By Bill Anderson

Aah, September! Warm and sunny days; cool, clear starlit nights; and, the sustenance provided by nature available in abundance. The sweet corn season is waning, but the products of garden and orchard: potatoes; tomatoes; cucumbers; the prolific zucchini; beets; green beans; plums; apples; and, a myriad of other good stuff; are available everywhere, for a while. As the old-timers often observed, “There’s only 2 things that money can’t buy, and that’s true love and home-grown tomatoes.” How true! It’s almost enough to make a person forget what’s coming. Almost, but not quite. Of North Dakota’s 2 seasons: winter; and, getting ready for winter; we are now approaching the end of getting ready. Brace yourself. It’s coming.

Bill Anderson and Paul Anderson of this community drove to Bismarck on Thursday, September 6, where Bill participated in a meeting of North Dakota County Commissioners Association’s Resolutions Committee. The committee considered resolutions dealing with road funding; administration of County Social Services; law enforcement; taxation; initiated measures; and, other topics. The draft resolutions will be considered during the North Dakota Association of Counties Annual Conference in Bismarck during the 2^nd week of October, and the resolutions approved will guide the Associations work during the 2019 session of the North Dakota Legislature. On the return trip, it was noticed that several soybean fields along ND Highway #32 south of Valley City appeared to be nearly ready for harvest, and there is no doubt that combines will be rolling by the time this column is in print.

Every now and then an important event in the history of the community escapes notice in The Rooster Crows. That happened back in April when Nate Allen Peterson, son of Travis & Morgan Peterson of this community, was born on Thursday, April 12, 2018, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo. Nate’s great-grandma couldn’t recall his official weight, height and horsepower, but states that he was just perfect, as far as she is concerned. Pastor Curt Larson officiated at the Baptism of Nate on Sunday, September 9, at Nordland Lutheran Church in Rutland. Nate is at home with his parents at 301 Arthur Street in Rutland. The Rutland community extends an enthusiastic welcome to Nate Allen Peterson, and The Rooster Crows extends an apology for the oversight. Thanks to one of Nate’s Great-Grandmothers, Sharon Lock, for the information.

The Rutland City Council met at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 10, in the Rutland Town Hall, with Mayor Ron Narum; City Auditor Debbie Banish; and, Council members Rodney Erickson, Delores Lysne, Mike Mahrer and Bertha Siemieniewski present. Also present were the following Rutland citizens: Calvin Jacobson; Richard “Mac” Pherson; Melinda McCourt; Wyatt McCourt; and, Bill Anderson. Three public hearings: on a Conditional Use Building Permit applied for by Greg Prindiville; on the provisions of a proposed revised Zoning Ordinance for the City of Rutland; and, on the proposed 2019 City Budget; were held prior to the opening of the Council’s regular business session. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the Council approved the Conditional Use Permit for Greg Prindiville, allowing the placement of a mobile home on a concrete pad on Lots 18-24, Block 6of Cooper’s Addition; held the first reading of the proposed revised Zoning Ordinance, with modifications; and, adopted the proposed 2019 City budget with a 3.5% increase. The regular Council meeting convened following the public hearing. Bill Anderson informed the Council that he and Kathleen Brakke plan to remodel and renovate the Old Parsonage at 217 First Street, including the construction of a new foundation under the existing structure, and the construction of additional living space and an attached garage on the east side of the present house, originally built in 1902. It will be necessary to temporarily relocate the existing house either to the north or to the south, the mover has not yet determined which direction to go, and, if it is moved south, it will be close to Anthony Street until it is moved back onto the new foundation. Whichever direction it is moved, it will go straight up first, according to Nick Schmidt III of Schmidt Moving. Precautions will be taken to avoid harm to the huge cottonwood tree in front of the house that was planted back in 1902, when the house was built. Mac Pherson was present to inquire about how the City wanted his new building on Dakota Street to be connected to the City water and sewer system, and Calvin Jacobson was present to discuss the plan for the connections that he has submitted to the State Health Department. The State Health Department has refered the plan to the Department’s Engineer for review. A fire hydrant, or a flush hydrant, should be added to the east end of the Main, according to Calvin. The Council discussed the matter, and it was noted that property owners are usually responsible for the cost of installing water and sewer lines from the main to the home.  The City needs to know the cost estimate for the addition of a hydrant which may be required by the State for any water main extension in that area. The Council held the first reading of a Tree Ordinance and of a Dutch Elm Disease Ordinance. Council Member Lysne asked that the ordinances be adopted. These Ordinances are needed for the City to be eligible to apply for any grant funding from the State Forestry Program. A second reading and final vote on the ordinances will be conducted during the October Council meeting. The City Auditor presented an update on solar-powered electronic speed control signs similar to those recently installed in Milnor, including the cost and possible funding sources. The financial reports as of August 31, were presented and approved. The reports showed all funds to be in the black. The Auditor reported that there are six delinquent municipal utility accounts at the present time. These accounts will be subject to having their water shut off if not paid by September 15. Mayor Narum reported that some trees by the City Maintenance Building on First Street need trimming, and he will try to get the job done when the tree trimmer with a high-lift boom is in Rutland, sometime this month. Mayor Narum also presented information on propane fuel rates for the Rutland Town Hall. He had obtained prices from 4 different suppliers: Vining Propane of Valley City; Economy Propane of Oakes; Full-Circle Ag of Britton, Forman & Gwinner; and, CHS Dakota Plains, of Lisbon and Valley City. The Council approved a contract to purchase 2,600 gallons of propane from CHS Dakota Plains at $1.35 per gallon.  After reviewing the City’s bills and authorizing payment, the Council adjourned at 6:30 p.m. The next meeting of the Rutland City Council is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 1, 2018, in the Rutland Town Hall. All meetings of the Rutland City Council are open to the public, and all local residents are invited to attend, states Auditor Banish. Thanks to City Auditor Debbie Banish for the information.

