COMMUNITY NEWS, CULTURE, COMMENTARY FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2011 VOLUME I, ISSUE 12 FREE

WHATS GOING ON: Where to go, what to do.

CALENDAR 2

independent
THE OF BARNES COUNTY& BEYOND

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A WHITE CHRISTMAS? Valley City photographer Janet Schultz shares this gorgeous image of a snowy winter night at the VCSU Footbridge. This year, though, the Sheyenne River Valley remains brown, with no measurable snowfall on the ground. For some, the lack of shoveling duty is a welcome reprieve. For others, the unseasonable brown ground stirs up nostalgic wishes for frosty mornings, snow sparkles and, of course, a white Christmas. Thanks for the memories, Janet! To share your favorite photos of life in and around Barnes County and beyond with our readers, email them to: submissions@indy-bc.com

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

PAGE 2 the independent

sented on the memorial tree will be read as part of the program. More info: Wes Anderson, with the Barnes County Historical Museum, (701) 845-0966. No charge. Freewill offering for Hospice of the Red River Valley accepted. Maple Valley Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) meets

Thursday mornings at 8 a.m. Maple Valley high school boys basketball plays Enderlin at Tower City starting at 6 p.m. St. Catherine Catholic School, Valley City, presents its school Christmas program at 6:30 p.m.

Whats Going On around the Area

List your event
We welcome all submissions for area events and activities that are free or low-cost and open to the public. Send a complete description of the event at least five working days in advance. Include the events date, time, place, and other relevent information. Please also include a contact name and phone number and/ or email address. We prefer to receive information for listings by email, but will also accept submissions delivered by U.S. mail. Or use our easy online submissions form at www.INDY-BC.com Email submissions to
submissions@indy-bc.com or mail to The Independent, 416 Second St., Fingal, ND 58031. Be sure to verify event details before attending. The Independent cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of published listings.

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Get Physical: ON THE MOVE is Back!

et active, get moving, get ON THE MOVE. ON THE MOVE with all new opportunities starts again Jan. 1 and runs through April 15 and is for everyone. This year, ON THE MOVE has two different membership levels and the first one is totally free. Called ON THE MOVE-GOALS, the only requirement is that each person sets a physical activity goal to meet their needs. Participants will receive the monthly newsletter, program emails and can log physical activity minutes on the barnesonthemove.org website. The second type of membership is called GOALS PLUS. The cost of GOALS PLUS membership is $12 and participants will receive the incentive gifts (a T-shirt, $5 fruit and veggie coupon from Leevers or MarketPlace, free skinny latte from Duttons Parlor, one-month pass to the Fitness Center or February) and unlimited participation in the classes ON THE MOVE, 4 LEFT: (Back row, from left) Ellen Bjelland, Mary Simonson, Steph Mayfield, and (front row) Sue Milender and Pat Egeberg have all set their physical activity goals and joined ON THE MOVE which will run Jan 1 through April 15. Call Mercy Hospital in Valley City at 701-8456456 for more information. (Photo/Submitted)

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Thursday, Dec. 15
The Adhoc Downstream Group and People to Save the Sheyenne invite the public to a Devils Lake informational meeting at the Eagles Club in Valley City. Light Up a Life, a community remembrance event hosted

by Hospice of the Red River Valley, runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Barnes County Historical Museum, 315 Central Ave N. in Valley City. Featured: holiday music, refreshments and a special remembrance presentation. Participants are encouraged to bring an

ornament to hang on the memorial tree in mrmory of a loved one who died in the past year. Ornaments may be dropped off at the Barnes County Historical Museum between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or brought directly to the Light up a Life event. The names of the loved ones repre-

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CALENDAR: ARTS n COMMUNITY n GROUPS n GOVERNMENT n SCHOOL n SPORTS
Tops Club of Enderlin meets every Thursday morning at the Senior Center. Weigh in from 8:30 to 9 a.m.; meeting at 9 a.m. The Commerce Committee of the Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce meets at 7 a.m. Valley City High School boys basketball vs. Fargo South. Valley City High School girls basketball vs. Fargo South. to 4 p.m. Free admission. More info: Wes Anderson, 845-0966. Santa Day at Dakota Plains Co-op in Valley City is from 9 a.m. to noon: pictures with Santa, toys, goodies, sleigh rides for the kids. Jamestown Civic Center hosts high school basketball play during the South Border jamboree. Barnes County North boys play Midkota in the tournament starting at 9:30 a.m. Dance at the Eagles, Valley City, to the music of Boomtown from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Valley City High School Holiday Wrestling Tournament. R&Js Front Page Lounge in Page hosts a Customer Appreciation Christmas Party with entertainment by Peppers Karaoke, beginning at 9:30 p.m. Door prizes. Food.

Dec. 19
North Dakota National Guard volunteers make their annual trip to the North Dakota Veterans Home at Lisbon to spread holiday cheer. Luncheon at 11 followed by a facility tour; gift presentation and singalong starting at 1 p.m. Open to the public. More info: Amy Wieser Willson, 701-412-6895. Valley City Commission meets every first and third Monday of every month at City Hall, Valley City. The regular meeting begins at 5 p.m. by the regular board meeting. Buffalo Senior Citizens meet every Monday at the Community Center, Buffalo, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Buffalo City Council meets at 7 p.m. with a special public informational meeting following to discuss the sewer rehabilitation project.

Barnes County Commission meets every first and third Tuesday of every month at the Barnes County Courthouse, Valley City. Last day of school before holiday break: Maple Valley School District. Maple Valley high school girls basketball plays Griggs County Central at Tower City starting at 6 p.m. Barnes County North boys basketball plays LaMoure - BCN B team starts at 4:30 at North Central; BCN A team starts at 7:30 p.m. at Wimbledon-Courtenay. Barnes County North girls basketball plays LaMoure at 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at WimbledonCourtenay. Sheyenne Valley MOPS meet the first and third Tuesdays of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at First Church of the Nazarene in Valley City.

Childcare provided through the MOPPETS program. MOPS is open to all moms with children

from infancy-kindergarten. More info: Karla, 701-8455138.

Friday, Dec. 16
CANCELLED: Eat Your Art Out! sponsored by Bridges Arts Council. Maple Valley high school boys basketball plays North Sargent at Tower City starting at 6 p.m. Maple Valley high school girls basketball plays Richland at Colfax starting at 6 p.m. Barnes County North boys basketball plays Milnor at Milnorstarting at 6 p.m. A benefit spaghetti supper for Joyce Greene is 5 to 7 p.m. at the Eagles, Valley City. Greene underwent lung surgery at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, on Nov. 18. Funds raised by the benefit will help defray transportation costs as well as living expenses incurred during the stay in Rochester. The board of directors of the Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce meets at 7 a.m.

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Tuesday, Dec. 20
Buffalo Fire Department meets at 7:30 p.m. at the firehall.

Monday,

Remember: If youre not the lead dog, the view never changes.

