The Communicator - March 2023

Communicator

AnnualMeeting Scheduled

Gov Doug Burgum to headline meeting on March 27

MSU,DCBTackling WorkforceShortage

Ground has broken on a facility for dental education

StoriesFrom AroundTown

What's new with our memberinvestors this month

PO Box 940

Minot, ND 58702-0940

(701) 852-6000 www minotchamberedc com

CHAMBER EDC STAFF

BrekkaKramer,President|CEO brekka@minotchamberedc com

ChandaDeCent,FinanceDirector chanda@minotchamberedc com

CarlaDolan,VicePresident carla@minotchamberedc com

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

JaimeHauge,ExecutiveAssistant jaime@minotchamberedc com

MarkLyman,EconomicDevelopmentSpecialist mark@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 And it allows you to connect, network, and engage with business leaders like you

$5,000ANNUALSUPPORT

$2,500ANNUALSUPPORT

AGT Foods USA

BNSF Railway

Brady, Martz & Associates, P.C. Delta Vacations

McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C. Midco

Minot Milling

Minot State University

Montana Dakota Utilities Company

North Star Community Credit Union

Peoples State Bank

Ryan Family Dealership

Walmart Supercenter

MINOTAREACHAMBEREDCTOHONORLEADERS WITHALL-NEWIMPACTAWARDS

From small businesses making big moves to individual leaders with boundless vision; from longstanding businesses and organizations with decades of influence to true friends of our armed forces the Minot area is full of remarkable people.

For that reason, the Minot Area Chamber EDC has launched a new series of annual accolades: the Impact Awards.

Organizations, businesses, and individuals in the Minot area are eligible to be nominated for the following four award categories:

Outstanding Community Impact

Open to businesses or organizations of any size

Outstanding Small Business

Open to any business with 25 or fewer employees

Outstanding Leadership

Open to any individual person

Outstanding Military Support

Open to any business, organization, or individual

Nominations can be submitted online at the Minot Area Chamber EDC's website until 4:00 PM CT on Friday, March 10. An awards committee will then consider each submission and select winners in each category Those winners will be presented with Impact Awards during MACEDC's Annual Meeting, scheduled for Monday, March 27 at the Grand Hotel

"Our community is vibrant and worth celebrating," said Kevin Black, MACEDC Board Chair for 2023 "We are excited to introduce a new way to honor the people, businesses, and organizations that make the magic of the Magic City real "

Scan this code to submit your nomination!

HALFTIMEATTHE STATECAPITOL

SENATEMAJORITYLEADERDAVID HOGUEDISCUSSESSHORINGUP WORKFORCE,TAXRELIEF,AND MILITARYSUPPORTPROPOSALS

"You can't just pass one bill and say 'The workforce shortage is solved.' We have to work everywhere we can "

That's how Senate Majority Leader David Hogue summarizes the complex issue facing the business community in 2023 and the efforts being taken in the halls of the North Dakota Capitol Building to alleviate the problem

TheMinotAreaChamberEDCcaughtupwithSen Hogueduringcrossoverbreak therecessperiodthattypically marksthehalfwaypointoftheNorthDakotaLegislativeSession WhenlawmakersreturntoBismarckonMarch1st,the SenatewillconsiderbillsthatpassedintheHouseofRepresentatives,andviceversa.

Sen Hoguetoldusthatheidentifiedthelaborshortageasthemostimportantissuetoaddressthissession "Tostart thesession,weformedapolicycommitteespecificallydevotedtoworkforcedevelopmentissues.Andwehave consideredanumberofmajorpoliciesdirectedatsolvingthoseissues"

OnesuchbillhasalreadypassedthroughbothchambersofthelegislatureandbeensignedintolawbyGov Doug Burgum HouseBill1199,whichwillprovidefundingtocreatecareerandtechnicaleducation(CTE)academiesmore quickly.(Thebillincludedanemergencyclause,allowingittoreachtheGovernor'sdeskearlierthanmostbills.)Minot NorthHighSchoolwillbehometoaCTEcenterknownastheMinotAreaWorkforceAcademy,andMinotState UniversityisestablishingaCTEcenterinabuildingformerlyownedbyTrinityHealth

SeveralotherbillsaimedatrelievingtheworkforceshortagehavepassedthroughtheSenateandwillbetakenupbythe HouseofRepresentatives,including:

