Vocella Graphic - November 22, 2023

Vol. 1 Issue 4

Thursday, November 22, 2023

Price: FREE

A Community Newspaper Serving Williston and the Bakken Area

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VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

Thursday, November 22, 2023

In this issue About Us

V

ocella, Inc. (pronounced vō-chellä) is a multimedia company that aims to engage, excite, and empower people through compelling and entertaining products and services with a hyperlocal focus on community, business, arts, culture, and entertainment.

We are delighted to introduce the latest chapter in our journey: the Vocella Graphic.

This newly designed newspaper boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic, featuring stunning artwork and informative articles.

Crafting this visually captivating paper has been a labor of love, with our dedicated team painstakingly perfecting every aspect, from its appearance and tone to its expanded coverage area.

Furthermore, nestled inside, you will still find the trusted Community Shopper, complete with all the familiar content you’ve come to rely on. This includes classified ads featuring help wanted listings, rummage sales, and more, as well as business news, events, and community updates.

So, thank you for joining us as we continue to grow and do our very best to serve our communities.

Publishing & Sales Team

From the Designer Dear Valued Readers, As the most senior veteran of what was once simply “The Shopper,” my journey with this company has spanned over two decades, multiple iterations and many transformative moments.

My role with The Shopper began in 2002 and has taken me from classified ad manager and front desk customer service to graphic designer and now lead designer. Over the years, I’ve actively participated in the intricate processes that have moved this business forward — from logo redesign and layout, to IT and technical challenges, to procedural enhancements, website development and more.

Change is an inevitable part of any organization’s growth, and it’s often met with hesitancy and fear. However, I’ve always believed in pushing boundaries, seeking the next best thing, finding more efficient procedures and embracing better ways of doing things — a philosophy that has guided me throughout my years here.

As we express gratitude for the blessings in our lives this Thanksgiving, I find myself immensely thankful for the time I’ve spent as an integral part of this organization. The Shopper, The Community Shopper and now the Vocella Graphic have not only been my workplace but have become a significant part of my life and identity.

I am grateful for the opportunity to bring to life the visions of others and share these creations with all of you, our dedicated readers. Your support has been instrumental and we thank you for embracing the changes, the innovations and the growth. We are continually working to enhance your reading experience, and we hope you enjoy the exciting developments we are bringing to you.

With heartfelt thanks,

Chelsy Weisz

Editor/Business Development Manager

Falon Justice

Socials

Web Visit us online at www.vocellagraphic.com and www.communityshopper.com

Erica Kingston

Office Hours

Karolyn Moltzan

Reach us by email or phone: Monday - Thursday | 9:00am to 5:00pm & Friday | 9:00am - Noon Office hours are by appointment.

Call 701.572.4851

Lead Design/Production

McKenna Layne

Design/Social Media

Vonni Anderson

Accounts Receivable

News & Press Releases news@vocella.com

Advertising sales@vocella.com

Billing billing@vocella.com

General Inquiries info@vocella.com

Contact Us PO Box 389 1411 West Dakota Parkway, 2A Williston, ND 58801 701.572.4851

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NEWS — Spring Lake Park lights — Light-Up Night Crosby

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OIL & AG — Farm Bill — Tioga Community Center

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SHORT STORY — I am... THE GOBBLER

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LIFESTYLE — Surviving Thanksgiving — Side dish debate

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Lead Designer

Find us on Facebook and Instagram: @thevocellagraphic and @thecommunityshopper

Managing Engagement Editor Copy Editor/Writer

PROFILES — Barbara Cotton Pt. 2

CULTURE Kary Moltzan, — A Christmas Carol

J.C. & Susan LaBar Owners/Publishers

This Issue

THE COMMUNITY SHOPPER Job listings 04-05 Community Calendars 06 To Do About Town 07 & Announcements Classified Ads 08 & Realty

VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

Thursday, November 22, 2023

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Profiles

Hometown Secrets PART 2 OF 4: MISSING PERSON BARBARA COTTON

“Barbara has not come home since yesterday.

