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Willow, Alaska

When Vern Halter, 50, left his home state of South Dakota in 1977, he was seeking new career opportunities. With a law degree tucked in his back pocket, he made the trek to the 49th state and a vast new world called Alaska.

Now, 21 years later, these opportunities have not only led to a career as an attorney, but more importantly to a full time kennel owner racing the Iditarod. Along with his wife, Susan Whiton, they own and operate "Dream a Dream Dog Farm." Susan has run the Iditarod twice and after graduating from Washington State Veterinary School, is well known in mushing circles as the "Country Vet."

South Dakota still provides the inspiration and a good deal of the support needed to compete. Thanks to a sponsorship with Norwest Bank South Dakota, Vern & Susan are able to tour and visit over 30,000 students annually. Norwest hopes to encourage youth to pursue their dreams, especially in higher education and scholarship.

"Dream a Dream Dog Farm" is home to 75 huskies and is located in both Willow and Trapper Creek, Alaska. The year round mental and physical conditioning of the dogs for the world's premier sled dog race occurs here. Vern and Susan have no children.

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