Majettes finish

fifth, Magi seventh at state cross country meet

By Daily News Staff

sports@minotdailynews.com

JAMESTOWN – The Minot High School cross country teams placed in the top 10 at the state meet held at the 5K Parkhurst Recreation Area course in Jamestown on Saturday.

The Majettes top five runners, consisting of four freshmen and a seventh grader, placed fifth with a combined score of 178. The boys team placed seventh with a score of 189.

“Great efforts by all and a season they can be proud of,” MHS girls coach Carla Wahlund said. “We return all of the state team participants except one who is (senior) Michaela Larson, and she ended her career with a personal record (66th, 21:04.72).”

The top five Minot girls all finished within a minute of each other. The four freshman led the way with Allie Nelson taking 23rd (20:01.12), Abby Hoffarth 31st (20:13.00), Allie Wahlund 32nd (20:14.60) and Abbie Wahlund 40th (20:31.64). Middle school seventh grader Maliah Burke rounded out the score with a 52nd (20:52.07).

Karly Ackley from Grand Forks Central won the girls individual title (17:13.15) and Fargo Davies won the team state championship with a score of 71.

In the boys race, Hunter Lucas from Fargo Davies (15:30.40) narrowly defeated Leif Everson from Williston (15:31.37) for individual honors. Bismarck Century took the team championship with a score of 62.

The Magi were paced by senior Keston VanDusen (24th, 16:52.18) and sophomore Ethan Behm (28th, 17:01.87). Making up the rest of the team score was senior Austin Folk (42nd, 17:17.92), senior Gabriel Hegstad (46th, 17:20.33) and sophomore Carson Tofteland (49th, 17:24.02).

New Town and Hillsboro claim Class B cross country titles

JAMESTOWN – The New Town boys and Hillsboro girls won Class B state cross country titles Saturday at the Parkhurst Recreation Area in Jamestown.

For New Town, it was their 11th team championship in the last 13 seasons. They posted a team score of 18 with their top five runners placing in the top six, with Jalen Chase (15:49.53) and Chace Hale (15:56.73) finishing first and second.

Rugby placed second with a team score of 85 and Bowman County took third (111).

In the girls race, Hillsboro (133) edged Bowman County (151) and Rugby (153).

Reagan Baesler (18:11.80), from Hillsboro, took first place ahead of Watford City Kayla Ogle (18:17.44).

Minotauros top Aberdeen Wings 5-2 on the road

ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Minot Minotauros (8-2-2) did all their scoring in the first and second periods Saturday to grab a 5-2 road victory against the Aberdeen Wings (4-8-1).

The Wings opened the scoring 4:39 in the game on a goal from Joey Strada.

The Minotauros responded with five straight goals from five different players. Charles Weiand (8:01) and Miroslav Mucha (16:32) in the first period, and then Jack Murphy (6:43), Reid Stefanson (13:44) and Nolan Sawchuk (16:52) in the second period.

Riley Murphy picked up the Wings second goal a minute and 30 seconds into the final frame.

The Minotauros outshot the Wings, 26-23, and went two-for-two on the power play on the goals from Jack Murphy and Sawchuk.

Lucas Murray made 21 saves in net for Minot.

The Minotauros next game is Oct. 28 against the Austin Bruins on the road.

Comeback

attempts thwarted by Mavericks

The Minot State University volleyball team lost in four sets (12-25, 18-25, 25-22, 19-25) to Minnesota State on Saturday evening despite their comeback attempts in the last three sets.

The Beavers lost set one by 13 points, but rebounded quickly after an adjustment from head coach Ben Kaszeta.

“We changed our lineup because their size was bothering us,” Kaszeta said. “Once we matched up a bit in size it started to even out.”

Part of that lineup change was bringing in 5-foot-10-inch Jeanne Brenner, a true freshman that hadn’t played in 22 days.

“It took a while for Jeanne to grasp things mentally, but today she came out focused,” Kaszeta said. “She moved past the few mistakes she made and I’m extremely proud of her effort and attitude.”

Another MSU player making more plays was fellow freshman Nicole Wondrasek who got her 10th start of the season and finished with offensively with four kills and no errors while defensively recorded three digs and two blocks.

“That’s a great game for Nicole,” Kaszeta said. “That’s part of the learning process. I hope the lightbulb turns on and stays on because she’s been improving every game and every match.”

Despite falling in the end Kaszeta was pleased with how his team played.

“We fought tonight,” he said. “Tonight we played as a team more and supported one another as a team.”

The Beavers were led by Janelle Nagy who had 11 kills, 16 assists and 15 digs as well as two blocks. Shelby Spuller finished with nine kills while Kelsey Dewulf recorded 20 assists and Cindy Pelo totaled 15 digs.

Minot State will travel to Upper Iowa and Winona State on Friday, October 28 and to Winona State Saturday, October 29. Those games are scheduled for 7 p.m. and 4 p.m., respectively.

– Minot State athletics

Beavers soccer

ties Mavericks 1-1, drops first points in conference play

MANKATO, Minn. – The No. 11 ranked Minot State women’s soccer team had its pursuit of a perfect run through the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference dashed on Saturday with a 1-1 tie to conference second place Minnesota State Mankato (10-3-2, 9-2-1 NSIC) on the road.

The Beavers (11-1-1, 10-0-1 NSIC) fell behind in the 11th minute on the seventh goal of the season for freshman midfielder Alesha Duccini.

Minot State needed just three minutes and 42 seconds to even the score. Senior Ninfa Ramirez, on an assist from fellow senior forward Chloe Melton, scored her 16th goal of the season tying the Beavers all-time record for most goals in a single season, which was set by Ramirez last year.

The assist from Melton also tied her with Zoe Fisher (2011-13) for the all-time Minot State record for most career assist (16).

After the early scoring, both teams were then held scoreless for the next 75 minutes in regulation and then the two 10-minute overtime periods.

Minnesota State Mankato outshot Minot State, 21-15, and 9-5 for shots on target.

Red shirt freshman goalkeeper Erin Rafferty made eight saves and played the full 110 minutes in goal for the Beavers.

