MILDRED PARRILL’S 90TH BIRTHDAY
Posting from LeaRae Parrill Espe (’67):  Bottineau, ND

Saturday, December 5th 2-4PM
Oak Manor in Bottineau

No gifts or card.  Just come and enjoy cake & coffee & sign the guest register. If you can’t make it, I know she would enjoy email messages or a note from her friends and former students.  Emails can be sent to me at  espe@utma.com.  Snail mail can be sent to 823 Railroad Ave., Apt #29, Bottineau, ND  58318.

Mildred (Mom) taught school a total of 36 years of which 28 were at Dunseith Public.  She began her career in Dunseith with 37 first graders in 1955. (This was my class of ’67.) The following year they gave her 39 students (Class of 68).  She only lasted until Christmas as my brother Joel was born in Feb 1957.  Her break lasted three years and she returned to teach 2nd grade in Feb 1960 where she stayed until retirement in 1986.  In the early 60s the classes were split to have two and later three teachers per grade. Before Dunseith she taught country school near Sawyer, the Medrud and Butte schools in Bottineau County, at Russell, ND and at Wetherelt (Rolette County) the summer of 1955.

Mom (Mildred Nelson) graduated from 8th grade in 1938 (age 12).  She skipped a grade, but then had to stay home a year to earn money for books.  She and her sister Marie Parrill roomed in town at the Riverside Hotel and later at Mrs. Bedard’s.  She graduated from DHS in 1943.  She attended Minot State where she graduated four times-with a 6 week rural certificate, one year rural, two year life time standard, and finally a BS in elementary education. Students from her earlier days remember her red hair.

Her favorite hobbies now are reading, reading, reading- mostly nonfiction and especially biographies, watching NFL (Vikings/Bears) and NBA (Lakers/Bulls) and playing whist.

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Blog (388) posted on March 6 , 2009

Folks, With all that Dick provides with these daily messges, The name “Dick Johnson” has become very familiar to most all of us. For those of you in the area, here’s your chance to see Dick & Brenda. I am reposting Dick’s message as a reminder of the entertainment He and Brenda, along with the Frozen Fingers group from Minot, will be providing this Sunday at the senior center in Bottineau. There is no admission charge. What a deal for some great entertainment. Gary Brenda & Dick Johnson Dick Johnson’s message (68): Dunseith, ND Gary and Friends,I should have been more precise. The Frozen Fingers group from Minot, which we belong to, is joining us for a jam session in Bottineau, at the Senior Center on Main Street every second Sunday of each month. The first jam session is planned for March 8 at 1 PM. It’s open to the public at no charge and the Senior Citizens will be providing the lunch. At this time I’m not sure if the lunch is free will or if items are priced, but either way it will be great! There will be pickers and singers from all over the area taking turns playing all kinds of music . It should be a good way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Hope to see you there! Dick Lee (Leland) Stickland’s (64) permission to post:Dickinson, ND Yes, do, Gary, on both accounts; Dad’s obituary and my wordy last note. Black ice this earlier am but now shows 34 degrees; just don’t jump to conclusions about weather in March or any other time for that matter. I find myself nearly turning to go to the NH some mornings. That is probably not unusual as the grieving process goes on. I once thought I knew a bit about aging, dying, grieving, etc. We are never ready. I am so impressed by YOUR ability to ferret out information, Gary. Again, yes, post what ever I write to YOU or that YOU are able to find rellative to the remaining Sticklands that grew up in Dunseith. We all started out in that locale, Grandmother May Striker grew up just south of the Peace Gardens, Grandfather Lee came to ND from Indiana. Lee ( leland–stick–sticky) Robert Elmer Stickland The Dickinson Press Published Saturday, February 28, 2009 Robert Elmer Stickland, 87, Dickinson, died Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2009 at the St. Luke’s Home, Dickinson. Robert’s funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson with Mr. Martin Wilson and Mr. John Simons officiating. Spring interment will take place at the Dickinson Cemetery, with a military flag presentation to follow the service and will be provided by the Dickinson Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to service time on Saturday at Ladbury Funeral Service. Robert was born to Edward Lee Stickland and May (Striker) Stickland on July 6, 1921 near Dunseith. Following two years of high school, Robert joined the Civil Conservation Corps and served in North Dakota, Arizona and Utah. During WWII he served in the U.S. Navy as an aviation metal smith in the U.S. and Panama. After the war, he worked as a Rural Letter Carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for 30 plus years. In 1944, he met Irene Adams. They were married in Ayer, Mass. on May 3, 1945 while he was stationed at a Naval Air Base in Quonset Point, R.I. They later made their home in Dunseith where they lived for 31 years. In 1976 they retired to Bozeman, Mont., then transitioned to Dickinson in 1992 and have remained there ever since. Irene preceded Robert in death on April 17, 2002. They have three sons, Lee of Dickinson, Darrel of Blaine, Minn., and Dean of Olympia, Wash.; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one brother, Leonard; and three sisters, Doris, Joy and Marian. Robert and Irene met God’s servants in the fall of 1949 and made their decision to follow Christ’s teachings in the spring of 1951. Their lives have been enriched with the love and care of family and many friends. Lee (Leland) Stickland’s (64) reply to Gary: Dickinson, ND Gary, I was Stick to many in HS, my grandfather Edward Lee Marchant’ Stickland was called Lee. I found that saying Leland Stickland on the phone when attempting to successfully communicate with strangers was a mouth full. The migration to Lee took some time and was assisted by my having nursing home in varying locales; three homes in ND/// Dunseith, Dickinson and Mandan. I worked with Dickinson and Mandan at the same time as they are less than 100 miles apart. I was in Wis with 9 different homes at the outset and also at Boise ID. My self-imposed moniker was thought to be actual. Much of my mail is Lee. My passport is Leland as is the drivers’ license; when we fly I must be sure to have all names as Leland or I could left behind. Yes, there was an good obit of Dad, written by Dean, following the format of Mom’s Darrel’s name is as appears here. He is Doc to many but his name in the MPLS area is Darrel; a reverse of circumstances that ensued for me. I was and am Mr Lee much of the time, esp when I practiced MBWA (Management by wandering around) in the homes that I was responsible for. No one ever worked for me, we all worked with and together. I will send a cc of the obit shortly, have not made all of the rounds yet locally to thank folks for all each did for Dad so have been doing that. My apartment is a typical bachelor dwelling in order but not definitely so, thus things are here and there. I will also send a cc of the editorial that I wrote and that just happened to appear in the local paper on the day of Dad’s funeral, February 28, 2009. There is no convenient time to die and it is not easy to say good bye. Dad asked to see my girl friend, Gloria, on the morning of the day he died. He and she had shared some “secrets” and were fast friends. Dad had recently been sent to the ER more often. At these time we would go to the hosp and meet him there. This time I was called for OK to send him to the ER. About 7 minutes later, I was called back to be informed that he had died at the nursing home. And times moves on. Lee Reply from Alan Poitra (76): Bloomington, MN Hi Gary, Frank Poitra is my grandfather and if possible I would like to get a copy of that article written about him. I have listened to many artists from the Turtle Mountains and have to say there is so much talent that I would love to go to a jamboree with nothing but the Turtle Mtn Artists. For those of you who do not know me, my father was the late Gary Poitra, he was the youngest of Grampa Franks children and I am so proud of the music played by my father and uncles. I cannot tell you how many house parties, weddings, anniversaries that I have sat and listened to my father and uncles play their hearts out. They were well known around the Rolette County and other counties and played many a nights at many bars and events. Like the Metcalfe’s, the Poitra’s were a talented family and the gift was passed on down to many of the children (Rodney, Ron, Stuart, Daren, Timmy, Gary Jr). For those of you that knew the Poitra music, you can attest to the fine country sound that came out. As they grew older, they did not always play together but when a family get together was in place, you can be guaranteed that their would be some good old fashion music and we love to dance!!. Like the article mentioned, the Poitra family was quite huge and when we got together with relatives and friends it was quite the party. I would also like to mention that my father in his earlier years did play with a band from Bottineau called ‘Cindy and the Turtle Mtn Boys’, they were well known also, and recorded a album which was sold around the area. I did see that there was an article about Scotty Thompson also, his wife Cindy and Roger Thingsvold, along with my father were recorded on this album. At the request of my father I did reproduce this album on a CD so he could share with friends and relatives at their request. My uncle Darrel also recorded a 45 that was very good. I do live in Minneapolis and do get over to see my uncle Francis every now and then, and he still loves to play the violin and sing, so that brings back so many memories of my father and uncles. It can be very comforting to put on “Mule Skinner Blues” and listen to my father sing. I wish I could have taped many sessions of the family get together’s. My hat is off to all those talented people from the Turtle Mountains, their music is and will be remembered for many years to come! Thank you for bringing back some cherished memories!!! May the music memories of my father Gary, uncles Darrell, Leo, Irvin, Lloyd (aunt Clarines husband), Dominic (aunt Mildred’s husband), Francis, and uncle Alfred.and last but not least my Grandfather Frank live on forever.. Alan Poitra (class of 76) Allen, You mentioned Thelma Thompson. Scotty and Thelma were very close friends, for many years, of my Dad’s brother Emil (Lillian) Petterson. Scotty worked for about a half century at the Bottineau creamery. Scotty is deceased, but Thelma is still living in Bottineau. Are any of these recordings or CD’s that you mentioned, available for folks to purchase. My uncle Emil did a little jamming with Scotty/Thelma, Ken Severson and Ole Bursinger over the years too. Gary Reply from Lyle Olson (75) – Lorraine Metcalfe’s son: West Fargo, ND Gary:I sure have enjoyed the many memories of the greatest band to ever come out of Dunseith. I saw Travis Metcalfe’s e-mail about the band and immediately remembered the band singing “It’s a Family Tradition” by Hank Williams Junior. That was Travis’ favorite song if I remember correctly, and the girls would play it as many times as Travis wanted to hear it. My favorite song from the band was “Peaceful, Easy Feeling” by the Eagles. Great memories to be sure. I was surprised to see the newspaper clips of my mother and Uncle Jack. I note that one of the pictures encompassed a time when she played with Blanche Hunt, Lorraine Haggerty, Jack Metcalfe and others. That band’s name was the “Country Travelers” and they focused more on bluegrass. Although my mother played in many bands, my favorite was the “Turtle Mountain Stump Jumpers”. That band included my mother and Ole Bursinger as the corp and many others depending on who was home and available. Ole and Glynnis would always stop at the house for a bite to eat (and other libations) after the band got back to Dunseith and many times the music would continue until late in the morning. I especially remember the house parties at my grandparent’s (Bill and Mary Metcalfe) home. The kitchen table was moved to the corner so people could dance and the grandchildren would gather around an air vent in the upstairs and watch everyone dance and have a great time! Thanks for all you do Gary! Lyle Olson ND Video from Bill Grimme (65):BIRMINGHAM, AL Gary, Your friends in the PI will probably enjoy this. Actually, pretty funny. Bill http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6c8bYq9Ve8 Bill, This is very a interesting Video, so I decided to post it for everyone’s enjoyment. The folks here in the PI have no idea what snow and cold is. March & April are the hottest months here. Instead of day time highs near 89F, it’s closer to 92F for these two months. Surprisingly those extra couple of degrees are very noticeable. Gary

    Happy Birthday Randi Mongeon (’68): Chaska, MN

Betty (Hackman) Schmidt (68) Passed away
Message from Larry Hackman (’66):  Bismarck, ND

Betty my dear sister went home to be with our lord on 11-22-2015 after suffering a severe heart attack.

