By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
September 2
Police say a woman who reported to police that a man attempted to abduct her on a Valley City street near the VCSU footbridge has recanted her story.
Valley City police chief Dean Ross says the 19-year old VCSU student admitted to detectives that she made up the story.
Ross says the case has been turned over to the Barnes County State's attorney's office for further review and charge may be pending against the woman for filing a false report.
4 years ago, a VCSU student was murdered in her off-campus apartment, and even though her killer was caught and convicted, Dean says false reports like this can bring back bad memories and create panic.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
September 2
It can be turned around that’s what Dr. Stephen McDonough says about childhood obesity.
More than 2 decades ago McDonough tried to warn his colleges about the alarming trend and now every healthcare professional is trying to reverse it. He says 1 in 3 children are obese today which leads to 2 of 3 adult radio later in life.
(Pediatrician Dr. Stephen McDonough.)
McDonough says Valley City is headed in the right direction on educating parents, students and the public about exercise and eating better. He was referring to a grant obtained by the "Young People's Healthy Heart program" implemented through Mercy Hospital and City/County health officials.
(Photos by Steve Urness.)
He says children should have 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and avoid sweet drinks.
McDonough gave a presentation before some 60 healthcare officials and community leaders at the Dacotah Pavilion in Chautauqua Park on Wednesday in Valley City. He also met with school officials following his presentation. McDonough is a pediatrician for Med Center One in Bismarck.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com & the Associated Press
September 2
Voters in the Barnes County North School District will decide a $14.5 million bond issue for the construction of a centralized school near Leal.
Superintendent Doug Jacobson says due to a $1.1 million in projected efficiencies through a consolidation and a proposed yearly bond of slightly more than $1 million the property tax base would NOT increase under this plan.
A public meeting about the bond issue vote will be held tonight at Spiritwood campus at 7:30pm. The public is encouraged to attend.
If the measure passes Sept. 20, the new school will replace the three facilities the district uses for students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.
By Paul Jurgens
September 1
A Lisbon man is in the Barnes County Jail after leading officers from 4 departments on foot around Lisbon for about 90 minutes.
Police Chief Jeanette Persons says she stopped 22-year old Roland Titus for a traffic violation when he ran.
Deputies from Ransom and Sargent counties and the state patrol helped corner Titus in a Lisbon business where he was tazed.
Persons says the warrants against Titus were from Ransom and Cass counties. He's now facing charges of fleeing and preventing arrest.
By Steve Urness
September 1
The 2010 Del Fisher Broadcasting Scholarship award has gone to Brown College student Jonathan Merrill.
The $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually based on financial need, student essay and an evaluation of community service activities that demonstrate a personal commitment to service and leadership.
Merrill organized and promoted a radio-a-thon that raised more than $1,700 and 700 pounds of food for Neighbor's Inc, which is a non-profit agency that provides emergency assistance programs throughout Northern Dakota Country.
Dakota Radio Group program director Paul Rollie says the scholarship is to help future broadcasters realize their dream and pay tribute to our colleague and friend, Del Fisher.
The scholarship was established by Ingstad Family Media, the Dakota Radio Group and Fisher's own listeners to honor the memory of the beloved South Dakota & North Dakota radio broadcaster.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
September 1
2 people were arrested for under age drinking and 4 others received citations for minors consuming alcohol stemming from an incident late Monday night in Valley City.
Police were called to a parking lot in back of Valley Meat Supply were someone reported six people drinking and have a good time.
An Alaska man and a Jamestown woman were arrested and jailed in this incident. The age range of the group was 19 to 20 years old.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com and the Associated Press
August 31
Warm, dry weather over the week helped North Dakota farmers, but the spring wheat and durum harvest remain behind average.
(Harvester takes a small grain field near Sibley.)
A number of Barnes County farmers say their yields are good and the disease factor in small grains is lower than expected compared to earlier forecast this spring.
(Harvester works north of Valley City. Photos by Steve Urness.)
As of August 31 the Agriculture Department said about 74 percent of the spring wheat harvest was complete in North Dakota, ahead of the average, while only 43 percent of the durum crop is combined. Oats harvest is 83 percent done. And 91 percent of the barley has been harvested.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 31
A federal regulation that would mandate new requirements for providing outpatient services would raise the cost of running critical access hospitals across the nation significantly.
