The Communicator - June 2023

PO Box 940

Minot, ND 58702-0940

(701) 852-6000

www minotchamberedc com

CHAMBER EDC STAFF

BrekkaKramer,President|CEO brekka@minotchamberedc com

CarlaDolan,VicePresident carla@minotchamberedc com

ChandaDeCent,FinanceDirector chanda@minotchamberedc com

KeliRosselli-Sullivan,WorkforceDevelopment Specialist&MilitaryLiaison keli@minotchamberedc com

JaimeHauge,ExecutiveAssistant jaime@minotchamberedc com

MarkLyman,EconomicDevelopmentSpecialist mark@minotchamberedc com

MarieSanders,AdministrativeAssistant minot@minotchamberedc.com

TimOlson,Communications&OutreachSpecialist tim@minotchamberedc.com

MOTOR VEHICLE DEPARTMENT

Lacey Coleman, Manager

Tammy Hanson, Clerk

Wendy Keldson, Clerk

Tracey Oja, Clerk

Kim Reedy, Clerk

Elise Vannett, Clerk

Destiny Waddle, Clerk

CHAMBER EDC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair:KevinBlack|CreedenceEnergyServices

Chair-Elect:CassidyHjelmstad|SRT

Vice-Chair:RyanAckerman|Ackerman-Estvold

PastChair:RandyHauck

VerendryeElectricCooperatives

Treasurer:MissyFeist-Erickson PeoplesStateBank

PeterB Hankla|McGee,Hankla&Backes,P C

JonnKnecht|BraveraBank

LesKnudson|AGTFoods

JasonOlson|WardCounty

MayorTomRoss|CityofMinot

RandySchwan|TrinityHealth

Dr SteveShirley|MinotStateUniversity

Dr MarkVollmer|MinotPublicSchools

JasonZimmerman|MinotAreaCommunity Foundation

THANKYOU,MEMBER-INVESTORS!

Your support of our operation allows us to advocate for the Minot community and fulfill our strategic initiatives It helps create a stronger, more robust city

CORNERSTONE

$10,000+ANNUALSUPPORT

MAGIC

$5,000ANNUALSUPPORT

PREMIER

$2,500ANNUALSUPPORT

AGT Foods USA

BNSF Railway

Brady, Martz & Associates, P.C.

Concrete Mobil

Delta Vacations

Gravel Products

Logical Control Systems

McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C.

Midco Minot Milling

Minot Paving

Minot State University

North Star Community Credit Union

Peoples State Bank

Ryan Family Dealership

Walmart Supercenter

SECURINGTHEFUTURE

STATELEGISLATUREINVESTSINMINOTAIRFORCEBASE'SNUCLEAR MISSIONS

The North Dakota State Legislature took a decisive step in safeguarding the crucial national security interests housed in our region

Lawmakers approved a total of $850,000 to be allocated toward efforts to retain the dual nuclear missions at Minot Air Force Base.

Task Force 21, the committee of volunteers whose goal is to educate the local community, North Dakota officials, members of Congress, and the public on national security issues pertinent to Minot Air Force Base, will use the funding to advocate for its ongoing air and land missions Minot Air Force Base is the only dual-mission base in the nation

"We are deeply grateful to the 68th Legislative Assembly for their recognition of the importance of retaining both of Minot Air Force Base's missions," said Kevin Black, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Minot Area Chamber EDC, which facilitates the activities of Task Force 21. "The U.S. Air Force's work in the Minot area is not only essential to our national security it is a part of the culture and fabric of Minot. We'll continue working to ensure that work continues uninterrupted."

Senator Randy Burckhard identified the passage of the base retention funding as the most rewarding legislative action he took this session, according to the Minot Daily News

"With a significant upgrade project planned for Minot's missile system in the coming years, it is crucial that we be proactive, not reactive, in our efforts to support Minot Air Force Base," Sen. Burckhard said, referring to the Sentinel missile modernization project. "I'm proud that we were able to pass this funding."

"Each year, Minot Air Force Base contributes well over half a billion dollars to the local economy," said Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. "This funding from the legislature allows us to work all over the country, including in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the men and women serving our country in Minot, and to preserve their vital mission and their place in our community for years to come."

CIVILIAN&MILITARYLEADERSENGAGEON NATIONALSECURITYATAIRWARCOLLEGE

MACEDCBOARDCHAIRKEVINBLACKAMONGATTENDEES

"This was one of the most impactful weeks of my professional career "

That's how Minot Area Chamber EDC Board arized his time of the Air Force's hosted by Air ege in May

s converged to d global security hallenges. Civic

ugh civilian eyes.

ed our country and Chamber EDC's engagement with the military community.

"Support of our military is one of our organization's key strategic pillars for good reason Strong community partnerships allow us to take care of the men and women in uniform who call Minot home," he said "When we work to improve quality of life in the area including schools, childcare, healthcare, and spousal employment we help the U S Air Force recruit the people who, in turn, keep all of us safe "

COMMSUPGRADEFORMINOTAFB

Persistent Systems, LLC cut the ribbon on its new facility in Minot on May 24, 2023 The company received a $75.5 million contract from the Department of Defense to roll out a significant communications system upgrade at three Air Force bases across the country starting with Minot.

The Minot Area Chamber EDC, along with representatives from Senator John Hoeven and Senator Kevin Cramer's offices, joined Persistent Systems as they cut the ribbon

Over the next three years, the company will upgrad sensor, and GPS data

Left to right: Army Col. Charles Montgomery and Minot Area Chamber EDC Board Chair Kevin Black

Team members of Persistent Systems, LLC were joined by representatives from Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer's offices as well as the Minot Area Chamber EDC for their ribbon cutting.

PRESENT

MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY AT ROOSEVELT PARK

NEXT TO ROOSEVELT PARK ZOO

FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2023

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

FREE ZOO ADMISSION ALL DAY*

LUNCH FROM 11-2

FREE SKATE AT MAYSA ARENA FROM 1-2:30*

OUTDOOR GAMES FROM 11-2

'CURIOSITYLEADSUSDOWNNEWPATHS'

BREKKAKRAMERREFLECTSONONEYEARASMINOTAREACHAMBER EDCPRESIDENT|CEO

On May 16, 2022, Brekka Kramer began her tenure as President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. The year that followed was one of major accomplishments, team-building, and forward thinking We sat down with Kramer to reflect on her first year at the helm of the organization

The Communicator: How did you find your way to this position?

Brekka Kramer: My first interaction with the group was as a Chamber Ambassador over two decades ago. I joined several committees so I could stay informed on topics important to Minot Eventually, I became the fifth-ever woman and youngest individual to chair the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors I also wound up serving on the Minot Area Development Corporation Board and serving as Board Chair Eventually, the majority of my volunteer work ran through what is now the Chamber EDC

When the search began for a new President | CEO, I was helping with the search. Then my daughter asked: "Why wouldn't you go for it yourself?" I told her I loved the work I had been doing for over twenty years. Then she said: "I know, but everything you volunteer for is with the Chamber EDC. Why wouldn't you make your volunteer gig your day job, and not have a day job?"

So I gave it some thought and realized she was right: so much of what I'm passionate about has some tie to this organization. And so I put my name in and here I am today.

What was your "Why" when you first decided to start volunteering on committees?

BK: I knew I wanted to be closely involved with the community I grew up in One of the first things I did to engage in the community was to join the Sunrise Rotary Club Rotary’s motto is ‘Service Above Self’ and this means we leave our egos at the door and do what is best for the people we are serving This has been a driving factor my whole career and I really believe this Most of the doors that have opened in my career have been a result of saying yes, volunteering and helping wherever I can It feels good to do good!

Our Board of Directors is a volunteer board The time that they give to this organization is phenomenal And they do it because it betters our community. I’m grateful for their close involvement and the way they help direct the Chamber EDC to do even more impactful work than ever. Our team at the Minot Area Chamber EDC cares deeply about our community and wants whatever to do whatever they can do to support our community. One of the things our Vice President, Carla Dolan, shared from day one is that we don’t exist as a Chamber EDC without our volunteers, and I have such an appreciation for this today. There really is no “why” quite like serving others.

What excites you about being in this new role at the Chamber EDC?

BK: I see so much opportunity to get Minot on the map as a community that thinks differently. And I think we have not yet reached the tipping point on that opportunity. That could be with new relationships, like the one we forged with North Dakota State University and their architecture program. It also means supporting longstanding, tentpole events for our community, like Norsk Høstfest.