At her bedside at the time of her death were husband, Gordon and their four children, Pam, Penny, Gordon Jr., and Keri.

Betty born Mar. 22, 1950  Died Nov. 22, 2015

Larry, We are so sadden to hear of Betty’s passing. Our condolences are with you and all of her family. She will be missed.

Thanksgiving

I want to wish each and every one of you a happy thanksgiving with turkey, ham and all the trimmings.

We too here in Cebu will be celebrating a Traditional Thanksgiving dinner at the Waterfront Hotel. We asked them to prepare a special Thanksgiving Menu for our Cebu Expat group of which they agreed to do. Their maximum seating capacity is 240. As of this morning I have 232 folks signed up to attend. They are not taking reservations from any others and they are not allowing any walk-ins, so we have the whole place reserved just for our group.  To get their special rate we are having to have our dinner on Friday, but that is OK because we are a day ahead of the states in time.

                                         Cebu Waterfront Hotel

Cebu Waterfront Hotel Main Dinning Buffet

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Blog (387) posted on March 5 , 2009

Folks,

The email providers are tightening their controls.   With the amount of bulk email messages that I send, with blind copies, with an IP address from the Philippines, some are putting limitations on the number I can send Bcc. For that reason, for a few days, I exposed the email addresses, but I don’t like doing that. For a small Monthly fee AOL is allowing me unlimited Bcc distribution, so they say. When I first signed up for their service they too put a limit of 5 emails for each Bcc message. It appears as though they have now lifted that restriction. We will see.

I get the most returns from those of you using the school email addresses –  k12.nd.us and Sendit – They give me the most problems.

Besides the Dunseith alumni, I have numerous other larger groups that I send messages to also, so the numbers add up.

Gmail has put a hold on my account with them now too while they evaluate.  I don’t anticipate a problem. The restriction was computer generated. Again we will see.  That was two days ago. I have 7 email accounts, all good, so I have reserves.

Gary

Lorraine Somers
Reply from Marlys Hiatt (’71):  Dunseith, ND

Good Morning Gary and all,

I just wanted to add a couple comments about Lorraine Somers.  I first meet Lorraine when she came to work in the office at the Dunseith school when I was in High School.  Always a big, beautiful, friendly, smile to greet you if you needed anything.  I liked to stop in for a quick chat and a tease or joke between classes.  After graduation I continued to cross paths with Lorraine now and again and it was always the same, a big smile, a friendly chat, and laughing.  Lorraine Somers will always be a very special lady to me and someone i remember with great fondness.

Marlys Hiatt

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Blog (386) posted on March 4 , 2009

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03/04/2009

Posted on March 4, 2009

Reply from Cheryl Larson Dakin (’71):  Bedford, TX 

That’s great news about Lorelie being able to finalize all the paperwork. I know what a long process that can be. It’s very exciting that Bernie and his family will finally be together. The babies are adorable. I hope all goes well at the embassy and that you guys have fun with the babies!

Cheryl Larson Dakin

Reply from Glen Williams (’52):  Missoula, MT
You will be tired….and joyful for the time with the Kids..
Glen W

Yes Glen, but they are a joy to have around.

Reply from Dale Evans:   Renton, WA
Congratulations Grandpa Gary!

Thanks Dale

Mental Health First Aid training at the new Bottineau Ambulance Training Room
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

This past Wednesday a fast moving, powerful west wind blew into the mid-section of the state; bringing a wee bit of snow which rapidly turned clear clean streets to ICE.

Within hours, the warmth and clarity of Sunny Days  gone!

Many find the first ice hard to navigate. We can’t see clearly.  Our cars crawl at a snail’s pace. We grip the wheel, foot ready to brake and worry about a sliding loss of control,

or crashing or being T-boned into.

As ugly as the  wind, cold and ICE  was, it did not prevent a full house attending a Mental Health First Aid training at the new Bottineau Ambulance Training Room.

This eight hour  training focusing on Suicide intervention was brought to Bottineau by several local resources and church communities, including First Lutheran Church.

The local community resource group provided coffee, rolls, scones, and noon lunch; funding for the resource based training materials and a  trainer.

The highly qualified Heart View Foundation Alcohol and Drug Therapist led the group  of  about fifty through the training.

She focused our attention toward educating and understanding several Mental Health issues; including Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Depression, PTSD, and  Alcoholism.

The following day, the session was repeated for area Veterans at the newly completed Bottineau Veteran’s Building.

Discussing Mental Health First Aid after winter’s first ice was sobering serious work.

(I’d rather be out dancing)

Participants including myself walked  away from the training with a deeper and  broader understanding  of individuals who face these oft times life threatening challenges within families.

Many reading the Dunseith Blog  know of folks who live out each day with the chilling ICY reality; a  loved one with serious mental health concerns.

We all have learned thorough experience;

The road of life now and again has…’black ice’.

‘Black ice’ which can make it difficult to navigate, especially without knowledge or resources or support.

Last week’s workshop gave me insight on how I can be a better Mental Health First Aid responder.

Thank you to the Dunseith area alumni who were at the presentation, influenced and supported the decision to bring this experience to the rural community of Bottineau.

Vickie M.

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Blog (385) posted on March 3 , 2009

Posted on March 3, 2009

Stokes Twins

Folks,

We are going to have these guys for 11 days while their Mother Lorelie goes to Manila to have her Physical and final Interview with the American consulate to get her spousal USA visa to go the USA.  Once their paper work is processed, these guys will automatically become US citizens. Lorelie just got their Birth Certificates. This is the Philippines, so things don’t happen fast here. She has now given their Birth certificates along with Bernie’s USA citizenship to the American consulate. Within 3 months they will have their USA citizenship and Passports. Then they, along with Lorelie and their 5 year old sister will join Bernie in Bellevue, WA. Needless to say they are all very excited for all this to happen.

Bernie will be here for Christmas too. He arrives on December 22^nd and will be here until January 6^th.  He couldn’t wait to see his twin boys that very much look like him too.

Bernadette is excited for these guys to be here too. They will have two full time, 24 hour per day, babysitters too while they are at our house. Their babysitters and I will pick them and Lorelie up this afternoon at 5 pm.

                 Our twin Grandson’s – Bryce and Brydon Stokes

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Blog (384) posted on March 1 , 2009

03/01/2009

Posted on March 1, 2009

Posting from Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND

Bottineau 2015 Craft Show
Posting from Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND

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Blog (383) posted on February 28 , 2009

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02/28/2009

Posted on February 28, 2009

Folks,

I have been kind of busy and have not been able to get a blog posted since last Saturday. Bernadette has not been well either. Today though she has bounced back and seems to be much better.  Today is our bowling day, so I managed to get this put together and distributed before leaving at about 11:30 am.

 Gary

Happy Belated Birthday Peggy Sime Espe (’60): Dunseith, ND

       Happy Birthday Patzy McKay Heggen: Dunseith, ND

Neola Garbe and Jim Kofoid’s first cousin
Happy Birthday Mike Brudwick: Fargo, ND

Betty Hackman Schmidt (’68) Mesa, AZ not well
Report from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Gordon, my sister Betty’s husband called with bad news. The doctors had

taken him and their family into a room and told them that Betty’s organs
are starting to shut down and that she isn’t going to make it, and that

they are too call family and let them know.

The doctors did not install the Cheney heart pump as they thought that she is to weak,

that she would not survive the operation.
Sorry for the bad news.
Now, we all need to pray for a miracle.

Thank You for all your prayers.

Larry

Such sad news Larry. Our prayers are with Betty and all of her family.

Reply to Judy Allery Azure’s (’65) Birthday picture
From Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65): Belcourt, ND

Gary,

I just wanted to say,  hey Judy!  I haven’t seen you since we graduated high school. Wish you would’ve come to our reunions.

Would’ve been nice to see you!

Ginger LaRocque Poitra class of 65′

Reply to Lyle Olson’s posting
From Vickie Metcalfe (‘’70): Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

Thank You to  Lyle Olson for the feedback and  comments recently shared on this blog about ‘Jacks Story’.

Lyle, I Loved Lorraine ( Metcalfe) Olson – Somers,  your Mom. I

didn’t know her  when I was a little kid like I knew  her brother,

‘S’milin Jack, the banjo picker’.

Somehow, we grew together, sharing common familial ties, stories,  and work while employed side by side at Dunseith Public School

We were cousins, we were friends,  and  we were comrades in developing the  Metcalfe Family Reunion held in  the early 80’s, and we  enjoyed countless adventures.

Lorraine was  kind, non-judgmental, and unwavering in her beliefs.

With Lorraine I always knew where I stood.  She was so good to Mom and Dad which I am grateful for.

My heart gladdens with fondness thinking  and remembering  Lorraine’s laughter;  which was an uplifting bright spot in some rather tough situations. I will always miss her.

Hang on to the laughter~!

Later,  Vickie

Reply from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65):  Belcourt, ND

Gary,

I was going to write about my grandfather Martin Bergie and my uncle Joseph Bergie , but I need prior written consent by the authors.

I did know a lot of information about them before they wrote this book about them. I suppose they will think I took my information from their book.

I do have a newspaper article about my uncle Joseph, it might have been from Montana, my only aunt on grandpa’s side of the family gave it to me many years ago. Not sure at this time where it is.

I need to get busy and put things where I can find them.  Lol

I’ll get back to you at a later time.

You might want to put this on the blog it will explain to the readers why I won’t be writing about my grandfather and uncle’s accomplishments.

Thanks Gary,

Ginger (LaRocque ) Poitra class of ’65

Reply to Tony & Ginger LaRocque Poitra’s wedding posting
From Vickie Metcalfe (‘’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and friends,

What a great  “Happy Wedding Day’ photo of Ginger and Tony Pottra!

I  got to know GInger within the past couple years.

Thanks Ginger for sharing  treasured  family photos and comments of your brave American Veterans!

Ginger and I found something in common; our parents childhood friendship, is a  common factor.

When visiting, I find she too recalls people I remember my father talking about.

Many names I recall in discussions with his siblings and friends; Art & Eva Seim and Emil & Genevive Morin.

Ginger’s mother, Madeline (Bergie) LaRocque and my dad were class mates.

For years in the late 1920’s early 1930’s together they  attended Hilltop (Bergan) Country School.

I  accompanied mom and dad to many dances at Kelvin on Friday or Saturday nights.

My cousin’s  Janice and Raphael,  promoted many local musicians and bands.

Ginger’s parents  Joe and Madeline LaRocque were also often in attendance at dances.

After a ‘set’, Dad would  say to mom, “I am  going ask Madeline to dance”.

