The Communicator - March 2024

MARCH 2024

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3

The

Communicator 4

State of the City Address at MSU

MACEDC and Visit Minot join Mayor Tom Ross on Stage

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Board Members Attend Democracy Cafe Forum

Minot leaders, MSU staff, & students discuss connections with the city

SEN. HOEVEN AND REP. ARMSTRONG TALK AGRICULTURE AT TOWN HALL

MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY MILITARY APPRECIATION HOCKEY GAMES

Auction March 21

Hurry and get your tickets to help support our military personnel

TEIGEN 5 COMMISSIONER ANNUAL MEETING GUEST

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11 Prairie Warrior

TF21 MEMBERS ATTEND WORKSHOP IN D.C.

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 Marie Sanders, Finance Assistant marie@minotchamberedc.com Kelly Ryan-Johnson, Administrative Assistant kelly@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

Chair-Elect: Ryan Ackerman | Ackerman-Estvold Past Chair: Kevin Black | Creedence Energy Services Treasurer: Missy Feist-Erickson | Peoples State Bank

PREMIER

Beth Feldner | Xcel Energy

$2,500 ANNUAL SUPPORT

Peter B. Hankla | McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C.

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

Jonn Knecht | Bravera Bank John M. Kutch | Trinity Health Jason Olson | Ward County Mayor Tom Ross | City of Minot Dr. Steve Shirley | Minot State University Dr. Mark Vollmer | Minot Public Schools Jason Zimmerman | Minot Area Community Foundation

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 | MARCH 2024

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MINOT TASK FORCE 21 MEMBERS ATTEND THE NATIONAL STRATEGIC DETERRENT COALITION BOARD OF REGENTS WORKSHOP IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Task Force 21 members engaged in the national Strategic Deterrent Coalition (SDC) eighth annual board of regents workshop in Washington, D.C. on January 31. SDC focuses on the nation’s strategic deterrent– why it works, why it must be maintained, and how it contributes to global stability, and the workshop informs SDC leadership of key nuclear discussions taking place. The information gathered at the PHOTO L TO R: Task Force 21 leaders Bruce Christianson, Brekka Kramer, and Mark Jantzer attend the workshop supports SDC’s work National Strategic Deterrent Coalition Board of Regents Workshop in Washington, D.C. to inform decision makers and thought leaders on how America’s nuclear weapons contribute to our strategic position in a world where potential adversaries are modernizing, innovating, and expanding in almost every way.

An overview of "America’s Strategic Posture: The Final Report of the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States,” which highlights strategic challenges requiring urgent action, was presented by Bill Chambers, Maj. Gen. United States Air Force (retired), Commission Executive Director, Institute for Defense Analyses. In the executive summary, it states: Given current threat trajectories, our nation will soon encounter a fundamentally different global setting than it has ever experienced: we will face a world where two nations possess nuclear arsenals on par with our own. In addition, the risk of conflict with these two nuclear peers is increasing. It is an existential challenge for which the United States is ill-prepared, unless its leaders make decisions now to adjust the U.S. strategic posture.

Additional experts led discussions on strategic deterrence and discussed navigating national security through the lens of cybersecurity and infrastructure protection, conventional/nuclear integration to strengthen deterrence, and the increasing North Korean challenge.

“Task Force 21 continues to focus on advocacy and awareness with a focus on the major modernization projects that are underway. Groups like SDC are critical to have in place as this is an effort that takes a lot of key partnerships and work,” Bruce Christianson shared. “Task Force 21 helped to start up SDC and was a founding member of the organization. I personally have seen the difference we can make through strategic partnerships at all levels.”

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2024

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 SDC is broadening awareness of the Strategic Posture Commission report as part of the educational effort to inform local communities, states, and the nation on the importance of maintaining a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent.

For North Dakota, these discussions are tied directly to the role Minot Air Force Base serves in protecting the nation with two-legs of the nuclear triad. The Task Force 21 leaders who represent North Dakota on the SDC board of directors are Bruce Christianson, Mark Jantzer, and Brekka Kramer.

“SDC is a coalition of community leaders, organizations, and industry partners that support maintaining America’s strategic nuclear deterrent in an era of reduced resources. Our work compliments the work that’s done in each of our communities and states, strengthening everyone’s efforts”, said Scott Landguth, SDC board president.

SDC will host their annual symposium in Las Vegas May 8 and 9. In 2024, Task Force 21 will host two nuclear triad symposiums, one in Minot, North Dakota in April and one in Washington, D.C. on September 20.

MINOT MAYOR DELIVERS 2024 STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS Minot Mayor Tom Ross delivered the State of the City address to around 200 people at the Minot State University Dome Thursday, February 8. The Mayor used the setting of the MSU Dome as an example of a project the community supported knowing it would be a facility used by many in the future of the Magic City.

Minot Area Chamber EDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer also spoke at the State of the City address focusing her talk on the MACEDC's relationship with local and national military personnel, economic growth with initiatives including the Logistics Park of North Dakota, and workforce development. Meanwhile Visit Minot Executive Director, Stephanie Schoenrock talked about visitors coming to Minot and upcoming initiatives. Ross thanked the community for past investments that have led to current success stories.

You can watch the State of the City broadcast for yourself on The City of Minot's YouTube channel here.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2024

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2024 ANNUAL MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2024 | SLEEP INN & SUITES

Featuring Keynote Speaker

COMMISSIONER JOSH TEIGEN North Dakota Department of Commerce

SOCIAL

$50

$100

5:00 PM

MEMBERINVESTORS

GENERAL ADMISSION

DINNER & PROGRAM 5:30 PM

RSVP

$600 RESERVE A TABLE FOR 8

SCAN CODE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

CONTACT THE MACEDC OFFICE AT 701.852.6000 WITH QUESTIONS

TOWN HALL MEETING BRINGS BIG CROWD TO HEAR FROM NORTH DAKOTA’S LEGISLATIVE LEADERS The Agribusiness Committee of the Minot Area Chamber EDC held a townhall meeting with U.S. Senator John Hoeven and U.S. Representative Kelly Armstrong downtown February 21.

The event drew around 70 people to Ironhorse Restaurant. The group was interested in learning more about the current farm bill.

Several committee members, farmers, lenders and citizens were on hand to hear from both of them on a variety of other topics as well. Thank you to Kevin Black, past Minot Area Chamber EDC Chair, for hosting this event downtown.

BOARD MEMBERS ATTEND DISCUSSION AT MSU’S NORTHWEST ART CENTER Chair-Elect Ryan Ackerman was invited to discuss the relationship between Minot State University and the local business community with MSU President and fellow MACEDC board member Dr. Steven Shirley for the first Democracy Café of the spring semester at the Northwest Arts Center on campus.

