Minot Area Chamber EDC Communicator November 2022

COMMUNICATOR MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC

WWW. MINOTCHAMBEREDC.COM

DIVERSE GROUP OF STAKEHOLDERS HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE TO DENOUNCE TERM LIMITS AND URGE A NO VOTE ON CONSTITUTIONAL MEASURE 1

Leaders from nearly twenty-five different organizations met in Bismarck to denounce term limits and urge voters to vote “no” on North Dakota Constitutional Measure 1, which is on the general election ballot.

Constitutional Measure 1 would limit state legislators to serving eight years in the state House and eight years in the state Senate. Contrary to what many believe, Measure 1 applies only to North Dakota state legislators and the Governor. It has no impact on Congress or D.C. politicians. It also adds a new section to the state Constitution that cannot be removed or overturned without another ballot measure.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Showcase of Business - Page 3

GNDC Has New Local Board MembersPage 4

Main Street Summit - Page 5

Community Leadership Institute - Page 9

Member News - Page 15

The entities opposed to Measure 1 represent numerous different industries from across the state, including agriculture, education, business, construction, energy, medical, credit unions and more. The measure has also been rejected by Democrats and Republicans alike.

Minot Area Chamber EDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer kicked off the press conference at the Capitol in Bismarck. “Our organization is a part of a coalition with chambers and organizations across the state that oppose Measure 1, the Term Limits Measure. We are here today with one voice and want the citizens of North Dakota to take time to learn more about this measure. This is not about Congressional term limits, it is about legislators, fellow citizens, who step forward to improve North Dakota and limiting their ability to do this. We have champions for business that do great things for our state and their experience is invaluable,” stated Kramer.

“Our organizations representing businesses across the state are concerned about the consequences should it pass. Due to mandated turnover, additional time and money will be used to train on procedures and issues. This would impact progress and productivity at the cost of the taxpayers. We are coming forward with a unified voice. Policy isn’t made in a vacuum – it’s responsive and intuitive. We need leaders who are thoughtful and can dig in where appropriate to represent the needs of their constituents, while not feeling the pressure of a countdown clock,” stated CEO Arik Spencer of the Greater North Dakota Chamber. Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber President and CEO Shannon Full added, “Measure 1 would present severe challenges for our state, region, and our members. We strongly urge our North Dakota voters to reject this measure.”

Minot Area Chamber EDC

PO Box 940 | Minot, ND 58702-0940 (701) 852-6000 www.minotchamberedc.com Facebook.com/minotchamberedc Instagram.com/minotchamberedc

CHAMBER EDC STAFF

Brekka Kramer, President | CEO brekka@minotchamberedc.com

Chanda DeCent, Finance Director chanda@minotchamberedc.com

Carla Dolan, Vice President carla@minotchamberedc.com

Jaime Hauge, Executive Assistant jaime@minotchamberedc.com

Mark Lyman, Economic Development Specialist mark@minotchamberedc.com

Lisa Moldenhauer, Program Assistant lisa@minotchamberedc.com

MOTOR VEHICLE DEPARTMENT

Lacey Coleman, Manager

Tammy Hanson, Clerk

Wendy Keldson, Clerk

Tracey Oja, Clerk

Kim Reedy, Clerk

Elise Vannett, Clerk

CHAMBER EDC BOARD

Chair – Randy Hauck, Verendrye Electric Cooperative

Chair Elect – Kevin Black, Creedence Energy Services

Vice Chair – Cassidy Hjelmstad, SRT

Past Chair - Jonn Knecht, Bravera Bank

Treasurer – Missy Feist-Erickson, Peoples State Bank

Ryan Ackerman, Ackerman-Estvold Bucky Anderson, Ward County

Les Knudson, AGT Foods

Mayor Tom Ross, City of Minot

Randy Schwan, Trinity Health

Dr. Steve Shirley, Minot State University

Dr. Mark Vollmer, Minot Public Schools

Jason Zimmerman, Minot Area Community Foundation

from

Aimee Copas, Executive Director of the North Dakota Council of Educational Leaders, stated that “dedicated and caring legislators who strongly support the best education system possible for our kids are incredibly important to our state and future workforce. Experience in our elected officials at the capital is critical to the future of our youth. Remember, our part time dedicated legislators have inherent term limits – every 4 years, we as citizens have the obligation to vote them in or out.”

Russ Hanson, Executive Vice President of the Associated General Contractors of North Dakota, echoed this sentiment adding, “this is a solution in search of a problem. In essence, every election is a term limit by allowing the voting public the right to elect who they want to represent them.”

Numerous agricultural groups have also decried term limits. “Legislative term limits will have terrible unintended consequences for the rural citizens of our state, primarily by affecting our ability to find good candidates who will look out for production agriculture,” said Pete Hanebutt, Director of Policy for ND Farm Bureau. North Dakota Stockmen’s Association added that, “term limits take power away from elected leaders and empower the bureaucracy of state government, putting agencies over the legislative branch and limiting voters’ impact on policy that affects them.”

Measure 1 has also been criticized by both Democrat and Republican legislators. “In North Dakota, we are part-time, citizen legislators who spend only 80 days of every two years enacting laws. We don't have policy staff, so experience and knowledge are essential to good lawmaking,” said House Minority Leader Josh Boschee (D-Fargo). “As retiring Majority Leader, I agree that having knowledgeable lawmakers is crucial to passing budgets and policies that are best for our state. The combination of institutional knowledge along with new ideas provides the best results for the people of North Dakota,” added Senate Majority Leader Rich Wardner (R-Dickinson).

In the upcoming 2023 legislative session, at least 21% of the legislators will be new. The turnover from 2011 to 2023 is around 72%. Only 15 states have legislative term limits and six states that had passed term limits have repealed or overturned them.

The following groups have come out opposed to Measure 1 (to date):

Greater North Dakota Chamber

Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Chamber

The Chamber Grand Forks/East Grand Forks

Minot Area Chamber EDC

Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC

Devils Lake Chamber of Commerce

Dickinson Area Chamber of Commerce

North Dakota Medical Association

Association of General Contractors

North Dakota Petroleum Council

Lignite Energy Council

North Dakota Council of Educational Leaders

North Dakota Stockmen's Association

North Dakota Auto Dealers

Homebuilders of Fargo-Moorhead

North Dakota Association of Builders

North Dakota League of Cities

North Dakota Association of Counties

North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives

North Dakota Farm Bureau

North Dakota Famers Union

Dakota Credit Union Association

North Dakota Hospital Association

Red River Valley Sugarbeet Grower's Association ND Grain Grower's Association

For more information visit GNDC's website here.

GET OUT AND VOTE : NOVEMBER 8

Two local races are a focus of this election in the city and county. Minot City Council and Ward County Commission both have openings this November 8. There are two candidates running for one spot on the Minot City Council. They are current city alderman, appointed by the mayor for the past 3 months to fill his vacant spot on the council, Roscoe Streyle from United Community Bank and Scott Burlingame from Independence Inc.

The Ward County Commission has four people running for two spots on their board. They are; Incumbent John Fjeldahl, Lance Makeeff, Jason Olson and Alan Walter.

Visit https://www.co.ward.nd.us/262/Elections for more information.

2022 General Election - November 8th

Early Voting: October 31st through November 4th & 7th from 10am - 6pm at the Ward County Administration Building

Election Day Voting Centers: *Ward County Voters can vote at any of the centers*

•

State Fair Center (Minot), 2005 E Burdick E xpy, Minot ND 58701

• Maysa Arena (Minot), 2501 W Burdick E xpy, Minot ND 58701

• Berthold Senior Center, 309 Main Street N, Berthold ND 58718

•

Ryder City Hall, 260 N Main Street, Ryder ND 58779

• Kenmare Memorial Hall, 5 3rd St NE, K enmare, ND 58746

• Sawyer City Hall, 104 Dakota Ave, Sawyer, ND 58781

SHOWCASE OF BUSINESS

The Minot Area Chamber EDC Showcase of Business presented by SRT will take place November 17 at the ND State Fair Center Magic Place from 5 to 8 p.m.

