News Around Town

By Megan Sheeley, ARA, Appraiser / Partner at Crown Appraisals, Inc.

In June 2024, the community of Casselton ND, opened its doors to the North Dakota Chapter of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA). Our group of farm managers and rural appraisers gathered from around the state for an informative day of tours that told the story of North Dakota agriculture.

Our first stop was to visit the brand-new North Dakota Soybean Processors (NDSP) crush plant. With construction crews working hard to prepare the facility for its late summer start-up, we enjoyed an insider’s tour of the state-of-the-art facility, which is designed to process an astonishing 100,000 acres of soybeans each month. As we walked through the plant, we marveled at the advanced technology that transform soybeans from North Dakota and beyond into valuable products, including food-grade soybean oil, soybean oil for renewable diesel, and soybean meal.

Next, we ventured to Abbiamo Pasta Company, where we learned about the fine art of pasta-making. Abbiamo Pasta utilizes semolina (durum flour) and spring wheat flour to create a variety of short goods pasta, such as penne, macaroni, and rotini, for its customers. The team at Abbiamo shared their passion for quality, explaining how they take pride in using local crops milled by the North Dakota Mill in Grand Forks to create delicious pasta that graces tables far and wide.

The afternoon continued with a visit to Tharaldson Ethanol, a facility dedicated to turning corn into 175 million gallons of renewable fuel per year. Tharaldson staff shared keen insights into the intricacies of ethanol production and its role in supporting both the economy and the environment.

Between tours, our group stopped by the Cottonwood Golf Club for a delicious lunch prepared by the clubhouse staff. The atmosphere was lively, filled with conversations about agriculture, innovation, and the shared commitment to serving the local agricultural economy.

After learning about the processing of soybeans, wheat, and corn, our group concluded the day with a barley product – craft beer. We gathered at Icewind Brewery in Mapleton to unwind and share our thoughts on the day’s experiences.

The ASFMRA tour was not just an exploration of facilities; it was a celebration of Casselton’s agricultural tradition. Each stop highlighted the vital role that local farmers, community members, and businesses play in bringing the crop from the field to the grocery store or the fuel pump. It’s a common stereotype that small towns are fading, but Casselton serves as a prime example of how agriculture and community spirit can unite to build a vibrant future.

This week, 17 Casselton Business Association (CBA) members gathered for an insightful training session on mastering Google My Business, led by Chris Erwin, Business Advisor for the ND Small Business Development Centers. The session provided practical, hands-on guidance for local business owners and marketing professionals looking to enhance their online presence and improve local search visibility.

What Everyone Learned: Mastering Your Google Business Profile

If you missed the session, here are the top takeaways to help you put your best digital foot forward on Google:

1. Get Started: The first step is simple: If you have a Gmail account, you’re already halfway there! Head over to google.com/business or open Maps and click “Add your business.” This will be your gateway to managing your profile and increasing your visibility online.
2. Get Verified: Google takes verification seriously, and so should you! The process is done through video verification. Make sure your video is comprehensive—show your storefront, address, business sign, and even your company vehicle. It may take a couple of tries, but once verified, you’ll be ready to engage with your customers.
3. Be Findable: Before you start filling out your profile, think through your categories. Listing all your services, even the ones you provide less often, helps potential customers find you for everything you offer. Don’t forget about special attributes, like outdoor seating or free Wi-Fi, to appeal to your customers' preferences.
4. Show Off: Profiles with good images perform better. Take bright, clear photos of your storefront, products, or services, and don’t hesitate to include images of your team. Google loves rich media content, so upload plenty of photos and videos. Showcasing your business at its best will improve your ranking in local search results.
5. Aim for the Top: Your goal should be to land in the top three listings when customers search for local businesses like yours. Google’s algorithm favors updated, well-maintained profiles with rich content. By keeping your business information comprehensive and current, you’re not just helping yourself but also contributing to a stronger local business community.
6. Build Trust and Credibility: Customer reviews play a big role in building trust. Respond to every review—positive or negative. Handling negative feedback with grace can turn a situation around, and potential customers are paying attention. Don’t be shy about asking for reviews and rewarding customers who take the time to leave them.
7. Consistency is Key: Your business hours should be consistent across all platforms. Discrepancies between your Google profile, Facebook, and website can cause confusion and hurt your credibility. Make sure your hours are accurate and match everywhere your business is listed online.
8. Clear Call to Action: Make it easy for customers to take the next step! Whether it’s calling you, visiting your website, or getting directions to your store, ensure that links and buttons are available and functional on your profile. This makes it easy for potential customers to engage with your business directly.
9. Keep it Fresh: Google is always updating its categories and attributes. Stay ahead of the game by keeping your profile up to date. Regular updates show both Google and your customers that your business is active and relevant.

