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Letters to the Editor

New approach to reading is old approach

Gene Modin, Bismarck Do not wait for the teachers colleges to change anything. They like it the way it is. They like the results. The current method of reading instruction called by various names, such as look-say, see and say, whole word, whole language or balanced literacy have very ineffective instruction strategies: 1. examine the shape of the word. 2. look at the picture. 3. consider the context within the sentence. 4. re-read the sentence. 5. make your best guess. 6. skip the word. 7. ask for help. These strategies become lifelong habits for many children. The article ...

Celebrating Scandinavia, then and now

Jessica Ackerman, Minot As the president of the Norsk Hostfest board of directors, I was recently part of the delegation from Minot that visited our city’s Norwegian Sister City, Skien. This was my first time visiting Skien, and I must say, I am encouraged and energized. From our first encounters with the people of Skien to our last, and every in between, I was inspired by the pride they had for their community and their country. Our trip overlapped with Syttende Mai, Norway’s National Day. The day began with celebratory sheet cake at the breakfast table followed by a ...

Fly your US flags on Memorial Day

Cynthia Sessions, Minot Proudly fly your US flag this weekend is support of all those beautiful patriotic souls who perished defending our country and those that did not make it home. Whether you are at your campsite, at home or own a business, now is the time to replace that worn and frayed flag and make sure it is flown correctly. The American Legion has a great Flag Code handout. Many thanks to those businesses that continually demonstrate their patriotism and love for this country. To name a few in appreciation I’ve noticed this month: Applebees, Kum & Go, Perkins, Ryan ...

Gary Emineth, Mandan I was reminded of something important this week by a quote in a journal, from “The Federalist” #22. It reads:”The fabric of America ought to rest on the consent of governed.” It’s one of those foundational truths – one that almost shouldn’t have to be listed. It’s up there with the self-evident truths and the inalienable rights which include life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. This foundation may be at risk In America. A foundational truth enshrined in our founding documents which read like this: “That to secure these rights, ...

Transparency bills good for voters

Barbara Headrick, President, League of Women Voters of North Dakota, Fargo-Moorhead The League of Women Voters of North Dakota’s top priority this legislative session was protecting voting rights to ensure our elections remain fair and accessible for all eligible North Dakota voters. Our advocacy volunteers were busy tracking 39 election bills and resolutions -- some good, some bad, and some neutral. First, the bad bills. We saw bills that would eliminate mail-in voting, restrict ballot drop boxes, limit vote centers, and require proof of citizenship for all voters. The good news ...

Legislature helped children, pregnant women

Christopher Dodso, Executive Director, North Dakota Catholic Conferenc, Bismarck Lost among most of the talk about the recent North Dakota legislative session is any recognition that legislators passed significant legislation to help pregnant women, children, and families. In December of last year, the state’s Catholic bishops proposed a package of legislation to help pregnant women and children called Responding with Love. The legislature passed — and Governor Burgum signed — every proposal. The new laws include: -- An adoption tax credit; -- A tax credit for ...