COMMUNITY NEWS, CULTURE, COMMENTARY, COMMERCE u FRIDAY, MAY 25, 2012 u VOLUME I, ISSUE 35 u FREE

American Family rates are more competitive than you out. American Family rates are more competitive than you might think. Call me today to nd might think. Call me today to find out.

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JERRY G BENNEFELD AGENCY - 1251 W MAIN ST - VALLEY CITY, ND 58072-3641
jbennef1@amfam.com (701) 845-2861 www.jerrybennefeldagency.com

Are you paying too much for auto insurance?

independent
THE
American Family Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries Home Office Madison, WI 53783 amfam.com 2006 002098 Rev. 4/06

American Family Mutual Insurance Company and its Subsidiaries Home Ofce Madison, WI 53783 amfam.com 2006

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BUILDING COMMUNITIES

GRAND OPENING
RR museum with Peggy Lee tribute opens
PAGES 8
Regular or Boneless

TASTIER BY THE DOZEN! ONLY $9!

REMEMBER: TUESDAY JUNE 2: VCSU Golf PIZZA! Scramble

HOMEMADE Compliment our Delicious Homemade Pizza with a REFRESHING mug of your favorite BEER.

Olympics Fundraiser Golf Tourney

JUNE 8: Special

JUNE 27:

Rally for a Cure - Ladies Golf Tourney

YES!

WE ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

TRESTLES at the TOWN & COUNTRY CLUB
EAT IN - TAKE OUT 500 12th Ave. NW - Valley City

We do book private golf events perfect for family reunions & get-togethers.

LUNCH Mon-Sat 11AM-2PM DINNER Mon-Sat 5-9PM

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701-845-4626

The Independents popular Museum Without Walls columnist Dennis Stillings, of Valley City, poses in front of an outdoor railcar exhibit at Wimbledons newly completed Midland Continental Railroad Museum. (Nikki Laine Zinke/The Independent)

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PAGE 2
LIBRARY NEWS
By Mary E. Fischer Director, Valley City Barnes County Library headaches and gives simple solutions along with suggestions as to how-to. Around the Table: Fond Memories of Food, Family and Friends by Reminisce Magazine is a fun book donated by a patron who wanted to share. Photos, stories and recipes bring back memories. that pain is Ads from by-gone a part of life. years like kitchenI already take a hot bath fresh frankfurters stopped (Whirlpool), put my feet me in my tracks. Paging up, realize I shouldnt do through, I realized I recogthings I used to. I stretch nized much from my past. I and try to strengthen the liked the quote on page 158 muscles that need to do the portrayed on a yellow plate, work, butI am also pretty We pray in microwave good at staying busy and time, but the answer usualignoring the symptom until ly comes slow-cooked. The it gets out of hand. This title two tots on the facing page addresses many common could have been myself and conditions from ulcers to See LIBRARY: 14

the independent
SUDOKU Sudoku Puzzle #2518-M

others Day was even better than a birthday: a surprise visit on Friday from daughter Barb with pizza out, shopping, visiting and helping; a Veronica-special on Saturday, she brought kitty supplies and we bought a new bleeding heart to replace my original that did not make it through the winter. Sunday, the official day, Judy and Bill stopped by to take me out to dinner and increase my little garden with home-grown tomatoes and petunias plus a lavender Moms Day card. In between, I received texts and pictures from Ray of the new great-granddaughter, Lyvia. Monday yielded another lavender card from granddaughter Christine and family. Theresa called me a week early for Moms Day but took time on Tuesday to say it again. Ruth texted somewhere in between and asked how my pots were doing? I am thankful to be a mom/ grandma/ greatgrandmother. Digital player for the blind: I received a player last week from the State Library for the Blind. So far, I have no cassettes, but was interested to look at the new technology and introduce to our sight-impaired patrons. We have the traditional player also that plays both the turtles and cassettes from our library. You can try either player in your home to see if this is something you would like to use. Summer Reading starts: Please join us for the summer. Ive bought teen reads, mysteries, westerns, inspirational romance, intrigue and weve accepted donations of many other genres, including non-fiction. The Childrens Department has also gone wild. The Summer Reading

3 6

1 2 7 5 3 6 3 4

Program begins May 29 and concludes at the end of July. Make Pain Disappear: Proven Strategies to Get the Relief You Need by Dorothy Foltz-Gray proved to have some practical guidelines for relieving, recognizing and accepting

7 4 1 8 5
2009 Hometown Content

5 8 9 5 1 9 7 6 1 9 6 7 2 4
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Answers will be printed in next weeks edition of The Independent.

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the independent

PAGE 3
Track Meet takes place at Bismarck State College. Valley Senior Services Activities: Meal - roast beef and gravy, garlic smashed potatoes, parslied carrots, angel food cake with strawberries and topping; Lisbon - 1:30 rummy.

ALENDAR C
COMMUNITY
ARTS n COMMUNITY n GROUPS n GOVERNMENT n SCHOOL n SPORTS

Saturday, May 26
A grand opening cel-

List your event

We welcome all submissions for area events and activities that are free or low-cost and open to the public. Calendar listings in The Independent are provided at no cost as a public service to our readers. To have your listing published, use our easy online submissions form at www.indy-bc.com or email a complete description well in advance to The Independents Calendar Editor Lee Morris at:
submissions@indy-bc.com

22ND ANNUAL

Service & Repair Sound & P.A. New & Used Musical Instruments

Include the events date, time, place, and other relevent information. Please also include a contact name and phone number and/or email address.
DEADLINE: Calendar listings are due by noon Mondays for that Fridays publication.

embers of the Barnes County Wildlife Federation will take 50 kids shing Saturday, June 2, as part of the 22nd Annual Take-AKid-Fishing-Day, to be held at Mel Rieman Recreation Area on Lake Ashtabula. The event is open to children ages 6-10, with priority being given to those children who have never participated in the annual event, which emphasizes fun and outdoorsmanship over catch-ofthe day.
tion.

To participate, parents must pre-register their children before May 31 by calling 701-845-2087 or 701-845-2378. Registration includes transportation, supervision, equipment, lunch, and entertainment. In addition, prizes will be awarded to all participants. The event is sponsored by Barnes County Wildlife Federation, North Dakota Game and Fish, Valley City Women of Today and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

DAY

255 E. Main, Valley City

MUSIC
701-840-5408

roy@ reallybigmusic.com

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S !
For quality chiropractic care, see Dr. Brent Thomsen at Thomsen Chiropractic in Valley City. Call today: 845-2481.
Extended hours to keep our patients At Work and on thE Job. *WC, MA, Medicare, BCB, Alflac, Medica and other insurance accepted.

