“From its hard-working people to its scenic beauty, North Dakota is a great place for people to live, work, and play. North Dakota Realized is showcasing the great qualities of our state, and I wish them success in helping to exhibit what North Dakota offers.” Byron Dorgan |
“In North Dakota, we’re blessed with natural beauty that complements the friendly, hard-working, hospitable people who make this state their home. They are the ones who make North Dakota such a great place to live. North Dakota Realized introduces visitors to the people and culture I am honored to represent.” Kent Conrad |
“I’m impressed to learn that two young leaders are creating a visual celebration of the strengths of our great state. North Dakota Realized is a positive photo project worthy of the support and encouragement of every North Dakota citizen.” Dr. Wayne G. Sanstead |
“North Dakota is rated at the top by the Beacon Hill Institute’s Business Competitive Index. We will continue to meet the challenges that come our way because of people like Kevin and Mark who are showcasing North Dakota people and their productivity to show us the way!” Ed Schafer |
Excellent! Great job guys. As a temporarily displaced North Dakotan, I am excited about seeing the website grow and more great photo’s and stories added. Oh, and Tom is a great talent. Love it.
Way to go! anything to help the homeless and the hungry…I cook with local shelters and this is most likely where the bulk of the food comes from. Nice work.
My own father was reluctant to talk about his experiences as a Marine in the south Pacific during WWII. I remember times when he would be laid up with “the chills”…a lingering manifestation of the malaria he had contracted on one of those tropical islands. The memories that must have been brought to bear during those episodes were never shared with us.
Christine – you are so much more talented than anyone could ever know, no matter how long they’ve been in your company; you will still surprise them with something else that comes naturally to you. These are truly beautiful, fun and thoughtful words directly from your heart to our lives.
Thank you.
Very proud of you…I have not read these yet and like them. Good job and thanks to Kevin for giving a spotlight to a star
It was after my own service in the military and after I had served as Commander in my local American Legion Post that I was allowed to hear some of the stories that both Mom & Dad told about their WW11 experiences. They were just as harrowing as some of the ones I have chronicled from a Coast Watcher in the Philipines, a Navy enlisted on the California at Pearl and a starboard side gunnery officer from a WW11 Navy Ship. Jim & Vivian Garvey are my parents and I’m proud of them.
This was our son Clint’s second year attending this school. He came away with more that a few new techniques to try out. Curt and Wade teach the students in such a way that when they leave the 3 day school they are ready to go to work. And work he did! Clint sheared near 3000 sheep in his first year. We’d like to take this opportunity to let the people who organize this school know how much they are appreciated.
Kevin – you did an excellent job covering this event!!! The photography is exceptional, great videos, and the article is very well written!! Thank you so much for getting this information out.
This is about more than shearing sheep. What needs to be ‘realized’ is that as a nation, we need to strive to be more self sufficient. Our young people need to learn and appreciate the value of work. To depend on others to do our work for us only produces a weak, needy people.
It was encouraging to see the number of students double from last year. Proof – there are still people out there who aren’t afraid of hard work! Thank you!!
Dave, Shelly & Clint,
Your comment about self-sufficiency is an excellent point. While we can’t all learn every trade, it is important that our nation doesn’t lose these skills. I know I have more than a few pieces of wool clothing that keep me warm during the North Dakota winters!
Thanks for your comments!
Kevin Tobosa
Kevin – our hearts go out to you and your family on news of your father’s passing. I’m honored to have had the opportunity to speak with him and your mother. Both were bright, interesting people who sacrificed much for the security of our country and our way of life.
LOVE this song so much.
One of my personal favorites!
This is truly a wonderful website, making me so glad to be part of North Dakota. thank you!
I’ve always loved your music, Brooks! it’s wide-openness reminds me of the vast nd plains. it’s great to listen to the evolution of your music. savor the roller coaster tummy-tingling thrills & depths of “the motion.” enjoy “the freedom of your selfish solitude.” you are always connected. ND will always be here for you. we love you. keep writing!
I love the idea of spotlighting the creative side of North Dakota. Anything that emphasizes its beauty, especially the artistic sense of place and people is in the A+ category for me… and it definitely reflects the North Dakota I imagine.
Your excerpt is quite poignant. I enjoyed hearing the dichotomy of yearning for home and branching out for new ground. I think that everyone who leaves home for college feels this. I know this was my experience also.
I really enjoyed the excerpt!
Wow, this “Last Daughter” is a doozy. brings up the tears
Great photos Kevin. I love taking guests out to see flocks of geese migrating through North Dakota. Most only get to see the smaller flocks of Canadian geese in local communities. They are always amazed at the size of snow geese flocks. Even the smaller flocks are impressive. Thanks for sharing!
You are a lake girl I know Christine! Love it and thanks for sharing…