Fargo INC! February 2024 by Spotlight Media

Navigate the Road to Success

From Finance To Farming

Navigating Family Dynamics

PG.50

PG.76

PG.108

february 2024

F5 Project

is Still Giving Second Chances PG.24

Ron Offutt A Lifetime of Impact

// FEBRUARY 2024

FEATURES

Ask The Expert: What's The Best Defense Against Ransomware?

F5 is Still Helping Give Second Chances

Navigate The Road To Success

From Finance To Farming

Agricultural Titan Ron Offutt

Leading NDSU Wrestling with Honesty & Mentorship

100

Leading NDSU Softball Through Innovative Methods

108

Navigating Family Dynamics

112

10 Questions with John Machacek: Rodemerica

118

Women You Should Know: Tomi Thompson

120

Navigating The Winter Slowdown

126

Awesome Foundation Grant Award Winner: C.A.S.A

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112

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E d i t o r ’s n o t e

F5 Project I

n a world where second chances are often spoken of but seldom granted, the F5 Project is walking it like they talk. This month, I had the opportunity to speak with the organization's Founder, Adam Martin, and a few individuals who have been deeply impacted by their program— these interviews gave me an immense appreciation for the work that they are doing.

The F5 Project, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to supporting individuals who have been incarcerated, offering them the tools, resources, and support needed to transition successfully back into society. Their approach is holistic, focusing on housing, employment, healthy social connections, and continuous personal development. What struck me most during my visit was not just the comprehensive support system they have in place,

but the genuine sense of community and belonging they foster among participants—with a few former participants telling me that there is almost nothing the organization won't do to help.

rehabilitation, and the role of business in society. It exemplifies the power of compassion combined with action, showing that when we invest in people, we can make a stronger community.

I am convinced that the F5 Project is not just a great organization but a crucial one. It challenges us to reconsider our perceptions of justice,

Sincerely,

Brady Drake Fargo INC! Editor

Brady Drake, Fargo INC! Editor

fargoinc@spotlightmediafargo.com

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LEARN MORE ABOUT US AT SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM 14

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FEBRUARY 2024 Volume 9 Issue 2

Fargo INC! is published 12 times a year and is available at area businesses and online at FargoInc.com.

Publisher Mike Dragosavich EDITORIAL Editorial Team Lead Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Editors Geneva Nodland, Grant Ayers Art Director Kim Cowles Editorial Graphic Designer Ty Betts Creative Strategist Josiah Kopp Contributors John Machacek, Julie Hinker, Priscilla Ulloa, Brandi Malarkey, Ladyboss Lifestyle INTERACTIVE Business Development Manager Business Development Associate Videographer Director of Creative Strategies Graphic Designer Web Developer

Nick Schommer Kellen Feeney Tommy Uhlir Megan Suedbeck Ben Buchanan Austin Smith

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ASK THE EXPERT

By NorthStar Technology Group

ansomware is a type of malicious software that is designed to block access to a device or network until the victim pays the attacker money. The ransomware encrypts the files, making them unusable. In the late 1980s, cyber attacks started as a simple virus spread through floppy discs, but now cybercrime has evolved into a billion-dollar industry. New security measures exist, but ransomware groups are constantly evolving to adapt to them. They are relentless and find new ways to extort victims. As long as they keep successfully getting businesses to pay up, attacks will only continue to increase and expand. Luckily, there’s good news. With proper preparations, you can minimize the risk of a ransomware attack on your organization and mitigate the impacts if an attack does occur. Read on to explore the best defense against ransomware and learn practical steps you can take today to start protecting your business.

FEBRUARY 2024

Best Practices and Precautions The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recommends the following precautions to protect against ransomware:

Regularly update software and operating systems with the latest patches. One of the easiest and most effective measures against ransomware is updating your software and operating systems regularly with the latest patches. Cybercriminals often target outdated applications and systems. Keeping your systems up to date ensures that security gaps and vulnerabilities are patched, which makes it much more difficult for attackers to find a way in.

Never click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails. Phishing emails are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to trick users into clicking on malicious links or downloading

infected attachments. It’s essential to verify the sender and email content before clicking links or downloading files. If you ever receive an email from an unknown sender or a source you don’t recognize, it’s best to delete it immediately and warn your colleagues.

Back up data regularly on a separate device and store it offline. Regularly backing up your data is a crucial step in minimizing the risk of losing it to ransomware. Keeping a copy of your data on a separate device and storing it offline will help you recover your data after a ransomware attack. It’s also extremely important to regularly test your backup system to ensure the data can be restored when needed.

Follow safe practices when using devices that connect to the internet. Safe practices when using devices that connect to the internet include: » Avoiding public Wi-Fi networks » Not downloading files from untrusted sources » Ensuring your firewall is turned on You should also ensure that your device has up-to-date antivirus software installed and that you use a secure web browser.

In addition to these measures, there are several other best practices that you can adopt to protect against ransomware: » Anti-phishing and email security protocols and tools: These can include email filters that can help block malicious emails before they reach your inbox. » Security awareness training: Regular security awareness training can help educate your employees to identify and avoid phishing emails and other common cyber threats. » Vulnerability scanning: Routine scanning can help identify vulnerabilities in your systems and applications before attackers can exploit them. » Automated patch management: Automating patch management eliminates the need for manual checks for outdated software/ systems, saving time and ensuring your systems are consistently up-todate and secure.

segments to limit the spread of malware in the event of an attack. » Identity and access management (IAM): IAM helps manage user access to your systems and applications, ensuring users only have the access they need to perform their roles. » Strong password policies and good password hygiene: This involves implementing password policies that require users to create strong, unique passwords and regularly change them.

Partner to Succeed By partnering with an experienced IT service provider like NorthStar Technology Group, you can have a team of cybersecurity experts on your side keeping your data safe. We can help you implement and maintain best practices, tools, and technologies to protect your organization against ransomware.

» Endpoint detection and response (EDR): EDR focuses on monitoring endpoints, such as desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, for suspicious activity and responding to any detected threats. » Network monitoring: This involves monitoring your network for suspicious activity and responding to any detected threats. » Network segmentation: Segmentation means dividing your network into smaller, more secure

Give yourself peace of mind. Contact us today to start securing your business against attacks. northstartechnologygroup.com /NorthStarTG

@northstartechno

866-337-9096 @NorthStarTechno

FARGOINC.COM

FEBRUARY 2024

B Y

B R A D Y

D R A K E

is Still Helping Give Second Chances ack in 2018, we featured F5 Project and Founder Adam Martin on the cover of Fargo INC!, highlighting the organization and its efforts to give those dealing with mental health issues, addiction, and those coming out of incarceration a second chance. In our eyes, this is one of the most important missions being undertaken in our community. The people that you see struggling with criminal records and homelessness are not bad people. They have made mistakes, many as the result of decisions that started when they were as young as 10 years old, growing up in environments they had no control over. We hope this article serves as a reminder of that mission and drives others to help support people in our community who need it most.

FARGOINC.COM

The F5 Project leadership team: (left to right) Adam Martin, Camille Walkin, Darby Njos, Cody Stanley, Scott College

When Adam Martin last interviewed with Fargo INC!, F5 Project had a 400 square foot office—now they have eight offices across the state of North Dakota. Back then, they had four staff. Now, they have 63. "To me, I still feel the same about the business," Martin said. "When you're the CEO and you see everything happening, it's like watching paint dry. And then one day you wake up and it's like, 'Oh my god, we're not a small business anymore.'"

FEBRUARY 2024

"I still have all of the same fears that I had when we were a new nonprofit. I worry about how we are going to make payroll because, in the beginning, I sat at my desk multiple times writing my resignation or my apology because we wouldn't be able to make payroll. There was always something. It was almost traumatizing, always worrying about when the day would come when I would have to tell everyone I failed. Eventually, things would work out, and I would push those papers to the side and keep working."

Despite his fears and former struggles, F5 has never missed payroll. In fact, only once over the company's history did the leadership team elect not to take a paycheck so that everyone else could get paid. "I don't know how it works out, but it always does," Martin said. During those early years, Martin had people who had recently been released from jail sleeping on his couch.

by Josiah Kopp

About F5 Project The F5 Project, established in Fargo, ND, is a pioneering nonprofit aimed at supporting individuals struggling with incarceration, mental health, and addiction with services and resources to reenter society and create meaningful change in their lives. It was founded on the principle that everyone deserves a second chance and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. The project provides a comprehensive support system, including housing, employment assistance, and access to resources for mental health and substance abuse treatment. By addressing the key barriers that often lead to recidivism, the F5 Project plays a crucial role in fostering purpose for individuals, reducing the cycle of incarceration, and positively impacting the community.

"We were like chickens with our heads cut off trying to find services and trying to find resources," Martin said. In his line of work, Martin has seen plenty of tears—people in his office crying, depressed, and filled with anxiety. "The focus has always been on ensuring the safety of people within our community through recovery, reentry, reform, and through making

sure people get treated fairly," he said. "There are a lot of laws that are not fair. Criminal backgrounds can be unfair. Releasing mugshots is unfair. Bail reform is unfair. In our prisons, Native Americans account for almost 25% of the population although they only account for about 5% of the general population of North Dakota. That is unfair."

About Adam Martin Adam Martin, the founder of the F5 Project, is committed to supporting individuals as they navigate their journey in reentry or recovery. His own experiences with incarceration have fueled his dedication to this cause. Through the F5 Project, he has created a supportive environment that offers housing, resources, and guidance, aiming to reduce recidivism and give individuals the opportunity to refresh their lives. "When I started doing this, I didn't know why I was able to get clean. I just think my experience can be useful in trying to help people going through similar struggles now. I just set out to try and show them how I changed my life," Martin said. "I was just tired of all my friends dying and going back to prison and getting out and going back to prison."

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FARGOINC.COM

The Issue America has a justice system problem— that much is startlingly clear. What to do about it isn't, but the punitive measures are not working. "Our justice system is like that piece of equipment at the gym that doesn't work," Martin said. "There's a sign on it that says it doesn't work, but nobody really pays attention to it. They don't know why it doesn't work. If more people paid attention to it and looked into why it doesn't work and cared, it'd probably get fixed. It is not amazing to live in America right now if you're looking at it from the ground level. They're criminalizing addiction because they don't know what to do so they're just locking people up. F5 should not be growing, but the problem isn't getting smaller, it's growing. I think we need to have an overall mindset change. We need to not be so punitive." According to Statista Research Department, the United States has the sixth highest incarceration rate in the world. And according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, about two-thirds of released state prisoners are rearrested, and more than half are incarcerated

Take a peek inside the new women’s housing unit submitted by F5 Project

FEBRUARY 2024

within three years of their original arrest. For many of the incarcerated, the snowball effect does not stop there. Their offenses cause them to face future employment challenges, housing difficulties, troubles accessing loans, and perhaps most damaging, child custody issues, among other things. A really important aspect of healing people, in Martin's opinion, involves reuniting families. "A really important aspect of healing people involves family reunification," Martin said. "I have seen a lot of people change when they have the hope that they will be able to see their children again. If you want to destroy a community, take people's children. That has been a tactic of war since the beginning of time and we're doing it to our own people. Parents don't naturally neglect their kids. Depression does. Anxiety does. Bipolar does. You can't charge someone for being bipolar. However, you can charge them for the collateral consequences of being bipolar. We criminalize mental health and addiction. This is hard for people to understand because you don't charge someone with being a meth addict, you charge them for possession of meth." Incarceration can significantly impact child custody issues. When a parent

is incarcerated, they often lose custody of their children, and upon release, their criminal record and potential homelessness can hinder efforts to regain custody. The lack of stable housing is frequently viewed unfavorably in custody decisions, as courts prioritize the child's safety and stability. Additionally, the financial and social challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals can further complicate their ability to provide a suitable living environment for their children, often prolonging or preventing the reunification of families. "Homelessness is very traumatizing," Martin said. "There are a lot of collateral consequences that come along with having a criminal background and being homeless. A lot of these people are suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcoholism, and addiction. It's a big jigsaw puzzle when it comes to trying to help someone put their life back together. It can be crippling." As F5 Project continues to expand, its team continues to try and touch more and more corners of the population through their mission to, "eliminate overdoses, suicide, and crime through empowering recovery, reducing recidivism, and fighting poverty."

The James River Correctional Center team |

submitted by F5 Project

New Programs on the Horizon Native American programs A new program will start at James River Correctional Center (JRCC) in Jamestown, ND, specifically tailored to address Native American generational trauma, recovery, and reentry. For this programming, F5 is officing in the prison and working directly with the residents at JRCC. "It's funny because the three guys working for us in that prison shouldn't even be able to get a job at that prison," Martin said. "One of them actually served time in that prison." As part of this program, they're renovating a pod in the prison to make it more conducive to addressing trauma. The pod will include normal things you would find in a living room like couches and coffee pots.

Youth programs F5 Project collaborates with local schools to aid students facing challenges and obstacles with the tools, guidance, and support they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence and build a strong foundation for future success. This is being led by Brody Clarke who has vast experience in youth programming. Clarke has already been working for F5 for over a year and is excited to step into youth programming full-time. "The fact that Brody came in and did adult services for a year—the work he didn't want to do—says a lot to me about how much he cares about getting this program up and running," Martin said. "Brody isn't cut from the same cloth as me or some of the rest of us working at F5. I'm not sure he has ever drank a day in his life. He's just a good guy, but he really cares and that's why he is good at what he does. The people he works with can see that."

Women's program In January, F5 opened a women's transitional housing unit in Fargo to provide housing to women who typically face barriers in finding housing after incarceration or treatment. This is the first time F5 will have women's housing since they discontinued their first women's housing program in 2018. "When we cut it, I knew it was the right thing to do, but I hated that we had to do it," Martin said. "We had to do it because the only female staff we had at the time retired and we had this house filled with women and we had all men working at F5—that's just not appropriate and we didn't have the money to hire someone."

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FARGOINC.COM

A transitional housing unit located in Minot, ND |

How F5 Helps The F5 Project helps individuals by taking a holistic approach to their recovery and reintegration into society. Their programs include:

Transitional Housing Currently, F5 has seven houses total for male participants with locations in Fargo-Moorhead, Grand Forks, Minot, and Bismarck. They also recently opened housing for female participants in Fargo. "There is a need for individuals to have a safe place to sleep at night in order to feel secure and encouraged in every other aspect of life. Stable housing provides improved outcomes surrounding employment, health, education, and more. At F5 Project, we provide transitional housing solutions for individuals who are in varying points in their lives. The houses at F5 Project are meant to be your home, like any other house, but complete with supportive roommates and involvement in the F5 Program. The transitional living homes of

submitted by F5 Project

F5 Project support all pathways to recovery, such as but not limited to: 12 Step, Faith-based, Smart Recovery, Refugee Recovery, Medicated Assisted Treatment, Peer Recovery Support you name it! F5 Project cheerleads for our participants while we assist them in identifying what pathway works for them, and supporting them along the way." - The F5 Project Website

Employment F5 helps equip program participants with the skills necessary to find meaningful employment once they leave the program. They also partner with area employers who frequently hire program participants.

Recovery F5 Project’s partner organization, The Ridge: Treatment and Reentry Center, offers a variety of care programs for those struggling with addiction. "The Ridge: Treatment and Reentry Center is a premier alcohol and drug treatment center that offers a specialized extended care program that is customized to the needs and circumstances of each individual."