They’d glide across the floor,  recalling and laughing  about  fond childhood memories.

Kelvin  dance floor would be brimming with people of the hills and a few from the prairie,

Waltzes, Two Steps  and Fox trots were  finely and smoothly executed.

In unison, couples circled the dance floor.   and,……. I loved learning to dance from the best!

Usually people who enjoyed dancing were in  attendance at those dances.

NO one stood around at the door watching.  Everyone participated in dancing.

Among them,my Uncles and Aunts, the Simes, Mr. &  Mrs. Pritchard from over by Ackworth, from across the highway;Lorraine & Duane Peterson, Jim & Ruby Birkland,the Carl Millang siblings and their spouses,

Mr. & Mrs. Allard from St. John,  Pat & Johnnie Myer,  and Lorraine Haladay and another couple from Boisevain, Canada.

Oft times, Jennie Handleland  & Hilda Strong would dance together.

It was Jennie who taught me how to dance the Schottsche  with a the jukebox tune  at the old Kelvin Bar before it burned, one hight so long ago.

Over and over patient Jennie  and I  practiced until I finally caught the stepping.

Dancers are a joyful  lot who  love dancing to  “Old Time Music” .

My parents watched for  particular music;  They were fond of Jack & Lorraine, and Ole with the Stump Jumpers.

The Poitra Boys Band , who were  the sons and grandsons of Frank Poitra

Everyone also enjoyed dancing to  the Tommy Belgarde Band which was  another band with ‘good timing’.

Jimmie LaRocque often played double string fiddle with Tommy s’ band.

All of this brings to mind,  Robert Fulghum’s Story  from the book “It Was on Fire When I laid Down Upon It”.

One short tale nails a  feeling  I recall , I felt while dancing with those wonderful dancers;Dancing with an Old Geek Dancer/

In his book Robert Fulguhm’s short tale about dancing is  entitled  “Old Geek Dancers”.

The ending goes something like this;

“There is something said about the Hopi’s. They  believe there isn’t much difference between  praying and dancing; both are necessary for a long life.”

“They say to be a useful Hopi is to have a quiet heart and take part in all the dances.”

I believe all those folks who made music and enjoyed taking part in dancing had quiet hearts!

With plans to keep dancing where ever I can through life!

Perhaps someday, I  too will be called, an old geek dancer……

Giving thanks to you Gary, your  blog, has certainly aided in promoting

and restoring old familial friendships.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Vickie Metcalfe

Road Trip Through The Hills – Sept. 25/26, 2015
Story from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Gary

I hope this little report finds you and your family doing well.

I’ve been working on this story for awhile trying to get ahead of the spin put on it by Dick and Mel, on previous blogs.

This time of year, from Labor Day to New Years Day always seems to go by too fast.

Hope you and all our friends enjoy the story.

Larry

Road Trip Through The Hills – Sept. 25/26, 2015

It was fall in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota and the trees were dressed in colors to impress.  The sun upon your face was warm with a slight hint of coolness in the air.  When you stepped into the darkness caused by the thick canopy of the trees and with heaven sent shafts of shining light breaking through the shadows, and with the rustle of the leaves as a breeze blew through the tree tops, made the world go away.  It made me want to go for a walk in the woods or string up a hammock between a couple of trees and lay back with the warm sun upon your face and enjoy the sweet smell of nature, to observe the colored leaves against the bright blue back ground beauty that is the sky.  To feel the calmness and the beauty that is nature on a beautiful fall day not only through your eyes but through every sense and pore of your body, “to be as one with nature”.  O-hell it made me homesick is what it did.

Yes, Henry and I decided to take another road trip through the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota this year, taking advantage of an invitation that our wives received to attend a wedding in Rugby, ND for their great nephew, their sister’s grandson.  We pulled our campers up to Rugby and camped out in the RV Park, owned and operated by Jim Rocheleau who once farmed about twelve miles south of Dunseith.  Contrary to what Mel said, we did not park our campers in the Shopko parking lot, although that probably would have been fun.  Camping in the RV Park has a few more conveniences than the ShopKo parking lot does.  We decided that the wives would use Henry’s truck to get around and to visit their relatives in the Rugby area.  Henry and I used my truck to tour the Great Turtle Mountains and to visit our relatives and friends that live in that area.

Henry and I decided to start in Bottineau, ND and work our way east.  I had brought along on the trip some new information I had obtained on the Hackman family genealogy and because of this material I wanted to stop and see people who I knew would like to have it added to their books.  The first place we headed for was to Cousin Lorraine (Handeland) Mallang’s place.  We drove by slowly noticing the garage door was open and that her car wasn’t home.

2.

We decided to keep on going and tour Bottineau and have an early lunch as we figured she had maybe ran uptown for groceries or something and intended to be gone only for a short time.  We each had a  bowl of delicious chunky homemade roast beef with vegetables soup at the Bottineau Bakery.  We drove back over to Lorraine’s and there she was visiting with some people parked in her driveway.  We waited politely for her to finish visiting and as the people drove off, she came over and greeted us with big hugs and invited us in for cookies and coffee.  She always serves us cookies and coffee.  We finally told her that we had come by earlier and didn’t stop because we didn’t see her car.  She said that she had been home all morning and that someone else had borrowed her car right out of her garage, and without her permission.  She says that she always goes out in the morning to fetch her paper from the box along the curb, on the way she opens the garage door to let the sun shine into her garage.  She said that she loves to see the warm glow of the sun filling her garage in the morning as she sits and reads her newspaper.  Well, this morning she just threw the newspaper on the table and went downstairs to throw a load of laundry in the washer.  When she got back upstairs she sat down at the table preparing to read the news of the day and when she happened to glance out the kitchen door into the garage and to her surprise there was no car.  She said, she thought to herself “oh no” maybe when I parked it I forgot to set the brake or that it slide out of gear and had rolled out into the street.  She said that she ran out in the garage and looked out into the street but there was no car to be seen.  She couldn’t believe her eyes, where did it go?  She said she started calling everybody and the Police.  She was having a very busy morning.  The policeman came over while we were there and introduced himself to all of us.  We found out that he was a LaRocque and had grown up in St. John, ND. He said that he was no relation to the LaRocque’s in Dunseith or Belcourt.  I than asked if he knew Mel Kuhn from St. John?  He started laughing and said that he did and you know for the rest of the time that we sat there at that kitchen table, the man had a continuous smile upon his face.  I don’t know what it is about Mel, but he seems to have that affect on people?  I have heard that the police in Fargo North Dakota stopped a man who was driving a car that

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he had taken in Bottineau, ND.  I am hoping that this car was not Lorraine’s as I heard that he was shot and had to be taken to the Hospital.  It was busy at cousin Lorraine’s as relatives, friends, neighbors and the police were all concerned and curious about her well being and what had happened and all wanted to help.   News travels fast in a small town and every one there was showing her the love and concern they have for her.  Henry and I did not like leaving such friendly and comfortable surroundings but eventually we had to, and proceeded north from Bottineau up into the beautiful Turtle Mountains.  Ahh the clear blue sky, the  lakes like huge pure blue marbles laying in a nest of lush emerald green vegetation surrounded by trees dressed in their festival of fall colors between the rolling grass covered hills that are, The Turtle Mountains.  Beautiful.

We proceeded East onto Highway 43 and toured the Lake Metigoshe area and then traveled south on Willow Lake Road to Bob’s and Cousin Barbara (Boucher) Rivards farm for a visit.  Yes, we were doing another (pop-in) visit.  We caught Bob and Barb at home.  Barbara was baking bread and making wine from home grown grapes.  Well, I actually don’t know what Bob was doing?  Maybe he was sampling the wine as he did seem glad to see us.  Actually they were both glad to see us.  Henry and I also got to sample the wine.  They were doing a good job.  It was late afternoon when we left the Rivard farm.  We continued south on the Willow Lake Road thinking that we would pop-in and see Cousin Duane Handeland.  Well as you know, when you do the pop-in visit thing sometimes people aren’t home.  It’s when you call and let them know you are coming and they aren’t home that you have to become a little suspicious.  Duane was not at home and looking at the clock we talked it over and decided to head for Dunseith as it was getting close to Jumbo Burger Time.  We pulled up in front of the motel building, the one that George is gutting out and turning into a meeting area, just south of the restaurant.  Henry I just started walking across the end of the drive through road toward the restaurant, when there was grinding of brakes, the sliding of tires upon gravel, and the honking of a horn.  Cousin Duane Handeland had just pulled up and asked, with a huge grin upon his face, what hell are you guys doing up here in the sticks?  We explained that we were visiting relatives and friends while

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our wives were at a wedding.  Duane’s reply was, “so they are attending a life funeral, huh”?  Duane is always a pleasure to visit with.  We visited only for a short time before Duane sped off in his car with a cold case of beer in the passenger seat, and a smile upon his face.

Henry and I went into Dales and we each had a delicious Jumbo Burger.  We just automatically do this, as we think it’s just crazy to drive that far and not have one.  We must have hit the dinner rush hour as Dales was really a busy place.  After eating our dinner we traveled south on Highway #3 to visit our Uncle Bill Kraft and his wife Janet (Fountaine) Kraft.  Guess what?  She was busy baking homemade buns.  We had a great visit about old times.  Henry and I both worked on Bill and Janet’s farm during our high school summers and played a lot of pinochle and drank a lot of beer, year round.  As we were going out the door and saying our goodbyes, Janet handed us a bread bag full of freshly baked buns.  Them buns smelled like we should eat them but with our tummies full of jumbo it just wasn’t in the cards.  We got back to Rugby late so we went directly to our campers.  Surprisingly the women weren’t home yet so we figured they were having a good time at the wedding, (life funeral).

The next morning my wife Marion was making sandwiches out of them freshly baked buns from my Aunt and that good tasting Cloverdale Tangy Summer Sausage made right here in Mandan , North Dakota. There was no noticeable activity over at the Henry Hackman camper yet, so I grabbed a couple of the freshly made sandwiches and took them with me up to the RV Office to visit Jim Rocheleau.  Somehow in a previous conversation with the man it had come up that when him and his family use to run around with my uncle Bill’s family that they sometimes would have lunch afterwards, at someone’s home or at a restaurant, and that he loved to go to my Uncles place and eat, because Janet would always serve sandwiches made with delicious homemade buns.  It was a pleasure to share a sandwich with Jim and talk about days gone by.  It was about that time that Henry and his wife and my wife came in the door informing us that a huge elm tree had blown over in the camp ground and had scared the hell out

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of them.  Everyone had come out of their campers to see if the world was coming to end.  It was amazing that it missed all the campers and did no damage to anything but itself.  Jim said that he knew it was in bad shape and had already arranged for it to be taken down at the end of camping season.  It looked to me like the wind had just saved him a whole bunch of money.

