Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

3.18.2025 Commission Minutes

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, March 18, 2025


President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Magnuson

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Police Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

No Changes

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Approve Minutes from the 3.4.2025 Commission Meeting.
  2. Approve Raffle for Valley City High School DECA on April 23, 2025 at Valley City High School.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

ORDINANCE

Third and Final Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve the ordinance with all changes except the time for compliance in subsection 1 of section 7.1-01-05 will remain at 24 hours until the law can be further reviewed, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

RESOLUTION

Approve Resolution 2474, a Resolution Creating Paving Improvement District No. 132.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,573,274.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed unanimously.

Hear and Determine Sufficiency of Written Protests and Approve Annexation as Described in Resolution 2473.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Roll Call Vote: Commissioner Gulmon acknowledged a conflict of interest and abstained. Commissioner Bishop – Aye, Commissioner Magnuson – Aye, Commissioner Erickson – Aye, President Carlsrud – Aye. Motion passed unanimously.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford STATED THAT President Carlsrud, Commissioners, I have nothing for tonight.

CITY UPDATES & COMMISSION REPORTS

 Finance Director Klein stated, “Commissioners, in front of you is a Municipal Infrastructure worksheet as we did receive in our payment for municipal infrastructure funds just this week. So that was what we were expecting in 2025. The December payment in 2024 was the 2.5 million and then the 930 thousand plus was our 2025 payment that was projected. Just wanted to let you know we received those funds this week.”

President Carlsrud shared“Just a quick shout out to all our employees for the great job that you do. Those of you who weren’t here for the finance meeting, we had introductions and little background of the people who work in our electrical department, it was appreciated. Thank you all for what you do.

And I would be remiss if I did not mention that George Gaukler died. George was a businessman, Developer, and Politician involved in everything Valley City. He was a generous man who loved Valley City and I could go on for a long time, but I would just say thank you to George and his family. We’re grateful for the wonderful things that you’ve done for Valley City.”

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:08 P.M.

3.31.2025 Mayor’s Message

NEWS & NOTES

3/31/2025

Greetings All,

  • That Women in History Month ended Monday and baseball is underway, here is a little shoutout to the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL).  Philip K. Wrigley founded the league which was in play from 1943 to 1954. The AAGPBL is recognized as the forerunner of women’s professional league sports in the United States.  Thank you Mr. Wrigley.
  • A number of citizens are obtaining an extra 65-gallon garbage container which is acceptable. More containers mean more garbage to the Fargo Landfill, and it is expensive, to help save money for yourself and all Valley City citizens, recycle! CARDBOARD is a very beneficial material to recycle as there is a lot of it and it is heavy.  Please recycle and do not put cardboard in the garbage.
  • Motorists, please remember pedestrians have right-of-way at crosswalks though not when they are J-walking and pedestrians, be considerate of motorists.  Be respectful of each other and all will be smoother and safer. 
  • Race horse Secretariat, was born March 30, 1970; he was spectacular, research him.
  • An excerpt from Superintendent Josh Johnson’s letter to VCPS District Citizens:  “The VCPS School Board voted unanimously to call for a school referendum for June 10, 2025.  The vote will ask the citizens of the school district to decide on a $46 million new school that would be connected to Jefferson Elementary School.  The intent of this proposal is to consolidate our school district buildings, enhance school safety and security, modernize educational spaces, address ADA issues, eliminate $30 million of deferred maintenance, and maximize operational efficiencies for our school district.  This proposal would also include closing, selling, and demolishing some of our existing school buildings in the district. If you have any questions or would like to meet, please reach out to Supt. Johnson by phone at 701.490.2825 or email at josh.johnson@k12.nd.us
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “If you want peace, you don’t talk with those who agree with you, you talk with those who disagree with you.”                   ~ Paraphrasing Desmond Tutu

Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud 

Agenda Available

4.1.2025 Commission Agenda

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, April 1, 2025
5:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM CT, at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85302825658 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  853 0282 5658.

