West Fargo Focus January 2023

EDITOR

Wendy Reuer wreuer@forumcomm.com

701-241-5530

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Lisa Tillotson ltillotson@forumcomm.com

701-241-5524

MULTIMEDIA SALES CONSULTANTS

Jessie Andren jandren@forumcomm.com

701-241-5451

Tim Couchman tcouchman@forumcomm.com

701-241-5490

Jamie Dettling jdettling@forumcomm.com

701-241-5493

Keith Harriger kharriger@forumcomm.com

701-241-5435

DESIGNERS

Sara Slaby & Mollie Burlingame

westfargond.gov

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES & STORY IDEAS: advsales@forumcomm.com

701-241-5431

ON THE COVER:

West Fargo High School building trades students take advantage of the wintery weather to build a giant snowman along 9th Street on Dec. 13, 2022.

David Samson / West Fargo Focus

Submit your photo for the chance to be featured on the cover of future editions.

Submissions can be made online at https://inforum.news/WFPhotocontest or by scanning this code:

Patrol Lt. Jason Dura shakes hands with Lt. Greg Warren, who was honored for his work in 2016.

Department

Photo courtesey of West Fargo Police

Calendar of Events

MONTHLY

Airport Authority

5:30 p.m. last Thursday of every month

@ West Fargo Municipal Airport Terminal Building

Board of Equalization

5:30 p.m. second Tuesday in April

@ Commission Chambers, West Fargo City Hall

City Commission

5:30 p.m. first and third Monday of every month

@ Commission Chambers, West Fargo City Hall

Forestry Committee

5:15 p.m. second Tuesday of February, April, June, August and November

@ Commission Chambers, West Fargo City Hall

Library Board

5:30 p.m. second Thursday of every month

@ Commission Chambers, West Fargo City Hall

Liquor Control Board

1 p.m. second Tuesday of every month

@ Commission Chambers, West Fargo City Hall

Park Board

5:30 p.m. second Wednesday of every month

@ Rustad Recreation Center

Planning and Zoning Commission

5:30 p.m. second Tuesday of every month and the fourth Tuesday if needed

@ Commission Chambers, West Fargo City Hall

Public Art Advisory Committee

5:30 p.m. Wednesday of every month

Virtual, visit westfargond.gov for link

School Board

6 p.m. second and fourth Monday of every month

@ Leidal Education Center

Technology Tutoring (adults)

3-6 p.m. every Tuesday 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. every Saturday @ West Fargo Public Library

West Fargo Cribbage Club (all ages)

6:30-8 p.m. every Tuesday @ West Fargo Public Library

Ready to Read Storytime (pre-K children + their adults) 10:30-11:30 a.m. every Wednesday @ West Fargo Public Library

Baby Boost Storytime (ages 0-2 + their adults) 10:30-11:30 a.m. every Friday @ West Fargo Public Library

JANUARY

West Fargo Winter Classic Hockey Tournament

Sunday, Jan. 1

@ The Lights Ice Rink, West Fargo Sports Arena

Online Resources for Job Seekers Class

2-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4 @ West Fargo Public Library

Registration required at westfargolibrary.org

West Fargo Public Library Teen Advisory Board Meeting

7-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5 @ West Fargo Public Library

Fargo Gun Show Jan. 7-8, 2023 @ Red River Valley Fair Association

Monday Matinee: “Elvis”

1:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9 @ West Fargo Public Library

Monday Night Readers Book Club

6-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9 @ West Fargo Public Library

English Conversation Circle

6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10 @ West Fargo Public Library

Performing the Song: Musical Theatre (ages 9-14)

4:15-5:45 p.m. Tuesday/Thursday Jan. 10-Jan. 26

@ Rustad Recreation Center Prairie Rooms

Registration required at wfparks.org

Drive-in Movie & Craft: Paw Patrol: The Movie (ages Youth and Parents)

1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 @ West Fargo Public Library

Frostival Volleyball Tournament

Saturday, Jan. 14-Sunday, Jan. 15 @ Rustad Recreation Center

Registration required at wfparks.org

Frostival Chili Cook Off

2:30-5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 @ West Fargo VFW Post 7564 Registration required at wfparks.org

Frostival Silver Snowflake Search

Jan. 16-Jan. 28

Daily clues posted at wfparks.org

Bouncin’ Bash

10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16 @ Rustad Recreation Center

Hoopla 101 Class

10:30-11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 18

@ West Fargo Public Library

Registration required at westfargolibrary.org

Novel Afternoons Book Club

1-2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18 @ West Fargo Public Library

Senior Luncheon

12 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19

@ Rustad Recreation Center

Registration required at (701) 433-5360

Third Thursday Book Club

1:30-2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19

@ West Fargo Public Library

Cocoa and Craft Night for Teens

7-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19

@ West Fargo Public Library

Character Design (ages 8-10)

