The Communicator - May 2023

MAY 2023

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 5

The

Communicator Wins at the State Capitol

13 Discovery Center

30 Stories From

Workforce proposals passed into law to help employers

A major new attraction on Minot's north hill is complete

What's new with our memberinvestors this month

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Opening to Public

Around Town

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RIBBON CUT AT TRINITY HEALTH

'IMAGINING MINOT': ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS SHARE DOWNTOWN VISION

YEAR FOR JUNIOR 18 BIG ACHIEVEMENT

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MINOT WAYFINDERS: A NEW TOOL TO SOLVE WORKFORCE SHORTAGES

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

Carla Dolan, Vice President carla@minotchamberedc.com Chanda DeCent, Finance Director chanda@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 Marie Sanders, Administrative Assistant minot@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

MAGIC $5,000 ANNUAL SUPPORT

CHAMBER EDC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair: Kevin Black | Creedence Energy Services

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 Logical Control Systems McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C. Midco

Minot Milling Minot State University North Star Community Credit Union Peoples State Bank Ryan Family Dealership Walmart Supercenter

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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Above and right: Various artist renderings of student vision projects for downtown Minot.

NDSU ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS SHARE VISION FOR DOWNTOWN MINOT A potential future for downtown Minot was unveiled this week as fourth-year architecture students from North Dakota State University, under the instruction of Kristi Hanson, shared the results of a semester-long project.

Hanson’s architecture students presented Imagining Minot in person at the Swiontek Center in Fargo and virtually on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.

The project features sixteen students’ ideas for ways to reinvigorate downtown Minot — from refreshed façades and green spaces to potential uses for the recently vacated Trinity Hospital building and Minot’s two downtown parking structures. Each design concept was brought to life in a video presentation featuring detailed artistic renderings of the designs. The students also discussed their individual projects with attendees during a social following the presentation.

“It has been my privilege and honor to guide these students over the last few months,” Kristi Hanson said. “Working on a real project for real clients — a project that has the opportunity to impact the lives of individuals, families, and the Minot community — has been incredibly rewarding for all of us.”

The Imagining Minot project began in January of 2023, when Hanson’s class took a walking tour of downtown Minot and drew inspiration from conversations with various community stakeholders.

“The question we sought to answer was, ‘Who does Minot want to be?’”

Hanson said. “The passion, energy, and enthusiasm that was shared with us in January informed the creative process that unfolded over the course of the semester.”

After the presentation, leaders from Minot expressed their gratitude to Hanson and her architecture students.

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Community stakeholders from Minot joined Kristi Hanson, center, and her fourth-year architecture students for a presentation on May 3, 2023.

“What you did for our community is amazing,” said Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. “You saw the potential that we all see in Minot and captured our identity so well — from Minot Air Force Base to our Scandinavian heritage and beyond. We can’t wait to share these ideas with the community.”

“These students’ hard work over the last three months has given our community a recipe for success,” said Minot Mayor Tom Ross. “Now it’s up to us to follow that recipe. This vision for downtown Minot is going to impact Minot for generations to come.”

Minot Mayor Tom Ross discusses the vision presented by the NDSU architecture students.

“I thank Kristi for leading NDSU to fulfill its land-grant values,” said Kevin Black, Chair of the Minot Area Chamber EDC Board of Directors and member of the North Dakota Board of Higher Education. “NDSU has a special mission to serve the entire state of North Dakota, and this project accomplishes that mission in a remarkable way. Thank you for capturing the magic of Minot!”

Scan this code to watch the

MACEDC Board Chair Kevin Black listens to student Izzy Kucala's presentation.

video presentation!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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THE

WORKFORCE Across Minot, the state of North Dakota, and the entire United States, businesses are facing a similar challenge: a significant labor shortage. According to the March 2023 online job openings report by North Dakota Job Service, our state has more than 17,000 open and available online job openings.

Workforce Development is one of the Minot Area Chamber EDC's five key pillars as we pursue our mission to advocate for and invest in business activity. Over the next several pages you'll read about a number of local, regional, and statewide efforts to bring more workers to North Dakota, solve the workforce shortage, and make our communities even better.

INTRODUCING MINOT WAYFINDERS CONNECTING POTENTIAL NEWCOMERS WITH COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS

MINOT | WAYFINDERS Attracting top-tier talent to the Minot area is a major priority for our employers, and a new talent attraction program is here to help. Launched by the Minot Chamber EDC in partnership with RoleCall, a national talent attraction agency, the Minot WayFinders Talent Portal is a digital service designed to make the process of relocation to the Minot area even easier.

Minot WayFinders creates a personalized connection for newcomers and potential newcomers to the Minot area, helping them access the information, assistance, and support they need during their relocation process.

Anyone looking to relocate to Minot can visit MagicinMinot.com to answer a few questions about themselves. Minot Chamber EDC staff will connect them with a local WayFinder who shares similar interests or phase of life.

The WayFinder can answer questions for someone looking to move to Minot or connect someone new to the community with new friends and things to do.

"We couldn't be more excited to launch Minot WayFinders!" says Keli RosselliSullivan, Workforce Development Specialist for the Minot Area Chamber EDC. "We love sharing the magic of Minot with others — and our WayFinders will be incredible champions for our community, helping draw talent from around the nation."

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MINOT WAYFINDERS LAUNCHES — CONTINUED The Minot WayFinders program seeks to fulfill the needs of local employers to help retain talent they work to recruit to their organizations and Minot. This program provides intentional, established, and precise procedures for actively onboarding new community members.

“The State of North Dakota set a great example for us by launching their Find the Good Life campaign in 2022,” says Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. “That program has already helped a number of people discover why North Dakota is a perfect place to live, work, and play. Minot WayFinders is the community platform to support the Department of Commerce campaign. We’re excited to do even more in the Minot area to showcase everything that makes our community special.”

“To solve the ongoing workforce shortage in North Dakota, we need to be innovative and inviting, and focus on talent attraction,” says Josh Teigen, North Dakota Commerce Commissioner. “Minot WayFinders is a great example of how we can do this by connecting potential newcomers to our state with some of the most welcoming people in our communities. We’re excited to see Minot embrace Find the Good Life and can’t wait to see the program attract talent and grow our economy.”

For more information on the Minot WayFinders program, contact the Minot Area Chamber EDC Workforce Development Specialist | Military Liaison Keli Rosselli-Sullivan at keli@minotchamberedc.com.

MEET SOME OF OUR MINOT WAYFINDERS! "I moved to Minot from Washington to attend Minot State University, and I fell in love with this community. I've grown to love Minot's parks, and the growing options for indoor activities in the winter.

Jalisa Tinnes

I found Minot to be a very welcoming place when I moved here. I'm excited to be a WayFinder to give people that same great experience and help them see that Minot is a great place to call home!"

"When someone moves to a new place, they may wonder, who do I get my hair cut with? Which pediatrician should I take my child to? Those little things can add up. As WayFinders, we'll be able to help people acclimate to the Minot area faster, help them build those networks, and avoid uncertainties.

Jessica Ackerman

"When I told a friend in Alaska that I would be serving at Minot Air Force Base, he told me it was the best place he was ever stationed. I was energized by hearing that from someone who had spent a lot of time here. So when it came to retire and move wherever I wanted, I stuck with the Minot community!"

Rick Kloster MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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BAKKEN GROW: BRINGING UKRAINIAN IMMIGRANTS TO N.D. OIL & GAS SECTOR The Minot Area Chamber EDC is proud to announce its role as community liaison for Bakken GROW: an initiative that aims to tackle workforce shortage issues in the oil and gas industry through immigration.

Bakken GROW, which stands for Global Recruitment of Oilfield Workers, was launched by the North Dakota Petroleum Council (NDPC) in April. As a community liaison, the Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) will work with the NDPC as well as local oil and gas businesses to help legal immigrants find roles in the industry. Three local businesses have agreed to participate in the Bakken GROW initiative so far: Creedence Energy Services, NewKota, and SandPro. All three are members of both the NDPC and MACEDC.