100 Years & going strong

Friday, May 25
A Tribute to Miss Peggy Lee featuring Stacy Sullivan, pianist Jon Weber and bassist Steve Doyle takes place at 7:30 p.m. at the Reiland Fine Arts Center at Jamestown College. For tickets ($15

general reserved) in Valley City, go to the Barnes County Museum or Unique Antiques. The Barnes County Commission holds a special meeting at 8 a.m. at the county courthouse. Agenda: county equaliza-

Barnes County Senior Center Activities: 9:30 a.m. Bone Builder Exercise; 11:30 Lunch (Pork Roast, Mashed Potatoes/ Gravy, California Blend, Pudding); 1:00 Bingo. North Dakota State

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PAGE 4
ebration for the Midland Continental Transportation Museum featuring the original depot building and Peggy Lee exhibit in Wimbledon is today. Celebratory events kick off from 10:40 to 11 a.. with a performance by the Jamestown Drum and Bugle Corps; at 11 a.m., a Dedication Program and Introduction of Dignataries will be held; from noon to 1 p.m., a community picnic will be hosted on the grounds, with ice cream provided by Midwest Dairy #5. Tours of the museums other buildings will also be available May 26 from 1 to 3 p.m. The museum itself will be open all day May 26 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Valley City Monthly Bluegrass Jam Session will be from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Barnes County Museum. The acoustic jam is free and open to the public. This will be the Bluegrass Association of North Dakotas last monthly jam session until September. More info: John Andrus, 701-7624891. Barnes County Senior Center Activities: Noon Lunch (Macaroni and Cheese, Sausage, Peas, Juice, Butterscotch Dessert). North Dakota State Track Meet continues at Bismarck State College.

the independent
Monday, May 28 MEMORIAL DAY
Memorial Day activities begin with memorial services at the following cemeteries: Hillside at 8 a.m.; St. Catherine, 8:15 a.m.; Oriska, 8:45 a.m.; St. Bernard, 9 a.m.; Memory, 9:30 a.m.; Woodbine, 9:45 a.m. The Memorial Day parade begins at 10:30 a.m. on Central Avenue in Valley City. Other events are an 11 a.m. program at the VFW, a memorial service in Veterans Memorial Park, and a memorial service at City Park Footbridge, a tribute for those who served on the seas. More info: James Verwey, 8458511. A Memorial Day celebration in Leal begins with a Color Guard presentation at the Leal Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. with a potluck dinner following at the Leal Fire Hall. Plates, utensils and beverages provided. All are welcome. Barnes County Senior Center Activities: Closed for Memorial Day. Valley Senior Services Activities: Closed for

CALENDAR: ARTS n COMMUNITY n GROUPS n GOVERNMENT n SCHOOL n SPORTS

Sunday, May 27
Graduation: Maple Valley High School; Valley City High School at 2:30 p.m.; Griggs County Central at 2 p.m.; Barnes County North East Campus at 1 p.m., and West Campus at 3 p.m. at Wimbledon-Courtenay Gymnasium. Barnes County Senior Center Activities: 12:30 p.m. Lunch (Ham, Yams, Broccoli, Cheesecake).

Saturday, June 2, 3 to 5pm - Senior Center, Valley City

80th Birthday Party for June Parker

Come Celebrate!

Boost attendance at your meeting, event or activity. Be in THE CALENDAR. Use our EASY WEBFORM at www.indy-bc.com - CHOOSE SUBMIT

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the independent

PAGE 5
CALENDAR: ARTS n COMMUNITY n GROUPS n GOVERNMENT n SCHOOL n SPORTS
1:00 Whist. all player levels. More info: Richard Hass: 840-2612. Free for people 21-plus. Barnes County Senior Center Activities: 9:30 a.m. Bone Builders Exercise; 11:30 a.m. Lunch (Beef Roast, Mashed Potatoes/Gravy, Green Beans, Jell-O w/fruit); 1:15 p.m. Pinochle and Whist. Valley Senior Services activities: Meal - salmon loaf, mashed potatoes, creamed peas, lime Jell-O with diced pears and topping; Fort Ransom - van to

05.25.12
THE INDEPENDENT
A publication of Smart Media LLC 416 2nd St. Fingal, ND 58031 Volume 1, Issue 35 All Rights Reserved

Memorial Day. The Ransom County Historical Museum opens for the season (May 28Sept. 25). Hours are 1 to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, May 30
Valley City Kiwanis Club meets every Wednesday at 12:04 p.m. at the Valley City VFW. Open Mic at Duttons Parlour in Valley City is every Wednesday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Entertainers (music, comedy, poetry, etc.) and audience members welcome. No cost. Tower City Senior Citizens meet every Wednesday at the Community Center in Tower City from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. A meal is served. More info: Betty Gibbons, president: 701-840-0184. Texas Holdem Tournament is every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Eagles Aerie, Valley City. Open to

m To highlight and publicize local contributions to education, the arts, and quality of life; m To provide quality news content relating to the activities and concerns of the local population; m To be a marketplace of ideas, and a forum for free debate; m To feature local talent and achievers; m To provide a venue for showcasing local products and services through attractive and stimulating advertising.

MISSION STATEMENT

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Tuesday, May 29
Valley City Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at noon at the Valley City VFW. Barnes County Senior Center Activities: 11:30 a.m. Lunch (Pork Loin, Baby Potatoes, Carrot Salad, Cake); 1:15 p.m. Pinochle. Valley Senior Services Activities: Meal - Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes, Scandinavian blend vegetables, apricot halves, bitsy lemon bar; Lisbon 1:30 bingo; Lisbon - 1:30 hand & foot; Enderlin -

Dakota Silver
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Editor & Publisher

Nikki Laine Zinke NLZinke@INDY-BC.com 701-840-1045 cell

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www.INDY-BC.com ONLINE ALL THE TIME! THE INDEPENDENT is published weekly from its Smart Media LLC home in Fingal, N.D., and is available free of charge at designated distribution outlets in the Barnes County and surrounding area. No one is permitted more than one current issue of THE INDEPENDENT without permission. Additional copies and back issues are available for $5 prepaid. Theft of THE INDEPENDENT will be prosecuted. ITS YOUR COMMUNITY. SUPPORT YOUR LOCALLY OWNED MEDIA!

Focus Fusion Mustang Taurus Edge Flex Escape Sport Trac Explorer Expedition Ranger F-150 Super Duty E-Series Transit Connect/Fiesta

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DON (DOC) THOMPSON Sales Specialist

Bus. (701) 845-1671 1-800-599-3792 Fax. (701) 845-2148 Cell. (701) 840-0677

ServiceS Offered free Of cHArGe

1. "A __ formality" 13 14 5. Of a pelvic bone 10. Stashed away 16 17 13. Tennis great Lendl 19 14. Aqua __ (gold dissolver) 22 23 15. Put to the grindstone 26 27 28 29 16. Life during a power outage? 33 32 18. Writer Sarah __ 40 39 Jewett 19. Linda Ellerbee's 43 44 "__ It Goes" 20. Sowed again 47 48 22. Prefix with natal 25. Two-sport man 51 52 53 Deion 56 26. Henrik Ibsen drama 64 31. Legendary big bird 63 32. Mob chief 68 67 33. School founded by Henry VI 71 70 35. Dry Italian wine American Profile Hometown Content 39. Make stout 40. More achy 71. Surrealist Max 42. "Mila 18" author 72. Post-Mardi Gras 43. Built for speed period 45. One of The Three Bears DOWN 46. Stink to high 1. Easily split mineral heaven 2. Politico Bayh 47. When doubled, an 3. South African cash African antelope 4. Goes no further 49. Natural 5. Ill temper environments 6. NASA moon craft 51. Shoe pads 7. Humpbacked 55. Novelist Deighton helper 56. Wine server 8. Hospital helpers 58. "Over There" 9. Salad choice composer 10. Huge swarm 63. Jim Croce's "__ a 11. City or circle Name" preceder 64. Long, long poem? 12. Monopoly stack 67. Kicks a grounder 15. Farmer's 68. Get down pat handiwork at 69. Bowls over Wimbledon? 70. Anonymous John

21 25 31 35 42 46 50 55 58 59 60 61 62 36 37 38

17. Huey of Louisiana politics 21. Seth's son 23. Peepers 24. In the lead 26. Toxins banned in the '70s 27. Jurist Warren 28. Blunted sword 29. Arrays at the Cheerios factory? 30. Bar Mitzvah reading 34. Neighbor of Tibet 36. Gazetteer datum 37. __ Cong 38. Igloo dwellers: Abbr. 41. Broccoli __ 44. Ceramist's oven 48. Stovetop whistler 50. Pizarro victim

51. "__ a Thousand Times" (1955 Jack Palance film) 52. The "N" in UNCF 53. Beat the goalie 54. Urban conduit 57. Parti-colored horse 59. Like the Sabin vaccine 60. Hockey great Gordie 61. Yemeni seaport 62. Arboreal abode 65. Decade divs. 66. Otorhinolaryngology abbr.