Saturday, Dec. 17 WRIGHT BROTHERS DAY

The Valley City Sons of Norway, Hjemdahl Lodge #481, hosts its annual Sons of Norway Christmas at the Barnes County Historical Museum at Valley City in conjunction with the Whoever Can Come bands informal jam session from 1

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PAGE 4 the independent

12.16.11
THE INDEPENDENT of Barnes County
A publication of Smart Media LLC 416 2nd St. Fingal, ND 58031 Volume 1, Issue 12 All Rights Reserved

Corralling lifes stressors during the holidays

YOUR HEALTH:
plete goals that meet your values. Re-examine how you usually deal with By Allison stress and see if there Eide is a more healthy way to accomplish stress reduction. Here are some areas of stress reducing behaviors that are healthy: n Exercising such as: yoga, pilates, cardio, Zumba, weight lifting. n Talking with friends,family or psychological professionals about your feelings and problems. n Making time for your favorite hobbies andsocial interactions. n Making lists that are accomplishable and checking items off as they are finished. n Spending time outside getting needed fresh air and eating healthy well balanced meals. Other relaxing methods of stress reducers are calming scents such as lavender, beverages such as chamomile tea, and body relaxers
low and obesity rates have increased to epidemic levels, higher than ever before in our nations history. ON THE MOVE, 5

Absentee ballots available for VC recall election

Qualified voters unable to cast ballots in person at the Jan. 24 recall election of two Valley City elected officials can begin casting votes absentee, according to Valley City officials. The recall election will decide the fates of sitting commission presdient (mayor) Bob Werkhoven and longtime commmissioner Ken Evenson. Challenging Werkhoven is Dean Ross, former Valley City police chief. Challenging Evenson is Duane (Dewey) Magnuson. Absentee ballots are available at City Hall. Polls for the recall election run from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 24, also at City Hall, for those casting ballots in person.

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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Nikki Laine Zinke NLZinke@INDY-BC.com 701-840-1045 cell 701-924-8349 home Your participation is welcome at all levels. Submit calendar items, articles and opinion pieces online at

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ave you been feeling overwhelmed, as if there isnt enough time in the day to complete all the tasks? Are you feeling tight-chested, angry for no apparent reason, snapping at family/ friends/co-workers, experiencing change in sleep patterns, little appetite or over eating? These are all signs of stress. Stress can come from personal problems we are struggling to overcome or deal with, workrelated stress with too much on our plate and not enough time to do it, or financial stress ,as well as many other different types of stressors. Stressors can be various things in our day, traffic jams, no child care due to weather or illnesses, paper jam in the copy machine, bills, family troubles, and more. Stress reducers arent always easily found or identified. Sometimes no matter how hard you work on making things less stressful for yourself, you can never fix other people. The best advice in this area is to do the best you can. Work hard to com-

such as massages or warm baths. As we are approaching the holiday season, managing stress levels appropriately is important to helping manage our own health and maintain positive interactions/lifestyles. Even though the holidays are filled with fun, laughter, family and gifts, these can be some of highest level of stressors for some. Preplanning, budgeting and asking for help when needed are positive ways to help make the holidays a special time with family and friends and less stressful for you. Happy Holidays to all and may this year be less stressful and healthy for you and your families!
Licensed Social Worker Allison Eide is Director of Social Services at Sheyenne Care Center in Valley City. Your Health is coordinated by Mercy Hospital.

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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. Annual subscriptions are also available. Send check or money order for $52/year to THE INDEPENDENT, 416 Second St., Fingal, ND 58031. Theft of THE INDEPENDENT will be prosecuted.

DISTRIBUTION

ON THE MOVE, from 2 and TRY-IT sessions offered, as well as receiving the monthly newsletters, emails and log-on opportunity to record minutes of activity. There is overwhelming evidence that physical activity is effective in preventing and treating many of the leading chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, said Sharon Buhr, dietitian at both Sanford Health and Mercy Hospital. In addition, she continues, physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and improves longevity, well-being and quality of life. Although sales of fitness products have definitely increased the past few years, the rates of physical activity have stayed at a constant

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N.D. OUTDOORS

Darkhouse spearfishing season open; try it

These lovable animals are all up for adoption and hoping youll give them a happy new home!

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hen it comes to trying something new, Ill admit I usually need a good reason to change or replace anything in my routine. From breakfast to fishing, after nearly four decades on earth I still gravitate toward my preferred options sausage and eggs for breakfast and worms and bluegills for fishing. The last time you tried something new, did you have a hint of apprehension, or at least a little adrenaline rush triggered by

The 2011 spearfishing season opened on most state waters Dec. 1, with the exception of Spiritwood Lake which opens Jan. 1. The season runs through March 15. Legal fish are northern pike and nongame species.
(Photo/NDGF)

anticipation? Ill try a new sausage, but my eggs must be scrambled. Im not that daring. W h i l e By Doug darkhouse Leier spearfishing in North Dakota has little to do with breakfast preferences, its one of those experiences that warranted some apprehension, and generated anticipation when the first season opened in 2001. Anglers, fisheries managers, and even people who didnt fish had many questions when darkhouse spearfishing for northern pike began in December 2001. Though many openwater and ice anglers did not favor spearing at the time, the state legislature passed a bill requiring a spearing season, and since then the State Game and Fish Department has worked methodically to design a season that is practical, provides opportunities in most areas of the state, and still protects the resource. Water clarity is a major consideration. Each water body is unique. Some lakes with seemingly acceptable water clarity may become cloudy at ice-up, making spearing difficult. As such, different lakes show up on the list of most popular spearing destinations from year to year, depending on water clarity. Spearing is covered under the regular fishing license, but people who want to spear must register with Game and Fish. Registration is free and available at the Departments websitegf. nd.govand allows the Department to monitor the number of

registered spearers, and follow up with surveys The 2011 spearfishing season opened on most state waters Dec. 1, with the exception of Spiritwood Lake which opens Jan. 1. The season runs through March 15. Legal fish are northern pike and nongame species. Darkhouse spearing is allowed for all residents with a valid fishing license and for residents under the age of 16. Nonresidents may darkhouse spearfish in North Dakota if they are from states that offer the same privilege for North Dakota residents. Minnesota,South Dakota and Montana allow spearing by nonresidents, essentially allowing reciprocal opportunities. In the inaugural 2001-02 season 1,255 individuals registered to spear. Seventy-four percent indicated that they actually ventured onto the ice and tried their luck. The average weight of pike harvested was 6-7 pounds. Since then, the number of registered spearers has varied from around 1,200 up to 1,700. Annual harvest varies widely as well, depending on lake accessibility and water clarity. Even in years with the highest overall spearing efforts, Game and Fish surveys indicate spearing harvest is just a small percentage of the overall pike harvest by open water and ice anglers. Like eggs Benedict, spearing certainly isnt for everyone, but if youve never tried it, dont let another 10 years pass.
Leier is a biologist with the North Dakota Game & Fish Department. He grew up in Valley City. Reach him by email at dleier@nd.gov

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P R P A P E R B O A S T L

ON THE MOVE, from 4 ON THE MOVE partners along with the North Dakota Cancer Coalition, which has provided funds to support ON THE MOVE and believes this program, now with its free component, can help individuals become more active. The North Dakota Cancer Coalition and Barnes ON THE MOVE Partnership sponsors the program. The partnership includes Mercy Hospital, Sheyenne Care Center, City County Health District, St. Catherine School, Sanford Health, Valley City Public Schools, NDSU Extension Service of Barnes County, Valley City Parks & Recreation,

Barnes County Social Services, Valley City State University, Open Door Center, Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce, and the city of Valley City. The mission for ON THE MOVE is to help everyone in and around Barnes County set a physical activity goal, get active and be healthier. The program, now in its 14th year, has set the target of having at least 1,000 people set their exercise goal either through the free GOALS or GOALS PLUS $12 membership. For more information or to sign up for ON THE MOVE, call Mercy Hospital at 701845-6456.