Call To Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

Approval of Agenda (Roll Call Vote needed when changes made to the Agenda)

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

 

Approval of Consent Agenda

  1. Approve Minutes from the 3.18.2025 Finance and Commission Meetings and the 3.21.2025 Special Commission Meeting.                                                                                                                            
  2. Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:

Education Foundation for VCPS on 4.10.2025 at VCHS Cafeteria                                        

Sheyenne Red River Rodeo Club on 4.26 and 4.27.2025 at the ND Winter Show Building

VCSU Viking Booster Board on 4.30.2025 at the VC Eagles Club

VCSU Foundation/VCSU Scholarship Auction Fundraiser on 4.11.2025 at the VC Eagles Club

C. Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:                                                                           

Karma Enterprises LLC dba Asset Services LLC of Fargo ND

Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

Public Comments

Attorney General’s “A Citizen’s Guide to North Dakota Open Records & Open Meetings Laws” *A member of the public does not have the right to speak to the governing body at an open meeting.  The public is only entitled to see and hear what happens at a meeting, and to record or broadcast those observations.

  • No personal attacks to persons present or not
  • No inflammatory language used during time that you have the platform
  • 5-minute maximum or as directed by the chair
  • Thank you for participating in City Government.

Public Hearing

Ordinance

 Resolution

RES 2475 Approving Engineer’s Report and Directing Preparation of Detailed Plans and Specs – Paving 132.

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

RES 2476 Declaring Necessity of Improvements in Paving Improvement District No. 132.

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

RES 2477 Creating Sanitary Sewer Improvement District No. 72.

Roll Call:          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Carlsrud

New Business

NB1.    Remove Gary Jacobson and add Joy Kiefert as an Authorized Signer on the City of Valley City’s Accounts at Dacotah Bank Effective April 1, 2025 (Finance Director Klein)

            Roll Call:          Bishop             Magnuson        Erickson          Gulmon           Carlsrud

NB2.    Approve Award – PROJECT: TAU-2-990(066), PCN 23917 – BARNES CO; WINTERSHOW ROAD SHARED-USE PATH, JCT 8TH AVE SW TO NEAR 2ND AVE SW – VALLEY CITY.                       

Roll Call:          Magnuson        Erickson           Gulmon           Bishop             Carlsrud

City Administrator’s Report
City Updates & Commission Reports
Adjourn

Agenda Available

4.8.2025 Board of Equalization Agenda

CITY COMMISSION MEETING VALLEY CITY, NORTHDAKOTA

Tuesday, April 8th, 2025, 4:00 PM

The City Board of Equalization Meeting will begin on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 at 4:00 PM at the City Commission Chambers, 254 2 nd   Ave NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view on-line   https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84122419602 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID: 840 8557 9522

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

  1. Auditor to read Sections 57-11-01, 03 and 07 of the North Dakota Century Code pertaining to the duties of the Board of Equalization.
  • President declares the hearing open
    • Report from Assessor
    • Requests from Property Owners
    • Auditor’s report on any written communication
  • Motion to close hearing

Roll Call:         Bishop              Magnuson      Gulmon            Erickson         Carlsrud

  • Commission to review the assessment books. Motion to approve the assessment books as prepared by the City Assessor. (Note any changes to assessment books in separate motion).

Roll Call:         Magnuson        Bishop            Erickson           Gulmon          Carlsrud

ADJOURN

3.24.2025 Mayor’s Message

NEWS & NOTES

3/24/2025

        Hello Folks,

  • With Women’s and Men’s March Madness basketball beginning  last week, it is a dream time for basketball lovers like my brother.  So for all of you “basketball junkies”, enjoy the tournaments. 
  • For you hockey fans, the NCAA College Hockey Women’s and Men’s tournaments are also under way.  If you don’t happen to be a “dyed-in-the-wool” hockey fan, the tournament contests are VERY intense …… check’m out & enjoy.
  • Please contain cigarette butts/filters in your vehicle or yard for proper disposal later.  Cigarette filters are made of cellulose acetate and will take up to ten years to decompose and can contribute to pollution.
  • Last week at the North Dakota League of Cities (NDLC) Spring Conference Judi Hintz, Brandy Johnson and Gwen Crawford were recognized for their continuing education in the NDLC Leadership Training Program.  Congratulations and thank you for going the “extra mile”.
  • Some of the NDLC Spring Conference presentations were: Liability and Reporting, Landfill Rules and Regulations, Legislative Updates, ND Corrections and Rehabilitation to name a few.  The folks at the NDLC do a great job facilitating their conferences.
  • For more information on the Valley City Service Center Complex, please see https://www.valleycity.us/public-works/public-works-service-center-complex/ and https://www.valleycity.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Service-Center-Complex-Overview.pdf
  • Our Valley City Fire Department held a fundraiser Saturday night, there was a wonderful turnout and a good time was had by all.  Funds are earmarked for needed Fire & Rescue Equipment purchases with this year’s goal being Amkus Push-Pull Rams, https://www.bigskyfire.com/products/amkus-push-pull-rams/.  The ram is a lifesaver which costs over $100,000 so your help is greatly appreciated. Thank you to all who contributed and to the firefighters for all they do.  Be safe.
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “Peace begins with a smile.” ~ Mother Teresa

        Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

3.4.2025 Commission Minutes

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Tuesday, March 4, 2025



President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Bishop, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Magnuson

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Police Chief Horner, Administrative Assistant Hintz.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Move Item N5. to Consent Agenda.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Deedra Froemke brought up discussion on Ordinance 1169, does this pertain to Hidden Pond Trail?

Trevor Kamstra discussed communication regarding fines and communication in general.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Approve Minutes from the 2.14.2025 Special Commission Meeting and the 2.20.2025 Finance and Commission Meetings.                                                                                                     
  2. Approve the Site Authorization request for:

      Updated Request – Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at North 9 Bar and Grille  

  • Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:                                                                                             VCSU Foundation/VCSU Scholarship Auction Fundraiser on 4.11 at the Eagles                         Disabled American Veterans Monthly Drawing at the Eagles, 7/2025 – 6/2026

Sheyenne Valley Friends of Animals on 4.19 at the Eagles

Mary Jones Benefit on 5.3 at the Eagles

  • Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:                                                                        

            Roger Koble Contracting

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed unanimously.

ORDINANCE

Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way.             

Commissioner Magnuson moved to change as discussed and add to 3.18.25 agenda for reading and approval, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Second and Final Reading of Ordinance 1170, an ordinance to amend and reenact chapter 11-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to zoning nonconformities.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve the Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation request of $45,000 to increase childcare capacity with funds sourced from the City Sales Tax dedicated to economic development.

Jennifer Feist with the VCBCDC explained the need for funds to help assist with the lack of childcare in the area. She is currently working with two new possible parties interested in addressing the supply of childcare issues. There will be a provision in the contract that the facility must remain operational for a minimum of 5 years or there is a “claw back” requiring repayment and they must be licensed.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve revision to allocation of funds for “Back the Blue” grant money. These are remaining funds from the grant that was awarded in 2023 and must be allocated before March 24, 2025. Previously, $11,000.00 was paid for retention bonuses and $1000.00 for recruitment bonuses. The remaining balance will be paid towards retention bonuses.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve ND DWR Pre-Construction Cost Share Application for Preliminary and Design Engineering for Northwest Standpipe – Emergency Repairs.                                                              

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve GMP Amendment to McGough’s Contract for the Valley City Public Works Building to be completed by Olaf Anderson in the amount of 1,635,532 for the Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB). Oliver Finneman with McGough discussed the process for bids, the need to get this structure ordered, there is a 3 to 4 month waiting period and that would really cut into prime construction season. He also explained that many local contractors were notified prior to the start of the build and will continue to be included in bids throughout the build process. If possible, the City would like to use local contractors as much as possible.

President Carlsrud opened the meeting to Public Comment again. Todd Ingstad shared his concerns over the cost and payment method for the new Public Works Building. Jon Aus shared his concern, from the stewardship and resources, was looking for justification of the monies being spent. All 4 Commissioners and President Carlsrud spoke in favor of the build. They explained that this didn’t just come up tonight but has been in discussion and the works since 2017. The estimate from 2018 was discussed and the increase in cost since. The reasoning for the new building and discussion on the condition of the current buildings. Why the increase in electrical rates over property taxes to help with the cost of the build. Electrical rates in general compared to neighboring communities. Employee safety and well-being. Equipment storage needs.  

