New events are on the schedule for this summer’s Makoti Threshing Show, and the threshers association is hoping Ward County can help financially with future site improvements.

The Lake County Historical Society in Kenmare is gearing up for its Pioneer Day and would like a little more support from the county to keep up with rising costs.

The Ward County Commission heard funding requests from the two organizations as it prepares to draft the county’s 2026 budget. The commission annually levies taxes to assist historical and economic development groups in the county. Requests from other organizations in the county are expected as the budget process continues.

The Makoti Threshers Association is requesting $33,000, up from the $15,000 received this past year. President Chris Huus explained the association wants to add additional camping spots with 50-amp electrical capacity. The current 30-amp camping spots aren’t adequate for some campers. The association also is looking at new shingles on the church building on its grounds. Other funds would go toward expenses such as insurance, advertising and merchandise.

Huus said the association has been painting and installed a new sound system. The sound system will be used for the North Dakota Rodeo Association rodeo that will be an addition to the threshing show, set for Friday and Saturday, July 11-12. Sunday, July 13, will be a community celebration that will include a North Dakota Hero Foundation monument presentation and rubber duck race.

The Makoti Development Corp. also requested $26,000, which includes updates to its cafe building and tree removal in the park.

Lake County Historical Society President Bryan Quigley presented a request for $17,000 for 2026, which is an increase of $1,000 to cover rising costs. Quigley said the construction of accessible bathrooms last year drained the society’s resources. It also faced an unexpected vandalism repair expense of $1,000. A $10,000 anonymous donation at the end of last year has kept the society in the black, he said.

The society has scheduled its Pioneer Day for Sunday, July 13, starting at 9:30 a.m. with a hymn sing, followed by a church service and lunch. There also will be tours and entertainment provided by musical performers and the Kenmare High School speech team.

The pioneer village in Kenmare opened to the public on Memorial Day and will maintain visitor hours through Labor Day. Hours are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 4-7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 2-5 p.m. or by appointment.