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ACTIVITY FOR KIDS: Color the picture at left, then read about Farm Rescue and discuss the organization with your teacher, friends and parents.

By Bonnie Jo Hanson hen Bert Pederson fell ill and then was injured just before this years wheat harvest, his family fretted over how they would get wheat out of their fields. And when Russell Carlson was paralyzed after falling off a ladder at his family farm, his family had more than enough on their plates without the added worry of how the harvest was going to get done. But, thanks to Farm Rescue, a local organization that helps family farmers in need, both families were able to get their harvests done while still devoting their time and energy to their loved ones. Farm Rescue is a unique nonprofit organization that plants and harvests crops free of charge for family farmers who have suffered a major illness, injury or natural disaster, according to Bill Gross, Farm Rescues founder and president. To the Pedersons and the Carlsons, Farm Rescue is a godsend. In July, Bert Pedersen, who farms near Kathryn, wasnt feeling well. What he and his wife Dianne thought was the flu, (fever, terrible headache and exhaustion) turned out to be a massive infection in his leg. After spending 11 days in the hospital, Bert was sent home to recover, with a swollen leg and the fever and sickness that accompanies a serious infection. Still feeling poorly, Bert was going to attempt to combine his wheat, and prepared his equipment for the harvest. The day before he was to begin, Bert said, he seriously injured the knee on his good leg. He definitely would not be able to do his own wheat harvest this year.

for Gross. For many years, hes done mission work in developing and poor areas, why not help others close to home? Now this is my mission, Gross said. In the fields of farm families Growing. That first year, Gross traveled around to farm shows, including the North Dakota Winter Show at Valley City, with a vinyl banner, and brochures, he said. He was able to raise a handful of sponsors, including RDO Equipment, and he explained his idea to the public and the media. By the next year, Farm Rescue had 11 cases, one planter, a handful of volunteers, and helped farmers in need in North Dakota with their planting. The next year, Farm Rescue added harvesting. Today, Farm Rescue garners national recognition including CNN, which named Gross a CNN Hero; People Magazine; and Readers Digest. With volunteers from all over the nation offering their time and talents, Gross said the organization puts as many as 100 volunteers to work each year. The organization pays for lodging and helps with food costs, but volunteers must pay for travel to the work area. On volunteers. Louie Rothmann, a retired elementary school principal and farmer from Washburn, is one of those volunteers. Also a member of the Farm Rescue board of directors, Rothmann has been involved in the organization for about four years, he said. He became a volunteer after a neighbor was injured in a combine fire and he didnt want to just do FARM RESCUE, 7

Local nonprofit helps farmers in need

Dianne, who has had two liver transplants and still tires easily, discussed ways the harvest could be done with her husband, without a lot of viable options, she said. Farm Rescue had been in the back of her mind from the beginning, she said but she was hesitant to apply, thinking others out there were in more need.But she applied anyway, on a Tuesday. By the following Monday evening, after completing paperwork and an interview, the first Farm Rescue combine, flying both the American flag and a Farm Rescue banner, was in the yard, and much of Diannes stress melted away. Less than a week later, the wheat harvest was finished and the Pedersens had some new lifelong friends in the volunteers who had so unselfishly donated their time, according to Diane. Gross started Farm Rescue in 2005. Growing up on a family farm and ranch near Cleveland, N.D., Gross understood that many family farmers were just one illness or natural disaster away from financial ruin, he said. And later, with fewer family farms with fewer children, he realized that its also hard for neighbors to help out anymore. As a pilot for UPS, Gross had time to ponder and chat with his flight crew when they were on long flights over the ocean. When asked one time what he wanted to do when he retired, he replied,

Farms Rescued

UPS pilot Bill Gross's organization Farm Rescue has helped almost 150 farm families in North and South Dakota, Minnesota and Montana. (Photo/Readers Digest)

I want to get a big John Deere Tractor. Im going to be a random Good Samaritan and help farm families. Later, Gross told

that to a chaplain friend who replied, Why not do it now? Soon, Farm Rescue became more than a dream

the independent PAGE 7

FARM RESCUE, from 6 nothing. Since then, hes volunteered for about 40 jobs, including the Pedersens wheat harvest, he added. Rothmann enjoys the work. You feel joy when youre helping them do something they cant, he said. Like many retired farmers and folks who grew up farming and left for some reason, Rothmann enjoys the opportunity to climb into a combine and drive it. Farm Rescue has two combines, and in many cases it also uses the farmers own equipment. Once Rothmann got to drive a 1966 John Deere 95 combine. That was a real treat, he said. Rothmann marveled over Farm Rescue volunteers. This year, volunteers from 24 states helped out, he said. Its amazing. Rothmann worked with one man, a first- timer from New York at the Pederson farm, he said. We have lots of good volunteers, h e said. The Pedersens feel like those volunteers are family now, said Dianne. I was amazed that these people use their vacation time to do this, she said of the volunteers that helped out at her farm. Not only did the volunteers do the physical labor, but they made decisions and even adjusted a new head for Berts combine, so the Pedersons only job was to take care of each other, said Bert. Bert and Dianne would like to become volunteers. But I cant imagine keeping up with those guys! Bert laughed. Dianne said she would be on hand with baked goodies whenever Farm Rescue worked nearby in the future. Feelings at the Carlson farm near Spiritwood are similar. Russell Carlson was on a ladder late last summer working on a shed at the farm he shares with his brother Richard and Richards wife Lori.

You feel joy when youre helping them do something they cant...
A faulty latch on the ladder caused Russell to fall, in the process injuring his spinal cord and leaving him paralyzed below the chest. After the accident, friends and neighbors urged the Carlsons to contact Farm Rescue for help with their wheat harvest. At first the family resisted. Like the Pedersens, the Carlson family thought other families were more deserving. But after finally applying, Lori said that stress just melted away. It was a godsend, she said, And it was a lot faster and a lot less stressful than if we tried to do it ourselves, she added. Help with the wheat harvest gave the Carlson family time to begin to adapt to Russells injury, and time to prepare for the bean harvest, which they were able to finish with some local help, Lori added. The volunteers are amazingly generous with their time, said Lori, whos grateful for the Farm Rescue volunteers. Its hard to receive help, but its heartwarming, she said. Since its start, Farm Rescue has expanded to help family farmers in North Dakota, South Dakota, Western Minnesota, and South East Montana, according to Gross. Help with planting or harvest is available for families who have endured illness, accidents or natural disasters. Help from Farm Rescue is not available in the case of death, Gross said. Applicants must apply for assistance and the board

of directors decides who is eligible for help. Farm Rescue does not give out money, Gross said. Farm Rescue operates on funds from corporate sponsors and individual donations, according to Gross, noting that sponsorship creates a venue for individuals and businesses to help farm families. Sponsorship donations are used locally on things like fuel for trucks and farm equipment, insurance, and office expenses, according to Gross, who also added that local sponsors include RDO Equipment, Dakota Plains Cooperative, Cenex, and Pizza Ranch. (For a full list of sponsors, see the Farm Rescue website at www.farmrescue.org).
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PAGE 2 the independent

