GRAND FORKS — In the six months since Grand Forks' social withdrawal management center officially transitioned into a low-barrier shelter, there has been a steady stream of guests.
"It hasn’t all been roses and sunshine, but all the guests who have stayed there have been more than respectful," said Taylor Restad, who oversees the shelter in her role as director of the Grand Forks Housing Authority's client services department. "I would say the thing that we’ve been struggling with the most is just not having enough space.”
The 16-bed facility — known as The Nest on Fourth — is usually full, Restad said. It has at times accommodated upwards of 20 guests, particularly during harsh winter conditions.
The Nest is a low-barrier shelter for adults who are experiencing homelessness; it officially opened on Oct. 3.
"We do have a shelter in our community, and it serves a great purpose, but it doesn't operate under low-barrier philosophy," Restad said. "So there were still individuals within our community who were falling through the gaps because of criteria for shelter at other locations. They were still sleeping outside or in areas not meant for human habitation.”
Some factors that make The Nest a low-barrier shelter are that guests don't need to have identification, comply with treatment plans or be sober to stay there. There are also fewer restrictions based on criminal records and the amount of belongings a person has.
Another low-barrier element is that there is no minimum or maximum length of time that people can stay there.
“There are a lot of evidence-based practices that show that not determining a minimum or maximum length of stay can actually generate better results, as far as somebody moving out of the shelter into a more permanent housing situation," Restad said. "Our goal is to take a person-centered approach. What does this person need? What are their barriers? How can we consistently work toward eliminating some of those barriers, and advocating for somebody?”
Within the first six months, the average length of stay was 13 days. Some people leave because they find a more permanent housing situation, while others go into treatment or voluntarily exit for another reason, such as reconnecting with family or a previously unsafe situation becoming more tenable.
The housing authority came up with the shelter's policies and procedures by learning from other low-barrier shelters in the region, organizing focus groups with people who have experienced homelessness and collaborating with community partners. These include area law enforcement, health and human service agencies.
"There was a big learning curve," Restad said, but it has been going really well.
Community members can contact The Nest at (701) 203-4742 or the housing authority at (701) 746-2545 if they are interested in making any donations or volunteering their time.
The biggest way they can help, though, is by educating their loved ones, and letting them know that the issue of homelessness is present in the community, Restad said.
“No matter the age, no matter the family composition — if you’re a single adult or you’re a mom and a dad with three children," she said. "It’s relevant. It’s happening. It’s more prevalent in our community and within our school districts than people realize, so just being mindful of that and treating people with dignity and respect and kindness goes a long way.”
GRAND FORKS — A red flag warning will be in effect on Monday, May 5, for much of eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota.
According to the National Weather Service, the warning will begin at 11 a.m. and last until 7 p.m.
The service said the warning "means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior."
Winds in the region will be from the south, at 20 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, according to the NWS forecast. Relative humidity will be around 20%.
"The National Weather Service in Grand Forks has issued a red flag warning for wind and low relative humidity," read the NWS warning. "Any fires that ignite will spread rapidly and become difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended."
The warning is for all or portions of the following Minnesota counties: Polk, Clay, Kittson, Roseau, Marshall, Pennington, Red Lake. It also includes all or portions of the following North Dakota counties: Cavalier, Pembina, Walsh, Nelson, Grand Forks, Griggs, Steele, Traill, Barnes and Cass.
High temperatures throughout eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota will be in the low- to mid-80s, according to the National Weather Service. Tuesday, high temperatures will be about 10 degrees cooler.
GRAND FORKS — With Epic Companies dealing with bankruptcy, another company — Grand Forks-based Dakota Commercial — hopes to have the Beacon public plaza back on track by this fall.
“We’re working through the ownership group to find a solution for financing for getting the center area done,” Dakota Commercial President Kevin Ritterman said. “There have just been a lot of things in the last year; we just keep knocking off (to-do items) every day.”
The mixed-use Beacon development in downtown Grand Forks broke ground at the site of the former Townhouse Hotel in 2021. The original proposal had three buildings surrounding a public plaza that included a stage and an ice skating rink. To date, the plaza's stage structure has been completed, and two of the buildings are finished and have tenants living in them. The third building has not been completed, and was likely going to be delayed given market conditions, Epic told the city in 2024.
“A $100 million-plus-revenue-a-year company (is now) like nothing,” Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochenski said. “Ritterman and (Community Contractors President Craig) Tweten are trying to right this thing. They’re trying to fix it.”
The city has not given Epic funds to date because the company has never met the conditions of a $2.5 million deposit, a sworn statement from the contractors, and loan paperwork being finalized.
There are still many unknowns, given that Epic is still going through bankruptcy proceedings. Likely, changes to the agreements would have to be brought forth depending on future ownership, and changes would be subject to City Council approval.
Epic still owns a number of other properties in Grand Forks, including at 301 N. Third St. and 22 S. Third St. Those properties are also now managed by other companies.
GRAND FORKS — The UND football program took a step toward addressing its biggest positional need over the weekend.
Sacramento State transfer defensive tackle Tyler Henry, who's 6-foot-3 and 285 pounds, announced his commitment to the Fighting Hawks late Sunday night after a Grand Forks visit.
On Monday, the Hawks picked up a second commitment this weekend from the transfer portal in Missouri State tight end Watson Hafer, who has three seasons of eligibility remaining.
Henry, who suffered a season-ending injury in Week 1 in 2024, has three seasons of eligibility remaining.
Henry was injured in Week 1 against San Jose State. He played in two games in 2023 after redshirting in 2022.
Sacramento State saw significant turnover this offseason. The Hornets have signed a national-high 50 transfers, according to a recent article in the Sacramento Bee.
Henry's hometown is Houston, Texas, although he played high school football in California.
Defensive tackle has been UND's biggest need in the transfer portal.
The Hawks, under first-year head coach Eric Schmidt, are doubling the needed interior defensive linemen as UND shifts from a 3-4 defense to a 4-2-5.
In addition, UND graduated its top two most-used nose guards from 2024 in Craig Orlando and Elijah Beach.
UND picked up one defensive tackle via the portal before spring ball in St. Thomas' Emmanuel Olagbaju, who was injured on the first day of spring ball but returned to the final few practices.
Henry and Hafer bring UND's portal additions in this window to three.
They join tight end Hunter Kallstrom, who spent one season at Wyoming and is a Kerkhoven, Minn., native.
"Great weekend in the Valley!," Schmidt posted to social media Monday morning before re-posting Henry's commitment announcement.
Like interior defensive line, UND lost two key players to graduation at tight end in CFL-bound Quincy Vaughn and Jaden Norby.
Hafer, a native of West Plains, Mo., played in five games across the last two seasons. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound Hafer collected portal offers from Stephen F. Austin and Southern Utah.
© 2025 BVM Sports. Best Version Media, LLC.
Previously with the University of North Dakota
Kuljuhovic started all 33 games last season
averaging 10.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game
Head coach Cuonzo Martin praises Kuljuhovic for his tenacity
His past performance includes being a key player in the Summit League and earning multiple accolades
Kuljuhovic's addition is expected to significantly enhance the Bears' roster
Kuljuhovic's contributions will be pivotal as Missouri State prepares for its upcoming season
particularly in enhancing offensive and defensive dynamics
The team will look to integrate him effectively into their game plan
Amar Kuljuhovic's acquisition is a strategic move for Missouri State
aiming to bolster their frontcourt with a skilled and experienced player
His ability to rebound and play defensively will be crucial for the Bears' success next season
The summary of the linked article was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence technology from OpenAI
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Boys winners & GF Herald coverage area in Top 8
Girls winners & GF Herald coverage area in Top 8
— A provider of mental health and substance use disorder services hosted U.S
Michelle Fischbach and members of a regional organization that has concerns about potential federal budget cuts
The visit allowed a conversation between the organization and Fischbach
to address worries from northwest Minnesota
chief marketing and communication officer at Alluma
Fischbach visited Alluma’s Northwestern Apartments in Crookston
She toured the apartments and spoke with members of the Northwest Minnesota Council of Collaboratives
which is made up of different organizations across eight counties
Education and social services representatives were some of those present for Fischbach’s visit
The council had sent Fischbach a letter voicing worries over the proposed $880 billion in federal budget cuts targeted through the Energy and Commerce Committee
Member concerns focused mainly on Medicaid in rural Minnesota
though touched on other topics such as education and elder care
About 60% of Alluma’s clients use Medicaid and would struggle without it
The Northwestern Apartments have 14 beds and are used by people in recovery or transitioning between levels of care
people spend six to nine months at the apartments
but recently the stays have increased up to a year and a half
Northwest Apartments Supervisor Amy Hillebrand said people have been staying longer because there aren’t enough housing options offering the proper level of care
and some return later because there aren't other available housing options that are safe
affordable and appropriate for the individual
“Sometimes Northwest Apartments is still the best place for them to be safe
“so many people we serve don’t qualify for disability benefits
mental health and substance use care depend on that Medicaid expansion to gain access to health care.”
