Portraying Teddy Roosevelt: Living Out History in North Dakota and Beyond
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor; Photos courtesy of Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation
As the world’s premier Theodore Roosevelt reprisor, Joe Wiegand’s attention to detail in sharing the character and stories of the 26th president has made him a sought-after performer for audiences of world dignitaries and elementary students alike.
With the President’s deep connection to North Dakota and the Badlands, it is the Medora resident’s role as an ambassador for North Dakota that also brings him great pride. “Theodore Roosevelt, the fully-forged man, emerged from his experience in the Badlands. He wrote it was there ‘that the romance of my life began,’” says Wiegand. “Connecting audiences to Teddy Roosevelt in Medora is about as special as it gets.”
Hunter Pinke: Making the world a better place
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor
When Hunter Pinke was a fifth-grade student in Wishek, he dreamed of becoming a college basketball star at the University of North Dakota (UND) like his grandpa, Fred. “Growing up in a small town in North Dakota, you are a big fish in a little pond,” says Pinke. “I tried to push myself to not only be the best player in the town or district, but in the state, to have a shot to play at UND.”
However, dreams change and life happens, and in the fall of 2016, Pinke ended up playing tight end on UND’s football team instead. Three years later, a major event in Pinke’s life again altered the course of his future dreams.
Cease of Publication
Posted by: Annie Bennett and Kylie Blanchard
With heavy hearts, we have sad news to share.
Due to the rising costs of production and printing, along with falling subscription numbers, the decision was made to cease publishing North Dakota Horizons magazine at the end of 2023. The final issue of North Dakota Horizons will be the winter 2023 magazine.
As a result of this difficult decision, no subscription sales or renewals will be offered after January 1, 2023. All current subscriptions will be honored through their end date in 2023.
The option to purchase a limited number of individual issues is available at a cost of $6 each for the final four issues printed in 2023. These can be purchased through our website, www.ndhorizons.com, or by calling in to our office at 1-866-462-0744.
We will continue to share the beauty of North Dakota through our scenic calendar. Watch for information this summer on purchasing the 2024 North Dakota Horizons scenic calendar.
We thank you for your support of North Dakota Horizons magazine.
Dakota Spotlight: A search for truth
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
True crime and audio storytelling have always been interests of James Wolner. He often listened to true crime podcasts and was struck by those that spelled out the facts of a case without sensationalizing the crime.
The Nome Schoolhouse: From schoolhouse to fiber arts center and more
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
When Teresa Perleberg and Chris Armbrust teamed up on a fiber arts project in 2018, it became the catalyst for a partnership that led to the renovation and expansion of the Nome Schoolhouse in Barnes County in southeast North Dakota.
Cloverdale Foods: A North Dakota staple for generations
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor, Photos courtesy of Cloverdale Foods
Tangy summer sausage, red franks, thick-cut bacon, and tear drop hams are products synonymous with the Cloverdale Foods (Cloverdale) name in North Dakota. The Mandan-based company that first found its roots in the dairy business more than a century ago, has evolved to provide a variety of popular meat products that have become a staple for generations of North Dakotans and families across the United States.
Tigirlily: North Dakota Grown Country Duo Makes Its Way to the Top
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
In the heart of North Dakota, Hazen natives Krista and Kendra Slaubaugh, who form the country duo Tigirlily, started their singing career in their local church and talents shows. “Music was always a passion of ours from the time we could talk,” says Kendra. “Our community was encouraging of our love of music at an early age as well.”
Medora: North Dakota’s #1 Tourist Destination
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor
According to the 2020 U.S Census, Medora’s population is only 139 people, however, during the summer months, the small town grows immensely. Medora is North Dakota’s number one tourist destination, and each summer season, visitors come from around the state, nation and world to the small community in western North Dakota.
Medora, located just off Interstate 94 near the Montana border, is known for its ties to Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th U.S. President; the Medora Musical, a Broadway-style show highlighting patriotism and the western charm; and other family-friendly entertainment. “Medora is important to North Dakota because it is a true legacy of the North Dakota nice spirit and living the Roughrider spirit of working hard at work worth doing,” says Kaelee Knoell, marketing manager for the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation (TRMF).