The topic of the night was "Minot State and the Community: Connections, Contributions and Community" where Minot State students, faculty, staff, and community members were encouraged to attend the panel, ask questions, and actively engage in the conversation. Mayor of Minot and MACEDC board member Tom Ross was also in attendance, and participated to provide additional insight on the City of Minot's perspective.

We want to thank Minot State and Jynette Larshus for organizing this great opportunity and including us! We're incredibly appreciative of the university and its relationship with the Minot area, and love to see more ways that we can be involved.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2024

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SAVE THE DATE | APRIL 23, 2024

TASK FORCE 21 NUCLEAR TRIAD SYMPOSIUM CLARION EVENT CENTER | MINOT, NORTH DAKOTA

KEYNOTE SPEAKER LT. GEN. MICHAEL J. LUTTON Deputy Commander, Air Force Global Strike Command Deputy Commander, Air Forces Strategic-Air, U.S. Strategic Command

ADDITIONAL SPEAKERS INCLUDE: U.S. Senator John Hoeven of North Dakota U.S. Representative Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota

FULL LINE UP OF SPEAKERS AND AGENDA TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON! The symposium will focus on sustaining credible nuclear deterrence amidst growing challenges. Speakers will cover modernization projects including Sentinel and B-52, the state of nuclear deterrence, and our adversaries.

PROMOTION CEREMONY HELD FOR BRIG. GEN. WALTERS IN WASHINGTON D.C. General Glen D. VanHerck Commander, U.S. Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command led a promotion ceremony in Washington, D.C. for Colonel Michael O. Walters. Walters was promoted to Brigadier General in the U.S. Air Force in February. Brig. Gen. Walters served in Minot as the 5th Bomb Wing Commander July 2020 through June 2023 before heading to the Pentagon where he is now serving as the Deputy Director, Nuclear and Homeland Defense Operations.

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT WITH MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY HOCKEY On Saturday, February 17th, MSU invited all our military friends and their families for a free day of hockey. All active duty and retired military members, along with their families, received free entry into both games, the MSU Women’s hockey game at 3:45PM against the University of Jamestown and 7:30PM Men’s Hockey game against Simon Fraser University.

The only thing that was needed was to bring along a military ID to the ticket booth.

Col. Dan Hoadley and Dr. Steven Shirley dropped the honorary puck at the 7:30PM game and Minot State took the win over Simon Fraser University from Burnaby B.C., Canada.

For more information, check out the MSU athletics website here.

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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

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 | MARCH 2024

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SHOW SUPPORT WITH SPONSORSHIP OR GET THE WORD OUT THROUGH OUR ADVERTISING 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.

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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! PICK UP A KIT TO TEACH JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT TODAY 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.

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GATE CITY BANK FILLS THE LOBBY DURING BUSINESS AFTER HOURS We want to thank our friends at Gate City Bank for putting together a great event and being such welcoming hosts for our February Business After Hours!

The event boasted a great turnout on a beautiful Thursday night for an evening of delicious food from Vardon Golf Club, desserts from Cookies For You, drinks from Arny's 2.0, and live tunes from local artist Jared Schumaier.

The lobby of the bank was filled with laughter, tunes, and smiling faces that made for an exciting time, all topped off with fabulous Gate City Bank giveaways. We're so appreciative of everyone who made it a night to remember.

Be sure to keep an eye on the Minot Area Chamber EDC Facebook page for upcoming Business After Hours events and announcements!

SAVE THE DATE: APRIL BUSINESS AFTER HOURS THURSDAY

APRIL 18 5PM - 7PM

TRINITY HEALTH 2305 37ST AVENUE SW

DON’T MISS FOOD, FUN, PRIZES & MORE!

$5 ENTRY

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DAYCARE, DINING, AND MORE - LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS DISCUSS GROWTH & DIVERSIFYING Our February attendees were excited to hear from Shannon Michels, owner of Pinks Bar & Grill & Karma Convenience Stores and Bekka Oswill, owner of Little B's Daycare.

Bekka began the morning by discussing her entrepreneurial journey, including her growth from one in-home child care to 3 locations. She answered questions about having an in-home business and various successes and struggles when it comes to the child care industry.

Shannon Michels took the stage and explained how she's diversified her endeavors with podcasting, convenience stores, and more. She shared her story and engaged in discussion with the audience about her businesses and their growth.

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

Miranda Nichols, Owner of Nickel & Dodge

Melinda Howe, Owner of Ascend Wellness

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2024 | 7:30 AM | CARNEGIE CENTER MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2024

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

ATYPICAL BREWERY & BARRELWORKS 510 EAST CENTRAL AVE • MINOT, ND 58701 701-720-1543 • ATYPICALBREW@GMAIL.COM This craft brewery focuses on barrel-aged sour ales, and other unique brews. Located in downtown Minot, the one-time gas station turned brewery is a great place to meet a friend, attend an event, or just get a great pint of beer.

DAVID HANCE, CPA PC 710 31ST AVE SW, SUITE 1 • MINOT, ND 58701 701-240-2410 • DAVIDHANCECPA.COM David Hance CPA is your trusted partner for tax and accounting services. They are dedicated to providing professional and friendly support to simplify financial management for businesses and individuals.

FIRST COMMAND FINANCIAL SERVICES 900 NORTH BROADWAY • MINOT, ND 58703 701-839-6669/325-829-3585 • GMBARNHART@FIRSTCOMMAND.COM As a First Command Financial Advisor, Gregory Barnhart is committed to helping clients consistently make the smart, informed financial decisions that are essential to the pursuit of long-term financial security.

LIVEWIRE ENTERTAINMENT MEDIA SERVICES, LLC 18 13 1/2 STREET NORTH • FARGO, ND 58102 320-815-1288 • LIVEWIRENOW.COM Livewire provides world-class audio, video, lighting, staging, scenery and streaming services for meetings and events of all shapes and sizes, nationwide.

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

VALVOLINE INSTANT OIL CHANGE 2125 16TH ST NW • MINOT, ND 58703 701-837-9618 • STORE.VIOC.COM/ND/MINOT Drop by your neighborhood Valvoline Oil Change for the quickest oil change near you. Their friendly staff of professional technicians are here to help with maintenance services that fit your schedule and budget.

WE BUY MINOT PO BOX 518 • GARRISON, ND 58540 701-829-1973 • WEBUYMINOT.COM We Buy Minot offers all cash purchases to property owners who either cannot find buyers via the traditional market route, those who need expediency, those who need convenience or those who have other difficult circumstances which can better be resolved by working directly with a buyer.

THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBER-INVESTORS WHO RENEWED IN FEBRUARY! 1st Minot Management Ace's Lounge & Casino Affinity First Federal Credit Union AFLAC - Cassie Loard Aksal Group, LLC Ascend Wellness MBS Bank of North Dakota Beyond Shelter, Inc. Broadway Liquor Cash Wise Foods City of Minot Conlin's Furniture Creedence Energy Services Culligan Water Conditioning Dale Carnegie of ND & NW MN David & Kathy Aas Denny's Restaurant Edward Jones - Kayla Goetz Electrical Workers Union #714 Elite Real Estate Farden Construction, Inc. FedEx Express First International Bank & Trust First International Bank Insurance FullTilt Marketing Global Real Estate Gooseneck Implement Grand Hotel H & R Block Helgeson-Norton Agency Heritage Insurance Services Hyatt House - Minot IMM Jeff & Holly McElwain JL Beers Judge Douglas Mattson

Karen K. Krebsbach, State Senator Landsiedel Heating & Air Leingang Home Center Magic City Discovery Center Marco Technologies Meadowlark Homes Minot Automotive Company LLC Minot Paving Co., Inc. MSI Service & Solutions North Hill Grill N Chill DQ North Star Community Credit Union Northern Plains Children's Advocacy Center Northwest Projector Off The Vine Olson Family Dental Once Upon a Child - Minot Optical Outlook Papa Murphy's Take 'N' Bake Pizza Pet Supplies Plus Professional Hearing Services R & J Fuel and Service, Inc. Randy and Pat Burckhard RSI SandPro Small Business Development Center Staybridge Suites Taco John's The Pursuit Church Thomas Family Funeral Home Thompson Larson Funeral Home Town & Country Credit Union Trinity Health Trusted Tire & Auto-Bones-Valvoline Verendrye Electric Cooperative Ward Title Company Westlie Motor Co.

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FEBRUARY 2024

RIBBON CUTTINGS

MINOT AREA WORKFORCE ACADEMY 2002 21st Avenue Northwest • Minot Minot Area Chamber EDC Ambassadors cut the ribbon at the new Minot Area Workforce Academy located next to the new Minot North High School. An open house took place after the ribbon cutting to showcase the many courses including commercial driving, early childhood development as well as welding, automotive and medical training.

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Eagle Awards CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FEBRUARY 2023 RECIPIENTS!

Sean Doerr Ralph’s Plumbing & Heating

Mae Blount IMM - North Highland Apartments

Esteban Mejia Ryan Nissan

Brenda Fry Conlin’s Furniture

Not Pictured:

Not Pictured:

Zachary Knudson BeMobile Verizon

Dylan Ellis Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Nick Hulberg PSP Network

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 | MARCH 2024

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

LEGACY FINANCIAL PARTNERS RECOGNIZED AS A BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM BY FORBES Legacy Financial Partners, a private wealth advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial, was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” published by Forbes. The list recognizes financial advisors and their teams who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

The rankings are based on data provided by thousands of the nation’s most productive advisors and their teams. Legacy Financial Partners was chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record and best practices in their practice and approach to working with clients.

Legacy Financial Partners consists of 46 financial advisors, over 50 support staff and operates out of 29 offices across the upper Midwest. 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 1-800-411-7572 or visit their website at planwithLFP.com.

ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD GABE NYBAKKEN RECEIVES SPECIALIZED DESIGNATION Gabe Nybakken recently earned the Construction Documents Technologist Designation. The Construction Documents Technologist (CDT) certification provides a comprehensive program of study that demonstrates knowledge of writing, interpreting, enforcing, and managing construction documents. Nybakken joins an elite group of professionals known for their comprehensive knowledge of the writing and management of construction documents

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THE ENTREPRENEURIAL PERSPECTIVE: EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES BRINGS INDUSTRY LEADERS TO MSU Minot State University and the Minot State Severson Entrepreneurship Academy are proud to sponsor The Entrepreneurial Perspective: Emerging Technologies & AI on March 26 at the MSU Student Center Conference Center.

The panel discussion will focus on the entrepreneurial spirit of various emerging technologies including AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, agtech, sustainability, and venture capital. The event is free and open to the public, with lunch available for individuals who preregister at MSU’s Entrepreneurial Perspective WEBSITE. “We are excited to offer this event to the public. This event will feature excellent keynotes, speakers, and panel discussion on how emerging technologies, especially AI, align with business strategies and entrepreneurial opportunities,” said Chad Fenner, Minot State professor of business information technology. “AI is the hot topic in every field, including business, government, technology, and academics. There are new opportunities entrepreneurs have been looking to utilize, and this technology is for ambitious individuals with the vision to identify them.”

The event has multiple sessions starting at 9:30 a.m. The morning keynote will be given by North Dakota University System Chancellor Mark Hagerott, while the afternoon session features Shawn Riley of BisBlox. “The Severson Entrepreneurship Academy is happy to partner with our cybersecurity and management information systems teams here at MSU to bring this event to campus,” said Randy Conway, director of the Severson Entrepreneurship Academy. “The Entrepreneurial Perspective series started in the fall to great success, and this topic, emerging technology & AI — with the lineup of speakers and guests — promises to be equally informative.”

Hagerott has been the Chancellor of the North Dakota University System since 2015. Prior to that, he was a deputy director and distinguished professor at the Naval Academy Center for Cyber Security Studies. Chancellor Hagerott’s research and writing are focused on the evolution of technology, education, and changes in technical career paths. He is an author of multiple articles and book chapters, with a recent emphasis on unmanned systems and cyber security. While serving in uniform, Hagerott held numerous leadership positions in the U.S. Navy, both aboard ships and in administrative positions in the Department of Defense. He is currently on the Secretary of the Navy Education Advisory Board.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 “The ND University System and the State Board of Higher Education has been looking to the future through the Envision 2035 study that started last spring. Nine groups ranging from energy, agriculture, and healthcare to the student and the teacher of the future found an overriding theme in every area is the transformational impact that digitization is having on society,” Hagerott said. ““We are in a technological age not ever experienced before, and we need to be prepared to meet the demands the evolution of technology will make on our workplaces and prepare our students to navigate the technological paradigm shift.”

Riley is a co-founder of BisBlox, a company helping entrepreneurs and mature businesses take their passion and turn that into products, revenue, teams, and successful businesses. Riley was the chief information officer and cabinet member for the State of North Dakota under Gov. Doug Burgum from April 2017 until December 2022. He has spent over 20 years in various executive leadership roles, including as an IT executive for the world-renowned Mayo Clinic Health System.

“Entrepreneurs have been a critical part of changing the face of the worldwide economy,” Riley said. “In the last 50 years, startups have enabled the movement of more people out of poverty and into the middle class than was possible in the previous 5,000 years. Technology is now acting as a force multiplier to that incredible impact. The future looks to be incredible.”