12:30-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21

@ Rustad Recreation Center

Registration required at wfparks.org

Character Design (ages 11-13)

2:45-4:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 @ Rustad Recreation Center

Registration required at wfparks.org

Discovering Your Roots: How to Write a Biography

1:30-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 @ West Fargo Public Library

Movie on Ice 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 @ The Lights Ice Rink at the Essentia Health Plaza

Monday Matinee: “Rocketman”

1:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23 @ West Fargo Public Library

Community Snowflake Craft Night

6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24 @ West Fargo Public Library

Books and Brew Book Club at Caribou Coffee

6-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26 @ Caribou Coffee (inside Hornbacher’s)

Camp Warming House

1-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 @ Maplewood Park

Music at the Library: Mellifluous Clarinet Ensemble

1:30-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 @ West Fargo Public Library

Monday Matinee: “Respect”

1:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30 @ West Fargo Public Library

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE CHANGES

Sunday, Jan. 1

• West Fargo Public Library closed Monday, Jan. 2

• All municipal buildings closed, including West Fargo Public Library

• West Fargo City Commission meeting rescheduled to Tuesday, Jan. 3

• Monday’s garbage collection is Tuesday, Jan. 3

• No changes to recycling collection

SCHOOL HOLIDAY SCHEDULE CHANGES

West Fargo Public Schools

• No school Monday, Jan. 2

• No school Monday, Jan. 16

Park Christian School

• No school Monday, Jan. 2

• No school Monday, Jan. 16

Oak Grove Lutheran School

• No school Monday, Jan. 2 –Tuesday, Jan. 3

• No school Monday, Jan. 16

Grace Lutheran School

• No school Monday, Jan. 2

• No school Friday, Jan. 20

Capstone Classical Academy

• No school Monday, Jan. 16

Trinity Elementary School

Holy Spirit Elementary School

Sacred Heart Middle School

Nativity Elementary School

Shanley High School

• No school Monday, Jan. 2

• No school Monday, Jan. 16

Dakota Montessori School

• No school Monday, Jan. 16

West Fargo Public Library

• Closed Sunday, Jan. 15-Tuesday, Jan. 17

Lt. Greg Warren laughs as former West Fargo Police Chief Arland Rasmussen speaks at an event.

Special to the West Fargo Pioneer

NEWS AND FEATURES

Rocking out

Beloved West Fargo Police Lt. Greg Warren will retire in January

By Wendy Reuer | West Fargo Pioneer

WEST FARGO — “I just love that man.”

When asked about West Fargo Police Lt. Greg Warren, a nearly 50-year veteran of law enforcement, that same initial reply was given, and not just from just his wife of 46 years, Brenda Warren, but from judges, lawmakers, business leaders, fellow law enforcement and even those who met him at a low point. All of them speak

highly of the West Fargo investigations department leader.

Kind. Honest. Tenacious. Smart. Fun. Funny. Trustworthy.

People who have met Warren are quick to use those words when describing him or his career in law

enforcement, which began in West Fargo in 1975 after a short stint with the Cass County Sheriff’s Office. On Jan. 6, Greg Warren will “rock and roll” on out of the West Fargo Police Department for the last time as he begins retirement.

Greg Warren, a Jamestown native, and his wife built their life around law enforcement after meeting there.

WARREN: Page 6

WARREN From Page 6

Brenda Warren, also a longtime public servant of West Fargo, met the tall and lanky dark-haired officer while working as a part-time dispatcher and clerk of court.

“I was blessed when he walked into my life; I truly was,” she said. The two married and had three children, Kate, Missy and Tim, and now have seven grandchildren.

While Brenda Warren tried to ban having a scanner in her home, there were definitely times being a police wife was not easy. Over the years, Greg Warren was on the scene of many of West Fargo’s major incidents, including one in which someone attempted to shoot him.

Brenda Warren attributes her husband’s success to his character.

“He’s just a good and kind man, and he has so much empathy for people,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what kind of trouble someone gets in, he will sit down and talk to him. I remember him sitting down prisoners and giving them advice on how to stay out of trouble.”

True to Greg Warren’s way, he was hesitant to speak about his own successes, staying busy with not only work and family but fishing and basketball, which he continues to find time to do. He is also quick to point to others as essential to his work.

“ It doesn’t matter what kind of trouble someone gets in, he will sit down and talk to him. I remember him sitting down prisoners and giving them advice on how to stay out of trouble”

Brenda Warren

The community celebrated with Greg and Brenda Warren at a party hosted by the Warren family at the West Fargo VFW on Dec. 16.

