The Communicator - March 2025

MARCH 2025

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3

The

Communicator 10 February Business

15 Join Us for Our 2025

18 Task Force 21 Forms

Aspire Credit Union hosted an exciting evening filled with fun

Hurry and secure your spot for our 2025 Annual Meeting

Sentinel Working Group looks ahead to modernization

After Hours

4

Annual Meeting

MAKING PLANS AND TURNING DREAMS TO REALITY AT VISION BOARD WORKSHOP

New Working Group

AFB ANNOUNCES 3 MINOT ECONOMIC IMPACT

INSIGHTFUL QUESTIONS

7 AT LEGISLATIVE FORUMS

LEARNING FROM STATE LEADERS AT

12 ENERGY COMMITTEE MEETING

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

Your support of our operation allows us to advocate for the Minot community and fulfill our strategic initiatives. It helps create a stronger, more robust city.

CORNERSTONE $10,000+ ANNUAL SUPPORT

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

MAGIC $5,000 ANNUAL SUPPORT

CHAMBER EDC BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair: Ryan Ackerman | Ackerman-Estvold

Chair-Elect: Jarid Lundeen | Trusted Tire & Auto | Bones BBQ Past Chair: Cassidy Hjelmstad | SRT Treasurer: Missy Feist-Erickson | Peoples State Bank Kevin Black | Creedence Energy Services Beth Feldner | Xcel Energy Peter B. Hankla | McGee, Hankla & Backes, P.C. Jonn Knecht | Bravera Bank John M. Kutch | Trinity Health Brent Lohnes | Hess Corporation Jason Olson | Ward County Mayor Tom Ross | City of Minot Dr. Steve Shirley | Minot State University Jason Zimmerman | Minot Area Community Foundation

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 Equipment Share 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 SandPro Trusted Tire & Auto Walmart Supercenter

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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MINOT AIR FORCE BASE ANNOUNCES ECONOMIC IMPACT OF OVER $651 MILLION At the Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) February 13 Military Affairs Committee meeting, the Budget Office of the 5th Bomb Wing Comptroller presented the annual economic impact analysis report for Minot Air Force Base (MAFB). This annual report is significant as it quantifies the influence that MAFB personnel and their families have on careers, housing, and spending in the Minot area.

The group revealed that the total economic impact in 2024 was $651,609,473. Minot Air Force Base is the largest employer in Ward County, responsible for 6,479 jobs that include active duty military personnel, air force reserve members, and civilian employees who report in from the base as well as the local area. It is approximated that the total worth of base affiliated jobs was over $118 million. The report also included information about military retirees.

“Minot isn’t Minot without Minot Air Force Base, and the release of this yearly report lays out just how important the base is to our community and state,” said Brekka Kramer, MACEDC President | CEO. “Military has an economic impact of around $1.2 billion in North Dakota. Minot Air Force Base provides over half of that, playing a vital role in our national defense and our state economy.”

Not only does MAFB contribute a clear economic influence on the local economy, but officials also highlighted the demographic impact on the Minot area. Overall, 12,825 people made up the Minot Air Force Base population including military personnel, their families, and civilian employees. While MAFB has homes available, it was revealed approximately 92% of active duty & reserve members, along with their families, live off base and contribute to the housing market of the Minot area. The estimated number of indirect jobs contributed to MAFB was 2,015.

Kramer shared that MAFB contributes so much more in its mission to protect our nation. “We are so thankful to all who serve and grateful for those who call the Minot area home, whether it be for a few months or a lifetime.

We as a community and state continue to do what we can to support military and make North Dakota the most military friendly state in the nation.”

View and download the full report by clicking here.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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VISION BOARD The Women Connect Dream It, Vision Board It, Lead It Workshop was an inspiring afternoon gathering, bringing together people from across the community to set their goals and visualize their futures. Hosted in The Foundry’s Makery space, the event provided an opportunity for attendees to reflect, connect, and create a roadmap for success in 2025.

With expert guidance from Michelle Wall of Dale Carnegie of ND & MN and CMSgt (Ret.) Melvina Smith, participants gained valuable insights on leadership, goal-setting, and personal growth while gaining a better understanding their future plans.

A vision board is a collage of images, pictures, and affirmations that represent visions and goals that are then put together in one place - in this case a poster board, but it can be come in many forms from digital to drawings and beyond - to depict the outline of a journey or result one is trying to achieve. At this hands-on event, the participants had the opportunity to organize their ideas and goals by making their own vision board. Each attendee left with a custom-made visual created to help manifest desired outcomes and ideas as they move forward in their careers and lives, and take on the new year.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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WORKSHOP The workshop began with Melvina Smith, who led the vision board designing session virtually. With 32 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Smith rose to the role of Command Chief of Air Force Global Strike Command, where she guided 33,000 personnel within the nation’s nuclear deterrence mission. Her career has been defined by exceptional leadership in fastpaced environments, business operations, and management, and as she enters retirement, she is passionate about sharing her keys to success.

Facilitating the in-person portion of the workshop was Michelle Wall, a Women Connect Committee member and trainer for Dale Carnegie of ND & MN. Michelle has been a driving force behind countless success stories, helping individuals reach their full potential through leadership development and personal growth. Her interactive approach and engaging insights encouraged attendees to think strategically about their aspirations.

Throughout the session, participants engaged in meaningful discussions, shared inspiring stories, and built valuable connections with fellow leaders in the community, all while utilizing a wide variety of provided materials and special pictures, affirmations, or graphics they were encouraged to bring that would personalize their vision boards, creating a unique, tangible representation of their dreams and goals.

An extra special special thank you to Xcel Energy for their generous sponsorship that helped make this event a reality. Their support allowed for an empowering space where Minot area leaders could visualize their success and take charge of their futures.

We want to thank everyone who attended our workshop and are excited to see how these vision boards come to life in 2025. Here’s to a year of growth, leadership, and success!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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CITY OF MINOT APPROVES $250,000 MAGIC FUND REQUEST FOR SOURIS BASIN PLANNING COUNCIL Minot City Council approved the recommendation from the MAGIC Fund Screening Committee and the Minot Area Chamber EDC to allocate $250,000 in MAGIC Fund dollars to Souris Basin Planning Council (SBPC) for another round of recapitalization for the Business Accelerator Fund (BAF).

SOURIS BASIN PLANNING COUNCIL

BUSINESS ACCELERATOR FUND

SBPC Executive Director Briselda Hernandez presented information to the City Council and the MAGIC Fund Screening Committee, showing that 62 new or expanding businesses have received Flex PACE interest rate buydowns through the revolving loan fund since the program began in late 2019. The BAF has spent more than $2.5 million in MAGIC Fund dollars and leveraged nearly $5 million from the Bank of North Dakota for this program.

The goals of the Business Accelerator Fund are to build resilient communities and enhance quality of life in North Dakota Region 2. This program was established with funds from the City of Minot MAGIC Fund in 2019, and more can be read online by clicking here.

The Bank of North Dakota supports communities to expand their economic base by combining the Flex PACE program with local community resources to buy down the interest rate on business loans. BND requires participation with a local lender and with the local community. The Flex PACE programs can reduce the borrower’s rate of interest by as much as five percent.

“Minot Area Chamber EDC supports the request to continue the success of the Business Accelerator Fund. The collaboration with our region and the Bank of North Dakota has led to significant economic growth and helps to leverage funds to help business development in north central North Dakota,” said Brekka Kramer, MACEDC President | CEO. “We look forward to seeing this revolving loan fund start to turnover in the next two or three years and become a self-sustaining engine of support for the Bank of North Dakota’s Flex PACE program.”

The City of Minot MAGIC fund is the Minot Area Growth by Investment and Cooperation fund. In 1990, the voters of the City of Minot approved a portion of the 1-cent city sales tax for use in economic development with a portion of these funds going to the MAGIC Fund. The primary purpose of the fund is to create new jobs, save existing jobs, expand the local tax base, increase capital investment, improve the economic climate of the region, and generally to expand the primary sector financial base of the area.

Eligible uses of the funds include matching state funding programs designed to aid primary sector growth or other state business program initiatives, to provide for City of Minot community development programs, and to assist non-primary sector small businesses.

MAGIC Fund applications can be found on the City of Minot's website, and interested businesses should reach out to Mark Lyman, 701-852-600 or mark@minotchamberedc.com at the Minot Area Chamber EDC prior to applying, to help determine eligibility and applicability for this particular fund.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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HALFTIME AT THE STATE CAPITOL The State of North Dakota 69th Legislative Assembly is at crossover, where bills passed by the house of origin are sent to the other house for consideration and final passage. The legislature wrapped up work for the first half of the session on Tuesday, February 25 on day 34 and will begin committee hearing on Wednesday, March 5. The session is limited to 80-days.

More bills have been introduced this year – an increase of over 100 from last session. The House introduced 620 bills, passing 412. A total of 188 failed and 20 were withdrawn. The Senate introduced 400 bills, approving 298. A total of 94 failed and 8 were withdrawn. So far, three bills have been sent to the governor. There were a number of resolutions introduced and three have been adopted by both chambers and files with the ND Secretary of State.

Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) continues to serve as the champion and voice for business by representing the best interests of our member investors at local, regional, and national levels. Throughout the session MACEDC is partnering with key organizations including the Greater North Dakota Chamber, Economic Development Association or North Dakota, North Dakota Petroleum Council, and the North Dakota Military Commission, amongst others.

