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December Eagle Award Winners

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December Eagle Award Winners

Posted: Dec 31 2025
December Eagle Award Winners
The Minot Area Chamber EDC is proud to recognize 29 outstanding individuals as December Eagle Award recipients. These honorees were celebrated for their exceptional customer service, positive attitudes, and commitment to going above and beyond in their workplaces and our community. 

This month's winners are: Ali Lenertz- Kiddie Korral 2.0, Kristi Burgess - Don Bessette Motors, Jerry Hanshew - Don Bessette Motors, Christine Staley - Magic City Hoagies & Sweets, Geena Schmidt - Prairie Grit Therapy, Averi Bradley - Prairie Grit Adaptive Sports & Therapy, Katelyn Fornshell - Minot State University, Larry Stenson - Menards, Hayley Timm - Spine & Sport Chiropractic, Abbey Stewart - Marketplace Foods, Caleb Harris - Trinity Health First Response, Jeanette Beck - Washington Elementary School, TJ Decoteau - SERVPRO, Kaylee Morris - Starbucks, Carson Nadeau - Minot Family YMCA, Emilee Helstedt - John Hoeven Elementary School, Craig Haskins - North Prairie Regional Water District, Veronica Davis - Trinity Homes, Katie Ressler - Preferred Partners Real Estate, Adam Kirkhorn - Ryan Buick GMC, Dr. Lexi Lundin - Dakota Kids Dentistry, Nathan Schrum - Arrowhead Ace Hardware, Cheryl Nilsen - Minot State University Volunteer, Tom Hegre & Rhonda Johnson - All America City Glass, Misty Forbes - Glenburn Public School, Mack Lloyd - Trinity Health, Nikki Van Pelt - Trinity Health, Nikita Dospehoff - USAF 5th Civil Engineering Squadron, and Cade Sellers - USAF 5th Civil Engineering Squadron

Do you know someone that deserves an Eagle Award? You can send us your nominations by clicking here.
Finding a daycare can be a stressful experience, and Ali’s nominator used Kiddie Korral 2.0 for all of their children. When faced with the dilemma of needing a spot for the newest member of their family, Ali made sure there was space for the youngest. Ali understood how important it was for this family to have their child attend that specific daycare and went above and beyond to make it happen!
Finding a daycare can be a stressful experience, and Ali’s nominator used Kiddie Korral 2.0 for all of their children. When faced with the dilemma of needing a spot for the newest member of their family, Ali made sure there was space for the youngest. Ali understood how important it was for this family to have their child attend that specific daycare and went above and beyond to make it happen!
Kristi’s nominator absolutely raved about their experience working with her, “Kristi is a kind, knowledgeable, dynamic go getter. She listens to the customer and provides excellent customer service so the customer is completely satisfied.” Awesome job, Kristi!
Kristi’s nominator absolutely raved about their experience working with her, “Kristi is a kind, knowledgeable, dynamic go getter. She listens to the customer and provides excellent customer service so the customer is completely satisfied.” Awesome job, Kristi!
Jerry’s nominator was incredibly pleased after working with him, saying “Jerry provides excellent customer service by listening to the customer. He obtains the necessary parts and implements an efficient plan to have them installed. He is an asset to his employer.”
Jerry’s nominator was incredibly pleased after working with him, saying “Jerry provides excellent customer service by listening to the customer. He obtains the necessary parts and implements an efficient plan to have them installed. He is an asset to his employer.”
“During the recent SNAP shutdown, Christine, owner of Magic City Hoagies, stepped up for our community by opening up her business to feed anyone in need, no questions asked. Her kindness, generosity and commitment to making sure families didn’t go without a meal reflect the very best of what our community stands for. She didn’t just provide food; she provided comfort, dignity, and hope during a stressful and uncertain time.”
“During the recent SNAP shutdown, Christine, owner of Magic City Hoagies, stepped up for our community by opening up her business to feed anyone in need, no questions asked. Her kindness, generosity and commitment to making sure families didn’t go without a meal reflect the very best of what our community stands for. She didn’t just provide food; she provided comfort, dignity, and hope during a stressful and uncertain time.”
Averi works with many students, and one of their families took note of her demeanor, her teaching abilities, and amazing attitude. “Averi is full of positivity and kindness and is a tremendous advocate for the kids she works with. She is an inviting, trustworthy, welcoming presence for our son and his peers. Knowing our son has the support of people like Averi brings us immense comfort, and we’re lucky to have her in our lives.”