Wendy Reuer / West Fargo Pioneer

Although Warren had plenty of chances to leave the city where he began his investigation career, his loyalty to West Fargo never wavered.

He started his career as a West Fargo police officer in 1975 and worked his way up to become a detective, and then the lead investigations sergeant. He continues to lead the investigations department as lieutenant.

In 1994, he was a finalist for the chief position, which would go to former longtime Police Chief Arland Rasmussen.

“He was a good officer, but more than that, he was a great person,” Rasmussen said. “He is very smart, he did his job excellent, but he made it fun to work with, both as an administrator and for his group. He is just a super, super good person to work with and for.”

Warren became well known not only throughout West Fargo and the state of North Dakota, but nationally and even internationally.

He spearheaded an investigation to bring justice to two West Fargo teens that spanned more than 10 years and two countries. He was responsible for the arrest and eventual conviction of Catholic priest

Fernando Laude Sayasaya in that case.

Warren tracked down Sayasaya to the Philippines, where he was arrested and extradited back to Cass County after 15 years to face state child sexual abuse charges.

Sayasaya was an associate pastor at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fargo and at Blessed Sacrament in West Fargo. He was removed from his priestly duties in the Fargo Diocese in August 1998 after two brothers accused him of sexually assaulting them. In 2018, he would be convicted of two charges of gross sexual disposition and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

WARREN: Page 8

Lt. Greg Warren helps with a CART event, which is the Child Abduction Response Team, a metrowide effort to help find abducted or runaway children as quickly as possible. Photo courtesy of West Fargo Police Department

WARREN From Page 7

“It’s not so much about the law enforcement and or us, it’s about the victims and what happened, and that they get their day,” Warren told the media at the time of Sayasaya’s conviction.

“Greg is respected and admired and truly loved by the staff but also by fellow investigators, no matter if it’s from North Dakota, Minnesota. He’s gotten to be so well known throughout the area; it’s really something to see,” Rasmussen said. “It was really an honor and pleasure to work with Greg Warren.”

While lawyers and law enforcement must work together for the sake of justice, the relationships can sometimes be tense. But with Warren, that isn’t necessarily the case. Cass County District Judge

Wade Webb, a former prosecutor, remains friends with Warren, and he still appreciates their working relationship.

“Greg was amazing. He did well; he’s one of my favorite detectives that I worked with,” Webb said. “He’s hardworking, honest. That matters in law enforcement. And he loves West Fargo.”

Webb was the lead prosecutor on the Sayasaya case.

Cass County District Attorney Birch Burdick also worked with Warren on many high-profile cases and speaks highly of the decorated officer.

“Simply put, Greg is a very decent guy, hardworking,

patient and fair,” Burdick said. “West Fargo was wellserved by Greg’s commitment to law enforcement over these many years.”

Greg Warren was also the lead investigator into one of West Fargo’s most notorious murders, that of Cherryl Tendeland. In 1997, Warren was given the North Dakota Peace Officer of the Year Award for his work as lead investigator in the 1995 Tendeland case.

Tendeland was sitting in her car on Nov. 15, 1995, when Barry Garcia, a 16-year-old believed to be part of a gang, walked up to the vehicle and shot her. The murder is credited with spurring the formation of a metro-wide gang task force, still in place today.

Lt. Greg Warren helps a homeowner sandbag during the spring 2011 flood.

Photo courtesy of West Fargo Police Department

Letters of appreciation and commendation from community members, Cass County deputies, U.S. marshals and school district officials fill Warren’s personnel file. Evaluations dating back more than a decade all reflect high marks. The evaluations used a ranking system of one through five, which was the highest score, on a variety of categories where Warren was routinely ranked between a four and five, and received no lower score than a three.

The only recurring theme in Warren’s reviews was a request by his supervisors that he delegate more work to subordinates. “You are very busy and need to get others to assist you more,” a 2011 review read.

Warren was also the leader and organizer of the Red River Child Abduction Response Team, a regional team organized to bring resources together quickly to search for missing children, including local law enforcement agencies and nonprofits.

In 2012, he was awarded the Law Enforcement Gold Medal Award

from the city and the department’s Employee of the Year award.

“No matter how stressful the day or situation, Sgt. Warren is always there with a warm smile, a joke, and his much-valued advice for the situation,” one of Warren’s detectives, Derek Cruff, wrote in a letter recommending Warren for the award.

At the time he received the awards, Warren oversaw detectives, the department’s juvenile officer, two school resource officers, the DARE officer, the Cass County Drug task Force officer and the D.E.A. drug task force officer. He continued to stay involved with juveniles and the SRO program at West Fargo Public Schools.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Greg Warren for the last decade through the school district’s partnership with the police department for our SRO program. In those 10 years, our program has experienced many changes, but Greg has been a constant through it all,” said Heather Leas, West Fargo Schools director of health, safety and public relations.