The deputy administrator for the Centers on Medicare and Medicaid Jonathan Blum (Blah-m) listened to the concerns of medical officials during a tour last week at Mercy hospital in Valley City.
Doctors and nurses told Blum (Blah-m) it would have a negative impact on patient care if implemented.
CEO Keith Heuser says rumors have been flying that Mercy Hospital is closing. He says that is false. Heuser believes the CMS requirement will be overturned.
Heuser says under the requirement the hospital would have to hire more doctors to monitor critical care services. He says that would increase the annual budget by more than $500,000 dollars at Mercy.
CMS plans to implement the patient safety regulations on January 1. But a number of lawmakers in Congress including Representative Earl Pomeroy hope to get the requirements abolished before than.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 30
The Dietrich & Sons bus service company has a number motorists can use to call if a driver is violating the rules of the road.
Dietrich spokesman Don Enger says the phone number and unit I.D. number of the vehicle are printed on the back bumper of every school bus.
(Don Enger addresses the school board recently to discuss the service provided by the bus company. Photos by Steve Urness.)
Enger says it’s a service that the company has been providing the school district with for the last 2 years. He says there’s no added cost to the school district for the service being it’s covered under their existing insurance plan.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 27
Officials at Valley City State University are optimistic that the university will be granted a capital improvement project by state legislators in the upcoming legislative session next year.
(Photo by Steve Urness.)
Dr. Steven Shirley says under the plan the Rhoades Science Center would double in size with a proposed $10.8 million expansion to serve student enrolled in STEM programs.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. If approved during the 2011 legislative session it would be the first capital improvement project at the university since 1973.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 27
Planning to go to a Hi Liner football game? Well you’ll be sitting on new bleacher at Hanna field.
(Hanna Field bleachers. Photos by Steve Urness.)
Superintendent Dean Koppelman says the cost to make those improvements to the Hanna field bleachers was about $45,000 dollars.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 27
Cass County Electric Cooperative is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those involved in the stealing of materials and damage to the cooperative’s Arthur Service Center. The Center was vandalized and thieves damaged a locked security fence and stole copper and aluminum wire from the premises last weekend.
Anyone with information on this break-in is asked to contact Cass County Electric at 701-356-4400 or the Cass County Sheriff’s office.
Meanwhile authorities are investigating an act of vandalism after someone smashed a number of beehives in Wells County using a pickup this week.
And 3 sets of Samuri swords were taken during a burglary at the old Fingel School. The break-in remains under investigation. The property is privately owned.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 25
A Sargent County Sheriff’s deputy is facing a charge of disorderly conduct stemming from an incident in Fargo that was reported earlier this week to police.
Sargent County Sheriff Travis Paeper (paper) says Deputy Dave Kozok (Koh-zok) has been placed on administrative leave until further notice following an internal investigation.
Paeper says to avoid a conflict of interest Sargent County will be assisted by a neighboring agency in the investigation.
Kozok a former Barnes County jailer has been with the Sargent county sheriff’s office for 2 years.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 25
A bridge to Sanborn known as County road 22 is open again.
(Traffic moves along County road 22 again. Crews raised the road and rip rapped both sides with heavy rocks. Photo by Steve Urness.)
Amy Olson who works at Ditos bar. She says it nice, not to have to drive around anymore, she lives east of the Sanborn.
The road opened on Tuesday at noon. Barnes County Roads Highway Superintendent Kerry Johnson says years of rising water have been a problem for that road and others in the county.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 25
Bells are ringing and buses are rolling once again as students returned to school. Superintendent Dean Koppleman reminds motorists to slow down near schools and cross walks.
Koppelman says preliminary enrollment numbers look good. He predicts about 1,100 students for a total enrollment this year in the district.
(New Jefferson addition south of the existing building.)
Teachers and Students at Jefferson elementary are using the new $1 million addition on the school that was paid for with federal economic stimulus funds. 
(Jefferson elementary also has a new metal roof to match the new addition. Photos by Steve Urness.)