If you need additional help, contact Chris Erwin at the ND Small Business Development Center (chris@ndsbdc.org) for help in putting your best business face forward. Mastering your Google Business Profile is a key step toward enhancing your local online presence and ensuring customers can easily find and engage with your business.

Introducing the Casselton App, designed specifically for the Casselton community and sponsored by the City of Casselton. This app provides everything you need to stay connected, informed, and involved. Whether paying bills, checking school updates, or finding local events, the Casselton App makes it easy to access all the essential information in one place.

Why You’ll Love the Casselton App

Here’s a breakdown of some of the best features in the app that will make your life in Casselton easier:

• Alerts and Updates: Stay informed about road closures, severe weather warnings, and other urgent community announcements. The app provides real-time alerts so you’re always up to date. Find details like the ND road report, local library events, and even a welcoming “Welcome to Casselton” feature for visitors and new residents.
• Live Local: Supporting Casselton Businesses: The Live Local section shines a spotlight on the Casselton business community. Browse the business directory to discover local places to shop or find services. Check out weekly ads and deals from your favorite stores, and if you're a business owner, you can submit your business for a Small Business Highlight. Supporting local businesses is easy with all this information at your fingertips!
• Upcoming Events: Curious about what’s happening in town? The Upcoming Events section helps you stay in the loop. Whether it’s a city event, a Casselton Business Association meeting, or a community gathering, the app’s events calendar keeps you updated on what’s happening and how you can attend.
• Community Connections: Stay engaged with the Casselton community through the Community section. Here, residents and business owners can submit information about job postings, rummage sales, fundraisers, and items for sale. You can also access the senior meal menu, ensuring our older residents stay connected to the resources they need.
• School Information: Central Cass in One Place: For parents and students, the app makes it easy to keep track of school happenings. Directly tied to Central Cass’s tools, the School Information section provides accurate updates on everything from announcements to the lunch menu. You can also find the school calendar, sports schedules, and links to PowerSchool and the school’s website for all things Central Cass Squirrels.
• More: City Services and Beyond: The More section provides access to essential city services and additional community information. Here’s what you can do: Discover community groups: Learn about local organizations that help connect and strengthen Casselton. Get church information: Find details about local churches, including service times and community programs. Stay updated with local news: Read the Cass County Reporter for the latest happenings around town. Volunteer as a first responder: Learn how to sign up as a volunteer first responder, offering a meaningful way to contribute to Casselton’s safety and wellbeing. Explore the city directory: Access contact information for elected officials and city employees, making it easy to reach out when needed. Pay your utility bills online: Manage your payments without leaving home. Review city council meeting minutes: Stay informed on the latest decisions and discussions happening in local government. Rent the auditorium: Find out how to reserve the Casselton auditorium for your next event. Check the weather: Stay prepared for the day ahead with up-to-date local forecasts

"Communication changes everything and this app brings together communication from the city, parks, library, school, and countless community organizations in one easy place on your phone," says Adrienne Olson, Casselton's Community and Economic Development Director. "And it's two-way communication so you can use it to make reports to the city and public works teams as well. Looking for something to do? Or a way to get involved? Check the Casselton app!"

Future Updates

The app will continue to evolve as new content and features are added. The goal is for the Casselton App to become your “go-to” resource for everything happening in town, ensuring it meets the needs of the community as it grows.

Download the Casselton App Today! Get started by downloading the Casselton App today. Whether you’re looking to stay informed, support local businesses, or connect with the community, this app has it all. Make life in Casselton easier, more connected, and more fun—download the app now and be a part of the Casselton connection!