SenateBill2142wouldcreateanofficeofimmigrationwithintheDepartmentofCommerce.Thatoffice would"coordinateandexpeditetheimmigrationprocess"forpeoplemovingtoNorthDakotaforwork It wouldalsoassistemployersconnectwithnewlyimmigratedpeopletofillopenpositions."Weknow therearealotofsmalleremployersthatcan'taffordtohireinternationaltalentrecruiters,sowe'retrying tohelpthemwiththatprocess,"Sen Hoguesaid Thebillwaspassedbyavoteof39-5intheSenate

SenateBill2249aimstostreamlinethelicensureprocessforskilledlaborersandlicensed professionals "IftheywanttocometoNorthDakota,wedon'twantittotakesixmonths,"Sen Hogue said.Thebillwoulddirectthestatelaborcommissionerto"developandupdateastrategyformore efficientcontinuingeducationrequirementsandmoreefficientpracticesforlicensingout-of-state practitioners"TheSenatepassedthebillbyavoteof43-4

SenateBill2301wouldestablisha"childcarestabilizationprogramtoaddresschildcareworkforce shortages."Ifsignedintolaw,thestatewouldprovidemonthlypaymentstolicenseddaycareproviders "todirectlyaddressthewagesandbenefitsofchildcareworkers"ThebillclearedtheSenatebyavote of25-22andmovestotheHouseofRepresentativesfollowingthecrossoverbreak

Senate Majority Leader David Hogue answers a question at a MACEDC Legislative Forum in February.

HALFTIMEATTHESTATECAPITOL CONTINUED

Sen. Hogue pointed to two major pieces of tax relief passed by the Senate and set to be considered by the House of Representatives:

Senate Bill 2136 would expand eligibility for the "homestead tax credit," which reduces property taxes for people 65 and older Currently, people whose annual income exceeds $21,000 are deemed ineligible The senate proposal, which passed by a 45-1 vote, expands eligibility to include people earning up to $100,000 annually

Senate Bill 2066 also represents property tax relief by way of reducing school districts' contributions to K-12 education (while increasing state funding for education). Senators voted 42-4 in favor of the plan.

Military support has also been a focus of the 68th Legislative Assembly. Here are a few items that have passed through the Senate and await consideration by the House:

Senate Bill 2240 would provide funding to North Dakota communities with close ties to the military, including Minot, to support base retention efforts The bill received unanimous support in the Senate

Senate Bill 2293 would exempt military income from taxation Sen Hogue said this tax relief could incentivize military personnel to become North Dakota residents "It's one more thing we can do and we don't tax military retirement pay either " The bill passed by a vote of 40-4

Senate Bil 2094 seeks to expand tuition grants for North Dakota National Guard members to include out-of-state colleges and universities The change would accommodate Guard members who intend to take online or remote classes through an out-of-state school. "Hopefully this helps people stay in North Dakota," Sen. Hogue said. The proposal received unanimous support.

We've made it easy to connect with your elected officials! Scan this QR code or click here for a full list of Minot area lawmakers.

'TOGETHER,WEAREONECOMMUNITY'

MAYORTOMROSSDELIVERSFIRSTSTATEOFTHECITYADDRESS

Mayor Tom Ross presented his first State of the City on Feb 9, the first since being elected mayor in June 2022

Through a theme of “Together, we are one community,” Ross highlighted the successes of 2022, including continued work on flood control and the Northwest Area Water Supply project, as well as facing the challenges of the future.

“As I look back on 2022, one thing stands out in my mind: Look what we’ve accomplished together,” Ross said. “As we look ahead to 2023, the same thought stands out in my mind: Together, there are great things ahead of us As community leaders, we must not shy away from our responsibility to act in the best interest all Minot residents while ensuring our community is growing, prospering, and becoming a more welcoming city to all who call Minot home ”

Ross said he plans to create a Magic City Hall of Fame in 2023 that would recognize past and present community members who have served Minot with selfless sacrifices and dedication He said he will work with his fellow City Council members to create an ad hoc committee tasked with making the hall of fame a reality

The mayor also announced his desire to create a Mayor’s Council on Cyberbullying to help school officials combat the problems associated with misuse of social media.

“I believe this is a perfect opportunity to work towards a solution,” Ross said “The physical safety and mental health of our children is at risk ”

Ross highlighted several community organizations that are helping create a sense of togetherness in Minot, including Minot State University’s Native American Cultural Awareness Club and Center and The Pursuit Church. He also thanked City of Minot employees for their work in making Minot a great city to live, singling out Sanitation Department employee Harold Marten, who received thanks from a resident who said Marten helps her with her sanitation service and checks on her when he stops by her home

“Thank you, Harold, for reminding us that the greatest human kindness sometimes comes through the simplest acts,” Ross said

This year’s event was held at The Depot in downtown Minot, with a lunch provided and served by local soup kitchen

“Today’s meal is one of approximately 20,000 meals provided to an underserved population in Minot,” Ross said “This is not a special request; this is what families would receive for a meal I thought it was important for us all to know the quality and hard work put into this service by so many volunteers.”