This year's theme is Back to the 80s. Dress up in your favorite acid wash jeans with your high hair and leg warmers and join us!

Let’s get together and support business to business networking, showcase what makes your business unique and have a little fun at the same time. Showcase features 70 booths with food and a cash bar.

Platinum Sponsor - $1,000 – Includes three 10 x 10 booths and 30 admission tickets along with a quarter page ad in the Minot Area Chamber EDC Communicator

Gold Sponsor - $500 – Includes two 10 x 10 booths and 20 passes for event

15 x 15 booth - $300 – Includes 8-foot table with two chairs and 3 passes for event

10 x 10 booth - $200 – Includes 8-foot table with two chairs and two passes for event

Visit www.minotchamberedc.com and click on November 17 to register.

GNDC ANNOUNCES BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2023, NAMES EXECUTIVE TEAM

The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) announces the appointment of five new board members to its Board of Directors, as well as the full slate of officers for 2023.

Joining the Board is Ryan Ackerman – Ackerman-Estvold, Paula Anderson – Sterling Carpet One, Don Campbell – Blue Cross Blue Shield North Dakota, Mike Heger – BNI Energy, and Todd Schaffer – Sanford Health.

“Our Board Members each play a crucial role in cultivating our organization’s business advocacy efforts. We are glad to welcome new board members to the team,” stated Arik Spencer, GNDC President and CEO. “These individuals came strongly recommended for their organizational and community leadership.”

In addition, Nick Hacker – The Title Team has been named chair to lead the executive team of Chair Elect, John Oncken – True North Equipment; Finance Chair, Vaune Johnson – Cornerstone Bank; Policy Chair, Danette Welsh – ONEOK, Inc; and Member-At-Large, Dan Pearson – Northwest Tire. Josh DeMorrett – ConocoPhillips is the immediate past chair.

Returning board members are:

• Molly Barnes – Northern Improvement Company

• Kent Blickensderfer – KPB Consulting, LLC

• Matt Dunlevy – SkySkopes

• Cory Fong – MDU Resources Group, Inc.

• Justin Forde – Midco

• Tonya Holmstrom – Schmitz-Holmstrom LLP

• Jeff Klemetsrud – Klemetsrud Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, Inc.

• Brent Lohnes – Hess

• Kevin Magstadt – Kraus-Anderson Construction Co

• Peter Matthaei – Dakota Specialty Milling

• Roger Reierson – Flint Group

• Jeremy Rham – Otter Tail Power

• Scott Staudinger – Cloverdale Foods

• Steve Swiontek – Gate City Bank

• Jeff Zarling – DAWA Solutions Group

“This Board represents the diverse sectors of North Dakota’s business community – not just encompassing all industries or locations, but various company sizes as well. We are an engaged group that understands the gravity of the work that we do in order to make North Dakota the best place to do business,” stated Nick Hacker, GNDC Board Chair. “Our agenda for the year will impact our state well into the future.”

GNDC would also like to extend a thank you to board members who have completed their terms:

• Dan Conrad – Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

• Brekka Kramer – Minot Area Chamber EDC

• Peter Rackov – Steffes, LLC

• Jeff Romsdal – Central Sales, Inc.

Additional information on GNDC can be found at ndchamber.com.

THANK

TO SLEEP INN AND SUITES

Thank you to the Sleep Inn and Suites for hosting the October Business After Hours. Nearly 70 people enjoyed delicious food made in house, great prizes, and networking.

MINOT ATTENDS MAIN STREET SUMMIT

Minot had a great turnout of local leadership attending the October 25-26 Main Street Summit in Bismarck. The State of North Dakota's Main Street Initiative is an effort led by Gov. Doug Burgum to invigorate downtown districts of cities and towns across the state.

"This year's theme, inspiring community driven workforce, is of critical importance to every business in every community across our state," Burgum said in a YouTube video prior to the summit. "North Dakota is attracting record capital investment, and now more than ever, a skilled workforce is vital to the success of very community and company, both big and small."

Workforce was a main theme for many of the sessions. Senator Randy Burckhard was a part of a panel about workforce development and Strengthen ND presented about their efforts to use existing infrastructure and assets to attract workforce to the area.

Right and Below: Attendees from Minot included representatives from local businesses, organizations, and community partners including Downtown Minot, Visit Minot, Minot Area Chamber EDC, North Dakota Department of Transportation, City of Minot, Minot Area Council of the Arts and the Minot Symphony

Above: Images featuring Minot were showcased many times throughout the conference.

Happy Thanksgiving from the First International Bank & Trust Family!

We are thankful for the support of our customers and look forward to serving the Minot community for many years to come. Whatever your plans or wherever you spend your Thanksgiving Day, we hope you have a wonderful day full of joy and new memories.

MINOT AREA CAREER EXPO TO SHOWCASE JOB OPPORTUNITIES

The Minot Area Career Expo is a one-day event designed to expose high school students and the Minot community to high-wage and in-demand careers. Local business and industry professionals are invited to showcase their career opportunities through hands-on exhibits.

Last year, the expo welcomed over 1,200 high school students from area schools and exposed them to over 40 different hands-on exhibits and 10 different break-out sessions featuring various

To learn more visit www.minotareacareerexpo.com.

TEAM MINOT CHRISTMAS COOKIE DRIVE SET FOR DECEMBER 12 & 13

It is almost that time of year again! TEAM MINOT will be hosting their annual Christmas Cookie drive December 12 & 13.

The cookies are distributed to the nearly 1200 first term airmen who live in the dorms on Minot Air Force Base. The airmen are between the ages of 18-20 and are required to live in the dorm. It is probably the first time they have been away from family for the holidays. Baking cookies is just one small way the citizens of Minot can show its appreciation to the men and women serving our country.

The overall goal between the Base and downtown is 1200 dozen, which means one dozen homemade holiday goodies per person for the first term airmen. TEAM MINOT is asking people to bake a few dozen cookies, as home baked cookies are really appreciated, and drop them off at the Chamber EDC office, 1020 20th Ave. SW.

The drop off days will be December 12 & 13 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The cookies will be delivered to Minot Air Force Base on Wednesday, December 14 so they can be boxed and distributed to the first term airmen.

career opportunities from around the area.

NORTH DAKOTA HAS A STRONG BUSINESS CLIMATE

SURVEY OF NORTH DAKOTA BUSINESSES SHOWS POSITIVE ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AMIDST CONCERNS ABOUT WORKFORCE, HEALTHCARE, AND CHILDCARE

The Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth, in partnership with the Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC), formally released the results of a business climate survey that was conducted over the summer of 2022.

More than 200 businesses completed the North Dakota Business Conditions and Climate Survey conducted by the Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth at North Dakota State University. The survey assessed the state’s regulatory and business environment to gain insights into policies that could enable improved economic performance.

“North Dakota is constantly being ranked and measured by current conditions of economic outputs. These results have positioned our state as #1, #23, #7, and so on, but these findings don’t drill deeper to examine barriers to growth or catalysts of success,” stated Arik Spencer, GNDC CEO and President. “We partnered on this survey to discover an accurate assessment of current business conditions from those choosing to do business in North Dakota.”

The survey revealed that most North Dakota businesses believe the state has a good business climate, but they continue to be held back by an inability to attract workers, high healthcare costs, and lack of access to affordable, high-quality childcare.

