Strider nurtures young riders See page 12

August 2013 Rally weddings More bikers were mar- Outerspace keynote ried at the Sturgis Rally this year. Sandy and Steve Sta- UND alum Karen Nyberg delivers summer About the cover nos were married during the rally. At least 71 marriage commencement address from space. The bike pictured was licenses were purchased shot at Hot Harley Nights, an during the rally. Read more on page 15 annual Sioux Falls summer Read more on page 10 fundraiser.(Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

LIfe’s Amusing Moments Top rally in the Plains Read Kevin Boekhoff’s column about surviving a The 73rd Annual Sturgis car theft in California. Motorcycle Rally is one of Read more on page 17 the largest motorcycle ral- Strider Bikes lies in the nation.

Read more on page 4 Contents A father’s labor of love inspired a multi-million dollar international busi- ness founded in the Plains. Strider is nurturing a young- er generation likely to cross over to a chopper. Read more on page 12

Beresford in cinema The Rib Whisperer Rally fashion trends A small South Dakota Consumate Betrayal Trace Arnold dished out Leather, skimpy fash- town served as a backdrop his best for History Channel ions, body paint and ink for two movies. The most Read a chapter of “Con- fans who stopped by at the were found along the main recent is the filming of the sumate Betrayal” written by Sturgis Rally. drag in Sturgis. movie “Wild Prairie Rose”. Mary Yungeberg. Read more on page 6 Read more on page 8 Read more on page 14 Read more on page 26

2 Plains Magazine From the Editor’s Desk Contributors: Safe travels Amy Kirk The attendance at the Kevin T. Boekhoff 73rd Annual Sturgis Motor- cycle Rally appeared larger than in recent years. Early estimates suggest there were 500,000 people motorcycle blew causing the motorcycle to shake out of who arrived at the rally. control. The Dickersons were thrown from the motorcycle The traffic was a chal- and suffered serious non-life threatening injuries. lenge for motorcyclists and Fortunately most motorcyclists and motorists used more motorists. caution than normal on the nearly 30-mile stretch where Workers in the Black Hills traffic jams were taking place. reported traffic jams during However, I witnessed several maneuvers that could rally week as traffic slowed have resulted in accidents. There were motorists who had from 75 miles per hour to 65 left space between their vehicles and the motorcyclists in and 70 miles per hour on In- Kay Humphrey front of them allowing extra stopping distance, but other terstate 90 from Sturgis to Rapid City. motorcyclists quickly jumped in front of the drivers and fol- While the huge population of riders gives the Black Hills lowed closely behind other motorcyclists leaving little room and the state of South Dakota a bountiful economic boost, for a sufficient stopping distance. the frustrating daily bottlenecks on the interstate were un- Truckers were frustrated as cyclists blocked their way welcome for those traveling through the area to get some- on the passing lanes of the interstate. I watched one truck where else. Workers in the area were also frustrated with driver weave in and out of the lanes trying to drive beyond the traffic jams. the traffic jam, but there was nowhere for him to go since It was surprising more people weren’t killed or injured in traffic in both westbound lanes of traffic moved slowly. crashes in the congested traffic zones. South Dakotans are not used to bottlenecks because For the past few years the state has issued essentially a much of the state is rural and rush hour doesn’t really exist daily body count for motorcyclists killed on state highways except in the state’s two largest cities where congestion during the rally. sometimes slows traffic. It certainly isn’t the same as rush Ten people died in rally-related motorcycle accidents, hour in Omaha or Minneapolis. according to officials at the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Perhaps a third lane similar to HOV lanes should be One could argue that none of the fatality wrecks took considered. HOV lanes are used in metropolitan areas al- place on the stretch of road between Rapid City and St- lowing commuters to travel faster while freeing up conges- urgis on I-90, but a personal injury accident that injured tion in regular lanes. an Oklahoma couple happened when the motorcycle they Instead of confining the lanes to commuters, the lanes were riding had a mechanical failure on the interstate. could be restricted to motorcyclists and allow the general Edgar Dickerson III, 56, and Gina Dickerson, 52, of use of the interstate to remain as it is during normal traffic Union City, were traveling westbound on I-90, seven miles conditions. east of Sturgis when the rear tire of the 2003 Honda GL8 The rally isn’t going away and it is likely to grow. We have had years were there were more rally enthusiasts. We need to be better prepared for Sturgis visitors because they represent a large part of the state’s tourism.

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August 2013 3 Bikers took a break at the gateway to the small town that turns into large city during rally week. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

Riding the winding roads through the Black Hills tops the Cyclists by the hundreds of thousands arrived in Sturgis, S.D. for the 73rd annual Sturgis Motorcycle list for excusions bikers who ar- Rally. It is one of the nation’s largest motorcycle rally with more than a week of riding, concerts, food, rive at the rally. (Plains Maga- drinks and fun. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) zine photo by Kay Humphrey)

Wet t-shirt contests are part of the rally tradition on the sizzling summer days. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) Waitresses danced on some tables at the Sturgis Knuckle Rally draws Saloon entertaining road-weary rally-goers. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) large crowd the town that is normally about Bikers braved bumper to bumper traffic looking for a parking spot 6,300 population town in the at the 73rd annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. (Plains Magazine photo By Kay Humphrey Black Hills. by Kay Humphrey) Mary O’Keeffe and David It was a healthy year for the “It’s his big vacation and re- “Next time we will come up Rich of Salt Lake City took a 73rd Annual Sturgis Motorcy- tirement party,” said O’Keeffe. earlier before all of this starts. break outside the Lakota Mart cle Rally. The pair toured through We would like to see the town in Sturgis. The rally, held in Sturgis, Custer State Park. before all of this,” she said The couple comes to the ral- S.D., is one of the largest in the O’Keeffe said she would O’Keeffe considered at ly every other year. This year nation. It drew nearly 500,000 like to see Sturgis during a dif- renting a home for their stay, was special for Rich because people during the weeklong ferent time of the year when it but she said one of the proper- he was celebrating his retire- event. is less crowded. ties she looked at cost nearly Riders of all ages arrived in ment.

4 Plains Magazine Friends are never far. A busy waitress at the Side Hack Saloon takes time out to greet one her friends, a welcome sight after hours of toting drinks for hours. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

Trikes are becoming more popular as baby boomers age. V8 Chop- pers of Miami, Okla. brought its touring trike with a pimped out paint job to the rally. The company is known for its customized bikes. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

The Indian Motorcycle Company unveiled its newest line of bikes at the Sturgis Rally and bikers were eager to take a look at the new ride. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

Trailering bikes to Sturgis is becoming more frequent as boomers age, riders tire of long miles and traffic becomes more congested in the Black Hills. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

Women bikers give the newest Indian Vintage motorcycle a sit to see how it feels. The bike starts with the push of a button. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) $9,000 to rent for the rally. she said. The prices for a cabin, she “We brought our room with said, was $300 a night and ho- Getting gas and refreshments in Deadwood, these riders were pre- See Sturgis paring for a trek on the winding roads in the Black Hills. (Plains tel rooms fetched $400 a night, Continued on page 16 Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

August 2013 5 Serving up Texas-style treats at the rally

By Kay Humphrey He is a tall Texan with a big- ger than life smoker and grill in front of him. The 80-foot long Ultimate Smoker and Grill is dubbed the world’s largest. It was de- signed and operated by grill master Trace “Rib Whisperer” Arnold, and travels across the nation for the History Chan- nel’s Cross Country Cookout Tour. Its massive size is equated with the size of a tanker and it is hauled by a semi. In the unique smoker cham- ber, Arnold can slowly smoke more than 2,000 pounds of meat. Hidden beneath the 20- foot hydraulic lid is a wood- fired grill with the capacity to cook more than 1,000 hot- dogs, 500 hamburgers or 200 16-ounce steaks at once. Anrold dished out food like jalapeno cheddar sausages and ribs allowing rally-goers the chance to sample the Rib Whisperer’s tasty hickory and jalapeno cheddar sausage. Sturgis, of all the the places the Ultimate Smoker and Grill stopped on its route across the nation, is special, Arnold said. The rally was the 11th stop on the History Channel’s Cross Country Tour, which recently stopped in Minneapolis and was headed to Las Vegas after Grillmaster Trace “Rib Whisperer” Arnold was cooking sizzling treats in the world’s largest the rally. smoker and grill as part of the History Channel’s Cross Country Cookout Tour which stopped at “We are going 13,000 miles the 73rd Annual Sturgis Rally. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) to 13 cities in 90 days,” Arnold said. porate events and parties. cook off at his home. After a The venture became an all- Arnold gets to meet a cross- “I just put one foot in front landslide win became known American tap house offering section of the nation when he of the other and started run- as “The Rib Whisperer”– a diners a menu filled with qual- chats with people at the rally. ning,” he said. name given to him by his wife ity slow smoked meats, home- “It’s interesting. We always He spent the 25 years mas- and friends. made rubs and sauces, sea- like the different types of peo- tering his pitmaster skills Arnold, along with his sonal side vegetables and daily ple in all the different cities by preparing barbeque and partner, Jason Hall, opened 3 baked breads and an extensive that we touch, and Sturgis has smoked meats. Stacks Smoke & Tap House in list of local and regional beers. a lot of people from all across In 1997, Arnold created The in Frisco, Texas, in February Arnold has been traveling the country,” Arnold said. Ultimate Smoker & Grill. 2013. for the History Channel for the Arnold, the quintessential The grill master’s legend The name of the restaurant past two years. Texas cowboy who grew up on began years ago when he was is attributed to the three large “I travel around giving a dude ranch in Justin, Texas, awarded “The Golden Pig”, (a smokers that welcome diners free food to the public saying went from grilling as a hobby fat little trophy) after a Cajun upon entrance, each dedicated thanks for watching the His- at home to catering large cor- friend challenged him to a rib to a different selection of meat. tory Channel,” he said.

6 Plains Magazine Rick and Corey Harrison signed autographs and chatted with visitors who arrived at the Ultimate Smoker and Grilll. The pair are on the History Channel’s “Pawn Stars” series. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) Reality stars shine at rally From free food at the Ul- timate Smoker and Grill to a glimpse of Hollywood Vegas- style, rally-goers found them- selves in the company of ce- lebrities. “Pawn Stars” Rick and Co- rey Harrison along with Danny, “The Count” Koker, star of the History Channel reality series “Counting Cars” promoted the History Channel line up at the Sturgis rally. Rick and Corey Harrison along with Rick’s father are the owners of a pawnshop in Las Vegas called Gold and Sil- ver Pawn. The TV reality series, “Pawn Stars” turned three gen- erations of the Harrison family

Danny ‘The Count’ Koker, owner of Count’s Customs and one of the stars of the History Channel’s Reality Series “Counting Cars” greeted a fan at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.(Plains Magazine photo by See stars Kay Humphrey) Continued on page 24

August 2013 7 Leather, short shorts and halter tops and accessories Body paint was in at the 73rd Sturgis Rally. Some of the art was a added fun to the rally land- walking billboards worthy of drawing photographers as they met the scape. (Plains Magazine photo body art on the street. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) by Kay Humphrey)

the sidewalks at Sturgis. Beyond body paint were women wearing pasties and skimpy bottoms. Molly Small of Fort Col- lins, Colo. walked down the sidewalks at the Sturgis Rally Janice Lentini of Denver donning a pair of pasties, short sports a bandana halter top she shorts and boots. made. (Plains Magazine photo The 23-year-old nursing by Kay Humphrey) school grad was stopped often by rally-goers who wanted to take photos with her. Rally reveals The bills that hung from her shorts were given to her as tips for allowing the amatuer shut- trendy paint terbugs to take the photos. Traditional leathers are By Kay Humphrey huge fashion statement for mo- There is no shortage of torcyclists. Leather is practical skimpy clothing found at the because it protects riders from Sturgis rally, but it was as the elements and road rash. much about what not to wear A new twist on fashion for as it was what to wear. motorcyclists was more visible Instead of a t-shirt, Janice rain gear. Motorcycle rain gear Lentini of Denver sported a has always included reflective skull cap, her own bandana material, but the latest rain halter creation. a fringed skirt gear adds a greater safety ele- and fringed boots. ment. Lentini brought 300 of the Harley-Davidson came out with a high visibility rain suit bandana halter tops to rally. Molly Small of Fort Col- Biker babes donned less. that was seen at the rally. The lins, Colo. traded her winter Leather and jeans are still a Less was more for those want- suits are light weight, but they layers for a skimpy outfit at the favorite for many women bik- ing to add their own custom- didn’t come cheap. The suits rally. (Plains Magazine photo ers. (Plains Magazine photo ized look as they stood along retail for about $190. by Kay Humphrey) by Kay Humphrey)

8 Plains Magazine Body art came in many tattoos. Some were covered from head to toe and others added body paint to create their look. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

August 2013 9 Rally weddings increased

By Kay Humphrey was a way of making their wedding a fun and stress-free The number of nuptuals at event. Sturgis increased this year. “When we decided to get The number of weddings married, I didn’t wasn’t will- during the rally had fallen in ing to do all the planning. I recent years, but more wed- wanted a stress-free wedding,” dings at the annual motorcycle Stano said. rose this year. “You can’t plan something Sandy and Steve Stano of at home and make everybody Anoka, Minn., who have at- happy so I said let’s do it in tended the rally for the past five Sturgis. Whoever is there, is years, toured the Black Hills there,” said the Sturgis rally after their wedding in Sturgis. newlywed. Their bike was decorated with It made sense for the couple a white bow and a sign on the since many of their friends back announcing their status as traveled to the rally. newlyweds. Newlyweds on the road, Steve and Sandy Stano of Anoka, Minn. Sandy Stano said they chose See Weddings started their honeymoon with a sign on the back of their bike tour- to do it at the rally because it Continued on page 24 ing the Black Hills. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

Steve and Sandy Stano of Anoka, Minn. exchanged their vows at the 73rd Annual Sturgis Motorcycl Rally. The newlyweds toured the Black Hills stopping in Deadwood to fuel the motorcycle. The pair have gone to the rally for the past five years. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

10 Plains Magazine Indian Motorcycle Company unveiled its new line of bikes at the 73rd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The new Chief Vintage grabbed the attention of a Harley-Davidson rider who was testing its balance and feel. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

August 2013 11 Strider encourages a new generation of riders

Strider employees share McFarland’s enthusiasm for bikes. Some commute to the Rapid City, S.D. headquarters on two wheels. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) wheels and a plastic scooter. neur and inventor, who holds The father of two boys, who two patents on a mountain has raced go carts, motorcy- bike suspension system, a pat- cles, bikes and cars, tinkered ent on a wheel chair suspen- in his garage looking for better sion, and the Strider bike pat- solution. ents, created the perfect bike “When you ride and race, for toddlers. you are always looking to McFarland changed the make something better, faster world for children learning and lighter, McFarland said. to ride their first bicycle with He was looking for a ride his innovative designs and light-weight enough for his launched a successful interna- Nurturing tomorrow’s bikers, Rapid City, S.D.-based Strider toddler to handle and low tional company. Sports International Inc. had a strong presence with multiple booths enough to the ground for his McFarland launched the at the 73rd Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay little legs to move it. bike company in 2007 and Humphrey) The 44-year-old entrepre- spent most of the year work- By Kay Humphrey on two wheels. The bicycle company had a What does a bicycle com- major presence with booths at pany have in common with the the Buffalo Chip campground, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally? the motorcycle museum on Most motorcycle riders Main Street in Sturgis and at started riding tricycles as tod- Black Hills Harley-Davidson dlers or bicycles with training in Rapid City. wheels as youngsters. Ryan McFarland, an avid A few spills and skinned bicyclist and motorcycle racer, knees later, perhaps with the came up with the idea for a help of training wheels, baby no-pedal, light weight bicycle boomers either graduated to after watching his two-year- two wheels or gave up on rid- old son struggle with a heavy, ing bikes entirely. unstable tricycle. Rapid City, S.D.-based “I was an over-eager dad Strider Sports International who wanted to share my pas- Inc. is nurturing the next gen- sion for riding with him,” Mc- eration of motorcyclists start- Farland said. Strider is producing bikes for the best known motorcycle compa- ing with a bicycle that makes McFarland studied his son’s nies. They can be found on the same showroom floors of motorcycle learning to ride easy and helps trike, a bicycle with training dealers so toddlers can ride a Harley-Davidson or Honda and still en- young riders learn to balance joy the safety of a Strider. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