JOIN THE MACEDC GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE FOR TWO REMAINING LEGISLATIVE FORUMS!

MARCH 22 & APRIL 5

NORTH DAKOTA STATE FAIR CENTER NORSK ROOM Attendees are given a chance to interact with Minot area legislators, get updates on the session, and ask questions about specific bills and initiatives. All forums will start at 9:00 a.m. and end no later than 11:00 a.m. We’d like to thank the public for such a strong turnout in the first part of the session, and look forward to seeing so many people during the remaining forums.

REMAINING KEY LEGISLATIVE DATES March 5 - Reconvene from crossover break March 7 - Study resolutions and proposed constitutional amendments must be reported out of committee March 12 - Crossover date for resolutions April 9 - Bills and resolutions must be reported out of committee in second house May 2 - Session must end (session limited to 80 legislative days) MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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MUSIC, FOOD, AND FUN AT ASPIRE CREDIT UNION FOR BUSINESS AFTER HOURS February’s Business After Hours was a night to remember as Aspire Credit Union welcomed business and community members for an evening of networking, delicious food, and fantastic entertainment. We were excited to see a packed house of professionals and friends who took the opportunity to enjoy a lively evening filled with great conversation, music, and even a signature Orange Bellini Cocktail made special for the event!

Guests were treated to delicious bites from The Starving Rooster while Melissa Spelchen and Lila Bea delivered an incredible live music performance, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening of connection and celebration.

We’d like to give a huge thank you to Aspire Credit Union for hosting such an awesome event! Their hospitality and dedication to the community made this Business After Hours truly special. Events like these create valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and strengthening the Minot area, and we’re grateful for Aspire’s constant commitment to supporting our community.

SAVE THE DATE: APR BUSINESS AFTER HOURS THURSDAY

APR 10 5PM - 7PM

ADVANCED BUSINESS METHODS 905 21ST AVENUE SOUTHEAST

DON’T MISS FOOD, FUN, & NETWORKING

$5 ENTRY

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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ENERGY COMM The Minot Area Chamber EDC Energy Committee was proud to partner with the Bakken API Chapter for a dynamic and informative session at Hess Corporation’s Goliath Room. This collaborative meeting provided an opportunity for industry professionals to learn more about local energy development, policy, and the future of North Dakota’s oil and gas sector.

The highlight of the event was a presentation from Nathan Anderson, Director of the Oil and Gas Division at the North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources. Anderson provided invaluable insights into the current landscape of the industry, offering takeaways on regulatory updates, market trends, and strategic initiatives shaping the state’s energy sector.

A Minot native, Nathan Anderson brings over 25 years of experience in engineering, land, environmental, health, safety, asset development, and operations within the oil and gas industry. He earned a BS in Geology from North Dakota State University and has worked on projects across multiple states, including North Dakota, Texas, Wyoming, New Mexico, and beyond. Prior to joining the Department of Mineral Resources in September 2024, he served as Senior Asset Director at PDC Energy, where he oversaw west Texas assets before the company’s acquisition by Chevron. His extensive expertise and leadership have made him a key voice in shaping North Dakota’s energy policies and industry advancements.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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ITTEE MEETING The Energy Committee’s partnership with the Bakken API Chapter provided a valuable opportunity to foster connections, share knowledge, and strengthen collaboration across the industry. Conversations like these are critical in ensuring that the Minot region remains at the forefront of energy innovation and progress.

A huge thank you to Nathan Anderson, the North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources, the Bakken API Chapter, and Hess Corporation for making this event possible. Their expertise and dedication continue to drive growth, sustainability, and success in our great state.

Stay tuned for more upcoming events as we continue to bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders!

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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SAVE DATE THE

2025 ANNUAL MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 24 • THE REGENCY EVENT CENTER 105 1ST STREET SOUTHEAST • SOCIAL: 4:30PM • DINNER: 5:30PM

Featuring Keynote Speaker

NORTH DAKOTA GOVERNOR KELLY ARMSTRONG SPACE IS LIMITED • CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR TABLE NOW

HEATING UP THE RAILROAD INDUSTRY WITH MEAGAN AND SHANE KUNNANZ On February 13, the Start Up Minot Networking crowd was excited to hear from Meagan and Shane Kunnanz, an entrepreneurial couple who own Hot Switch Heating Systems and Fiberglass Specialties in Minot.

The couple discussed how they got their start and explained the growth of their businesses. They also answered a variety of audience questions before showing off their product with a demonstration.

In 2023, Hot Switch Heating Systems was approved by Minot City Council for an interest buydown through the MAGIC Fund in order to bring more manufacturing to the Minot area, and received $215,385 as a local match for a state PACE loan. MACEDC was happy to help as they completed the application and are incredibly proud of their continued growth. We want to thank Meagan and Shane for taking time to speak with us, and can’t wait to see how their businesses continue to grow.

Click here to watch the recording of the event on our YouTube channel.

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

Mike Zimmer, Executive Director of the Minot Area Men's Winter Refuge THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025 | 7:30 AM | CARNEGIE CENTER MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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BREKKA KRAMER INVITED TO JOIN U.S. AIR AND SPACE FORCE CIVIC LEADER PROGRAM Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) President | CEO Brekka Kramer has been invited by the Department of the Air Force leadership team to serve as a member of the U.S. Air and Space Force Civic Leader Program. The program was formed with respected community leaders from all over the country that engage throughout the year to share insights and exchange ideas, with the intent to strengthen the partnership between our communities and senior Air and Space Force leadership.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be nominated and to accept my appointment to the U.S. Air and Space Force Civic Leader Program. This prestigious nomination is a reflection of the community and state I proudly represent,” shared Brekka Kramer. “As an advocate and advisor to the U.S. Air and Space Force, I am committed to fostering communication, collaboration, and mutual understanding. I look forward to using this platform to offer meaningful insights, share important information, and work alongside dedicated leaders to ensure that the vital mission of the Minot Air Force Base and Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) is successfully carried out, now and in the future.”

The Civic Leader Program is an Air Staff-level program whose membership is comprised of nominated community leaders selected from the Air Force major commands (MAJCOM), National Guard Bureau, and Headquarters Air Force. Civic Leaders are unpaid advisors, key communicators, and advocates for Air Force issues. They provide ideas and feedback to advise the Secretary of the Air Force, Air Force Chief of Staff, and Air Force senior leaders about how missions can best be accomplished in their respective areas and about public attitudes toward the Air and Space Force and activities in their areas.

Civic Leaders also provide timely, pertinent information on subjects of general Air Force interest, especially subjects which directly apply to a Civic Leader’s local area. Air and Space Force Civic Leaders serve as a civilian interface between the Air Force and the civilian community. In this role, Air Force Civic Leaders explain and interpret Air Force programs, positions, and problems to other key, local communicators through personal contact and correspondence, and to the general public through statements, appearances, and speeches. Air Force Civic Leaders have a good degree of flexibility in outreach efforts which may include speeches and articles, along with local, regional, state, and national activities.

U.S. Air and Space Force Civic Leaders are appointed to a four-year term and can serve two terms.

Nominations to the program take place every two years and the MAJCOM that can submit nominations rotates.

Kramer was nominated by AFGSC headquartered out of Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. AFGSC is responsible for the nation's three intercontinental ballistic missile wings, the Air Force’s entire bomber force, to include B-52, B-1 and B-2 wings, the Long Range Strike Bomber program, Air Force Nuclear Command, Control and Communications (NC3) systems, and operational and maintenance support to organizations within the nuclear enterprise.

“We’re thrilled for Brekka’s acceptance into this elite program,” said Ryan Ackerman MACEDC Board Chair. “She has spent years advocating for the community and Minot Air Force Base, even before joining MACEDC. She’s a valuable asset to the Minot area and our state that will only continue to champion our community through this opportunity. MACEDC is honored for the chance to have the community’s voice heard in such an esteemed setting, and we can’t wait to see how this opportunity encourages communication and leads to further support to the military members and their families in the Minot area.”

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 Kramer is a long-time supporter of United States Air Force and has served in many community efforts in support of Minot Air Force Base including the Military Affairs Committee, Honorary Commanders, and Task Force 21. She serves as an Air Force Global Strike Command Civic Leader and is appointed to serve on the Governor’s North Dakota Military Commission executive committee. Brekka is also on the board of directors for the Strategic Deterrent Coalition.

TASK FORCE 21 FORMS SENTINEL WORKING GROUP IN PREPARATION OF MODERNIZATION PROJECT The Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) has formed a Sentinel Working Group under Task Force 21 (TF21). The Sentinel Working Group consists of four TF21 members that include Mark Jantzer, Jason Zimmerman, Brekka Kramer, and Cassidy Hjelmstad as the group’s chair. This working group will be crucial as TF21 prepares the state and our community for this major project.

“Sentinel is one of the largest modernization projects that has ever been undertaken by the Department of Defense, and we know a focused effort is needed to support this project. What’s unique about Sentinel is the scale and scope of construction off-base,” said Pete Hankla, TF21 Chair. “The working group is the go-to for information regarding Sentinel updates and details for the local community and state leaders.”

