Easy Holiday Treats To Wow Your Friends

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Christmas is finally here and there are bound to be parties for you to attend. So don your ironic ugly sweaters and grab something delicious to offer up to the host. Oh, wait. What are you going to cook? You didn’t have anything in mind. Don’t worry, we have you covered. When you’re headed to those parties this week, make sure you have one of these dishes in hand.

A spiral cake is a delicious holiday treat that a lot of people tend to overlook but this recipe from Roxana’s Home Baking will change their minds. Here’s what you’ll need to create the vanilla roll cake:

• 2 eggs
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (30 grams) sifted cake flour
• 3 tablespoons (30 grams) cornstarch
• 1/4 cup red & green Wilton batter bits or edible confetti
• 2 egg whites
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 3 cups (360 grams) powdered sugar
• 3-4 tbsp red & green sprinkles
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-3 teaspoons heavy cream
• 4 oz white chocolate
• red & green sprinkles

1. Crank the oven to 450F to get it ready and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl add 2 eggs, 3 egg yolks and ½ cup of sugar. Beat this mixture on medium to high speed for 5 minutes or until pale in color and thickened. Add the dash of vanilla extract and beat for a few extra seconds to mix it in.
3. Put the flour and cornstarch over the egg yolk mixture and using a spatula, gently fold it and the batter bits into the mixture.
4. Sift the flour and the cornstarch over the egg yolks mixture and with a spatula gently fold it in.
5. In a separate grease-free bowl, add 2 egg whites and a tablespoon of sugar and whip it with a whisk until firm peaks form.
6. With the spatula, fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolks mixture.
7. Spread the cake batter evenly into the pan and bake for 6-7 minutes or until golden brown. It should spring back when touched.
8. As soon as you remove the cake from the oven sprinkle with powder sugar and then invert the cake onto a clean dish towel. Remove the parchment paper, sprinkle with more powder sugar, and roll up the cake with the towel. Place on a wire rack to cool
9. For the vanilla buttercream, add butter into a clean bowl and whip the butter for 2-3 minutes on medium to high speed. Lower the speed and slowly add in the sugar, adding in only about ½ a cup at a time.
10. When you’ve put all of the sugar into the mixture, increase the mixer speed and whip for about 2 more minutes.
11. Add a few drops of heavy cream to alter the consistency to your preferences. Using a spatula, fold in the sprinks.
12. Gently unroll the cake and spread buttercream evenly around it. Then, roll it back up and place it in the fridge for a couple of hours.
13. Serve your vanilla roll cake with melted white chocolate drizzled over it and sprinkles dashed on top.

Red velvet is never a bad choice but it’s an especially perfect choice during the holidays. The color is holiday appropriate and the taste is life altering. Check out this recipe from Dessert for Two to figure out what you’ll need:

• ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon flour
• 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup canola oil
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1 egg white
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon white vinegar
• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 12 oz. almond bark (or white chocolate), for coating

1. In a cupcake tin, place 4 cupcake liners on the outside edge.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, beat together the canola oil, sugar, buttermilk, egg white, red dye, vinegar, and vanilla using an electric mixer.
4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing all the while. Divide the batter between the four cupcake liners and bake at 350° for 20-22 minutes until a cake tester comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
5. When cool, crumble the cupcakes into crumbs. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Add the crumbs and stir very well. Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture into your hands and then roll into balls. Place the balls on a plate and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
6. To make the coating, chop the almond bark into 1" chunks and place in a bowl. Heat on medium power in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted. Dip each ball into the coating quickly, using a fork to turn, then let them dry on a piece of wax paper. Can be made 3 days ahead of time and stored in the fridge.

Christmas parties might feel stressful but with treats like these, they won’t seem all that bad. The hosts will welcome you with open arms if you come bearing these delicious snacks.

Do you have a go-to treat at parties? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Ho-Ho-How to Throw the Best Holiday Party

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With all of the holidays coming up, you might be considering hosting a party! It’s the perfect opportunity to invite your friends that you might not see during the holiday rush. Get them all together in our beautiful clubhouse to enjoy some cocktails before heading up to your apartment for the real party. Here are some tips for throwing the best holiday party.

Yum. You can’t have a holiday party without delicious finger foods. If you’re not feeling quite ready to be a full grown up yet, take it back to your roots with an adult spin on a kid classic: mac and cheese bites. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb Macaroni
• 2 (8 oz) Packages of Sharp Cheddar Cheese Chunk
• 1 1/4 cup Milk
• 1/2 cup Flour
• 1/4 cup Butter
• 2 Eggs
• 3 cup Seasoned Bread Crumbs
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• Vegetable Oil

1. Cook up the macaroni until it’s nice and tender then drain it and set it aside. While that’s boiling you can shred the cheese up and put that aside too. 
2. In a big pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Add in flour and mix it until it gets to be a light brown color. Add in 1 cup of milk and whisk that all up until it’s nice and thick.
3. Start adding in the cheese one handful at a time. Mix that up until the cheese is all melted and smooth.
4. Add in the macaroni and mix until the noodles are coated with the melted cheese. Add in some salt and pepper.
5. Refrigerate for about an hour or until they’re cold.
6. Line a baking sheet with wax/parchment paper and form the macaroni and cheese into small 1” balls to line up on the pan. Then, pop them in the freezer for an hour.
7. Beat eggs and ¼ cup of milk in a bowl and start dipping the mac and cheese balls into the mixture. After dipping in the egg mixture, coat them in bread crumbs. 
8. If you have a deep fryer, pop them in for about 3-4 minutes. If you don’t, fill a skillet about ½-¾ of an inch deep and heat over medium high heat for 3-4 minutes. Drain and you’re done!

For more amazing and delicious recipes, check out Thrifty Jinxy.