What I love about the Chamber EDC is that we get to be community champions for all things related to growth, development, and positivity It really is rewarding, and we've only scratched the surface of our city's potential That excites me

What would you say was 'the big story' from your first year as President | CEO?

BK: A good majority of our work in my first year was spent making sure two decades of hard work by community leaders to bring an intermodal logistics solution together reached the finish line So we were able to secure a long-term lease with an operator, Rail Modal Group We purchased the land from the City of Minot We developed a business incentive agreement to promise, for the dollars invested, that we will provide continuous operations And we've built strong relationships with the Ports of Tacoma and Seattle We brought the right people to the table, and ultimately were recognized with the Economic Development Project of the Year by the Economic Development Association of North Dakota. It took hard work by a whole lot of people, but that was a phenomenal win for the Minot area.

And the first half of 2023 has been full of big moments for the community.

BK: Yes! Major ribbon cuttings all over town, from Trinity Health's new Healthcare Campus and Medical District and the Magic City Discovery Center to the new City Hall location in downtown Minot and even new exhibits at Roosevelt Park Zoo. There has been so much investment in our community in recent years, and we know that much more is coming.

And the fun part about it is that we all work together in a united way the City, Ward County, the Park District, Visit Minot, and even Minot Public Schools and Minot State University. We're all getting behind big efforts together, and we're seeing them pay off

The scope of this work is so wide. How do you find the energy for it all and keep yourself moving forward?

BK: That just so happens to be part of my favorite quote! From Walt Disney: "We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths " I have a hard time shutting off the part of my brain that sees opportunities And that leads me to more and more new paths

The other piece of it is this: leadership is a team sport Nothing gets done without a great team of employees, a great board of directors, and a great group of volunteers We jump in with both feet, solve problems, and move forward. I believe anything is possible when we get the right group of people together for the right reasons. And there is so much we can do to make Minot a better place to live, work, and play in the years ahead. It truly is Magic in Minot!

GOLDMANSACHSOFFERSFREEPROGRAM FORSMALLBUSINESSOWNERS

10,000SMALLBUSINESSESPROGRAMAVAILABLEONLINE

The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program is a great opportunity for business owners to gain access to tools and knowledge to grow their business In professional workshops delivered online and inperson, business owners learn from some of the brightest minds in the business, learn about access to financial capital, and build a powerful network of professional support You can find out more about our program’s impact by visiting their website

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PROGRAM:

The program is offered at no cost to the business owner – every business owner selected receives a full scholarship, with tuition funded by the Goldman Sachs Foundation

Hands-on education for business growth

Within 6 months of graduating, 66% of businesses report increasing revenues and 44% added new jobs in the same 6-month time period

The curriculum focuses on practical business skills, including negotiations, marketing, and employee management

Access to highly-trained professionals who understand what it takes to grow a small business

An expanded peer network of small business owners from across the country

Visit https://www goldmansachs com/10ksb-north-dakota/index html to learn more and apply by June 29th for the upcoming class, which begins in September 2023 The application takes less than 15 minutes to complete If you have any questions regarding the program, please reach out to NorthDakota10ksb@icic org

The Minot Area Chamber EDC is pleased to inform you of an opportunity for small businesses across North Dakota

CHILDCARERELIEFFORWORKINGPARENTS

PILOTPROGRAMFROMSTATEOFNORTHDAKOTAAIMSTOINCREASE WORKFORCEPARTICIPATION,ASSISTPARENTS

A pilot program operated by the North Dakota Health and Human Services Department could prove to be a useful tool in the ongoing effort to fill open jobs in our state — and bring relief to working parents of young children.

The ND Working Parents Child Care Relief program is "a shared investment by employers, the state of North Dakota, and working parents," according to the program's webpage. "It's a matching employer benefit pilot program."

Here's how it works:

Employers in both the public and private sectors can opt in to provide employees a paid child care benefit stipend on a per month, per child basis The state of North Dakota provides matching funds at the $150 and $300 level

Once an employer makes the paid child care benefit available to its employees, that employer will receive a code to share with employees, who must use it when they apply at this website After that working parent applies, the Health and Human Services Department will verify his or her eligibility

After that, employers will provide those eligible employees with the paid child care benefit — and upon verification, the state of North Dakota will send the matching funds directly to the parent.

"The ND Working Parents Child Care Relief pilot program aims to help you attract and retain employees specifically parents who need child care and may be experiencing challenges due to the high cost of infant and toddler care," reads the state website. "This cost-sharing pilot program focuses on families with young children because this is when they face the greatest economic pressure and make critical decisions about how and if to join the workforce."

Click the following links to learn more and opt into the program, either as an employer or a parent

PAVINGTHEWAYFORWARD ONHIGHWAY52

LAWMAKERSAPPROVEENVIRONMENTALSTUDYFORFOUR-LANE PROJECTAFTERCOMMUNITYLEADERSRALLYFORCHANGE

A much-requested change to a heavily traveled highway in the Minot area took a major step forward in the final days of the 2023 Legislative Session

As part of House Bill 1012, which provides funding for highway infrastructure across the state, a $5 million environmental study was approved on the portion of U S Highway 52 between Minot and Voltaire Such a study is a prerequisite for expanding the highway from two to four lanes

"This is exciting news and the first step of many that are needed in order see this project come to fruition," said Paul Kramer, Chair of the MACEDC Infrastructure Committee "This is a project that we have long advocated for and will continue to do so until its final completion as it is a vital transportation corridor, and more importantly, needed for a safer travel roadway.”

The development came after Minot area leadership, including local lawmakers and the Minot Area Chamber EDC, met with Governor Doug Burgum to advocate for the safety improvement on an infamously dangerous stretch of highway.

"That was one of the finer pieces of work of the Minot delegation this session," said Sen. Majority Leader David Hogue at the May meeting of the MACEDC Infrastructure Committee. "We confronted the decision makers about the need for four lanes."

"Getting this environmental study going is important. It's a big step for this area," said Rep. Dan Ruby.

"A number of people have been working on this for a long time," said Rep Jay Fisher "They say 'the squeaky wheel gets the grease ' So we have to keep the pressure on I commend the Minot group for keeping this moving this forward "

In the meantime, other improvements are underway on the same stretch of Highway 52 The North Dakota Department of Transportation is adding passing lanes and turning lanes every few miles south of Minot

MARKYOURCALENDAR!

The next Governmental Affairs Committee meeting is set for Thursday, June 15 at 11:30 AM at the Sleep Inn & Suites Sunrise Room We will get a 2023 Legislative Session recap from State Senators Karen Krebsbach and David Hogue Click here to RSVP

Rep. Jay Fisher, Rep. Dan Ruby, and Sen. Majority Leader David Hogue provide a recap of the 2023 Legislative Session to the MACEDC Infrastructure Committee.

NEWCITYHALLDEDICATED,RIBBONCUT

“The people's house" has officially moved from near the Minot A EDC joined city employees, elected officials, and community me

"This project's completion, on time and on budget, proves the spirit of cooperation is alive and well in the city of Minot," said Mayor Tom Ross. "Welcome to your new City Hall!"

The move was made possible by funds awarded to the City of Minot in 2016 as part of a National Disaster Resiliency Competition

MACEDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer said this is the latest in a series of major recent openings in Minot "We had a ribbon cutting for Trinity Health on south hill," she said "We were on north hill for the opening of the Magic City Discovery Center And now in the heart of downtown Minot, we have an accessible building for the citizens of our

Community members gathered for the dedication of Minot's new City Hall on Thursday, May 11, 2023.

MACEDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer shares remarks ahead of the ribbon cutting.

The mission of the Minot Area Chamber EDC is to advocate for and invest in business activity by being a collaborate partner in the community, focused on improving quality of life for all One of the ways we achieve this mission by offering our member-investors unique sponsorship and marketing opportunities that amplify your brand to Minot's most engaged business professionals

From signature events and military appreciation opportunities to programs for aspiring entrepreneurs and well-read publications, there are opportunities at every investment level to connect with an engaged business community. We look forward to helping you make an even greater impact on the Minot area! Clickheretoseeallofouravailablesponsorshipand

Brekka Kramer President | CEO

marketingopportunities!

UNDERSTANDING

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

May 8 - 12, 2023 marked #EconDevWeek across North Dakota and much of the nation To observe the occasion, we shared a number of stories to summarize what the Minot Area Chamber EDC does to accomplish its mission of growing and diversifying our local economy

WHATISECONOMICDEVELOPMENT?