She is 15 years old.”

BY KRISTIN MILLER

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andee had a gut feeling that something was wrong. Louise was telling her that Barb had not come home. Sandee had been out the night before, but she wasn’t with Barb and didn’t know where she could be. Louise knew that the two of them didn’t see each other as often anymore, so Sandee was unsure why Louise had called her.

Sunday morning came, and Barb still hadn’t come home. Kathy, Barb’s little sister, woke up alone in the room they shared.

Where was Barb?

Louise went over to Diane’s house to see if Barb was possibly there. Barb had spent many nights there previously, so it would seem a logical place to search. Barb wasn’t with Diane either. Louise told Diane that she had seen Barb the night before at a dinner in town. Louise supposedly met Barb’s boyfriend Stacey there, and later that night Barb went to a party, but didn’t come home after.

This was all news to Diane. She knew nothing about Barb´s boyfriend or any party.

Diane spoke with Barb the day before, and she never mentioned a boyfriend. Who was Stacey? How did Barb have a boyfriend and not tell her best friend? Could she have been keeping him a secret? Diane thought they told each other everything.

The party in question was possibly at Barb’s friend Donna’s apartment. Louise called Donna at some point after Barb didn’t come home searching for answers. Donna thinks she may have told her that she remembers seeing Barb at her apartment with a “boy”, but she didn’t know who he was.

They left together that night, but Donna said she remembered the boy that she assumed was Barb’s boyfriend came back later, and Donna asked him where Barb was.

The boyfriend suggested that Barb had

gotten a ride, and that was all he knew. The next day, Donna’s sister, Cindy, remembered that the boyfriend came back demanding to know if Barb was there. Louise called Donna periodically for around 6 months to see if they remembered anything else.

Donna and Cindy are not sure who the boyfriend was, and they also are not 100% certain the party was the same night she disappeared, as they had parties often. However, they strongly feel that the night of that party was the night Barb disappeared. To this day, Donna can still see the vision of Barb sitting in her apartment - beautiful, quiet and kind.

It was now the afternoon on Sunday, April 12.. Louise called the Williston Police Department and left a message that said, “Barbara has not come home since yesterday. She is 15 years old. Her birth date is 11-10-1965. She has brown hair and brown eyes, a small build and was wearing a tan short jacket and blue jeans. She was last seen at a friend’s house at about 10 p.m. last night. She was with a guy by the name of Stacey earlier in the evening. Stacey used to wash dishes at Cakes N’ Cones. Mrs. Cotton contacted him, and he advised her that Barb told him she was going to walk home from Cakes N’ Cones. Mrs. Cotton feels that

(a name police wouldn’t mention) may know where she is but isn’t telling.”

On Monday, April 13, Louise called the Willison P.D. again and reported that she thought her daughter was in Scobey, M.T., with Stacey Werder. She thought they might be in room 205 at the Pioneer Hotel.

The police in Montana relayed back to WPD that Barb was not there. It is not known how they confirmed that. There was no mention if Stacey was there or not in reports.

Kent and Kathy remember that after Barb went missing, they wanted to go out, knock on doors and look for their sister.

According to them, their mother kept them sheltered from the search and the police investigation. She didn’t talk openly to them about Barb being missing. Louise became stricter with them, which given the circumstances of one of her children missing, one can understand the need to protect the younger children.

They remember their mother continuing to look for Barb, putting up posters and going all around town. Diane, Barb’s older sister, remembers helping in search for Barb and handing out posters. Multiple calls came into the WPD with tips and possible sightings the weeks

following Barb´s disappearance.

Louise called the police on Sept. 1 and left another message to tell them that Stacey’s mom, Cynthia Werder, had allegedly called her 3 weeks prior. Louise stated that Stacey talked to his mother Cynthia sometime prior, and talked about Barbara and told Louise that if Barbara came back to have her call Mrs. Werder. This is all according to Louise. She also gave the police Cynthia’s phone number. The WPD cannot confirm that Cynthia was ever contacted.