Signature Sips. If you want to make a party truly memorable, you might want to consider having a signature cocktail at the party. You’ll really impress guests if you can make it off the top of your head without looking at a recipe! We recommend a sparkling apple cider sangria; perfect for the holidays. Here’s what you’ll need to make it happen:

• 1 750 ml bottle (standard) champagne or Prosecco
• 2 1/2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup club soda
• 1/2 cup Disaronno
• 2 apples, sliced
• cinnamon sticks, for garnish

For the full concoction you can check out Pizzazzerie’s blog. A signature cocktail at a party will not only make the drink stand out in your guests minds but also the party as a whole. “Hey, remember that party we went to where they had that amazing apple cider sangria? That was a cool party!” Don’t you want people to have that reaction to your party? We thought so.

Snacks! Take the party to another level with a chocolate fondue station. Melt up some chocolate and lay out some delicious holiday favorites like marshmallows, candy canes, gingerbread men, shortbread cookies and pretzels. Your guests will eat it up, literally!


Do you have any tips and recipes for a holiday party? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Friendsgiving Done Right

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Thanksgiving is typically a family holiday. The whole extended family crammed into one house to eat dinner, watch the parade and watch the football game, it could get a little cramped. You might not make time for your friends for the holiday. This year, start a new tradition and host a Friendsgiving party! Pick a weekend evening and gather your closest pals for a night of bonding and feasting.

Plan Ahead. Don’t try to wing it at the last minute. Take the pressure off of the host/hostess and make it a potluck. Designate dishes to every guest so that the host isn’t stuck cooking everything. A good rule to go by is that the host is in charge of the turkey and the gravy. Everyone else should handle everything else. But don’t leave it to the last moment. Make a spreadsheet and share it around so everyone can pick their dish.

Take the Party Outside. Instead of cramming all of your friends into your apartment, why not take them out instead? There won’t be many restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day but if you’re Friendsgiving feast isn’t on the holiday, you’re safe. Since Friendsgiving is a non-traditional holiday, it’s only fitting that you should have a non-traditional dinner. Why not feast at Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse? Try some delicious sushi and hibachi with all of your friends. Make sure to get the green tea flavored ice cream for dessert. The Little Missouri Grille is a great place to find everything from burgers and steaks to omelettes and breakfast burritos. Outlaws Bar & Grille is also a great place to find tons of different dishes. Get the best of both worlds with Surf and Turf or try something a little different with a gemelli pasta. They have tons of great dishes that definitely won’t disappoint.

Drinks. Friends coming together usually means having some drinks. Make it easier by taking everyone out to the bar. City Bar is a perfect option with great cocktails and drink specials. Take out two birds with one stone and head to Outlaws Bar & Grille for dinner and drinks. You won’t be disappointed by the dinner or the drinks! You’ll be able to manage your rowdy friends a little better with a few drinks yourself. Maybe. Don’t quote us on that.

Do you host a Friendsgiving dinner for your pals? What are your tips and tricks for making it the most fun? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter.

Alternative Thanksgiving Activities

Image courtesy of Satya Murthy - Flickr

Halloween might be over but Thanksgiving is coming up at the end of the month. The holiday is great for bringing friends and family together for a huge meal. Everyone talks and laughs and reminisces about old memories; it’s a great bonding experience! However, not all of us have family in the area that we can join up with for a big meal. Also, not everyone has the ability to cook up a big meal, whether it be from lack of cooking skills, or lack of funds. There are plenty of other things you can do besides stuff your face with turkey and cranberry sauce.

Take A Hike. Now that it’s the fall season, the trees are transforming and blooming with colors. The North Dakota scenery is a sight to behold. Taking a walk is a great way to let off some steam while getting a little exercise. Taking a walk is basically the opposite of eating a big Thanksgiving dinner! A great way to find walking and biking trails is through Map My Ride. You can find trails designed by other people who frequent the trails whether on foot or on two wheels. Theodore Roosevelt National Park has some beautiful trails and scenery to take in. Patterson Lake also has the most beautiful views. You won’t regret heading out to these scenic locales on Thanksgiving.

Go Catch a Movie. A lot of great movies come out during the holidays and specifically on Thanksgiving. It can be a lot of fun to head out instead of staying in and watching football or the parade. Luckily, Six Shooters has what you need and it’s nearby. This year on Thanksgiving, Pixar’s The Good Dinosaur will be in theaters. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring the kids and get the whole family together for an outing to the movie theater. Popcorn is your turkey and the butter is your gravy! You’ll enjoy the holiday together without the stress of preparing a meal.

Say Thank You. You don’t have to go all out for the holiday. Sometimes the best things are the simplest things. Remember the reason for the holiday: being thankful. Say it! Think of the people in your life that you are thankful for and tell them. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. All you need to do is say thank you even if that’s the only thing you do on Thanksgiving.


Do you have any unique Thanksgiving traditions? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter!

Living With Neighbors: How to Go Above and Beyond

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Living in an apartment has its own set of challenges. Being in such close proximity to other people can lend to some annoyances that you wouldn’t have otherwise. Loud noises, strange smells, dirty common areas, these are only a few of the things you’ll encounter when living in an apartment. The major rule is to be respectful. Treat others the way that you would want to be treated and you’ll probably be behaving appropriately.

Start small. Be aware of the noise pollution you’re putting out into the apartment. Cooking dinner and thinking of blasting some music? Think of how you would react to hearing your neighbor’s tunes blaring through the walls. Keep it down a notch. By being cognizant of the noise in your apartment you can cut down on the annoyance of your neighbors. Being respectful towards them could come back to you. They might decide to keep their music lower the next time they’re listening to their music.

Imagine walking into your favorite coffee place, (Main Street Grind, anyone?) and looking in front of you to see a line stretching almost to infinity! Doesn’t look like you’re getting your coffee anytime soon, does it? Now imagine looking behind you in line and seeing your neighbor. Wouldn’t it be nice to grab them a coffee? Buying their coffee for them will save them time and help them get where they’re going faster. It could also earn you a new friend! Learn your neighbor’s coffee order and they might just repay the favor the next time they turn around and see you at the end of the line. They’ll turn around from the counter with their coffee and your steaming hot pumpkin latte. That’s enough to create a budding friendship!