In regards to the $880 billion in proposed cuts
“it’s hard to see how they will do that without touching Medicaid.”
Van Camp said Fischbach spoke to members of the northwest council to try and give them a better understanding of what’s been happening
and how there are decisions to be made at federal and state levels
Now is the time to prepare and wait to see what happens
Alluma is using the time to work on opening up a fourth bed after opening three at a new residential property
William “Bill” Charles Bohnsack rarely slowed down — not out of haste
but because life offered too many opportunities to make a difference
He could be found zipping off to a track meet
brushing the last strokes of paint before the storm rolled in
or cramming a quick chemistry experiment into the final minutes of class
Bill lived his life with energy and intention — even if time didn’t always cooperate with his plans
GRAND FORKS — UND’s new Flight Operations Center is on the cusp of breaking ground following the annual Aviation Family Weekend late last month
28,500-square-foot Flight Operations Center has been awaiting full funding to begin work
the university is working with Grand Forks International Airport to finish negotiations in terms of the ground lease
Kraus anticipates work to start in the next month
but airplane parking and the actual airplane site won’t be affected by construction
Some taxi lines on the north side will have to be moved for construction fencing
and the biggest change is where dispatch will be centered
Dispatch will move to an administrative building on the ground floor for the estimated 18 months until the new building opens
Freshman aviation student Felix Zimmerman said that while construction will make things awkward
he thinks the new center will be good for the university
“It’s definitely going to be really cool,” he said
In an effort to give the center a proper send-off
Zimmerman coordinated a fly-by and short demonstration by two combat jets on April 25
during the university’s annual Aviation Family Weekend
the weekend included a conference and career fair organized by the Student Aviation Management Association
flights for families by students with a Private Pilot Certificate
and other activities organized by student organizations Alpha Eta Rho (Professional Aviation Society)
Women in Aviation International and the National Gay Pilots Association
Kraus said Zimmerman contacted him months ago
The idea came to Zimmerman while he was planespotting with a friend near Grand Forks Air Force Base
He initially thought of having visiting B1-B bombers pass overhead
then searched online and found forms for a flyover
became Zimmerman’s sponsor for the fly-by and connected him with people while he worked through the process
The operations group commander for the 114th
GRAND FORKS — The Grand Forks Red River boys golf program is the defending state champion and has won all four EDC meets this season
The Roughriders' newest challenger for the crown has come from the other side of town
Grand Forks Central is coming off a second-place finish at Bois de Sioux Golf Course in Wahpeton
For a team with EDC finishes of fifth and sixth this season
"I think the big thing is all the guys have a really great attitude how they're going about the season," Central coach Alex Barta said
"Every time they walk off the course or practice
even if they're playing well or things are going good
"It's not being disappointed over one bad shot and kicking themselves
then going to practice and working on it so we're playing our best at that next meet."
who shot a 70 to take medalist honors at the Wahpeton Invitational on Wednesday
One of the state's top prep golfers the last few seasons
Wilber didn't get off to a hot start in 2025
He shot an 85 at Village Green in the season opener on April 14
"He's such a natural athlete that once the feel starts coming back
it starts getting easy for him," Barta said
you have no idea if he's playing under-par golf or bogey golf
It's really cool to see him take that next step of consistency to the top of the leaderboard
Because of his attitude and the way he carries himself
Barta said Central's rise is less about a golfer coming out of nowhere to shoot low rounds as it is the freedom that comes from a lineup six deep picking each other up
"There's a lot of trust among the guys," Barta said
We're playing a little freer knowing other guys can be trusted."
A pair of sophomores in Ryder Rivard and Finn Cichy shot rounds of under 80 in Wahpeton
while eighth-grader Rory Rivard shot an 80
"Rory was just a seventh-grader last year and as an eighth-grader
you can see growth in his game," Barta said
"It's not just hitting it farther but it's knowing how to manage the course."
Now that the Knights have shown they can challenge for a team title
Barta is hopeful the additional confidence can be put to good use
"The guys are really motivated," Barta said
"We've had stretches toward the middle of a tournament or late in the tournament where we're close to the top but haven't finished the way we want to
The message is to be our best for 18 holes
Just like basketball teams push for a full 40 minutes and football for 60 minutes
I think now that they have proven to themselves they have the ability to do that
now maybe they can play free and not press."
GRAND FORKS — The Northlands Rescue Mission Board of Directors has named Everett Jones the shelter's new executive director
who is retiring after eight years in the role
"I am excited to be here," Jones said in a press release
you have a community that cares about that community
I think there's a lot of good work that has been done and that we can continue to do and to grow."
said board members are excited to welcome Jones
and have observed his commitment to carrying the organization's legacy forward — just as Shirek and other mission staff have
we are confident that the mission will continue striving to fulfill its mission and vision for people in need," Brekke said
Jones was most recently employed as director of residential services at the YMCA of Central New York
He has also spent more than 15 years in management and human services
He was program director at the Homeless Families Foundation (HFF) for nine years in Ohio
where his role included leading outreach and transitional housing initiatives for families experiencing homelessness
He led the organization to successfully housing 90% of its enrolled families
He also spent time as a residential coordinator for Covenant House
a nonprofit that provides shelter and support to homeless youth and human trafficking survivors
Jones' passion to lead with faith comes from his lived experience with homelessness
“I'm a firm believer that if you're going to be in human services
it's to your benefit to have some experience
“I think (experiencing hardship) was God's way of preparing me to be able to be in this position and represent it from a space of empathy — not just the business component
but to really understand what that feels like to (not) have a place to sleep.”
Northlands Rescue Mission is the primary emergency homeless shelter in Grand Forks
It provides shelter and other resources to people who are experiencing homelessness
and offers additional support with housing
The organization also operates food assistance programs for the community
Approximately 300 people receive help from the mission to find a permanent home each year
GRAND FORKS — Brad Malone retired last spring after a 14-year professional career that included more than 200 NHL games for the Colorado Avalanche
He began his coaching career this fall as an assistant with the Ontario Hockey League's Oshawa Generals
Malone has led Oshawa to the Ontario Hockey League finals
Oshawa knocked out Brampton in six games in the first round
beat Brantford in six games in the conference semifinals
then swept Barrie in the Eastern Conference finals
Malone and Oshawa were presented the Bobby Orr Trophy as Eastern Conference champions Thursday night
"I wish I was playing with them," Malone said about his team
"It's been a pleasure to be back there behind the bench and working with them every day
Malone is one of several former UND players who are experiencing quick ascensions in the coaching world
Former UND captain Matt Smaby has led the United States Hockey League's Waterloo Black Hawks to their first Clark Cup Final in 11 years
who won the Anderson Cup as the USHL's best regular-season team
in four games in the Western Conference Final
Both of Waterloo's goaltenders suffered injuries near the end of the season
so the Black Hawks brought in draft pick Carter Casey from Grand Rapids
Waterloo's team was put together by general manager Bryn Chyzyk
a former UND alternate captain who left last month to become UND's general manager
Waterloo's opponent in the Clark Cup Final is the Muskegon Lumberjacks
Muskegon's associate head coach is former UND alternate captain Colten St
Clair and its assistant coach is former UND forward Evan Trupp
Clair previously won a Clark Cup as an associate head coach with Sioux City in 2022
Clair was a head coach with Omaha earlier this season
He was fired after going 6-10-2 during his 18-game stretch at the helm
Omaha proceeded to win once in its final 40 games after firing St
Trupp previously reached the North American Hockey League's Robertson Cup Finals as an assistant with the Anchorage Wolverines in 2022
The Lumberjacks have never won the Clark Cup
This success also means UND is playing a waiting game in the search for its associate head coach under new head coach Dane Jackson
UND is letting them play out their seasons before proceeding with the process