To this day, it remains a mystery of when or how Louise went about contacting Stacey or his mother. Louise was friends with the owners of Cakes N’ Cones, so if Stacey did indeed work there, then that is one possibility of how she was able to get his contact information. She was the only person that has given information about Stacey being in Williston or with Barb.

Unfortunately, on July 16,1981, Stacey committed suicide in jail. There is no documentation from the WPD that they ever spoke to Stacey. We will go deeper into Stacey’s story a bit later.

What happened the week Barb went missing? Was she distant from Diane that week because she had met Stacey? Maybe she felt her friends wouldn’t approve of him?

Would she really tell her mom about Stacey and not Diane and Sandee? Did she run away? Would Barb willingly have left Kent and Kathy? Would she have intentionally missed her best friend’s wedding? Why were all of Barb’s belongings and money left behind? Was Barb possibly kidnapped? If so, by who?

Check back next week for Part 3 of Missing person: Barbara Cotton, or get caught up with the story by finding Part 1 online at vocellagraphic.com

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Thursday, November 22, 2023

VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

News & Updates

Spring Lake Park Lights Drive to begin Nov. 25

Light-Up Night in Crosby

PRESS RELEASE SABRINA RAMSEY, WILLISTON CVB

CROSBY, N.D. — The town of Crosby is readying, practicing and planning for a much anticipated evening of holiday cheer and community gathering, half a century in the making.

Light-Up Night is celebrating its 50th year of bringing Christmas cheer to downtown Crosby, on the evening of Nov. 24 and trickling into Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25 .

The prize stroll will kick off the evening by starting on Friday at 5 p.m. Each ticket has a number that corresponds to a number in a participating business. Search downtown Crosby for the ticket’s number and win a prize.

New this year is a scene right out of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Chocolate bars are being sold and Crosby Area Chamber has placed golden tickets within five candy bars. Golden tickets can be turned in for a prize at Brad Johnson Insurance.

Horse-drawn wagon rides by Sorum’s and Sparks will commence at 5 p.m. and end at 6:30 p.m. – the wagon will pick up at NAPA and drop off at JD’s Electric. Santa and Mrs. Clause, by Sheriff Zach Shroeder and wife Shonna, will arrive on Main Street at 6 p.m.

In front of Healthy Cricket and Teagan’s Interiors will be special entertainment of

SUBMITTED PHOTOS. WILLISTON CVB

WILLISTON, N.D. — The Spring Lake Park Holiday Lights Drive is scheduled to run Nov. 25-Dec.31 this year, 5:30-9:30 p.m. every night.

The drive features thousands of lights in hundreds of stationary and animated display pieces. Six of the displays are set to music.

Entry fee for the Holiday Lights Drive for $5 cash per car, with half the proceeds benefiting the non-profit group working the gate.

A variety of family-friendly take home activities and crafts will be distributed from the gate house, while supplies last. Themes include Grinch Night, Bumble the Abominable Snowman and a Luminary Sunday, among others. Live animal exhibits are returning to the Lights Drive, as well. Unicorn Nights are Dec. 13-14 and Reindeer Nights are Dec.18-19. Weather permitting, hayrides

will be offered Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and Dec. 13, from 6-8 p.m. Guests are also invited to play Elf on the Shelf bingo, by locating a larger than life Elf in the park each evening to complete their bingo cards.

The Spring Lake Park Holiday Lights Drive offers a variety of holiday-themed photo op stations. New photo op displays have been rotated into the park for guests again this year. Those who would like to try out the photo stations are asked to be courteous and wait for their turn if someone is already using them.

For those who plan to visit the Lights Drive often, a book of 10 single use gate passes can be purchased at the Visitors Center for $40. Frequent guest punch cards are available while supplies last at the Lights Drive gate house. When the card is full, it acts as a free pass for an additional visit.

For more information about the activities in this article, check www.visitwilliston. com, call 701-774-9041 or find Spring Lake Park Holiday Lights Drive on Facebook.