  

Casselton knows how to celebrate, and Casselton Summerfest is the pinnacle of our community festivities. Each year, we come together to create unforgettable memories filled with fun, laughter, and camaraderie. From ever-popular car shows to family-friendly activities, this four-day event has something for everyone. 

Whether you're a local or a visitor, we invite you to join us from July 25th to 28th for a series of exciting events that showcase the best of our town. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the joy and spirit of Casselton Summerfest!

Casselton Summerfest is a celebration of community spirit, family fun, and memorable experiences. We have a fantastic lineup of events that cater to all ages and interests. 

Thrilling Thursday: Classic Cars and Family Fun

The Thursday lineup at Casselton Summerfest kicks off with a bang, headlined by the Swanks Car Club's 22nd annual Cruise to Casselton. This beloved event attracts car enthusiasts from near and far, showcasing an impressive array of classic cars. Starting at 5 PM, participants can register their cars, followed by a night filled with food, drinks, and the exciting engine blow-up event. 

Complementing the car show are a variety of other activities, including a silent auction by the Cass County Wildlife Club, free root beer floats courtesy of the Cass Rural Food Pantry, and free ice cream cones from St. Leo's Catholic Church. For a cozy family evening, CrossRoads Church will host a free movie night, while dinner options abound with offerings from Cottonwood Golf Course and Vets Club. 

Fantastic Friday: Pancakes, Play, and Evening Entertainment

Start your Friday morning with a delicious pancake and sausage breakfast sponsored by ReadiTech Fiber. Whether you’re on your way to work or gearing up for the Summerfest activities, this breakfast is the perfect way to fuel up for a day packed with fun.

After enjoying your hearty breakfast, take a stroll through downtown and explore the sidewalk sales hosted by CBA businesses. You’ll find great deals and unique items from local shops, making it an excellent opportunity to support Casselton’s vibrant business community.

Next, head over to RDO for John Deere’s Day of Play, a family-friendly event of games, food, and up-close views of John Deere tractors. Kids and adults alike can enjoy tractor rides, riding toys, crafts, and snacks, making it a must-visit event for all ages..

For those looking for a sweet treat, stop by the Westminster Presbyterian Church from 5 to 6:30 PM for a free ice cream social. If you're still hungry, the Cass County Wildlife Club is hosting a dinner at Governors Park from 5 to 7 PM with a free-will offering.

The evening’s entertainment kicks off with a variety show at the BankNorth Theatre sponsored by Friends of Fine Arts. Cap off your night with some karaoke at the Vets Club. Sing your heart out and enjoy a fun-filled end to a fantastic Friday at Casselton Summerfest!

Spectacular Saturday: Parades, Parties, and All-Day Activities

Summerfest Saturday starts bright and early with the SBHKI Kids Fun Run at Tinta Tawa Park. Join us for a fun-filled morning of running that is free of charge and perfect for kids of all ages who love to be active and have fun. The event is designed to encourage physical activity and promote a healthy lifestyle for kids. It's a fantastic way for children to kick off the day with a burst of energy. Grab your running shoes and join us!

As the town awakens, downtown Casselton transforms into a bustling hub of activity with the Vendor Show and Food Trucks hosted by Exit 331 Vinyl Designs. Stroll through the streets, enjoy delicious local food, and shop from various vendors offering unique crafts and goods.

The highlight of the day, the Grand Parade, sponsored by Casselton Summerfest, begins its lineup at 10 AM at the Central Cass parking lot and promises a vibrant display of community spirit as it marches from Front Street to Langer Avenue.

After the parade, head over to Governors Park Shelter for a delicious church lunch featuring pulled pork sandwiches hosted by Martin's Lutheran Church. The afternoon is packed with activities for all ages. The Vets Club is hosting a Bean Bag Tournament, while the Fire Department invites everyone to join in the Community Water Fight. 

Fire Chief John Hejl explains, "We start with a kids’ water fight with garden hoses and move into an adults’ event with fire hoses and helmets. The fire department runs the event and teams of two are comprised of anyone in attendance who wants to participate. It’s a great way to cool off." The goal is simple: teams try to push a can to the other team's side using water sprayed from hoses, providing simple fun on a hot afternoon. 