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 25
Students, teachers and staff members of the Valley City Public School district will see a familiar face, Phil Hatcher, throughout the upcoming school year in Valley City.
(Valley City Public School Resource Officer Phil Hatcher visits with Steve Urness during a live broadcast of the "Voice of the Valley" program.)
Police officer Hatcher says he’ll act as a bridge to students, teachers and the administration starting next week.
Hatcher told the school board he wants this to be a good experience for everyone.
(Officer Hatcher and Police Chief Dean Ross address the Valley City school board on Monday about the new position in the school.)
Valley City High School principal Kristi Brandt says officer Hatcher will be a positive for students.
(Valley City High School principal Kristi Brandt.)
Police Chief Dean Ross says Hatchers job is more than patrolling the schools. He'll be giving lessons to students when called upon by teachers.
(L Linda Heidt business manager and school board members Val Mortiz, Joyce Braunagel and Mike Callahan.)
The school board unanimously approved of the program officially at Monday's special school board meeting.
(Officer Hatcher discusses the new program with Ryan Cunningham in the Ingstad Family Media broadcast center in Valley City. Photos by Steve Urness.)
Hatcher says students or anyone will be able to anonymously call or text-tip problems that may happen in the school using 840-7412.
The resource officer program was possible due to a federal stimulus grant monies.
Hatcher will work in the schools for 9 months and be back on his normal beat during the summer months. Bismarck, Jamestown and Fargo also have school resource officers.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 24
It’s the first day of classes today at Valley City State University and officials are all smiles about the projected enrollment numbers for the university.
(VCSU clock tower.)
Dr. Steven Shirley says it will be the largest freshman class since 1981. He says the numbers won’t be official until the 4th week of fall classes.
(VCSU students visit between classes near the Student Center on Tuesday. Photos by Steve Urness.)
Shirley says we’re full when it comes to housing due to a $3.2 million reconstruction project of Snoeyenbos hall.
Shirley attributes the growth to new academic programs including the Health Science and VCSU’s Fisheries and Wildlife majors. He also says new athletic programs like Cross Country and Track & Field along with Men and Women’s Golf have also contributed to a higher enrollment.
The first day headcount is approaching 12-hundred students at 1,190 compared to 1,083 students last fall at VCSU.By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 24
New artificial turf is on the way for Lokken field next year.
(Lokken field stadium in Valley City.)
And Valley City State University president Dr. Steven Shirley asked the Valley City school board if both entities could work together and form a fact finding committee to explore the possibility of collaborating on a 3 phase building project.
(VCSU Lokken field. Photo by Steve Urness.)
Shirley believes the project would benefit the university, school district and community. He says other plans include a new locker room facility and an indoor practice facility next to Lokken field.
(VCSU president Dr. Steven Shirley addresses the Valley City school board about the proposed plan Monday night. Photos by Steve Urness.)
Shirley says an on going fund raising effort has been successful raising money toward the purchase of the artificial surface for Lokken field.
The Valley City school board unanimously votes to approved setting up a fact finding committee to work on several scenarios of the proposed plan.
By the Associated Press (9/2 8:30 AM)
WILLISTON, N.D. (AP) - A contracted helicopter is helping Basin Electric Power Cooperative string a new 61-mile electrical transmission line along U.S. Highway 2 between Williston and Tioga. The $26.5 million project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
DICKINSON, N.D. (AP) - Congressman Earl Pomeroy says the new Veterans Affairs clinic in Dickinson is to open Sept. 15. The VA earlier this summer awarded a contract to CRAssociates Inc., after the previous contract holder declined to bid on a new contract.
FARGO, N.D. (AP) - The Center for Visual and Cognitive Neuroscience at North Dakota State University is getting more funding for research on how the brain works. The National Center for Research Resources says it will provide $10.7 million over the next five years.
By Wade Fossum NewsDakota.com
August 12
Construction on a new facility for Hiway 1 Fuel and Service is underway on the south end of Oakes. Fire destroyed the old facility on November 10, 2009, also causing Economy Oil to relocate it's offices. Economy Oil constructed a new facility in Industrial Park on the North East side of Oakes.