Henry and I grabbed that bag of sandwiches my wife had put together, and headed for the hills for our second day of visiting.  We traveled north on Highway #3 to Cousin Jim and Ruby Birkland’s place, with a huge tail wind.  The wind was blowing hard out of south that day but it must have decided to blow around the hills instead of over them as it was quiet up there.  Jim and Ruby really enjoyed their 80^th birthday party the weekend before at the Dunseith Lutheran Church.  In fact some of the relatives had just left for Oregon the day before we got there. We could tell they were a little tired from all the celebrating, but were happy.  I added some pages into Jim and Ruby’s (Hackman/Hackmann Genealogical book).   Jim’s mother Josephine is my dad’s oldest sister. After some conversation and goodbyes Henry and I were on our way.

We headed north and east from their house and ended up at Dick Johnsons shop as that is where he always seems to be.  We caught him and his son working on an old D-8 Caterpillar dozer.  Now Dick was sure happy to see us.  He came right over and started jawing with us.  His son just kept on a working on that dozer, stopping by for introductions and occasional advice from the old man.  Well, that boy had that dozer going in no time.  I think he was grateful that we occupied some of Dicks time.  Now, old Mel explained to me, that is the way work gets done over at Dick’s shop.  Mel said, when he’s invited over to help old Dick out that is the way it always seems to work out, “he is doing the sweating and Dick is doing the jawing.  I know, hard to believe, right?  Now to be fair, Mel gave the impression in his  memoir that Dick starved, Henry and I well we over there, and it was up to him to step in and fatten us back up with some freshly made apple pie.  I’m just glad Mel felt that way.  You know how it is Gary; it’s hard to pass up a pie.  Anyway, it was in the middle of the afternoon and Dick did offer us water or beer,

and I guess because we are old, Henry had a bottle of water and I didn’t have anything because I was the designated driver.  Henry was sure impressed with that dozer.  He has talked about it a lot.  He just couldn’t believe that they did all that work on it and went parked it in the trees.  I think, Brother Henry wanted to take that baby out and knock down some trees, and level off some ground.  Oh hell, he wanted to operate it, pull some levers, and make that old D-8 snort and blow some coal black smoke into the air, is what he wanted to do!

After leaving Dick’s place we headed back down south of Jim Birklands to the Ed Walter farm/ranch.  It’s hard to do a pop-in on Cousin Ed, because that man is always working.  He is 75 years old and still works hard from sunup to sundown.  We had a nice little visit with his wife Bonnie and his daughter Pam and gave them some pages, to add to their Hackman/Hackmann book, and were on our way.  They did not know when Ed and Ben were going to be back, so we decided to go up north to our dad’s old farm and visit Brother Anton.  Brother Anton wasn’t home either.  That is what happens sometimes when you’re doing the pop-in thing, sometimes you pop-out.

Henry and I did some driving around the country side and found a spot on top of a hill with a nice scenic view of the beautiful Turtle Mountains.  We pulled out that bag of sandwiches that my wife had made with the tangy summer sausage and my aunts homemade buns.  We opened the doors of the truck and sat and ate in silence, as our eyes and bodies soaked in the beautiful surroundings, on a beautiful fall day.

The shadows of the trees were starting to get long when we departed that site and headed for St John down the scenic road that is Highway #43.  Yes, we were on our way to see our old buddy Mel.  Guess what?  Mel and his wife Kathy were waiting for us. They had baked a whole bunch of apple pies for the occasion.  I knew I could smell fresh baking pies from atop that hill that we were parked on.  Mel said them pies were for the bake sale at the church tomorrow, but that he was willing to share one with us, and that he would pay his wife extra for all her work in making this pie, so the church wouldn’t be out anything.  I could tell that

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his wife actually believed every word that was coming out of Mel’s mouth.  Actually, I think that was when she got up and left the table.  Yes, Mel did actually get up and pull her chair back for her, when she got up?  I think he wanted more pie.

It was as dark as dark can get when Henry and I left Mel’s place and traveled through St. John, and proceeding west on Highway #43.  Around a curve and topping a hill a skunk ran across the road in front of me, and for some doggone reason he made a U-turn and came directly back towards my vehicle as the pickup wheel thumped over its body. Yes, Mel I left a “dead skunk lying in the middle of the highway”.  Isn’t there a song about that? http://www.jango.com/music/Loudon+Wainwright+III com/webhp? (sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=Dead+Skunk+Lyimg+in+the+Middle+of+the+Highway)

Now I know Mel is going to ask me what color was the skunk?  Mel, “it was black with a white strip”.  Now I know his next question is going to be if I ran over his right side or his left side because I know Mel knows I would not cross the white stripe, “not intentionally anyway”?  Mel, “I ran over its front side”.  Mel’s, next question will be, “How do you know that”? I know that because it made no scent.  “Get it Mel”?  It would have definitely made scent if I had run over the other end.  I hope this explanation saves me from writing another email to him, explaining it all over again? Can you get skunks in different colors?

Yes, it was a fun trip, there is always something special about revisiting where you grew up, visiting The Turtle Mountains.  We had a great time visiting with everyone.  We didn’t get to see everyone we wanted to, or everywhere we wanted to go, but we have already decided that we have to do it again sometime.  Thank you to everyone for the conversations, the laughs, and the food.

Thank You,

Larry Hackman

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Blog (382) posted on February 27 , 2009

Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Dunseith, ND Gary and Friends,I should have been more precise. The Frozen Fingers group from Minot, which we belong to, is joining us for a jam session in Bottineau, at the Senior Center on Main Street every second Sunday of each month. The first jam session is planned for March 8 at 1 PM. It’s open to the public at no charge and the Senior Citizens will be providing the lunch. At this time I’m not sure if the lunch is free will or if items are priced, but either way it will be great! There will be pickers and singers from all over the area taking turns playing all kinds of music . It should be a good way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Hope to see you there! Dick Folks, Mark your calendars. This will be a fun event every month. I wish I could be there. Gary Reply from Shirley Olson Warcup (49): Ivans, UT Shirley is Dick Johnson’s aunt – sister to his mother Gary, Was the Fred Chase Vance Baily mentioned in his letter a painter? Two brothers who were painters painted our house when we lived on a farm west of Dunseith. Shortly after they finished the job, one of them was accused of murdering someone at San Haven. I was perhaps 8 years old at that time–I don’t remember their names. I do know that my parents were surprised when they heard about the murder and arrest. Both of these brothers were apparently very satisfactory workers and very polite men. I know my parents were skeptical that one of them could have done something like this, however, if my memory is correct one of them was convicted of the murder. Perhaps someone with a better memory than mine knows if our painter was Fred Chase. Shirley Olson Warcup Reply from Gary Metcalfe (57): Forsyth, MO Reply to Vance Bailey’s letter Here is some input about Jules Waldron, Vance mentioned the boys left town. In a letter from Bing Evans to his mother dated October 20, 1941, Bing was in training at Ft. Lewis, Wa. Bing says, ” I spent the last weekend in Seattle, John Schimitz and his wife came over to Jim’s (Metcalfe) and we played cards and drank beer. Had a great time. I visited for awhile with Albert Aubrey and Fred Waldron. Fred told me his brother Percy, was in the Army a year and spent 280 days of that time in the guard house. Albert is working in an electrical shop for at $10.00 per day and Fred works in a service station.” Albert was known as Monk. Who knew his mother and step dad, Tom and Maggie (Aubrey) Cassidy? What a pair. Maggie and I had asthma together. We went to Bottineau one fateful day to see a new young dr. in town, Dr. Bray. An old lady and a kid. The dr. used a syringe that was designed for a draft horse….it was memorable!! Gary Metcalfe Reply from Lyle Olson (75) – Son of Lorraine Metcalfe: West Fargo, ND Gary:I read Bev Morinville-Azure’s e-mail the other day wherein she mentioned the band, “Tickled Pink”. She forgot to mention that Roberta Hagen (now Striker) was the drummer for that all girl band. The band was formed in the mid-70’s. I was in the USAF at the time and literally made weekend trips home from Scott AFB in Illinois to see them play. They had an enormous following, young and old alike. I’ll never forget their biggest fans seemed to be Kenny and Nettie Tooke. In fact, Kenny and Nettie even developed “fan wear” for the band in the form of Black Windbreakers (to make Kenny look skinny) with the band’s name emblazoned on the back. They were quite the picture twirling around the dance floor, dancing two-steps to the Eagles and John Fogerty. As many of you know, the lead singer for that band was Kathy Metcalfe. She was the best singer I have ever heard, as she could sing anything from Fleetwood Mac to Johnny Cash. Her voice was strong and pure, and she was great musician as well. I remember sitting on the porch at David Fugere’s house one summer night and we could hear Kathy singing all the way down the block. Her voiced filtered through the air as if delivered to one’s ears by angels. I really miss her. Now, I want to take some credit for how the band got its name. You see Janice, Kathy, Elaine and Cheri Metcalfe and I were all driving around one night drinking a little wine in the winter of ’74, co-incidently named “Tickled Pink”, a delightful wine with no cork and less than $3.00 a bottle, and singing songs. It seems you can never get Metcalfes together without a little picking, grinning and drinking — but that is another story all by itself. The band “Pink Floyd” was popular at the time and we were all listening to them on the only radio we could get at the time, KFYR out of Bismarck. Well, lo and behold in the back of the car we were driving around in was a pink Frisbee and a pink scarf. Well to be funny, and after way too much wine, I used the scarf to tie the pink frisbee on my head and “PINK FLAUD” – the counry-bumpkin version of Pink Floyd – was born!! I couldn’t sing “Dark Side of the Moon,” but I was “Comfortably Numb” and having the time of my life with my favorite cousins. Well we eventually made our way up to a party at Brian Fauske’s place in the hills. I remember it was a great party but it ended late. As we made our way back to Dunseith, I remember starting to get sick on the way down San Haven hill. How we made it to the little mobile home we lived in at the time without any regurgitation is beyond me. In any event, out of the car and into the house I bounded to get to the only bathroom in the house, which was right next to my mother’s bedroom. Well, she heard me get sick and she rushed in to see what was wrong. Well, I must have drank a beer with a cigarette put out inside as I brought up some tobacco with my wine. My mother screamed, “Oh my god, he is on marijuana!!!!!” I spent the rest of the night trying to convince her otherwise by incoherently telling her about Pink Flaud and Tickled Pink wine, and how it was those damn Metcalfe girls that led me astray!! Well, when I told the Janice and all about this story, they had no choice but to name the band “Tickled Pink.” Now you know the rest of the story. {The above story as to the naming of the greatest band to ever come out of Dunseith is pure fiction and is not to be believed by any party, living or dying} Lyle O. Class of 1975 Reply from Bobby Slyter (70): Wichita, Kansas to bev mornville: i truly do remember the tickled pick girls, they played for mom and dads 25th wedding anniversary party at the ac bar. good bunch of girls and great music JUST LITTLE OLE ME FROM KANSAS Bobby, Mel Kuhn just sent me a song from this group. I am going to send it to Bill Grimme to see if he can reduce the file size enough so we can post it with these daily messages. Gary Reply from Vickie Hiatt LaFontaine (73): Grafton, ND In reading todays stories it made me think of the dances dad and mom [ Norman and Irene Hiatt] use to have in the quensat [unsure of the spelling sorry] I was probably 5 years old. I remember the music, it was Norris and Bud Knutson and I believe Gary Olson. One of my fondest memories is doing the butterfly with Sharon and Jim Hansen. I remember mom making big kettles of sloppy joe and going to town to get the buns from the bakery. I also had a bed made for me under a counter. I remember dad telling a storie about my brother Jim and our cousin Clifford, apparently it was their job to pick up the beer cans and bottles the next morning, well I guess dad caught them poring all the cans together so theycould have a little refeshments after their work was done. I guess dad told them be careful drinking from those cans boys people could be peeing in them. I don’t remember if that stopped them or not. Vickie Hiatt LaFontaine Vickie, I remember really well when your folks had those dances every Saturday night. We could see your house plain as day one mile to the east of our place. You guys sure drew the crowds and we could hear the music all the way to our house. Gary Reply from Bob Lykins (mid 60’s DHS teacher): Germany & Hutto, TX Gary,Ah, the PI. You gotta love the place. I recall a time when I was working the schools at Subic Bay Naval Station. In the evening I went into Olangapo (where the sewer meets the sea) to have dinner at a reputable resturant that I knew. I was alone and sat down in a booth putting my camera bag beside me. I never went anywhere without my camera (the original OM-1). A fellow came up to me and starting talking. He was friendly and, as I recall, we had a great conversation. Unbeknownst to me, his accomplis while I was distracted, had reached over the back of the booth, unzipped my camera bag, took out the camera, removed the camera from it’s case and replaced the case back into the bag zipping it back up. Since I had other items in the bag and the camera didn’t weigh that much, I never missed it until I got back to my quarters on base. Slick as a whistle it was. Naturally I had to report it for insurance purposes. Needless to say, nothing came of the investigation and I can only hope that the sale of the camera brought some poor family additional food and clothes. Fond memories. Bob Lykins Bob, Events that draw a lot of people here in the PI also draw a lot of professional pick picketers from other areas of the country. One has to be careful. When ever I’m in a crowded area, even in the malls at busy times, I always place my wallet in my front pocket. Living in the heart of a true Filipino community with many very poor neighbors, we have never had anything stolen from our place. Because we have folks (helpers and some relatives) living in our compound, we never lock the gate into our place. We feel very secure. On the other hand, if someone tried to take anything, they’d have to go past many folks to get out of our area and believe me, these folks would tackle and catch who ever was running. A month or so ago a large truck had an accident on the main road that caused serious injuries to several folks riding motor cycles. Before the police arrived, the bystanders beat up this poor truck driver so bad that he had to be admitted to the hospital. Gary From Mel Kuhn (70): Saint John, ND Gary, Here’s one for Bev Morinville Azure from back in the OLD DAYS. To make a long story short, after a conversation with Shelly Fulsebakke Albertson a while back, she dropped me off a CD of Tickle Pink. Crank up the speakers. Rolette County Historical Society will be holding its Fun Night on April 18th at the Senior Center in St. John. We had a real good turn out last year with lots of great music from area talent such as “Hwy 43” and lots more. Mel Kuhn Mel, I forwarded “Tickle Pink” to our computer expert, Bill Grimme, to see if he could reduce the file size for group sending. He was able to reduce the file size considerably, but I feel it’s still a tab bit large to be included with one of our daily messages. Folks, if you’d like a copy of “Tickle Pink”, please request a copy from Mel or myself and we’ll gladly forward you an electronic copy. Gary Bev Morinville Azure’s (72) reply to Bernard Morin (76): Dunseith, ND WOW , Bernard I didn’t hear a thing I am sure if I would have heard it I would have been dancing in the street after all they were the best band to dance to if I remember right. Those were the days and if I remember right Bernard it was whiskey not beer lol seems like forever since those days . If anyone knows where I can get a cd of Pickled I mean Tickled Pink please call me and let me know my number is 244 0775. Bernard as I remember these were the day when u learned to park in my drive way back in those days we didn’t have DD.