For some relaxation, Nickl Pool offers a free open swim throughout the day. Families will find plenty of entertainment options with free face painting and temporary tattoos by the Golden Clover 4-H Club. CrossRoads Community Church is providing a shade canopy and fun activities in the same area. 

Anytime Fun will be setting up a variety of exciting inflatables for kids to enjoy, including a treehouse bounce house, a 7-element obstacle course, and a sports combination bounce and slide. They are also bringing a new game called the bungee run, where participants race to see how far they can run while attached to a bungee cord. Additionally, the hugely popular video game trailer, featuring 25 feet of fun with four HDTVs and a wide selection of video games, will be available for kids to love. 

The Rusty K Ranch Petting Zoo offers hands-on animal experiences, and Alikat will be drawing free caricatures at Governors Park, capturing fun memories in just six minutes per face.

As evening falls, the festivities continue with live entertainment on the Front Street Stage, creating a lively atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. The day culminates in a high-energy street dance featuring Save Me CJ, a pop punk and rock band from Fargo, known for their 90's and 2000's hits. This vibrant performance is the perfect way to cap off a spectacular Saturday at Casselton Summerfest.

Sunny Sunday: Cruises, Golf, and Delicious Treats

Sunday at Summerfest wraps up the weekend with a delightful mix of activities. Start your morning with the 13th Annual Car/Bike Cruise hosted by Community of Care. Registration begins at the Casselton Veterinary Clinic, and the cruise offers a scenic journey perfect for car and bike enthusiasts. Enjoy a lunch stop at Erickson’s Steakhouse in Fertile, MN, before continuing the last leg of the cruise, which ends at Bergesons Nursery in rural Fertile, MN. This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow car and bike enthusiasts.

For golf lovers, the 13th Annual Golf Scramble hosted by the Casselton Lions at Cottonwood Golf Course provides a day of friendly competition on the greens. Gather your team and enjoy a round of golf in the beautiful summer weather, making it a great way to spend a Sunday morning and afternoon.

As you enjoy the various activities, be sure to stop by the Trap Range where the Cass County Wildlife Club is sponsoring a free hot dog lunch. It's a tasty treat to fuel your day and a wonderful opportunity to mingle with community member.

Non-Stop Fun All Weekend

Be sure to visit the Threads Boutique Pop-Up, available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Discover a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories that blend sophistication with contemporary flair. From classic essentials to the latest runway trends, each item is handpicked to inspire confidence and leave a lasting impression. 

Additionally, the Casselton Heritage Center will be hosting open houses on both Friday and Saturday to celebrate their 20th anniversary. This year’s open house exhibits will highlight some of the favorite exhibits from the past 20 years and provide details about ongoing restoration projects. It's a wonderful opportunity to delve into Casselton's heritage and see the dedicated work of the Heritage Center.

No town has snowplows as cool as Casselton! What began as a mundane task of painting snowplow blades has turned into a vibrant community project, thanks to the creative efforts of Central Cass high school students. When the City of Casselton needed to refresh their snowplow blades, Public Works Supervisor Will Lipp had a great idea: involve the local students in the project.

Lipp reached out to the art department at Central Cass High School, and art teacher Lauren Johnson eagerly took up the challenge. "Of course, we said yes!" said Johnson. Students from grades 10 to 12 participated, submitting designs and voting as a class on the best ones. The class then worked together to bring the winning designs to life. The biggest hurdle? Learning to work with the paint, which was messy but ultimately a lot of fun.

The Winning Designs

Nathan Knuth’s Snowy Scene

Sophomore Nathan Knuth's design was one of the selected masterpieces. His snowplow blade features snowflakes, a person with a trailing scarf, and Casselton's iconic water tower. "I wanted to depict what community means to me in Casselton," Nathan explained. "The scarf ties the two blades together, representing how our community is knit together. The water tower is a recognizable symbol for everyone in Casselton."

Nathan appreciated the community aspect of the project. "While painting at school, teachers and kids were curious and gave lots of compliments. The project really made me feel part of the community. Plus, it only took about five hours to complete with the help of my classmates!"

