Bright Magazine: People 2021

TEEN COMES TO OUR AID AT HARRISBURG DAYS

By Angie Christiansen

While at Harrisburg Days over the summer, Community Relations Specialist Angie Christiansen found herself alone at NorthWestern Energy’s booth after her teammate had to leave unexpectedly due a family emergency.

“I didn’t even have time to worry about being alone,” Angie said.

Local 14-year-old Conner Weber stopped by the booth with his two younger brothers. Instead of herding his brothers on to the next booth, Conner stayed at the booth and did the remarkable. Within minutes of his initial stop, Conner quickly picked up on the information being shared and began fearlessly interacting with and engaging booth attendees with genuine interest and knowledge. For nearly two hours, Conner shared how to identify the different utility flags by color, locating what is underground for a digging project and alerted younger attendees that if you smell gas to tell someone right away.

Without being told, Conner jumped in to help, stayed when he didn’t have to and showed the heart of the Harrisburg community.

“During that two hours with Conner, I learned the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, when it comes to serving, courage and personality,” Angie said.

Conner’s father Cory, who works for the National Guard, came by the booth to scoop up the younger brothers and explained that Conner’s mother, Erin, was working a nearby raffle booth to create awareness and raise money for a new aquatics center in Harrisburg.

Whether it is inherited traits or a special gift, Conner’s extraordinary example taught Angie how to be “in the moment” and “go with the flow.” When her co-pilot, Paul Mantz, returned from his emergency, he asked, “Who is this kid?” and followed with, “He could be an intern!”

“This is a kid with a bright future!” Angie responded. On behalf of NorthWestern Energy, a special thanks to Conner Weber for showing up, helping out and representing your community!

BRIGHT MAGAZINE People Edition | 11