Bismarck will host the national organization of Lewis and Clark Trail state coordinators in conjunction with the Lewis and Clark National Signature event Oct. 22-31 at the University of Mary.

The Circle of State Advisors (COSA) represents all of the 19 states that Lewis and Clark crossed from Virginia to Oregon. The group markets the Lewis and Clark Trail and the 15 national signature events being held during the bicentennial years of the expedition.

North Dakota is hosting two of the 15 signature events. The first, �Circle of Cultures,� is being held Oct. 22-31 in Bismarck. The second, �Reunion at the Home of Sakakawea,� will be held in August of 2006 in New Town. The National Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Council selected the 15 events based on their significance to the history of the expedition.

Annette Schilling, Lewis and Clark coordinator for North Dakota Tourism, said COSA has been meeting for about five years to prepare for the signature events. �The group voted to meet in Bismarck. COSA has never held a meeting in North Dakota, so we�re especially pleased to have them here for the premiere of the Circle of Cultures,� said Schilling, who represents North Dakota on the council. �Our state has so much of the Lewis and Clark story, and this is a wonderful way to showcase our culture, history and extraordinary hospitality to all of the trail states.�

The COSA meeting will take place Oct. 22 at the Harold Schafer Leadership Center at the University of Mary.

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Media Contact: Annette Schilling, Lewis & Clark Coordinator, Tourism Division North Dakota Department of Commerce 701-328-3504