Mayor Tom Ross speaks at The Depot in downtown Minot during his State of the City address

This story was contributed by the City of Minot.

PRAIRIE WARRIOR AUCTION

MARCH16|5:30PM GRANDHOTEL

PRESENTINGSPONSOR

SECUREYOURSEAT

AUCTIONTOSUPPORTTEAMMINOTMORALEBOOSTINGEFFORTS

What are you supporting when you bid on an item at the upcoming Prairie Warrior Auction?

TSgt Andrea Butler put it like this: "You're letting the men and women of Team Minot know that they're cared for and appreciated."

TSgt Butler the President of the Vulgar Vultures Association Booster Club a group that helps fund morale-boosting activities for the 740th Missile Squadron at Minot Air Force Base

"We want to bring our unit closer together," she explained "We come from all over, so some may not

have family or a large circle of friends in Minot. The events we host help our members widen their circle and meet new people."

Proceeds from the Prairie Warrior Auction will go back to the Prairie Warrior Association, which helps squadrons pay for the events, meals, and gifts that go a long way to improving the day-to-day life for Team Minot from ordering in lunch to holiday parties; from trips to Lake Metigoshe in the summer to skiing and curling in the winter

"We raise money so members don't have to spend their own money on these things," TSgt Butler said

PRAIRIEWARRIORAUCTIONTOSUPPORTMORALE-BOOSTINGATMAFB, CONTINUED

"I'mproudthattheMinotAreaChamberEDChasmadeitaprioritytosupportourmilitarycommunity,"saidKeli Rosselli-Sullivan,MilitaryLiaisonforMACEDC."ThePrairieWarriorAuctionisoneofourmostexcitingevents.The morewecandotomakeMinotfeellikehomeforourmenandwomeninuniform,thebetter."

ThePrairieWarriorAuctionisopentothepublictoattend—andnewthisyear,thankstosupportfromVerendrye ElectricCooperative,militarymemberswhoshowanactiveIDcardatthedoorwillgetinatnocost.

"VerendryeElectricCooperativehasbeenattachedtotheMilitarysince1955,"saidRandyHauck,GeneralManager ofVerendryeElectricCooperative."WhenMinotAirForceBasewasbuilt,wehadacontracttosupplyelectrons.We feelastrongattachmenttothemissionofthebase,andwe'regladtosupportthisevent."

"We'realsogratefultoourgenerationcooperative,BasinElectric,whichagreedtomatchourdonationtothePrairie WarriorAuction,"Hauckcontinued.

Thisyear'sselectionofliveandsilentauctionitemsincludessomemajorpotentialprizes,includingvacation packages,golfmemberships,outingsandadventures,andbig-ticketitemslikemowers,grills,andrecliners.

WelookforwardtoseeingyouatthePrairieWarriorAuction!LearnmoreandRSVPaheadoftimebyscanningby clickingthislink

MINOTAIRMENPARTICIPATEINICBMTEST LAUNCHFROMCALIF.SPACEFORCEBASE

by Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs

A team of Air Force Global Strike Command

Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with a test reentry vehicle at 11:01 p m Pacific Time Feb 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.

This test launch is part of routine and periodic activities intended to demonstrate that the United States’ nuclear deterrent is safe, secure, reliable and effective to deter twenty-first century threats and reassure our allies. Such tests have occurred over 300 times before, and this test is not the result of current world events

“A test launch displays the heart of our deterrence mission on the world’s stage, assuring our nation and its allies that our weapons are capable and our Airmen are ready and willing to defend peace across the globe at a moment's notice,” said Gen Thomas A Bussiere, Air Force Global Strike Command commander

The ICBM's reentry vehicle traveled approximately 4,200 miles to the Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands These test launches verify the accuracy and reliability of the ICBM weapon system, providing valuable data to ensure a continued safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent.

“This launch showcases the redundancy and reliability of our strategic deterrence systems while sending a visible message of assurance to allies,” said Col. Christopher Cruise, 377th Test and Evaluation Group commander.

“This multilateral team reflects the precision and professionalism of our command, and our joint partners.”

Airmen from the 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, were selected for the task force to support the test launch The missile bases within Air Fore Global Strike Command have crew members standing alert 24 hours a day, year-round, overseeing the nation’s ICBM alert forces

U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Landon Gunsauls

MINOTSTATE,DAKOTACOLLEGEAT BOTTINEAUPARTNERONCTEPLAN

Two higher education institutions in our area are preparing to take a bite out of the workforce shortage.