The pumps were not damaged so on December 14, 2009, owner Darin Karlgaard brought in a 16 by 40 foot prebuildt wood building that would be able to be used to continue servicing his customers. Cleanup of the lot was done and on April 1, 2010, construction began on a beautiful new 60 by 100 foot building. Darin stated that the goal was an October 1 opening of the new store.
(A look at the front of the new Hiway 1 Fuel and Service building. Photo by Wade Fossum.)
They currently have pop, snacks, ice, breakfast items, tacos, burritos, pizza, and finger foods. They have not been able to continue with the subs, salads, or wraps because of limited space, but will be introducing it back to the customers when the new facility is open. He also is excited to be able to start bringing broasted chicken to the new store once it opens. The south end of the building will house an automatic car wash, that may not be immediately completed. Darin says they will focus on getting the store open first.
(The coolers have been installed into the new spacious interior. Photo by Wade Fossum.)
Currently there are 6 employees that work at Hiway 1 Fuel and Service, but once the new store opens, and they start adding all the new food items, more part time help will need to be hired. Darin said if you are interested, to listen for listings, or check in at the store as they get closer to opening. Darin closed by thanking everyone, "Thank you to the customers and community for their continued support and patronage during their time in the temporary facitlity. We are looking forward to serving you in the future with many more options in our spacious new store."
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 9
Columbia Grain of Portland, Oregon purchased Crete Grain.
Company President Leroy Meehl, says Crete Grain entered into an agreement to sell its two grain elevators to Columbia Grain, Inc last week. The assets include its original country elevator facility in Crete, and its 110-car shuttle loading facility in Oakes.
Meehl says, “Our shareholders determined that it was the right time for us to make this transaction. We believe Columbia Grain will serve our customers and our community well in the years to come.”
With the acquisition, Columbia Grain will own 48 grain elevators with a combined storage capacity of 1.2 million metric tons. Many of the facilities are used as a pipeline to feed Columbia’s export elevator located in Portland, Oregon.
Crete Grain was founded in 1978 by Bernard and Marlene Vculek. Since 1997, the company has been owned by their sons, Brian and Barry Vculek, and daughter and son-in-law, Sonia and Leroy Meehl.
By Wade Fossum NewsDakota.com
The water and sewer main replacement project in Oakes on Main Avenue is completed. Crews are now working hard at putting in the curbs and sidewalks along Main Ave, and in a couple of weeks it will have a totally different appearance. The street will be wider, new sidewalks narrower, parallel parking gone, along with new lights and beautification all being anticipated.
(The curbs being put in out front of KDDR on Main Ave in Oakes. Photo by Wade Fossum.)
As soon as the curbs and sidewalks are all put in it will be time for the paving crews to come in and put an official end to the project so Main can reopen. Mayor Monte Zimmer stated that the paving should be done by the end of July. He also stated that there has been a great deal of inconvenience and frustration during this long process, but would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding.
(Sidewalks being finished out front of True Value on Main Ave. Thursday morning. Photo by Wade Fossum.)
With the new sidewalks being poured, please stay off of them until all barriers are removed! There have already been two instances in which someone has walked through the poured area and it has had to be redone. These areas had to be replaced, and will increase the overall cost of the project. Let's use common sense and not go over the barriers and ruin the new concrete. If you see anyone walking or vandalizing the newly poured areas, please report it to City Hall immediately by calling 742-2137.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
Another trip to Minnesota was fantastic and the weather cooperated during the last days of July.
(The Split Rock Lighthouse celebrated it's 100th anniversary on July, 31. Photos by Steve Urness.)
A number of the photos in the slide show below are from a recent trip to Duluth, the North Shore Drive, Brainerd, Walker and the Detroit Lakes area.
(A Tall Ship mast looks like its only 5 feet from touching the bottom of the Canal Park bridge.)
A "Tall Ships Festival" brought out thousands of people to "Canal Park" to see the unique ships. We were lucky to catch a few as they went under the famous bridge in Duluth.
(Glensheen Mansion northwest of Duluth along Lake Superior.)