"We offer a variety of comprehensive evaluations, substance use disorder treatments, individual and group therapies, classes, and support services to help people in their recovery." "Our focus is to remove the common and widespread barriers to treatment and create access for all - allowing individuals to get treatment as soon as they need too." -The F5 Project Website

Free Through Recovery Free Through Recovery is a behavioral health initiative guided by the North Dakota Behavioral Health and Human Services. This community-focused program aims to enhance access to recovery support services for individuals engaged with the criminal justice system and grappling with behavioral health issues. F5 is a Free Through Recovery provider and the program includes: • Care Coordination • Recovery Services • Peer Support

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FEBRUARY 2024

BY THE NUMBERS 30,260 lives transformed (and counting) 560 participants seen each month across North Dakota 103 individuals housed in F5 Project houses in 2023 40+ individuals interviewed for jobs within their last 90 days of jail to secure employment before their release date.

Touched by F5 Project In the next section of our article on the F5 Project, we turn our focus to the heart and soul of the program: its participants. These individuals, each with their own unique story, share a common thread of early encounters with mental health and addiction challenges. As we learn about their experiences, told through their voices, we hope that you can develop a deeper appreciation for their humanity. *These Q&As have been edited for clarity and conciseness

CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 2024

by Josiah Kopp

Meet Leverne Former F5 Project Participant Meet Leverne, a kind and wellspoken individual who is a former participant in the F5 Project. His story is one of resilience and perseverance. Leverne, a non-violent individual with a steady employment history, has successfully stayed out of prison for the past 13 years. His journey, though marked by past struggles with addiction and law enforcement, shows the power of determination and recovery. In our Q&A, Leverne shares his experiences and the wisdom he's gained along the way. He truly emodies his inspiring motto: "If you fall, you're not a failure. Get back up and try it again."

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"F5 is probably the best self-help that I've ever reached out for." Q: What is your story? Where are you from? A: I was born in Arkansas, but a lot of times I just say St. Louis because my first memories are really from living in St. Louis. Eventually, all of us, my parents and my seven brothers and three sisters, relocated to Minneapolis in 1976. I would have been 20, getting ready to turn 21 at that time... It was a good move coming out of St. Louis because the southside of St. Louis at that time was one of the most ghetto areas in the country. Coming to Minneapolis was like giving a kid candy for the first time. Everything was clean and it was really relaxing. From there, I spent 12 years with a girl from Sioux City, IA, and had three children. When we separated, I moved to Omaha and stayed there for a while. I was 32 years old before I ever went to prison—that was in Iowa. I got out and I don't want to say I gave up, but I had different ideas of what might work. I wasn't addressing any of my addiction issues back then.

Q: So, were you dealing with addiction leading up to that arrest at the age of 32? A: Yes, that is correct.

Q: How long have you been dealing with that? A: Probably 16 years because I was 15 or 16 when I got my first job at St. Louis University. I would get out of school and go to work with my cousin who worked there. I was a dishwasher, but I worked in the cafeteria where the priests were, not where the students were. There was alcohol everywhere. So, at the end of our shift, we would take the trash out and take beer home with us. Then, we would walk and drink all the way home. That was my first introduction to alcohol. From there, marijuana crept in. I won't say things were controllable back then, but I never got in trouble because of the marijuana or the beer at that time.

My dad's rule when we were growing up was if you didn't work or go to school, you couldn't stay at the house, which was understandable. He used to do things like take us to Forest Park when I was 13 or 14 years old. He would take us there and leave us while he went to take classes at the school that was nearby. He would do that for a couple of hours in the evening and give all of us boys a section of the newspaper and when he would get back from class, he would ask us what we read. Even if you got the comics, you had to tell him what you read. That was a good practice because we all really learned how to read and write. Once he got out of school, he started driving a truck. And not having him around all of the time with Mom gave us a little more freedom to get a little wilder. By the time I got to Iowa, I think control was gone. I would keep some type of a job, but the control was gone. I've been to prison five times—twice in Iowa, twice in Nebraska, and once in Minnesota.

CONTINUED

FARGOINC.COM

MEET LEVERNE

While I was in prison in 2001, my father passed away. Because my family was in Minnesota, I wasn't able to make the funeral. If they were in Iowa, I would've been able to go. I continued to just dwell on that, but I decided that I was going to move back home to Minnesota. I ended up going to prison again in Minnesota, but when I got out, I moved to Fargo—that was in 2012 and I've been here ever since then. I took a job doing construction. My mom lived until 2019 and I was able to get back with all of my siblings, except for one that had passed away, to see her. She was really happy that we all got together in the same place. Four days later, she passed away. I also decided during that time that I was going to go to treatment. I did that and ended up getting 20 months of sobriety. Then, COVID hit. I was working pretty well, but my boss ended up shutting things down. At that time, you had the COVID relief money on top of unemployment. I moved in with what I called a friend at the time and relapsed after 20 months of sobriety. Meth was my drug of choice and I ended up getting caught up again. In April of 2021, I went back to treatment, got out, and got another good job. I worked that job and got a promotion

FEBRUARY 2024

to supervisor and then I filled in for the truck driving job they needed on the weekends. I stayed there for a little over a year and ended up being the general manager. It wasn't a hard job, but it was very stressful... I was at 14 months of sobriety and I relapsed again. This time, my relapse did not last as long as it had when I lost my 20 months of sobriety. I ended up getting in touch with F5, lived in their housing, and did their treatment program. F5 is probably the best self-help that I've ever reached out for. The first two times I went through treatment, the programs basically involved detoxing and taking some classes. They throw some books at you and different tools... What I really enjoyed about F5 was the people. You got the same tools, but you really had the time and the opportunity to read and learn. I recognized that most of my problems came from setting boundaries. In the past, I had moved in with friends who were using. You can't take an alcoholic and move him across the street from a liquor store because there are no obstacles. It's the same thing for a heroin or meth user. It's a bad move to move in with a friend that is using. But, the best thing I got out of this stint in treatment was structure. If you don't have a plan and if you don't structure

things, you're going to set yourself up for failure. The treatment was only 3 months, but I stayed in F5 housing for 11 months. Once I moved, I went through a program called the Thrive Program. During those 11 months, I built my credit score up and built my bank account up. Then, through the Thrive program, I ended up getting an apartment with Goldmark. For a felon, that's a hard place to get in, but they accepted me because my credit score was up to 715. The only thing that has changed since I moved out is my address. I still do everything that I did when I was in F5 housing. I don't have any reason to go outside after 9 p.m. I go to my meetings—one of them I've never missed since October of 2022. When I started at F5, I rode the bus through every snowstorm. If not, one of them would come pick me up. When it quit snowing, I bought a bike. Eventually, I bought a car. My sobriety date now is September 12, 2022. I caught on because I paid attention this time. I got 20 months of sobriety the one time I went through treatment because I was working hard, but I had all the same friends and if you don't change your playmates and playground,

"One thing I really enjoy and respect about F5 is that they will try to help you in any way and they will give you things for you to help yourself. They don't turn their back on anybody. They don't give up on people. If you really put your foot forward with them, they'll do almost anything for you." you're just waiting for an accident to happen. The last time when I relapsed was because I got stressed out. Staying out of stress is a key for me and so is keeping my boundaries set. I really just try to continue to live under structure. One thing I really enjoy and respect about F5 is that they will try to help you in any way and they will give you things for you to help yourself. They don't turn their back on anybody. They don't give up on people. If you really put your foot forward with them, they'll do almost anything for you. When I lost my toes in April of 2016 due to complications from diabetes, I knew I needed to make a change. I probably could have saved it if I wasn't out there running around doing drugs and drinking. That was the first time I focused and tried to get things together. Now, my AIC is under seven and it's been under seven for almost over a year.

Q: If you don't mind me asking, what got you in prison those five times? A: The first two times were delivery of cocaine. One was for possession of cocaine. Then, two of them were for thefts—not burglary; they were for shoplifting. The possession of cocaine charges landed me with 10 years for each one of my possessions. I ended up doing seven years before I got out. I did maybe a year in Minnesota for one of the shoplifting charges and I did nine months for the other.

The State of North Dakota was never really concerned about smacking me upside the head for my past. They were always more concerned about what I was going to do going forward. I think now it's more about rehabilitation than it is about incarceration. Before it was always about punishment, not helping. In Fargo, guys have a lot of opportunities to get out and do programs.

Every time I was in, I was able to get a good job in prison, save money, and get out and get my own place. In North Dakota, I have had a couple of possession of meth instances, but North Dakota is the only state I have lived in, other than Missouri, where I haven't gone to prison.

CONTINUED

FARGOINC.COM

by Josiah Kopp

Meet SARAH Former F5 Project Participant Introduced to drugs and alcohol at the age of 10, Sarah has persevered through alcoholism and mental illness. Now, she is a care coordinator at F5 Project and she dedicates her life to assisting others who face challenges similar to what she endured.

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FEBRUARY 2024

MEET SARAH

"Recovery is possible. You don't have to be stuck in the cycle. It takes a little work, but you can come out of it." Q: What is your story? A: I was first introduced to drugs and alcohol when I was around 10 years old. They were a part of my life for the majority of my life. Throughout parts of my life, I just considered it that typical teenage and early 20s phase. I couldn't really tell you when it changed from something everyone goes through into being an addiction, but at some point, it crossed that line. It was no longer that run-of-the-mill drinking and partying.

Q: Were you aware of that? A: I think somewhere inside of me I knew it was, but I wasn't ready to admit to that. I blamed it on everyone and everything else. I drank because I was going through this or that. Along with drug and alcohol use, I had a lot of mental health struggles. They kind of worked together and fought against each other. I'd be going through a really bad depressive state so I'd drink. I'd be

FEBRUARY 2024

coming out of a really bad depressive stage so I'd drink. I didn't want to cope with what I was feeling so I'd drink. They worked hand in hand and not in a good way. Things started getting really bad in 2019. That was the first time I was put in a psychiatric unit in a hospital from an overdose. I was in there in May of 2019. I was back there in November of 2019. I was in and out of ICUs a couple of times. March 27, 2021 was the last time I ended up in an ICU and it was the last time I would drink. I don't remember a lot of what happened. I was at a work Christmas party for the place I worked at the time and we were on a party bus and were having fun and that's the last thing I remember. I woke up roughly a week later in Sanford ICU and didn't know what was going on or how I got there. It wasn't until I got my phone back that I started piecing things together. That was the moment that really scared me into realizing that I needed to change

something because if I repeated the same cycle it was going to kill me. I had no clue where to start. I was 39 years old and I had tried psychiatrists and therapists—I wanted nothing to do with them at the time because in my mind they were just people with degrees who were trying to control my life and tell me what to do. They didn't understand me, they didn't know what to do, they just knew what they learned in a textbook. [I thought that] even if they had their own experience. My mind couldn't comprehend it. At Sanford, probably a day or two after I remembered being awake, I had two individuals come into my room who were from F5. I had never heard of F5 and I had no clue who they were or what they did. But, at the time, they had a partnership with Sanford and in instances of overdoses and things like that, they would come in and talk with people and see if they wanted help or support or whatever.

"A person is not their diagnosis. A person is not their addiction. A person is not their mental health." They started talking to me like I was human. They didn't talk to me like I was an alcoholic who woke up after being unconscious for a week after an overdose. They told me about themselves. They had their own stories and some of theirs were similar to mine and others weren't, but it was the first time I really felt understood. They didn't pressure me into anything. They just explained what they did and said they would reach out to me in a couple of weeks if I wanted them to. The day I got out of the hospital, I didn't know what to do. I didn't feel ready to be home, but the doctor said I was ready. I was scared. I was alone. But I remembered these two individuals and I found the F5 Facebook page and reached out to them and told them I didn't know what to do. Someone reached out to me and messaged me for a couple of hours. Then, a couple of days later, someone from the office reached out to me to check on me. From there, I started building a relationship with them before I was even a participant with them.

In mid-April 2021, I became a participant with them. Every person I interacted with I had the same feelings of love, support, not being judged, and just genuine care and concern.

Q: If we can go back, you said you were exposed to drugs and alcohol around the age of 10— how did that happen?

I met with my care coordinator every week from April of 2021 to sometime around September of 2022. We talked about life. It was my safe space to vent all my bullshit. It didn't matter what was going on in my life. That was my place to let it all out without the worry of judgment and feeling like someone was looking down on me. I was never told what to do. They just listened—there were maybe a couple of suggestions, but it was always based on what I wanted. They helped me create a plan.

A: My parents had just gotten divorced. My mom moved out and some of the friends I started making were a little older—one of them brought a bottle of liquor and we tried it. Other times, someone would find some cigarettes and we would try them. Someone would find some marijuana.

In January of last year, I started working for them. Now, I get to take that experience I had and now I get to apply it to helping others in the same way I was helped.

I was an only child so I always wanted to be accepted by whoever I was around. Nobody forced me into doing anything, but I didn't want to be the person not doing the things everyone else was doing. I wanted friends. So I tried what everyone else was trying. I don't remember what I felt when I tried things at that age. All I remember is it didn't feel bad enough to deter me from wanting to do it again.

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FARGOINC.COM

MEET SARAH

Q: How often were you using these various substances back then? A: It was maybe once a month or once every couple of months. It would be a beer here, a couple of sips of a drink here, smoking a joint with four or five other people. It wasn't anything I would really consider crazy. By the time I hit 14 or 15, it was turning into partying every weekend. By 16, it was every weekend and occasionally during the week. I just kind of progressed as I got older. At 21, it was the only time I did the only official alcohol treatment I've ever done. I still wouldn't admit that I had a problem. I would just tell people that I needed a break. I went into inpatient treatment and I completed outpatient treatment and then I found out I was pregnant with my son. So, I figured I was good. I wouldn't do anything because I was pregnant. I quit doing any kind of treatment and quit doing meetings so I could just focus on my pregnancy. Then, after my son was born, within roughly a week, I was back at the bar.

Q: What do you like about working at F5? A: I love that I get to work with people who are going through a lot of the things that I went through early in my recovery and I can identify with them, which helps build that trust. I'm not just somebody reading something out of a textbook. I'm somebody who has been through this and lived it. Recovery is possible. You don't have to be stuck in the cycle. It takes a little work, but you can come out of it and I get to show them that by being who I am today.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to stop their substance abuse? A: I would just remind them that they're not alone, that they matter, and that there are people out there that will give a shit and help you and support you and love you unconditionally. I would tell them, just please reach out—if not to F5, to any of the amazing organizations in the area that offer the same services.

Q: What makes F5 different? What do they do that works? A: So many people working there have their own lived experiences. Lived

experience goes such a long way. In the beginning, if I didn't have people who could identify with me through their own lived experiences, I don't know if I would be where I am today. Having them talk to me like I was just a person who was going through some shit made me feel like I was okay like there was light at the end of the tunnel. Having that is so huge because when you're going through it yourself, it's really easy to convince yourself that nobody else is going through it—that you're alone. That's a huge strength of F5—that we have our own experiences. We're a family, which is huge. Your support doesn't end with your care coordinator. You have an entire building you can reach out to that maybe others don't know about. It's the entire staff across the state that is there for you.

Q: What advice would you give to employers out there to make sure they're supporting people who may be going through struggles? A: A person is not their diagnosis. A person is not their addiction. A person is not their mental health. Look beyond that and support them to get through it, but remember that they're a person. Don't turn your back on them.

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FEBRUARY 2024

by Josiah Kopp

Meet CODY Former F5 Project Participant Growing up in an environment where drug use was pervasive, Cody's first encounter with drugs came at just 11 years old. His life since then has been a continuous battle with addiction, a struggle that many find hard to break free from. However, with the help of F5 Project, Cody has found sobriety, has been able to maintain stable employment, and has reconnected with his sevenyear-old son.