Isabelle Dutchuk’s Sunshine and Water Tower

Senior Isabelle Dutchuk chose an abstract approach, incorporating sunshine and the Casselton water tower into her design. "The idea just came to me," Isabelle said. "I wanted something that represents Casselton, so I thought of our water tower and the sun shining on it at the reservoir, where I’ve made many beautiful memories."

Isabelle worked with a team of about six students to paint her design, receiving positive feedback from the community. "Many people told me how cool it turned out and learned that I love art because of this public project."

A Collaborative Effort

Though the designs were student creations, the project was a group effort. The students dedicated about 15 hours to the project, learning new painting techniques and working together to transfer their designs onto the blades. Casselton Hardware Hank supplied the paint, contributing to this community initiative.

The newly painted snowplows are ready to tackle the winter season, showcasing the creativity and community spirit of Casselton. As these plows clear the streets, they’ll not only keep the roads safe but also bring a splash of color and local pride to every snowfall.

Grace Fletschock, a senior at Central Cass High School in Casselton, has been awarded the $1000 CBA Scholarship for 2024. This scholarship is given in recognition of the outstanding contributions made by young people to their home, school, community, and country.

The daughter of Justin and Jamie Fletschock, Grace is a shining example of dedication and excellence. Her high school career has been packed with achievements in both academics and extracurricular activities. In sports, Grace has excelled in softball, volleyball, and basketball. She was part of the state championship softball teams in 2019, 2021, and 2022, and earned awards such as 2021 Most Improved Athlete, 2022 and 2023 All-Region Player, and 2023 All-State Shortstop. In volleyball, Grace led as the 2023 Team Floor Captain, earned the Most Improved Athlete award in 2021-2022, and made the 2023 All Region 1 Team. She also played in Junior Olympic Volt and ND Elite Volleyball.

"It has truly been a pleasure to coach Grace over the past 6 years," says Scott Kost, Central Cass Head Softball Coach. "She has been an outstanding player for us. Grace has played four years of varsity softball for Central Cass - three years as a starter at shortstop. Grace is very coachable, a great leader, and an outstanding teammate. She leaves a great legacy at Central Cass and has an incredibly bright future in front of her."

Beyond sports, Grace has been involved in numerous clubs and activities. She was a member of the Homecoming Court, served as a 2022-2023 Class Officer and Social Media Representative for the Student Council, the Treasurer for FCCLA, and participated in PaY (Philanthropy and Youth), FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), Prom Committee, and yearbook.

Academically, Grace is a member of the National Honors Society and has been on the A honor roll every quarter of high school, making her one of the valedictorians of the Class of 2024 with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Grace balances her schoolwork with jobs at Hornbacher’s and Casselton Parks and Recreation. At Hornbacher’s, she works as a cashier, handling customer service and various store upkeep tasks, averaging 15 hours per week during the school year and more in the summer. In the summer, she also coaches softball for Casselton Parks and Rec, working 30 hours per week teaching young girls the sport, planning practices, and performing administrative duties.

“When I was in eighth grade, I had a medical episode that significantly impacted my life and career choices,” says Grace, who plans to attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, majoring in Biology Pre-med. “One day after school, I was sitting on the couch when my legs went numb. The numbness spread to my fingers, hands, arms, and chest, eventually reaching my mouth and tongue, leaving me unable to speak. Neither of my parents was home.

A friend called 911, and Grace was taken to the hospital, where doctors ruled out a stroke and decided to airlift HER to the Children’s Hospital during a storm. The next morning, she woke up completely normal.

The turning point was a follow-up appointment with a neurologist in Grand Forks.

“He explained that what happened to me was an unexplainable neurological event and shared that he had experienced something similar,” adds Grace. “His ability to relate to me was incredibly comforting, and he is the reason I want to be a neurologist—to help people like us and others in need.”

At the University of Minnesota, Grace plans to stay engaged by joining a Living Learning Community group, such as Women in Business or a sorority. Organizations like A Helping Hand for the Homeless, Athletes to Physicians, and Biology Without Borders particularly interest her. Her long-term goal is to become a doctor, specializing in neurology. Beyond her academic and extracurricular goals, she envisions becoming a mother and having a Christ-centered family.

