of the game for his team. Grant Cosley from North Border returned two punts for 30 yards on the 9-man side, and Logan Werner of Cavalier had five tackles. Kayden Rose, Cole Henderson and Ben Gudajtes also represented our corner of the world well.

North Border coach Tim Hartje was on the 9-man East coaching staff, and he and all the players said they thoroughly enjoyed this once in a lifetime experience. Hats off to them all!

Langdon Post 98 Red Sox set to compete at Souris River Slugfest

in Minot A big American Legion baseball tournament is going on at Corbett Field in Minot June 27-29. It’s called the Souris River Slugfest, and the Langdon Post 98 Red Sox are one of the teams playing in the tourney. They will meet teams from Minot, Burlington, Washburn and even East Grand Forks in the three-day event. It should be a great time to get some needed field time for the Red Sox and sever-

al plate appearances to help them for big games down the line in July.

Their next home game is scheduled for June 30 at American Legion Field versus Midway-Minto with a first pitch at 6:00pm. You can hear that game on KNDK 1080.

Up to Par Golf Tournament ready to go June 28 in Walhalla We will leave you this week with information on our latest area golf event,

which is the Up to Par Tournament, on June 28 at the Walhalla Country Club. Registration is 9:00am with a shotgun start at 10. The format is a four-person scramble tourney, and you can sign up at the clubhouse up to the morning of the event. All ages are welcome to play, and all proceeds go to the betterment of the Walhalla Country Club.

“See ya!” next week!

Sports

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B2

The Borderland Press

Red Sox split two non-conference games with Thompson

By Jake Kulland, Sports Editor

In their last games before a nine-day break in their schedule, the Langdon Post 98 Red Sox American Legion baseball team hosted Thompson Post 181 for two seven innings games on June 18. The Red Sox won the first game 11-1 then lost the second 19-0.

Both games were called by the 10-run rule after five innings. After the double header, the Red Sox record is now 7-3 on the season with their next action in the Souris River Slugfest in Minot on June 27-29. Langdon will play the Minot 26ers on June 27 at 7:30pm then will have two games on June 28, playing Burlington at 3:00pm and the Minot Metros at 8:00pm.

the fourth. Mason Romfo had two of Langdon's four hits with Jax Johnson taking the loss on the mound.

LANGDON 11, THOMPSON 1 (5 Innings) T -- 100 00 -- 1 4 1 L -- 242 12 -- 11 13 1 WP -- Theo Romfo; LP -- Drew Odenbach Highlights -- L: T. Romfo 6 Ks, 3x3 HR 2B 3 RBIs, Nick Kingzett 3x3 HR 2B RBI, Cole Welsh 2x2 HR 2 RBIs, Ma-

son Romfo 2x3 RBI, Landon Schneider 2x4; T: Will Welke 2x3 2 2B RBI THOMPSON 19, LANGDON 0 (5 Innings) T -- 260 65 -- 19 15 0 L -- 000 00 -- 0 6 4 WP -- Jeremy Tyce; LP -- Jax Johnson Highlights -- L: Mason Romfo 2x2; T: Will Welke 3x4 2 2B 5 RBIs, Brayden Wolfgram 2x4 2B RBI, Dex Avdem 2x3, Brayden Tyce 2x4 3 RBIs

In their two games with Thompson, the Red Sox had their bats going in game one. Theo Romfo, Nick Kingzett and Cole Welsh all had home runs in the contest. Langdon scored in all five innings, led by Theo Romfo and Kingzett with three hits each and Welsh, Mason Romfo and Landon Schneider all with two base knocks apiece.

Kingzett and Theo Romfo also had doubles in the win. Romfo got the victory on the mound, striking out six batters while allowing just four hits.

Game two saw very little go right for the Red Sox; they had four errors in the field to help Thompson score six runs in the second inning and six more in

Luke Gilseth stretches out and makes a catch for an out near the right-field fence during the game against Thompson. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Devin Hakanson catches a pop fly during the game against Thompson on June 18. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Coach Groth congratulates Theo Romfo on his home run hit against Thompson June 18 in Langdon. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Nic Kingzett gets congratulated on his over the left-field fence hit for a home run.

Photo by Larry Stokke.

WALSH COUNTY GUN CLUB

Results after Week 7 | ending June 18, 2025 BROWNING LEAGUE Thompson Spuds 46 TEAM NAME Centrol 28 Magnusson 64 Bremer 27 JR’s Bar 51 Extra End 11 Stellen Farm 42 Troftgruben Farm 42 TOP 10 SHOOTERS AFTER 175 Larson Trailer Sales 37 TARGETS Harriston 35 W.D. Suda 173 Polar 24 Tom McCann 172 Tom McCann 171 TOP 10 SHOOTERS AFTER 175 Alex Swanson 171 TARGETS Billy Thompson 170 Will Magnusson 169 David Morstad 169 Mike Stellon 169 Steven Thompson 169 Cayden Quibell 164 Jacob Erovick 168 Tom Magnusson 163 Shane Feltman 168 Landon Wood 162 Nate Tallackson x2 168 Brayden Johnson 161 Andy Thompson 168 Kevin Dusek 158 Ashley Larson 158 SHOOTING 125 STRAIGHT Ryer Stark 158 W.D. Suda Ryan Rosinski 157 SHOOTING 75 STRAIGHT SHOOTING 25 STRAIGHT Billy Thompson Ashley Larson Brian Troftgruben SHOOTING 50 STRAIGHT Ray Quibell TomMcCann Landon Wood Nate Tallaackson Steven Thompson WINCHESTER LEAGUE TEAM NAME SHOOTING 25 STRAIGHT Tallackson Farm 49 Jameson Erovick Simplot 47 Scott Hills

Tom McCann David Morstad Andy Thompson Doug Thompson

Mason Romfo successfully tags out a Thompson payer trying to get back to second base.

