Central ND News

Legislators, lobbyists, the Capitol Press corps, and state executive elected officials gathered in Bismarck, North Dakota for the Capitol Classic basketball shoot-out. The event successfully raised over $24,000 for Special Olympics North Dakota. The competition saw the team of executive elected officials emerge victorious against seven other teams to claim the Capitol Classic Trophy. Team members included Governor Kelly Armstrong, State Treasurer Thomas Beadle, State Auditor Josh Gallion, State Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread, and Public Service Commissioner Jill Kringstad.

Originally a friendly match between legislators and lobbyists, the Capitol Classic has evolved into a basketball shoot-out with arcade-style hoops while maintaining its goal of raising funds and awareness for Special Olympics North Dakota. This year’s event featured eight teams: Senate Republican Caucus, Senate Democrat Caucus, House Republican Caucus, House Democrat Caucus, state executive elected officials, members of the Capitol Press corps, and registered lobbyists.

Nancy Hanson, President/CEO of Special Olympics North Dakota stated: “Our theme this year is ‘Strength in Unity,’ and the Capitol Classic Basketball Shoot-out is a great example of individuals and groups coming together with a collaborative spirit to support our organization.” She added that the funds raised will help ensure continued availability of Special Olympics programming throughout North Dakota.

The event began with a special ceremony highlighting the essence of Special Olympics. Five athletes were accompanied by Major Aaron Hummel from the North Dakota Highway Patrol as they performed the traditional torch carrying. They also led attendees in reciting the Special Olympics oath: “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

The committee organizing this year's Capitol Classic included Michael Howe (North Dakota Secretary of State), Russ Hanson (Associated General Contractors of North Dakota), Maj. Aaron Hummel (North Dakota Highway Patrol), Al Jaeger along with Nancy Hanson and Cathy Muus from Special Olympics North Dakota.