Economic development is what we do to improve the quality of life in our community. We work to bring new business to the Minot area to create jobs, increase income, diversify the economy, and foster a climate that encourages businesses to call Minot home The result is an improved quality of life for all of us."

One of the key ways in which we work to attract new businesses to the Minot area is by promoting the Logistics Park of North Dakota.

It's an 800-acre area in east Minot that is full of active and potential economic activity: shovel-ready and closely tied to the Intermodal Facility that gets goods from North Dakota to the rest of the world.

It's where you'll find our anchor tenant, AGT Foods a company that has grown and thrived for about a decade

And it's a piece of the Magic City that we're proud of We're constantly visiting with employers in value-added ag, manufacturing, and more key industries that could call the Logistics Park — and Minot — their next home

MARKLYMAN Economic Development Specialist

UNDERSTANDING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WHATISINTERMODAL?

When you see a train car that looks like this...

you know you're seeing intermodal transportation in action! And the Intermodal Facility at the Logistics Park of North Dakota is a place in our state where that process goes from truck to train

Intermodal allows producers, processors, miners, and shippers to move their products to ports on the west coast, then to the rest of the world while preserving the identity of their product (that is, not mixing their materials in with everyone else's).

By offering this option, we can better focus on attracting, retaining, and expanding businesses in the primary sector!

RETAINING&EXPANDINGBUSINESS

When it comes to economic development, three letters (and one symbol) are incredibly important: BR&E.

That stands for Business Retention & Expansion and it's one way we keep our finger on the pulse of the Minot area's business community

Each year, we conduct dozens of BR&E meetings with key employers in the region At these meetings, we listen and we learn What's working and what's not when it comes to living and working in Minot? How can the business climate improve? What sort of quality-of-life improvements would businesses like to see?

Then, twice a year, we share that "intel" with local leaders so the business community always has a voice in our local government.

It's a service we provide to primary sector businesses at no cost Why? Because our mission is to advocate for business activity in the Minot area, so that we can all enjoy a better quality of life

Helping entrepreneurs achieve their dreams is a big part of Economic Development That's what we aim to do with Start Up Minot

This program is designed to invigorate, encourage, and entire entrepreneurs in and around Minot to execute their bright ideas We do this in two ways!

1) Each month we host a free networking event to showcase local entrepreneurs' stories. We bring the coffee and donuts you bring the desire to be inspired.

2) Twice per year we host a cohort-based 10-week class: Start Up Minot Academy powered by CO.STARTERS. It's designed to give budding entrepreneurs the tools, insights, and relationships they need to turn their ideas into a reality

Our small businesses are a huge part of our community's identity We're proud of the work we do to support them!

DON'TMISSOURNEXTNETWORKINGEVENT!

DELEGATIONFROMMINOTVISITSSISTERCITYIN NORWAYMONTHSAFTERAGREEMENTRENEWAL

A longstanding bond between the cities of Minot, North Dakota and Skien, Norway was renewed in September of 2022 and delegations from the two "Sister Cities" met in Norway this May to further strengthen that connection.

The Minot Area Chamber EDC was honored to be part of that delegation, which also included representatives from the City of Minot, Minot State University, and Norsk Høstfest

The relationship between Minot and Skien dates back to 1981, when the Sister City Agreement was first signed The relationship is based on the shared cultural heritage between the cities, as well as their similarities in size and character The purpose of the agreement is to open doors in both communities for education, networking, business development, and cultural exchange

"One of the goals of our Sister City Agreement with Skien is to develop mutually beneficial relationships between our cities' business communities," says Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. "I'm thrilled to have observed several Skien-based businesses up close this week, and I'm excited about what we can learn and share from this relationship in the years ahead."

Representatives of the communities of Minot, North Dakota and Skien, Norway.

MINOTRENEWSSISTERCITYAGREEMENTWITHSKIEN—CONTINUED

The visit coincided with Syttende Mai, also known as Constitution Day in Norway. The Minot delegation was immersed in Norwegian culture by participating in a parade to mark the holiday.

"I was impressed with the level of community spirit and commitment to their constituents when we held meetings with local elected leaders," said Minot Mayor Tom Ross. "Their focus is much the same as ours in Minot: working together with local partners to improve the quality of life for their residents, collaborating with government agencies to promote their business districts, and preparing their communities for the challenges of the future "

Leaders from Minot also visited the University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) a school with an existing partnership with Minot State University

vel to Skien to both experience the Norwegian culture first-hand and id Dr Steve Shirley, President of Minot State University "It was a pleasure touring USN and learning more about their campus and potential new opportunities for further cooperation The entire delegation who hosted us during our time in Skien and the surrounding region were incredibly hospitable; we are grateful for their partnership, and it is clear there are many possibilities for future collaborations with our sister-city friends "

Governor Doug Burgum shared a note of gratitude to the community of Skien to mark the occasion of the visit.

"North Dakota has a rich Norwegian heritage," Gov. Burgum wrote. "With nearly 30 percent of North Dakotans claiming Norwegian heritage, we are proud to have one of the largest populations of Norwegian-Americans in the United States. We value the contributions that our Norwegian friends, neighbors and ancestors have made to our state over the years, and we cherish the many cultural and economic ties that continue to connect us to Norway."

Elected leaders in Norway said the visit reinforced the possibilities that lie ahead for the two communities

“It has been a true pleasure to host the delegation from Minot to Skien this year," said Hedda Foss Five, the Mayor of Skien "I’m of course proud to display the beautiful scenery and our many projects in the region, but more important are the conversations, contacts, and knowledge-exchange with our friends from Minot I find that very promising regarding further cooperation for the years to come ”

"Since the Telemark County Council's collaboration with the Midwest began in 2013, we’ve carried out several successful projects together within areas such as education, art, and cultural heritage," said Terje Riis-Johansen, County Mayor of Vestfold and Telemark County Municipality "I am looking forward to further strengthening of this important cooperation ”

"I’ve come to learn firsthand why Minot and Skien became Sister Cities years ago, and why that important relationship continues to blossom," continued Mayor Ross "Both cities represent the ideals of what it means to be part of a community, and both Minot and Skien show great pride in taking care of their residents."

Representatives from Minot and Skien meet at the University of South-Eastern Norway.

RThe 2023 Citywide Spring Cleanup was a su left Minot looking much tidier after the spring snow melt We're grateful to everyone who took time to pick up trash, including those who registered ahead of time:

5th Force Support Squadron

Better Homes and Gardens Watne Group

C21 Action Realtors

First International Bank & Trust

First Western Bank & Trust

Kalix

Magic City Beverage

Midco

Minot International Airport

North Dakota Vocational Rehabilitation

REM North Dakota

Sandy Cech

Signal Realty

SRT

Town & Country Credit Union

Employees from North Dakota Vocational Rehabilitation cleaning up.

The team at SRT smile after finishing their portion of the cleanup.

The team at Servpro tidied up in northwest Minot.

GNDCWOMENYOUNEEDTOKNOWANDWATCH INN.D.BUSINESSGATHERFORLUNCHEON

On May 9, the Greater North Dakota Chamber held a gathering of a very select group of leaders: the inaugural Women You Need To Know and Watch in North Dakota Business

Among those selected for the honor was Brekka Kramer, the President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC

"Thank you to those that attended to celebrate the success, accomplishments, and work of these women," wrote GNDC on Facebook

"Women are collaborative by nature, and we wanted a list of go-getters who should be celebrated but are often too busy hustling or praising others to shine light on themselves," said Amanda Remynse, VP of Operations and Outreach for the Greater North Dakota Chamber.

Left to right: Anna Nelson, Williston Area Chamber of Commerce; Kelby Hovey, Basin Electric Power Cooperative; Marlene Miller, Altru Health System; Cassie Andress, Cassie's Cleaning Co.; Beth Feldner, Xcel Energy; Brekka Kramer, Minot Area Chamber EDC; Rep. Emily O'Brien, Bioscience Association of ND; Paula Anderson, Sterling Carpet One Floor & Home; Meg Wold, Meg-A-Latte; Helen Bullinger, Bullinger Tree Service; Jill Berg, Spherion Fargo ND; Kristi Jean, ComDel Innovation; Ann Pollert, General Equipment & Supplies, Inc.; Cindy Griffin, Harvestone Low Carbon Printers; Nancy Slotten, Border States Paving; Danita Tysver, Stark Development Corporation; Heather Jones, City Air Mechanical, Inc.; Christie Huber Obenauer, Union State Bank; Mackenzie Gable, Northern Improvement Company.