The NDPC says each Ukrainian immigrant requires a sponsor before they can relocate to the United States.

Keli Rosselli-Sullivan, Workforce Development Specialist for the Minot Area Chamber EDC, hopes individuals in the Minot area will consider joining in the effort. “The Ukrainian refugees we will see coming to the United States are eligible for foreign employment and have completed the necessary steps in order to relocate safely and securely,” Rosselli-Sullivan says. “We’re excited to serve as ‘first friends’ and help our newcomers feel like they are a part of the Magic City.”

The role of a sponsor is to greet refugee newcomers at the airport, ensure they have basic start-up necessities, connect them with health and education services, and help them integrate into their new community.

The first priority of the program will be to hire Ukrainian citizens who have fled their country following Russia’s invasion in 2022. “They need our help. We need their help,” said Ron Ness, President of the NDPC.

Anyone interested in sponsoring a Ukrainian immigrant to come to North Dakota is invited by NDPC to begin the process online by following the QR code below.

“The Bakken GROW program is a humanitarian mission and a workforce solution,” said former Lt. Governor Brent Sanford, who serves as Project Manager for Bakken GROW. “The NDPC staff and membership are excited to begin sharing the hospitality of North Dakota and the tremendous Bakken career opportunities with a wider group of individuals.”

“Workforce Development is one of our organization’s key pillars as we look to the future,” said Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. “We believe Bakken GROW will be an outstanding way to recruit new employees to our community’s energy sector and bring much-needed relief to an industry that has been hit hard by workforce shortages.”

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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WORKFORCE AT THE CAPITOL: TRACKING BILLS AT THE 2023 LEGISLATIVE SESSION As the 68th North Dakota Legislative Assembly comes to a close in the coming days, we're following a number of bills aimed at alleviating the statewide workforce shortage. Here is an update on legislation that Senate Majority Leader David Hogue highlighted for the Minot Area Chamber EDC during crossover break in March:

HB 1199

SB 2142

SB 2249

Funding for career and technical education centers, including the Minot Area Workforce Academy

Creates an office of immigration within the Department of Commerce to help employers connect with newly immigrated workers

Streamlines licensure process for skilled laborers and licensed professionals coming to North Dakota from other states

SIGNED INTO LAW

SIGNED INTO LAW

SIGNED INTO LAW

SB 2301

SB 2293

Provides monthly payments to licensed daycare providers to address the wages and benefits of childcare workers

Exempts military income from taxation to incentivize military personnel to become North Dakota residents

DEFEATED

BY HOUSE

SIGNED INTO LAW

We'll bring you a deeper dive on outcomes affecting the Minot area from the 68th Legislative Assembly in our June edition of The Communicator.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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TRINITY HEALTH CUTS RIBBON AT NEW HEALTHCARE CAMPUS & MEDICAL DISTRICT The Minot Area Chamber EDC was proud to be part of a milestone ceremony at Trinity Health's new campus in southwest Minot on April 15, 2023.

"This healthcare campus is going to produce an environment for the next several generations of North Dakotans to have state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the care that we provide at Trinity Health," said President/CEO John M. Kutch.

Emergency services officially relocated to the new campus on April 30. To read more about the process of moving from one hospital to another, turn to our Community News section on page 30.

The community gathered on April 15 to witness the ribbon cutting at Trinity Health's new campus.

Photo credit: Trinity Health

After the ribbon was cut, members of the public were invited for refreshments and a sneak peek of the new facility.

Trinity Health President/CEO John Kutch and Board of Directors Chairman Patrick Holien cut the ribbon.

SUPPORTING KIDS AT TRINITY'S NEW CAMPUS Members of the Kiwanis Club of Minot, including our own Carla Dolan and Jaime Hauge, were hard at work at the new Trinity Health campus in April.

Their mission: to assemble all kinds of toys to be used in the new pediatric play therapy room. Those toys were made possible by a $15,000 donation from the Kiwanis Club in 2022.

We're proud of the generosity (and toy-constructing ability) of our teammates!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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Magic City Discovery Center Executive Director Wendy Keller and Board President Mark Lyman cut the ribbon on Friday, April 28, 2023.

RIBBON CUT AT MAGIC CITY DISCOVERY CENTER Ahead of opening to the general public on May 5, 2023, the Minot Area Chamber EDC Ambassadors helped cut the ribbon at the brand-new Magic City Discovery Center atop Minot's north hill.

"I'm just thrilled to welcome you all into this amazing new center," said Wendy Keller, Executive Director for the Magic City Discovery Center. "We've worked hard for several years to make this happen, and we're finally here!"

Read more about the Magic City Discovery Center and its dedication ceremony in our Community News section on page 31!

CITY HALL MOVES TO DOWNTOWN MINOT Minot's city government has officially moved to its new location: 10 3rd Ave SW in downtown Minot.

As of May 1, the new offices are open to the public. City operations, including bill payment, council meetings, and more take place in the new location.

"Moving month is the culmination of years of work and planning," wrote Mayor Tom Ross in the Dear Minot column on April 6. "I think you'll like the results of this long-awaited project."

This month's Business After Hours event on May 11 takes place at the new City Hall. Learn more on page 29.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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Several B-52H Stratofortress aircraft take off in quick succession during a '"fly-off" in support of Global Thunder 23.

READINESS ON DISPLAY MINOT AIR FORCE BASE CONCLUDES GLOBAL THUNDER 23

by Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs, Airman 1st Class Kyle Wilson Global Thunder 23, the most recent iteration of U.S. Strategic Command’s annual nuclear command and control exercise, concluded April 19.

GT23 was designed to assess joint operational readiness and provide training opportunities for USSTRATCOM forces to deter, detect, and prevent strategic attacks against the United States and its allies.

During the exercise, Team Minot personnel executed and sustained a simulated alert status to validate and maintain an effective and ready strategic deterrence force. Defenders, aircraft maintainers, aircrew, munitions specialists, airfield management personnel, food service specialists, and various other Airmen in support roles worked around the clock to accomplish exercise objectives.

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MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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MINOT AIR FORCE BASE CONCLUDES GLOBAL THUNDER 23 — CONTINUED “The 5th Bomb Wing is comprised of exceptional, mission-focused Airmen, and they absolutely nailed the execution of this exercise,” said Col Daniel Hoadley, 5th Bomb Wing commander. “Strategic deterrence is anchored on a demonstration of credible combat capability, and Global Thunder allowed us to do just that.”

GT23 presented training scenarios that tested all USSTRATCOM mission areas to include Team Minot’s 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing, with a specific focus on nuclear readiness. Airmen and B-52H Stratofortresses from the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, integrated with 5th BW Airmen to conduct joint readiness operations.

Members of Task Force 21 were invited to observe the B-52H "flyoff" as part of Global Thunder 23 from the tarmac.

“We always aim to practice the way that we will be expected to perform in combat,” said Hoadley.

“To that end, we were able to wring out virtually every aspect of nuclear operations during this year’s Global Thunder. We integrated with the 2nd BW to meet logistical requirements and crush all operations and maintenance tasks inside of tight timelines. Given the complexity of this exercise, the results were confidence building for the entire B-52 team.”

The training opportunities provided by Global Thunder enable USSTRATCOM forces to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency, and validates Team Minot’s always-ready global strike capabilities.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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114 LOCAL CLASSROOMS SERVED BY JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT IN 2022-2023 What's the secret to raising a generation of successful, financially savvy adults? It starts in the classroom, with programs like Junior Achievement.

"We take students through real-life scenarios. How do you write a check? How do you make a budget?

It's really cool to see kids' reactions," said Makensy Arlien, who volunteers to teach Junior Achievement curriculum to elementary school students in the Minot area.

Junior Achievement is a non-profit program facilitated by the Minot Area Chamber EDC that creates a bridge between the business community and students in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms across the Minot area. During the 20222023 school year, students in 114 classrooms experienced the JA curriculum.