Photo by Larry Stokke.

Hole-in-One at the Walhalla Country Club

REMINGTON LEAGUE TEAM NAME Olson Oil 52 Jim’s Super Valu 42 Reallys 39 Fordville Coop 39 Park River Dental 23 L & M 14 TOP 10 SHOOTERS AFTER 175 TARGETS Pat Bosh 173 Grant Skibicki 173 Alex Swanson 170 Shane Feltman 169 Josh Lien 169 Mike Forester 168 Randy Hahn 168 Nic Beneda 167 Brock Dahlen 165 Mark Robertson 165 SHOOTING 75 STRAIGHT Pat Bosh SHOOTING 50 STRAIGHT Grant Skibicki SHOOTING 25 STRAIGHT Nic Beneda Brock Dahlen Jeff Dahlen Shane Feltman Nathan Lorenz Ryan Lorenz Ordale Morstad FEDERAL LEAGUE TEAM NAME Dakota Firearms 69 Kilmer Construction 53 VBHDC 47 GLD 45 Scary Prairie Boyz 29 Vets 27 Skibicki Farm 24 TOP 10 SHOOTERS AFTER 175 TARGETS Gavin Kirkeby 173 John Schumacher 171 W.D. Suda 171 Seth Suda 171 Rock Desautel 168 Richie Schumacher 167 Grant Skibicki 167 Harold Weimer 166 Bart Swanson 165 Ashley Larson 161 Braedon Weimer 161 SHOOTING 125 STRAIGHT Gavin Kirkeby SHOOTING 25 STRAIGHT Alex Kuzel Richie Schumacher Grant Skibicki Seth Suda

Pictured is Chris “Cadillac” Stremick of Walhalla after he got his first ever hole-in-one on Men’s Night at the Walhalla Country Club on June 19. Chris aced the 120 yard fourth hole with a pitching wedge, which he said took one hop and went down. It was witnessed by Joel Smith, Mike Smith, Mitch Soeby, Nick Chaput and Pat Chaput! Great shot, Chris!!

Sports

The Borderland Press

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B3

Langdon 18U Girls Softball season off and running Though it took a while to get the league going, the Langdon 18U summer girls softball team got in two games on June 23 in Crystal, versus Valley and Larimore. The girls lost both games but are working hard to turn the tide to get some wins. We will be reporting more on their progress as more information becomes available. We wish them the best of luck!

Lily Zimmer puts out a Valley runner at third base in Crystal on June 23. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Colby Forest was tough behind the plate against Larimore in Crystal on June 23.

Photo by Larry Stokke.

Nadia Lewis shows great concentration as she sends a strike across the plate against Larimore in Crystal June 23.

Photo by Larry Stokke.

Mya Hoffman with a catch at first base, putting out a Larimore base runner.

Photo by Larry Stokke.

Izzie Vikan connects for a base hit against Larimore on June 23. Photo by Larry Stokke.

Blue-green algae: Know it. Avoid it. Report it.

BISMARCK, N.D. – The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality reminds residents that hot weather and accumulated nutrients can lead to blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in water bodies across the state. Blue-green algae can cause Harmful Algal Blooms, producing toxins in the water called cyanotoxins.

Environmental Quality responds to reported blooms across the state and tests water for toxins. If toxins are at an unsafe level, Environmental Quality issues public advisories and warnings.

People that swallow or come into contact with water containing cyanotoxins can become sick with diarrhea and vomiting; or experience numb lips, tingling fingers and toes, dizziness, rashes, hives and skin blisters.

Pets and livestock may also suffer adverse health effects, including death.

There are no known antidotes for the cyanotoxins produced by blue-green algae. Children and pets are at a higher risk than adults for illness because of their smaller size.

Know it. Blue-green algae can look like grass clippings floating in the water, clumps/puffballs or green cottage cheese. It can also make the water appear like spilled green paint or green pea soup.

Avoid it.

Respect advisories and warnings announced by Environmental The public can view all water advisories and warnings on the HABs story map by visiting www.tinyurl.com/WMP-HABS. Sign up for text alerts for HABs advisories at https://tinyurl.com/NDhabsAlerts.

Do not swim, water ski, or boat in areas where the water is discolored or where you see foam, scum, or mats of green or blue-green algae on the water; or let pets swim in or drink from affected waters.

If you or your pet accidentally swims in water that might have a cyanobacteria bloom, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible.

Do not irrigate lawns with pond or lake water that looks scummy or has a foul Report it. Report suspected bluegreen algae blooms to Environmen-

tal Quality at 701-328-5210 or www. tinyurl.com/WMP-HABS. Because it can take time to receive laboratory test results, we urge people to be cau-

tious and avoid waters that look discolored, scummy, or have a foul odor.

Enjoy a safe day on the lake, and when in doubt, stay out.

Classifieds

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B4

HELP WANTED

SERVICES FOR HIRE

Towner Ambulance District, Towner, ND has an immediate opening for an Ambulance Manager. Approximately 10-30 hrs month/salaried. Flexible schedule. Email jswearson@gmail. com for full job description.