Spencer continued, “We appreciate the Challey Institute for their assessment and work. GNDC anticipates that these results will aid policymakers in crafting legislation to further benefit the growth of our state.”

Key Results

Businesses overwhelmingly agree (95 percent) North Dakota has a good business climate. A majority of businesses said North Dakota policymakers have created a supportive business environment (87 percent), and North Dakota has adequate infrastructure for business success (83 percent). Nearly three-quarters of firms operating in multiple states said North Dakota has a better regulatory environment and business climate than other states where they operate.

Businesses highlighted a number of factors positively affecting their performance in North Dakota. The top three factors are being a right-to-work state (53 percent), low taxes (43 percent), and high-quality education (38 percent).

The number one factor holding businesses back is difficulty attracting and retaining qualified workers (62 percent). Other factors negatively affecting business performance include high healthcare costs (37 percent) and a lack of access to affordable and high-quality childcare (30 percent). Overall, concerns about workforce, healthcare costs, and childcare emerged throughout the survey.

North Dakota businesses are optimistic about the year ahead. Nearly two-thirds of participants believe their business performance will improve in the upcoming year. Half of respondents plan to invest in facilities and equipment in North Dakota within the next year, with a majority planning to expand operations.

“These results can serve as a first step in identifying the barriers that are preventing the state from reaching its economic potential,” writes John Bitzan, author of the report and Menard Family Director of the Challey Institute. He added, “They show that the state has a great business climate, but also that we have important challenges to address to enable businesses to continue to be successful in the future.”

The perspectives of North Dakota businesses on current business conditions, expectations, and future plans were captured in this survey with an exclusive release to the business community at the Greater North Dakota Chamber 2022 Policy Summit.

Information about survey participants, questions, and methodology is available at https://www.ndsu.edu/ challeyinstitute/research/publications/nd-business-climate/

GROUNDBREAKING FOR MINOT PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Minot Public Schools is excited to announce the groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the construction and renovation work on Minot North High School and Minot Area Work Force Academy was held Monday, October 31st, 2022, at 10:00am on the future site for both locations at 2100 21st Ave NW in Minot, ND. State and local leaders were there to give comments and celebrate what the groundbreaking signifies for Minot Public Schools, MAFB, and the City of Minot.

Dr. Mark Vollmer, Superintendent of Minot Public Schools stated, “This is a huge step to an even better learning environment for our high school students. Developing relationships with teachers, counselors, coaches, and staff that continue for all four years of their high school career will provide long term rewards to our students. We are looking at this expansion with long range vision for students at Minot Public and our whole community, it is an exciting time for our city.”

Work to Magic City Campus has been underway since late June and has made large updates to many of the Career and Technical disciplines. Demolition and groundwork have begun

science areas is currently being completed with design work to

In December of 2021, the citizens of Minot overwhelmingly passed a bond referendum for two comprehensive 9-12 grade high schools and a third middle school in Minot, it also included the addition of a 50meter competition pool and athletic complex with full stadium amenities. The project involves construction, remodeling and repurposing the former Cognizant Building and improvements. The projects include improvements and remodeling at Magic City Campus to a comprehensive nine-through-twelve high school building including science classrooms, Career and Technical Education space, and an additional gymnasium, and improvements to Central Campus from its current ninth and tenth-grade configuration to a comprehensive sixth-through-eighth grade middle school.

for the new gymnasium. Evaluation of the

continue over the school year.

COMPLETE CLI CLASS OCTOBER 27

The following participants in the 2022 Community Leadership Institute (CLI) completed the CLI program. Their final session was October 27 where they presented their final project.

Carleton Borden Boy Scouts of America Northern Lights Council

Kami Hanson Banchmark Mortgage

Lofton Klabunde First International Bank & Trust

LeAnn Mellum

Dakota Boys and Girls

Ranch

Kelsey Scharmer

Aspire Community Federal Credit Union

Cole Brose

First Western Bank & Trust

Brooke Houle First International Bank & Trust

Morgan Kroeger Aspire Community Federal Credit Union

Chelsea Mihalick Roosevelt Park Zoo

Branden Stephenson Gate City Bank

Jeff Bullock Roosevelt Park Zoo

David Hughes First Western Insurance

Hannah Lautenschlager First Western Bank & Trust

Christy Miller Souris Valley United Way

Harold Stewart City of Minot

Brandi Clark Roosevelt Park Zoo

Darin Johannes SRT

Jessica Lee Verendrye Electric Cooperative

Fr. Jadyn Nelson

Bishop Ryan Catholic School

Danielle Vetter Dacotah Bank

Kathy Grube First International Insurance

Je-Mario Jones SRT

Lt. Matt McLeod Minot Police Department

Samantha Rasmusson American Family Agency

Angela Yellow Hammer Town & County Credit Union

COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE WRAPS UP AND GIVES BACK

The 2022 Community Leadership Institute class wrapped up their 8-week course October 27 as they unveiled how they did with their project. The group was tasked with helping the Lord’s Cupboard. After working with their companies, gathering items and taking part in a number of fundraisers, the group raised $4,200 and 1,415 pounds of food. Congrats to the class of 2022. If you would like to sign up for CLI in 2023, contact Carla at the Chamber EDC as the class is filling up fast.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

JAMAICAN VYBZ KITCHEN

315 Main Street S Suite 200 Minot, ND 58701 701-441-9309 www.facebook.com/jamaicanvybzkitchen

Ambassadors helped Jamaican Vybz Kitchen celebrate their new location with a ribbon cutting. The restaurant started as a food truck and offers authentic Jamaican cuisine with a local flare.

HOTEL REVEL, SURESTAY COLLECTION BY BEST WESTERN

1510 26th Ave SW Minot, ND 58701 701-852-4300 www.revelnd.com Owner/Manager: Liberty Sierra Vista, LLC

Ambassadors helped cut the ribbon at Hotel Revel, a modern boutique hotel located in the heart of Minot. Hotel Revel seamlessly blends the city’s calming, natural beauty and storied past with its emerging arts and culture scene.

MINOT MASONIC CENTERSHRINERS STATUE

2524 E Burdick Expressway Minot, ND 58701 701-838-3427 www.ndmasons.com

Ambassadors were welcomed to the Minot Masonic Center to unveil the Shriners Statue, recently restored by a local member.

CORNERSTONE BANK

415 20th Ave SW Minot, ND 58701 701-418-5500

https://www.cornerstonebanks.net/locations/minot-nd/

Ambassadors joined Cornerstone Bank to cut the ribbon and enjoy a meal at their new Minot location during their grand opening.

RIBBON CUTTINGS CONT.

LIV

ENERGY AND NUTRITION

118 8th Ave NW

Minot, ND 58703 701-852-5749 https://www.facebook.com/LivEnergyandNutrition Owner: Katie Tudahl

Ambassadors helped cut the ribbon at Liv Energy and Nutrition, a new nutrition shop helping people find a healthy alternative for a snack. Since it's opening in August, LIV Energy and Nutrition has been serving up seasonal items like their protein shake meal replacements and a customer favorite: tea bombs. Stop by today!

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA SUITES-MINOT

1009 20th Ave SE Minot, ND 58701 701-837-1500

www.extendedstayamerica.com/hotels/ND/minot

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Extended Stay America SuitesMinot, during their grand opening. Whether you're staying a few days, a few weeks or longer, this hotel gives you the opportunity to make the most of your time in Minot.

BREMER BANK

1615 36th Ave. SW Minot, ND 58701 701-852-3361 www.extendedstayamerica.com/hotels/ND/minot Minot Market President: Michael King

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at the new Bremer Minot branch. The inviting revitalized space consolidates two previous Minot branches into one building to offer a more streamlined and modern customer experience.