North Dakota State Parks: Enriching the State’s Outdoors Experience
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
North Dakota State Parks were established more than 100 years ago, and since then, have been providing outdoor recreation for the state’s residents and visitors, as well as conserving important natural areas for future generations. In the last five decades, the number of North Dakota state parks has nearly doubled, and their popularity has increased as parks have upgraded infrastructure, technology and recreational offerings.
The Cowboy Doctor
Posted by: By Mary Patricia Martell Jones
On a warm day in late July 1927, all of Dickinson shut down. Stores and businesses were empty, their doors closed. There was no heart to carry on business as usual. Crowding the cemetery, people were saying goodbye to their beloved “Cowboy Doctor.” He didn’t just heal and console, he was a friend to almost every family in the region. He was remembered with overwhelming gratitude for his gift of love and 44 years of dedicated service to the people he came to cherish.
2021 North Dakota Horizons Scenic Calendar Photography
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor
The 2021 North Dakota Horizons scenic calendar highlights the beauty of North Dakota with breathtaking images, taken around the state and across all seasons, by talented photographers. Below, the 2021 calendar photographers share the stories behind their stunning images.
North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Celebrates 25 Years
Posted by: Mary Patricia Martell Jones
The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame (NDCHF) is celebrating its 25th anniversary. One man’s dream of preserving the stories and character of the state’s forebears has become a renowned center of western culture.
GERMANS FROM RUSSIA HERITAGE SOCIETY: Celebrating 50 Years of Preserving History
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor
In 1970, the Germans from Russia Heritage Society (GRHS) was established in Bismarck to preserve the history of the Germans from Russia who started immigrating to the United States and Canada to escape a variety of difficult problems in their homeland in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many settled in North Dakota and, today, their descendants still reside in communities across the state.
Bottineau Winter Park: 50 years of fun in the Turtle Mountains
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
This year marked the 50th anniversary of Bottineau Winter Park (BWP), which started as a grassroots movement to promote recreation and tourism in the Bottineau community and surrounding region in north central North Dakota. Today, the park boasts ski/snowboard slopes, snowtubing runs, activity trails and year-round adaptive programming through the help of dedicated staff, volunteers and generous supporters.
THE NORTH DAKOTA GOVERNOR’S WALLEYE CUP
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor
The North Dakota Governor’s Walleye Cup (Governor’s Cup) is one of the largest fishing tournaments in the state. Fishermen and women travel from across the state, the U.S. and Canada to compete for the top prize of $15,000 and, of course, bragging rights. The 44th annual event will be held July 19-20 at Fort Stevenson State Park (FSSP) in Garrison.
Saving the Maah Daah Hey Trail: Endless dedication, grit and love keeps trail alive in North Dakota
Posted by: By Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor; Photos Copyright Chad Ziemendorf www.ziemendorf.com
The Maah Daah Hey (MDH) trail, located in western North Dakota, is the longest, continuous, non-motorized, single-track trail in the country. Now stretching 150 miles, the remote trail winds through the scenic Badlands, inviting visitors on foot, bike or horseback to take in the area’s stunning terrain and solitude.
Nancy Hendrickson: North Dakota photographer and true trailblazer
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor
In today’s world of computers, digital cameras, and editing programs, a person can take many photos and make them look like anything is possible. Back in the early 1900s, just owning a camera was unique, and so was a motorcycling woman who wasn’t afraid to think outside the box.
Dakota Storm Stalker
Posted by: Annie Bennett, Co-Editor; Photography by Brian Heskin
North Dakota’s weather is unique, covering blizzards, wind, sun, wind, storms, and wind. For Brian Heskin, his love of watching North Dakota’s weather unfold started at a young age and has now developed quite a following through his Dakota Storm Stalker (DSS) Facebook page.
The Hired Men
Posted by: Larry Aasen
The men jumped off freight trains at Taft, four miles north of Hillsboro. They had been riding in train box cars and looked like it. They wore dirty, ragged overalls. Riding in a railroad box car for many miles did not help their appearance. A few of the men were lucky and came in beat, old cars.
Brewing an Impressive Collection of Beer Cans and Memorabilia
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
A surge in beer can and memorabilia collecting first took place in the United States in the 1970s, with the industry capitalizing on its popularity by creating specialty cans like Billy Beer, J.R. Beer and M*A*S*H* Beer to market to collectors. With a growth in the popularity of micro-breweries, there was a resurgence in the hobby in the 1990s and interest in collecting was again rekindled across the nation.
