As Summer Winds Down…..By David Borlaug, President
8/6/2009

The past several weeks have passed by in a blur, as Summer 2009 begins to fade into the looming school year—which seems to come earlier and earlier. Many of us try to make the most of these precious summer days, and especially weekends, and we’ve been offering a little extra something for you at Fort Mandan. Our annual Fahlgren Pioneer Day and Rhubarb Festival was another big hit this year. Live entertainment under the picnic shelter with a soothing breeze coming in off the Missouri River followed by tasty rhubarb treats made for a perfect summer afternoon. Our Fort Mandan Pet Walk was the largest ever, with around 40 pooches of all shapes and sizes (sort of like their owners!) reveling in the shady trails under the cottonwoods at Fort Mandan. Folks came from Bismarck, Minot and points more distant than that. And this past weekend, we had a real family fun treat offered, our annual Watermelon Feed. Local musical talent was a big hit and who can pass up watermelon on a hot Sunday afternoon? All of this is “added value” for our members, who get free admission to the Interpretive Center and Fort Mandan all year long. It’s on top of the opportunity to experience world-class exhibits at the Center and the living history found at Fort Mandan. As summer winds down, we’ll be offering other opportunities in the fall and winter months. Keep watching the Leader News or the Foundation’s newsletter, The Wintering Post, for more information. While we work hard to enrich the lives of those who visit, we also know how to have a little fun every now and then too! Enjoy the remaining weeks of summer, and keep us in mind for a visit soon!