Living in McKenzie County

In this episode of Living in McKenzie County, join host Vawnita Best and representatives from the Watford City Police Department, Officer Jeffrey Jensen and Chief Jesse Wellen, as they discuss their personal experiences, the department's mission, and the various programs they support. The episode covers the importance of community policing, the role of School Resource Officers (SROs), and the impactful initiatives like the Watford City Police Foundation and Blue Santa program. Learn about the upcoming National Night Out event on August 5th, 2025, and how it's designed to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community. Tune in to understand the dedication of the Watford City Police Department to serve, protect, and engage with their residents.

00:00 Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast

01:11 Meet Officer Jensen: From Wisconsin to Watford City

04:35 Chief Wellen's Journey: From Minnesota to Watford City

07:46 Opportunities in Law Enforcement and Community Growth

20:39 National Night Out: Building Bridges with the Community

35:41 Recognizing the Unsung Heroes: Fire and EMS Volunteers

42:29 Watford City Police Department Foundation and Blue Santa Program

46:14 Supporting DARE Programs and Youth Initiatives

48:40 Community Engagement and Fundraising Efforts

50:48 Blue Santa Program and Holiday Support

57:34 Community Policing and Building Relationships

01:07:16 School Resource Officer (SRO) Program

01:17:19 Social Media and Community Communication

01:29:50 National Night Out and Community Events

#police #Lawenforcement #northdakota #smalltown #ruralliving #backtheblue #nationalnightout #watfordcitynd #mckenziecounty

In this episode, we're excited to kick off summer by discussing the vibrant Watford Market in Watford City.

Our special guests include Vastie Castellanos, Watford Market Manager, and young vendors Casen and Tylee Thorne. Learn about the rich history of the market, key dates (July 17th to September 18th), and its scenic location at Ken Pelton Nature Park. Discover the variety of vendors, from fresh vegetables and Yellowstone River Beef to delightful cookies and caramel popcorn balls. Organizations like the Lions Club and the Long X Arts Foundation enhance the market with delicious food and live music.

Whether you're a seasoned vendor, new to the community, or just passing through, find out what makes Watford Market a cherished summer event for everyone.

00:00 Welcome to Living in McKenzie County Podcast

00:44 Meet the Market Manager

01:34 Watford Market Details and Community Involvement

02:00 Young Vendors Share Their Experiences

02:24 The Hard Work and Fun of Being a Vendor

05:15 Community Organizations and Their Contributions

08:45 Becoming a Vendor: Tips and Advice

11:45 The Market's Impact on the Community

15:53 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

#farmersmarket #community #sellingfood #foodbusiness #homesteading #homebasedfood #ruralliving #ruralamerica

Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast! This episode dives into the excitement of the upcoming 2025 McKenzie County Fair, themed 'Mardi Gras.'

As we gear up for fair week, host Vawnita Best gets together with several guests, including Cassie Haak, Dylan Cargo, and Shantell Jepson, who share their experiences and roles in the 4-H community. Listen as they talk about the importance of county fairs in North Dakota, reminisce about past fairs, and outline all the amazing events coming up—from livestock shows to grandstand spectacles like the ranch rodeo, demolition derby, and NDRA rodeo.

Whether you're a fair veteran or a first-timer, we cover everything families in McKenzie County need to know to make the most of this exciting week. Tune in to get all the details, including the highlights of the premium livestock sale, showmanship competitions, and the fun-filled parade. Don't miss out on the biggest event of the year in McKenzie County!

2025 McKenzie County Fair Exhibits & Exhibitors BY THE NUMBERS!

• 329 Participants
• 913 Projects
• 144 4-H Members Showing Livestock
• 89 Steers
• 24 Goats
• 31 Sheep
• 64 Pigs
• 4 Rabbits
• 5 Poultry
• 14 Horse Showmen

314 Livestock Lots

• 102 Beef Lots
• 44 Goat Lots
• 54 Sheep Lots
• 80 Swine Lots
• 20 Rabbit Lots
• 14 Poultry Lots