Minot State maintains a three-point cushion over Minnesota State Mankato in the conference standings with four more NSIC games left to play for the Beavers and just three more for the Mavericks.

The Beavers continue their two-game weekend road trip around Minnesota with a stop at Concordia-St. Paul (4-7-4, 4-4-4 NSIC) today. Kick off is at 1 p.m.

Follow Minot Daily Sports on Twitter @MDN_Sports.

Hall scores 29 seconds into OT, Devils beat Wild 2-1

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) – New Jersey is bringing out the best in Taylor Hall, especially when it comes to game-winning goals.

Hall scored 29 seconds into overtime and the Devils won for the second time in two home games, rallying to beat the Minnesota Wild 2-1 on Saturday night.

The goal-starved Devils have had each of their five games decided by goal, and Hall has been the difference in their two wins. He had both goals in a 2-1 win over Anaheim this week and combined with former junior hockey teammate Adam Henrique for the winner that ended the Wild’s three-game winning streak.

“It’s fun to score any time, but certainly at home in overtime on a Saturday night where we have struggled to score,” said Hall, who was acquired in a major trade with Edmonton in the offseason.

Hall carried the puck into the Wild zone and dropped a pass after crisscrossing with Henrique. He then went to the net and took the return pass and beat Devan Dubnyk between the pads.

“It was a good play there,” Henrique said. “It just opened up, a little crisscross, and then they kind of bit, both guys over. Halls was open so I just tried to get the puck to him and he made a great play to end it.”

Dubnyk, who made 30 saves, said the play seemed to come out of nowhere.

“They weren’t flying or anything,” he said. He’s (Hall) a dynamic player. I was able to get over there on him. He likes to rip it, but he had his head up and saw that I was on my feet and moving out at him and he snapped it real quick.”

Briefly

Drake woman dies in Highway 52 crash

DRAKE A Drake woman was killed and two Minot people injured in a two-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 52 at Drake Monday, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol.

Jacqualine Richter, 73, Drake died in the crash that occurred shortly before 5:30 p.m.

Richter was driving east in a Pontiac Vibe and attempted to turn left into a gas station on the north side of Highway 52. Dennis Smith, 76, of Minot was driving west in a Buick Lacrosse and struck the Pontiac in the westbound lane. Smith and his passenger, Melanie Smith, 73, were transported to a Harvey hospital. Richter was flown to a Minot hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

–

Fort Berthold crash victims identified

NEW TOWN – Authorities have identified the four people killed in a two-vehicle crash on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation Monday.

Killed were Jasmin White Owl, 23, Mario White Mountain, 27; Matthew Yellow Wolf, 23; and Robert White Owl, 21. All were from Mandaree. Only the driver, Jasmin White Owl, was wearing a seat belt, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol.

A front seat passenger, Dorothy White Owl, 28, was seriously injured.

The victims were in a car that authorities say failed to stop at the intersection of state Highways 23 and 8 shortly after 9:30 p.m. Monday and was struck by a pickup truck.

Dylan Foster, 23, of Denton, Texas, was driving the pickup, also carrying Eric Stroup, 38, of New Braunfels, Texas. Both are military members assigned to the 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base who were on duty at the time. They were wearing seat belts and the air bags deployed. The base public affairs office stated the men suffered minor injuries.

–

Minot hydrant flow tests end

Minot’s fire hydrant flow program has ended for the year.

The program began July 5 and ended Oct. 4. The Minot Fire Department completed 628 hydrant flows. Problems were found in 70 hydrants. A hydrant marked yellow has an identified problem but remains useable under emergency conditions. There were 36 hydrants marked yellow, with problems ranging from stuck caps to vegetation too close or hard to open. There were 34 hydrants marked red due to more serious problems such as broken stems or closed gate valves. At this time nearly all problems have been corrected, the city reported.

The city plans to start its hydrant program earlier next summer. The program will finish the far east edge of the city and the area south of U.S. Highway 2 and east of Broadway early in the season. Activities then will move to areas north of Burdick Expressway.

“I would like the thank everyone for their help with this program, especially the water department for their prompt attention to the problems we find. This program is successful because we all work together to ensure problems are identified and repaired in a timely fashion,” said Battalion Chief Lonnie Sather.

Briefly

Brine spill occurs in Mountrail County

STANLEY A brine spill resulting from a treater leak in Mountrail County was reported Monday at a site operated by Arsenal Energy USA, Inc., according to the North Dakota Health Department.

The spill occurred about 3.5 miles southeast of Stanley. A treater is a vessel used to separate and condition oil-gas-salt water emulsions so the oil may be accepted for transport.

Initial estimates indicate about 40 barrels of oil and 30 barrels of brine were released. Of this, an undetermined amount of oil and brine flowed into a stock pond located 180 feet north of the site. The cleanup is under way. Personnel from the North Dakota Oil and Gas Division and the health department will monitor the investigation and the remediation process.

–

Ward County hesitates on purchase option

A flower shop next to county property holds some interest to the Ward County Commission but not enough to move past preliminary purchase talks with the owner.

Tammy Holen, the owner of Artistic Ambiance, was back before the commission Tuesday after requesting a buyout Oct. 4. Her business is located on Burdick Expressway near the former Morgan Printing building, which the county purchased and is using for its 24/7 sobriety program. Holen said the steady traffic and presence of law enforcement is stressful and is not a good environment for her business.

Commissioner Alan Walter said Ward County Social Services has need for a halfway house for foster care youth.

“This could be a property for that, but at this point, we haven’t made any decision,” he said.

Commissioner Shelly Weppler said any drop-off in business at Artistic Ambiance is more likely related to the economy than to its new neighbors.

“It’s not so much the numbers for me. It’s what I deal with every day,” Holen responded.

The commission declined to make an offer, preferring to do more research.

Jill Schramm

–

Candidate forum scheduled Friday in District 4

NEW TOWN Constituents in oil-producing District 4 will be able to hear directly from candidates running for state House and Senate seats Friday. A public candidate forum will be held at 7 p.m. in the New Town Civic Center.

