The Communicator - March 2023

MARCH 2023

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3

The

Communicator Annual Meeting Scheduled

17 MSU, DCB Tackling

28 Stories From

Gov. Doug Burgum to headline meeting on March 27

Ground has broken on a facility for dental education

What's new with our memberinvestors this month

4

Workforce Shortage

Around Town

10 STATE OF THE CITY

3

INTRODUCING THE IMPACT AWARDS

WARRIOR 12 PRAIRIE AUCTION

8

LEGISLATIVE SESSION UPDATE

THANK YOU, MEMBER-INVESTORS! PO Box 940 Minot, ND 58702-0940 (701) 852-6000 www.minotchamberedc.com CHAMBER EDC STAFF Brekka Kramer, President | CEO brekka@minotchamberedc.com

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.

CORNERSTONE $10,000+ ANNUAL SUPPORT

Chanda DeCent, Finance Director chanda@minotchamberedc.com Carla Dolan, Vice President carla@minotchamberedc.com Keli Rosselli-Sullivan, Workforce Development Specialist & Military Liaison keli@minotchamberedc.com Jaime Hauge, Executive Assistant jaime@minotchamberedc.com Mark Lyman, Economic Development Specialist mark@minotchamberedc.com Tim Olson, Communications & Outreach Specialist 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: Kevin Black | Creedence Energy Services

MAGIC $5,000 ANNUAL SUPPORT

Chair-Elect: Cassidy Hjelmstad | SRT Vice-Chair: Ryan Ackerman | Ackerman-Estvold Past Chair: Randy Hauck Verendrye Electric Cooperatives Treasurer: Missy Feist-Erickson Peoples State Bank Peter B. Hankla | McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C. Jonn Knecht | Bravera Bank Les Knudson | AGT Foods Jason Olson | Ward County Mayor Tom Ross | City of Minot Randy Schwan | Trinity Health Dr. Steve Shirley | Minot State University Dr. Mark Vollmer | Minot Public Schools Jason Zimmerman | Minot Area Community Foundation

PREMIER $2,500 ANNUAL SUPPORT 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

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC TO HONOR LEADERS WITH ALL-NEW IMPACT AWARDS 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:

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."

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

Scan this code to submit your nomination!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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2023 ANNUAL MEETING Monday, March 27, 2023 | Grand Hotel

featuring

Gov. Doug Burgum Keynote Speaker

Click or scan to

$30

$40

memberinvestors

general admission

$400

reserve a table for 8

SOCIAL 5:00 pm

DINNER & PROGRAM 5:30 pm

RSVP

by March 22

Contact the MACEDC office at 701.852.6000 with questions MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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HALFTIME AT THE STATE CAPITOL SENATE MAJORITY LEADER DAVID HOGUE DISCUSSES SHORING UP WORKFORCE, TAX RELIEF, AND MILITARY SUPPORT PROPOSALS "You can't just pass one bill and say 'The workforce shortage is solved.' We have to work everywhere we can."

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

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.

The Minot Area Chamber EDC caught up with Sen. Hogue during crossover break — the recess period that typically marks the halfway point of the North Dakota Legislative Session. When lawmakers return to Bismarck on March 1st, the Senate will consider bills that passed in the House of Representatives, and vice versa.

Sen. Hogue told us that he identified the labor shortage as the most important issue to address this session. "To start the session, we formed a policy committee specifically devoted to workforce development issues. And we have considered a number of major policies directed at solving those issues."

One such bill has already passed through both chambers of the legislature and been signed into law by Gov. Doug Burgum. House Bill 1199, which will provide funding to create career and technical education (CTE) academies more quickly. (The bill included an emergency clause, allowing it to reach the Governor's desk earlier than most bills.) Minot North High School will be home to a CTE center known as the Minot Area Workforce Academy, and Minot State University is establishing a CTE center in a building formerly owned by Trinity Health.

Several other bills aimed at relieving the workforce shortage have passed through the Senate and will be taken up by the House of Representatives, including: Senate Bill 2142 would create an office of immigration within the Department of Commerce. That office would "coordinate and expedite the immigration process" for people moving to North Dakota for work. It would also assist employers connect with newly immigrated people to fill open positions. "We know there are a lot of smaller employers that can't afford to hire international talent recruiters, so we're trying to help them with that process," Sen. Hogue said. The bill was passed by a vote of 39-5 in the Senate.

Senate Bill 2249 aims to streamline the licensure process for skilled laborers and licensed professionals. "If they want to come to North Dakota, we don't want it to take six months," Sen. Hogue said. The bill would direct the state labor commissioner to "develop and update a strategy for more efficient continuing education requirements and more efficient practices for licensing out-of-state practitioners." The Senate passed the bill by a vote of 43-4.