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 833-4060253 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

YOU CAN PLACE a 25-word classified ad—like this one—in every North Dakota newspaper for only $160. It’s easy.

Contact this newspaper for details.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE ND FARM LAND Values surge upward.

Are you selling or renting? Pifer’s Auction and Farm Land Management.

Bob Pifer 701-371-8538. Kevin Pifer 701.238.5810. Free valuation.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE NEED NEW FLOORING? Call today to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today!

1-833-641-6785 WE BUY VINTAGE GUITAR’S! Looking for 1920-1980 Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg. And Gibson Mandolins / Banjos. 1-833-641-7066 CA$H PAID FOR HIGH-END MEN’S SPORT WATCHES! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. These brands only! Call 1-833641-6634 LOOKING FOR THE most complete listing of ND Media? ND Media Guide.

Only $30! Call 701-223-6397, ND Newspaper Association.

AUTOS WANTED DONATE YOUR VEHICLE to fund the SEARCH FOR MISSING CHILDREN. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24 hour response. Running or not. Maximum Tax Deduction and No Emission Test Required! Call 24/7: 1-833-545-0694

HEALTH/MEDICAL/ MISCELLANEOUS IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY and suffered an infection between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson1-800-535-5727 STOP OVERPAYING FOR HEALTH INSURANCE! A recent study shows that a majority of people struggle to pay for health coverage. Let us show you how much you can save. Call Now for a no-obligation quote: 1-833-4432792. You will need to have your zip code to connect to the right provider!

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don’t Accept the insurance company’s first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to cash settlements in the $1000’s.

Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-833-442-3440.

DON’T PAY FOR COVERED HOME REPAIRS AGAIN! Our home warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. We stand by our service and if we can’t fix it, we’ll replace it! Pick the plan that fits your budget! Call: 1-833441-3591 HAVE a news release or other information that needs to reach all ND newspapers? ND Newspaper Association can help! One call does it all.

701-223-6397.

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little

as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available.

Call: 1-833-787-0317

HARVEST ACRES WANTED Porter Harvesting, a 3rd generation crew is looking to add harvesting acres. We run three (3) 7250s, 2 carts & 4 Peterbilt trucks. Please call Joe 620-897-7555.

The Borderland Press

Public Notices

The Borderland Press

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B5

LANGDON AREA SCHOOL BOARD MEETING MINUTES April 23, 2025 | Langdon Area School Study Hall

Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

Munich Public School Board Minutes June 23, 2025 | Unapproved Minutes The Munich Public School board meeting was called to order by Chairperson Susan Harder at 7:01 A.M.

prove the administration contracts.

Kelan Goeser seconded. Motion carried. (Curt Kram, Tim Polansky)

The school board members that were present: Bobby Foster, Kelan Goeser, Kelly Haaven, Kelly Hall, Susan Harder and Chris Pankratz. Jason Wirth was absent. Also present: Robert Bubach, Alicia Goeser, Curt Kram, Tim Polansky and Lois Tohm.

Kelly Hall made a motion to approve the ancillary intent to hires. Chris Pankratz seconded. Motion carried. ( Danielle Foster, Steph McArthur, Kim Miles, Darlene Morstad, Lisa Myers, Marney Pankratz, Danny Salazar, Lois Tohm, Brent Zavalney)

Bobby Foster made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Chris Pankratz seconded. Motion carried.

Kelly Haaven made a motion to canvas the school board election ballots.

Bobby Foster seconded. Motion carried.

Kelly Haaven made a motion to approve the May 13, 2025 regular school board minutes and the May 20, 2025 special school board minutes. Kelan Goeser seconded. Motion carried.

Kelan Goeser made a motion to approve the bills for payment. Bobby Foster seconded. Motion carried.

Chris Pankratz made a motion to approve the financial reports. Kelly Haaven seconded. Motion carried., Chris Pankratz made a motion to approve the teacher’s contracts. Kelly Haaven seconded. Motion carried.

(Kaitlyn Amble, Sheri Amble, Adrienne Cahill, John Christiansen, Quenna Eisenzimmer, Seth Hansen, Darby Hart, Barb Hill, Rachel Houle, Karla Kingzett, Cindy Martin, Miroslav Pavlic, Angelito Rivera, Betsy Sheppard, Anthony Vorrasi) Kelly Haaven made a motion to ap-

Review & Complaints of Instructional & Resource Material Policy (GAAC), Procedure for Reviewing Complaints about Instructional/Resource Material Policy (GAAC-BR) and the English Learners Policy (GABAA). Kelan Goeser seconded. Motion carried.

Chris Pankratz made a motion to rescind the Contracted Staff Resignations & Request for Release from Contract Policy (DKBB) and The Selection and Adoption of Instructional Materials Policy (GAAD). Kelan Goeser seconded. Motion carried.

The School Board Self Evaluation was completed for the school year 20242025.

Bobby Foster made a motion to approve the narrative for the consolidated application for school year 20252026. Kelly Hall seconded. Motion carried.

Bobby Foster made a motion to approve the transfer of $80,856.99 from Special Reserve to General Fund to offset deficit spending, Chris Pankratz seconded. Motion carried.

Kelan Goeser made a motion to approve the destruction of records for school year 2017-2018 as outlined in the policy ABCD-E1. Kelly Haaven seconded. Motion carried.