Minot State University and Dakota College at Bottineau have partnered to establish a career and technical education center in what was formerly the human resources building for Trinity Health in downtown Minot Ground has broken on the facility, which will include classroom space and dental rooms for training

The center is expected to be open in time for the fall semester in 2024

The CTE center will focus on training students to become dental hygienists and assistants a field that has dealt with significant shortages in recent years By establishing this program in Minot, education officials believe students will be more likely to plant roots in the Magic City and surrounding areas. Here's what DCB Minot Program Director Maggie Backen told KX News in February.

"Chances are, if [students] go to school on the east side of the state, that's where they're going to stay. So hopefully by creating something here, it creates opportunities for the students to come and stay here, develop residency, and create their families and a community that keeps on growing and growing "

MACEDC SUPPORTS EFFORT TO IMPROVE MAIL SERVICE FOR MINOT AREA

A recent roundtable discussion with Sen John Hoeven, city leaders, the U S Postal Service, and the Minot Area Chamber EDC focused on ensuring the Minot region receives reliable mail service a topic important to the entire community

"People still use checks to pay for things," MACEDC Board Chair Kevin Black said. "Having a check delayed for a week can be tough for a small business owner."

One of MACEDC's core values is advocacy and being a voice for business. We're glad to help lead this important conversation

Left to right: Sen John Hoeven, Minot Mayor Tom Ross, MACEDC Board Chair Kevin Black, and MACEDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer

AMBASSADORSATTHESPECIALOLYMPICS BASKETBALLTOURNAMENT

Our Ambassadors had the honor of escorting dignitaries to the podium prior to the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics North Dakota State Basketball Tournament at the MSU Dome on February 25. We’re proud to have been a part of this wonderful event!

NETWORKINGEVENT HIGHLIGHTSCAKES& QUILTS

Two graduates of the Start Up Minot Academy powered by CO.STARTERS headlined our monthly networking event and their stories had attendees smiling, laughing, and craving sweets.

Elizabeth Sund is the owner of Sundbakes, a home-based bakery specializing in hand-painted cakes and macarons. She shared her journey from earning a doctorate in philosophy to becoming a small business owner, and why she believes authenticity is what draws people to her work

"Entrepreneurship means you can make your own rules and run your business your way That authenticity is enough to draw people into your story and excite them," she said

Chelce Detert, owner of Creative Dimensions, is a third-generation entrepreneur who specializes in long-arm quilting She advised budding entrepreneurs to pursue their work with integrity

"Treating people with an honest moral compass is important Be honest! And if something goes wrong, find ways to make it right," she said

Johnson

Brewery & Barrelworks Joseph Hurt Chaos Games

Elizabeth Sund

Chelce Detert

NEWTIERS.NEWOPPORTUNITIES.

We're starting 2023 with a major refresh of how 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.

AGGIEFOUNDATION

BOARD PRESIDENT: TERRY PETERSON

ADDRESS: 501 MAIN ST N, VELVA, ND 58790

WEBSITE: WWW.AGGIEFOUNDATION.COM

The Aggie Foundation is a grant-providing nonprofit organization that supports education, amateur sports, and economic development.

CORNERSTONESPEAKINGAND COACHING

OWNER: RYAN BOTNER

ADDRESS: PO BOX 206, WASHBURN, ND 58577

PHONE: 701-415-6790

WEBSITE: WWW.CORNERSTONESPEAKING.COM

Cornerstone Speaking and Coaching helps business-minded people be intentional about growth and success.

DXPENTERPRISES

CEO: DAVID LITTLE

LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE: TIM DOMSTEEM

ADDRESS: 6855 HIGHWAY 2/52 W, MINOT, ND 58703

WEBSITE: WWW DXPE COM

DXP Enterprises is an industrial distribution service specializing in rotating equipment, bearings and power transmission, metalworking, industrial supplies, and more.

SANDPRO

CEO: JAKE VEIL

ADDRESS: 8702 282ND ST NW, BERTHOLD, ND 58718

PHONE: 701-453-3443

WEBSITE: WWW SANDPRO COM

SandPro offers a wide product line for wellhead, sand management, and automation application in the oil and gas industry.

THANKYOUTOOURMEMBER-INVESTORSWHORENEWEDINFEBRUARY!