12 Plains Magazine ing nights and weekends to develop the prototypes while working full-time at another business he owned. “We started selling bikes at the end of 2007 and we start- ed with international sales in 2008. About half of our bikes are sold internationally,” he said. The company sold 6,000 bikes in 2008, but sales took off in 2009 as word spread about the product. The company sells an aver- age of 1,000 bikes a week. It has sold more than 600,000 bikes since the company was started. The company’s sales for 2012 was $10 million. Half of Strider’s sales are in the international market place. “Our main markets are the United Kingdom, Europe, Ja- pan, and Canada,” McFarland said. “We sell basically anywhere Ryan McFarland, founder of Strider Sports International Inc., shows one of the bikes that allows there are kids. Every kid needs young riders the chance to learn to balance and ride without pedals. The bikes are available for children a bike,” he said. ages 18 months and up. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) In the span of just six years, the Strider sits in an enviable ploys 30 full-time workers at in California and McFarland is Strider is moving from its position for any new business. its Rapid City headquarters. looking at a warehouse on the present building to a larger fa- The company grew at such The Rapid City offices are East Coast to expand the distri- cility in Rapid City. a fast pace its work force grew filled with bike enthusiasts bution of the bikes. “We’re going to go from five times the level as when it who enjoy a fun work environ- “We’ll have warehouses 14,000 square feet to 25,000 hired its first five employees in ment. in three locations across the square feet,” McFarland said. 2009. The company now em- Strider now has a warehouse country so we can serve deal- McFarland credited his fa- ers in each of those areas with a real short shipping time,” See Strider McFarland said. Continued on page 34

Strider Sports International Inc. has grown to an amazing pace Strider staff carefully looks at its bikes in its own quality control and will move its headquarters to a larger building this fall. Founder department to make sure that each bike that is shipped meets its speci- Ryan McFarland shows the plans for the 25,000 square-foot build- fications. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) ing. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

August 2013 13 Wild Prairie Rose is filmed in Beresford By Kay Humphrey about Midwest women or farm wives. They are not portrayed The small town of Beres- nicely. They usually make ford, S.D. is the backdrop for them Fargoesque and kind of “Wild Prairie Rose,” an inde- dumpy,” she said. pendent film. LaVine said she wanted to Director Deborah LaVine see the Plains community and said she was captivated by the the women treated with wom- area when she shot a movie en with respect and dignity. short, “Prairie Sonata,” three The crew, which shot the years ago. film footage in July used dif- “This is the second film that ferent parts of the town and a I have made here. The first was four-mile radius as locations. a short film, and my experience Local residents to helped build of working with the commu- sets, prepare costumes, ap- nity and working in this land- peared as extras or in small scape was so inspirational that speaking roles and provided I knew I had to come back and props such as vintage vehicles do a larger film,” said LaVine. from the late 1940s and early “I fell in love with the vis- The Beresford farm home that served as the main location for 1950s. tas, landscape, the people and the movie is the childhood home of Burnsville, Minn. author Caryl LaVine plans to release Crozier. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) their generosity,” LaVine said. “Wild Prairie Rose” next sum- The film is a story set in the mer so she can present it on the 1950s about an independent ing mother. an her 30s, reluctant to return festival circuit or release it for women who returns to her The central character of the to the small town. television and DVD. hometown to care for her ail- film, Rose, an unmarried wom- “Rose doesn’t want to be in The farm house used as Beresford and doesn’t feel like film’s crew’s main location is she belongs,” LaVine said. a the childhood farm home of The dynamic changes when Caryl Crozier of Burnsville, Rose, who is played by Tara Minn. Samuel, meets a man, the di- Crozier, who was on the rector said. set, when the movie was being The man that Rose meets is filmed, said she preserved the deaf which underlines the el- old home keeping it as it was ement of being different in a when her family lived there. small town. LaVine said they chose the post-war era because women’s roles had changed and so did their expectations about how they would live their lives. “We chose the 1950s be- cause it was a turning point when women’s roles were shifting,” LaVine said. “When the men came back from the war, there were a lot of identity issues,” she said. The film features a few uni- versal themes like love, loss and a search for one’s true self, said LaVine. “No matter what age, we’re Caryl Crozier still struggling with identity,” she said. The wall paper, fixtures LaVine wanted to portray and the furniture are the much women in the Midwest differ- Tara Samuel prepares for a scene of “Wild Prairie Rose,” an in- See Film dependent film set in the 1950s in Beresford, S.D. (Plains Magazine ently than Continued on page 34 photo by Kay Humphrey) “You don’t see many stories

14 Plains Magazine UND grad delivers keynote from space

By Kay Humphrey Astronaut and Univeristy of North Dakota alum Karen Nyberg recorded a keynote speech for the UND summer commencement from the In- ternational Space Station or- biting about 230 miles above Earth and NASA delivered her the message during the Aug. 2 commencement ceremony. “Global understanding is key to the survival of our plan- et,” she said. “You are all lucky to be graduating from a university with such a strong interna- tional presence with some 70 countries represented,” Ny- berg said. “Your experiences with in- dividuals from other parts of the world and other cultures will serve you well,” she said. “I am extemely proud to be a graduate of UND. My time there provided a great founda- tion for me not only as an engi- neer, but as a person,” Nyberg said. The university’s collabora- tive efforts have placed its stu- dents in a position of hands-on learning in highly competitive environments, she noted. Astronaut and UND alum Karen Nyberg gave a keynote speech from space during the summer com- “An exceptional UND also mencement ceremony at the University of North Dakota. (Photo couresy of University of North Dakota) strives to enrich the student learning experience. That has the astronaut said. blasted off in late May. She certainly been accomplished in “Like me, the students who is scheduled to return late this recent years as UND students worked on ISSAC received a year. and faculty have had a pres- great education at UND. I am The Vining, Minn. native at- ence in space through ISSAC sure those of you graduating tended the University of North – the International Space Sta- today feel the same way,” she Dakota in Grand Forks where tion Agricultural Camera,” she said. she studied mechanical engi- said. “Keep dreaming and reach neering. She went on gradu- Designed primarily by for your stars,” said Nyberg, ate school at the University of UND electrical and mechani- who realized her childhood Texas in Austin where she fin- cal engineering students, IS- dream of being an astronaut. ished a master’s degree and a SAC helped NASA and the Nyberg is the first UND Ph.D. in four years. U.S. Geological Survey moni- graduate to go into space. She Nyberg touched on UND’s tor impacts of changes caused is the the 50th woman to go cutting edge engineering pro- by last year’s Super storm San- into space. grams and its strong reputation dy, she said. This is the second trip in Karen Nyberg with NASA along with recent “ISSAC was decommis- space for the UND graduate. joint projects that have put the sioned just this year, but what Nyberg first traveled to the covery in 2008. a fantastic learning experience She made her second trip on International Space Station See Nyberg with real-world applications,” aboard the space shuttle Dis- a Russian Soyuz capsule that Continued on page 25

August 2013 15 David Bend said he had to Sturgis hit the brakes hard to get his Continued from page 5 trike, which was traveling 65 miles per hour, to stop. us,” said Rich. “We have had to skid to a They stayed at the Days End stop three times,” he said. Campground for $30 a night They nearly had a mishap per person. in front of the campground, David and Mary Bend of La Shade Valley Camp Resort, Moille, Ill. rode into Sturgis on where they were staying. a new Harley-Davidson trike. “The interstate wasn’t bad The couple in their 60s, who at all. It was driving in Stur- toured the Black Hills, took a gis. That stop and start,” Mary break in Deadwood. Bend said. “We went do to Custer, the “It takes us 25 minutes to wild life loop,” said David get through Sturgis,” David Bend. Bend said. “It was on my bucket list. In Deadwood, traffic was We saw a herd of buffalo today. heavy. I had never seen a live buffalo Kathy Toscana, who staffed in LaMoille. I have never seen the visitor’s center, said the that many buffalo alive in the Riding a new Harley-Davidson trike Mary and David Bend drove traffic has been heavier than wild like that,” Mary Bend expected. said. from Illinois to the rally as one of the items on their bucket list. The couple toured the Black Hills visiting historic Deadwood and nearby “I didn’t think it would be “I told her we are going to sites. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey) this busy today. It’s kind of hate that bike by the time we wild,” Toscana said. get back,” he said. long trip. us,” Mary Bend said. Toscana said the city, which Bend said it was the cou- “I’d like to go out to Cali- The couple passed by a grim normally has parking meters in ple’s first trip the 2013 Harley- fornia and Drive the 101. I will reminder of what can happen the lot near its historic district, Davidson trike. trailer it,” he said. when things go wrong on the but the city removed them al- “We love it. It’s really nice The couple had never con- road as they drove up on a fa- lowing for more free parking. and comfortable. There is no sidered trailering their bike tality accident on Interstate 29 “It’s hard for me to judge chance of dropping it,” Mary years ago, but the road miles near Elk Point, S.D. from the parking lot because Bend said. added up to sore muscles on An Ohio woman died in the they are trying an experiment “He bought it before trying the way to Sturgis. Aug. 3 accident when the mo- this year. They have taken out it,” she said. “We would trailer it if we torcycle she was riding struck all the meters out. Normally it The Bends looked at Can did it again. On the way out road debris. would not be this full,” Tos- Am motorcycles when they here, we would see people Carolee Weaver, 49, of cana said. were looking at a more stable pulling trailers with their bikes. Luckey, Ohio, was riding in a She noted that rallies in bike, but it was the Harley-Da- We thought why are they doing staggered formation with four years such as 2005 or 2010 are vidson that stole his heart. that,” Mary Bend said. motorcyclists. usually larger. The Bends were also camp- “We found out why they are Lead rider, Brent Weaver, “We usually look at multi- ing. The pair towed a small doing it,” David Bend said. 52, of Luckey, who was rid- ples of five for the busy years,” camper behind the trike. The couple purchased a ing a 1983 Harley-Davidson she said. David Bend said he has sheepskin to place on the seat motorcycle, saw a tire and Usually rally attendance owned motorcycles most of of their new trike to cushion wheel in the driving lane. His numbers come out of the de- his life and always purchased bumps on the long road home. motorcycle hit the debris and partment of tourism in October used bikes. “We thought we were 20 knocked it into Carolee Weav- or November. “This is the first bike I years old again,” said David er’s path. Both were thrown Indicators such as atten- bought new,” he said. Bend. from their motorcycles. She dance figures for visits to The veteran motorcyclists The pair said they have had was dead at the scene. Brent Mount Rushmore and the Bad- have ridden with each other on a good time at the rally. Weaver was taken to a Sioux lands national parks, amount separate bikes. “We have met a lot of great City, Iowa, hospital with seri- of trash loads they take out During this year’s Stur- people. Last night, we went to ous injuries. of Sturgis, highway counter gis trip, they rode 600 miles the Full Throttle,” David Bend As the Bends approached cables, the number of vendors in tandem from their Illinois said. the wreck, they said there was licenses sold, how much is col- home to Pickstown, S.D. on Riding has been a challenge little warning because the ac- lected in sales tax are used to the first leg of their journey. even on a trike that allows the cident scene was obscured by determine how many people David Bend said he wants to Bends some security. a hill. There were no warning arrived at the annual rally. see more of the nation. A trip “We have had three close devices placed on the roadway down the Pacific Coast High- calls,” David Bend said. at the crest of the hill to alert way is one of his goals, but he “People stopping ahead of them of the wreck. will haul the trike on his next

16 Plains Magazine old car. Sure it looked decent enough because Katie and I It’s California had given it a face lift through many hours of stripping the paint down to bare metal and repainting it. Boom, boom, boom, boom…boom, boom, boom, boom. However, it still had a serious overabundance of miles Is that booming in my head? No, it seems to be coming on it. The diesel-like sound of the worn gas engine had from somewhere else. Boom, boom, boom, boom….. prompted fuel station attendants to direct us to the diesel boom, boom, boom, boom, boom. I escaped out of the grip pumps on occasion and the air conditioning didn’t work, my covers had on me to investigate. which we sorely noticed when the temps reached 100+ in Boom, boom, boom, boom….boom, boom, boom, boom. California. My mind pieced together a scenario of the car “Alright, alright, I’m coming,” I thought once I had de- being torn apart by a bunch of punks, scurrying off with duced that the source of the intrusion upon my sleep was parts like ants on a watermelon rind. at the front door. The Kelly Bluebook didn’t give the car much value, but I looked through the peephole. Two uniformed police how was my family of five going to get around? I had to officers? I couldn’t imagine what they wanted. Thoughts get to work, and then to the Bible college I attended and raced through my sleep addled mind, bouncing off each home again on a daily basis. We depended on that weary other and vying for my attention. My schedule between col- Oldsmobile. I wondered if the thief knew the hardship his lege classes, work, ministries and family didn’t permit me crime caused. I tried to picture what kind of callous creepa- to get into trouble, and I hadn’t witnessed any idiotic activ- zoid could have done it. Did somebody want to harm us? ity either. Through the door I asked, “What do you want?” Was there really enough value in parting it out to make it “Are you Kevin Boekhoff?” They asked. worthwhile? After giving it some thought, I also I realized “Yes?” I replied as a question, implying further elabora- that the thief knew that the only night the car would be ac- tion. cessible was the one I got off work before the watchmen “We found some papers and thought they might belong came on duty. I wondered whether it was it a neighbor or to you,” as they held them up for me to see. did someone follow me home from work? Was it somebody “Just a moment, I need to get dressed.” Befuddlement I worked with? ensued as I scrambled for my clothes. Papers? What Pa- Friends gave us a ride to the morning church activity the pers? I returned and opened the door. following Saturday morning. When I informed the people They asked, “Do you own a 1986 Cutlass?” at church that our car had been stolen, almost every one I replied that my wife and I did. They handed me the pa- of them related similar stories – and that insurance should pers. I looked down at the registration, insurance papers cover it. I told them that I only had liability on it because and owners manual for our car – stuff that should be in the car theft in South Dakota and Montana just didn’t happen glove box. “We found them scattered around a parking lot much. They replied in astonishment – “But this is Califor- with no corresponding car in sight.” nia.” I wished someone had told me about this before we My mind was not ready for this perplexity, sleep still moved here because naivete stinks! clogged my thought process. “Our car is parked out this Later that day, a friend gave me a ride to work (a job I way,” I said as Katie joined me on the trek to our parking had only worked for two weeks), but I had to take a cab spot. home, which took $20.00 of our last bit of money! As I wait- As we walked together through our gated community, ed for the cap to arrive, my coworkers asked me, “Why do the bars on the windows seemed to be saying, “This ain’t you need a cab?” South Dakota (or Montana) any more - it’s California.” “Last night my car was stolen.” I related. Since our car had depreciated to near worthlessness, I “Don’t worry, insurance should cover it and it will rent thought surely someone had broken into the car, but noth- a car until yours is recovered or replaced, then you won’t ing more. However, once we entered the parking lot and need a cab.” They informed me, knowing I was a newbee turned to view our designated parking spot - in a lighted in town. carport, no less - my mind began stripping gears because “I don’t have insurance to cover theft,” I told the puzzled our car had turned into a pile of broken glass. “Where did faces looking at me, “It had never been a problem where I that come from?” I naively asked. lived before.” They told me, “That was from the thieves breaking the “Yeah, but this is California!” window to steal it, but insurance will cover it.” Sunday morning the word spread through the church “The problem is, that I only have liability on the car,” I that we had been thieverized and in need of transporta- said in a dejected manner. tion. A fellow church member lent us a little roller skate of “You really should have had comprehensive insurance, too, after all, this is California,” they informed me. See California I wondered why anyone would want our tired ten year Continued on page 18