Sentinel is the weapon system proposed to replace the aging Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system. It represents the modernization of the land-based leg of the U.S. nuclear triad and would extend its capabilities. On-base construction will focus on construction or modifying facilities and infrastructure as necessary to support Sentinel maintenance, training, storage, testing, and support at Minot Air Force Base. Offbase construction includes the missile alert facilities, renovation of all 150 existing launch facilities in the missile fields in North Dakota, launch centers, utility corridors, communications towers, and more.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this group as the United States ushers in a new era of nuclear deterrence,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, TF21 Sentinel Working Group Chair. “It’s crucial that as technology advances, we stay ahead of the curve to ensure the strength and reliability of our nation’s nuclear deterrence.

At Task Force 21, we remain committed to educating the public and advocating for the resources necessary to support this mission. Keeping our community informed and engaged is essential as we move forward with this next-generation deterrence system.”

TF21 is looking toward the future as the military continues to modernize its nuclear enterprise. TF21 will continue to educate the local community, state officials, members of Congress and the public on national security issues, particularly ones that affect Minot Air Force Base, Air Force Global Strike Command, and the U.S. Air Force.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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LIFT PROGRAM OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR $1.75 MILLION IN BUSINESS LOAN FUNDING The North Dakota Department of Commerce announces the reopening of the Legacy Investment for Technology (LIFT) application process. This funding opportunity drives economic growth in our state by fueling innovative North Dakota businesses.

“The LIFT funds equip North Dakota businesses commercializing intellectual property with debt financing at advantageous interest rates,” Commerce Economic Development & Finance Deputy Director Shayden Akason said. “We’re excited to open the fund to new innovative projects.”

Eligible industries include advanced computing and data management, agricultural technology, autonomous and uncrewed vehicles, energy, healthcare, value-added agriculture, value-added energy, and any area identified by the LIFT Committee as contributing to the state’s economic diversification.

Applications for the LIFT program will be accepted through March 14, 2025. A total of $1.75 million in loan funding will be available for successful applicants. For more information, application guidelines and program details, visit this link.

LOCAL COMPETITION SET FOR NATIONAL CIVICS BEE The local competition for the National Civics Bee will take place April 11 at Minot State University’s Aleshire Theater in Hartnett Hall.

The event is the only one in the state, and will feature the top 20 students from western North Dakota who submitted essays. Judges screened the essays submitted by local 6th, 7th and 8th graders from area public and private schools.

The 20 students will answer quiz questions on their tablets during the first and second rounds of competition. In the final and third round, the top five students will then provide a summary of their essay they wrote to be in this competition. They will also have Q & A with judges. The top three students will receive a trophy and cash while the top 10 students will go on to the state competition in Bismarck that will be July 11.

Sponsors are needed to make this event happen. If interested, contact Carla Dolan at carla@minotchamberedc.com

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 2025!

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 | MARCH 2025

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NEW REPORT HIGHLIGHTS AGRICULTURE’S $41.3 BILLION IMPACT ON NORTH DAKOTA’S ECONOMY Gov. Kelly Armstrong and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring in collaboration with North Dakota State University (NDSU) along with the North Dakota Department of Commerce, released a comprehensive economic report today underscoring agriculture's critical role in the state's economy and rural prosperity.

The study, conducted by NDSU’s Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics and the Center for Social Research, finds that North Dakota’s agriculture industry generates $41.3 billion annually in gross business volume, supports 123,360 jobs and contributes $10 billion in labor income. “Agriculture isn’t just an industry.

It’s the backbone of our economy and a cornerstone of rural prosperity,” said Dr. Greg Lardy, NDSU vice president for agricultural affairs. “This report reinforces the need for policies that drive investment and innovation in the sector.”

The report, unveiled during a press conference today at the state Capitol, also highlights the continued growth of commodity processing and value-added agriculture, which are driving new economic opportunities across the state. “Continuing to add value to our commodities benefits every farmer and rancher across North Dakota and makes our state’s economy more resilient,” Armstrong said, citing examples such as the recently added soybean processing plants in Spiritwood and Casselton and a proposed potato processing plant in Grand Forks. “We’re committed to expanding processing and diversifying our agriculture sector to create jobs and ensure that North Dakota remains a leader in ag innovation as we feed and fuel the world.”

The North Dakota Agriculture Industry Economic Contribution Analysis was funded by industry, including the following: North Dakota Agricultural Association; North Dakota Corn Growers Association; North Dakota Dry Bean Council; North Dakota Farm Bureau; North Dakota Farmers Union; North Dakota Soybean Council; North Dakota Soybean Growers Association; North Dakota Stockmen’s Association; Northern Canola Growers Association; Northern Pulse Growers Association; Northland Potato Growers Association; and Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association.

“Agriculture continues to play an integral part in our state’s economy, thanks to our hardworking and innovative farmers, ranchers, rural communities and ag industries,” Goehring said. “We look forward to the future of agriculture as opportunities to add value, new cutting-edge developments and continued research shape how we produce a wide array of products used here and around the world.”

Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken tied the report’s findings to the need for strategic rural planning.

“Planning is essential to ensure agriculture’s long-term success,” Schilken said. “From infrastructure to workforce development, rural communities need forward-thinking strategies to keep pace with industry growth.

That’s why events like the North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium are so critical. They bring together experts and community leaders to map out a sustainable future for North Dakota’s rural economy.”

The North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium kicks off this evening followed by a full day Wednesday of presentations focusing on strategies for building resilient rural communities, enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic development. The event will bring together community developers, policymakers and industry leaders to explore actionable solutions for strengthening North Dakota’s rural landscape.

Learn more about the North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium at this link.

View the Ag Impact Study by clicking here.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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SHOWING SUPPORT FOR FMWF CHAMBER’S MIDWEST ECONOMIC OUTLOOK SUMMIT Minot Area Chamber EDC was proud to partner with the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce to support their Midwest Summit series, which are four events throughout the year, presented virtually and in person, that highlight important topics to the region. Each event is an opportunity for regional and national thought leaders, businesses, chambers of commerce and association to unite on significant topics.

The first event for 2025 was the Midwest Economic Outlook Summit on February 20. Matthew W. Finn, CFA who is Chief Economist of 1834, a Division of Old National Bank gave the keynote address where he delivered an in-depth economic forecast for the region, highlighted trends and provided strategic guidance for businesses and policymakers to navigate the future. The event featured a panel titled Strategies for Growth in Investments which focused on insights across banking, housing and private equity. Kodee Furst, Director, 50 South Capital, Michael Neal, Senior Fellow, Urban Institute, and Julie Whitney,Senior Vice President, Bremer Bank discussed their experiences and answered questions with Kathryn Birkeland, Ronald G. and Kaye S. Olson Dean, College of Business, North Dakota State University.

We’re excited to support so many opportunities to connect in the state, and can’t wait for more upcoming events. Then next in the Summit series will be the Agriculture Summit on June 10, the Technology Summit on August 14, and the Energy Summit on November 6.

View the recording of the Midwest Economic Outlook Summit for free online by clicking here.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | JANUARY 2025

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REGIONAL WORKFORCE IMPACT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN THROUGH MARCH 25 The goal of the Regional Workforce Impact Program is to empower locally led solutions to one of the state’s greatest challenges. Workforce needs vary by region throughout North Dakota, so a one size fits all approach is unrealistic and would not adequately address challenges in all parts of the state. By creating a regional funding mechanism to support workforce initiatives, local and regional partners have the opportunity to articulate their needs and the ability to access funding to address them. The Department of Commerce aims to increase participation in the workforce statewide by equipping communities with resources to invest in initiatives that are catered to the needs of their region.

An application’s proposed solution must address the region’s most immediate workforce challenges. This program will assist applicants in funding workforce initiatives that promote economic stability and prosperity by addressing workforce challenges. The Department of Commerce encourages utilizing new and existing collaborations of regional partners to leverage resources that foster the development of partnerships to implement sustainable workforce development solutions.

Collaboration to develop initiatives that address the region’s most pressing workforce challenges and impact various geographies and/or populations throughout the region representing both rural and urban is encouraged; however, it is not required. Each project will be submitted on its own application. A single application on behalf of the region is no longer required. Applicants must be able to articulate the greatest impact possible to the region as a whole. Please note that regions are defined as the eight planning regions, although the impact of a project may extend beyond a region’s borders.

To qualify, proposals must fall under at least one of the following categories: Talent attraction marketing and locally implemented strategies for business, industry, and communities that leverages existing statewide assets like Find the Good Life platform and pipeline to recruit employees nationwide and retain students and recent graduates. - cap of $250,000 Retention - cap of $250,000.00 Infrastructure investments that directly relate to the proposed workforce solution – cap of $500,000 Infrastructure investments that 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.

Capital investments, capital purchases for new or renovated space to support the applicant’s proposed program must be able to show direct influence on the workforce solution- cap of $500,000.

Eligible applicants include the following types of North Dakota-based organizations: Economic Development Organizations Cities (must be incorporated) Chambers of Commerce Job Development Authorities Tribal Entities Regional Councils Other organizations addressing local or regional economic development needs.

Childcare Centers

For more information and to apply, click here.

MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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VISIT MINOT ANNOUNCES NEW COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS Exciting updates from Visit Minot! Check out the brand new, mobile-friendly Events Calendar with an easy-to-remember URL: EventsMinot.com.

Be sure to submit any upcoming events to be featured on this calendar, which attracts thousands of unique visitors each month. Best of all, no login is required to submit events!

View the new calendar: EventsMinot.com Submit an event here: visitminot.org/submit-event Keep the Magic in Minot front and center by listing any upcoming events today!