PAGE 6

the independent
Barnes County). e cost is $100 and the permit must be purchased prior to work being started. Permits can be purchased by the homeowner or by a licensed septic installer and they are good for one year. Septic installers who install systems within Barnes County must rst be licensed by Central Valley Health District (CVHD). Licensing requires continuing education and understanding the local on-site sewer regulation, which has been adopted by all counties in the Southeast Central Region, and is available on the CVHD website at http://www.centralvalleyhealth. org/EnvironmentalHealth.htm If you are hiring someone to install your sewage system, make sure they are reputable and licensed. You dont want to spend thousands of dollars on your project only to have to dig it back up and make corrections to bring it up to code. Before installers cover work on a completed system, Central Valley Health District in Jamestown must be contacted so that it may be inspected by an environmental health practitioner. Additionally, the permit paperwork must be completed and returned to CVHD (or City-County Health District in Valley City). Sewage treatment systems are an important facet of your overall housing project and one of the main things prospective home buyers will look at when the time comes to sell your home. Do it right the rst time! For more information regarding sewer/septic systems, contact the environmental health division at Central Valley Health District by phone at 701-252-8130.
Marcie Bata is a registered environmental health specialist/registered sanitarian whose services are contracted by the City-County Health District in Barnes County. Your Health is coordinated by Mercy Hospital.

YOUR HEALTH: A sewage system primer

ate spring through mid-autumn is the time everyone starts thinking about new home construction and remodeling projects. If youre thinking about install- By Marcie ing a new on-site sew- Bata age system or repairing an existing one, there are a few things to consider rst. All work regarding on-site sewage treatment systems (OSTS) in Barnes, Dickey, Foster, LaMoure, Logan, McIntosh, Stutsman, and Wells counties require a Permit to Construct. is applies to new OSTS and/or repair to existing OSTS which includes: septic tanks; drain- elds; seepage pits; cesspools; and holding tanks. A permit to construct may be purchased at your local public health unit (City-County Health District in

Blue Ribbon
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Chocolaty Twist On Creamy Classic Cheesecake
So creamy it melts in your mouth!

Blue Ribbon
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CALENDAR
Lisbon (call 877-857-3743 for ride). The Valley CityBarnes County Library Book Discussion Club meets at the library in Valley City at 2 p.m. Send your calendar info by email to submissions@indy-bc.com cans Month Tea. Play cards from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Tower City Community Hall. Buffalo Park Board meets at 7 a.m. at the Buffalo Community Center. Valley Senior Services Activities: Meal - barbecue ribs, potato of cooks choice, baked beans, fruit salad or fruit; Enderlin van to Lisbon (call Lisbon office to schedule ride).

Thursday, May 31
St. Catherine Quilters makes quilts for those in need every Thursday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 to 9 p.m. in the St. Catherine gym basement, Valley City. Anyone is welcome - no experience necessary. More info: Lela Grim, 845-4067. Tops Club of Enderlin meets every Thursday morning at the Senior Center. Weigh in from 8:30 to 9 a.m.; meeting at 9. Second Crossing Toastmasters meets on Thursdays at noon in the Norway Room of the VCSU Student Center. Visitors are welcome. More info: Janet, 845-2596. Barnes County Senior Center Activities: 10:30 a.m. exercise; 11:30 a.m. lunch (Chili, Cheese, Salad, Juice, Dump Cake); 2 p.m. Tea Older Ameri-

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Ransom County Relay for Life event begins today at the Expo Center in Lisbon. More info: Kristie Peterson 701-683-4009 or Michele Sagvold 701683-5552.

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the independent

PAGE 7
MUSEUM WITHOUT WALLS
n this rare photograph, two women perBy Dennis haps on Stillings a Sunday excursion to the countryside pose standing on an American Bridge Co. girder of the newly completely (1908) Hi-Line bridge. Below and to the north, winds a dirt road which crosses the old iron bridge to North Valley. A Soo Line train can be seen in the distance.
Museum Without Walls is an original column by Dennis Stillings of Valley City that examines images, landmarks and artifacts that showcase the history of communities in our area. To suggest a topic for a future column, provide leads or further information on subjects covered here, or comment on a previous column, feel free to contact Dennis Stillings by email at: stillings@gmail.com

Looking fine on the new Hi-Line I

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The Sheyenne Valley Adult Learning Center held its 2011 - 2012 Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, May 17, at the Sheyenne Valley Area Career and Tech Center in Valley City. Twelve graduates comprise the Class of 2012 and received their GED certificates. Eight of the 12 are pictured here. From left: Front row - Amy Fisher, Alicia Rykowski, and Esther Keeling; and back row - Rafael Graciano Ruiz, Kyle Uecker, Jacob Ludwig, Kyle Arneson, and Troy Rykowski.
(Photo submitted/ Chantal Thiel)

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Thousands of readers pick up The Independent each week in these communities: Valley City, Sanborn, Rogers, Dazey, Wimbledon, Walum, Hannaford, Sibley, Luverne, Pillsbury, Tower City, Buffalo, Fingal, Nome, Kathryn, Hastings, Litchville, Marion, Enderlin & Lisbon.

PAGE 8

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By MARY BETH ORN CONTRIBUTING WRITER imbledons Midland Continental Railroad Transportation Museum featuring Peggy Lee is ready to receive visitors. Arriving at this point was a long journey with many obstacles, but also moments of serendipitous good fortune. e casual visitor, railroad bu , Peggy Lee fan or young student will each discover something intriguing and memorable within the rooms of the Depot. It is as engaging and welldone as any museum I have visited in my American and European travels. As a Wimbledon native, I thought I knew the Midland Railroad story but there are many rich details and new stories to discover within the museums historical photos and well-written panels. (Did you know the planned route was originally from Jamestown to Courtenay, not Wimbledon?) From the viewpoint of this observer, here are some of elements which allowed the Depot Restoration Project to reach completion so successfully. A dream needs money. e Depot restoration might never have been more than a dream without the seed money from the estate of Myrna Bultema. It had long been Bultemas belief that the Depot and its connection to Peggy Lee was a piece of North Dakota history worth saving. Bultema passed away March 9, 2007 and had provided money in her will to fund a feasibility study. Have a local source of information. e late Ginny Lulay knew Norma Egstrom (later known as Peggy Lee) in school, was the daughter of the last Midland Depot agent Helen Rus-

How to build a museum

WIMBLEDON

The Depot Restoration Committee and Sea Reach Ltd pose for a picture in June 2008. From left: Back row - Tess and Ron Smith, Susan Jurasz, Linda Grotberg, Ginny Lulay, Mary Beth Orn, and Becky Heise; and front row - Bobby Koepplin, Peter Reedijk, Les Koll, Wes Anderson, and Carol Peterson. (Photo submitted/Mary Beth
Orn)

JESSI WINTER
Owner/Stylist Stylist

CHRISTINE HEDRICK
Myrna Bultema Ginny Lulay

sell, and lived next door to the Depot during the years she and her husband Bob ran the hotel. e lifelong Wimbledon resident was an invaluable source of local history. Lulay passed away December 16, 2011. We l l conne c te d alumni (and friends) can make things happen for less money. Federal funding paid part of the restoration expense. Each change, therefore, required an architects approval. Wimbledon graduate Lonnie La en donated architectural services from his company, JLG, saving the project thousands of dollars. In September 2009, Janna Joos, a Wimbledon native now residing in Palm Springs, Calif., was called upon to negotiate the purchase of one of Peggy Lees dresses. e restoration committee had learned that three dresses and memorabilia would be coming up for auction in just a few short days. rough Carol Petersons

connections, an anonymous donor had stepped forward with funds to purchase a dress. e question: Could Joos attend the auction and bid on See MUSEUM: 9

the independent

PAGE 9
the Jamestown concert. A limited number of VIP tickets for the Friday concert, including preferred seating and reception following the performance are available for $50. Contact Kate Stevenson, 701952-8253 to purchase VIP tickets. VIP ticket sales will help to defray the expenses of bringing Sullivans show to North Dakota. Tickets at the door will be $20. A second Stacy Sullivan tribute concert to Peggy lee is set for Saturday, May 26, in Fargo. e 7 p.m. performance will be held at e Stage at Island Park, 333 4th Street South, Fargo. For tickets to the Fargo show, call 701235-6778.