Happy Belated Birthday Ginger LaRocque Poitra (’65): Belcourt, ND

Happy Birthday Judy Allery Azure (’65): Bismarck, ND

Happy Birthday Lynn Halvorson Otto (’75): Boonton, NJ

Happy Birthday Aggie Casavant (’69): Modesto, CA

Betty Hackman Schmidt (68) Mesa, AZ

Update from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

My  sister Betty was transferred from the Phoenix Hospital to the Mayo Hospital in Scottsdale Yesterday by ambulance (a twenty mile trip across town).

She is so weak that they are having problems keeping the water from accumulating around her heart and lungs.  They are going to attach some kind of pump to her heart to assist it.  I guess this pump is keeping old Dick C

heney alive.  I just hope she don’t get as grouchy or lose her hair and start to look and act like him.  Actually I don’t know if that’s  the side affects or not, but as long as it keeps her going.  Keep on praying.

Betty’s E-mail address;  bettyschmidt@yahoo.com

Her home address is;

Betty Schmidt

45697 W. Skylane

Maricopa, AZ. 85139

Her daughter Keri will deliver all messages and cards to her.

Thank You for your prayers.

Larry

Reply to Vickie Metcalfe’s Posting

From Lyle Olson (’75):   West Fargo, ND

Beautiful story by Vickie Metcalfe about Jack Metcalfe, my Uncle. She nailed his personality and temperament.

My mother Lorraine and Jack were very close. He spent a lot of time at our home, playing Banjo, eating the best food ever, and teasing us boys. Mom always made a big meal on Sunday. After the meal and after all the dishes were washed, the guitars and banjos would come out. They would play for hours, even though they also typically played at local bars every Friday and Saturday night. They just loved playing music and loved being together doing so.

As noted by Vickie, Uncle Jack and Uncle Bill served on the USS Boxer with my father, Orlin Olson. My mother and father divorced when I was rather young. Uncles Jack and Bill always made the effort to tell us boys about our father and their time in the Navy. I am sure some stories were not told but I remember having great pride in those three for serving our country during the Korean War.

ALS is an insidious disease. It may have taken Uncle Jack’s physical presence but it could not, and did not, take the twinkle in his eye.  I remember that most of all.

Lyle Olson

Joseph LaRocque Service yearsPosting pictures from Ginger LaRocque (’65):  Belcourt, ND

Gary,

I just wanted to say that,  my dad,  Joseph LaRocque was in the army. He was in World War I I along with his brother Jerome.

My dad always said “I just drove truck”,  I am sure that was an important job. He drove in black outs, driving blindly through the darkness of the night.  He learned to drive trucks,  I think it was when he worked for old man Gottbreth as he would say. He did learn to double clutch while working there, which he used a lot while in the service. Dad was proud to know how to do this, the other truck drivers had a hard time getting up the inclines. They wondered how he did it.  So he taught them how. They were very appreciative.

Dad’s brother Jerome on the other hand I don’t know a whole lot of what he did in the army. I remember talk of him getting the purple heart.

My grandpa Bergie, my mother’s father served during World War I.  I don’t know many details.  His brother also served at the same time.

I have a book which tells about the Bergie brothers I will have to find it and look up the information.

The book is about Native people who served during wars.

More later

Ginger (LaRocque) Poitra class of 65′

Joseph LaRocque

Joseph LaRocque cousin Martin Delorme & Jerome LaRocque

Martin Bergie my grandfather

Yesterday’s veterans (Part 2 of 3)
Posting from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Charles Durning:  US Army;  Landed at Normandy on D-Day, shot multiple times, awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts, survived Malmedy Massacre

Raymond Burr:  US Navy, shot in the stomach on Okinawa and medically discharged

Hugh O’Brian:  US Marines

Eddie Albert:  US Coast Guard, Bronze Star with Combat V for saving several Marines under heavy fire as pilot of a landing craft during the invasion of Tarawa

Clark Gable:  US Army Air Corps, B-17 gunner over Europe

Charles Bronson:  US Army Air Corps, B-29 gunner, wounded in action

Peter Graves:  US Army Air Corps (Younger brother of James Arness)

Buddy Hackett:  US Army anti-aircraft gunner

Jack Palance:  US Army Air Corps, severely injured bailing out of a burning B-24 bomber

Robert Preston:  US Army Air Corps, Intelligence Officer

Cesar Romero:  US Coast Guard, participated in the invasions of Tinian and Saipan on the Assault transport USS Cavalier

Jason Robards:  US Navy aboard heavy cruiser USS Northampton when it was sunk off Guadalcanal.  Also served on the USS Nashville during the invasion of the Philippines, surviving a kamikaze hit that caused 223 casualties.

Dennis Weaver:  US Navy Pilot

Robert Taylor:  US Navy Instructor Pilot

Randolph Scott:  Tried to enlist in the Marines but was rejected due to injuries sustained in US Army in World War I

Ronald Reagan:  US Army;  Was a 2nd Lt. in the Cavalry Reserves before the war.  His poor eyesight kept him from being sent overseas with his unit when war came, so he transferred to the Army Air Corps Public Relations Unit where he served for the duration.

John Wayne:  Declared “4F medically unfit” due to pre-existing injuries, he nonetheless attempted to volunteer three times (Army, Navy and Film Corps (so he gets an honorable mention.

Audy Murphy:  He became America’s most-decorated soldier, who became a Hollywood star as a result of his US Army service that included his being awarded the Medal of Honor.

I don’t believe this is a complete list because I read somewhere that David Niven was involved in something also.  This is a pretty extensive list from the film and TV industry.  Jump forward a few years to Viet Nam, Iraq, Kuwait, Afganistan, and a few other unpleasant places.  Where were the actors of the day during these time frames?  Were they exempt?  Some of them were making movies about the wars without a clue to the reality of it all.  You have probably seen pictures of some of them wearing parts of military clothing with the rank still on them.  I’ll get off my soap box now!    To all the veterans of times past and those who are currently serving in the Armed Forces, Thank You!

Dale Pritchard
Viet Nam (1967. 1968, 1970, 1971, and 1975)

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Blog (381) posted on February 26 , 2009

02/26/2009

Posted on February 26, 2009

Thanks to all the Veterans
Posting from Ginger LaRocque Poitra (‘’65):  Belcourt, ND

This is to thank all the veterans from the class of 65′ for serving our country during the Vietnam War. I would also like to thank all the current soldiers serving along with all the veterans from all the military branches for their service to our country.

Your service and sacrifices are greatly appreciated.

It is and has been each and everyone of you that has helped to maintain our freedom!

Happy Veterans Day!!

Ginger,  class of 65′

Veterans Day
Posting from Vickie Metcalfe (’70):  Bottineau, ND

Gary and Dunseith Friends,

It is now November 7, 2015.

Beginning in September, a cousin’s wife wrote; she was helping her grand daughter with a school Veteran’s Day project.  They were seeking information on her brother-in law Jack. 

I had always known, three of my Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary’s sons ; Robert served in the Pacific in WWII. Later. Billy and Jack served in Korea.

I suggested to Jack’s sister -in- law, about  book located at the Veterens service office and  perhaps at larger library. A book lists every service members home county, rank, year of service.  

She found the book at the library.  

She discovered several Metcalfe’s who served; Charles, Emil, Clifford and Robert WWII. John and William in  Korea.