A DAY OF FRIENDLY COMPETITION AT BAKKEN BAG FEST Minot Area Chamber EDC was proud to be a sponsor of the 2025 Bakken Bag Fest. Bakken Bag Fest is a joint event put on by SandPro and the Bakken API Chapter that is a one-day Bakken area oil and gas industry cornhole tournament. The event is a great way for businesses to connect with others in the oil and gas industry while supporting local charity. This year, proceeds from the event benefitted Companions for Children and Bakken API Scholarships. We’re always thrilled for the opportunity to support local organizations and already can’t wait for next year.

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

EXCEPTIONAL HEALTHCARE 3514 CEDAR SPRINGS DRIVE • DALLAS, TX 75219 469-807-1200 • EHC24.COM The construction of an Exceptional Community Hospital in Minot would be the first hospital for Exceptional Healthcare in North Dakota.

The new hospital would create approximately one hundred new healthcare jobs and will be a $25M investment in the community. “As a premier leader in developing and operating community-based hospitals, Exceptional Healthcare’s mission is to improve access to healthcare in rural communities. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled healthcare experience centered on our patients and their families,” said Bruce McVeigh, Chief Operating Officer for Exceptional Healthcare. Exceptional Healthcare currently operates six hospitals located in Arizona, Texas, and Oklahoma, with two additional hospitals opening in Arizona and New Mexico by end of 2025. A new hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota, is under construction and anticipated to open in late 2026. A timeline for the construction and opening of the new Minot hospital is still in the planning stages and updates will be provided soon.

PRAIRIE GRIT ADAPTIVE SPORTS 3515 16TH STREET SOUTHWEST • MINOT, ND 58701 701-838-1080 • PRAIRIEGRITSPORTS.COM PRAIRIEGRITTHERAPY.COM Prairie Grit Adaptive Sports is a non-profit organization with the mission of providing sports opportunities for youth and adults living with physical and mental disabilities to enhance their quality of life.

At Prairie Grit Therapy, our mission is to make children’s therapeutic treatment fun through an environment rich with movement, sensory input, and learning experiences.

STATE FARM INSURANCE - KELLIE THORMAN 500 20TH AVENUE SOUTHWEST SUITE B • MINOT, ND 58701 701-839-4999 • KELLIETHORMAN.COM State Farm Insurance Kellie Thorman Agency focuses on auto, homeowners, renter and condo insurance along with business, life and health insurance. A State Farm Insurance agent since 2003, Kellie aims to provide world-class service and products while helping customers navigate their every changing needs.

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THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBER INVESTORS WHO RENEWED IN FEBRUARY! 1st Minot Management Aksal Group, LLC Ascend Wellness MBS Betty Fedorchak Beyond Shelter, Inc. Bones BBQ Smokehouse & Grill Broadway Liquor Cash Wise Foods Cookies For You, Inc. Creedence Energy Services Culligan Water Conditioning Cummins Sales and Service David Hance CPA PC Edward Jones Financial Advisor: Kayla Goetz Electrical Workers Union #714 Elite Real Estate Farden Construction, Inc. First Command Financial Services FullTilt Marketing Gooseneck Implement Team Resources Inc--dba H & R Block IHeart Media

Johnson Controls Judge Gary Lee Lien's Jewelry Magic City Discovery Center Magnum LTL, Inc. Montana Dakota Utilities Company Once Upon a Child - Minot Optical Outlook Peoples State Bank of Velva Persistent Systems, LLC Pet Supplies Plus Professional Hearing Services The Pursuit Church Small Business Development Center The Starving Rooster Staybridge Suites Team Consulting LLC Trinity Health Trusted Tire & Auto Valvoline Instant Oil Change Vision Zero

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FEBRUARY 2025

RIBBON CUTTINGS ENGAGE CHIROPRACTIC 928 37th Avenue Southwest • Minot Ambassadors cut the ribbon at Engage Chiropractic a new business on Minot’s south side. Dr. Wyatt Grindy provides expertise in adjustments and comes highly recommended. See him and his experienced team for all your chiropractic needs.

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FEBRUARY 2025 RIBBON CUTTINGS

AMAZON 220 64th Street Southeast • Minot Ambassadors cut the ribbon at a new Amazon distribution center in southeast Minot. The 30,000 square foot building is located in the industrial park. Amazon contracts with delivery drivers who bring the packages to homes and businesses.

EYEMART EXPRESS 1511 24th Avenue Southwest • Minot Ambassadors cut the ribbon at a new Eyemart Express near Dakota Square. They pride themselves on providing affordable eye care with an emphasis on customer service. Stop by today for all your eyecare needs.

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Eagle Awards CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FEBRUARY 2025 RECIPIENTS!

Joshua Seaburg Ideal Auto

Cassie Loard Aflac

Dr. Brian Tin-Maung Trinity Health

Dr. Alex Ness Ness Family Dentistry

Joshua Garozzo Schatz Crossroads

Peter Meindl Menards

Tyler Burt Green Brothers Landscaping & Construction

Dr. Thomas Nordquist Trinity Health

Dr. Matthew Khouri Trinity Health

Thank you to Homesteaders Restaurant & Waxing the City for providing gift certificates to our Eagle Award recipients!

To nominate someone for an Eagle Award for Outstanding Customer Service, visit MinotChamberEDC.com/EagleAwards MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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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.

MINOT STATE HOSTS NORTH DAKOTA STATE NURSES ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONVENTION Minot State University Department of Nursing and The Grand Hotel in Minot was the site for the 2025 Nursing Students’ Association of North Dakota (NSAND) annual convention Jan. 31-Feb. 1.The convention, with the title of “Pulse of the Profession,” featured over 200 nursing students from across the state for keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and competitions.

Minot State University senior Hannah Hagan earned NSAND’s Leadership award, and the MSU Department of Nursing earned the title of raising the most money during the Quarters challenge. Hagen was joined by Emily Morman of North Dakota State – Bismarck as the association’s Student Nurse of the Year, and NDSU – Fargo’s Julie Ketterling was named Nurse Educator of the Year. The University of Mary’s nursing department captured the Quarters Challenge design challenge.

Students and faculty were nominated by their local university and forwarded to the state level. The NSAND board members chose local community members to help form three judging panels composed of three judges each, two licensed nurses, and one government official. Hagen, the NSAND president, was grateful for the experience of hosting the event. “The NSAND conference serves to show just how much hard work we do as nursing students,” she said. “We are so thankful for the seven universities across the state of North Dakota that helped to make this possible! We could not put this together without all of our vendors, donors, sponsors, nursing faculty, and students.

“Being the president of this association was such an honor. I got to connect with nursing students from across the state of North Dakota. I have learned so much about leadership and working with different personalities. I had the honor of meeting some of the best and most dedicated nursing students from across the state. The memories that we have made together live strongly in my heart, and I am thankful for every opportunity that this association has brought me.”

Keynote speakers included Jill Johnson, Charys Kunkel, and Minot State alumnus Kaleb Kirby ’18. The association also elected its 21025-2026 Executive Board, including Minot State’s Lexi Scholz as second vice president. Shante Rust was elected to the Breakthrough to Nursing position, Wardah Husain was elected publicity and communications co-director, Evan Renzy was elected Director of Membership, Krysten Glab was named consultant co-director, and MSU Professor Kim Tiedman was named faculty advisor.

Brooklyn Richter, from NDSU-Bismarck, was elected as president of the organization for 2025-26.

For more information on NSAND, see the association’s WEBSITE. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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MACF GRANTS TO SVUW FOR BACKPACK BUDDIES EXPANSION The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) and Souris Valley United Way (SVUW) are pleased to announce the expansion of the Backpack Buddies program. The expansion is made possible due to a $10,000 year-end contribution from a private MACF donor fund.

This contribution will allow SVUW’s Backpack Buddies program to extend its services to Longfellow Elementary School, helping to meet the needs of even more local students who face challenges with access to meals over the weekend.

The Backpack Buddies program ensures that children who may not have access to nutritious meals over the weekend are provided with food to take home. Currently, the program serves 10 elementary schools and supports 490 students on a weekly basis. By including Longfellow Elementary, the program will further contribute to the well-being and academic success of students across Minot, ensuring that more children have the food they need to thrive.

“Souris Valley United Way is dedicated to meeting the needs of local students facing food insecurity. As the need grows, we are grateful for the Minot Area Community Foundation’s support,” says Christy Miller, Executive Director of Souris Valley United Way. “This generous gift allows us to expand Backpack Buddies and bring hope to local students and families facing food insecurity.”

“We are thrilled to support Souris Valley United Way in expanding this vital program,” said Jason Zimmerman, President of the Minot Area Community Foundation. “With the continued support of our community, we can ensure that children in need have the resources they require to succeed both in and out of the classroom.”

SRT REACHES 25,000 INTERNET CUSTOMERS SRT Communications reached a milestone this week, when the telecommunications cooperative welcomed its 25,000th Internet customer on February 12. SRT was formed in 1951 to bring telephone service to the rural communities of north-central North Dakota. Forty-five years later, local dial-up internet became available from every SRT phone exchange. In another two years Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) internet was added to SRT’s services. Today the cooperative maintains a 100% fiber network connecting its entire rural service area, as well as the city of Minot and Minot Air Force Base.

