Prairie Warrior Auction closes on 22nd year of bidding entertainment

  • Published
  • By Maj. Elizabeth Ortiz
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The annual Prairie Warrior Association Auction was held March 29 at the Holiday Inn in Minot, bringing together members of Team Minot to raise money in support of base units for the 22nd year in a row. 

"We can't say thanks enough for all the Minot community does for us on a daily basis," said Col. Joel Westa, 5th Bomb Wing commander, in his opening remarks. 

With almost 175 items and services auctioned off ranging from recreational trips to specialty baskets to a semester of tuition at Minot State University and car detailing, the event raised almost $35,000 - which will be divided amongst 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Space Wing units. In addition to the live auction, almost 70 items were bid on in a silent auction. 

"It (auction) couldn't happen without donations," said Betty Fedorchak, the event coordinator for the Minot Area Chamber of Commerce. "I think it's great." 

This marks the 21st year Ms Fedorchak has helped organize the auction. Why does she get involved year after year considering how much time and effort are involved? She believes in showing her support. 

"I have a great love of the military and this community," Ms Fedorchak said. "This is a wonderful cause," adding more items were donated this year than last year although local merchants are feeling economically strained. 

"It's really hard for local businesses to give this year and they still gave," said Jenna Davis, an auction co-coordinator. "The auction is a really neat joint effort between the two wings (5th BW and 91st SW) and Minot." 

Based on the bidding action, those in attendance also believed in the cause. A special wild game dinner with Col and Mrs. Westa went for $1,800. An exclusive Italian dinner with Col. Marty Whelan, 91st SW commander, and Mrs. Whelan went for $900. 

As snow blanketed the ground outside, bidding continued inside until all items had been auctioned off. 

"Tonight's auction epitomizes what Team Minot is all about: working together," said John MacMartin, MACC president. 

The PWA consists of members from both wings, the MACC and the MACC's Military Affairs Council. 

"We can't do our job without the team, and here that's the 5th Bomb Wing, the
91st Space Wing and Minot," said Colonel Whelan. "It was a great turnout." 

"It was a phenomenal success," echoed Lt. Col. Jed Davis, 741st Missile Squadron commander, and a base volunteer for the event. "A lot of money was raised for a great cause."