The mansion was the scene of a double murder after the owner 83-year-old Elizabeth Congdon and her nurse, Velma Pietila were killed on June 27, 1977. Elizabeth was suffocated in bed with a pillow, and Velma was bludgeoned to death on a stair landing with a candlestick from the home.
Elizabeth's adopted daughter, Marjorie, in line to inherit the family fortune, was tried and acquitted. Her husband was convicted of the crime, but his conviction was overturned 5 years later. After his release from prison, Marjorie's husband was found dead. She was charged with his murder but the charges were later dropped. The case of who murdered the two women in the mansion was never solved.
Enjoy the slide show below. All photos taken by Steve Urness.
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 26
A novel based on Valley City called "Bridge over the Valley" is being released today. The book takes a look at the goings on of the citizens in the town of "Cheneau Valley" situated under the "Dakota High Bridge."
The debut novel expresses a passion for youth, basketball and rural culture. The story also addresses underage drinking and railroad safety.
(Author Gary Friedly is a native of Billings and a University of Montana graduate with a teaching degree.)
Author Gary Friedly held a book signing at the Eagles Nest Book store and a lecture about his novel at the Barnes County Historical Society Museum on Thursday in Valley City.
(Friedly held a book signing event at the Eagles Nest Book store in Valley City on Thursday. Photos by Steve Urness.)
By Steve Urness NewsDakota.com
August 26
$12,000 dollars raised for a worthy cause.
The Thundering Saints donated $10,000 to Hospice of the Red River Valley during the second annual Debbie Gabel Memorial Ride held on July 24.
(Rocky Gabel hands a $10,000 check to Hospice officials. Photo submitted.)
The ride attracted nearly 200 motorcycle riders. The event also included a raffle of a new motorcycle from Stutsman Harley Davidson, silent auction and street dance in Valley City.
The donation will be used to provide compassionate end-of-life care to those in the Barnes County area.
(Rocky Gabel hands a $2,000 check to the LaFarge Relay for Life team. Photo submitted.)
The Barnes County Lafarge Relay for Life team assisted with the bike run by hosting a breakfast that morning. Gabel presented the group with a check for $2000 for Relay for Life. The bike run was also sponsored by the VFW of Valley City.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
September 2
According to unofficial numbers, the number of students attending Jamestown Public Schools is down, while the number at the city’s private school is up from last year.
The unofficial count of enrollment at Jamestown Public Schools that was taken on Friday was 2,140 students. The official count will be on September 10, which will be the third Friday of the school year.
St. John’s Academy’s numbers are higher, including a record kindergarten class. 176 students are enrolled from 163 last year.
Courtesy ACC
September 1
The Anne Carlsen Center has invited one of the nation’s leading autism experts to share expertise at a Grand Forks conference.
Dr. Jonathan Tarbox will lead a two-day conference called “Proven Treatments for Autism: Using Applied Behavior Analysis for Assessment, Intervention and Curriculum.” This workshop will teach attendees how to collect behavior data using the methods of frequency, duration, partial interval, and momentary time sample.
Dr. Tarbox is the Director of Research and Development at the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD). He has worked with the organization since 2004.
Tarbox has worked extensively in the field of autism, with an early career involved positions at both the New England Center for Children and the Kennedy Krieger Institute.
The conference will be held October 6-7 at the Canad Inn in conjunction with the Alerus Center in Grand Forks For More information, click here, then click on the Conferences and Workshop tab.
By Shawn Elliott NewsDakota.com & Jamestown Police Department
September 1
The Jamestown Police Department wants to warn residents of a convicted sex offender that has moved to town.
William Humphrey Kysar, a 49 year-old male has moved to 2208 Cottage Lane. He drives a brown 1989 Chevrolet Silverado pick up.
Mr. Kysar has been assigned a high risk assessment by the North Dakota risk level committee, at the Office of the Attorney General.
Mr. Kysar was convicted with having sexual contact with a 13 year old girl and a four year old boy. He also is a convicted child abuser.
Mr Kysar is presently on probation with the North Dakota Parole and Probation Department, and is not wanted by police.