The Entrepreneurial Perspective: Emerging Technologies begins at 9:30 a.m. with registration and a continental breakfast. Minot State President Dr. Steven Shirley will welcome guests and introduce Chancellor Hagerott at 10 a.m. A lightning round speaker session with 20-minute talks is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., featuring Minot State graduates Arnie Strebe ’86, co-founder of BisBlox, and Dustin Miller ’04, owner of Pro IT. Clint Severson, a 1973 alumnus of Minot State and retired CEO of Abaxis who started the Severson Entrepreneurship Academy with a historic gift to the University in 2016, will give opening remarks and will be part of a question-and-answer session with Conway during a box lunch from 12-1 p.m.

Riley will give his afternoon keynote address at 1 p.m., leading into an afternoon panel discussion with Dorman Bazzell, Megan Gjovig, and Darla Lewandowski starting at 1:30 p.m. The afternoon session is moderated by Strebe. Riley will return for closing remarks at 3 p.m., followed by a social/networking event from 3-3:30 p.m.

Bazzell is the former chief data officer for the State of North Dakota. He is a Crypto Board advisor and founder of the North Dakota Blockchain Council. Gjovig is an executive, venture capitalist, and technology co-founder who is a managing partner at Goel Fund, a company focusing on making seed-stage equity investments in companies that have extraordinary rapid-growth potential.

Lewandowski is the operations coordinator of Eden Grow Systems, a company helping to provide food and energy independence, and a start-up owner of Daily Harvest.

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SRT CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER EARNS NTCA INNOVATION AWARD FOR IMPROVED 911 SERVICES PILOT PROJECT NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association recognized Shawn Grosz, SRT Chief Technology Officer, with the 2023 Excellence Award in Innovation. The award was presented to Grosz during the NTCA Rural Telecom Industry Meeting & EXPO (RTIME) in February. Grosz earned the Innovation Award for his transformative work on 911 services in North Dakota.

SRT was the pilot telecommunications company involved in deploying North Dakota’s first end-to-end Internet Protocol (IP) 911 service in support of the state’s transition to Next Generation 911 (NG911).

The North Dakota Association of Counties (NDACo), Dakota Carrier Network (DCN), and SRT collaborated to deliver end-to-end 911 calls from SRT subscribers to seven 911 call centers – known as Public Safety Answering Points or PSAPs. “Not only does Shawn’s work on the 911 deployment benefit SRT’s subscribers; it’s the blueprint for replicating improved services for all North Dakotans as IP-based 911 is deployed statewide,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, SRT CEO/General Manager. “That’s an outsized impact for community good, and one example in Shawn’s accomplished career of why he is valued and revered as a telecommunications champion across our industry.”

Leading SRT’s role in the project, Grosz collaborated with statewide partners and brought the telecommunications company perspective to discussions about IP-based 911 network design.

“Collaboration was key to our success with the Next Generation 911 initiative. I am grateful to NDACo, DCN, and DCN’s other member owners, for their partnership and shared common goal for the people of North Dakota,” said Grosz. He added, “We also could not have fulfilled our role as the pilot telecommunications company without SRT’s exceptional engineering and operations staff, who worked diligently to make this critical service available to our members and first responders.”

The faster, more flexible and efficient NG911 system offers benefits to callers and first responders alike.

Callers can get help quickly from any device at any time, and first responders can share life-saving information instantly.

Grosz joined SRT in 1997 and has been SRT’s Chief Technology Officer for the last 10 years. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Minot State University. Grosz serves on NTCA’s Technical Committee and DCN’s Technical Committee, and routinely speaks in leadership groups and public forums about cybersecurity, streaming technology, and the future of broadband.

The NTCA Excellence Awards recognize broadband providers who have exceeded expectations to support their customers and community members and to advance communications services in rural America. Winners are selected by the association’s Awards Committee comprising NTCA members.

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HUD GRANT AWARDED TO ND HOMELESS CONTINUUM OF CARE North Dakota’s Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC) has been awarded a competitive grant of $3.4 million by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This funding is designated to support the efforts of nonprofit providers, public housing authorities, and government agencies dedicated to offering housing and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness.

“Effectively tackling homelessness requires a united community approach. In North Dakota, we are fortunate to have local agencies and government partners who are committed to working collaboratively. Together, we aim to not only provide shelter but also to understand and address the underlying causes of homelessness,” said North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) Executive Director Dave Flohr.

The ND CoC was, in turn, able to allocate funding to 24 projects across the state following a competitive application process. Recipients of the funds utilize a coordinated entry system and provide housing and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. “Housing is a basic human need, and lays the foundation for safety, stability, and economic growth. While homelessness is a complex challenge with various contributing factors, housing is the essential first step. These funds will support the CoC’s mission of transitioning individuals and families who have faced homelessness into secure housing with the necessary support services,” said ND CoC Coordinator, Shawnel Willer.

HUD’s CoC program fosters a communitywide commitment to eradicate homelessness by providing funding to enhance access to and effective utilization of programs, optimizing self-sufficiency for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. You can access HUD’s funding notice, the CoC’s collaborative application, and funding results online.

MCTEACHER’S NIGHT SUPPORTS SCHOOLS Get ready to support our local elementary schools while grabbing your favorite McDonalds meal. Plus, don’t miss out on the chance to meet Grimace and the Hamburgler in person!

McTeacher’s night is an initiative by the company to work with local schools and school districts to raise funds for programs, equipment, or any other special projects. During these events, McDonald’s will donate a percentage of sales earned during the program to the selected school.

Thursday, March 21st show your support for Roosevelt Elementary at the 101 31st Avenue SW Minot location. where the school will be earning 40% of the total digital sales (any order placed/coupon used on the app, all in store kiosk orders, and all delivery orders) from 5PM - 7PM. Then, stop by the 711 South Broadway Minot location on Thursday, April 25th for to support Dakota Elementary where they will be raising 20% of the evening’s total sales from 5PM - 7PM. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2024

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NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL – MINOT FINANCIAL ADVISOR RECEIVES CHFC® CERTIFICATION Jacob L Thrailkill ChFC® a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual – Minot, a leading financial security company, has been authorized by The American College of Financial Services to use the ChFC® certification marks in accordance with The American College of Financial Services certification requirements.

“As part of Jake’s commitment to his profession, continuous personal growth, and to helping his clients achieve the financial security they strive for, we are proud of the hard work and dedication Jake has put toward earning his ChFC designation” said Derrick Dinger, Managing Partner, Northwestern Mutual – Fargo.

As a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual – Minot, Jake partners with individuals, business owners and families to help them develop comprehensive financial plans tailored to plan for and achieve their life goals.