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"If I can get the message out that that life is not worth living, I consider that a win." Q: What's your story, Cody? A: I'm originally from Minneapolis. I lived there pretty much all my life until about 2012. Growing up in that area, things got rough. We got into the party scene and whatnot and drugs and all that. There was one thing after another and then trouble started happening. Eventually, I started to figure out what I was doing and started doing treatments and whatnot. In 2012, I met this guy and he told me there was work in North Dakota and we just kind of made our way out this way. I've been just trying to change up my life. I've seen a lot of death and it has hit me kind of hard. I've lost a lot of family so I've just been trying to switch it up.

Q: So, drug use was pretty prevalent? A: Yeah, they were pretty easy to find. It was right outside my door where I grew up. I didn't have to do much to get it. I saw it destroy a lot of lives.

Q: Was it pretty prevalent in your family?

Q: Why do you think it was so prevalent where you are from?

A: Yeah. Sadly, it claimed my brother when I was 24 and he was 25. That hit me pretty hard. Three of my closest friends also died from overdoses. We were all using heroin, but I cut it off because I had seen too many people die from it.

A: For me, it was about communication. I like communicating with people. I feel like I'm a really friendly person. Through it, I was able to meet so many people and bring so many people together—for all the wrong reasons, but I felt like I made so many friends. I had hundreds of people at my house. I felt like that was the main spot to hang out and that that was the best way to make friends and connect with people.

But, I just switched up to alcohol because I thought it would end up better for me. I had been a drinker previously, but after cutting the other stuff out, I leaned on it really hard. That didn't make things any better for me. It was a pretty crazy teen lifestyle I was living.

Q: What age were you when you started? A: The first time I started using really was about 11.

Q: So you came to Fargo in about 2012? A: Yeah, I was in treatment previous to that when I was 20 and it didn't really work for me. I made it about seven months through the year-long program and then I let temptation take me away. When I moved out here, I was 21. I met a guy in the shelter that I was living at and he told me there were jobs out here. I was hearing about the oil boom and our goal was to go out to western North Dakota, but we just stopped in Fargo and started to create a life here.

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FARGOINC.COM

MEET CODY

Q: What was life like here? A: I didn't come in smoothly. I came in with like $19 on an EBT card at 21 years old. I didn't know what I was doing. I just got straight to work. I got hired with John Deere through a temp service and that was good. I was thinking about trying to get hired on with them full-time, but then I found myself back in the party life and that's where the trouble started again. Not too long after that, I was caught up in a robbery with aggravated assault and was sentenced to 30 months in prison. I had to sit time from August 2012 to October 2014. During that time, I found out my brother passed away. That was hard to hear. Once I got released, I stayed good for a while, but then I started drinking again. I didn't want anything to do with the drugs, but drinking was my go-to. I found out real quick that this was a party city. I just fit right in. And eventually, the drugs were back in the picture. I would do them off and on. Eventually, I would find myself doing whatever was in front of me really.

I've been blessed with a son who's seven years old and I'm blessed to be in his life now. He's happy and we get to see each other on a regular basis. He's a character. He's like a little cartoon. He's dramatic. He'll have you dying laughing and he's a storyteller. He's just a little model child and he knows it. He can get you to fall in love with him in two seconds and he knows it.

Q: Was there more trouble that followed that? A: Yes. I stayed good for a couple of years and then I caught a DUI while I was out partying. I found myself back in the system and it kind of seems like once you are in it, you are kind of stuck. You have to jump through so many hoops to get out and before you do, something can slip or something can happen. In my particular situation, personal family situations came up, which led to stress, which led to breakups, which led to fighting, which led to more drinking, and a second and third DUI.

I would say my go-to is alcohol, but in reality, it's everything. I'm an addict.

Over four or five years, I was just on a repeat cycle doing the same thing. That's insanity right, trying to change something by doing the same thing. I was just telling myself I could do it.

If I can get the message out there that you don’t have to live in addiction, I consider that a win.

That's the cycle that led me to F5 in 2019. I've been grateful to have them behind my back this whole time since

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then. Adam has been there for me even though he has seen me fall down and give up. Lenard has been part of the program since the beginning. All of their staff and peer support have had my back since I first met them.

Q: What have they done for you? A: In 2019, I was in their program for about a year with a few slipups and whatnot, but thankfully they worked with me and I got things back on track. They eventually helped me get an apartment and I moved into a place on my own in 2020 and started living my life again. But then, I slowly was letting myself drink again. That's when I caught my third DUI and I went right back into the legal cycle. I was able to get myself going again and I ended up meeting this girl in 2021—she had three kids and we all got really close. They hit me in such a way that I wanted to change, and I ended up getting sober for them and I stayed sober for over a year. But during that time, she was dealing with sickness and it kept getting worse and worse— we eventually found out she had cancer and she passed away last year. That just tore me up. I just went off the wall and ended up doing everything. I ended up homeless and staying in the shelter. I just didn't give a fuck. I lost everything and it destroyed my life. I just didn't really care. I was using any drug I could find trying to

mask those feelings and bury them. Thankfully, I did manage to get myself in treatment and clean myself up with ShareHouse. But things took a turn for the worse when I completed the program because I was asked to leave because I was done with the program, but I didn't have anywhere to go. So, I decided to live in my car. I was trying to figure things out. It was the middle of January and all of those crazy snowstorms were happening. I was just pissed off and lost. I did everything I needed to do and I got kicked to the curb. I started drinking again. I wasn't driving, but I had the car running and I was caught for my fourth DUI because they found me sleeping in it. That was last January. I had to sit four months in jail for that. I had kind of given up at that time, and that's when F5 came to see me in jail. They told me they were there to help me figure things out and help me get back on my feet. They came to see me almost every week and set me up with good peer support. Once I was released, I just kept on working with them. Eventually, they told me they had a bed open at one of their houses and I moved from a center to one of their houses.

Q: How long did you work with them? A: I was in their program for about four, or five months. I was just trying to work on myself and my son was involved with Child Protective Services. I had more freedom to do the things that CPS was asking for to get my son. So, I'm grateful for F5 for that. It has been great to get myself back to feeling normal and working good. I can just go to work and make some money and save it. I started working on getting my license again and can now legally drive again. Eventually, I completed F5 and was able to move into my own place.

Q: And you've been able to stay clean since then? A: Yes, I've been able to stay sober since January 7 of last year. It has been great to be sober and see my son. He needs me now and I want to put things behind me and just bring positivity for him.

Q: What was it like working with F5? A: It was empowering. They gave me the motivation and the help I needed. The peer supports know the lifestyle. They know people who struggle like

myself and I could really connect with the ones I work with. I can be open with them about the things I've been through and know that they are there to help me regardless of the mistakes that I have made. I know I can come to them even though I know I've used my fair share of forgive mes and I'm sorry. I feel like, honestly, with everything I've done, I didn't deserve another chance. I've been doing stupid stuff left and right, but they gave me that chance. They're here and have been there to help me figure things out. They help you find things that will get you on your feet to survive. For me, a big thing is just having a connection with people I can be real with and open up to because that's hard for me. I just don't open up to people.

Q: Is there anything else you want to say for the article? A: Yeah, during this time, I've been going back to my spiritual side and just praying to God. I believe he has made all of this possible. I just want people to know that he is real because he has done some things in this last year that have just been impossible. I don't know how they have happened, but it has just seemed to just flow. I've been able to do things now that I wasn't able to do before. I've been blessed.

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FARGOINC.COM

submitted by F5 Project

From Leverne's journey of steady employment and personal growth to Sarah's transition from a life marred by mental illness and addiction to a role where she now guides others, and Cody's path from a challenging environment to reconnecting with his son and pursuing his ambitions—each story highlights the profound impact of support, understanding, and second chances. F5's mission, passionately led by Adam Martin and his team, isn't just about reducing recidivism or aiding recovery; it's about rekindling hope and rebuilding lives.

Support F5 Project f5project.org

FEBRUARY 2024

/f5projectorg

@f5projectorg

By Grant Ayers

NAVIGATE THE ROAD TO SUCCESS Your 2024 Business Resource Guide for Fargo-Moorhead!

re you ready to unlock the secrets of success in our thriving business community? Look no further! Fargo INC! is proud to present an all-encompassing Business Resource Guide designed to help you navigate the local business landscape. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or an inquisitive student, this guide is for you. Let's dive in and explore the wealth of resources available in this dynamic region. Disclaimer: Everything presented here is not formal legal advice. Always talk to a professional with questions.

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ASSEMBLING YOUR TEAM

Required Documentation You’ll Need When Hiring Employees Have the employee fill out an Employees Tax Withholding Form W-4. This tells the government how much tax to withhold from their paycheck. You can find these at irs.gov. Fill out the Employers Quarterly Federal Tax Return Form 941. This reports what taxes are withheld from your employer’s check and also pays your portion of the social security and Medicare taxes. You can find the list of where to file your taxes at irs. gov/filing/where-to-file-your-taxes-for-form-941 The North Dakota Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statement Form 307 is required if you didn't file online and have an open withholding account. If you filed a W-2 electronically, this isn't required. If you're not sure, contact the Office of the State Tax Commissioner. The proof of U.S. Citizenship Form I-9 is filled out by your employee and verifies their identity and that they are authorized to work in the U.S. They will be required to show official identification that may include a driver's license, passport, social security number, or employment authorization document card. It's important to inform your employees of their healthcare options, including coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Even if you don't offer health benefits, you are required to inform your employees that benefits are available through the Marketplace. Make sure you are in compliance with the U.S. Labor Laws. There are many laws in place to protect employees, and it's important to stay in compliance with them. Some of these laws include paying minimum wage, prohibiting discrimination, giving breaks, and providing overtime pay for nonexempt employees.

DID YOU KNOW?

Display required Employer Posters. Federal and State law requires you to hang posters that inform your employees of their rights. These posters are available free of charge at nd.gov/ labor/required-employer-posters. As an employer in North Dakota, you are required to obtain worker's compensation insurance through North Dakota’s Workforce Safety & Insurance (WSI). You can file for this insurance, access necessary forms, and receive tips on reducing your risk for claims at workforcesafety.com. Within the first 20 days of your employee's first day of work, you must report them to the State Directory of New Hires. There are many easy ways of reporting your hire that can be found at childsupport.dhs.nd.gov/employers/new-hirereporting. The Wage and Tax Statement Form W-2 is required for each of your employees to ensure the correct amount of income, social security, or Medicare tax was withheld. You can obtain this form at socialsecurity.gov/employer. Obtain unemployment insurance, which protects employees who meet state requirements and who find themselves unemployed through no fault of their own. Make sure your company is in compliance with all healthy safety standards as outlined by the U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA enforces training and education, and you can read more about these standards at osha.gov.

The City of Fargo has helpful links and information on its website as well. Visit fargond.gov/work/doing-business. FARGOINC.COM

2024 BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE

HOW TO PROPERLY SET UP YOUR BUSINESS You have long dreamed of opening your own business, being your own boss, and contributing to the economy with your fantastic ideas. You're finally making the leap and ready to pick up the phone, start networking, and hit the ground running. Before you start changing the world and making millions, here is a checklist of legalities that you should make sure you have completed.

Trade Name Registration

Tax Permits

Your business plan is in place, and you have a name picked out. It's time to check with the North Dakota Secretary of State's Office to make sure your chosen business name is available.

You can find the applicable required tax permits for your business at nd.gov/tax/user/businesses/ overview/new-businesses. These may include sales and use tax, income tax, alcohol tax, telecommunications tax, and more. You'll need your EIN for these forms and tax applications.

North Dakota Business License Information Many businesses, depending on your industry, require special state or local licenses in order to legally operate.

Apply for Permits Whether you will be conducting business inside city limits, outside, or both, you will need to contact the city or county auditor to apply for the appropriate permits and zoning ordinances.

Register with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service Visit irs.gov/smallbiz to obtain your Employer Identification Number. You can obtain an EIN immediately on IRS.gov at no charge.

FEBRUARY 2024

Insurance In order to protect your "new baby," you should make sure you are covered with at least basic insurance policies through your local agent. Consult the agent you trust to cover yourself for things such as general liability, property, commercial auto, and theft.

Protect Your Unique Products and Logo It's time to brand and promote! Protect your brand by obtaining the necessary patents, trademarks, and copyrights. U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: uspto.gov U.S. Copyright Office: copyright.gov N.D. Secretary of State: nd.gov/sos/businessserv

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HOW SHOULD YOU STRUCTURE YOUR BUSINESS?

FUN FACTS

From The North Dakota Small Business Resource Guide

There are four main types of business structures. Decide which structure best fits your business by checking out our chart below.

There are 65 SCORE mentors across North Dakota; 18 of them serve the FMWF area.

A Sole Proprietorship

General Partnerships

This business is run by a single entrepreneur who takes on the risk of all debts and actions of the company. If you decide to form a sole proprietorship, your personal assets are at risk if your business is ever sued. This is called unlimited liability, and it's one of the largest downfalls to forming your business this way. Setting yourself up this way is quick and inexpensive. You're not required to file in North Dakota for this entity; however, you will need to pay self-employment taxes on your profits and may end up paying more than if you were formed as one of the other entities.

General partnerships can be formed with two or more people. These businesses also carry unlimited liability and all involved parties' personal assets could be at risk if the business was sued. Self-employment taxes are paid from the business income, but the profits and losses would be claimed through each of the owner's personal tax returns.

National Veterans Small Business Week is November 2 to 6. Each year the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) celebrates, connects, and empowers service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses. Follow along on social media using #VetBiz.

A Corporation Although the process is lengthier and more complicated, you can protect your personal assets by forming a corporation. There is also no self-employment tax assessed with corporations. In North Dakota, you're required to file an Article of Incorporation and pay a $100 filing fee with the North Dakota Department of Financial Institutions.

Limited Liability Company (LLC) Possibly the most popular business structure, LLCs allow you to protect your personal liability while giving you the luxury of operating as a sole proprietorship. Your business would also have the most tax flexibility when compared to the alternative entities. In order to form an LLC in North Dakota, you need to file the Articles of Organization document with a fee of $135.

U.S. Small Business Administration lending continues to reflect strong economic trends during the period from October 1, 2018, to September 30, 2 019. In North Dakota, the SBA approved 183 7(a) and 504 loans worth $76.1 million to North Dakota small businesses.

There are 74,202 small businesses in North Dakota, representing 98.8% of all ND businesses, with 195,312 employees. Combined with Minnesota, the two states have 600,000 small businesses employing 1.5 million workers.

FARGOINC.COM

2024 BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE

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LOOKING TO START A BUSINESS OR SEEKING SUPPORT? The metro is big on entrepreneurship. Organizations like Emerging Prairie, Folkways, the Greater Fargo-Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, SCORE, the Small Business Administration, Moorhead Business Association, and more encourage entrepreneurial efforts and can offer personalized support to help owners get a business off the ground. Events like StartupBREW Fargo offer opportunities for entrepreneurs to gather, pitch ideas, and collect feedback, and the Technology Incubator continues to nurture startup businesses and further expand the entrepreneurial spirit of their “Innovation Challenge” program as they are in their first year of opening the competition to all college and university students on both sides of the river. There are even several programs to encourage young girls to get involved in STE(A)M in the region. There are various professional development and networking groups that can serve as a place to get involved and make new connections, too.