Accounting Solutions

Advanced Business Methods

The Blue Rider

Buffalo Wild Wings

Dakota Refrigeration Inc

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Extended Stay America Suites

Fianceé

FirstLight Home Care

Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons

Indigo Signs

McGee, Hankla, & Backes, P C Northwestern Mutual Once Upon a Child - Minot

R & J Fuel and Service, Inc.

Spicy Pie MSU

Swanston Equipment Companies

Thorson Agency

Ward Title Company

The Wyatt Apartments

FEBRUARYRIBBONCUTTINGS

TILTSTUDIO

INSIDE DAKOTA SQUARE MALL

2400 10TH ST SW, MINOT, ND 58701

PHONE: 701-510-2070

WEBSITE: WWW TILTSTUDIO COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Tilt Studio Dakota Square, a family fun center featuring arcade machines, bumper cars, mini golf, party space, and more

JCPENNEYBEAUTY

INSIDE DAKOTA SQUARE MALL

BUSINESSAFTERHOURS: HOTELREVELINFEBRUARY

Hotel Revel was a terrific venue for Business After Hours! Breakfast charcuterie, mimosas and Bloody Marys, pop-up art, music by Myles Barcomb, and about 100 people enjoying an evening of conversations and connections

EAGLEAWARDRECIPIENTS

Colton Bourquin Gate City Bank

Natosha Gartner Brokers 12 Real Estate

Tim Foley Absolute Comfort

Cheri Charboneau Trinity Health

Kris Grove Duck's Towing

Penny Belgarde Century 21 Action Realtors

Thank you to Homesteaders Restaurant and Waxing the City for providing gift certificates for award recipients!

Dr. Bethany Jensen Broadway Family Dentistry

Florence St. CroixHelde Target

Shirly Rynestad Gate City Bank

Sydney Mattison Badlands Restaurant & Bar

Phil Stach Ryan GMC/Buick/ Cadillac

Arionna Volk Ground Round

Marshall Knaup The UPS Store

Rusty Heinze Ralph's Plumbing and Heating

Not Pictured: Tessa Buch Best Buy

THESESTORIESWERESUBMITTEDBYOURMEMBER-INVESTORS.SUBMITYOURBUSINESSNEWSTO TIM@MINOTCHAMBEREDCCOM

SRTPRESENTS$100,000CHECKTOMAGIC CITYDISCOVERYCENTER

SRT also designed and configured the Wi-Fi and Gig Internet network system throughout the building to fit the Magic City Discovery Center’s needs Crews then installed several Wi-Fi access points The in-kind labor, equipment, and maintenance work are valued at $50,000

Karen Rasmusson, Board President for the Magic City Discovery Center, said, “We are so thankful for SRT's contribution! Our Community Rooms will be the location where kids can't wait to have their birthday party Businesses and service clubs will look forward to special meetings with the best view in Minot and state-of-the art technology "

The Magic City Discovery Center has been an engaging and educational piece of the community since 2014, teaching young people the fun possibilities of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. The STEAM-focused education center has now planted its roots on Minot’s North Hill, serving as a destination for play, learning, and inspiration.

“The Magic City Discovery Center is not only a great place for families to have fun,” said SRT CEO/General Manager Cassidy Hjelmstad. “It’s also an opportunity for kids to discover STEAM in a unique way. This beautiful science center stands as a testament to the importance of educational adventure.”

Kristi Miller, SRT Board President, added, “SRT is proud to support STEAM education for the bright young minds in our region ”

Construction on the brand-new facility began in May 2021 It features 12 galleries and more than 150 interactive exhibits, and is expected to open in the spring

Pictured from left to right: John Marshall, Rianne Kuhn, Dennis Erber, Cassidy Hjelmstad, Stuart Rothe, Kristi Miller, Dennis Schott, Allan Engh, Ardel Rice, Stanley Vangsness, Wendy Keller, Tom Jespersen, Teresa Loftesnes, Dave Schwengler, Allan Pearson, and Debra Hoffarth

SRTDONATES$25,000TOMOHALLSPLASH PADPROJECT

SRT recently presented $25,000 to the Mohall Park District, supporting the city’s capital campaign to replace Mohall’s baby pool with a 1,900 square foot Family Fun Splash Pad

A popular attraction for residents of Mohall and surrounding communities, the baby pool fell into disrepair after years of use The pool was removed in October 2022 to make way for the new splash pad

“The baby pool provided entertainment for adults and children for decades Our mission is to keep that entertainment alive for future generations,” said Cheryl Overby, Mohall City Auditor “The splash pad is a fresh take on our old pool that adds activities, a dynamic space for fun, and visual appeal to our park facilities. We appreciate SRT’s investment in our park and our community.”