That reach could not be accomplished without loyal sponsors — and a strong stable of local volunteers like Makensy Arlien and Nancy Wagenast.

"It's good to lead by example and show the kids how fun volunteering can be," said Wagenast, who has volunteered to teach Junior Achievement since the program was first brought to Minot in 1997.

Wagenast and Arlien are colleagues at First Western Bank and Trust. The pair co-taught second, third, and fifth grade JA curriculum this school year. "It's fun to see the kids' excitement when we walk through the door each week!" said Arlien.

The program benefits teachers, too. Peggy Overton, a second grade teacher at Sunnyside Elementary School, says JA supports social studies curriculum standards in a memorable way.

"Learning about consumers and producers, goods and services, wants and needs — those ideas support our existing school curriculum so well," Overton said. "And we're always looking for ways to have people from the community come in to enrich the lives of our children."

"It teaches kids about the free enterprise system of the United States," Wagenast said. "It shows them that they have a choice to work where they want to work."

She said the coursework is easy for community members to learn and teach — and engaging for the students. "The kids are active participants in each lesson," she said, "raising their hands. They don't just sit back and listen. It's enjoyable to see that."

The Minot Area Chamber EDC is grateful to the schools, teachers, volunteers, and sponsors who allow us to connect with the next generation of business leaders! See the next page for a full list of those who made Junior Achievement possible in the 2022-2023 school year.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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THANK YOU TO OUR JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT VOLUNTEERS! Shelly Adams Stacey Ahmann Oriana Allmon Dawn Anderson Maggie Backen Penny Belgarde Dr. Doug Bengson Susan Bergman Lindsey Bini Breann Bischof Kyle Bittle Sydney Bjergaard David Blikre Jenny Bogden Gabe Brien Kristi Burgess Donna Bye Victoria Cofell Carla Dolan Stacey Elich Beth Feldner Heather Gillihan Chelsea Gleich Lolly Gorze Kathy Grube Whitney Hahn Andy Heitkamp Jessica Henderson

Jessica Henderson Chanda Hoewt Lori Holtz Lauri Hopwood David Hughes Jennifer Jerauld Maglyn Keeney Brock Keller Dawndi Kesler Abigail Kinder Mindee Kohlman Amber Kraft Lexie Kroeger Brenda Lakoduk Robin Langford Denise Larson Erika Larson Hannah Lautenschlager Emma Lavachek Alexis Lee Heidi Llewellyn David Lozensky Alissa Mack Angie Martin Christine Melton Alexis Meyer Andrea Meyer Kayla Milo

Ahsha Mims Angela Nehring Kinsey Neshem Susan Ness Bryan Obenchain Perry Olson Tim Olson Melissa Opland Shantel Ottmar Dawn Palumbo Jessica Phillips Preston Phillips Kim Popinga Mary Prough Chris Ray Joe Reiter Maria Romanick EJ Rose Keli Rosselli-Sullivan Kristi Rosselli-Sullivan Verla Rostad Kayla Schatz Kalli Schell Emily Schenfisch Ashley Schmaltz Jordan Schmitt Jaime Schwede Angela Simonson

Kathy Sivertson Jason Soles Christine Staley Madison Sundsbak Karna Taft Alicia Thompson Amber Thompson Jalisa Tinnes Marisa Trueblood Katie Trumble Cathy Tweten Danielle Vetter Carissa Visocsky Jennifer Watson Janelle Weaver Shannon Webster Nancy Wegenast Amy Werner Rod Wilson Tom Wilson Angela Yellow Hammer Mandi Zavalney

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS OF JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT IN 2022-2023!

Affinity First Federal Credit Union Bell School PTO Centerspace Clean Tech Country Financial - Ahsha Mims Credit Unions United Chapter Dakota PTA Edison PTA First International Bank & Trust John Hoeven PTA Kiwanis Club of Minot Lewis & Clark PTA Longfellow PTA Magic City Lions McKinley PTA

MDU Minot Community Endowment Fund Minot Credit Association North Plains PTA North Star Community Credit Union Perkett PTA Roosevelt PTA Ryan Family Dealership Sertoma Club SRT Sunnyside PTA United Community Bank Verendrye Electric Cooperative Xcel Energy

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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CITYWIDE CLEANUP SET FOR MAY 5-6 Each year when the snow finally melts, it uncovers trash.

That's why the Minot Area Chamber EDC hosts its annual Citywide Cleanup event around city entrances — to beautify our community before summer arrives.

Chamber EDC member-investors are asked to clean up around their buildings and to provide volunteers to clean the city entrances.

Please send a team captain to our office at 1020 20th Ave SW to pick up trash bags Then be sure to have gloves and head on out on Friday, May 5 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 6 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and fill up the trash bags. Once they are filled, place them in a pile or two along the roadway and the city crews will pick them up.

Thanks to the City of Minot for supplying the garbage bags!

Let’s make Minot shine!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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The workplace has changed dramatically over the past few years. It's not just remote and hybrid work, employee; employees' expectations of their employers and managers have also shifted. With plentiful employment options, empowered employees require more than ever. Learn how to build a culture of employee engagement — one that retains top talent and drives productivity.

Empowered employees don't wait for things to get better, they leave.

Engaged employees are more likely to stay, more willing to go the extra mile, and better equipped to manage change and innovate.

See the organizational and emotional components of employee engagement. Understand the role of executives, HR leaders, and front-line managers in developing a sustainable culture of employee engagement.

Discuss how to strike the right balance when it comes to work from home and return to in-person.

Join us and develop proactive strategies to engage your employees, focusing on the activities that will create the most impact for your organization and team. Confront the challenges of hybrid work, build systems and structures to engage and retain. Win the war for talent with an organizational culture that supports and engages your employees and leaders.

Who Should Attend: This Executive Business Briefing is designed for senior leaders and human resource leaders that want to better understand specifically how they can positively influence their organization's culture and drive employee engagement with empowered employees.

Gain insights from Dale Carnegie research to better understand what drives employee engagement in today's empowered workplace.

Approved for 1.5 SHRM PDCs and 1.5 HRCI HR credits.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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APRIL NETWORKING EVENT FEATURES PROLIFIC ENTREPRENEURS How do Matthew Maldonado and Eric Thoemke navigate co-ownership of more than four businesses — and maintain their close friendship along the way?

Eric Thoemke and Matthew Maldonado

According to the two entrepreneurs, it starts with using the right words with each other.

"We never use the term 'fight,'" Thoemke said at April's Start Up Minot networking event. "That word has been totally erased. We may not always see eye to eye, but we always try to understand the other's perspective."

Thoemke and Maldonado are the co-owners of Indak Media, The Putt District, Up Your Axe, and more. We appreciated hearing them share their professional journeys!

DON'T MISS OUR NEXT NETWORKING EVENT! featuring

&

Daryl Lies YOUR Talk

Samantha Rebel Full Flavor Farms

THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2023 | 7:30 AM | CARNEGIE CENTER

CONGRATULATIONS! After ten great weeks, another cohort of our Start Up Minot Academy powered by CO.STARTERS is in the books!

Congratulations to these graduates (and a few not pictured) for digging in, learning about their customers, and engaging with our guest presenters — all on the journey to bright entrepreneurial futures.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS NEW TIERS. NEW OPPORTUNITIES. 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.

Premier Champion Supporter

Magic Cornerstone

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

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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

EVENTURES MINOT

LOGICAL CONTROL SYSTEMS

OWNER: MICHELLE RUHLAND ADDRESS: 1800 22ND AVE SW, SUITE 2 WEBSITE: EVENTURESMINOT.COM

OWNERS: NATHAN LIVINGSTON, TODD HARRIS ADDRESS: 413 5TH AVE NE, MINOT, ND 58703 PHONE: 701-509-2119 WEBSITE: LOGICALCS.COM

Eventures is an event venue available for rent in Minot, designed with parties, baby and bridal showers, pop-up shops, and open houses in mind.