The best-of-five Clark Cup Final will begin Friday in Waterloo
If Oshawa wins the Ontario Hockey League Final
a professional surfer who survived a shark attack and became the inspiration for the 2011 film “Soul Surfer,” will share her story at 7 p.m
at the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center
the event – focused on how to live an “unstoppable life” – is free and open to the public
The presentation is made possible with support from the sorority foundation’s Everson Family Lectureship in Values and Ethics
The lectureship was established in 2011 with a lead gift by Jacque Geving Everson
Hamilton has become a source of inspiration to millions by sharing her story of determination
she survived a shark attack by a 14-foot tiger shark that resulted in the loss of her left arm
seeming to end her career as a rising surf star
she realized her dream of surfing professionally and
her story has been told in the New York Times bestselling biography and in the 2011 film
“Soul Surfer.” Her resilience and determination have made her a symbol of courage worldwide
Using her platform as a professional athlete to promote living a fit and healthy life
Hamilton wrote the book “Body and Soul,” published in 2014
She is “devoted to inspiring and equipping you
and your families to overcome and live an unstoppable life,” she said in the event announcement
That is the message at the heart of her 2019 documentary
“Unstoppable,” which chronicles her journey as one of the world’s top female surfers
has been sharing her message globally for years
Driven by her passion for family and helping young women be unstoppable in life and faith
she launched the Unstoppable Living online courses in 2019; a mother-daughter mentorship program
Hamilton is involved in numerous charitable efforts
including her Beautifully Flawed Foundation
through which she supports amputees and youth as they overcome challenges through faith
furthering her mission to inspire others to live healthy and meaningful lives
Monday’s event at the Fritz auditorium is the sixth in a series of lectures supported by the Everson Family Lectureship in Values and Ethics
Past speakers include abduction survivor Elizabeth Smart
Olympic gold medalists Monique Lamoureux-Morando and Jocelyne Lamoureux-Davidson
Video used with permission of Aaron Lieber and Lieber Films
GRAND FORKS — UND sophomore goaltender Hobie Hedquist has entered the NCAA transfer portal and will head to Ferris State next season
was 8-5 with an .899 save percentage across two seasons
going 3-4 with a 2.80 goals-against average and an .894 save percentage
192-pound Hedquist went 5-1 with a 2.51 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage
UND has been expecting Hedquist to enter the portal for a couple of weeks
The Fighting Hawks already have set their goaltending roster for next season
UND recruited Gibson Homer from Arizona State out of the transfer portal
It landed a commitment from freshman Jan Špunar of the Dubuque Fighting Saints
And it picked up Fargo’s Zach Sandy out of the portal from Minnesota Duluth
committed recruit Caleb Heil will come to campus
He will spend one more year with Madison of the United States Hockey League
Hedquist was recruited to UND by former goalie coach Karl Goehring
Hedquist played junior hockey for Alberni Valley in the British Columbia Hockey League
He also played for the Sioux Falls Power program
He will play for first-year coach Brett Riley at Ferris State
The Bulldogs also added Noah Rupprecht of Thief River Falls in the transfer portal
Rupprecht played for Riley last season at Long Island University
GRAND FORKS — UND drew more fans per home game last season than any North American hockey team outside of the NHL
An average of 11,614 attended UND's 18 regular-season home games in Ralph Engelstad Arena
1 among college hockey teams for the 11th consecutive season
It also ranked ahead of any American Hockey League
Ontario Hockey League and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League team
the top affiliate of the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets
The University of Wisconsin was third with 10,461
UND also outdrew one NHL team — the Utah Hockey Club
"It's unbelievable how much support there is across our whole region," UND coach Dane Jackson said
"To have those kind of numbers every Friday and Saturday night
It's definitely motivating for our players and staff to play at a high level because of how much interest and backing we have
It's something that differentiates our program from all the others — the level of support and commitment from our fans
Ralph Engelstad Arena general manager Jody Hodgson said the numbers are especially impressive given the size of Grand Forks
While Grand Forks' metro area is about 100,000
the others in the top five are all more than 400,000
"We're so lucky and grateful to have one of the best fan bases in all of sports," Hodgson said
"We often say we have one of the best fan bases in college hockey
it might be one of the best fan bases in all of sports."
Ralph Engelstad Arena has traditionally been a difficult place for opponents to play
UND has posted a winning record at home for 23 seasons in a row
UND went 31-2 in The Ralph during a 33-game stretch spanning parts of four seasons from 2019-21
UND's 4-3 loss to Boston University on Oct
26 last season marked the first time in more than a full year that UND lost a home game in regulation
The Fighting Hawks were average at home the rest of the way
"You want to make it hard to play in our rink," Jackson said
We'll work to make sure when teams come into The Ralph
they know it's an extremely hard to place to play and they're going to have to compete to try to get points out of here
Jackson said UND's fan support is big for recruiting
"To get them for visits in our rink on a game night is huge," Jackson said
Not many places have what we have in terms of support
To be able to continue to point to that year after year — it's been a decade and a half of leading college hockey — it's big."
UND opens next season with an exhibition Oct
The regular-season opener is scheduled for Oct
Hodgson said Ralph Engelstad Arena and UND are constantly working to evaluate how to best fill the venue
"We’re focused on continuing to try to provide a best-in-class fan experience," he said
"We're digging in on promotional schedules for next year
what elements we can include in games and continuing to try to be aggressive with our outbound sales team to make sure we maintain the attendance history we’ve had."
NELSON COUNTY — Continuing its mission to support a K-9 program solely on community donations
the Nelson County Sheriff's Office is selling look-alike plushies of its K-9 Raith
and we're selling them for 25 bucks apiece," Sheriff Kurt Schwind said
"All funds will go toward the K-9 program."
Approximately 20 have already sold in less than a week
He finds this unsurprising for a couple of reasons
his agency got the idea from Benson County
where he said the plushies sold "like hotcakes."
Second is the sheer volume of support his agency received while fundraising to get the program started in the first place
It cost $15,000 to purchase K-9 Raith and train both her and her handler
as well as an additional $50,000 for a vehicle that's outfitted for a K-9
The amount of support the sheriff's office has received throughout the process is overwhelming
The agency was able to raise enough money in approximately 18 months
and that's what's awesome about the whole thing."
American Legion posts out of Lakota and Devils Lake have supported the ongoing fundraising effort by donating the money to purchase the plushies
the Legions told us to come back and ask for more money to get more dogs," Schwind said
He hopes to distribute the plushies throughout community stores and other locations to give the fundraiser more visibility
Funds raised through the sale of K-9 Raith plushies will help cover care and maintenance costs
It will also help cover the 30 minutes of overtime per day that her handler is paid
Schwind hopes to keep these costs out of the county budget for as long as possible
because they may necessitate a tax increase
"The longer we can keep her off the budget
having our commissioners on board with us and that kind of thing," he said
K-9 Raith has certainly proven her value in the six months since she joined the sheriff's office
She was instrumental in apprehending the double homicide suspect on the Spirit Lake Reservation last month
and she'll continue to get better," Schwind said
which means her skills include finding narcotics
offering protection and patrol support as well as article searches
during which she can find items disposed of by suspects
"One of the demonstrations we do just to show how good she is is we'll take a coin and we'll throw it off into the grass and send her out to do a search," Schwind said
He believes her presence alone changes behaviors in the community
they are less likely to transport drugs through the area
Schwind believes any number of drugs K9-Raith keeps off the streets
GRAND FORKS — The UND football program's 2026 recruiting class has its first running back
gave his verbal commitment Friday to play for the Fighting Hawks
Among Zdon's Division I offers were North Dakota State and Southern Illinois
was an all-state honorable mention at Grant High School
He ran for 1,853 yards and 24 touchdowns last season
is the 10th member of UND's 2026 recruiting class and first from Illinois
the Grant football program and the entire Grant community for believing in me
pushing me and always supporting me," Zdon wrote on social media
"I'm truly grateful for every moment and everything you've done for me."
