The theme for our third RLND seminar was "Communicating Effectively."  The seminar was held at the Econo Lodge in Rugby, ND.  The primary speakers for the seminar were Dr. Judy Pearson and Dr. Paul Nelson, NDSU, Senator Ryan Taylor, and Brian Skar with the Minot Toastmasters Club.  Don Sobolik, Rugby Chamber of Commerce, and Dale Niewoehner, Mayor of Rugby, welcomed the group before our seminar began. 

Dr. Pearson and Dr. Nelson shared information on Thursday and Friday morning on a variety of effective communication skills including: how to introduce individuals, how to compose effective presentations, how to communicate with the media, how we communicate nonverbally, and how listening and critical thinking are vital to effective communications.

Friday afternoon the group toured various businesses/attractions in the Rugby area.  Tours included Samsara Cues, the North Central Correctional and Rehabilitation Center, the Pierce County Courthouse, Blaine's Best Seeds, and The Cottage Floral and Gift Shop.  Karlyle Erickson, Pierce County Extension Agent, helped organize the tours as well as acting as our "tour guide."  As our group experienced the tour opportunities and information provided by the speakers, there was discussion on how we can become better communicators within our communities.

Our Friday evening leadership dinner was held at the Coffee Cottage Restaurant in Rugby.  Senator Ryan Taylor was our dinner speaker as well as four RLND class participants who gave speeches based on the information provided by Dr. Judy Pearson and Dr. Paul Nelson.

Saturday morning began with a video entitled, "Power Dead Even Rule."  Discussion was held on the video as well as the USA Today article, "Can Aging ND Resist Change Amid Immigration Debate," and the National Geographic article, "The Emptied Prairie."  Brian Skar with the Minot Toastmasters Club gave tips on starting a Toastmasters Club, and what is involved in being part of a Toastmasters group.  Our seminar concluded with journaling as well as information and materials for our next RLND seminar in Bowman, ND.

by Jill Haugen