“From day one, our mission has been to connect people and bring opportunity to our communities. SRT started with telephone service, one home at a time, and has since evolved to the most advanced technology for high-speed Internet,” said Cassidy Hjelmstad, SRT CEO and General Manager. “We are humbled that 25,000 North Dakotan homes and businesses turn to us for their Internet and are committed to serving their evolving future needs.”

Because SRT is a member-owned telecommunications cooperative, each SRT Internet customer receives the benefits of membership. These include voting in SRT annual elections for the Board of Directors and capital credits paid back to members.

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SERVING THOSE WHO SERVED WITH THE HIRE VETS MEDALLION PROGRAM The HIRE Vets Medallion Program is an employer recognition program administered by the Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS). Through the program, VETS accepts voluntary applications from employers for the HIRE Vets Medallion Award beginning on January 31 of each calendar year.

The Award recognizes employers who hire and retain veterans, including their efforts to establish employee development programs and veteran specific benefits to improve retention.

Employer-applicants meeting criteria established in the rule receive a “HIRE Vets Medallion Award.” There are two award tiers, Platinum and Gold, for large (500-plus employees), medium (51-499 employees), and small employers (50 or fewer employees).

Verification of award criteria includes a self-attestation by the applicant CEO or CHRO and a check for violations of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Act (VEVRAA).

Successful employers receive a certificate stating the award year, a digital image of the medallion to use, including as part of an advertisement, solicitation, business activity, or product, and will be recognized on the program website. Award recipients have the opportunity to utilize the medallion in the marketing of their firm as a veteran ready business when hiring and in efforts to attract additional business. A map of awardees is available at HIREVets.gov/Awardees. Detailed information about how to gain eligibility can be found at HIREVets.gov

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AGING BABY BOOMERS WILL DRIVE FUTURE HOUSING NEEDS Baby boomers are projected to drive housing needs in North Dakota in the coming years, according to the new Statewide Housing Needs Assessment released by researchers at North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) Center for Social Research in partnership with North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA). The 2024 study covers updates in housing trends since the previous 2022 Housing Needs Assessment.

Growth in the number of householders aged 65 and older is projected to increase substantially by 22%, from 78,047 in 2022 to 95,277 in 2027 – and growth in this cohort is expected in all eight planning regions of the state.

“One major takeaway from this study is the increased need for housing available to meet the needs of an aging population,” said NDHFA Executive Director Dave Flohr. “While the state’s economy is strong, housing affordability remains an issue, and the development of new housing should consider the needs of aging populations as well as lower-income working households.”

Across the state, higher wages and salaries have resulted in higher household and family incomes. Despite the rise in incomes, there has been little overall change in the number of moderate-income households. While there has been an increase in the number of households who earn more than $125,000 annually, the majority of North Dakota households (51%) earn less than $75,000, and 33% earn less than $50,000. Housing is needed for all income levels, but the study projects the most significant need will be affordable housing for lower-income households. Further, despite growth in incomes across North Dakota during the past decade there was little change in the state’s poverty rate.

Barring any major shifts in the economy that might alter migration patterns, the assessment projects the state’s population will increase by 4% or about 28,000 people by 2027. Based on this estimate and additional factors including the number of baby boomers aging in place, the state would need to add an additional 20,000 single- and multifamily units by 2027, a 6% increase from 2022.

Flohr noted that the study reflects a stable housing environment for North Dakota, despite the challenges, and that NDHFA remains dedicated to providing affordable housing for all North Dakotans. State and federally funded programs administered by NDHFA are listed in the study.

The 2024 assessment is available at www.ndhfa.org, providing a detailed account of North Dakota’s housing landscape based on current trends impacting population and housing dynamics, including historical shifts in demographics, the economy, homelessness, homeownership, rental housing and construction. It examines the housing sales market through the North Dakota Sales Ratio Study and explores affordability issues for both owners and renters.

“We trust this updated study will help leaders statewide to better understand the housing dynamics at play and learn more about the hurdles many in our state face in finding housing.” Flohr said.

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MINOT STATE PRESENTS SHAUN TYRANCE: WELLNESS AND KEYS TO HIGH PERFORMANCE Minot State University is pleased to announce Shaun Tyrance, team clinician and vice president of player services and assessment for the Kansas City Chiefs, will speak at two events at MSU Monday, March 24.

Tyrance will address MSU Athletics and the Minot State staff about professional takeaways from working with top-performing teams, coaches, and athletes in the NFL at the Student Center Conference Center at 10:30 a.m. His address, “Wellness and Keys to High Performance,” set for 7 p.m. at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall, is for students and the public for a conversation on maximizing personal, academic, and athletic performance.

He holds multiple certifications as a mental performance consultant, has been published in periodicals, and is the co-author of two books. He was a four-year letter-winner and co-captain for the Davidson College football program, graduating with a bachelor's degree in sociology.

Both speaking events at Minot State are free due to sponsorship from MSU Athletics, the MSU POWER Center, and Minot State Student Affairs.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Tyrance to our campus and can’t wait to hear his message,” said Ralitsa Wierson, Minot State student mental health counselor. “Shaun’s experience with the highest level of professional athletics and his background in mental health counseling and wellness work will resonate with — not just our student-athletes — but all individuals from multiple backgrounds, interests, and age groups.”

Tyrance just concluded his sixth season with the Kansas City Chiefs following Super Bowl LIX. He was promoted to vice president of player services and assessment in May 2022. In this role, he focuses on all aspects of behavioral health, wellness, and performance psychology for all club employees, including players, coaches, and staff.

Prior to joining the Chiefs, Tyrance had opened a successful private practice in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2010, where he provided mental health counseling, leadership development, and mental skills training to college and professional athletes. In addition to working with athletes and coaches, Tyrance has consulted with Fortune 500 companies to help them hire and develop top talent within their organizations.

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FOUNDATION DONORS, COUPLE PROVIDE TRINITY HEALTH CANCERCARE CENTER WITH NEW INFUSION CHAIRS Thanks to the combination of funds from Trinity Health Foundation donors and the generous donation of $50,000 from Roger & Addy Evans, Trinity Health Foundation is excited to announce the purchase & installment of 18 new cancer infusion chairs and one new stretcher chair for Trinity Health’s CancerCare Center.

This purchase is a much-welcomed update for patients undergoing treatment. The new infusion chairs are designed for comfort and ease during long treatments and offer not just a physical upgrade but a profound sense of care and consideration. With the infusion chairs now in place, they serve as a reminder that patients are not facing their journey alone.

“Trinity Health Foundation is beyond thankful for the kindness and generosity of Roger and Addy, as well as our donors, who are making a world of difference for our patients. With this purchase, those receiving cancer treatments at our CancerCare Center will now have a more comfortable and supportive environment, helping to ease the challenges they face during this difficult journey,” said Dusty Zimmerman, Foundation Director.

The support of Roger and Addy, as well as Foundation donors exemplifies a commitment to enhancing the patient experience, and their contribution will have a lasting impact on the Minot community and surrounding area. Trinity Health Foundation is grateful for the kindness and dedication to improving the lives of those battling cancer.

TOWN & COUNTRY CREDIT UNION RECOGNIZED AS 'BEST OF' IN MINOT Readers of the Minot Daily News in Minot, North Dakota, have named Town & Country Credit Union as the Best Credit Union, Best Mortgage Lender and Best Customer Service for 2024!

“We are truly honored to be recognized in these categories,” said Kalli Schell, President/CEO of Town & Country Credit Union. “These recognitions underscore our dedication to providing outstanding service and exceptional value to our members.”

In addition to these credit union wins, the following employees were also recognized: Shawna Schroeder - Voted Best Teller Lisa Thuner- Voted Best Loan Officer Brenda Ryan- Finalist for Best Loan Officer Val Bohlig- Finalist for Best Teller Korey Wilson - Nominee for Best Teller KayLee Bourquin - Nominee for Best Loan Officer “We focus on delivering excellent service and valuable products, including our Star Rewards Checking Account, Unlimited Cash Back Visa Signature® Credit Card, and mortgage options like VA Home Loan and First-Time Home Buyer Loans,” Schell emphasized. At Town & Country Credit Union, we are committed to enhancing member experiences, making a positive impact in our communities, and consistently striving for excellence.

Our mission is to serve our members with integrity and dedication.

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CHILI BOWL IX TO HEAT UP MINOT ON MARCH 6 Get ready to spice things up! Independence Inc. is hosting its annual Chili Bowl on March 6 from 5-8 PM at The Grand Oasis Hotel. This funfilled, family-friendly event is the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year, supporting its mission to empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and fully participate in their communities.

Attendees will have the opportunity to sample and vote for the best chili in town as local restaurants go head-to-head for the coveted People’s Choice and Critics' Choice Awards. In addition to great food, the event will feature exciting fundraising opportunities, including a Chance Auction, Wine Pull, Gift Card Pull, and a Door Prize Drawing—all supporting the vital services Independence Inc. provides.

Tickets can be purchased individually, as a family, or through a Team Sponsorship: Individual Ticket: $20 Family Ticket: $50 Team Sponsorship: Looking for a fun and meaningful team outing? A Team Sponsorship is a great way to bring your employees, colleagues, or friends together for a night of delicious chili, community impact, and brand exposure. Your business or organization will be recognized at the event, featured on promotional materials, and seen as a supporter of Independence Inc.’s mission to empower individuals with disabilities.