Kelly Haaven made a motion to approve the transfer of $42,099.00 from Wohletz Trust to the General Fund to cover the expense not covered by donations for the playground equipment. Kelan Goeser seconded.

Motion carried.

Chris Pankratz made a motion to approve the First Reading of the Patriotic Exercises Policy (GACB). Kelly Hall seconded. Motion carried.

Kelly Hall made a motion to approve the review of Early Entrance Requirements Policy (FAAB), Attendance & Absences Policy (FFB), Searches of Students & Student’s Personal Property Policy (FGCB), Student Interviews, Interrogations, and Custody of School Resource Officers and Outside Authorities Policy ( FGCC),

Walk Through of Rental Apartments was waived this school year.

Respectively Submitted,

Chairperson Business Manager Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

Present: Dave Hart, Dawn Kruk, Loren Fetsch, Tiffany Hetletved, Tyler Feist, Abby Borchardt, Daren Bachman, Jacy Bata (Elem. Principal), Ethen Askvig (MS/HS Principal), Daren Christianson (Supt.), and Shauna Schneider (Bus. Mgr.) Visitors: Catelyn Goodman, Tina Olson, Hilary Nowatzki, Daryl Timian, Brynn Johnson, Landin Johnson, Nathan Howatt, and Sam Howatt.

Chairman Dave Hart called the April 23, 2025, Board meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all attendees.

Preview of Agenda: Dave Hart moved Student Council Representative to first agenda topic followed by the MS/ HS Principal Report.

Communications: Catelyn Goodman, Student Council President, gave an update for Student Council of events and fundraisers they have held throughout the year.

Administrators’ Reports: Askvig’s report was reviewed by the Board. Topics of discussion included MS/HS Job Fair, Cavalier County Health Vaccination Clinic, National Honor Society Induction, Student Handbook, Semester Tests, State Science Olympiad, and State Music Competition. He gave an Athletic Committee meeting update beginning with the purchasing of football helmets. Ethen Askvig explained how the donation process happened with the football helmets emphasizing that it wasn’t presented to him that businesses would be donating. The Eagles Aerie #3454 graciously donated the funds to purchase the football helmets. Other businesses were approached by football parents and asked for donations. Several businesses donated leaving a surplus of funds. Those businesses will be asked if they would like their donation back or have them put into a football helmet fund. Ethen Askvig clarified that it was not the school that was asking for donations. Procedures for future requests was discussed to ensure the District does not allow situations like this to happen again. Ethen Askvig reviewed summer camps scheduled for this year.

Chairman Dave Hart welcomed visitors. Ethen Askvig left the meeting.

Chairman Dave Hart asked for approval of the consent agenda. Loren Fetsch made a motion to approve the consent agenda that included March 12, March 25, and April 3, 2025, Regular and Special Board Meeting Minutes, Bills, Business Manager Report, Pledge of Securities, Budget and Finance Committee Minutes, and Curriculum Committee Minutes. Tiffany Hetletved seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried.

Administrators’ Reports: Daren Christianson’s report was reviewed by the Board. Topics of discussion included Articles, Emails to Legislators, Spring Transportation and Bus #14 Transmission.

Jacy Bata’s report was reviewed by the Board. Topics of discussion included Elementary Sports & Activities, Academics, Events, and Drills.

She added that Social Studies Fair will be held next Wednesday beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Open house began at 4:00 p.m. with community members attending and speaking with ICS and Board members.

Meeting Adjourned at 6:20 p.m.

The next Board meeting will be Monday May 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

Loren Fetsch made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Dawn Kruk seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried. The meeting was adjourned at 6:24 p.m.

Board President Business Manager Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

LANGDON AREA SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES

Langdon Area High School Study Hall | May 21, 2025 Present: Dave Hart, Abby Borchardt, ing the sentence under Article III Loren Fetsch, Tiffany Hetletved, Daren Procedures - Section 1. Exchange of Bachman, Tyler Feist, Dawn Kruk (by Information: Pursuant to NDCC 15.1phone), Daren Christianson (Supt.), 16-11, evidence of representation of and Shauna Schneder (Bus. Mgr.) majority of licensed personnel, in the Visitors: Tina Olson form of a petition or similar, will be Chairman Dave Hart called the May submitted no later than March 1. Lo21, 2025, Special meeting to order at ren Fetsch made a motion to approve 7:45 a.m. the negotiated agreement as presentThe Pledge of Allegiance was recited ed. Abby Borchardt seconded the moby all attendees. Dave Hart welcomed tion. Motion unanimously carried. visitors.

Loren Fetsch made a motion to adNew Business – Dave Hart reviewed journ the meeting. Dawn Kruk secthe Negotiated Agreement changes onded the motion. Motion unanifor 2025-2026 to include increas- mously carried. ing sick leave and sick bank pay out rates to 50% of the current substi- Meeting Adjourned at 7:46 a.m. tute teacher salary, salary increases to include the step plus $500 and Board President increase the base $1,000 and add- Business Manager

LANGDON AREA SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES Langdon Area Elementary School Open House | April 30, 2025 Present: Dave Hart, Abby Borchardt, tianson (Supt.), and Shauna SchnedLoren Fetsch, Tiffany Hetletved, Dawn er (Bus. Mgr.).

Kruk, Daren Bachman,Tyler Feist, Visitors: Lori Christensen and Kirk Ethen Askvig (MS/HS Principal), Jacy Ham with ICS and several community Bata (Elem. Principal), Daren Chris- members.