NEW MEMBER INVESTORS

Sound CPA, PLLC

Sara Du Toit, Owner 8411 County Road 19 S Minot, ND 58701 (701) 389-9166 www.sound-cpa.com sara@sound-cpa.com

Minot Hot Tots

Monica Blake, General Manager & Managing Partner 1905 2nd Street SE, Suite S4 58701 (402) 206-1886 www.hottotsbaseball.com monica@hottotsbaseball.com

Sara enjoys building and cultivating long lasting relationships with clients. The Minto, ND native graduated Summa Cum Laude from UND in accountancy in 2002. Many clients have commented on how in depth into their operations she is and how grateful they are for her hard work.

The Minot Hot Tots are a summer collegiate baseball team in the Northwoods League. They are excited to bring people together with food, family, and FUN in the summer of 2023.

Barb

Shannon

Renata Buen

Crystal Onstott YMCA

DAY OR NIGHT, RAIN OR SHINE

We can't control the weather, but our constant maintenance and system upgrades, including burying more power lines every year, prepare us for when mother nature shows her colors. Having the best technology in the business makes sure we restore outages quickly, no matter the weather conditions. With local employees and members, we understand how vital power is to our way of life and business...no matter what mother nature says.

MINOT STATE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HONORS FIVE WITH GOLDEN AWARD

The Minot State University Alumni Association honored four individuals with the Golden Award and one with the Young Alumni Achievement Award at the 54th annual dinner on Wednesday, Oct. 12.

The 2022 class for the Golden Awards includes Leslie (Gray) Coughlin ’01, Jerry Helgeson ’69, Robert Mau ’74, and Mark Sanford ’61. The Young Alumni Achievement Award winner is Veronica (Cavallo) Pinnick ’04.

The Golden Awards are the highest award bestowed by the Minot State University Alumni Association. Selections are based on outstanding service to the University or alumni association and distinguished leadership in the recipient’s career or community. The Young Alumni Achievement Award recipient is between the ages of 21 and 39.

LESLIE COUGHLIN

Coughlin, from Minot, is currently a member of the Minot State Board of Regents and the MSU Foundation Board. Minot State was an ideal fit for Coughlin, a native of Carpio. She enjoyed meeting new lifelong friends and was happy to discover that many of them shared her love of shenanigans. After receiving an Associate of Arts degree in 1993, she returned to Carpio to farm and ranch.

Her interest in helping others led her to Befrienders, a Clinical Pastoral Education program offered though Trinity Health. She began volunteering for Trinity Hospice and for several years helped facilitate Camp Discovery, a program for children who had experienced the loss of a family member.

She began working evenings and weekends at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home and returned to MSU as a full-time student during the day. With less shenanigans and more studying, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice in 2001. That same year at a fundraising concert for the former McFarland Auditorium renovation, she was introduced to John Coughlin. Leslie appreciated John’s involvement in the community and shared an enthusiasm to be engaged in organizations and activities that would benefit Minot and the surrounding area. They were married a year later, and she became the proud stepmom to John’s daughter, Hope.

Together they support the Minot community with service through many boards, committees, and activities and have been long-time volunteers for Norsk Hostfest. John is a Rotarian, and Leslie, a past president and member of the Minot Lions Club for 25 years. They are passionate about education and maintain the Coughlin Family Scholarship Fund at Bishop Ryan Catholic School as well as the John and Leslie Coughlin Scholarship Endowment for the Department of Nursing at Minot State. She is a past chair of the MSU Board of Regents.

Past community involvement includes The Greater Minot Zoological Society, Women United, and past president and campaign chair for the Souris Valley United Way. In 2011, she was one of four people in the state to receive the ND League of Cities Hometown Hero award which honors community volunteers for their efforts to make their cities a better place to live. This award recognized her work in organizing a warehouse system to supply materials to volunteers

LESLIE COUGHLIN JERRY HELGESON ROBERT MAU MARK SANFORD VERONICA PINNICK

and homeowners for rebuilding homes damaged in the Souris River flood.

Coughlin currently serves on the Minot Area Community Foundation Board of Directors, is a member of Minot Art Club, Power of the Purse, Give 360, and co-chair of the Scandinavian American Hall of Fame Banquet. She will complete her Master Gardener internship this fall. She enjoys spending time tending to the community garden in rural Velva which supplies thousands of pounds of fresh produce to the Lord’s Cupboard Food Pantry in Minot each year.

JERRY HELGESON

Helgeson, born and raised in Powers Lake and now hails from Winsor, Colorado, is the president of American Eagle Distributing.

While at MSU, he was a member of the Sigma Tau fraternity and graduated in 1969 with a business degree. Helgeson’s love of flying took him to Colorado where he earned his pilot's license, hoping to fly commercial. But life took him in another direction, and he bought a beer distributorship in 1976 and over the next 40 years, he grew that distributorship to over 125 employees. American Eagle Distributing, a Budweiser distributorship, grew to be 33rd of the top family-owned companies in Colorado. In addition to winning several Anheuser-Busch awards for excellence in sales and service, he also started the Colorado State University's Beverage Business Institute to educate young people in management specific to the beverage industry. In 2002, he was instrumental in building the $15 million Budweiser Event Center in Loveland, Colorado and was a part-owner of the Colorado Eagles, a hockey farm team for the Colorado Avalanche. Helgeson sold the business in 2015. Along with his sons-in-law, he started a new distributorship company but this time for Ziggi's coffee. So, he never really retired!

He served on several boards in Northern Colorado while in business and volunteered at the Weld County Sheriff's office doing intakes at the jail for several years. He bought a few airplanes over the years and enjoyed flying with friends and family.

While in college, he married his wife, Sandy, and they have two daughters, Susan and Julie, and five grandchildren. Jerry and Sandy have been married 55 years and have traveled extensively to Europe and other destinations and enjoy cruising. He golfs regularly — waiting for that hole-in-one — bikes, and swims to keep busy.

ROBERT MAU

Mau, who lives in Minot and Islamorada, Florida, is the president and owner of Eagle Operating in Kenmare. Born in Kenmare, he was raised on the family farm southwest of Mohall. He graduated from Mohall High School in 1972 and attended college at Minot State from 1972-76. While attending MSU, he was a member of the 1972 football team and is a member of the Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity.

Mau continued to farm and began a career in the oilfield. He started Eagle Operating Inc, which drilled oil and gas wells, and Eagle Well Service, an oil and gas service company.

He served as chairman of the board of the North Dakota Petroleum Council Hall of Fame. Mau was asked to serve on the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission by former Gov. John Hoeven and Gov. Doug Burgum. He received the Pioneer Award recognizing efforts in CO2 sequestration by the Energy and Environmental Research Center. He currently serves on the Minot State University Board of Regents. He enjoys golfing with friends and old fraternity brothers and offshore fishing in Florida.

Mau and wife Kathy (Schwartz) were married in 1976, moved to Kenmare in 1979, and then to Minot in 2014. The couple have four children and nine grandchildren.

MARK SANFORD

Sanford, from Grand Forks, is a retired school administrator and current member of the North Dakota House of Representatives.

He graduated from MSU in 1961 with majors in mathematics and history and participated in baseball, basketball, and track & field, while serving as president of the Letterwinners Club and as a student senator.