Peggy Lee tribute concerts planned at Jamestown, Fargo

A
Redu uced bad check cases in Barnes County by y 75% through strict t enforcement!
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special concert tribute to Miss Peggy Lee will be held Friday, May 25, at 7:30 p.m. at the Reiland Fine Arts Center on the Jamestown College campus Stacy Sullivan, accompanied by Jon Weber and Steve Doyle, will help to celebrate the legacy of Miss Peggy Lee as part of the weekend that marks the grand opening of the Midland Continental Depot Transportation Museum in Wimbledon on May 26. e Midland Continental Depot was the home of Peggy Lee from 1934 to 1937. is date was chosen for the dedication as it is the birthday of Miss Peggy Lee, born Norma Delores Egstrom, on May 26th 1920. Tickets to the Jamestown room.
This story originally appeared in the Wimbledon Newsletter and is reprinted with permission. OPPOSITE: Photo of Museum Sign by Nikki Laine Zinke/The Independent

concert went on sale May 1. General admission seating is $15. Seniors are $12 seniors and students are $10. In Jamestown, tickets will be available at Globe Travel, Hugos and Cork & Barrel. In Valley City, tickets will be available at the Barnes County Museum and Unique Antiques. Contact Globe Travel, 701-252-5757, for tickets to

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MUSEUM: From 8 behalf of the committee? She did better within the a ernoon Joos had negotiated to buy all three dresses and an oil painting for less than the committee expected to spend on just one dress! Something about the serendipitous acquisition funded by an anonymous donor captured news editors attention and the story about the purchase went around the world. Work with a great partner. Sea Reach Ltd of Portland, Ore., was hired to design, build and install the

interpretive exhibits. Sea Reach Ltd had previously worked with some members of the Midland Depot Restoration Committee on the Rosebud Visitor Center in Valley City. Among Sea Reach Ltds client list are several National Parks and Scenic Byways. Check the details. And then check them again. e committee worked very hard, tracking down photos, proofreading dra s, emphasizing the points that are important to Wimbledons history, and commenting on the interpretive content proposed for each

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he human body is about 70 percent water. The world is about 70 perarly spring cent water. I dont think thats radishes are a coincidence. Our very core wonderfully flacompound seems to draw us vorful without being especially those of us who are By Nick too eye-watering hot. avid anglers to water of all Simonson Ours have been ready kinds. From coast to coast, and shore to shore, we can hop and to eat for a couple of By Sue B. jump across this spinning blueweeks already and and-green marble in a matter of hours and find wow, the rewards of Balcom our place near or on the waters we love or those gardening. flows we have only just laid eyes on. Along the Radishes are coldblooded crops and can take the cold way, we meet and share stories with complete strangers, which further strengthen our desire and the snow. In fact that is why to experience new places. they stay mild for it is the sun that So it was today, as I boarded a CanadAir jet makes them sharp. bound for a two-week trial in Erie, Penn. In the There are people who say, I cant grow radishes. Mine never get big. pouring rain, we lifted off over the Minnesota North Shore and the gray waters of Lake SupeWell, theres a reason. rior disappeared under the cloudline. Within Like most jobs in life, theres 50 minutes, we had cleared the patch of popalways something that needs to be done that is not the fun part. In gar- up thunderstorms in the whirling center of the low pressure system that dominated the weekdening, its thinning out the rows. end and I was staring out at the edge of Lake Harvesting radishes is fun, but Michigan which quickly turned from gold and you must sacrifice a few to enjoy your harvest. That means thinning. emerald green at its edges to an almost Unless you can seed a properly ocean-like blue in its spaced row of radishes, lettuces, orthwesterN center. spinach, carrots or anything with a As we began our NdustrIes small seed you must learn how to descent into Dethin. troit, it was clear to Supplier to the My very first garden experiences see that the pictureS hooting SportS with thinning were painful. I felt perfect day was wellthat if that radish was growing, it received. Local lakes We Buy Or deserved to live. But, as you know teemed with boats, PaWn Guns that is not possible, you must thin some lined up and oWner: leon pYtliK those plants so each one has room anchored in large 416 West Main street - Valley City, nD 58072 to grow. party groups, others (701) 845-1031 or (800) 286-1031 leon_nwi@hotmail.com See TINY BITES: 11 whipping skiers and

As ye sow, so New Waters shall ye thin T

TINY BITES

OUR OUTDOORS
tubers behind them in their long trailing wakes mented on my second carry-on; a set of rods and the occasional slow moving vessels, I imag- which I brought to pass the holiday weekend in ined, were patrolling emerging weedlines for between courtroom time. A fellow from Maine bass, or working jigs over deep reefs for wall- inquired about duck and pheasant populaeyes. tions back home in North Dakota, his favorite As my field of vision from the window of Seat state for upland and waterfowl hunting, and I 13A whirred by, propelled by the whine of the in turn asked about the brook trout and striper jet engine just behind my seat, I followed the fishing which his state was noted for. A young contours of each lake, until I could see no more man from California on the way to a job interof the transitions. I saw two boats anchored up view described the burgeoning coyote populaon the delta of a small river feeding a large sub- tion behind his familys house out west when I urban lake, and figured that those anglers had mentioned I saw a large gray one, just standing found their spot-on-a-spot. I expect that they on the road, out of place and out of breath in were enjoying the day, if not loading the livewell the recent 95-degree heat on my way to Duluth. with a few fish. Right up until the edge of the We shared stories and connected over our comMotor City, every lake provided a chance for me mon bonds fishing, hunting and the outdoors to ask myself where would I fish on this one making the travel time whiz by. and I wonder whats in that lake? At the hotel, I unpacked - mostly suits, shirts The second leg of my trip Detroit to Erie and ties, but also three reels and a small tack came near sunset. From my angle, the moon lebox containing just enough gear to take on had taken just the slightest bite out of the setting whatever fishing I could find. I went to bed hapsun, as a portion of this springs solar eclipse was py to be in safe and ready to take on the comvisible from my seat on the next CanadAir jet. ing week and looking forward to the chance to The red light streaming from the west lit up the explore new watersin our outdoors. Nick Simonson grew up in Valley City. edges of the lake, and the last few boats could be seen making their way back to shore, squeezing the last moments of excitement out of the weekend. 25 Years In the plane and at the airports, Experience I traded stories with other anglers and outdoor enthusiasts, who com-

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the independent
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PAGE 11

Annual Crop Management Field School set for June 21 Area students graduate n Corn and wheat learn about from Jamestown College n Pre-registration required for first growth stages and late-season man-

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The North Dakota State University Extension Services annual crop management field school will be offered Thursday, June 21, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Carrington Research Extension Center. The school will provide updates on crop and pest management using hands-on training in field research and demonstration plots. The school is targeted for crop advisers, but the program also will be beneficial for farmers. Specific field sessions include: n Weed identification - identify more than 60 living weed exhibits and review biology and control n Herbicide mode of action - identify herbicide classes by examining crop and weed injury symptoms
This well-maintained antique John Deere tractor was on display at the North Dakota Winter Show building during the companys 175th birthday celebration May 19 in Valley City.
(Photo submitted/ Dennis Stillings)

agement strategies n Insect management - review current insect concerns n Row crop plant nutrition learn about the current situation and strategies to maintain yield through harvest A total of 50 participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will receive reference materials, refreshments and a noon meal. Certified crop advisers participating in the event can receive 6 continuing education units. For further details and preregistration information, go to http://www. ag.ndsu.edu/CarringtonREC/events or contact the Carrington center at (701) 652-2951. A completed preregistration form and $75 fee is required by June 18 ($100 after June 18).