Averi works with many students, and one of their families took note of her demeanor, her teaching abilities, and amazing attitude. “Averi is full of positivity and kindness and is a tremendous advocate for the kids she works with. She is an inviting, trustworthy, welcoming presence for our son and his peers. Knowing our son has the support of people like Averi brings us immense comfort, and we’re lucky to have her in our lives.”
Geena’s nominator was impresed by her “exceptional dedication and care as my son’s occupational therapist. She takes time to help our son understand himself better and works tirelessly to help him overcome challenges. Her sessions are more than therapy, they are moments where our son feels seen, supported, and celebrated for who he is.”
Geena’s nominator was impresed by her “exceptional dedication and care as my son’s occupational therapist. She takes time to help our son understand himself better and works tirelessly to help him overcome challenges. Her sessions are more than therapy, they are moments where our son feels seen, supported, and celebrated for who he is.”
Katelyn always goes above and beyond for her students in the communication sciences and disorders program at MSU. One family says she has been a blessing, helping their son grow and find his voice through language. Their son’s success is because of her care, encouragement, and genuine dedication.
Katelyn always goes above and beyond for her students in the communication sciences and disorders program at MSU. One family says she has been a blessing, helping their son grow and find his voice through language. Their son’s success is because of her care, encouragement, and genuine dedication.
“I was a customer at Menards when I encountered Larry and asked for a specific item. Larry immediately engaged with me asking specific questions about color, size, and what it was used for. He was extremely professional and knew exactly what I needed and where it was located. He was helpful, engaged and professional in helping me with what I needed.”
“I was a customer at Menards when I encountered Larry and asked for a specific item. Larry immediately engaged with me asking specific questions about color, size, and what it was used for. He was extremely professional and knew exactly what I needed and where it was located. He was helpful, engaged and professional in helping me with what I needed.”
“From the minute you walk into Spine and Sports Chiropractic the care you receive is top of the line. Hailey is at the front desk and is so kind and really gets to know everyone that comes in and talks to you like she’s known you for years. One day I was in so much pain, and she moved schedules around to get me in quickly and even helped me from the parking lot to inside the clinic when I arrived without me even asking for help.”
“From the minute you walk into Spine and Sports Chiropractic the care you receive is top of the line. Hailey is at the front desk and is so kind and really gets to know everyone that comes in and talks to you like she’s known you for years. One day I was in so much pain, and she moved schedules around to get me in quickly and even helped me from the parking lot to inside the clinic when I arrived without me even asking for help.”
Abbey’s nominator was grateful that she was the Birthday Party Hero for their child. “Abbey made a special cake for my son’s birthday, but after a mishap the cake was completely smashed on the way home. Reaching back out to Marketplace and explaining what happened, Abbey, without hesitation, made up another cake even though she was completely booked with other cake orders. She went above and beyond with her customer service and positive attitude. It’s individuals like her that make the world a better place!”
Abbey’s nominator was grateful that she was the Birthday Party Hero for their child. “Abbey made a special cake for my son’s birthday, but after a mishap the cake was completely smashed on the way home. Reaching back out to Marketplace and explaining what happened, Abbey, without hesitation, made up another cake even though she was completely booked with other cake orders. She went above and beyond with her customer service and positive attitude. It’s individuals like her that make the world a better place!”
Caleb provided EMS services for the BurliMOT Half Marathon and 5K event in Minot. He was ready for anything, jumped into action when needed, and made sure everyone was well and feeling right when they completed the race. His nominator especially appreciated the enthusiasm and unwavering support he had for the community of runners. Great job, Caleb!
Caleb provided EMS services for the BurliMOT Half Marathon and 5K event in Minot. He was ready for anything, jumped into action when needed, and made sure everyone was well and feeling right when they completed the race. His nominator especially appreciated the enthusiasm and unwavering support he had for the community of runners. Great job, Caleb!
“My son has autism and Mrs. Beck has been phenomenal from day one with him. She is so kind and treats my child with respect every day. She makes every kiddo feel loved and like a family.”
“My son has autism and Mrs. Beck has been phenomenal from day one with him. She is so kind and treats my child with respect every day. She makes every kiddo feel loved and like a family.”