Following graduation, he and his wife, Gloria (Berg) ’68, joined the faculty at Stanley. During his tenure there, he served as a math teacher, coach of three different sports, high school principal, and superintendent. In 1971, he was offered the opportunity to oversee the design and construction of Minot Magic City Campus and was named the first principal of the school in 1973. His next career move was to Grand Forks in 1976 where he became superintendent of schools for the next 31 years. Following retirement in 2007, Sanford spent two years as a volunteer administrator at

Northwood assisting that school district with their recovery from a devastating tornado that destroyed their school.

He cites the Magic City Campus experience as a rare opportunity because it included significant remodeling and expansion of the curriculum as well as the construction of a special facility. Unique features included quarter courses, contract courses, cooperative learning, school store and restaurant, mini courses, and moveable walls. Over 10,000 visitors from around the nation came to view the facility and programs during the first two years of operation.

The Grand Forks experience provided the biggest challenge of Sanford’s career. In April 1997, a major flood impacted over 70% of the community. Five school buildings were destroyed and 17 others suffered major damage. Utilizing make-shift facilities around the community, the school district was able to provide summer school to 4,000 students and daycare for another 1,000 children while also planning for school in the fall. Over 100 portable classrooms were rented and moved to Grand Forks and several churches were retrofitted as school space. School started on time in the fall and over the next three years, 22 facilities were remodeled or replaced.

Sanford was elected to the North Dakota House of Representatives in 2010 and still serves in that capacity today. His legislative tenure has mostly been spent serving on the Appropriations Committee. Between sessions, he serves as chair of the Higher Education Committee where he has worked on the remake of the funding formula and created a facilities remodel/construction fund. In addition, he has enjoyed the experience of being on the Water Resources Committee.

Mark and Gloria have two daughters who live with their families in Frisco, Texas.

VERONICA PINNICK

Pinnick, originally from Minot and currently Silver Spring, Maryland, is an integration and test manager for NASA.

Pinnick earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Minot State in 2004. Following graduation, she attended Texas A&M where she completed a doctorate in analytical chemistry in 2009. It was at Texas A&M that she studied under renowned professor Emile Schweikert, a leading researcher in time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Pinnick was tasked with developing instrumentation that could measure nano-particle materials.

Upon completing her doctorate, she had offers from major companies around the country including a lucrative offer from tech giant, Intel. Instead, Pinnick took a shot on a postdoctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Under the guidance of professor Bob Cotter, Pinnick had a chance to work on the development of a mass spectrometer for NASA.

Pinnick finished work on a highly advanced mass spectrometer for the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA). She was named to the Minot State Academic Hall of Fame in 2019.

For more information on the Golden Awards, visit the Alumni Association at MinotStateU.edu/alumni.

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONALS ASSOCIATION HIRES NEW ADMINISTRATOR

The Downtown Business and Professionals Association (DBPA) is pleased to announce it has hired a new administrator, Nicole DesRosier, to be the Downtown Minot representative and be the voice of the DBPA.

Nicole DesRosier has a bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting from Minot State University and has 20 years of experience in broadcast news and creative media. She is also a small business owner and maker at the Foundry in Minot.

DesRosier’s new role as DBPA administrator will include advocating for the DBPA and Downtown Minot, communicating on its behalf, identifying opportunities to benefit the organization and members, and assisting in the management of fundraising efforts.

Nicole DesRosier

MINOT STATE ANNOUNCES HISTORIC CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

Minot State University has launched a comprehensive capital campaign to raise $50 million by the end of 2024, the most ambitious fundraising effort in the University’s history.

“EMPOWER: A Campaign for Minot State” will focus on five main campaign pillars: Scholarships, Academic Programs, University Facilities, Athletics, and the Vision Fund. More information on the entire EMPOWER campaign is available at the University’s campaign website.

“We are very excited to announce the public phase of the EMPOWER campaign,” said Minot State President Dr. Steven Shirley. “For over a century, MSU has proudly carried a commitment to our students and our community, and this campaign reaffirms that commitment. Through the generosity of our donors around the world, Minot State will ensure students are empowered to reach their potential.”

While Thursday’s announcement at the University’s annual President’s Club Luncheon during Homecoming 2022 launches the public phase of the campaign, Minot State has already devoted significant time and energy into EMPOWER’s quiet phase. The MSU Development Foundation announced the campaign had surpassed the $38 million mark, initiating the public phase.

“There has been a substantial amount of work invested into this project and I’m extremely pleased to announce this to the greater Minot State community. Thank you to everyone who has supported MSU during the quiet phase,” said Rick Hedberg, vice president for advancement / MSU Development Foundation executive director. “We also know there is a considerable amount of work remaining to ensure this project is not only completed, but has the maximum impact on students, faculty, staff, alumni, and our community.”

The EMPOWER campaign’s focus is on innovation in and out of the classroom, creating a vibrant, modern campus, and growing funding for scholarships, including growth in endowments and to continue to dramatically enhance the student experience in perpetuity.

During the silent phase, MSU saw substantial growth in multiple areas coinciding with the pillars. MSU increased its overall endowments by 85 over the past five years to a record total of 432. MSU completed projects at the MSU Amphitheater, nursing simulation lab, MSU Dome, Herb Parker Stadium, and purchased the Beaver Ridge complex. The University added 11 new programs of study and now has over 100 areas for students to earn degrees and certificates and launched the Hometown Pride Scholarship, awarding students in its own backyard.

“As times change and new technologies emerge, Minot State needs to ensure we are maximizing innovation by having advanced learning spaces and a modern campus,” Shirley added. “We have a rich tradition at MSU and while this is an ambitious campaign, we believe it will help position us to meet workforce demands today and in the future.”

Visit the University's campaign website to learn more about the campaign and how to contribute.

MINOT STATE EXPANDS HOMETOWN PRIDE EXPERIENCE, INCLUDES EDUCATORS

Minot State is expanding its Hometown Pride Experience with additional benefits for area high school seniors and a scholarship for educators.

Last year, the University announced a new, automatic $1,000 Hometown Pride Scholarship for incoming freshmen from the region. This year, MSU is rolling out the red carpet with free swag, tickets to athletic events, priority class registration and on-campus room selection, and more with the Hometown Pride Experience.

“We are excited to expand our Hometown Pride Scholarship with the new Hometown Pride Experience for graduating seniors throughout north-central and northwestern North Dakota,” said Minot State President Dr. Steven Shirley. “Minot State is proud of the role we play in educating citizens across the region and happy to announce the expansion of the Hometown Pride Scholarship to local educators, the backbone of our communities.”

All new freshmen who are accepted to Minot State and live in the expanded Hometown Pride region — Benson, Bottineau, Burke, Divide, Dunn, Eddy, Foster, McHenry, McKenzie, McLean, Mercer, Mountrail, Oliver, Pierce, Ramsey, Renville, Rolette, Sheridan, Towner, Ward, Wells, and Williams counties — will automatically qualify for the Hometown Pride Experience.

“This year, we decided to expand and grow the Hometown Pride area to an even larger footprint,” said Michelle Sayler, enrollment services director. “Our local and neighboring communities are at the heart of who we are, and we wanted to include some additional counties to show how much we appreciate them.

“This is our way of showing students and families how grateful we feel.”

The $1,000 Hometown Pride Scholarship is eligible for students who are admitted to the University by March 31, 2023, meet North Dakota University System (NDUS) core requirements, and graduate with a 2.75 or higher unweighted GPA.

“We wanted to focus not just on our high school students but also on those strong educational leaders in their communities who guide them. Because of this, we are extending the Hometown Pride Scholarship to educators in the same region,” said Jacek Mrozik, associate vice president for enrollment, marketing, and outreach. “We believe this will help teachers, coaches, and administrators take the next step in pursuing their Master of Education.”

As a way of recognizing and supporting local educators who wish to pursue their master’s degree from Minot State, the University has expanded the $1,000 scholarship to include any K-12 employee working at a Hometown Pride school.

