In the latest episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast, the spotlight is on the bustling McKenzie County Ag Expo. Host Vawnita Best brings together an engaging panel including Ag Expo Director Chris Kubal, McKenzie County Commission President & Ag Expo Foundation President Howdy Lawlar, and Jessica Hollenbeck, marketing director with Lund Oil, to explore how this dynamic facility has become a centerpiece of community life and economic development. This episode dives deep into the origins and ongoing success of the Ag Expo, highlighting its role in bringing residents together and fostering a sense of unity and pride in McKenzie County.
Listeners will learn how the Ag Expo serves as a multipurpose venue, hosting everything from livestock shows to weddings, motorcross events, and even monster truck rallies. Jess Hollenbeck of Lund Oil and community leaders like Kubal and Lawlar share insights on the vital partnerships and sponsorships that enable the Expo to offer world-class events at affordable prices. This collaboration not only enriches community life but also serves as a powerful tool for employee recruitment and retention, demonstrating the interconnectedness of the county’s economic and social landscapes.
This episode also touches on the broader impact of the Ag Expo, as it plays a critical part in the county’s strategy to use its unique funding streams, like gross production tax revenue from the oil and gas industry, to benefit the local population. The podcast guests emphasize the importance of investing in infrastructure and facilities that enhance quality of life, which in turn attracts more families and businesses to the area. Overall, this episode of the Living in McKenzie County Podcast captures the spirit of collaboration and forward-thinking that propels this vibrant community forward.
‘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.