WARREN: Page 10

“Every day, after all these years, coming in with a smile, with his expression, ‘Let’s rock and roll and get out there.”

Heith Janke

WARREN From Page 9

“He had the uncanny ability to know exactly when I needed him to swing by the office, whether it was to debrief a situation, discuss upcoming events or needs, or just to share a joke,” she said. “He always made the time to join our monthly team meetings but also spearheaded impromptu get-togethers for the specific purpose of celebrating and recognizing the great work of the SROs on our team.”

“Greg has shown a dedication to the badge and a desire to protect the citizens of West Fargo,” Jim Jonas, school board member and state representative, said. “That professionalism has helped the entire community, and we wish you all the best in retirement.”

In 2020, then-Police Chief Heith Janke

helped surprise Warren with the Scheels Hometown Hero Award.

“Every day, after all these years, coming in with a smile, with his expression, ‘Let’s rock and roll and get out there,’” Janke said at the time. “Even though he won’t like this recognition because he likes to have his troops recognized, we want to say, ‘Congratulations. Well deserved.’ ”

A retirement celebration at the West Fargo VFW was held by family and friends on Dec.16. Those who would like to send retirement wishes to the lieutenant may do so by email at warrencg470@gmail.com.

Readers can reach West Fargo editor Wendy Reuer at wreuer@forumcomm. com or 701-241-5530. Follow her on Twitter @ForumWendy.

Photo courtesy of West Fargo Police Department

“He had the uncanny ability to know exactly when I needed him to swing by the office, whether it was to debrief a situation, discuss upcoming events or needs, or just to share a joke.”

Heather Leas, West Fargo Schools director of health, safety and public relations

New parking ordinance approved in West Fargo

During the Monday, Dec. 5 meeting, West Fargo City Commissioners approved a new parking ordinance that adds late payment penalties and wheel immobilization devices (WID) for unpaid parking tickets. In addition to the ordinance, the West Fargo Police Department will now use an electronic citation program called Passport to improve efficiency and customer accessibility.

Under the former ordinance, the only penalty for unpaid parking tickets was vehicle impoundment after a vehicle collected three or more tickets delinquent

By City of West Fargo Staff

for more than 5 days. Now, after the West Fargo Police Department issues an electronic citation, violators will have ten days to pay a $20 fine. Citations that are delinquent 10 days will have a $5 late payment penalty. If the ticket is delinquent longer than 30 days, the penalty increases to $45.

Vehicles with two or more associated parking citations that are more than 30 days delinquent are subject to a wheel immobilization device (WID). Vehicle owners will need to pay all parking citation fines, late payment penalties and a $50 WID release fee before the WID

comes off. Vehicle impoundment is also an option for two or more delinquent parking tickets.

The new electronic citation program will allow vehicle owners to pay tickets online instead of by mail or in-person. The program will also allow individuals to submit an online appeal form within 10 days of receiving the parking citation. If the appeal is unsuccessful, they can also request a hearing in West Fargo Municipal Court.

To view City Ordinance No. 1214, visit the City of West Fargo’s website at westfargond.gov.

Preplanningcanbeawalkinthepark.

Wetruly wanted our wishes to be known when we pass, and that may sound a bit selfish, but it’s not. It shows consideration of others. T ERR

Y & BONN IE YONEY

NEWS AND FEATURES

Commissioners, New Year Reflections

By West Fargo City Commission

As the holiday season wraps up and the calendar turns we asked West Fargo City Commissioners to reflect on their 2022 accomplishments and goals for 2023.

Commission President Bernie Dardis

There are many projects I am proud of that took place in 2022. We made significant progress in decommissioning our lagoons. This project will renew 600 acres of land for development to grow our city and contribute to our tax base.

The City’s residential development on the south side remained strong; as we get close to build out. It was exciting to see renewed energy north of Main Avenue as developments made progress, including The Stockyards development and industrial growth near Main Avenue East with the Amazon Hub and Marvin Distribution Center now in operation.

In the new year I am eager to see continued growth in the city’s investments at The Lights on Sheyenne and in The Downtown Yards on Sheyenne. We continue to work diligently to drive new business into West Fargo and looking for innovative solutions to grow our commercial property base.

I am proud to work with the city of West Fargo staff who provide outstanding operations every day according to the values of service, teamwork, compassion, integrity and respect. I am especially looking forward to

continuing to improve public safety service in the city by growing our police and fire departments in the next year.

I wish you and your family a Happy New Year.

Commissioner Brad Olson, Vice President

There are several highlights for 2022. The first highlight is the passage of the public safety sales tax. This will provide an additional funding source for our fire and police departments and make it easier to manage property taxes during budget season.

