Jamestown (CSi)  Visitor attendance at the National Buffalo Museum in Jamestown, May-August this year (2017) increased 115 percent from the same period in 2016.

On Tuesday’s Wayne Byers Show on CSi Cable 2, Jamestown Tourism Director, Searle Swedlund said during the same time frame, the Museum’s gift shop sales were up substantially.

He pointed out the many improvements at the Museum, including the video viewing room with the production outlining the history of the bison, and its role in Native American history.

The now preserved Albino Buffalo, White Cloud is now in a see-though display case, allowing visitors to see her in a 360 degree presentation.

Also on our show Swedlund said the Tourism Board has established a Task Force reviewing efforts to attract more athletic games to Jamestown, working with the Jamestown Civic Center, using that venue and the Newman Arena at the University of Jamestown, and the new Two Rivers Activity Center (TRAC) in Jamestown to host the games and events.

Swedlund added that on October 19th the Grant/Executive Board will review this round of requests for dollars from the City Promotion Construction Fund, grants.

He said four entities have made requests.   The next round of requests are due on March 1, 2018.

He pointed out that Jamestown will host the annual Pride of Dakota event on October 21, and 22, 2017 at the Jamestown Civic Center, with items for sale that are produced in North Dakota, on the 21at from 9-a.m., to 5-p.m., and Sunday the 22nd from 11-a.m., to 4-p.m.

It’s promoted as North Dakota’s premier local business shopping event.

Admission is $2, however, bring a fresh produce product donation and save $1, and bring your own reusable cloth bag and save another dollar.

Swedlund said that the 2018 Drag Races will be earlier on May 19, and 20th, due to the planned runway projects at Jamestown Regional Airport.

Coming up is the Roughrider Rodeo Association rodeo with national competitors on October 27-29, 2017 at the Jamestown Civic Center.

He pointed out that two kiosks are being installed on the bike trails at Overlook Trail and the Pipestem Creek Trail.  In addition to the elaborate signage, provided by Roughrider Signs, the kiosks also contain informational items.