The Rutland Community Club met at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 10, in the Rutland Town Hall, with President Bonnie Anderson presiding. Secretary Andrea Erickson presented the minutes of the August meeting, and Treasurer Hal Nelson presented a Treasurer’s report showing a balance of $10,586.15 available for community projects. It was noted that the Community Club has allocated a considerable amount of money to such projects as the new flooring in the Town Hall kitchen; the new chain-link safety fence around the outdorr basketball court; and, a donation to the Rutland Fitness Center; among others, during 2018. Most of the discussion involved preparations for Uff-Da Day XXXIV, scheduled for Sunday, October 7, and Chairperson Marcia Brakke reported that all events and activities are moving along like a well-oiled machine. Katie McLaen reported that preparations are underway for another “Freezer Meals” class in November, and for a session of “Kids In The Kitchen” in January. The next meeting of the Rutland Community Club is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 15, in the Rutland Town Hall.

Uff-Da Day lefse production is scheduled to end on the evening of Thursday, September 13, barring an unforeseen urge to just keep on rolling. The following report was received from Uff-Da Day Chairperson Marcia Brakke: “We made 289 lefse last evening, Tuesday, September 11, to bring the total to 3124 overall. With two more sessions scheduled for Thursday we anticipate over 3600 lefse available for Uffda Day, to be sold at the Legion Hall or served a part of the Scandinavian dinner at the Rutland Town Hall. The dinner this year will cost $13 for adults; Children ages 12 and under $9; and, children under 6 free. A special thank you from the Uffda Day Committee to all the volunteers who have stepped up to be leaders for Uff-Da Day. Your positive attitude and enthusiastic effort are greatly appreciated. Thank You!” Thanks to Marcia for the report, and congratulations to the Uff-Da Day Committee for what has been done, so far, to prepare for Uff-Da Day XXXIV on Sunday, October 7.

The schedule of events for Uff-Da Day XXXIV on Sunday, October 7, is as follows: 8 AM The “Uff-Da Day Classic” 5K Walk/Run commences at the City Maintenance Building on the south end of Main Street, at the corner of First & Cooper; All Day – Rutland Depot Museum and 1 room School House exhibit on Main Street; All Day – antique, classic and downright interesting Car Show on Gay Street; 10 AM Craft Booths at Bank, Rutland Oil Co. building, Erickson Building (the former Ink’s/Bohn’s/Lariat Bar building) and at other locations in the downtown area of metropolitan Rutland; 10 AM Sale of Packaged Lefse, Sandbakkels, Krumkake and Uffda Day 2018 T-Shirts at Legion Hall/Rutland Fitness Center on the corner of Gay & Bagley Streets; 11 AM Old Parsonage Antiques & collectibles shop, with Wine Tasting on the Front Porch at 217 First Street; 11 AM “Bounce house” games for kids on Gay Street, across from the Rutland Town Hall; 11 AM Scandinavian treats, Demonstrations & sale, at Senior Center on Main Street, with Live Musical Entertainment; 11 AM Abelskivers, hot from the pan, in front of the Legion Hall/Fitness Center; 11 AM Uffda Tacos at the Rutland Fire Hall on Bagley Street; 11 AM Scandinavian dinner Featuring Rutland Scalloped Potatoes, made with real Hand-cut Ham, real potatoes and real Cream, Scandinavian Delicacies and Live musical Entertainment; 1 PM Uffda Day Parade commencing on Dakota Street, west on Gay Street, north on Ross Street, west on Front Street and south on Main Street; 1:45 PM Nickel Scramble on Main Street, in front of the Depot Museum and the Erickson Building; 2 PM Pedal Pull Challenge on Main Street; 3 PM “Nor-Ski” 1st Annual Competition at the corner of Bagley & Gay Streets. There’s Free Parking all over town; Handicapped Spaces are Available at convenient locations; and there’s an Information Booth on Main Street in case you get lost and need a hug. Come early and stay late! Rutland is the place to be, and Uff-Da Day is the event to see, on Sunday, October 7, 2018.