August 2013 17 I pick up all the tools scattered about and lock them in- California side the car to prevent further theft and back to the parts Continued from page 17 store we went. As we drove back to the car, a cold relent- less rain began. While working on the car, the cold water a beater with the warning, “Be careful, the brakes are bad.” drenched the tools making them difficult to grasp. Rivulets They did engage once the pedal got to the final 1/8th inch of water ran off my hair onto the belts as I tried to install of its throw – barely. Additional application of the emergen- them. My shirt and jeans clung to me making movement cy brake usually did the trick, but took strategy, planning difficult. Eventually, victory! and a light touch on the accelerator. As I sat in the driver’s I put my tools away, climbed in the driver’s seat and con- seat about to leave, he remembered to tell me, “The clutch fidently started the car. A loud screeching sound ensued, will take some getting used to.” If I took to long to let it out, along with a heavy sigh. I quickly looked under the hood it chattered so badly that it felt like my family and I were only to find the alternator refused to rotate. Since the fur- caught in a paint shaker until the clutch engaged fully. thest back of the three belts ran the alternator. I grumbled A week later the police called to say they had recov- about Murphy’s Law. Back to the parts store to buy an al- ered our car and that we could pick it up at a particular tow ternator from the now familiar counterman, return to the truck business’ storage facility. My wife and I immediately car, remove the belts again, install the alternator, and then hopped in the terminally ill roller skate to pick it up. We back to the parts store for the core refund. were eager for life to return to normal. The place had brick Hunger vied for attention. We found a tiny, yet bona fide, walls with razor wire strung in loops across the top and Mexican café that served the best burritos we had ever cameras strategically placed along them. We had to pay eaten, plus we were able dry off and warm up a bit. By the the attendant through a plexi-glass window with a little tray time we returned to the car, the sun began disappearing under it. He mentioned “It really wasn’t so bad. After all, and the night people with weird hairstyles and baggy pants insurance will pay for the damages and reimburse us for started sauntering by, sometimes stopping to talk about us. the storage fee.” We anxiously wanted to get out of that neighborhood be- I wearily told him, “We don’t have insurance that will cause, well, it was California. cover it.” I started it up, no squealing! Yes! But the brake ped- “Why not, this is California, you know.” al went to the floor! That rattly roller skate loaned tous This callous storage facility clerk’s fleck of compassion stopped better that our car. Working on the brakes in the got the best of him, “Tell ya what, I can help you out by dark in this neighborhood did not pose itself to be a viable having it towed to the street free of charge. You can take it option to me. I drove it home looking between the cracks from there.” of the broken windshield and using creative braking tech- A sarcastic remark dove for my vocal chords, but I swal- niques that I had recently learned from driving the roller lowed it before it escaped. Then an ominous feeling began skate, while my wife followed in the clunker. to spread through my abdominal cavity. I wondered if he A couple days later when I stopped in, the police officer meant that the car was not drive-able. After all, I should at the station said, “We are still investigating the crime.” have been able to simply drive it out of the lot, right? However, since he didn’t know of the diaper, I realized that He let us go out into the lot to survey the situation. Ol’ they hadn’t put any more effort into it than a case of litter- Dependable had taken quite a beating! The gangsters had ing.” carved their graffiti in the new paint job with a sharp object, When I asked why, he looked at me incredulously and jumped on the roof, windshield and hood. Grass hanging said, “It’s California.” from the chassis testified they had taken it off-roading. The I should have known that one was coming. front brake pads had been ripped off, literally! The direct metal-to-metal contact made by the calipers had carved deep grooves in the rotors. Even the belts that worked the alternator and power steering pump were missing. How did they do that? What had this car been through? I imagined some tattooed punk with body piercings and a bizarre hairstyle stealing it for gang initiation, because the gang had left their calling card – a new disposable diaper with the name Johnny Angel written across it with Magic Marker. All this hardship because some kid wanted to have some fun! A brief desire to find this villainous van- dal and give him a little wall-to-wall counseling (grab him by the shirt and slam him from one wall to the other until he repented of his wicked ways) passed through my mind. After a little vehicular triage, I lay on my back on the seats and pushed the roof back into shape with my feet. I hammered the hood dents back up with my fist. While they pulled our crudely altered transportation curbside onto the street, we hopped in the roller skate and rattled and rolled our way down to a nearby auto parts store for the belts, then confidently tooled back to our car. Argh, wrong ones!

18 Plains Magazine • Neighbors or friends ask you to bid on something Auction Addiction for them instead of going themselves because you’ll be Auction bidding may not be recognized as a disease but there anyway OR it can be just as detrimental as other addictions/diseases • They encourage you to do the buying so they can such as excessive and unnecessary equipment upgrading, do the borrowing because they know how much joy auction shoe buying, ball cap saving, or obsessive-compulsive ve- bidding/buying brings you. hicle washing. Everybody loves a good auction buy, but Warning signs to be wary of during an auction: sometimes bidding can become an addition. • You arrive to look over the stuff before its even been Maybe it’s because I don’t get a bidder number very of- set out. ten, but when I see something I might want to bid on, I • Your bidding number is always a single digit. experience a bit of an adrenaline rush when the auctioneer • Auctions are the only public events where friends, moves closer to the item I am contemplating sticking my neighbors and relatives get to see you. hand up for. I feel a bit of anxiety about bidding, wondering • Your idea of quality family time is going to an auc- if people can tell I’m a novice and wonder what others will tion. think of my bid price if I got the bid. My heart rate increases • You know which organizations serve the best lunch- as the auction helpers move closer and closer to the de- es at auctions OR sired item I constantly keep looking over at. I’ll keep a vigi- • So as not to miss an opportunity to bid on “the good lant eye on it and if the auctioneer isn’t too close to it, I’ll go stuff,” you don’t bother to eat lunch unless a family member over and look at it, touch it, and handle it some more, trying is willing to bring it too you. to make a decision whether to bid on it. When the auction- • You hold out using the restroom until the auctioneer eer finally gets to talking about my item of interest before gets to something that doesn’t interest you, then beeline starting the bidding, my mind gets to racing so fast that I for the restrooms but return before they move onto the next can’t decide if I am going to be brave and bid on it or not. item OR Once the bidding begins my adrenaline gets really • You avoid beverages so you don’t have to give up jacked up: it’s all or nothin’—am I going to bid or not? Once your front row spot in order to use the restroom. I decide to stick my hand up, I’M IN! The auction guys are • You buy a box of miscellaneous junk because you gonna be lookin’ at me straight in the eye and pointing to like surprises. me to make a decision several times. Do I go for it or end • You do your Christmas shopping at auctions. it? • You’re willing to stand around all day for a specific If I get the bid I feel elation: I GOT IT! I got this thing I item to come up for bid and don’t consider the long wait a wanted! AND this bonus stuff that came in the box that was waste of time. part of the bid; stuff I’m not sure what I’m going to do with • Your kids can’t keep up on taking your auction buys them, but I got the main thing. to the pickup. I think it’s the adrenaline rush of having no time to mull • People having an upcoming auction are hoping over the decision whether the current bid price is worth up- you’ll be at theirs. ping the ante for or not and that feeling of “winning” the bid And lastly, you should look around your home to see if out of the entire crowd that gets people hooked on auc- any of the following apply to you: tions. If you can’t resist bidding on or buying something at • You designate a file to categorize all your auction an auction you may have “auction bidding disease.” receipts for tax write-offs. Symptoms accompany every addiction, disease and dis- • Some of your auctions buys are hauled directly to order. Auction bidding disease can be identified if you know the junkyard for storage. what to look for. • You have one or more of everything. Auctioneers, family, friends or neighbors can contribute Auction bidding disease can also affect your kids. They to the problem if: may grow up scarred from having to pack so much junk to • Auctioneers point out items of interest to you prior the pickup for you as a kid that they choose a clutter-free to the sale; know what items and brand names you prefer lifestyle. As adults they may not appreciate a good auction to buy, and what you’re willing to pay. buy and if they do go to one, getting them to bid on any- • Auctioneers know you on a first name basis be- thing may be a hard sell. cause you frequent the auctions that they run. • When auctioneers can’t get a bid they always look Amy Kirk is a columnist from Pringle, South Dakota, who is at you or announce your name asking for a dollar bid in featured in several Plains publications. You may read more of order to keep the sale moving. her work at http://amykirk.com/ranchwifesslant/.

August 2013 19 20 Plains Magazine CNBC names SD as the top state for business

Creating jobs is one of my top priorities as your Gov- money in the pockets of our citizens and businesses, cre- ernor. That means that I am focused on making South ating a more favorable environment for growth. Dakota a great place for businesses to grow and expand. Additionally, we work hard to ensure that our regula- I’m proud to say that our efforts are paying off. Earlier this tions and laws are reasonable. Eliminating unnecessary month, CNBC named South Dakota as “The Top State in red tape has served as a cornerstone of our pro-business America for Business.” climate for decades. The ranking isn’t our first recognition and it won’t be Our costs of doing business—utility costs, unemploy- our last. In April, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce named ment insurance costs, workman’s compensation costs, South Dakota number one for its business climate. The land costs—are low. Productivity of our workers is high be- Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council recently cause of our belief in hard work and self-reliance. In fact, ranked South Dakota number one in business policies, en- many multistate employers tell us their South Dakota loca- trepreneurial friendliness and small business survival. Our tion is their most productive. low debt, well-funded pension, and lack of expensive state- Now that the recession is behind us, many states are funded programs led Barron’s to name South Dakota as starting to balance their budgets. But many of those other “The Best Run State in America.” states have long-term liabilities—unfunded pension obliga- South Dakota has a long history of stability and balanced tions and large general obligation bond liabilities. In South budgets – for real. We don’t balance our budget with ac- Dakota, we have neither of those things. Our state’s pen- counting gimmicks, either. We don’t push one year’s ex- sion fund is 100 percent funded. Other states will eventu- pense into the next. We don’t use one-time windfalls to ally be forced to confront those liabilities—probably at the fund ongoing expenses. We never borrow money to fund expense of hardworking taxpayers and businesses. state operations. And we don’t raise taxes. In turn, busi- Thanks to our history of fiscal responsibility, it is likely nesses have found that our stability and history of fiscal South Dakota will continue to be the best place to do busi- responsibility have created an ideal ground for business ness. Businesses plan for the long term. When consider- success. ing moving or expanding, they need stability and certainty. In South Dakota, we have no corporate income tax, no They need to know that government won’t get in their way. personal income tax, no business inventory tax, no per- That’s what we can offer here in South Dakota and that sonal property tax and no inheritance tax. This puts more is why were again recognized as the best place in these United States to do business.

willing to bet few dads can say it’s not a little bittersweet. You see, I was there in the delivery room when my wife A walk down the aisle Kimberley gave birth to Larissa in January of 1990. And ever since that little blond-haired, blue-eyed baby entered August marks a season of change and an important the world, she’s been my little girl. milestone in the life of our family. This month our youngest I was the guy there for the hoops games and soccer daughter Larissa will marry Scott Hargens in Sioux Falls. matches, for the track meets and piano recitals, for the joy I always knew this day would come; it just seems to have of victory and the pain of disappointment. I helped her learn come sooner than I expected. It’s not them, it’s me. They’re how to swim, how to ride a bike, and how to shoot straight. I of age, Larissa is 23 and Scott is 27, and they’ve been en- listened to her memorize Bible verses and say her bedtime gaged for almost a year so I know they are ready. It’s just that when it’s your little girl walking down the aisle, I’m not See Thune sure that as a dad you’re ever really ready. In fact, I’d be Continued on page 22

August 2013 21 Working toward a more efficient and effective government

In recent months, there has been a common theme in different aspects of the President’s health care law. This Washington. Government agencies have abused their agency is already in trouble with Congress, and the Ameri- power, imposed unnecessary regulations and wasted mil- can people, for its inappropriate and illegal targeting of po- lions in taxpayer dollars. With a growing list of abuses by litical groups. I find it troubling that this same agency would federal agencies, South Dakotans are rapidly losing trust in enforce the disastrous health care law, one of the most their government. expansive and expensive laws ever passed. I also voted Here in the House, we decided it was time to act. We for the “Keep the IRS off Your Health Care Act.” This bill designated July 29 – August 2 as “Stop Government Abuse prohibits the IRS from implementing any portion of Obam- Week.” We debated and passed a handful of bills that limit acare. the power of federal agencies and instead empower indi- I’ve heard from many South Dakotans who believe the viduals. federal government is out of touch – and stories of lavish Each year, federal agencies issue hundreds of regula- and expensive employee conferences only further damage tions – regulations which go into effect without ever receiv- the government’s credibility. Last year, the General Servic- ing a vote or fair debate in Congress. In fact, a study by the es Administration spent $820,000 on a single conference Small Business Administration found that annual regula- in Las Vegas! In response, the House passed the Govern- tory compliance costs in the United States hit $1.75 trillion ment Spending Accountability Act of 2013. The purpose of in 2008. Too often, major decisions are made by unelected, the bill is simple. It requires that federal agencies publicly unaccountable bureaucrats who fail to understand how a post detailed information about conferences and also limits regulation will impact families and businesses in South Da- the amount agencies can spend on a single conference. I kota. believe this bill is an important step in encouraging trans- This is why the House passed the Regulations from the parency and accountability. Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act this week. The The increasing size and role of bureaucracy is costly REINS Act, which I was proud to cosponsor, is a common- and further erodes the trust of the American people. This sense bill that requires Congress to take an up-or-down week was an important step in tipping the power back to vote on all new major rules with an annual economic im- the people and I was proud to vote for legislation that will pact of $100 million or more before they can be enforced. restore balance in the government and save taxpayer dol- Small business owners and families are facing difficult lars. I’d like to hear your opinions on legislation passed decisions because of Obamacare and many are surprised as part of “Stop Government Abuse Week,” and would en- to know the IRS is responsible for implementing over 50 courage you to contact one of my offices to share your

As for me, I don’t think I would have it any other way. It’s Thune the normal order of things, God’s plan for our lives. Still, Continued from page 21 as I share that final dance with my daughter, before I hand her off to her new husband, I will think about how blessed prayers. I saw her love for all things living, including frogs my life has been because of her and how grateful I am that and snakes, and I laughed at her quick wit. even as she begins her new life, she will always be my She, of course, helped carry me through seven cam- little L.T. paigns, sat patiently through countless Lincoln Day din- ners, picnics, fairs, and bus rides, not to mention appearing in numerous campaign ads despite her eternal shyness. And I know how hard it was on her when my job required me to miss some of her special moments. But for 23-plus years, through thick and thin, she’s been my little L.T. This August, she officially becomes Scott’s girl. And de- spite the customary fatherly apprehension, I’m okay with that. Scott is a solid young man from good stock, he’ll take good care of her, and she’ll be a good wife. After all, she learned from her mom. There will be hard times ahead, it’s part of life, but they’re built on a strong foundation.

22 Plains Magazine Historic leadership at the National Guard

In the 159 years of the Nebraska National Guards his- General Bohac is a veteran of more than 35 years of tory, the summer of 2013 is one to remember. Since its military service, including 31 in the Nebraska National creation in 1854, the Nebraska National Guard has only Guard. He is a veteran of deployments to the Middle East had 32 Adjutant Generals. As the 39th Governor of our and Europe. Recently he served as the Deputy Adjutant great State, I have had the unique opportunity to select the General of the Nebraska National Guard and Assistant Ad- past three Nebraska Adjutant Generals, including the most jutant General, Air, of the Nebraska Air National Guard. He recent just last month. has served the State in these positions during the historic Many of our State’s previous Governors did not have the flooding on the Platte and Missouri Rivers in 2011, and dur- occasion to appoint even one Adjutant General, let alone ing last summer’s widespread outbreak of wild fires. two or three. As a graduate of the United States Military As I stood on the reviewing stand at the Nebraska Na- Academy and U.S. Army VETERAN, it was a special honor tional Guard air base on July 14, I listened to Major Gen- and great responsibility that I took very serious because I eral Daryl Bohac speak about his personal motto: “Ex- understand the crucial leadership role that a senior com- cellence is Never an Accident.” Those five words speak mander plays in ensuring that Soldiers and airmen are volumes. General Bohac understands the work that must trained and equipped, and that they and their families are be done to ensure that our State’s National Guard forces taken care of in times of peace and conflict. and our emergency management personnel continue to It is a distinct honor to report that Nebraska’s first two receive the training, equipment and resources they need Adjutant Generals of recent years, Major General Tim Ka- to prepare for an unpredictable future that will undoubtedly davy and Major General Judd Lyons, have successively challenge our abilities. General Bohac knows how to get been selected to serve as the Deputy Director of the U.S. things done and is the right person to lead our Nebraska Army National Guard in Washington, D.C. This is the first Military Department into the future. time in the history of our great nation that the Deputy Di- Additionally, I had the pleasure of dedicating two Ne- rector of the U.S. Army National Guard has been from the braska National Guard readiness centers during the week same state twice in a row. This selection demonstrates the that followed: one at the Nebraska National Guard’s Mead high level of leadership development that is ongoing within Training Site and another near the University of Nebraska’s the Nebraska National Guard. East Campus. These two readiness centers are designed On July 8, just days after our Nation celebrated its 237rd to provide the infrastructure that’s needed to allow our Ne- birthday, I announced that Brigadier General Daryl Bohac braska National Guard to conduct more of their important was my selection to succeed Major General Judd Lyons as training closer to home, primarily during their monthly drill our state’s 33rd Adjutant General. Six days later, I had the assemblies. I am very proud of the men and women serv- pleasure of promoting General Bohac to the rank of Major ing in the Nebraska National Guard, and what this organi- General and presiding over his change of command cer- zation has accomplished on behalf of our State and Nation. emony before our Nebraska National Guard soldiers and airmen in Lincoln.

