Issuu

FEBRUARY 2024

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2

The

Communicator 14 Investments in

15 Change of Command &

16 Check Out Our

Applications now open for business programs

Minot leaders travel to Wyoming to celebrate Air Force milestones

Opportunities to support our events, activities, and more

Entrepreneurs

Promotion Ceremony

TEAM MINOT INDUCTS 12 NEW HONORARY COMMANDERS

SHOWS SUPPORT 8 ND FOR AGRICULTURE

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE ANNOUNCES ECONOMIC IMPACT FOR 2023

Sponsorship Booklet

NORTHWEST SEAPORT ALLIANCE VISIT

THANK YOU, MEMBER-INVESTORS! PO Box 940 Minot, ND 58702-0940 (701) 852-6000 www.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.

CORNERSTONE $10,000+ ANNUAL SUPPORT

CHAMBER EDC STAFF Brekka Kramer, President | CEO brekka@minotchamberedc.com

Carla Dolan, Vice President carla@minotchamberedc.com Katie Dotson, Communications & Outreach Specialist katie@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 Amanda Nybakken, Administrative Assistant minot@minotchamberedc.com Marie Sanders, Administrative Assistant marie@minotchamberedc.com MOTOR VEHICLE DEPARTMENT Lacey Coleman, Manager Tammy Hanson, Clerk Wendy Keldson, Clerk Tracey Oja, Clerk Kim Reedy, Clerk Destiny Waddle, Clerk Karen Heatherly, Clerk

MAGIC $5,000 ANNUAL SUPPORT

CHAMBER EDC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair: Cassidy Hjelmstad | SRT

PREMIER $2,500 ANNUAL SUPPORT AGT Foods USA Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND BNSF Railway Brady, Martz & Associates, P.C. Concrete Mobile LLC Delta Vacations Gravel Products Investors Management & Marketing Logical Control Systems McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C. Midco

Minot Automotive Company Minot Milling Minot Paving Minot State University North Star Community Credit Union Odney Peoples State Bank Ryan Family Dealerships Trusted Tire & Auto Walmart Supercenter

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

MINOT STRENGTHENS CONNECTIONS AND CULTIVATES OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE NORTHWEST SEAPORT ALLIANCE A North Dakota delegation traveled to Tacoma, Washington at the beginning of 2024 to provide an update on the Logistics Park of North Dakota (LPND) Intermodal Facility to The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) Managing Members at their January public meeting. The NWSA is a marine cargo partnership between the Port of Seattle and Port of Tacoma and is governed by the Managing Members, comprised of the elected commissioners of each port. North Dakota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring, Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) Board Chair-Elect Ryan Ackerman, and MACEDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer, along with Rail Modal Group's (RMG) President & CEO Greg Oberting and In House Counsel Monica Oberting, made the trip to provide the Managing Members a presentation on the LPND Intermodal Facility. They delivered an overview of the volumes, commodities, and users, along with updates on future plans for the facility and service. The LPND Intermodal Facility works in partnership with the NWSA and the BNSF Railway to provide efficient movement of containerized agriculture exports helping U.S. farmers reach international markets. It represents the first successful project under the NWSA’s Inland Rail Hub Strategic Initiative. The initiative is focused on supporting international intermodal service from non-traditional inland rail ramp locations to grow containerized agriculture exports and create opportunities for import intermodal service to these locations. The Minot facility launched October 2020. “We appreciate partnering with the Minot Area Chamber EDC, the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and Rail Modal Group to move U.S. agriculture exports through our gateway,” stated Port of Tacoma Commissioner President and The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-Chair Kristin Ang. “The direct connection between the NWSA gateway and Minot has proven to be a great success and highlights the importance of our gateway’s Inland Rail Hub strategy. We look forward to further collaboration and increasing agricultural export opportunities in new and existing foreign markets.” PHOTO: Minot delegation meets with NWSA Left to Right, Back Row: Commissioner Deanna Keller, Port of Tacoma; Commissioner Dick Marzano, Port of Tacoma; Commissioner John McCarthy, Port of Tacoma; Commissioner Fred Felleman, Port of Seattle; Ryan Ackerman, Minot Area Chamber EDC; Commissioner Don Meyer, Port of Tacoma; Steve Balaski, the NWSA; Greg Oberting, RMG; Monica Oberting, RMG; John Wolfe, the NWSA. Left to Right, Front Row: Commissioner Hamdi Mohamed, Port of Seattle; Commissioner Kristin Ang, Port of Tacoma; Commissioner Doug Goehring, ND DoA; Brekka Kramer, Minot Area Chamber EDC.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Working closely with RMG, the facility operator, MACEDC maintains regular intermodal transportation at the LPND. No other rail facility is performing intermodal operations in North Dakota. The current service is between three and four unit-trains per month, with direct dockside service at terminals in Seattle, Washington. “The partnership with the NWSA, BNSF Railway, our operator RMG and leadership at all levels in North Dakota really is what allowed us to pilot and start continuous intermodal services out of North Dakota,” shared Brekka Kramer. “North Dakota commodities and products are being shipped to ports in over twenty countries and we are saving over 10 million truck miles by using rail and there is opportunity to do more. MACEDC is committed to supporting growth at the facility. To date our operator has moved 74 full unit trains out of Minot within the first three years and we are expecting increased volume in the upcoming year.” North Dakota Ag Commissioner Goehring provided an overview of agriculture in North Dakota and the role North Dakota plays in providing affordable, abundant, safe, and nutritious food in the world. “The Northwest Seaport Alliance prides itself on being a top gateway for agricultural exports and the inland rail hub in Minot plays a key role in driving increased U.S. exports to foreign markets,” stated Port of Seattle Commissioner President and The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-Chair Hamdi Mohamed. “The Minot Area Chamber EDC, the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and Rail Modal Group have been exceptional partners in this endeavor and we look forward to growing our partnership in the future.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO RANDY HAUCK ON YOUR RETIREMENT! We want to take a moment to congratulate past MACEDC board member Randy Hauck on his retirement from Verendrye Electric Cooperative. Throughout his 39 years at Verendrye Electric Cooperative (VEC), Randy has been a familiar face. He began as member services assistant in 1984, became member services manager in 1988, and in 2016 was promoted to general manager. In addition to his hard work at VEC, Randy has also been heavily involved in the Minot area, including participating in various economic development projects. He has also been an avid supporter of the military, serving as the MACEDC's Military Affairs Committee Chair and working alongside U.S. Air Force Officials for many years on Task Force 21. We're so lucky to have worked with someone as passionate about the Minot area as Randy is, and we wish him the best in his retirement and all future endeavors.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE ANNOUNCES ECONOMIC IMPACT OF OVER $621 MILLION FOR MINOT AREA IN 2023 The Budget Office of the 5th Bomb Wing Comptroller presented its annual economic impact analysis report for Minot Air Force Base at a meeting of the Minot Area Chamber EDC Military Affairs Committee on Thursday, February 1, 2024. The group revealed that the total economic impact of MAFB (Minot Air Force Base) in 2023 was $621,623,570. “Minot isn’t Minot without Minot Air Force Base, and the release of the economic impact statement each year really lays out the impact the base has on the community and state," Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC, shared. “We are forever grateful for all who serve and what they do for our community and nation.” The report estimated Minot AFB is responsible for 6,411 jobs on the base itself, and another 1,995 indirect positions in the Minot area. It is approximated that the total worth of base affiliated jobs are worth $117 million. In addition to the monetary significance on the local economy, Minot AFB officials also highlighted the base population and demographic information that often inspires local initiatives and activities. Overall, 11,827 people made up the Minot Air Force Base population that include military personnel, their families, and civilian employees on base. Kramer highlighted how the report offers only a glimpse into the tremendous significance that Minot Air Force Base holds for the Minot area. “Having concrete numbers is a fantastic way to see the way that the base supports the local economy. However, Minot Air Force Base contributes so much more in its mission to protect our nation and for all who serve and call the Minot area home, whether that be for a few months or a lifetime. We are extremely lucky to have so many supportive people bringing new perspectives to the community and sharing the Magic in Minot,” she said.