The ChFC® certification recognizes individuals who have met the rigorous experience and ethical requirements and have successfully completed financial planning coursework covering the following areas: financial planning, including insurance, income taxation, retirement planning and investments and estate planning. Not only do individuals learn the essentials of financial planning, but the ChFC® certification also addresses more challenging areas, such as behavioral finance, financial planning for families with special needs dependents, small business planning, financial planning for divorce, and more. ChFC® certificants must also agree to compy with The American College Code of Ethics and Procedures.

Thrailkill joined Northwestern Mutual – Minot in 2014. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of North Dakota . He is a volunteer with Special Olympics and Bethany Lutheran Church. He is a member of the Minot Lion’s Club (Vice President), National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, and Minot Area Chamber of Commerce. Thrailkill resides in Minot with his wife, Sophia Rammel.

To learn more about Jacob Thrailkill, visit his website at jacobthrailkill.nm.com.

NORTHWEST ARTS CENTER PRESENTS 2024 JURIED STUDENT ART SHOW STUDENTS EXHIBIT NEW WORK AT THE WALTER PIEHL GALLERY The Northwest Arts Center proudly presents new work by Minot State University Students. The University’s Juried Student Art Show, an exhibition open to all Minot State University students, is on display February 22 to March 21.

The opportunity provides students across all disciplines and majors the ability to showcase their skill and dedication.

Students can submit work in any medium, and entries this year span painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, sculpture, mixed media collage, and more.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 The Juried Student Show has been an annual campus tradition since the 1970s and is key to preparing students for a professional gallery exhibition. Students gain valuable skills in preparing their artworks & will see the results firsthand in the Northwest Arts Center’s Walter Piehl Gallery. “It is a pivotal experience for students to see their work on display,” says Northwest Arts Center Director Greg Vettel. “Not only in terms of developing professional practices, but also for the accomplishment and presentation of their hard work & resulting skills.”

Students also get to interact with the exhibition’s visiting juror. The competition invites area and regional artists, educators, and other art professionals to serve as jurors each year. Visiting Minot State University as juror for 2024 is artist Meghan Duda, Assistant Professor of Photography and Design at North Dakota State University.

Duda earned her bachelor’s degree in architecture from Virginia Tech in 2005 after which she began traveling the country, developing a practice photographing vernacular architecture. Born in western Massachusetts and raised on the South Carolina coast, she settled in Fargo, North Dakota in 2007 and was struck by the vast prairie landscape. At this point her photographic focus shifted from architecture to experimental landscape photography, creating atmospheric recordings of space and time with a collection of handmade pinhole cameras. It was while pursuing an MFA at the University of North Dakota that she built her first handmade camera which she named the Trailer Obscura - a 5’ x 8’ pinhole camera on wheels that she uses to make large atmospheric recordings of the prairie.

Duda presented as part of the Art Seminar Series at Minot State University February 23. Arts Seminar presentations offer students and the public the opportunity to learn about the work, lives and experiences of guest artists and arts professionals visiting Minot State University. Hosted in Memorial Hall Room 114 at the University, the seminars are free and open to all.

The exhibitions are available for viewing Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 1-5 p.m. It is closed holidays. The Walter Piehl Gallery is located on the lower level of the Gordon B. Olson Library at Minot State University, with its own entrance on the south side of the library. The exhibition and related events are free and open to the public.

The Northwest Arts Center and programming is supported in part by a grant from the North Dakota Council on the Arts, which receives funding from the state legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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NORSK HØSTFEST WELCOMES KEVIN BURCKHARD AS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Norsk Høstfest is pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Burckhard as their new Development Officer. With a wealth of experience and passion for philanthropy, Kevin is poised to lead our fundraising efforts to new heights.

In the role of Development Officer, Kevin will spearhead Norsk Høstfest’s fundraising initiatives, cultivate donor relationships, and develop strategic partnerships to support our mission of preserving and sharing Scandinavian culture, heritage, and educational programs. Kevin started his career as a financial advisor, which has continued for almost 40 years and he is a recognizable staple in the Minot community. Kevin started attending Norsk Høstfest in 1992, as a volunteer, greeting people as they came through the door, setting the tone of their experience off on the right foot. Over the years, he has held many other volunteer roles at the festival, most recently as an emcee for the musical talent.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kevin to the Norsk Høstfest family,” said Alexis Meyer, Executive Director. “Kevin has a passion for Norsk Høstfest and our community. We believe he will help to advance our mission and make a positive impact on our community and the festival, positively projecting it into the future.”

Kevin Burckhard is the father of three, dad to six, grandfather to two, and husband of Paula. Kevin and Paula have three biological children: Liz (30), Sam (26), and Grace (23). Liz is married to Shane and they have two daughters, Haley and Charli. Kevin and Paula’s three youngest children were adopted. Bella (19) from Keiv, Ukraine, Nole’ (16) from Belgrade, Serbia, and Simas (14) from Vilnius, Lithuania. Like their older sister, Grace, the youngest three all have Down syndrome.

BRAVERA WELCOMES COLE STOBER Cole Stober recently joined Bravera Bank in Minot in the role of mortgage banking officer. He has worked in the financial industry since 2018.

In his position, Stober can find the right loan products for home, land or investment property purchases. He can also assist with refinancing for better rates on existing home mortgages. With his experience, he guides his clients through the homeownership process to make it as smooth and streamlined as possible. Stober earned a bachelor’s degree from Minot State University.

To learn more about Bravera, visit bravera.bank.

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KINNAIRD, FIELD AND DUVALL HIRED FOR NEW TOWN & COUNTRY CREDIT UNION TRINITY HEALTH LOCATION

KINNAIRD

DUVALL

FIELD

Kenady Kinnaird, Melissa Field and Tia Duvall have joined the Town & Country Credit Union team as Member Service Specialists at the future Trinity Health location. Kenady is a seasoned professional with years of experience in leadership, development, and community outreach. Tia brings a background as a teller, loan processor, and, most recently, a consumer loan officer. Melissa, boasting over 32 years of customer service experience and a background in administrative assistant-inside sales, strengthens the credit union's commitment to excellent service.

Together, Kenady, Tia, and Melissa will be responsible for assisting members with various financial needs, such as opening accounts, printing instant-issue debit cards, and providing trusted financial advice. Their dedication ensures a seamless member experience at the future Trinity Health location, which is set to open early this spring.

Until then, they will be assisting members at the Town & Country Minot Main and Dakota Square locations.

In partnering with Trinity Health, Town & Country Credit Union is providing special offers to Trinity Health employees including 1% off auto, recreational and personal loan rates with no loan document fee and $750 off mortgage closing costs. Additionally, the credit union is donating $100 to the Trinity Health Foundation for every Trinity employee that joins the credit union. Full details can be found at www.townandcountry.org/trinity-health.