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Jamestown College presented bachelors and masters degrees to 182 graduates during the schools 106th Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 5, at the Jamestown Civic Center. H. George Schuler, Plano, Texas, delivered the Commencement address. Mr. Schuler is a 1968 graduate of Jamestown College and is a member of the Colleges Board of Trustees. Brian Lang, associate professor of religion-philosophy, delivered the Baccalaureate address. Alumni Hall of Fame inductees recognized at Commencement were Col. Sherry Cox, Andrews Air Force Base, Md.; Dr. Peggy Foss, Ann Arbor, Mich.; Muriel Peterson, Bismarck; and Elmer Schindel, Wayzata, Minn. Speakers representing the class of 2012 were Caleb Grossman, a history-political science and English graduate from Grand Rapids, Minn., and Byron Jones, a physical education graduate from Glenarden, Md. Area graduates included: Lisa Graalum of Kathryn, business administration, communication; Taylor Binneman of LaMoure, nursing; Cali Sailer of LaMoure, business administration; and Kathryn Ulrich of Valley City, nursing. tler ones and eat them. In a couple of days or so, the healthy happy ones with room to grow will do just that. So remember as you sow, so must you thin and your carrots, beets, lettuce, spinach and radishes will reward with abundance if you do.
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TINY BITES: From 10 So buy lots of seed and be sure and plant successive rows so that you your radish or lettuce crop will last for a weeks and weeks at least until it begins to warm up. When the weather turns hot and evenings stay warm, the spinach begins to bolt and the lettuce turns bitter. This winter was open enough to get into the garden in March. I used raised beds at home and can work a row or two anytime I can get into the garden from the house. So I do. I sow the seed and let it go. Theres enough moisture in the early spring to keep from breaking out the hose. When the seeds sprout and leaves begin to

form, you must begin to thin. Now dont get too crazy with your thinning right off the bat and do not go by the back of the packet. If you research the French Intensive Method of sowing, you can sprinkle seed everywhere and harvest it as it matures. The heck with four-inch spacing with 1.5 feet between rows; I have never used that information. If everyone garden according to the spacing on the back of a seed packet, we would all need bigger gardens. A good rule of thumb is to plant the rows the same distance apart as the required spacing. And I do. To begin thinning, I use a small manicure scis-

sors and snip between the healthy plants. This does a couple of things. The healthy seedlings have space to grow, the root of the sacrificed plant gives back to the soil and clipping doesnt disturb the soil around the root of the seedling next to it. As the radishes get bigger, I begin to pull the lit-

ExpErt watch & jEwElry rEpair donE on prEmisEs.

PAGE 12
VIEWPOINT

the independent

x-Governor Ed Schafer and Lloyd Omdahl have recently teamed up to inflict a much-ballyhooed powerhouse dog-and-pony (fox and weasel?) anti-Measure 2 magic act on North Dakota voters. It is based on well-honed techniques of sleight-of-hand, misdirection and other entertainments. Double-Talk It is disappointing to read so many misleading statements by two people of such high repute. Omdahl and Schafer contend that their position on Measure 2 the abolition of the property tax in North Dakota has been misrepresented. Nothing could be further from the truth. At the Empower the Taxpayer website, and elsewhere, it has been clearly stated that Ed Schafer intends to

A Theater Review: The Not-So-Truthsome Twosome

E
vote No on Measure 2. That Lloyd Omdahl will vote No on M2 goes without saying. No one has ever hinted otherwise. As for Ed Schafers By Dennis Stillings position, I can only say that one should go to the Empower the Taxpayer website, watch the video, and judge whether he has been quoted out of context. Ed Schafer is peddling backpedaling hokum. His primary concern is the effect Measure 2 might have on his efforts to lower the oil tax. Smoke and mirrors The Local Control issue is just smoke and mirrors. There is little, if any, local control currently. If you raise serious property tax questions locally, local officials tell you that they are subject to state guidelines; if you raise serious property tax issues with the state, they tell you that its a local matter. I have personally experienced this, and so have many others. Why this sudden concern about local control by the political class and their beneficiaries? Follow the money. Follow the power. mock confusion over what fully and properly funded means is disingenuous. They are taking their cue from Bill Clinton It depends on what the meaning of is is. Pure sophistry. Allow me to give but a few examples of the use of the legal expression fully and properly funded: In Trusts and Estates: Once the trust is prepared and fully and properly funded, individuals can be assured that their estate will be Sleight-of-hand handled and passed to their loved Fully and properly funded is ones ... well-understood in legal language From the Dept. of Veterans Afand can be given clear definition fairs: The Transitional Pharby formulas such as already exist. macy Benefit would never have If you google fully and properly been necessary if the veterans you will find the expression used health care system were fully and without quibble and sophistry properly funded to take care of in major legal documents of the ... all kinds. Omdahls and Schafers Alternatives for Funding BuySell Agreements: But this is far offset by the great peace of mind attained by all parties when the buy-sell is fully and properly funded. From the Tom Dunlap Candidacy, Wyo: Tom recognizes the particular problem of five hospitals in District 1 and Wyomings nine other critical access hospitals and will strive to keep these valuable industries fully and properly funded in Wyoming by working with administrators to meet the requirements for federal Medicare funding. NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2004: the President should ensure that sufficient budgetary resources are provided to the Department of Defense to fully execute the program and to See M2, 13

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Choosing city commissioners

Letter from Lowell Busching Valley City, N.D. Rather then risking hurting any one candidate by endorsing them, I would like to make the following couple of observations without mentioning any names about the slate of candidates running for Valley City Commission. The majority of the candidates have mentioned the need for better communication between the public and the commission regardless of their agendas or political bent. I like the word bent because although our current system is not necessarily broke, it still seems to be at least bent. Some have not addressed this issue as they apparently do not perceive lack of communication as a problem. Make your own decisions on that. I believe all five candidates have acknowledged that in addition to the past flooding problems that

caused considerable infrastructure problems, the entire city, and especially its streets (and sidewalks and curbs) need attention, even if not in the flood zone. Whether anything significant can be done on that in a cash-strapped community is questionable, but at least they all seem to be aware of the problem and appear to have it on the front burner. Others have noted more specific things, like the condition of the tourist center parking lot. It is indeed in deplorable condition both as the face of Valley City for any tourists that might pass through, but also for the use of the Summer Farmers Markets. Another factor in considering who to vote for should, of course, be experience in or through knowledge of the current problems facing Valley City, and not just a desire to serve. Just a rubber stamp then. This is an important election and should not be just a popularity contest by supporters of a particular candidate, but rather, which ones can better serve the community and give every-

one a voice. Then they can vote their conscience. A simple majority win should not be considered to be a mandate for that person to follow their own muse and do as THEY see fit. They should be willing to hear all sides of the issue to see if it suits the majority of the citizens. They must serve the people, not just themselves and their agenda. In this city, even more than in most we are told, majority opinion on the commission DOES rule. This is good in some ways, but not if those with the vote are only a small part of the community and are unwilling to listen to the rest before they make their vote. Note: Telling people to shut up and sit down does not work. Common sense, or expertise by an individual is often left behind if they are in a minority. The important thing, of course, is to get out and vote. If you find no one on the commission you like, it will be your own fault. THEY will have their supporters out to vote. If your

candidate loses, dont spend the next two to four years crying.

submissions@indy-bc.com)