Today, Russell Carlson is learning how to work with his limitations. He still has full use of his arms and his mind is as sharp as ever, said Lori. Next year, with

the help of adaptive equipment, he hopes to continue farming. Bert Pedersen, who managed to harvest his beans with some help, is healing. He is able to walk, though he still has some swelling and sometimes has to wear a sandal on the foot of his angry leg. And he still gets tired sooner than he used to. Farm Rescue will always be part of our lives, said Dianne. Farm Rescues goal is to help a family through a difficult time so future generations can keep farming, said Gross. The Carlsons, the Pedersens, and the other 158 family farmers Farm Rescue has helped since 2006 are grateful. For more information on volunteering or donating money to Farm Rescue, or to apply for help, call 701252-2017 in Jamestown, or visit the Farm Rescue website at www.farmrescue.org
Reach Bonnie Jo Hanson via email at bjhanson@drtel.net

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PAGE 8 the independent

LIBRARY NEWS
By Mary E. Fischer Director, Valley City - Barnes County Library

Whats the buzz, tell me whats happening

By Sue B. Balcom

TINY BITES & FREE-RANGE THINKING

oliday Salad Luncheon Social: about 50 salads and money donations, = $530 raised, 80+ people served, including 10 takeouts. We ate well and everyone had a good visit. Its amazing to watch the exchange. We are so grateful for your participation. The Seventeen Second Miracle by Jason F. Wright is a sad/glad book. Seventeen seconds is all it took for a young girl to drown. Rex Conner learned his lesson the hard way, but he recognized the possibility that good can be done in that same amount of time... 17 seconds. His son, Cole, has taken his dads philosophy one step further in helping young teens, specially picked by their school administrator to join in the discussions. Each year, no one knows why theyve been picked for the discussions, including Cole. He shares with the students his Dads experience; they share what they wish with him. Miles, Kendra and Travis are this years participants. Jade, Coles wife, becomes a willing helper. She runs a bookstore, which figures in the plot: someone tries to burn it down! Each of us has a story to tell, a time to tell it and a part we play in the lives of others. Our author exhibits how we can be that plus for others. Funny! Michael Bowen didnt think so when he met his bride, married sight unseen. This female in trousers, a cowboy hat and rifle does not seem the gentile lady he corresponded with for months. In The Unlikely Wife, by Debra Ullrick, Selina makes short work of any pretense. Selina Farleigh Bowen may not be educated, but she has many talents, the gift of a healing, and the stubborness to stick even under difficult circumstances. She might even end up with a husband who loves her. I laughed and cried as Michael and Selina sorted out their differences and decided which ones they could tolerate. Advent is a season of waiting, anticipating, remembering and looking up with joy. At our family Christmas party this year, we shared stories, gifts and just plain fun. I got to see two great-grand girls. Victoria (Tory) born in February is already walking. Her big sister, Lily, enjoyed taking Truman, Curts seeing-eye dog, around and around the room and playing bounce the bouncy balls in the entry-way with Randy. It was very good to see all my girls (all six) and some of their families, plus friends. Now to march forward with continued anticipation to Christ-

here are as many buzz words about food today, as there are foods that your grandmother wouldnt recognize well only if you are as vintage as I am and your grandmother survived the Depression era. It matters not your age, but dont you get tired after awhile of buzz-word overuse to the point of adulteration and then no one really knows what those words stand for anymore? Or worse, they dont care what they stand for? Words like organic, certified organic, sustainable, locavore, eco-friendly, nutrientrich, food systems, food security, pastured, grass-finished the list goes on and on. Everyday, there are media stories about food, is it good for you? Is it making you sick or fat or diabetic? Was it once good for you and now its not? Well, why not? It begs the question, what really is more important for life than our daily bread? Whats it all about, anyway? Why are we looking at these words and food in a new light? Because as consumers we have a right to know where our food comes from and whats in it. Lets touch on the biggest word of all today sustainable. I was talking to someone on the phone last week. He was from Iowa and I have always felt Iowa was somewhat similar to North Dakota as far as agriculture was concerned. He said, You grow all kinds of food in North Dakota, but its all shipped away. Hes exactly right. Why is that? Why are we shipping things out of the state and back into it again with added value and an inflated price tag? Is that sustainable? Something to think about Lets look at the word sustainability. On the FARRMS website we have our definition: Approaches to community and agriculture, which foster self-renewal, are in harmony with natural cycles and conserve natural resources. Activities which benefit and nurture the land and rural community. Activities and approaches which are socially as well as economically just and contribute to the common prosperity of the community. Cultural and agricultural practices which ensure the health and diversity of the land and the life it supports. Lots of words; but the bottom line is we need to pay more attention to what we do on a daily basis. We need to respect Mother

GOT MILK? The author contemplates cows on a hot summer day as they make their way down the river bank for water in the cool and relief from the sun in the cool Missouri River. (Submitted photo) Nature, whomever that is, and no one knows better than those of us who have lived through a flood what kind of respect she earns while chasing you off your property for three months or longer. We all know that when we empty a jug of milk, its gone and theres no getting that milk back again without jumping into a car that uses finite petroleum resources and driving to the store, which only stocks about three days worth of groceries (I didnt use the word food because many of the substances found at a grocery store are not food in my mind.) and purchasing another jug of milk. Where does it come from? Have we given any thought to the cow, the farmer and the process of getting that milk to the store? Milk is one of those things that no matter how much food I grow, freeze, can or eat that I cannot acquire unless I own a cow. My spouse isnt too keen on having a couple of chickens around for eggs, much less a cow. So Im stuck with the milk from the store albeit I have the option of purchasing Bessies Best because I know that it is from a local dairy; 100 percent whole milk; and farm fresh with no synthetic hormones. You know very similar to the stuff that grandmother used to bring in from the milking parlor. My online dictionary says sustainable means able to be maintained. Simply put, if you remove the cow and the farmer and good farming practices from this equation where are you going to get your milk? Could you live without milk? Would you buy a cow? Can we continue to be uninformed consumers? Consumer means someone or something that consumes or an organism that feeds on others. If you break that down to consume which means, to eat or drink something, use something up or destroy something or somebody; can we really continue down the path of not caring whether our food system can be sustained as it is? Okay, Im off my soap box and on to other things, but something to consider this week and I promise next week we will move on to seasonal eating, a term that may or may not be familiar to you but its way more fun than arguing about what is or isnt sustainable. Until then

mas. Liz Hoskisson reviews The Soloist by Steve Lopez. Needing a story, LA Times columnist Steve Lopez went looking for the homeless man hed last seen playing a violin beneath the statue of Beethoven in a local park. What started out as a possible human interest story for his column becomes a