Gutes Essen: Good Eating in German-Russian Country- A PBS documentary and companion recipe book
Posted by: Annie Bennett
Most North Dakotans have likely tried cheese buttons, pickled beets or fleischkuekle. In the state’s German-Russian Country, identified as Emmons, Logan and McIntosh counties, it is believed this good food equals a good life. The Gutes Essen: Good Eating in German-Russian Country documentary highlights just that, food from recipes that have stood the test of time.
Hunting Dakota with Roosevelt: A decade of providing “A Unique Hunt of a Lifetime”
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
This year’s Hunting Dakota with Roosevelt (HDwR) event marks a decade of providing “a unique hunt of a lifetime” for members of the military, sportsmen and volunteers. The event started in 2008 with the ambitious goal of combining efforts to raise money for the fight against cancer, honor the state’s military, and incorporate the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation on the land where Theodore Roosevelt lived and hunted. From its first year, the event has succeeded in meeting this goal and has also created impacts beyond anything organizers thought possible.
Club de Skinautique: 60 seasons on Lake Metigoshe
Posted by: By Kylie Blanchard, Co-Editor
This summer marks the Club de Skinautique water ski club’s 60th season performing on Lake Metigoshe. What started with a single performance by a group of young skiers has now grown to a club spanning generations with annual performances attended by hundreds of spectators.
North Dakota Capitol-The Skyscraper on the Prairie
Posted by: Annie Bennett
The North Dakota State Capitol is the tallest building in North Dakota and is known as the “Skyscraper on the Prairie.” The view from the top of the capitol allows one to see the beautiful North Dakota landscape for miles. The building itself has an interesting history and unique features.
Wishek: Famous for Sausage and Sauerkraut
Posted by: Annie Bennett
The small town of Wishek, located in south central North Dakota in the heart of Germans-from-Russia country, has quite a reputation for only having a population of 1,200 people. For generations, this small town has attracted people from across the country, thanks to its famous sausage and sauerkraut.
County Seat Wars How Some Small Towns Earned or Stole the Coveted Title
Posted by: Bill Vossler
One way for early struggling towns to import wealth and prestige into their streets just prior to 1889 statehood was to be chosen as a county seat. Or steal it, by hook or by crook. Following are the stories of how some of North Dakota’s small towns earned the coveted title of county seat.
Winter 2008: 'Emptied Prairie' or '50 Miles of Elbow Room!
Posted by: Why I LUV ND!
In late 2007, the venerable National Geographic magazine was producing its January 2008 issue. One of the stories in that issue was an "Emptied Prairie" feature that presented a desolate look at rural North Dakota.
In late 2007, the venerable National Geographic magazine was producing its January 2008 issue. One of the stories in that issue was an "Emptied Prairie" feature that presented a desolate look at rural North Dakota.
National Parks Celebrate 100th Anniversary
Posted by: Scooter Pursley
When Theodore Roosevelt stood atop Buck Hill near Medora and looked over the Badlands stretching out before him, he could not have imagined it would one day be part of a national park named in his honor. But he did know a good thing when he saw it.
When Theodore Roosevelt stood atop Buck Hill near Medora and looked over the Badlands stretching out before him, he could not have imagined it would one day be part of a national park named in his honor. But he did know a good thing when he saw it.
The Road That Got Us There
Posted by: Sarah Chaffee
We stopped at the closest gas station once we had crossed the border. “We don’t know when we’ll see another one of these,” Michael said, leaning down to pull the lever to release the gas door.
Valley City States University Celebrates 125 Years
Posted by: Jennifer Greuel, Clearwater Communications
When Valley City State University (VCSU) began operating 125 years ago on October 13, 1890, it was without any state funds or even ownership of a building. Known at that time as the “State Normal School,” the institution was tasked with educating teachers and opened less than a year after North Dakota became a state.
Berger Bulls Buck to the Top of Their Game
Posted by: Scooter Pursley
From the top of a sweeping hill on his spread south of Mandan, Chad Berger can see his whole bucking bull operation, including the main house, the house of his hired hand, the barns and pens and three miles of metal pipe surrounding the bull pens.