There’s no faster way to a person’s heart than through their stomach. When you want to treat your neighbor to something, why not dinner? Burgerrito’s in Watford City is the perfect place to treat them. Take them to a delicious lunch at Burgeritto’s! We recommend the Chipotle Burger. Your neighbor and your stomach will thank us later.

Outdoors in North Dakota

Autumn is the perfect time for enjoying the outdoors and you couldn’t ask for a more perfect place than North Dakota to do it in. Once the leaves start their transformation from their summer greens into their warmer oranges, reds and yellows, there’s no better place to be than outside, soaking it all in. Living in Watford City lends to having so many places to camp! Grab your tent, flannels and thermos and head out into the wilderness to do some exploring of some of these beautiful places. Even if you don’t camp out there, these places are amazing to see in person!

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is the shining glory of national parks. Located about 20 minutes away from the Glen at Hunter’s Run, the park offers many places for setting up shop to camp out. Try your hand at canoeing or kayaking, or maybe a self-guided hiking tour or the nature trails. The shady cottonwood trees provide coverage from the sunshine during the summer months for your sleeping bag or tent. If you’d prefer to be a little more adventurous, you can brave the backcountry on foot or on horseback. But be prepared, as there are no cleared camping spaces.

Located within the Little Missouri National Grassland is the Maah Daah Hey Trail. The long trail winds its way through the badlands and around sprawling prairie lands. The trail is open to hikers, bikers and horseback riders so take your pick for your mode of transportation. While you’re there you may encounter a number of different animals. Roaming the lands are coyotes and mule deer as well as bighorn sheep and elk. There are 4 fenced camping areas allocated to campers so if you like it enough, you can stay! The Maah Daah Hey Trail is a bit of a trek from our home at the Glen at Hunter’s Run but the views make the hour and a half drive well worth it!

We are so lucky to live in a beautiful place such as North Dakota. There are so many gorgeous scenic spots in our state and with the fall season here, this is the perfect time to get out and see them. With the changing leaves and the crisper air, you won’t regret heading out to visit these lovely locales.

Find Yourself At Home at The Glen at Hunter's Run

Here at the Glen at Hunter’s Run, you’ll find yourself at home. Our comfortable residences offer luxury while still feeling like home the moment you step foot inside. Every single one of our apartments is up to date and made to suit your needs. We offer multiple floor plans and we’re sure you’ll find one that you’ll fall in love with!

Our different floor plans are crafted with your comfort in mind. We have one bedrooms with one bathroom, two bedrooms with two bathrooms and three bedrooms with three bathrooms. You can check on the availability of each of these here. Each of these floor plans comes in multiple configurations so check each one to find the one that’s right for you!

Each of our beautiful apartments comes equipped with a private garage, a business center and a well equipped fitness center. Our clubhouse is a great place to kick back and enjoy the company of your neighbors in comfort. Each apartment has its own washing and drying units, a private balcony to enjoy the view and basic kitchen appliances. The best aspect of the Glen at Hunter’s Run is that we’re pet friendly! You can adopt a dog or cat and they can live happily with you at the Glen too!

The Glen at Hunter’s Run is located in the heart of Watford City. Nearby, you’ll find everything you could need, right at your fingertips. The Glen is located just around the corner from the Watford City Golf Course so when the weather’s nice you can head on over and schedule some tee time. A little displaced in ND you’ll find the Little Missouri Grille. Taco John’s is great to stop at on Taco Tuesdays. And don’t forget Outlaws’ which cooks up some of the best steaks you’ll ever find.

McKenzie County Farmer and Tractor Supply Co. are here for all of your farming needs. When you’re ready to take your apartment to the next level, Do It Best is nearby for all of your home improvement needs. You can’t forget about Meyer’s Department Store for all of your clothing needs.

If you’re moving to Watford City or you’re already here and shopping around for a new home sweet home, look no further than the Glen at Hunter’s Run. The Glen has everything you could need and is in prime location to enjoy everything that Watford City has to offer. We’re pet friendly here and we know your pets will enjoy their home here just as much as you will. For more information on the Glen at Hunter’s Run and to see the available apartments head to our website. We hope to see you soon!

Labor Day Weekend at Old Settlers' Day

Image courtesy Pixabay

As much as we love the Summer weather, the time has come to put away the white pants and sandals, and unpack and sweaters. Although Fall doesn't officially start until September 23, Labor Day weekend has come to signify Summer's unofficial send-off. If you are searching for some fun ways to end the season, look no further than the neighboring town of Alexander, who is celebrating its 70th annual Old Settlers' Day tradition this Labor Day weekend!

For the past 70 years (with the exception of 1950), the Alexander Old Settlers' Day celebration has been held on the first Saturday in September, but it has since grown into a days-long celebration. This year's Old Settlers' Day festivities begin tomorrow, September 3, and run through Sunday, September 6. Activities to look forward to include a chili cook-off, parade, and barbecue, just to list a few. At the first celebration, the Burns family donated meat for the community feed, and modeled after this act, each year a family is honored during the celebration, and this family donates meat to the Saturday barbecue. This year's honorees are the members of the Jack and Elizabeth Hatter family, who will, indeed, donate meat to Saturday's community cookout!

The schedule of events for the festival begins with a bonfire tomorrow at 7 P.M, and ramp up on Friday with the chili cook off and street dance. The festival culminates on Saturday, with activities like the parade, arts & crafts and food vendors, community barbecue, kids' carnival, Alexander Comets football game, bingo, horseshoes at the Hi-Way Lounge and yet another street dance! The Hatter family honors will take place on Saturday, as well. Entertainment for the street dances will be provided by The Culprits (Friday) and The Great Outdoors (Saturday). To view the complete event schedule, click here.