It's the second verbal commitment this week for Eric Schmidt's coaching staff to win a battle against a Missouri Valley Football Conference power
committed earlier this week and held an offer from South Dakota State
The first national signing period is in early December
with the traditional signing period coming in February
a person may need the services of a physical therapist
They help with a patient’s recovery after surgery
address back pain or work with those suffering from vertigo
we talked to a handful of PTs in both the professional and higher-ed spaces to find out how they do what they do and learn about modalities and technologies they incorporate to help patients meet their goals
Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants can specialize in an area such as pediatrics
with a predicted growth rate of 14% over the next decade
and any physical therapist entering the occupation needs a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree
The region is doing a great job of filling PT positions
thanks to feeder schools with excellent programs
Human resources professionals are an important and necessary part of any organization
If a manager isn't sure how to have a delicate conversation
If there are questions about overtime rules
HR professionals provide coaching for leadership
ensure businesses are compliant with employment laws
recruit and set compensation and benefits packages
They're a valuable resource for employees and employers alike
we talked to two experienced HR consultants who shared the changes they’ve seen in the industry over the years
Insurance is a topic that's typically not considered until something happens
but it's essential for the protection of a company's operations
all businesses need to keep their facilities and data secure
a business insurance adviser specializing in the construction and real estate sector with Marsh McLennan Agency
shares information on various types of insurance a business should have
as well as where the industry stands after a number of natural disasters have driven rates skyward
This month's Generation Next feature profiles NDSU student Halli Heimbuch
who graduates this month and has accepted a position as a clinical dietitian at Sanford Health in Fargo
She shares how her interest in nutrition paved the way to become a coordinator at the campus food pantry as well as manage the student-led campus restaurant
National Small Business Month is celebrated in May and includes National Small Business Week
Small Business Administration has celebrated and recognized the critical contributions of the country's entrepreneurs and small business owners
This is a great month to get out and visit those small businesses in your community
shop local and celebrate those owners who took a chance
worked hard and offer goods and services we use regularly
Maybe you can find a great Mother's Day gift while you're there
I look forward to hearing from you at cmcdermott@prairiebusinessmagazine.com or 701-780-1108
History lives in the pages of the Grand Forks Herald
we’re bringing it back to life with Today in History
we will revisit notable news items from our archives
and the state of North Dakota and Minnesota
(AP) — Recent action by sheriff’s departments in Ward and Cass Counties in seeking more money for their operations apparently was just the tip of the iceberg of a larger financial crisis
Sheriff’s departments across the state report they are being faced with rapidly rising costs
sheriff’s operations involved considerable travel throughout their counties and costs associated with the travel
like the sheriffs of Ward and Cass Counties
many sheriffs have gone to their county commissions seeking increased reimbursement for these expenses
11 county sheriff’s departments reported they have received additional financial assistance
The relief has generally been in the form of higher salaries
with raises ranging from $25 to as much as $65 a month
23 other sheriff’s offices report they have approached county commissions without success
Many of the sheriff’s said they have given up or are waiting for possible action at future commission meetings
there are eight sheriff’s departments which report they have not gone to their county commissions and have no plan to do so in the near future
Eleven sheriff’s offices reported they had no intention of seeking financial relief
three use county-owned cars and county-owned gasoline
Most counties pay sheriff’s 12 cents per mile to cover auto expenses
so county commissioners cannot increase the mileage allowances
most sheriffs are asking for salary increases since their officers buy their own gasoline and pay for their own vehicle repairs
One argument put forth by county commissions is that if they increase salaries to sheriff’s officers
other county employees will also demand raises
The earliest possible relief for the sheriffs may be July 1
The North Dakota Sheriff’s Association said it plans to ask the 1975 legislature for an increase to 16 cents per mile
some sheriff’s departments are financially pinched and some report it is affecting their operations
As we approach the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (May 8)
we are reminded of a pivotal moment in history when the Allied forces accepted Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender
This milestone allows us to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who served and reflect on that conflict’s enduring lessons
The National World War II Memorial in Washington stands as a testament to the valor and resilience of the 16 million men and women who served in the U.S
the more than 400,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice
and the countless others who supported the war effort on the home front
The importance of remembering V-E Day extends beyond historical acknowledgment
It serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the necessity of unity in the face of adversity
the lessons from World War II remain profoundly relevant
The collective effort that led to victory in 1945 exemplifies what is achievable when nations and individuals come together for a common cause
it is also essential to recognize the diminishing number of World War II veterans among us
Their firsthand accounts and personal stories are invaluable treasures that offer profound insights into the realities of war and the resilience of the human spirit
We encourage everyone to take the time to listen to these veterans
and to express gratitude for their service
events and educational programs are planned throughout the year
These initiatives aim to engage communities nationwide in reflection and remembrance
ensuring that the sacrifices made during World War II are never forgotten
This is a time to look back and also an opportunity to look forward
It challenges us to consider how we can uphold the values of freedom
we are reminded of our collective responsibility to build a future that honors the sacrifices of those who came before us
As we gather at the National World War II Memorial and in communities nationwide
let us recommit ourselves to the principles that guided the Greatest Generation
Let us ensure that their legacy endures in monuments and ceremonies
In the words inscribed on the National World War II Memorial: “Here we mark the price of freedom.” May we always honor that price through our unwavering dedication to the ideals for which so many gave their lives
We mentioned last week about how the way to heaven is conditional upon being born again and doing the will of the Father
It’s true the blood of Jesus forgives our sins when we confess and repent
as holiness is not automatic but rather is accomplished through our determination to demonstrate a life of sanctification
We comprehend that salvation is intertwined with the covenant that Christ established on the cross and through His resurrection
we pledge to give all of our mind and heart to Him
but an invitation to accept His glorious plan to deliver and transform our spiritual identity from death to life
This opportunity to become a child of God is the greatest act of love and mercy
and we are overwhelmed with the reality that God reached down and pulled us from the darkness and doom of a hopeless future
We have touched on the subject of who will be in heaven
and many disagree that it is not only limited to the Christian faith
and that all belief systems that live in love and are morally good will be granted acceptance
This all roads lead to heaven philosophy is popular around the world and are appalled that any particular religious group would claim to have exclusive rights to eternal salvation
No one comes to the Father except through me.” How can anyone disregard this specific truth and say this means any god
does this mean the billions of people who have heard the gospel but refuse Christ as their Lord are lost
We must reject compromising and sugar coating spiritual truth with human opinions
A feature of the new heaven and earth will be the 2 million-square-mile glorious city of new Jerusalem where the saints will live with God forever
First we need to use a calculation system to determine how many people have lived in the last 6000 years since Adam
We will use the young earth as a base for our estimate
If the population doubles every 100 to 150 years and then also take note the world started over after the first 1500 years with the flood
we have a general figure of around 140-160 billion humans
this does not include the unborn that have died through stillbirths
and abortions which is a considerable number
If we research infant mortality rates among children under the age of 10
and we add another group with intellectual disabilities
we see this group of innocents are could reach into the billions alone
Using the narrow and broad path analogy from Jesus Himself
let’s use a 10 percent calculation for the true followers of God throughout time that are over the age of 10 which is a generally accepted turning point for the age of accountability
and this adds up to roughly another 16 billion
we will have plenty of brothers and sisters to meet in the next life
Another doctrine that is difficult to comprehend is our free will choice verses God’s divine election or predestination
I’ve come to the conclusion that we are given free will since the Bible emphasizes our ability to choose with passages such as John 7:17
yet we must also embrace the scriptures that explain His sovereign choices like Jeremiah 1:4-5
“According as he hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world
that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself
according to the good pleasure of his will.” Nothing happens without God allowing or preventing
Do you believe His power to draw us to Him is based on His foreknowledge of who He knows will serve Him
or is His selection an intentional act of His sovereignty
Can the doctrine of Calvinism and Arminianism work together
I believe they are both a part of God’s plan
Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com
Troy Randall Larson was not taking his prescribed mental health medications
and had been released from a psychiatric hospitalization just days earlier
Larson went off his medication and became a danger to himself or others
The affidavit says Holweger went to the residence to drop off his dog
He then walked into the room and fired a gun at them
waiting for me to come in there and help him," Suzann Holweger
with him lying on the floor in a pool of blood."
Her husband was her sole caregiver and a staunch supporter of her artistic endeavors
They had a deep love and strong bond that developed over nearly 40 years
A number of family and friends made statements during the hearing
speaking about Jamey Holweger's kind heart and ceaseless generosity
They also implored Judge John Thelen to hand down the maximum sentence
Because Larson is not criminally responsible
his life sentence at the state hospital is the maximum penalty
This sentence was determined based on a risk assessment done in the weeks since he was found not criminally responsible
which noted his history of noncompliance and substance abuse
said Larson — who she has known since he was approximately 12 years old — has always looked for trouble
"My view of Troy Larson is that he reflects the devil in his eyes," Strauss said
Suzann Holweger said Larson has used alcohol mixed with illicit drugs for as long as she can remember
"but refuses to take the ones that he's supposed to."
noted that his client never denied responsibility
and is eager to begin receiving treatment at the state hospital
after spending more than a year in the county jail
Larson is extremely remorseful that this situation occurred," Mottinger said
"He had only been released from the hospital a very few days before this happened
It was just an unfortunate set of circumstances that led us to where we're at today."
The state hospital must file a report of its findings to be brought to the hearing; if he is deemed no longer a threat
Mattison said family members have told her they do not believe Larson would ever be compliant upon release
and I would dare say we would be in this position again," she said
GRAND FORKS — This page tracks players who have entered the NCAA men's college hockey transfer portal and who have committed to new programs during the 2025 offseason
The portal is open from March 30 to May 13
Players can commit to schools after the portal closes
Players who have had their aid cut or had a head coaching change have 30 days to enter if it's outside of the transfer window
email writer Brad Schlossman at bschlossman@gfherald.com
Follow @SchlossmanGF for updates on Twitter and schlossmangf.bsky.social on Blue Sky
Note: There are a handful of players who entered the portal in 2024 and did not play hockey this season
They're listed at the bottom of the 2024 transfer board
Some of them still have eligibility left and could join a team for next season
though it is rare a player gets picked up after sitting out a full year
left this life and went to join her son and husband in a Wonderful Place on Wednesday
1926 edition of the Grand Forks Herald and highlights a story on North Dakota exports
North Dakota's exports dropped significantly
The state ranked among the lowest in the U.S.