New Business: Dawn Kruk gave a Budget and Finance Committee update. Recommendation from the Committee is a hiring freeze at this time. Negotiations recommendations will be brought into executive session.

Daren Christianson added that the General Fund has had to supplement the Hot Lunch fund this year including a recent $15,000 transfer. He moved into Legislative Update stating that state aid is currently sitting at a 2% increase the next two years.

Daren Christianson discussed legislation that is still being decided on and reminded the Board to check their emails for updates and information.

Abby Borchardt reviewed the open house to be held on April 30th from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Board members encouraged to attend. Abby Borchardt made a motion to hold a Special Board meeting on April 30, 2025 as an open house at the Elementary School from 4:00 -6:00 p.m. Daren Bachman seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried. Publicizing the open house was discussed. Dave Hart reviewed general Board meetings and information that is given to the public.

The Board consensus is to have the priority list and overall budget for the referendum put on the microsite page with the color coded page that shows where the District sits versus the standards. Abby Borchardt discussed with the Board having the School Board meetings on FaceBook Live. Dave Hart discussed the responsibilities of managing the information when live videoing meetings. The District would need to manage, maintain and store the information because it is a public record. He added that if anyone from the public wants to FaceBook Live the meetings from the audience they can do so. Dave Hart added that if the Board would like to FaceBook Live meetings, they would need to vote on it. Dave Hart requested a motion to go into executive session under NDCC 44-04-19.1 for teacher negotiations strategy. Tyler Feist made a motion to go into executive session for the purpose of discussing negotiations.

Loren Fetsch seconded the motion.

Roll call vote unanimously carried.

The public was asked to leave. The executive session was attended by the full Board, Daren Christianson and Shauna Schneider beginning at 6:10 p.m. and approximately ending at 6:30 p.m. The Board resumed the open meeting at 6:21 p.m. Handing out diplomas for graduation was discussed with Dave Hart or Tiffany Hetletved stating they could.

Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025 Board President Business Manager Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B6

Public Notices

LASD BOARD REPORT NEWSPAPER

The Borderland Press

LANGDON AREA SCHOOL BOARD MEETING MINUTES May 19, 2025 | Langdon Area School Study Hall Present: Dave Hart, Dawn Kruk, Loren Fetsch, Tyler Feist, Abby Borchardt, Daren Bachman, Jacy Bata (Elem.

Principal), Ethen Askvig (MS/HS Principal), Daren Christianson (Supt.), and Shauna Schneider (Bus. Mgr.) Absent: Tiffany Hetletved Visitors: Stevie Bredeson, Lori Christensen, and Tina Olson Chairman Dave Hart called the May 19, 2025, Board meeting to order at 8:16 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all attendees. Visitors were welcomed.

Communications: A thank you was received from Pam Paulson and family, Elementary Staff, and Hope Inc. Lori Christensen reviewed plans with the project specifically the changing rooms. Board consensus is to have no plumbing.

Chairman Dave Hart asked for approval of the consent agenda. Loren Fetsch made a motion to approve the consent agenda that included April 23 and April 30, 2025, Regular and Special Board Meeting Minutes, Bills, Business Manager Report, Summer School Contract, Pledge of Securities, Mowing Bid Accepted, Activity Committee Minutes, Budget and Finance Committee Minutes, and Negotiation Committee Minutes. Dawn Kruk seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried.

Administrators’ Reports: Ethen Askvig’s report was reviewed by the Board. Topics of discussion included Graduation, Hope Inc., Scheduling, Grades and Report Cards, and Handbook Changes.

Jacy Bata reported on the Renaissance professional development that was hosted today at the Elementary.

LASD BOARD REPORT NEWSPAPER MAY 2025

New Business: Mandy Howatt’s resignation letter was reviewed by the Board. Daren Bachman made a motion to approve the resignation. Dawn Kruk seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried. Tuition agreements were reviewed by the Board. Loren Fetsch made a motion to approve the tuition agreements as presented. Dawn Kruk seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried. Daren Christianson discussed a text message received from a community member with concerns about the trustworthiness of the election committee as some of them work for the School District. He stated that he does not have any concern with any of the election officials the Board has

approved to work the election. Abby Borchardt questioned who had concern, Daren Christianson stated Kris Lundeby. Shauna Schneider presented Jolena Gronhovd to be on the election board as a substitution of another official. Dave Hart stated that Kari Phillips has been given a state award for her work in public elections over the years and to question her or any election worker is out of line. Shauna Schneider stated that if anyone in the public is questioning anything about or during the election, they can watch the entire election process in person.

They cannot interfere with the election or election workers but do have the right to watch the entire election on election day. Abby Borchardt made a motion to approve Jolena Gronhovd as an election official for the June 10, 2025, election. Tyler Feist seconded the motion. Motion unanimously carried. Dave Hart requested a motion to go into executive session under NDCC 44-04-19.1 for teacher negotiations strategy. Loren Fetsch made a motion to go into executive session for the purpose of discussing negotiations.

Daren Bachman seconded the motion. Roll call vote unanimously carried. The public was asked to leave.

The executive session was attended by the full Board, Daren Christianson and Shauna Schneider beginning at 8:35 p.m. and ending at approximately 8:50 p.m. The Board resumed the open meeting at 8:47 p.m. The Negotiations Committee will follow the Board’s recommendations. The information shared on the microsite page was discussed.