BY ERICA KINGSTON Christmas carols sung by the Divide County Elementary students, starting at 7 p.m.

Heather Oppegaard, the Divide County elementary music teacher, has been bringing her elementary students to sing for Light-Up Night for over 25 years.

“I think the kids really enjoy it,” Oppegaard said. “I stress that it is a tradition that we spread Christmas cheer and help usher in the holiday season for the community. Grades 3 through 6 are invited to participate and the younger grades are especially eager realizing they are now old enough to take part in the event.”

The drawing for Crosby bucks will immediately follow the carols. Sons of Norway will be selling homemade Norwegian treats.

“It’s just fun to get out and go around and get a little snack in all the stores,” said Tamara Rodham of Pleasant Pheasant Fabrics.

“It’s just a fun night.”

Candy bars are on sale for $2 at BNC National Bank, First State bank and Trust, Healthy Cricket and Sorum’s Oil. The prize stroll tickets can be purchased for $3 at Crafts 4-U, Crosby Drug, First State Bank, Henry’s Coffee, Pleasant Pheasant or The Journal. The prize stroll will take place on Friday evening and continue on Saturday.

Tioga students shine in “The Princess and the Pea” by Missoula Children’s Theater

BY CHELSY WEISZ, EDITOR TIOGA, N.D. – The students of Tioga School District brought magic to the stage with their production of “The Princess and the Pea,” presented in collaboration with the Missoula Children’s Theater.

The performances, held on Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 18 at 6 p.m., showcased the talents of about 40 students, who brought this beloved fairy tale to life. This enchanting event was sponsored by the Families and Teachers for Central PTO group.

The cast featured a wide array of characters, ranging from the Snow Queen and Jack Frost to Queen Size, the Leprechaun Clan and the Dust Bunnies. Amber Wilhelm took on the role of the Princess, while Gracie Davidson played the Pea. The chief head leprechaun, portrayed by Stevee Wittleb from the Missoula Children’s Theater, provided invaluable support to the young actors, especially those who momentarily forgot their lines.

The students had a whirlwind week of auditions, rehearsals, learning lines, songs and dance routines, all culminating in the two nights of performances that showcased talent, dedication and hard work.

The Missoula Children’s Theater, celebrating its 50th year, is renowned for its

SUBMITTED PHOTO.

commitment to fostering creativity and imagination in young minds through theater. Having worked with over one million kids across all 50 states and 17 countries, MCT’s impact on youth theater is undeniable. This year’s tour was sponsored by Cosmic Crisp, a new apple variety exclusively grown in Washington State. Their motto, “Imagine the Possibilities,” resonates with MCT’s mission to spark creativity and imagination through theatrical participation.

The production was directed by Daylan Merritt, with local talent Sandy McCloud as the accompanist. The assistant directors were locals Reagan Matthews and Peyton Tinnes.

“The Princess and the Pea” was a testament to the power of community, creativity and collaboration. The students of Tioga School District, through their hard work and passion, transformed a classic fairy tale into a vibrant, live experience for all who attended.

VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

Thursday, November 22, 2023

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Oil & Ag

Sigh of relief for Farm Bill, but advocates stress it’s temporary

BY MIKE MOEN, PRAIRIE NEWS SERVICE

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his week’s move by federal lawmakers to advance another temporary government budget also means the Farm Bill, which recently expired, is extended.

Farmer advocates are calming their panic, but said the agricultural sector needs focus and more support. The Farm Bill sets spending levels for agricultural and food assistance programs every five years. The 2018 version expired earlier this fall, and lawmakers are now finalizing a yearlong extension.

Mike Lavender, policy director for the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, said they should not wait the full year to adopt the new bill, noting the 2018 version came with limitations.

“The 2018 Farm Bill, for example, decreased investment in some of the conservation practices and conservation programs that we know are key to building resilience but also incredibly popular among farmers,” Lavender pointed out.

To deal with rising threats from climate change, his group said Congress should include new investments in the new version by

early 2024. Last year’s Inflation Reduction Act bolstered farm conservation funding but Republicans have been trying to strip those provisions.