JOIN REP. KELLY ARMSTRONG AT AG TOWN HALL ON FEBRUARY 21ST You’re invited to join United States Representative Kelly Armstrong as he hosts an Agriculture Town Hall on February 21st at Ironhorse Kitchen & Bar. During this Town Hall event, Congressman Armstrong will be discussing several items including the Farm Bill. The event will be starting at 10:30 am and is expected to last an hour. To get this event added to your calendar, visit our website here. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC IMPACT AWARDS ARE BACK TO HONOR LEADERS Introduced at the 2023 Minot Area Chamber EDC Annual Meeting, the first-ever Impact Awards showcased our community’s organizations, businesses, and individuals who influence and impact the Minot area in a positive way. This annual celebration is back, and we can’t wait to hear who you feel should take home a 2024 award. 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 — let us know who you think deserves to be celebrated. Winners will be announced at our Annual Meeting on March 11th!

At the 2023 MACEDC Annual Meeting, we were honored to present awards to: Hess Corporation for Outstanding Community Impact Prairie Sky Breads for Outstanding Small Business Ron Merritt, Executive Director of the Minot Park District, for Outstanding Leadership Verendrye Electric Cooperative for Outstanding Military Support

The 2024 Impact Awards will include the same categories: Outstanding Community Impact Open to any business or organization 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

CLICK HERE OR SCAN BELOW TO SUBMIT A NOMINATION BY FEBRUARY 23RD!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

THE MINOT AREA SUPPORTS AGRICULTURE WITH PULSE GROWERS AND AG EXPO MACEDC Economic Development Specialist Mark Lyman and Rail Modal Group's Chris Rehder joined over 100 other attendees at the Northern Pulse Growers Association Convention in Minot on January 23rd. The Northern Pulse Growers Association strives to increase pulse producers profitability through education, research, domestic and international marketing and government relations. We were excited for the opportunity to share information on the Logistics Park of North Dakota with the pulse growing community, and visit with a variety of informational booths, including our friends at AGT Foods and the North Dakota Trade Office! If you want to learn more about the Logistics Park, check it out on our website by clicking here. The KMOT AG Expo featured a wide variety of agriculture booths, displays, and educational opportunities January 24th, 25th, and 26th at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds. For over 50 years, the KMOT Ag Expo has been a great resource for the Minot area to share stories, network, and connect through one of the state's biggest industries. There was something for all ages, ranging from informational booths with various business and organizations, to the Living Ag Classroom for kids. Plus, many people took the chance to check out latest in agriculture equipment & technology, sit in on a seminar, or visit one of over 1,000 exhibitor booths. Every year, the Ag Expo brings approximately 30,000 to 40,000 people to the Magic City to share knowledge and network with members of the agriculture industry. We're honored that the Minot area is able to host such a great event and show off our appreciation for local agriculture, and hope everyone had the chance to check it out!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

ADOPT AN AIRMAN The Adopt an Airman program fosters supportive relationships between Minot community members and Airmen who are just starting their Air Force careers. First-term Airmen enrolled in the program are not only new to the Air Force, but many are far away from home, family, and friends for the first time. In addition to the Airmen themselves adjusting to these life changes, some are newly married, so their spouses are also experiencing the strains of these significant transitions. Adjusting to the demands of being in the military and living in a new town far away from family can be stressful and lonely. It’s crucial that our Airman feel at home “outside the gate”. You as a host will benefit from an increased understanding of military life and a joy in knowing that you are making a positive difference in the lives of these young Airmen. By providing a home-cooked meal or an adventure in Minot or the surrounding area, a listening ear, or a sound piece of advice, we hope that you will develop a friendship that will last even beyond these Airmen’s first assignment here in Minot.