SRT’s gift goes toward the splash pad’s estimated $199,300 total cost Site preparation such as water line installation and landscaping incur additional expenses So far the Mohall Park District has raised $215,000 through a variety of community fundraisers and donations, which speaks to local support for the project The district expects to need $60,000 to finish future phases

“Mohall is a valued community in our region where people can live, work, and raise their families,” said Kristi Miller, SRT Board President “Recreational amenities contribute to quality of life, and SRT is proud to support this splash pad that will bring enjoyment to area residents of all ages ”

Splash pad construction is projected to begin in May 2023 on the site of the former baby pool.

SRTPROMOTESDANROBERTSTODIRECTOR OFSALES

Dan Roberts has been promoted to Director of Sales at SRT Communications Roberts most recently served as Network Operations Manager and brings 30 years of progressively responsible telecommunications and broadband experience to his new role

Roberts joined SRT in 1992 and worked in sales, provisioning, and translations prior to managing network operations As Director of Sales he will lead the business department, including business and security sales, product management, and sales engineering

“Dan brings a wealth of industry experience, as well as expertise across many areas of SRT We look forward to his insights and leadership as we explore new offerings for our business customers and position SRT for continued growth,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, SRT CEO and General Manager.

Pictured from left to right: Ardel Rice, Cheryl Overby, Allan Engh, and Stanley Vangsness.

Dan Roberts

TRINITYHEALTHFOUNDATIONLAUNCHES “MAKEYOURMARK”BRICKFUNDRAISER

Make a lasting tribute to family and friends through the brick fundraising campaign sponsored by Trinity Health Foundation The “Make Your Mark” Brick Fundraiser provides an opportunity for the region we serve to make their mark at the new state-ofthe-art Healthcare Campus Engravings can be purchased in your name or the name of a friend or family member; in

celebration of a birth, graduation, wedding, or anniversary; in honor of a soldier or veteran; or in memory of someone you love; the possibilities are endless. An outdoor patio near the chapel will be created where patients, families, and staff can go for reflection.

Each 4X8 brick can be engraved with up to three lines, 20 characters (including punctuation and spaces) per line. Each 8X8 brick can be engraved with up to six lines, 20 characters (including punctuation and spaces) per line. 8x8 corporate bricks are also available with customized logo

Bricks purchased will fund the Capital Campaign The deadline to order is May 15, 2023

Find out how you can make your mark with a lasting donation at: www fundraisingbrick com/trinityhealth

TRINITYHEALTHFOUNDATIONTOHOLD FABULOUSFIFTIESFUNDRAISINGGALA

Trinity Health Foundation is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Fundraising Gala scheduled for March 25, 2023, at the Clarion Hotel. This year’s theme is “Fabulous Fifties.” The Fundraising Gala will be filled with fifties themed fun, opportunities for donating, and information about the new facility. A short program will be held reflecting on Trinity Health’s legacy of serving patients in our region for the past 100 years, while looking forward to the future of healthcare at our new state-of-the art healthcare campus and medical district opening in April 2023 Wear your finest formal, semi-formal or 50s themed outfit

The evening will include live entertainment, a VIP jazz lounge, and dinner A live and silent auction will be held, as well as a “purse-onality” and bro bag auction, where supporters donate a new high-end purse or bag filled with items that represent their personality to be auctioned

Fabulous Fifties Gala Schedule of Events

• 5:30 pm VIP Jazz Lounge

• 6:00 pm Social and silent auction

• 7:00 pm Dinner

• Live auction following dinner

• 9:30 pm VIP Jazz Lounge

Join us for this special opportunity to support the new healthcare campus and medical district. Our inaugural event raised over $100,000 and we look forward to making an even greater impact in 2023. Proceeds benefit the Trinity Health Capital Campaign.

To purchase an individual ticket ($100), become a sponsor or donate to the purse-onality and bro bag auction, please contact Foundation Coordinator, Cody McManigal at 701.857.2430 or cody.mcmanigal@trinityhealth.org. Event tickets are also available at www.trinityhealth.org/gala.

TOWN&COUNTRYCREDITUNION CELEBRATESIMPACTAWARDWINNERS

Each year, Town & Country Credit Union recognizes at least two employees, one from the Minot region and one from the Fargo region, who exemplify the credit union's mission of "positively impacting those we serve" as recipients of the Impact Award Karna Taft, Vice President Retail Manager, is the 2022 Impact Award winner for the Minot region

According to her nominators, Karna shows excellent care and devotion to credit union members and inspires her team to do the same She embodies credit union values daily through the many hats she wears at the credit union She is also a valuable resource for several subject areas – from lending to plastics to new accounts.

