Local businesses team up to host first responder appreciation dinner
M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
McKenzie County’s first responders will be honored at a special appreciation dinner on March 8, 2025.
The by-invitation event, organized by a coalition of local businesses, aims to revive a tradition of recognizing the dedication and service of law enforcement, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, corrections officers, and administrative staff.
The initiative began with Continental Resources and quickly gained support from TTK Enterprises, Lund Oil Inc., Arriba Production Services, and Bakken Supply.
Charlce Trevena of Continental Resources explained that the idea stemmed from a desire to thank first responders, particularly for their efforts during the October fires. The event will be invitation-only, exclusively for first responders and their families. “We wanted to do some sort of a thank you for the first responders that were involved with all of the fires in October,” Trevena said. “And then it just kind of progressed from there.”
The evening will feature a dinner, a “Battle of the Badges” cornhole tournament, and music provided by DJ Pigmy.
A highlight of the event will be the presentation of First Responder of the Year awards in six categories: Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, Fire Fighter of the Year, EMS of the Year, Dispatcher of the Year, Corrections Officer of the Year, and Administrative Staff of the Year. Nominations for these awards were accepted until January 31, and winners were selected by a committee.
Trevena noted that the event is a collaborative effort, with each of the participating businesses contributing to make the evening special for the first responders. “Just the combination of all these companies kind of coming together, we’ve decided, you know, just to take this on,” she said. The organizers hope the dinner will not only express gratitude for the first responders’ service, but also provide an opportunity for camaraderie and relaxation. “Our main goal is just to express our gratitude, and hopefully they enjoy it,” Trevena added. The involved businesses intend to continue this tradition annually.
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