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CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD HOST APPLICATION TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION, OR TO ASK QUESTIONS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM, PLEASE EMAIL: KELI@MINOTCHAMBEREDC.COM OR CALL THE MACEDC OFFICE AT 701-852-6000

TEAM MINOT WELCOMES 12 NEW HONORARY COMMANDERS On January 24, leaders from Minot Air Force Base (MAFB) and the Minot area celebrated the induction of 12 new local community members into the Honorary Commander (H/CC) Program. The H/CC Program began in the 1980s as an opportunity for local civilian leaders to pair up with MAFB leadership in order to learn more about the mission that thousands of personnel work tirelessly for each day. Not only do participants get to learn about the overall base happenings, but the program also often includes frequent visits to MAFB, participation in base functions, and the chance for leaders to connect and share local opportunities and concerns. Honorary Commanders learn about the base itself, and are invited to be included in their unit’s functions, ceremonies, meetings, and other similar events. In return, those in the community help share their favorite places, events, and happenings in the Minot area. This partnership helps foster friendships and connections between the community and military members that can last a lifetime. There are 48 Honorary Commanders in the program, 29 for the 5th Bomb Wing and 19 for the 91st Missile Wing. We’re grateful to have this partnership that continues to bring the base and community together to support our military personnel and Minot area.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

ARE YOU GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MEMBER INVESTOR BENEFITS? How does your business or organization or you engage with the Minot Area Chamber EDC? Some memberinvestors simply want to be a part of what is happening in the community, others want to get involved, while many see the importance of networking. Whatever brought you to join the Minot Area Chamber EDC – thank you! No matter the reason or level of involvement, we want to make sure you are taking advantage of all available perks to maximize your membership with us. The Chamber EDC has a valuable electronic directory of member investors. You simply need to access your account and you can find all the businesses along with their contact information and employees. Click the link below to log in, and feel free to contact us if you need help with your password. | Minot Area Chamber EDC (chamberdata.net) Is your profile information up to date? While you’re logged into your account, make sure your contact information including address, emails, phone numbers, and employees are current. Be sure to include your logo and write up a description of your business or organization. As a member investor, you can also post job openings for free. That information can be provided when you are logged into your account, scroll down to job openings and then you can post a job. The Minot Area Chamber EDC provides a packet of information to newcomers at Minot Air Force Base. As a member investor, you can provide an insert for this packet to help inform new airmen on what businesses are available in Minot and the area. The member investor news section in our monthly Communicator, electronic newsletter, is a space for member investors to provide news about their business or organization. Frequency of stories is tied to member investor level. Contact Carla Dolan at the Chamber EDC if you have any questions regarding any of these perks. carla@minotchamberedc.com

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

INVESTMENTS IN ENTREPRENEURS Nearly a dozen regional entrepreneurs attended an informational luncheon hosted by a gBETA and gener8tor North Dakota representative along with a 50 South Capital representative in Minot on January 19. Both firms hold contracts within the state to train, grow, and mentor businesses through capital investments and accelerator programs available statewide. In 2024, gener8tor North Dakota will conduct two, free, 7week gBETA programs and one 12-week North Dakota Investment Accelerator program. Both programs are taking applications for both this year and future years. If you have a scalable, venture capital-backable start-up business or idea and want to learn more about these programs, please contact Mark Lyman, economic development specialist at MACEDC, or go to gener8tor or gener8tor North Dakota — gener8tor to learn more and apply.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

LOCAL LEADERS ATTEND 20TH AIR FORCE CHANGE OF COMMAND CEREMONY AND MAJ. GEN. LUTTON PROMOTION CEREMONY IN CHEYENNE, WYOMING Twentieth Air Force, headquartered at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, is the organization is responsible for the Nation's Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles spanning locations over 5 states- including the 91st Missile Wing in Minot. In January, Maj. Gen. Stacy Jo Huser assumed command of the 20th Air Force from Maj. Gen. Michael J. Lutton, and three members of Task Force 21 (Mark Jantzer, Randy Burckhard, and Brekka Kramer) attended the ceremonies representing Team Minot. 20th Air Force received its first female commander, the highest-ranking position overseeing the nation’s Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) operations at F.E. Warren, Malmstrom, and Minot Air Force Bases. Following the change of command, our leaders were invited to attend the promotion ceremony of Maj. Gen. Michael Lutton as he was promoted to lieutenant general. Maj. Gen. Lutton received his third star and was promoted to Lieutenant General. Lutton was the longest-serving commander in the history of the 20th Air Force and moves up to the position of Deputy Commander for Air Force Global Strike Command in Barksdale, LA. In addition to the formal events, meetings were held with Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins and Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Dale Steenbergen. Discussions focused on Sentinel and community work to support the project. We're so grateful for an amazing partnership with our military leaders to be included during this important milestone, and wish Maj. Gen. Huser and Lt. Gen. Lutton clear skies in their next step.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

MSU HOCKEY MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY Calling all military members! You won’t want to miss out on this opportunity to catch MSU Hockey in action. On Saturday, February 17th, join the Beavers for Military Appreciation Day on the ice at the Maysa Arena. The first puck drops at 3:45 pm for the first game as the MSU Women’s hockey team faces the University of Jamestown. Then, be sure to stick around for the MSU Men’s hockey team at 7:30 pm as they play against Simon Fraser University. All active duty and retired military members, along with their families, receive free entry into both games! Just be sure to bring along a military ID to the ticket booth. For more information, check out the MSU athletics website here.

AMPLIFY YOUR MESSAGE AND SHOW SUPPORT WITH OUR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES The Minot Area Chamber EDC has a wide variety of advertising and sponsorship opportunities for 2024! Check out our updated booklet to find information on how your organization can get involved to support community activities, military events, and more. Plus, find out how you can advertise right here in our Communicator! Click here to check out our new booklet and learn more about how you can get involved.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

I.KEATING CARPET ONE STRIKES A CHORD WITH FIRST BUSINESS AFTER HOURS OF 2024 I.Keating Carpet One Floor & Home really knows how to host an event! There was a great turnout of around 175 people amongst quality samples of carpet and wood flooring in their brand new location on South Broadway. Guests enjoyed delicious food from Homesteaders Restaurant, The Landing Bar and Bottle Shop served great drinks, and I.Keating had drawings for awesome prizes all while the crowd jammed out to a wide variety of covers with local band Little Chicago Funk. We want to thank our hosts along with everyone who came out to kick off the first Business After Hours of 2024, and can't wait to see you all for the next one on February 22nd at Gate City Bank! Be sure to keep an eye on the Minot Area Chamber EDC Facebook page for upcoming Business After Hours events and announcements!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Volunteers are needed to help get the message of the free enterprise system out to young people in our community. The Junior Achievement (JA) program has been facilitated through the Minot Area Chamber EDC since 1997. The program is designed to help students become work ready, financially literate and to provide hands-on activities from an outside resource. Businesspeople like you come into the classroom once a week for five weeks for up to an hour each week. The commitment also includes preparation time. The lesson plans are provided by JA with a kit of age-appropriate material designed to make the experience an easy one for us non teachers. If you would like to volunteer or would like more information, contact Carla @ 701-857-8205 or carla@minotchamberedc.com.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR DEBBIE HARRIS SHARES HER JOURNEY & IMPORTANCE OF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES For the first Start Up Minot Networking event of 2024 on January 11th, attendees were given a wonderful presentation by Debbie Harris, owner of Fiancée in Minot. Debbie told the story of how she grew her business, from starting with a 3 year business plan and the store’s first location in the Dakota Square Mall, to expanding across state lines with other locations. She talked about the importance of good marketing, good relationships, and good insurance when it came to entrepreneurial tips, and encouraged new business owners to create community and partner with other locations to better not only themselves, but the city as well. View the entire recorded presentation on our Facebook page by clicking here!