00:00 Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast

00:40 Meet the Guests: Former and Current 4-H Members

01:41 Cassie Haak: A 4-H Mom and Leader

02:49 Dylan Cargo: Junior Leader and Cattle Enthusiast

04:34 Shantell Jepson: Family Consumer Wellness Agent

05:31 Planning for the McKenzie County Fair

06:45 4-H Projects: From Livestock to Woodworking

11:18 The Importance of Interview Judging

12:29 Memories of the Old Fairgrounds

18:33 Excitement for the 2025 McKenzie County Fair

22:29 Exciting Events to Look Forward to at the Fair

23:07 Grandstand Highlights and Fair Board Appreciation

24:26 Favorite Fair Foods and Morning Routines

26:14 4-H Livestock Show and Parade Day

28:37 FFA Livestock Show and Farm Olympics

31:48 Showmanship Day

36:29 Community Spirit and Fair Etiquette

40:34 Final Thoughts and Fair Dates

2025 McKenzie County Fair 4H Exhibit Entry Book: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-2Je-6Mo6Een_lNdR-7ypwhRhmfNfG4r

Fair Lineup & Venue Information: https://www.mcagexpo.com/events

Welcome back to another episode of 'Living in McKenzie County'!

In today's episode titled 'Living the Dream in Arnegard,' we delve into the unique history, community spirit, and daily life in Arnegard, one of the three incorporated towns in McKenzie County. Join host Daniel Stenberg us as we chat with Rick Schreiber, Michelle Schreiber, and Brian Bjornstad about their personal stories, the town's vibrant history, and the various ways residents can get involved. Learn about the town's annual 4th of July celebration, the contributions of the fire department, the Lions Club, and more. Whether you are a resident or just curious about life in Arnegard, this episode offers a deep dive into the community that makes this small town a wonderful place to live in rural America.

00:00 Welcome to Episode 16: Living the Dream in Arnegard

00:46 Meet Brian: A Journey from Fargo to Arnegard

05:19 The History and Evolution of Arnegard

09:43 Michelle's Story: From Buffalo to Arnegard 1

3:34 Rick's Journey: From Miles City to McKenzie County

22:07 Community Involvement and Volunteer Spirit

30:58 Community Connections and Involvement

31:36 Call for Volunteers and Upcoming Events

32:41 Organizing the 4th of July Parade

35:42 Other Community Events and Initiatives

44:21 The Role of Agriculture and Oil in the Community

49:29 Volunteer Opportunities in the Fire Department

52:24 Historical Highlights and Future Aspirations

#northdakota #arnegard #smalltowns #rurallife #ruralamerica #rural #bakken #mckenziecounty #firedepartment #volunteer #parade #agriculture #history #community #communitybuilding

Living in McKenzie County is on the road at the 2025 North Dakota Tourism Conference!

Join us as we explore the incredible offerings of Western North Dakota, and learn why you should make Watford City your Western North Dakota vacation hub to take it all in!

Hosted by Doug Bolken with McKenzie County Tourism/Visit Watford City, our panel of guests are true leaders in statewide & Western North Dakota tourism. Joining this episode are Peggy Hellendsaas, owner of Tobacco Gardens Resort & Marina, Amy Krueger with the Williston CVB, Sarah Otte Coleman, Director of North Dakota Tourism, and Kiera Fox Acting Director of MHA Tourism.

This episode highlights numerous attractions, accommodations, and cultural destinations. Discover why Western North Dakota is a prime vacation spot with its diverse activities, from historic sites and cultural festivals to recreational spots and culinary delights. Learn how recent developments, including the future Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and expansions in local amenities, will elevate the region's travel experience.