LOCAL RESOURCES AND CONTACTS Barnesville Economic Development Authority

West Fargo Economic Development 800 Fourth Ave E West Fargo, ND 58078 701-433-5311

202 Front St N, A P.O. Box 550 Barnesville, MN 56514-0550 218-354-2145 800-354-7570

51 Broadway North, Ste 500 Fargo, ND 58102 877-243-0821 701-364-1900

SCORE - Counselor to America's Small Business

Casselton Business Association

Moorhead Economic Development Authority

51 Broadway N, Ste 505 Fargo, ND 58102 701-239-5677

P.O. Box 548 Casselton, ND 58012-0548 701-347-4652

500 Center Ave Moorhead, MN 56561-0779 218-299-5441

Moorhead Business Association

Small Business Administration

P.O. Box 612 Moorhead, MN 56561

Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation

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657 2 Ave N, Room 218 Fargo, ND 58102 701-239-5131

2024 BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE

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HOW THE FMWF CHAMBER CAN HELP We are here to support area business owners and emerging entrepreneurs. We can act as a connector, and if we don’t know the answer to an issue in your industry, we will connect you with someone who does. Let us know what you need help with, and we’ll do our best to help you reach an organization, individual, or program that can step in to help. - From the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Our CONNECTIONS program through Women Connect offers mentorship and support for professional women. Hiring or need help? Members can submit their job openings on our website! Use our Member Information Center (an online members-only tool through our website) to send or respond to RFPs, collect web leads, get referrals, and connect with other members. Our public policy committee or advocacy coordinator can help you monitor issues affecting your business, understand legislative issues or connect you with elected officials to share your voice and take a stance. Check our Business Directory for organizations or categories that you’re interested in partnering with, or reach out if you need a referral.

Hosting An Event or Meeting?

Organizations That Can Help Small Businesses

If you’re looking for a place to meet or host a conference, you’ll find many facilities in the metro that can host your event. Check out the conference center member directory listings. Please call each facility to get more information on rental rates and capacities. The Convention & Visitors Bureau can also work with you to find a host.

If you are a business owner looking for support or are trying to start your own business, there are many organizations in our area that can help! From business advising to mentoring, to funding and trademarks, there’s a great team of professionals here ready to help you succeed. Check out any of the organizations listed to get started!

Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation for help relocating, expanding, or starting your business.

North Dakota Women’s Business Center for training, advising, and more.

Moorhead Business Association for advocacy, networking, and information. Small Business Administration, with a Fargo office, to start, grow, expand, or recover after a disaster, find low-cost business advisers or federal funding, certifications, and more.

Emerging Prairie for tech and startup support.

Fargo SCORE for mentoring.

NDSU’s Startup Incubator at the Research & Tech Park.

North Dakota Small Business Development Center for advising.

Veterans Business Outreach Center for service members and military spouses to start or grow a business.

FEBRUARY 2024

StartupBREW Fargo - Energized by Emerging Prairie, for weekly events to get connected.

2024 BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE

CONNECTIONS (FORMERLY P.U.S.H.) Mission: To create a supportive network of women who empower each other to ask tough questions, challenge the norm and grow individually and professionally.

Vision: We aspire to change the way women encourage each other and empower themselves.

Don’t wait any longer. Here’s how you get started! Have a Coffee Connect, with someone new or someone you’ve connected with before, and make the commitment to starting a CONNECTIONS group. Plan your next Coffee Connect and invite two or more women to join. When your group reaches a number that feels right (we recommend around eight, but it’s really up to your group), get together to complete registration and decide if your group will meet for coffee, lunch, dinner, wine, or have a theme. Decide how often you will meet. Do what works for you. Discuss the Rules of Engagement. When your CONNECTIONS group is complete, please fill out the Registration Form and submit it. Cheers! Clink those coffee mugs together, here’s to your new CONNECTIONS group and all that it will bring!

No group? No problem! We would be happy to place you in a group with some amazing women from the community. Simply email push@fmwfchamber.com with your first and last name, employer, title, preferred meeting time (morning, daytime, or evening), and intention (networking, friendships, growth, or all of the above).

WHAT DID P.U.S.H. STAND FOR? Pursue Dreams Unite Women

FEBRUARY 2024

Shatter Barriers Have Heart

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WOMEN IN OUR COMMUNITY ARE FINDING SUCCESS THROUGH A NETWORK OF SUPPORTIVE WOMEN.

FUN FACTS From The North Dakota Small Business Resource Guide

Here’s what others are saying about CONNECTIONS:

During a time of job hunting, my group was there for me to pick me up, check-in, and provide connections. Every woman deserves a driven group that they can lean on!"

I love our group! It's nice to network with other Ladies in our community. I like listening to things happening with others. I go home feeling better after our get-togethers. It's nice to have a group to run things by and get other perspectives."

This group has given me connections and support in a way that I haven't had before. We're able to relate to each other; listen to, support, and encourage each other; learn from each other; learn from our shared goals; share personal and professional challenges and triumphs. This group has brought incredible value to me, and I think we all believe that we not only gain from but also contribute to the value of the group. It's been an awesome experience.”

The North Dakota Small Business Development Centers advised 1,062 individual clients in 2019.

According to AmEx, in 2019, shoppers came together to support their local communities more than ever. The 10th Annual Small Business Saturday hit a record high with an estimated $19.6 billion in reported spending.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How are monthly topics/questions distributed? The monthly discussion topic or question is distributed through the Facebook Group, being posted the Wednesday after the monthly Women Connect event.

How do you start a group?? Two people will start a CONNECTIONS group, similar to a coffee connection. The first meeting will start as every CONNECTIONS meeting will—with a question; it will end the same, too—with CONNECTIONS. A CONNECTIONS group consists of a member stating the goal they will achieve by the next CONNECTIONS meeting; the other members will keep her accountable. At the second meeting, each person will bring another woman and this will continue until the group reaches eight (or so) members.

How and when do I register my CONNECTIONS group? As soon as you feel your CONNECTIONS group is complete, please register! Don’t worry, you can add members after you register by emailing Chelsea or Carrie your updated information. Simply go to the CONNECTIONS page on the FMWF Chamber website where you will find the kickoff packet. The registration form can be found in the packet. Please fill out and submit.

Why do I need to give my CONNECTIONS group a name? Make the CONNECTIONS group unique to your group by giving it a name. Also, there will be a CONNECTIONS directory listing all CONNECTIONS groups. Each group having a unique name will lend well to the order of the directory.

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How do you join a group? You can join in a few different ways. You will be invited into a new CONNECTIONS group, you can start a CONNECTIONS group, or you can request to be connected with a CONNECTIONS group by contacting Chelsea or Carrie.

How often do you meet? We recommend you meet monthly, however, the frequency can be set by the group. Discussion topics/questions will be distributed monthly and will tie into the most recent Women Connect presentations.

What happens if our group gets too big? We recommend groups of 8 or so women to allow everyone to feel heard and supported. With that being said, your group can be whatever size feels the most comfortable. If you sense your group has become too big, we recommend breaking up into smaller, more manageable groups. Perhaps everyone still meets at the same place and the same time, but you split up at the beginning of the meeting for the discussions.

Who will lead the CONNECTIONS group? We believe a natural leader will emerge in each group. Whether it be the person that initiated the group or another member.

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How does this tie into Women Connect? Most CONNECTIONS groups will come from a Women Connect coffee connection, but that isn’t the only way to start one. The groups also tie to Women Connect because the question at the beginning of each CONNECTIONS meeting will be tied to the most recent Women Connect presentation.

Where do we meet? The group can decide to meet wherever they wish. You may choose to meet somewhere new each month, or you may decide on a consistent meeting place.

When do we meet? To take full advantage of the monthly topics made available, we recommend the group meets monthly. With that being said, the group is free to decide the frequency of your meetings.

How is the meeting structured? Meetings can be structured in whatever way works best for the group. Here is an example meeting structure to get you started: 30 Minutes - Discussing Topic/Question 15 Minutes - Recapping your last month's CONNECTIONS Goal 15 Minutes - Stating your CONNECTIONS Goal for next month

Do you have to attend Women Connect events to attend CONNECTIONS meetings, and vice versa?

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What if I don’t complete my CONNECTIONS goal in time for the next meeting? It’s OK! Continue to go to your CONNECTIONS meeting regardless. Of course, there are going to be times when an obstacle gets in the way of someone meeting their CONNECTIONS goal— maybe the CONNECTIONS meeting and other members can help someone push past their obstacle.

What if my group stops meeting? Start a new one! Or join a new one! Contact Chelsea or Carrie and they’ll make sure you find a group.

What if I don’t feel comfortable with my group? Start or join a new one. Carrie and Chelsea will be happy to help.

How long should we continue to meet monthly? As long as the CONNECTIONS group continues to be inspiring and empowering to the members.

Can my CONNECTIONS group have a theme? Yes. A CONNECTIONS group can be a group that meets for coffee, dinner, knitting, running… it can be whatever the group decides!

No. We hope that both Women Connect and CONNECTIONS will lend well to each other, introducing new women to each group from the other.

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WHAT LAWS TO FOLLOW Based on the number of employees

As your business grows, so too does the way you have to run it. Depending on the number of employees you have, there are certain requirements you may fall under. To help you out, Kevin and Charlie Wilson of CBI Business Services, an HR firm in Fargo, have helped compile a short list of some of the most common laws businesses are required to do based on the number of employees they have. As with most things when dealing with the government, there are a number of exceptions to these. We are presenting this only as a way to make sure you are covered when it comes to some of these. We encourage you to talk to an expert if you think your business must meet one of these.

1-10 Employees Consumer Credit Protection Act (Wage Garnishments) Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)/Child Labor Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) Whistleblower Protection Provisions

Under 20 Employees

20+ Employees

North Dakota Mini Cobra

COBRA

New Hire Reporting

50+ Employees Affordable Care Act Family and Medical Leave Act

DID YOU KNOW? 64

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North Dakota was the #8 least stressed state acording to a WalletHub Study

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FirstStep Employment Law Advisor webapps.dol.gov/elaws/firststep

Unless you’re a lawyer or in a major corporation, it’s almost impossible to know all the different laws your business is required to follow. The FirstStep Employment Law Advisor helps employers determine which federal employment laws your business must meet. It will ask you a series of questions about your business and, in the end, provide you with a list of the major laws you are required to meet. *Note: This is meant as a guide to major Department of Labor laws and doesn’t cover all the laws administered by the DOL or state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act dol.gov/whd/fmla

The FMLA entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health insurance coverage under the same terms and conditions as if the employee had not taken leave. The FMLA applies to all: • Public agencies, including local, state, and federal employers, and local education agencies (schools). • Private sector employers who employ 50 or more employees for at least 20 workweeks in the current or preceding calendar year—including joint employers and successors of covered employers.

COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra

COBRA basically requires that coverage continues for employees, spouses, former spouses, and dependent children when group health coverage is lost due to certain specific events. The law generally applies to all group health plans maintained by private-sector employers with 20 or more employees. The law does not apply to plans sponsored by the Federal Government or by churches and certain church-related organizations. In addition, many states have laws similar to COBRA, including those that apply to health insurers of employers with less than 20 employees (sometimes called mini-COBRA).

North Dakota Mini Cobra If your employer has less than 20 employees, you will fall under North Dakota's law that identifies the specific rules and regulations to continue your group health coverage. Like COBRA, coverage is only temporary--39 weeks. Employees must also pay the entire premium to their employer.

New Hire Reporting Federal and state laws require all employers to report all newly hired employees to the State Directory of New Hires within 20 days of the employee’s first day of work. This includes full-time, part-time, and temporary employees. Search for new hire reporting in North Dakota to find the forms.

Affordable Care Act

irs.gov/affordable-care-act/employers The Affordable Care Act, or health care law, contains benefits and responsibilities for employers. The size and structure of your workforce determine what applies to you. Some of the provisions of the Affordable Care Act, or health care law, apply only to applicable large employers, generally those with 50 or more full-time employees. For example, applicable large employers have annual reporting responsibilities concerning whether and what health insurance they offered to their full-time employees (and their dependents). There are many provisions to this law that will touch every business no matter the size. For example, you must withhold and report an additional 0.9 percent on employee wages or compensation that exceeds $200,000. The type of insurance plan you provide employees can also change what you are required to comply with. You may only employ 30 people but if you offer a selfinsured plan you must file an annual return reporting certain information for each employee you cover.

Minimum Wage In North Dakota, the minimum wage is $7.25, as of August 1, 2023.

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FRANCHISING

How to Profit from Experiences

Franchisor: A person or company who desires to expand the business by giving selected franchisees the right to do business under their trade or service marks in accordance with the franchise agreement for a recurring royalty fee.

Franchisee: The person or company accepting the right, granted by the franchisor to retail or provide services, using the franchisor’s trade name or service marks, within the terms and fees set in the franchise agreement.

Overall, the entrepreneur may have a lower risk when buying a franchise than when you start a business from scratch, but this initiative must be balanced with a willingness to comply with the franchisor’s business formulas. The biggest advantage of a franchise is that the franchisor has done most of the work for you. For example, the franchisor will have already developed the product(s) or service(s), positive name recognition, eye-catching signage, interior and exterior store layout, training methods, and effective ways of operating the business. The franchisor wants you to succeed and helps you in developing the business, eliminating much of the trial-and-error, and subsequently lowering the risk of failure. The biggest disadvantage of franchising is the cost. Franchises often have a high up-front capital investment and require ongoing payment of 4-12% or more of the gross sales for rent, marketing, royalties, and advertising. The franchise will have its own protocol and will have very specific limits on what you can and cannot do.

As in all major business decisions, nothing substitutes thorough investigation, planning, and analysis of the options. Questions to consider: Would the business succeed without the benefits offered by the franchisor? Is the franchised product or service new or established? Does the business require special skills? Does the franchised product meet local demand? Is there a proven market for the product or service? If the product requires servicing, who is responsible for warranties and guarantees? The franchisee or the franchisor? If neither, are service options available? What kind of reputation does the product or service enjoy? Are supplies available in your local area?

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It is also recommended to speak with other franchise owners to get more information. Ask for a list of all the firm’s current franchisees. Visit at least one franchised location. When meeting with the franchisees, observe their operation, discuss expenses and ask about franchisor support. Examine the franchisor’s attitude toward you. Is the firm concerned about your qualifications? Are you being rushed to sign an agreement? Does the firm seem interested in a long-term relationship, or does that interest end with the initial fee? What is the legal history of the franchisor? Will the franchise agreement require a predetermined level of starting inventory, promotional fees, or the use of standardized operations manuals? What are the full initial costs? What do those costs cover? What ongoing costs are paid to the franchisor? Determine what royalty, training, or cooperative advertising costs will be required. Are you required to purchase supplies from the franchisor or a designated supplier? Are the prices competitive? What restrictions apply to competition with other franchises? Are there renewal rights? What about resale of the business?

The Federal Trade Commission requires the franchise seller to provide prospective investors with specific, complete, and accurate information along with documentation of all earnings. Consult a franchise attorney, an accountant, and/or a financial advisor to go over the disclosure document and proposed contract. In North Dakota, a franchisor must register its Uniform Franchise Offering Circular (UFOC) and maintain a registration with the North Dakota Securities Department. For additional information go to nd.gov/securities

ND SECURITIES DEPARTMENT State Capitol, 5th Floor 600 East Boulevard Ave Bismarck, ND 58505

701-328-2910 In-State Toll-Free: 800-297-5124 ndsecurities@nd.gov

Thoroughly investigate all franchise opportunities and use the resources available to assist you in making the decision, “Should I start from scratch or buy into a franchise?” For information about franchises, visit sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/buy-existing-business-orfranchise and franchiseregistry.com

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Embracing Internet Expansion Do you sell products on your website to consumers in other states? Due to a ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court, internet-based companies are required to charge sales tax. However, there is a way to simplify this process for companies to collect taxes on sales in other states when they do not hold a physical presence in the state with the Streamlined Sales & Use Tax Project.