Among that lot;

John Wesley Metcalfe served in the United States Navy from December 1952-December 1955.   Jack’s brother, Billy served on the same ship as did Orlan Olson.  All served with honor.

She  told a story told to her by Jack about the ship on fire and sinking. The Metcalfe  brother’s, were concerned about  friend, quickly found  him each seized an arm and jumped. As they hit the water, the poor guy yelled,”You know I can’t swim!” Jack replied, “Move your arms, you are going to learn today.”

He swam. The little fourth grade granddaughter now had a place to begin writing her Veterans Day report,

I am recalling  memories of Jack.  

Mom and Dad had spoken fondly of  Jack who came and worked for my parents one fall when I was a wee baby.  

He went away to the Navy.

When I was  a little more than three years old, Jack came back to work for Mom and Dad; he had just been released from military service. 

My parents were happy he was back. They could depend on him to help.  As a child I felt the ease mom and dad around Jack. And, Jack and Dad enjoyed swapping tales.

That winter, Dad was plastering Belcourt hospital or school.  Mom was expecting another child.

Jack  listened  to kids and spoke in words we understood.  He was never disrespectful to my parents. They could count on him coming to help ‘chore’. 

 Dad had fed the cattle before going to Belcourt early in the morning; he’d hand pump water, feed cattle by hand with hayrack and team. 

Jack lived about 5 miles west in his parental home.  He drove over each day to  milk cows and clean  the barn.

Jack took my elder sister to her first day of  first grade. The country school  was about 2 miles West, cross country through the snow at  Oakes a.k.a Seim School. 

He picked up my sister carried her out side put her in the straw on the stone boat, which was  pulled by Barney the white percheron. Later in the afternoon he would go get her and start evening chores. 

When he had a break he began teaching himself to play banjo. T’was then, my parents thoughts of me being a pianist were doomed; as watching Jack, childlike decided I wanted to pick banjo. The little windup play guitar was a solace and he’d pick, I’d wind up my Christmas guitar and together we’d ‘play’. He never made fun, or talk down to me.

I attached myself to him as I did the Jim Metcalfe girls.  I knew he was my cousin, and with childlike trust, I bonded with ‘Smilin’ Jack. 

I  was a pest to Jack,who maintained a  jolly and  kind personality, had infinite patience and tolerance with my 3 year old mind. 

I  watched and persisted  with constant inquisitve questioning of what he was doing with that  rather odd looking ‘guitar’?

 In June 1956, I went to stay with the Jim Metcalfe farm, my elder sister stayed with King Fish and Fafa Seim so she could continue grade one.

My mother went to Bottineau to have a baby. And, Dad and Jack? They batched.  Jack would laugh, “Lottie left ham. Cliff fried ham and eggs for breakfast, we ate ham sandwiches for dinner, and ate ham and fried potatoes or hominy for supper.   He said, HAM for every meal 3 x a day!  But it was good. 

My fond friendship with my cousin ensued  though the years.

I had a tough accident, it was Jack who rang me up at St. Alexis hospital.  Not once. But every day he phoned me every afternoon after therapy at Bismarck and continued through the summer. He’d ask?I answer, “I’m fine.” 

Cousin Jack, every day continued  ringing me on the phone, calling from Georgia. 

Jack,”I am fine, Mom drives me over to  physical therapy every day and I walk away to the highway.” 

One day, no phone call…..Surprise! On that warm August late afternoon, into the yard came a car with Georgia plates.

I met Jack in the yard, as he  said,  “I needed to be sure you really were o.k.”

He spent the entire afternoon visiting with mom and I.  Delighting us with silly stories, of pickin guitar with mountain folk locals at various places in Georgia.  Crazier tales of people who attend a church on every street corner and…. worship dancing with snakes curled in their arms! ….OMG! I’d say, and listened to more tales as only Jack could tell. Laughter!

The Worst News EVER about Jack, came one evening, when mom rang me in Montana.

…. Devastating below the belt….staggering hit….A durty……. PUNCH was drawn on Jack.

 He was stricken with an ugly, filthy, agonizing disease. 

It never stopped, relentless, first taking away his deft fingers, he could not pick blue grass joyfully. Taking away energy.

It continued  seizing,  eating,  consuming  and finally ravaged its course through  his entire body.  

I had the most difficult time gutting it up to go see him. (I have always been tender about people  loved.

I am one of those  who reads the back of the book first to see if it ends well.  My brother has counted times when I get up and leave the room when some scary or sad show comes on.)

Before I went to see Jack, I needed courage to be strong. I knew about what he faced,because, a best friends mother had just passed from the same illness.

Finally I summoned strength, I thought I can do this, I have…courage.

I went alone the first time to see him.

The courage was not lasting, a last residue of courage stripped away when I saw him. I wept openly.  Saying,Jack, “I am so sorry I couldn’t come sooner.  

(You see, my brave Korean War Veteran, banjo pickin cousin,could no longer lift his head, nor his hands and fingers, sat limp and weak in a wheel chair.)                                      ] 

I got on my knees to look up at his eyes, his face.

His soft melodius voice spoke, “I know you Vickie.  I  have always known why, you couldn’t come. I knew you’d be here,when you were ready.”

Yes. Jack understood. We always shared the wealth of our families. As with many of my cousins, that wealth is deep. 

At its depth is a fond sentimental family understanding; as humans we each have imperfections, and an  absolute unconditional Love and forgiveness.

My Dad had always said he thought perhaps this was  combination of the our Scots blood and French.

Yep. Most times that sentimental genetic line has me snottering. 

 Any way, ……..I have always wondered if serving on a USA war ship during Korea with ‘asbestos’ aided another deadly enemy, ALS?

 Jack fought on a ship in Korean waters.  He survived one war.  He was a proud and honorable American Veteran.

Later, ALS got his body….  

But never did it get his spirit. 

God Bless America each and every day!

Thank You to each American Veteran on Wednesday, November 11, 2015.

Until Later, Vickie Leona Metcalfe

Christmas Craft show
Posting from Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND

Yesterday’s veterans (Part 2 of 3)
Posting from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Gary,

Here is Part 2 of the Movie Actor Veterans follows:

Robert Stack:  US Navy Gunnery Officer

Neville Brand:  US Army Europe;  Awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart

Tyrone Power:  US Marines; Transport pilot in the Pacific Theater

Charlton Heston:  US Army Air Corps; Radio operator and aerial gunner on a B-25, Aleutians

James Arness:  US Army; As an infantryman, he was severely wounded at Anzio, Italy (Older brother of actor Peter Graves)

Efram Zimbalist, Jr:  US Army; Purple Heart for a severe wound received at Huertgen Forest

Mickey Spillane:  US Army Air Corps Fighter Pilot and later Instructor Pilot

Rod Sterling:  US Army 11th Airborne Division in the Pacific. Jumped at Tagaytay in the Philippines and was later wounded in Manila

Gene Autry:  US Army Air Corps; Crewman on transports that ferried supplies over “The Hump” in the China-Burma-India Theater

William Holden:  US Army Air Corps

William Conrad:  US Army Air Corps Fighter Pilot

Jackie Coogan:  US Army Air Corps; Volunteered for gliders and flew troops and materials into Burma behind enemy lines

Tom Bosley:  US Navy

Claude Akins:  US Army Signal Corps; Burma and the Philippines

Chuck Conners:  US Army Tank-warfare instructor

Karl Malden:  US Army Air Corps, 8th Air Force, NCO

Earl Holliman:  US Navy;  Lied about his age to enlist.  Discharged after a year when the Navy found out

Don Knotts:  US Army, Pacific Theater

Don Rickles:  US Navy aboard USS Cyrene

Robert Stack:  US Navy Gunnery instructor

Lee Van Cleef:  US Navy;  Served aboard a sub chaser and a mine sweeper

Jack Warden:  US Navy, 1938 – 1942, then US Army 1942 – 1945;  101st Airborne Division

Don Adams:  US Marines;  Wounded on Guadalcanal, then served as a Drill instructor

Brian Keith:  US Marines Radioman / Gunner in Dauntless dive-bombers

Fess Parker:  US Navy and US Marines;  Booted from pilot training because he was too tall, joined Marines as a radio operator

Part 3 to follow.

Dale Pritchard

====================================
Blog (380) posted on February 26 , 2009

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02/26/2009

Posted on February 26, 2009

Folks, The TV Cable sales man was just here and returned the money from yesterday’s story. Because of this, he lost his job. We just talked to the supervisor that I was dealing with at the Cable company and he said there is a big, in house, investigation going on because if this incident. They discovered that there were quite a few folks involved from different deparments in the company with this under the table deal they made with me. This is the only TV cable company that services this Island, so they are quite large.

Request from Martha Lamb Schepp (68): Newburg, ND

Hi Gary,

We are enjoying the service you provide to all of us who enjoy the times of days gone by. Shane Lester would like to be added to your list serve. Thanks for all that you do.

Martha Lamb Schepp, Newburg, ND ’68

It is my pleasure to add Shane Lester to our distribution. I believe Shane is the guy that is related to the Cook’s and House’s from Little Prairie. He would also be related to some of the Espe’s, Millang’s and Salmonson’s. I believe you mentioned that Shane works with your husband in the Newburg area. Gary

From Bev Morinville Azure (72): Dunseith, ND

I am not sure if you know this or not but back in the 70’s there was a group of gals from here that were all the rage. The groups name was Tickled Pink and it was one of the best bands around here. The members were Janice, Kathy, Elaine and Cheri Metcalfe and Shelly Fulsebakke. They played all over and we had a blast when they would be at the AC or up at Kelvin. They played country plus oldies these were a talented bunch of woman . Anyone have any memories they can share about the band . I do remember they walked into the AC bar with the idea of forming a band and walked out with enough money to start. Alot of people supported them.

 GOD BLESS YOU …………BEV

From Mark Schimetz (70): Rolette, ND

Hey Gary, Dick Johnson, his wife Brenda and Ron Hett played for us at the Good Sam’s Nursing home on Sunday in Bottineau. In celebration of Mid’s 90th Birthday. The room was large, packed, and short of chairs. The music was grand, They played a song “Chancellor Ville” from the Civil War era, a blue grass tune from the movie “Oh! Brother where art thou?” , some Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Charlie Prides “Crystal Chandelier”, Cashes, Folsom Prison and Haggard’s, The Bottle let me down. The Music was preformed with a guitars, a banjo and large base guitar played by Brenda, Ron Hett switched back and forth from his guitar to his banjo as Dick Johnson set the lead.

There were a lot of smiles on the residents and visitors faces and wondering expressions of days gone by, countenanced on the faces of many of the elders. Dick and company were to play for an hour, however, they were asked to stay another hour and they gladly accepted the invitation to the great delight of all in attendance.

Shortly after the first hour Gary Fulsebakke arrived and joined in for a short time to sing Happy Birthday to his Mother and all joined in. Gary then Borrowed a guitar and moved to the south wing where the special celebration was given for his mother where she lauded with songs and remembrances of days gone by and serenaded by Gary with gospel music she loved to sing all her life. Gary had some cute stories about the early days at home and I hope to get him to share them with us.