“By including local educators in our Hometown Pride Scholarship, we’ve made it more possible for them to continue their education and ultimately earn their master’s degree,” said Cole Krueger, marketing director.

To learn more about the Hometown Pride Experience, Hometown Pride Scholarship, and Hometown Pride Educators Scholarship, visit MinotStateU.edu/enroll/hometownpride.

DAKOTA HOPE CLINIC ANNOUNCES THE 2022 FESTIVAL OF TREES

CHECK ITEMS OFF YOUR TO-DO LIST WHILE HAVING FUN

Since 2014, Minot has been home to the Festival of Trees. This landmark holiday event offers fun and festive activities for everyone in the family. Held the weekend before Thanksgiving on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 18 and 19, it is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

Sponsored by Dakota Hope Clinic, the Festival will again be held at the ND State Fair Center. One hall is dedicated to the “Holiday Shoppe”, a vendor showcase featuring crafters, artisans, bakers, and your favorite direct sellers. Additional shopping opportunities include a Silent and Live Auction and a “Holiday Bake Sale”, where you can pick up homemade treats for your Thanksgiving observances.

Festival of Trees started as a one evening ticketed auction event and that tradition continues with the “Dinner and Auction” concluding the festivities on Saturday, Nov. 19th at 5 pm. Tickets for this event are on sale now at festoftrees. com at the early-bird rate of $20 until Nov. 11. Attendees will enjoy a savory dinner, stories about clients served at Dakota Hope, entertainment by Daniel Starks, Silent Auction, and Live Auction of decorated Christmas trees and other premium items. With auctioneer, Ben Stiegelmeier of Integrity Auctioneers, the Live Auction is sure to generate excitement for attendees and those participating through the livestream at home. Free delivery of trees is available to winners within 10 miles of Minot. According to Director of Development, Tim Knutson, “anyone who wants to support the mission, but does not need a tree, will have an option to donate the tree to a Dakota Hope client family or to a local non-profit.

The Festival has become known for the beautifully decorated Christmas trees. In recent years, the trees have also provided the setting for local musicians and dancers to showcase their skills to the public. New performers on the stage this year to play Christmas music include the Heritage Singers, Gordy (Crazy Fingers) Lindquist, and a group from the Minot Brass Band. These family friendly performances are free and open to everyone.

Popular attractions at the Festival returning this year include “Dashing Through the Snow”, the 5K Race and Family Fun Run, and “Free Family Photos,” taken this year by Indak Media. New this year, Jeff Schultz is bringing his horses, Fred and Frank, to provide free wagon rides around the fairgrounds.

Festival Committee Chair, Amanda Olson, shared some insights on the vision that guided the group’s planning, “Since everyone is busy, we have added more activities this year that will help attendees check off items on their todo list while being entertained and inspired at the same time.” In addition to the shopping, family photos, and bake sale, “the Make-n-Take Classes led by Karen Anderson of Grammy’s Cards and Diane Kessler with Diane’s Designs, will get families started on Christmas cards, gift tags, and Christmas décor for their home.”

Just like the Christmas Trees that point heavenward, the Festival of Trees experience gives a fresh look at what the holiday commemorates – when the Creator of the Universe made the journey of the unborn, then a newborn child, just like all of us. “Follow the Star” allows the characters who were there that First Christmas to cast a vision of the awe and wonder of that Holy Night.

“We have entertainment, food, and many free activities that the whole family can enjoy, while they learn about and support Dakota Hope” shared Nadia Smetana, Director at Dakota Hope Clinic, “and I hope everyone will go to the website, festoftrees.com for all the details and to purchase tickets for the Dinner and Auction.

Dakota Hope is a free and confidential Clinic in Minot and Tioga, providing life-affirming services and long-term support to women and men facing an unintended or otherwise stressful pregnancy. Their office line is 701-852-4675 and client line is 701-852-4673.

MINOT AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GRANTS FUNDS TO MINOT GUN CLUB

The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) has granted $50,000 to the Minot Gun Club for the remodel of their youth training classroom.

The $50,000 grant for the proposed remodel was made possible through the Mike & Dorothy Dolan Fund and Bremer Impact Fund. The remodel of the club house will make it a year-round facility and will include the addition of a 3,500 sq. ft. classroom space that will be available to the public.

“We are pleased to work with the Minot Gun Club to provide additional opportunities and accessibility to area youth wanting to enroll in hunter education classes. This remodeled space will allow capacity to instantly double,” commented Jason Zimmerman, President of the Minot Area Community Foundation.

Minot has over 1,600 11-year-old youth living within 30 miles of the city. This year, there have been only 10 hunter education classes offered allowing less than 250 youth the opportunity to enroll. Finding a facility that is available and can seat more than 15 students is almost impossible. Remodeling the club house will allow for space to fit over 50 students in a safe environment. The Minot Gun Club is home to eight different high school teams that take part in the ND Clay Target League, growing from 18 shooters seven years ago to 500 today. Upgrading the facility will provide a year-round space for these coaches and athletes to meet.

“The Minot Gun Club is excited to receive a grant award from the Minot Area Community Foundation. Updating the club house to a year-round facility with modern ADA compliant bathrooms will not only be a benefit to the club but the entire Minot area. Having a facility where large groups of youth can meet and participate in hands on learning is something the Minot area will use for the next 50+ years," said Wayne Stanley, Minot Gun Club board member.

UNION SILOS PUBLIC ART PROJECT LAUNCHES IN DOWNTOWN MINOT

Community organizers announced the commission and launch of Union Silos, a new public art mural project in the heart of downtown Minot.

Minot is an arts hub in the upper Midwest, fostering and valuing visual and performing arts for the value they add to the economy and quality of life of residents. The proposed project will be part of the artist's onging Monuments series, featuring one community-driven, large-scale mural per state.

The artist will repurpose the exterior of the elevator at 318 1st St. NE, currently privately owned and used for various projects and retail space including lighting contractors Pretty Lights.

For examples and more information of the artist's work, vist guidovanhelten.com. The project has been given the working title, Union Silos, and all donations can be made to the Minot Area Council of the Arts. For checks, include "silo arts" in the note.

Donations are tax deductive and for online donations, visit www.ndunionsilos.com.

YOU CAN BANK ON US.

Football and banking have a lot more in common than you might think. Like experienced coaching and trust. First Western is a locally owned, community bank and has been a trusted name in banking for over 50 years. We are your friends and neighbors, people you can count on, providing local decision making.

Carson Wentz Pro Quarterback

FUEL THE FIGHT HOSTS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL EVENT FOR CANCER PATIENT GAS VOUCHERS

Fuel the Fight is the premier fundraiser for the Trinity Health Foundation’s gas voucher program. In 2017, Trinity Health Foundation began providing fuel vouchers to assist oncology patients with travel costs. Fuel vouchers help patients and their families who demonstrate financial need to travel to and from the Trinity Health CancerCare Center to receive treatment. Over forty percent of Trinity CancerCare patients travel fifty miles or more each way for treatment.

The next year, the Fuel the Fight initiative began to help fund the growing number of vouchers provided to patients. Trinity Health Foundation partners with Dakota Square Arco and other businesses to “Fuel the Fight” against cancer. Proceeds from the event provide gas vouchers for CancerCare patients.

Fundraising for Fuel the Fight started in June of this summer with the launch of the Fuel the Fight raffle tickets. This year’s raffle included 23 prizes donated from local businesses. This year’s prizes and winners are listed below.