Dancing the Night Away Barn Dances Still Being Held in North Dakota
Posted by: Jennifer Greuel, Clearwater Communications
Barns, once a staple across the North Dakota prairies, are slowly disappearing from the landscape. And barn dances, once one of the biggest forms of entertainment in rural areas, are also dwindling. While not as abundant as they used to be, a few barn dances are still held in North Dakota, some purposefully preserving the historic events, others to simply provide enjoyment to residents of surrounding communities.
Barns, once a staple across the North Dakota prairies, are slowly disappearing from the landscape. And barn dances, once one of the biggest forms of entertainment in rural areas, are also dwindling. While not as abundant as they used to be, a few barn dances are still held in North Dakota, some purposefully preserving the historic events, others to simply provide enjoyment to residents of surrounding communities.
Joyriding Across North Dakota
Posted by: Scooter Pursley
In a half hour, rider and passenger will pull the bike into Bismarck. Before that, they will admire blue skies, fields of grain and grass, wildlife, the Missouri River and wooded river bottoms. It is a smorgasbord for the senses of all that gives North Dakota motorcycle and classic car enthusiasts unquenchable wanderlust.
Singer Kat Perkins Does North Dakota Proud
Posted by: Angela Magstadt, Editor,
North Dakota native and Grammy nominee Kat Perkins has been performing since before she could tie her shoes. From singing with her big sister at a school talent show at four years old to her top-five finish on NBC’s hit TV show The Voice, she can’t remember a time when music wasn’t a part of her life. This past year has brought Perkins success she never thought possible, and she attributes this success to support from her family and her strong North Dakota roots.
North Dakota native and Grammy nominee Kat Perkins has been performing since before she could tie her shoes. From singing with her big sister at a school talent show at four years old to her top-five finish on NBC’s hit TV show The Voice, she can’t remember a time when music wasn’t a part of her life. This past year has brought Perkins success she never thought possible, and she attributes this success to support from her family and her strong
50th Anniversary of ND State Parks
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
The state parks have long been tasked with promoting recreational offerings, preserving significant historical sites and showcasing the diverse natural beauty of North Dakota. The coming year marks the 50th anniversary of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department and, to commemorate this milestone, celebrations and events will be held at parks throughout the state.
Historic Homes Preserving an Important Part of North Dakota
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
This year, North Dakota celebrates its 125th year of statehood, and much of its rich history has been preserved in historic landmarks across the state. However, another important piece of North Dakota’s history remains nestled in many communities that have made a concerted effort to preserve historic homes.
Grant Marsh - Nautical Hero of the Plains
Posted by: Danielle Hanna
The Great Plains are as far from any ocean as you can get. But in years past, the sea of grass witnessed treasure ships, mutinies, and battles that would put Long John Silver to shame. In those days, prairie-locked towns like Bismarck were major ports of call for the ships of the river – three-deck steamboats carrying adventurers and their cargoes into the West. The Missouri was the main shipping lane, and her undisputed master was Grant Marsh.
Newest Medal of Honor Recipient Calls North Dakota Home
Posted by: Andrea Winkjer Collin, Editor
Capping off two weeks of what he described as “travel and adventure,” the nation’s newest Medal of Honor recipient told a group of North Dakotans gathered to greet him at the State Capitol the end of February, “it’s good to be home in North Dakota.”
The Governors Burke
Posted by: Bill Vossler
The Governors Burke
Andrew Burke – from street urchin to second governor
No governor of North Dakota had ever endured a more difficult early life than Andrew Horace Burke before he began serving as the second chief officer of the state in 1891. Burke’s was a true American rags-to-riches story.
USS North Dakota New submarine to carry the name of North Dakota across the oceans of the world.
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
USS North Dakota Carrying the Name of North Dakota Across Oceans of the World
For the second time in its history, North Dakota will have a namesake boat protecting the nation and promoting the state in ports around the world.
Construction of the USS North Dakota, a Virginia-class nuclear submarine, began on March 2, 2009, and the boat is expected to take to the waters as an official part of the U.S. Navy Fleet in 2014.
“This submarine is the culmination of a long effort and a lot of work by many different people,” says Judge Bob Wefald (Ret.), chair of the USS North Dakota committee. “This boat will be a tremendous source of pride for our state.”