The second highlight is kicking off construction of the new fire station. This has been a need in our community for many years. It will help meet the goal of better response times, which will help stabilize property insurance costs for everyone in West Fargo.

Another highlight is the approval of the 2022 Capital Improvement Plan, which outlines a five-year project list for critical infrastructure. Finally, the return of Cruise Night to The Downtown Yards on Sheyenne Street was another major highlight for me. This special night, for four months during the summer, brings the community together.

In 2023, I hope we can continue to grow our economic base by bringing in new businesses or have existing businesses expand their operations. There are several possible developments or redevelopments in

discussions and I hope the city of West Fargo can help their efforts.

I also hope that the economic woes brought on by the pandemic will be fading away and everything gets back to what we would consider normal, sufficient staffing in all business sectors with supply chain no longer a worry. The pandemic did show that we can get things accomplished, albeit in ways no one ever imagined, however difficult and I feel it made us stronger.

As the police and fire commissioner, my 2022 highlights include establishing the public safety sales tax, the groundbreaking of our new fire station, and our first year of partnership with Lake Region State College to host a Peace Officer Academy. These projects are all important pieces in helping our police and fire departments succeed and offer the highest quality service to West Fargo residents.

As the West Fargo Events Board of Directors president, it was also an honor to watch the first Essentia Health West Fargo Winter Classic at The Lights Ice Rink come together so successfully. We also had a fantastic events season at the Essentia Health Plaza at The Lights with major concerts, a rodeo and fantastic theater productions by Stage West.

Commissioner Mark Simmons, West Fargo Events Board of Directors President

Commission President Bernie Dardis Commissioner Brad Olson, Vice President Commissioner Mark Simmons, West Fargo Events Board of Directors President

West Fargo Events also kept The Downtown Yards on Sheyenne active in 2022 with the West Fargo Street Fair, Cruise Night, West Fest, Halloween Treat Street, Light the Night and family fun nights in the POW/MIA Plaza. The city’s investment at The Lights and the POW/ MIA Plaza are a huge part in helping our community come together and offer family-friendly activities and amenities all year.

In 2023, we are going to continue to work hard to make West Fargo the best place for residents, families, and businesses.

Commissioner Mandy George

2022 was a great year to be on the West Fargo City Commission. We have so many exciting things happening in the city – from our new fire station to receiving the placemaking grant. However, the thing I am most proud of is initiating the West Fargo childcare initiative. We can make a difference to help, as well as work together with other entities in our area.

I enjoy working on these larger projects, but I’m also proud to be able to help individuals. People will come to me with an issue about an ordinance change, home or business, or just ideas on how we can make our community a better place. This is the reason that I became a commissioner in the first place. I wanted to help make our community the best possible place that it can be to live, work, and raise a family.

Going into our future there are many projects that I’m excited to work on. I’m part of the building exploratory committee that is working on ideas for the future growth of our community. The plans for developing the 600 acres of land that will be available after the lagoons are decommissioned is especially exciting. I can’t wait to see what it will become!

It’s truly an exciting time to be part of the West Fargo City Commission. I’m so thankful to the community to have given me this opportunity.

My 2022 highlight is getting to know the commissioners and staff, in addition to making improvements and having an impact since my first day.

There are many projects coming up in the new year and I hope to see some good planning. Having a well thought

out plan will help guide our growth as we look to the northwest area of town and The Downtown Yards on Sheyenne. I’m looking forward to gathering input from residents and businesses on these plans and helping them improve their neighborhoods.

Commissioner Roben Anderson

Commissioner Mandy George

Commissioner Roben Anderson

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

Upcoming West Fargo Park District events and opportunities to support the West Fargo Parks and Recreation Foundation

By West Fargo Park District Staff

• Movie on Ice: Sunday, Jan. 22

• Camp Warming House: Saturday, Jan. 28

FROSTIVAL IS COMING TO WEST FARGO

The West Fargo Park District is excited to remind the community that #ColdIsCool this Frostival! Frostival is all about celebrating the “cool” of winter with outdoor events, concerts, and family-friendly activities across our North of Normal city, Fargo, and its sister cities West Fargo and Moorhead. Grab your friends, bring your spirit of adventure (and maybe some mittens) and join us in making cold, cool.

Events will take place throughout West Fargo from Saturday, Jan. 14 – Saturday, Jan. 28

• Frostival Volleyball Tournament: Saturday, Jan. 14 & Sunday, Jan. 15

• Frostival Chili Cook Off: Saturday, Jan. 14

• Silver Snowflake Search: First Clue –Monday, Jan. 16

• Bouncin’ Bash: Monday, Jan. 16

• Senior Luncheon: Thursday, Jan. 19

Don’t hesitate to contact Erin at erin@wfpark.org with any questions. For more information on Frostival in West Fargo or other West Fargo Park District events, visit wfparks.org.