Streamlined Sales & Use Tax Project The Streamlined Sales Tax Registration System allows people to register for sales tax purposes with all of the states that are members of the Streamlined Sales Tax Governing Board in a single registration. Once the form is completed, participants will have a sales tax account and be required to collect, report and remit the applicable sales and use tax in all the following Streamlined member states: Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. More information can be found at ND.gov/Tax.

Foreign Qualification If you organize your business in one state but operate in another, you may need to submit for foreign qualification. Foreign qualifying your company in states where you conduct business does require some added paperwork and annual fees; however, it's your legal obligation to do so. Failing to register in these other states could result in paying fines and back taxes. Here are some pros and cons of out-of-state incorporation. You will see that most businesses that benefit from foreign qualifications are larger corporations or those that are at high risk for litigation and would benefit from operating in a state like Delaware.

PROS

CONS

Tax Breaks

Double Taxation

Business Laws

More Compliance

You may save money if taxes are lower in your incorporated state.

Many (typically large) businesses look to Delaware to be their business's home base as it is known for its business law efficiency and litigation.

Privacy

Laws on what information must be public vary from state to state. Some information, including ownership names and addresses, is not required to be public in certain states.

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You may be required to pay taxes in both your home state and your state of incorporation.

You will have to register your business in both your home state and the one you conduct business in. This means that you will need to follow the compliance laws in both states.

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SELLING YOUR BUSINESS

UNDERSTANDING TAX IMPLICATIONS AND STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS As a business owner, the decision to sell your business is a momentous one, and it's essential to be well-informed about the potential tax implications that can significantly impact your financial outcomes. Here, we dive into key tax considerations, such as the installment sale method, the switch to an S corporation structure, and the potential for tax-free deferment through stock exchanges, providing valuable insights for business owners embarking on this intricate journey.

Capital Gains vs. Ordinary Income The amount of tax you pay is based on the profit you make from selling your business. There are two ways that profit is calculated: ordinary income and capital gains. Capital gains are taxed at a much lower rate (a maximum of 15 or 20 percent) than ordinary income, which can be as high as 37 percent.

Stock Sale vs. Asset Sale The character of your income as ordinary income and capital gain income can vary significantly depending upon whether you are selling stock versus selling assets. The Buyers Will generally want to buy assets (versus stock), which will generally provide better tax benefits to the buyer. The Sellers Will generally want to sell stock, which will generally generate capital gain income versus ordinary income to the seller.

Buyers and sellers must use the same allocation in an asset sale. The Buyers Want as much money allocated to deductible items to improve cash flow and reduce taxes in the first years of operation. The Sellers Want as much money allocated to assets that can be treated as capital gains instead of ordinary income, which would be taxed at a higher rate. * This allocation should be negotiated and outlined in the sales contract.

Installment Sale If you are able to take note or finance the sale of your business, you may be able to report some of your capital gains on the installment method, which allows you to defer some of the tax until you get paid in subsequent years. If you receive at least one payment after the first year proceeding the year of sale, you may qualify to use this method. It is important to note that, generally, only "capital gain income" qualifies for an installment sale.

Plan Ahead: Switch To An S Corporation If you are thinking about selling your business in a few years and you are currently operating as a C corporation, you may want to consider switching to an S corporation structure now. You would need to have an appraisal done at the time of the switch but this could reduce or eliminate the potential double taxation as a C corporation.

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Tax-Free Deferment If you are an incorporated business and you sell to a larger corporation, you may be able to defer any tax by accepting the purchaser's stock in exchange for your own business stock.

Summary Selling your business can be a very complicated transaction with significantly different income taxes depending on how the sale is structured. You should involve your tax expert, attorney, and any other advisors before the sale occurs. It is recommended that you start discussing a potential sale with these advisors today to be able to plan for a potential sale sooner rather than later.

HELPFUL LINKS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES *Note: The following links were compiled by staff at the Fargo Public Library

Business Plans

bplans.com/sample-business-plans Developing a business plan will force you to think through important issues that you may not otherwise consider. Your plan will become a valuable tool as you set out to raise money for your business, and it will provide milestones to gauge your success. One of the best ways to learn about writing a business plan is to study the plans of established businesses in your industry. Use this site to review successful business plans from a wide range of commerce.

ND Labor Market Information ndlmi.com

Labor market information consists of data, statistics, and analysis related to employment and the workforce including labor supply and demand, wages and income, labor force and unemployment statistics, employment projections, and labor force demographics. Users of labor market information include job seekers, educators, students, employers, economic developers, and other workforce professionals.

Job seekers, educators, and students can: Assess job skills, set goals, and research training providers. Research possible career choices. Research regional labor market information, such as wages.

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Employers, economic developers, and other workforce professionals can: Research labor market information on wages and economic data. Assess the current trends in North Dakota’s job market. Review the current economic climate for an industry anywhere in North Dakota. Analyze the labor market in areas of North Dakota where you may want to locate your business.

North Dakota Business Registration nd.gov/businessreg

Registering a new business can require a bureaucratic quagmire of paperwork. The best place to start is the North Dakota Business Registration site; it will help you cut through the red tape. You can get information about what you should do and what you must do. The site includes information on business planning, licensing, registering your business name, sales tax requirements, protecting your business, and other state regulations.

North Dakota Small Business Development Center ndsbdc.org

Check-in with the experts at the North Dakota Small Business Development Center for assistance when starting your small business. Services include help with business plans, financial projections and budgeting, handling operating challenges, purchase or sale of a business, funding your venture, loan packaging, and more. The best place to start to ensure your success.

SBDCNET sbdcnet.org

This group provides support and education to Small Business Development Centers and the entrepreneurial communities they serve. Its Web site contains links of interest to the budding entrepreneur, the established small business owner, and the business researcher covering many topics: business plans, industry information, associations, Spanish language business documents, and publications.

SCORE

score.org The Fargo chapter of SCORE (Counselors to America's Small Business) is a nonprofit association dedicated to entrepreneur education and the formation, growth, and success of small businesses in the Fargo area. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Trademarks and Business Names uspto.gov/trademarks

ne aspect of starting a business that can be critical to your success is naming your business. You will want to be sure that you are choosing wisely as the business name will project an image that will either draw new customers, confuse them, or at worst, turn them off. As you consider different business names, one place to start is the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office trademark search site. Do a search here for names you are considering to make sure that no one else has already trademarked a name or phrase. Business name availability in North Dakota can be searched on the Secretary of State’s Business Record Search.

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Meet the Entrepreneurs Who Founded Great Plains Greens Financial analysts by day, lettuce and herb farmers by night? Yep, that's the life of Dylan Kallman, Lee Vetsch, and Jon Wyffels, the founders of Great Plains Greens.

FROM FINANCE TO FARMING By Brady Drake |

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Gary Ussery

DYLAN KALLMAN

LEE VETSCH

JON WYFFELS

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Here you can see the nursery station as well as the system’s app which can remotely control the shipping container’s environment.

he trio, who met through classes at North Dakota State, quickly became friends—they shared similar interests and all worked together at the school's student investment fund. After graduation they went their separate ways. Dylan Kallman works as a Financial Analyst for Ulteig in Fargo. Lee Vetsch works as an analyst at the Venture Capital Firm Ospraie Ag Science and lives in Salt Lake City, UT. Jon Wyffels works as a Senior Financial Analyst at UnitedHealth Group and lives in Minneapolis, MN. However, the group stayed in touch and jumped at a business opportunity together. "We all had a business urge and wanted good competent partners that we trusted," Vetsch said. "We trusted and respected each other to do something together. So, we were just searching for the right opportunity." That opportunity came along when Vetsch learned about Freight Farms through his day job with the venture capital firm. "One of our investment pillars is actually controlled environment ag technology," Vetsch said. "The manufacturer of this technology is one of our portfolio companies that we invested in. North Dakota was actually the only state without any of their units operating. The economics were good and we saw a demand in the private sector so we thought, 'Why not?'" From there, the trio was approved for an APUC grant from the State of North Dakota and they began to get to work. "80-90% of the container was already retrofitted and ready to go for us," Kallman said. "We had to do some customization and setup, but everybody does."

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THE FREIGHT FARMS SYSTEM Freight Farms' vertical farming systems utilize advanced techniques to maximize agricultural productivity in a compact space—a 320 sq. ft. shipping container. Utilizing hydroponics, vertical farming allows plants to grow in nutrient-rich water without soil.

fertilizer and applies it directly to the plants' roots. This is a much more optimal form of fertilization than traditional field spraying due to it being directly applied to the plant’s roots. The system also utilizes artificial light that has multiple spectrum options to ensure the most efficient yield possible.

How it works

Currently, the Great Plains Greens team is growing different varieties of lettuce as well as herbs like basil.

The plants at Great Plains Greens begin in the "nursery" section of the shipping container where the seeds are grown in peat moss grow plugs. According to Freight Farms, this station holds up to 4,608 seedlings in 16 trays, each with 288 cells. Seedlings spend around 21 days here, receiving enough nutrients and light to develop strong stems and leaves before being moved to the cultivation area.

"Lettuce is a very water-intensive crop, but with our method, we're using about 99% less water because everything is targeted," Vetsch said. "We don't have to pay for water, but there is the utility cost of the electricity. But, it's actually a lot more economical than you would think because the productivity on a square foot basis is so high. We don't have to use tractors, trucks, and a lot of other inputs that come with traditional farming."

"Currently, these plugs are the only waste we have," Kallman, who is the main farmhand, said. Once in the cultivation area, Great Plains Greens utilizes a hydroponic drip system that uses a gallon of water mixed with

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The container can utilize both red, blue, and ultra violet light for optimal yield.

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The hydroponic system that mixes water and fertilizer.

Where They Are Headed The Great Plains Greens team has only been harvesting since March 2023 and they've already made significant progress. They have participated in the local farmer's market and have sold their produce to multiple restaurants in the area including Teddy's, Rustica, and Blackbird Woodfire Pizza. They also sell their produce online through the Red River Harvest Cooperative.

FOLLOW GREAT PLAINS GREENS greatplainsgreens.co redriverharvest.com search "Great Plains Greens" @greatplainsgreens

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Right now, Great Plains Greens is delivering between 20 to 40 pounds of lettuce and herbs a week and they are passing out their produce to any restaurant in the area willing to take a sample. "With this first container, we are really trying to understand the market size, public interest, and what to grow," Kallman said. "We are trying to introduce new varieties of lettuce that have not been popularized in North Dakota due to lack of availability." However, they believe that they can offer a unique and complimentary option to the community. "In the Midwest, we import about 90% of our fresh produce from California, Arizona, and Mexico," Wyffels said. "We're an ideal partner because our products have a much longer shelf life than those imports. We can harvest something and deliver it within the same hour in Fargo-Moorhead. We're not going to take away from traditional local agriculture, just add to it. Right now, there are some greenhouses that operate year-round in the state. However, those greenhouses still have to deal with diminished light in the winter. Productivity takes a hit. We run on artificial light so we are just as efficient in the winter as we are in the summer and spring."

Agricultura Titan

Ron Offutt

Celebrating a Lifetime of Impact and Innovation

on Offutt, founder of R. D. Offutt Company, is a giant in agriculture. On February 1, he received a Lifetime Impact Award from Emerging Prairie, something he is well deserving of. In 1968, Ron Offutt, at the age of 26, embarked on a journey that would transform him from a modest farmer in Moorhead, MN, into a pioneering entrepreneur in the agricultural sector. While initially working alongside his father and utilizing equipment from a local John Deere dealership, Ron's path took a decisive turn when he ventured into the business world by acquiring a dealership in Casselton, ND. This move marked the beginning of the R.D. Offutt Company, laying the foundation for what would become a vast network of over 86 stores across 12 states. We were lucky enough to sit down with him for a quick interview ahead of the award ceremony.

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submitted by R.D. Offutt Company

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Q&A with RON OFFUTT

Q: What was it like growing up on the farm? What do you remember about that? A: When I was growing up, my dad was primarily a potato farmer with only a moderate amount of success. He was always an optimist with pricing and oftentimes in potato production, prices aren't your friend. When I got out of college, I came into a partnership with my father, and we did the same thing that he had been doing. After about three years, we weren't moving the ball very much. I didn't know how much future there was on the farming side. So, I had the opportunity to go into the equipment business and I did. In 1968, I bought a John Deere dealership in Casselton, ND. I was in there for about a year running the day-today operations. After that time, I decided two things. Number one, I wasn't very good at running a store. Number two, I really didn't like running a store. So, I hired a manager to manage the store and I went back to the farm. That's kind of how the whole thing started. What changed our future in potato farming was the time period. That was when quick-serve restaurants were just coming into the picture. McDonald's had just started going nationwide—you had other quick-serve restaurants popping up as well. Those restaurants really grew the french fry business—which gave us a lot of opportunity for very rapid growth.

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At the same time that was happening, a lot of the central sandlands in the state of Minnesota were coming out of the soil bank program. A lot of the farmers who put their land in a soil bank program for 10 years weren't going to go back and farm the land. Those lands aren't very productive unless they're irrigated. It was also a time when center pivot irrigation was just starting to get going. We found out very quickly that if we put water on that sand, it was very good potato production land. That allowed us an opportunity to expand along with the french fry industry. We jumped from 400 acres to 3,000 acres in one year. If we had failed that year, I wouldn't be farming or doing any of this today.

Q: Was that a pretty nerve-wracking time for you back then? A: No, I think I was too young and stupid. It should have been.

Q: When you graduated from Concordia College, was there any consideration of doing anything other than returning to the farm?

Did you know?

R.D. Offutt Farms is recognized as the largest potato farming operation in the United States with farmland spread across multiple states. A: During my senior and junior year in college, I interviewed for jobs. Most of the interviews were with insurance companies. I knew from those interviews that I didn't want to be one of those folks who had to go sit at a desk every day. I wanted to be a farmer and follow in my father's footsteps.

Q: It sounds like you turned over that John Deere dealership to a manager pretty quickly— why do you think you were able to do that? A: I learned very, very shortly after I hired the manager that it's a lot easier to manage a manager than to manage the store yourself. Because when you're managing a manager, you get the benefit of hindsight. You see the mistakes that

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Q&A with RON OFFUTT

he or she has made and you probably would have made the same mistake if you were calling the shots on a day-to-day basis. But when you have hindsight working for you, it sure cleans up that vision. That allowed us to drive a culture of taking care of the customers. I instilled in our team very early that our number one job was to take care of the customer. If you give them satisfaction, they'll come back again.

Q: In your experience, what do you think makes a good manager? A: Natural leadership. A good leader is one who circulates and talks to the people that he works with every day. They talk about things to accomplish during the day and assist in going out and helping everybody do their job a little bit better. There's no such thing as a bad John Deere store. There are John Deere stores that have bad managers. If you get a manager who thinks they're a cut above the rest and who thinks they are there to be served instead of being

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the server, you've got a bad manager. And we've had those in the past. And fortunately, through experience, we've been able to spot them.