Magic City Home and Leisure – UND Hockey Pub Table and Chairs – Kerry Hanson

Scheels – Gun Safe – Shannon Brown

Stereo Shop – 75-inch TV – Dr. Darrell Williams

Homesteaders Restaurant – Dinner for a Year – Vicki Fitzmaurice

Marco’s Pizza – Pizza for a year – Nermita Tack

Dakota Square Mall – Shopping Spree – Dakota Square Arco

Minot Country Club – Two Rounds of Golf for Four – Renae Gjellstad

Morelli’s – Red Bull Cooler – Erin Renner

Lor Spa – Four Rest & Relaxation Packages – Patty Getzlaff

Minot State University – Summer Theatre and Athletic Passes – Lori Hanson

Flower Central – Flowers for One Year – Rita Sommers

SOS – One Year Gym Membership – Kalli Schell

North Hill Grill and Chill DQ – Original Single Cheeseburger Combo and One Blizzard per week for a year – Kerry Hanson

Swenson RV – Big Mable Tube & Four Bass Pro Life Jackets – Elizabeth Bruner Cash Wise – Pit Boss Smoker with Bag of Pellets and a $100 Cash Wise Gift Certificate – Jim Grote Superior Nutrition – One meal/week for One Year – Krystal Watne

Coca Cola – Vikings Tickets – Corallea Westling

Bountiful REI – Two Paintings – Krystal Watne

LBJ BBQ Catering – BBQ Party for 20 People – Naycee Harris

Up Your Axe – Party for Eight – Two Rounds – Sara Schilken

Too Dark Motor Sports – Remote Start – Randy Schwan

Verendrye Electric – $200 Cash – Sheila Johnson

Trinity Health – Tour of New HealthCare Campus for Two – Al Hanson

On June 12 the Nodak Speedway hosted Paint the Stands Pink. Proceeds from pink t-shirt sales and event fundraising efforts were designated to go toward Fuel the Fight. Additionally, Homesteader’s Restaurant hosted a dine to donate on September 8 and raised $1,000 for the cause. First International Bank employees participated in a jeans week fundraiser and raised $1,000.

The Fifth Annual Fuel the Fight took place on Friday, September 9, 2022, at Dakota Square Arco in Minot. Fuel the Fight supporters stopped by Arco throughout the day, to fuel their vehicle’s gas tanks and the gas voucher fund. Anyone purchasing eight gallons or more of fuel was registered for a chance to win a year’s worth of free gas from Dakota Square Arco. The winner of this year’s gas for a year drawing was Kristen Fox. First International Bank and Trust sponsored the free gas for a year prize.

Additional funds were raised through a silent auction, a percentage of that days’ sales donated from Dakota Square Arco, dunk tank, and a percentage of sales from the Hitchin Kitchen and Magic Bean food trucks. Although donations are still coming in and we’re fifnalizing the numbers, this year’s event so far has raised over $60,000.

BREMER BANK STRENGTHENS PRESENCE IN MINOT WITH NEW TEAM MEMBERS, BUILDING

Bremer Bank announced today several new, strategic hires in the Minot area to bring added depth and expertise to the branch team. Together with the recent opening of its new building in Minot, the new additions demonstrate Bremer’s continued commitment to the Minot community and North Dakota.

“We are fully committed to helping the Minot community thrive, and these new additions — along with our exceptional existing team — further that commitment,” said Brent Iserman, the bank’s region president. “Our new Minot branch also helps ensure we’ll remain a consistent community partner for years to come.”

New Minot Market President Michael King comes to Bremer with more than 20 years of experience providing financial services in the Minot area, most recently at First Western Bank & Trust. As market president, King will be responsible for fostering community relationships and aligning Bremer’s financial services team to best serve the needs of Minot-area customers.

Madison Sundsbak has also joined the team as an agriculture relationship manager. Sundsbak’s role reflects Bremer’s commitment to farmers throughout western North Dakota as one of the country’s largest and most experienced agricultural lenders. Michael and Madison will partner with Business Relationship Manager David Baker, who is responsible for helping local business customers access capital to grow their organizations.

These new talent additions to the Bremer Minot branch arrive on the heels of the new branch location at 1615 36th Ave. SW earlier in 2022. The inviting, revitalized space consolidated two previous Minot branches into one building to offer a more streamlined and modern customer experience. A ribbon-cutting celebration was held in October. (See photo on page 12.)

About Bremer Financial Corporation: Bremer Financial Corporation is a privately held, $16 billion regional financial services company jointly owned by the Otto Bremer Trust and Bremer employees. Founded in 1943 by Otto Bremer, the company is headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, and provides a comprehensive range of banking, mortgage, investment, wealth management, and insurance products and services throughout Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. Clients include small businesses, mid-sized corporations, agribusinesses, nonprofits, public and government entities, and individuals and families.

LAUNCHING LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE HELD AT MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY

Strengthen ND partnered with Minot State University and North Dakota Department of Commerce to host the first leadership institute for high school students in the north central region of North Dakota Oct. 19-23.

“Launching Leadership is a community-first focused leadership program which engages high school students in developing leadership skills and implementing these skills within their local communities,” said Beth Odahlen, Strengthen ND director of community engagement and solutions. “Launching Leadership highlighted a multitude of ways leadership can happen within individual communities. Students are able to take skills learned in this program and return to their local communities to make positive impacts and change.”

The program provided education specific to leadership development, as well as introduced participants to local communities, businesses, organizations, and local leaders. Those in attendance learned essential leadership pillars and developed a list of local and regional issues they were concerned about in their own communities.

“What makes this conference different is that it is not just leadership for the sake of leadership,” said Jim Sturm, Minot State University Looyenga Leadership Center director. “Our goal was to teach students skills that they can then use to positively impact their own communities. We want to be instrumental in getting young people interested in what is happening in their hometowns and willing to get involved to create positive change.”

Interactive sessions at Minot State offered the opportunity for students to learn from experts and network with other professionals, expanding their knowledge in a fun and interactive way while hands-on training got them up to speed on the latest tools and techniques in various fields. Minot State leadership studies students were also present at the conference.

Organizers of the event hope the inaugural Launching Leadership Conference will serve as a template for future conferences throughout the state.

For more information about the Launching Leadership Conference, visit strengthennd.com/launching-leadership-conference.

TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION RECEIVES GIFT FROM HAUGEN FAMILY

Trinity Health Foundation is excited to announce that it was recently awarded a gift of $100,000 from Donald and the late Donna Haugen.

The donation from Donald and Donna Haugen was directed to the Trinity Health CancerCare Center to support cancer patients receiving care at the center. Funds may also be used to purchase equipment and for facility upgrades at the CancerCare Center.

“Mr. Haugen’s generous donation to the CancerCare Center will provide significant support as we continue to serve cancer patients throughout our 20-county service area. We cannot thank Mr. Haugen enough for this very thoughtful and monumental gift,” said Dusty Zimmerman, Director, Trinity Health Foundation.

TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION FUNDS AEDS FOR SURREY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

Trinity Health Foundation recently funded the purchase of two AED machines totaling $3,456 for the Surrey Fire Protection District.

During a recent football game in Surrey, one of the athletes experienced a medical emergency requiring the use of the Trinity sports medicine AED machine. Had this machine not been available, the outcome would have been vastly different for this young athlete. As a result of this experience, the Surrey Fire Protection District decided that they needed to enhance their life saving equipment through the addition of two AED machines.

“Trinity Health Foundation is proud to partner with regional emergency services crews and equip them with all of the tools they need to care for their communities. We were thrilled to answer Surrey’s call for support in their endeavors to better serve their community by providing this critical equipment,” said Dusty Zimmerman, Director, Trinity Health Foundation.