• 7:30 – 9:45 a.m.: Open Pickleball

• 8:45 – 9:45 a.m.: Pop-up Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) class

• 9:45 – 11 a.m.: Giving Hearts Day Freewill Donation Senior Pancake Feed (55+)

• Registration Required - 200 limit. Call the Park District at 701-433-5360 by Feb. 1.

• 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.: Free Indoor Playground Admission

• 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.: Free Arts & Crafts (Creative Studio)

• 9:45 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Open Gym (Pickleball in Gym 3)

• 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.: Inflatables - $4 for an all-day wristband (Turf)

WARM YOUR HEARTS AND CELEBRATE GIVING HEARTS DAY WITH THE WEST FARGO PARKS AND RECREATION FOUNDATION

The Foundation will be putting on a day of fun on Feb. 9 at the Rustad Recreation Center with FREE admission from 7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Enjoy family fun in the three gyms and open turf. Play on inflatable games, get creative with arts and crafts, and more. Most activities throughout the facility will be free, with some charging a low fee. Concessions will be available for purchase. See the full preliminary schedule of events below:

The West Fargo Park and Recreation Foundation Board and staff will be present throughout the event to talk with attendees and answer any questions. Stop by their booth to learn about the foundation’s mission and enter to win prizes.

Giving Hearts Day is a 24-hour fundraising event for charities in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Since the first event in 2008, generous donors have given more than $138 million, 100% of which goes directly to participating charities. We invite you to join the West Fargo Parks and Recreation Foundation for our first year with the fundraiser.

SPICY

SWEETHEART DANCE –A NIGHT TO REMEMBER!

Registration is now open for the West Fargo Park District’s Sweetheart Dance, 4:30 - 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11.

It is a special evening for young ladies ages 4-12 and their father, uncle, grandpa or another important male role model in their life. Registered guests will enjoy an optional grand march, dancing, a special gift and a light meal.

REGISTRATION

The registration fee is $30 per couple - $15 for each additional girl. Pre-registration is required for this event. Additional child registration is unfortunately not available online. To sign up more than one child please mail in a registration form or register at the West Fargo Park District Office (601 26th Ave E, West Fargo).

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS

A professional photographer will also be on hand for those who would like to purchase photos. You will receive an e-mail with photo information before the dance.

GRAND MARCH

Due to COVID-19 and capacity regulations, each registrant will be given only TWO wristbands at check-in for two guests to attend Grand March. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

All event communication will be done through e-mail. Please make sure your e-mail is up to date during registration to ensure you receive important pre-event information and updates. An e-mail with additional details will be sent to registered participants within 5 business days of the event.

REGISTER TODAY AT https://anc.apm.activecommunities. com/westfargoparkdistrict/activity/ search?onlineSiteId=0&activity_select_param=2&activity_ keyword=sweetheart%20dance&viewMode=list

For more information on the Sweetheart Dance, or other future West Fargo Park District events, visit wfparks.org.

PIE WEST FARGO WILL HOST A DINE TO DONATE to benefit the West Fargo Parks and Recreation Foundation on Tuesday, Jan. 10. Spicy Pie will donate 15% of all direct sales from 4-9 p.m.

NEWS AND FEATURES

Hobbyist new owner of Tropical Fish Shoppe

By Tiffany Achermann / West Fargo Pioneer

WEST FARGO– Scott Eaves has always had a passion for aquariums and fish. When he found out Nancy Maag, owner of West Fargo’s Tropical Fish Shoppe, was retiring, he took his chance at turning his hobby into a living.

Eaves and his girlfriend, Alexa Stoller, were wellknown customers of the store, and they were both ready for a career change.

“I always talked to her and told her, ‘You know I’d be interested in purchasing your store when you’re looking to retire,’ so about a year ago she goes, ‘Well, I think I’m going to retire in the next six months,’ and we kind of went from there,” Eaves said.

The store sells freshwater fish, aquariums, supplies, and freshwater plants. They have around 40 types of plants and usually 200 kinds of fish available.

Eaves said they will often take in fish that have outgrown their tanks or that their owners can no longer care for. In some cases they’ll take in fish that are “disabled” and will attempt to keep them comfortable and help them “live their best life.”

Their goal is to offer a wide and changing variety of fish and plants.

Electric Yellow Lab fish at Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc. in West Fargo. Photo contributed / Alexa Stoller

“What we strive to do is anytime we sell out of a specific fish, we always try to switch it to something new. We try not to have the same fish in,” Eaves said. “Trying to change it up and get in different fish every week.”