Q: What are the biggest challenges you have faced in your career? A: I've always had more ideas than I had money. Money was always an obstacle which caused me initially to do a lot of things in partnership with people. A big backbone of our company has been with partners. They've brought different things to the business whether it was money, talent, ground, worker bees—just different things. It's easy to see a partner that can add to the strength of your organization. Our involvement in the french fry industry has always been a partnership. Idahoan Foods started out as a partnership—now we own 97% of it. I have one partner and a very close friend of mine who I formed a potato-growing partnership with in 1965. We graduated from high school and we're still partners today and still friends.

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Q&A with RON OFFUTT

"We jumped from 400 acres to 3,000 acres in one year. If we had failed that year, I wouldn't be farming or doing any of this today." Q: So, it seems like you've been able to pick pretty good partnerships over the years.

Q: What do you think your most significant career achievements have been?

A: For the most part, yeah, for the most part. We've had partnerships that didn't work out, but most have. If you treat the other person fair, they treat you fair—that's the way it works.

A: There are a few things that differentiate us. Number one is we have a great amount of diversity in the company. We've got John Deere stores in different climates that serve different types of customers, from North Dakota to Texas to California. That in and of itself lends to a lot of diversity. On top of that, maybe 55% of our stores are construction equipment. So if the whole agriculture picture is having a down year, that doesn't necessarily mean construction is in bad shape. Likewise, when the economy is in a recession, and the construction stores are slow, that doesn't mean agriculture is.

Q: Please tell me if I'm wrong, but it seems like that lack of money may have been a good thing in that it drove you to create those partnerships. A: I don't know whether you can emphatically say that. We enter into partnerships for a variety of reasons, and capital is just one of them. The fact that we didn't have much money gave me a tremendous drive to want to achieve. I wanted to be successful. It gave me that tenacity. If something didn't work, I tried to figure out why it didn't work and went back and tried it again. Or if we were just doing the wrong thing, we analyzed that, recognized that it might be a mistake, and got out as quickly as we could.

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Back during the recession in 2008 and 2009, I remember very distinctly that the ag stores and construction stores in North Dakota and Montana were working really well because of the Bakken. They helped pick up the slack that we incurred in Arizona and Texas. I think the fact that we spend a lot of effort on developing leadership within the company and developing people who we are tremendously proud of and the people who work for us is a differentiator. My daughter Christi was really responsible for developing the culture. When I was getting started, things were different. I knew everybody. When you get so big, you don't know everybody. We really have a sense of camaraderie, respect, innovation, and entrepreneurialism.

The RDO Tower in Downtown Fargo |

submitted by R.D. Offutt Company

CONTINUED FARGOINC.COM

Q&A with RON OFFUTT

The RDO Equipment Co. Moorhead location |

Q: If you had to give a young agriculture entrepreneur some advice, what would you tell them? First off, I'd congratulate them because they're choosing to go into a very good profession. Secondly, I would tell them not to jump in too big. I would tell them to take things just a bit conservative and that time will take care of growth. Rightly or wrongly, one of the things that led to the sudden growth of our company is that I was kind of a deal junkie. And it worked out that as opportunities presented themselves and if I had the money at the time, we jumped on them. That's what spread us out over the western part of the United States. If it takes partnerships to make those things happen, find partnerships.

Q: Do you have any regrets about your career? A: I've jumped into things that I wish I hadn't got into. I really don't have a lot of regrets though. I enjoy what I do. I sit here at 81 years old, and I still enjoy going to work. Don't ask me what I accomplish these days, but I still go to work. I enjoy it.

submitted by R.D. Offutt Company

Q: What do you enjoy about work? A: Probably the social structure. The employees become friends. The customers that we've served for a long time. The whole interpersonal reaction you have with the people you work with.

Q: If you look at the agriculture landscape, where do you see it heading? What do you see? A: I see a tremendous amount of opportunity as the world population continues to grow. The opportunity is going to be in the data and the technology and the value-added products.

Q: Is there anything else you want to say to the readers? A: I would encourage any young person today who is looking and thinking about a career to give all the consideration you can to agriculture. It's exciting, and I think the next 40 years are going to be better than the last 40, and the last 40 hasn't been bad.

Ron Offutt is a bold entrepreneur and a profound influence in agriculture. Offutt's legacy is built on a foundation of hard work, strategic partnerships, and a keen focus on customer satisfaction. His approach to business, blending traditional values with modern strategies, has left a mark on the industry. He is very deserving of his award. 92

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In our sister magazine, Bison Illustrated, we had the opportunity to speak with a handful of NDSU coaches about leadership. Their messages were so powerful that we thought we'd share them with you!

ABOUT OBENSON BLANC Obenson Blanc, NDSU's new head wrestling coach, has an impressive resume.

LEADING NDSU WRESTLING WITH HONESTY & MENTORSHIP benson Blanc is in his first season as head coach of the Bison Wrestling program, but that doesn't mean he doesn't know about leadership.

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As a competitor, Blanc made five consecutive U.S. national teams from 2009 to 2013. During that span, he was a three-time Pan-American finalist and a two-time winner of the U.S. Open and US World Team Trials. Blanc was also an alternate for the 2012 London Olympic Games. Prior to representing Team USA, Blanc wrestled at Lock Haven and Oklahoma State, earning All-American honors in 2007 at Lock Haven and amassing a remarkable 11841 career record with 25 pins. Blanc's assistant coaching career started at North Carolina State where he helped the program earn multiple ACC Championships and a fourth-place finish at the 2018 NCAA National Championships. Though he is our new favorite head wrestling coach, he is not new to the Bison program. Blanc joined the Green & Gold as an assistant in 2019 and has already made a profound impact on the program. He has already helped to mentor two All-Americans and all three of NDSU's Big 12 Conference champions, alongside 19 NWCA Scholar All-Americans.

Josiah Kopp FARGOINC.COM

Q&A WITH OBENSON BLANC

Q: IF YOU WERE TO EXAMINE YOUR OWN LEADERSHIP STYLE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE IT? A: With the leadership in terms of the guys, I would say I'm pretty honest with them. I like to level with them. I really like to walk with them. I'm very mentorship-based. I like to let them know what things look like—what pressure looks like, what expectations look like. I try to let them know the perspective they should have. When you're a young man, you're going through one of the easiest times in your life in some ways. Despite the pressure you have, your parents are still going to love you if you lose. Your girlfriend is still going to love you. It's about trying to be your very best. This idea of pressure is false. It's about trying to help get them that perspective. That's the kind of team I have right now. They have to be taught a lot. We have a young team.

Q: WHAT DO YOU DO AS A LEADER IF SOMEONE ISN'T GETTING THE MESSAGE? A: You try to be consistent, but you can also try different angles. When they're not getting it, I also like to ask a lot of questions. I ask them why they aren't getting it. I ask them why they get nervous. When you do this, you can help them figure it out a little bit because when they're not getting it, that means they're not processing. So, we try to help them process their own perspective and their own views. I think the best way to do that is by asking a lot of questions because it forces them to analyze and figure out the answer.

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Q: HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT LEADERSHIP WHEN IT COMES TO WORKING WITH ADMINISTRATION? That's been pretty easy. Our administration is very supportive. I think being honest with them is very big as well. I think we've got good people with good experience. When it comes to our assistants one thing that is important is to empower them to do their job. They're competent people. However, you have to make them feel that they have autonomy to act. Delegating is important. I need to delegate to individuals based on their strengths. That's something over time that I've kind of figured out. One person can only do so many things. That's why you have a staff and that's why you empower.

Q: HOW DOES IT LOOK WHEN IT COMES TO DEVELOPING LEADERS AND EMPOWERING ATHLETES ON YOUR TEAM? A: My guys are very young. I think we are only going to graduate one guy this year. We need to make sure these young guys understand that it's okay to be leaders. I try to let them know when they have leadership traits that it's okay to speak up. If there's something that needs to be said, we have a pretty open way of doing it. We also have our student-athletes meet with a coach one-onone every two weeks. Through that, I think there's a little bit of mentorship that happens. To me, expectations and encouragement have to be a little more interpersonal. We talk about their goals. We talk about how they are going to achieve them. We try to give them advice. We let them know if they should speak up. It's a little bit more about encouragement for us. I think it's hard to force guys to be leaders. Guys don't always see themselves as leaders though so I think it's important to let them know when they exhibit those traits.

FARGOINC.COM

Q&A WITH OBENSON BLANC

WE TRY TO HELP THEM PROCESS THEIR OWN PERSPECTIVE AND THEIR OWN VIEWS. I THINK THE BEST WAY TO DO THAT IS BY ASKING A LOT OF QUESTIONS BECAUSE IT FORCES THEM TO ANALYZE AND FIGURE OUT THE ANSWER.

Q: WHAT DO THOSE LEADERSHIP TRAITS LOOK LIKE TO YOU? A: I think it starts with guys doing the right things. You see them showing up early. You see them handling their academics. You see them communicating—if there's a conflict with practice, they reach out and get ahead of it. It's having that common sense. And then its also about having that desire to elevate themselves or the program. Sometimes there are guys who may not be the most talented, but they really care about the program—those are leaders. You can be a leader without being a starter. I'm a big believer that you can have multiple leaders and multiple different types of leaders. You can have vocal leaders. You can have leaders that lead by example. You can heave leaders outside of the room—those guys that get people together for activities like watching UFC or going bowling or whatever—that's big as well.

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Q: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO SAY TO THE READERS? A: I'm still growing. I'm still learning a lot about how to be a good leader. I'm excited about it. I'm excited about learning how to continue to evolve as a leader.

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DID YOU KNOW? Mueller has won over 700 games with NDSU.

2024 SOFTBALL SCHEDULE Scan the code to view the full 2024 NDSU Softball schedule!

LEADING NDSU SOFTBALL THROUGH INNOVATIVE METHODS DSU's longtime softball coach Darren Mueller has had a storied career. He has guided the Bison to numerous conference titles and NCAA tournament appearances, as well as a Division II National Championship. Mueller's expertise in team-building and leadership is unmatched. In this Q&A, he shares his philosophy on leadership.

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Q&A WITH DARREN MUELLER

Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE? A: It's always about the team. It's always about the team first. When I talk about leadership, it's always about what's best for the team. I try to teach our team leadership as well. And I think my leadership is always changing because the environment is always changing. I think you have to change whether it's an ingame situation or an off-the-field situation. Also, I want other people to be leaders as well. I want our other coaches to be leaders. I want our student-athletes to be leaders—I want this to basically be a player-led team.

Q: HOW DOES THAT LOOK? A: Well, obviously, I get looked at because I'm the head coach of the program. But there can be leaders in so many different ways. So for instance, we have leaders that are leaders in the infield; we have leaders on the mound; we have leaders in the weight room, and we have leaders in our leadership council. Gercie Olson is our Associate Head Coach—she works with our defense—she's a leader. Katie Grable works with our hitters—she's a leader. Darcy Byrne is a leader. I think one of my responsibilities as a head coach is to help them grow in those areas. Of course, there are team rules that everybody on our team knows about. Upperclassmen have been here before so they can help to teach the younger kids. I think, when it comes to leadership, it's all about everybody having different roles at different times, and kind of teaching them what to do in those roles. Sometimes people just kind of become those leaders as well. I feel like one of my responsibilities is to help others grow as leaders as well—I understand this better now than I did when

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I was a younger coach. I also feel like I'm still growing as a leader. I want to learn constantly what to do to become a better leader. I think learning from the players is important. I think it's important to learn from conversations with other coaches, other people, other business people, and things like that. It's important to help our program get better.

Q: HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT HELPING THOSE INDIVIDUALS BECOME BETTER LEADERS? A: One example would be what happens with our leadership council. They will come to me and ask questions about how to handle certain situations when they arise. When they do this, I talk with them. I think as a younger coach, I would have jumped in and said exactly how to handle things. But, I realize now it's not always about disciplining people—sometimes you need to just have conversations. If someone is constantly showing up late to workouts, it's important to find out why they keep showing up late. Maybe something else is going on in their life and it's important for me to figure out if I can help.

Q&A WITH DARREN MUELLER

I ALSO FEEL LIKE I'M STILL GROWING AS A LEADER. I WANT TO LEARN CONSTANTLY WHAT TO DO TO BECOME A BETTER LEADER. I THINK LEARNING FROM THE PLAYERS IS IMPORTANT. I THINK IT'S IMPORTANT TO LEARN FROM CONVERSATIONS WITH OTHER COACHES, OTHER PEOPLE, OTHER BUSINESS PEOPLE, AND THINGS LIKE THAT. IT'S IMPORTANT TO HELP OUR PROGRAM GET BETTER.

Q: IS THERE ANYTHING INTERESTING YOU'VE LEARNED RECENTLY WHEN IT COMES TO LEADERSHIP? A: One thing we've been doing is DISC assessments. It's a behavioral assessment to help the players and coaches understand themselves and their teammates better. This helps us respect each other and helps us know how to respond and understand where our teammates are at. That has been really helpful and it can help in identifying some of those leadership roles. We actually started doing it last year as a study for a professor here on campus. Through it, I learned that when I get frustrated it's basically because I put too much expectations on myself for the team. Sometimes I need to step back because it might be an unrealistic expectation at that time. I think that's good for the players to know because they can understand that I might not necessarily be mad at a particular person. I'm mad that what I thought might potentially happen didn't happen because we're not at that level yet. One of the things I loved to share is that I had a player last year say, "Now I know there's nothing wrong with me," after taking the assessment. I thought that was great because it's helping them understand who they are.

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Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BOOKS ON LEADERSHIP? A: Over the years, I've read tons of them. That's why I think they're still learning because there are so many. John Maxwell had a lot of really good books. He's written a lot. There's one we're reading as a team called "The Twin Thieves," which I think is great. It touches on what most people deal with constantly—the fear of failure and the fear of fear of judgment. If we understand how to cope with that, hopefully, we become stronger.

Q: CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT THIS YEAR'S TEAM? WHAT HAVE YOU SEEN OUT OF THEM SO FAR? A: They work hard. It has been fun to work with them because it is such a new team. We have eight freshmen this year. Every day is always a different day. I'll use the pitchers as an example because I work with the pitchers. One day, they look great. Then the next day, they look like freshman. I know they're going to be good—I just don't know when it's going to happen. There's a lot of competition and everyone is working really hard.

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Q&A WITH DARREN MUELLER

Q: WHO ARE SOME PLAYERS THAT FANS SHOULD BE AWARE OF THIS SEASON? A: We have three seniors. Reanna Rudd has done a good job. She got hurt near the end of last year, but she batted fourth for us and had a really, really good year. Emily Buringa, in centerfield, statistically is one of the top outfielders in the country. She just keeps continuing to grow offensively and defensively. My team looks up to her a ton. She's just a very unselfish player and she has player of the year potential in this conference. And then Anjolee Aguilar-Beaucage was at shortstop last year for half the year and then had an arm injury so she was our designated player. I think she is hitting and playing at another level right now and she wasn't bad by any means last year. Another one is Bella Dean who could have easily been freshman of the year last year. Bella still coming back a little bit from an injury, but she could have another really good year.