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August 2013 23 There’s a lot of good news in agriculture today. Some- small farms with young owners and operators has grown thing I’m particularly pleased about is that more and more rapidly in recent years. young people are seeking ways to make a living in agri- Our surging production agriculture system is providing culture. Ag college enrollments are up, and the number of

Ready to hear Nebraska voter’s thoughts

The House of Representatives and the Senate leave souri River, with many stops in between to hear directly Washington each summer so Members of Congress can from you. spend an extended period of time working back home. This Connecting with you through community coffees is my is an important opportunity for us to travel our states and way of ensuring everyone has the opportunity to share hear from you firsthand. At the end of this week, the Sen- their thoughts with me directly. My offices are open year- ate will leave town, and I’m looking forward to enjoying The round and my website is always available to share your Good Life. concerns via email, but community coffees give me the op- Congress needs to address a whole host of important portunity to meet with you face-to-face, shake your hand issues that have a direct impact on your livelihoods. The and provide instant feedback to your concerns. President’s 2,700-page health care law is crumbling under I’ve already held a number of community coffees this its own weight, causing confusion, anxiety and lost wages year, and in August I’ll be hosting seven more, in Colum- for American families. The Environmental Protection Agen- bus, Norfolk, Scottsbluff, Mullen, Ericson, Taylor and La cy (EPA) and other agencies are unnecessarily regulating Vista. Whether you’re eager to share your thoughts on leg- farmers and ranchers, making it difficult for them to accom- islation before Congress, need help working with a federal plish their growing task of feeding the world. Our immigra- agency or merely want to chat about the Blackshirts de- tion system is broken, but the proposal that passed the fense, I hope you are able to attend one of these events. Senate fails to meet the fundamental necessities of secur- For specific details of each of these coffees, visit my web- ing our border and protecting taxpayer dollars. The debt site at www.johanns.senate.gov. crisis continues to escalate. We use common sense here in Nebraska to work to- To gain a closer look at how these and other federal gether and get things done. It’s this Cornhusker wisdom policies are affecting Nebraskans, I’m holding a number that keeps our taxes low, economy booming and unem- of meetings, tours, round tables, coffees and other events ployment in check. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case during the August work period. My travels will take me from in Washington, which is why I’m always eager to bring your Chimney Rock, through the rolling Sandhills, to the Mis- ideas back with me to our nation’s capital.

Stars cars and motorcycles. called, “Counting Cars”. The History Channel stars Continued from page 7 After relocating to Las Ve- The series follows Mr. Kok- spent a couple hours each day gas, he became part owner of a er and his staff as the repair and greeting fans, but were given local television station, where restore various cars, and began time to enjoy the rally. and their humble store into big he hosted a weekly movie se- airing in mid-August 2012. stars. ries, called “Saturday Fright The program first aired in at the Movies”. His on-camera the summer of 2009 and was persona was called Count Cool The couple received atten- an instant hit. Rider. Weddings tion from media as they tied Pawn Stars pulls in over 3 Continued from page 10 Koker opened the vehicle the knot. million viewers every episode. restoration and repair shop, “We may be on the Discov- Danny “The Count” Koker Count’s Kustoms, in the early “We have all these friends ery Channel. People from the was born in Detroit, Mich., and 1990s, and it has grew into a out here. We had 25 people at Travel Channel are doing a grew up as part of an automo- hugely successful business. our wedding,” she said. thing on Sturgis and they vid- tive family. The majority of his After appearing on two of Just a couple of days into eoed our wedding. We may relatives worked for Ford Mo- the History Channel’s popular the weeklong rally, the num- get in if we get past the cutting tor Company. reality series, “Pawn Stars” ber of marriage licenses had room, ” she said. He taught himself to be a and “American Restoration”, already risen compared to last mechanic and began restoring he was offered his own show, year, Stanos said..

24 Plains Magazine Preventing government abuse and overreach

The American people’s confidence in the federal govern- the Keep the IRS Off Your Health Care Act on Friday. This ment has never been lower – with good reason. Recent legislation would prevent the agency from implementing revelations of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) target- any portion of the President’s health care law. ing conservative groups, the disastrous and ongoing im- The House passed several other bills this week to help plementation of a flawed health care law, lavish spending prevent abuse, increase transparency, and restore trust in at government conferences, and federal agencies which the federal government. Among other reforms, the bills regularly overreach their authority are all a reflection of we passed this week would ensure citizens have the right bureaucracy out of touch with the American people. This to record their meetings and telephone exchanges with week, the House of Representatives took steps to rein in federal regulatory officials; would allow agencies to place out-of-control government, to prevent abuse, and to hold high-level employees on unpaid leave when they are un- agencies accountable for their actions. der investigation for serious offenses; and would lower the The Obama Administration has dismissed concerns amount of bonuses and the number of senior employees about the IRS targeting of conservative groups as “bad eligible to receive them. We also passed bills which would customer service” or “poor performance.” The President stop abuse of agency conferences through increased described these concerns as “phony.” The American peo- transparency and accountability, and in the case of the ple know better. Given the immense power of the agency IRS, a moratorium. and the sensitivity of the information they collect, we have Perhaps the most important reform passed by the House an obligation to fully investigate these allegations, and hold this week was H.R. 367, the Regulations from the Execu- accountable any responsible parties. tive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act. For too long, Con- Adding to the concern, the IRS will be the chief enforcer gress has allowed administrations of both parties to enact of the many new health care mandates set to be imple- regulations at great costs to the American people with little mented during the next year. This week, I participated in oversight. This pattern has led to agencies regularly over- a Committee on Ways and Means hearing on the status reaching their authority, which undermines the constitution- of implementing the health care law with Daniel Werfel, al separation of powers. the acting head of the IRS. I asked Commissioner Werfel The REINS Act would allow Congress to vote on the if he was confident the personal taxpayer information to most expensive new rules before they are enforced on be collected by the agency would be secure. He claimed hardworking families and small businesses. This com- the information will be safe, even though he also admitted monsense reform would help restore the balance of power many of the security lapses and releases of information at in Washington and return responsibility for the legislative question have yet to be resolved. process to Congress. The Commissioner’s answers to our questions did noth- All of these reforms would require approval by the Sen- ing to improve confidence the IRS is prepared to imple- ate and the President before they could become law. How- ment and enforce this enormous new law. The inappropri- ever, we will not be deterred from seeking accountability ateness of giving the agency more authority and access to and improvement in the federal government, because the personal information is why the House passed H.R. 2009, American people are demanding we do better.

Nyberg well,” Nyberg said. wash their hair in zero grav- ment,” Kelley said. Continued from page 15 Nyberg noted the fast ity to analyzing an emergency “But that’s Karen. She’s growth of the program that fluid leak in the space suit of proud of her Minnesota and university in a unique position started with just four students one of her fellow space sta- UND roots. And we’re proud to lead students from a univer- in 2010 to 140 students today. tion inhabitants, Italian Luca to recognize her as a distin- isty campus to space. UND President Robert Parmitano, all while the world guished alum of UND,” said “UND has long had an ex- Kelley commented about how watched. Kelley. cellent reputation in many en- busy Nyberg has been aboard “I find it truly amazing, UND continues to expand gineering fields,” she said. the space station and how given her responsibilities and its aerospace disciplines and It has been exciting to watch much media attention she has workload, that Karen was will- collaborative efforts in cut- a new discipline, petroleum been receiving around the ing and able to record a mes- ting edge space technology engineering, burst from the world. She’s done everything sage just for us in honor of which includes training for un- ground like a North Dakota oil from show how astronauts UND’s Summer Commence- manned craft.

August 2013 25 Consummate Betrayal

by Mary Yungeberg Watching from the warmth of the customer lounge on the private side of the airport, Chad muttered to himself as the Learjet taxied in, guided to a stop by a parka clad agent with glowing orange wands. It was about time. Turning up the collar of his overcoat and pulling on fur lined leather gloves, he stepped into the frigid air to meet his boss and colleague. He’d done everything he could think of to make sure Rowan would be comfortable once he arrived in Sioux Falls. A Men’s Wearhouse bag in the trunk of the car contained assorted pairs of socks and boxers. Rowan could easily talk someone at the hotel into getting his clothes washed, but this way he’d be spared the humiliation of handing over his underwear. A bottle of ninety-four proof, single barrel Jack Daniel’s whiskey nestled in a paper sack next to the socks and boxers. Smiling to himself he thought about how much Rowan would enjoy that. It was fun to surprise his surly friend once in a while, let him know he cared. Thanks to Mandy, his new confidant at United Airlines, Rowan’s suitcase would arrive by FedEx in the morning. The captain of the flight Rowan had been yanked from made a ramp agent search through ninety-seven bags in the cargo pit twice before a call to US Air confirmed that the suitcase had never made the transfer to United in Denver. Mandy made a few calls and arranged the FedEx transport at the risk of being ostracized by her co-workers and the station manager. Every airline employee and manager in Sioux Falls want- ed Rowan’s rear end because of United’s three canceled flights. In a small airport, that many cancelations affected all the airlines. United needed seats for almost two hundred people, stretching the goodwill and capacity of both Delta and Legacy. He’s enriching the lives of the captain and first officer as Mandy had spilled the juicy insider information after a we speak.” few drinks and some extra attention, first at a bar and then Chad laughed and wiped his eyes. Looking up, he saw in his bedroom. Humming the old Barry Manilow song that Rowan standing sleepily in the doorway of the jet, scowling popped unbidden into his mind, Well you came and you and blinking at the snow, then lingering as he zipped up his gave without takin’, but I sent you away, Oh Mandy...he black leather jacket. He had to chuckle when Ralph cast an snickered. He’d taken one for the team, and Mandy was irritated glance upward and bellowed. “Rowan, for crying none the wiser. Oh well. She was cute and kindhearted, but out loud, let’s go. We don’t have all night. It’s plenty cold, in not all that smart. Besides, he’d enjoy telling Rowan how case you hadn’t noticed.” much he’d sacrificed on his behalf. Grabbing Ralph by the arm, Chad leaned close. “Boss, Teeth chattering, eyes watering from the cold, he waited I need to talk to you privately tonight, just for a minute.” at the bottom of the aircraft stairs in swirling snow. Breathing Ralph nodded and didn’t say anything as Rowan stepped in acrid fumes from the jet exhaust as the engines wound onto the tarmac, shoulders hunched into his jacket, hands down, he squinted up at Ralph, silhouetted by the arc lights jammed in the pockets. Judging from the look on his friend’s overhead as he stepped carefully down the stairs. With a face, his first impression of South Dakota wasn’t favorable. grunt his boss tilted his head back and smiled, breath bil- With a bad-tempered glare at both him and Ralph, Row- lowing in a frosty cloud. “Your colleague will be right along. an jerked his head in annoyance. “Well, come on. Let’s

26 Plains Magazine go before we all freeze to death standing here. Where’s loud, gave his tall friend an insolent grin and answered with the damned Lincoln? You’re still driving that piece of junk, a word that made the older guy guffaw. right?” Watching the three men interact filled her with inordi- Shaking his head, Chad laughed again and smacked his nate, foolish jealousy. They were obviously good friends colleague on the back. “It’s great to see you too, Rowan. and she felt cheated out of something special. Who was The Lincoln is in the parking lot. I left it running so it’d be this man and how long was he going to be in Sioux Falls? nice and warm for your wimpy California ass. You’ll be in Of course, flying in on a private jet put him way, way out of your room in the Executive Wing at the Sheraton before her league. you know it. You can even take a hot bath.” When he slipped out the door and into the darkness, * * * she felt letdown, as though she’d missed an important op- Danielle Stratton glanced at the tall, blonde-haired man portunity and now it was gone. How could she feel such as he pulled on an overcoat and leather gloves and then breathtaking attraction to someone she didn’t even know? strode out the door after her friend Ed marshaled the Lear- Telling herself to get over it, she decided that by morning jet into its parking spot. For the last hour he’d alternately she probably wouldn’t even be able to remember what he sat and then paced around the plush customer lounge on looked like. the private side of the airport. While she waited in the cushy Turning back to the window, she propped her elbows leather chair, watching advertisements for the company’s on the table, rested her chin in her hands and watched Ed services on the giant flat screen, he made a few phone methodically chock the wheels, close the cargo bin and the calls and grumbled to himself. aircraft door, buttoning up the jet for the night. Disturbed Whoever he was meeting had delayed her as well. Tug- that a man she’d never seen before and most likely would ging on the ponytail restraining her dark red hair, she knew never see again could leave her feeling so bereft, she she should never have agreed to give Ed a ride home. As sighed disconsolately. In her heart she knew she was a his boss, the part-time job he’d taken was not her problem fool to think she’d forget what he looked like anytime soon. and neither was his broken truck. But here she was, be- * * * cause he was also her friend. Watching Rowan hustle through the revolving door at Shoving her coat sleeve up, she stared at her watch and the Sheraton, Chad turned to Ralph. “Thanks for taking a yawned. As station manager for Legacy Airlines in Sioux minute to talk.” Falls, her day started when the operation opened at five Ralph looked at him, face bone-weary. “Spit it out Chad. o’clock in the morning and didn’t end until the final turn left I’m about to fall asleep on my feet.” for Chicago at six o’clock in the evening. Everyone told “Boss, can you keep Rowan away from the airport for a her she was too dedicated and they were right. At thirty- couple days? The airlines out there are like one big dys- three, she’d been in the airline industry for thirteen years functional family and they’re all pissed off. The agents are and didn’t like the chaos anymore. Someday, it would be in an uproar because apparently it’s the first time in airline nice to have a life that consisted of more than baggage ser- history that one person caused three flights to cancel, one vice problems, on-time departure statistics and ungrateful right after another. The rumor mill is in full swing too, and passengers. the big news is that he’s Middle Eastern. They don’t under- When the tall blonde went out the door with a muttered, stand how he can be an FBI special agent and part of an Finally she decided to check out the passengers so impor- Anti-Terrorism Task Force.” tant that they were arriving by private jet at almost eleven Sniffing as the cold air stung his nose and eyes, he con- o’clock in the evening. Wandering over to the tables and tinued. “If you can offer some explanation to management, chairs facing the floor to ceiling windows, she took a seat the info will trickle down to the masses, and they’ll move on and waited. First a man who looked like he could be her to the next big issue. From what I’ve gathered, these folks father’s age came down the steps, stopping to talk with the have a short attention span. One of United’s customer ser- guy she’d been watching. Both men looked up, and she fol- vice reps told me all this crap.” lowed their gazes to the door of the aircraft. Oh my – who Ralph’s shoulders sagged. “Nothing surprises me any- was that? more, especially not when Rowan’s involved. Don’t wor- Too hot was the only way to describe the man who ry, I’ll tell him to lay low. He could use a couple days off. paused in the doorway of the jet before slouching down Besides, I need to establish a relationship with local Law the stairs. Once on the ground, he looked cold as he hur- Enforcement and the Assistant Federal Security Directors ried toward the building with the other two men. And God assigned out there and meet with airline management.” love him, he needed a shave – but the sooty whiskers only Ralph gave him a tired smile and patted him on the shoul- added to his decadent good looks. Drawn by instant, over- der. “Relax special agent, I’ll pave the way. Now, I’ve got powering desire, she wanted him, right now. She could feel to get some sleep. See you in the morning, eight o’clock strong arms wrapping around her, eager lips finding hers sharp in the restaurant here.” and the burn of rough stubble on her cheeks. Watching as Ralph headed into the pool of light and Good grief, what was wrong with her? Taking a deep warmth beyond the revolving door, he heaved a sigh. He’d breath, she felt the heat spreading across her face. Shoul- done as much as he could. Sliding behind the wheel of the ders tense, palms damp, she watched him move through Lincoln, he headed for home, the stupid Mandy song still the customer service lounge with a lithe swagger, vigor- playing in his mind. His mother had been a hopeless ro- ously rubbing his hands and blowing on them. The blonde mantic, collecting sappy love songs from the seventies and guy smacked him on the back and said something she eighties and playing them endlessly while he was grow- couldn’t hear. Tossing back thick black hair, he laughed out ing up. As a consequence, one of the silly songs always

