Bison Brevities raises $1,800 for local charity

The Bison Brevities Talent Show, which took place April 3, did not quite meet expectations, due to attendance levels. The event featured various performances with proceeds benefiting a local charity.

“I think there is a lot going on at NDSU, so it could have been a better turnout or has been a better turnout in past years,” Jace Beehler, president of Blue Key National Honor Society, said. “But we kind of put that to so much going on at NDSU at that time. That’s kind of the big reason why it wasn’t as full as it usually has been.”

The numbers of tickets sold this year were slightly less than last year with 245 tickets. Adam Fuller, a co-producer of Bison Brevities, also says that the upcoming Easter break during the time of the event contributed to a decreased turnout.

“It was two days before Easter, so everyone was extremely busy with class, work and organizations,” Fuller said. “But all things considered, we were happy with the turnout of people, but will certainly look into better dates for next year.”

Despite the meager turnout, Bison Brevities had more participants for acts than previous years. Some people wishing to participate in the talent show were turned down due to the length; producers did not want the event to be longer than two hours.

“It was a good problem to have, but you also don’t like to turn anyone down,” Beehler said.

Along with the increased number of participants, the event still raised approximately $1,800 to benefit the local charity Churches United for the Homeless. Churches United was the chosen charity by Blue Key members and is one of the largest shelters that supply homeless individuals, both male and female, shelter in northwestern Minnesota.

“Churches United for the Homeless will put the money right back into the community and help out those families that need their services,”

Fuller said. “Their goal is to get as many families back on their feet again.”

The event included a variety of talents, ranging from college-age singers to a 9-year-old baton twirler. Four out of 13 acts were awarded.

Best individual act was awarded to Emily Black, the judges’ choice and best overall awards were given to Jones Boat, the sardine award went to Steffani Johnston and the PIE award was awarded to Students Today, Leaders Forever.

Along with the talent awards, Blue Key also gave out three scholarships, each worth $400.

The Leitouriga Scholarship, which is based on service to the community, university and church, was presented to junior psychology major, Danielle Bauer.

Trent Sprenkle, a senior studying biochemistry, was given the Doctor of Service Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a student nominated by the current doctor of service.

Additionally, the Prairie Rose Achievement Award was given to Holly Christian, a senior pre-pharmacy student. This award is based on service, athletic ability and academics.

Bison Brevities is one aspect of the Blue Key National Honor Society. The group recognizes junior- and senior-status students outstanding in leadership, academics, service and character. According to Beehler, events like Bison Brevities are important to create a positive representation of NDSU.

“It’s just a chance for NDSU students to give back to the community, which I think is something extremely important,” Beehler said. “We come here and 14,000 students come to Fargo-Moorhead, and sometimes are a nuisance to some of the community. Doing things like this really shows the community that we do care and can help them out.”