701 Rundown: Feb. 19, 2024

Here’s your weekly rundown of some of the most interesting headlines from newspapers across North Dakota.

CBSA border officers make largest seizure of narcotics in region's history

Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) officers discovered and seized 406.2 kg of suspected methamphetamine, approximately four million illicit doses valued at over $50,780,000, following the examination of a commercial truck at the Boissevain port of entry in south Manitoba on January 14.

This is the largest seizure of illegal narcotics to occur in the Prairie Region.

The driver was carrying a shipment destined for Winnipeg. The driver was arrested by the CBSA and transferred to the Manitoba RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) along with the suspected narcotics.

The driver of the truck has been charged with the following offenses:

• Importation of methamphetamine contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and

• Possession of a Controlled Substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

“This is the largest seizure of narcotics our border officers have ever made in the Prairies,” said Janalee Bell-Boychuck, regional director general Prairie Region, CBSA. “Thanks to their quick and decisive action, more than 400 kg of methamphetamine were kept off the streets.”

(Story from the Bottineau Courant)

Touching lives… one smile at a time

Even without the use of language, Alex VanRay can "say" more with a smile, hug and an exuberant yell than one could possibly imagine.

The 18-year-old son of Matt and Jane VanRay of rural Pingree can't help being the gifted dispenser of joy that he is.

"Whether it's at a ball game, at church or at the grocery store, Alex seems to seek people out and give them a wave, laugh or big hug," says Jane, his mom. "It seems like so many people know Alex and help look out for him."

Alex lives with a condition called Angelman Syndrome (AS), which is named for a British pediatrician, Harry Angelman, who first described the syndrome's symptoms in 1965.

As occurs in one in every 12,000-20,000 births, according to studies published by the National Institutes of Health. It is caused by a faulty gene called UBE3A on the mother's side, which is responsible for brain development, speech and learning.

While signs vary from person to person, those diagnosed with AS consistently display the following symptoms:

• Functionally severe developmental delays

• Speech impairment, with little to no use of words

• Lack of balance, or ataxia (gait abnormality), and;

• An atypically happy personality with frequent laughter and/or smiling, easily excitable, and short attention span.

So, one could say the joy he brings to people comes naturally.

"Alex was always considered to be the happiest kid around," says Jane. "As a baby, he never cried. He was so content playing wherever he was, and he still has one of the most infectious smiles and laughs."

This spring, Alex will walk the stage as a member of the Class of 2024 at Carrington High School, but he will remain in the school district until the age of 21.

"He's developed a special relationship with his classmates," Jane said. "We're still navigating as to what is the best plan for Alex, as one day he'll be moving to a different place of residence."

"We know he'll need a lot of support along the way, and when the time is right, he will let us know."

(Story by Erik Gjovik, The Foster County Independent)

Traill County patrol car hit by driver on Interstate 29

A Bemidji, Minn., man has been charged with driving under the influence after his vehicle struck a Traill County Sheriff’s Department patrol vehicle.

Body Cota, 24, was driving a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe in the southbound lane of Interstate 29 when his SUV struck an unoccupied 2022 Ford Explorer about two miles south of Buxton, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol.

The Highway Patrol reported that the Traill County patrol car was parked with its emergency lights activated to warn motorists of an emergency scene while authorities responded to a one-vehicle rollover in the area.

Cota failed to take precautions as he neared the emergency scene and his vehicle struck the rear of the Ford Explorer, according to the Highway Patrol.

Cota sustained only minor injuries in the collision and no first responders were injured.

(Story by Cole Short, Hillsboro Banner)

Carnival secured for Wells County Fair

Still months away, the 2024 Wells County Fair lineup is taking shape and promises an assortment of new and traditional attractions and entertainment.

The Wells County Fair Board met on Feb. 6 and reviewed its contract with Midway West Amusements out of Arizona.

The June 20-23 fair will include 12 carnival rides, in addition to several inflatable games for the kids.

“The bouncy rides were a big hit with the younger kids last year,” said Joleen Swang, who chairs the board.

The carnival will be open from 4 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, 12 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 12 to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Amid the new events, attendees will find many familiar activities, such as the dunking booth, many food vendors, a 5K run and the traditional Saturday morning parade.

The racing pigs are expected to return, and the Kid Zone will be loaded with hands-on activities for young children to explore.

There will also be a petting zoo and a kids’ tractor pull, as well as the free stage, Sunday’s Gospel and the Rhubarb Fest.

The fair board is also trying to secure a few other features, such as someone who can demonstrate glass blowing, and, possibly, a car show/snowmobile show.

(Story by Anne Ehni, The Herald-Press)