DON'T MISS OUR NEXT NETWORKING EVENT! FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Bekka Oswill, Owner of Little B's Daycare

Shannon Michels, Owner of Pinks Bar & Grill & Karma Convenience Stores

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | 7:30 AM | CARNEGIE CENTER MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

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

GO BROKEN TO BEAUTIFUL FOUNDATION, THE PRISON PROJECT 824 35TH AVE SW SUITE C • MINOT, ND 58701 208-403-9083 • GOBROKENTOBEAUTIFULFOUNDATION.ORG GO Broken to Beautiful Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit working as The Prison Project. They educate justice-impacted citizens to fortify re-entry: those who have been incarcerated, those who are incarcerated, and those who are at risk for incarceration. This program is a 15-lesson spiritually grounded, science-based coach-led course that addresses all 6 areas of life. The goal is to take this program to all jails and prisons nationwide, striving to end generational abuse, addiction, indigence, and crime.

RANDY & THERESA HAUCK After recently retiring as General Manager of Vernedrye Electric Cooperative, Randy Hauck and his wife Theresa wanted to stay engaged with the Minot area Chamber EDC and joined as individual members. The pair, both retired now, plan to enjoy traveling and visiting their grand kids.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | JANUARY 2024

THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS WHO RENEWED IN JANUARY! Aggie Foundation Benchmark Mortgage Buffalo Wild Wings Clean Tech CTS Properties, LLC Fiancée Four Bears Casino and Lodge Johnson Eyecare P.C. Souris Valley Ready Mix KeyCare Medical - Trinity Health Landing Bar & Bottle Shop

Newman Outdoor Advertising Precise Transport LLC Riddles Jewelry Ryan Honda of Minot Ryan Nissan Schatz Crossroads Truck Stop Soaring Eagle Outerwear Michael E Braun - State Farm Insurance Tuff Trucks Vallely Sport & Marine Vardon Golf Club

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

JANUARY 2024

RIBBON CUTTINGS

MODERN DESIGNS BY TAMMY MARIE 1509 2nd Avenue Southwest • Minot Looking to make your space just that, your space. Tammy Marie has years of experience in interior design. Ambassadors cut the ribbon to celebrate her new business.

LOPEZ BOXING GYM 4715 North Broadway • Minot A new boxing gym is now located on Minot’s north side of town. Ambassadors helped mark the occasion with a ribbon cutting. Twin brothers Rafael and Jose Lopez have been boxing since they were six and wanted to open this nonprofit facility to help spread interest in the sport. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

JANUARY 2023 RIBBON CUTTINGS

BUFFALO WILD WINGS 3820 South Broadway • Minot Minot Chamber EDC Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Buffalo Wild Wings as they recently renovated the restaurant and bar. The new look provides an inviting atmosphere for customers coming for a delicious meal, a drink and to watch their favorite sports team.

MINOT PUBLIC LIBRARY CHILDREN’S LIBRARY 2516 2nd Avenue Southwest • Minot The Minot Public Library recently renovated its children’s library with a new stage, dedicated play area, reading nooks, new carpet and more. Ambassadors were there on a cold January day to celebrate with a ribbon cutting along with Mayor Tom Ross and City Manager Harold Stewart. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

JANUARY 2023 RIBBON CUTTINGS

ROCKIN’ HORSE SALOON & SPORTS BAR 2625 East Burdick Expressway • Minot The Rockin’ Horse Saloon & Sports Bar has a new look following renovations by new owners. Ambassadors were sure to celebrate with a ribbon cutting to mark the occasion.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

Eagle Awards CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR DECEMBER 2023 RECIPIENTS!

Jennifer Lemon CHI St. Alexis Minot

April Allen Minot Automotive Company

Lindsey Bertsch Main Street Books

Jazmine Wolff Schultz Prairie Sky Breads

Not Pictured:

Yumi Arambul Taco Feliz

Blanca Arambul Taco Feliz

Cody Erz Badlands Restaurant & Bar

Thank you to Homesteaders Restaurant for providing gift certificates to our Eagle Award recipients! To nominate someone for an Eagle Award for Outstanding Customer Service, visit MinotChamberEDC.com/EagleAwards MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

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

DAKOTA BUSINESS LENDING WELCOMES BACK TYLER BYRON Dakota Business Lending (DBL) is pleased to welcome back Tyler Byron to their team as a Business Development / Commercial Loan Officer. Byron will work to develop and foster relationships with lenders, small businesses, economic development professionals, and other partners. Based out of DBL’s headquarter office in Fargo, he will be serving Fargo/ Moorhead/West Fargo and surrounding communities. Born and raised in rural North Dakota, Byron originally joined the DBL team in 2015 and worked as an Assistant Commercial Loan Officer for three years until transitioning to the banking world in 2017. During his time at DBL, he delivered the SBA 504 program in the Fargo/Moorhead/West Fargo area as well as greater parts of eastern ND and forged solid partnerships that continue to help businesses throughout the state today. Byron has been welcomed back to the DBL team to continue to develop and foster those relationships in that same area, bringing with him over 10 years in the business/financing world. Over the next few months, he will be reaching out to lenders, economic developers, and other partners to share information about DBL’s financing programs and working with potential borrowers on their financing needs. He looks forward to meeting and reconnecting with lending professionals in the area and working alongside the close-knit team at DBL again to bring the SBA 504 and other financing resources to small businesses across the state. In his free time, Byron stays busy by attending his three daughters’ gymnastic and other sporting events as well as spending time with his wife, Laura.