Senate Bill 2301 would establish a "child care stabilization program to address child care workforce shortages." If signed into law, the state would provide monthly payments to licensed daycare providers "to directly address the wages and benefits of child care workers." The bill cleared the Senate by a vote of 25-22 and moves to the House of Representatives following the crossover break.

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HALFTIME AT THE STATE CAPITOL 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.

DON'T MISS OUR THREE FINAL LEGISLATIVE FORUMS: March 11 March 25 April 1

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

MSU Beaver Dam ND State Fair Center ND State Fair Center

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

'TOGETHER, WE ARE ONE COMMUNITY' MAYOR TOM ROSS DELIVERS FIRST STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS 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.”

This story was contributed by the City of Minot.

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MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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3 6 TH A N N U A L

PRAIRIE WARRIOR AUCTION MARCH 16 | 5:30 PM GRAND HOTEL

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SECURE YOUR SEAT

AUCTION TO SUPPORT TEAM MINOT MORALEBOOSTING EFFORTS 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."

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

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.

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

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

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PRAIRIE WARRIOR AUCTION TO SUPPORT MORALE-BOOSTING AT MAFB, CONTINUED "I'm proud that the Minot Area Chamber EDC has made it a priority to support our military community," said Keli Rosselli-Sullivan, Military Liaison for MACEDC. "The Prairie Warrior Auction is one of our most exciting events. The more we can do to make Minot feel like home for our men and women in uniform, the better."

The Prairie Warrior Auction is open to the public to attend — and new this year, thanks to support from Verendrye Electric Cooperative, military members who show an active ID card at the door will get in at no cost.

"Verendrye Electric Cooperative has been attached to the Military since 1955," said Randy Hauck, General Manager of Verendrye Electric Cooperative. "When Minot Air Force Base was built, we had a contract to supply electrons. We feel a strong attachment to the mission of the base, and we're glad to support this event."

"We're also grateful to our generation cooperative, Basin Electric, which agreed to match our donation to the Prairie Warrior Auction," Hauck continued.

This year's selection of live and silent auction items includes some major potential prizes, including vacation packages, golf memberships, outings and adventures, and big-ticket items like mowers, grills, and recliners.

We look forward to seeing you at the Prairie Warrior Auction! Learn more and RSVP ahead of time by scanning by clicking this link.

MINOT AIRMEN PARTICIPATE IN ICBM TEST LAUNCH FROM CALIF. SPACE FORCE BASE

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.

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

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.

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MINOT STATE, DAKOTA COLLEGE AT BOTTINEAU PARTNER ON CTE PLAN 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

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AMBASSADORS AT THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT 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!

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NETWORKING EVENT HIGHLIGHTS CAKES & QUILTS

Elizabeth Sund

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.

Chelce Detert

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.

DON'T MISS OUR NEXT NETWORKING EVENT! featuring

&

Joseph Hurt Chaos Games

Eric Johnson

Atypical Brewery & Barrelworks

THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 2023 | 7:30 AM | CARNEGIE CENTER MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS NEW TIERS. NEW OPPORTUNITIES. 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.

Premier Champion Supporter

Magic Cornerstone

Click here to read about our new Member-Investor Opportunities in detail!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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MEET OUR NEW MEMBER-INVESTORS! THANK YOU FOR JOINING US AND SUPPORTING OUR ONGOING MISSION.

AGGIE FOUNDATION

CORNERSTONE SPEAKING AND COACHING

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.

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.

DXP ENTERPRISES

SANDPRO

CEO: DAVID LITTLE LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE: TIM DOMSTEEM ADDRESS: 6855 HIGHWAY 2/52 W, MINOT, ND 58703 WEBSITE: WWW.DXPE.COM

CEO: JAKE VEIL ADDRESS: 8702 282ND ST NW, BERTHOLD, ND 58718 PHONE: 701-453-3443 WEBSITE: WWW.SANDPRO.COM

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

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

THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS WHO RENEWED IN FEBRUARY! 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

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FEBRUARY RIBBON CUTTINGS

TILT STUDIO

JCPENNEY BEAUTY

INSIDE DAKOTA SQUARE MALL 2400 10TH ST SW, MINOT, ND 58701 PHONE: 701-510-2070 WEBSITE: WWW.TILTSTUDIO.COM

INSIDE DAKOTA SQUARE MALL 2400 10TH ST SW, MINOT, ND 58701 PHONE: 701-839-4255 WEBSITE: WWW.JCPENNEY.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.