Q: AND WHAT ABOUT THE EIGHT INCOMING FRESHMEN? A: I'll start the pitchers. We have Madison Wihlm, Addie Bowers, and Kaitlyn Dunford. I think they all three bring something different than our upperclassmen, Savy Williams and Piper Reed, when it comes to pitching. I think early on, there's going to be a bullpen-by-committee type of thing and

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we'll figure things out from there. Like I said, they have great days and days where they're just doing okay, but I'm excited to see what they can do in the future. They've been working. They've been asking questions. They've been learning. They all have that drive to be really good as freshmen. That's really fun to see. And then the other five—we have three shortstops that are not playing shortstop right now. They're very athletic and talented. And then we have Macy Fry who is an outfielder. We have Jasmyn Yessian who is splitting time between Catcher and Third Base. There's a lot of power in her bat. She was an allstate athlete in California in her junior and senior years. I think we're just going to continue to see her get stronger and grow. We also have Star Cortez who is kind of our utility player. She's a left-handed hitter who plays four different positions and has some quickness. Lately, she has really started to pick it up in our live games. Up the middle, we have Taylinn Warren and Riley Leadstrom. Riley is very, very good defensively. She is smooth and knows the game. Taylinn is also very good defensively. She's a slap hitter and she has great hand-eye coordination. She has a little pop in her bat as well. Macy, our outfielder, has a lot of power in her bat. I think we have a very strong freshman class. This is probably the first time I can honestly say that everybody on our team is going to have to contribute at some point. That is something that I haven't seen.

Photo by Geneva Nodland

NAVIGATING FAMILY DYNAMICS Nonparent Rights in North Dakota s society has evolved over the last 10 to 20 years, so have family dynamics, and the traditional definition of family has expanded to include many different individuals. As this shift continues, the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals in non-traditional families have become increasingly significant, especially concerning child custody and visitation.

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BY PRISCILA ULLOA Associate Attorney, SW&L Attorneys

I have experienced many extended family members and other third parties inquiring about their rights over custody and/or visitation of a child who is not biologically theirs. The inquiring individual can be anyone including, but not limited to, blood-related relatives such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles, to divorced step-parents, same-sex couples, or former partners who have grown to care and love a child of their ex-partner as their own. The main scenario I hear is a situation in which an individual feels that they play a significant role in raising a child, but suddenly a biological parent denies access to the child. This situation frequently involves individuals who have provided care for a child while their biological parents are at work or away; spend holidays with the child; drop off/pick up from school; transport and support the child in their extracurricular activities; clothe and feed the child; and maybe even provide the biological parent with financial support for the child. This article discusses the rights of nonparents to obtain a court-ordered custody and/or visitation schedule.

STARTING THE ACTION In 2019, the North Dakota legislature enacted the Uniform Nonparent Custody and Visitation Act found in Title 14 of the North Dakota Century Code, which formalized the legal process for nonparents to obtain custody or visitation. Seeking nonparent custody or visitation rights in North Dakota is a legal process that can be complex and emotionally challenging. It involves starting an action in district court by filing a Petition for nonparent rights. In initiating the action, the nonparent bears the burden to demonstrate to the court that granting such rights is in the best interest of the child. A nonparent is the official term used in North Dakota law for an individual other than a biological parent of a child. N.D.C.C. § 14-09.4-01(7). North Dakota law tells us that in order for a nonparent to be considered for custody and/or visitation, they must first allege a few factors in their Petition. The nonparent must allege the following:

• The nonparent is a consistent caretaker. • The nonparent and the child have a substantial relationship, and denial of custody or visitation would result in harm to the child. • An order of custody or visitation to the nonparent is in the best interest of the child. Easy enough, right? Not quite. The law specifically defines each of the aforementioned and provides standards for what it means to be a consistent caretaker, what it means to have a substantial relationship, and what it means to be in the best interest of the child. A consistent caretaker for the purpose of custody/visitation means an individual without expectation of compensation who has lived with the child for not less than 12 months (unless the court finds good cause to accept a shorter period); regularly exercised care of the child; made day-to-day divisions regarding the child solely or in cooperation with an individual having physical custody; and established a bonded relationship with the child

with the express or implied consent of the parent or without the consent of a parent if no parent has been able or willing to perform parenting functions. N.D.C.C. § 14-09.4-03(2). A substantial relationship for the purpose of child custody/visitation with the child is defined as one where the nonparent is an individual with a familial relationship with the child by blood or law; or formed a relationship with the child without the expectation of compensation; and a significant emotional bond exists between the nonparent and child. N.D.C.C. § 1409.4-03(3). When it comes to the Best Interest of the Child a court will consider the seven factors outlined in N.D.C.C. § 1409.4-03(11). They are: • The nature and extent of the relationship between the child and the parent; • The nature and extent of the relationship between the child and the nonparent;

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• The views of the child, taking into account the age and maturity of the child; • Past or present conduct by a party or individual living with a party, which poses a risk to the physical, emotional, or psychological wellbeing of the child; • The likely impact of the requested order on the relationship between the child and the parent; • The applicable factors in section 14-09-06.2; and • Any other factor affecting the best interest of the child. A well-written petition outlining the above factors is crucial to move on

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to the next step. Once the petition is written, it is then served on the parties (the biological parents) and filed with the court.

SETTLEMENT OR EVIDENTIARY HEARING Once the petition is filed, the nonparent waits for the court to decide whether or not they have met their burden to move forward. Once the court has

made its decision, it will file an order telling the parties whether or not the case will proceed. If the court finds that the nonparent has met their burden, it does not mean that the nonparent is automatically granted their request for custody/visitation. Instead, all it means is that the nonparent gets to move to the next step. The next step is an evidentiary hearing (similar to a mini trial) to prove the aforementioned factors in front of a judge and under oath. An evidentiary hearing, however, can take several months to be scheduled. During the interim period, parties in North Dakota will have the opportunity to be referred to the North Dakota Family Law Mediation Program. North

Dakota offers a publicly-funded Family Law Mediation Program for cases that involve children. What is mediation? Mediation is a process encouraged by courts for parties facing custody/ visitation disputes in an attempt to reach amicable agreements in a less confrontational environment. Mediation can help parties create mutually beneficial settlement plans, addressing issues such as custody, visitation, and decision-making authority. Mediation can be a costeffective and a less adversarial alternative to litigation. It also allows parties to have more control over the outcome. As long as the custody/ visitation plan aligns with the “best interests of the child,” the court typically approves the plan without interference. According to Rule 8.1 of the North Dakota Rules of Court, any case involving parental rights and responsibilities, paternity, relocation of children, or grandparent visitation is automatically referred to the family mediation program within ten (10) days of filing the summons and petition with the court. N.D.R.Ct. 8.1(c) (1). Additionally, these specific types of

cases are entitled to receive six (6) free hours of mediation services. N.D.R.Ct. 8.1(c)(5). Important to note: the program covers the time of the courtappointed mediator, who is a trained professional and neutral attorney. The program does not cover the time and work of your individual attorney, should you choose to have them present at mediation. During the interim period, parties may also engage in ‘legal discovery’ methods. Discovery is a tool available to parties in order to gather information in preparation for the evidentiary hearing. In family law, the most common discovery techniques are depositions, asking the opposing party to produce documents, answering admissions, and/or answering interrogatories under oath. The responses obtained in discovery are crucial to building your case and in trial preparation.

CONCLUSION North Dakota, like many other states, provides avenues for nonparents to seek custody or visitation rights when it serves the best interests of the child. However, every case is unique, and navigating legal jargon and procedures can be overwhelming. Seeking guidance and representation from experienced family law attorneys is highly beneficial to ensure the best possible outcome for all the parties involved.

SW&L ATTORNEYS 4627 44th Ave S, Ste 108, Fargo, ND 701-297-2890 swlattorneys.com /SWLattorneys /company/swlattorneys

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10 Questions

Questions ohn Machacek, Chief Innovation Officer for the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, has worked with countless startups throughout our community over the years. He knows their ups, and their downs, but most of all, he knows the questions to ask them. Here are John Machacek’s 10 questions for Erick Roder, Founder and Chief Adventure Officer, Rodemerica.

By John Machacek Photo by Josiah Kopp

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10 Questions 01 Will you please tell us your Rodemerica elevator pitch? Rodemerica is a mobile office with satellite Wi-Fi, two workstations, a kitchenette, and two beds. It's essentially an adventure Airbnb on wheels that's designed specifically for employees who have the ability to work remotely. Rent our van to travel, get away from our weather, and use less PTO.

02 This is a side hustle, you have a full-time job as well. How have you managed this experience so far? I think many employers would allow employees to have separate jobs as long as it doesn't interfere with day-to-day work, compete with them, and as long as you are able to meet job expectations. There are some times when running Rodemerica can sneak into my week. I just have open communication with my employer about any Rodemerica work I have to do and I make up any hours. It helps to work in a hybrid work environment where, as a company, we are more flexible with our time. I am thankful for my day job employer Ecliptic Technologies for allowing me to do this.

03 Thinking of various factors including cost, options, experience, etc., how would you describe the mindset of comparing this type of travel with airplane or other traditional travel options? I love to travel. The last few years for me, personally, standard air travel has not offered the customer experience I look for. Same thing for rental car and hotel bookings. When planning this business, we saw this as a travel solution that could take standard air travel, car rental, and lodgings out of the vacation equation. We are taking vacation control back by offering a comfortable bed, and a nice driving vehicle, allowing storage for hobby gear such as a bicycle, and letting the customer pick their travel times. We want slower-paced, less stressful travel. Like I said, I love to travel, but I also enjoy the journey in addition to the destination, so I’d much rather have the Rodemerica experience.

04 From an idea to making it happen as a business, what are some of the early steps you’ve taken to plan and organize the endeavor? To be honest, my first thoughts weren’t about starting a business—it was more about wanting to experience nature and travel. Then I looked into customized vans. From here, there were a few important first steps that propelled

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things forward. I talked to Nick Lehr at Vanna Adventure Vans. I have limited mechanical ability. Their ability let me customize the van shifting from their normal amazing camper vans to an amazing camper van you can work from. Next, I talked to Paul Smith at the North Dakota SBDC about my idea. He pointed me in the right direction of building a business plan. I also talked to Laura Ascheman at First International Bank and Trust, who is a business banker at my personal bank. She was amazing to work with in helping me understand the financial components of starting a business. After crunching numbers and planning, I spent a lot of time reaching out to potential customers and other people I knew who founded businesses. Turns out that my current coworkers are one of my target demographics. Getting feedback, involving potential customers in the planning, and learning more about what to expect when starting a business all built my confidence. That work was the final step for me in deciding to take the leap.

05 As you mention the guidance and service providers, I think of your recent LinkedIn posts where you shared the top 10 things you learned starting a business. What are your thoughts on the value of not always trying to do something yourself and not always chasing the cheapest cost? There is an instructional YouTube video for basically everything. That doesn’t

mean we should do everything, or that it is worth the time it takes to be good at everything. I could learn how to do my business taxes, and file free on something like TurboTax. Realistically, there is a better chance of me paying a good professional friend of mine to do my taxes, and they will get me a higher return. I know my Tax Accountant Josh Rahn at Elite Tax and Consulting costs more than TurboTax. I also know my return will be higher going through them. That is a net gain, and I don’t have to stress out about taxes. Paying to have people you trust fill the gaps in your skillsets allows you to focus on what you're best at. Plus, there is a value to my time and I may need to spend many hours figuring out how to do some task, that they can complete quickly and with more ensured accuracy. I like the idea of knowing the actual people behind the professional services you need for your business. The cheapest online tax service will not help you in an audit. The best insurance price, won't pick up the phone in an actual crisis when you need them. I am better at knowing great people than I am at knowing about tax or business laws or insurance. Also, they also know a ton of local people because that is their job and they will be great referral sources for you. So, I will keep networking.

06 Another valued partner is often a bank. As I recall from a conversation with you and your banker Laura that you mentioned, this financing project was a bit different in that it’s not like a regular vehicle loan, but also different

than a traditional small business loan. And, throw in the fact that as a startup, you wouldn’t have historical financials or even great market data on this burgeoning industry. How did you land on the financing and your particular bank? I have leveraged my network so much as I have started my business. Networking is undervalued. I met my banker when we were in Young Professionals Network (YPN) years ago. I had no need for business banking at that time, but met a good person I trusted. Years later, through networking, I now know a few really good business bankers. I got quotes from all of them. They all were basically the same, so I stuck with my bank. Love your bank, not your rate. They will help you through the tough times and guide you. The other financial components of my starting were savings, finding a couple of investors, and having good enough credit to get the approval. It was almost reverse engineering to get the loan. We made the business plan, and determined the down payment amount and financial milestones I needed to get to. That started a lot of behind-thescenes planning and action to make it financially work. I have been working on this idea for over two years now. Don’t let finances hold you back. Find a way to make it work. I know the money part can be terrifying. I remember being nervous about the first $100 purchase I made when I was young, my first car, my college loans, my first house, etc. Talk to bankers and financial planners. They will help you find a way.

07 As you’ve built your brand and marketing from scratch, do you have any advice for the readers? Two basic steps for anyone starting their marketing are to try and to track. The first step is to try. Every social media account started with zero followers. Your audience is out there. Make time to consistently try to post. Start on the platforms you personally like. Make a post you personally would like. Others will probably like it too. Don’t be afraid to try different things. Be authentic to your company and brand. Engage with others and be social. Talk to the customers you currently have and/or your next new ones. Your audience will grow. The second step is to track. Go into the analytics. See how many people your content reaches, track follower growth, and see its engagement. You will see patterns and learn how or what to post on different platforms. Look at monthly impressions versus sales. That will give you a very basic understanding of how many people need to see your messages to convert. Then you can determine how much time you need to dedicate to your marketing. This will also be the foundation of numbers you will want if you venture into paid campaigns. The algorithms can have a mind of their own. Don’t get too caught up in the numbers. They will always start small. Over a year, you will be impressed with your growth. You will, at minimum cost, have an online presence and representation of your company.

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10 Questions 08

I want to make sure and hit this topic before we wrap up. You were part of the inaugural cohort of Dakota Business Lending’s Entrepreneur District. Will you please share what appealed to you to apply and how the experience was?

If you could go back in time to Erick from several years ago, what hindsight advice would you give yourself?

I knew Michaela Schell before she was brought on to start the Entrepreneur District. After reconnecting and learning what The District was, I was very interested. I applied just excited to have a chance at having free professional office space for a year. That experience ended up being so much more. Starting a business is lonely. Having the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with eight other solopreneurs was amazing. It is also something I would recommend all solopreneurs apply for. The other people in the program had other professional skill sets I didn’t. I was able to have Ashely Hauer at Profit Potential Consulting look at my books to make sure I was tracking expenses correctly. Glen Stevens, who started the Mental Fitness Guy, did quarterly goalsetting sessions with our whole crew. We learned about cyber security from Jared Grondahl at Intrepik. Even getting tips from Stacie Johnson, who started a professional social media company called Being Social With Stacie J, helped me feel better about what I was doing with my marketing. Being around a group of people who want to help you succeed was inspirational. That environment helped all of us through some of our small business challenges. I am forever grateful to be a part of that initial cohort.

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I would probably go back and say everything good or bad that happens to you in the next ten years is a lesson. Don’t dwell too much on the bad, learn from it. I would also say to keep connecting with other people. I have always had gratitude for the people in my life. My friends and family have shown up more than they will ever know this last year. Treasure your time with people more.

10 Lastly, what can we do as a community to help you and Rodemerica succeed? Go somewhere on your bucket list. If it is in the continental U.S. or Canada, consider renting our van. Even if you don’t use our van, I’d like to connect and hear about it. There are unbelievably beautiful places in our country. It’s my new job to know about them and be an American tour guide.