MINOT AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HIRES ERIKA KELLY AS MARKETING & SPECIAL PROJECTS ASSOCIATE The Minot Area Community Foundation is pleased to announce the hiring of Erika Kelly, to fill the role of Marketing & Special Projects Associate. Erika is a Minot native with years of experience working in the community. Erika stays active in Minot community organizations - serving on the Minot Noon Rotary Board, President-Elect for the Minot Noon Rotary Club, a Lunch Pals volunteer with Companions for Children, a board member of the Minot Junior Golf Association, and a member of Give360. Erika is married to Jordan and together they have three children: Kipton, Brooks & Stella. When she is not hauling kids from one sports arena to the next, Erika also runs a freelance Interior Design business, 917 Interiors. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

NORTHERN PLAINS CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY CENTER’S CHAMPAGNE AND ICE GALA FEBRUARY 17 Did you know that about 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 20 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday? Yet only a small fraction of them will tell someone. This year’s Champagne and Ice Gala, hosted by the Northern Plains Children’s Advocacy Center, will feature a presentation from Sasha Joseph Neulinger, who was sexually abused starting at age 4 by three male family members. This year’s Champagne and Ice Gala will be held on Saturday February 17 at 6 pm at the Clarion Hotel. Tickets for this 14th annual event are available at https://npcac.cbo.io. The NPCAC provides a compassionate and effective way to serve children victimized by sexual abuse and other crimes. Families that come to NPCAC are never charged for services. Funding for NPCAC comes from grants and community donations, so events like this are vital in continuing to serve children and families. “Centers like this significantly reduce the trauma associated with child abuse and assists in holding offenders accountable. Every year, we serve more children than the last; in 2023 we saw almost 700 children,” said Christal Halseth, NPCAC Executive Director. “This gala has grown into our most valuable source of funding.” An online auction will begin on February 9, concluding on February 17 at 8:15 pm. The auction will include baskets donated by area businesses, an autographed jersey and photo from the Miracle on Ice 1980 Winter Olympic hockey game, a Deion Sanders autographed full-size Dallas Cowboys helmet, and guitars autographed by Kane Brown, Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson. The bidding site is located on our Champagne & Ice page at https://npcac.cbo.io. The gala will begin with a cocktail hour with hors d'oeuvres. Neulinger will present before the live auction. After suffering years of sexual abuse from two uncles and a male cousin, Neulinger broke his silence to his mother when he realized his younger sister also was being abused. An Emmy nominated filmmaker, Neulinger created the autobiographical feature length documentary REWIND, that details the years of abuse he suffered. He also is the founder of Voice for the Kids, an organization that empowers children of abuse to reclaim their voice. “I did not choose my trauma, nor have I chosen to be defined by it. But I did choose how I responded to it: how it would contribute to the shaping of who I am today” he said. “Through embracing my fear and confronting what scared me the most, I rediscovered my beauty and learned to harness my power. I built a loving and respectful relationship with myself and reclaimed ownership of my life… and it feels absolutely amazing!”

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41 Tickets are $50/person; guests must be 21 or older to attend. Gatsby themed attire is encouraged and there will even be a best dressed contest! Raffle tickets are available for a 14k diamond tennis bracelet valued at $10,000. Tickets are $20 each and available through any NPCAC staff or board member. “The Northern Plains Children’s Advocacy Center brings together a heroic team to fight for the most severe child abuse victims in our region while restoring hope and helping them focus on what really matters—being a kid,” Halseth said. “We work very closely with all levels of law enforcement, child protective services and prosecution.” Be sure to check out the NPCAC’s Facebook page for gala updates. Please call 701-852-0836 or email christal@northernplainscac.org for raffle ticket information.

MINOT NORTHWOODS LEAGUE SOFTBALL RELEASES 2024 SCHEDULE PLAY TO BEGIN AT CORBETT FIELD IN LATE JUNE There’s nothing soft about Minot Softball’s 2024 schedule. The team will play 42 games in just eight weeks in a first-of-its-kind opportunity for female athletes: competitive summer ball. The schedule has the Minot team beginning its season on June 15th on the road. The home opener will happen on June 25th. In a season featuring plenty of double-headers, the team will play 21 games on 12 dates at Minot’s Corbett Field. The action-packed, fast-paced play makes the schedule feasible. Fastpitch games typically finish in 90 minutes or less. Minot is one of four teams playing in the inaugural season of Northwoods League Softball. They will take on teams from Mankato, Minnesota, LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and Madison, Wisconsin. “We’re thrilled to bring a new kind of entertainment to Minot, featuring some of the best college softball players from around the country, but this is only the beginning. Given how communities have rallied around Northwoods League baseball teams and the committed fan base softball enjoys, we’re anticipating big things. I couldn’t be more excited to get in at the ground level,” says Monica Hocking, General Manager of Minot Hot Tots and Minot Northwoods League Softball. The new team challenged Minot residents and softball fans to submit and vote for creative monikers for the team. On January 31st, the team announced its official name to be the Honeybees at the Visitor’s Center of Roosevelt Park Zoo in an event the public was encouraged to attend. The team is actively recruiting players, coaches, and game-day staff. Visit minotsoftball.com for membership information and additional team updates. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

PARKS JOINS TEAM ASPIRE Aspire Credit Union is pleased to announce Tyler Parks has joined the credit union movement. Working on our teller line as a Member Service Representative, Tyler Parks is no stranger to providing excellent customer service having previously served 10 years with the United States Air Force. Parks, originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, landed his most recent assignment on Minot Air Force Base in 2017. His position within the 5th Medical Group provided him with a diverse group of people to support from all over the world. “I worked in medical, so there was a lot of time spent on customer service with both happy and disgruntled patients,” Parks shared. During his seven-year stint on the Minot base, Parks met his wife, and the Magic City became a place to call home. When Parks was honorably separated due to high year tenure from the military, he decided to follow a personal passion leaving the medical world behind jumping feet first into the financial industry. “I am most looking forward to learning everything I can about the financial world. I’ve wanted to work in the financial industry for a long time now and I am happy to finally be here!” he shared. When you come into the credit union to complete your business, you will be met with Tyler’s smile and upbeat attitude. Brianna Weeks, Assistant Operations Manager said “Tyler has already been a great addition to our team. In his first weeks, he received an outstanding review from a member survey of the credit union.” She continued, “Tyler inherently understands our mission of ‘people helping people’ and that is apparent in how he has approached this new position on the team.”