journey and a friendship. Why would a guy who can obviously play the violin be out in this tunnel with only the battered instrument and a shopping cart? In fact , the violin had only two strings theres a lot you can do with just two strings. Over time, as he visits with him, Lopez learns that Nathaniel Anthony Ayers has come

a long way from his home in Cleveland, Ohio, and a scholarship to The Juilliard School of Music in New York to Skid Row in Los Angeles. In his quest for answers, Lopez must learn about mental illness and the plight of thousands who suffer with it or around it. As he writes about Nathaniel LIBRARY, 11

the independent PAGE 9

VALLEY CITY: NOW & THEN

The magic started here at City Auditorium

He turned out to be, apparently, an illusionist who I think was the first to develop many of the stage illusions used for years to By Lowell come, and often Busching still performed, by the best magicians. I can not recall in the years between then and now seeing a TV magician or illusionist who did any more than this man and his troop or some variation thereof. I was jaded for life. It WAS a Really big shew. He did everything from simple card and coin tricks to the most complicated. Also mental telepathy routines and everything in between on OUR stage! Things like Sigfried and Roy do in Vegas. An animal in a cage on stage who vanishes and appears in a previously empty container across the room over one of the entrances to the auditorium! The never ending cards of various sizes dropping and pouring into a hat seemingly forever. Obviously lots of mirrors I could never see from the front row for the illusions. Arrows with ribbons on them seemingly going through the young woman working with him into a target far behind her. Levitating another one and sawing yet one more in half. All the old standard illusions and many new ones. Filling a fish bowl with a black liquid and then by tapping it with his magic wand having it not gradually become clear with gold fish in it, but INSTANTLY. What kind of a chemist must he have been, too? Every trick he did was flawless and many I had never even heard of before, much less seen - in Valley City or on the new TV. There had not been a lot of class acts other then the occasional Peggy Lee type show. Kenny Rogers even performed in V.C. when he first got started with the singing group he was with. I think I can feel safe in saying that if there is any magic trick, card trick or illusion you have ever seen in a magic show, this magician did it in Valley City that night! Even the mind reading act came off good. Shills in a small town in a small audience? Maybe. Many years later in L.A., I saw a special night of world class magicians, including Blackstone Jr. Musicians from all over the world. Oriental magicians. British magicians. etc. I do not recall one trick or illusion they did collectively that I had not seen already in that one "magical night" in the V.C. auditorium. Of course I still do not know how any of them did it. The last trick performed by the magician at City Auditorium is still done today by many magicians: the one where the girl is tied up, put in a bag which is tied and wrapped, lowered in a trunk that is wrapped with chains by members from the audience. After which, he stands on the trunk, closes a wrap around curtain for less than a second and suddenly the girl (perhaps a twin, but whatever...) is on the trunk and he is found in the sack. I have never seen any magician do it faster or better. This was all done in the front middle of the stage at City Auditorium. BUSCHING, 10

can not even remember the year, but it must have been sometime before 1956. I remember distinctly suddenly seeing a small poster in the window of some store or restaurant. Probably Crawford's at the time. It was for an upcoming Magic Show by a traveling magician to be held at City Auditorium. This somewhat surprised me as I did not know we had any trap doors in the stage there or anything else that a musician and illusionist could use! There must have been. This turned out to be the best magic show I had ever seen and probably ever would see over the years. He turned out to be an older magician and not a name that I knew then or later, like a Blackstone. I did not really expect much, which made it even better.