Thank you to

The Independent
Letter from Pat Johnson Valley City, N.D. I would like to thank you for publishing my sons article. And to do it on Mothers Day weekend made it all the more special for me. I have received many compliments about his heart-felt story. Some of what he wrote made me chuckle but the rest made me cryhappy tears. Although some reunions do not end as ours did, we both hope that adoptees and birth parents will begin their own journey. Again, thank you for one of my best Mothers Day presents. I will always be grateful to you.
(Editors note: The letter writer is referring to an essay by Brian Zeiszler titled An Adoptees Journey, published on page 8 of the May 11 edition of The Independent and also available online at www.indy-bc.com Readers who would like to share their own timely essays may submit them for consideration by emailing to

About that guys free ride

Letter from Lloyd A. Nelson Valley City, N.D. The audacity of some people! The first Vote No on Measure 2 sign that was displayed in Valley City was on the property of an individual who has always sought and received property tax exemptions for most everything he ever purchased, built, or was in any way connected with. He is the biggest abuser of NOT paying property tax we have ever seen. His Girl Friday attends City Commission meetings regularly to request tax exemptions for this individual, and has never been denied an exemption by the city, nor has the city commission ever questioned the exemption. How one-sided is his thinking, that he should always be entitled to tax exemptions on his projects, not only property tax, but

also state income tax, and, according to him, the rest of us, who have paid the bills all the years he was tax free, should be denied the same benefit he has received. If this individual is so concerned about the city and county losing funds, perhaps he should read the booklet on Measure 2 to get the straight facts. Also, if he is so completely in favor of property tax, he should NEVER ask the city or county for another tax abatement! Because he has come out against citizens being property tax-free, the city and county should never allow this person another tax abatement. They should require him to pay like the rest of us have been doing all the years he has been getting a free ride. (Of course the city/county would never have the backbone to do that.) Stand up, be a man, pay your fair share, and stop complaining because we want the same privilege you have been receiving most of your life.

the independent
OPINION: THE GADFLY

PAGE 13

41 Years of Living, Loving in Wedlock, & They Still Dont Hold Hands in Public

inda, 69, and Gloria, 64, were the rst lesbian couple to be married legally in the United States eight years ago. ey were part of the lawsuit against the state of By Ed Massachusetts that won Raymond gays the right to marry in the state. ey have been an item for 41 years. In a Washington Post story by Eli Saslow, they are proud they have spent only four nights apart in those 41 years. ey share a house, boat, cellphone, and owned a psychotherapy

counseling business until they retired on the same day. Linda always drives the car while Gloria closes her eyes and pretends to sleep. Gloria thinks Linda drives too fast. Linda is the excitable one while Gloria is cool. Linda has attention de cit disorder so Gloria pays the bills and keeps les on their nances and other important papers. On the other hand, Gloria forgets to take her pills so Linda always brings them to her with a glass of water. ey sh and play golf twice a week. ey nish each others sentences and at dinner will o en nish each others plates. eir wedding

pictures hang in their living room where each night they sit on the sofa holding hands and talk for half an hour before turning to TV. ey both love a re in the replace. Linda says, We love each other, and I would never want to spend my life committed to anyone or anything else. But they live in a country where they still feel self-conscious about their relationship a er 41 years, so when they are out for a walk and holding hands, they will drop their hands if they encounter strangers. What does that say about our society? Is this old married couple of Linda and Gloria a real danger?

e Idea Of Gay Marriage Started 46 years Ago In Believe It Or Not Oklahoma. Two men shared a dormitory room at the University of Oklahoma at Norman in 1966. Jack Baker was an Air Force veteran, the other was Michael McConnell. ey fell in love. Jack asked Michael if he wanted a committed relationship. Michael said yes, but only if they could get married! Four years later Jack and See GADFLY: 15

BIG CITY PIZAZZ

M2: From 12 further ensure that all other critical defense programs are fully and properly funded. Misdirection No one I know promotes Measure 2 as a tax cut. Empower the Taxpayer has stated over and over that it is nothing of the sort. Measure 2 gives you more control over your money, but services still have to be paid for. It all comes out of the same pocket ours. It is our money, not the governments. e tax shi certainly does not mean anyone wants someone else to pay for services. Who is this mythical Someone Else? ere are the people of North Dakota. ere is no one else. e issues are owning ones home and fair taxation. Yes, it is unusual that the elderly get thrown out of their homes because they cant pay their property taxes, yet such cases exist, and they shouldnt. Schafer, Omdahl and their ilk want to dwell on the melodramatic image of Oil Can Harry tossing Little Nell and her grandmother into the street. As a rule, county o cials go to great lengths to avoid that. First of all, it should be impossible for anyone to be kicked out of their home for tax reasons. Secondly, a much larger number of elderly, and those in nancial distress, see the handwriting on the wall re: property tax expense, and preempt by selling their homes and moving into low-rent o en subsidized alternatives. According to the AARP, 29 percent of those taking reverse mortgages use the money to pay o property tax, greatly reducing their quality of life in their few remaining years. e bureaucrats do, however, love having citizens beg them for indulgences such as Homestead Credit so that they may continue to live in their own homes.

many unfair practices go away it is hard to count them all. As Professor Omdahl himself says, e evils of the property tax would ll a volume the size of War and Peace. I used to think His Omdahlness was exaggerating. Understanding the motives of the organized Measure 2 opposition, observing their actions, and hearing their arguments have caused me to think that the good professor has understated the case. For the organized Measure 2 opposition, its all about who rules and how, and nothing about the principle of truly owning ones home. Its all about their Visit our Full Service problems, their power, and Print Shop their fears not ours. Fortune-telling and mind-reading Yes, we cannot know all the unintended consequences of Measure 2. By very de nition, unintended consequences cannot be known. ey may be bad, and they may be good. No nontrivial action by human beings is without unintended consequences. Li ing a fork of spaghetti to one's mouth may well have unintended consequences. So what are we supposed to do lie still on the couch and sacri ce our sense of what is right (and, ultimately, our lives) to the Great God Uncertainty? Omdahl and Schafer need to hike up their skirts, jump on a chair, and let the people clean up the property tax mess with the Measure 2 broom.

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Picking PocketsA er shaking hands, count your ngers Yes, the legislature loves to dish out tax relief at opportune times, a small enough gesture to fend o popular demands for a serious reckoning. To do this now and then serves their political purposes. Like the federal income tax, property tax is a tool for political manipulation. It is a device for government intrusion into the priSHOE REPAIR & SALES vate sector, picking winners and losers METATARSAL HUNTING & FISHING at the taxpayers expense. We see how PROTECTING EQUIPMENT well that works on the national level! FOOTWEAR Wouldnt we all like to gamble with ZIPPERS & REPAIR huge amounts of other peoples money GUNS: and reward friends? e property tax BUY, SELL, TRADE has been xed 135 times since 1981 and is still one big lemon for us all to suck on. Get rid of the property tax and so

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PAGE 14
FOR SALE
Philips 36 HDTV Flat screen with remote. $50. 701-845-3524. W/D Set for sale. Newer front-load washer and dryer. LG brand. $800. Call 701-789-0449. FOR SALE: 64 string harp guitar, 1915 model in original box. Call 845-1525. 4X6 Rubber Mats. Only $40 each. call 701-7890228. Pews for sale. Contact Donelda to make arrangements to see. Four antique pews to choose from. Plus an ornate high-back chair. Call 845-3845. Light-blue davenport for sale. Like new. $225. Will negotiate. Grace, 8450877. Pair of 225/70/15 studded snow tires mounted on rim. Fit Ford or Dodge. $150. 845-1525. Motorcycles for Sale For Sale 2001 Honda Shadow VLX Deluxe Windshield,Saddle Bags, Back Rest 8135 miles Blue Like New $2500.00 OBO 701-749-2553. Fair prices paid. Call 605-352-7078. Want to buy: Winchester 1894s most any year, also firearms of most any type. Also Kawasaki 3 cylinder 2 stroke motorcycles. Call 701-845-5196. car bodies in town and rural. Call Elroy Patzner, Jamestown, 701-2522533 or 701-320-2239 (cell). Wanted Scrap Metal of All Kinds. Buying farm scrap, cars and snowmobiles. Always buying batteries. Call 701-8400800. T.C. Salvage. Buying old batteries. $5 auto; $8 tractor; $1 lawn mower or motorcyle. Call 701-8400800. T.C. Salvage. HEART DISEASE - A GLOBAL CRISIS. Restore your health NOW. http://acaciacenter. bproheart.com or 701429-8928.

