The Bismarck-Mandan Chamber’s Military Aff airs Committee (MAC) partnered with the University of Mary and Central Market on a cookie drive for military members and families.

The MAC is coordinated the event for the second year. Last year nearly 200 dozen cookies were collected through business and community donations. This year the committee wanted to really show their support for the military and pulled in support from local grocer Central Market and the University of Mary.

“Collaborating with local businesses aligned with our committee mission of supporting the military along with giving the business community a way to engage their support at various levels for the troops, veterans and their families,” said Shelle Michaels Aberle, committee chairwoman. “Treats for the Troops was an easy way for businesses to participate in showing their support during the holidays.”

The committee began collecting monetary donations for cookies through the Chamber’s website, via the Central Market stores and at University of Mary athletic events. The combined collection eff orts lead to more than 1,100 dozen cookies.

“We at Central Market were honored to be involved in this cookie drive. We appreciate all that our military members and families do for us, so helping in this small way was the least we could do,” said Arlyn Van Beek, store manager Mandan Central Market.

A line up of local leaders helped Central Market staff package the cookies. Lt. Gov. Drew Wrigley’s wife Kathleen, University of Mary President Father Shea, Bismarck State College President Dr. Larry Skogen, Connie Sprynczynatyk and Chamber President Kelvin Hullet were put to work and helped celebrate the cookie drive’s success with shoppers.

“During this beautiful season of grace, we are humbled by thoughts of those serving in our military, both here and abroad, who have given so much to ensure our freedom,” says Shea. “It was a privilege to be part of this eff ort, which both supports our troops and illustrates what a small donation (a dozen cookies) can do to show families in the area that their sacrifices are appreciated. It will not bring their loved ones home, but it will let them know that we care.”

Once packaged, the cookies were distributed to Fraine Barracks, Raymond J. Bohn Armory, Lewis and Clark Reserve Center, the Aviation Readiness Center, Veteran’s Centers and to the recruiters’ offices. Because of the overwhelming support from the community, cookies also were made available to family members of deployed service members just in time for the holidays.

The Chamber and MAC thank all members who assisted in the Treats for the Troops campaign.