I have been informed that on March 8th 2009, Dick and Friends will play at Good Sam’s , and every 2nd Sunday of the Month. there after. This is the plan according to Dick.

Thank you Dick, Brenda and Ron, and Gary for the great music. You all put a lot of smiles on the people Sunday and I know some really felt alive again and left that home for a couple hours in their minds, lost in time following the sweet music you all played and if they don’t remember much, I am sure the music will not be forgotten. Music soothes the soul.

God Bless you all, and keep up the gallant work as long as you can.

mschimetz@msn.com

 Dick Johnson’s (70) reply: Dunseith, ND

 Gary,

Thanks for the advance copy of Mark’s nice write-up. The name of our
group is ‘Highway 43’, we felt it was fitting as most of the musicians
we have in this area live on or within a couple miles of 43. It seems
it’s always been that way, if you think back. Ole Bursinger, Lorraine
Metcalfe, Jack Metcalfe, Carl and Shirley Melgaard, Hank Salmonson, Pete
Berginski, Sharon Albertson, Kenny Sivertson for a few from back in the
day. It’s somewhat the same now with just a few more names thrown in the
mix. I never considered the idea of so many pickers and singers along
‘ol 43 until someone asked us to pick out a name for the group. We sure
do have fun doing these little ‘gigs’ and if folks like our music, that
is an added bonus! Thanks Mark and Gary!

Dick

Gary,

I just reread Mark’s story and need to enter a correction. We are
jamming at the senior center every second Sunday–Mark said Good Sam.
Thanks!

Dick

Dick, I’ll bet you will draw quite a crowd too, of all ages, when folks know you are going to be there. It’s wonderful that you are doing this for the community. Gary

Reply from Randy Kelly (’69):  St. Paul, MN.

Hi Gary,

Was going thru your blog and saw my name and face.  Thank you.  I must say I have not seen that prom picture in over 45 years. Oh to be young again.

Thank you also for the open invitation to visit you in Cebu. I hope to be able to do that sometime in the future.  I love to travel and meet people.  You are very kind.

Thanks again for all that you do to make so many people happy. My best to your family.

Warmly,

Randy

Gary’s reply

Thank you so much Randy for the nice compliment. This I believe is the picture you are referring too with you and Toni Morinville in 1968. This was over 47 years ago.

Yes, we’d love to have you and anyone else interested in visiting this part of the world visit us. Our daughter is here now with our Granddaughter. They got round trip tickets from Seattle to Cebu for less than $900 total with Korean airlines. Jan-Mar is Low season for travel to the Philippines.

Folks, Randy’s mother was a Fauske, Sister to Elwood and Lydia LaCroix. Elwood and Eleanore recently celebrated their 73^rd wedding anniversary.

Randy, I googled some of your accomplishments and pasted them below. You are to be commended. It’s not many small rural towns like Dunseith that can say they have had an alumnus that served on a United States Presidents personal staff and for three years too.

            1968 DHS Prom: Toni Morinville and Randy Kelly.

Post-mayoral activities

In late 2006, Kelly was named Deputy Associate Administrator for Intergovernmental Relations for the Environmental Protection Agency by President Bush. At the EPA, his duties included managing relations with governors, state legislators, mayors, county executives and other state and local officials, as well as working with the national associations representing these officials. In the position, he also served as the liaison to the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.^[2] He remained in this position until early 2009.

Betty Hackman Schmidt (’68) had a Heart attack
Message from Larry Hackman (’66): Bismarck, ND

Betty (Hackman ) Schmidt, my sister of the Dunseith High School Class of 1968 had a heart attack (the widow Maker) last Thursday 10/29/15.

She is in the intensive care unit of the Phoenix AZ. Hospital.

All prayers are needed and are appreciated.

Larry

Yesterday’s veterans
Posting from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Real Life Heroes:  Many people today don’t have any idea who these men are / were and that’s a pity.  The movie stars of “our” day were real life heroes.  The list is lengthy so I’ll send it in three parts to keep it short each time.  One-third of the list as follows:

PART 1

GEORGE GOBEL:  Comedian, Army Air Corps, taught fighter pilots

JAMES STEWART:  US Army Air Corps; Bomber pilot who rose to the rank of General

ERNEST BORGNINE:  US Navy Gunners Mate; destroyer USS Lamberton; 10 years active duty; discharged 1941; re-enlisted after Pearl Harbor

ED McMAHON:  US Marines fighter pilot (flew OE-1 Bird Dogs over Korea as well)

TELLY SAVALAS:  US Army

WALTER MATTHAU:  US Army Air Corps; B-24 Radioman/Gunner and cryptographer

STEVE FORREST:  US Army; wounded at Battle of the Bulge

JONATHAN WINTERS:  USMC; Battleship USS Wisconsin and Carrier USS Bon Homme Richard (Anti-aircraft gunner, Battle of Okinawa)

PAUL NEWMAN:  US Navy Rear seat gunner/radioman, torpedoed bombers off USS Bunker Hill

KIRK DOUGLAS:  US Navy Sub-chaser in the Pacific; Wounded in action and medically discharged

ROBERT MITCHUM:  US Army

DALE ROBERTSON:  US Army Tank Commander in North Africa under Patton; Wounded twice; received battlefield commission

HENRY FONDA:  US Navy Destroyer USS Satterlee

LEE MARVIN:  US Marines Sniper; Wounded in action on Saipan, Buried in Arlington National Cemetery Sec 7A next to Greg Boyington and Joe Louis

ROD STEIGER:  US Navy; was aboard one of the ships that launched the Doolittle Raid

TONY CURTIS:  US Navy Sub tender USS Proteus;  In Tokyo Bay for the surrender of Japan

LARRY STORCH:  US Navy Sub tender USS Proteus with Tony Curtis

FORREST TUCKER:  US Army; Enlisted as a private, rose to the rank of Lieutenant

ROBERT MONTGOMERY:  US Navy

GEORGE KENNEDY:  US Army; Enlisted after Pearl Harbor, stayed in sixteen years

MICKEY ROONEY:  US Army under Patton; received Bronze Star

DENVER PYLE:  US Navy; wounded in the Battle of Guadalcanal; medically discharged

More to come:

Dale Pritchard

Posted by Neola Kofoid Garbe:  Bottineau & Minot, ND

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Blog (378) posted on February 23 , 2009

   Happy Birthday Vickie Bergan Dietz (’82):  Princeton, MN.

  Happy Birthday Shannon Azure (‘2001): Grand Forks, ND

Happy Birthday Sandra Monson Gottbreth: Dunseith, ND.

Trying to locate Roger Johnson
Inquiry from Chris Wogaman: 

Hi Gary,

I’m doing some family history research for a friend of mine on Facebook whose Great-Grandfather (Jack Beasley) served with Roger Johnson of Dunseith in WW2 on the LSM-297. I don’t know if Roger might still be living, but thought I would ask if you might know. It might be a challenge to track down anyone living who was on that ship who would possibly remember this fellow.

All the best,

Chris Wogaman
Minneapolis, MN

Reply from Lynette Honsey:

Hi Gary,

Thanks for the “Blog”.

Very nice.

So, because of your blog I called my Auntie Netty last evening.   (Netty Peterson)

Yep, Leola is her sister.

I’m following your lead very well.    This is fun!

By the way, the answer is:

Bulacan, Philippines.

Are you near there?

I have somehow come up with two email addresses for you Gary.  Any preference ?

Below is one of the first shots I took while in North Dakota in August, 2015.

Photography is one of the things I love to do.

Lynette,

You have lots of cousins on this distribution too.

I have 7 email addresses and they are all good. I use Outlook to manage my email, All of the messages from all of my email addresses are all combined and displayed together in Outlook.  

Gary

Reply to Boar pig picture posted by Raphael Poitra
From Don Martel (Former DHS Vice Principal): Rosemount, MN

Seems to me that someone recently shot a feral pig in the Turtle Mountains, so I thought this information could be helpful in case others are spotted.

North Dakota Game and Fish Department

Nov. 2, 2015

Feral Pig Sightings Must be Reported

Landowners or hunters who happen to encounter feral pigs in North Dakota must notify the State Board of Animal Health immediately. Shooting of feral pigs is illegal in North Dakota unless a person is protecting property or livestock.

Casey Anderson, assistant chief of wildlife for the State Game and Fish Department, said state law requires reporting of feral pigs to help the BOAH eliminate these nuisance animals.

“We have had numerous situations since 2008 where feral swine have been detected in North Dakota and we take these reports very seriously,” Anderson said. “With the upcoming deer hunting season approaching, we want to let people know they need to report immediately if they see feral pigs or observe signs such as rooting.”

Anyone who observes or suspects the presence of feral pigs should call the BOAH at 701-328-2655, Game and Fish Department at 701-328-6300, or USDA Wildlife Services at 701-250-4405.

Feral pigs can threaten domestic livestock, crops, public safety, natural habitat and wildlife. Anderson said they often become nocturnal if pressured which makes removal efforts more difficult. “They are very hardy and resilient,” he added, “that’s why immediate action is essential.”

A landowner may eliminate wild pigs on his or her land if they pose an immediate threat, but must contact the BOAH within 24 hours. The landowner must follow any instructions given by the board regarding the handling, preservation and disposal of the carcass.

George and Eve Crawford Hiatt siblings
Reply from Dale Pritchard (’63):  Leesville, LA

Gary

Additional info for you.  Faye Hiatt was married to Melvin Tohm from Gardena, south of Bottineau.  They lived and farmed at Egeland, about 40 miles east of Rolette.  Faye passed away from cancer a few years ago.  Melvin and one of his sons still live on the farm.  Melvin’s brother, LeRoy, was married to my sister, Lorraine.  LeRoy passed away from cancer last Winter in Hereford, TX and was returned to Bottineau for burial.

Dale Pritchard

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Blog (377) posted on February 22 , 2009

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02/22/2009

Posted on February 22, 200

    Happy Birthday Dave Wurgler (’64): Rugby, ND
 

Lagerquist Family

Folks,

These are some very nice photos of the Lagerquist family. Bruce, Kim and Carl came along after I left the country, so I didn’t know them. I knew the others well though. Very well in fact.  They were our neighbors to the east.

Leola was a Hiatt, Daughter of George and Eva Crawford Hiatt. I think George died in about 1949, but most everyone in my generation and older knew Eva.  Albert Hiatt was Leola’s brother.  Netty (Jack) Peterson is Leola’s sister.  I remember two other sisters too, Ena Birkland and Faye. I also remember their brother Ike. I believe Ike lives in Rolla? This what I remember off the top of my head as I remember.

Gary

Lagerquist family photos

Message from Lynette Honsey

I know a whole lot of you know and are related to the Honsey and Peterson families and Lynette too.

Lynette, we’d love to hear more from you, where you are living, etc.

PS – Lynette, there is no charge for the Blog.
Gary Stokes,

Do you still do the blog for Dunseith, ND ?

Bottineau ?

Willow City ?

Rugby?

I was born and somewhat raised in Rolette, ND and the above cities.

Lois Peterson was my MOM.