Let's Go Camping!
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
Being outdoors, making friends, learning new skills and eating s’mores are all a part of many people’s summer experiences. But these events become a whole new experience and set of memories when they take place at summer camp.
Enchanted, Indeed!
Posted by: Bill Vossler
Enchanted, Indeed!
Highway Helps Town and Aids Region's Tourism
By Bill Vossler
When Gary Greff took a sabbatical from teaching school in 1989, little did the Regent, North Dakota, native know he would stay in his hometown, and become the town's, and perhaps even the region's, savior. "Well, I'd say that's pretty strong language. I'd rather say 'I helped,'" Greff says of that characterization.
North Dakota Blizzards Helping define winter lore
Posted by: Andrea Winkjer Collin
North Dakotans value the distinct seasons on the Northern Plains. And, contrary to some opinions, they are not two that consist of eight months of winter and four months of road construction.
The Healing Fields: Hunting Dakota with Roosevelt
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
Creating an event that honors the state’s military, raises money for the fight against cancer and incorporates the North American Model of Conservation on the very land where Theodore Roosevelt lived and hunted has not been an easy task. But, those involved in founding Hunting Dakota with Roosevelt were up to the challenge.
North Dakota Icelanders A small community celebrating heritage in a big way
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
In the northeast corner of the state, a small group of North Dakotans is celebrating its heritage in a big way. Icelanders are not as large in numbers as those of Norwegian or German descent in the state. But what they lack in size, they make up for in pride in their history, heritage and homeland.
Preserving North Dakota's Railroad History Railroads made important impact across state
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard, Clearwater Communications
Glancing at a map of North Dakota today, it isn’t too difficult to make an educated guess as to where the railroads ran across the state during its early years. At the peak of railroad operation in North Dakota, this mode of transportation was at the heart of almost every community bringing people, supplies and life to the fledgling state.
40 Years Later Remembering the Launch of North Dakota's Braggin' Piece
Posted by: Andrea Winkjer Collin
Negativism.
This one word was a subhead in the minutes of the Greater North Dakota Association’s Publicity Committee on January 24, 1970.
Composed of some of the top marketing and communications professionals in the state, this committee had been active in many projects, including supporting the formation of the first state tourism office in the early 1960s. Fargo filmmaker Bill Snyder had produced documentaries touting the state’s quality of life and business opportunities. Longtime Grand Forks Herald Editor Jack Hagerty had for many years been writing “This Day in North Dakota History” columns that were carried across the state. A new state slogan was being discussed, as was the need for a better textbook about the state and its history.
But at this meeting, the topic was “negativism.”
According to the minutes, committee member Les Maupin, a prominent radio broadcaster from Minot, “gave two examples of negativism that exist in the state and may provide a battleground for this committee. The ‘chill factor’ scale, which came into existence with the placement of the two Air Force bases in North Dakota; and the Air Force indoctrination program that servicemen coming in to North Dakota receive. He indicated that the Southerners are nearly frightened to death by the reports that the Air Force disseminates about its bases within our state.”
Five Farm Women of Renville County
Posted by: John Clausen
“A man works from sun to sun, but a woman's work is never done.”
These women’s stories mirror those of thousands across North Dakota who are the “glue” that hold their family farm operations together.
North Dakota's 'French Connection
Posted by: Kylie Blanchard at Clearwater Communications
In a state that seems dominated by the culture and heritage of American Indians and Northern Europeans, the contributions of the French are often overlooked. However, the French and French-Canadians first came to North Dakota close to 300 years ago, playing an important role in the exploration of the area. As the region developed, they were active in the fur trade and agriculture settlements and helped establish many communities that remain today.
North Dakota's Oil Industry: Lighting Up Our Economy
Posted by: Cecile Wehrman and Andrea Winkjer Collin,
The Bakken and beyond
Oil production levels lift North Dakota to fourth in the nation
By Cecile Wehrman
Just off US Highway 2, on the outskirts of Stanley, lies a destination some call “Bakken Central.” On any given morning over the past two years, oil field workers might stand as many as 20-deep waiting to pay for the fuel and food they need to get to and through another 12-hour day in the nation’s hottest oil play.