Printed handouts of Mr. Kysar's information are available at the Jamestown Police Department or go to www.sexoffender.nd.gov.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 31
The Jamestown Regional Airport continues to see growth in the number of passengers per month, and now the airport itself will see some growth as well.
The North Dakota Congressional Delegation, made up of U.S. Senators Byron Dorgan and Kent Conrad and Congressman Earl Pomeroy have announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a $742,150 Federal Grant to the airport.
(The Jamestown Regional Airport has received a hefty sized federal grant. Photo by Jason Metko)
The grant will be used to expand the terminal building in order to provide adequate space for current passengers as well as bring the building into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 31
Farm Rescue hosted an event on Saturday night at the Stutsman County Fairgrounds called “Rolling With Farm Rescue”
To qualify to win a Harley Davidson Sportster from Stutsman Harley Davidson in Jamestown, qualifiers had to visit six different locations around the state and have a card stamped by those locations.
(The Grand Prize in all its glory.)
The winner of the Harley was Charlie Hardie of Fargo.
(Farm Rescue Founder Bill Gross and Manager of Stutsman Harley Davidson-Jamestown Al Pergande.)
“Rolling With Farm Rescue” is a first ever fundraiser with proceeds going to Farm Rescue, a non-profit organization that assists farmers with planting and harvesting needs who are unable to do so themselves.
(Photos by Lynn Lambrecht.)
By Shawn Elliott NewsDakota.com
August 31
Energy independence does have its problems,like the housing shortage in western North Dakota. In Jamestown, traffic back-ups are becoming more common in the past months.
A wind tower base blocked traffic for about 20 minutes at the intersection of Interstate 94 and Hwy 281. The truck had a problem navigating the turn going south on 281.
(Photo by Shawn Elliott)
By Shawn Elliott NewsDakota.com & ND National Guard Press Release
August 31
Linton native, Master Sgt. Douglas F. Balliet, one of the last Vietnam Veterans serving in the North Dakota National Guard, retired Monday. Ceremonies were held at the Army Support Facility in Bismarck.
Balliet joined the U. S. Army in 1970 and served with the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam as an aircraft mechanic. He joined the N.D. National Guard in 1972 as aircraft maintenance supervisor.
General David Sprynczynatyk, said that there are two other Vietnam Veterans in the National Guard, but Balleit is the only one that served as an Army Soldier. The others served in the Marines and Navy.
Balliet's family along with dozens of fellow soldiers, retirees and members of the North Dakota Patriot Guard and the Vietnam Vets/Legacy Vets Motorcycle club were in attendance.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 30
Jamestown Hospital, along with AAA, AARP and other organizations will be hosting a “Car-Fit” event scheduled for Saturday, September 11 from 1-4 p.m. in the parking lot of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, located at 1005 5th Avenue Northeast in Jamestown.
“Car-Fit” is the first program to offer older adults the opportunity to check how the personal cars they drive “fit” them.
Trained professionals will lead drivers through a 12-point checklist with their vehicle, recommend car adjustments and adaptations and offer community specific resources and activities that could make their cars “fit” better or enhance their safety.
An occupational therapist will be on hand to provide details on how to maintainn and strengthen driving health.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 30
Townsend Field in LaMoure has seen vast improvements in its facilities for hosting football over the last few years. Two years ago, the home of LLM Football saw a new press box built, and now coming into the 2010 season, the scoreboard has seen a major upgrade.
(The new scoreboard at Townsend Field in LaMoure. Photo by Jason Metko)
The Good Family once again made a large contribution to the project, and the board, which was made by DakTronics in South Dakota, is dedicated to Leroy “Tiger” Good.”
Installation was complete in the late evening hours on Thursday, just in time for Friday’s game.
By ShawnElliott NewsDakota.com
August 27
Construction of utilities to the new Regional Medical Center has begun.
Mertenson’s Construction has started installing sewer and city water lines to the new center. Stutsman Rural Water has not begun to install the back up water system.
The lines will be under the new road that runs between the Buffalo Mall and Wal-mart to the new hospital. The lines are buried about 34 feet under ground
Hospital officials hope to have the new Medical Center open in 2011.
