Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Board Member Gretchen Stenehjem
Living in McKenzie County
Join us in this episode as we welcome Gretchen Stenehjem, a board member of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, to discuss the groundbreaking developments and anticipated benefits of the new presidential library in western North Dakota. Hosted by Doug Bolken from McKenzie County Tourism, this conversation covers Gretchen's role and contributions, the unique architectural design by Snohetta, the library's experiential features, and its impact on Watford City and surrounding areas. Discover how this remarkable addition, set to open on July 4th, aligns with North Dakota's rich history...
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The Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health Needs YOU on Giving Tuesday!
Living in McKenzie County
The Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health is on a mission to enhance McKenzie Health’s services and care for patients and customers through fundraising and advocacy, but they can't do it alone. Join The President of The Benefit Fund & McKenzie Health Chief of Marketing Lynn Welker-Fevold and host Vawnita Best as they discuss a crucial day for The Benefit Fund: Giving Tuesday on December 2nd, 2025. This coordinated day of giving plays a major role in making big goals attainable. From a dining room expansion, to a transportation vehicle for The Good Shepherd Home, every dollar committed goes...
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McKenzie Health: Oncology, Peds & Cardio Care Close to Home
Living in McKenzie County
Our latest episode of Living in McKenzie County finds us diving into the realm of rural healthcare with Cardiologist Dr. Richard Howard, Oncologist Dr. Chad Pedersen, and Pediatrician Dr. Goodnight from McKenzie Health. Our discussion spans the importance of providing specialized medical care in rural areas, the challenges and rewards of practicing medicine away from urban centers, and the collaborative efforts to build comprehensive healthcare services in McKenzie County. Tune in for insights on cardiology, oncology, pediatrics, and the vision driving rural healthcare advancements in this...
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Cory Hepola Comes to OUR Town for My Town!
Living in McKenzie County
Join us for a special episode of 'Living in McKenzie County' featuring Cory Hepola from the My Town documentary series. In this episode, recorded during Cory's time filming the Watford City episode in May of 2025, we delve into the unique aspects of rural life, the misconceptions about small towns, and the vibrant community spirit in Watford City and McKenzie County. Highlights include Cory's experiences with local families, branding events, and mountain biking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We also discuss the critical role of McKenzie Health and the regional healthcare system,...
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All About The McKenzie County Ag Expo!
Living in McKenzie County
In this episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, we delve into the McKenzie County Ag Expo, exploring its history, significance, and impact on the community. Join us for a lively discussion with special guests: Jess Hollenbeck from Lund Oil, Chris Kubal – Ag Expo Director and Foundation Director, and Howdy Lawlar – County Commission Chairman and Foundation President. We cover a wide array of topics, from the origins of the Ag Expo, community support, employee attraction, and retention, to the various events and programs hosted at the facility. Whether you're interested in...
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Impacting Lives with The Long X Arts Foundation
Living in McKenzie County
Join Long X Arts Director & Co-Founder Jessie Veeder Scofield and a tremendous panel of guests for an in-depth look at the work of The Long X Arts Foundation on the latest episode of 'Living in McKenzie County.' Jessie is joined by founding member and longtime resident Jan Dodge, current Board President Brooke Braunberg, and new education & outreach director Oksana Zvyagelskiy. They discuss their roles in promoting arts and culture in the region, the foundation's impact since its inception in 2016, and their vision for the future. From community art classes and cultural fairs to...
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Wild West Weekend in Watford City!
Living in McKenzie County
Join us for an exciting episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast as we dive into the vibrant cowboy culture and upcoming Wild West Rodeo Weekend in McKenzie County. Hosted by Vawnita Best, this episode features including Stan Headings from the McKenzie County Cowboys Association, high school rodeo competitor Kally Sorenson, and Jessie Veeder Scofield, representing the Long X Arts Foundation. Hear about the NDRA State Finals, the importance of rodeo in the community, and a special preview of the Wild West Weekend filled with art, music, and family-friendly activities. Perfect for rodeo...