Eaves was first introduced to fish by his mother, Bonnie Eaves, and her best friend, Judy Johnson. As a child his mother had a tank and would bring him to the fish store and let him pick out his own fish. He’s enjoyed having fish ever since.

“It was always just kind of a side thing. We never really planned on making any money on it,” Eaves said.

Eaves is originally from Saginaw, Michigan. He earned a culinary arts degree from Grand Rapids Community College and worked as an executive chef for 23 years.

Eaves moved to North Dakota six years ago to work at the University of

Jamestown. He worked in food service there for four years before joining Johnny B’s Brickhouse.

“When I first got into culinary arts that was really my passion,” Eaves said. “My side passion was keeping aquariums and being a fish hobbyist.”

Eaves said he and Stoller were able to get two months of training before taking over the store.

“I was delighted, and the rest is history,” Eaves said.

BUSINESS PROFILE

What: Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc.

Where: 2220 Main Ave. E. Suite F, West Fargo

Contact: 701-277-8727

Online: Follow “Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc.” on Facebook.

Achermann is a Minnesota State University Minnesota student interning at The Forum.

Alexa Stoller and Scott Eaves are the new owners of Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc. in West Fargo. Photo contributed / Alexa Stoller

Pea Puffers at Tropical Fish Shoppe Inc. in West Fargo. Photo contributed / Alexa Stoller

“What we strive to do is anytime we sell out of a specific fish, we always try to switch it to something new. We try not to have the same fish in.”

Scott Eaves

NEWS AND FEATURES

WILD BIRDS ADDED TO CITY’S NO-FEEDING LIST

By Wendy Reuer / West Fargo Pioneer

WEST FARGO — After residents complained about the high amount of Canada geese gathering in their neighborhoods this summer, the West Fargo City Commission took action to add feeding wild birds to an already long list of animals listed in the city ordinance as off-limits to feed. Such animals include many of what one may

expect such as deer, moose, or coyotes but the city law for some reason, includes animals not particularly native to the city such as alligators, crocodiles, lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, leopards, jaguars, jackals and even dingos.

Dingos are a member of the wild dog family, notably indigenous to Australia.

The ordinance now also includes “species or breed of turkey, geese, ducks, pheasants, wood ducks, owls, eagles, and any other type of fowl not being kept for agricultural purposes,” after the West Fargo City Commission passed the ordinance second reading at its Monday, Dec. 5 meeting.

Geese walk along the bank of a retention pond Aug. 17, 2020, near 17th Avenue and Sixth Street East, West Fargo. Michael Vosburg / West Fargo Pioneer

caught, they

Feeding geese will now be a violation of city ordinance, punishable by a fine of $50 or $100. The first offense will be considered an infraction, but following offenses could increase the penalty.

“We would hope that after someone is caught, they would stop feeding the animals,” Shockley said.

The ordinance says “’feed’ means making food, including corn or seeds, available for consumption outdoors, either by spreading on the ground or hanging at a height of less than 5 feet as measured from the grade at the pole or structure supporting the bird feeder. Maintaining live vegetation such as fruit trees, gardens or flower beds does not count as feeding. Small bird feeders higher than 5 feet will also be acceptable.

The ordinance explicitly defines “non-domestic animal” or “wildlife” as animals considered to be naturally wild and not naturally trained or domesticated, or which

are commonly considered to be inherently dangerous to the health, safety and welfare of people.

Residents are also not allowed to care for any member of the rodent family, including any skunk, raccoon, squirrel or ferret. Any poisonous, venomous, constricting, or inherently dangerous member of the reptile or amphibian families, including rattlesnakes, restricted non-venomous constricting snakes, pit vipers, crocodiles, and alligators are also explicitly prohibited.

Earlier this summer, Michael Szymanski, the migratory game bird management supervisor for the North Dakota Game and Fish, said that feeding the birds can create “bad habits.” In one instance a goose knocked over a little kid for his sandwich, Szymanski said, adding the nearby water features create a situation that is impossible to avoid.

Readers can reach West Fargo editor Wendy Reuer at wreuer@ forumcomm.com or 701-241-5530.

PUBLIC INPUT MEETING

WHY?

To discuss the proposed landslide repairs along US Highway 10 (Main Avenue) near the intersection of Sheyenne Street in West Fargo. The project consists of pile installation to stabilize the slope, road and sidewalk repairs, and storm sewer repairs.

WHEN?

January 10, 2023

Formal Presentation: 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Open House: 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Hulbert Aquatic Center

WHERE?

• Room P140

• 620 7th Ave East • West Fargo, ND 58078

OPEN HOUSE CONDUCTED BY ND Department of Transportation (NDDOT), city of West Fargo, and Barr Engineering Co. This meeting is designed to allow for public input which is required for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1970 and National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.