JOIN THE MINOT AREA WORKFORCE ACADEMY FOR AN OPEN HOUSE AND RIBBON CUTTING Mark your calendars to join the Minot Area Workforce Academy on February 6, 2024 from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm for a Ribbon Cutting & Open House located at 2100 21st Avenue NW, Minot. Take this opportunity to check out the brand new Commercial Drivers License (CDL) simulators, Early Childhood center, and Skills Training Center. Plus, enjoy charcuterie treats that will be provided by Minot Public Schools Culinary Arts.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION AWARDS $55,000 TO STUDENTS PURSUING NURSING Trinity Health Foundation recognized 21 scholarship recipients at a banquet held in their honor on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at the Sleep Inn and Suites. Trinity Health Foundation Board Chair Jeffery Verhey, MD, opened the night by addressing the audience and sharing a few words with the upcoming nurses. “The care you're going to give cannot be underestimated by the impact you will make on the bedside of your patients," said Verhey. “Nurses impact people's lives daily, and what you can do for the family and patient speaks volumes in the moments that nurses care for patients.” Recipients received recognition for their accomplishments and presented a speech on their chosen profession. The night continued with special remarks from John Kutch, Trinity Health President & CEO, Amber Blomberg, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation Director, and Amy Thomas, Director of Trinity Health First Response. The foundation was excited to extend the financial support to high school students for the first time. Four high school students received a $1,000 scholarship, and 17 adults pursuing a nursing education were awarded $3,000. The nursing scholarships are made possible through the Trinity Health Foundation’s Nursing Scholarship Fund. The scholarship program aims to build a vibrant and talented pool of nurses who will provide the best care possible and improve health and wellness in our region. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation partnered with Trinity Health Foundation to sponsor a scholarship to help with the ongoing nursing shortage. PHOTO: Scholarship recipients from Left to right: Front: Erin Morin, Day Grogan, Cassie Crow Flies High, Micah Walter, Cambry Frantsvog, Paige Rosencrans, Paige Ackerman, Kimberly Hoodman, Hailee Fletcher, Samantha Babcock, Krysten Glab Back: Hannah Hagen, Isabella Boedicker, Alyxys Sabile, Morgan Strange, Dorothea Vogel, Drew Feist, Emma Rensvold, Isabelle Anderson, Alexa Rice Not pictured: Keegan Henjum

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD WELCOMES 3 NEW EMPLOYEES TO MINOT TEAM MIKE AFTEM - ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Mike Aftem has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Minot office as an Engineering Technician. Aftem earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a minor in Chemistry from University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota. He previously worked as a production chemist in the oil industry and management at a large home improvement store, and he has also worked for Ackerman Surveying which has provided additional experience in the field of surveying. Mike has joined the engineering team and will be working in a variety of disciplines and will also be involved in a variety of construction projects throughout western North Dakota.

DERRICK MILLER - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MANAGER Derrick Miller has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Minot office as our Information Technology Manger. Miller has over 28 years of network administration and network engineering experience in the education and private sector working with hundreds of clients in setting up, maintaining, and providing security for their network systems. Derrick will be working with all of our server security, streamlining our network processes, website maintenance, 3D printing, and a multitude of information technology special projects in all of our office throughout North Dakota and Idaho.

DANE REPNOW - CIVIL ENGINEER Dane Repnow has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Minot office as a fulltime Civil Engineer. He recently earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Repnow has worked in the Minot office as a seasonal intern for the last four summers, gaining experience in construction engineering and jobsite inspection. Dane will be working with the construction engineering group providing assistance to projects during the summer season, building our library of 3D designs, and then will focus on design for municipalities in communities throughout the region.

PROJECT BEE COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE Join Project Bee for a Community Open House on Friday, February 16th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and Saturday, February 17th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 205 3rd Avenue Southeast in Minot Stop by for a quick tour of Minot’s homeless shelter, meet current staff & board members, and get any lingering questions answered about the shelter and its programs. For more information, check out the Project Bee website here. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

MINOT STATE ANNOUNCES FALL 2023 PRESIDENT’S LIST, VPAA AND ENGAGEMENT HONOR ROLLS Minot State University announced a total of 465 students were named to the Fall 2023 President’s List, a total of 265 students were named to the Vice President for Academic Affairs’ Honor Roll, and 10 students earned a spot on the Engagement Honor Roll. Students who earned a term grade point average of 3.8 or higher while enrolled for 12 or more credits during the Fall 2023 semester were named to the list. Students who earned a term grade point average of 3.5-3.79 while enrolled for 12 or more credits during the Fall 2023 semester were named to the VPAA list. The honor will show on the student’s transcript for the semester it was earned. The Engagement Honor Roll is an opportunity for Minot State University undergraduate students to receive recognition for the engagement activities they participate in while a student at MSU through the inclusion of this distinction on their transcripts. Students must complete a minimum of 50 hours, verified by supervisors, in any combination of engagement activities in order to be recognized during any given term.

ASPIRE CREDIT UNION: BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY In 2023, Aspire Credit Union reached a significant milestone by completing over 1,000 volunteer hours, an impressive feat that required dedication and teamwork. With 100% participation from our team of 22 employees, we were able to total 1,023 hours of community volunteerism. On average, each team member committed more than 46 hours of volunteerism back to the greater Minot community. Our community partners highly value our dedication to giving back. They often express amazement at how much our small crew can do to support their needs. “We love hearing from our local partners on how we can support them,” shared Rianne Kuhn, Marketing Communications Coordinator for Aspire. “We are known as a credit union that is always giving back, and we receive calls asking if we can ‘pull it off’ when things come up on a short timeline. Our team takes great joy in the opportunities created by our volunteerism.” IOur impact is much larger than just our monetary gifts – we also have something more valuable than money to give: our time. Aspire Credit Union has built a synergistic relationship with several nonprofits, churches, teachers, and worthy organizations within our community. We take pride in supporting and learning about the needs of our community. Most importantly, with that knowledge, we figure out the best ways to give back. The Alliance of Nonprofits recognized and honored Aspire Credit Union as the Most Impactful Business of the Year in 2023, as voted on by the nonprofit community. This recognition was positive reinforcement that Aspire Credit Union is finding ways to support the community, its members, and living up to the ‘People Helping People’ credit union motto. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