August 2013 27 popped into his mind at odd times and places. stuffed the wallet back in his pocket and walked off, fol- Like tonight, he thought as he drove through the snow- lowing the signs to the Executive Wing. She was sure she covered streets. He hoped that his mother, trapped in the heard him laughing. alternate universe that Alzheimer’s had relentlessly tugged * * * her into, still enjoyed the music. Just like he hoped things A hot shower and Jack Daniel’s whiskey worked mira- would quiet down now so he and his colleague and boss cles for his attitude. Rowan sat on the edge of his bed in a could get serious about their assignment. warm velour bathrobe that was purple, for God’s sake, and * * * wiggled his toes in heavy black socks. Chad was a god- Absorbed in paperwork, in the midst of her shift as eve- send, and he’d already called him to say thanks. Of course, ning manager at the Sheraton, Jennie Kelly didn’t want to his friend blew it all off and asked him how much he’d paid deal with the late arriving guest blowing in through the re- to get his clothes washed. volving glass doors. Bracing herself for one more in a long Downing a shot of whiskey, he thought wryly that Chad line of disgruntled travelers, she looked up with a forced knew him too well. Thanks to his clandestine activities on smile. Gazing at her with inscrutable black eyes was one of behalf of his country, he earned a lot of money, and one the sexiest looking men she’d ever seen. Yikes. A trip wire of the few things he enjoyed was spreading it around to went off in the back of her mind, telling her to proceed with people he knew worked their asses off for low wages. So caution. He was good looking, but something about him some poor old lady stuck washing his clothes got a gift. Big scared her and she felt the tingling rise of the hair on her deal, it was the least he could do. arms. Dry-mouthed, unable to stop staring at him, she felt Sloshing more whiskey in the cup, he stood up and like an idiot. “Um, good evening sir, do you have a reserva- stepped around the bed to look out the window. Cold air tion?” radiated from the glass. Gazing down, he saw snowflakes, To her utter surprise, he held out his hand and smiled. still falling, glittering in the lights of the parking lot and flail- “Special agent Rowan Milani, FBI and yes, I have a reser- ing in eddies around the corner of the building. How did vation.” people live in this godforsaken state? The weather was She shook his hand and wondered if she had to let go. even worse than he’d imagined. The cable TV channel With shaky fingers she flipped long black hair behind her posted the temperature at ten degrees, and the wind chill shoulder, pushed up her glasses and tapped the keyboard, made it an even zero. With a shiver, goose bumps form- finding the information she needed to process the check- ing all up and down his arms and legs he stepped back in. Handing him a key card, she treated herself to another to the bed, punched a couple pillows into shape against look at his indecently sensual face. “Is there anything else the headboard and crawled under the sheets and down you need this evening, Mr. Milani?” comforter. “Please call me Rowan, and yeah Jennie, is there any Yawning so hard he spilled the drink, he wiped his hand way to get a sweater and jeans washed before morning? on the sleeve of the robe and thought back on the day. It Does your overnight staff do laundry?” He looked embar- had been long and ugly, harboring the potential to destroy rassed. “My suitcase got lost today, and all I have with me his career and maybe even his life. Taking a gulp of the is what I’m wearing. You couldn’t find me a bathrobe any- potent whiskey, he tipped his head back and swallowed, where, could you?” In the Presidential Suite they had all kinds of supplies, and the suite wasn’t booked. Tugging on the name tag he’d obviously read, she made a snap decision and looked up ginning with grade school at him with a smile. “That’s no problem, Mr., ah…Rowan. About the author friends who heard the tale I’ll have room service bring you a robe, and I’ll be glad to of the pet whale living in take your clothes…” Face reddening, she floundered on. “I her basement, followed by mean, we can take your clothes and have them cleaned for writing short stories in high you. We’ll hang them on your door when they’re ready, so school and college.She enter- you won’t be disturbed.” tained her sons with bedtime He rewarded her with a wicked smile and a second, even stories about a little boy and bigger surprise. Pulling a worn wallet from his back pocket, his magic pony, progressing he peeled five one hundred-dollar bills from it, folded them to freelance magazine and carelessly and shoved them across the counter while she newspaper articles, as well gaped. “Thanks, Jennie, I appreciate it a lot. Would you as professional resumé writ- divvy that up with your night staff? Oh – there’s one last ing. Consummate Betrayal thing.” He jerked a thumb over his shoulder. “Does that Starbucks open early?” is her first novel. The sequel, Looking past him to the Starbucks kiosk, she nodded. Unholy Retribution has been “Yes sir, they open at six o’clock every morning.” completed and is in her edi- He smacked the counter with his hand. “Fantastic. tor’s capable hands in New Would you mind leaving them a note to bring a carafe of York City. Work on the cover Italian Roast up to my room around eight?” When she nod- has begun. The next install- ded mutely, he pulled another hundred from the wallet and Mary Yungeberg ment of the Rowan Milani handed it to her. “Please make sure the wait staff gets this. Mary Yungeberg has been Chronicles will be available You guys are great.” With one last killer smile he turned, telling stories all her life, be- in November, 2013.

28 Plains Magazine hating to think what would have happened if Ralph hadn’t he and Michelle were twenty-five and had grown up to- appeared when he did. How many days would he have sat gether in Carpinteria, CA, a sleepy town a few miles down at the Federal Building in downtown Denver, being inter- the coast from Santa Barbara. Engaged on August 11, rogated by the likes of special agent Banks, Fred Ralston 2001, he’d been happy – delirious when she’d told him and God only knew who else? she was pregnant. Lying in bed together, they’d laughed His career as an FBI special agent would not have sur- and dreamed and he’d splayed his hand across her ab- vived the ordeal. The aftermath of that kind of scrutiny domen and closed his eyes, envisioning a family with the would leave him on the wanted list of more than a few for- only woman he’d ever loved. One month later, she was eign governments. Not to mention the wish lists of a bunch gone – his family was gone – forever. He still couldn’t get of pissed off holy warriors who’d seen their plans uprooted his mind around the concept of that word. Shoving the and their martyrs sent to paradise early. rumpled blankets aside, he sat on the edge of the bed and He’d like to know who had made the anonymous phone rubbed his eyes viciously with the heels of his hands. But call – and how they knew about the jihadists he’d killed goddamn it, he’d tried. along the border. The list of people involved in the Mexico He’d shown up at Ground Zero a week after the attack operation was extremely short, and he couldn’t imagine with his FBI credentials, grabbed a hardhat and a mask any of the other participants making that call. But someone and stayed for six months, working alongside firefighters had called. And now according to Ralph, the poison had and volunteers, digging through debris by the bucket full. spread to Sioux Falls. Massaging drowsy eyes, he thought One afternoon, he taped their engagement picture next to righteously that it wasn’t his fault any of those three flights the thousands of other pictures and letters on the fences had canceled. And anyway, if he hadn’t been detained in lining the massive funeral pyre. Michelle’s remains were Denver, none of this would have happened. never found and finally, despairing, he flung the platinum Tossing back another mouthful of whiskey, he relished wedding bands that would never be worn as far as he could the burn down his throat and felt the warmth spreading. into the wreckage. Now he had two days off, and Ralph had been adamant. A threesome of volunteers from Lynchburg, Tennessee Stay away from the airport. That was all right with him, be- took him under their wing. They empathized, told him they cause he didn’t think the focus should be on the airport were sorry for his loss and introduced him to Jack Dan- anyway. He’d like to head for the local mosque. If he could iel’s whiskey. The potent elixir became his new lover, faith- keep a low profile and get acquainted with the faithful, he’d fully numbing his mind and allowing him the nightly relief of be another step closer to uncovering the invisible leader of passing out. For that he would be eternally grateful. the secret jihad working to undermine the country. All he Taking a call from Ralph one day, he’d agreed to join a needed was time to let his beard and already shaggy hair low profile Anti-Terrorism Task Force his boss command- grow even longer. ed under the loose discretion of the Director of the FBI. His head dipped as his eyes slid shut. The whiskey had Whispers about black ops came soon after that, and his warmed him nicely. Downing the last swallow, he pitched own personal jihad had given him a reason to continue the cup and hit the switch on the bedside lamp before pull- living. Which brought his mind back to the present as he ing off the robe and tossing it to the floor. Flat on his back stretched, scratched himself and yawned, wondering if the with hands clasped on his belly and feet crossed at the wait staff had remembered his Starbucks. They had and ankles, he could sleep undisturbed – at last. he sipped the strong coffee, gazing with longing at the bot- * * * tle of whiskey on the bedside table. Ralph had been right He heard the planes. The horrendous fireballs seared about him needing a couple days off. his soul. As he staggered up the stairs, caustic, ash-laden Grasping the coffee cup in one hand, drawn back to the smoke filled his nostrils and caked his throat. Choking, window, he shoved the drapes aside and gazed at the alien coughing, lungs on fire, he knew he had to keep going, he landscape four stories below. The trees looked like black had to find her. Then the tower imploded, the stairs disap- sticks stuck in wads of grayish cotton. Low clouds blocked peared and he fell through space, arms clawing the air, even the thought of sunlight and across the street, atop a legs pumping in vain. Rowan jerked awake in a tangle of pole a flag whipped back and forth in the unyielding wind. sweat soaked bedding, heart slamming in his chest. Gray Still mystified that people chose to live in such misery, he light leaked from the edges of the curtained window and turned away and decided to find something to do in the he slung an arm over his eyes and lay there, waiting for his hotel. He remembered a sign in the lobby with directions heart rate to slow. to a work-out room and a pool. If he kept himself busy for After all the intervening years, the nightmare still plagued the morning, he could spend the afternoon with his bottle him. On the evening of September 10, 2001, his fiancée of whiskey and by evening, he’d pass out and not wake up had been in New York City for a job interview. She’d called until the next morning. Perfect. to tell him that she planned to have breakfast at Windows * * * on the World the next morning. On assignment in Ohio, Jennie looked up at the sound of heavy footsteps and he’d been drinking coffee with Ralph in his hotel room when tried not to stare at the two hard-featured, big men ap- the first plane hit. His sweet Michelle, with honey-blonde proaching her podium. “Good afternoon, how may I help hair and kind blue eyes, didn’t answer her cell phone. It you?” wasn’t until he traveled to the city to collect her things that One of them had close-set blue eyes and buzz cut black he found it, with all his heartrending messages, on the bed- hair. When he smiled at her, she felt uneasy. “We need to side table in her hotel room. check-in, one room. I’m Seth Hancock.” Tipping his head For one precious month, his life had been perfect. Both toward the other man, who was taller, he continued. “And

August 2013 29 this is Lucien Talbot. Say, a buddy of ours is staying here – to attend whatever college they want, from your tips alone.” Rowan Milani. Can you set us up with a room somewhere Mouth opened to retort, he frowned when Ralph spoke close to his?” before he had the chance. “I’d like you to make nice with Just looking at both men made her skin crawl and she a few airline agents and scope out the security here. Jax could hardly believe either of them had anything in com- tells me there are some holes, but he thinks the airline folks mon with the sexy man she’d checked in the night before. can give us specifics. Consider it your opportunity to gain a “OK, let me see. I can’t give out special agent Milani’s room semblance of redemption in their eyes.” number. Um, he was here a while ago, playing pool in the Oh hell, he’d love to make nice with the people who work-out room with our maintenance man, but I’m not sure blamed him for canceling three flights. Knowing he was where he is now. Did you want to leave him a message?” screwed, he took a long drink of coffee before replying. The taller one had blonde hair and bulging muscles. “OK boss, whatever you want. Guess I’ll get started.” When he smiled, all his teeth showed, and she shrank Ralph leveled a knowing grin in his direction. “You can back. “Nah, that’s all right. We want to surprise him.” report what you find out tomorrow morning, because that’s * * * when you, special agent Cantor and I will have our next Three Days Later meeting. Seven o’clock sharp at the hotel. By the way, Rowan tipped the shuttle driver and climbed out the slid- where’s your weapon?” ing door of the hotel van, stepping carefully through the He looked Ralph in the eye and smiled. “You’ll be happy half-frozen slush. Bracing against the never-ending wind, to know the Glock is secured. It’s in the safe in my room.” snowflakes falling thick and fast on his head, in his eyes and In certain situations, Ralph worried that he’d lose his tem- down his shirt, he made his way into the airport. Stamping per and shoot someone, but that wouldn’t happen today. his feet and brushing snow out of his hair, he clutched his And he hadn’t lied – his Glock 22 service weapon was in coffee mug and muttered vile epithets. His jeans had ab- the safe. But he never went anywhere without the Glock sorbed the cold and felt like sheets of ice against his legs. 36 holstered inside the waistband of his jeans, in front of Shivering and thinking he should have worn an overcoat his left hip for easy access. He also wouldn’t mention his instead of his leather jacket, he looked around, expecting favorite knife, the lethal, folding Karambit he’d meticulous- to see crowds of people. But the wide hallway stretching ly cleaned after the Mexico op and had just that morning from baggage claim at one end of the airport to the ticket- stashed in the inner pocket of his jacket, along with a cou- ing area at the other end was empty. None of the baggage ple extra mags of forty-five caliber ammo for his pistol. belts were moving. Three car rental agencies sat vacant Ralph chuckled. “That’s smart thinking, special agent with not an employee in sight. Didn’t people fly into or out Milani. Have fun with the folks. You’ll find they’re a decent of Sioux Falls at eight o’clock in the morning? bunch. I explained to management that a case of mistaken Heading toward ticketing, the hallway opened to his left identity caused the problems in Denver and consequently and he spotted Chad and Ralph sitting in the airport restau- with all the flights here. But Rowan – be careful how you rant talking to an African American police officer. Veering conduct yourself.” inside, he coasted into the remaining chair at their table. It Shoving back the chair, he winked at Ralph and sketched was warm in the restaurant, and his body stopped shiver- a wave at Chad and the police officer. Sauntering across ing. The aroma of frying bacon made his mouth water, but the two-story tall, main entryway of the airport, he won- he didn’t have time for breakfast. Ralph had something for dered why his boss was sticking him in an awkward situa- him to do. Otherwise he’d still be at the hotel enjoying room tion like this. Because Ralph knew he didn’t want to inter- service. act with these people, professionally or otherwise. Irritated Chad smiled and lifted his coffee cup. Ralph frowned at with both his boss and the cold air flowing nonstop from the his Starbucks to-go mug and the police officer held out a front entrance, he set his jaw for the distasteful task ahead. hand. “Good morning, I’m Jax. You must be the third mem- Clusters of people stood at the Delta kiosks, and United ber of this special team we’ve got helping us out.” had a crowd, but no one was checking in at Legacy. Lean- Taking in the curling black hair shot through with gray ing against the wall across the broad walkway from Legacy and the muscular body tucked into the chair, he shook Airlines ticket counter, he scanned the area and sipped his hands firmly and smiled at the police officer. “It’s nice to coffee. Boarding announcements overlaid the hubbub of meet you, sir. I’m special agent Rowan Milani, and yes, I passengers, and the old Elvin Bishop song, Fooled Around belong with these two, more or less.” and Fell in Love echoed throughout the airport as part of Ralph snorted. “Face it Rowan, if it weren’t for us, God the rendition of seventies songs airport management must only knows where you’d be. And what’s the matter with the think represented easy listening. At least it was warm hotel coffee that you have to drink that damned crap? It’s a where he was standing. wonder you have a stomach lining. Wait, maybe you don’t, While he lounged against the wall, a guy in a red shirt, and that’s why you have such a stellar personality.” gray uniform pants and a worn NWA ball cap stepped Ralph loved to give him a hard time, and his boss did out of Delta’s back office doorway and surveyed the pas- have a point. Without his two colleagues, there was no sengers milling in front of the counter. Then the door to telling where he’d be. But he was dead wrong about the Legacy’s back area opened and a woman looked around, coffee. “Aw hell boss, you know how much I enjoy it. The waved at the man and walked over to stand next to him. Starbucks girls at the hotel bring it up to my room every God, she was sexy. Dressed in black airline-issue sweater morning, and they gave me my very own to-go mug.” and pants, she had long legs and breasts that would more Chad rolled his eyes. “By the time we’re finished with than fill his hands. And her hair…just past shoulder length, this assignment, the Starbucks girls will probably be able it was luxuriously thick and dark, almost burgundy red.