This event is enjoyable for guests of all ages! If you are interested in attending this family-friendly event, purchase an Old Settlers' Day button for $2! The drive from your apartment home at The Glen at Hunter's Run in Watford City to Alexander is only 25 minutes!

If you would rather stay close to home over the holiday weekend, you can always visit one of Watford City's parks and have a picnic with your friends and family! Do you have other exciting plans for the weekend? Share them with us on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

Dog Days of Watford City

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If you are of the opinion that dogs are more than simply pets, but are rather a member of the family, then you will surely want to treat your dog today because it is National Dog Day! Watford City is a very dog-friendly place to live, especially if your dog enjoys a lot of outdoor exercise. If you normally take your dog out for a walk and want to mix-up its routine, here are some dog-friendly outings you can take in Watford City, as well as some other pet-friendly places in Watford.

Outdoor Hikes
Taking a hike can be an enjoyable activity for both dogs and owners alike! While you can walk with your dog anywhere along the Maah Daah Hey Trail, if you choose to go up to where the trail meets the Little Missouri National Grasslands (North Ranger District), your dogs are allowed to be off-leash. Another scenic hike your may wish to take with your dog is at Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Unit). However, please note that pets are not allowed on trails or backcountry, but they are permitted on roads, picnic areas and campgrounds in the park, as long as they are leashed within 6 feet of their owner. Dogs are permitted at the Fort Union Trade Post National Historic Site, in all outdoor areas, including the courtyard.

The Glen at Hunter's Run
Whether you currently live at The Glen at Hunter's Run or are considering making our community your home, we provide a pet-friendly environment for your dog. We accept both large and small breeds, with a limit of 2 pets per home. We also have plenty of green space to take your dogs out - we just ask that owners clean up after their pets. For more specific details about our pet policy, contact our leasing office at 855-466-5604.

Nearby Veterinary Services
If you have moved to Watford City along with your canine companion, you can take comfort in knowing that reliable veterinary services are located in town. Watford City Veterinary Clinic offers dog boarding and spa services and 24/7 emergency veterinary care, in addition to yearly health and wellness check-ups. The veterinary clinic is only 10 minutes away from The Glen at Hunter's Run!

Watford City is not only a beautiful place for you and your family to reside, but a place that your dog will be more than happy to call home, too. Where do you like to take your dog out and about in Watford City? Let us know on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

Road Trip: Watford to Medora

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While the summer will soon be drawing to a close and the kids will be back in school, there is still some time left to explore the beautiful state of North Dakota! Pack the car and take the family on an end-of-summer day trip to nearby Medora! The drive from your home at The Glen at Hunter's Run to Medora, ND is about 90 minutes, and there is plenty to see and do there!

If you're looking for something outdoorsy to do, visit the other end of Theodore Roosevelt National Park! You may have explored the northern end, living in Watford City, but at the Medora side of the park, guests can view the wildlife and terrain from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. year round. At the South Unit Visitor Center, programs like guided walks and tours are conducted daily! Guests may also hike or bike the park's trails. If you want to take in a truly spectacular view of the Badlands, stop at the nearby Painted Canyon Visitor Center.

For those who prefer a trip with some entertainment involved, visit the Medora Musical! The western-style musical show is dedicated to Teddy Roosevelt and the time he spent in the North Dakota Badlands. Guests will enjoy the family-friendly entertainment in the Medora Musical's 2,900 seat amphitheater. You can even take a behind-the-scenes tour of the theater. The Medora Musical's season runs through September 12.

If you want to take a trip for the kids, the Medora Family Fun Center is the place to go! The kids are guaranteed to love playing on the world's largest inflatable water slide reach new heights on the bungee jump trampolines, scale the rock climbing wall, and can even have a slingshot water balloon fight! The Family Fun Center is located next to the entrance of the Medora Campground.

These are just a few of Medora's biggest attractions - others activities include horseback riding, shooting ranges, camping, golfing and the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame! For more information on attractions, visit the official Medora website.

What are you waiting for? Start packing the car! Do you have any recommended sites to visit in Medora? Let us know on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

Additional sources consulted:
ND Tourism

Finger Lickin' Good: Watford City Ribfest

Image courtesy Pixabay

With the month of August quickly approaching, it means that another annual Watford City event is approaching, too. If you love BBQ, live music and classic cars, you will most definitely love The Best of the West Ribfest, which is on Friday, August 7!

The Ribfest will be located along Main Street in Downtown Watford City, and will take place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Prime time will be between 5 and 9 p.m., which is when the ribs will be served. In addition to finger lickin' good ribs, sauces and all of the fixings, there will be food and concessions from many other local vendors. This event is family friendly, so bring the entire family down for games, bingo, and the ping pong drop!

The live entertainment at this year's event will likely have you dancing in the street! The performer lineup includes Jessie Veeder and Outlaw Sippin', Medora's Burning Hill Singers, Lonesome Willy, Gettin' Outta Dodge, and Kristi Goldade!

In between sets, check out the dozens of classic cars which will be on display. According to the McKenzie County Farmer, while the event typically has 20-30 cars, Ribfest organizers are hoping to have even more this year.

While all of the activities we have mentioned so far would quality as "spectator sports," you can actually get in on the action! Do you think your ribs have what it takes to be known as "the best of the west?" 5 p.m. is the hour of the rib showdown, and with prize money at stake, you won't want to lose! The first place winning team will take home $1,000! If you have your eyes on the prize, be sure to submit your team as soon as possible, as the number of teams is limited to 20. If you would like to register for the competition, click here to download a form.

The Glen at Hunters Run is proud to be a sponsor of this year's Ribfest! May the best ribs win and we hope to see you there on August 7!

Additional sources consulted:
Watford City Chamber of Commerce

Watford City Schools Adapt to Growing Numbers

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The resident influx in Watford City for Bakken oil jobs is not made up of oil workers alone - it consists of oil workers' wives and children, as well. Although school is currently out for the summer, at the schools themselves, there is quite a lot of work happening behind the scenes in preparation for the 2015-2016 school year and beyond.