It’s the perfect mix of team-building, networking, and giving back—all while enjoying some of the best chili in town!

A 10% discount is available for military members and first responders as a thank-you for their service.

“We’re excited to bring the community together for a fun, friendly competition while raising crucial funds to support our programs,” said Tonya Parker, Director of Community Relations at Independence Inc. “Whether you come solo, bring your family, or join as a team sponsor, your participation directly supports individuals with disabilities in our community.”

Tickets for the Chili Bowl are available now! For more information, to purchase tickets, or to sign up as a Team Sponsor, contact Independence Inc. at info@independencecil.org or visit independencecil.org

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HOMELESS CONTINUUM OF CARE RECEIVES COMPETITIVE GRANT The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded a $3.3 million competitive grant to North Dakota’s Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC) to support the work of nonprofit providers, public housing authorities and government agencies that provide housing and support services to people experiencing homelessness.

“North Dakota is fortunate to have, through our Homeless Continuum of Care, a coordinated effort led by local agencies and government partners committed to not only providing shelter but that have a real focus on addressing the issues that cause homelessness,” said North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) Executive Director Dave Flohr.

The HUD grant supports: Twenty-one projects that provide housing and services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including seven projects at domestic violence agencies, and seven projects for youth under the age of 25.

A Homeless Management Information System used to collect housing and services data to help guide CoC efficacy.

Funding for CoC planning to support coordination and system development as well as administrative activities.

“While homelessness is a complex challenge with various contributing factors, housing is the essential first step,” said ND CoC Coordinator, Shawnel Willer.

“Thanks to these grant dollars, agencies can continue their tireless efforts to meet the immediate needs of our unhoused neighbors, while also strengthening long-term housing solutions. These essential federal resources enable our local initiatives to thrive, ensuring that more people have the support they need to succeed.”

HUD requires CoCs to rank projects into tiers.

Ranking is based on capacity, quality, priorities, and performance. The tiered approach prioritizes funds based on local needs and funding gaps. Higher ranked projects are assigned to Tier 1 and lower ranked projects are assigned to Tier 2. All of ND CoC’s Tier 1 projects were funded; no Tier 2 projects received funding. HUD’s funding notice, the CoC’s collaborative application, priority listing and funding results are available online.

The goal of HUD’s CoC program is to promote a communitywide commitment to ending homelessness. The program provides funding to support efforts to end homelessness, promotes access to and effective utilization of programs, and optimizes the self-sufficiency of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

ND CoC’s geographic area encompasses all 53 of North Dakota’s counties, its cities, towns, and unincorporated areas, as well as the state’s five federally recognized tribes. More information about the CoC and the state’s homeless service providers is available on the continuum’s website. Individuals and families in immediate need of assistance should call FirstLink’s 2-1-1 helpline.

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DAKOTA DENTAL HEALTH CLINIC WELCOMES DR. MATTHEW BOWEN Raised in the Mountain West, Bowen has lived in Utah for most of his life. After graduating from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, he was fortunate to attend the West Virginia University School of Dentistry where he received invaluable training and developed the core values that continue to guide his clinical practice today. It allowed him to develop an appreciation for both the art and science of dentistry, teaching him how to blend technical skills with a patient-centered approach.

Education is a cornerstone of his life, and he is committed to staying current with the latest advancements in dentistry, which ensures he provides the best care and help his patients fully understand their treatment options. He believes oral health is a vital part of overall health and strives to provide compassionate and comprehensive care, emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall well-being.

Family means the world to him. His wife, Kaitlyn, and three kids-Avaree, Aspen, and Koda-are always excited to create lasting memories and explore new adventures. They love supporting their favorite sports teams and making the most of every opportunity to run, hike, fish, and camp together.

He is passionate about positively impacting his patients' lives. He knows that building relationships based on trust and understanding is just as important as providing excellent dental care. Every day, he looks forward to partnering with patients on a journey toward better health and wellness, and is excited to help them achieve their best smile.

MINOT STATE REPORTS CONTINUED ENROLLMENT GROWTH Minot State University is pleased to announce its Spring 2025 enrollment grew 2.6% for a total of 2,633 students. It is the second straight spring semester increase and the third consecutive semester in which the University saw growth in its overall headcount.

“We are excited with an increased number of students enrolling at Minot State University for the second consecutive spring semester,” said Minot State President Dr. Steven Shirley. “We have seen nice increases the past couple of years across campus with a variety of student populations at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, so seeing this momentum continue in 2025 certainly bodes well for the future of MSU and our students.”

The University saw its biggest growth area in new transfer students with 112 incoming transfers, its biggest spring transfer class in seven years. Minot State also reported nice increases in dual credit students and Canadian students. Minot State’s Hometown Pride Scholarship, now in its third year, continues to attract local students as MSU’s Ward County enrollment increased to the highest total in three years. The spring enrollment also included the largest number of full-time graduate students at MSU since 2015.

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31ST ANNUAL WESTERN NORTH DAKOTA SCOUTERS GOLF CLASSIC Schedule: 12:00 PM – Registration 1:00 PM – Shotgun Start Dinner and award festivities immediately after golf

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Levels of Participation:

Get ready for the 31st Annual Western North Dakota Scouters Golf Classic on July 28, 2025 at the Vardon Golf Club!

The Western North Dakota Scouters Golf Classic proceeds go to support Scouting programs in the Northern Lights Council. They provide the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training which helps young people be prepared for life.

Vardon Golf Club is one of the finest golf courses open to public play in the upper Midwest. Many of the pros have stated the greens at the Vardon are among the best they have played. The quick greens are defended by well-placed bunkers requiring accurate approach shots.

Founded in 1928, the organizers called upon Tom Vardon to design the original front nine. Tom, who was a playing professional and club pro in addition to a course architect, finished runner-up in the 1903 British Open, to his brother, Harry Vardon. Harry Vardon was a 6-time winner of the British Open and inventor of the Vardon overlap grip. The original front 9, which opened in 1929, remains the same layout today.

Tournament players will enjoy 18 holes of memorable golf with cart, followed by a steak dinner, door prizes, and an awards ceremony.

Title Sponsor • $3,000 4 tournament players with carts Tournament banner with company logo Signage at all tees Recognition on council website Full-page ad in awards dinner program Cart Sponsor • $2,000 4 tournament players with carts Signage at all tees Recognition on council website 3/4-page ad in awards dinner program Dinner Sponsor • $1,500 4 tournament players with carts Signage at all tees Recognition on council website 1/2-page ad in awards dinner program Green Sponsor • $900 4 tournament players with carts Signage at one hole 1/4-page ad in awards dinner program Foursome • $650 4 tournament players with carts Advertising Sponsor • $550 Non-Playing Business card-sized ad in awards dinner program The Western North Dakota Golf Classic supports Scouting programs for youth in the Minot area of the Northern Lights Council. Scouting America provides the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training which helps young people be prepared for life!

For inromation on this super fun day of golf, please contact Connie Koehmstedt, or call the Scout Center at 701.293.5011.

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MINOT AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION’S GRANTS FUNDS TO SUPPORT RUGBY SOFTBALL FIELD The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) is proud to invest in rural communities through a $25,000 grant from the Mike and Dorothy Dolan Fund to the Rugby Public School District for the construction of a new softball field. This project will provide student-athletes and the broader Rugby community with a highquality playing surface, expanding opportunities for athletics and recreation while fostering long-term community growth.

“Rural communities thrive when they have the resources to grow and come together,” states Jason Zimmerman, President of MACF. “This project reflects MACF’s commitment to ensuring that communities outside of Minot have the same opportunities to develop quality facilities that bring people together, promote youth engagement, and strengthen local connections.”

Currently, Rugby’s girls fastpitch softball team shares city fields that are frequently impacted by drainage challenges and inconsistent maintenance, limiting their usability for practices and games. The new facility will offer a regulation-size softball field with dedicated amenities, providing a safe, reliable space for studentathletes, youth summer recreation programs, travel leagues, and adult softball teams, making it a valuable asset for the entire community.

“We are grateful to the Minot Area Community Foundation for supporting our fastpitch softball field project,” states Dustin Hager, Board President of Rugby Public School District. “Without generous donations such as this, we would be hard-pressed to be able to accomplish such a large project. We are thankful for MACF’s generosity and for supporting the youth of our community.” MACF remains committed to enhancing rural communities in our region by supporting projects that bring people together, promote active lifestyles, and create lasting opportunities for all community members.

DAKOTA BUSINESS LENDING WELCOMES CHANTELL RAMBERG Dakota Business Lending is excited to announce the addition of Chantell Ramberg as Executive Assistant, a new role created to support the organization’s growth and its mission to help small businesses thrive. Ramberg will play a pivotal role in assisting the senior leadership team by managing administrative tasks, coordinating complex schedules, and providing high-level operational support.

Ramberg was drawn to Dakota Business Lending by its strong sense of community and deep-rooted connection to the Fargo-Moorhead area. In her free time, she enjoys attending her daughter’s sporting events.

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SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR MINOT’S ROBOTICS TEAM, THE SYBER-SENTINELS Minot has its very own FIRST® Robotics team that has partnered with Minot Public Schools as a community team!

Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global nonprofit organization that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18. Participants are guided by a signature set of Core Values to conduct research, fundraise, design, build, and showcase their achievements. With around 25 high school students from Minot North, Magic City Campus, and Minot Air Force Base, they are a couple weeks away from their first competition of the 2025 season Starting with a Kit of Parts, teams of high school students design, program, and build industrial-sized robots to play an action packed game. They compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance in the spirit of Coopertition®. In 360-degree learning guided by adult mentors, each FIRST Robotics Competition team also creates a team identity, raises funds to meet its goals, and advances appreciation for STEM in its community.

Students Get To: Develop design, project management, programming, teamwork, strategic thinking, and Coopertition® skills.

Work alongside professional engineers.

Build and compete with a robot of their own design.

Learn and use sophisticated hardware and software.

Participants and alumni have access to education and career discovery opportunities, connections to scholarships and employers, and a place in the FIRST community for life.

The team is seeking financial contributions, along with software coding and manufacturing mentors who would be willing to volunteer their time to help the students. To learn more or show your support, call 701-720-8340 or send an email to byron.borgen@minot.k12.nd.us

ACKERMAN-ESTVOLD WELCOMES CARMEN WEBER AS A LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT IN BOISE, ID OFFICE Carmen Weber has joined the Ackerman-Estvold Boise, ID office as a full-time landscape architect. Weber earned her Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from University of Idaho in 2008 and her Masters in Bioregional Planning and Community Design from University of Idaho in 2011. She has over 10 years of experience as a landscape architect, including work in the hospitality industry, neighborhood and subdivision spaces, and a variety of municipal projects. Carmen will be working with the civil engineering group in Boise on a variety of design engineering projects along with landscape design for architecture projects and providing her expertise to our other three North Dakota locations with landscape design for a multitude of upcoming projects.

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MINOT STATE LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE FINALIZES FULL SLATE OF SPRING 2025 CLASSES Bead Bracelet Bonanza Date: Friday, April 11 In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to design and create beautiful bead bracelets, perfect for adding a personal touch to your jewelry collection or gifting to loved ones.

Building Resilience — One Thought at a Time Date: Thursday, March 27 Explore the physiology and power of thoughtsnegative and positive.

Minot State University’s Lifelong Learning Institute has finalized multiple classes to complement its ceramics offerings for the Spring 2025 semester.

The Lifelong Learning Institute announced five classes for ceramics in January and is offering seven new classes from a range of disciplines including: Bead Bracelet Bonanza, Building Resilience — One Thought at a Time, DIY T-Shirt Night, Pickleball 101, Intermediate Pickleball, Race to the Top (Rockwall climbing), and Swing Dancing.

“We are excited to add these seven classes to the ceramics classes to give people a variety of events to attend,” said Cole Krueger, MSU marketing director. “The Lifelong Learning Institute is especially pleased to have multiple Minot State faculty and members of the community involved in the classes this spring as our local experts in their fields for these fun and informative classes.”

Classes offered in the Lifelong Learning Institute have a range of times, dates, and costs associated with each and will fill up fast.

For more information on the complete list of classes, see the Lifelong Learning Institute WEBSITE or sign up directly at the Minot State E-STORE.

DIY T-Shirt Night Date: Tuesday, April 29 Get hands-on experience creating your own unique T-shirt masterpiece. The instructors will prepare 6-8 custom designs, and you will be able to print on up to 10 items that you bring, like a tshirt, hoodie, tote bag, apron, etc.

Pickleball 101 Dates: April 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 This beginner-friendly class will introduce you to the fundamentals of this exciting sport in a fun and supportive atmosphere.

Intermediate Pickleball Dates: April 23, 28, 30 and May 5, 7 Designed for players who already have a basic understanding of the game, this class will help you refine your skills and strategies.

Race to the Top Dates: March 14, 21, 28 and April 4, 11 Over five weeks, you'll challenge yourself and build confidence as you learn essential climbing techniques and safety practices.

Swing Dancing Date: Friday, April 4 You'll have the opportunity to learn basic swing step, around the world, underarm turns, the slide, and the pretzel from the incredible duo of Terry Eckmann and Jacob Thrailkill.

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MACF ANNOUNCES MINOT SYMPHONY MEETS CHALLENGE GRANT, TIMPANI ARRIVE The Minot Area Community Foundation (MACF) is excited to announce that the Minot Symphony Association has successfully met the $10,000 challenge grant issued in 2024 from MACF’s Chuck and Madge Westlie Fund. This milestone completed fundraising efforts for the purchase of a new set of Adams Professional Generation II Timpani.

"These new drums will train student musicians and enhance the listening experience of an already wonderful orchestra.

When students and professionals have a set of reliable instruments there is no limit to what can be achieved," says Mariah Taller, Minot State University Principal Percussionist & Adjunct Instructor.

The arrival of the new timpani marks a significant upgrade for the Minot Symphony Orchestra (MSO) and surrounding music communities, with the drums poised to make a lasting impact on both professional and student musicians alike. The new drums will be used by MSO and several other local music groups, and the previous timpani set will now serve as a backup for regional music festivals & instruction purposes.

Jason Zimmerman, MACF President, stated, “We are thrilled to see the Minot Symphony Association reach this milestone. The community’s support of this challenge grant will ensure that the Minot Symphony Orchestra and many other local musicians have access to high-quality equipment for years to come.”

The new timpani will be housed on stage at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall on the Minot State University campus, providing a lasting resource for the MSO and the wider area music community.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48 First International Bank & Trust and Gate City Bank received NDHFA’s Award of Excellence for best practices and outstanding delivery of the agency’s homeownership programs.

“In 2024, NDHFA helped 2,189 households purchase a home – first-time buyers, families who previously owned a home and needed assistance to buy again, and special needs households,” said Flohr. “All of the buyers learned about our homeownership programs from one of our outstanding housing partners.” Parties interested in NDHFA’s homeownership programs will find information online at www.ndhfa.org.

MSU COMMUNITY SYMPOSIUM: FOSTERING RESILIENCE Minot State University Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice is sponsoring a Community Symposium: Fostering Resilience on March 21 at the Minot State Student Center Conference Center.

Fostering Resilience: Trauma-Informed Care, Ethics, and the Power of Community begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m. with a two-part morning session, a lunch and research poster session, two afternoon sessions, and a panel discussion. All sessions are open to the public with a $60 registration fee (optional lunch for an additional $15). Minot State faculty, staff, and students are free with valid MSU ID. To register for the event or for more information and speaker bios, see the MSU Marketplace Fostering Resilience WEBSITE. The event is a collaboration between the various disciplines within the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice, including addiction studies, criminal justice, psychology, school psychology, and social work, and will focus on understanding trauma-informed care, ethics, and preventing burnout — topics that are essential to changing how we approach mental health and supporting professionals in high-stress fields in our community.

“This symposium is the result of a shared commitment within the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice to bring awareness to topics that deeply impact our communities,” said Krystal St. Peter, MSU assistant professor in addiction studies, psychology, and social work. “Through the collaboration, we've designed a day focused on trauma-informed care, ethics, and burnout prevention — topics essential for professionals in high-stress roles as well as anyone seeking to better understand these issues. Each discipline offers a unique perspective, but by working together, we've created an event that we hope will not only provide valuable insights but also foster meaningful connections. At the end of the day, while our fields may differ, we rely on one another, and it’s through these connections that we can better support those we serve and each other.”

The morning session will begin with registration and a networking hour from 8-9 a.m. Tamara Waters-Wheeler, MSU professor in school psychology, will deliver part one of the first keynote, Trauma 101 Based on the Neurosequential Model, at 9 a.m. Following a coffee break at 10:15 a.m., Waters-Wheeler will deliver part two.

MSU’s Kelly Hendershot, assistant professor in business, will begin the afternoon session with a keynote address, Ethics, at 1:15 p.m. Michael Nason, MSU professor of criminal justice, is the final keynote address, Being There for Each Other After Critical Incidents: A Holistic Approach to Checking Your Six, at 2:30 p.m.

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49 At 3:30 p.m., a panel discussion, Beyond Burnout: Protecting Your Well-Being in High-Stress Professions, will feature Alannah Valenta, school psychology; Vicki Michels, MSU professor of psychology and addiction studies and chair of the Department of Behavioral Science and Criminal Justice; Aaron Moss, law enforcement and veteran outreach; and Dale Plessas from the Minot Police Department.

Along with event committee members Nason, St. Peter, MSU professors Dylan Horner, assistant professor of psychology, Penny Craven, assistant professor and program director of school psychology, and Lacey Corneliusen, assistant professor of psychology; Minot State student groups, Psychology Club and Social Work Club, are playing an active role by assisting with event setup, running the check-in tables, and helping host the event. “We're also excited to have our student groups involved, as it allows us to collaborate closely with future professionals and strengthen the bridge between education and practice,” St. Peter added.

The event programming is also offered as continuing education, including continuing education units (CEU) approved for anyone seeking ND POST hours. Nason worked to add CEU to the event as a service to law enforcement throughout the state of North Dakota with the event’s virtual option.

“Law enforcement officers and other first responders would benefit from the symposium,” Nason said. “The symposium draws focus on the issue of job-related stress and mental health. Precipitating and insulating factors, resiliency, and the path forward will be addressed.”

More information on CEUs and the rates for these credits can be found at the Fostering Resilience Symposium’s MSU Marketplace WEBSITE.

HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY IS ONE OF BEST MORTGAGE COMPANIES TO WORK FOR IN 2025 North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) has been ranked as one of the Best Mortgage Companies to Work for by National Mortgage News for 2025.

