Ashley Friese, owner of Groovy Panda, is proud to announce that she has become part of Pride of Dakota.

The Pride of Dakota program was created in 1985 by then Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Jones after he learned how state-sponsored "brand" programs worked elsewhere. Jones gathered a small group of North Dakota businesses, and NDDA's marketing staff, to create an identifiable state "brand" that would designate products as made in North Dakota. One of the program's first tasks was developing a name and logo. A local advertising agency came up with the name "Pride of Dakota". Pride of Dakota was officially launched with about 20 companies as members. Today more than 400 member companies ranging in size from large companies with more than 100 employees to "mom-and-pop" operations, participate in the program.

Ashley Friese, owner of Groovy Panda, is excited to see her tie dye and other items have the Pride of Dakota Logo on them. "I've always enjoyed purchasing items made in North Dakota, and now I am a part of this," Friese said. She recalls working in other retail stores where Pride of Dakota products were sold. "There is such a great pride in being a part of North Dakota's Pride of Dakota program."

Groovy Panda started when Friese was first introduced to tie dye. It grew from there ever since. She loved teaching kids through Bismarck Parks and Recreation District how to tie dye. A co-worker of Friese's asked to learn. They went into partnership. Due to scheduling conflicts, Friese decided it would be more logical to start on her own. Her items can be found at Tricia's Bakery and various craft fairs. You can find out more by checking out the website at www.groovy-panda.com.