The nonpartisan forum is sponsored by Dakota Resource Council and Ward County Farmers Union.

In addition to an open question period from the audience, candidates will be asked about their support for possible regulatory changes for responsible oil and gas development and their top priorities for ensuring family farms and ranches thrive.

District 4 includes portions of Dunn, McKenzie, McLean, Mercer, Mountrail and Ward Counties and all of Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.

Confirmed to attend so far are both state Senate candidates, Republican Jordan Kannianen of Stanley and Democrat Tyler Stafslien of Makoti, and three state House candidates, Democrats Cesar Alvarez of New Town and Kenton Onstad of Parshall and Republican Bill Oliver of New Town. Terry Jones of New Town is the other Republican candidate.

–

Construction wrapping up on Highway 23

Construction on North Dakota Highway 23, west of the U.S. Highway 83 junction, has been largely completed and traffic is moving as normal, according to the North Dakota Department of Transportation. Only incidental work remains along the roadway to finish the project.

The Ward County Commission encourages motorists who have been detouring on Ward County Road 9 to consider using Highway 23 again. Increased vehicle numbers and speeding on County Road 9 has been a concern to local traffic.

Briefly

4 people die on Fort Berthold Indian Reservation

NEW TOWN, N.D. (AP) – Four people are dead after a two-vehicle crash on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.

The Highway Patrol says all of the victims are from Mandaree. They were in a car that authorities say failed to stop at the intersection of state Highways 23 and 8 shortly after 9:30 p.m. Monday and was struck by a pickup truck.

The driver of the car and three backseat passengers died at the scene about 6 miles east of New Town. A front seat passenger was seriously injured.

The people who died were a 23-year-old woman, and 21-, 23-and 27-year-old men. They weren’t immediately identified.

The two men, ages 23 and 38, in the pickup truck were military members assigned to the 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base. Their addresses were listed in Texas. A news release from the air base stated the two men were injured.

“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate accident,” said Col. Colin Connor, 91st MW commander. “This is a very tight knit community and any loss of life is tragic and our thoughts and condolences go out to all the family members and friends impacted during this difficult time.”

The cause of the accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

–

Hoffart pleads guilty to simple assault

A 38-year-old Minot woman involved in a neighborhood dispute over dirt bike riding and fireworks on May 29 has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of simple assault.

Tawny Kay Hoffart had originally been charged with aggravated assault, a Class C felony. Hoffart had allegedly ripped the shirt off her neighbor Jason Rust, who is in his early 20s, slapped his face, scratched his face and neck, and wrapped her hand around his neck and squeezed. The incident took place in the 3300 block of 62nd Street SE. Hoffart told a Ward County Sheriff’s deputy that she was angry about people in the area setting off fireworks and riding dirt bikes.

Under a plea deal, Hoffart pleaded guilty to a Class B misdemeanor and was given a deferred imposition of sentence, meaning that the charge will be dismissed if she successfully completes 360 days of unsupervised probation. Judge Todd Cresap ordered Hoffart to take an anger management class, continue going to counseling and taking her medication and have no contact with with Rust. She was also sentenced to 30 days in jail, all suspended for the 360 days.

Andrea Johnson

Briefly

ORCS sweeps Dickinson Trinity in volleyball

The Our Redeemer’s Christian School volleyball team swept Dickinson Trinity in Class B action Saturday in Minot.

The Knights won 25-9, 25-14 and 25-9.

Morgan Olson paced the way for ORCS, finishing with 20 assists, 14 kills and seven digs. Ryleigh Popinga finished with 10 digs and seven kills.

Alexa Walby finished with 16 assists and three digs in the loss for Dickinson Trinity.

The Knights will play at Ray on Monday.

Majettes volleyball tops Dickinson in four sets for two wins

DICKINSON – The Minot High volleyball team picked up a pair of wins in the West Region standings on Saturday with a four set win over Dickinson by scores of 25-19, 25-16, 23-25 and 25-17.

The match was worth two wins in the standings because this was the only meeting between these two teams this season, whereas they will face the other conference teams twice.

Going into the match, the Majettes (17-16, 8-5 WDA) were ranked fifth place in the West Region and Dickinson (13-20, 5-8 WDA) was right behind them in sixth.

“The girls came ready to play and it showed in their execution of the basics, coupled with the challenge of a quicker game,” MHS coach Sherry Carlson said. “I am amazed at their talent and drive to be great volleyball players. They are willing to adjust to whatever is asked of them, even when the butterflies are playing ping pong in their gut.”

Double-digit kills from junior Kali Askvig (10) and sophomore Sydney Beck (10) paced Minot’s 46 kills. Senior Riley Irmen and junior Brooke Nelson split time at setter with 22 and 20 assists, respectively.

The Majettes net front presence was also strong with 13 team blocks. Beck and Liz Lucy each put up five.

Minot’s next match is Tuesday at 7 p.m. against Bismarck Century at the Minot High School Magic City Campus.

Magi soccer defeats Bismarck in season final

FARGO – The Minot High boys soccer team ended its season Saturday afternoon with a 2-0 victory over Bismarck High in the battle for fifth place at the state tournament.

The Magi (9-10-2) picked up the shutout win with a five save performance from senior goalkeeper Chance Braun. Juniors Evan Bolinske and Avery Weishaar were the goal scorers.

Bolinske, assisted by junior JJ Johannsen, put Minot in the lead after 11 minutes and Weishaar, assisted by Bolinske, delivered the final blow in the 62nd minute.

The Magi were outshot 10-9, but put more shots on target 6-5.

Despite having a down year in the regular season, compared to last season’s West Region championship team that went 16-4-1 and 11-0-1 in conference, the 2016 Magi finished strong with a victory in the consolation championship. Last year’s Minot team lost 3-2 in double overtime in the fifth place game at the state tournament to Grand Forks Red River.

West Fargo (17-3-1) knocked off previously unbeaten Shanley/Oak Grove (19-1-2), 2-1, for the 2016 state championship. It’s West Fargo’s third title and second in the last three years. Shanley/Oak Grove has lost in the championship game in four out of the last five seasons.