The McKenzie County Public School district in Watford City is comprised of Watford City Elementary School, which holds grades K-6, and Watford City High School. The 2015-2016 school year begins on Thursday, August 20 and the schools are preparing for record enrollment numbers this year. The elementary school has already procured two new modular buildings, which will provide four additional classrooms for students. This addition brings the total number of modular classrooms in the school to 10. Once the new Watford City High School is completed, the fourth and fifth graders will move into the former high school space. Until then, those two grades will use the modular spaces. Pre-registration days for the elementary school are currently taking place and regular enrollment ends August 5.

As is mentioned above, once the new high school is completed and students move into the new building, the elementary and junior high students will have more space. Construction on the new high school is moving along according to schedule, and should be finished by January 2016. School officials are hoping that the transition can occur in between fall and spring semesters in January. The new $50 million school will have upgrades including an auditorium for theater and fine arts programs, football fields and a track field. To view pictures on how the high school construction is progressing, as of July 18, click here.

Although the population increase in the Watford City and McKenzie County areas, these changes will also bring new opportunities and additional programs and facilities to Watford City youth. Until August 20 though, the kids can enjoy the parks, sleeping in, and everything else that summer in Watford City has to offer!

The Glen at Hunter's Run apartment homes are located less than a 10-minute drive away from Watford City schools.

July 4th Celebrations

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This Saturday, July 4th, the United States of America will celebrate its 239th birthday! While Watford City may be a small town, we still enjoy celebrating with our neighboring communities. With a long weekend ahead of us, we are ready to spend some quality time with our family and our community!

Just 8 miles west of your home at The Glen at Hunter's Run, our neighbors in the town on Arnegard are preparing for its July 4th celebration! The two-day celebration begins tomorrow evening, July 3, from 6-8 PM with hamburgers in the park. The festivities will continue on Saturday, beginning with a 5K walk/run at 9 AM in honor of resident Sherry Arnold. The run will be followed by crafts and a bouncy house for the kids in the park. The Independence Day parade will begin at 11 AM.

Be sure to come to the event hungry, because starting at noon in the park, there will be a barbecue and pies for sale! Paula Slow will be providing the live entertainment as visitors enjoy the weather and BBQ!

At 1 PM, there will be a ceremony to honor Sherry Arnold. Arnold was a math teacher for 18 years, and after battling cancer for six years, she was able to defeat the disease! The ceremony will honor her life after cancer and her accomplishments. Other afternoon events include softball, street hockey and a tractor pull.

At dusk comes the main event - fireworks! What would an Independence Day celebration be without watching fireworks dazzle the skies over North Dakota?

To gain admission to the event, guests must purchase a $2 at First International Bank & Trust, CornerStone Bank, Short Stop and Charlie's. Food and drink will be available throughout the day. This event is family friendly!

What are you big plans for the upcoming holiday weekend? Whether it's spending time at home grilling or baking, enjoying the outdoors with your family or attending the events in Arnegard, we want to know! Share you plans with The Glen at Hunter's Run on our Facebook and Twitter pages! Have a safe and happy holiday weekend filled with friends, family and fireworks!

Sources consulted:
McKenzie County Farmer
McKenzie County Tourism

Law Enforcement Center Construction Begins

As the population in Watford City continues to climb, city leaders have taken steps to ensure that the growing population of Watford City citizens stays safe. With construction on the new Watford City High School, and conference and events center currently underway, on June 2 our city added another large-scale construction project to its list. Ground has officially been broken on the construction of a new, 93,000 sq. ft. law enforcement center.

According to the McKenzie County Farmer, new facility will house 129 inmates and office space for local law enforcement agencies, including the McKenzie County Sheriff's office, the Watford City Police Department, North Dakota Highway Patrol, and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Currently, Watford City only has the capacity to house 12 inmates, and has been shipping inmates to other facilities if the beds have been filled. The current facility is located adjacent to the courthouse, and the overflow of inmates have been transferred to facilities as far away as Fargo. If needed, the property has the ability to expand the number of beds up to 200.

As the number of beds increases with the completion of the law enforcement center, so too will the number of officers. According to Grand Forks Herald, McKenzie County plans to expand its police force to include 25 deputies and 19 police officers. To put the numbers into perspective, McKenzie County Highway Patrol, which had only one deputy a decade ago, now has six deputies.

The project, which will cost $57 mil, will be funded by a loan from the Bank of North Dakota, and will be repaid with the McKenzie County's oil revenue. The site of the new law enforcement center is at the corner of 12 Street and 11th Avenue, Southeast, near the Watford City Municipal Airport.

As our population at The Glen at Hunter's Run continues to grow, too, the new law enforcement center is a welcome addition to Watford City. Share your thoughts about the new facility on The Glen at Hunter's Run Facebook and Twitter pages.

Additional sources consulted:

Bakken.com

Events Center Groundbreaking

Watford City took a huge step toward adjusting to its growing population in the past week by breaking ground on a new events center. Although planning for the events center has been in the works for the past 3 years, the execution stage has officially begun!

The new space will be 224,000 square feet, and will house two ice rinks, a basketball court, two practice courts, areas for hockey and turf sports, gymnastics space, a six-lane lap swimming pool, a recreation pool with a water slide, convention area and auditorium. The convention space will be able to accommodate up to 1,000 people, while the auditorium can host up to 3,000 guests. In addition, the center will also house classrooms for the Watford City branch of University of Mary.

Why build the center now? Watford City has simply outgrown many of its existing facilities due to its rising population. The events center will be used by the new Watford City High School, which is currently under construction.  In fact, the events center will directly connect to the new high school, which plans to use the facility for athletic team practices and physical education classes.

Funding for the $83 million project has mainly been footed by Watford City taxpayers, who voted to approve a 1.5% sales tax increase. According to a report shared by the McKenzie County Farmer, Watford City saw one of the biggest increases in taxable sales in 2014, with an increase of 39.44%. However, the city views this center as a worthwhile investment, hoping that once completed, the center will be able to host out-of-town events. In turn, the city's tourism will increase and so will local business.