THANKYOU,TIM!

Sadly, we say goodbye to Tim Olson, our Communications and Outreach Specialist, at the beginning of June.

Tim has been a key leader in driving new initiatives to reach our member-investors with more, relevant content Tim will be returning to work for a place he loves, the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation, but thankfully he and his family will continue to live and work in Minot

Thanks for your dedication and effort, Tim, in raising the bar when it comes to outreach and communication!

JOINOURTEAM!

Be a part of the Magic in Minot! The Minot Area Chamber EDC is looking for a Communications and Outreach Specialist to tell the ongoing story of the Minot Area Chamber EDC and its member investors.

This position will develop and distribute multimedia content, including photo, video, and written stories, through various internal and external channels and support partner relationships. Updating and creating content for online, publications, websites and social media content will be an important part of the position.

Click here to learn more about the position and how to submit your application.

NEWTIERS.NEWOPPORTUNITIES.

The Minot Area Chamber EDC has refreshed the ways in which we recognize and collaborate with our member-investors. Whether it's providing broad access to MACEDC leadership, featuring your business in our publications, or enhancing your next ribbon cutting experience, our mission remains the same: to advocate for and invest in the Minot area business community.

Cornerstone

Magic

Premier Champion

Supporter

MEETOURNEWMEMBER-INVESTORS!

THANKYOUFORJOININGUSANDSUPPORTINGOURONGOINGMISSION.

FAIRWAYINDEPENDENT MORTGAGECORPORATION

ADDRESS: 408 4TH AVE NE, BERTHOLD, ND 58718

WEBSITE: FAIRWAYMC.COM

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp serves borrowers with rates and loan options and provide service through every step of the loan process, from application to closing and beyond.

ONTHEROCKS

ADDRESS: 614 3RD ST NE, MINOT, ND 58703

PHONE: 701-838-4036

WEBSITE: FACEBOOK.COM/ONTHEROCKSMINOT

On the Rocks is a local bar in northeast Minot that features food, drinks, pool and darts.

RIBBONCUTTINGS&GROUNDBREAKINGS INMAY2023

SERVPROMINOT

1415 21ST AVENUE NW, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-852-7378

WEBSITE: WWW SERVPRO COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Servpro Minot's new location on north hill The company offers damage restoration services in and around the Minot area 24 hours a day.

ROOSEVELTPARKZOO LEOPARDHABITAT

1219 BURDICK EXPRESSWAY E, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-857-4166

WEBSITE: WWW RPZOO COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at the Roosevelt Park Zoo's new Amur leopard exhibit. The Zoo is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM.

MINOTCITYHALL

10 3RD AVE SW, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-857-4140

WEBSITE: WWW MINOTND GOV

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Minot's new City Hall location downtown The move was made possible by funds awarded as part of a National Disaster Resiliency Competition

ROYALTHERAPYSERVICES

4625 N BROADWAY, SUITE 5, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-839-5656

WEBSITE: WWW ROYALND COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Royal Therapy Services, which provides speech and language therapy to help children increase their ability to communicate about the world around them

RIBBONCUTTINGS&GROUNDBREAKINGS INMAY2023

VALVOLINEINSTANTOIL CHANGE

1530 21ST AVE NW, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-837-1302

WEBSITE: WWW.STORE.VIOC.COM

Ambassadors moved some dirt at the new location for Valvoline Instant Oil Change on Minot's north hill, across from Marketplace Foods.

TRUSTEDTIRE&AUTO

1301 20TH AVE SW, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-837-1301

WEBSITE: WWW TRUSTEDTIREND COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon the newly rebranded Trusted Tire & Auto, formerly Tires Plus ND. The company is under the same ownership and offers total car care services.

NEIGHBORHOODPEDIATRIC THERAPY

1015 SOUTH BROADWAY

PHONE: 837-8877

WEBSITE: WWW NEIGHBORHOODND COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Neighborhood Pediatric Therapy in the Town & Country Center They offer speech-language services to assist with fluency, delays, literacy, social communication, and more

MINOTHOTTOTS

501 13TH ST SE, MINOT, ND

PHONE: 701-838-8687

WEBSITE: WWW NORTHWOODSLEAGUE COM/MINOTHOT-TOTS

Ambassadors cut the ribbon on the inaugural season of the Minot Hot Tots, part of the Northwoods League. Their home games will be played at Corbett Field this summer.

THANKYOUTOOURMEMBERINVESTORSWHORENEWEDINMAY!

A-1 Septic Tank Service

Ackerman Surveying & Associates

Ackerman-Estvold

American Family Insurance Emily Grossman Agency

Brady, Martz & Associates, P.C.

Bremer Bank

C&C Plumbing & Heating/Miller Sheet Metal

Coldwell Banker 1st Minot Realty

Coughlin Construction & Development

Dacotah Bank

Dakota Hope Clinic

Dakota Property Management

Dakota Tax & Accounting, Inc

Duane Poynter

Fargo Glass & Paint Co.

First Western Bank & Trust

Gate City Bank

Hartland Mutual Insurance

Homesteaders Restaurant

Hotel Revel

Karl's TV, Appliance and Furniture

Lien's Jewelry

Linde Gas & Equipment

Minot Aero Center

Minot Daily News

MinotDowntownBusiness&ProfessionalAssociation

Minot's Finest Collision Center

Moore Engineering, Inc.

Motel 6/Studio 6

Mowbray & Son Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Northern Sentry (Bolton Advertising Group)

Northwestern Electric, Inc

Outback Autobody, Inc

Pringle & Herigstad, P C

Pure Power Sports of Minot

Reiter Oil & Gas, Inc

Rolac Contracting

Simonson, Greg

Sport Clips

State Farm Insurance – Jessica Aardahl

Stein Construction, Inc

Worthington & Schultz, PC

Zarr Financial Services

To nominate someone for an Eagle Award for Outstanding Customer Service, visit MinotChamberEDC.com/EagleAwards

Kylie Evanoff Olive Garden

Brenda Berntson Minot Lumber & Hardware

Will Bachmeier Menards

Steve Christenson Magic City Garage Door Co

Brent Fisher Menards

Chris Douglas Minot Family YMCA

Dave Bergo Mowbray & Sons Inc.

Tim Bueschel Westlie Motor Company

Brooke Fornshell Jerome's Collision

Feliciana Castaneda Spartan Firearms

Eagle Awards

CONGRATULATIONSTOOURMAY2023RECIPIENTS!

NotPictured:

Thank you to Homesteaders Restaurant and Waxing the City for providing gift certificates to our Eagle Award recipients!

To nominate someone for an Eagle Award for Outstanding Customer Service, visit MinotChamberEDC.com/EagleAwards

Ashley Sundsbak Town&CountryCreditUnion

Richard Kowalski Midco

Donna Hartl Mowbray & Sons

Isaiah Sopko Subway Flying J

Lyn Wedar Trinity Health

Judy Sundhagen MinotCommissiononAging

Tasha Hewitt Olive Garden

Julie Munday I Keating Furniture

Sascha Demory Trinity Health

John Young Enerbase

Paul Haas Kevin's Plumbing and Heating

Erica Riordan Trinity Health

BUSINESSAFTERHOURS: MINOTCITYHALL

After the ribbon was cut at Minot's new City Hall location, the community was invited in for a tour of the building as part of a special Business After Hours event. Tastes of downtown Minot and door prizes made the event even better!

This was the final Business After Hours event of the season. We'll see you after the summer break!

THEFOLLOWINGSTORIESCOMEFROMOURMEMBER-INVESTORSANDCOLLABORATIVEPARTNERS. SUBMITYOURBUSINESSNEWSTOCARLA@MINOTCHAMBEREDCCOM

TICKETSONSALENOWFORNORSKHØSTFEST THEFESTIVALWILLBEHELDSEPTEMBER27-30TH,2023

Norsk Høstfest announced the remaining acts for the 2023 Great Hall line-up last week The full line-up includes Million Dollar Quartet, Daniel O’Donnell, The Oak Ridge Boys, Terry Fator, Daughtry and Brothers Osborne

Ticket holders can choose between a daily festival admission ticket, or a great hall show ticket

DAILY FESTIVAL ADMISSION, which includes single-day entry into the general festival for the entire day of your choosing You’ll experience authentic Scandinavian culture, side stage entertainment, delicious cuisine, vendors and artisans, Viking Village, the kids’ zone, and so much more These tickets will be priced at $44 plus fees

GREAT HALL SHOWS, which includes entry into the show of your choosing PLUS entry into the general festival for the entire day of your show. Daughtry and Brothers Osborne will be standing room only on the floor, which is first come first serve. For all other shows, all seats are reserved, so purchase early to secure the best available seat. These tickets will be priced from $54-89 plus fees.