Minot State hockey falls 2-0 to Williston State

WILLISTON – The winning streak stops at seven for the Minot State hockey team. The Beavers lost their first game of the season, 2-0, to Williston State on Saturday in Williston.

Williston scored with 8:51 left in the first period and held on despite an onslaught of 58 shots on goal for MSU. The Tetons added an empty net goal with 4.6 seconds left.

The Beavers return to Maysa Arena for their next game against the University of Utah on Oct. 28.

Beavers drop match to Golden Eagles

CROOKSTON, Minn. – The Minot State University volleyball team fell in three sets (20-25, 24-26, 17-25) at Minnesota Crookston on Saturday evening.

The Beavers were able to challenge the Golden Eagles in set two and throughout the match with accurate attacks as three players finished with an attack percentage at or above .400. Hayley Swain, who landed the second-most kills with seven, earned her third-straight performance of .400-plus in attack percentage with .462.

Senior Janelle Nagy led the team with 10 kills while Brileigh Boyce and Emily Falldorf earned five each. Defensively the team was led by Cindy Pelo who dug 12 balls while Shae Pedersen dug 10.

Kelsey Dewulf assisted on 27 kills while also scoring on four aces. Dewulf now has a team-high 29 aces this season.

Minot State will play a midweek game on Tuesday, October 18 as they host Mary in the MSU Dome at 7 p.m.

MSU Athletics

Compiled by Daily News Staff. They can be reached at sports@minotdailynews.com

Briefly

Minot State Theatre present ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’

Minot State University Program of Theatre Arts presents Brian Friel’s “Dancing at Lughnasa,” directed by Angela Schnaible, theater instructor, in Aleshire Theater Oct. 19-22 at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 7 p.m.

“Dancing at Lughnasa,” winner of the 1992 Tony Award for Best Play, is about five Mundy sisters in the fictional town of Ballybeg, Ireland. Kate, the eldest and a teacher, is the family’s main wage earner. Her younger sisters, Agnes and Rose, knit gloves to sell for supplemental income. Maggie provides comic relief of the show, keeps lighthearted and fun. The story is told from the perspective of their nephew, Michael.

For tickets, contact the MSU theater box office at 858-3172. Seating is general admission only. Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for seniors and 18 and under. Admission is free for MSU students, faculty and staff with a current MSU ID. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

–

Breast cancer awareness event Saturday in Minot

CHI St. Alexius Health Minot Medical Plaza, 2111 Landmark Circle, is holding a Breast Cancer Awareness event on Saturday, October 22 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Women can shop a vendor show and take care of their yearly mammogram all in one stop! Walk-in appointments only and the last registration is at 4 p.m.

Vendors include: Scentsy, Tupperware, Younique, Perfectly Posh, Norwex, Tastefully Simple, Rodan & Fields, Thirty One, Pampered Chef, Young Living, Mary Kay, RoKu DESigns and LulaRoe. Ten percent of all proceeds raised go to Women’s Way and representatives will be available with information to sign up for their services.

This is not a free screening. Patients are advised to bring insurance information if they have it and other payment options will be available that day. Minot Medical Plaza is located at 2111 Landmark Circle. For more information, visit the Facebook event page or call 858-1800.

–

SD man accused of swindling Stanley man

STANLEY A 53-year-old Sioux Falls, S.D. man is accused of swindling a Stanley man four years ago by accepting payment to build a shop and not doing any work.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed with the court, Andrew Chambers was paid a total of $51,347 between August and November 2012 to build a “shop/barn type building” for Mike Hynek. However, Chambers did not complete any of the work.

Chambers is charged with a Class B felony that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.

A hearing was scheduled for Chambers on Thursday in North Central District Court in Stanley.

Chambers has been held on $10,000 cash or corporate surety bond at the Ward County Jail in Minot.

Andrea Johnson

Briefly

Natural gas spill reported in McKenzie County

WATFORD CITY The North Dakota Department of Health reports a blowout preventer valve malfunctioned at a well site owned by Continental Resources, Tuesday. The well is located about 10 miles north of Watford City.

The valve failure resulted in the release of an unknown volume of natural gas and other hydrocarbons. The well was stabilized later that evening. Cleanup began Wednesday.

The Health Department is responding at the site and will work with the company on remediation plans.

–

Garrison man accused of burglary

An 18-year-old Garrison man is accused of burglarizing a residence near Hammond Park in Minot on Sept. 7.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed with the district court in Minot, David Alexander Bauch claimed that he and a juvenile suspect broke into 1020 North Main because they were cold and wet. The juvenile had a hammer in a backpack, along with a credit card belonging to the homeowner. Police also found a pry bar at the scene of the crime.

Bauch is charged with burglary, a Class C felony that carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Bauch pleaded not guilty to the charge at his arraignment on Thursday in North Central District Court.

Andrea Johnson

–

Helseth sentenced for breaking into vehicle

A 22-year-old Minot man was sentenced to time served and probation for breaking into a motor vehicle parked in a northwest Minot neighborhood on Aug. 2.

Todd Arnold Helseth II pleaded guilty Thursday to a Class C felony that carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Judge Doug Mattson sentenced him to one year in prison, with a requirement that he serve the 37 days he has already spent in custody, and two years of supervised probation. He also must make restitution and pay $825 in court costs. If he successfully completes probation, the offense will appear as a misdemeanor on his record.

Helseth stole $4.41 in cash, a cell phone charger, a blue aluminum flashlight, an orange folding knife, and bank deposit slips from the vehicle, according to a probable cause affidavit filed with the North Central District Court. His pockets were full of items when police found him walking near 7th Ave. NW after the crime was reported.

One of his parents wrote a letter to the court indicating that Helseth suffers from mental health issues and required treatment for drug addiction.

Andrea Johnson

–

Bernie Sanders asks Obama to halt pipeline for full review

(AP) – Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and four other Democratic senators are asking President Barack Obama to halt construction of the four-state Dakota Access pipeline until a full environmental review can be completed.