AGENCY RECOGNIZES OUTSTANDING PARTNERS IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) recognized six outstanding partners with Champion of Affordable Housing Awards. These awards recognize the commitment and exceptional efforts of professionals in promoting and facilitating the agency’s homeownership programs.

“We believe in the power of partnership,” stated Dave Flohr, the agency’s executive director. “The Champion of Affordable Housing Awards are a testament to the commitment of our partners and their vital role in advancing our mission and helping to make homeownership a reality for so many North Dakotans.”

NDHFA’s FirstHome™ program, provides low- to moderate-income buyers with affordable mortgage loans, along with down payment and closing cost assistance. The HomeAccess program extends similar support to single parents, veterans, and families with disabled or elderly household members. NDHFA’s Roots program serves households who previously owned a home or those with incomes exceeding the limits of the agency’s standard programs. Roots can also be utilized for the refinancing of residential real estate loans.

Gate City Bank and First Community Credit Union earned the Champion of Affordable Housing – Award of Excellence for best practices and outstanding delivery of NDHFA’s homeownership programs.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Aaron Stoneberg of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation in Fargo, ND and Pam Montee of Benchmark Mortgage in Dickinson, ND received NDHFA’s Homeownership Performance Award-Loan Officer. The Homeownership Performance Award-Real Estate Agent was given to Olivia Wellenstein of Continental Real Estate in Dickinson, ND and Aruna Hagen of Advantage Realtors in Fargo, ND. Performance awards are determined based on the volume and quality of loans produced.

Participating lenders play a crucial role by originating loans on behalf of NDHFA. Upon loan closure, these loans are purchased and serviced by the state agency. Real estate agents who have undergone training on NDHFA’s homeownership programs earn the designation of a FirstHome Certified Agent. For more information about the agency’s homeownership programs, visit www.ndhfa.org.

“NDHFA’s commitment extends to first-time home buyers and beyond,” stated Brandon Dettlaff, the agency’s homeownership division director. “With programs like HomeAccess and North Dakota Roots, we are dedicated to addressing the diverse needs of our communities, ensuring that homeownership remains an achievable goal for North Dakotans.” NDHFA is a self-supporting and mission-driven state agency dedicated to making housing affordable for all North Dakotans. The North Dakota Industrial Commission, consisting of Governor Doug Burgum as chairman, Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring and Attorney General Drew H. Wrigley, oversees the agency.

MINOT HIGH SCHOOL JOB FAIR Minot High School will be hosting a job fair on Wednesday, May 1st from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This fair is geared towards summer and part-time work, internships, or full-time employment for seniors looking to join the workforce right after graduation.

Minot businesses are encouraged to register if looking for employees this summer.

The job fair will take place in the Magic City Campus gymnasium and to register go to: https://bit.ly/mhsjobfair24 or scan the QR code.

RWIP FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR CHILD CARE The RWIP (Regional Workforce Impact Program) provides grants to regional workforce entities in North Dakota to design and implement innovative plans to address their region’s most demanding workforce challenges. The grant program is designed to encourage regions and communities to develop sustainable, innovative solutions to help businesses find workers, and help workers and jobseekers connect to jobs and communities.

To qualify, infrastructure investments must be to expand a childcare center – cap of $500,000 (the childcare must be a center and cannot be home-based or in a site that can be repurposed for housing).

The application period is open until April 1st and eligible child care centers can apply at RWIP Application.

SAVE THE DATE FOR MINOT’S SUMMER AND BACK TO SHOOL GARAGE SALE WEEKENDS Mark your calendars! It's time to start gearing up for Minot's much-awaited garage sale weekends. Spring kicks off the treasure-hunting season on May 11th, 12th, and 13th, offering fantastic finds and hidden gems. Then, as summer winds down, get ready to stock up on back-to-school essentials during the August 9th, 10th, and 11th garage sale extravaganza. Whether you're on the lookout for unique decor, household items, or school supplies, these weekends promise something for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to snag great deals and uncover treasures galore!

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PLUM RIVER NATIVE PRAIRIE PROJECTS ADOPTS A NO-TILL METHOD FOR RESTORATION The Plum River Native Prairie project, formerly known as Erik Ramstad Middle School prior to the Flood of 2011, is embarking on an exciting new journey by embracing the no-till method for restoration.

Following extensive discussions with partners such as the Ward County Soil Conservation Group, Minnesota Native Landscapes (MNL), and Audubon Great Plains, project leaders are confident that this approach will safeguard soil integrity and foster vibrant plant life in the long term.

Here are several reasons behind the decision: 1. Preservation of soil structure: No-till farming maintains soil structure, enhancing water infiltration, reducing erosion, and preserving soil fertility.

2. Retention of organic matter: By retaining organic matter, no-till farming improves soil health and supports diverse plant life crucial for establishing a native prairie.

3. Reduced weed pressure: No-till farming suppresses weed growth by leaving the soil undisturbed, reducing the need for herbicides.

4. Preservation of microbial communities: No-till farming preserves soil microbial populations, crucial for nutrient cycling and plant health.

5. Conservation of moisture: No-till farming conserves soil moisture by retaining crop residues on the soil surface, reducing evaporation, and improving drought resilience.

6. Long-term sustainability: No-till farming mitigates climate change by sequestering carbon, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing environmental impacts.

Overall, the no-till method offers numerous benefits for establishing the Plum River Native Prairie, promoting soil health, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.

2024 Timeline Spring soil testing: Comprehensive soil tests will commence this spring to ensure the project's has a successful foundation.

Powwow Week dedication: Save the date for April 27 at 11 a.m. for a special land acknowledgment and dedication ceremony during Minot State University’s Powwow Week.

Summer preparation: Throughout the summer, resources will be devoted to preparing the 14.2 acres of land for the upcoming planting season in the fall.

Fall planting: Once we have established the appropriate growing conditions, we will plant our first round of seeds with a “no-till drill.”

This journey will span several years, and the project is committed to building a robust foundation every step of the way. Continued support is invaluable, and we eagerly anticipate witnessing the flourishing of this project together.

For more information, contact Dan Conn, Minot State University associate professor, Department Chair of Education and Inclusive Services, by phone at 701-5209084 or by EMAIL. For further updates and progress, stay tuned as we work together to make a positive impact on our community and the environment.

PHOTO: Representatives from Minot State University, Ward County Soil Conservation Group, Minnesota Native Landscapes (MNL), and Audubon Great Plains met and agreed to go with the no-till method for the Plum River Native Prairie.

