The city of Minot recognized Ken and DeVera Bowles for their contributions to the arts community

Minot, North Dakota – Before the Western Plains Opera Company’s final performance of “Carmen” this weekend, something unusual happened on Saturday night.

The mayor of Minot, Tom Ross, surprised Ken and DeVera Bowles on stage by presenting them with a unique proclamation.

Ross proclaimed Drs. Ken and DeVera Bowles Day in the city of Minot for September 9, 2023.

The two are retiring after decades of participation in Minot’s cultural events.

Their son Nathan, who majored in music performance at Minot State and is currently active in New York, came home this weekend to perform onstage with them in the main male role of Don Jose.

Because Ken and DeVera’s two grandkids sing in the Western Plains Children’s Choir, there were three generations of Bowles involved in this weekend’s performances.