“We appreciate the recognition as one of the Best Mortgage Companies to Work for again this year,” said Dave Flohr, North Dakota Housing Finance Agency’s Executive Director. “This honor highlights the work our team does day in and day out supporting North Dakotans on their homeownership journey.”

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50 Through its FirstHome™ program, NDHFA assists primarily first-time homebuyers in achieving homeownership by providing low-cost mortgages, down payment and closing cost assistance. Single parents, veterans, and families with disabled or elderly household members can qualify for similar help through HomeAccess. The agency’s North Dakota Roots program assists households who require assistance to buy again or whose income exceeds the limits of the agency’s FirstHome program.

“Our housing partners continue to share our programs with buyers and that led us to help 4,124 individuals and families successfully purchase a home last year.” said Brandon Dettlaff, NDHFA Homeownership Division Director.

Parties interested in the agency’s programs will find information at www.ndhfa.org, including contact information for the Participating Lenders who originate mortgage loans on NDHFA’s behalf and for FirstHome Certified Agents, real estate agents who have exhibited a commitment to assisting homebuyers who may benefit from the agency’s programs.

BENNETT CREATIVE MEDIA IS GROWING ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CREATIVE TREATMENT After years of collaboration, Bennet Creative Media is officially partnering with The Creative Treatment to better serve clients across North Dakota.

Founded by award-winning media producer Matt Fern in 2011, The Creative Treatment has worked on local and national projects for clients such as Adidas, Macy’s, CNN, and Comcast.

Easton Bennett, owner of Bennett Creative Media, has worked alongside Matt for over four years, and their vision for video production and digital media has always aligned.

This partnership allows them to bring even more resources and opportunities to clients while continuing to provide the same high-quality storytelling and service. As part of change, partners may start seeing The Creative Treatment name in their branding, but nothing else is changing, same team, same approach.

Matt and Easton are incredibly excited for what’s ahead and grateful to everyone that has been of this journey. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to easton@bennettcreativemedia.com MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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EXCITING LINEUP TO INSPIRE, EMPOWER AT 2025 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Minot State University and the Minot State Looyenga Leadership Center are pleased to announce Lauren Beane as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Women’s Leadership Conference Saturday, March 22.

The conference is set for the MSU Student Center Conference Center from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. and is free and open to all.

Breakfast and lunch are provided with registration required to ensure an appropriate amount of food and seating is available.

Information and registration are available HERE. The event is sponsored by the Looyenga Leadership Center and is in its second year.

“The Looyenga Leadership Center Women’s Leadership Conference is an opportunity for students to learn, develop their skills, and network right here on campus for free,” said Jim Sturm, director of the Looyenga Leadership Center. “We are happy to be able to provide this type of programming for the campus and community, and hope that students take advantage of these events to further enhance their education and prepare for their professional careers.”

Beane, CEO of Ready Enough, Co., will be joined by featured speakers Megan Langley, founder and executive director of Strengthen ND; Kristi Berg ’95/’00, Minot State professor of business information technology; and Madison Hanson ’24, MSU social work graduate, and current master's degree-seeking student specializing in social change and leadership. “At the Women’s Leadership Conference this year, we have an exciting line-up of speakers to inspire and empower current and emerging leaders,” said Jessica Smestad, MSU Honor’s Program director and leadership development specialist.

Beane is a highly acclaimed TEDx and Top 50 Female Speaker who helps audiences take the leap and believe they are ready enough by offering tools and her personal stories to embrace and own their unique talents.

“Lauren will share with participants how they can be ‘ready enough’ to take action toward their goals, even if they don’t have all of the answers,” added Smestad. “Additionally, Madison will discuss how participants can get involved in civic processes; Megan will provide tools and advice for working with diverse groups; and Kristi will discuss the importance of mentoring. It is our hope that participants can directly apply the learnings from this conference to their own leadership pursuits and organizations/groups. There will also be opportunities for networking with other conference participants.”

The Looyenga Leadership Center was made possible by the generosity of Roger ’68 and Ann Looyenga. In 2019, the Looyengas gifted MSU with $1 million to broaden the University’s academic offerings in the area of leadership. They are passionate about the area of leadership and are committed to ensuring current and future Minot State students have educational opportunities in this important area.

For more information, see the Looyenga Leadership Center WEBSITE. MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC COMMUNICATOR | MARCH 2025

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CITY OF MINOT TO HOST A NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING SERIES Inspired by the Community Satisfaction Survey, the City of Minot will host a series of Neighborhood Meetings in March. The goal is to provide an opportunity to interact as neighbors: Community residents, Council and city project managers.

Each meeting will take place in a different quadrant of the City with a topic assigned using data collected in the 2023 Community Satisfaction Survey. The idea is to host a discussion about the topic most important to that neighborhood. All topics and locations are relevant to the City as a whole and all are welcome at each event.

DATE

LOCATION

TOPIC

March 10

Fire Station 4

Code Enforcement & Community Dev

March 13

Recycling

Sanitation: Landfill & Recycling

March 25

Parker Center

Snow & Ice Action Plan

March 27

Recycling

Public Safety & Legacy City Hall

Each Neighborhood Meeting will also feature a different location host, offering an interior look at many City buildings and departments. Families are welcome to attend. Watch for activity opportunities like planting a flower at the recycling building, as that Neighborhood Meeting falls close to National Plant a Flower Day

AGENCY RECOGNIZES PARTNERS WHO PROMOTE AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) recently awarded six Champions of Affordable Housing awards to loan officers, real estate agents, and lending institutions that promote its homeownership programs.

The state agency provides individuals and families, primarily first-time buyers, with low-cost financing, down payment and closing cost assistance. “NDHFA’s Champion Awards recognize and celebrate the work of the individuals and businesses who go above and beyond to provide North Dakotans with an affordable home,” said Dave Flohr, the agency’s executive director.

Two loan officers, Aaron Stoneberg of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation in Fargo and Greg Dean of First Class Mortgage in Fargo each received a Homeownership Performance Award, recognition for the volume and quality of loans produced. NDHFA also presented two real estate agents with the same award, Aruna G. Hagen of BHGRE Advantage One in West Fargo and Olivia Wellenstein of Continental Real Estate in Dickinson.

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ROTARY CLUB OF MINOT CELEBRATES LOCAL STUDENT’S SUCCESS IN ROTARY 4-WAY TEST ESSAY CONTEST The Rotary Club of Minot is proud to announce that Hope Hauck, a junior at Minot High School, has been recognized as the winner for region #1 in the Rotary District 5580 4-Way Test Essay Contest.

Hope first competed locally, winning the Rotary Club of Minot’s contest and receiving a cash award from the club. Her essay, titled “The Ripple Effect of Volunteering”, was then submitted to the districtlevel competition, where she was selected as the top essayist for Region #1. As a regional winner, she received an additional $150 award from District 5580.

The 4-Way Test Essay Contest challenges high school students in their final two years to reflect on the ethical principles of the Rotary 4-Way Test, which asks: 1. Is it the TRUTH? 2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

“The 4-Way Test is a great way for students to apply ethical decision-making to real-life situations,” said Erika Kelly, president of the Rotary Club of Minot. “We are incredibly proud of Hope for her outstanding essay and for representing our community so well at both the local and regional levels.”

Rotary’s commitment to supporting youth initiatives is central to its mission of service above self. By recognizing student achievements like this, the club encourages young people to develop strong communication skills, think critically about ethics, and engage with their community in meaningful ways.

The Rotary Club of Minot congratulates Hope on her well-earned recognition and looks forward to continuing its support of local students through initiatives like the 4-Way Test Essay Contest.

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MINOT AREA CHAMBER EDC EVENTS AND MEETINGS Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1

2

3

4

5

6

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

Carnegie Center - 105 2nd Avenue Southeast Dinner on the Prairie Planning Meeting 12:00 p.m.

MACEDC Office

9

10

11 Eagle Awards 10:00 a.m.

MACEDC Office

Ambassadors Committee 4:30 p.m.

Staybridge Suites 3009 South Broadway

12

13

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

Carnegie Center - 105 2nd Avenue Southeast

16

23

17

24 Annual Meeting 4:30 p.m.

The Regency Event Center - 105 1st Street Southeast

18

25

8

14

15

Military Affairs Committee 12:00 p.m.

Jimmy Doolittle Center - Minot AFB

Ribbon Cutting 3:00 p.m.

Superior Nutrition & The Street ND 1105 16th Street Southwest

Board of Directors Meeting 7:30 a.m.

MACEDC Office

7 Ribbon Cutting 11:00 a.m.

Prepped LLC - 111 West Central Avenue

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

Carnegie Center - 105 2nd Avenue Southeast

Infrastructure Committee 7:30 a.m.

Homesteaders Restaurant - 2501 Elk Drive

19

20

21

22

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

Carnegie Center - 105 2nd Avenue Southeast

Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Bremer Bank - 1615 36th Avenue Southwest

Ribbon Cutting 3:00 p.m.

Souris Valley Animal Shelter 1935 20th Avenue Southeast

Legislative Forum 9:00 a.m.

North Dakota State Fair Center Norsk Room - 2005 Burdick Expressway East

26

27

28

29

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

Carnegie Center - 105 2nd Avenue Southeast Right Start Presentation 9:25 a.m.

Minot AFB

30

31

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