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BRADY MARTZ & ASSOCIATES CEO TODD VAN DUSEN ANNOUNCES INTENTION TO RETIRE Top 100 nationally ranked accounting firm Brady Martz & Associates today announced that CEO Todd Van Dusen intends to retire in 2024. "I'm proud of what we’ve accomplished at Brady Martz and of the incredibly talented and committed people I work with every day," said Van Dusen. "Together, we have reimagined financial and business advisory services, and worked to improve the financial health of our clients and communities. It has been a privilege to spend the past 30 plus years serving both. However, I’d now like to devote more time to my passions outside the workplace. I remain committed to working closely with the Board and my successor, Stacy DuToit, for a smooth transition."

After Van Dusen notified the Board of his intentions, the process to determine Brady Martz’s next CEO was initiated culminating with a vote of the full shareholder group. Current Chief Operating Officer (COO) Stacy DuToit has been elected to serve as the Firm’s next CEO. DuToit will assume the role effective October 1, 2024.

Board Chairperson Perry Mattson said, "Todd has made an extraordinarily positive and lasting impact on Brady Martz and our people. His decision to retire marks the end of a remarkable run that has seen impressive accomplishments in establishing Brady Martz as a trusted brand. Todd has delivered for our shareholders, team members, clients, and communities. On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank him for his service and commitment to supporting a smooth transition."

Van Dusen joined Brady Martz in January 1989 as an intern and then spent the next 20 years of his career in client service. During his tenure, he’s had the opportunity to work in various areas of the accounting industry such as audit, tax, and business valuation. Additionally, he’s served in several leadership roles including Market Segment Lead for the Minot office and Board Member. Under Van Dusen’s leadership, Brady Martz has grown to nearly 400 team members, including more than 50 shareholders, and serves communities in North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota. He is a member of the North Dakota CPA Society (NDCPAS), American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and Minot State University Alumni Association.

TRINITY HEALTH FOUNDATION'S CASINO ROYALE GALA RAISES STAKES FOR LIFESAVING NEONATAL CARE Mark your calendars for an evening of high-rolling philanthropy! Trinity Health Foundation invites you to its 3rd annual Fundraising Gala, "Casino Royale," on March 22nd, 2024, at the Sleep Inn & Suites. It will be an unforgettable night of entertainment, delicious food, exciting auctions, and fundraising for a life-saving cause.

This year, the gala will raise funds for a state-of-the-art NICU transport incubator, an essential piece of Trinity Health First Response equipment.

This specialized incubator provides critically ill newborns with temperature control, respiratory support, and necessary monitoring during urgent air and ground transfers. Trinity Health First Response transports over 30 neonatal patients annually, requiring the best technology to ensure their survival.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 Here is what you can expect at the Casino Royale Gala: • A casino-themed atmosphere: Dress to impress and test your luck in our VIP High Roller Room.

• Live music and entertainment.

• Formal dinner.

• Unique auction items and a purse-onality and bro bag auction: Bid on one-of-a-kind experiences and designer goodies.

Casino Royale Schedule of Events • 6:00 pm Social and silent auction.

• 7:00 pm Dinner.

• Live auction following dinner.

• 9:30 pm VIP High Roller room.

Last year, the gala raised over $120,000. This year, we aim to raise the bar and make an even greater impact.

Join us for an evening of fun, excitement, and hope, by raising the stakes for life-saving neonatal care at Trinity Health First Response.

To purchase a ticket, become a sponsor, or donate to the purse-onality and bro bag auction, please contact Darla Miller at (701) 857-2896 or darla.miller@trinityhealth.org or visit www.trinityhealth.org/gala24.

FIRST WESTERN BANK & TRUST CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BANKING 2024 proudly marks the 60th anniversary of First Western Bank & Trust and commemorates six decades of commitment to the communities which First Western serves. Established in 1964, First Western has developed into a trusted financial institution with a legacy of service and community involvement.

From its founding, First Western has been driven by the principles established by Mr. J.H. “Jack” Hoeven.

These core values are centered on delivering the best in customer service, working hand-in-hand with customers to help them find the best banking solutions for their needs and to give back to the communities they serve with charitable donations, volunteer work, and sponsorships.

"While we celebrate 60 years of banking in 2024, we recognize that our story is defined by the relationships we've built within the communities we serve," says President & CEO Brenda K. Foster. "Our success is a direct result of the trust and support we've received from our customers and neighbors."

First Western Bank & Trust has locations in North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota. Over the years, in addition to banking, First Western has expanded its portfolio to include a trust department, First Western Insurance, and a leasing division known as First Western Equipment Finance.

Today, Mr. Hoeven's legacy remains alive and well. The bank strives to create a positive and professional work environment, fostering internal growth opportunities for its valued employees. First Western stands as a testament to innovation, consistently seeking to be an industry leader by providing the best products, services, and banking tools.

Looking ahead, First Western Bank & Trust remains dedicated to its founding principles and is committed to serving its customers, employees, and communities with integrity, innovation, and unwavering dedication for many years to come.

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SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY’S NEWEST OPPORTUNITY Minot State University’s School Psychology program is connecting with other programs nationwide.

On Feb. 12, the program went to the 2024 National Association of School Psychology (NASP) Conference in New Orleans. This immersive experience connected MSU with other school psychologists nationwide to build work relationships and is also a learning experience for all who attend.

Penny Craven, director of the School Psychology program, wrote a program-changing grant making it possible for students finically to attend the NASP conference. “I came here to build the school psychology program. I wanted to be a part of training the next generation,” said Craven. “This has been a good opportunity because we can make this our own program and serve the needs of North Dakota along with the nation. We have been able to give the students a lot of opportunities with this grant.”

The program earned an unprecedented North Dakota School Psychology Service Professional Demonstration Grant (ND SP Service Grant) U.S. Department of Education grant in 2023, partnering with the Bureau of Indian Education-Turtle Mountain Schools and Education Program Administrator Casey Sovo.

The Belcourt School District and Minot State work closely together to support the students in their learning and give experience to the Education Specialist program students.

Zachary Anderson, a first-year student in the program, notes the distinctiveness of MSU’s program. “School psychology is a very immersive and practicum-based program. It is a little different than a traditional graduate program. A lot of them are research-based, but this one is hands-on and what you would see in the field,” said Anderson. “Once I learned about School Psychology, I found an immediate spark. It was good work that needed to be done.” Anderson sees the MSU School Psychology program as a chance to give back to the community he grew up in.

Kandace Desjarlais, a third-year school psychology student, is in her internship year. She looked forward to this conference and to building on the skills she learned last year. The NASP conference allows Desjarlais to be one of the few people in the state of North Dakota with this training. Craven emphasized how this opportunity gives students the ability to grow in the field.

The students of the program are also equally excited about this surplus of knowledge they will be exposed to, identifying the benefits that they can gain from it.

According to Craven, there is limitless potential for the MSU School Psychology program. Due to the fiveyear ND SP Service Grant, MSU can now fully support eight students in the 2024 cohort. Along with all expenses paid with the comprehensive grant, events like the NASP conference are a reality.