PUBLIC NOTICE
STATES ATTORNEYS OFFICE REPORT DECLINE Defendant: Dean Ross Agency: BCI-Grafton BCI Report No: 110394 Officer: Special Agent Scott Kraft Prosecutor: Cherie L. Clark SA Case No.: 11-CR-00629 Date: November 23, 2011 INTRODUCTION 1 Valley City officials suspected that former Police Chief Dean Ross may have misappropriated public funds. The suspected misappropriations involved several acts - including the sale of two pickups; the sale of several squad video camera systems; the retention of certain fees paid by the public; the deposit of donations to the police department; and the use of the CounterAct, Awareness, and Block Grant accounts. Suspicion was also raised that Ross and others shredded documents to conceal alleged violations. Many witnesses were interviewed about that suspicion. But none corroborated it. Bureau of Criminal Investigations Special Agent Scott Kraft investigated the suspected misappropriations. Agent Kraft discovered some acts that appeared abnormal but nothing criminal. 1 Suspicions that did not implicate state law - such as alleged violations of city policies, federal grant or equipment programs, and federal tax laws - are not reviewed in this memo. SUMMARY OF FACTS In 1973, Ross became a police officer for Valley City. Ross became chief in 2000 and served through late September of 2011. CounterAct: During the 1990s, Ross created CounterAct, a non-profit organization. CounterAct was funded largely by donations from persons ordered by the municipal court2 and from persons giving voluntarily. CounterAct initially used its funds to provide an anti-drug, anti-crime educational program in public schools. Since about 2005, CounterAct stopped providing the educational program in schools and used funds to promote its antidrug, anti-crime objective in other ways - such as supplying alco-sensors to schools; contributing to organizations - such as Students Against Destructive Decisions; and buying police equipment - such as a patrol motorcycle and part of a command center. CounterAct funds were occasionally used to cover drug task force expenses when the drug task force did not yet have sufficient funds in its account. The drug task force later reimbursed CounterAct. 2 CounterAct received the courtordered donations in cash from the municipal. Awareness Account: The Awareness Account was opened at a local bank in 1990. The account listed the citys tax identification number and was used for drug taskforce operations. When Ross became chief, he completed annual certification reports - which were signed by both Ross and the city commission president - for the account. When necessary, Ross also issued checks on the account payable to the city. Block Grant Account: The Block Grant Account was opened at a local bank in 2002. The account listed the citys tax identification number and was used for block grant funds. When Ross became chief, he routinely used the account to reimburse the city when it paid for police expenses covered by a block grant. Reward Fund: Valley City Police Detective Mark McDonald opened the Reward Fund, an account at a local bank. To fund the account, Det. McDonald personally sought donations from municipal and county prosecutors and from municipal, district, and juvenile court judges. The account had its own federal tax identification number and was used to provide incentives for persons to give tips and other information to help police solve crimes. Like CounterAct, the Reward Fund also received donations from persons ordered by the municipal court. Ross did not manage the account. Sale of Two Pickups: In 2002, the police department obtained two pickups through the Defense Reutilization Management Office (DRMO) program. CounterAct paid a $400 fee on the pickups. Both CounterAct and the Police Association paid some insurane premiums on the pickups. In 2004, the two pickups were sold. Ross deposited the pickup proceeds - $7900 - into the Police Association Account. Some of the proceeds were used to pay for a kitchen remodeling project at the police station. The remaining proceeds were later transferred to CounterActs account. Ross stated that Riley Rogers, III the mayor at the time of the deposit of the pickup proceeds and the transfer of the balance of proceeds - had authorized Ross to the proceeds in the Police Association Account and that some of the proceeds could be used to fund CounterAct. Rogers, in a May 15, 2011 affidavit, stated that he had authorized Ross to do just that. Sale of Several Squad Video Camera Systems: In about September 2008, the police department sold four squad video camera systems to Ransom County. Ross deposited the sale proceeds - $6,000 - into the Block Grant Account. Ross said that he deposited the proceeds there so Ransom County could be reimbursed if problems arose with the camera systems. Retention of Public Paid Fees: Before Ross became chief, the police department had a regular practice of collecting fees - such as those for copying and fingerprinting - from the public and then giving the collected fees to the Police Association. After Ross became chief, the regular practice continued. Ross stopped the regular practice when city officials requested. Deposit of Donations Designated for Police Department Use: As chief, Ross received some donations as checks payable to the Valley City Police Department. Ross stated that if the donors designated that the funds were to be used only by the police department, Ross deposited the funds in the CounterAct Account. Using account records, Special Agent Kraft attempted to contact donors who had purportedly designated the funds were to be used only by the police department. Agent Kraft could not find any donor who disagreed with Rosss statement or use of the donated funds. Review of Account Statements: Special Agent Kraft obtained - from both the Defendant and the bank statements for the multiple accounts. Those statements showed that no money was unaccounted for from any of the accounts. LAW & DISCUSSION Some suspected that Ross committed the crime of misapplication of entrusted property. Under N.D.C.C. 12.1-23.07, [a] person is guilty of misapplication of entrusted property if the person disposes of, uses, or transfers any interest in property that has been entrusted to the person as a fiduciary, or in the persons capacity as a public servant ... in a manner that the peson knows it is not authorized and that the person knows to involve a risk of loss or detriment to the owner of the property or to the government or other person for whose benefit the property was entrusted. Rosss sale of the two pickups and use of the funds for the Police Associations and CounterActs purposes does not constitute misapplication of entrusted property. Riley Rogers - the mayor at the time - executed an affidavit stating that Ross was authorized to do exactly what Ross did. So proving that Ross knew he was not authorized to do what he did does not appear possible. Rosss sale fo the four squad car video camera systems and deposit of the proceeds into the Block Grant Account does not constitute misapplication of entrusted property. The account used a city tax identification number. Nothing shows that Ross knew the proceeds would be at risk in the Block Grant Account or that the proceeds actually were at risk there. Indeed, the proceeds were documented by account statements, and none were missing. So, although Rosss use of the Block Grant Account to hold the proceeds was unusual, it was not criminal. Rosss retention of fees paid by the public in the Police Association Account does not constitute misapplication of entrusted property. Ross simply followed the regular practice which started before he became chief - of retaining the fees. Ross stopped the practice when city commissioners requested he stop. It does not appear likely that a prosecutor could prove that Ross knew - before the city commissioners requested - that he was not authorized to follow the prior practice. Rosss deposit of police department-designated donations into the CounterAct Account does not constitute misapplication of entrusted property. No evidence contradicts Rosss statement that the donors designated that the funds were to be used only by the police department. So proving that Ross kenw he was not authorized to deposit those funds in the CounterAct Account for law enforcements use - and that he instead should have turned the funds over to (the) city does not appear likely. Rosss use of CounterAct funds to cover drug task force expenses when the drug task force did not yet have sufficient funds in its account does not constitute misapplication of entrusted property. Nothing shows that Ross knew that he was not authorized to use CounterAct funds to further antidrug efforts through - in essence, short term interest-free loans - to the drug task force. Likewise, nothing shows that Ross knew that the funds were at risk. Indeed, the drug task force always reimbursed CounterAct. Thus, proving Rosss condust was criminal does not appear possible. Rosss use of the Awareness Account and the Block Grant Accounts does not constitute misapplication of entrusted property. Although some officials suggested that Ross hid money in these accounts and did not tell officials about the existence of the accounts, those suggestions would be difficult to rely on to prove (that) Ross kenw he was not authorized to use the accounts. For instance, the Awareness Account was established a decade before Ross became chief. Plus, after Ross became chief, the city commission president signed annual certification reports for the Awareness Account. Moreover, with the Block Grant Account, Ross issued checks payable to the city - from the account. And both the Block Grant Account and the Awareness Account shared the citys tax identification number. Under the circumstances, proving that Ross knew he acted without authority does not appear possible. CONCLUSION Although some of Rosss actions were unusual and likely not compliant with generally accepted accounting practices, nothing shows that they were criminal. Indeed, no evidence proves that Ross disposed of, used, or transferred funds in a manner he knew was not authorized and knew involved a risk of loss. A criminal charge, accordingly, is not appropriate, nor provable beyond a reasonable doubt. Released by Lee M. Grossman Barnes County States Attorney November 28, 2011

PAGE 10 the independent

PUBLIC NOTICE
Barnes County Planning and Zoning MINUTES OCTOBER 13, 2011 Members Present: Bob Eggert, John Behm, Eldred Knutson, Mike Schwehr, Delyle Mortenson, Vernon Roorda, Ken Evenson, Bob Werkhoven; Absent: John Froelich. Also present: Shannon & Vivian Bowman, Mark & Davis Formo, Lee Grossman, Chuck Luessen, Scott Hansen, Betty Koslofsky, Julie Nelson. Chairman Eggert called the meeting to order. Minutes were reviewed. Behm made a motion, seconded by Werkhoven, to approve the minutes of September 8, 2011. Eggert closed the meeting and opened the variance hearing for Shannon and Vivian Bowman on a 100 building setback. Eggert then closed the hearing and reconvened the meeting. Evenson made a motion, seconded by Behm, to approve the variance. Motion carried. The related building permit was reviewed as follows: SE1/4, 22-137-60, Rosebud Township, grain bin. Eggert closed the meeting and opened the variance hearing for David Bostrom on a 187 building setback. Eggert then closed the hearing and reconvened the meeting. Knutson made a motion, seconded by Mortenson, to approve the variance. Motion carried. The related building permit was reviewed as follows: NE1/4, 9-139-59, Green Township, garage. Eggert closed the meeting and opened the variance hearing for Scott Hansen on a 100 building setback, for a pole building which would be located adjacent to the section line, SW1/4, 20139-58, Marsh Township. Discussion was held regarding the status of the section line abandonment. Knutson stated he would like to see that process completed. Eggert then closed the hearing and re-convened the meeting. Schwehr made a motion, seconded by Mortenson, to approve the variance, contingent on the abandonment of the section line. Motion carried. The building permit will also be held pending final variance approval. Eggert closed the meeting and opened the hearing for BNSF Railroad for a 150 tower height variance. Eggert closed the hearing and re-convened the meeting. Werkhoven made a motion, seconded by Schwehr, to approve the variance. Motion carried. The building permit was reviewed as follows: 17-143-56, Ellsbury Township. The following building permits were reviewed: Cody Roswick Sheyenne Valley Estates, Lot 19, 139-58, Marsh Township, storage shed James Broten NW1/4, 30-143-59, Dazey Township, grain bins Joyce Ertelt NW1/4, 30-137-57, Thordenskjold Township, machine shop Neil Roorda SW14, 1-138-61, Meadow Lake Township, farm shop Fred Gille E1/2 NE1/4,18-140-58, Valley Township, residence & garage Albert Wittenberg SW1/4, 21141-57, Noltimier Township, machinery storage Mark Leppert Aud. Lot 1, NE1/4, 24-138-59, Skandia township cattle/ machinery storage Auditors lots Schwehr made a motion, seconded by Behm, to approve auditors lots for Shirley Tschannen, SW1/4, 32-142-58, Outlot A, Ashtabula Outlook, Ashtabula Township. Motion carried. Werkhoven made a motion, seconded by Schwehr, to approve auditors lots for Brady Jorrisen, Auditors Lots 1, 2, & 3, SW1/4, 21-142-60, Edna Township. Motion carried. A concern with grapes grown close to the right-of-way by Eric Sand was discussed. It was the consensus of the Board that a letter be written to Mr. Sand asking him to not fill in the first row. Also discussed was an auditors lot sold by Robert Burchill to Kelly and Amanda Chase, who do not qualify as farming; therefore, it was determined a change in zoning from agricultural to residential is needed. This process is underway. Lee Grossman, States Attorney, addressed the Board on updating the zoning code. He will present proposed changes at the November meeting. Knutson is also working to simplify the code. There being no further business to come before the Board, Behm made a motion, seconded by Werkhoven, to adjourn. Motion carried.

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BUSCHING, from 9 Did HE put a trap door in our stage for one night or was there actually one there in the middle of the stage? I suspect that he was the developer of those illusions and Valley City and its standard classic auditorium that is now largely unused and abandoned like many other buildings was the ultimate test. If it plays in Valley City, N.D., in a standard auditorium from the mid 30s, it will play anywhere, and it has. I have written all this in the hopes that there is someone still living in Valley City or the surrounding communities who also was at that show so long ago and may remember the show and who this master magician was? It was such a show that

I can still see most of it in my mind in full color. Every trick and illusion. I am sure the amateur magicians in this town today can tell me how all those tricks worked, mirrors and all. Disappearing women from the boxes, going through seemingly solid bars between barrels that we could see them go in and out of, etc. Don't spoil the magic after all these years for me. Just tell me who it was? I never saw this magician and illusionist again myself, even on TV, but we all have seen his work and I like to think it all started or was perfected in little ole Valley City.
Lowell Busching lives in Valley City. Reach him by email at verbose@ csicable.net

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classifieds PAGE 11
RESULTS: Barnes County Tournament held at Valley City State University 7th place game: Barnes County North, 46; Litchville/ Marion/Montpelier, 43. 5th place games: Enderlin, 44; Finley/Sharon/Hope/Page, 38. 3rd place: Griggs County Central, 60; Northern Cass, 49. Championship game: Maple Valley, 48; Valley City, 43.
Scoring Summary (BCN vs.LMM) BCN- Trevor Anderson 14, Cody Chris 11; Jocoby Kramlich 9; Derek Flecther 6; Wyatt Steckler 3; Brad Clemmens 2; Austin Jorissen 1. LMM- Dylan Thompson 14; Garrett VanAspern 14; Devin Piehl 8; Trevor Alber 4; Garrett VanAspern 2. Scoring Summary (Enderlin vs. FS/ HP) Enderlin-Thomas Lindgren 18; Colton Huss 13; Matt Luther 6; Spencer Gillund 3; Tanner Groth 2; Austin Dixson. FS/HP- Lucas Mohtag 13; Alex Aberle 12; Austin Acher 6; Kyle Mehus 4; James Simpson 2 Scoring summary (GCC vs. Northern Cass) GCC- Billy Engle 20; Kris Wathne 20; Brady Rahlf 7; Hunter Engle 4; Austin McCradle 4; Carter Anderson 3. NC-Colton Hill 19; Craig Kyllo 12; Casey Springer 7; Cody Springer 5; Adam Teegarden 2; McKenzie Cargile 2; Craig Kyllo 2. Scoring summary (Maple Valley vs. Valley City) MV-Jordan Haseleu 22; Ethen Preston 9; Ty Smith 8; Wade Steidel 6; James Richman 2; James Richman 1. VC- Chase Carpenter 11; Austin Svenningsen 6; Brandyn Heck ;5 Joey Halgrimson 5 Tayler Lentz 4; Mason Denholm 3 . All-Tournament Team - (Josh Magnuson-Valley City, Austen Archer-FS/HP; Tayler Kyllo-Northern Cass; Kris Wathne GCC; Colton Hill-Northern Cass; Jordan Haseleu-Maple Valley; Chase CarpenterValley City; Ty Smith-Maple Valley; Bill Engel-GCC) Team Sportsmanship Award Finley/ Sharon/Hope/Page Free Throw Winner Cody Springer, Northern Cass Consolation round of the Barnes County Tournament: Finley/Sharon/ Hope/ Page 44; Litchville/ Marion/Montpelier, 37. Enderlin, 47; Barnes County North, 38. Scoring Summary (FS/HP vs. LMM) FS/HP-Austin Archer 12; Alex Aberel 10; Luca Montag 6; Taylor Foss 6; Kyle Mehus 7; James Simpson 2; Joe Ihry 1. LMM-Garrett VanAsperen 17; Dylan Thompson 12; Nolan Alber 4; Lindsey Hansen 2; Devin Piehl 2. Scoring summary (Enderlin vs. BCN) Enderlin- Thomas Lindgren 20; Spencer Gillund 5; Tanner Groth 6; Colton Huss 4; Justin Kittleson 5; Austin Dixson 3; Matt Luther 4. BCN-Trevor Anderson 13; Cody Christ 11; Jocoby Kramlich 6; Derek Fletcher 3; Wyatt Steckler 2; Brad Clemens 2; Austin Jorissen 1. Semi-Finals of the Barnes County Tournament. Maple Valley, 58; Northern Cass, 48. Valley City, 58; Griggs County Central, 48. Scoring Summary (Maple Valley vs. Northern Cass). Maple Valley-Ty Smith 18; Jordan Haselu 18; Wade Steidl 9; Ethen Preston 6; James Richman 5; Eliot Preston 2. Northern Cass- Tayler Kyllo 14; Colton Hill 11; Adam Teegarden 8; Casey Springer 6; Craig Kyllo 5; Cody Springer 4 Scoring Summary (Valley City vs. Griggs County Central. Valley City-Chase Carpenter 13; Mason Denholm 12; Joey Magnuson; Bandyn Heck 9; Joey Halgrimson 6; Austin Svenningsen 4;Tayler Lentz 2. GCC- Billy Engel 30; Kris Wathe 11; Austin Stockeland 3; Hunter Engel 2; Jamie Eggermont 2; Austin McCradle 2.

NOTICE Announcements
Jamestown Church of Christ looking for brothers and sisters in Christ. Join us for worship services instead of driving to Fargo or Bismarck. Please call or email me for time and place of worship services. John Burleson, 701-368-1696, or email: bjburles@daktel. com

Three wooden swivel bar stools for sale. all three for $75. Displayed in window at Ye Olde Books in Valley City. Call Ken: 701845-9772.

GREAT BUY

WANTED
Want to buy: Older Ford pickup from the 50s or 60s. Prefer running. Call 701-845-3723, ask for Boomer. WANTED TO BUY. Gun collector wants to buy old Winchesters and other antique guns. 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.

Vehicles
1994 Buick La Sabre for sale. In great shape. High mileage, but runs great. Call 701-840-0184 for more information. PARTS FOR SALE. I am parting out my 1983 Mitsubishi Mighty Max 2.3 turbo diesel. I have an extra engine and tranny from a salvage yard that I am also parting out. Call Cole: 701845-5196. Blazer, red, 2-door 4x4, 154K miles; PW, PL, tilt wheel, cruise, roof rack, towing package and CD/MP3. Within the last 20K miles: rear end rebuilt, trans. rebuilt, new idler arm, both oil cooler lines replaced and a new windshield. Have the paperwork. Asking $2500 OBO (cash talks). Call or text: 701-490-0914. 2007 Scion tC (Toyota) $9500 obo, Flint Mica Exterior, black interior, 93k mile. Can provide pictures by email if requested. Chris: 701840-9218

NICE CAR

FOR SALE Household - Misc.

Refurbished Dell E6400 computers remain for sale at VCSU Bookstore. Immediate availability. Factory warranty through June 2012. $340. Shipping available. Jenni at VCSU Bookstore, 701-8457141 Becker Brothers antique piano, early 1914. Excellent condition $1800. Green floral loveseat for sale, $100. Antique chair, $50. Deb: 701-845-2364. Chair with matching ottoman for sale. $40 for both. Call Donald at 845-0385 for viewing. Vintage Victrola in working condition. $200 or best offer. Call 8452596, ask for Janet. Older John Deere push mower with side bag. Starts easy for tall people. Cord is too long for short people. Sell for $25. David: 845-0201. Leave message. Light-blue davenport for sale. Like new. $250. Will negotiate. Grace, 8450877.
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LIBRARY, from 8 in a series of articles, the story resonates with many people around the country who open their hearts and minds. Other caring professionals offer their expertise as they work toward improving the lives of those afflicted. This is a very moving biography with no quick fixes but with great hope. Nathaniel Anthony Ayers story has been made into a Hollywood movie (The Soloistour library has it on DVD) and he can be heard playing on Youtube. New materials at the Valley City - Barnes County Library include: Adult Books: Holiday Homecoming (Home to Heather Creek v.16) by Carolyne Aarsen; Strength in Numbers (Stories of Hope Haven v. 4) by Charlotte Carter; Seaside Summer (Miracles of Marble Cove v. 3) by Pam Hanson and Barbara Andrews; Bonnie by Iris Johansen; Merciless by Diana Palmer; Seizure by Kathy Reichs (second book in the Virals Trilogy); Saints Gate by Carla Neggers; A Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory; Seizure by Kathy Reichs; The Next Always v. 1 in (Inn Boonsboro Trilogy) by Nora Roberts; Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn; and Beacons Call (Miracle of Marble Cove v. 4) by Leslile Gould. Non-fiction: Led By Faith: Rising from the Ashes of the Rwandan Genocide by Immaculee Ilibagiza with Steve Erwin; The Prosecution of George W. Bush by Vincent Bugliosi; Killing Lincoln by Bill OReilly and Martin Dugard; and Divine Love II by Fr. John Odermann, OSB. Large Print: 1105 Yakima Street by Debbie Macomber; V is For Vengeance by Sue Grafton; Bring Me Home

Guns
Santa fe deluxe mauser in 30/06, drilled for scope and has sling mounts, monte carlo stock. $275. Call 701845-5196.

SERVICES
Professional Trunk Restoration is now taking your orders for this coming winter to restore your old beat up trunk. Lee: 701-9248866 or 701-840-8712. Sub for U.S. mail route.

HELP WANTED
Nome - Kathryn area. Call 701-924-8378. Leave name & number. Work your own hours. The Independent is seeking outside and inside sales representatives to service existing clients and call on new accounts. Solid income potential for gogetters; computer skills and web proficiency necessary. Part-time or full-time. You decide. Also seeking WRITERS - freelance reporters for news & features; and contributors/columnists. Inquiries: Nikki, nlzinke@indy-bc.com, to schedule a confidential interview.

PRICE REDUCED

Ag & Equipment
16-foot bumper hitch stock trailer for sale. Fair condition. $950. Call 701-845-4077.

Land/Real Estate
LAND FOR SALE. 50 acres located 3 miles west of Valley City in SW 1/4-26-140-59 south of I-94. Call 701845-4303 after 10 AM.

LIKE NEW

for Christmas (a Virgin River novel) by Robyn Carr; Love Finds You in Lancaster, Pennsylvania by Annalisa Daughtey; The Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley; Wedding Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini; Proof of Heaven by Mary Curran Hackett; Christmas Treasures by Thomas Kinkade; The Wedding Letters by Jason F. Wright; The Seventeen Second Miracle by Jason F. Wright; Love Finds You on Christmas Morning by Trish Perry and Debby Mayne; Son of Stone by Stuart Woods; and Katies Way (v.5 of Pleasant Valley) by Marta Perry. Little Large Print: The Ballerina Bride (Once Upon a Kiss) by Fiona Harper; Master of the Outback by Margaret Way; The Tycoon Who Healed her Heart by Melissa James; and The Reluctant Princess (The Lost Princes of Ambria) by Raye Morgan. Paperbacks: Alibi For a Cold Winter Night by Ilsa Mayr; Highgate Rise by Anne Perry; Running Scared by Lisa Jackson; Monster by Jonathan Kellerman; Imitation in Death by J. D. Robb; Go Ask Alice (replacement); A Day No Pigs Would Die by Robert Newton Peck; and Dangerous by Diana Palmer. Childrens books: The Boy Who was Raised by Librarians by Carla Morris and Brad Sneed; Llama Llama Holiday Drama, Llama Llama Mad at Mama, Llama Llama Misses Mamma and Llama Llama Red Pajama, all by Anna Dewdney; The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale by Carmen Deedy and Randall Wright; Too Many Dinosaurs by Mercer Mayer; Grandpas Tractor by Michael Garland; Big Nate on a Roll by Lincoln Pierce; and Dogs in the Dead of Night by Mary Pope Osborne.

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ABOVE & LEFT: Family and friends of Maple Valley Elementary students from the Oriska and Buffalo campuses were treated to a Christmas Concert and program Tuesday in the high school gymnasium at Tower City. Pictured above are the fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders. At left, students anxiously await the start of the evenings performances as audience members begin taking their seats. (Photos/The Independent)

ABOVE: Patience King, center, is this years winner of the Valley City Area Chamber of Commerces 2011 Christmas in the Valley Button design contest. King, a sixth-grader at Washington Elementary in Valley City, is the daughter of Jennifer Miklas (left) and Wes King, both of Valley City. Also pictured is Stephanie Mayfield, executive vice president of the Valley City Area Chamber of Commerce. (Photo/Chamber) Share your photos of life in and around Barnes County and beyond. Email to submissions@indy-bc.com FAR LEFT & LEFT: Dr. Beth Klingenstein (far left), Valley City State University professor of music, thanks the audience attending Sundays Community School of the Arts recitals. Klingenstein teaches piano. Dylan Buck Elk (left) performs All The Small Things in duet during the Sunday recital with guitar instructor Preston Laib. (Photos/The Independent)