At the North Dakota Tourism Conference, key voices gathered to paint a picture of the region’s unique attractions, collaborative spirit, and burgeoning tourism landscape. The conversation was spearheaded by Doug Bolken, joined by Peggy Hellandsaas, Amy Krueger, Kiera Fox, and Sara Otte Coleman, who shared their insights and initiatives to elevate the area’s tourism profile.

Doug Bolken with McKenzie County Tourism/Visit Watford City, the orchestrator of this conversation, highlighted the overlooked charm of Western North Dakota. He emphasized the collective efforts to showcase the region as a standout destination rather than a mere stopover. The focus is on turning places like Wofford City into vacation hubs, inviting tourists to explore its rich cultural and historical offerings before they journey to places like Medora or the upcoming Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library.

Peggy Hellandsaas, owner of Tobacco Gardens Resort and Marina, provided a delightful insight into her long-standing establishment. Known for its serene beauty and family-owned charm, Tobacco Gardens offers camping, fishing, and vibrant summer events that make it a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Sakakawea. Peggy’s enthusiasm for her “slice of paradise” is infectious, inviting visitors to experience a genuine taste of North Dakota hospitality.

Amy Krueger took center stage to discuss Williston’s transformation over the past decade. She highlighted the town’s expanding accommodation choices and new infrastructure, including a modern airport. Williston has positioned itself as a convenient entry point for Canadian visitors and an alluring destination with its diverse dining options, from Hawaiian to Turkish cuisine, appealing to an array of tastes.

Finally, Kiera Fox and Sara Otte Coleman further underscored the spirit of collaboration within the region. Kiera, the acting director for MHA Tourism, warmly welcomed visitors to engage with the culture-rich MHA Nation, while Sara, the Director of North Dakota Tourism, emphasized the strategic direction and ambitions for North Dakota Tourism. Together, they painted a future where the region’s wide-open spaces, rich cultural heritage, and sustainable initiatives attract a broader audience.

In conclusion, the North Dakota Tourism Conference showcased a vibrant dialogue committed to fostering unity, promoting sustainability, and enticing visitors to uncover the multifaceted experience that Western North Dakota offers. The participants’ passion and dedication portray a hopeful and exciting future, where the region becomes synonymous with adventure, culture, and relaxation.

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

As we settle into Spring in McKenzie County and Watford City, the promise of an engaging summer filled with exciting activities and opportunities for all ages entices us all to start making plans. In this episode of “Living in McKenzie County,” hosted by Vawnita Best, we uncover the abundance of recreational activities available and meet the dedicated individuals who make these experiences possible.

The episode introduces three key figures who are integral to the summer excitement: Krystal Pickelsimer, Tony Carmichael, and Brent Schwan. Each brings a unique perspective and enthusiasm for their roles in the community. Krystal Pickelsimer, a familiar name in the Watford City community, is the Recreation Manager for Watford City Parks and Rec. Having grown up in Watford City, she returned to take up the role of managing a plethora of programs that aim to engage both youth and adults in fun and learning. From dynamic summer excursions to extensive softball leagues, Krystal ensures there’s something for everyone.

Tony Carmichael, the Golf Professional and General Manager at Fox Hills Golf Course, has witnessed and catalyzed a revolution on the greens. A personal journey has seen him through teaching and managing across various locations, leading him to Fox Hills and Watford City, where he’s driving the growth of a vibrant junior golf program among other initiatives. His dedication is not only shaping better golfers but also fostering life skills and etiquette among the young golfers in the region.

Finally, Brent Schwan takes us through the McKenzie County Sportsman’s Club, a hidden gem offering a range of shooting sports. Brent brings a deep familiarity with the area, having transitioned from a game warden to playing a pivotal role in the club’s expansion and diversification. From trap and rim fire shooting to an indoor archery facility, Brent emphasizes how the club is a hub for developing competitive skills and fostering a love for shooting sports.

The podcast encapsulates the essence of the Watford City and McKenzie County ethos: a strong community serving as the backbone for a thriving, active lifestyle. Vawnita Best and her guests highlight the seamless blend of passion, community support, and rich offerings that make summer in McKenzie County a season to look forward to. From golfing to adventures at the Rough Rider Center and days spent exploring the wild outdoors or engaging in community events like the Watford Market, the county is primed to turn every moment into a cherished memory.

 

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

In the heart of McKenzie County, a vibrant celebration of diversity and community is thriving. The recent episode of the Living in McKenzie County podcast, hosted by Jessie Veeder Scofield, highlights the upcoming Cultural and Food Fair, an event that has become a cornerstone of cultural exchange in this North Dakota community. On March 25th, the town will gather at the Watford City High School to partake in an event characterized by vibrant cultures, culinary arts, and community connection.

The Cultural Fair, now in its fourth year, is a testament to the dedication of the Long X Arts Foundation, Watford City High School, and the larger community. Jessie is joined by key participants like Amy Polivka, the student council advisor, and students like Maxwell Hansen and Kyra Delgado, who are instrumental in organizing the event. They discuss the rich multicultural tapestry of Watford City, where more than 22 different cultures are represented, adding depth and diversity to the community.

Amy Polivka shares how the student-driven initiative began, underscoring the importance of student leadership in making the cultural fair a success. The involvement of foreign exchange students and local community members, including participants like Gloria Asare, has elevated the event, making it a beloved tradition. Gloria, with a passion for sharing her West African heritage, highlights how food serves as a universal language, breaking down barriers and fostering connections.