Logical Control Systems is a team of engineers and technicians who design, build, and service automated process solutions for any environment.

PRAIRIE SKY BREADS OWNERS: JAZMINE SCHULTZ, TRAVIS GERJETS ADDRESS: 3 1ST ST SE, MINOT, ND 58701 PHONE: 701-858-0612 WEBSITE: PRAIRIESKYBREADS.COM Prairie Sky Breads is a local, independent baking operation offering homestyle breads & baked goods to the Minot community.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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RIBBON CUTTINGS IN APRIL 2023

TRINITY HEALTH

MAGIC CITY DISCOVERY CENTER

2305 37TH AVE SW, MINOT, ND PHONE: 701-857-5000 WEBSITE: WWW.TRINITYHEALTH.ORG

1545 1ST ST NW, MINOT, ND PHONE: 858-7529 WEBSITE: WWW.MAGICCITYDISCOVERYCENTER.COM

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at the new Trinity Health Healthcare Campus & Medical District.

The facility features 147 private patient rooms and a holistic, patient-centered design that enhances patient safety, comfort and privacy.

MINOT AREA HOMELESS COALITION

TEULU BREW

1800 4TH AVE NW, MINOT, ND PHONE: 701-852-6300 WEBSITE: WWW.MINOTAREAHOMELESSCOALITION.COM Ambassadors cut the ribbon at new offices of the Minot Area Homeless Coalition in northwest Minot. The non-profit advocates, coordinates, and optimizes services for homeless persons in the greater Minot area.

Ambassadors cut the ribbon at the Magic City Discovery Center on Minot's north hill. The new children's museum and science center is home to 150+ interactive exhibits. It opens to the public on May 5.

417 BURDICK EXPRESSWAY EAST, MINOT, ND PHONE: 701-852-8811 WEBSITE: WWW.TEULUBREW.MY.CANVA.SITE Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Teulu Brew, a tea house on Burdick Expressway offering three-course afternoon tea by reservation.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MAY 2023

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THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBERINVESTORS WHO RENEWED IN APRIL! AE2S AGT Foods USA All-State Contracting Allstate Insurance Company, The Kim Albert Agency American Legion Aramark Broadway Family Dentistry Cash Wise Foods The Computer Store, Inc. Dakota Fire Extinguishers, Inc. Don Bessette Motors, Inc. Forward Communication, Inc. 4 Bears Casino and Lodge Gourmet Chef, Inc. Gratech Company, LLC Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Heritage Insurance Services JL Beers Keller Williams Inspire Realty KFC KMOT - TV/West Dakota Fox Kroll's Diner Tyrone O. Langager Lowe's Printing

Lowe's Printing Magic City Discovery Center Magic City Garage Door & Awning Marketplace Foods Mattress Firm MetroPlains Management Mi Mexico Minot Air Force Base Minot Housing Authority Northwest Building Improvement Off the Vine, LLC Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza Peoples State Bank of Velva Pinkerton Animal Hospital SRT The Starving Rooster Strata Corporation SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Minot Synergy Medical Massage Team Consulting LLC Trinity Health Verendrye Electric Cooperative Visiting Angels Walmart Supercenter

Eagle Awards CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR APRIL 2023 RECIPIENTS!

Bryce Bergeron Thrifty White Pharmacy

Alyssa Edwards Aces Lounge & Casino

Kyle McGill IMM

Lore Nelson Dollar Tree North Hill

Katie Hawkins ARC Express Inc.

Brook Houle 1st International Bank & Trust

Curt Sitter Gabe Rauschenberger Northwest Tire & Auto Service Central Campus HS

Not Pictured: Mady Graham Minot Soccer Association

Kelly Sorensen Thompson Larson Funeral Home

Matt Stegmiller Consumer Cellular Target

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

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: MAGIC CITY DISCOVERY CENTER Community members enjoyed an evening of networking and discovery at the Magic City Discovery Center — our April Business After Hours event. We enjoyed seeing the displays, the view from the rooftop, and the inspiring new destination for Minot families!

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BUSINESS 2023

HOSTED BY

THURSDAY

ENTRY

MAY 11

$5

5:00 PM 7:00 PM RSVP

|

NEW MINOT CITY HALL 10 3RD AVE SW

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COMMUNITY NEWS THE FOLLOWING STORIES COME FROM OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS AND COLLABORATIVE PARTNERS. SUBMIT YOUR BUSINESS NEWS TO TIM@MINOTCHAMBEREDC.COM.

TRINITY HEALTH RELOCATES TO NEW CAMPUS April 30th was a historic day as Trinity Health completed the transition from its legacy campus in downtown Minot to its new campus at 2305 37th Avenue SW. Fifty-nine patients from the legacy campus were moved to the new hospital in around 4 hours. The move began with the first patient delivered at 7:11 a.m. and concluded with the last patient arriving at the Healthcare Campus and Medical District at 11:21 a.m.

Jeffery Sather, MD, medical director of the Emergency Trauma Center, called it a transformational day. “This was a transformational day at Trinity Health – transformational for healthcare in Minot and transformational for the region at large.”

More than 700 Trinity staff and volunteers facilitated the move, including some 14 ambulances services from around the region.

Elliot Leinen, associate director of Decision Support, coordinated the move process. He said the move went very well, with every aspect completed ahead of schedule. “I’m thinking about the next step. This was moving into a new facility; now it’s exciting to take the next step in actually operating in the new facility with all the staff and all the departments that are going to be out here.”

It didn’t take long for the first baby to be born in the new hospital.

Lily Violet Rose Freeman was born at 8:44 a.m. on April 30. The last baby delivered at the old hospital was Marlee Pierson, born at 2:41 a.m. on April 29.

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MAGIC CITY DISCOVERY CENTER BUILDING DEDICATION MARKS MILESTONE IN $20 MILLION EDUCATIONAL CENTER The Magic City Discovery Center (MCDC) celebrated the completion of its one-of-a-kind hybrid children’s museum and science center during today’s building dedication ceremony. The MCDC Board of Directors was joined by more than 100 supporters and their families in marking the completion of the nearly $20 million project that was sparked by engaged community members 10 years ago.

"What a great time to live in Minot and the surrounding area!” said Mark Lyman, MCDC Board President. “With this new children's museum, we are truly showcasing how important the education of children and the support for families is for our community. We couldn't have made this all happen without the long hours put in by staff, volunteers, board members and hundreds of donors. We hope that everyone will come enjoy the Magic City Discovery Center after we are open to the public on May 5th."

The Magic City Discovery Center is a 28,000 square foot facility with four levels of educational fun that features 12 galleries housing over 150 hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) focused exhibits.

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MAGIC CITY DISCOVERY CENTER BUILDING DEDICATION MARKS MILESTONE IN $20 MILLION EDUCATIONAL CENTER, CONTINUED “The Magic City Discovery Center stands as an investment in the future of the Minot region, helping to enrich the lives of families and supporting the development and success of their children,” said U.S. Senator John Hoeven. “When the project first started in 2014, we quickly recognized the positive impact it would have. That’s why we worked to secure $6.3 million in DoD funding to enable the construction of this impressive new facility. We appreciate the hard work of everyone involved in making the Magic City Discovery Center a reality, ensuring this important resource is available to Minot and the surrounding area for years to come.”

"This is an exciting time to live, work and thrive in the City of Minot. The hard work and dedication the team put into making this center move from a thought to a reality is a case study in what a community can do when it works together,” said Tom Ross, Minot Mayor. “The location of the Magic City Discovery Center is perfect. It stands alone on a peak in the city as a constant reminder to us all that our city is dedicated to the future. As a father, walking through the doors of this center is something I look forward to sharing with my grandkids."

The dedication program featured speakers included the following: MCDC Board President Mark Lyman, U.S. Senator John Hoeven, Minot Mayor Tom Ross, Commander 5th Bomb Wing Col. Dan Hoadley, Commander 91st Missile Wing Col. Kenneth McGhee, MCDC Executive Director Wendy Keller and past MCDC Board President Karen Rasmusson.