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at JCPenney Beauty, a new location within JCPenney that features beauty products for people of every age, gender, race, skin tone, hair type, and budget.

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: HOTEL REVEL IN FEBRUARY 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.

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BUSINESS 2023

HOSTED BY

THURSDAY

ENTRY

MAR 30

$5

5:00 PM 7:00 PM RSVP

|

BBQ Theme!

3515 10TH STREET SW MINOT, ND 58701

MINOTCHAMBEREDC.COM MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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EAGLE AWARD RECIPIENTS FOR JANUARY 2023

Penny Belgarde Century 21 Action Realtors

Colton Bourquin Gate City Bank

Cheri Charboneau Trinity Health

Tim Foley Absolute Comfort

Natosha Gartner Brokers 12 Real Estate

Kris Grove Duck's Towing

Angela Heintz Trinity Health

Rusty Heinze Ralph's Plumbing and Heating

Dr. Bethany Jensen Broadway Family Dentistry

Marshall Knaup The UPS Store

Sydney Mattison Badlands Restaurant & Bar

Shirly Rynestad Gate City Bank

Not Pictured:

Tessa Buch Best Buy

Florence St. CroixHelde Target

Phil Stach Ryan GMC/Buick/ Cadillac

Arionna Volk Ground Round

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

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2023

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MEMBER-INVESTOR NEWS THESE STORIES WERE SUBMITTED BY OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS. SUBMIT YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO TIM@MINOTCHAMBEREDC.COM.

SRT PRESENTS $100,000 CHECK TO MAGIC CITY DISCOVERY CENTER

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.

SRT presented a ceremonial check to the Magic City Discovery Center in honor of its 2021 $100,000 pledge to the area’s first discovery center.

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.

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SRT DONATES $25,000 TO MOHALL SPLASH PAD PROJECT 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.

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

“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.

SRT PROMOTES DAN ROBERTS TO DIRECTOR OF SALES 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.

Dan Roberts

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TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION LAUNCHES “MAKE YOUR MARK” BRICK FUNDRAISER 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.

TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION TO HOLD FABULOUS FIFTIES FUNDRAISING GALA 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.

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TOWN & COUNTRY CREDIT UNION CELEBRATES IMPACT AWARD WINNERS 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.

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MINOT STATE HOSTS ICE CREAM SOCIALS AT GIRLS, BOYS REGIONAL TOURNAMENTS 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.

WELCOME TO MINOT, 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!

Class B Girls State Basketball Tournament March 2-4, 2023: MSU Dome

State Girls Hockey Tournament March 2-4, 2023: MAYSA Arena

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ND HOUSING AGENCY PRESENTS CHAMPION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING AWARDS

North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) recognized six of its partners in February with Champion of Affordable 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.

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MINOT AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION & THE MINOT DAILY NEWS SUPPORT ASTEP PROGRAM AT MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY 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.

KX SPORT SHOW SET FOR MARCH 10-12, 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

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BURDICK/BROADWAY INTERSECTION TO GET NEW TRAFFIC SIGNALS 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.

ASPIRE CREDIT UNION: KOHLMAN TO RETIRE AFTER 40 YEARS OF SERVICE 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.”

Mindee Kohlman

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.

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Chamber EDC Events and Meetings March 2023 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday 1

5

6

7

Thursday 2

Start Up Minot Academy 8:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Military Affairs Committee 12:00 p.m.

Minot AFB

Dinner on the Prairie Committee 12:00 p.m.

MACEDC Office

Ambassadors Committee 4:30 p.m.

Regency Event Center

Friday

Saturday

3

4

8

9

10

11

Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 a.m.

MACEDC Office

Start Up Minot Networking Event 7:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Infrastructure Committee 7:30 a.m.

Homesteaders Restaurant

Legislative Forum 9:00 a.m.

Minot State Univ.

Beaver Dam

Start Up Minot Academy 8:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

12

13

14

15

Women Connect 9:00 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Start Up Minot Academy 8:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Eagle Awards 10:00 a.m.

MACEDC Office

19

20

21

16

22

17

18

24

25

Prairie Warrior Auction 5:30 p.m.

Grand Hotel

23

Start Up Minot Academy 8:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Legislative Forum 9:00 a.m.

ND State Fair Center Norsk Room

Right Start Presentation 9:30 a.m.

Minot AFB

26

27 Annual Meeting 5:00 p.m.

Grand Hotel

28

29

30

Start Up Minot Academy 8:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Energy Committee 11:30 a.m.

Badlands Restaurant Business After Hours 5:00 p.m.

Elison Assisted Living 3515 10th St SW

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