Military and students can get $10 off ANY ticket. Must be purchased in the box office with valid proof of ID. Kids 12 and under get free festival admission. Tickets will be available for purchase in person at the Norsk Høstfest office located at 1020 S Broadway, Minot, ND or online at Ticketmaster.com. For more information about ticket pricing head to Hostfest com

TOWN&COUNTRYCREDITUNIONBOARD NAMESEXECUTIVECOMMITTEE

Town & C members representat es o t e e t e e be s p. a c , t e e be s p oted a d Jan Kostad (Kenmare seat) to the Board to serve three-year terms. They will serve alongside Kevin Harmon (Minot seat), Jay Hight (At-Large seat, Minot), Jeff Stremick (Minot seat), Brian Nelson (At-Large seat, Fargo) and David Ripplinger (Fargo seat).

In April, the Board held its reorganization meeting and elected the new Board executive committee.

Kevin Harmon will serve as Chairman Kevin is the Vice President for Student Affairs at Minot State University

DelRae Geinert will serve as Vice Chair DelRae is a licensed REALTOR®, Broker and one of the owners of Brokers 12 Real Estate in Minot

Jeff Stremick will serve as Secretary/Treasurer He is a licensed REALTOR®, Broker and part-owner of Signal Realtors in Minot

They will hold these positions for one year

Kevin Harmon, Chairman DelRae Geinert, Vice Chair

Jeff Stremick, Secretary/Treasurer

DRIVE

Since the Fall of 2021, First Western Bank & Trust has been partnering with local schools to provide high need items that improve the educational experience for students in elementary and middle school Today, First Western would like to announce the kickoff of the ‘Essentials For Learning’ Summer Snack Drive, happening at all three Minot First Western Bank & Trust Locations

Essentials For Learning is a program organized by First Western Bank & Trust that supplies partner schools with items that will help students succeed, from filling food pantries to providing books and teaching tools Since the first deliveries were made in November 2021, First Western has made approximately 40 deliveries to 8 different schools, providing over $33,000 worth of snacks, notebooks, headphones, clothing, and other school supplies necessary for improving the quality of life for Minot area students.

Although item requests range from deodorant to books, some of the most requested items are snacks. According to Feedingamerica.org, 9 million children in the United States are food insecure. Children facing hunger are more likely to repeat a grade in elementary school, experience developmental impairments, and have more social and behavioral problems. Although there are some federally funded food programs, this doesn’t completely solve child hunger. Healthy snacks can be an essential part of helping a child grow and stay focused in school. Sometimes these snacks are the only nutrition students receive during school hours

All three First Western Bank & Trust locations in Minot will be collecting snacks over the course of the summer to donate to the seven Essentials For Learning partner schools These schools include: Longfellow Elementary, Sunnyside Elementary, Washington Elementary, Dakota Elementary, Roosevelt Elementary, Jim Hill Middle School and Sawyer Public School Requested snacks include granola bars, Goldfish crackers, snack-size bags of pretzels, fruit leathers, beef jerky, unsweetened applesauce, and trail mix This Summer Snack Drive begins on June 1st and will continue through August 10th Collection bins will be placed near the entrances of each Minot location

FIRSTWESTERNBANK&TRUSTANNOUNCES ‘ESSENTIALSFORLEARNING’SUMMERSNACK

SRTDISTRIBUTES$1.8MILLIONINCAPITAL CREDITSTOMEMBERS

SRT Communications will be distributing $1,824,596 in credits back to its members.

SRT’s Board of Directors approved SRT to issue checks that include a portion of the 2000 allocation and a portion of the 2022 allocation. Checks will be mailed out in early June.

“Capital credits are a core benefit of belonging to a cooperative,” said Kristi Miller, SRT Board President “SRT values our membership and enjoys sharing the good news of our financial health with them These capital credits represent our members’ ownership equity ”

SRT Capital Credits in Four Steps

1 At the end of the fiscal year, SRT determines whether there are excess revenues, called margins

2 The margins are allocated to members as capital credits based on the amount spent by the member during the year

3 The Board of Directors decides to retire, or pay, the capital credits when the cooperative’s financial condition allows

4 Members are notified how and when they will receive their capital credit distribution

Members should inform SRT of changes to their current mailing address to ensure they receive any future capital credit retirements

For more information on capital credits, visit srt.com/capitalcredits or call 701-858-1200.

UNITEDCOMMUNITYBANKAWARDSAREA HIGHSCHOOLSTUDENTSWITHCOMMUNITY

BASEDSCHOLARSHIPS

Throughout the month of May, area UCB employees made surpr high school seniors with $1000 and $500 scholarships

The Our Community Scholarship Program has been put in place given their time through non-profit and community service orga

Scholarships were awarded at the Minot, Burlington and Drake l $500 donation to each awarded student allowing them to donate it to a local non-profit organization on their behalf

The local scholarship recipients and selected non-profits were:

Minot: Daniel Fernandez, Minot High – Minot Alzheimer’s Association

Minot: Ryker Pederson, Minot High – Boys Scouts of America, Northern Lights

Minot: Kiera Biberdorf, Our Redeemers – Prairie Grit Sports

Minot: Aubree Mueller, Minot High – Minot Alzheimer’s Association

Minot: Trinity Jessen, Minot High – Project Bee

Burlington: Ariel Frazier, DLB

Burlington: Kaelyn Bachmeier, DLB

Drake: Isabella Tichy, Drake

Drake: Abbigail Peterson, Velva

Students listed left to right: Isabella Tichy, Drake; Kaelynn Bachmeier, DLB; Ariel Frazier, DLB; Ryker Pederson, Trinity Jessen, Daniel Fernandez, Aubree Mueller, Minot High; Kiera Biberdorf, Our Redeemer's.

TRINITYHEALTHANNOUNCESSENIOR LEADERSHIPUPDATES

Trinity Health is pleased to announce that Christopher M Van Gels, a facilities manager with nearly three decades of experience in the health and aerospace fields, has joined the regional care system as Vice President, Facilities Management, following a four-month long national search He succeeds Dave Kohlman, who is retiring in late June after a 35-year career with Trinity Health, including 10 years as vice president

Van Gels will oversee all aspects of Trinity Health’s facility infrastructure across the region, including construction, maintenance, real estate management, space allocation and contract administration “Christopher will be a great addition to our team,” said John M Kutch, Trinity Health President and Chief Executive Officer “He brings decades of facility leadership to this role We look forward to working with him as we transform the delivery of healthcare services to the community and region-at-large.”

Van Gels comes to Trinity Health from St. Louis, MO, where he served the last five years as Director of Plant Operations and Maintenance for SSM Health, a not-forprofit health system with care sites in Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. He was responsible for organizing and directing the maintenance, repair and alteration of buildings and grounds for multiple medical campuses, including a 215-bed acute care hospital, a behavioral hospital and 13 medical office and outpatient centers

erview process and after spending my first days in Minot, I quickly eciate the efforts and dedication of the facilities personnel under of Mr Kohlman to keep these buildings clean and operating as em to be Doing all that hard work while designing, building and nto this magnificent new Healthcare Campus and Medical District,

division and across the organization,” noted Van Gels “My family munity,” he added

Kohlman worked as a machinist in Minot before joining St Joseph’s Hospital in 1987 in facility maintenance He strengthened skills in facility management through coursework at Bismarck State College, Johnson Controls and more When the Sisters of St Francis built the Medical Arts Clinic in downtown Minot, Kohlman was put in charge of energy management In 1998, Quorum Health Group acquired UniMed Medical Center and Medical Arts Clinic, and Kohlman was promoted to facilities director In 2001, Trinity Health acquired UniMed and dubbed Kohlman its Plant Operations Director for the merged facilities He joined the senior leadership team as vice president in 2011

Mr Kohlman’s impact on Trinity Health has been extensive During his 35-year career with Trinity Health, Kohlman oversaw the construction of a series of significant campus expansions, including the recently completed Healthcare Campus and Medical District “Dave Kohlman understood that operationally, leaders needed to develop or improve work processes to keep our patients, employees and communities safe, while still accomplishing the maintenance and upkeep necessary to support healthcare services and activities,” Kutch said. “We benefited enormously from his work and he leaves a lasting legacy at Trinity Health. We all share the deepest respect and gratitude for his service.”