In a statement, the senators said Thursday the request is due to a federal appeals court denying the Standing Rock Sioux’s motion for a temporary work stoppage in southern North Dakota within 20 miles of Lake Oahe. The feds stopped construction on land bordering and under the lake in order to review the permitting process.

An environmental review would likely delay the pipeline, which Dallas-based Energy Transfer Partners hopes to complete by the end of the year.

White House spokesman Patrick Rodenbush declined to comment.

The other senators are Patrick Leahy of Vermont, Dianne Feinstein of California, Ben Cardin of Maryland and Ed Markey of Massachusetts.

Briefly

Fire Prevention Week is underway

In observance of October as Fire Prevention Month, the Minot Fire Department is making several appearances this week to educate the public on the importance of fire safeguards.

“Don’t Wait, Check the Date” is the theme for the week. Firefighters will speak on the importance of replacing smoke detectors after 10 years when the devices become less reliable. There will be a booth at Dakota Square Mall Friday through Sunday, where firefighters will be providing information, answering questions and giving out up-to-date smoke detectors.

Crews with the department and “Sparky the Fire Dog” will visit various elementary schools throughout the week to educate students on fire safety. The school schedule took them to Perkett and Roosevelt Wednesday and will take them to Lewis & Clark today and Washington and Hoeven Friday.

–

Plane makes successful emergency landing

MITCHELL, S.D. (AP) – Engine problems forced a turboprop plane flying from Minot, North Dakota, to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to make an emergency landing in the South Dakota city of Mitchell.

Mitchell Airport Manager Mike Scherschligt said that the pilot was the only one aboard and wasn’t hurt in the Tuesday night incident. Authorities didn’t identify him.

Officials determined the plane’s problems were caused by an overheating engine.

–

Authorities ID 4 victims of Pine Ridge duplex gas explosion

PINE RIDGE, S.D. (AP) – Authorities have identified four people killed in a duplex explosion on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

The Oglala Sioux tribe identified the victims as 78-year-old Raymond Eagle Elk and his 74-year-old wife, Oletha Mousseau, 23-year-old Samantha Tobacco and 19-year-old Elfreda Takes War Bonnet.

They died Oct. 6 in the blast in the town of Pine Ridge that also severely injured at least five other people. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said the explosion was likely caused by a propane line leak and an accidental spark.

–

Authorities ID Sioux Falls motorcyclist killed in crash

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – Authorities have identified a Sioux Falls motorcyclist who died in a crash with a car at a city intersection.

Police say 27-year-old Yomar Rodriguez Valentin was traveling at a high rate of speed when his motorcycle collided with the car Sunday night.

He was taken to a hospital and later pronounced dead. The driver and passenger of the car were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Briefly

Well Baby Clinic offered in Washburn

WASHBURN CHI St. Alexius Health Washburn Clinic offers a free Well Baby Clinic for newborns and infants who were born at CHI St. Alexius Health in Bismarck.

Well Baby Clinic hours are from 10 a.m. to noon on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. Participants do not need to be a patient at CHI St. Alexius Health Washburn Clinic and no appointment is necessary.

At the clinic, nurses record babies’ weights and lengths, provide basic health evaluations and answer parents’ questions. CHI St. Alexius Health also offers free breastfeeding consultations with a certified lactation counselor in conjunction with the visit.

The clinic is located at 1177 Border Lane in Washburn.

–

Minot man charged with preventing girlfriend from making emergency call

A 30-year-old Minot man is accused of preventing his girlfriend from making a 11 call when they were fighting last July.

Michael McKeithan is charged with a Class C felony that carries a ma imum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. According to a probable cause affidavit filed with the court, he and his girlfriend had a physical struggle at a northwest Minot residence on July 26. McKeithan allegedly grabbed the phone, threw it on the floor and stomped on it with his foot after his girlfriend tried to make the emergency call.

McKeithan turned himself in on the charge on Tuesday. Judge Richard Hagar agreed to give McKeithan an unsecured appearance bond of $5,000. Hagar said he was giving McKeithan a break because McKeithan is going to counseling with his girlfriend and is trying to work out their problems.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for Nov. 17.

Andrea Johnson

Briefly

Pot dealer sentenced

A 24-year-old Minot man will serve about 18 months in prison for intending to deal marijuana in Minot in July.

Anthony Lee Davis pleaded guilty Monday in district court in Minot to possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, a Class A felony because he was in possession of a weapon at the time. He also pleaded guilty to prohibited possession of a firearm by a felon, a Class C felony.

He was sentenced to a total of three years in prison for each charge, with a requirement that he serve 18 months. The sentences will run concurrently. He will be on supervised probation for three years. He was also ordered to pay $1,025 in court costs. He will receive credit for 94 days already served in jail.

The state dropped a Class C felony possession of stolen property charge and two Class A misdemeanors, carrying a concealed firearm and reckless endangerment.

According to court documents, Davis was carrying a loaded semi-automatic handgun and $1,252 in cash when he was arrested on July 8. He also had 12.5 grams of marijuana in individually wrapped packages.

Andrea Johnson

–

Four blocks remain with latest re-opening

Another intersection and one block downtown have re-opened in the downtown infrastructure improvements project.

Keller Paving, general contractor for this second phase of the project, opened the Main Street and Second Avenue intersection Tuesday morning, along with the adjoining block of Second Avenue Southeast. Work is substantially complete in these areas.

The contractor has four remaining blocks under construction. The goal is to complete them in the next five to six weeks and open roadway sections as they are finished. The focus is on the concrete roads, sidewalks and streetscape elements.

The remaining blocks are the two blocks of Main Street between Second Avenue South Southwest and Burdick Expressway and two blocks of Second Avenue Southwest between Main Street and Broadway.

–

Minot man charged with terrorizing

A 27-year-old Minot man is accused of pulling a knife on another passenger in a cab on Sunday and threatening him.

