Bank plans grand opening of new facilities
State, local dignitaries to participate
in Nov. 15 ribbon-cutting

International Bank & Trust will celebrate the completion of its $6.8 million complex with thanks to those family members, who although no longer living, continue to inspire pride in work and hometown values.

"This celebration signals a time to summarize all the construction, to display the workmanship and realize that work is nearing the end," states Steve Stenehjem, president of First International Bank & Trust. "When I started this years ago, Mom knew about it and was very supportive. I think Mom and Dad (Judy and Lee) would be supportive and amazed at the accomplishment and size."

The addition’s amazing 29,000 square feet includes the Outlaws’ Bar & Grill which the ‘6 Shooters,’ a.k.a. owners Steve, Gretchen, and their children Peter, Erik, Kira and Kristen Stenehjem, opened on July 12, 2006.

"The reviews from visitors and from across the state have been very positive and we have been able to book meetings and conferences to the center from the day it opened," states Gene Veeder, director of the McKenzie County Tourism Bureau and Job Development Authority. "Watford City is the envy of the state in creative ways to keep our young people coming back to live and work."

Construction began 26 months ago on the complex that meets the need for work-space expansion plus stretches to meet a city planning need for more formal dining and theatre entertainment. The lower level also offers private dining/catering through The Ballroom, which will seat 300, a smaller Prairie Rose Suite that will seat 75, or the Little Missouri Room, seating just 25. All rooms open up to each other and a lower level kitchen serves them.

"The Grand Opening of the bank complex is the highlight of over 10 years of planning for this community," states Veeder. "First International stepped to the plate to provide an entertainment complex that exceeds all regional markets. This was in response to the community input meetings trying to find a way to stop tourists, provide quality entertainment for our citizens and to help in the recruitment and retention of new workers to the area."

Grand Opening guests will be treated to a 30-minute tour of the new facility, with tours running from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Entering the Gallery near the center of the structure, a guest walks on rock tile floors. Passing through wide glass doors, the space rises to an open third-floor height, with windows shedding bright light on the area featuring a Yamaha Grand Piano. It’s music from the hands of local accomplished pianists, including Gretchen’s mother, May Bottke, will resound as refreshments are served until 4:30. The Watford City Jazz Band will perform at 1:30 and Miss North Dakota Annette Olson will be available for photos and greetings from 2 until 5 p.m.

The 6 Shooters’ Showhall will feature the movie filmed in the North Dakota Badlands, "Wooly Boys," at three free showings, 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Dignitaries to participate in the Ribbon-cutting are North Dakota Governor John Hoeven, Watford City Mayor Kent Pelton and Bank President Steve Stenehjem. They will be the featured speakers at the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony set for 5 p.m. The Carl E. Rogen Legion Drill Team will present the Colors as Annette Olson sings The Star-Spangled Banner.

"I applaud the Stenehjem family and First International Bank & Trust for making this financial commitment to our community," states Mayor Kent Pelton of Watford City. "Making Watford City the corporate office of First International will provide many new job opportunities for our citizens. The long-term economic impact is tremendous. For example, other businesses in our community, our churches and schools, and our healthcare system will all benefit from this economic growth. This growth should multiply many times over."

"The addition of the theatres, steakhouse, and banquet facilities provided in this building expansion will greatly enhance the quality of life for our citizens," continues Pelton. "It becomes another reason why people would want to make this their home."

"Good things are happening in our community," concludes Pelton. "People have a positive outlook on their future."

Gretchen Stenehjem, as planner of the Grand Opening, says coffee and goodies will be served all day in the Gallery area on Wednesday, Nov. 15. She sees the Gallery as a future community gathering place where folks can sit and visit and take a moment to view the museum area, with its history of the Stenehjem family displayed in built-in wall cabinets.

"We’re thrilled about this expansion," states Gretchen. "It’s a wonderful asset to Main Street. Although not an easy project, we have mutual respect and friendship with the contractors and are deeply grateful to our bank family for their support and encouragement."