Representatives from the NDDOT, city of West Fargo, and Barr Engineering Co. will be on hand to answer your questions and discuss your concerns.

WRITTEN STATEMENTS or comments about this project must be mailed by January 25, 2023, to Matt Peterson, 4300 MarketPointe Dr, Suite 200, Minneapolis MN 55435. Email: mpeterson@barr.com Note “Public Input Meeting” in email subject heading.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) will consider every request for reasonable accommodation to provide:

• an accessible meeting facility or other accommodation for people with disabilities,

• language interpretation for people with limited English proficiency (LEP), and

• translations of written material necessary to access NDDOT programs and information. Appropriate provisions will be considered when the Department is notified at least 10 days prior to the meeting date or the date the written material translation is needed.

To request accommodations, contact Heather Christianson, Civil Rights Division, NDDOT at (701) 328-2978 or civilrights@nd.gov. TTY users may use Relay North Dakota at 711 or 1-800-366-6888.

“We would hope that after someone is

would stop feeding the animals.”

West Fargo Attorney John Shockley

NEWS AND FEATURES

‘Changed my life for the better’

West Fargo couple fosters then adopts 8

By Kevin Wallevand / West Fargo Focus

WEST FARGO — If you stop by to see the Herford family, there’s a good chance Dawn Herford will be holding a baby or toddler.

The Herford house has become a secure, safe sanctuary for foster children who now have become Dawn and Erik Herford’s family through adoption.

“We’ve really grown in the last few years. Kids were not ever really a possibility for us for awhile,” Dawn said.

When Erik and Dawn married 14 years ago, they tried to have children, but medical issues prevented it.

“We went down the IVF road, and it just scared

me. It was emotional (and) it was stressful,” Dawn said.

In the early 2000s, the Herfords started fostering children, and soon they started adopting. Their Christmas ornaments tell the story. Life as a married couple, then an adoption, then another and another.

Erik and Dawn Herford, in the back row, with their eight adopted children, and grandparents. Photo contributed / Herford family

“It’s changed my life for the better. I couldn’t imagine not having these eight kids. It’s been an absolute blessing.”

Erik Herford

“There are certain times of the day when it’s loud, crazy, usually right after breakfast,” Erik said.

On Thursday, Dec. 8, on the mantle are the stockings of Hannah, Leighton, Ben, Kayden, Isabelle, Jaxsen, Blayke and Tatum. That’s right. Dawn and Erik Herford are the proud parents of eight.

“Once we got one and then some more siblings started coming along, we felt that they needed to stay together. So it’s just kind of snowballed into eight, which is great,” Erik said. “We love every one of them to death. They are just a lot of fun.”

The kids are thriving despite roadblocks they faced from day one, with days spent running to school, sporting and doctor visits.

“Most of our kids were pre-disposed to some sort of drugs in their system. We had one that was also abuserelated, but they are all different, they’re all unique,” Dawn said. “They

all come with their own quirks, and needs and wants and you just do it.”

“It’s changed my life for the better. I couldn’t imagine not having these eight kids. It’s been an absolute blessing,” Erik said.

In this crazy, chaotic household of 10, the kids wouldn’t want it any other way.

“It’s amazing, just, parents are the best,” said 13-year-old Leighton Herford.

Two-year-old Blayke Herford was mesmerized by the Christmas Tree. This is home now.

One might find a dust ball or crayon marks on a wall, but you will also find a house full of hearts. A couple that never dreamed of a family, is now putting eight to bed and caring for three more in foster care.

The Herfords are also foster rescues. Right now, the couple has 10 puppies and two dogs.

NEWS AND FEATURES

West Fargo Public Library receives Star Library Award

By West Fargo Public Library Staff

The North Dakota State Library recently awarded the West Fargo Public Library the 2022 North Dakota Star Library Award for exemplary service to the community.

The award is based on per-capita circulations, service hours, program attendance, computer usage, WiFi usage and the percentage of North Dakota

Library Coordinating Council Standards for Public Libraries met by the library in 2021. The award is granted to high-performing libraries within their peer group of libraries with similar operating expenditures.

“The West Fargo Public Library team does a wonderful job providing our community with programs and services and being welcoming and

helpful,” said Library Director Betty Adams. “This hard work reflects in our statistics. I am so proud of the team and excited to continue this important work to support the West Fargo community.”

View the West Fargo Public Library’s 2021 Annual Report for more information on the library’s usage in 2021 at westfargolibrary.org.

Director Betty Adams, Circulation Supervisors Amy Hitch and Nathaniel Craig and Library Service Managers Molly Flaspohler, Lauren Nephew and Kirsten Henagin pose with the award. Photo courtesy of West Fargo Public Library