LINKS TO PLAN YOUR WESTERN NORTH DAKOTA VACATION:

https://www.visitwatfordcity.com

https://www.watfordcityevents.com/all/Calendar/List

https://visitwilliston.com

https://tobaccogardens.com

https://www.ndnta.com/mhanation

https://www.ndtourism.com

00:00 Welcome to the North Dakota Tourism Conference 00:39 Exploring Western North Dakota's Attractions 02:27 Tobacco Gardens: A Hidden Gem on Lake Sakakawea 04:10 Williston: A Growing Destination 09:39 MHA Nation: Cultural and Recreational Highlights 12:44 Exploring the Earth Lodge Village 13:03 Summer Activities and Scenic Views 13:36 Unique Cultural Perspectives 14:24 Exciting Developments at the Museum 14:50 Expanding Tribal Parks and Celebrations 15:49 Collaborative Tourism Efforts 16:36 Promoting North Dakota's Attractions 19:26 The Impact of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library 21:31 Sustainable and Green Initiatives 22:02 Wrapping Up and Contact Information

#northdakota #travelnorthdakota #midwesttravel #travel #tourism #traveltips #vacation #watfordcitynd #mckenziecounty #culturalawareness #nativeamerican #nativeamerican #history #museum #fishing #outdoors #paddlefish #walleye #lakesakakawea #badlands #theodoreroosevelt #nationalpark #nationalparks #maahdaahheytrail #mountainbike #trailrunning #hiking #trailriding #caviar

Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast! Join us for Episode 14 as we celebrate Small Business Month and dive into key topics with special guests including Keith Olson from the Small Business Development Center, Bobby Kaloustian from Cornerstone Bank, Justin Voll from First International Bank and Trust, and a special remote conversation with Don Morgan, President of The Bank of North Dakota.

We discuss the importance of small businesses in McKenzie County, banking support, and the role of the Bank of North Dakota in fostering entrepreneurship. Plus, we engage in a thoughtful conversation about the local business climate, opportunities for growth, and the future of housing in Watford City. Don't miss out on the valuable insights and advice for current and aspiring business owners. Tune in and let's support our local businesses!

Bank of North Dakota: www.bnd.gov

Cornerstone Bank: www.cornerstone.bank

First International Bank & Trust: www.fibt.com

ND Small Business Development Center Williston State College: https://willistonstate.edu/about/Community/Small-Business-Development-Center/

City of Watford City Roughrider Fund: https://cityofwatfordcity.gov/roughrider-fund/

00:00 Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast 00:36 Shoutout to Award-Winning Producer Brock White 01:15 Celebrating Small Business Month 01:44 Meet Keith Olson: Small Business Development Center 02:59 Meet Bobby Kaloustian: Cornerstone Bank 04:10 Meet Justin Voll: First International Bank and Trust 05:07 Discussing North Dakota's Business Climate 07:15 The Role of Local Banks in Supporting Small Businesses 12:36 Challenges and Opportunities in Business Expansion 14:09 The Unique Flex Pace Program in Williston and Watford City 15:38 Rough Rider Fund Programs 18:59 Defining Small Business in North Dakota 23:47 The Importance of Bank of North Dakota 27:40 Interview with Don Morgan: President and CEO of Bank of North Dakota 29:28 History and Impact of the Bank of North Dakota 33:53 Partnerships with Local Municipalities 34:54 Supporting Small Businesses in North Dakota 36:44 Flex PACE Program Overview 38:38 Future Vision for North Dakota 41:40 Addressing Housing Shortages 46:41 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 55:41 Encouraging Youth in Business 01:00:47 Community Development and Livability 01:08:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Living in McKenzie County, Vawnita Best,, the Community and Business Development Director for Watford City, hosts an insightful discussion with local leaders about the exciting recreational opportunities available as the community springs into summer. Guests include Krystal Pickelsimer from Watford City Parks & Recreation, Tony Carmichael from Fox Hills Golf Course, and Brent Schwan from the McKenzie County Sportsman's Club. They share updates on youth and adult programs, unique community events like NDPC's Birds & Birdies, and how to get involved, whether as participants or volunteers. Learn about summer programs, membership details, and the impact these activities have on the community. Don't miss out on understanding what makes McKenzie County a vibrant place to live for all seasons where residents can live an active lifestyle! 00:00 Welcome to Living in McKenzie County