"I couldn't be more proud of Karna and the positive impact she creates for our members and staff daily," said Kalli Schell, Senior Executive Vice President. "I'm grateful to have her on our team."

In addition to the award, Impact Award winners are also given $500 to donate to a charity of their choice. Karna chose the Minot Kiwanis Club to receive her donation.

MINOTSTATEHOSTSICECREAMSOCIALSAT GIRLS,BOYSREGIONALTOURNAMENTS

Minot State University is pleased to announce the University is again hosting Hometown Pride Ice Cream Socials at the upcoming boys Region 6 basketball tournaments, after also hosting at the girls' tourney

The Region 6 Girls Basketball Tournament took place in February The Region 6 Boys Basketball Tournament will take place March 6-7 and 9 at the Minot State Dome

Members of the MSU staff and faculty will hand out ice cream while supplies last on the second floor, southwest corner of the Dome during the opening day of the tournament in between games. The approximate times are 4-4:30 p.m. (between games 1 and 2), 5:30-6 p.m. (between games 2 and 3), and 7-7:30 p.m. (between games 3 and 4).

“We tried the Hometown Price Ice Cream Social last year and had so much fun visiting with our friends from neighboring communities,” said Cole Krueger, Minot State marketing director “It was an easy call to bring it back this year for both the girls and boys region tournaments here at the MSU Dome ”

All schools involved in the Region 6 tournaments come from Minot State’s Hometown Pride Scholarship area This $1,000 scholarship is exclusively for May 2023 high school graduates from regional schools in North Dakota’s northwestern and North Central counties

“It is always a priority for us to show our local communities that we at Minot State are grateful for their support,” said Krueger “We hope they feel how important they are to us through all of our Hometown Pride initiatives ”

The Hometown Pride Scholarship includes priority registration and an exclusive Hometown Pride Luncheon on April 14, along with early Wellness Center access, MSU Bookstore discounts, and admission to Minot State Athletic events. For additional information regarding the scholarship, additional benefits, and eligibility, visit AskMSU.com/Hometown. For more details about the Region 6 Boys Basketball Tournament, go to ndhsaanow.com.

WELCOMETOMINOT,ATHLETES!

The Magic City is playing host to two major state athletic tournaments to kick off the month of March: the Class B Girls State Basketball Tournament and Girls State Hockey Tournament That means over 1,000 athletes and their families will be in town this weekend We hope you enjoy all that Minot has to offer as you cheer on your teams!

NDHOUSINGAGENCYPRESENTSCHAMPION OFAFFORDABLEHOUSINGAWARDS

North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) recognized six of its partners Housing Awards for their outstanding promotion and delivery of the agency’s homeownership programs

“Through our Champion of Affordable Housing Awards, North Dakota Housing Finance Agency honors the professionals who partner with our agency, promote our programs, and help to make homeownership obtainable for every North Dakotan,” said Dave Flohr, the agency’s executive director.

NDHFA’s FirstHome™ program provides low- to moderate-income buyers with low-cost mortgages loans, and down payment and closing cost assistance. Single parents, veterans, and families with disabled or elderly households members can qualify for similar help through the agency’s HomeAccess program NDHFA’s North Dakota Roots program assists households who require assistance to buy again or whose income exceeds the limits of the agency’s standard programs Roots can also be used to refinance residential real estate loans

“North Dakota Housing Finance Agency helped 1,460 individuals and families to successfully buy their first home in 2022,” said Brandon Dettlaff, the agency’s homeownership division director “All of these buyers learning about the agency’s homeownership programs from one of our outstanding housing partners ”

Town & Country Credit Union and Gate City Bank received the Champion of Affordable Housing - Award of Excellence for best practices and outstanding delivery of the NDHFA’s homeownership programs

Aaron Stoneberg of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and Brian Johnson of Valley Mortgage Inc received NDHFA’s Homeownership Performance Award-Lender Both men are based in Fargo, ND Olivia Wellenstein of Continental Real Estate in Dickinson, ND, and Katherine Kiernan of Aspire Realty in Fargo, ND, were recognized by NDHFA with the Homeownership Performance Award-Real Estate All of NDHFA’s Performance awards are recognition for the volume and quality of loans produced.

“Currently, more than 70% of NDHFA’s borrowers use our down payment and closing cost assistance. The demand is attributed not only to higher interest rates, but also to home sales prices increasing more than 51% over the past decade while household income has only grown 41%,” said Flohr. With a large population of young people expected to enter the home buying stage of their life, NDHFA anticipates there will be increased demand for its homeownership programs over the next decade.