Mary and Max Peterson were my grandparents.

Leonard Honsey was my DAD.

Shirley Lagerquist was my Aunt.

Vida Hiatt was my Aunt.

Duane Peterson was my Uncle.

I was recently in North Dakota to bury my dad.

North Dakota is still so very beautiful.

It had been many years since I was there.

What do you charge to be put on your list?

Do you know of any other “blogs” in upper North Dakota area?

Do you have access to past history in ND?

Please advise.  And Thank You.

Lynette  Honsey

LHONSEY@MSN.COM

Reply to Raphael Poitra’s Wild Boar picture
From Vickie Metcalfe (’70):Bottineau, ND

Thanks Mike and Raphael,

Are you guys planning a pig feed?

That is  the ugliest critter to come out of the hills.

I wouldn’t have liked to run across when walking.

It reminded me of the wild boars in Old Yellar Book read to us by Mrs.

Conroy..

Thanks for the posting. “Thar are wild boars in them hills……….”

Vickie

Bernice Belgarde (’72): Bemidji, MN  shared Tweed Museum of Art‘s photo
https://www.facebook.com/Tweed.Museum.of.Art/?fref=photo

Great Lakes Woodland Skirts Fashion Show

Joke of the day
Posted by Rosemary Smith (Wayne ’61): Bottineau, ND

Skinny Dipping & Old Men

An elderly man in Louisiana had owned a large farm for several years. He had a large pond in the back. It was properly shaped for swimming, so he fixed it up nice — picnic tables, horseshoe courts, and some apple and peach  trees.

One evening the old farmer decided to go down to the pond, as he hadn’t been there for a while, and look it over. He grabbed a five gallon bucket to bring back some fruit. As he neared the pond, he heard voices shouting and laughing with glee. As he came closer he saw it was a bunch of young women skinny-dipping in his pond.

He made the women aware of his presence and they all went to the deep end. One of the women shouted to him, “We’re not coming out until you leave!”

The old man frowned, “I didn’t come down here to watch you ladies swim naked or make you get out of the pond naked. ” Holding the bucket up he said,  “I’m here to feed the alligator.”

Some old men can still think fast.

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Blog (376) posted on February 21 , 2009

Day correction for Mid Fulsebakke’s birthday celebration posted by Mark Schimetz (70): The Date is wrong on Midge’s 90th birthday, the 22nd is a Sunday. Sunday is the day of her Celebration, I just called Good Sams. Saturday is the 21st not the 22nd of Feb. If some want to call the home, the number is 228-3796 . Thank you Mark for catching this error and for calling Good Sam to get the correct day. Gary Donald Sharratt’s funeral notice/Obituary posted by Sharron Gottbreht Shen (59): Dear Family & Friends, Because some of you have asked, here’s the link to Don’s obituary & online guest book, published in today’s Tucson paper. Tucson.com | Obituaries and Guest Books The text of the obit is also pasted below. Here’s the link to the Adair Funeral Home/Avalon Chapel for more info, directions etc. http://www.adairfuneralhomes.com/Avalon_Chapel_57647.html A reminder that the Service is on Sun 3/8, not 3/1, at 1pm. If you plan to attend the Memorial Service, I’d like you to know that there will be a time at the Service for friends to get up and share their memories about Don, lessons learned from him, fun things about their friendship with Don, etc. Just something to think about. I also want to take this opportunity to thank you for all your prayers, good thoughts, and varied expressions of love, sympathy, compassion, and prayerful support. They mean the world to me, as do you ALL. Love, Bonnie OBIT TEXT: Donald Sharratt SHARRATT, Donald, 76, of Tucson, AZ, passed on February 1, 2009. Survived by his wife, Bonny; siblings, Darvin Sharratt and Sandra Gilje; sons, Eric (Donna) and Keith; four grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, 13 nieces/ nephews, scores of cousins. Proudly served in USAF for ten years as aircraft mechanic, supply sergeant, military police; flew in 16 combat missions. Lifetime member of the VFW. In private sector employed by the railroad and the mines. Self-employed in heating and cooling repair. Master mechanic in all forms of transportation. Famous for his story-telling, jokes and keen memory; loved for the sunshine and joie de vivre he brought to all he met, family, friends and strangers alike. Memorial donations may be made to any charity that benefits veterans, eg ; Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)or at VFW.org, Disabled American Veteransor at DAV.org; Paralyzed Veterans of America: PVA Home or at PVA.org Memorial Service Sunday, March 8, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave., Tucson, AZ 85704. Question from Bonnie Awalt Houle (56): Gary a question to all of the Country School Kids: Didn’t some of the schools have what was called summer school, where they went to school from March through the summer until Thanksgiving. This being done to avoid having students trudging to school during those harsh winter months? Being one of the town kids I only remember hearing about it, In town we always went from September to June. Bonnie Awalt Houle Bonnie, I can answer this because I’m one of those who attended summer school. I’m hoping some of the many country school folks we have on our distribution list will answer your question as well. The last year of summer school at Ackworth was in 1953. I was a first grader. Charlotte Lang was our teacher. I remember that school year well. As I remember the summer school year was only 8 months, March through November. And yes, I believe they had summer school to avoid students having to attend school in the winter months. I’ll bet Tom Hagen and a few others can tell us a whole lot about those summer schools. I know we have a lot of Ackworth, Willow Lake, Lockhart, Wetherelt and I think other country school summer school folks among us too. Gary From Vickie Metcalfe (70): Gary, For whom it may concern: Regarding the Randa’s; Beverly (Randa) Boucher lives here in Bottineau. She works mornings until noon at Bottineau St. Andrews Hospital Long Term as a CNA. To my mother Lottie Metcalfe, Bev was a positive, hardworking, efficient, smiling care giver with an amazingly contagious laugh. Bev is originally from Saint John ND. She told me she grew up in a large family in the Saint John and her siblings are scattered throughout the USA. Regarding Templeman’s;. My mother, Lottie had a recipe for Mrs. Templemans Cake, that she got from Annie Anthony years ago. My sister Cyndy (Metcalfe) Miller, ” our family pastry chef” is the keeper of mom’s recipes. Regarding “Rabbit City Lake” ; located on the North Side of Hill Side Township. As the crow flies, located 3 miles from the Cliff and Lottie Metcalfe home farm in Holmes township. The Rabbit City Lake area -community was surrounded by families including Metcalfe’s, Evans, Anthonys, Bergans, Poitra’ also neighboring families of Belgardes, the Cota’s, the Morins, Scotch Annie, and Lajimodieres. The depression era was tough on many farmers and in the late 30’s many ended up selling their farms to the federal government and became non-reservation Federal Land. Grandpa Bill Metcalfe died in July,1935, my dad just turned 12 years old. Grandma Rose moved into Dunseith with her younger children. My fathers legal guardian was Louis Bergan. As a child, dad often drove me to Rabbit City many times in the old black ’52 chevy truck and told stores of his childhood on the lake. His stories were filled with Ward Anthony, Clayton Bergan, Neighbors, HillSide School, and his dear family. As a kid, we went in from the south. However,when Uncle Jim Metcalfe purchased land in the area close by the old Metcalfe farm site, a better traveled dirt road came in on the north side of Rabbit City Lake. One winter, in the early ’70’s, the fish were biting in Rabbit City Lake as well. And lots of area folks, including my dad and my brothers caught their limits…every day. Mom did lots of pickleing fish…. “Indian Creek” runs south of Rabbit City Lake. Adjacent is “N____r Lake” , located on the west side of Rabbit City Lake. Moving from Maza ND, Grandpa Bill Metcalfe bought the Metcalfe farm from a “Black squatter”, hense the name “N____Lake”. On a late sunny afternoon, Sunday June 31, after the the Metcalfe 1980 Reunion. Shan drove “Old Yellar” dad’s old gold Chevy to the William and Rose Metcalfe building site. In the front of the pickup with Shan were my dad ( who was blind), his sisters well into their 80’s, Bessie (Metcalfe) Jeans, and Bertha (Metcalfe)Deal . Riding in the box , with me were Uncle Lucky Metcalfe, Auntie Leona (Metcalfe)Oswell, cousins Dianne (Maki) Reed and Barbara Straub, along with others. It was an emotionally- remembrance uplifting story telling experience for the older generation. On the way home, Uncle Lucky told me stories that his father had told him as we bumped along the dirt trail. During the 80’s and 90’s I often rode horseback with nieces and nephews to that site and as we’d eat the picnic lunch packed in the saddle bag I told them stories of their Grandpa Cliff. I wanted them to have the sense of identity, with Scots, English, French & Indian. In the early 1990’s, our family was blessed again when we learned of the existence of another cousin, Mick ( son of Archie). Mick came to meet his Metcalfe family and his father’s friend,Carroll Carlson. We decided to take Mick and his wife Betty to Rabbit City Lake where my Uncle Archie ( Mick’s dad) had also grown up. Those years the creek had come up quite high and we couldn’t get to the building site. Shanon borrowed a boat from Dick Johnson. and we four wheeled down to the Metcalfe homeplace. Shan hopped out and started to pull the boat out. Immediately, Mick jumped out and started to help him. Well the boat had a hole in it. Shan’s eyes and mine met when, slick as a whistle, Mick pulled out his jack knife cut a willow plug and plugged that hole. Shan and I nodded our silent nods, in agreement…. this blue eyed solid guy with a Metcalfe neck, also truly had a Metcalfe personality, down to earth, and common farm sense. Another day of fond remembrance as Mick, Shan and Betty paddled the boat over to the house site while I , “Chicken Little”, that I am cause I can’t swim….longingly wished I was on that other side with them. Blessed be stories that tie us all together. Thanks. Vickie Metcalfe Reply from Dick Johnson (68): Gary and Friends, To Dave Slyter—Grandpa Henry Olson died a little over two years after the picture was taken. He was just 56 at the time in 1959 and died of what I believe was pneumonia. Your Dad probably came into the partnership with Glen Johnson after that. As for the Saturday bowling leagues for kids, I sure do remember that. Do you remember that Dad (Don Johnson) was the instructor? He got certified by the ABC (American Bowling Congress) and taught lots of kids to bowl. Somewhere here I still have a small belt buckle he had that has the logo for ABC. I think he got it for his efforts in teaching the sport. Can any of our readers remember when a bunch of Dunseith folks were in Minot to bowl on TV? The show was live and was called ‘Bowling For Dollars’. I spent many Saturday and Sunday afternoons all over the state watching Dad and his buddies bowl in tournaments. They did real well and got several trophies and cash prizes. Back to the kids league–I saw Terry Martinson bowl a 203 one Saturday when he was in about the 7th grade. The rest of us were trying hard to hit a hundred, so were dumb founded! Thanks Gary! Dick Message/Picture from Rod Hiatt (69): Gary Brian Fauske had this Pine Martin at his house on Long Lake. All the years living in this part of the country and I had never heard of such an animal let alone seen one. Thought it might be interesting if anyone else had seen or heard much about them in the Turtle Mountains. I’m sure that back some years ago, if my Dad had seen it we could take pictures of it hanging on the wall.