TJ’s nominator was incredibly thankful that he and his team offered a quick and knowledgeable fix to their problem. “We had home water damage and TJ and crew showed up on a Saturday and worked long hours to save our house from further water damage. He was thorough and very informative of the process.”
TJ’s nominator was incredibly thankful that he and his team offered a quick and knowledgeable fix to their problem. “We had home water damage and TJ and crew showed up on a Saturday and worked long hours to save our house from further water damage. He was thorough and very informative of the process.”
“I had such a great experience at the Broadway Starbucks. The barista, Kaylee, provided amazing customer service. She is always so friendly, upbeat, and makes sure my order is just right. Thank you for making my morning brighter!”
“I had such a great experience at the Broadway Starbucks. The barista, Kaylee, provided amazing customer service. She is always so friendly, upbeat, and makes sure my order is just right. Thank you for making my morning brighter!”
“Emilee has gone above and beyond for my daughter and her class. She has helped our daughter with emotional issues and provides extra comfort for her and her peers. We are so happy with the teacher she was assigned this year.”
“Emilee has gone above and beyond for my daughter and her class. She has helped our daughter with emotional issues and provides extra comfort for her and her peers. We are so happy with the teacher she was assigned this year.”
A family that frequents the YMCA pool daily wants to recognize Carson for going above and beyond to make their experience welcoming, safe, and fun every time. He stays on top of pool safety, consistently checking chemicals and ensuring all swimmers are safe. His dedication, friendliness, and care for every guest really makes him stand out.
A family that frequents the YMCA pool daily wants to recognize Carson for going above and beyond to make their experience welcoming, safe, and fun every time. He stays on top of pool safety, consistently checking chemicals and ensuring all swimmers are safe. His dedication, friendliness, and care for every guest really makes him stand out.
“For a college assignment I had to conduct an informational interview with a leader in the water industry field. Craig made time in his busy schedule and offered clear insight into his responsibilities, the challenges of the water industry, and his path to leadership. His guidance had a real impact on me and his encouragement and clarity strengthened my interest in pursuing this field and gave me confidence in my next steps.”
“For a college assignment I had to conduct an informational interview with a leader in the water industry field. Craig made time in his busy schedule and offered clear insight into his responsibilities, the challenges of the water industry, and his path to leadership. His guidance had a real impact on me and his encouragement and clarity strengthened my interest in pursuing this field and gave me confidence in my next steps.”
“She always has a very welcoming aura and bright beautiful smile on her face. She is always interacting with the residents and making them happy and comfortable,” says a family with a resident at Trinity Homes. Awesome work and positive attitude, Veronica!
“She always has a very welcoming aura and bright beautiful smile on her face. She is always interacting with the residents and making them happy and comfortable,” says a family with a resident at Trinity Homes. Awesome work and positive attitude, Veronica!
Katie’s nominator moved from Florida and needed to find a house. “Katie went above and beyond. Not only did she take her time in our virtual viewings of houses, she even walked around the neighborhood and explained things in the area. When we finally got to Minot, we felt like we already knew our home. There were no surprises, and the neighborhood was exactly what she showed us. Katie made everything so effortless and we are grateful for her.”
Katie’s nominator moved from Florida and needed to find a house. “Katie went above and beyond. Not only did she take her time in our virtual viewings of houses, she even walked around the neighborhood and explained things in the area. When we finally got to Minot, we felt like we already knew our home. There were no surprises, and the neighborhood was exactly what she showed us. Katie made everything so effortless and we are grateful for her.”
Adam’s nominator says, “Adam went out of his way to understand my vehicle problem, got it scheduled for service, and followed up with what repairs were made. He did a super job in satisfying the customer.”
Adam’s nominator says, “Adam went out of his way to understand my vehicle problem, got it scheduled for service, and followed up with what repairs were made. He did a super job in satisfying the customer.”
Dr. Lundin’s nominator is a parent of a patient and says, “My son is autistic, and Dr. Lundin showed kindness during his dental surgery. She made us all feel safe, informed, and cared for. She calmed my nerves with her patience and down-to-earth approach.”
Dr. Lundin’s nominator is a parent of a patient and says, “My son is autistic, and Dr. Lundin showed kindness during his dental surgery.  She made us all feel safe, informed, and cared for. She calmed my nerves with her patience and down-to-earth approach.”
“Nathan helps me with anything and everything we need every time we come into Ace Hardware. My husband is visually impaired, and Nathan always knows what he needs. He goes above and beyond.”
