Join us in this episode as we welcome Gretchen Stenehjem, a board member of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, to discuss the groundbreaking developments and anticipated benefits of the new presidential library in western North Dakota. Hosted by Doug Bolken from McKenzie County Tourism, this conversation covers Gretchen's role and contributions, the unique architectural design by Snohetta, the library's experiential features, and its impact on Watford City and surrounding areas. Discover how this remarkable addition, set to open on July 4th, aligns with North Dakota's rich history and culture, making it a must-visit destination. Tune in to learn about the various attractions, accommodations, and the collaborative efforts to bring more visitors to this hidden gem of America.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:30 Gretchen's Role and Background

01:12 The Presidential Library Project

01:41 Architectural Design and Features

02:27 Experiential Learning at the Library

04:38 Impact on Watford City and Western North Dakota

05:30 Tourism and Future Developments

07:01 Excitement and Anticipation

11:52 North Dakota's Hidden Gems

17:22 Excitement for North Dakota's Attractions

18:11 Promoting Western North Dakota

19:11 Enhancing Visitor Experience

20:31 Welcoming New Visitors

21:22 Collaborative Tourism Efforts

22:34 Highlighting Hidden Gems

23:27 Authentic North Dakota Experiences

27:29 Upcoming Events and Attractions

30:13 Concluding Thoughts on North Dakota Tourism

#podcast #presidentiallibrary #theodoreroosevelt #medora #watfordcity #mckenziecounty #president #library #history #northdakota #northdakotalegendary

www.visitwatfordcity.com

The Benefit Fund of McKenzie Health is on a mission to enhance McKenzie Health's services and care for patients and customers through fundraising and advocacy, but they can't do it alone.

Join The President of The Benefit Fund & McKenzie Health Chief of Marketing Lynn Welker-Fevold and host Vawnita Best as they discuss a crucial day for The Benefit Fund: Giving Tuesday on December 2nd, 2025.

This coordinated day of giving plays a major role in making big goals attainable. From a dining room expansion, to a transportation vehicle for The Good Shepherd Home, every dollar committed goes towards making these dreams a reality. Learn how you can get involved, what past campaigns have funded, and other opportunities on how to create real, lasting change for our region.

HOW TO DONATE: https://mckenziehealth.com/benefit-fund/giving-tuesday/

McKenzie Health's 2025 Annual Report: https://mckenziehealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2025-Annual-Report-November-2025_web.pdf

00:00 Welcome to the Special Edition Podcast

00:49 Meet Lynn Welker-Fevold: President of the Benefit Fund

02:08 Understanding Giving Tuesday

03:02 Impactful Projects Funded by Donors

04:01 How to Participate in Giving Tuesday

05:03 Upcoming Fundraising Initiatives

12:54 The Grace Fund: Supporting Our Own

16:09 Final Thoughts and How to Get Involved

Our latest episode of Living in McKenzie County finds us diving into the realm of rural healthcare with Cardiologist Dr. Richard Howard, Oncologist Dr. Chad Pedersen, and Pediatrician Dr. Goodnight from McKenzie Health. Our discussion spans the importance of providing specialized medical care in rural areas, the challenges and rewards of practicing medicine away from urban centers, and the collaborative efforts to build comprehensive healthcare services in McKenzie County. Tune in for insights on cardiology, oncology, pediatrics, and the vision driving rural healthcare advancements in this tight-knit community. Plus, learn about the annual meeting of McKenzie Health and how you can get involved!

00:00 Welcome to the Living in McKenzie County Podcast

01:13 Introduction to Guests and Rural Healthcare

02:09 Dr. Richard Howard's Journey and Expertise

03:39 Dr. Chad Pedersen's Background and Cancer Care

06:13 The Importance of Local Specialty Care

10:45 Building Healthcare Programs in Rural Areas

5:39 Introducing Dr. Goodnight and Pediatric Care

20:45 The Mission-Driven Focus of McKenzie Health

26:04 Maintaining Collegiality in Medicine

27:28 The Evolution of Healthcare Facilities

28:24 Regional Healthcare and Community Growth

29:13 The Old Hospital and the Oil Boom

30:58 Building a Regional Healthcare Hub

31:29 Cancer Care and Prevention

41:35 The Importance of Primary Care

46:16 Community Engagement and Future Plans

Learn more about McKenzie Health: www.mckenziehealth.com

#ruralhealthcare #health #ruralhealth #oncology #cardiology #pediatrics #healthcare #ruralliving #rurallife #rurallifestyle