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford talked about the requests for more transparency. If there is a way that we can share more information than we already do, please reach out with your suggestions. Agendas, minutes and materials are all posted on the valleycity.us website for easy access. Notices are sent out to the Newspaper, posted on Facebook and Instagram and now we have an additional location, the Valley City App. Please let us know if you know of a way to get more of the public involved in our meetings.

Police Chief Horner wanted to remind all to be cautious with the snow melt, thaw and freezing. This causes ice to build and can be very dangerous. Please be aware.

City Engineer Peterson shared a map and discussed the proposed Seal Coat work to be done in 2025.  

Commissioner Gulmon gave a report on City Finances and that the Sales Tax revenue was up about 6.9% last year. Online sales, Food & Beverage and the Occupancy taxes were all up this past year. 

Commissioner Erickson wanted to remind all that he will gladly take your phone calls and answer your emails when he is available. If he is not able to answer, he will get back to you.

Commissioner Magnuson shared some history on the Public Works Building and why the rate increase was selected as the fairest way to collect funds. Please call anytime to talk about what is going on, get answers to your questions and to hear what is truly happening. Very open to discussing these issues with you directly.

Commissioner Bishop asked residents to call, text or emailanytime and he will gladly talk or meet with you. He will not respond to Social Media comments. All of the Commissioners are open to conversations and want to do what they feel is truly best for the City of Valley City overall.

Mayor Carlsrud thank you to all who came to this meeting, we appreciate your presence and your thoughts. Thank you to the Employees for all the numerous projects that you are working on and prepping for spring. Thank you to Oliver and Rich from McGough, appreciate you explaining the project and processes. Thank you to the Commissioners for serving and for all the extra time you put in that people are not aware of.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 6:25 P.M.

Agenda Available

3.21.2025 Special Commission Meeting

Special City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Friday, March 21, 2025
12:00 PM

The City Commission Meeting will begin on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 12:00 PM CT, at City Commission Chambers, 254 2nd Avenue NE, Valley City, ND.

The meeting is also available to view online https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87414383111 or listen by calling (1 346 248 7799) Webinar ID:  874 1438 3111

Call To Order
Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance (please stand)

New Business

NB1.    Approve Raffle for Valley City Lions Club on 4.22.2025 at the Eagles, Valley City.

Roll Call:          Erickson          Gulmon           Bishop             Magnuson        Carlsrud

Adjourn

Minutes Available text with City of Valley City Logo above

2.20.2025 Commission Minutes

City Commission Meeting
Valley City, North Dakota

Thursday, February 20, 2025



President Carlsrud called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.

Members present: President Carlsrud, Commissioner Erickson, Commissioner Gulmon, Commissioner Magnuson, Commissioner Bishop

Others: City Administrator Crawford, City Attorney Martineck, Finance Director Klein, Police Chief Horner and Administrative Assistant Hintz

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Add to the Agenda New Business Items: N9. Approve Maintenance Certification for Urban Federal Aid Project.

Correct the Wording on Ordinance 1169 and 1170  

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Approve Minutes from the 2.4.2025 Commission Meeting.                                                          
  2. Approve the Site Authorization request for:

      Valley City Hockey and Figure Skating Club at North 9 Bar and Grille                                

  • Approve the Raffle Permit requests for:                                                                                      

      St. Catherine’s School at St Catherine’s School on 5.19.2025                                                 

      ND Skills USA, Valley City ND Chapter at Sheyenne Valley Area Career and Tech Center   on 4.14.25

      Valley City Fire Department at the Eagles on 3.22.2025

  • Approve 2024-25 Contractor License for:                                                                        

      Your Home Improvement Company LLC

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.  Motion passed unanimously.

ORDINANCE

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1169, an ordinance to amend and reenact Title 7, create and enact title 7.1, and repeal chapter 15-06 and section 17-04-23 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to use of the public rights of way.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve First Reading of Ordinance 1170, an ordinance to amend and reenact chapter 11-08 of the Valley City Municipal Code related to zoning nonconformities.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS

Approve Monthly Bills for the City and Public Works in the Amount of $1,645,050.            