Flour Was Biggest Item Shipped Out of State In 1925
1926.—(AP story as published by the Grand Forks Herald on May 4
1926) — Exports from North Dakota are on the decline
figures received here from the United States department of commerce show
In this respect it was one of the lowest ranking states in the Union
trailing New Mexico and Utah by $80,000 and $11,000 respectively
show that the state had an export trade valued at $1,040,935 as compared with $2,199,103 in 1924
$410,438 of that material having been sent outside the state
Machinery and vehicles were second with $169,227 and household and personal effects ranked third with $65,230
The total exports for the United States in 1925 were $4,819,041,435 as compared with $4,498,151,936 in 1924
Each of the first three quarters of the year showed an increase
The first ten states in the order of their importance were New York
with export valuations of $810,416,054; Texas
with exports for the year amounting to $148,745,613
All of these states except Illinois and Virginia made export gains during 1925
New York’s increase was the largest and amounted to nearly $79,000,000
with $43,000,000; Texas with $21,500,000; Ohio with $19,000,000; California with $13,500,000; Pennsylvania with $9,500,000; and New Jersey with a gain over 1924 of slightly more than $7,000,000
The losses in exports of Illinois and Virginia were approximately $14,750,000 and $1,500,000 respectively
New York jumped from second place into the leadership as an exporting state
while Illinois dropped from 4th place to 8th
I am appalled by the disdain exhibited by Republicans regarding the death of Pope Francis who saw socio-economic issues equally as important as abortion
Abortion has been the most successful political weapon for Republicans since 1970
They were extremely displeased when Pope Francis said
only 5% of the people understand the cause of the financial meltdown that transferred $40 trillion into the hands of the rich and not one banker went to prison
This was a big contributor to the land of the 2 and 98%
He also followed the precepts of Jesus Christ in understanding that in 1950
the average ratio of worker/CEO pay was 1 to 25; today it is 1 to 350 and yet we are expected to raise a family when the average childcare cost is $2,000 a month for one child
Republicans were seething when he criticized Reagan’s “trickle down theory” which in 40 years transferred $50 trillion from the middle class to the top 1%
He recognized how the masses can be agitated by Abrego Garcia
and yet not see where there should be a more compassionate treatment of immigrants
our health care system is driven by money instead of care for the sick
He grasped how our court system is being successfully taken over by the wealthy
Pope Francis also could comprehend how Republican belief in “no regulation” has caused multiple mergers that cost the average family much more for the necessities in life
It is easy to understand the rage by Republicans when their most important political weapon was not backed up by the power of the papacy
We will miss Pope Francis for his ability to see beyond the abortion issue
President Trump is promising that his tariffs will bring manufacturing back from countries like Mexico
but here are a few facts I researched to consider
it would be hard for our companies to cover these higher costs and compete on car prices
If the labor costs become prohibitive they would most likely resort to even more automation
The UAW is currently supporting the tariffs assuming that the jobs of their members will still be available once these plants are finally built
they may be chasing a dream and not reality
In a recent Grand Forks Herald letter to the editor
called for Robert Kennedy Jr.’s firing because of his incompetent actions concerning children’s health
McDonough served on the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children (ACHDNS) from 2011 to 2017
North Dakota has a Newborn Screening Advisory Committee that relies on ACHDNS recommendations
which now is deprived of this expertise because Mr
Kennedy terminated ACHDNS on April 3 without explanation
the Trump Administration recently announced that they plan to halt all investments in Gavi
a global alliance for vaccines and immunization
This is another decision with potentially devastating outcomes for children
Gavi is a global partnership that focuses on increasing access to vaccines in lower-income countries
Gavi has supported countries to vaccinate more than 1 billion children
75 million children will go without lifesaving vaccines in the next five years
international assistance than access to lifesaving vaccines for kids
Congress has repeatedly invested in Gavi and other global humanitarian programs because they work
I am proud that Senators Cramer and Hoeven have supported them in the past
Kennedy should resign or be fired immediately
Senators Cramer and Hoeven and Congresswoman Fedorchak should call for his dismissal
our members of Congress must demand that unconstitutional attacks on foreign aid be stopped and reversed
They should insist immediately that Gavi funding be continued to protect the world’s children from deadly disease
Bob Rost has worked for Grand Forks County for four decades
putting to use the experience in local government he gained over the course of those many years as a county employee
due to a developing circumstance entirely beyond his control
he may have to step away from his position on the commission
leaving a seat to be filled by someone who probably will have nothing close to his level of experience
He also could be required to pay back some PERS contribution money he has received while simply doing the job for which he was elected
it comes down to this: Since Rost is a former county employee and now collects a pension from the county
he cannot still be on the county’s regular payroll
County commissioners here earn roughly $20,000 per year for their service
Rost is left with a decision: Continue on the commission and collect that $20,000 annually until he retires or is voted off it
or resign from the commission to continue collecting his well-deserved county pension
And sooner rather than later — even waiting until the next regular meeting
could profoundly affect governance throughout the state
While commission seats are typically easy to fill in the state’s larger counties
we suspect it’s not always the same in the rural western areas of North Dakota
Billings and Sheridan counties only have a few more than 1,000
we’ll be taking away the ability of former sheriffs
county auditors and administrators — all of whom are highly experienced in county government — to serve residents in their county
Can anything PERS might do actually trump federal tax code and a decision from the IRS
the concern is that the affected people — people like Rost — will have to pay back money received while serving on these elected boards
this is no fault whatsoever of Rost and the others — there could be at least 20 other instances across the state — who are in this predicament
the state must pony up and take care of any back payments that will be owed
It’s the responsibility of PERS to find a financial solution
I have lived in many places since leaving my parents’ house at 18
The list includes a college dorm with one window
a campus apartment with windows facing the neighboring building 6 feet away
a brick apartment with the draftiest windows
a Scottish apartment with the coolest lean-open windows and no screens
Some places had little galley kitchens; some had no kitchen at all
I can see the kids playing in the backyard
the stray cats wandering in from the woods
the raccoons that visit at the same time every night
and the bluejays building nests in the pine trees
I have not always had a window at the kitchen sink
but it just seems like there’s something missing in your life when you don’t have that portal to the outside world while washing the dishes or preparing food
When we were getting the new flooring installed in our homestead kitchen
I was very particular on how the guys laid the pattern
not wanting any steps with the staggering of the boards
and I didn’t want all the same pattern boards in one place
I then explained to them that as not only a homemaker
I will be spending a good deal of time in this room for the next 20 years
but it will likely be my job to sweep and wash the floor on a regular basis
so I am the one who will be looking at it the most
It’s a gathering place for those you love and love to feed
Women for generations have shared their love through home-cooked meals and beautifully set tables
Some people build larger kitchens to accommodate growing families
Others simply upgrade their seating and add more stools to the kitchen counter to fit the kids
living rooms are transformed into eating areas for a meal or two
There is just something about kitchen windows
Windows bring a little bit of the outdoors in
the more desirable it is (at least in my opinion)
While the upkeep can be a bit much sometimes
the sunlight they let in and the opportunity to open the windows and let in some air is priceless
watching the kids and the animals play in the yard
Andrea Borsvold is a busy homesteading mama of three who loves God
sewing and the beauty of nature living in northwestern Minnesota
GRAND FORKS – Hotel occupancy rates in Greater Grand Forks have been steadily climbing since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a sharp dip in the spring of 2020
The pandemic “hit us hard — very hard,” said Julie Rygg
executive director of Visit Greater Grand Forks
“The occupancy rate dropped dramatically."
2020 was on track to be a big one for occupancy
with an active schedule on tap at Grand Forks' Alerus Center
and also affected the two years that followed
The decrease has been attributed in part to the current political climate and friction between the U.S
It also has been linked to the weakened Canadian dollar
the Greater Grand Forks hotel occupancy rate is showing encouraging signs of strengths in recent years
That's considered to be in the optimal range
according to information from Visit Greater Grand Forks
which is funded by a 3% lodging tax collected at those properties
Recovery in occupancy rates can be attributed to a variety of factors
mostly linked to increasing vitality in the hospitality and restaurant industry
as well as a resurgence of sporting and entertainment events
Occupancy rates “are quite healthy now,” Rygg said
“We’re in a good position now since COVID.”
Comparing year-end average rates for 2024 with 2023
“We ended 2024 almost flat with the year before
we’ve seen – at least the first couple of months – occupancy has been up
A lot of that has to do with the tournaments we have in town – hockey (and other) tournaments.”
Occupancy at The Olive Ann Hotel in downtown Grand Forks has increased “significantly” since it opened
vice president and chief operating officer
Although the boutique hotel was not open during the pandemic
it has fared well since opening in December 2023
it takes time for people to learn and hear of your amenities and then hear of how the stays are and whatnot," he said
“With us being open for a little over a year now
it’s been double-digit increases (in occupancy rates) year over year."
“In talking to a lot of different people – whether it be business people
military personnel or people coming for events or hockey games or you name it – and it’s very challenging to get a room sometimes
I think we have a unique product in our area,” Bahl said
“I think that’s really assisted in our occupancy rates kind of shooting through the roof.”