XCEL ENERGY’S NEW SMART METERS OFFER NORTH DAKOTA CUSTOMERS MORE CHOICES CUSTOMERS CAN REDUCE ENERGY COSTS AND ENJOY HIGHER RELIABILITY Xcel Energy’s North Dakota customers will soon see the benefits of an improved, high-tech electric grid as the company begins installing smart electric meters at their homes and businesses. Installation work begins this week as part of a multiyear project to bring customers cleaner, safer and more reliable energy through advanced grid technology while giving customers more options to manage their energy use. “We’re excited to take this next step in building a smarter, more resilient and efficient energy grid and making it easier than ever for customers to understand and manage their energy use,” said Ryan Long, president of Xcel Energy—Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. “Smart meters are the starting point for this advanced grid, boosting reliability and providing new tools and technology to help customers lower costs.” The first meters will be installed in Fargo and West Fargo starting this week as Xcel Energy sets out to install the new devices for its 100,000 North Dakota customers this year and into 2025. Xcel Energy has made significant investments in the power grid serving North Dakota customers over the past decade, primarily by boosting the capacity and reliability of the system through new and improved lines and substations. The next step in this modernization includes new tools and technology such as smart meters that empower customers to manage their energy use better while improving reliability and helping Xcel Energy restore power more quickly after an outage. Smart meters will give customers near real-time energy use data that they will be able to access through the company’s My Account app, or via xcelenergy.com. Customers will also have access to programs and services that will help them better understand their energy usage and how to improve efficiency and find more savings. Xcel Energy’s customers will start to receive notifications three months in advance of receiving a new smart meter. More information on Xcel Energy’s Advanced Grid initiative can be found at xcelenergy.com/SmartMeter. See the installation schedule for North Dakota here.

MINNEAPOLIS FEDERAL RESERVE JANUARY GENERAL BUSINESS CONDITIONS SURVEY The Minneapolis Fed is responsible for tracking economic conditions in the Ninth District, a region that includes Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, northwestern Wisconsin, and Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

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Please take 7 minutes to help inform this broad audience about current economic conditions. This information helps the Minneapolis Fed and our local partners understand the impact that the economy is having on your business or organization and allows us to assess real-time economic conditions. All responses are anonymous. To maintain anonymity, please do not include any self-identifying information in any comments. Results are shared with the general public after the survey closes on February 5th. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

CORNERSTONE BANK TO BUILD IN RUGBY Cornerstone Bank has purchased land in Rugby and construction on a new bank building will begin this year. Investing in a new community is a significant milestone for the Cornerstone Bank organization, but not one that’s new to them. “Our vision is to be the experts people turn to when they are making important decisions about their money. When we are able to welcome an experienced team and offer accessible expertise to a new area, it’s an exciting opportunity,” stated Cornerstone Bank President/CEO Jeff Thomas. Cornerstone Bank joined the Rugby community in 2022 with a team of bankers bringing decades of experience. Starting out in a leased space, the bank’s priorities were to welcome the team and start providing accessible financial expertise to the area. The team quickly outgrew their cozy quarters. “We are ready to expand to a bigger space in a more visible location,” Cornerstone Bank’s Rugby Market President Kyle Nelsen stated. “Most importantly, we are committed to our customers in Rugby and the surrounding communities. Our new building will allow us to grow with our customers well into the future,” he continued. Cornerstone Bank’s future location in Rugby will be directly east of Home of Economy, adjacent to Highway 2.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

EASTER SEALS GOODWILL ND, INC. ATTAINS PERSON-CENTERED EXCELLENCE ACCREDITATION FROM CQL Easter Seals Goodwill ND, Inc. is pleased to announce it has achieved Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation from CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL). This prestigious accomplishment demonstrates that Easter Seals Goodwill ND holds some of the highest standards in the human services field. Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation recognizes the organization’s implementation of person-centered practices that have a significant impact on the lives of people who have disabilities. “This is a great achievement and we’re honored to partner with Easter Seals Goodwill ND on their accreditation,” says Mary Kay Rizzolo, President and Chief Executive Officer of CQL. “They’re showing peoplesupported, families, employees, and communities that they’re committed to quality services that help people.” Easter Seals Goodwill ND has an affiliation with two national organizations: Easterseals and Goodwill Industries. Its services provide custom supports and care that help people learn skills, meet goals, and gain independence. Its retail stores and e-commerce services assist with funding. Becky Briggs, ESGWND Director of Residential Services, says accreditation requires an on-site, comprehensive investigation of all agency policies, mission and values, person-centered plans and care, staff retention, community involvement, data management system, and more. Accreditation lasts four years. “This is the fifth time I have personally been through the CQL accreditation process with Easter Seals Goodwill ND,” Briggs says. “We have always earned accreditation because we are people-focused, and our Team Members (employees) truly care about the people we support.” This year’s site visit was held in Minot. CQL representatives spent four days visiting the regional office and Goodwill retail store. They visited with Team Members, interviewed people-supported, assessed environments, and asked a lot of questions. “They take a comprehensive look at the agency as a whole,” Briggs says. “Everything an agency is supposed to be doing, that’s what they are looking at and evaluating.” Briggs says after the site visit and assessment is complete, CQL provides feedback that offers ways for every agency to improve. “It gives us goals to meet for the next four years,” Briggs says. CQL representatives will follow up with Easter Seals Goodwill ND personnel to make sure the agency is working toward meeting those goals. Briggs says the certification process and designation is important, both to Easter Seals Goodwill ND as an agency and to the people and families who use its services. “When a person or family uses one of our services, they have a unique plan that focuses on their skills, goals, and needs. This accreditation is one reassurance that we are person-focused agency, and their loved one will receive custom care,” she says. “We care.”

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION PRESENTS “CASINO ROYALE” GALA Get ready to roll the dice for a good cause! Trinity Health Foundation is thrilled to announce our 3rd annual Fundraising Gala, "Casino Royale," on March 22nd, 2024, at the Sleep Inn & Suites. Join us for an evening of fun, philanthropy, and making a real difference in our community. Here's what you can expect: A sparkling, casino-themed atmosphere: Dress to impress and test your luck in our VIP High Roller Room. Live music and entertainment. Exquisite food and drinks. Unique auction items and a purse-onality and bro bag auction: Bid on one-of-a-kind experiences and designer goodies. This year, the stakes are higher than ever as we aim to raise funds for a new NICU transport incubator, which is a crucial piece of equipment needed to provide the best possible care to fragile newborns in our region. Tickets are available now! Visit our website at www.trinityhealth.org/gala24 to RSVP, learn more about sponsorship opportunities, and secure your tickets before they sell out.