There was discussion regarding the next Board meeting and canvassing the June 10th election. Tyler Feist made a motion to move the June Board meeting to June 23, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. Daren Bachman seconded the motion. Motion unanimously carried. The next Board meeting will be Monday June 23, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.

Loren Fetsch made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Dawn Kruk seconded the motion. Motion was unanimously carried. The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

Board President Business Manager Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

LANGDON AREA SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING MINUTES Langdon Area High School Study Hall June 3, 2025 Present: Dave Hart, Abby Borchardt, Loren Fetsch, Tiffany Hetletved, Daren Bachman, Tyler Feist (by phone), Dawn Kruk, Daren Christianson (Supt.), and Shauna Schneder (Bus. Mgr.) Visitors: Jayla Askvig Chairman Dave Hart called the June 3, 2025, Special meeting to order at 7:45 a.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all attendees. Dave Hart welcomed visitors.

New Business – Dave Hart reviewed the Budget and Finance Committee recommendations for ancillary and administration increases for 20252026 school year to include a $.50/ hour raise for the ancillary staff and the base salary, $.75/hour for the Business Office, full family health insurance policy for the Elementary Principal, 3% salary increase and $1,000 professional development funds for the MS/HS Principal, and 10 additional personal days per year for the Superintendent with any unused personal days to be transferred to sick

leave/bank and to have a payout rate of the sick leave/bank of $250 per day upon severance form the District.

The IT Tech Coordinator and K12 Instructional Coach will mirror the negotiated agreement increases per their contract verbiage. It was also agreed that the ten-month staff have 7 personal days. Tiffany Hetletved made a motion to approve the recommendations for ancillary and administration as presented for the 25-26 school year. Abby Borchardt seconded the motion. All voted in favor except Loren Fetsch who abstained stating conflict of interest. Motion carried 5-1.

Loren Fetsch made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Dawn Kruk seconded the motion. Motion unanimously carried.

Meeting Adjourned at 7:46 a.m.

Board President Business Manager Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

LANGDON AREA SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES Langdon Area High School Open House May 19, 2025

Present: Dave Hart, Abby Borchardt, Loren Fetsch, Dawn Kruk, Daren Bachman,Tyler Feist, Ethen Askvig (MS/HS Principal), Jacy Bata (Elem. Principal), Daren Christianson (Supt.), and Shauna Schneder (Bus. Mgr.).

Visitors: Lori Christensen and sign in sheet of community members Daren Christianson began the open meeting at 6:00 p.m. and reviewed the process with ICS. He reviewed the plan and presented the presentation of the project to the community members. Questions from community members were taken after the presentation and answered.

Open House ended at 8:10 p.m.

Received by The Borderland Press on June 24, 2025

The Borderland Press

Public Notices

Langdon City Commission

Regular Meeting | June 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

Commission members present Law- set by the city every year. C. Schlittenrence Henry, Darin Kaercher, Cody hard made a motion to approve resoSchlittenhard and Chuck Downs. lution setting Auditor bond, seconded Department Heads present – Jason by D. Kaercher. Motion Carries.

Busse, Chealse Graber. Also present Fr. K. Gunwall from St. Alphonsus - Angelo Mondragon – State Attorney, was present to ask about putting in Susan Fay Crockett – Crockett Realty, a handicap assessable ramp at the Fr. K. Gunwall – St. Alphonsus, Hillary community center’s front door acNowatzki - Borderland Press, and Rox- cess. There have been others that Anne Hoffarth – City Auditor. have requested some changes and it’s been up to the property owner to Pledge of Allegiance – L. Henry led reach out to Mayo to get a bid and everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. then pay for the changes.

Approval of Minutes: C. Downs made D Plummer is working on a driveway a motion to approve the minutes of at 1024 12th Avenue that needs the the regular meeting on May 26th, curb and gutter replaced due to maseconded by C. Schlittenhard. Motion jor damage. He is inquiring if the city carries. will go half of the curb and gutter. C. Additions to Agenda: Downs made the motion to pay for Correspondence: half of the curb and gutter at 1024 Department Reports: 12th Avenue, seconded by C. SchlitStreet: We have some complaints tenhard. Motion carried. about golf carts driving around town.

L. Henry will discuss this with Sher- Building Permits: #5525 Cory Hofiff Wright. The commission also dis- farth, #5526 Mickey Cain, #5527 cussed the construction crews’ semi- Josh Roppel, #5528 Darrell Metzger, trucks being driven up to the park #5529 Rod Howatt - C. Schlittenhard and parking at the park. R. Hoffarth made a motion to approve the buildexplained that they have been notified ing permits, seconded by C. Downs. by the contractor.

Motion carried.

Fire Department: No report.

Water and Sewer: J. Busse reported • 816 6 4 - 816 74 / 6 2 0 3 9 - 6 2 0 4 0 he is currently discharging the la- | Payroll and Liab. | 18001.30 goon. They also had a water break •62041 NICHOLE SCHEFTER | last week.

100.00 •62042 | MAYO CONSanitation: The sales rep for the new STRUCTION CO.,INC. | 364231.60 truck will be here Monday to give •62043 | WEST SHORE SERVICES, training on the truck for sanitation, INC. | 2780.00 •62044 | BORDERstreet and water crews.