Grace’s community involvement includes volunteering at Martins Lutheran Church, participating in blood drives, and mentoring at BIO Girls. She’s also active in charity events like Feed My Starving Children, Santa's Workshop, and sandbagging for flood prevention.

by Jamie Pinske, a full-time Paramedic here at Casselton Ambulance Service. We asked Jamie to give us a few blog posts about her experiences as a paramedic

Here is her post with insights on the schedules of the ambulance team and explains the process of what happens when you dial 911 for an ambulance service.

Casselton Ambulance Service operates 24/7/365. There is always a crew of two people on shift, and a shift is 24 hours. Full-time staff are on shift multiple days in a row and on a regular schedule. PRN staff are also on call 24 hours for their shift but fewer days per month.

So, what happens when you dial 911 and tell them you need an ambulance? Here's what to expect: 

• Your call first is fielded by the Red River Regional Dispatch Center, or “Central” as we call them. They are extensively trained in fielding emergency calls and expediting the correct type of assistance to the emergency. They will ask questions of the caller to help determine what type of help is needed, and they will talk the caller through giving aid, if necessary, prior to the ambulance arriving on scene.

• "Central" will then send out a page to our text pagers based at the station and to our cell phones. The text page contains GPS coordinates/address of the call and a description of its nature.

• We radio to Central to acknowledge the page through our base radio at the station, then hop in the rig and radio to Central that we are enroute. 

• We radio to Central when we arrive on scene and carry a portable radio with us into the call to maintain communication. 

• We radio to Central when we depart scene, when we arrive at the hospital, when we leave the hospital and when we return to base. 

Communication is a key component in a well-oiled EMS machine!

About Jamie

I started as a PRN EMT in March 2022, and became a full-time EMT in September 2022. I began Paramedic School in February 2023 and graduated December 2023. I passed my National Registry Test for Paramedic on April 26, 2024. It has been a busy and exciting journey! I am proud to serve the city of Casselton and the surrounding communities.

by Lisa Cook, owner at 4e Winery

  is ready to kick off their 9th season in the tasting room on May 4, 2024. Located just a mile and a half southeast of the Casselton exit, off I94, 4e Winery is a great place to wind down after a long week or meet up with friends for a glass of your favorite wine on the deck on a sunny afternoon.

Here are a few fun things to expect this season.

• Live Music: One Thursday night a month in June, July, and August, 4e is bringing live music to their new Prairie Pavilion. Enjoy the music of local talent Matt Dauner, Jim White, and Dillon Spurlin on June 6, July 11, and August 8, respectively. Bring a lawn chair and settle in for a fun and relaxing evening of live music on the prairie.
• Flat Top Fridays: On select Fridays this summer, Chef Greg will be pulling out the Flat Top Grill and cooking up some delicious eats such as tacos and noodle stir fry. Make sure to follow them on Facebook and sign up on their website for email updates at www.4ewinery.com so you don’t miss out.
• Special Events: 4e has some ideas up their sleeve such as puzzle nights, trivia nights, exclusive library tastings, and more, so stay tuned.
• Not Just Wine: If wine is not your thing, 4e is hooking up with local favorite Icewind Brewery to provide a rotating selection of craft beer on tap. In addition, Greg’s Hard Lemonade is a light and delicious lemon wine served cold and sparkling on ice, perfect for a hot day on the deck. They also have two types of cold Sangria - a traditional red Summer Sangria and a refreshing white Prairie Peach Sangria - or you can combine the two to make what they call a Cottonwood Drive Sunrise, named for the regulars who invented it.
• Nibbles and Bites: 4e Winery has one of the most extensive plant-based menus in the Red River Valley. Enjoy a vegan BBQ Chicken Sandwich or Mediterranean Grinder, Southwest Chicken or Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla, or a hummus plate featuring Greg’s fabulous house-made hummus. New this on the menu this year: Soft pretzels with a house-made cheesy or spicy mustard dip.
• Private Events: 4e Winery is the perfect place for your special event such as bridal showers bachelorette parties, intimate weddings, birthday celebrations, corporate events, or any other small gathering. You can choose from three unique spaces for your event. They still have some summer dates available, so see their website for more information.