Christopher M. Van Gels

Dave Kohlman

AGCOUNTRYFARMCREDITSERVICESAWARDS TRINITYHEALTHFOUNDATION$20,000

AgCountry Farm Credit Services is proud to announce that it has awarded the Trinity Health Foundation $20,000 as a recipient of the Rural Community Grant Fund (RCGF).

Representatives with AgCountry Farm Credit Services recently presented a check to Trinity Health Foundation and Trinity Health First Response Ground Team with the grant funds that assisted in purchasing a new ambulance.

“AgCountry is proud to provide grant funds to help them purchase a new ambulance and increase the number of physical ground ambulances that are available to serve the region,” says Todd Erickson, SVP-Producer Markets with

AgCountry Farm Credit Services First Response Ground Ambulance currently has six ambulances, but with one only able to be used for standby events, they are pursuing a 2021 Crestline Type 3 ambulance for expanded capability and to better serve the region with interfacility transports Responding to 11,000 calls annually mainly in Ward County, but also responding to Advanced Life Support (ALS) intercept requests in McHenry, Mountrail, Renville, Bottineau, Burke, and McLean Counties “As the area’s only fully staffed ALS service providing service 24 hours a day seven days a week, they also support local fire, police, and sheriff’s departments An additional ambulance with newer technology will increase their efficiency and positively impact how they provide essential life-critical care in the community,” Erickson adds “AgCountry believes it’s important to give back to the community ”

AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit Services of Mandan and AgriBank, established the Rural Community Grant Fund to assist in the implementation and development of projects and programs in communities and rural areas in western North Dakota which have been impacted by mineral exploration.

The Rural Community Grant Fund is currently accepting applications for future funding requests. Interested parties can apply at www.AgCountry.com.

TRINITYHEALTHFOUNDATIONCELEBRATES 25THANNUALBUILDINGHOPEGOLF TOURNAMENTANDBRUNCH

Trinity Health Foundation is celebrating 25 years of the Building Hope Women’s Golf Tournament on Monday, June 12th

The celebration begins with brunch and guest speaker Jessie Veeder at 10 a m at the Sleep Inn & Suites The Building Hope Golf Tournament will follow at Souris Valley Golf Course at 12 p m

Brunch tickets are $30/person, and all are welcome Registration for the tournament is not required to attend the brunch

Golf Tournament registration is $500 for a 4-person team Registration includes 4 brunch tickets, green fees, cart fees, snacks, and an after-tournament program

To purchase brunch tickets or register a team, call 857-2430 or visit www.trinityhealth.org/foundation/building-hope/.

All proceeds from this event will benefit the Trinity Health Foundation CancerCare Patient Assistance fund.

TRINITYHEALTHFOUNDATIONGRANTS$7,500 TOMINOTCHAPTEROFNDHOSA

Trinity Health Foundation recently granted $7,500 to the Minot Chapter of NDHOSA (North Dakota Health Occupations Students of America) to assist 10th - 12th-grade students attending the International Leadership Conference in Dallas, TX June 20th-25th. Attendees qualified for the conference at the State Leadership Conference in April.

Students will compete in various categories, including Clinical Laboratory Science, CPR/First Aid, Mental Health Promotion, Health Education, Health Career Photography, and Medical Law and Ethics

ASPIRECREDITUNIONHIRESTWO

Aspire Credit Union is pleased to welcome two new team members to support our operations department in our Broadway location

Amee Rasmusson joined the team in early May as a Member Experience Coordinator bringing in a large skillset to support members Rasmusson is no stranger to the credit union movement as she has been an active member with our institution for over 28 years, opening her first account as an infant Now with a son of her own, she is eager to begin supporting members as she has been supported in the past “I am excited to get to know the members at Aspire,” Rasmusson said, “I am most looking forward to helping them with their needs and finding creative ways to find supportive solutions ”

Her aptitude toward organization and clear communication skills will make her an asset for assisting members With a background as an enrollment specialist, she excelled in revenue management making sure accurate information was relayed to insurance companies This detail-oriented approach will allow for efficient and effective support for the Aspire team and the members we serve

Jacalynn Ostlund started mid-May and hit the ground running as a teller. Already excelling in her position, she joins the credit union with a vast background in customer service which will serve as a huge asset for our members. Ostlund has aspirations to grow as a professional at Aspire noting career growth and member support as important aspects for her. “I am looking forward to developing strong relationships with the members at Aspire so I can be a trusted representative as I grow my career,” she shared.

Ostlund, a graduate of Glenburn High School and is also a certified real estate agent in Minot and worked for several years as a barista at a busy local coffee house making her quick on her feet while teaching her invaluable multitasking skills Ostlund resides in Minot with her dog named Snickers

Pictured L to R: Rachel Nwankwo, Haley Pottinger, Alexa Rice, Emma Rensvold, McKenna Lang, London Opperude, HOSA Advisor Trisha Carlson, Emily Houim, Darla Miller; Trinity Health Foundation, Jamie Swenson; Trinity Health Foundation, and Cody McManigal; Trinity Health Foundation. Not Pictured: Brayden McLean, Kresten Drevecky, Sidney Ressler

ASPIRECU:KOHLMANINDUCTEDTOTHE DAKOTACREDITUNIONHALLOFFAME

For the last 40 years, Mindee Kohlman has been an active and influential member of the Credit Union movement in the Dakotas. She is highly respected by her peers and knows all operational aspects and interworking of the credit union since she worked herself up from a part-time teller to now the President and CEO of Aspire Community Federal Credit Union.

Her accomplishments have not gone unnoticed by those in the industry During the Annual Summit Awards Banquet on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, in Fargo, the Dakota Credit Union Association announced Mindee Kohlman as the Dakota Credit Union Association 2023 Hall of Fame Inductee

“Mindee Kohlman is a true servant leader who has a long histor union industry, both locally and nationally,” said Jeff Olson, Pre “During her years of service, she has led by example, demonstr community with a rare combination of professionalism and car deserving of this lifetime achievement honor,” he added

“I never thought I would be a Hall of Famer,” shared Kohlman “Throughout my years in the credit union movement, I was focused on building a great team, and on finding ways to say yes to support our members This honor humbles me, and it was a wonderful surprise ”

Kohlman is a leader who is always looking for the next program or opportunity to assist a member in their financial journey. Focused on collaboration, and forward-thinking, she’s a natural leader who holds her team up. She is supportive of the league, and its goals as a stakeholder in Washington DC. She shares that information with her team, so everyone can remain in the know about the current happening and what the legislation would mean for a member.

Throughout the years, Kohlman has embodied what credit unions stand for by embracing the people helping people philosophy. She does many activities to help people learn about credit unions and their benefits and is an active member of the local chapter. She has gone into classrooms to educate the communities youth about credit unions and how we are different. She has served in leadership roles on committees actively promoting chapter-wide events and activities over the decades of service

As our director, she has led the way to increase our community involvement In 2022 we noted over 923 hours of community service with a 96% staff participation rate During 2022, Kohlman volunteered in several ways, too She delivered our senior community members hot meals via the Meals on Wheels program She has assisted with the enrichment of the cats and dogs at the Souris Valley Animal Shelter She coordinates the packing of over 350 bags of food for local area children at risk of food insecurity with the Souris Valley United Way Backpack Buddies program In May she completed another year of Junior Achievement teaching an elementary class (a Minot Chamber EDC program) She has volunteered her time at the Norsk Hostfest, the BurliMot half Marathon, and the Roosevelt Park Zoo She is also heavily involved with LeeWok, a festival dear to her heart

Mindee Kohlman recognized as a Dakota Credit Union Association 2023 Hall of Fame Inductee.

Her volunteerism has truly been a bonus to how she has impacted the credit union industry and the greater Minot community. Throughout the last 4 decades, she has sat on many boards, and committees creating positive impact in many sectors. The bulleted highlights below are an example of a handful of her involvement and achievements.