Debbie Liermark of this community reports that her responsibilities with the Dollar General Store chain have increased in recent weeks. She now manages 14 stores with her area including stores from Hankinson to Elgin, Mobridge and Sisseton. Debbie reports that the company recently furnished her with a brand new Chevrolet Malibu automobile for use in her work. In the preceding year, she had put over 110,000 miles on her previous company car. Debbie reports that the Dollar General Store chain appears to be doing very well in the Dakotas.

Carol Fridgen of Nevis MN visited in Rutland from Monday, September 10, to Wednesday, September 12. The purpose of her visit was to assist Paul Anderson and Kurt Breker with the grape harvest at Oleo Acres Vineyard in Rutland and at The Shortfoot Creek Vineyard south of Cayuga. She also got in on preparations for lefse production at the Rutland Town Hall on Tuesday morning and afternoon. Paul reports that their 2018 grape production is about double last year’s yield at more than 500 pounds, which could produce up to 100 bottles of fine wine bearing the Rutland Rooster and Cayuga Coyote labels. Don Dathe reports that his vineyard south of Geneseo also did well, producing about 400 pounds of grapes this year. Good grapes and good wine – we’ll drink to that!

Rick Bosse stopped in at The Lariat for coffee and conversation on the morning of Tuesday, September 11, after a 12-day absence. Rick reports that he and Keith Hoistad had traveled out to western Montana back on August 30, where Rick had an 8-day archery only elk hunt booked with guide and outfitter Kelly Flynn of Hidden Hollow Ranch near Townsend, Montana. The ranch consists of a classic main lodge and several cabins, with facilities for riding horses, pack mules and the main purpose of the ranch, raising beef cattle. Rick states that he had the Missouri River on one side, the Rocky Mountains on the other, and some of the best elk hunting country on earth right under his feet. Rick used his compound bow, which has an adjustable draw weight, for this hunt. He had a license that would have allowed him to take 1 bull elk and 2 cows, but he says that he never got close enough to a bull to take a chance with an arrow. According to Rick, several years ago he had his bow set to the heaviest draw weight it would go up to, 70 pounds, but then his shoulders wore out and he gradually reduced the pull from 70 to 60, then to 50, and finally down to 40. This past Spring, Rick states that he could barely pull 40 pounds on the bow, but he worked at it all Summer and gradually progressed back up to over 50. For this hunt he backed the pull off a little. He managed to bag the 2 cow elk his license allowed, the first one on the second day of the hunt and the 2^nd one in the final hours of the last day of the hunt. He said that he didn’t even notice the draw weight of the bow when he was getting ready to loose his arrows at the 2 cows he bagged. Both of the elk were taken at about 20 yards, Rick reported, and he doesn’t like to take a chance at ranges much greater than that. He did have one nice bull come within 65 yards, but that distance was beyond his comfort range. While in the Townsend area, Rick and Keith visited with Sargent County natives Doug Breker, who grew up in Ransom Township, southeast of Rutland, and Paul Orth, who grew up in Bowen Township, northwest of Forman. The two have made their homes in Townsend for more than 40 years. Rick’s next elk hunting adventure is a rifle hunt planned for the mountains of northern New Mexico in early December. He already has a couple of freezers full of meat, so the next hunt will be for a trophy bull, he states.

Jerry Schumacher of Oakes was in Rutland with his high-lift bucket and chain saw on the morning of Wednesday, September 12, doing some much needed trimming on some of the larger trees in town. He started at about 10:00 a.m. on the huge cottonwood in front of The Old Parsonage at 217 First Street. He was also expected to work on some large trees by the City Maintenance Building; on the large cottonwood on the corner of Gay & Bagley, in front of the American Legion Hall; and, on the large cottonwood in front of Bill Hoflen’s residence, just south of Lou Sanderson Field. These large trees are magnificent, but when their limbs start scraping the shingles off the nearby buildings, it’s time for a trimming.

Meanwhile, on the national scene, Hurricane Florence is approaching the East Coast of the United States, and Hurricane Op Ed has swept through Washington D.C. North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia are bracing for the hurricane, anticipating damage and disruption, while the White House is dealing with the wreckage the Op Ed that appeared in the New York Times last week left in its wake. The old saying is that, “What goes around comes around,” and this President, who demands loyalty but gives none, is now trying to figure out which of the White House officials on his suspect list is the one with the dagger. Too bad for him. Too bad for the country. Too bad for us. As of Friday, September 14, there will be 85 weeks down and 123 to go until January 20 2021, with plenty of time for more hurricanes, both inside and outside of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Well that’s the news from Rutland for this week. For additional information about what’s going on in the little city that can, check out the community’s internet web site at www.rutlandnd.com, and take a peek at the Rutland Facebook page while you’re at it, too. Don’t forget to patronize your local Post Office, and remember to keep the pressure on the U. S. Postal Service and the North Dakota Congressional delegation to SAVE OUR POST OFFICE! Later.