“Nathan helps me with anything and everything we need every time we come into Ace Hardware. My husband is visually impaired, and Nathan always knows what he needs. He goes above and beyond.”
Cheryl’s nominator was grateful for her knowledge and patience while helping study for a stressful time – finals week. “Cheryl spent 3 months helping me prepare for a final math exam. She was there for me in the mornings and evenings at least twice a week. When I had doubts, she reminded me of my progress and motivated me to keep going. She extended empathy and kindness to ensure I graduated. She helped me succeed in a way I did not even think possible.”
Cheryl’s nominator was grateful for her knowledge and patience while helping study for a stressful time – finals week. “Cheryl spent 3 months helping me prepare for a final math exam. She was there for me in the mornings and evenings at least twice a week. When I had doubts, she reminded me of my progress and motivated me to keep going. She extended empathy and kindness to ensure I graduated. She helped me succeed in a way I did not even think possible.”
“Nikki was working in Trinity’s ER when there was a very uncomfortable situation with a patient experiencing a mental health crisis that involved security staff and law enforcement. Nikki went to nearby rooms, calmly closed the doors, and reassured patients and visitors that they were safe until the situation was under control. She then stepped in and de-escalated the situation that no one else had been able to manage or control. She approached the whole situation with patience, empathy, and genuine care – not only for the individual in crisis but also for surrounding visitors and patients. Trinity should be proud to have her on their team.”
“Nikki was working in Trinity’s ER when there was a very uncomfortable situation with a patient experiencing a mental health crisis that involved security staff and law enforcement. Nikki went to nearby rooms, calmly closed the doors, and reassured patients and visitors that they were safe until the situation was under control. She then stepped in and de-escalated the situation that no one else had been able to manage or control. She approached the whole situation with patience, empathy, and genuine care – not only for the individual in crisis but also for surrounding visitors and patients. Trinity should be proud to have her on their team.”
Misty’s nominator raved that Misty helped their daughter conquer her fear of going down the slide on the playground in the way that made the most sense: by literally going down the slide with her. “Misty is always full of energy and smiles every time we see her in the halls and truly seems to love her job.”
Misty’s nominator raved that Misty helped their daughter conquer her fear of going down the slide on the playground in the way that made the most sense: by literally going down the slide with her. “Misty is always full of energy and smiles every time we see her in the halls and truly seems to love her job.”
“All around amazing customer service. From the moment you call, you are greeted with kindness from Rhonda. Service is quick and the quality is amazing. This small Minot business deserves a shout out! Keep up the great work.”
“All around amazing customer service. From the moment you call, you are greeted with kindness from Rhonda. Service is quick and the quality is amazing. This small Minot business deserves a shout out! Keep up the great work.”
Mack’s nominator writes, “Our young daughter had surgery and Mack walked into pre-op room super friendly. He walked her through everything that was going on and let her watch a movie on his phone. He kept her calm and comfortable so they could take her into surgery without her crying or being scared.”
Mack’s nominator writes, “Our young daughter had surgery and Mack walked into pre-op room super friendly. He walked her through everything that was going on and let her watch a movie on his phone. He kept her calm and comfortable so they could take her into surgery without her crying or being scared.”
Cade was on-scene for an injury crash that the Minot Police Department responded to. He remained with the driver until officers arrived, provided helpful information in the investigation, and assisted officers with clearing debris from the roadway. Cade’s actions exemplify the Air Force core values of “Service Before Self” and “Excellence in All We Do.”
Cade was on-scene for an injury crash that the Minot Police Department responded to. He remained with the driver until officers arrived, provided helpful information in the investigation, and assisted officers with clearing debris from the roadway. Cade’s actions exemplify the Air Force core values of “Service Before Self” and “Excellence in All We Do.”
Nikita was on-scene for an injury crash that the Minot Police Department responded to. He remained with the driver until officers arrived, provided helpful information in the investigation, and assisted officers with clearing debris from the roadway. Nikita’s actions exemplify the Air Force core values of “Service Before Self” and “Excellence in All We Do.”
Nikita was on-scene for an injury crash that the Minot Police Department responded to. He remained with the driver until officers arrived, provided helpful information in the investigation, and assisted officers with clearing debris from the roadway. Nikita’s actions exemplify the Air Force core values of “Service Before Self” and “Excellence in All We Do.”
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