The discovery center will be a premier destination to bring young children, caregivers, and families together in an interactive environment that inspires creativity, encourages play, and enhances education.

The center is welcoming charter members April 29-30, and May 2-3 utilizing regular operating hours. Charter Members are those who have shown their support for the discovery center by purchasing their memberships early.

The grand opening to the public will be held Friday, May 5 with doors opening at 10 a.m.

The mission of the Magic City Discovery Center is to engage children and families in the magic of lifelong learning through discovery, creativity, and play.

Information regarding annual and corporate memberships, admission, and hours can be found at MagicCityDiscoveryCenter.com and the center’s Facebook page.

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DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR ENERGY BILL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Xcel Energy wants to remind customers that payment assistance programs are available that may be able to help with your energy bills, and the deadline to apply is coming soon.

Thousands of families and households have benefitted from home energy assistance programs throughout the winter, and now is a good time to see if you’re eligible. In North Dakota, the deadline to apply for energy assistance is May 31, so be sure to learn more and apply soon.

State programs can offer assistance paying utility bills and the cost for repair or replacement of a home’s primary heating system. To learn more, visit xcelenergy.com/EnergyAssistance or call Xcel Energy at 800-895-4999.

To explore more options, visit xcelenergy.com/WaysToSave to find ways to save energy and money, have more stable bills, learn about payment assistance and more. Tips for saving money and energy can be found at xcelenergy.com/Tips, and you can also find information on incentives and rebates that customers can use to make their homes and businesses more efficient.

BETH FELDNER NAMED TO GNDC’S 5 WOMEN TO WATCH IN ND BUSINESS Beth Feldner, Xcel Energy Community Relations and Government Affairs Manager was named to the Greater North Dakota Chamber’s list of 5 Women to Watch in ND Business.

The Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) announced their inaugural lists of 15 Women You Need to Know and 5 Women to Watch in North Dakota business. These lists call out individuals to celebrate their success as these accomplishments are furthering the progress of their organizations and industries.

“The list of 5 Women to Watch is comprised of aspirants. This list has nominees set to make big impacts – whether it’s in a new position or field. We want to acknowledge that these women have their sights set high towards progress; we support their work.” – GNDC Vice President, Operations and Outreach

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UP YOUR AXE: FREE AXE THROWING FOR CHAMBER EDC MEMBER-INVESTORS MAY 12 Dear members of the Minot Area Chamber EDC, We are thrilled to invite you to an exciting team building opportunity! Join us for a day of axe throwing on May 12th from 2-6 pm. This event promises to be a fun-filled day perfect for team building and bonding with colleagues. As a member of Chamber EDC, you can avail this offer for free! It's an excellent opportunity for you and your team to hone your axe throwing skills, meet new people, and experience a thrilling time like never before. Each group will get up to an hour of free axe throwing.

What's more, you also stand a chance to win a $250 discount on a future team-building event day of! So don't miss out on this fantastic chance to have an exhilarating time with your colleagues and potentially win a fantastic price for a future event. Please call (701) 852-2937 today to reserve your spot or for more information. Remember to mention that you are a member of the Chamber EDC to avail this offer.

We have limited spots available, and we expect them to fill up fast, so don't wait too long to register. And, while you're at Up Your Axe, indulge in some delicious food and refreshing drinks. We look forward to seeing you and your team on May 12th!

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MIKE GIETZEN JOINS SRT AS BUSINESS SALES MANAGER Mike Gietzen has been named Business Sales Manager of SRT Communications. Prior to joining SRT, he worked in business development, fleet and commercial sales, for 20 years at Ryan Chevrolet in Minot.

Gietzen will lead business sales for all products and services, including highspeed internet. He will also develop new opportunities and partnerships for SRT. “Mike is a welcome addition at the perfect time. As we continue to innovate our broadband network – among other capabilities – he will be integral to driving growth and customer experience,” said Dan Roberts, SRT Director of Sales. “Mike is highly respected in his previous industry and brings a wealth of skill and knowledge to our organization. SRT couldn’t be happier to have Mike on our team.”

Gietzen earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Minot State University in 2001. He volunteers with Pheasants for the Future and Prairie Grit.

“I appreciate the high level of professionalism of our SRT team and look forward to building on sales as well as service excellence,” Gietzen said. “We are all in the service industry, with the customer at the center of everything we do. I’ve spent the past two decades developing meaningful relationships in the Minot business community, and I value the opportunity to continue this commitment with SRT.” Born and raised in Minot, Gietzen enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time as a fishing guide. He and his wife of 12 years, Stacey, have two dogs: Emmy, a four-year-old beagle, and Hank, a five-month-old chocolate lab. They live in Minot and have a home on Parshall Bay.

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MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY GIVING DAY 2023 ECLIPSES $360,000 MARK IN 24 HOURS The Minot State University Development Foundation’s sixth annual Giving Day raised over $360,000 in 24 hours making it the second largest event in school history.

Donor gifts and matching funds secured $361,282 from 1,691 donors on April 12 — just shy of 2022’s record of $390,811 — going over the $300,000 raised mark for the second-straight year.

“Minot State’s Giving Day was again an overwhelming success,” said Rick Hedberg, vice president for advancement and executive director of the MSU Development Foundation. “On behalf of the Minot State Development Foundation and the MSU Advancement team, I thank our generous donors and friends for coming together to empower our students. It has been remarkable to see our Giving Days grow over the years and we owe that success to each of you. The impact of Giving Day is significant, and it is felt across our campus.”

The MSU Foundation’s 2023 Giving Day had donations from 41 states and four countries, assisting 65 total projects including multiple scholarship endowments.

Giving Day 2023 had various challenges during the 24 hours of giving. On the academic side, communication sciences and disorders finished with the most total donors (82) supporting an interactive learning gym, while nursing finished second (60) in support of simulation expansion. The athletic challenge saw women’s soccer finish with 148 donors for InStat software and men’s wrestling was second (85) supporting a new wrestling room expansion.

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SRT ANNOUNCES COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS $8,500 AWARDED TO LOCAL STUDENTS SRT is pleased to announce the 2023 winners of five college scholarships. Four winners were awarded the SRT Scholarship for $1,500 each and one winner was awarded the SRT $2,500 Technical Scholarship.

The $1,500 SRT Scholarship recipients are: Isabell Buynak of Antler - MLS-Mohall High School Magee Rovig of Minot - Bishop Ryan Catholic School Preston Kraft of Velva – Velva High School Javin Mattern of Mohall - MLS-Mohall High School Ryker Pederson of Minot High School won the $2,500 SRT Technical Scholarship. He will be attending the University of North Dakota and will major in computer science.

“Every year, we look forward to rewarding area students for their hard work and their accomplishments, both in academics and in the community,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, SRT CEO/General Manager. “These scholarship winners have bright futures ahead of them and SRT is proud to support their goals.”

Applicants for the SRT Scholarship Program were judged on their scholastic performance and achievements, as well as volunteerism and community involvement. Students were required to write an essay discussing how advancements in technology will change how students learn in the future.

The SRT Technical Scholarship can be awarded to a graduating high school senior or an undergraduate student currently enrolled in a two-year or four-year college.

Applicants were required to submit their volunteerism and community involvement, scholastic performance, and an essay describing how they can use their education and technology to reach rural and underserved populations. A letter of recommendation from a community member or educator was also required.

SRT congratulates the winners and wishes all seniors the best in their future endeavors.

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KATRINA BERG HIRED AT TOWN & COUNTRY CREDIT UNION Katrina Berg joined the Town & Country Credit Union team as a Marketing Specialist in March. Originally from Velva, Katrina graduated from Minot State University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Marketing. She has over eight years of experience in marketing, communications and community outreach.

In her new role, she will create and implement marketing strategies to drive brand awareness, develop content, coordinate member and employee events, and manage the credit union’s volunteer and sponsorship programs in Minot.

