Starting his military career in the late 1900s, Larry Brown knew little about the lifestyle he was stepping into when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He quickly learned what military life was all about when he arrived at his first duty station – Minot Air Force Base – in 1997. Through deployments, hardships, and personal struggles, Larry Brown has become a proud veteran and a dedicated Minot local who loves the city so much he plans to open a large, interactive entertainment facility for kids, teens, and families alike.
Born and raised in New Orleans, Larry served over a decade in the Air Force, facing frequent moves, combat deployments, and a severe injury along the way. Though he looks back on his time in service with pride and gratitude, then Staff Sergeant Brown was ready for a new chapter when he separated in 2009. He explained that at that point, he needed to focus on his family and his health: “I just needed to make sure I stayed alive for my kids. Getting out was what needed to happen at that time.”
After his honorable separation, Larry moved to New York City to pursue acting and modeling. While the change of pace was exciting, work came slowly, and before long, he found himself struggling to make ends meet. Out of luck and out of money, he reached out to a contact in Minot who helped him obtain his commercial driver’s license (CDL). By 2011, Larry was back in North Dakota, hauling fuel for Flying J and rediscovering a familiar community.
Living and working around Minot, Larry noticed what many residents already knew: there wasn’t much for young people to do for fun. That realization sparked an idea that would change the course of his life.
His vision, now beginning to take shape, is to create a large roller-skating and entertainment center for the community. His dream includes go-karts, food, and “old-school fun” in a family-friendly environment. “There will be no alcohol sales,” Larry said, emphasizing that he wants the space to feel safe and welcoming for everyone. He plans to name the venue Masquerades, a nod to his New Orleans roots and its blend of culture, activity, and celebration.
Since 2019, Larry has been working to raise the funds and support needed to bring Masquerades to life. “Even after five years, I still have a thirst to keep things alive,” he said. He’s collaborated with the Minot Area Chamber EDC, local businesses, and even applied for state grants to reach the estimated $1 million required to begin construction.
Progress has been slow, but Larry remains confident. When asked why he chose to build such a project in Minot, he said, “Kids need to be social, and there’s nothing for them to do in Minot. This will give people a place to get out, talk, and relax.”
Recently, Larry was awaiting approval for a tourism destination grant that could provide the funding needed to begin construction by fall 2026. Unfortunately, that grant did not get approved. However, he is not giving up hope for funding. “I plan to ‘boot strap’ and go out and find the wealthy citizens of Minot for investments and some of the big corporations.”
Hopefully, Minot will soon have a vibrant new space for roller skating, go-karting, and good, old-fashioned fun – a place where kids can simply be kids.
Larry Brown may have started as just another Airman stationed at Minot AFB, but his dedication and love for this community have inspired a dream that’s sure to leave a lasting mark on the Magic City.
Read the full “Tribute to Service” feature at https://northernsentry.com/3d-flip-book/tribute-to-service-2025/