LAND PRESS | 1335.14 •62045 Police: No report. | CAVALIER COUNTY TREASURER | Activity Center: C. Graber reported 23551.42 •62046 | CAVALIER RURAL that the A/C roof has been looked at ELECTRIC COOP. | 376.29 •62047 | DACOTAH PAPER CO. | 354.25 and the floor has been refinished.

Auditors: R. Hoffarth stated she will be in Bismarck next week for training and NDLC meetings.

Unfinished Business: Moore Engineering – Citywide Street Project (Mayo Construction) - No Report. Water Tower Project (Classic Protective Coating) – No Report.

New Business: 1. Easement Requests – A. Mondragon here to discuss the L. Mikkelsen/G. Fetsch property’s fence being out on the City’s right away - C. Schlittenhard made a motion to approve the easement for P#60254 Mikkelsen/Fetsch property, seconded

by D. Kaercher. Motion Carries. Susan Fay Crockett is here to represent the A. Lill property’s garage being 3 ft into the alleyway – C. Downs made the motion to approve the easement for P#60300 A. Lill property, seconded

by C. Schlittenhard. Motion Carries.

2. Tri-State proposal – there are 6 stops in the old part of town that are not included in the street project that have some bad spots. Tri- State gave a proposal of $107,880.00 to excavate down 12’ then replace with fabric, 7” of class 5 and 5” of asphalt. D. Kaercher made the motion to approve the Tri-State bid, seconded by C. Downs.

Motion Carries.

Resolution setting Auditor Bond – a blanket bond of 2,000,000.00 must

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B7 Cont’d. From Page A2 Walhalla’s Fourth of July Celebration offers four days of family fun

•62048 | DAHL TRUCKING PLUS | 913.30 •62049 | FARMER'S UNION OIL CO. | 1603.67 •62050 | FERGUSON WATERWORKS #2516 | 3746.82 •62051 | HIWAY LAUNDRY | 128.80 •62052 | JASON BUSSE | 102.50 •62053 | LANGDON BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE | 512.36 •62054 | LANGDON BUILDING CENTER | 31.73 •62055 | LANGDON HARDWARE & RENTAL | 798.37 •62056 | METROPOLITAN COMPOUNDS, INC | 665.42 •62057 | MIDCONTINENT COMMUNICATIONS | 167.20 •62058 | MIKKELSEN BROTHERS | 250.00 •62059 | MOORE ENGINEERING, INC | 157479.19 •62060 | North Dakota Department of Health | 104.00 •62061 | OTTERTAIL POWER CO. | 6907.64 •62062 | QUENTIN BRUCE WENZEL, PC | 1558.33 •62063 | RICARD PLUMBING, HEATING & COOLIN | 225.00 •62064 | SANITATION PRODUCTS | 235.39 •62065 | SCHROEDER FURNITURE | 82.47 •62066 | TITAN MACHINERY | 177.65 •62067 | UNITED COMMUNICATIONS | 1399.24 •62068 | VALLI INFORMATION SYSTEMS, INC. | 838.44 •62069 | VERIZON WIRELESS | 598.16 •62070 | WASTE MANAGEMENT CORPORATE SERVIC | 15617.51 Bills of Approval – C. Downs made the motion to approve bills as presented, seconded by D. Kaercher. Motion carried.

Adjourn – C. Schlittenhard made a motion to adjourn at 6:20 p.m.

Lawrence Henry, Vice President RoxAnne Hoffarth, Auditor

At 2:30 p.m., cool off with a scoop (or two) during the Ice Cream Social, a beloved tradition that brings people together with sweet treats and friendly conversation.

Soap Box Derby thrills A Fourth of July favorite, the Soap Box Derby begins with registration from noon to 2 p.m. at the race site.

Pre-registration is also available by contacting Sara Price at The Cure.

Races begin at 3:30 p.m. in front of the Walla Theatre and follow a double elimination format. Participants will compete in one of three age divisions: •Little Tykes (ages 6–10 •Big Tykes (ages 11–15) •Bigger Tykes (ages 16 and up) Evening entertainment & fireworks spectacular Nacho Bizness will be serving starting at 5 p.m. at the Farmers Market lot.

Later in the evening, the popular band October Road will perform live for a street dance from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., sponsored by Jackson’s Bar. As the sun sets, look to the skies for a booming fireworks show at dusk, presented

by Forestwood Inn. Saturday, July 5 – Parade, car show, and festival fun Parade & car show The celebration continues Saturday morning with Walhalla’s Fourth of July Parade at 10:30 a.m. Immediately following the parade, head to Riverside Park for the 10th Annual Pembina Hills Show and Shine. Car show registration opens at 9 a.m. Entry is $25 for the first vehicle and $10 for each additional one. Awards will be given in six vehicle classes, along with special trophies for People’s Choice, Judges’ Choice, and Kid’s Choice. Limited-edition 10th anniversary Show and Shine T-shirts and other merchandise will be available for purchase.

The Brick Mine Motoclimb will take place in the Pembina Gorge near the Brick Mine. Qualifying begins at 9am, the main event starts at noon, lasting through the afternoon. Admission is $10, 12 and under is free.

Afternoon entertainment in the park From 1 to 5 p.m., the park will be alive with music, games, and activities.

32 Below will take the stage, while guests enjoy carnival games, pedal pulls, a scavenger hunt, and the popular Oasis Rolling Video Games trailer—a fully air-conditioned mobile gaming station, free to use thanks to sponsorship from CB Grocery.