Shane Scott Walter is charged with Class C felony terrorizing and could face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine if he is convicted.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed with the court, Walter and his girlfriend shared a cab from the Dakota Lounge to the Comfort Inn along with Joseph Orms and his girlfriend. Orms told police that Walter’s girlfriend started calling his girlfriend names. Orms told the Walter’s girlfriend to stop the name calling and Walter then pulled a knife, pointed it at Orms and threatened to kill Orms if he kept talking to Walter’s girlfriend. When the men got out of the cab, Walter allegedly pushed Orms and tried to swing at him. Orms then pushed Walter to the ground and hit the other man in the face. Walter denied pointing the knife at anyone.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for Nov. 17 in district court in Minot.

Andrea Johnson

BRIEFLY

Two Devils Lake men injured in train/vehicle crash

DEVILS LAKE Two Devils Lake men were injured when the pickup they were in and the westbound Amtrak passenger train collided at the intersection of U.S. Highway 2 and 75th Avenue NE, seven miles west of Devils Lake, Monday. The accident happened at 6:45 a.m.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol said Allan Mosbaek, 67, was driving the 2013 Ford F-150 pickup and Rick Weed, 62, was a passenger in the vehicle. The pickup had turned off Highway 2 to travel north on 75th Avenue NE. The westbound Amtrak struck the pickup in the rear passenger side at the intersection. The pickup was torn in half and came to rest north of the tracks in the ditch. Both Mosbaek and Weed were wearing seat belts. They were taken to Devils Lake and later to Grand Forks for medical treatment.

Marc Magliari, of Amtrak media relations in Chicago, said there were no injuries to Amtrak passengers or crew. He said the train was delayed for slightly more than an hour and then continued west.

The Amtrak train included two engines and 11 cars. The train had minor damage, the Highway Patrol said.

The crash is under investigation by the N.D. Highway Patrol.

Eloise Ogden

Contained saltwater release occurs near Williston

WILLISTON A broken well head was the cause of a contained saltwater release occurring Saturday at the Corral 1 SWD site, about seven miles east of Williston

The North Dakota Oil and Gas Division said Zavanna, LLC reported 21,000 gallons of saltwater were released, contained and recovered on site. A state inspector has been to the site.

Briefly

Nine interns serving in Heitkamp offices

Tariro Makoni, Minot, is serving as an intern in Sen. Heidi Heitkamp’s Washington, D.C., office and Kelsey Boe, Mylo, is serving as an intern in Heitkamp’s Fargo office. They are among nine interns for Heitkamp this fall.

Makoni, a graduate of Our Redeemer’s Christian School, is a junior at Johns Hopkins University where she is pursuing a double major in sociology and international studies with a focus on global business. Boe is majoring in marketing at North Dakota State University in Fargo.

Heitkamp is currently offering internships in her North Dakota and Washington D.C. offices for the spring. More information is available at www.heitkamp.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=internships

–

Fall Educator Appreciation Days being observed

Barnes & Noble at Dakota Square Mall will once again host its Fall Educator Appreciation Days, today thrugh Sunday, Oct. 16.

Barnes & Noble’s Educator Appreciation Days occur several times during the year, recognizing pre-K public, private and home school educators and administrators. It provides educators with an opportunity to take part in special programs and events including tech demonstrations, and explore the company’s selection of products.

–

Mont. man killed when vehicle hits utility pole

FAIRVIEW, Mont. A 44-year-old Sidney, Mont., man died Thursday in McKenzie County near Fairview, Mont., when his vehicle went off the road, entered the ditch and hit a utility pole.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol said Damon McLaughlin, driver of a Ford F-150 pickup, was going south on N.D. Highway 58, four miles north of Fairview, when the accident happened at 2 p.m. He was taken to Sidney (Mont.) Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

–

Ross man injured in rollover near Williston

WILLISTON A 39-year-old man from Ross was injured in a rollover on N.D. Highway 1804, 15 miles east of Williston, Friday.

According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Edgar Soto, driver of a 2005 Peterbilt and tanker trailer, was going east on Highway 1804 when the vehicle entered the ditch and overturned into a ravine. The accident happened at 6:55 a.m. Soto was taken to Mercy Hospital in Williston and later flown to Bismarck for further treatment of his injuries. He was arrested for driving under the influence.

The highway was closed for six hours because of the accident.

Briefly

Power outage planned at visitor center

STANTON The visitor center at Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site near Stanton will be closed Tuesday, Oct. 11, due to a scheduled power outage. Access to the visitor center’s movie, museum and rest rooms will not be available during this time. The site will reopen in its entirety at 8 a.m. Central Daylight Time on Wed., Oc.t 12.

The earthlodge, trail systems, village sites and picnic shelter will remain open to visitors during the outage.

–

Dalrymple directs flags to fly at half-staff Sunday

BISMARCK Gov. Jack Dalrymple has directed all state government agencies and offices to fly the American and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, Oct. 9, in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.

The observance is held as part of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend to honor America’s fire and emergency services personnel and to remember those who have died in the line of duty.

“Every day, North Dakota’s fire and emergency services personnel put their lives on the line to protect our citizens and our communities, and some make the ultimate sacrifice so that others might be saved,” Dalrymple said. “By lowering the flags, we honor these heroes for their distinguished service and devotion to duty, and we remember those who gave their lives to save and protect their fellow citizens.”

Dalrymple also proclaimed next week, Oct. 9-15, Fire Prevention Week in the state to promote the importance of fire prevention and safety, and to recognize North Dakota’s firefighters for their service and dedication.

–

Man sentenced for breaking into motor vehicle

A 23-year-old Minot man will serve about 120 days in jail for breaking into a vehicle in a southeast Minot neighborhood on Aug. 18.

John Robert Smolka stole a bag filled with sporting equipment from the car and then tossed it into a dumpster because there was nothing in it he could sell.

Smolka changed his plea to guilty to unlawful entry into a vehicle, a Class C felony, on Thursday. He was sentenced to a total of two years in prison, with a requirement that he first serve 120 days. He will be on supervised probation for three years. Smolka must also pay $2,025 in court costs, including $925 in restitution.