He attributes the increase to a lot more activity in business
manufacturing and other infrastructure projects than was occurring five or 10 years ago
is that “the individuals staying with us are some of the top-tier loyalty people within our Marriott system
These are well-traveled people; they know what they want
A lot of them are business people.” Another “huge driver” for the hotel is the cluster of on-site event spaces
where several hundred events take place every year
and with that comes people staying in rooms
The hotel’s favorable occupancy rate is tied to the “general economic climate” and events that Visit Greater Grand Forks attracts
“We see it as not just one area that’s driving the occupancy rate for us
a new mindset has emerged in the hotel industry
(the focus has been) you have to drive people with experiences,” he said
It truly is an experience – which differentiates us.”
Many hotels had “a very very tough time” because of COVID
but “the operators who heard from customers and what came out of COVID … (and who) transitioned and pivoted
those are the operators that are having greater success in their entities.”
Bahl said The Olive Ann Hotel is noted for providing a superior customer experience – from being greeted at the entrance by a bellman “dressed to the nines” to the full-service in-room dining option to the nighttime turn-down service
The Olive Ann Hotel also is unique in that it has “a story behind it,” he said
Visual elements throughout the property convey the life story of Olive Ann Beech
an accomplished aerospace businesswoman who was co-founder
president and chairwoman of Beech Aircraft Corporation
Looking back at the obstacles that crippled hotel-motel occupancy
Rygg said policies on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border influenced Canadian visitors’ travel to the Grand Cities
affected what items could be transported across the border
The pandemic “had a solid impact on the hospitality industry.”
That compares with year-to-date (through February) occupancy rates of 50.8% in 2020
February occupancy rates reached 53.6% in 2020 (before COVID shutdowns)
February rates were 48.7% in both 2022 and in 2023
“Our weekends are pretty busy this time of year.”
compared to the January 2024 rate of 48.3%
the year-end occupancy rate – meaning the overall average for the year – reached 60.1%
climbing each year after a low of 42.3% in 2020
the year-end occupancy rate continued to improve with rates of 46.6% in 2021
The year 2019 – before COVID took hold – ended with a 57% occupancy rate
Based on her experience and understanding of occupancy
“you want to aim to be – in your community – in that 60% area
the increase in occupancy rates can be attributed to the growth in the number of concerts and events at the Alerus Center
Hotel occupancy is boosted by more amenities in Greater Grand Forks
Also the Greenway “is such a huge benefit for us,” Rygg said
The number of tournaments – especially youth athletic tourneys and “of course
hockey” – has fueled a boost in hotel occupancy
Another big one is the annual Junior Grand Am Basketball Tournament
“bringing more people to town who are spending more money.”
Other organized competitions and championship events – related to robotics
science and engineering – have been growing
an influx of airmen from Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City
has spurred demand for hotel rooms – demand that is expected to continue through October
Up to 800 airmen have been temporarily transferred to Grand Forks Air Force Base while a major construction project is underway at their home base
While occupancy data collected by Visit Greater Grand Forks does not indicate where hotel guests are from
“I’m guessing (the influx of airmen) is having a good impact on our occupancy rates.”
Rygg and her associates at Visit Greater Grand Forks have received feedback from some Canadian visitors suggesting that “they’re not going to return to North Dakota for the time-being,” she said
“You get these comments that they’re not coming for the next four years,” which would hint at a statement about political differences
reveals that 83% of hotel managers have seen a decrease in Canadian guests in the past two months
according to a Herald article published Saturday
About 45% said they believe it’s due to the “current political climate,” and more believe it is a combination of the political climate and the exchange rate
“we hear from people that they’re still seeing Manitoba plates everywhere,” Rygg said
“We’re being very cautious in decision-making regarding our advertising” and
have discontinued social media advertising
Visit Greater Grand Forks “is still advertising a considerable amount in Manitoba – and specifically Winnipeg.”
GRAND FORKS — Grand Forks Red River received two stellar performances on the mound Friday night in a doubleheader sweep of Grand Forks Central
Matt Dosch returned to form while Griffen Haagenson continued riding high as both pitchers threw nearly identical complete-game
Dosch collected 10 strikeouts on two hits allowed and one walk
with Haagenson matching that strikeout total on two hits allowed and one walk in Game 2
throwing the ball like we know he can and that was nice to see,” Red River head coach Mark Varriano said
He’s very dependable and a good starter for us
Dosch was in a groove early on against the top of the Central lineup
He struck out five of the first seven batters he faced
he drew in the first run of the night on a walk following singles from Cam Irion and Haagenson
“I felt really good up there and really confident
I was really commanding my fastball well and then mixing in the curve there too
I just had confidence in Adrian (Gonzalez Rodriguez) behind the plate and confidence in my fielders and got the job done.”
After striking out the side in the top of the second
the Roughriders got perhaps the biggest pop at the plate in both games after a two-run home run from Caden Tostenson extended the lead
He drove in Max Grafenauer following a triple
Red River scored two more runs in Game 1 and three in Game 2
We got ourselves into some problems by swinging at things at our ankles and above our hands
We had opportunities to take advantage early in the count and smash the ball as hard as you can,” Varriano said
The Roughriders were errorless in both games
In the five combined hits from the Knights
two of them came off the bat of Kyler Lamb and Keegan Hensrud
The Knights attempted to move those runners over on bunts
Haagenson supplied major offense to his outing with a RBI triple into the right-center gap
Jace Mason and Alex Seaver provided the other scoring plays on a single and a sacrifice fly
Red River receives two points in the league standings with the sweep to move to 8-4 on the year
The Riders sit at fifth in the East Region
Kelly Armstrong on Friday signed a bill that opens a path for up to $3 million in state funding for the development of a Veterans Memorial Center at Fargo National Cemetery
was signed during a ceremony that also included U.S
and members of the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard
as outlined by a release from Hoeven’s office
include a gathering area to be used by family and friends of the deceased veteran prior to or following interment; a gallery to showcase the lives and service of veterans; offices for Veterans Administration staff; a break room for Honor Guard members; indoor restrooms; a garage to accommodate a hearse; and a parking lot
Meyer said the Memorial Honor Guard reached out to him last year asking if he would be willing to sponsor the plan
“They were going around the state showing their idea
and it didn’t work out,” Meyer told the Grand Forks Herald
The Honor Guard sought out Meyer because of previous work pushing military-themed proposals in the Legislature
“It’s something I’m honored to be a part of,” Meyer said
SB 2265 creates a line of credit of up to $3 million
Since the new memorial center will require approvals at the federal level
its in-state backers must wait before moving ahead with construction
Since the Legislature only meets every other year
the line of credit allows the project to move forward once it receives federal approval
rather than waiting for state approval – and funding – in a future biennium
The Fargo Memorial Honor Guard is the nonprofit organization responsible for building the center
The funds will become available once the U.S
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides final approval of the project plan and authorizes construction to begin
priorities which Hoeven continues working to advance at the federal level
Hoeven has received commitments from Veterans Administration Secretary Doug Collins and Sam Brown
nominee to become VA Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs
to work with Hoeven to get the federal approvals
Meyer said that “as the son of a Vietnam veteran
it is the honor of my legislative career to secure funding for upgrades at the Fargo National Cemetery.” He commended Hoeven’s leadership for “bringing all parties to the table
and I’m proud that the state of North Dakota did their part to commemorate our veterans.”
Added Schauer: “The passage of SB 2265 sends an important message to veterans and their families: We care
We care about you when you leave the military
we care for you when your times comes to end
Our goal is to bring the Fargo National Cemetery to the same high standard as the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan
but attainable when we work together to achieve it.”
Investors feel the whiplash as markets react to on-again
off-again tariffs proposed by the Trump administration
The recent 90-day pause led to sighs of relief in some quarters and consternation in others — but Trump’s effort to remake the global economy is just starting
That’s because those barriers have far more of an effect than tariffs
something to which many Trump critics are blind
Bessent can find a lot in Japan’s trade policy to discuss
It looks as if Japan is ready to address some: relatively high agricultural tariffs
and a range of import and distribution distortions that decrease the competitiveness of U.S
farmers will especially benefit from eliminating some of these barriers
as China’s retaliatory tariffs have blocked them from accessing that nation
Japanese companies will benefit from reduced barriers because Trump wants to make deals
Negotiations by Japan could include expansion of industries in U.S
markets to the apparent benefit of the Japanese
then-President Joe Biden blocked Nippon Steel’s purchase of U.S
Nippon Steel has expanded the financial value of its investment in the American steel industry to $21 billion
with a promise that it will keep thousands of jobs
perhaps because he recognizes that America needs allies to increase pressure on China
which often appears on the international economic community’s bad list
Its average tariff of 17 percent is the highest of any major economy
Its rate of agriculture imports is an astonishing 113 percent
spirits can increase the costs of products by three times or more
We could do this exercise for every country
We could refer to the 45 pages of China barriers or the 33 pages of European Union barriers
The point is that many countries have long-established patterns of distortion of trade
These barriers aren’t “tariffs,” so they’re not getting headlines
yet they create greater trade distortions than even the worst tariff — three times as much
The smart leaders know things are changing — and not just for tariffs
China is choosing the path of most aggression and least results
while its neighbors are taking steps to reduce their barriers so deals can be made
It won’t be just governments that benefit — large companies such as Nippon Steel to small Mom-and-Pop farms will find U.S
They could presage Trump’s effort to remake the world’s economic order
reducing barriers assumed to be set in stone
Here are some nuggets about fishing in Minnesota
Some of the information is from the 2022 National Survey of Fishing
Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation
The purchase price of every fishing license in Minnesota goes into the Department of Natural Resources’ Game and Fish Fund
a dedicated account that can only be used for fish
law enforcement and certain other outdoor-related activities
Every year since 1986 – good weather and bad – Tim Lyon has tested the waters of Lake of the Woods or Rainy River on the Minnesota Fishing Opener
A charter boat driver for Ballard’s Resort on the south shore of Lake of the Woods north of Baudette
Lyon says he still looks forward to opening day
The Rhode Island native started his career as a Lake of the Woods fishing guide at the Northwest Angle before moving to the south end of the lake
where he’s been a charter boat captain since 2000
As the May 10 Minnesota Fishing Opener approaches
Lyon says he’s optimistic about fishing prospects on the big lake
I’m always excited about that – especially when you’ve gone through that sort of catharsis of nothing going on over the course of the last several weeks.”