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earn an extra paycheck every 2 weeks! sherri4avon@bis.midco.net or 701-319-0284. representative to service accounts. Excellent customer service skills, phone & internet access, own computer and basic word processing ability required. Flexible hours; great pay for right person. Must be motivated, dependable and detailoriented. For confidential interview, send letter of inquiry with resume to Nikki at nlzinke@indy-bc. com - No phone calls.

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Help Wanted
Part-time Hair Stylist. Must have Manager Operator License. Call Picks n Pins, 701-845-3317.

WANTED
For Sale: 14 tandem disc int. & 15 field cultivator int. Wanted: 5 or 6 field cultivator for 3-pint hitch. Call Marvin, 845-9993. Wanted: Hummer H2 SUT. Phone 701-8409322. Wanted: Current or exAvon ladies with Soft Musk on hand. No vintage please. Also Mark Hello Pretty, Hollywood Pink & more. 701-8400476 w/prices. Wanted: Old satellite dish. Call Kent 701-490 6462. WANTED TO BUY. Gun collector wants to buy old Winchesters and other antique guns.

SERVICES
Litscher Training Stables in Tower City is a full service training facility with Indoor-Outdoor arenas. Offering training, lessons, showing, sales, and more. Contact Jenna for more information and to reserve your spot for this spring. Hurry! Stalls are filling up fast. 608-5664237.

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Buying Farm Scrap & Car Bodies. Rock & gravel sales available. Tandem truck to haul. Will trade barn cleaning for scrap. Will pick up

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Just $20 to start your own business. Contact Sherri for more information on how to

AVON Reps wanted in this area!

OLD 10 SALOON BAR & GRILL NEEDS A COOK, WAIT STAFF & BARTENDER. FLEXIBLE HOURS DAYS, EVENINGS. WAGES DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE. CALL HARRY, 701-633-5317 OR STOP IN AT 407 MAIN ST., BUFFALO, ND.

COOK, BAR HELP WANTED

FOR RENT
FOR RENT: 2-bedroom apartments for rent in Litchville, utilities included, laundry facilities are available. Income determines amount of rent. Parklane Homes, Inc., Litchville. Sandy Sandness, Mgr, 701-7624496. Parklane Homes, Inc., temporarily rents apartments to all persons without regard to income restrictions.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider & employer.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

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LIBRARY: From 2 my brother back when. A Homesteaders Sweetheart by Lacy Williams came in my standing order historicals the other day. Penny Castlerock escapes her Philadelphia lifestyle and an unwanted suitor with Jonas White who has come to Philly to try to borrow money for his daughters life-changing treatment. He fails in his mission but she succeeds in catching a ride with him to her Grandfathers farm, right next door to his ranch. How did Jonas come to father eight children? He does need some help and so does Grandfather. Sam, Pennys brother, is sent along as a sort of chaperone. He is so spoiled! Will he be any help? Penny surprises them all, first by burning down her grandfathers kitchen and then racing on horseback to help corral Jonas escaping herd. Will a Philadelphia socialite be able to convince a dirt farmer that she is what he needs to make a complete family? New materials include: Adult books: The Scent of Rain and Lighting by Nancy Pickard; Every Last One by Anna Quindlen; Spies of the Balkans by Alan Furst; Of Love and Evil by Anne Rice; An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin; The Seventh Tower volumes 1-3 by Garth Nix; Innocent by David Baldacci; What Doesnt Kill You by Iris Johansen; A Wandering Heart by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer; Come Home by Lisa Scottoline; The Wind Through the Keyhole (Dark Tower) by Stephen King; Deadline by Fern Michaels; The Harbinger by Jonathan Cahn; and Tigers and Dragons by Jon Henderson. Large print: The Half-Stiched Amish Quilting Club by Wanda E. Brunstetter; Loving (v.4 in Baily Flanigan se-

ries) by Karen Kingsbury; The Fiddler (Home to Hickory Hollow v.1) by Beverly Lewis; Dry as Rain by Gina Holmes; The Witness by Nora Roberts; Innocent by David Baldacci; What Doesnt Kill You by Iris Johansen; and The Big Cat Nap by Rita Mae Brown. True Large-print Paperbacks: Her Surprise Sister (Texas Twins) by Marta Perry; A Family to Cherish (Men of Allegany County) by Ruth Logan Herne; Wildflower Bride in Dry Creek (Return to Dry Creek) by Janet Tronstad; and Montana Cowboy (The Mckaslin Clan) by Jillian Hart. CDs: The Last Gunfight: The Real Story of the Shootout at the O.K. Corral by Jeff Guinn; Life is Not a Stage: A Memoir by Florence Henderson; Jacob T. Marley by R. William Bennett; As the Pig Turns by M.C. Beaton; A Measure of Mercy v.1 and No Distance Too Far v.2 (Home to Blessing) by Lauraine Snelling; and Trapped by Jack Kilborn. DVDs: The Power of Intention by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer; Touched by an Angel: Hope; Outside Fling; The Shaw Collection (a 6-disc set); Dying to Have Known (Cancer Cure); A.M. and P.M.; Yoga for Beginners; Cathe: Basic Steps; and Jefferson on Lewis and Clark. Cassettes: Tom Clancys Op-Center Collection; J. D. Robbs Death Series Collection 1 and 6 by Nora Roberts; Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood and Little Altars Everywhere, both by Rebecca Wells; The Fifth Angel by Tim Green; Flight of the Intruder by Stephen Coonts; and Forest of Secrets (Warriors v.3) by Erin Hunter. Childrens Books: The Lost Hero (The Heroes of Olympus v.1) and The Song of Neptune (The Heroes

of Olympus v.2) both by Rick Riordan; Poems & Prayers for Easter by Sophie Piper; Torn (The Missing, v.4) by Margaret Haddix; The Bridge to Never Land by Dave Berry and Ridley Pearson; Penny and Her Song by Kevin Henkes; and One by Kathryn Otoshi.