MACF’S GIVE360 GIVING CIRCLE GRANTS $5,000 FOR LEGO EDUCATION SPIKE ROBOTS The Minot Area Community Foundation’s Give360 Giving Circle has announced a grant of $5,000 to Minot Public Schools for Lego Education Spike Robots. The Lego Education Spike Robots will be used by the 8th grade technology & engineering classes at the four middle schools. These robots allow students to experience math and science in a fun, hands-on environment that greatly enhances their learning. “We are so thankful to Give360 for this generous donation” states Byron Borgen, Technology & Engineering Instructor with Minot Public Schools. “It is exciting to have the community get behind the new Junior High School in Minot and especially supporting technology by allowing us to provide new robots for our students.” Give360 is a community giving circle within the Minot Area Community Foundation. This diverse membership is united in its commitment to meet or exceed the emerging needs of our community. Members pay annual dues which are pooled to support community projects which are recommended by our members. “The diverse membership of Give360 is united in its commitment to make a difference”, states Jason Zimmerman, President of Minot Area Community Foundation. “By leveraging their dollars, they continue to create lasting impact in the community for generations to come.” MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

OUR COMMUNITY ROCKS! Community Rocks! is back, in its 9th year and the musicians are ready to rock your socks off! The Community Rocks orchestra, along with guest singers, including Chloe Marie, take center stage on Saturday, February 17th at the Grand Hotel with the fun starting at 5:00 pm. The featured beneficiary for this year’s event is the Minot Symphony Orchestra, with a goal of $40,000 to be raised toward bringing a full length blockbuster film to the screen in Ann Nicole Nelson Hall, accompanied live by the symphony! There will be a live auction featuring signature items including dinner with the giraffes at Roosevelt Park Zoo, an autographed guitar from Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac, and much more. Community Rocks! is dedicated to planning and delivering performance arts events to give back to the Minot community by selecting a different nonprofit each year. Tickets are on sale now at the Community Rocks! website or in-person at Visit Minot or Prairie Sky Breads.

WILD AT ART GALA TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR ZOO FUNDRAISER Get ready for Wild at Art, located at the Sleep Inn and Suites in Minot on March 23rd. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the event features creations from hand-selected local artists, entertainment, silent & live auctions, dinner & drinks! Dinner and the auction begin at 6:30 pm. Paper bag win and cash bar will be available. Join the Roosevelt Park Zoo and the Greater Minot Zoological Society as they host their first ever art gala and fundraiser. Proceeds from the auction support the Roosevelt Park Zoo. Tickets are $75 and there are still a variety of sponsorship opportunities available. Get your tickets online or learn more here!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

JOIN THE INTERNATIONAL SOURIS RIVER BOARD FOR A FEBRUARY 26 PUBLIC MEETING IN BRANDON, MANITOBA The public is invited to hear from the International Souris River Board on Monday, February 26. There will be a presentation on the board and its activities, followed by time for people to ask questions or express concerns. The public meeting is from 6-8 p.m. (CDT) at the Clarion Inn & Suites, 3130 Victoria Ave. in Brandon, Manitoba. There also will be an online component. The board asks those interested in attending in person or online to register here. When you register, please indicate if you plan to attend in person or participate online. You may submit a question or comment for the board during the registration process. There also will be an opportunity for input during the meeting. Registration is requested to help with planning. The Souris River originates in Saskatchewan before winding its way through North Dakota and Manitoba to join the Assiniboine River. The International Souris River Board monitors water quality, aquatic ecosystem health and flow issues, and reports on the apportionment of water between Canada and the United States. The board, appointed by the International Joint Commission, includes a Public Outreach and Advisory Committee, Indigenous Advisory Committee and other groups. More information on the board is available at ijc.org/en/srb.

TRINITY HEALTH APPOINTS MAINTENANCE DIRECTOR Trinity Health announces that Craig McKee, a member of Trinity’s Facilities Management team for the past two years, has been promoted to the position of Director of Maintenance. McKee is responsible for ensuring that all buildings run through Trinity’s energy plant operate efficiently and that all equipment functions properly. He’ll also provide leadership to make sure Trinity Health is in compliance with all Life Safety and Environment of Care standards. “Craig has been a great addition to our team,” said Christopher Van Gels, Vice President, Facilities Management. “He’ll bring significant experience to the role of ensuring that our new campus operates at an optimal level in support of outstanding patient care.” An experienced mechanical systems and services operator, McKee joined Trinity Health in 2022 as a Maintenance Mechanic. Prior to that he served as a leader with James CRAFT & Son, Inc., a Plumbing, HVAC and Service contractor in Pennsylvania. While with James CRAFT, he attended multiple courses offered through ABC Keystone, an association that specializes in training people to work in the construction industry.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC EVENTS AND MEETINGS Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday 1

Friday

Saturday 3

Military Affairs Committee Featuring MAFB 2023 Economic Impact Report 12:00 p.m. Sleep Inn & Suites Ambassadors Committee 4:30 p.m. Prairie Sky Breads

Ribbon Cutting 3:30 p.m. Minot Area Workforce Academy - 2002 21st Ave NW

Start Up Minot Academy Powered by CO. STARTERS 8:30 a.m. Carnegie Center

9 Start Up Minot Networking Event 7:30 a.m. Carnegie Center

10 Infrastructure Committee 7:30 a.m. Homesteaders Restaurant

Agribusiness Committee 12:00 p.m. North Central Research Extension Center

13 Eagle Awards 10:00 a.m. MACEDC Office

President’s Day Holiday MACEDC Office Closed

Start Up Minot Academy Powered by CO. STARTERS 8:30 a.m. Carnegie Center

Governmental Affairs Committee Meeting 11:30 a.m. Badlands Restaurant & Bar

Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 a.m. MACEDC Office Start Up Minot Academy Powered by CO. STARTERS 8:30 a.m. Carnegie Center

17 MSU Military Appreciation Hockey Game 3:45 & 7:30 p.m. Maysa Arena

Energy Committee Meeting 11:30 a.m. Badlands Restaurant & Bar

Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. Gate City Bank 924 31st Avenue Southwest

Town Hall with Rep. Kelly Armstrong 10:30 a.m. Ironhorse Kitchen & Bar

Start Up Minot Academy Powered by CO. STARTERS 8:30 a.m. Carnegie Center Right Start Presentation 9:25 a.m. Minot AFB

FEBRUARY 2024 MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | FEBRUARY 2024