PROMOTIONS AT FIRST WESTERN BANK & TRUST

First Western Bank & Trust would like to announce these recent promotions:

Matt Flom has been promoted to Business Banking Officer. Matt joined the First Western team as a teller in Minot at the Main Bank in 2017. Since then, he interned with our Loan Operations department and worked as a Credit Analyst. He graduated from Minot State University in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in finance. We are excited to announce his promotion and look forward to his continued success with First Western.

Cole Brose has been promoted to Business Banking Officer. Cole is relatively new to First Western, joining the team in April of this year as a Consumer Lender at our Dakota Square branch. Cole grew up in Minot, graduating from both Minot High School and Minot State University. Cole is a great asset to the First Western team and we are excited to see him succeed as a Business Banking Officer.

Matt Flom

Cole Brose

FARSTAD OIL DONATES $100,000 TO SVUW

Farstad Oil has donated $100,000 to Souris Valley United Way (SVUW) to help toward its goal of $800,000 this year.

The donation will help SVUW, a nonprofit organization in Minot, continue its work in supporting local programs that improve lives and help build a stronger community.

"We simply could not do this without the support of businesses, like Farstad Oil," said Christy Miller SVUW outreach specialist.

Every year, local agencies apply for partnership with SVUW and undergo extensive interviews conducted by a team of local volunteers. Agencies that meet SVWU guidelines are granted a portion of the funds raised during SVUW's annual United Way campaign.

KELI ROSSELLI-SULLIVAN & KRISTI ROSSELLI-SULLIVAN ARE CO-CHAIRS FOR THE 2022 SVUW CAMPAIGN

SOURIS VALLEY UNITED WAY HAS A FUNDRAISING GOAL OF $800,000

Souris Valley United Way (SVUW) has been raising money all year towards their goal of $800,000. Keli Rosselli-Sullivan and Kristi RosselliSullivan have been leading that fundraising as Co-Chairs. The money raised will go towards continuing to fund the many programs in our community as they grow and expand each year.

Both Keli and Kristi have a huge passion for giving back to their community and have both served the Minot community for many years. They have been involved with SVUW in a number of ways, most recently being Co-Chairs for the 2022 SVUW Campaign, which takes place September 1st, 2022 through January 31st, 2023. The campaign board has set a goal of $800,000.

Kristi speaks on the need for the fundraising goal. “$800,000 is our goal. Through programs like BackPack Buddies, Northern Plains Children’s Advocacy, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, to name a few, the needs are there. Things are getting more expensive, and the needs in our community are growing.”

“We help 21 organizations and programs with this money, including DVCC, Project Bee, The Minot Area Homeless Coalition, Full STEAM Ahead, Backpack Buddies and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, just to name a few. 100% of money donated goes right back into the community. It’s the people of our community that help make a difference and together we can build an even stronger community. Together, we live United!” Keli informed us.

Every year, local agencies apply for partnership with Souris Valley United Way and undergo extensive interviews conducted by a team of local volunteers. Agencies that meet our guidelines are granted a portion of the funds raised during our annual United Way campaign. Food, shelter, health and wellness, dignity, self-worth, independence, and companionship are just some of the needs we help meet in our community.

For more information regarding Souris Valley United Way, e-mail christy@svunitedway.com or visit Souris Valley United Way’s website at www.svunitedway.com

‘THE MEMORY DUMP’ WINS DIGI-KEY COLLEGIATE COMPUTING COMPETITION

Minot State's computer science team called "The Memory Dump" captured first place at the annual Digi-Key Collegiate Computing Competition VERSION 2.0.22 (DKC3) Friday, Oct. 21 at Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

The team was comprised of students Ross Hardy, Yongmin Kim, Keegan Summers, and Long Nguyen.

“We are lucky to have a really strong group of students this year,” said Darren Seifert, associate professor in math and computer science. “They've worked really hard improving their Python programming skills and spent a number of hours working through practice problems this year. It's been fun to watch them grow in their abilities and then succeed like this.”

The win at DKC3 in 2022 follows a second-place finish in 2021 and is the second win for MSU in the past seven years. Teams from all across the upper Midwest compete including North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota, multiple Minnesota schools, Dakota State University in South Dakota, and the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Wisconsin. Competitors must be junior or senior undergraduate students majoring in computer science or a related field.

“The event was great. Last year the competition was online, so it was really eye opening to get to see the Digi-Key's facilities and experience the competition in person,” Nguyen said. “It was more intense being in same room with all the other teams, but I knew we had a strong team and I'm proud that we pulled it off.”

The competition includes three main events - two programming sessions and one word problem session - to select the top three places vying for over $12,000 in prizes. Minot State earned a $5,000 cash prize for the department, an individual cash prize of $300, and the coveted Bronze Traveling Trophy.

“The Digi-Key competition was all around a good experience, it was definitely nice to be able to go in person this year and tour their facility,” Summers added. “The atmosphere of being in a room with all the other teams made it feel more like a competition than it did when it was online last year. The questions this year were harder, but our team practiced a lot, and it helped us in the end.”

For more information on the event and to view past winners, see the DKC3 website.

A NIGHT OF DUELING PIANOS TO BENEFIT THE WESTERN NORTH DAKOTA HONOR FLIGHT

All proceeds used to support taking military veterans of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam to visit National War Memorials

The Western North Dakota Honor Flight is hosting an event with all proceeds going towards the upcoming flight taking nearly 100 veterans from Western North Dakota to Washington D.C. to see the national memorials built in their honor.

“This Honor Flight experience is provided at no cost to the veteran, so all the funds we raise directly benefit a Western North Dakota veteran of World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War,” said Kathleen Bien, Western North Dakota Honor Flight board president.

Please join us for a Deuces Wild Dueling Pianos THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8 at the Grand Hotel - Minot 1505 N Broadway Ave beginning at 7:30 pm

For information on Deuces Wild, please visit their website at wildpianos.com Tickets for the event may be purchased individually for $40 or a table of 8 people with preferred seating and 8 drink tickets for $500. To purchase tickets for the event, please visit the event site. Additionally, the evening will feature an option to sponsor a veteran’s flight. Join us for this fun filled evening while benefitting veterans in your local community.

Veterans from nearly every community in western North Dakota will be participating in this upcoming flight. Visit westernndhf.org for more information on the flight, the organization and upcoming fund raisers in your community. If you would like to do a story on a veteran from your area who participated in the inaugural Western North Dakota Honor Flight trip, or for general information about Western North Dakota Honor Flight, contact Marty Presler at 701-527-7550.

MARK KOHLMAN WAS RECOGNIZED FOR PERFORMANCE

Mark, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Minot, recently attended the firm's Financial Advisor Leaders Conference, which celebrates the contributions and achievements of some of the firm's most successful financial advisors. The conference was held Sept. 29-30 in St. Louis.

During the two-day conference, attendees heard from internal and external speakers about relevant topics, conferred on timely topics and shared best practices for serving clients.

"The care these financial advisors show for their clients is outstanding, as is the spirit of partnership they demonstrate with both clients and their branch teams. We applaud the positive impact they are making for their clients and in their communities," said Chuck Orban, an Edward Jones principal responsible for the firm's recognition events. "We always look forward to the camaraderie among attendees and the learning that takes place as we celebrate their hard work and the exceptional service they provide to our clients."

Edward Jones, a FORTUNE 500 firm, provides financial services in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm's nearly 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 8 million clients with a total of $1.6 trillion in client assets under care. Edward Jones' purpose is to partner for a positive impact to improve the lives of its clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society. Through the dedication of the firm's 50,000 associates and our branch presence in 68 percent of U.S. counties, the firm is committed to helping more people achieve financially what is most important to them. The Edward Jones website is edwardjones.com and its recruiting website is careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

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