Later ice-out often means lights-out fishing on Lake of the Woods
as spawning walleyes linger in the Rainy River and adjacent Four-Mile Bay before returning to the main lake
“I always look forward to late springs,” Lyon said
“If I don’t have to go out on the lake and try to chase fish around out there
it’s nice to have that first week in the river
just based on the amount of ice that’s still out there
“The (water) temperature should be cold enough to still have spawning fish in the river
which always throws some bigger fish into the boat during the course of the opener.”
During years when that happens — 2013 and 2014 stand out in the minds of many anglers — Four-Mile Bay and the mouth of the Rainy can be “just a frenzy of big fish and probably not that many fish the size you can keep,” Lyon says
Anglers on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River (to the dam at International Falls
Minnesota) can keep an aggregate limit of six walleyes and saugers
All walleyes from 19½ to 28 inches in length must be released
and one trophy walleye longer than 28 inches is allowed
“I’m more than happy to fish for ego” over eaters
the 500,000 (or so) anglers who hit the water for the storied Minnesota Fishing Opener won’t lack options
whether it’s walleyes or other species such as northern pike
panfish or catfish — a perennial favorite among anglers who fish the Red River
walleyes are the stars of the show on opening day
Fisheries crews for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are wrapping up their annual walleye egg take operations to supply state stocking programs
Northwest Region fisheries manager for the DNR in Bemidji
two-week period where fish are getting ready to bite again” by opening day
According to the DNR’s spring fishing outlook
Lake of the Woods has a strong population of walleyes in the 13- to 16-inch range
smaller 9- to 11-inch fish and a “high” abundance of walleyes larger than 25 inches
Anchoring and jigging with a minnow or frozen shiner is the go-to technique for early season walleyes — at least on Lake of the Woods and Rainy River
“It’s hard to stress how little you want to move and how soft that bite is when it’s cold,” Lyon said
Upper Red Lake also will be loaded with boats on opening day
the DNR upped the walleye limit on Upper Red to five fish
anglers on Upper Red were allowed three walleyes
from the May 11 opener through June 14; beginning June 15
area fisheries supervisor for the DNR in Bemidji
this year’s increased open water limit reflects a series of recent strong year-classes that has resulted in an abundance of smaller walleyes in the population
The summer regulation allows anglers to keep abundant walleyes while maintaining breeding fish at a level that continues to produce successful year-classes
A year-class refers to fish recruited to the population from a particular year’s hatch
“We’ve had good year-classes every couple of years now,” Evarts said
so we’re back to getting good year-classes in there
fishing on the state's 48,000-acre portion of Upper Red should be good for the opener
The ice on Upper Red was all but gone April 29
with just a small band of shore ice on the south shore of Lower Red
Larger post-spawn walleyes likely will be concentrated on the first shoreline break for the opener
so the DNR recommends that anglers have a proper measuring board in the boat to accurately measure the fish they catch
Walleyes on Red could be “at the tail end of their spawn” on the opener
nw-1 by Brad Dokken on Scribd
shallower lakes likely will offer the best fishing prospects
“We just lost ice on Lake Bemidji this week — I think it’s all gone — so the water is still going to be pretty cold
“I would say that any of our shallower lakes like Plantagenet and Blackduck
those would all be good starter lakes for the walleye opener.”
generally isn’t a destination lake for the fishing opener
though smaller lakes in the Mississippi River chain
“such as Kitchi and any of those,” would be good bets
and they’re in the river (chain) so they’re going to be warmer,” she said
Walleyes should be even more recovered from the spawn farther south in Minnesota
the other large lake in the DNR’s Northwest Region
with walleye numbers “within or above various management objectives,” the DNR said in its preseason outlook
Anglers can expect to encounter several year-classes of walleyes ranging from 10 inches to 27 inches in length
with the majority being from the 2021 year-class
says he’ll be participating in the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener
which this year will be held in the Crosslake chain of lakes area near Brainerd
he’ll be among the volunteers taking event participants fishing
The Minnesota Fishing Opener “is a great tradition,” Bacigalupi says
but it’s also just kind of celebrating the arrival of spring and the tradition of fishing and families having a good excuse to get back together,” he said
Maybe the tradition is getting up early; or hitting the water at 12:01 a.m.
The Minnesota Fishing Opener is set by statute to open the Saturday two weeks before the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend
“It’s something to celebrate,” Bacigalupi said
but it’s still about people knowing that this is still a great place to come and visit and recreate and for our citizens to enjoy our resources that we do work hard at maintaining.”
(KVRR) — Two teens facing a laundry list of charges for a shooting near Americas Best Value Inn in Grand Forks have preliminary hearings in court
The hearing for 16-year-old Mason Allery was waved and he’ll be back in court on July 31
The hearing for 18-year-old Walker Poitra was moved to June 20
Both teens are now being tried as adults and are each charged with five counts of attempted murder and five counts of reckless endangerment in addition to other counts
police were called to the 1000 block of 42nd Street North for a report of gunshots
Witnesses say Poitra fired several shots at a vehicle with five people inside
Two people were treated for non-life threatening injuries
a Republican from Arnegard who resigned as leader of his party's caucus in the closing weeks of the legislative session
has now also resigned his seat in the Legislature
"I received his letter of resignation," said Sen
chairman of Legislative Management for the interim
"I do not discuss personalities or internal personnel matters publicly," he said
I'm sure there will be others who might discuss it with you
House Majority Leader Mike Lefor provided me with a copy of Olson's resignation letter
I have decided to resign my seat in the North Dakota House of Representatives
"It has been a true honor to serve the people of District 26 and to work alongside so many dedicated public servants
I am proud of what we've accomplished together."
I believe stepping aside is in the best interest of the Legislature
I am grateful for the opportunity to have served," he continued
Olson was reelected to the House in District 26 last year and had the bulk of his current term in front of him
His resignation as caucus leader cited pressure from his day job as the reason to step down
Lefor said he was "made aware" of a complaint against Olson on Friday
He said that he's since visited with other legislative leaders and put together a committee to review the matter
He said he also called Olson about the complaint over the weekend
and that Olson told him at that time that he was going to choose to resign
House Minority Leader Zac Ista declined to comment on the matter
saying he felt the matter has so far been taken seriously and dealt with appropriately
saying that no complaints had been filed against him
A request to Legislative Council at that time confirmed this statement
denied my request for a copy of the complaint
He told me that though legislative leadership had begun organizing for an investigation
records pertaining to a personnel investigation are exempt from records requests for up to 75 days
But because no investigation commenced in this matter
Bjornson says it's his office's conclusion that the records are exempt
the workplace harassment policy calls for the leaders to quickly determine if the complaint should be summarily dismissed," he told me in an email
the policy calls for the appointment of a review committee
That committee was appointed Friday evening."
the review committee must meet within 72 hours
It became clear the committee was going to need to meet before adjournment of the session to ensure everyone would be available
We quickly worked to track down the members so we could fit in a meeting between floor sessions
was a quick distribution of the complaint and review of the next steps
The committee intended to meet later this week to address the initiation of an investigation," Bjornson said
the committee will not be pursuing the matter further
there are no investigative documents to disclose
We consider the complaint to not be subject to disclosure under NDCC 44-04-18.6," Bjornson said in a follow-up email
I have filed a request for a legal opinion from Attorney General Drew Wrigley's office on whether these records are exempt
GRAND FORKS – Some form of budget cuts are likely at Grand Forks County as the commission discussed its 2026 budget during its meeting Tuesday
“(I’m) not asking anybody to do anything we’re not doing ourselves.”