• Has attended NYIB (Now the Credit Union Financial Education Network)

• Selected alternate representative of the year for the 1992-1993 FIT Representing the Chapter

• Attended the National CUNA Marketing Conference in 1993, 1994, and 1996 as the state-selected delegate

• Midwest Corp Federal Credit Union board member a total of 12 years

o Served on the ALCO and as secretary for the Midwest Corp Federal Credit Union

o Served on the Bylaws and Supervisory committee for Midwest Corp FCU

• A chosen representative for the 1995 Family Involvement Team

• 1996- Scholarship winner for the CUNA Conference

• Serving on the Family Involvement team for several years, chaired the group from 1994-1996

• 1996- DECA North Dakota Association Outstanding Service Award Winner

• Completed the MERIT (Management Enrichment Training Program)

• 1997 Professional of the Year for ND Credit Unions

• Previous Verendrye Electric Cooperative Advisory Board Member

• Served on the League’s Annual Meeting Committee for Credit Unions

• 1993 – Jeans for Penguins, Souris Valley Credit Union Chapter organizer

• 1999 she was reelected to the ND credit union board of directors for a 3-year term

• Arnold Paulson Scholarship Winner in 2001

• 2002 – Women of Distinction Nominee for the YWCA

• 2003- Prairie Federal (now Aspire Credit Union) was a Dora Maxwell Award Winner

• 2004 Completed the CUCE (Credit Union Certified Executive) program through CUNA

• Selected Chairman and Alternate representative for the Special Olympics Golf Committee

• Volunteer for the Moose Lodge

• 2012 CFO Council Conference participant

• 2020 Minot Area Chamber EDC – Community Leadership Institute Graduate

• Certified Credit Union Compliance Expert

• 2022- Life Stages Financial Consultant Certificate

• Currently serves on the DAKCU Board of Healthcare Trust

There are so many things that Mindee is doing that don’t show up on paper In the past several years, she’s continuously gone above and beyond for our membership As a leader, she embodies what everyone would want in a boss She leads by example and shows her team through actions how important everyone is She’s a doer, putting in the hours often the first to arrive and the last to leave

In February, Jason Rohrer, President of Aspire’s Board of Directors announced Kohlman’s intent to retire in May of 2023 Kohlman has been a leader with Aspire Credit Union for 35 years

KOHLMANINDUCTEDTOTHEDAKOTACREDITUNIONH.O.F. CONTINUED

CITYOFMINOTTOSPRAYFORMOSQUITOES TWICETHISSUMMER

The City of Minot, in conjunction with Minot Air Force Base and the Ohio Air National Guard, has tentatively scheduled aerial spraying for mosquito control in the Minot area for an evening between July 17-21, weather permitting

A second spraying has been scheduled for the week of Aug 7-11

Crews will choose the day and time of the spraying during both weeks depending on weather and wind conditions to spray when mosquitoes are most active Updates on the timing of the spraying will be provided on the City of Minot’s social media platforms

A U S Environmental Protection Agency registered pesticide will be used The active ingredient in the spray is Naled, which poses a minimal risk to the general population, pets and wildlife when applied in this method. Naled is toxic to insects, including honeybees. Beekeepers in the surrounding area will be notified of the scheduled spraying. More information about Naled is available from the Environmental Protection Agency at www.epa.gov/mosquitocontrol/naled-mosquito-control.

Mosquito spraying is provided and scheduled by the 910th Airlift Wing’s Air Force Aerial Spray Squadron from Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Ohio. The application will be made using a C-130 cargo aircraft.

YOURFEEDBACKWANTEDFORMINOTPARKS COMPREHENSIVEPLANNINGSURVEY

Minot Parks is currently underway with a parks and trails masterplan. The Minot Park District is interested in identifying issues and opportunities within their current parks and trails system The Minot Park District is looking to the community for their feedback and to better understand their perspectives on the parks, trails, and open spaces within the Minot Park District as a part of their long-term master planning effort

Elly DesLauriers, Executive Director of the Minot Park District said, “Planning is huge component of the Minot Park District Formulating these plans now allows us to budget for the future in the most efficient and fiscally responsible way possible for our community moving forward ”

The survey can be found at https://www surveymonkey com/r/minotparkdistrict or www minotparks com under the news sections

MSUSTAFFSENATEDONATESTOMINOT PUBLICSCHOOLSLUNCHPROGRAM

Minot State University’s Staff Senate presented Minot Public Schools with a check for $1,700 to go towards the lunch program at Minot middle schools

The donation was part of MSU Staff Senate’s annual silent auction fundraiser that takes place each spring semester, culminating in a donation to a local charity This year, Staff Senate added a live auction to the fundraiser, auctioning off baskets donated by the campus community The person with the highest bid made the decision on which charity would receive a check.

MSU’s POWER Center Director and outgoing Staff Senate President Katy Allers’ basket sold for $160 to give her the final vote.

"Staff Senate is amazed at the amount of funds raised this year at the silent auction!” Allers said. “Adding the live auction to the event was a great idea and we plan to make it a permanent part of the yearly event. I was fortunate to be able to choose the organization to receive the funds this year and I chose the lunch program at the middle schools ”

According to Minot Public School officials, there is still a large number of negative balances as families struggle to recoup after the COVID-19 pandemic

“The amount we donated won’t cover all the negative balances, but every little bit helps,” added Allers

Minot State Staff Senate is a representative body of MSU’s classified employees and serves the needs of the employees including communication with the president, administration, and all University staff For more information on the silent auction and the many other events planned by Minot State Staff Senate, visit the organization’s WEBSITE

Pictured are, from left, Jeni Anderson, MSU Staff Senate; Janese Lehman, MSU Staff Senate; Ivy Thorson, Minot Public Schools; Leann Tennyson, Minot Public Schools; Kelli Marchand, MSU Staff Senate; Katy Allers, MSU Staff Senate; Penny Lipsey, MSU Staff Senate; and Karla Bredahl, MSU Staff Senate.

MSUNAMESGREENROOMATAMPHITHEATER AFTERLONGTIMEPROFESSOR

Minot State University and Minot State Summer Theatre are proud to announce the green room at the newly renovated MSU Amphitheater will be named after longtime professor Kevin Neuharth ’74

Neuharth spent 40 years teaching communication arts at Minot State and is synonymous with the stage in Minot, directing 149 plays with MSU Mainstage, Summer Theatre, the Sawmill Playhouse, Magic City Children’s Theater, University of Oregon Second Season, and Minot’s Magic City and Central Campuses.

g out backstage,” said Chad Gifford, MSU ector Peg Morris knew that we needed to nd created and ran the place for so many er Kevin.”

Neuharth continues to play an active role in the MSU Summer Theatre serving on the Board of Directors and is helping to form the upcoming Summer Theatre Hall of Fame.

The updated Kevin R Neuharth Green Room is a part of an overall $2 8 million renovation that has spanned the past two summers Finishing touches will take place during the summer with a new canopy covering stage completed in time for the 58th season starting in June, a marquee sign installed later in the summer, and an updated wheelchair lift after the season

MSU begins Season 58 with the production of “Jimmy Buffet’s Escape to Margaritaville!,” from June 13-18 “Doctor Dolittle” is June 23-26 and June 28-July 1 “Calendar Girls” is set for July 10-14 and “Elf the Musical” is slated for June 24-28 and July 30-Aug 1

“As we kick off Season 58, we are glad to have this symbol of support backstage as we ring in a brand-new season of never-before-seen shows like ‘Escape to Margaritaville!’, ‘Doctor Dolittle,’ ‘Calendar Girls,’ and ‘Elf the Musical ’ We also want to take a minute to thank all of the donors who helped make this happen,” Gifford said

Tickets for the upcoming season go on sale on June 1 Prices are $16 for adults; $11 for seniors, high school students, active miliary, MSU faculty and staff, and MSU summer school students all with current MSU ID; and kids 12 and under are $8. Deluxe seating that includes access to Hook & Ladder Wine Bar are $25-35. For more information or to purchase tickets, see the Summer Theatre ticket site HERE.

Kevin Neuharth, third from right, sits in the newly renovated green room named after him.

