Medora, a tiny community in North Dakota surrounded by the rugged landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, has been named to HGTV’s list of the most charming small town downtowns.

The city – with a population of 121, according to Census Bureau data – is south of Interstate 94 in the far western part of the state.

“Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets,” HGTV said. “Many small-town downtowns are located in beautiful settings or have stunning views. Others welcome visitors with lively festivals, delicious foods or a nostalgic atmosphere.”

The network didn’t list any specific criteria for inclusion on the list, but said it “looked for vibrant towns that invite you in and encourage you to stay and explore.”

What did HGTV say about Medora?

HGTV highlighted Medora’s role as a gateway town for the south unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where visitors can take a scenic drive through the badlands, home to bison, mule deer, prairie dogs, horses and other wildlife.

The network also mentioned the community’s museums, fudge shops and the Old Town Hall Theater, and it recommended the Medora Musical, a “toe-tapping Broadway-style show,” and the Rough Riders Hotel, a “historic inn where Theodore Roosevelt himself once stayed.”

Were any other Midwest communities featured on HGTV’s list?

The network’s list also included:

• Marquette, Michigan
• Abilene, Kansas
• Deadwood, South Dakota
• Fish Creek, Wisconsin
• Galena, Illinois

Ashley Gaschk is a middle school English teacher in Mandan.

BISMARCK, N.D. – The AFL-CIO in North Dakota has new leadership for the first time in six years.

Delegates to the North Dakota AFL-CIO convention elected Ashley Gaschk to a four-year term as President, Secretary-Treasurer – the top role in the state federation of labor unions.

Gaschk is succeeding outgoing president Landis Larson, who is retiring after 40 years of dedicated service to the labor movement – the last 6 of which were served as AFL-CIO president.

Gaschk said in part, quote, “Being a union member has improved my life in many ways, and I look forward to spending the next four years working to improve the lives of union members across our state.”

At the convention, the organization issued support for federal workers and United States Postal Service workers as well as opposition to Medicaid cuts.