Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Grant Ayers
Bands Archives | Fargo Monthly
Food, camping, what to do in between—here’s what you need to know before you go! More
General Equipment & Supplies: Reflecting on 40 Years
In 1984, General Equipment & Supplies, Inc. was founded by Don Shilling, Jerry Kern, Gene Hestdalen, and Orvis Stockstad, all former employees of General Diesel and Equipment. These founders set out to create a company that would stand the test of time while supplying heavy construction and aggregate equipment to the construction, mining, and oil exploration industries, as well as the municipal governments in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Iowa.
Earnest Agriculture's Eddy Mejia is Hedging Bets on a Vision for Ag's Future
Eddy Mejia, CEO of Earnest Agriculture, is on a mission to cultivate a sustainable world through regenerative agriculture—a step beyond sustainable agriculture. Mejia and his partner Dr. Gabe Price are determined to steer the course towards more sustainable and efficient farming practices. I had the opportunity to sit down with Mejia, who shed light on the role of biopesticide testing, as well as the importance of local growers getting involved and educated.
Bill Shores' Insight into ND Agriculture
Growing up on a farm in west-central Minnesota laid the roots for Bill Shores’ career, as he combined his passion for farming with advanced agricultural science at Pivot Bio. With a Bachelor of Science in plant industries management agronomy from the University of Minnesota-Crookston and 25 years in the ag industry, Bill’s experience revolves around fertility, seed, chemistry equipment, and people.
Fertilizer Doesn't Have to be Complicated
With a background that spans over 30 years in agriculture, Koch’s journey from growing up on a farm to her role within The Mosaic Company was no short path. Still, her dedication has allowed her to build up an impressive portfolio over the years. “I spent 15 years working as an agronomy production specialist for a local North Dakota retailer, selling directly to farmers, then I spent four-and-a-half years with the Monsanto Company as an Account Manager in seed and chemistry,” Koch said.
Nurturing the Future of Agriculture
In a discussion with Brian Otteson, Director of the NDSU Agronomy Seed Farm, we explored the innovative landscape of agriculture in North Dakota. Otteson, with his extensive background in seed production and its crucial role within agricultural research, provides a unique perspective on the current and future trends in crop nutrition, seed genetics, and soil health. When looking at NDSU’s agriculture landscape, its range of services is comparable to an umbrella, according to Otteson.
Unlocking the Potential of Soil
Charles Smith is the co-founder and CEO of IMIO, a company dedicated to reshaping how we understand and enhance the productivity and sustainability of our region’s farmlands. As part of our exclusive insight from speakers at March’s Grand Farm Field Days Event, I had the opportunity to sit down with Smith and discuss the innovative approaches that IMIO is taking with Re-Gen, rising initiatives across the nation pertinent to growers, and more.
The Connection Between Soil Practices and Our Food’s Future
In an interview with Dr. Craig Whippo, a plant physiologist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), we dive into the work being done to reshape North Dakota’s agricultural landscape, an upcoming field experiment, and Dr. Whippo’s input on what growers should know.
Financial Fitness for Entrepreneurs
Navigating the business landscape as an entrepreneur can be likened to a challenging obstacle course. While creativity, innovation, and perseverance are all essential attributes for success, an often overlooked component is financial sharpness. Simply put, understanding the financial ins and outs of your business is crucial.
How Chapul Farms' BSFL are Revolutionizing Agriculture and Waste Management
Chapul Farms is an insect agriculture project development company that designs, builds, and operates commercial-scale Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) facilities. Their mission is to restore biodiversity to agriculture, soil, and planet Earth for a more sustainable, resilient, and secure food system. We connected with Michael Place, CTO of Chapul Farms, to discuss the organization’s mission, its environmental goals, how larvae are providing a food-secure future, and much more.
How BisonX is Reshaping Entrepreneurship Through Nonprofit
In the world of entrepreneurship, few are pushing innovation, technology, and for-profit entrepreneurs forward to the degree that Nick Edwards and Jeff McDermott are via their nonprofit. We had the privilege of having a conversation with Edwards, co-founder of BisonX, an evergreen nonprofit startup studio that officially launched on January 1.
Rocking On with the Pawnbrokers
Photos Provided by The Pawnbrokers In the 1960s, The Pawnbrokers emerged as a new band that defied the era’s musical conventions, continually evolving while staying true to their musical roots and inspirations in Fargo-Moorhead. Born in the walls of Concordia College, Mike Naylor, Kent Richey, Steve Hanson, and Blake English went on to pioneer innovations in the local rock’n’roll music scene.
Amend Healthcare Offers Personalized Healthcare For All
Dr. Stephanie Hendricks, DNP, FNP-C/Founder and Owner Jessica Neisen, BSN, RN Kayla Christianson, Reception/Office Administrator Dr. Carrie Nelson, DNP, FNP-C Family medicine is a branch of medicine designed to care for individuals and families through primary care and prevention. Primary care is the key to living a longer, healthier life through lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, as well as individualized, targeted medical care for diseases and concerns.
Get to Know The Homegrown Band Tailspin
Welcome to the vibrant world of Tailspin, a rock band that knows how to put on a show like no other. When they hit the stage, audience members are bound to recognize plenty of iconic cover band hits and essentials. But wait, there’s more! Amidst the familiar tunes, Tailspin delights their audience with their own original music, adding a unique twist to the average cover band setlist.