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the independent PAGE 15

GADFLY: From 13 Michael made sensational national news by applying for a marriage license in Minnesota. At that time, Minnesota laws did not even mention gender because same-sex marriage was unthinkable. Of course, they were denied the license. Baker and McConnell still live together in Minnesota, and perhaps will have something to say about the vote on the constitutional amendment to ban samesex marriage this November. But just think of the progress made from this tentative step. In 1969, the gay community made national news at the Stonewall Riots in New York City when the police raided a gay bar in Greenwich Village, which was actually run by the Mafia. It was such a battle it has been called the tipping point for gay liberation. In 1973, the American Psychiatric Association removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. Hate the sin but love the sinners? Who started that bull? Same-Sex Marriage: The Right Side Of History, Science, Genetics And Religion. Forty years later, we have the mainstream press calling President Barack Obama the first gay president because of his support for gay marriage even if Vice-President Joe Biden gave him a push. We have six states (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York) plus the District of Columbia that allow gays to marry, Washington and Maryland with new laws about to go into effect, and five states that allow civil unions. California is presently in court. We still have 38 states that have constitutional amendments banning gay marriage. With the radical idea that all men are created equal on the side of samesex marriage advocates, these constitutional amendments are on the wrong side of history and will be real messy in the future. It will be interesting to see what happens to the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act, which defines marriage as a legal union between one man and one woman. The Obama administration refused to defend the law when it was challenged in court. Bill Clinton had signed DOMA into law when it was pushed by Bible-Thumpers just a month or so before the 1996 elections. He now regrets signing it. But the nutcases are still around. Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch of Wisconsin revealed her intellectual capacity in a 2010 rant on a Christian Right radio: This is a slippery slope in

A field team supporting perennial presidential candidate Lyndon LaRouche campaign in front of the U.S. Post Office in Valley City on Wednesday, May 16. Valley City resident LeRoy Neubauer (right) stopped to check out the groups sidewalk display. (Submitted photo/Dennis Stillings) addition to that at what point are we going to OK marrying inanimate objects? Can I marry this table, or this, you know, clock? Can we marry dogs? This is ridiculous. Can we marry dogs? Why Do Atheists Have A Much Lower Divorce Rate Than Conservative Christians? Perhaps if northern Bible-Thumpers and Bible Belt Believers would actually do research on U.S. divorce rates they might change their minds about same-sex marriage. These facts come from research conducted by fundamentalist Christian organizations determined to defend marriage from homosexual influences. (1) The divorce rates among evangelicals and fundamentalists are the highest in the country. (2) The highest rates are found in the Bible Belt: Tennessee, Arkansas, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Kansas are at least 50 percent above the national average. (3) Divorce by group: Nondenomination 34%, Baptist 29%, Mainline Protestants 25%, Mormons 24%, Catholics 21%, Lutherans 21%, Hindus 5%. (4) Atheists and agnostics have the lowest rate of any religious group. (5) Conservative Christians have a much higher rate of divorce than liberal Christians. Experts indicate this is because conservatives have a lower regard for women than liberals. (6) Conservative Christians are more likely to raise alarms about same-sex marriage on the assumption that gay marriage is a total threat of some kind to the traditions and institutions of marriage. What is that threat? They never seem to know specifically how gay marriage destroys traditional marriage. If gay marriages do not affect Hindu marriages, why would they affect Christian marriages? Who Is Destroying The Institution of Marriage? With the average marriage ceremony with all accouterments such as flowers, booze, dinners, photographers, and 14 ladies-in-waiting gowns costing $26,000 in the U.S., no wonder only 51 percent of adults in the country are married. Many are cohabiting because its the only thing they can afford. But we also have the Republican Party which is helping to destroy marriages before they even hit the altar or judges chambers. Its their political ideology. June Carbone and Naomi Cahn of AlterNet note marriage is no longer desirable or possible for huge numbers of the middle-class because of economic conditions brought on by Wall Street greed and the feckless Bush administration. Why marry? Well, love... and perhaps, the silly idea that two partners will be better off and happier together than apart. This worked when the male had access to a living wage, a family wage, and child care was the responsibility of the stay-at-home mom. But in many cases this is no longer possible. Now it takes two wage earners to make a home, requiring trade-offs, concessions, many career-interrupting incidents, to provide enough financial security to manage the creation of a manageable family. Remember Elizabeth Barrett Brownings poem How Do I Love TheeLet Me Count The Ways? The Republicans have come up with a new epic poem:How Can I Screw TheeLet Me Count The Ways. The Scott Walker Republicans have assaulted unions with a diabolical force, destroying the ability for a marriage candidate to earn a family wage. The destruction of unions and the emphasis on corporate welfare instead of family welfare have destroyed job stability. With a family now requiring two lousy incomes instead of one good one, how can a family even afford to have a child? Other countries value the development of families, with 178 other countries in the world providing paid parental leave to allow development of a good base for children. But not the United States. Who gives a damn? Only a few Democratic states (California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Hawaii) provide temporary disability insurance programs to cover some of the costs of pregnancy and childbirth. The loss of employment is one of the major causes of divorce, believe it or not. The ever-increasing income gap between the rich and the poor has been catastrophic on the institution of marriage. The Republican War On Women And Reproductive FreedomAnd Same-Sex Marriage. In 2011 alone, legislatures in all 50 states introduced 1,100 Stupid Women bills resulting in 135 new ways to insult the intelligence of the female gender. Over 90 of these new laws targeted abortion rights. Legislators, its none of your damn business. It is the womans, the familys, and the doctors business. Abortion started in the cave with sticks and toxic plants and is now in the ghettos of Hollywood, the Hamptons, Harlem, and Watts with coat hangers and expensive clinics. We have a world-wide religion that required a 12-year-old child to give birth to a baby fathered by her own father. Thats a rapacious sexual assault on a child. I have never been able to get

an answer from fundamentalists who say they believe every word in the Bible because it was written by the BIG GUY. What about Psalm 139:13: For you formed my inward parts, you covered me in my mothers womb. Lets try this scenario again. Corky and I have a gay son. He and his partner of a dozen years or so are happily married now and live in Iowa. They were married by our oldest daughter who earned a ministerial certificate to perform the marriage, all legal in Iowa. It was a terrific wedding. If you believe in every word of the Christian Bible, God formed the parts of this gay baby, examined him in Corkys womb, and pronounced him A-OK for entrance into this world. Who are you to say that he and his partner are second-class citizens? Who made you the judge of Gods work? Enough Already With The American Taliban. As we learn more about science, medicine and the rest of the human condition, we are gradually eliminating the irrationality present in most religions. As most grand juries can find enough evidence to indict a ham sandwich for criminal activities, Bible Thumpers and bishops can search Bibles and find passages outlawing pigskin footballs, a mix of cotton and polyester in garments, and require the ritual sacrifice of foreskins as symbols of dedication to something. The tide endorsing these bizarre activities is gradually receding. Fifteen years ago, only 25 percent approved the idea of same-sex marriage. Gays have been a part of societies since the first cavedwellers. Now approval of the idea that gays are created equal is about 50 percent. Religionists can no longer crush or intimidate science and reason in most areas of the country, although I admit there is still some doubt about the South. Politics and religion can make a very ugly combination. Talibans around the world, whether in Islamabad, Kabul, or the Vatican are often the result of inequality and ignorant, misogynistic men attempting to suppress and dominate women. A New Yorker cartoon puts current religion in its proper place. God is viewing a big flat-screen TV as an angel whispers in his ear. God looks at her and says: I cant deal with any famines, massacres, or epidemics right now Ive got to help some guy sink a foul shot.
Reach Opinion Columnist Ed Raymond by email at raymond@loretel.net

PAGE 16 the independent

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SOLUTIONS from LAST WEEK
Scrounging It Up
Sudoku Solution #2518-D

B A B A S A B B R S C R
5/13/2012

A V E R T L R E T A E

R E I

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O B L I E S D O K A R E T H A V E N S A T E D D O E D

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G L E N A

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O A

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G G

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P E D A L S T I R

6 2 5 1 8 3

R O R A N E I N S

O R

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4 5 9 6 2 1 7 8 2 3 4 3 1 8 9 6 5 7 1 4 7 2 9 5 9 3 8 7 4 6

7 8 1 5 3 9 4 6 2

2 6 3 8 7 4 5 9 1

5 9 4 3 6 7 1 2 8

3 7 2 9 1 8 6 5 4

8 1 6 4 5 2 9 7 3

2009 Hometown Content

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Deere & Co., based in Moline, Ill., celebrating - with 2012 marking the companys 175th anniversary of its founding, when the companys namesake, John Deere, successfully manufactured and marketed the self-scouring plow in 1837. To celebrate, the John Deere Seeding Group of Valley City hosted a party May 19 at the North Dakota Winter Show building, complete with fun inatables for the kids.
(Photo submitted/Dennis Stillings)

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