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The McKenzie County Heritage Park
Living in McKenzie County
Welcome back for Season 2 of The Living in McKenzie County podcast! In today's episode, we dive into all things McKenzie County Heritage Park with special guests Heather and Bekah. We discuss their personal connections to the park, its rich history, and the exciting events it hosts, including the highly anticipated Heritage Day. Heather, who followed in her mother's footsteps to work at the park, and Bekah, who has deep roots in the county, share their favorite buildings and activities. Learn about the park's unique features, such as various historical buildings, hands-on activities, and...
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The Watford City Booster Club
Living in McKenzie County
Join us as we discuss the exciting formation of the Watford City High School and Middle School Activities Booster Club. Meet the ultimate team members, including PE teacher and Watford City Boy's Basketball head coach Justin Hager, literacy coach and longtime educator Pam Moen, and community member & business leader Angie Pelton. Learn about the club's mission to enhance community engagement and student participation through financial support and organizing events. Discover more about the upcoming golf scramble fundraiser on August 12th and how you can get involved! #McKenzieCounty...
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The Watford City Police Department & National Night Out
Living in McKenzie County
In this episode of Living in McKenzie County, join host Vawnita Best and representatives from the Watford City Police Department, Officer Jeffrey Jensen and Chief Jesse Wellen, as they discuss their personal experiences, the department's mission, and the various programs they support. The episode covers the importance of community policing, the role of School Resource Officers (SROs), and the impactful initiatives like the Watford City Police Foundation and Blue Santa program. Learn about the upcoming National Night Out event on August 5th, 2025, and how it's designed to bridge the gap between...
info_outlineWelcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast! This episode dives into the excitement of the upcoming 2025 McKenzie County Fair, themed 'Mardi Gras.'
As we gear up for fair week, host Vawnita Best gets together with several guests, including Cassie Haak, Dylan Cargo, and Shantell Jepson, who share their experiences and roles in the 4-H community. Listen as they talk about the importance of county fairs in North Dakota, reminisce about past fairs, and outline all the amazing events coming up—from livestock shows to grandstand spectacles like the ranch rodeo, demolition derby, and NDRA rodeo.
Whether you’re a fair veteran or a first-timer, we cover everything families in McKenzie County need to know to make the most of this exciting week. Tune in to get all the details, including the highlights of the premium livestock sale, showmanship competitions, and the fun-filled parade. Don’t miss out on the biggest event of the year in McKenzie County!
2025 McKenzie County Fair Exhibits & Exhibitors BY THE NUMBERS!
- 329 Participants
- 913 Projects
- 144 4-H Members Showing Livestock
- 89 Steers
- 24 Goats
- 31 Sheep
- 64 Pigs
- 4 Rabbits
- 5 Poultry
- 14 Horse Showmen
314 Livestock Lots
- 102 Beef Lots
- 44 Goat Lots
- 54 Sheep Lots
- 80 Swine Lots
- 20 Rabbit Lots
- 14 Poultry Lots
00:00 Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast
00:40 Meet the Guests: Former and Current 4-H Members
01:41 Cassie Haak: A 4-H Mom and Leader
02:49 Dylan Cargo: Junior Leader and Cattle Enthusiast
04:34 Shantell Jepson: Family Consumer Wellness Agent
05:31 Planning for the McKenzie County Fair
06:45 4-H Projects: From Livestock to Woodworking
11:18 The Importance of Interview Judging
12:29 Memories of the Old Fairgrounds
18:33 Excitement for the 2025 McKenzie County Fair
22:29 Exciting Events to Look Forward to at the Fair
23:07 Grandstand Highlights and Fair Board Appreciation
24:26 Favorite Fair Foods and Morning Routines
26:14 4-H Livestock Show and Parade Day
28:37 FFA Livestock Show and Farm Olympics
31:48 Showmanship Day
36:29 Community Spirit and Fair Etiquette
40:34 Final Thoughts and Fair Dates
2025 McKenzie County Fair 4H Exhibit Entry Book: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-2Je-6Mo6Een_lNdR-7ypwhRhmfNfG4r
Fair Lineup & Venue Information: https://www.mcagexpo.com/events