A John Robert Smolka has a previous conviction for unlawful entry into a vehicle dating back to October 2015 and for theft of property dating back to July 2016.

Andrea Johnson

Briefly

Final member of alleged counterfeiting ring in court

Bond was set at $7,500 cash or corporate surety Tuesday for a 22-year-old Minot man charged with three counts of forgery or counterfeiting.

Travis Cole Black is one of four people charged with the alleged crimes, which took place in July 2014. Counterfeit bills were used to pay for items at various Minot businesses during that time.

If convicted of all three Class C felonies, Black could face up to 15 years in prison and $30,000 in fines.

His co-defendants on the charges are Gunnar Zachary St. Croix, 25, Zoe Kayleen St. Croix, 19, and Paige Rebekah Holmes, 20.

A preliminary hearing for Black is set for Nov. 10 in district court in Minot.

Andrea Johnson

–

Fort Totten woman injured in 2-vehicle accident

DEVILS LAKE The N.D. Highway Patrol reports a 21-year-old woman from Fort Totten was injured in a two-vehicle accident on N.D. Highway 20, two miles south of Devils Lake, Tuesday.

The woman, whose name was not released at this time, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 16-year-old Anthony Littlewind of Fort Totten. He was not injured.

The other vehicle was driven by Gladys Baerwald, 51, Devils Lake.

Baerwald, driving a 2000 Ford Focus, was going north on Highway 20 to Devils Lake. She had slowed and came to a stop on Highway 20 about two miles south of Devils Lake, waiting for a vehicle to turn left. Littlewind, driving a 1999 Chevrolet Malibu, also was going north on Highway 20 to Devils Lake. He did not notice the vehicles stopped in front of him and ran into the back of Baerwald’s car. The passenger in Littlewind’s car was taken to the hospital for minor injuries.

Littlewind was cited for following too close and failure to carry liability insurance on his vehicle. Baerwald was cited for failure to carry liability insurance on her vehicle.

–

Former Kmart employee sentenced for stealing from cash register

A 20-year-old former Minot Kmart employee was sentenced to probation Wednesday for stealing $1,200 from her cash register between Nov. 25 and Dec. 15, 2015.

District court records show that Ashley Nicole Dyson, Williston, was sentenced to one year in jail, with one year suspended, and two years of probation. Judge Stacy Louser also ordered Dyson to pay restitution and $1,100 in court costs, to complete 50 hours of community service at Rehab Services and to enroll in a financial counseling program within 90 days. Dyson could have received up to five years in prison for the Class C felony. However, if she successfully completes probation, the offense will appear on her record as a Class A misdemeanor.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed with the court, Kmart officials reported that Dyson’s till was short of funds on different occasions. Police also reviewed video footage. Dyson admitted to stealing the money by taking money from her till, traveling to the service desk for change and then pocketing a portion of the money and putting the rest back in the cash register as change.

Andrea Johnson

Briefly

Minot man alleges Trinity, doctor were negligent

A Minot man is alleging his surgeon was negligent when he removed a lymph node from the man’s neck two years ago and he suffered nerve damage. Kenneth Carter is suing the surgeon, Dr. Jerel Brandt, and his employer Trinity Health and asking for more than $50,000 in damages.

According to a complaint filed with the court, Carter sought treatment in November 2014 for lipomas, or benign growths, on his leg and back. Carter was scheduled for surgery to remove the growths on Nov. 28, 2014. As he was being prepared for surgery, medical staff noticed a lump on Carter’s neck and pointed it out to Brandt. Brandt suggested also removing the lump during the surgery. Carter says he agreed, based on his understanding that the lump was also a lipoma. Prior to the surgery, he hadn’t told his doctor that the lump was causing him any problem.

According to the complaint, the lump turned out to be an enlarged lymph node. The doctor removed the lymph node during the surgery and severed one of Carter’s nerves during the process. After the surgery, Carter said he suffered pain and numbness in his arm and shoulder and has required more surgery and medical treatment.

In its response the lawsuit, a lawyer for Trinity Health and for Brandt both deny Carter’s allegations of negligence.

The lawsuit was filed in August in North Central District court.

Andrea Johnson

–

ND State drops sports turf major

FARGO (AP) – There’s a seeming sweet spot at the intersection of sports and agriculture, two things North Dakota State University excels at, in teaching students how to maintain athletic fields and golf courses.

But the home of the five-time Football Championship Subdivision champions has discovered that not many people are interested anymore in its bachelor of science degree in sports and urban turfgrass management, and is dropping the major.

“I think this is just an example of the normal ebb and flow on campus related to curriculum and programs,” school provost Beth Ingram said, noting students can still take required turfgrass classes while pursuing a major in horticulture.

There are stand-alone turfgrass degree programs in about 30 states. Such programs are meant to prepare students for jobs as golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, lawn care operators and facility managers.

NDSU’s major began in 2002, about the peak of America’s golf course building boom. The last decade has been a course bust: According to the National Golf Foundation, 234 courses closed in the United States in 2015, the most since the group began counting in 2006.

“At one time developers were saying we could build a golf course a day and not catch up to the number of people who are playing golf,” said Greg McCullough, PGA golf professional at Edgewood in Fargo. “While that was probably not very accurate, in my opinion, I can see why there was a demand for turfgrass superintendents and things like that.”

Briefly

North Dakota St. rolls over Illinois St. 31-10

FARGO (AP) – Easton Stick put on a show for Carson Wentz on Saturday, throwing for 256 yards and three touchdowns to lead North Dakota State to a 31-10 win over Illinois State.

With the former Bison and current Philadelphia Eagles quarterback in attendance, Stick improved to 12-0 as the Bison starter with an efficient 13-of-18 performance against the Redbirds.

“He didn’t say much, but it was good to see him,” Stick said of the former Bison quarterback. “Every week there are two or three plays you think if we can get the look we can get them and we were fortunate to get those looks today.”

The Bison (4-0, 1-0 Missouri Valley Football Conference) have beaten the Redbirds (2-3, 0-2) five straight times. Illinois State lost its third straight game for the first time in the eight-year career of head coach Brock Spack.