Come hungry and choose from a variety of food options: Tacho Man Billy’s Legendary BBQ Hank’s Ice Cream Dee’s Donuts Sweet Prairie Food Truck And don’t forget to browse the vendor booths for local goods and services: Seppi Honey Lou Lou Lane Boutique Face Painting by Hilary Does Art Duck race on the river The day’s events include the beloved

duck race, which takes place in the river channel at Riverside Park just upstream from the rocks. Ducks are $5 each or five for $20 with only 200 available. The lucky winner receives a 50/50 cash payout.

Sunday, July 6 – Volleyball tournament and history come alive Volleyball in Riverside Park Saturday begins with a double elimination volleyball tournament hosted by the Walhalla Swimming Pool Committee. A team of six can enter for $100, and each additional team member is $20. Half of the proceeds will support the rebuilding of the city pool located in the park. This competitive-yet-friendly event is a great way to wrap up the celebration with teamwork and community spirit.

Gingras Days – July 5 & 6 Throughout the weekend, guests are encouraged to visit the Gingras Trading Post State Historic Site and the Walhalla State Historic Site during ‘Gingras Days.’ Both sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, offering free admission, hands-on history, and guided experiences for all ages.

At the Gingras site—located just 1.5 miles northeast of Walhalla—visitors can tour the historic Gingras home and trading post, two of the oldest standing structures in the state. Built by fur trader Antoine Blanc Gingras, these buildings offer a glimpse into Métis architecture and frontier life.

Special activities include: •Saturday, July 5 – Try your hand at throwing an atlatl, a prehistoric spear-throwing tool, at a simulated bison target.

•Sunday, July 6 – Watch as Outreach Coordinator Brian Hardy demonstrates traditional blacksmithing techniques using an antique forge.

Meanwhile, the Walhalla State Historic Site on Martyr Drive will offer self-guided tours of the newly reconstructed Kittson cabin. Learn about Norman Kittson and his mid-19th century trading post established around 1852.

Celebrate local, celebrate together Whether visitors are coming for the parade, dancing in the street, or exploring the rich history of the region, Walhalla’s Fourth of July celebration offers a little something for everyone.

For updates and event details, follow Pembina Hills Show and Shine on Facebook or contact the Walhalla Area Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, June 27, 2025 - Page B8

The Borderland Press

Stay safe when around fireworks Fireworks have been integral components of celebrations for centuries.

These pyrotechnics originated in ancient China, with their earliest forms thought to be made from bamboo stalks thrown into a fire.

Fireworks ultimately evolved into gunpowder-filled paper tubes. Modern fireworks still largely use traditional gunpowder as well as additional ingredients like aluminum and iron to create flashes, bangs and sparks. Additional elements are blended to create the colors that make for vivid fireworks displays.

Cont’d. From Page A1 Meat raffle to be hosted in support of Munich’s Oktoberfest

Fireworks can be a wonder to behold, but there is no denying that shooting them off can be dangerous business.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that eight deaths and an estimated 9,700 injuries involving fireworks occurred in 2023.

Of the eight deaths, five were associated with misuse of fireworks and two with a device malfunction. Fireworks injuries increased between 2008 and 2023, which underscores the importance of fireworks safety.

ing from $2 to $10 and include items such as a charcuterie board, Fourth of July family burgers and brats bundles, pork chops, turkeys, and steak loins, to name a few.

Zimmer added that in case of inclement weather, the fundraiser will be hosted at the Munich Bar. The first tickets will be sold at 6:30 p.m., and the first drawing will be held at 7:00 p.m. There will be several more drawings throughout the evening.

For Munich, Oktoberfest is not only an opportunity to have fun but also a time to celebrate their German heritage.

To celebrate safely, the CPSC urges consumers to follow these tips: •Make sure fireworks are legal where you live and only purchase and set off those that are labeled for consumer use. Never purchase fireworks that are designed for professionals.

•Children should not be allowed to play with or ignite fireworks. This includes sparklers. Sparklers burn at

temperatures that can reach or exceed 2,000 F, which is hot enough to melt some metals.

•Stay sober when using fireworks. Alcohol or drug impairment can cause people to act recklessly and make mistakes when handling fireworks.

•Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or another mishap.

•Only light one firework at a time, then move away from it quickly.

•Soak malfunctioning fireworks in water. Do not try to relight them.

•Never place any part of your body directly over a firework when lighting the fuse.

•Never point or throw fireworks at anyone.

•Douse spent fireworks with water before tossing them in the trash.

Spectators should remain at a distance from any fireworks being ignited. Fireworks should be lit away from buildings or trees. Many times it is safer to let professionals handle the fireworks since they are trained in the proper safety precautions.

“It’s just a celebration of the German heritage in the Munich community,” said Zimmer. “And everybody is always welcome to attend.”

The celebration will see old and new events at this year’s Oktoberfest, including a kids pedal pull, bounce houses, axe throwing, as well as plenty of other fun games and competitions. Zimmer included that there will be more food trucks than years prior, and live music will be performed by the Meat Rabbits once again this year, a band which plays modern music with a polka twist.

Organizers hope attendance continues to grow from year to year with more people coming from all of the surrounding communities.

Oktoberfest t-shirts and hoodie sweatshirts are also on sale now to help raise funds and can be preordered at the meat raffle on Monday.

To stay up to date on Oktoberfest happenings, Zimmer encourages folks to follow them on Facebook by going to events and searching for “Oktoberfest in Munich.”

Borderland

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Real Estate Broker

Meats