What part of North Dakota’s culture do you love to experience the most?

YEARLY TREK
The best part of North Dakota culture I love to experience the most is our yearly trip to the western part of the state to see the Medora Musical and take part in the awesome pitchfork steak fondue meal.

Steaks dipped in hot grease vats on pitchforks, baked potato, baked beans, fruit and wonderful music. The scenery of the Badlands is so beautiful. Also, the fresh growth of perennials, being outdoors enjoying the warm climate, nature walks and the farmers planting crops, the new baby calves, baby kittens, ducklings and the spring robins.

Dorothy Robyt
Northern Plains Electric Cooperative

 

LOCAL SUPPORT
My favorite part of North Dakota’s culture has to be the small-town gatherings, whether it’s local games or seasonal community events. Getting together to have “walking tacos” and watermelon after a parade is a heartwarming occasion!

One part of the culture that should be wonderful is turning to times remembered for other reasons: the local ballgames! My husband and I “work” the volleyball and basketball games in town. I keep the official book, while my husband operates the shot clock, possession arrow and is my spotter. We hear too much from this position.

First, our coaches love the sport. Most treat the players like their own kids. They love the kids and the sport, so they try to instill that in the players.

But the fans and parents? They need to realize this is a sport, not a life-and-death situation! The kids will make mistakes, but let the coaches help them to learn from the mistake and improve. The officials make split-second decisions based on what they see. Their perspective is much closer than that of a fan 80 feet away, and they do their best. I am finding too many fans are ruining the culture by thinking they are experts when they should just cheer the good plays and keep their opinions to themselves.

Maybe what is needed is a “silent night” to start the sports season: no vocals allowed, just clap your hands one evening!

Kay Reiser
McLean Electric Cooperative

 

UPCOMING READER REPLY QUESTIONS:

August: What’s the best advice you can give to keep our farmers and ranchers safe?
Deadline for submission: July 12

September: Strictly from a patriotic perspective, why do you vote?
Deadline for submission: Aug. 12

We want to hear from you: Submissions should be no more than 250 words, typewritten or in legible handwriting. Include your name, complete address, daytime phone number and name of your electric cooperative. Note: Magazine staff reserves the right to make edits and cuts. We pay $25 for each letter we print. Email to ndliving@ndarec.com or mail to READER REPLY, North Dakota Living, P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554-0727.