“Easton was really sharp, making a lot of big plays in the passing game and I thought our defense played exceptionally well in the second half,” Bison coach Chris Klieman said.

Stick threw TD passes of 65 yards to RJ Urzendowski, 38 yards to Lance Dunn and 35 yards to Nate Jenson.

–

Studsrud with 3 TDs, UND beats Cal Poly 31-24

GRAND FORKS (AP) – Keaton Studsrud threw two touchdown passes and ran for another score, and North Dakota held on to beat Cal Poly 31-24 on Saturday.

Studsrud threw a 74-yard score to Luke Stanley to give the Fighting Hawks (3-2, 2-0 Big Sky Conference) a 31-17 lead early in the fourth quarter.

Dano Graves completed a 40-yard pass to J.J. Koski, and capped the drive with a 25-yard TD pass to Carson McMurtrey to pull Cal Poly (3-2, 1-1) to 31-24 with about four minutes remaining. The Mustangs forced a punt on North Dakota’s next possession. Graves then drove the Mustangs to the North Dakota 2-yard line, but threw an interception to Torrey Hunt in the end zone with 1:45 left.

Studsrud ran for a 16-yard touchdown in the first quarter, and tossed a 3-yard score to Noah Wanzek in the third quarter.

Graves threw for 219 yards and three touchdown passes, including two to McMurtrey.

Briefly

Informational meeting set for artist co-op

The Taube Museum of Art is inviting artists from Minot and its surrounding areas to participate in a meeting this week regarding the potential for an artist co-op in downtown Minot.

The meeting will be Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the Taube Museum of Art at 2 N. Main Street.

The proposed location of the co-op would be the former Heart of the Turtle Native American Gallery which closed this past week.

For more information, contact Walter Piehl at 720-4816.

–

Former Three Affiliated Tribes chairman charged with assault

BISMARCK (AP) – A onetime Three Affiliated Tribes chairman is facing a federal charge for assault.

Marcus Levings, also known as Marcus Wells Jr., is charged with assault of a spouse or intimate partner resulting in substantial bodily injury. He has pleaded not guilty. Trial is scheduled for Nov. 29 in Bismarck.

No further details were provided in court documents.

Levings, of New Town, was chairman of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation from 2006 through 2010.

Defense attorney Irv Nodland, of Bismarck, did not respond to a request for comment.

–

Williston building new wastewater treatment plant

WILLISTON (AP) – The city of Williston is building a new roughly $100 million wastewater treatment plant that’s expected to be fully operational next year.

The old system could serve about 10,000 people, while the new one can handle up to 60,000.

Wastewater Superintendent Gina Mottl says the city went from a lagoon system to a fully automated system.

Next month, the facility will go from processing about two million gallons of waste daily to up to six million gallons.

–

Boy airlifted to Fargo hospital after lawnmower accident

FARGO (AP) – A Minnesota boy has been airlifted to a Fargo hospital after a lawnmower accident partially severed his leg.

The boy from Vergas, Minnesota, was injured after he ran over to a family member who was mowing the lawn.

Authorities say the boy’s condition appeared to be stable at the scene.

Briefly

Beaver hockey throttles defending national champions

WENTZVILLE, Mo. – Minot State hockey coach Wade Regier couldn’t have written a better start to the 2016-17 season if he tried.

The Beavers thrashed the defending ACHA Division I national champion, No. 2 Lindenwood University, 6-2 on Friday in Wentzville, Mo.

“The first five minutes we looked rusty because we hadn’t played in a while,” Regier said. “But after that, offensively we looked very good. Defensively we looked very sharp as well and our goaltending was just absolutely outstanding tonight. We’ll definitely take this for our first game.

MSU – ranked No. 5 in the ACHA – outshot Lindenwood 35-25 on the night and had 24 saves from goalie Holden Kurtz.

“Kurtz played well. He had to make a couple of big saves for us tonight,” Regier said. “There was a 5-on-3 power play and he stepped up for us in that. That’s what you expect out of a goaltender.

Craig Fournier, Jeremy Johnson and Bryce Lipinski each had a goal in the first period to give the Beavers a 3-0 lead. MSU broke the game open to 6-0 in the second period with goals from Dylan Johnson, Lipinski and Derrick Brook.

The Beavers are back in action at 4 p.m. today in a rematch against Lindenwood in Wentzville. Regier said he doesn’t expect his team to have a let down after experiencing the high of blowing out a defending national champion.

“This was a character win for us against a No. 2 team,” Regier said. “We preach the same thing all season long and keeping our emotions in check. We need to enjoy the win for all of five minutes and then turn around and get back at it for tomorrow.”

–

Wayne State sweeps MSU volleyball

The Minot State University volleyball team fell in three sets (10-25, 6-25, 13-25) to No. 9 Wayne State on Friday evening.

The Beavers started off set one well as they kept it within one point trailing 4-5 before the Wildcats proved why they are a top 10 team.

MSU had three players who led the team with three kills apiece in Brileigh Boyce, Shelby Spuller and Emily Falldorf. Falldorf also recorded two blocks to tie with Janelle Nagy and Hayley Swain to lead the team.

Nagy had a well-rounded game with an additional seven digs, six assists and two kills. Cindy Pelo led the team with 10 digs. Both Pelo and Nagy also recorded an ace.

Minot State will play another top 10 team tomorrow, October 1, at No. 8 Augustana starting at 5:30 p.m.

– Minot State athletics

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)

• Daily Newsletter
• Breaking News
• Obituaries

Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

• Yes
• No

   

Local Sports

Beeter to bowl at next level for Viterbo University

Singular focus on development for Tauros’ ‘old man’ on the ice

Full circle: From a small town to the NFL and back again

Majettes beat bigger, stronger Blue Jays

Majettes’ netters knock off Patriots

Bishop Ryan Lions 8-5 over Garrison Troopers

The Garrison Troopers journeyed to John Hoeven Park to face the Bishop Ryan Lions in what supposed to be a windy ...