The impact of this cultural exchange isn’t limited to food and dance; it’s about fostering genuine relationships and understanding. The fair has catalyzed further initiatives and recognition, with the students even invited to share their success stories at the state level. This exemplifies how a local event can inspire change and encourage inclusivity, setting a model for other communities.

In closing, the episode reflects on the profound impact the Cultural Fair has on Watford City, fostering a community where everyone feels at home. It’s not just about the event itself but about the lasting connections and understanding it cultivates. The podcast serves as an invitation to experience this unique celebration and witness firsthand the power of cultural exchange in strengthening community bonds.

 

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

 

The latest episode of Living in McKenzie County podcast welcomes listeners to an engaging discussion on Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) programs and their impact on workforce development in McKenzie County. Hosted by Vawnita Best, Community and Business Development Director for The City of Watford City, the episode gathers insights from Nikki Darrington, District Conservationist for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; Chelsea Bulzomi, Owner and Practice Manager at Legendary Smiles; and Susan Granrud, Region 1 Director at Job Service North Dakota in Williston. Listen as they share their experiences and perspectives on cultivating future talent through CWE and job services partnerships.

One of the key takeaways from the episode is the importance of early career exploration for students. The speakers emphasize starting career discussions as early as middle school, providing opportunities for students to discover various career paths and align their education with potential job interests. Chelsea Bulzomi highlights the value of job shadowing, explaining how it allows students to pivot and refine their career aspirations before committing to long-term education plans. This proactive approach is not just about filling current job vacancies, but also about shaping a future workforce that can adeptly meet the unique needs of the community.

Nikki Darrington discusses the competitive edge that CWE programs bring to local businesses by growing a skilled workforce. She shares how engaging students early on can lead to successful long-term employment, citing her own experience with CWE students who have returned to work after college. The conversation underscores the role of employers in providing a nurturing environment where students can gain practical experience, learn about different roles within an industry, and feel a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Susan Granrud from Job Service North Dakota sheds light on how they are working tirelessly to connect job seekers with employers throughout the state. Her insights illustrate the broader economic landscape and how innovative hiring solutions are needed to address challenges like aging workforce demographics and industry-specific skill shortages. Job service initiatives, such as utilizing federal programs to assist employers and job seekers, are pivotal in bridging gaps and driving economic growth in the region.

In conclusion, the episode serves as a rallying call for employers, parents, and educators in McKenzie County to collaborate in creating a nurturing, opportunity-rich environment for young people to thrive. By investing in CWE programs and understanding the evolving needs of the workforce, the community can build a stronger, more resilient economic future. The guests leave listeners with a sense of optimism and a reminder that investing in the next generation is a shared responsibility that starts with simple conversations and supportive partnerships.

Resources from this episode:

• CWE Business Application
• Job Service North Dakota
• Golden Path Solutions
• North Dakota CTE Worked Based Learning

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.

In the latest episode of “Living in McKenzie County,” host Daniel Stenberg dives into an insightful discussion on the Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) program, a long-standing initiative within the community that offers high school seniors a remarkable opportunity to enhance their career readiness. Daniel is joined by three enthusiastic students from the program, Aidan Pelton, Addison George, and Kollin Klang, as well as Jill Leach, the work-based learning coordinator. Their conversations shed light on how CWE provides students with practical, hands-on experiences that align with their career goals, bridging the gap between educational aspirations and real-world applications.

The CWE program, as explained by Jill Leach, begins engaging students as early as their junior year, preparing them for senior year placements. Students are introduced to a variety of career pathways through career fairs and interviews, culminating in meaningful internships within the community. The students shared their experiences, from Addison George’s role in the emergency room fueling her passion for pediatric cardiology to Aidan Pelton’s exploration of finance and law, each story reflecting a personal journey of growth and discovery.

Participating in CWE allows students to refine their career objectives, as they quickly learn what they enjoy doing and what doesn’t quite suit them. Addison highlights the impact of experiencing an ER environment, which solidified her healthcare ambitions. Meanwhile, Aidan and Kollin are discovering facets of marketing and finance that resonate with their long-term career plans. This practical exposure enables students to navigate their futures with confidence, mitigating the costly trial-and-error that often occurs when career decisions are deferred until college.

Beyond individual benefits, Daniel and the guests discuss the broader value CWE brings to the community. Businesses not only gain fresh perspectives and skills from energetic young minds, but they also play a pivotal role in nurturing potential future employees who might return after completing their studies. This reciprocal relationship fosters a sense of community pride and continuity, effectively contributing to the local economy and workforce.

As the episode concludes, the key takeaway is clear: CWE is a beneficial program for both students and employers, creating a collaborative win-win situation. It highlights the importance of dedication, work ethic, and curiosity in the workplace, suggesting that with the right mindset, high school students can significantly contribute to their community while crafting their career paths. This episode of “Living in McKenzie County” not only encourages students to embrace available opportunities early on but also urges local businesses to actively participate and support the next generation of professionals.

 

‘Living in McKenzie County’ is a multi-platform content series co-hosted by McKenzie County Economic Development Director Daniel Stenberg, and City of Watford City Community and Business Development Director Vawnita Best. It is produced and directed by Brock White, City of Watford City Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Emanating from The Studio at Long X, new episodes drop the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.