As the city looks toward the future, so does The Glen at Hunters Run. Our one to three bedroom apartments offer the space you need for a young or small family. We are located just a 7-minute drive away from Watford City High School and downtown Watford City. Once the events center is complete you will be within just a short distance, while still enjoying a peaceful home environment!

Are you looking forward to the new events center? Share your thoughts with us on The Glen at Hunter's Run Facebook and Twitter pages!

Additional sources consulted:
McKenzieCounty.net
The Bismarck Tribune
The Dickinson Press

Planning Your Memorial Day Weekend

With a weather forecast of temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s for Memorial Day weekend, it just may finally be beginning to feel like spring! What better way to celebrate the long weekend than by spending time outdoors? If you are without holiday weekend plans, we have some ideas to help you unofficially kick off the spring/summer!

Play in the Park
Your apartment home at The Glen at Hunter's Run is just steps away from Jacobson Park, so gather the kids or your friends for an afternoon outdoors! The park has a playground, picnic area, outdoor grilling area, basketball court and restrooms. Pack up some hot dogs, hamburgers and other picnic fixings for a family-friendly day!

Hit the Green
Dust off the golf clubs and head to the Watford City Municipal Golf Course! Enjoy this beautiful 9-hole course with spectacular clubhouse views! The course pars are 72 for men and 73 for women. Golf cart and club rental is available. You may even want to walk to the golf course from The Glen at Hunter's Run - that's how close it is!

Play Ball
Remember heading to the local ball field with your friends as a kid or playing softball with work colleagues? Relive those good old days! Grab your bat and ball, and play a game of baseball at American Legion Baseball Field on 3rd Street. Celebrate this American holiday with America's favorite past time!

Go for a Ride
Take a trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, one of North Dakota's treasures. You can walk, bike or horseback ride along the trails, or pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenic views!

Take a Drive
If you frequently go to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park when you visit, consider driving to a different entrance to see new views, or visit the Elkhorn Ranch! Or just drive around with the windows down and see where the day takes you! The Glen at Hunter's Run is located close to Highway 85 if you feel like taking a cruise!

What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend? Share your event ideas and plans with us on The Glen at Hunter's Run's Facebook and Twitter page! Happy Memorial Day! Thank you to all who serve and have served our country!

Badlands Gravel Battle

Did you know that May is National Bike Month? If you are an avid cyclist, you certainly will not want to miss the upcoming Badlands Gravel Battle bike race. This 120-mile race through the Maah Daah Hey Trail takes place over Memorial Day weekend. Not an expert cyclist? That's okay! The event takes place very close to The Glen at Hunter's Run apartment homes, through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, so you could always cheer on the participants from the alongside the race route!

The race begins at the Theodore Roosevelt Park's Medora entrance, approximately 90 minutes away from Watford City, with a 10-mile neutral roll-out. This race can be a challenging one, as it's an "off-road" type of race. Covering a distance of 120 miles, the race route loops through the Maah Daah Hey Trail and across the Missouri River, through North Dakota's rugged terrain.

If you decide to participate in the race, there are a couple of events to celebrate your dedication and success! Before the race, during packet pickup, there will be a social event where riders can get their bikes looked over and pick up any last minute equipment. Once you have finished the race, not only will there be refreshments to replenish you, but there will also be an awards ceremony to honor the top finishing riders.

If you want to support the cyclists without participating in the race itself, the event requires many volunteers to help with the preparation and execution of the race. All volunteers will receive an official race T-shirt as a "thank you" gift. All you'll need to bring is a positive attitude! Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks, from cleaning the trails to riding the trails on horseback during the race to aid cyclists. To find out more information about volunteer opportunities, click here.

By participating in this race, not only will you get to enjoy North Dakota's stunning scenery, but you will get to challenge your cycling ability!

Have you ever participated in this type of off-road race? Do you plan to ride in the Badlands Gravel Battle? Share your thoughts with us on The Glen at Hunter's Run Facebook and Twitter pages! Good luck!

Sources consulted:
North Dakota Legendary
Experience Land

Watford City Continues to Adapt to Changes

Watford City has changed tremendously throughout the past couple of years due to the oil industry's "boom." It seems like there are always articles released about how the population has skyrocketed to meet the demands of oil jobs. In fact, The Glen at Hunter's Run recently shared an article on our social sites that explains how the city is changing it's goals to center around creating a "hometown" instead of a "boomtown." The city recently shared some other updates that reflect the changing landscape of our city.

Infrastructure Improvements
According to an article in the McKenzie County Farmer, McKenzie County plans to implement "System One (Water) Expansion" this summer, which will include the areas between Alexander and Tobacco Garden. The Geographical Information System Department (GIS) plans to document the existing structures in Watford City by taking aerial pictures of the city. Several road projects are also in the works, including Route 30 and County Road 53. For more information, click here.

Parks and Recreation Department Expansion
This year alone, the Parks and Rec Department has had to add new programs, including Learning to Fish, Adult Outdoor Soccer, Cheerleading and Gracie Combatives, and three new full-time staff members. There are also several parks projects in the works, including an in-line skate rink, softball complex and events center. For more information about these projects, click here.

New High School
While ground broke on the city's new high school last July, the city has just released an update that the construction is progressing on-schedule. According to KFYR-TV, more than 800 students are expected to enroll once the project is completed next January.

How The Glen at Hunter's Run Fits in
From the sounds of these changes and updates, Watford City is definitely transitioning to a "family hometown," something which we at The Glen at Hunter's Run are thrilled to be a part of. Our apartment homes are located just west of downtown Watford City, giving you and your family access to all of downtown's activities, while still allowing you to live within a quiet, residential area. Our homes range from 1 to 3 bedrooms, so whether you are an oil worker who has just moved to the area, or a young family, we have the space to accommodate you. For more information about our apartment homes and to view our current specials, visit our website. We look forward to being a part of the Watford City community for many years to come!