01:29 Meet Krystal Pickelsimer: Watford City Parks & Rec 02:19 Introducing Tony Carmichael: Golf Professional at Fox Hills 03:13 Brent Schwan: McKenzie County Sportsman's Club 04:57 Exploring the Sportsman's Club Facilities 12:50 Tony Carmichael on Fox Hills Golf Course 28:19 Introduction to Summer Programs 28:48 Youth Programs Overview 29:50 Adult Programs and Community Engagement 30:51 How to Get Involved and Volunteer 32:24 Watford Market and Community Events 33:40 Birds and Birdies Event 39:18 Year-Round Activities and Memberships 44:31 Junior Golf Week and Youth Programs 48:37 Rough Rider Center and Scholarships 51:17 Conclusion and Community Appreciation

Connect with our guests and their programming:

Fox Hills Golf Course: https://www.foxhillsgc.com

Watford City Parks & Rec: https://www.watfordcityparks.com

McKenzie County Sportsman's Club: https://www.mckenziecountysportsmansclub.com

#outdoors #recreation #youthsports #golf #hunting #community #communitybuilding #watfordcitynd #mckenziecounty #northdakota #northdakotalegendary #rurallife #smalltowns #activelifestyle

What makes a strong rural community? Great leaders. Where do we get great leaders? Through programs like NDSU's Rural Leadership ND.

Join hosts Vawnita Best & Daniel Stenberg (both RLND alumni) as they welcome fellow McKenzie County RLND Alumni Vicki Monsen, Market President at Cornerstone Bank in Watford City; and Katie Tyler, Program Director and Extension Specialist for North Dakota State University's Rural Leadership North Dakota. Our panel goes in-depth about the purpose and impact of the Rural Leadership North Dakota program, the experiences from their seminars, and their personal capstone projects that made a big impact on their communities.

Whether you're a policy enthusiast, community leader, or someone looking for ways to get involved in your community, this podcast offers valuable insights into building leadership in rural communities across North Dakota.

Interested in joining the next session of RLND? Visit https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/extension/programs/rural-leadership-north-dakota/application-and-nomination to learn more!

Welcome to the 'Living in McKenzie County' podcast, guest hosted by Jessie Veeder Scofield, the Director of the Long X Arts Foundation!

In this episode, Jessie is joined by key figures from the community to discuss the upcoming Cultural Fair and Food Fair at Watford City High School on March 25th. The conversation features Amy Polivka, the Student Council Advisor at Watford City High School, students Kyra Delgado and Maxwell Hansen, and community member Gloria Asare. They delve into the origins, growth, and impact of the Cultural Fair, which celebrates the multicultural aspects of Watford City and McKenzie County by involving students and community members in a vibrant display of cultural arts, food, and performances. The episode highlights how the fair fosters community connections, brings diverse cultures to the forefront, and encourages mutual respect and understanding among residents.

'Living in McKenzie County' is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

00:00 Introduction to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast 01:03 Meet the Cultural Fair Organizers 02:00 The Origins and Growth of the Cultural Fair 04:13 Student Involvement and Community Impact 05:35 Cultural Fair Highlights and Personal Stories 08:28 Logistics and Planning of the Cultural Fair 17:15 Community Engagement and Student Leadership 21:10 Sampling the Best: Gloria's Popular Table 21:25 Challenges and Triumphs in Cooking for Large Crowds 22:37 Student Involvement and Community Support 23:45 Highlighting Participants: Maritza's Journey 25:13 Funding and Support for the Cultural Fair 26:07 Logistics and Setup of the Cultural Fair 27:16 Recognition and Expansion to Other Communities 28:33 Impact on Students and Community Connections 30:42 Personal Experiences and Cultural Integration 35:42 The Importance of Inclusivity and Welcoming Newcomers 42:20 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode, we delve into the life and community of Alexander, a notable part of McKenzie County. Host explores the history, schooling, and communal spirit of Alexander with the help of some esteemed guests. Joining the discussion are Jim Jacobson, a long-time resident, farmer, and rancher; Leslie Bieber, Superintendent of Alexander Public Schools; and Tyler Fixen, who serves on the Alexander City Council and the McKenzie County Job Development Authority Board.

They discuss the rich historical background of the area, the significant growth of Alexander Public Schools, bringing back football to the region, and the thriving community events like Old Settler's Day and the local bingo scene, providing valuable insights and heartfelt stories from their personal experiences. The episode also touches upon the community's development projects, such as new residential lots and a daycare center aimed to accommodate the growing population.