(Photos by Shawn Elliott)
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 27
Supporters of the ½ mill levy increase for extension work in Stutsman County will be hosting a meeting on Thursday, September 2 at 7 p.m. at the James River Senior Citizen’s Center, located at 502 10th Ave SE in Jamestown.
The group plans to discuss the budget and where the funds currently come from, as well as way to inform citizens about the vote.
The meeting starts at 7, and should not last more than an hour. The group says the mill would raise the levy that is allowed by State Statue to 2 ½ mills, and would alleviate the need to draw funds from the general fun, and also allow the county to meet cost share obligations with NDSU.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 27
Congratulations to Janice Munson of Grace City, the winner of $2010 in the Ingstad Family Media Summer Scratch and Win promotion!
(Janice Munson of Grace City, with Ingstad Family Media's Randi Ryan, left, and Tim Ost, right.)
Janice was totally taken by surprise, and said she had a lot of things she was ready to do with the cold hard cash.
(Qualifiers lining up outside Gun and Reel Sports in Jamestown on Thursday evening.)
(Randi Ryan broadcasting from on top of the Radio Rover.)
Thanks again to all who came out Thursday, and again, congrats to Janice!
(Photos by Tanea Clocksene.)
By Shawn Elliott NewsDakota.com
August 27
Yesterday the Jamestown City Council's Public Works Committee voted to an agreement with the North Dakota Department of Transportation to begin the reconstruction of the Business Loop East. The plan will lower the grade and add curb and gutter.
Reed Schwartzkopf, Jamestown City Engineer, says the main sewer line to the treatment plant runs under the road and is over 50 years old. This will be replaced at the same time.
State and Federal funds will pay for 90% of the cost of the reconstruction. The city will pay 10% through a city wide assessment.
The new sewer line will be paid by a city wide assessment to cover 100% of the cost.
Construction should begin the spring of 2011.
By Shawn Elliott & Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 27
Hundreds filled the streets in Jamestown Thursday afternoon with college students and members of the community celebrating the return of classes for the third annual college block party.
Some 80 booths lined First Avenue, featuring some items as free food and drinks, and prizes.
Ingstad Family Media gave away $2010 in the Summer Scratch And Win Promotion.
At 5:30, Jamestown College president Dr. Robert Badal lead the incoming class of freshman down Hospital hill into town.
Last year, some 3,000 people attended the festivities downtown.
(Photos by Shawn Elliott)
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 26
A 32 year old man from Illinois who is now residing at the Frontier Fort Campground faces numerous charges after breaking into cars and eluding police in Jamestown during the early morning hours of August 20.
Anthony Shane Overlin is in the Stutsman County Correctional Center on $20,000 bond. Overlin has been charged with five counts of unlawful entry into a motor vehicle, criminal attempt for unlawful entry into a vehicle, and criminal attempt to commit aggravated assault on a police officer. In addition, Overlin has been charged with refusing to halt, a Class B misdemeanor.
Police say Overlin broke into several cars around the southeast area of town, eluded police on more than one occasion, and threw a hammer at an officer as he was being taken into custody.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 25
The Jamestown Fire Department responded to their second dumpster fire of the summer on Tuesday night; this time at the Gladstone Inn and Suites, located at 111 2nd Street Northeast.
(The Jamestown Fire Department on scene Tuesday night. Photo by Jason Metko.)
Fire crews were on scene during the eight o’clock hour. No significant damages were reported.
Earlier this summer, the fire department responded to a similar call in the back of the Applebee’s parking lot.
By Shawn Elliott NewsDakota.com
August 25
The Stutsman County Commission placed one initiated amendment on the November Ballot during their August 18 commission meeting. The amendment would form a road advisory committee on the counties home rule charter.
Yesterday the commission voted 4-0 to placece a measure on the ballot to require 2 percent of the counties net taxable value to be spent on county roads.
If passed this would require the county to put 2% or about $800,000 in a separate fund designated for county road work. The question is, "Where is the money to come from?"
Stutsman County Chief Operating Officer, Noel Johnson says the counties general fund is the only place the money could come from. He says the fund has a 2010 budget of $2.5 million with $1.5 million in wages. Johnson says the county would have to lay off employees.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 24
The Anne Carlson Center in Jamestown will soon celebrate its 70th anniversary, and is hosting a contest where the winner will earn a dollar for every year the center has been open.