Take a Stroll Along the Maah Daah Hey Trail

In our completely biased opinion, Watford City, North Dakota offers some of the most beautiful views in all of North Dakota. One of our favorite ways to explore and take in the scenery is on the Maah Daah Hey Trail! This location is the perfect spot to take an afternoon hike or bike ride. Whether you have been on the trail once or one hundred times, there is always something new to see!

The Maah Daah Hey Trail stretches 140 miles through North Dakota's Badlands. Four other trails connect to the Maah Daah Hey, including the Long X Trail, Cottonwood Trail, Summit Trail and Buffalo Gap Trail.

The trail begins about 20 miles south of Watford City, along Highway 85, at the US Forest Service CCC Campground and ends Sully Creek State Park in Medora. It is free to enter and hike or bike along the trails and pets are allowed. You can even horseback ride along the trail. Campgrounds, with restrooms, are spaced out about every 20 miles along the trail. Please note, bikes are not permitted on the trail in the stretch that passes through Theodore Roosevelt Park, but there are surrounding trails that offer a biking detour around this.

Not only are there scenic views of the Little Missouri River along the trail, but you are likely to encounter North Dakotan wildlife, too! You are most likely to encounter buffalo along the trail, but there is a chance that you will see skunks, porcupines and possibly snakes. The easiest way to deter these creatures is with a hiker's bell.

The trails was named by the Mandan Indians and means "an area that has been or will be around for a long time." We certainly hope this holds true! The Maah Daah Hey Trail is a North Dakota treasure, and we hope you have the opportunity to experience and enjoy it for yourselves! It is about a 25-minute drive from The Glen at Hunter's Run apartment homes to the trail entrance at CCC Campground.

What are your favorite spots along the trail or ways to use the trail? Share your thoughts with us on The Glen at Hunter's Run Facebook and Twitter pages! We look forward to your insights!

Sources consulted:
Maah Daah Hey Trail Association
North Dakota Legendary

Living Green in Watford City

Happy Earth Day! It's so easy to live day-to-day without thinking about how much water or energy we use, but it's actually pretty simple to "go green" not only on Earth Day, but each of the other 365 days a year, as well! If you don't know where to begin, we are here to help!

Going Green in Your Home
Whether you live at The Glen at Hunter's Run apartment homes or own your own home, there are simple changes you can make around the house to adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle:

• Unplug "energy suckers"- These include large appliances like your television or microwave. If this is too tricky to remember to do, start small. You can begin by unplugging your phone charger when you disconnect your phone from it in the morning!
• Go paperless - Do you pay most of your bills online? Unsubscribe from receiving paper statements in the mail.
• The good, old-fashioned carpool - Chat with your neighbors to see if you work in the same area. If so, take turns driving to work!
• Laundry - Do full loads of laundry, and wash them in cold water! A half-load of laundry requires the same amount of energy as a full one, so make it count. The same goes for the dishwasher.

Around Watford City

• Take advantage of what nature has to offer - Want to read a book or magazine? Sit outside on your balcony or patio! 
• Play outside - Take the kids to one of Watford City's area parks for an afternoon of fun! Jacobson Park is only about a 5-minute walk away from The Glen at Hunter's Run!  Jacobson Park is located at 505 5th Ave. NE.
• Participate in the Watford City Pick Up the Patch on Saturday, May 2! We shared some information on this event in a previous blog post.
• Do you see litter on the ground as you're walking throughout the city? Pick it up when you can!

What are your favorite ways to be environmentally friendly in either your apartment home or throughout the community? These are some simple adjustments that will go a long way in reducing your energy output! Share your ideas on The Glen at Hunter's Run Facebook or Twitter pages! We look forward to reading your opinions!

Sources consulted:

Care2

Green Living Apartments

Watford City Pick Up the Patch

Now that the snow in Watford City has thawed and the flowers are beginning to bloom, you're probably doing some spring cleaning around your apartment home. But it's also time to do some spring cleaning along our city streets and highways. The fourth annual "Pick Up the Patch" events will take place April 26 through May 2, and your help is needed!

Pick Up the Patch is a collaboration among local businesses, community members, and oil company employees to collect litter along city streets and highways. Citizens of all ages are invited to participate in this event; however, younger volunteers will be assigned to areas in town and not along the highway for safety reasons.

Pick up events will take place throughout the week of April 26, but the big trash collection day will be on Saturday, May 2. Volunteers will meet at the Watford City Civic Center at 8 AM for sign in, and are then assigned areas and given safety vests, gloves and trash bags. Volunteers are welcome to stay for as little or as long as they like. Bottled water and snacks will also be available to keep volunteers hydrated and energized throughout the day. According to the McKenzie County Farmer, last year more than 8,000 tons of trash was collected and more than 100 volunteers participated in the event!

More than just a clean-up day, the program aims to bring a heightened sense of awareness to the community about the litter problem along the highway - something that isn't always visible from your car as you drive by.

If you, your family or your company would like to participate in this event to beautify our town, you may contact Karen Holte at karen.49@hotmail.com or 701-570-9475.

Do you plan on participating? It's sure to be a fun day! If you live at The Glen at Hunter's Run apartment homes, the Civic Center is just a 6-minute walk away!


Sources consulted:
McKenzie County Farmer
North Dakota Oil Can

Why Pay High Property Taxes When You Can Rent?

The oil boom has driven many to relocate to Watford City. According to newly released census data, McKenzie County is the fastest growing county in the nation, in terms of population. With all of the new businesses, residences and people, the population isn't the only thing increasing - property taxes are, too. If you own property, whether business or residential, in Watford City, you may likely see an increase in your property value, and therefore, your property taxes. 

Each year on February 1, the city evaluates properties' values. One main determinant of your property's value is its location. For example, properties closer to downtown Watford City are going to be assessed at a higher value. 