Participating Lenders originate loans on behalf of NDHFA Once a loans closes, it is sold to and serviced by the state agency Real estate agents who have completed a training course on NDHFA’s homeownership programs have earned the designation as a FirstHome Certified Agent Parties interested in learning more about the agency’s homeownership programs will find information online at www ndhfa org

MINOTAREACOMMUNITYFOUNDATION& THEMINOTDAILYNEWSSUPPORTASTEP PROGRAMATMINOTSTATEUNIVERSITY

The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) has partnered with the Minot Daily News to grant $3,000 to the MSU Development Foundation to support transportation funding for students utilizing the ASTEP program Funding from MACF was made possible through the Mabel Kizima Endowment Fund and the Orlan & Rosella Tollefson Endowment Fund.

The grant funding will be used to support the cost of ASTEP students using public transportation to get to and from their community employment Community jobs are critical for students to develop and

practice their skills while working at a real paid job Since most ASTEP students do not drive or have a vehicle, the additional cost of using transportation can become a challenge

“Competitive, integrated employment is the goal of ASTEP for each student. Transportation cost is often times a barrier for students as they transition to working in the community” states Tracey Olson, ASTEP Project Director. “ASTEP is grateful for the support of the Minot Area Community Foundation and the Minot Daily News.”

ASTEP is an inclusive college program for students ages 18-26 who have an intellectual and/or developmental disability (I/DD). In an inclusive college environment, ASTEP students earn a College-to-Career certificate and and/or other career focused degree or credential. Located on the campus of Minot State University since 2010, ASTEP partners with MSU and Dakota College at Bottineau’s Minot campus, to support up to 20 students with I/DD per year to attend college

“We are pleased to collaborate with the Minot Daily News in awarding this grant to ASTEP Reliable, affordable access to transportation is critical for these students as they pursue employment opportunities and build skills while gaining independence,” said Jason Zimmerman, President of Minot Area Community Foundation

KXSPORTSHOWSETFOR MARCH10-12,2023

Member-Investors are invited to take in the 42nd Annual KX Sport Show, running March 10, 11, and 12 at the North Dakota State Fair Center

Hours: Friday - 1pm to 7pm | Saturday - 10am to 6pm | Sunday - 11am to 4pm

Admission:

Adults: $10 | 17 and Under: Free

BURDICK/BROADWAYINTERSECTIONTO GETNEWTRAFFICSIGNALS

The busiest intersection in Minot will soon have new traffic signals

Two of the four traffic signal poles at the intersection of Burdick and Broadway were damaged in separate vehicle accidents in the past four months After the accidents, portable traffic signals were placed at the intersection, which was followed by crews repurposing old traffic signals as a long-term temporary solution

“We had plans to replace the first one that was broken in the northeast corner, then shortly after that the one in the southeast corner was hit and damaged,” Traffic Engineer Stephen Joersz said “We decided to reevaluate our path forward and replace all of the signals, poles, and mast arms at the same time so everything is up-to-date ”

The existing poles were installed in 1989; new mast arms were installed in 2012

“That means we’ve got 11-year-old mast arms with 34-year-old poles,” Joersz said “It’s time to update this intersection The traffic cabinet at Burdick/Broadway has already been replaced, so we’ve got new brains and we’ve got new eyes with the new cameras Now we need to get a new body with new signal poles and mast arms ”

Joersz said engineers are working on the design and the project will hopefully go out for bids in March, with a contract potentially awarded in April It remains unclear if the project will be completed in 2023, though

“We’re a little uncertain on construction timelines because of the lead time to get new poles. The waiting time is months, not weeks, so that might not allow us to do this project this year,” Joersz said.

ASPIRECREDITUNION:KOHLMANTORETIRE AFTER40YEARSOFSERVICE

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 She has been with Aspire Community Federal Credit Union for 35 years

On Friday, February 17, 2023, Jason Rohrer, President of Aspire’s Board of Directors announced Kohlman’s intent to retire in 2023 “Mindee will be difficult to replace She retains a wealth of knowledge from her years of service, and we could not be more grateful for her leadership and dedication to this institution during that time ”

The details about the President/CEO position will be posted on Aspire Credit Union’s website, LinkedIn, and other credit union job listing platforms across the upper Midwest. The listings contain the directions and requirements for the position. “The Board of Directors is committed to finding the right candidate to fill Mindee’s shoes,” Rohrer continued, “she has been a tremendous asset.” The goal is to have someone hired before Kohlman retires to provide an opportunity for the new hire to learn from her and provide training time. Kohlman will serve as a resource as the new person gets settled.

Mindee Kohlman