MINOT ROTARY SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION AWARDS ANNOUNCED The 2023 Rotary Scholarships have been awarded from the Minot Rotary Scholarship Foundation Fund. This year there were 25 - $1,000 scholarships awarded to high school seniors from Minot and the surrounding area.

The Rotary Scholarship Foundation Fund was established by the Rotary Club of Minot 39 years ago. The goal of the fund is to provide scholarships to area youth through a permanent endowment fund held at the Minot Area Community Foundation. Scholarship applications are scored based upon participation in school activities, involvement in community service and charitable organizations, employment history and academic achievements.

This year’s scholarship award recipients were as follows: Kenzie Kurtz – Berthold HS, Magee Rovig – Bishop Ryan Catholic School, Isabella Saykally – Bottineau HS, Ariel Frazier – Des Lacs Burlington HS, Olivia Redding – Des Lacs Burlington HS, Reagan Casteel – Divide County HS, Easton Eriksmoen – Divide County HS, Brooklyn Fortier – Divide County HS, Emily Jeglum – Divide County HS, Jule Stenson – Divide County HS, Coryssa Behles – Garrison HS, Karli Klein – Garrison HS, Emma Dockter – Harvey HS, Brenna Stroklund – Kenmare HS, Emily Fannik – Max HS, Marissa Beck – Minot HS, Cody Harris – Minot HS, Madison Lyman – Minot HS, Faith Malson – Minot HS, Lydia Repnow – Minot HS, Elise Altringer – Our Redeemers Christian School, Aubrey Griedl – Our Redeemers Christian School, Megan Swenson – Our Redeemers Christian School, Gage Olson – South Prairie HS, and Kyle Sandy – Velva HS. Since its inception, the scholarship fund has awarded 890 scholarships totaling $748,000. Students earning scholarships are chosen by members of the Rotary Club of Minot who review and score every application.

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ROOSEVELT PARK ZOO OFFERS CORPORATE MEMBERSHIPS Roosevelt Park Zoo appreciates our corporate partners who are always quick to lend a hand with a rake, help us build a new habitat and spread the word about our beautiful Zoo here in the heart of our community.

As a thank you, the Zoo offers corporate membership options that allow your team to visit the zoo all year!

Corporate memberships start at the Wildlife Lovers level at $300 which includes two transferrable family passes that team members can check out with you, visit the Zoo and return to you for the next trip. The Zoo also has Curator and Director level memberships that start at $1,500 that will allow you to host an appreciation night of your own at the Zoo. A night of your choosing and invitations of your creation, you can invite as many employees, clients and their families as you would like and host an evening at the Zoo. Some members bring ice cream bars, some have the whole thing catered, some use the night to promote their mission. Corporate membership information and purchase is available on our website: https://rpzoo.com/membership-corporate/ Spring does call for a lot of yard work in our 22-acre, well-wooded park. Include the Zoo in your team building this spring!

The Zoo has rakes and gloves ready and your own animal yard for your team to spruce up! Learn more and apply here: https://rpzoo.com/support/volunteer/ Please contact Jennifer Kleen at 857.4166 for more information.

Roosevelt Park Zoo Corporate Memberships: Wildlife Lovers.................$300

Zookeeper........................$750

2 transferrable family passes

4 transferrable family passes Behind the Scenes tour (tier 1) 10 one-day adult passes

Curator..........................$1,500

Director..........................$3,000

appreciation night half-day auditorium or patio rental Behind the Scenes tour (tier 1) 20 one-day adult passes 4 transferrable family passes

2 appreciation nights 2 half-day auditorium or patio rentals 2 Behind the Scenes tours (tier 1) 30 one-day adult passes 4 transferrable family passes

Appreciation nights are typically a weekday from 5:00 to 8:00 but can be adjusted. Members may pair a rental on the appreciation night, serve summer treats, cater the event or simply enjoy the zoo. Appreciation night guests must be identified by the member planning the event — this is most frequently accomplished with a postcard invitation but may also be a list, client bill or employee badge. Zoo staff will tally appreciation night guests who may then enter for free during the time scheduled.

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MINOT SOUP KITCHENS RECEIVE STATE OF THE CITY DONATION & MACF MATCHED FUNDS The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) and the City of Minot have partnered to give back to Minot Soup Kitchens. Mayor Tom Ross and MACF representatives presented a ceremonial $3,520 check to Minot Soup Kitchens representing donated & matched funds from the 2023 State of the City Address.

“The opportunity to shine the light and raise awareness to the work these volunteers do is just a small gesture of how much the City appreciates their work” states Tom Ross, Mayor of Minot. “The Minot area soup kitchens are a shining example of serving your community, by providing nourishment for their bodies, while at the same time filling their souls by letting them know they are not alone.”

Volunteers from local soup kitchens came together to prepare the meal for the February 9th “State of the City” event with Mayor Ross, and showcased the type of meal that is served daily at different locations in Minot. All of the proceeds from the event were matched by the MACF’s Arnold I. Besserud Fund and distributed evenly to the local soup kitchens.

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MINOT AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GRANTS $1,500 TO OPERATION HOMEFRONT FOR “STAR SPANGLED BABIES” PROGRAM The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) has granted $1,500 to Operation Homefront to support their “Star Spangled Babies” program.

Funding was made possible through the Donald & Genevieve Roush Endowment Fund.

Grant funding will be used to support Operation Homefront’s “Star Spangled Babies” program, which provides baby showers to expectant mothers in growing military families as well as providing early child education tips and a support system when loved ones are far away.

“Operation Homefront is excited to be hosting its first Star-Spangled Baby shower event to support families at Minot Air Force Base. This program is in place to make it easier for our service members and their growing families to welcome their newest patriot,” states Sarah Cheesman, Area Manager for Operation Homefront.

“Since 2008, we have provided critical baby supplies to more than 20,000 military new and expecting parents across the country. We couldn’t provide this program without great supporters like the Minot Area Community Foundation.”

Operation Homefront helps military families through difficult periods by providing a variety of programs designed to ensure that short-term needs do not turn into long-term struggles. Their program focuses on relief through critical financial assistance and transitional housing programs, resiliency through permanent housing and caregiver support programs, and recurring family support during important periods throughout the year.

“Donald Roush served our country in WWII hitting the beach head during the D-Day Invasion and fought through Europe with Patton’s troops including the Battle of the Bulge. He was a humble man who was proud to serve his country. We are pleased to make this grant in honor of his service and all who have served and are serving to preserve our freedoms,” said Jason Zimmerman, President of Minot Area Community Foundation.

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FORMER LT. GOVERNOR BRENT SANFORD JOINS CORNERSTONE BANK BOARD Lieutenant Governor of North Dakota Brent Sanford has joined the Cornerstone Bank Corporate Board of Directors bringing a wealth of experience in business, finance, and community service.

“I am pleased to welcome Brent to our Corporate Board of Directors,” says Cornerstone Bank Chairman Gary Petersen. “Brent is a great addition to our organization with his broad experience and tremendous business knowledge of the Dakotas and beyond.”

Growing up in Watford City and returning there in adulthood as a third-generation business owner, Sanford understands the importance of strong communities including the value of a strong community bank. Prior to serving as North Dakota’s 38th Lieutenant Governor, Sanford served as Watford City’s Mayor leading the community through immense growth and development during the oil boom. He has also served as City Councilman and on various other community boards. In addition, Sanford has experience as an accountant and Chief Financial Officer.

“I look forward to working with the Board in furthering the economic activity and opportunities for the bank’s service areas,” says Sanford. “Cornerstone Bank has always been an outstanding corporate citizen and I am excited to be a part of continuing that tradition.”

Sanford graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in accounting and is a certified public accountant.

He and his wife Sandi have three children, Sydney, Nicolas and Erin.