The North Dakota Farmers Union is echoing the call for urgency. The union said in addition to farmer-friendly conservation provisions, it wants a stronger agriculture safety nets and improvements to disaster programs.

Meanwhile, Lavender wants more priority given to strengthening regional offices helping farmers and ranchers sign up for sustainability incentives and other aid.

“Are we making sure that USDA programs and farm bill programs are accessible to all farmers and that we have a level playing field?” Lavender asked. “Because we don’t have that right now.”

Lavender worries about historically disadvantaged farmers, and younger producers who do not come from a farming family, being able to access support like crop insurance. He acknowledged the need for more staffing and enhanced training at resource centers.

Wishing you God’s Blessings this

THANKSGIVING and all year long.

From your neighbors at Agri Industries and Valley Irrigation in Williston and Sidney.

BLACK FRIDAY Tioga Community Center’s

BLOWOUT Traeger Grill Demonstration

Hosted by Retail Division Manager, Chad Ellis, from 8am - Noon. Fresh made Traeger Caramel Rolls available for purchase.

50% Off Selection Tony Lama & Danner Boots

Plus markdowns on other must-have apparel including Wrangler and Dri Duck!

Benelli Firearm Specials

Super Vinci 12ga Shotguns $1,549.99 $800 Vinvi 12ga Shotguns $1,249 $700

WILLISTON LOCATION ONLY

209 Washington Ave | 701-572-2121 (Option 2) | 6am - 9pm Stock is limited. Deals valid while supplies last on Black Friday only.

Must be of legal age to purchase firearms. Background checks required.

WWW.HORIZONRESOUCRES.COOP | FIND US ON FACEBOOK

evolution VOCELLA STAFF

TIOGA, N.D. — The Tioga Community Center's expansion in the heart of Tioga serves as a symbol of the city's growth and the evolving aspirations of its residents. The project reflects the community's commitment to enhancing its social, cultural, and recreational infrastructure, with a modern facility replacing the Tioga Farm Festival building from 1984. The center offers a diverse range of amenities, hosting weddings, meetings, community events, and fundraisers, becoming a cornerstone of daily life in Tioga.

The expansion unfolded through strategic decisions, public engagements, and financial deliberations. Phase one, completed in the summer of 2019, marked a significant milestone. However, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily closed the center in 2020, emphasizing its vital role in accommodating activities while adhering to health guidelines.

City Commission meetings in 2020 and 2021 highlighted the center's importance, leading to discussions about rates and the need for expansion. In 2021, architectural firm EAPC was hired for phase two, addressing rising construction costs. The Expansion Committee formed in 2022 gathered com-

munity input through surveys, revealing strong support for an expanded center with features like an indoor pool and more gym space.

Leadership changes in July 2022 saw new commissioners elected, influencing decisions on the project. The Commission approved a $10 million gross production tax revenue bond for the expansion in September 2023. Despite mixed reactions and calls for transparency, a special election on the community center expansion was reconsidered and rescinded in November 2023.

Throughout the process, City Auditor Abby Salinas emphasized the city's commitment to financial transparency, addressing concerns about municipal finances and highlighting the precision of Tioga's state audit results. Despite diverse opinions, the Tioga Community Center expansion continues, embodying the city's dedication to responsible governance and the collective pursuit of enhancing community life.

To read the full, in-depth report by Chelsy Weisz, please visit https://vocellagraphic.com/articles/cities/tioga-community-centers-evolution/or scan the QR code above.

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Thursday, November 22, 2023

VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

Short Story

I am...

THE GOBBLER! AN ORIGIN STORY

BY BILLY BARTLEY

The Turkey Catastrophe It was a Thanksgiving Day like no other. I, a young man in the prime of my youth, was living in the comfortable, yet slightly chilly, confines of my parents’ basement. My world was a paradise of comic books, vintage video games, action figures, and dreams bigger than the laundry pile in the corner. My story begins almost exactly one year ago, on a day that would change the course of my culinary destiny… and my life… forever.