Support Rodemerica rodemerica.com Search "Rodemerica" @rodemerica /company/rodemerica

About John

WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW: EMPOWERED BY

Tomi Thompson OWNER, TOMI DAWN PHOTO

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By Allie Maciej | Photo by Sophie Grace Photography

Meet the owner of Tomi Dawn Photo, Tomi Thompson, the creative force behind enchanting wedding moments that turn into timeless memories. In this exclusive interview with Ladyboss Lifestyle, she shares insights into her journey, style, and the joy of connecting with people through her lens. Capturing life's magic through a lens Thompson discovered her passion for photography as a child and it has been a lifelong hobby. After college, Thompson was hired as a brand and marketing intern for the Green Bay Packers football team where she found herself immersed in capturing the excitement and energy of tailgating events and other activities at Lambeau Field. What started as a hobby evolved into a thriving business, officially starting in 2018 as a wedding photographer and beginning full-time as a business in 2020. Although primarily a digital shooter, Thompson finds joy in the mystery of film and offers it as an add-on package. Thompson mainly shoots in the Midwest and around Fargo-Moorhead, but as she continues learning to go with the flow, her portfolio spans diverse settings, taking her from indoor to outdoor events, including captivating destinations like Arizona, North Carolina, Mexico, and Colorado. Choosing Canon as her go-to brand, she emphasizes the importance of the 35-millimeter lens for its ability to provide the closest "real-life view” offering a flexible look to documentary-style photography. Having shot over 150 weddings, Thompson attributes her success to her entrepreneurial spirit, a trait she developed during her Go!Team internship at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM). Associate Athletic Director for External Relations Jon Wepking, a mentor who helped shape her professional growth and love for the development aspect of her work, was a significant influence on her career.

Discovering creativity in every situation When asked about challenges, Thompson emphasizes the importance of continuous creativity and networking within the local photography community. She values the camaraderie she has found in Fargo, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration. “In a career where there traditionally are no coworkers, I am lucky to have a network of other photographers in the area who feel like coworkers and have become great friends. We are in the group chat every day talking about our wins, difficulties, goals, and daily lives. I'm thankful to have people like that in my life,.” Thompson said. What sets Thompson apart from others is her genuine love for people and their stories. Her compassionate approach creates a loving and wholesome foundation for her business and future goals. Create your own “perfect” No day is the same. Thompson is also a co-owner of Odie Booth, a modern + minimalist photo booth with her husband, Anders Johnson. She also runs Common North Studio, a space that offers rentals to other photographers and creatives in the area with Sophie Smith. Both businesses allow Thompson to continue her creative expertise in ways other than behind the lens. “Success in this industry hinges on making friends and connections. I would not be the photographer I am today without Ashley Ham from FloraPine Photography and Sophie Smith of Sophie Grace Photography. They are two of the people that I was so inspired by when I was starting out in Fargo, and now they are two of my best friends in the industry,” Thompson said. In her fulfilling schedule, Thompson finds joy in everything she does. "Every week looks different, and I genuinely keep all parts of my business in motion. Being a photographer is so much more than just taking photos. As a business owner, I have the flexibility to structure my week around what works best for me. My time

is filled with editing, administrative tasks, managing social media, and working on creative career development. I attend workshops a few times a year to keep me feeling creatively fulfilled and refreshed. I am a strong believer that you should never stop learning,” Thompson said. Become your best lady boss For aspiring professionals, Thompson encourages networking and reaching out to the community for support. You’re never alone. Her advice for entrepreneurs and those starting in photography is simple: Find a great mindset, start shooting, connect with people, and stay committed to constant growth and learning. She passionately discussed how, “Fargo is so unique because we are a small town, making it so easy to network with people. There are huge advantages to being an entrepreneur in a town like this where you can find great mentors and friends just a DM away. I've loved working in the wedding industry because I've had the opportunity to connect with so many other business owners outside of photographers as well. It's fun to have florists, venues, videographers, planners, and more in your network of people lifting you and supporting your business.” Tomi Thompson is not just a wedding photographer; she's a storyteller, capturing the magic of life through her lens. The best part of her job? Thompson revels in the diversity of running multiple businesses, forming friendships, and sharing the joy of success with others. Her best advice? "Enjoy the highs and celebrate all things, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people that inspire you." TOMI DAWN PHOTO tomidawnphoto.com hello@tomidawnphoto.com @tomidawnphoto ODIE BOOTH odiebooth.co theodtheodiebooth@gmail.com @odie.booth COMMON NORTH STUDIO @common.north

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Navigating the Winter Slowdown A Survival Guide for Small Businesses in North Dakota By Julie Hinker, VBOC of The Dakotas Director Photo Courtesy of VBOC of the Dakotas

About the VBOC The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) program is designed to provide entrepreneurial development services such as business training, counseling, and resource partner referrals to transitioning service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has 22 organizations participating in this cooperative agreement and serving as VBOCs.

As winter descends upon the plains of North Dakota, small businesses often find themselves grappling with a unique set of challenges. The harsh weather conditions, coupled with a potential slowdown in consumer activity, can pose obstacles to the prosperity of local businesses. In this article, we'll explore a Winter Slowdown Survival Guide tailored specifically for your small business in North Dakota, offering practical advice to not only weather the winter months but also to flourish during this seasonal lull. North Dakota's winters are notorious for their frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions. It's crucial for small business owners to anticipate the impact of these weather challenges on customer behavior and operational efficiency.

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To counteract the potential decline in demand for specific products or services during winter, small businesses should embrace diversification. Introducing seasonal promotions, creating winter-specific packages, or exploring complementary products that align with the needs of the customer base during colder months can be instrumental. This not only attracts new customers but also retains existing ones by providing relevant solutions to their seasonal requirements.

Enhance Online Presence North Dakota's winters, characterized by freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, often result in residents staying indoors. For small businesses, this shift in behavior underscores the critical importance of a robust online presence. The foundation of a strong online presence begins with a user-friendly website. In the digital era, consumers often turn to the internet to research products and services. Small businesses in North Dakota should invest in creating a website that not only showcases their offerings but is also easy to navigate. Ensure that essential information, such as contact details, product/service descriptions, and business hours, is readily accessible and most importantly, up to date. A mobile-responsive design is vital, considering the prevalence of smartphone use. To stand out in the crowded digital space, businesses must optimize their online presence for search engines. Implementing search engine optimization (SEO) strategies improves the visibility of a website in search engine results. This involves incorporating relevant keywords, creating quality content, and enhancing the website's overall structure. For North Dakota businesses, local SEO is particularly valuable,

helping them connect with residents specifically searching for products or services within the state. One of the advantages of a robust online presence is the ability to run exclusive promotions tailored for the digital audience. During the slower winter period, businesses can strategically design online promotions to stimulate digital sales. This could include limited-time discounts, bundled offers, or online-only product releases. Effectively promoting these exclusive deals through the website and social media channels can drive traffic to the online platform and help offset potential declines in in-store sales.

Create Winter-Specific Marketing Campaigns To create effective winter-specific marketing campaigns in North Dakota, you must understand the seasonal sentiments of the community. Acknowledge the challenges and preferences that residents face during the winter months. This understanding serves as the foundation for crafting messages that resonate with

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the locals. Conduct surveys or gather feedback through social media to gain insights into what customers are looking for during the winter season. Tailor your marketing campaigns to showcase products or services that are particularly relevant during winter. For instance, if your business offers snow removal services, winter clothing, or comfort foods, emphasize these offerings in your marketing materials. Emphasize how your products or services can make the winter experience more comfortable, convenient, or enjoyable for customers. Use engaging visuals and compelling storytelling to bring these offerings to life in your advertisements. Entice customers with winterspecific promotions and discounts. Whether it's a "Winter Warm-Up Sale" or a "Snow Day Special," create captivating offers that align with the season. Consider bundling products or services to provide added value. Limited-time promotions can create a sense of urgency, encouraging customers to take advantage of the special offers during the winter months.

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Leverage social media platforms to engage with your audience during the winter season. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of how your business prepares for winter. Social media is a great place to weave in humor and add a light-hearted touch. You can also highlight customer stories related to your products or services and run interactive campaigns or contests with winter-themed prizes. Encourage user-generated content by asking customers to share their winter experiences with your brand.

Collaborate with Local Businesses Identify local businesses that complement your products or services. For example, if you own a boutique clothing store, consider collaborating with a local spa for joint promotions. If you provide snow removal services, partner with a local coffee shop for cross-promotions. The key is to find businesses that share a target audience but offer different products or services.

Work with your collaborative partners to create cross-promotions and joint events. This could involve bundling products or services for a special discount when purchased together. Organize joint events, such as pop-up markets or community workshops, where both businesses can showcase their offerings. These collaborative efforts not only attract a broader audience but also create a sense of excitement and community involvement. Coordinate marketing efforts with your collaborative partners to maximize impact. Share promotional materials, co-create content, and cross-promote on each other's social media platforms. This shared approach amplifies the reach of your marketing messages and introduces your business to new customers through the networks of your collaborative partners. Collaborating with local businesses goes beyond the transactional aspect; it fosters a sense of community support. Engage in joint community initiatives, sponsor local events together, or participate in charitable endeavors. This not only enhances your brand's reputation but also

creates a positive perception of your business as one that actively contributes to the well-being of the local community. Nurture long-term relationships with your collaborative partners. Regularly assess the effectiveness of your joint efforts, seek feedback, and adapt your strategies accordingly. As trust and mutual understanding grow, these collaborations can evolve into enduring partnerships that benefit both businesses over the long term. Building a network of supportive local businesses contributes to the overall resilience of the community during slower business periods.

Invest in Employee Morale The winter months bring not only colder temperatures but also a potential chill in employee morale. Recognizing the impact of weather and seasonal changes on team spirits is crucial for small businesses. Proactive measures to boost morale can significantly contribute to maintaining a positive and motivated workforce. Organizing team-building activities is an excellent way to foster camaraderie and strengthen the bond among team members. This could range from indoor activities like workshops or games to off-site events that provide a change of scenery. Offering incentives for high performance is another effective strategy. Consider implementing recognition programs, employee

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of the month awards, or bonuses tied to achieving specific goals. This not only acknowledges individual contributions but also creates a culture of healthy competition and motivation within the team. Recognizing the hard work of your staff is equally vital. A simple expression of gratitude, whether through personalized notes, public acknowledgment in meetings, or small tokens of appreciation, goes a long way in boosting morale and reinforcing the value of each team member. Consider organizing seasonal events or festivities to break the monotony of the winter months. Whether it's a holiday party, a themed luncheon, or a casual gathering, creating opportunities for socialization and relaxation can uplift spirits. Additionally, maintaining open communication channels where employees feel heard and valued contributes significantly to a positive work environment. Regular checkins, feedback sessions, and forums for expressing concerns help foster a supportive atmosphere during the potentially challenging winter season. While the winter months in North Dakota present unique challenges for small businesses, they also offer opportunities for innovation, community engagement, and strategic planning. Through diversifying your offerings, boosting your online presence, fostering collaborations with other businesses, and investing in your employees, your small business can endure and

prosper during the winter slowdown. With a proactive approach and a focus on adapting to the seasonal changes, North Dakota's small businesses can turn the winter months into a period of growth and resilience. Stay warmand stay strong!

VBOC of the Dakotas 701-738-4850 und.edu/dakotasvboc /dakotasvboc @DakotasVBOC 4200 James Ray Dr Grand Forks, ND

AWESOME FOUNDATION GRANT AWARD WINNER

C.A.S.A asa = Home. Learning to live in a new place can be complicated. Learning how to make a new place into a home can be even more so. Minnesota nonprofit, C.A.S.A. (Cultura (Culture), Amigos (Friends), Salud (Health), and Ambiente (Environment)) aims to help members of the area’s ever-growing Latino community feel more at home by providing practical support and a sense of belonging.

“This [Fargo-Moorhead area] environment has a lot of 'in your own bubble’ mentalities,” said Kory Powell-Oliver, a board member of the new nonprofit. “People kind of stay in their own lane and don’t necessarily know what is going on in other parts of the community. Combine that with culture shock and a lot of people can feel very lost. A lot of Latinos in this community have been brought here and told to figure it out.” “It can be honestly discouraging to a lot of diverse people to come here and try to seek out resources—especially if you assume resources to be nonexistent or hard to find. What we are really all about is trying to build connections and bridge these gaps,” said

Karla Hernandez, acting president of C.A.S.A. "We really just want to say, ‘We’re here for you.’” According to the 2020 census figures, there are nearly 7,500 Latinos living in the communities of the Fargo-Moorhead area, including Clay and Cass Counties, and the data indicates that about 1/3 are dispersed throughout the counties rather than in specific population centers. C.A.S.A.’s first goal is to try to connect Latino residents to each other, which they do by trying to host a gathering at least every other month. Despite only formalizing in May of 2023, their typical events usually see an attendance rate of between 50-60 people. “I think the more that we make these connections, the more we work toward making an equitable and inclusive community—both for Latinos who have been here for a while and newcomer Latinos in our community,” Karla said. “But part of that is building community as a whole. I've had a lot of people ask, ‘Oh, can only Latinos come?' And, no, it's very open. This community is becoming more diverse, with many different ethnic backgrounds. The entire goal is to build those community connections.” Building on that goal C.A.S.A is seeking to connect individuals with community

BY BRANDI MALARKEY, OWNER, IT'S ALL MALARKEY

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resources, other community organizations, and local businesses. One of the most important steps in this process is providing translation and interpreting services. “The two big things that we want to address are awareness of resources and the language barrier," Karla said. “For example, childcare is difficult for everybody, right? But then you add another difficulty layer to get to it when you don’t speak the same language. Then add that difficulty layer to everything like finding a grocery store, getting a driver’s license here, working with a lawyer, or getting a business set-up.” “We’re very diverse in this community, but we aren’t always accommodating,” Kory said. “A lot of schools and jobs tend not to advocate or provide equity for the people who come out here. I've learned that a lot of companies, organizations, and even institutions, have an idea that diversity is gathering a whole bunch of people from all different parts of the world, putting them in one place, and telling them to figure it out— and that's not what diversity is. It's bringing them together, but accommodation is a powerful component. We want to be a mediator in their accommodation process. There are resources out there that are available, but there is also a lot that the community can do.”

Photo provided by Brandi Malarkey

“For instance, there is a gentleman who reached out to me the other day who is a realtor and he speaks Spanish," Karla said. "He’s willing to come in and help people with the process of purchasing houses where language is a barrier, but businesses don’t have to speak Spanish to reach out. It’s keeping people in mind. If you’re looking to hire a carpet installer and you don’t speak Spanish, and the worker doesn’t speak English, they can still connect. A professional knows what they are doing regardless of the language they are speaking. Just remembering that we have a lot of people in the community who may not speak the language, but can still do the work, is a huge step for connecting.” As a nonprofit with less than a year under their belts, C.A.S.A is still in an “experimental” phase, learning what the greatest needs are and trying to assist on an individual basis. The group is collecting and analyzing community feedback as they go and trying to generate solutions. With so many moving pieces, the C.A.S.A was named the December 2023 grantee of the Cass Clay chapter of the Awesome Foundation, to help enhance the capacity of their organization by providing funds for some of the startup costs associated.

While language volunteers, childcare assistance, and event sponsors are among the top wish list items for the group, C.A.S.A representatives want to stress that all are welcome. “It’s all about providing support and working as a community," Kory said. Their next event will be held at First Congregational UCC (406 8th St S,. Moorhead) on March 30 at 5 p.m. For updates about C.A.S.A’s activities and events, find them on Facebook: /casa.CulturaAmigosSaludAmbiente

The Cass-Clay chapter of the Awesome Foundation awards a $1,000 gift each month for awesome ideas of all sorts. Grant recipients do not need to be associated with a nonprofit. Applications can be made at awesomefoundation.org/ en/chapters/cassclay.