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KEVIN VIGESTED NAMED PRESIDENT AND CEO OF ASPIRE CREDIT UNION Aspire Credit Union is thrilled to announce the hire of a new President and CEO, Kevin Vigested. Vigested will replace the current CEO Mindee Kohlman, who will be retiring from the credit union at the end of May. During this changeover, the pair will work together to ensure a smooth transition, for both staff and members. “I am excited for this new endeavor at Aspire Credit Union. I am looking forward to working with members providing a positive member experience to all,” shared Vigested. Board President, Jason Rohrer added, “We are excited to welcome Kevin to the Aspire team. He brings expertise to our organization, and we are confident under his leadership we will see continued growth within the credit union.”

Vigested, a native to North Dakota, has deep roots within the region. After graduating from Minot State University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science, majoring in accounting and minoring in business administration and management, Vigested put his degree to work as an auditor for the Health and Human Services Department. During his four-year stint at the organization, he was awarded the Inspector General’s Award for Distinguished Service for his contributions, foresight, and teamwork. An award given after a review of his national safety and security development plans were implemented.

In 2004, Vigested made a shift to the financial industry with an opportunity as a commercial Lender. During the next 12 years, he served as a mentor to junior lenders, expanded his management aptitudes and communication skills.

Promoted in 2016 to Branch President, he took on new responsibilities including overseeing all operations for the branch location. Focusing on business relationship development and implementing a strategic plan for the location that he developed. During his time at the bank, he assisted the management team in creation of a strategic plan for the Central Market in North Dakota with plans for Minot, Bismarck, and Mandan as well.

Vigested career success is paired with his passion for community. He is an avid Minot State University Athletics supporter, serving 3-terms as the Beaver Boosters Board President. A member of the Minot Tournament Committee operating as Treasurer for the group since 2015. He is also an avid fan of the Magic City Youth Baseball group and the YMCA sporting activities. Most notably, Vigested shared a project dear to his heart, a foundation named for his brother called Viggy’s Sandlot, LLC., a nonprofit organization which provides financial assistance for youth activities.

Vigested and his wife Carla of 19 years reside in Minot and have two boys, Parker (15), and Brady (13).

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MINOT PUBLIC SCHOOL FOUNDATION TO HOST RED APPLE GALA IN SUPPORT OF STUDENTS Join the Minot Public School Foundation for the second annual Red Apple Gala at the Sleep Inn & Suites on Saturday, May 20, 2023!

Enjoy a social hour, drinks, dinner, auction items, door prizes, and entertainment.

Entertainment will feature the Magic City Campus string ensemble and the Nu Notes.

Social and guest check-in starts at 5:30 pm with a welcome message before a plated dinner at 6:30 pm.

“Our Foundation’s success at last year’s Gala is something we’re incredibly proud of, and we can’t wait to share it with our alumni, parents, staff, community supporters, and friends again this year. Last year’s event sold out in record time, so we’ve moved to a larger space to accommodate even more guests!

We hope to see you there!” said Danielle Rued, MPS Foundation Executive Director.

The Gala proceeds will support educational opportunities such as providing student scholarships and helping our teachers offer innovative and immersive learning experiences for students in the classroom.

Ben Berg, educator and President of the Foundation, says, “At last year’s inaugural event, we had a fun evening that raised thousands of dollars to meet the needs of our students. We are excited to add additional entertainment featuring MPS talent this year, along with the returning Nu Notes. Our board is thankful for our many past and new community partners who have donated to this year’s event. Their contributions help make our event fun, memorable, and successful! Please join us at the Red Apple Gala!”

We will again be awarding the Dr. Lowell Latimer Leadership Award and the Friend of the Foundation Award to two deserving community partners.

Tickets are $50 per person or $360 for a table of 8 people and can be purchased at https://www.minotpublicschoolfoundation.com/redapplegala All Red Apple Gala guests have the chance to win a $1,000 scholarship to be used for post-secondary education. The winner of the scholarship will be able to pick a MPS senior of his or her choice to gift the scholarship to!

For ticket payment over the phone or questions, please reach out to our Executive Director, Danielle Rued, by calling (701) 857-4555 or e-mailing her at minotfoundation@gmail.com.

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MOUSE RIVER PLAN CONTINUES WITH CONSTRUCTION THIS SPRING

Construction of Phase MI-5 is expected to start-up in the upcoming weeks as the winter weather appears to be behind us. Railway Avenue will have utilities removed and relocated in advance of the flood protection features.

Railway Avenue will continue to be closed to through traffic from 4th Street NE to 27th Street NE. Railway Avenue will remain closed for the duration of the 2023 construction season.

Through traffic on Railway Avenue will continue to be detoured south to Burdick Expressway, while local traffic will utilize 6th Avenue NE to access residential neighborhoods north of Railway Avenue.

Starting May 9th, 4th Avenue NE will be closed to through traffic starting at the 7th Street bridge from the west, and Lowe’s Garden Center on the east. 14th Street NE will also be closed at this time north of the Souris River dead loop.

Access to Lowe’s Garden Center will be off 27th Street SE. The closure of 4th Avenue is anticipated to be in place through June 30th.

The work on Railway Avenue and 4th Avenue NE is part of the Phase MI-5 Northeast Tieback Levee Project, a Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project phase. Phase MI-5 includes earthen levees, arterial road changes, a dry stormwater pond, floodwalls, a city greenway feature, and a stormwater pump station.

When completed and connected to the first four phases of the MREFPP, the MI-5 phase will help remove approximately 60 percent of Minot residents from the proposed FEMA floodplain and, most importantly, provide long-term flood protection to the record flood of 2011. All the enhanced flood protection projects currently under construction and those under design provide a level of protection equal to the 2011 flood, plus three feet of freeboard.

For more details on the project and the latest information, go to www.mouseriverplan.com or search on Facebook and like the project information page.

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SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION: EMERGING LEADERS SBA’s Executive Level Training Series is now called T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined – SBA has teamed with Isom Global Strategies on this initiative.

The program is now accepting applications for North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined is a 6-month intensive training program that helps small business owners get unstuck and take their business to the next level.

Accelerate your leadership skills, learn from an MBA-level curriculum, receive tailored business coaching, and build relationships with a community of business owners, advisors, and experts.

The program has been reimagined this year and removes the one-size-fits-all model in exchange for engagement, problem-solving, and peer-to-peer interaction within the cohorts. In addition, the new format promotes an ecosystem of business connections among business peers, government leaders, and the financial community. As a result, T.H.R.I.V.E., Emerging Leaders Reimagined helps build sustainable and scalable businesses that promote economic development within their communities.

This year’s training will run from early July until mid-December. Applications are accepted through April 30, 2023.

Please visit T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined for eligibility requirements, registration, and more.

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TIRES PLUS OF NORTH DAKOTA ANNOUNCES NAME CHANGE: TRUSTED TIRE & AUTO North Dakota-based tire and auto repair shop, Tires Plus, is excited to announce a significant change as they unveil their new brand name – Trusted Tire & Auto.

After 23 years in business, they decided that it was time for a change.

As a locally owned and managed business, Trusted Tire & Auto believes in providing reliable and trustworthy services to their customers. They take pride in their team, which has worked tirelessly to ensure the company's success. That's why they've chosen to rebrand themselves with a name that truly represents their values and beliefs.

As the owner of Trusted Tire & Auto, Jarid Lundeen, states, " We just don’t find it necessary to be associated with a large out-of-state corporation that doesn’t always share our values. If you’ve done business with us, you know we are reliable.

You know we are trustworthy. Now our name demonstrates that.”

The name change comes after six years of planning and will allow the company to grow their brand across the Midwest.

In addition to the new name, Trusted Tire & Auto is proud have expanded their service warranty on all repairs which also sets them apart even further. Customers can enjoy peace of mind with a warranty that covers repairs for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty is a testament to the company's commitment to providing highquality service and standing behind their work.