30 Plains Magazine Her confident don’t mess with me aura turned him on. Talk “Hey Derek, catch you at home if not before.” about a challenge. Glancing to where the guy stood, he raised a brow, sur- Lured irresistibly, he found himself walking toward the prised at the animosity emanating from her friend. Giving couple who stood talking like they were comfortable with the man a nasty smirk, he turned away. A moment later each other, probably good friends. The woman turned, met the door to Delta’s back room slammed with an echoing his eyes, and went perfectly still. Not sure what he was go- thwack, rattling the wall. He jumped and then snickered. ing to say, he reached Legacy’s ticket counter and stopped, Danielle looked puzzled. “Good grief, what got into him?” conscious of sweaty palms and his pulse ticking erratically. He shrugged. “Who knows? Hey, I’m not crazy about She stared at him. He couldn’t take his eyes off her. going back outside, so I need to leave my coffee mug here While he waited, she left her companion and walked to and touch base with the security supervisor at the check- the computer terminal in front of him. Looking carefully at point. I should be on their list.” her face, he saw something secretive in her eyes. Then They stashed the mug in her office and headed up the she smiled and he lost himself, his gaze lingering first on escalator toward the security checkpoint and the con- her mouth and then sliding down to the inviting V-neck of course beyond. An hour later, he’d seen the entire ster- her sweater. Arousal rolled over him in an intense, uncon- ile area of the airport. Danielle spoke intelligently and with trollable wave, and he rocked back on his heels. passion about what she considered flaws in airport security Tucking strands of hair behind her ear, she tilted her at Sioux Falls. Her personality, as dramatic as her hair, had head and kept staring at him. “Sir, may I help you with him enthralled, and he wanted to spend more time with her. something?” Tagging along behind her down narrow stairs and a grungy Tamping down the voracious desire, he dragged his hallway, mesmerized by her hips swaying back and forth eyes back up to hers and hoped he could keep his mind on in the snug pants, he kept walking when she stopped and the job. Trying to be unobtrusive, he sat his coffee mug on bumped into her. “Oops, I’m sorry.” the counter and wiped sweating hands on his jeans. “Is the Looking up, he saw that they’d reached a dented, gray Legacy manager available?” metal door. Placing his left hand against the wall, he thought This time her smile dazzled him. “My name is Danielle he should back up, but didn’t want to. Danielle turned and Stratton, and I’m the Legacy station manager. What can I looked up at him with an enticing smile. They were only a help you with?” few inches apart, but she didn’t seem to mind. “This is the It had only been three days since the flight debacle he’d end of my tour. This door takes us into Legacy’s operations been blamed for, and he wasn’t sure he wanted to tell her center. It’s always locked.” his name. Hesitating for only a second, he stuck out his Touching her had become an all-consuming need. But hand. “It’s nice to meet you Danielle. Rowan Milani is my he wondered about the man he’d angered on the Delta name. I’m a special agent with the FBI and need an escort side of the counter. Searching her eyes, he saw only an- to show me the airport, inside the sterile area.” ticipation and felt his willpower slipping away. “Ah, that guy Incredulity widened her eyes and her lips parted. “Oh from Delta – is he your boyfriend?” my God…it was you. I should have guessed.” Then she Danielle chuckled. “Derek? We’ve been housemates for blinked and took a hold of his proffered hand with a quiver- almost four years, ever since his divorce. He’s a great guy ing one of her own. The dampness of her palm matched and a close friend, but he’s not my boyfriend.” When she his. The touch made him want more. lifted a hand and ran feather light fingers along the sand- Extricating his hand from hers, he attempted a smile. papery stubble on his jaw, he drew a sharp breath. Gazing “Could one of your agents escort me through the security steadily at him, she said, “I don’t have a boyfriend.” checkpoint and show me around the sterile area? I’d be es- Reaching out slowly, he touched her hair. “OK, good.” pecially interested in hearing insider thoughts and opinions Done talking, desire surging, the look in her eyes finished about security or the lack thereof.” If he kept strictly to busi- him off. Wrapping his arms around her, he bent his head ness, maybe he could forget about the soft warmth of her to her mouth, half sighing, half groaning in pleasure when hand in his. Doubtful, but hell, what choice did he have? his lips touched hers. Soft and willing, they responded with Practically giving him heart palpitations, she leaned an eagerness that stoked the fire she’d already lit for him, closer. Voice low, she spoke conversationally. “Special deep inside. Her hands slid beneath his jacket, clung to his agent Milani, none of my employees have gotten over your back and then drifted downward to settle around his hips. involvement in those three canceled flights. But I’ll give you The Glock pressed between them and he felt for it with his a tour.” hand. Muttering “Just a second,” he fumbled beneath the The tour he’d like involved his hands and her body. polo shirt, grabbed the holstered pistol and shoved it deep Clenching his fists, he took a deep breath and held it. For into his jacket pocket. God’s sake – he needed to get a grip. Letting the breath Sometime he’d have to stop kissing her, but not yet. out in increments, he forced himself to focus on her face, When his tongue touched hers, she moaned softly. His instead of the tantalizing V-neck. “That would be fine and hands smoothed down to caress her firm backside and she please call me Rowan. Do you have time right now to show followed suit, laughing into his mouth before pulling him me around?” tight against her body. Breathing unevenly, heart pounding, Nodding enthusiastically, she waved an arm. “Sure, let’s he knew he needed to stop, but wondered instead if she’d go. I’m assuming you have your official ID? You’ll need it at drop down on the filthy cement floor with him and finish the checkpoint, unless you want to access the sterile area what they’d started. He wanted to – desperately. But a long from outside.” Before he could answer, she looked toward time ago his father had drilled the importance of respect- the man she’d been talking to, who was watching them. ing women into his hard head. And he planned to give this

August 2013 31 woman the utmost respect. gerly probed the inside of his lip with his tongue. That single thought jolted him. What the hell was he Attempting to regain his thought processes, he realized thinking? Nothing – that was the problem. He’d quit thinking that for a man who’d spent years perfecting the art of what when he started kissing her and been carried away by her he liked to call incidental sex – she created a hell of a prob- incredible body. In a matter of weeks or a couple months lem. Once involved, he knew instinctively that he wouldn’t he’d be gone – back to another third world shithole or a be walking away after a night of fun. That revelation left him Task Force assignment somewhere else. His lifestyle didn’t unsure of how to proceed. From the moment he’d laid eyes tolerate the entanglements of a relationship. Besides, she on her, feelings he wanted no part of had been clamoring wouldn’t want a man who had cold-bloodedly killed more for attention, trying to stage a comeback in his heart. That people than he could count, even though they were terror- couldn’t happen to him. It had been too many years and it ists. No – he needed to get out while he still could. hurt too damned much for him to ever go down that road He knew Danielle sensed his disengagement, because again. she pulled away from his lips and lifted her hands to his Still inside the circle of his arms, Danielle gave him a shoulders. Leaning against the wall, he blinked his way captivating smile. “When I saw you step off that plane a back to reality, reading the confusion on her face. Now he few nights ago, I knew you were someone special. No one felt like a jerk. Hell, he was a jerk, for leading her on and has ever affected me like that before, and I don’t want to for leading himself on. He pulled her hands from his shoul- lose what we haven’t had the chance to have. So please, ders, running the back of one along his jaw before giving it can we start over? Maybe we could go out for dinner and a kiss. Then he let both hands go and looked at her. “Dani- just…talk?” elle, I’m sorry. This – this shouldn’t have happened. I’m He needed to walk away, but he wasn’t going to be- not conducting myself professionally at all. I hope you can cause he didn’t want to. And she sure as hell seemed to accept my apology.” know what she wanted. Closing his eyes in surrender, he The two bright spots of red that appeared on her cheeks crushed her close and murmured into the thick hair. “OK, should have forewarned him. When she crossed her arms let’s start over. How about tonight? Just tell me where you and glared at him, he felt the heat. “Of all the arrogant… want to go and what time. I can even pick you up.” He You’re not behaving professionally? What does that make wondered if he could talk his goofy colleague into playing me, the local airport whore? Please – accept my apology driver for a night. for being attracted to you and thinking you felt the same Wishing they could forget dinner and go to his room at way.” While he watched open-mouthed, she put a hand the Sheraton instead, he took a deep breath, inhaled the over her eyes. “Oh my God, I’ve never been so embar- strawberry scent of her hair and stepped back. His thoughts rassed.” echoed her words – how could she affect him like this when Stung by her words, not sure what to say, he stuffed his he’d only met her a couple hours ago? Nothing like this had hands in his jacket pockets. Fuck her. Well yeah, goddamn ever happened to him before. Well, maybe it had…many it, he’d like to. “Wait, you don’t understand. It’s just that I years and another lifetime ago. don’t usually do this when I’m on an assignment. I didn’t Giving him a carefree smile, Danielle grabbed his hand. mean to imply – you’re beautiful and I was – I mean I am “Tonight works for me. We’ll go to one of my old favorites, attracted to you. Oh hell, forget this.” if that’s all right with you. It’s a restaurant called Minerva’s. Shoving off the wall, the familiar emptiness settled around They have great food and cozy booths. We can talk about him, but it was nothing a bottle of Jack Daniel’s couldn’t whatever you want. How does seven o’clock sound? Do fix when he got back to the hotel. Retrieving the holstered you want me to make the reservation?” pistol from his jacket pocket, he lifted his shirt and stuck it The more she talked, the more animated she became, back inside the waistband of his jeans. He yanked the shirt and the more he wanted her. Raising her hand, he grazed down and shrugged, doing his best to feign nonchalance. it with his lips and watched, smiling at her reaction. It “Like I said, I’m sorry. I’ll pass your security concerns along wouldn’t take much for her to lose interest in talking. “Don’t to my boss and I’m sure he’ll want to talk to you as well. worry about the reservation, Danielle. I’ll take care of ev- You’ve got some valid issues and good ideas.” For a fleet- erything. We’ll pick you up at seven.” ing second he wondered what Ralph would think of this Brow furrowed, she looked at him as they started walk- conduct. ing back the way they’d come. “What exactly do you mean Danielle stared at him and laid a hand on his arm. While when you say we’ll pick you up?” he watched, she closed her eyes and opened them, then * * * took a deep breath and exhaled, words coming in a rush. Derek Norris sat on a sofa in the living room of the house “Look, I’m sorry too, and I don’t usually do this either. I he shared with Danielle. A tall glass of Bacardi and Coke in know you’re probably here on a short-term assignment, but one hand, he scratched his head with the other and stared neither of us knows what the future holds.” at his housemate. The black dress, shot through with sil- What she did next surprised him, but he liked it. Plac- ver threads clung to her body. Silver earrings sparkled ing trembling hands on either side of his face, she pushed through the dark red hair floating around her shoulders. her fingers into his hair and drew his head down. Taking Slender legs in black heels completed the image and took her time, she kissed him, lips tender at first, then more de- his breath away. manding until he put his arms back around her. When she She would have an even more deleterious effect on finally stopped, dragging his bottom lip between her teeth, Rowan Milani, he thought, feeling churlish. “Please tell me he was damn near gasping for air, all his reasons for walk- you’re not getting involved with that guy. Hey, do you want ing away burned out of his mind. Swallowing hard, he gin- to know what my buddy at United Operations in Denver

32 Plains Magazine told me? The FBI called them – the FBI, Dani. They said good time. See you later, Dani. I’ll get the door.” Pausing he was dangerous, and that’s why the captain kicked him on the threshold, he watched Rowan put his arm around off the plane. Then he deliberately implied that his luggage Danielle and walk close beside her down the snowy side- was a problem, too.” walk to a waiting Lincoln Town Car. Shaking his head, wal- The blissful look on her face irritated him. “Oh please, lowing in private misery, he saw a tall man open the back Derek. You’re overreacting, just like everyone else at the door of the car for the two of them. Frustrated because he airport. Rowan is with the FBI, and besides, his boss ex- knew he could never compete with Rowan Milani, and ir- plained to all the station managers how he’d been mistak- ritated at his inability to tell Danielle how he felt about her, en for someone else. You know as well as I do how easy it he slammed the heavy door and leaned against it. Shasta is for misunderstandings to occur, especially for someone moved close and sat on his foot, gazing up at him with a who’s Middle Eastern.” tongue lolling, doggy smile that pissed him off. “You’re as How could he explain the alarm bells going off in his smitten with that guy as she is, you worthless mutt. What mind? Watching Rowan Milani zero in on Danielle at the kind of protector are you, if you can’t tell a creep when you airport that morning had scared him to death. That the man see one?” was a ruthless predator had been obvious to him, and he * * * couldn’t figure out why she’d be interested in someone like Grunting with the effort, Seth finished screwing the that. “All I’m saying is that you don’t know anything about heavy-duty eye bolt into the stud he’d painstakingly located the guy. Why would you go out to dinner and spend time in the wall. Teetering on the slippery seat of a metal folding with him after what’s happened? He’s a dangerous man chair, he gave the meat hook attached to the eye bolt a who caused major problems for all of us and that concerns perfunctory yank and stepped down. Wiping his forehead, me – a lot.” he glanced at Lucien. “Think that eye bolt will support his When she sat down beside him and ruffled his rusty weight?” brown hair and kissed his cheek, it took all his willpower A sneer twisted the lips of his muscular cohort. “It’ll work not to kiss her back. Knowing she wouldn’t understand that just fine.” Mashing wide hands together, Lucien looked at either, he gave up and took another swallow of his drink. him. “I can’t wait to get a hold of this raghead poser and Intoxicated as much by her perfume as the rum, he thought teach him a lesson.” that if she knew what was good for her, she’d move to the He nodded. “That makes two of us. That guy is the worst other sofa, but instead she patted his knee and stayed un- of the worst – born and raised here – benefiting from all this bearably close. “Derek, you’re my best friend, and I know country has to offer and then selling it and all of us down you care about what happens to me, but you have to trust the river. But this time, he’s not going to slip through our me on this. I like him. Believe me, when I’m with him, I’m fingers like he managed to do in Denver. I’m going to make safe. I just know that.” sure of that. When we get back to the Sheraton, we’ll set up Thinking she was acting deliberately naïve, he start- a surveillance schedule, so we can track his movements. I ed to speak, but stopped when her one hundred-twenty want him bad, Lucien. Not just for the money, either.” pound Rottweiler stood and growled at the door. Danielle After fighting along with Lucien as a young Marine in the squeezed his knee and jumped eagerly to her feet. The first Gulf War, becoming CIA field agents enabled him and excitement in her eyes and the color in her cheeks told him his friend to play an ongoing role in defending their country. he’d been on a futile mission. “Shasta, who’s here? C’mon Apprehending a clever traitor like Rowan Milani would be girl, let’s go see.” a feather in both their caps. Their other employer, the mys- Planning to head upstairs so he didn’t have to meet terious Egyptian Muusa Shemal had offered $250,000.00 Rowan Milani, he stood up. But he was too late. Danielle apiece for their assistance in bringing an end to Rowan opened the door, and the man stepped into the house, Milani’s deception. Instead of handing him to the FBI for shivering inside an overcoat, brushing snow out of his hair federal prosecution, they planned to transport the miscre- and off his shoulders. Watching Rowan lean close to give ant directly to Tora Prison in Egypt. Danielle a private smile and a kiss didn’t do anything for But first, he and Lucien intended to separate their prey his humor, and Shasta committed the final insult, leaning from his colleagues and conduct their own private inter- into the disturbing man’s legs and woofing until he bent view. The small warehouse they’d rented on the north end down and scratched her head. When Rowan Milani’s gaze of Sioux Falls had a back office with no windows, deep flicked over him, the hair on the back of his neck stood inside the old building. No one would see or hear them. straight up. The man had the coldest eyes he’d ever seen. By the time he and Lucien finished with Rowan Milani, the Of course, Danielle remained oblivious. Grasping Row- man would understand that betraying the United States of an’s hand, she smiled at both of them. “Rowan, this is my America would not go unpunished. friend Derek Norris. He’s a supervisor for Delta. Derek, this is special agent Rowan Milani.” Watching the two of them together was pure hell and enough to send him deep into the bottle of Bacardi. While he stood there feeling like an overprotective father, Rowan grabbed Danielle’s long, down coat from where she’d laid it across the table and glanced at him as he helped her into it. “It’s nice to meet you, Derek. Well, we better get going.” Trying to cover his increasing antipathy, he gave the man a grudging smile. “Yeah, it’s nice to meet you, too. Have a

August 2013 33 Beyond creating a great cade, parents and grandparents of phone calls we get every Strider bike for tots, the company is flocked to buy a bike easy for week from parents who say Continued from page 13 now producing branded bikes their children to balance. their 7 or eight-year-old chil- for motorcycle companies that “The statistic in the U.S. is dren don’t know how to ride a ther, Joe, and Rapid City are on same showroom floors that there has been a 21 per- bike,” he said. patent attorney Gene Woodall, as their larger motorized coun- cent decrease in the number of However, a bike enthusiast for much of his success. Both terparts. kids riding bikes in the last de- since childhood, McFarland men are now partners in the If a consumer is shopping cade,” he said. said making learning how company. for a Honda, Kawasaki, Yama- McFarland attributed the to ride a bike fun is the best His father, who was retired ha, Ducati or KTM, there is a decrease to electronics and the way for children to embrace a when the company began, Strider with the same trade- Internet. healthy and active lifestyle. filled in the gaps when McFar- mark sticker on its side waiting “Those are the children suf- “It’s the one activity you land couldn’t be there to ship for their children. fering from that inactive life- can do all your life,” he said. bikes and do the necessary We are selling to bicycle style is leading to obesity and The company is working on business functions that often shops, motorcycle shops, spe- the reduced life expectancy,” a bike for seniors who want derail a small company if they cialty toy stores and starting to he said. to continue to ride even when are left undone, he said. expand into broader sporting “That’s pretty scary stuff balancing a bike is becoming a An aggressive marketing goods stores,” he said. when it is the first time in histo- challenge. campaign using the Internet “The motorcycle industry is ry in that children growing up “We are developing pro- and social media helped the going to suffer if we don’t cre- today are going to live shorter totypes and considering that company expand its market. ate a bunch of new riders,” he lives than their parents.” market. We see opportunity in “We will have another ban- said. Children don’t have the the coming years for seniors.” ner year this year. Really the “Everything you learn on freedom they once did because Soon the company will en- sky is the limit when you think the this bike transfers over to parents don’t want to let them ter its busiest season of the about the birth rate. There are 4 a bicycle or motorcycle,” Mc- out of the house or the yard out year – Christmas. million kids born in the United Farland said. of fear, he said. McFarland is hoping to get States alone each year. There Strider makes a larger bike And parents have scheduled his staff settled into the new are 4 million kids turning 2 for children with developmen- so many activities for their building by October. every year. I don’t think we’re tal or physical disabilities who children that they are too busy Read more about the Strider going to run out of customers might have problems balanc- to learn how to ride a bike. bikes at http://www.strider- any time soon,” he said. ing on a regular bicycle. “It is alarming the number bikes.com. The company sets up rid- Even though the number ing areas at events around the of children riding bicycles world like the annual Sturgis decreased during the past de- Motorcycle Rally.

Kinkner, was a member of the Film club. Crozier wrote a history Continued from page 14 of the social club compiling 70 years of minutes into summa- the same they were when her ries and wrote biographies of mother lived in the home. the women in the club. Crozier, who attended Au- She collaborated with her gustana College in Sioux Falls, nephew Playwright Tom Ja- said she considered selling the cobson by providing the sum- home when her mother passed maries and biographies for the away, but she was too attached play that made its debut in Los to it to sell it. She kept it as a Angeles in 2008. The play was vacation home. performed at Fort Sisseton, It was Crozier’s love of her Huron and De Smet in July. rural South Dakota life and a “I hope more movies will be rich Swedish immigrant farm made here because I think it’s heritage that inspired a play gorgeous here,” Crozier said. and the two films. Crozier is the author of LaVine, who was fascinated “Waking to Mourning Doves,” by the play “Friendly Hour a book about childhood on a Club,” a semi-fictional play prairie farm and the people of about South Dakota women’s the small community in South- club which met for decades in east South Dakota. You can Beresford, decided to use the find the book on Amazon.com The South Dakota Pork Producers Council served hot barbeque location for a short film. or Barnes and Noble.com. pork sandwiches to rally-goers as a promotion. Riders lined up for the Crozier’s mother, Elvira V. tasty snack. (Plains Magazine photo by Kay Humphrey)

34 Plains Magazine Events Aug. 1 money. Call 701-662-4957 tion. Aug. 17 Sportman’s Club Youth for more information. Aug. 16 - 24 2013 Cabela’s King Kat Day, Rutland. Aug. 2-4 13-Year-Old Babe Ruth Fishing Tournament, Grand The annual “Youth Day” Morton County Fair, New World Series, Williston. Forks. sponsored by the Rutland Salem. Call 701-774-9041 for A catfishing tournament Sportsmans Club will be 4-H and open-class ex- more details. that brings in top anglers held at the John Narum Me- hibits, livestock shows, Aug. 16-18 from all over North America. morial Trap & Rifle Range. vendors, entertainment, Pioneer Days, West Far- Call 701-746-5411 for more Area youth through grade evening dances, rodeo, go. information. 12 are invited to participate ranch rodeo, tractor pull and A celebration of pioneer Aug. 16 -17 in trap shooting, archery, chicken supper. Call 701- history and the settling of our JakeStar Festival, BB gun, .22 rifles and cast- 667-3340 for more informa- great state of North Dakota! LaMoure. ing with rod and reel. tion. Bonanzaville hosts dem- The 2013 JakeStar Fes- All events are free of Aug. 9- 10 onstrations, entertainment, tival is taking place at the charge. The rifle range North Dakota Chokecher- educational programs. Call beautiful LaMoure County is 1/2 mile north of Silver ry Festival, Williston. 701-282-2822 for more in- Memorial Park, just north of Lake. Hours: Thursday 1-4 A celebration of the ac- formation. LaMoure, N.D. This year’s p.m. complishments of youth and Aug. 16 -17 event features live bands Aug. 2-4 the chokecherry becoming Wild West Grillfest, Man- and national recording art- Second Annual Outdoor North Dakota’s State Fruit. dan. ists, including The Johnny Feast Weekend, Bottineau. A two-day family festival. Local restaurants provid- Holm Band and Little Texas This weekend is all about Call 701-774-9041 for more ing grilled food menu and on a huge 50-foot stage. On- making and enjoying food information. a grilling competition be- site camping, kids’ games in the great outdoors. Call Aug. 9 - 10 tween the restaurants, beer and activities, laser tag, 701-263-4651 for more in- Oliver County Fair, gardens,a venue of live en- mechanical bull, food and formation. Center. tertainment at Dykshoorn beverages, magic shows, Aug. 2-4 Call 701-794-8748 for Park . Call 701-751-2983 choir performances, yo-yo Deuce of August Icelan- more information. for more details. masters, silent auction, car dic Celebration, Mountain. Aug. 9 - 11 Aug. 16 -17 show, helicopter rides, golf This is a celebration for Icelandic State Park Kids’ Fargo Blues Festival, tournament, archery shoot, the entire family, featuring Weekend, Cavalier. Fargo. raffles, door prizes and Icelandic heritage and cul- Entire weekend devoted The Fargo Blues Festi- more. Call 701-883-5790 or ture, music, food and enter- entirely to kids with games, val is among the best Blues visit http://www.jakestar.org tainment. The 114th annual entertainment, contests and Fests in the country. There for more information. Icelandic celebration. Call lots of excitement. Call 701- are three national headlin- Aug. 31 - Sept. 2 701-993-8268 for more in- 265-4561 for more informa- ers each day and 12 bands 52nd Badlands Trail Rid- formation. tion. during two days at New- ers Labor Day Trail Ride, Aug. 2-30 Aug. 9 -11 man Outdoor Field. It was Killldeer. Friday Night Races, World Fast Draw Compe- featured multiple times The group enjoys trail Grand Forks. tition, Jamestown. on the syndicated & Dan rides for all at the Little Mis- One of the best 1/3-mile The Frontier Village will Aykroyd “ Elwood Blues” souri State Park on the La- dirt tracks in the nation. host the World Fast Draw hosted “House of Blues”. bor Day Weekend. We have Cheer on your favorite driv- Association. Eeveryone is Call 866-55-BLUES or visit catering, entertainment and ers while Outlaw Sprints, ecouraged to try their hands http://www.fargobluesfest. a potluck dinner. Call 701- Late Models and Super- at fast draw. com/ for more information. 663-0529 for more details. stocks. Call 701-780-0999 Aug. 14 Aug. 16 - 18 Sept. 5 - 8 for more details. Great Tomato Festival, Heritage Days, East United Tribes Internation- Aug. 2-4 Minot. Grand Forks. al Powwow, Bismarck. Masters Walleye Circuit Annual summer gourmet Abraham & Mary Lincoln Powwow held annually in Fishing Tournament, Devils picnic with a classic fixed will appear at the 2013 Heri- the Lone Star Arena at Unit- Lake. menu of smoked porkchops tage days to commemorate ed Tribes Technical College A pro tournament at Gra- by the master chefs, salsa the 150th Anniversary of the is one of the premier cultural ham’s Island State Park and chips, tomato and cu- Gettysburg Address. events of North Dakota. with anglers from all over cumber salad. Call 701- the nation competing for 838-4445 for more informa-

August 2013 35 Events Aug. 2 -11 of the river at Fawick Park. Days & Scotland Kuchen Fei- annual must do ride and festi- 74th Annual Sioux Empire Bands play Thursdays at 7 er, Scotland. val. For complete details go to Fair, Sioux Falls. p.m. Sioux Falls Big Band This annual event features http://www.granfondosd.com. The largest fair in South plays on Aug. 8, Jazz Portraits Scottie Stampede Rodeo, Ger- Registration is limited to 500 Dakota. Fun family entertain- plays on Aug. 15, and Kepler’s man Heritage Meal, basket- riders for the Gran Fondo 104 ers, family activities, and open Theory plays on Aug. 22. ball tournament, food stands mile route. Call 605-532-4126 competition. Large carnival Aug. 8 including kuchen & kolaches, for more information. with fast and fun rides. Call Creedence Clearwater Re- arts in the park, street dance, Aug. 16-18 605-367-7178 for more infor- visited in Concert, Sioux Falls. BBQ, various games & con- American Island Days, mation. Creedence Clearwa- tests all held at various loca- Chamberlain/Oacoma. Aug. 8 ter Revisited performs live tions around Scotland includ- Bed races downtown fol- Summer Lecture Series Creedence Clearwater Revival ing Main Street, City Park and lowed by music on the deck at Presentation, Crazy Horse. hits at the Sioux Empire Fair- the Scotland Rodeo grounds. cedar shore resort on Friday. Weekly presentations. Pro- grounds. The concert is free. Contact 605-583-4419 for Hyroplane boat races,arts and grams start at 6 p.m. every Call 605-367-7178 for more more details. crafts in the park, car show, Thursday during August. Free information. Aug. 10 pontoon races, jet ski barrel admission with requested do- Aug. 8 Adams Homestead Cele- racing, homemade raft races, nation of cash or 3 cans of Jungle Jubilee at the Great bration, North Sioux City. inflatables for all ages, triath- food per person for the KOTA Plains Zoo, Sioux Falls. Take a step back in time and lon, sdang raft ride Saturday Care and Share Food Drive. Annual fundraiser for the experience some of the cultur- and Sunday. Cage fights Sat- Aug. 8 Great Plains Zoo. Call 605- al and natural history of South urday night. Custer Cruisin’ Veterans’ 367-7003 for more information. Dakota from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 16-18 Appreciation Ride, Custer. Aug. 9-11 at the Adams Homestead and Crow Creek Pow Wow, Fort Take a ride to salute our Parmelee Community Pow Nature Preserve. The event Thompson. nation’s heroes on the Custer Wow, Parmelee. is free. Call 605-232-0873 for For complete information Cruisin’ Veterans’ Appreciation Admission is free. Call 605- more information. please call 605-245-2221. Ride. it departs from and ends 319-8485 for more information. Aug. 11-15 Aug. 20-23 at the VFW Post 3442. The Aug. 9-11 Turner County Fair, Parker. Dakotafest, Mitchell. ride time is TBA. 2013 Watertown Summer South Dakota’s oldest coun- Dakotafest is one of the Aug. 8-11 Art Showcase, Watertown. ty fair. Celebrating 133 years. largest farm shows in the re- Black Hills Playhouse: The show is at Ramkota Ho- Call 605-297-4428 for more gion with more than 550 local Hound of the Baskervilles, tel and Event Center. Hours: details. and leading companies in the Custer. Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. on Fri- Aug. 11 - 18 farming industry. Call 800-827- A twist of a classic tale day, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sat- Brown County Fair, Aber- 8007 for more information. Tuesdays-Saturdays 7:30 p.m. urday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on deen. Aug. 23 Saturdays and Sundays 2 p.m. Sunday. Call 605-626-7116 for more Bike Night, Sioux Falls. Call box office or go online to Aug. 9-10 information. It is the first Bike Night of reserve a ticket. Faith Stock Show and Ro- Aug. 16-18 the season at J&L Harley Da- Aug. 8-11 deo, Faith. White River Frontier Days vidson with live music, food, Custer County Fair, Her- Rodeo, Match Bronc Riding, Wacipi & Rodeo, White River. refreshments, bike games and mosa. Carnival, Triatholon, Parades, Call 605- 747-2316 for more a ride in bike show. Its a Block Aug. 8 Cattle Shows, Ranch Rodeo. information Party, Harley style! Call 605- Summer Concert Series ft. Call 605-739-3621 for more Aug. 16-18 334-2721. The Bo Ladner Band, Rapid details. Wakpala Traditional Wacipi, Aug. 24 City. Aug. 10-11 Wakpala. Tour de Corn Bicycle Ride, The band will take the Sum- Bennett County Fair & Ro- Call 605-845-3964 for more Mitchell. mer Nights stage at Seventh deo, Martin. details. Ride across the open plains. and St. Joseph streets, and Admission fee charged for Aug. 16-18 Call 605-990-2553 for more one on the Main Street Square the rodeo. Contact 605-685- Riverboat Days & Summer details. stage, at Sixth and Main streets 6972 for more information. Arts Festival, Yankton. Aug. 29-Sept. 2 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bo Ladner Aug. 10 The Summer Arts Festival South Dakota State Fair, Band is a Johnny Cash tribute RiverKid Sprint Triathlon, showcases over 120 profes- Huron. South Dakota’s largest band based in Nashville. The Pierre. sional artists and craftsman carnival midway. Call 605-353- band includes Bo Ladner on The 3rd Annual RiverKid from more than 10 states. Call 7340 for more information. vocals and the Benton County Sprint Triathlon starts 605-665-1657 for more details. Aug. 30-Sept. 2 Boys on everything else. at 9 a.m. at the Farm Island Aug. 16-17 60th Annual Cheyenne Aug. 8 Recreation Area. Call 605-773- Gran Fondo South Dakota - River Sioux Pow Wow, Eagle Jazz at Fawick, Sioux Falls. 2885 for more information. Tour de Prairie, Watertown. Butte. August is the perfect month Aug. 10 -11 The Gran Fondo South Da- Call 605-964-6685 or 605- to enjoy jazz and the sounds Scottie Stampede Rodeo kota is destined to become an 964-7812 for more information.

36 Plains Magazine August 2013 37 The Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul runs from Aug. 22 to Sept. 2 It is one of the largest state fairs in the region. Nearly 1.8 million people attended the fair last year. It boasts a giant midway, but there are a wealth of new attractions each year. (Photo courtesy of the Minnesota State Fair)

38 Plains Magazine Events

Aug. 10 grass.org for more information. profit organization founded on celebrates Corn on the Cob Blue Collar BBQ & Arts Fes- Aug. 9- 11 an educational basis, teach- Days. More info on this event tival, Faribault. 25th Annual Bayfront Blues ing the old ways in a hands-on and full Corn on the Cob Days Fifth Annual Blue Collar Festival, Duluth. interactive way wearing period schedule at plainviewcvb.com BBQ & Arts Festival 10 a.m. to Midwest’s largest Outdoor attire. Call 218-248-5148 or or pemchamber.com. 11 p.m. Located in the heart of Blues Festival featuring inter- 218-235-0601 for information. Aug. 21 - 25 The Historic Down town Dis- national, national and regional Aug. 9 - 11 Lakes Bluegrass Festival, trict, this free event attacked music acts. Call 218-722-4011, Irish Fair of Minnesota Pine River. 5000 attendees in 2011 from 715-394-6831 or 800-4du-luth The festival is recognized as The Lakes Bluegrass Fes- across the region. With 12 for more information. one of the most family-friendly tival is held in Pine River at hours of live music, BBQ com- Aug. 9 events in the Twin Cities and the Cass County Fairgrounds. petition, kids area, art fair, food Little Crow Ski Team, Lon- the largest free celebration of The event features nationally vendors, beer garden, wash- don. Irish culture at Harriet Island known and regional bluegrass ers tournament, home brew Water Ski shows most Fri- of the banks of the Mississippi bands. This will be the seventh competition and more. The day nights in August. River. Start the fun filled week- Lakes Bluegrass Festival that Blue Collar BBQ and Arts Fes- The Little Crow Ski Team end at our annual Kickoff Party has gained state and regional tival is the highlight of the sum- has been performing for more - Thursday, Aug. 9 from from acceptance. Rough RV and mer. Call 507-332-7372 or visit than 30 years. They have won 7 p.m.-10 p.m. inside the Pub tent camping will be available. http://www.paradisecenterfort- two National and 16 Regional Tent inside the event grounds Contact the Pine River Cham- hearts.org/ for more informa- Championships. The shows at (Harriet Island). Visit www. ber of Commerce at prcofc@ tion. Neer Park entertains crowds IrishFair.com or call 651-645- uslink.net or call 800-728-6926 Aug. 8 - 11 with top quality skiers per- 0221 for more information. for information. FM Pride Week, Moorhead. forming pyramids, jumping, Aug. 10 - 11 Aug. 23 - 25 This GLBTQ pride celebra- barefoot, swivel skis, wakes This Old Farm Annual Pio- Rochester GreekFest, tion features films, parades, boards, ballet lines, and more. neer Days, Brainerd. Rochester. rallies and more. Call 218- Call 320-354-5684 for more Paul Bunyan Land presents A celebration of Greek heri- 287-8034 for more information. information. “This Old Farm Annual Pio- tage featuring authentic Greek Aug. 8 - 11 Aug. 9 - 10 neer Days.” Come join us for foods, live music and ethnic Nobles County Fair, Legends & Logging Days our 32nd annual two day event Greek dancers. Free admis- Worthington. 2013, Park Rapids. when This Old Farm Pioneer sion and parking. Call 507- There is sure to be fam- The Annual Legends & Log- Village comes to life. Watch a 282-1529 or email festival@ ily fun for everyone at the ging Days includes live action daily parade of antique trac- holyanargyroi.org for more in- Nobles County Fair held each World Class Logging events. tors, cars and steam engines. formation. August at the Nobles County Be amazed by master chain Witness steam threshing, a Aug. 30-31 Fairgrounds. There is no ad- saw sculptors who will carve fully operating sawmill, black River Blast, New Ulm. mission charge to get on the beautiful works of art right be- powder demonstrations, and This free festival celebrates grounds. For more details visit fore your eyes, which are then much more. Call 218-764-2524 the role of the river to New www.noblescountyfair.com or available for purchase at an or 877-412-4162 for more in- Ulm. It’s basically a music fes- call 507-372-2919. exciting live auction. A variety formation. tival with non-stop music Fri- Aug. 8 -11 of crafters will bring their wares Aug. 16 - 18 day evening and all day Sat- Minnesota Bluegrass & to the festival and a wide vari- Blues Festival, Moorehead. urday. The adjoining Regional Old-Time Music Festival, Rich- ety of tantalizing food items will A yearly festival of blues River History and Information mond. also be available. Black Pow- music at Newman Outdoor Center has interesting dis- Four days of professional der, Blue Grass, bee keepers, Field. Call 218-287-7775 for plays. Camping (no facilities) acts in bluegrass and old- kids activities, artisans & other more information. in the park - $20. Call 507- time string band music on the entertainment will be on tap for Aug. 16 -18 359-2346 or 507-233-4300. main stage at El Rancho Ma- the weekend. Call 218-732- Pioneer Days at Bonanza- Aug. 29 - Sept. 1 nana Campground. The event 4111 or 800-247-0054 for more ville, Moorehead. 27th Annual Duluth-Superi- includes workshops, instru- details. Pioneer Village comes to or Pride Festival, Duluth. ment showcases, dances, Aug. 9 -11 life with authentic parades, Come and celebrate a kid’s activities, demonstra- End of the Road Rendez- demonstrations, costumes and fabulous summer of Pride in tions, good food, and plenty vous, Ely. crafts. Call 701-282-2822 for the Twin Ports this Labor Day of campground jam sessions. A three day event with dem- more information. Weekend. Join thousands on Come for the day or camp for onstrations of hide tanning, Aug. 17 the shore of Lake Superior as the weekend. A family friendly blacksmithing, flint knapping, Minnesota State Cow Chip we commemorate our 24th event. Three time nominee for wood carving, and much more, Throwing Contest, Plainsview. year of Pride at Bayfront Festi- Event of the Year by IBMA in competitions, games, trading The event starts at 4:45 p.m. val Park. Call 218-213-4120 or Nashville. Call 800-635-3037 and hand crafted items. End of following the Tractor Games in email [email protected]. or email info@minnesotablue- the Road Rendezvous is a non Wedgewood Park as Plainview

August 2013 39 Events Aug. 1-11 LeClaire and Port Byron, Ill. The annual August extrava- their heritages through drum- Acts of Congress, West Eleven teams from each side ganza that inspired the novel ming, music, dance and story. Branch. are formed and the side with “State Fair” and three motion Parking fee. Call 515-897- An exhibit at the Herbert the most winning teams takes pictures, and is featured in 2254 or visit whiteeaglepow- Hoover Presidential Library- the Alabaster Eagle trophy for the New York Times bestseller wow.org). Museum, 210 Parkside Dr. that year. “1000 Places to See Before Aug. 26-Sept. 1 Aug. 1- 31 A family weekend event You Die.” One of the largest Old-Time Music Festival Octagon DOT Exhibit: Cel- filled with carnival rides, live livestock shows in the world, and Pioneer Expo of Rural Liv- ebrating 100 Years, Ames. entertainment, a huge parade, fabulous free entertainment ing, Le Mars. The Octagon Center for the scenic 5k run/walk, food, arts and blue-ribbon competition. Ten stages of performanc- Arts at 427 Douglas Ave. is and craft vendors. The event Visit iowastatefair.org or call es at the Plymouth County celebrating its centennial. includes one of the largest fire- 800-545-3247 for more infor- Fairgrounds over seven days Aug. 8 works displays in the two state mation. from 9 a.m. to midnight daily, Margaritas, Manicures & area on Friday night. Aug. 10 featuring over 650 performing Massages, Sioux City. Admission on Thursday is Slippery Saints Mud Run , acts including numerous acts Seventh annual Margaritas, free; Friday and Saturday is $5 Mason City. inducted into America’s Old Manicures & Massages, ben- per person. Le Claire Run a 5k. In the mud with Time Country Music Hall of efiting the Council on Sexual Call 563-289-4242, exten- obstacles at the North Iowa Fame. Assault & Domestic Violence, sion 1135 or visit tugfest.com Events Center. Obstacles in- All-acoustic music festival from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the for more information. clude Alter Boy ’s Revenge, features old time country, blue- Sioux City Convention Center, The Inquisition, Dante’ s Hell grass, folk, ragtime and moun- 801 4th St. Aug. 8-10 and more. Ask for forgiveness tain. Dances in the evening, Walk through a one-of- Brucemore’s Cabaret in the later at the beer tent. Wear jams, workshops, great food, a-kind garden, visit vendor Courtyard, Cedar Rapids. your favorite costume if you arts and crafts, camping for booths, enjoy a fashion show, The sophisticated and want, whether it is the devil s 350 RVs, incredible family fun. munch on complimentary chips saucy nightclub event at Bruc- horns or an angelic halo, but No alcohol or substances. and salsa. Food stations will emore, will returns for the 11th be prepared to have fun. DJ For more information visit provide healthy options and year at 7:30 p.m. The ambi- and bands throughout the day. ntcma.net or call 712-762- sweet treats for purchase. All ence of the Brucemore Visitor Prizes for Best Team Names 4363. money raised will go to Sioux- Center courtyard will be trans- and Best Costumes. Heats Aug. 29-Sept. 2 land’s Council on Sexual As- formed into a cabaret club with start at 8 a.m. and run every Sheldon Celebration Days, sault and Domestic Violence. tables, chairs, twinkling lights, half hour. Sheldon. For tickets or for more infor- and stars on the stage and in Visit slipperysaintsmudrun. It Sheldon’s annual Labor mation, call 712-277-0131 or the sky. com or call 641-423-3811. Day weekend evennt which visit safefromabuse.com. Christopher Johnstone, na- Aug. 10-11 includes a parade, children’s Aug. 8 tionally performing singer-ac- Wallingford Centennial Cel- rides, food booths, free enter- Evenings at the Bowl, New- tor, will take the stage the first ebration, Wallingford. tainment in the park, arts and ton. weekend. Career highlights in- Saturday events include a crafts, car show, fly-in pancake The City of Newton is once clude touring for South Pacific, tractor pull, softball and vol- breakfast, antique tractor dis- again hosting the “Evenings performing with the Boston lyball tournaments, childrens’ play and so much more. at the Bowl” concert series Pops, and holding recurring games, kiddy tractor pull, pet- Visit sheldoniowa.com or at Maytag Park. Each perfor- roles in All My Children. ting zoo, center stage enter- call 712-324-2813 mance will begin at 7:30 p.m. Space is limited; advance tainment, Firemen’s Supper Aug. 30 at the Maytag Park. tickets may be purchased by from 4 to 8 p.m. and a street ISU Alumni Friday, Ames. This week’s lineup is Duel- visiting www.brucemore.org or dance. 2nd Annual ISU Alumni Fri- ing Pianos. calling 319-362-7375. Sunday events include a day Afternoon in Campustown Call 641-792-1470 or visit Patrons are encouraged to tractor ride, church service, (or FAC) which is the official bring their favorite beverages beard judging contest, parade kick off of the 2013 ISU football newtongov.org. (no food). Parking available on at 1:30 p.m. followed by fire- Aug. 8-10 season with an outdoor beer the grounds. men’s water fights. garden, live music, outdoor Tug Fest, Le Claire. Aug 8-11 Historical display at Com- This is the only tug-of-war vendors and more. Cheer on Meskwaki Pow Wow, Tama. munity Center throughout the Cyclones as they prepare across the mighty Mississippi Native American events weekend. Call 712-867-4585 River. to take on the UNI Panthers on and championship dances on for more information. Saturday. The FAC will be from On Saturday from 12:30 the grounds West of Tama on Aug. 23-25 p.m. to 2:30 pm, barge traffic, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Welch Av- Highway E49. Visit meskwaki. White Eagle Multicultural enue in Campustown. pleasure boats and paddle- org or call 641-484-4678. Pow Wow, Waukee. boats yield the right of way Call 515-450-8771 or visit Aug. 8-18 At Hawkeye Antique Acres, amescampustown.com. to a 2,400-foot, 680 pound Iowa State Fair, Des the Midwest’s four races--red, rope that stretches between Moines. black, yellow and white--share

40 Plains Magazine Events Aug. 1-10 America’s best BBQ from ven- rjohnson@farmersnational. run courses with obstacles Lancaster County Super dors across the country and a com for more information. and mud pits at the Lancaster Fair, Lincoln. variety of live music. Aug. 10-11 Event Center. Tethered team Exhibits, entertainment, car- Call 402-441-8744 or visit 7 Cities Century Bike Ride, division, costume contest and nival and more at the Lancast- http://www.pershingcenter. Norfolk. post race party. er Event Center. com for more information. Enjoy a 100 mile bike ride The event is from 10 a.m.- Call 402-441-6545 or visit Aug. 8-13 through all of the seven cities 2 p.m. Admission is $30. Call http://www.superfair.org for Cuming County Fair, West of Madison County Nebraska. 402-471-2544 or visit http:// more information. Point. Call 402-454-3568 or visit www.nscevents.com/mudrun Aug. 6-10 Call 402-372-5877 or visit http://www.7citiescentury.com for more information. Cass County Fair, Weeping http://www.cumingcountyfair. for more details. Aug. 23- Sept. 2 Water. Call 402-298-8102 or com for more details. Aug. 11-18 Nebraska State Fair, Grand visit http://www.cassfair.com. Aug. 9-10 Chase County Fair, Impe- Island. Wednesdays in August Burton’s Bend Music Festi- rial. It is an 11-day event, built Beyond Bow (Becoming an val, Holbrook. Call 800-472-3247 or visit on 143 years of tradition. Outdoors Woman) Shotguns, A three-day, multi-genre http://www.chasecountyfair. Call 308-382-1620 or visit Louisville. music festival with local, re- com for more information. http://www.statefair.org for Admission is $5 per ses- gional and national perform- Aug. 17 more details. sion. Call 402-471-5547 or vis- ers. The festival is from 10 Nebraska State Fly-In, Alli- Aug. 31 it http://www.outdoornebraska. a.m.-10 p.m. each day. Admis- ance. Bill Seymour Half Marathon, org/education. sion is $11-$20. Call 903-467- Call 308-762-1520 or visit 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, Grand Aug. 7-11 9545 or visit http://www.bur- http://www.alliancechamber. Island. Keith County Fair, Ogallala. tonsbendmusicfestival.com for com for more details. An event for the entire fam- Entertainment, exhibits, car- more information. Aug. 17 ily at the Island Oasis Water nival, parade and more. Call Aug. 9-11 Angry Cow Adventure Run, Park starting at 7 a.m. 308-289-1706 or visit http:// Ponca Tribe Powwow, Nio- Fairbury. Call 308-395-9622 or visit www.keithcountyfair.com for brara. Call 402-729-6139 or visit http://www.giymca.org for more information. A celebration and sharing of http://www.angrycowadven- more information. Aug. 8-10 the culture from days gone by. tures.com for more informa- Aug. 31-Sept. 1 20th Annual Country Gos- Enjoy music, dance, costumes tion. 23rd Annual Kite Flight, Cal- pel Sing, Dewitt. and tradition at the grounds Aug. 17-18 laway. Community meal on Thurs- five miles southwest of Niobr- 30th Annual Antique and Open to professional and day followed by gospel singing ara at 88915 521st Ave. Collectors Show, Ayr. hobby flyers. Great family out- all three days. Call 402-857-3391 or visit Automotive, Crafts/quilts/ ing, sit back and enjoy the view Singing 5-10p.m., Thurs- http://www.poncatribe-ne.org antiques show about 10 miles from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fos- day; 1-10 p.m., Friday; 10 for more details. south of Hastings on Highways ter’s Field, Northeast Highway a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday. Aug. 10 281 and 74. 40 about four miles southeast Call 402-683-3635 or email Prairie Sludge Trudge, Call 402-469-4455 or email of Callaway. Admission is $2. [email protected] for Grand Island. [email protected] for more Call 308-836-2855 or visit more information. More mud, more bruises details. http://www.callawaykiteflight. Aug. 8 and more fun than last year Aug. 22-25 com for more information. Tour de Zoo, Omaha. starting at 8 a.m. at the Stuhr Omaha Pow Wow, Macy. Aug. 31 Bring your bike and ride Museum. Call 402-837-5391 for more Bluewater Blues Festival, Lewellen. through the zoo during this Call 308-385-5316 or visit details. Live bands, dinner and wine family-fun event from 6:30-*:30 http://www.stuhrmuseum.org Aug. 23-25 tastings at the 17 Ranch Win- p.m. Admission is $15-$20. for more information. Nebraska Antique Airplane ery from 5-11 p.m. Admission Dinner, refreshments and spe- Aug. 10 Association Fly-In, Minden. is $15. Call 308-778-5542 or cial animal encounters. Thunder Run, Lincoln. Historic and modern air- visit http://www.bluewaterfest. Call 402-738-2047 or visit Visit http://www.lincolnrun. planes gather at Pioneer Vil- com for more details. http://www.omahazoo.com. org/races/schedule for more lage Field. Aug. 8-10 details. Call 308-832-1181 or visit Aug. 31 Buffalo Cookout and Inter- Loup County Fair, Taylor. Aug. 10-11 http://www.pioneervillage.org pretive Program at Niobrara Annual county fair and rodeo. Red Willow Cutting Horse for more information. State Park, Niobrara. Call 308-942-6223 or visit Show, McCook. Aug. 24 The event starts at 5 p.m. http://www.taylornebraska. Performances are from Nebraska’s Original Mud A park permit is required and com. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Run, Lincoln. the meal is $6 to $9. Call 402- Aug. 8 -11 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. Admis- A spectator friendly event 857-3373 or visit http://www. Capital City Ribfest, Lincoln. sion is free. with 5k, 10k and 1-mile mud Street festival featuring Call 308-345-1240 or email outdoornebraska.ne.gov.

August 2013 41 S:7.875” S:10.5”

YOU JUST BLEW $ 10,000.

Buzzed. Busted. Broke. Get caught, and you could be paying around $10,000 in fines, legal fees and increased insurance rates.

Buzzed driving is drunk driving. buzzeddriving.adcouncil.org 42 Plains Magazine

200 Varick St. New York, NY 10014 : Phone 212-805-7500 ADC_GEN_P12836_A Client: AD COUNCIL WO: Ad Council- Buzzed Driving: Breathalyzer Full Pg. Mag PATh: M.P_MECHANICALS:Volumes:M.P_MECHANICALS:Ad Council:ADC:GEN:P12836:ADC_GEN_P12836_A

SPECS TEAM MEDIA / PRINT INFO COLORS L/S: None Creative: Katie Willmann None Pubs: None Cyan Magenta DOC SIZE: 7.875” x 10.5” Acct: Samantha Liang Media: Magazine Yellow FONTS B: None Prod/Traf: None Lynn Mathis Line Screen: None Black DIN Pro Bold G: None Studio: Kevin Tinsley Printed: 10-15-2012 3:59 PM @ None IMAGES ADC_Breath_Gradient_C_600.tif (CMYK; 113%; 530 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:AdCouncil:Breathalyzer:ADC_Breath_Gradient_C_600.tif) nhtsa_blk.eps (56.95%; SuperStudio:Logos:Ad Council:Ad Council:nhtsa_blk.eps) AClogo_blk.eps (27.53%; SuperStudio:Logos:Ad Council:Ad Council:AClogo_blk.eps) ADC_Breathalyzer_C_300_V5.tif (CMYK; 50.76%; 591 ppi; SuperStudio:ART:MNH:AdCouncil:Breathalyzer:ADC_Breathalyzer_C_300_V5.tif)