Our vision is for North Dakota to be seen as the people living here see it: an elemental place full of energy and life. It is a place where great innovation happens and the people aren’t resigned to simply living out a marginal existence. National media seems to have latched on to the cliches of the “haunting images” of our dying rural communities and the diaspora of our youth. How much of this is our fault? We encourage these images in our arts but cry foul when it is the focus of these news features.
This ambitious project will explore the state leaving no stone unturned. From corner to corner, the industry, community, events, landscape, and unique character of every region will be documented and represented in this visual celebration of our state.
Project Coordinators
Two North Dakotans, proven communication professionals with extensive experience and diverse achievements lead North Dakota Realized. Each owns a business in Fargo and serve clients from multiple industries including energy, agriculture, nonprofits, technology, and education.
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Kevin Tobosa is a Fargo-based photographer and integrated marketing consultant. Tobosa Creative Group www.tobosa.com creates and promotes brands through design, photography, and social media. Kevin also sits on the Board of Directors for the American Advertising Federation of North Dakota. Kevin’s Photo Blog: blog.kevintobosa.com |
Mark Puppe creates, engages, and evaluates communication strategies at Master Manuscripts www.mastermanuscripts.com. He graduated from NDSU and UND and has lived in Bismarck, Cavalier, Dickinson, Fargo, and Grand Forks. Mark’s also been active in Rotary, the Fargo-Moorhead and West Fargo Chambers of Commerce, and Young Professionals Network. |
Project Advisors
These fellow North Dakotan’s have generously agreed to share some of their valuable time and knowledge to the North Dakota Realized project as our advisory panel.
 Ed Schafer, Former US Secretary of Agriculture / Former ND Governor |
 Shane Goettle, ND Commerce Commissioner |
 Jack Sunday, Radio Host, KFGO 790 AM |
Excellent! Great job guys. As a temporarily displaced North Dakotan, I am excited about seeing the website grow and more great photo’s and stories added. Oh, and Tom is a great talent. Love it.
Way to go! anything to help the homeless and the hungry…I cook with local shelters and this is most likely where the bulk of the food comes from. Nice work.
My own father was reluctant to talk about his experiences as a Marine in the south Pacific during WWII. I remember times when he would be laid up with “the chills”…a lingering manifestation of the malaria he had contracted on one of those tropical islands. The memories that must have been brought to bear during those episodes were never shared with us.
Christine – you are so much more talented than anyone could ever know, no matter how long they’ve been in your company; you will still surprise them with something else that comes naturally to you. These are truly beautiful, fun and thoughtful words directly from your heart to our lives.
Thank you.
Very proud of you…I have not read these yet and like them. Good job and thanks to Kevin for giving a spotlight to a star
It was after my own service in the military and after I had served as Commander in my local American Legion Post that I was allowed to hear some of the stories that both Mom & Dad told about their WW11 experiences. They were just as harrowing as some of the ones I have chronicled from a Coast Watcher in the Philipines, a Navy enlisted on the California at Pearl and a starboard side gunnery officer from a WW11 Navy Ship. Jim & Vivian Garvey are my parents and I’m proud of them.
This was our son Clint’s second year attending this school. He came away with more that a few new techniques to try out. Curt and Wade teach the students in such a way that when they leave the 3 day school they are ready to go to work. And work he did! Clint sheared near 3000 sheep in his first year. We’d like to take this opportunity to let the people who organize this school know how much they are appreciated.
Kevin – you did an excellent job covering this event!!! The photography is exceptional, great videos, and the article is very well written!! Thank you so much for getting this information out.
This is about more than shearing sheep. What needs to be ‘realized’ is that as a nation, we need to strive to be more self sufficient. Our young people need to learn and appreciate the value of work. To depend on others to do our work for us only produces a weak, needy people.
It was encouraging to see the number of students double from last year. Proof – there are still people out there who aren’t afraid of hard work! Thank you!!
Dave, Shelly & Clint,
Your comment about self-sufficiency is an excellent point. While we can’t all learn every trade, it is important that our nation doesn’t lose these skills. I know I have more than a few pieces of wool clothing that keep me warm during the North Dakota winters!
Thanks for your comments!
Kevin Tobosa
Kevin – our hearts go out to you and your family on news of your father’s passing. I’m honored to have had the opportunity to speak with him and your mother. Both were bright, interesting people who sacrificed much for the security of our country and our way of life.
LOVE this song so much.
One of my personal favorites!
This is truly a wonderful website, making me so glad to be part of North Dakota. thank you!
I’ve always loved your music, Brooks! it’s wide-openness reminds me of the vast nd plains. it’s great to listen to the evolution of your music. savor the roller coaster tummy-tingling thrills & depths of “the motion.” enjoy “the freedom of your selfish solitude.” you are always connected. ND will always be here for you. we love you. keep writing!
I love the idea of spotlighting the creative side of North Dakota. Anything that emphasizes its beauty, especially the artistic sense of place and people is in the A+ category for me… and it definitely reflects the North Dakota I imagine.
Your excerpt is quite poignant. I enjoyed hearing the dichotomy of yearning for home and branching out for new ground. I think that everyone who leaves home for college feels this. I know this was my experience also.
I really enjoyed the excerpt!