The December Economy at a Glance is now available. Some data of note include:
The McKenzie County Community Foundation (MCCF) recently distributed $13,180 in grants to seven local charitable organizations as part of their annual initiative to support the community. The recipients this year include the Long X Arts Foundation for their Missoula Children’s Theatre program, the Benefit Fund of McKenzie County Healthcare Systems for an Infant Bereavement Program and Chronic Care Management Program, Watford City Park District for remote control car kits for youth programming, Alexander Youth Wrestling Club, Bakken Oil Rush Ministry for their annual Toy Mall, and Watford City Youth Basketball.
The MCCF aims to contribute well-being of the community by providing financial assistance to diverse local groups. Read more on the McKenzie County Farmer story here and visit their website for more information.
Click here to read the 2023 annual year end report for the Small Business Development Centers in North Dakota (SBDC) – Williston Regional Center.
The McKenzie County Job Development Authority (JDA) approved the first applications for the Home Builder Construction Loan Program which will provide participation funding for four single-family homes in Watford City. The JDA Home Builder Construction Loan Program is a $4.5 million revolving loan program that was approved in June 2023 and incentivizes builders to build 2-6 houses at a reduced construction loan interest rate. To learn more about this program, click here.
Did you know that Visit Watford City and McKenzie County Tourism offer an online Hospitality Training series? This five-part series of training videos are designed for both hospitality industry professionals and employees that interact with the general public. It is also a great tool for any employee or resident that is new to the area. The five episodes will give you a better understanding of the attractions in and around Watford City, along with educating you on all the online tools available. Through this course, individuals will gain a deeper understanding of our culture, attractions and how to use the hospitality tools effectively. This added knowledge will lift up the employee’s customer service by now being able to answer “What is there to do?”.
Upon completion of the training, individuals will receive a button, a canvas bag, a Watford City pen, a small notebook, and $20 in Chamber Bucks (money you can spend only at stores in Watford City). To receive these incentives, make sure to complete the simple quiz at the end of each video. Once all the quizzes are completed, you can stop by the Long X Visitor Center at 100 2nd Ave SW to pick up your items.
Click here to start the Online Hospitality Training series and get your prizes today!
Marigold Consulting is a locally owned and operated Human Resources (HR) consulting business that was created to provide exceptional HR services to businesses in western North Dakota. Marigold Consulting’s goal is to translate the mission and vision of an organization in to actionable HR strategies that serve stakeholders while maintaining that human capital is an organization’s most valuable asset.
For more information about Marigold Consulting and its list of services, email Carissa Suter.
On November 8, the Watford City High School held their second Cultural Fair at the Rough Rider Center where over 30 different cultures and 25 nations shared mouth-watering global cuisines, dances, conversation and culture. It was an event attendees won’t forget and was a great celebration of the rich, cultural melting pot of Watford City!
Click here to watch the Watford City High School Cultural Fair recap.
The Alexander Comets football team had a great and historic season this year. Finishing the season 8-2, the Comets made the North Dakota 9-man football playoffs for the first time in over 40 years. Although the Comets came up short in an epic overtime battle against the Hettinger County Huskies in Round 1 of the 9-man playoffs, the team brought success and pride back to their community. Congratulations on a great year!
Follow this link to watch a short video highlighting the October 21 playoff game in Alexander versus the Hettinger County Huskies.
Vision West ND’s Housing Committee has created a document that highlights federal, state and local programs that aim to increase access to safe, affordable housing in North Dakota. The highlighted programs and resources are meant to spread existing information, spur new ideas for local communities, increase affordability and empower aspiring homeowners. From federal grants and state-level initiatives to community-driven solutions, this document serves as a resource for those seeking to make a difference in the realm of housing access.
To view the Improving and Expanding Housing Access in North Dakota document, click here.
Keith Olson of the North Dakota Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has achieved the prestigious Certified Business Exit Consultant (CBEC) Designation from the International Exit Planning Association. Olson’s accomplishment solidifies his position as a leading exit planner in the state and nation. The CBEC designation reflects his dedication and expertise in exit planning, enhancing the ND SBDC’s ability to support clients in achieving long-term success. Olson’s certification contributes to the state’s strength in this field, benefiting businesses and entrepreneurs. For more information on ND SBDC programs, visit this website. To learn more on Olson’s award, click here.