“The conference is a big deal and without the grant, they may not get to go otherwise.”

PHOTO: Members of the Minot State University School Psychology program pose for a photo at the Bismarck Airport prior to departing for the 2024 National Association of School Psychology Conference in New Orleans, La.

The current students are also heavily appreciative of the opportunities they are given through the program and cannot wait to learn more.

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FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT TEMPORARY CLOSURE AND NO ACCESS IN ROOSEVELT PARK As a part of MI-7-Roosevelt Park and Zoo phase of the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project (MREFPP) the next step in preconstruction will take place starting the Monday, February 19th through Friday, March 8th .

The next preconstruction phase for the project is tree removal within the Roosevelt Park footprint in preparations for full construction to start in the spring of 2024. Starting February 19th Roosevelt Park will be CLOSED to ALL vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

We are asking all citizens to stay clear of this area during this timeframe because of the tree removal occurring, larger equipment, and large trucks hauling trees once they are down. During this timeframe all pedestrians will need to look for alternate walking routes as well, due to the large amount of branch debris that will be within the park until cleaning has been completed. We appreciate your cooperation to ensure safety and make sure the process can be completed by the required deadlines. These deadlines are connected to habitat for certain animals who reside within the park. For more information about the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project, visit www.mouseriverplan.com, or visit us on Facebook at Mouse River Plan.

ASPIRE CREDIT UNION PARTNERS WITH FAIRWAY INDEPENDENT MORTGAGE CORPORATION Aspire Credit Union is thrilled to announce its recent partnership with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Thanks to this collaboration, the credit union can now offer additional mortgage products to its members, including but not limited to FHA, VA, and fixed-rate mortgage loan products that were not previously available. This expansion allows Aspire to meet more individuals' needs with competitive rates and secondary market financing.

With a strong focus on customer service, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation received national recognition for "Highest Customer Satisfaction" from J.D. Power in 2023. Hannah Lautenschlager, a local representative of Fairway, shared “Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation is proud to collaborate with Aspire Credit Union to offer an expanded array of mortgage loan options. I believe that Fairway's size, speed and support will complement Aspire Credit Union while upholding the unparalleled service their members have come to appreciate.” Lautenschlager approached Aspire Credit Union with the partnership opportunity, and the credit union immediately embraced the vision of providing this exceptional service to its members.

According to Jalisa Tinnes, a Mortgage Loan Officer at Aspire Credit Union, this partnership means that the credit union can now offer a wider range of mortgage products to members. As a result, members have more options to choose from and can find the right product to meet their needs while receiving local support and customer service throughout the process. Overall, Aspire Credit Union's partnership with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation is a significant benefit to its members. By collaborating with a trusted company that shares its vision, the credit union can continue to provide excellent service and meet the evolving needs of its members.

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TWO MINOT STATE PROFESSORS EARN AI PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIPS Minot State University’s Evan Borisinkoff and Leisa Harmon were two of 15 North Dakota University System (NDUS) faculty members recently awarded $1,000 scholarships through the Dakota Digital Academy (DDA) to attend and participate in conferences or professional development experiences involving artificial intelligence (AI).

Borisinkoff is an associate professor in special education and the program director for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees HARMON BORISINKOFF in disability human services. Harmon is an assistant professor in communication sciences and disorders and Minot State’s First-Year Experience director. The scholarships were established to encourage professional learning and AI implementation in college classrooms.

“This is a great opportunity for our faculty members to learn more about AI and how it can be incorporated into their curriculums,” said NDUS Chancellor Mark Hagerott. “Higher education will be transformed over the next few years by these new technologies. It’s important that we immerse ourselves in AI now to discover best practices so we can better prepare our students for our future workforce, which also will see new innovations through AI and digitization.”

To be eligible to receive the scholarships, faculty members had to submit the name of a conference or type of professional development event they would like to attend. They also had to explain how they would use that information to enhance classroom teaching.

“Much of AI is new to me, so there’s still a great deal of me ‘not knowing what I don’t know,’ but that just fuels my desire to learn more,” Borisinkoff said. “Hopefully, the 39th Annual Assistive Technology Conference sponsored by California State University Northridge will provide me with valuable information I can share with my students and colleagues. “I tell students ‘fake it until you make it’ is junk advice. They need to ‘face it until they make it;’ hence, using generative AI without having sufficient background knowledge is simply faking it,” Harmon added. “But the truth is, every discipline will use AI in the very near future to do jobs better and faster to increase productivity.”

“In preparing the future workforce, we owe it to students to give them the requisite knowledge and skills for their field while also teaching them how to use AI ethically and effectively. And there lies the challenge: what are the prerequisites students must master prior to relying on artificial intelligence capabilities? I look forward to exploring answers to this question at the Teaching and Learning with AI conference.”

Scholarship applicants represented a wide array of academic disciplines, including nursing, social and behavioral sciences, pharmacy, nutrition and dietetics, and agriculture, to name a few. The Dakota Digital Academy assists students, businesses, industry, and government in North Dakota and across the upper Midwest by adapting and meeting the rapidly changing demands and opportunities for information technology and cyber sciences. Its mission is to provide access to digital-cyber oriented education, training, certificates, and knowledge produced by the collaborative North Dakota University System of 11 campuses, in partnership with select business and corporate partners.

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MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC EVENTS AND MEETINGS Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 2

1 Ribbon Cutting 11:00 a.m.

Fiancée Minot - 6 Main Street South

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10

4

5

11

12

17

18

8

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

Carnegie Center

Military Affairs Committee 12:00 p.m.

Jimmy Doolittle Center - Minot AFB

Ribbon Cutting 10:00 a.m.

David Hance CPA 710 31st Ave SW

Ambassadors Committee 4:30 p.m.

Bremer Bank - 1615 36th Avenue SW

13 Eagle Awards 10:00 a.m.

MACEDC Office

Annual Meeting 5PM - Social 5:30PM - Dinner & Program Sleep Inn & Suites Click Here for Tickets

7

6

14

Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 a.m.

MACEDC Office

9 Infrastructure Committee 7:30 a.m.

Homesteaders Restaurant

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16

22

23

29

30

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

Carnegie Center

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

Carnegie Center

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20

21

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 Prairie Warrior Auction 5:30PM North Dakota State Fair Center Click Here for Tickets

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

Carnegie Center

Energy Committee Meeting 11:30 a.m.

Badlands Restaurant & Bar

Right Start Presentation 9:25 a.m.

Minot AFB

Business After Hours & Ribbon Cutting 5:00 p.m.

1685 - Minot Country Club at 1912 Valley Bluffs Drive

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MARCH 2024 MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2024

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