Submitted Photo On hand for the presentation of the Impact Award for Outstanding Military Support to Minot State University are, from left, Brekka Kramer, president/CEO of Minot Area Chamber EDC; Col. Jesse Lamarand, commander of the 5th Bomb Wing; Gov. Kelly Armstrong; MSU President Steve Shirley; Col. Jimmy Schlabach, commander of the 91st Missile Wing; and MACEDC Board Chair Ryan Ackerman. MSU received one of four Impact Awards presented March 24. Photo from MACEDC.

Four recipients received annual Impact Awards during the 2025 annual meeting of the Minot Area Chamber EDC on Monday.

The Impact Award for Outstanding Military Support was given to Minot State University. Minot Air Force Base Leaders Col. Jesse Lamarand, commander of the 5th Bomb Wing, and Col. Jimmy Schlabach, commander of the 91st Missile Wing joined in the award’s presentation.

“Minot State University has been a cornerstone of our community for more than 100 years. The connection to the community runs deep and their support of military is unwavering,” MACEDC President/CEO Brekka Kramer said. “They not only hosted numerous military appreciation events, the university opened events and all games to military members for free.”

Atypical Brewery and Barrelworks received the Impact Award for Outstanding Small Business. Recipients of this award are known for making big moves in the community, consistently showing support even with a smaller staff and resources.

“Atypical is a business that has added a great destination to our community and to downtown Minot,” said MACEDC Board Chair Ryan Ackerman. “Who would have thought we would be enjoying time in the middle of winter in an igloo! This small business is a unique addition to Minot and brings visitors from all over to enjoy the flavors of their creations while being in an atmosphere of inclusivity that revolves around an artistic vibe. They support numerous organizations throughout the year raising funds with their special events.”

SCHEELS was presented with the Impact Award for Outstanding Community Impact. This award is all-encompassing – highlighting a business or organization that has a major impact on the Minot area.

“What sets SCHEELS apart is a strong dedication to people by empowering associates, providing first-class customer service and giving back to local communities,” Kramer said. “Their investment in the community truly runs deep and their legacy of exceptional customer service is something we see weaved into our community each and every day. They invest in big ways, whether it be the Magic City Discovery Center to the complex on Minot’s South Hill, where fastpitch softball, T-ball and baseball players all have state-of-the-art facilities, thanks to their employee-owned store.”

The Impact Award for Outstanding Leadership was presented to Dean Aberle, owner of Homesteaders Restaurant. This award honors an individual who sets an example and paves the way to help make the

Minot area a more prosperous place.

“This year’s recipient is one who does not seek the spotlight. Whenever someone needs a meal, a gift certificate or pretty much anything, he is there with a ‘You bet!’,” Ackerman said. “The numerous stories shared of support for events from hosting local teams and stepping in even at the busiest of times, Dean can pull the event off without a hitch. The business he runs in our Minot community is an absolute staple.”