Early North Dakota Automobile Adventures
Posted by: Bill Vossler
That day in 1914, Chester P. Hallett of Casselton had to feel pretty good as he entered the dusty last stretch of the two-mile race in his 10 horsepower cyclecar, ahead of the motorcycle. As the Cass County Reporter said, "On the last mile just as Hallett was turning into the home, he pulled his steering post out of its place and his car went over," ending the race.
The Prairie Pothole Region Central North Dakota's Womanly Meadow
Posted by: Burdette B. (Burt) Calkins
The Prairie Pothole Region:
The Womanly Meadow of Central North Dakota
By Burdette B. (Burt) Calkins
Many people already know much about man's impact and activities in North Dakota, but perhaps not so much about the complex ecology, geography and geology of the Prairie Pothole Country. It is worth understanding, appreciating and visiting at a leisurely pace. Hardcore urban dwellers might not like the reverse claustrophobia caused by endless space and lack of trees, but if you appreciate and value the natural world you can fill your nostrils and heart to overflowing here.
Spring 2009: Tyler Lyson & 'Dakota' the Dinomummy Two 'Rock Stars' from the Hell Creek Formation
Posted by: Annika Nelson, Clearwater Communications
A Dinosaur’s Home: Then and Now
Marmarth, North Dakota: 67 million years ago,
the Late Cretaceous Period
The surroundings were a subtropical paradise, and lush plant life covered the ground. The area was teeming with dinosaurs. These creatures came in many shapes and sizes, but one species in particular stood out from the rest. Hadrosaurs, plant eaters or herbivores, were common dinosaurs then, but they would go on to have an important role in advancing the science of paleontology with the discovery of the mummified hadrosaur called “Dakota.”
Summer 2008: 1862 Homestead Act weaves a common thread
Posted by: Andrea Winkjer Collin
As the country spends the next two years commemorating the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln's February 12, 1809, birth, North Dakota's ties to the 16th President center on a handful of Lincoln's actions that shaped the direction of Dakota Territory. Three of these are appointing the territory's first two governors and signing both the Northern Pacific Railroad charter and the U.S. Homestead Act.
Spring 2008: "Epic! Just Epic!"A Maah Daah Hey Trail Journal
Posted by: Greg Pattison
Mountain biking is Gregg Pattison's passion. Whenever he can, the 45-year-old husband and father of two young daughters from Lakeville, Minnesota, commutes to his mechanical engineering job on a bike. His adventures have taken him to some of the best mountain biking trails in the country, both racing and riding for enjoyment in Colorado, Utah, Wisconsin, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the Black Hills of South Dakota, and Minnesota.
Winter 2007: North Dakota ice fishing
Posted by: Tessa Sandstrom
Off the point of Gull Island in the Van Hook Arm of Lake Sakakawea, a worn and well-traveled highway has formed across the ice. Driving along this road is a strange sensation, especially since it is along a similar a path many traveled by boat just a few months before. Several small ice houses with pickups parked beside dot this "roadside," reminiscent of small farm houses that line a country road.
Fall 2007: Fargo's Plains Art Museum
Posted by: Mara Brust
The rough textures of heavy timber and brick walls commonly found in a warehouse present a striking contrast to the refined and refinished modern art gallery interior of Fargo’s Plains Art Museum.
Summer 2007: Queens of the Western Culture
Posted by: Tessa Sandstrom
For many little girls growing up, being a beauty queen means perfecting that wave, that smile, the strut, and eventually the reaction upon hearing those four life-changing words, “And the runner-up is–” and praying her name doesn’t follow them.
Spring 2007: Ten years later...Grand Forks
Posted by: Marilyn Hagerty
That became the rallying cry after the flood in Grand Forks. And today as city leaders look back to the bleak days of April 1997 most of them agree things are better now than they were 10 years ago.
Winter 2006: Hooligans still happy despite change
Posted by: Jamie Bradley
With the change of mission assigned to the North Dakota Air National Guard – the “Happy Hooligans” of the 119th Fighter Wing – some regrets might not be surprising. However, it would take a strenuous search to find strong disappointment among the crews at their Hector Field base in Fargo.
Fall 2006: Three decades of Hostfest!
Posted by: Candi Helseth
The countdown has begun for a grand 30th celebration in 2007, but first it’s time for the 29th annual Norsk Høstfest October 10 to 14 in Minot.
