The Mandan Progress Organization was established in the mid-1900s as a forum for businesses and citizens to unite to help Mandan thrive.  Our mission is to enhance Mandan's business climate, create and promote public events and generate community pride.  MPO endeavors complement those of the City of Mandan, Mandan Park District, Mandan Public School District and Morton County as well as other organizations including the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber of Commerce and Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau.  

FUTURE GOALS:

1) Mandan Merchant Coupon Booklet

2) Coordinate additional downtown activities

3) Improve and promote the Mandan Bucks program

4) Foster joint marketing efforts amongst Mandan businesses

  ANNUAL MEETING HELD  JAN. 23, 2012

President Ann Kirchmeier reported on 2011 accomplishments and goals for 2012 

Greg Eckes was honored as 2011 Volunteer of the Year for volunteering his services with the MPO.  Greg has been a business member for 15 years, served on the Santa's Arrival/Shop Hop committee & has worked numerous Mandan Progress Organization events.  He is on the MPO Board of Directors and the Heritage Plaza Foundation Board. 

Kupper-Chevrolet was named the 2011 Business of the Year.  They have been business members for 18 years and sponsored events such as the Mandan Rodeo, All Class Reunion, Buggies-n-Blues, Wild West Grill Fest.  Kupper-Chevrolet was a corporate sponsor in 2011 for the Mandan 4th of July Parade.  They donate to many school and civic organizations and promote Military Appreciation Day.

 
WORLD RECORDS ACADEMY CERTIFICATE

Independence Day Parade & Festival has established a new WORLD RECORD for the Largest Twist Dance. The event was organized by the 2011 Mandan Parade Committee.  The world record was sponsored by Awesome 2 Products, Kupper-Chevrolet Subaru, Security First Bank, COOL 98.7, Mandan Guaranty & Title, Maple River Winery, Mandan Progress Organization, & City of Mandan.  More info can be found online at www.worldrecordsacademy.org

2012 Board of Directors

President: Arlyn Van Beek, Central Market

Past President: Ann Kirchmeier, Dakota Community Bank

Vice President: Al Kuntz, Hirsch Florist & Gifts

Secretary: Rhonda Mahlum, Mahlum Goodhart PC

Treasurer: Greg Eckes, Gate City Bank

Other Directors:

Kirsten Baesler, Mandan Public School District

Jeff Erickson, Security First Bank

Dennis Rohr, Citizen

Bruce Strinden, Morton County Commission

Gene Veil, Coast to Coast

Mike Zerr, Mandan Parks & Rec.

Jay Simes, Simes Graphic Design

Marlo Anderson, Awesome 2 Products

Ex-Officio:

Ellen Huber, Mandan Business Development