BONESBBQSMOKEHOUSE&GRILL:SMITH HIREDASRESTAURANTMANAGER

Bones BBQ Smokehouse & Grill is pleased to announce Christie Smith has joined our team as our Restaurant Manager She has 30 years of restaurant leadership experience

Christie has served in many capacities throughout her restaurant career which include Chief Operating Officer, Director of Operations and Director of Training She is an award-winner with her previous employment earning Power Performer and Top Performer awards She has a great understanding of the importance of maintaining the highest quality standards in delivering true smokehouse food and excellent customer care

Christie has a deep passion for creating a strong team. She loves to have fun at work and wants that for her team members. “Work isn’t work when n,” she said when asked what inspires her most about

kehouse & Grill serves authentic smokehouse food, staurant We offer a wide range of menu options, full bar ing services

Christie Smith

THREENEWHIRESBYACKERMAN-ESTVOLD

Ackerman-Estvold announced three hirings in the month of May:

Kyle Mickelson has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Minot office as Project Superintendent for our Construction Management group. Mickelson has 26 years of experience in commercial, residential, retail, and multi-family construction projects. Kyle responsibilities will focus on coordinating on site activities with sub-contractors and employees in the CM group, focus on safety and quality control, along with daily log and site inspections.

Gabe Nybakken has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Minot office as a Construction Administration Specialist Nybakken earned Bachelor of Science in Construction Management with a minor in Business Administration from North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota Gabe has extensive experience in the full construction project process from drafting site plans, writing and executing construction contracts, bidding estimates, and other project management components His responsibilities will focus on projects for our Architectural group collaborating with the Project Manager through all various aspects of the phase of building projects, Nybakken will be responsible for resolving construction issues to meet design requirements, oversee client schedules, and monitor budget goals and assist with administrative documentation during construction.

Brandon Wolski has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Idaho office as Senior Designer for our civil engineering division Wolski earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Coleman University, San Diego, CA He brings over 17 years of experience in civil engineering, lead design, and in surveying with focus on land & design development and project management Brandon’s responsibilities will focus on project design, research for concept design on projects, assist with bid proposals, and help cultivate current and new relationships in our Idaho market

Kyle Mickelson

Gabe Nybakken

Brandon Wolski

ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD’SSOBOLIKEARNS PROFESSIONALREGISTRATION

Ackerman-Estvold is pleased to announce that Katie Sobolik recently earned her North Dakota Professional Engineer registration from the North Dakota State Board of Registration.

Sobolik has been with Ackerman-Estvold since 2021 as a full time Civil Engineer, in our Williston office, with a focus on civil design, construction engineering, and working on municipal projects In addition, Katie has additional experience working for the ND Department of Transportation, bringing knowledge and familiarity on DOT specifications on construction projects and transportation design

Sobolik earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota

DALE&SALLYSTREMICKSCHOLARSHIP AWARDANNOUNCED

The Minot Area Community Foundation’s Dale & Sally Stremick Scholarship has been awarded to one Langdon High School senior

The Dale and Sally Stremick Scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Dale and Sally Stremick, who were longtime members and supporters of the Langdon community This scholarship is designed to support and empower local Langdon High School seniors who aspire to pursue careers that hold significant importance to rural North Dakota

recipient is Alex Gellner from Langdon, ND Alex will be receiving a $500 to use towards his post-secondary education Alex has been involved in a activities during his high school career including football, hockey, golf, and ell as an active member in his community

ge to study Precision Agriculture, as well as play on the first LRSC men’s

The scholarship is awarded to a first-year student who has enrolled in a post-secondary educational institution, demonstrating outstanding academic performance and a dedication to an agricultural-related major.

Katie Sobolik

Alex Gellner

BROOKENICOLESCHROEDERSCHOLARSHIP AWARDSANNOUNCED

The Minot Area Community Foundation’s Brooke Nicole Schroeder Scholarship Fund has awarded scholarships to two Max High School Graduates.

The Brooke Nicole Schroeder Scholarship Endowment Fund was established in 2018. The goal of the fund is to provide scholarships to Max High School youth through a permanent endowment fund held at the Minot Area Community Foundation Scholarship re scored based on n school activities, n community and charitable and academic

The Brooke Nicole Schroeder Scholarship Fund is in memory of Brooke Schroeder Her friends and family described her as a loud, energetic, dedicated, caring, and compassionate individual; a force to be reckoned with at Max High School. She was not afraid to take life’s challenges head on and march to the beat of her own drum. Brooke was heavily involved in a number of activities, including FFA, drama, band, dance, and sports. Through annual scholarship awards, this fund will keep Brooke’s memory alive in the community for years to come.

For any questions related to the Brooke Nicole Schroeder Scholarship Fund, please contact Staci at the Minot Area Community Foundation at 701.852.0646.

T Hauf – Brooke Schroeder M ooke’s birthday

Center: McKenzie Hauf

Second from right: Emily Fannik

MINOTAREACOMMUNITYFOUNDATIONGRANTS $22,000TOMLSHIGHSCHOOLGRADUATESFROM THEANNAS.ANDHAROLDA.C.BERGSTROM SCHOLARSHIPFUND

The Minot Area Community Foundation’s Anna S and Harold A C Bergstrom Scholarship Fund has invested $22,000 in the post-secondary education of ten MLS High School Graduates

The scholarship awards were open to all graduating Mohall-Lansford-Sherwood High School seniors who will be enrolling in a post-secondary institution following high school graduation to pursue a career important to rural North Dakota. The 2023 scholarship recipients are:

Abigail Klokstad ($4,000); Isabell Buynak ($4,000); Emma Southam ($3,000); Javin Mattern ($3,000); Kendra Adams ($3,000); Marah Betterly ($1,000); Cordel Sjokvist ($1,000); Maddy Johnson ($1,000); Grant Titus ($1,000); and Braxton Fitzsimmons ($1,000)

Selection for scholarship awards for the Bergstrom Scholarship Fund were based on the students’ scholastic and vocational achievements/ability and their explanation of how their chosen career is important to and will benefit rural North Dakota, as this was Harold and Anna Bergstrom’s intent

“Since inception, the fund has awarded $172,000 in scholarships The Community Foundation is honored to carry out the wishes of Harold and Anna with the gift of education to the youth of their community through their Scholarship Fund,” remarked Jason Zimmerman, MACF President

For any questions related to the Bergstrom Scholarship Fund, please contact Staci at the Minot Area Community Foundation at 701.852.0646.

SHANED.ZABACKNAMEDTOFORBES’LISTOF BEST-IN-STATEWEALTHADVISOR

Shane D Zaback, Financial Advisor, of Zaback Wealth Management located at 1408 20th Ave SW, Minot, ND was among the Raymond James-affiliated advisors named to the Forbes list of Best-in-State Wealth Advisor The list, which recognizes top-performing advisors was released online on April 4, 2023

Forbes Top Wealth Advisors Best-In-State (2023) The Forbes Top Wealth n-State 2023 ranking, developed by SHOOK Research, is based of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and ingence interviews, and quantitative data. This ranking is based from 6/30/2021 to 6/30/2022 and was released on 4/4/2023. that are considered have a minimum of seven years of the algorithm weights factors like revenue trends, assets

u nce and those that encompass best practices in their practices a nce is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of a ,321 advisors received the award This ranking is not indicative of an advisor s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients' experience Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC Please visit https://www forbes com/best-in-state-wealth-advisors for more info

Shane D Zaback, who joined Raymond James in 2017, has more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry

To reach Zaback or the advisors at Zaback Wealth Management, more information can be found by calling 701-8525566.

Shane D. Zaback

'DISCOVERPEACEAFTERABORTION'STARTS JUNE5INMINOT

“I can’t even begin to tell you how much this class helped me I felt so accepted ” This quote is from a woman post-abortive woman who attended Discover Peace, sponsored by Dakota Hope Clinic

Abortion affects everyone differently If you are one of the 25% of women who have had an abortion any time in the past, you owe it to yourself to find help and healing Post abortion syndrome is real and can include the following effects:

·Emotional deadening

·Increased anger

·Feelings of loneliness or isolation

·Lower self-confidence

·Insomnia or nightmares

·Difficulty in maintaining relationships

·Substance Abuse

·Eating disorders

·Feelings of grief, guilt, anxiety, and depression

Led by a compassionate team with personal knowledge of the trauma of abortion, Discover Peace follows a curriculum proven to change the lives of women left broken by a past abortion The eight-week small group will begin Monday, June 5, at 6 pm To see if this free and confidential program is right for you, call Dakota Hope Clinic at 701-852-4675; or email tanya@dakotahope org The location will be disclosed only to those who register

If you have had an abortion, don’t miss this chance for a better life Quote from another participant, “The weight of it being a secret is off my shoulders, not talking about it made it fester it was infecting other areas of my life ”

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