Among Bjerke’s proposed cuts are to organizations the county partners with
Safe Kids Coordinator Carma Hanson said that while she appreciates the financial prudence that commissioners are pursuing
cutting funds would be detrimental to what she and other programs do
“I want to reach out to you as commissioners
just to say that it will impact the work we are able to do,” Hanson said
we are covering all the calls from the county when they call and say we’re placing a child with foster care and the foster parents need a car seat
… There needs to be a plan in place should a cut like this happen.”
Several organizations like the Grand Forks Public Library
NDSU Extension and the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation also expressed their concerns about proposed cuts in county funds
"I certainly recognize the tough budgetary times and understand that there's a need to tighten the belt and to look at cost-saving measures," EDC President and CEO Keith Lund said
"The number that I saw in the county report was a little bit larger than I expected."
Commissioner Cynthia Pic said the commission needs to keep the staff in mind as they pursue their options for the 2026 budget and not single out specific departments with specific quotas for cuts
“I would propose that (cuts) may be across the board instead of particularly looking at specific ones,” Pic said
but we were voted by the people of this county to provide the services that are important for our population.”
County Administrator Tom Ford told commissioners that he’s been approached by department heads about staff morale as budget conversations continue
“They’re concerned they’re going to lose their job
which I haven’t heard a commissioner say we’re going to cut,” Ford said
(I would ask) that the commission has exhausted every area to reduce funding.”
The commission was in agreement on avoiding any layoffs
and that job cuts would be a last-ditch effort for county savings
Commission Chair Kimberly Hagen’s proposal was that departments look at a 1% to 3% cut after accounting for salary and benefits
and come and ask for more money is basically off the table,” Hagen said
GRAND FORKS — Entities ranging from local businesses to the Department of the Air Force have cut ties with Bruce Gjovig since a Friday report documenting the entrepreneur’s email exchanges with convicted former state Sen
A Department of the Air Force spokesperson confirmed Tuesday that Gjovig is no longer an Air and Space Force Civic Leader
Civic Leaders are community members selected by the Air Force Chief of Staff who serve as unpaid advisers and liaisons between the Air Force and communities with a significant military presence
who was appointed to the role in 2016 and most recently held emeritus status with the program
is no longer affiliated with the Civic Leader program as of Monday
the nearby aviation park and the operators of the Olive Ann Hotel are also among the entities that have ended their association with Gjovig in the past few days
Gjovig told Mayor Brandon Bochenski he is stepping down from the city's Base Retention and Investment Committee
the mayor shared with the Herald on Wednesday
GrandSky Engagement Director Scott Meyer said Tuesday the aviation park is cutting ties with Gjovig in light of The Forum’s report
Gjovig was closely associated with efforts to develop the city’s unmanned aerial systems industry and served as an unpaid “strategic adviser” for the aviation park
which makes the recent release of Bruce Gjovig’s correspondence so disheartening,” Meyer said
“We believe it’s best to end any relationship with him in light of these revelations.”
that he was unaware of the “criminal nature” of Holmberg’s sexual activity and was “appalled” to learn of the former state senator’s conduct
several Grand Forks businesses that displayed artwork from Gjovig’s personal collection have taken down the art or removed public references to their display
said that Gjovig’s artwork is no longer being displayed at the Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea in the Olive Ann Hotel as of Saturday
we decided to make that decision,” Bahl said
322 Hospitality Group owns and operates the downtown hotel
Altru Health System spokesperson Ken Hanson wrote in a text message to the Herald that the health care provider had begun the process of returning Gjovig’s art “in light of recent
Art from Gjovig’s collection had previously been displayed at the Altru Professional Center at 4440 S Washington St
“Altru is committed to fostering a space of healing and respect for all,” Hanson wrote
the city-owned event and convention facility
has taken down its webpage promoting the Bruce Gjovig Collection
a gallery of Gjovig’s private collection and a rotating gallery of works from local artists displayed at the Alerus Center’s conference center
General Manager Anna Rosberg wrote in an email to the Herald that the Alerus Center had an agreement with the Public Arts Commission to display the art and did not have a formal relationship with Gjovig
She said the gallery had previously been scheduled for removal this week in advance of a remodel of the conference center and “the future of the public art gallery will be assessed post-renovation.”
The Public Arts Commission wrote in a Tuesday evening email to the Herald that Gjovig’s art had been removed from the Alerus Center as of that day
It said Gjovig had not served on the commission’s board for several years and had not provided financial support since then
“nor has any association with the Public Arts Commission.”
The commission released a public statement late Wednesday afternoon saying it is working to remove art from Gjovig's collection from its permanent galleries
“Information shared in these recent reports mentions several former UND employees connected to Holmberg,” Armacost said
“While they have not been accused of criminal action
we will ensure that they have no connection to our university community.”
Gjovig founded UND’s Center for Innovation in 1984 and served as its CEO until stepping down in 2017
UND’s student-run venture capital fund affiliated with the Center for Innovation
has scrubbed references to Gjovig from its website
Gjovig co-founded the venture capital fund in 2006 with investor Bart Holaday and served until recently on the fund’s advisory board
said he has heard nothing from investigators since that interview
He said he resigned because he doesn’t want to be a distraction
DEVILS LAKE – Minnesota might hog the spotlight as the state’s annual fishing opener approaches
but a certain big lake on the North Dakota side of the Red River shouldn’t be overlooked
Devils Lake has a reputation – and a good one
The ice should be all or mostly off by May 1
Walleyes will be shallow – and biting – like this time every spring
Fishing season in North Dakota is open year-round
though new fishing licenses were required beginning April 1
Early season tactics and techniques will be shared later
but first a look at what to expect of this North Dakota lake
Water levels are governed by Mother Nature’s moisture
Devils Lake held at a constant level due to heavier-than-usual rainfall – 25 to 30 inches throughout the summer
The Devils Lake area was one of the few areas in the upper Midwest that did not suffer drought conditions
The current level is at about 1,450 feet above sea level
manager of the Devils Lake Basin Joint Water Resources Board
saying the lake will maybe rise one-half foot,” Frith said
The regional snowpack was considerably lower than the 56-inch annual average
marginal snowpack means very little current is flowing from the smaller lakes and coulees north of the main lake
There is enough water for walleye spawning runs to a few upper lakes
district fisheries biologist for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department in Devils Lake
works on Devils Lake fisheries topics nearly every day
there can be good walleye spawning success whether it runs hard or is like this year with minimal current,” Caspers said
we have experienced above-average hatches annually,” Caspers said
“The long-term average is 25 young-of-year (walleyes) per net
That’s good news for the big lake’s tourism industry
area businesses and out of town or out of state visitors
could be in the main-lake bays or in the upper lakes after ice-out
Underwater railroad grades and old road beds also attract spawners
Something new for 2025 on Devils Lake will be a tagging study the North Dakota Game and Fish Department is planning to examine exploitation rates
About 1,000 walleyes from 13 inches to 29 inches will be wearing metal lip hardware
Caspers wants to know when a tagged walleye has been caught
call the district Game and Fish office at (701) 662-3617
or enter the information on the Game and Fish website at gf.nd.gov
Early season anglers also line the shorelines
bridges and just about anywhere they can cast out
Typical tactics include dead bait on the bottom for pike
Local guides are willing to share their expertise in boats or even on land
a 14-year veteran guide and owner of FinHunters Guide Service
He leans on slip-bobbers or casting jigs and plastic
The key to finding early season walleyes is locating the warmest water
that means backs of bays with mud bottoms and some new weed growth
Roswick’s go-to casting set-up: Small paddletails by Northland or Berkley (Ripple Shad) on white
chartreuse or firetiger 3/16- or 1/4- ounce jigs (Roswick favors Northland RZ jigs)
Roswick says he has found two-tone jigs to be especially deadly
orange/white or chartreuse/white jigs fished with a steady retrieve just above the bottom
Roswick’s rods are spooled with 8-pound lime-green Fireline with the same size fluorocarbon leader
He prefers a 3/32-ounce jig baited with a leech
seventeen 8th grade students and teachers from Schroeder Middle School visited the Grand Forks County Courthouse to learn about the court system and some of the various areas of employment opportunities in the criminal justice system. During the “Rapid Roundtable – Justice in Motion” event
the students were able to observe various hearings during a criminal court session
learn about the process involved in those hearings and visit with a variety of staff. The staff visits were accomplished by dividing the visitors into four groups and having them spend about 10 minutes visiting with employees from four distinct areas of the law. Areas represented by the criminal justice system included judges
staff attorneys and court administration.
Initial feedback received from the school was “ Today was amazing. I can't believe how many people dedicated time for the kids. It really was remarkable. I have no doubt that this is something that the kids will remember for a long time. “
Students visit with law enforcement about the work they do in the community to enforce laws
(L to R) Judges Theodore Sandberg and Jay Knudson answer questions from students
Students visit with attorneys to understand their role in the justice system
Juvenile Court staff visit with students about the role of Juvenile Court in the legal system