A contest to create a logo for the special event is underway, with the winning designer receiving $70. The winning design will be used on commemorative t-shirts made available through the year. Entry forms can be picked up at the center, or by clicking here, and then must be returned to the center.
The Anne Carlson Center opened its doors on September 21, 1941 with 18 students in attendance the first year. Today, the center servers roughly 55 students, ten day-students, over 150 individuals receiving outpatient therapy, and 50 community services clients.
Courtesy NDSU Extention
August 23
The Stutsman County Homemaker’s Council has announced they have a $500 educational scholarship available to a female resident of the county who is unemployed or underemployed and is intent on becoming gainfully employed to become economically independent.
To obtain a copy of the simple, one-page application, contact the Stutsman County Office of the NDSU Extension Service, located at 116 ½ First Street East in Jamestown. Applications are due by September 15.
For more info, call 252-9030.
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 23
A Jamestown Police officer will receive a commendation for getting three Jamestown College male students out of the house they were sleeping in early Saturday morning as the home was filling up with smoke.
Jamestown Police say Officer Michael Craig was driving by the residence at 417 First Avenue North around 2:20 Saturday morning, when he noticed smoke coming from the home.
Craig had to break down the door to see if anyone was inside, and found the three students who were asleep. The students said they had no idea why the home was filling with smoke.
No one was injured, and the origin as well as the cause of the smoke are still being investigated.
By Shawn Elliott NewsDakota.com
August 23
Around 100 people welcomed "Pink Heals" to Jamestown yesterday.
The "Pink Heals" group was founded by David Greybill in Phoenix, Arizona. The mission is to bring awareness and help raise money in the fight of woman's cancer. Firefighters from around the country donate their time to drive the trucks. The three fire trucks in Jamestown are part of 23 fire trucks traveling around the country.
The Jamestown Fire Department joined the celebration with four of our vehicles.
Jamestown Mayor Katie Andersen and Fire Chief Jim Ruether presented David Greybill with proclamations in support of there cause. Both said that city employees and the fire fighters will wear pink on October 24, 25 and 26.
People were encouraged to sign the trucks.
Members of the Jamestown Harley Owners Group and Christian Motorcycle Association escorted the trucks into town.
According to Greybill, all money raised in Jamestown, stays in Jamestown.
(Photos by Shawn Elliott)
By Jason Metko NewsDakota.com
August 20
The city of Jamestown is working on a seal coat for some roads in the southwest part of town.
(Some serious trucks are being used in the seal coat project; on Friday morning they were along 8th Avenue Southwest in Jamestown.)
Work is take place between 7th Street Southwest and 25th Street Southwest between 6th Avenue Southwest and 17th Avenue Southwest.
Extreme caution should be used when traveling through the area, and all vehicles should be removed from the streets where the contractor has posted signs.
Work will continue into next week.
(The right side of 8th Ave Southwest seeing the seal coat process before the left side on Friday morning.)
(Photos by Jason Metko)
Game and Fish Press Release
August 20
More than 16,000 antlerless deer gun licenses are still available after the North Dakota Game and Fish Department recently completed its lottery drawing. These remaining licenses will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no limit to the number of licenses a hunter can receive.
All hunters, including gratis applicants, can apply online at the Game and Fish Department website, gf.nd.gov. Paper applications will be available by Sept. 1 from Game and Fish offices, county auditors and license vendors. Hand delivered applications will not be processed at the department while the applicant waits. Residents and nonresidents are eligible to apply.
Additional concurrent season doe licenses can be used during the archery season with a bow; the deer gun season with a bow, rifle, or muzzleloader; or during the muzzleloader season with a muzzleloader. These licenses must be used for antlerless deer only, and hunters must stay in the unit to which the license is assigned.
In addition, hunters ages 14 and 15 who have special youth season licenses may purchase additional concurrent season doe licenses to use during the youth season.
The archery season opens Sept. 3, youth deer Sept. 17, regular deer gun Nov. 5 and muzzleloader Nov. 26.