It was Thanksgiving Day, the best day of the year, and a holiday I can truly get behind. The intoxicating aroma of roasting turkey wafted through the house, a siren song of delicious anticipation. My stomach growled in harmony with the oven timer, counting down the minutes to the feast of all feasts. I had been practicing all year for this moment, ready to fill my stomach with delicious turkey, trimmings, and pie.

But fate, it would seem, had other plans. ment of side dishes that had managed to survive the battle.

My mom, exhausted from a long day of cooking and My parents both sat in silence, slowly shoveling disappointbaking, headed to her bedroom for a brief nap. As she passed ment into their sad mouths, clothes stained with food used by the living room, she instructed my dad to listen carefully earlier as ammunition. It was a feast of misfits. for the timer and to wake her when the turkey was ready. The Birth of a Hero Engrossed in his ritual football game, his eyes never left the As I sat there defeated, munching on cold noodles and television as he mumbled and nodded in the candied yams, my soul turned as dark as affirmative, giving her the false impression she My dad’s life the turkey carcass lying in state on the was safe leaving her post. kitchen floor. I knew then and there that Some time later, my mom was jolted flashed before if I didn’t channel my inner darkness toawake by the shrill sound of the smoke alarm. his fearful eyes ward good, I would surely become the Leaping to her feet, she bolted through the villain in my own story. At that moment, as my mom house, spouting verbal insults not safe for chilan idea sparked in my mind, igniting a dren’s ears. Hearing the commotion, I threw howled, eyes fire that would burn with the intensity of down my controller and I ran up the stairs, flashing with a a thousand ovens. My mission was clear: heart pounding, desperately hoping that my to ensure that no one would ever have to fears would not be realized and not all was mad fury that endure a Thanksgiving without a proper lost. There in the kitchen, I witnessed a scene would put lesser feast like I did that fateful day. I would beof horror as my mom opened the oven to recome the savior of Thanksgiving mishaps, men in their veal the turkey, our star attraction, charred a knight in shining armor for all those facbeyond recognition — a victim of my dad’s graves. ing Thanksgiving dinner disaster. I would betrayal. become... THE GOBBLER! Panic and chaos ensued. My dad’s life flashed before his fearful eyes as my mom howled, eyes flashing with a mad The Dream in Progress fury that would put lesser men in their graves. Time suddenThe journey of a thousand miles begins with a single ly slowed to a crawl and the battle played out in slow motion step, and mine started with shoveling snow. Snow removal before me. I could only hear a ringing in my ears and the might not seem like the job of a future hero, but every superfaint sound of the smoke alarm in the distance. Smoke waft- hero must start somewhere. My plan was simple: I must save ed around the room as my mom and dad exchanged insults, enough money from my job (after splurging on the next their arms flailing wildly. The air was thick with a mix of Call of Duty, of course) to launch my superhero career. despair and the scent of burnt poultry. Dinner was ruined.

Gobblr.com was born out of necessity (because let's face The end of our evening was spent at the dining room it, Gobbler.com was just way too expensive). My superhero table munching leftover Chinese food along with an assort-

website would serve as a call to arms, a food-delivery service exclusively for Thanksgiving emergencies. For my base of operations, I would operate in secret from my basement dwelling, away from prying eyes, ready to deliver redemption at a moment’s notice.

The suit, currently in its concept phase, exists only as a hand-drawn schematic taped to the wall above my bed. It’s a masterpiece of imagination: a cape that resembles a turkey’s plumage, a belt equipped with seasoning packets and gravy grenades, and boots that leave impressively large footprints that look like a giant turkey. The Gobbler suit will be a beacon of hope on Thanksgiving Day. The Promise of Tomorrow So here I am, a year later, my heart full of dreams and determination, still working out the details in my parent’s basement. TheGobblr.com isn’t ready yet, and the suit is still a few paychecks away. But one day, after I've scrimped and saved, I’ll prowl the streets, ready at a moment's notice to help those in need on Thanksgiving Day. I am the watchful protector, the silent guardian of the Thanksgiving table. I am the hope for every overcooked turkey and every forgotten cranberry sauce. I am the lone bastion of aid on Thanksgiving Day. I am… THE GOBBLER! And so, if you ever find yourself in a Thanksgiving quandary, just remember: The Gobbler is out there, waiting, ready to save your holiday feast. Just not this year… maybe next year.

READER SUBMISSION

VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

Thursday, November 22, 2023

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Lifestyle

Main Street Musings Surviving Thanksgiving with the family

BY ALYSSA STROMBERG

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h, Thanksgiving, that magical time of year when our kitchens turn into culinary battlegrounds and our dining rooms become the stage for family theatrics. Picture this: Uncle Bob attempting a turkey carving performance that could rival a modern art masterpiece, while Aunt Linda insists her cranberry sauce is a state secret.

As the family gathers, tensions rise faster than the yeast in grandma's famous rolls. It's a delicate dance of avoiding touchy subjects and navigating the landmines of well-meaning but intrusive questions. "Why aren't you married yet?" Grandma chirps, conveniently forgetting that her own turkey is drier than the Sahara.

Let's not forget the annual family football game in the backyard, where Uncle Joe transforms from mild-mannered accountant to the gridiron hero he never was. The only casualties are the flower beds and, of course, Cousin Sally's pride as she attempts a touch-

down in heels.

Then comes the moment of truth— the grand feast. The table groans under the weight of Aunt Betty's three kinds of stuff-

ing, and the gravy boat threatens to capsize in a sea of mashed potatoes. Yet, in the chaos, we find unity. The dog becomes the silent hero, patiently waiting beneath the table for

the inevitable cascade of dropped treats.

And who could forget the post-meal siesta? The living room becomes a symphony of snores as we all succumb to the inevitable food coma. Even the cat, who couldn't care less about the holiday, joins in for a communal nap.

As the day winds down, we gather around for a game of charades, where Dad's impersonation of a pilgrim is questionable at best, but we applaud the effort. Laughter fills the room, echoing off the walls stained with cranberry sauce splatters—a testament to the battle scars of Thanksgivings past.

In the end, despite the culinary calamities and awkward interrogations, Thanksgiving reminds us of the enduring power of family, shared laughter and the joy of creating memories together. So here's to another year of stuffing ourselves silly and surviving the chaos with a side of humor. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

“The turkey. The sweet potatoes. The stuffing. The pumpkin pie. Is there anything else we all can agree so vehemently about? I don’t think so.”

— Nora Ephron

Great Thanksgiving side dish debate: A feast of flavors and family fun

BY CHELSY WEISZ, EDITOR As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, households nationwide are gearing up for the ultimate culinary showdown: the battle of the side dishes. It is a time-honored tradition where family members and friends come together to give thanks and engage in the friendly, albeit passionate, debate over which side dishes should grace the table alongside the star of the show, the turkey.

Mashed potatoes: The creamy contender Creamy, classic mashed potatoes whipped to velvety perfection make for a comforting and nostalgic side dish.

They serve as a blank canvas upon which the gravy river flows and no Thanksgiving meal is complete without them.

Mashed potatoes are an essential dish that brings everyone to the table. Their simplicity allows other dishes to shine and create a perfect balance of flavors.

Stuffing vs. dressing: The great debate Ah, stuffing – or is it dressing? This debate has torn families apart (figuratively) for generations. Whether you stuff it inside the bird or bake it separately in a casserole dish, the battle over what to call it rages on. Regardless of nomenclature, this savory blend of bread, herbs and aromatic vegetables adds a hearty, comforting element to the Thanksgiving spread. The dish bridges generations, connecting us to our ancestors’ tables.

Cranberry sauce: The sweet-tart contender

Cranberry sauce adds a burst of color and a tangy twist to the Thanksgiving plate. Some opt for the traditional canned version, complete with ridges from the can, while others take pride in crafting their own with whole cranberries and a touch of citrus. The debate between canned and homemade can get surprisingly heated, but both versions offer a delightful contrast to the meal’s richness.

Green bean casserole: A classic with a twist Green bean casserole, a relatively new addition to the Thanksgiving menu, has quickly become a beloved favorite.

Crispy fried onions and creamy mushroom sauce elevate the humble green beans to new heights, adding a delightful crunch and umami kick to the feast. While some argue it is a must-have, others remain loyal to more traditional green bean preparations. Nevertheless, this dish is a perfect way to add an extra dimension to the Thanksgiving dinner.

Sweet potato casserole: The sweet showstopper Sweet potato casserole is a dish that blurs the line between a side dish and a dessert. It has a layer of marshmallow or pecan streusel topping that often leads to debates about whether it should be considered a side dish or a dessert. Regardless, its rich, sweet flavor is perfect for indulging during the holiday season.

Pie wars: Pumpkin vs. pecan And then there are the pies. Pumpkin pie, with its creamy, spiced filling, and pecan pie, with its sweet, nutty richness, vie for the title of the ultimate Thanksgiving des-

sert. Families often find themselves divided along pie lines, with passionate advocates on both sides. Nevertheless, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, why not enjoy a slice of each? After all, there is always room for dessert.

The great Thanksgiving side dish debate is a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together. It reminds us that, despite our differences, we can gather around the table to celebrate gratitude, love and the joy of a bountiful feast.

So, this Thanksgiving, let us embrace the side dish debate, savor the flavors, and cherish the company of those we hold dear. After all, it is not just about what is on the plate but who has gathered around it.

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Thursday, November 22, 2023

VOCELLAGRAPHIC.COM

Culture

New spin on a classic: Entertainment, Inc! performs “A Christmas Carol”

BY CHELSY WEISZ, EDITOR WILLISTON, N.D. – This holiday season, Entertainment, Inc! in Williston is set to present a unique rendition of the timeless classic “A Christmas Carol,” directed by Jim Ryen.

Scheduled to run from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3, this production promises a fresh take on Charles Dickens’ beloved story. Showtimes will be 2 p.m. on Thursday with evening showings at 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

The play, which boasts a compact yet dynamic cast of five members, many of whom are newcomers to the stage, presents a twist on the familiar tale. In this adaptation, Scrooge’s father blames him for his mother’s death at birth, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the protagonist’s backstory and a unique angle to explore the well-known character of Ebenezer Scrooge.

Set on a black box stage, the play incorporates a significant amount of music, enhancing the emotional resonance of the story. The characters not only portray real roles but also double as spirits and children, as represented through puppetry, allowing the play to be both visually captivating and emotionally engaging.

The costumes, designed to be as versatile as they are symbolic, consist of black body suits for four of the cast members, allowing for quick costume changes and fluid-

ity to the play’s dynamic scenes.

“The cast members are getting quite the workout switching costumes so often and quickly,” said director Ryen.

Notable of this production is its use of new light and sound systems, which were recently acquired by the company.

The lighting, a new addition from their last play, “Mousetrap,” and the sound system, installed in early November, contribute to making this a highly technical play. These technological enhancements have been eagerly embraced by the team, though they also admit to some nerves about adapting to these new tools.

This experimental theater venture marks a departure from traditional settings.

The entire stage, including the floor, is painted black, with only the edges marked in white to prevent accidents.

The play is available to season ticket holders two weeks in advance, a deviation from the usual one-week policy. Tickets can be reserved through Entertainment, Inc!’s website or purchased at the door. Audiences are advised to leave their expectations of a traditional green and red Christmas setting at the door, as they step into a world where everything, even the Christmas tree, is enveloped in black.

May you enjoy a time of gratitude with the ones you love.

— The Vocella Team

Patrick Barlow

Written by Adapted from the story by Charles Dickens Directed by Jim Ryen Sponsored by WSC Foundation

Nov. 30, Dec. 1 & 2 - 7:00pm Dec. 3 - 2:00pm Old Amory Theater 320 First Ave. E., Williston