Minot has some things going for it that set it apart from many cities of comparable size. These are despite the many challenges the city also faces.

Good schools, neighborhoods that are relatively safer than those in other cities, a charitable and decent community are part of that advantage. So too, of course, are some of the local activities here – the excitement of the North Dakota State Fair, the unparalleled magic of Hostfest, a growing and thriving arts and culture community, the energy provided by all of the events hosted by Minot State University – and many other things.

Minot Daily News has consistently hailed Minot parks. Minot does parks and park activities as well or better than many larger cities. Our parks border on the pristine, they are plentiful, well-maintained and provide the most scenic parts of Minot.

Similarly, MDN has maintained high praise for the Roosevelt Park Zoo. Few cities our size have facilities as amazing as the zoo. Additionally, few zoos these days are expanding, improving, becoming more dynamic with plans into the future to continue getting better. The zoo is one of the best places in the region to enjoy a temperate day – a delight for children an families.

In 2021, the zoo will celebrate its centennial and the fine folks there are already working on programming. MDN has high expectations for the occasion and anticipates a terrific lineup from our zoo friends.

Zoo staff intends a centennial book as part of the observance and is asking for residents to contribute photos of the zoo from any era. Photos submitted will be considered for the centennial book.

Photos submitted can include people visiting the zoo, zoo animals, etc. Those submitting photos are asked to identify people in the photos if possible and also give the date or timeframe of the photo or photos. Photos can be emailed to Jennifer Kleen, Minot Zoo Crew executive director at inforpz@srt.com. Photos should be 200 resolution or higher. For more information email inforpz.com or call Kleen at the zoo at 857-4166.

Let’s get ready for a great 2021 at the zoo – and help their efforts the best we can.