Are you worried that your property's value and taxes are on the rise? According to Rita Olsen, city assessor, property owners whose values increased by more than 10% in the past year were notified by mail. However an increase in value doesn't necessarily mean an increase in taxes. From McKenzieCounty.net:

“Two months ago, I would have said we had a strong housing market. But houses are staying on the market a little bit longer. They’re still selling, but they’re staying on the market longer. I think next year at this time we’re going to be seeing a whole different picture. I think values will start going the other direction - they’ll start to come down a little. All of this, of course, is depending on what the oil and gas market is doing.”

One alternative to worrying about increasing property values and paying property taxes is to rent property instead. The population boom has lent itself to a housing boom, including rental properties like The Glen at Hunter's Run. Our one, two and three bedroom apartments offer home options for singles and small families, along with a host of amenities. Pets are also permitted, with some restrictions. Invest the money you could be spending on property taxes to put towards your brand new apartment home instead! Contact our offices to set up a visit today!

Take a Spring Hike

The snow is thawing, the sun is shining and we are ready to spend some time outdoors! North Dakota is filled with beautiful scenery to explore and enjoy. One of our favorite ways to do so is to take a hike on one of our state's trails. Weekend hiking trips are something that the entire family can enjoy. If you're looking for a new trail to tackle, North Dakota Legendary recommends these trails:

Parks and Historic Sites
Cross Ranch State Park 12 miles southeast of Hensler. Phone 701-794-3731.

Lake Metigoshe State Park 16 miles northeast of Bottineau. Phone 701-263-4651.

Icelandic State Park 5 miles west of Cavalier on ND Highway 5. Phone 701-265-4561.

Turtle River State Park 22 miles west of Grand Forks on US Highway 2. Phone 701-594-4445.

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park 7 miles south of Mandan on ND Highway 1806. Phone 701-663-9571.

Lake Sakakawea State Park 1 mile north of Pick City. Phone 701-487-3315.

Fort Ransom State Park 30 miles south of Valley City. Phone 701-973-4331.

Little Missouri State Park 19 miles north of Killdeer. Phone 701-764-5256.

Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site 1/2 mile north of Stanton. Phone 701-745-3309.

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site 24 miles southwest of Williston. Phone 701-572-9083.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit near Watford City and South Unit at Medora.

Wildlife Refuges
All 24 national wildlife refuges have opportunities for wildlife observation on interpretive foot trails. For more information, please call U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 701-250-4418.

Trails
North Country National Scenic Trail
The North Country Trail follows the shores of Lake Sakakawea and Lake Audubon and continues along the Garrison Diversion Project canals. Reaching the Sheyenne River, the trail route loops northward to Fort Totten State Historic Site near Devils Lake. Returning to the Sheyenne River, the trail follows its scenic forested valley southward to Fort Ransom State Park and Sheyenne State Forest. The trail is open to hiking, horseback riding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

Maah Daah Hey Trail
This 140-mile non-motorized trail is open for biking, hiking and horseback riding. The trail runs from the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Watford City through the Little Missouri National Grasslands and Medora to its southern teminus near Amidon. Biking within the two units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is prohibited. Bikers must use alternative routes around park boundaries. The U.S. Forest Service, (701-225-5151) jointly manages the Trail with the National Park Service (701-623-4466) and the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, (701-328-5357).

Sheyenne National Grassland
ND Highway 27 east of Lisbon. Phone 701-683-4342.

Summer Only
Little Missouri National Grassland US Highway 85 north and south of Belfield . Phone 701-225-5151

Turtle Mountain State Forest 5 miles west of Lake Metigoshe. Phone 701-228-5422.

Check Out: 50 Great Day Hikes
Avid hiker Susan Wefald and her dog, Sandy, hiked trails throughout North Dakota. Susan shares her notes on 50 of North Dakota's best day hikes. Armchair and seasoned hikers alike will enjoy exploring North Dakota's diverse landscape with Susan and Sandy. Learn the locations of spectacular vistas. Expand neighborhood strolls into the great outdoors. Bring the dog! Pick up your copy of Spectacular North Dakota Hikes in the Tourism online Gift Shop.

Create a Zen Bedroom

Your bedroom should be a place where you feel relaxed and ready to rest, and your decor will influence your pre-bedtime mindset. Remember as a kid when your mom told you not to study in bed? That was because you would either fall asleep, or not be able to sleep other nights when you didn’t have to study. The same goes for adulthood--your bedroom should be a work-free zone! Here are some other tips from Apartment Therapy on bringing calm to your bedroom.

1. Be natural. Check the tags on your sheets, blankets, pillow covers. Are they of natural fibers? If not, seek out some good, basic sets of natural fiber bedding. Take it a step further with the mattress and your pillows, though this can get pricey. Also consider the materials of your furnishings and rugs. Are there a lot of synthetics like plastic and polystyrene furnishing your bedroom or natural materials like wood and wool?

2. Unplug. Banish electronics from the bedroom. Seriously. That means phones, computers, television. Nothing sucks the lovely out of a bedroom faster than electronic devices. If it plugs in, take it out (except the reading lamps, of course). You'll get better sleep and your room will be a calm respite from digital life.

3. Keep it clean… Furnish and decorate sparely. And clean often. If things are kept simple as far as furnishings and decor, it should be a rather quick job to clean the bedroom. Wash linens at least once weekly and be sure to dust between the head of the bed and the wall.

4. …and serene. Are natural woods and cool colors relaxing to you? Then use them in the decor of your bedroom. Prefer deep, dark black or brown? Incorporate that. Whatever puts you at ease, use it in the decor of your bedroom.

5. Get personal. This is the room for displaying cherished personal possessions. Have an heirloom wedding pic of your ancestors? That could also be well-suited here. If you have personal items you've collected but don't feel comfortable displaying front and center in the living room, make your bedroom the place for these things. The bedroom's a private area of the home and it will make you happy to see things in it that are meaningful to you but perhaps not to everyone.

What do you use to create your bedroom zen? Share your tips with us!