Minot State University and Our Redeemer’s Deaf Ministry will co-sponsor Western Weekend, celebrating Deaf Awareness Week, in Minot Sept. 13-15, according to a press release from MSU.

The event will feature three days of programming including a social on Friday, Sept. 13, brunch and events at the Peterson Ranch near Velva on Saturday, Sept. 14, and finally coffee and donuts, a church service, and lunch on Sunday, Sept. 15.

“Our partnership with Our Redeemer’s for the Western Weekend is so valuable to get our students and faculty interacting with the Deaf community,” said Holly Pedersen, chair of the special education department at Minot State, in the press release. “MariDon Sorum is a faculty member in our department and also is involved in the Deaf Ministry at Our Redeemer’s, so it is a nice collaboration. It will be a chance for deaf and hard of hearing individuals from in and out of state to get together and enjoy some outdoor fun in North Dakota.”

There is no cost for Western Weekend as individuals should contact Sorum by text or voice at 720-3860 with name and how many will be attending. A block of rooms has been reserved at Northern Plains Inn with a rate of $59 plus tax. Reservations can be made by calling 1-855-214-7210, while others with overnight needs can contact Sorum.

Social time with games and snacks at Our Redeemer’s Church in Minot kick off the events on Friday starting at 8 p.m.

Brunch on Saturday begins at 11 a.m. and events at the Peterson Ranch begin at 1 p.m. Activities at the ranch include: scavenger hunt, games, bonfire, barbecue, talent show/skit competition, “words of wisdom” from Pastor Ed Nugent, and more. Transportation to the ranch will be provided.

Prizes will be awarded for the scavenger hunt, talent show/skit, and funny story competition. Families or groups are encouraged to share a talent, funny story, or skit.

Coffee and donuts at Our Redeemer’s, with Rob Gravely leading an inspirational study/discussion for all, is set to begin at 9:30 a.m. Church service with interpreters provided by Minot State’s interpreting program, featuring Erica Bailey and Sorum, is set to begin at 10:45 a.m. and lunch is served immediately following the service.

“The services at ORLB will be interpreted and our students will have a chance to be involved with that and practice applying their skills,” Pedersen said in the press release.