This community staple owes a large part of their success to their dedicated team of employees. Lundeen recently shared a powerful message with his team, emphasizing just how important they are to the business's continued growth and success. "Today I tell you WE are OUR BRAND," he said. "It is you, our team, that has worked in our system for over 20 years and those who are just starting your career with us, who are the reason we are successful." With this statement, Lundeen reaffirmed his commitment to providing a positive and supportive work environment for all employees, which translates into top-quality service for customers.

Trusted Tire & Auto has four convenient locations in Bismarck and Minot, making it easier than ever for customers to access their trusted services. With their new name and expanded service warranty, the company is poised for even more growth and success in the future. They are excited to continue providing top-notch tire and auto repair services to their community and beyond.

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LEGACY FINANCIAL PARTNERS HONORED AS TOP 100 PRIVATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM BY BARRON’S

Legacy Financial Partners, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Minot, was recognized as one of “Barron’s Top 100 Private Wealth Management Teams” in the country by Barron’s, a publication covering business and finance. Barron’s recognizes the industry’s most outstanding financial advisors and their teams who represent the highest levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

Legacy Financial Partners was chosen based on assets under management, revenue generated for their firm, and the quality of their practice. The team focuses on helping their clients plan for their financial goals for a lifetime – through a personal long-term financial planning relationship.

Legacy Financial Partners also includes financial advisors and staff members in 27 other office locations throughout the Upper Midwest.

As a private wealth advisory practice, Legacy Financial Partners provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and provided in one-on-one relationships with their clients. For more information, please contact Legacy Financial Partners at 701-837-9226 visit the Ameriprise office at 1111 31st Ave SW Ste A or visit their website planwithLFP.com.

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ALAN VANDELINDER & TINA MOREY RECEIVES BEHAVIORAL FINANCIAL ADVISOR DESIGNATION Alan VanDelinder, CRPC, CLTC, APMA, & BFA a financial advisor and Tina Morey, APMA & BFA a financial advisor with Legacy Financial Partners, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Minot recently obtained the Behavioral Financial Advisor professional designation from Kaplan University and think2perform®.

VanDelinder and Morey successfully completed the rigorous requirements, including training and an examination, teaching ways to mentor clients in their financial decisions and increase the value provided in a holistic advice relationship. The program emphasizes how financial decisions are influenced by psychology and neuroscience.

As a private wealth advisory practice, Legacy Financial Partners provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and provided in one-on-one relationships with their clients. For more information, please contact us at 701-837-9226 or visit planwithLFP.com.

ROTARY CLUB OF MINOT DONATES $4,000 TO THE TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION The Rotary Club of Minot has donated $4,000 to the Trinity Health Foundation for the Pediatric Play Therapy Room. Funding was made possible by club funds and individual member donations.

The Pediatric Play Therapy Room will be a new amenity to the Inpatient Pediatric Unit at the new Trinity Health healthcare campus and medical district. The room will provide space needed for pediatric patients of all age groups to enjoy varied types of play and will assist in meeting the emotional needs of a child who is in the hospital.

“Healthcare is one of the prime causes that Rotarians support in their local communities and around the world,” states Tom Rafferty, Rotary President. “Minot Rotarians are pleased to be a part of this project that will help the well being of children for years to come.”

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AMBER EMERSON TO RECEIVE 'VISION ZERO' AWARD Safe Kids Minot Coordinator Amber Emerson is being honored by North Dakota’s Vision Zero program for efforts to promote traffic safety.

Emerson has been selected to receive the 2023 Child Passenger Safety Award, which recognizes persons who demonstrate a commitment to child passenger safety through participation in car seat check-up events and public education. She’s slated to receive the award at a luncheon May 16 during the Vision Zero Partner Conference in Bismarck. Vision Zero is a statewide, multi-agency initiative launched in 2018 to work toward zero motor vehicle fatalities and serious injuries on North Dakota roadways.

Emerson says Safe Kids Minot has partnered with the Minot Fire Department and First District Health Unit to provide free car seat checks twice a month for the past three years. The only pause was to observe safety measures during the pandemic. She says a new initiative will soon expand the outreach of Safe Kids Minot even further.

“In 2023, Safe Kids Minot and Trinity Health signed a partnership with the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services to provide rural car seat checks to seven counties,” Emerson said. “We’re excited to continue and expand our great work for child passenger safety.”

Counties slated to benefit from the car seat initiative are Burke, Bottineau, Renville, McHenry, Sheridan, rural Ward and McLean.

Safe Kids Minot, an affiliate of Safe Kids Worldwide, is part of a coalition of local groups committed to helping families and communities keep kids safe from injury. Trinity Health is the lead agency for Safe Kids Minot.

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MINOT PARK DISTRICT ANNOUNCES NEW PICKLEBALL COURTS The Minot Park District is excited to announce eight new Pickleball courts coming to Roosevelt Park! The new Pickleball complex will replace the three current tennis courts at the park.

Construction will begin this spring and is scheduled to be completed in August of 2023.

“Pickleball has really exploded in popularity over the past five years and Minot is no exception to that,” says Ron Merritt, Executive Director of the Minot Park District. “The Minot Park Board made the decision in January to move forward with the renovation of the current tennis courts in Roosevelt Park. We are grateful for the continued partnership with Minot Junior Golf Association that made this possible.”

The Minot Park District has had an increased demand for more access to Pickleball courts in the past few years. In 2019 new courts were constructed at Riverside Park. However, pickleball popularity has grown exponentially in the last four years. In collaboration with a generous donation from the Minot Junior Golf Association, the construction of the 8-Court Pickleball Complex was approved by the board in January 2023.

“The Minot pickleball community is excited and grateful for the upcoming Roosevelt Park renovation project. The Riverside Park pickleball courts have been great, but we have simply outgrown their capacity due to the game’s local and national popularity.” says Paul Ulrickson a local pickleball enthusiast. “The Minot Park District board and staff continue to be receptive and eager partners. The Roosevelt pickleball renovation project satisfies current needs, allows for future growth and opens doors for tournament and event hosting. The project would not have been possible without the generosity of the Minot Junior Golf Association. This work can serve as a blueprint for achieving sustainable, lowoverhead projects that promote physical activity, sociability, and overall community betterment through local partnerships.”

Pickleball is a low-impact, enjoyable racket game that is popular amongst tennis players and beyond. Its rise in popularity is thanks to its simple rules and inclusive nature. The game itself is a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.

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Chamber EDC Events and Meetings May 2023 Sunday

Monday 1

Tuesday 2

Wednesday 3

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

MACEDC Office

Thursday 4

Ribbon Cutting 9:00 a.m.

SERVPRO of Minot

Military Affairs Committee 12:00 p.m.

ND State Fair Center Ambassadors Committee 4:30 p.m.

Staybridge Suites

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8

9

10 Eagle Award Presentations 10:00 a.m.

MACEDC Office

Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 a.m.

MACEDC Office

11 Start Up Minot

Empowered Employees 9:30 a.m.

Sleep Inn & Suites

Ribbon Cutting 5:00 p.m.

Minot City Hall 10 3rd Ave SW

Energy Committee 11:30 a.m.

Grand Hotel

Business After Hours 5:00 p.m.

Minot City Hall 10 3rd Ave SW

Networking Event 7:30 a.m.

Carnegie Center

Friday 5

Saturday 6

Ribbon Cutting 12:00 p.m.

Roosevelt Park Zoo Leopard Habitat

Citywide Cleanup 9:00 a.m.

City of Minot

Citywide Cleanup 9:00 a.m.

City of Minot

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13

Infrastructure Committee 7:30 a.m.

Homesteaders Restaurant Ribbon Cutting 1:00 p.m.

Royal Therapy Services 4625 N Broadway Suite 5

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21

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25

26

27

Right Start Presentation 9:30 a.m.

Minot AFB

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30

Ribbon Cutting 10:00 a.m.

Trusted Tire & Auto 1301 20th Ave SW

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Holiday -Office Closed

Ribbon Cutting 6:30 p.m.

Minot Hot Tots at Corbett Field

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