If you haven’t discovered the 4e Winery experience, plan your visit today. Spring hours are Fridays 5-8 and Saturday and Sundays 12-5. Summer hours start May 30 with the addition of Thursdays from 5-8. Follow them on Facebook or sign up on their website for email updates at www.4ewinery.com. Experience the perfect blend of good wine, food, and friendship at 4e Winery.

Recently, Casselton Business Association members took a closer look at the operations of Casselton Veterinary Service, one of North Dakota's leading animal care facilities. The tour was attended by about a dozen members, providing an intimate setting to dive deep into the workings of the practice.

The tour provided invaluable insight into the operational, educational, and technological advancements at Casselton Veterinary Service. It was a reminder of the dedicated individuals behind each pet's care and the ongoing commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine.

• Hearts as big as a St. Bernard’s: Casselton Veterinary Service boasts a dedicated team of 15 veterinarians, supported by 100 employees in their Casselton and Fargo locations. This strong team is crucial for managing the daily workload and ensuring that each animal receives the best care possible.
• Techno-Paws: A key highlight from the tour was learning about the significant shift from traditional X-ray technology to modern digital diagnostics. This evolution not only streamlines the diagnostic process but also enhances the accuracy and efficiency of treatments provided to their furry patients.
• Barking Demographics: Over the years, the practice has seen a change in its patient base, with canines now making up 80% of the animals treated. This shift from a previously large animal-dominant clientele reflects broader changes in veterinary care and client needs.
• Learning Tails: Education forms the backbone of Casselton Veterinary Service, with a focus on continuous learning and development. Many of the veterinarians have pursued specialized training out of state, bringing a wealth of knowledge and new techniques to the practice. Additionally, the importance of vet tech education, particularly from North Dakota State University, was underscored, highlighting the role of vet techs in providing comprehensive care to large animals.
• Paws in Motion: With 60 people working onsite daily, the Casselton facility is a hub of activity and dedication. This dynamic environment ensures that every pet and owner receives attentive and compassionate service.

Central Cass Friends of Fine Arts (FOFA) plays a pivotal role in nurturing the creative talents of young artists. This vibrant organization is committed to enhancing the artistic journeys of students involved in band, choir, theater, speech, and visual arts. With a dynamic board of nine members, FOFA actively meets the additional needs of these diverse arts programs, ensuring that students have the resources they need to thrive.

Transformative Contributions

Thanks to the generous support of FOFA members, the 2023-24 academic year has seen significant enhancements to the arts programs. These contributions have facilitated the acquisition of a theater storage system, visual art display walls, display pedestals, theater makeup, props and costumes, paint, and advertising materials.

In addition, FOFA has provided snacks for students during their travels, funded six full and partial scholarships to the prestigious International Music Camp, and developed marketing materials that underscore their commitment to progress and innovation in the arts.

Discover the World of FOFA Online

Friends of Fine Arts is excited to invite you to explore a newly launched website. This online hub offers a wealth of information about FOFA activities, including an arts events calendar, profiles of the board members and educators, and highlights from our vibrant arts community.

• Don't miss "In the Spotlight," a feature celebrating Central Cass alumni who have made their mark in the arts.
• "Applause" recognizes the achievements of our current students.
• "Behind the Curtain" offers a glimpse into the lives of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of our arts programs.
• Learn about the legacy of FOFA and the BankNorth Theater, including tributes to two music educators honored for their contributions.

Open FOFA website

How You Can Make a Difference

Your involvement can significantly impact the success of FOFA's mission. They invite you to attend music concerts, art shows, and theater productions, showcasing the incredible talent within our community. Your financial contributions are crucial; they directly influence the extent of our support for the arts.

Consider volunteering your time by taking tickets, baking for concessions, donating snacks, chaperoning events, building or painting props, or sharing your musical talents. Every gesture of support, big or small, helps us create a richer, more vibrant arts community.

Friends of Fine Arts deeply appreciates the support from the citizens of the Central Cass School District. Your dedication to the arts and your belief in the mission fuel their efforts and make all of this possible. Together, we celebrate the transformative power of the arts and the role they play in enriching our lives and our community.

Thank you to Mary Kensok, Board President, Central Cass Friends of Fine Arts, for her help with this post.