Summer 2006: North Dakota's Mountains
Posted by: Ed Murphy
As North Dakotans, we are pretty loose with our usage of the geographic term "mountain." We call landforms that rise a few hundred feet above the surrounding countryside mountains, while our neighbors in South Dakota call a feature that rises more than 4,000 feet above the surrounding area a hill (Black Hills).
Summer 2005: New Cowboy Hall of Fame
Posted by: Deana Wiese
It has taken more than a decade of dedication and perseverance, but the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Center of Western Heritage and Cultures: Native Americans, Ranching and Rodeo is ready to preserve the stories of the legendary western lifestyle that has made a lasting impact on the state's heritage.
Spring 2005: 400 Species Make North Dakota Birder's Paradise
Posted by: Angela Magstadt
When they think of North Dakota, many people embrace its peaceful environment. They escape the stresses of everyday life by standing on the North Dakota prairie. It's green with native grasses, the breeze blows through their hair, and the birds sing in this unspoiled land of wonder.
Winter 2004: Prairie Churches of North Dakota
Posted by: Cher Hersrud
Churches hold many memories within their walls. Christine Hall, age 92, clearly remembers a particular Christmas hymn from Thingvalla Lutheran Church, built in 1892. After singing a brief section in the Icelandic language, she translates the title as, "Today There is Joy in Weary Hearts."
Summer 2004: Bringing the prairie home with wildflowers
Posted by: Patricia Stockdill
Every year the kaleidoscope brings new and fresh marvels - a splash of blue here and a whispering of yellow there. North Dakota's prairie, its grasses and flowers, are an ever-evolving montage of color. That, in part, is what drew Roger Rostvet and Dawn Ohlhouser to wildflowers. "I've driven around this county for 30 years and never paid much attention," Roger said.
Fall 2004:Maris Museum Honors Baseball Hero and Favorite Son
Posted by: Wynne Paasch
The quiet man whom baseball writer Robert Creamer once described as "probably the most misunderstood and least appreciated of American sports heroes" is not without honor in his own city. Roger Maris, the Fargoan who in 1961 shook the baseball world by breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record, has not been admitted into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.
Winter 2003: Sakakawea Statue Newest Symbol at U.S. Capitol
Posted by: Andrea Winkjer Collin
Is it possible for two multi-ton moldings of bronze to tell the story of a state, its heritage and its people? If so, visitors to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C., – like those who have walked the state Capitol Grounds in Bismarck for decades – will be given a lesson in the cultural diversity, strength, dignity and perseverance of the people of North Dakota.
Spring 2003: How to plant 150,000 flowers
Posted by: Candi Helseth
Some of the International Peace Garden's biggest fans are not welcome. They just make life difficult for horticulturist Connie Lagerquist and her summer crew.
Winter 2003: North Dakota's church quilters
Posted by: Candi Helseth
Five women - and an occasional extra or two - in a small Bowbells church made a big impact last year when they donated 250 quilts to Lutheran World Relief.
Fall 2002: Live History at Fort Ransom's Sodbuster Days
Posted by: John Noone
When I'm waiting at a stoplight and can hear the "thump thump thump" of the stereo in the car next to me, I sometimes find myself yearning for a simpler time. I imagine I am not alone. Evidence of this is the popularity of reenactment festivals that celebrate the past.
Summer 2002: Digging Up the Past
Posted by: Joellen Kemp
Paleontology's determined pursuit of the elusive mosasaur - the 'T-Rex' of the ancient ocean - took a new turn last summer when nearly 100 eco-tourists descended on the Pembina Gorge in northeast North Dakota to become amateur scientists digging for fossilized marine bones.
Spring 2002: A STICKY BUSINESS Dakota's Busy Beekeepers
Posted by: Carla Kelly
It's hardly as dramatic as the swallows returning to San Juan Capistrano, Calif., or the buzzards to Hinckley, Ohio. One day a field is empty and the next day you see white, wooden boxes stacked here and there on its edge or in a nearby shelterbelt.
Winter 2002: North Dakota's Winter Playground
Posted by: Candi Helseth
Tired of burying yourself in a good book for your winter adventure? Then head to north central North Dakota where winter recreational opportunities abound.