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.                                                                                                     

Valley City Christian School abatement application.City Assessor Current explained that the abatement request is from Valley City Christian School for 3 months of 2023 and all of 2024. The proper paperwork was not filled out to receive the proper exemption at the time. They do have a 501C3.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the abatement in the amount of $1184.54, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Service Agreement with ND Department of Health and Human Services, Behavioral Health Division and the City of Valley City.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve settlement on Soil Conditions SU-CPU-2-990(062) & SU-2-990(063) PCN: 23571 & 23572. City Administrator Crawford reported the current agreement is for $140,000.00 plus the charge of LDs for 2023, with the LDs for 2024 being forgiven.Engineer Peterson reminded all that the amount will also include the prime contractor markup of 10%.

Commissioner Magnuson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Final Review and Acceptance of Paving District 126, Sanitary District 68, Storm Sewer District 55 and Water Main District 104 – Phase 2 NW Storm Sewer. Engineer Peterson reported that all work was completed last fall per the contract requirements. This was reviewed by the City Administrator and Public Works last week. This is the final review and acceptance, as well as the final pay estimate. A final review of the seeding will happen this spring.

Commissioner Gulmon moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Bishop.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Extension of the Alcohol License start date for Casa Mexico Restaurant.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve the extension of 60 days, seconded by Commissioner Gulmon.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve sale of detached garage – flood buyout – 823 2nd St NE.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Erickson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Settlement and Release Agreement for Property Damage – 711 5th Ave NW.

Commissioner Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

Approve Maintenance Certification for Urban Federal Aid Project. Agreement for Cost participation completed annually.

Commissioner Bishop moved to approve, seconded by Commissioner Magnuson.

Motion passed unanimously.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

City Administrator Crawford shared the Capitol Connections Event that was held in Bismarck this past week. This event covered many discussions on the bills that are being presented in Bismarck and how they will affect our City. She urged Citizens to reach out the Legislators and Representatives on any of the bills and share your feelings.

Public Works Accountant Jacobson share the news that the City will not be charged as much for their power from MRES as previously anticipated. Our rates dropped from 5600 kwh to 4500 kwh.

Commissioner Gulmon reported from the Finance Committee that our revenues have exceeded expenses for 2024. The City is in a good sound financial position.

Commissioner Erickson gave a shout out to Gloria Swart for her assistance in obtaining a grant for the Pilot program which dropped our cost down substantially.

Commissioner Bishop gave a shout out to our Police and Fire Departments for all that they do to protect our city no matter the weather. They are doing an excellent job.

Mayor Carlsrud reiterated the good news from Public Works Accountant Jacobson. Thanks to all of our people who are spending time out in this cold and wishing you safety.

ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:35 P.M.

3.17.2025 Mayor’s Message

Hi Everybody,

  • Hopefully you took pleasure in last week’s beautiful weather and nice weather is again forecast. *The First Day of Spring, also the Vernal Equinox, is March 20, enjoy!
  • Trivia:  March 12 of 1894, Coca-Cola was first served in a glass bottle.
  • Last week, Valley City’s George Gaukler died.  From my view, George was a hard-working, intelligent business man who was  kind, giving and loved Valley City.  The housing developments, apartment complexes and certainly the Gaukler Family Wellness Center are identifiable projects for which he is noted.  What many of us do not know are all the people, businesses and charities to which George was a financial benefactor allowing them so many opportunities to be successful.  Thank you George, you will be missed.
  • Fecal matter, especially “dog poop” can be dangerous due to the presence of bacteria and parasites which can cause illness in humans and animals.  For the safety of all, please pick-up poop in your yard and always carry a “poopie bag” when walking your pet.  Thank you for your efforts.
  • The North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA) crowned Class AA Basketball Champions, West Fargo Horace in the girls’ and Bismarck Century in the boys’.  The other “team” on the floor for all games is the game officials.  It is a big “feather in one’s cap” to be selected as a tournament official, like basketball teams, officials compete for tournaments.  Thanks to all of you officials who  “Enter the Arena” and compete. 
  • * That officiating was just mentioned, why not give officiating a try?  It’s an opportunity to “give back” to sports and kids you love.  Call the (NDHSAA) at 701-845-3953 for information.
  • Some MRES Board topics last week concerned, power supply resources, transmission projects and distribution maintenance services.  With the onset of data centers, generating enough electric power to adequately serve our needs is a huge challenge.
  • Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.
  • “Most folk are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

        Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud