On Wednesday, March 5th the 88th North Dakota Winter Show kicks off with various events throughout the rest of the week.  With FREE admission you will have access to music, food, crafts, Cowboy Church and many displays.  Numerous ticketed events like PRC Rodeo performances, Ranch rodeo and horse pulls to name a few.  The weather forecast is extremely good for the week so get out and enjoy the Winter Show and the nice weather.

To enhance your mental health; relax to reduce stress, continue learning, invest time in nature, connect with others (call someone) and get quality rest. Blessings.

This week, March 3-7, Valley City’s Jefferson Elementary School is celebrating “Kindness Week”.  Themes to be commemorated daily throughout the week are “Sportsmanship Day”, “Brighten the World With Kindness Day”, “Be a Hero Day”, “Be Uniquely Kind Day” and end the week with “Self Love Day”.

The 69th North Dakota Legislative Session is ongoing.  You can track bills of interest at: https://ndlegis.gov/legislative-bill-tracking-system.  If you have questions or comments, you are encouraged to contact your District 24 Legislators.

March is “National Nutrition Month”.  While nutrition is important for all, we older folks will benefit greatly as well. We require fewer calories now though nutrient rich foods are extremely important for us.  A protein rich diet can help reduce the loss of muscle and strength!  Check with your doctor, City County Health, Barnes County Extension Office or the Valley City Barnes County Library for ideas that could work for you.

“Without referees, it is just a scrimmage”!  Give back to the sports you love, become an official.  Officiating is like playing and coaching, you get to “compete”.  Contact the North Dakota High School Activities Association (NDHSAA) at 701-845-3953.

Thank you to all who provide and proof material for this column.

~ Andy Rooney

Blessings, Pray, be Respectful and Grateful, Dave Carlsrud mayor of Valley City.