Fall 2001: Rolling out the red carpet
Posted by: Kris Fehr
When captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through North Dakota nearly 200 years ago, an entire civilization already lived here. The expedition’s journals recorded contact with the American Indians, the area’s early land formations and the shifting Missouri River with its swift current, sandbars, eroding banks and partially submerged logs.
Summer 2001: Following the Lewis and Clark Trail
Posted by: Linda Swantson
"I asscended to the top of the cutt bluff this morning, from whence I had a most delightfull view of the country, the whole of which except the valley formed by the Missouri is void of timber or underbrush, exposing to the first glance of the spectator immence herds of Buffaloe, Elk, deer, & Antelopes feeding in one common and boundless pasture..."
Spring 2001: The Turtle Mountains: Scenic, Serene, Secluded
Posted by: Kris Fehr
The best example of North Dakota's lush lakes and gardens reveals itself in the Turtle Mountains, where a state-designated scenic byway begins at the intersection of N.D. Highway 30 and Rolette County Road 4006 south of St. John.
Winter 2001: For the Love of Horses and Rig
Posted by: Skip Wood
A block-long fragment of old cement highway lay in the shade between the freeway and a grove of trees. Coarse ditch grasses grow to the very edge of the old road and a thin green ribbon of weeds divides the narrow lanes that once ran over a thousand miles between Michigan and the heart of Montana.
Summer 2000: North Dakota's Wild Kingdoms
Posted by: Eileen Zygarlicke
To many, North Dakota is a land of wide-open expanses and home to a smattering of prairie dogs, deer and antelope. Seldom do people consider this state to be home to wild, exotic animals. North Dakota's four zoos house secret, wild kingdoms waiting for the curious and the adventurous to discover their animal sanctuaries.
Spring 2000: The Loop That Has No End
Posted by: Connie Allen Krapp
The year is '99. The date, Oct. 25. The place - a railroad depot dead in the midst of grain country in east central North Dakota. A civil engineer stands along a shiny new stretch of railroad track. He can't help but admire the trackage, an end-of-the-line turn-around railroad loop. The only one like it in the country, even on the continent.
Winter 2000: North Dakota Christmas Tree Farmers
Posted by: Lorraine Sommerfeld
The Victorians borrowed the Christmas tree from a medieval German midwinter celebration; and, as early as 1605, the first decorated tree was documented by a visitor to Strasbourg, then a part of the Hapsburg Empire. In 1800 a tree was put up for a party by Queen Charlotte, the German-born wife of George III, for a Christmas Day party at Windsor Castle.
Fall 1999: Minot's Norsk Hostfest
Posted by: Candi Helseth
Minot's Norsk Høstfest is better than a trip abroad to the Scandinavian countries. While traveling overseas is accompanied by high price tags and extended stays, Høstfest features the people and traditions of Scandinavia accompanied by North Dakota friendliness in a budget-pleasing package wrapped into five nights and four days.
Summer 1999: North Dakota's New Adventure Trail
Posted by: Chuck Haney
Warmth begins to trickle back to my shoeless feet after fording my mountain bike across the knee-high water of the Little Missouri River. A trail post further down the bank is emblazoned with the outline of a turtle, which is a Mandan Indian symbol for "long, fruitful life."
Spring 1999: Authentic Adventure on the 'Misery'
Posted by: James Miller
Long before Lewis and Clark, long before the establishment of the fur trade, even long before the Native American cultures that thrived there arrived, the Missouri River cut its course through a section of North Dakota near present-day Washburn. Geese pounded upriver, passing the sandbars and jutting clay banks as they followed the timeless waterway. Stilt-legged herons speared fish from the shallows. Deer crept out of the cottonwoods and willows to drink of the muddy water.
Winter 1999: Chilly Challenge
Posted by: unknown
On the upside, flooded Devils Lake is fishing heaven - and not just during the summer. Fishing through a six-inch hole in the ice can be enjoyable, especially on those days when the sun shines, the wind isn't blowing and the fish bite.
Fall 1998: Cowhands are tourists at Knife River Ranch
Posted by: Candi Helseth
Cattle mill about restlessly, kept at bay by quivery horses anticipating the day's work. Ron Wanner urges his horse forward, stopping beside each eager wrangler to give brief instructions.