Pearl Jam Electrifies St. Paul After A Decade Away
By Grant Ayers Photos Courtesy of Joe Lemke Photography Right in the heart of the Fargo-Moorhead area, there’s no shortage of local fun and cultural happenings. But guess what? There’s a whole world of excitement waiting just a short trip away. Yep, we’re talking about the Twin Cities—the place where art and entertainment come alive in a big way. Don’t get us wrong, we love our Fargo-Moorhead scene, but sometimes you’ve got to hit the road for something extra special.
Review: Arctic Monkeys Throw a ‘Mirrorball’ For All
Right in the heart of the Fargo-Moorhead area, there’s no shortage of local fun and cultural happenings. But guess what? There’s a whole world of excitement waiting just a short trip away. Yep, we’re talking about the Twin Cities—the place where art and entertainment come alive in a big way. Don’t get us wrong, we love our Fargo-Moorhead scene, but sometimes you’ve got to hit the road for something extra special. Think live concerts and events that might not swing by our neck of the woods.
Half Wolf's Journey From Fargo to Fame
Meet Hannah Westerholm, aka Half Wolf, an up-and-coming musician whose journey is both inspiring and extraordinary. Born into a music-loving household, Half Wolf’s childhood was filled with the sweet sounds of records playing throughout the house. Sundays were dedicated to music, where they and their brother would take turns picking albums to enjoy together. Those moments of musical exploration laid the foundation for Half Wolf’s deep connection to all kinds of music.
How Impact is Optimizing North Dakota's Business Landscape
Impact Dakota has been at the forefront of driving growth and success for businesses across the state of North Dakota. With innovative approaches and a commitment to excellence for their clients, Impact Dakota has become a trusted advisor for organizations of all sizes, helping them navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. We connected with Jodie Mjoen, CEO and President of Impact Dakota, to discuss Impact Dakota’s history, their tailored solutions, and how you can get involved.
Job Service ND: Helping One Citizen at a Time
JSND provides workforce and unemployment services across the state through nine different Workforce Centers, as well as their central location in Bismarck, ND. JSND offers a variety of services for both job seekers and employers. JSND has its roots in the Social Security Act of 1935 when Congress established unemployment insurance as part of an employment security system designed to provide an economic safety net during the height of the Depression.
Navigating the Shifting Landscape: Insights from the 2023 Fargo Compliance and Benefits Summit
HUB International Hosts a Knowledge-Packed Event to Equip Businesses for the Year Ahead In a year marked by change and new beginnings, HUB International successfully hosted the highly anticipated 2023 Fargo Compliance and Benefits Summit on April 13. Held at the Radisson Blu Fargo, the full-day event brought together industry leaders, professionals, and experts for a comprehensive exploration of employee benefits compliance, health and wellness strategies, and more. Did You Know?
Durow: The Soundtrack of Fargo's Next Generation
Durow: The Soundtrack of Fargo’s Next Generation by Grant Ayers Jul 17, 2023, 10:38 am
From Humble Beginnings to Mortgage Excellence: The Remarkable Growth of First Class Mortgage
First Class Mortgage, a small venture that began with just two employees, has defied the odds and emerged as a leading player in the industry. I sat down with co-owners Dan Van Winkle and Greg Dean and discussed how they crafted a dedicated team committed to setting new standards. Opening in 2003, First Class Mortgage operated as a mortgage broker for nearly the first decade of business before transitioning to becoming a true mortgage banker using their own funds.
Foreigner’s Fargo Farewell | Recap of The FARGODOME Performance
I ran into an old friend of mine that I’d worked with before, Paul Mirkovich. At the time, he was playing keyboard with Foreigner as an interim keyboardist/band member for the band, until he helped them find a replacement. When I ran into him, he said, “Oh, I’m glad to see you. I think you’d be perfect for this gig.
Red Hot Chili Peppers Stop by Fargodome
On April 6, Fargo’s music scene went electric with an energized performance from some of rock’s biggest names, including Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Strokes, and King Princess! Over the course of the evening, fans were delighted to hear each band play their hits, as well as some lesser-known songs for die-hard fans. While Red Hot Chili Peppers didn’t play all their hit tracks, fans still rocked out to every song played on the extensive 19-track setlist.
The Annual 2023 Fargo-Moorhead Whiskey Fest Recap
The Annual Fargo-Moorhead Whiskey Fest was held on Thursday, April 13 at the Sanctuary Events Center. The event featured a wide variety of premium brands of Irish whiskey, Scotch, and bourbon! The Whiskey Fest acted as a fundraiser for two nonprofit organizations; the Lt. Adam Gustafson Memorial Fund and The Christmas Gift. In total, the nonprofits raised upwards of $5,000.
A Look at Wendy Marie Marx's Busy Life
Wendy Marie Marx has always managed to excel when the odds are against her. When life throws obstacles her way, she manages to come out stronger on the other side. After a brief period of unemployment, Marx now operates a fully-licensed daycare service, and works in a networking marketing company and travel agency. Furthermore, she’s finding success in all of these while still supporting a blended family with seven children.
On FM's Local Musician Joe Overmoe's New Album"To Jesse"
Born and raised in the Fargo-Moorhead area, Joe Overmoe, an indie-alternative musician, has been surrounded by music since he was a little kid. As a child, his mother was the drummer who inspired him to follow in her footsteps when he learned drums and piano. Another inspiration was found in his friend Jesse, with whom he grew up playing music with frequently. Last year, Jesse tragically passed away from an accidental overdose. “Jesse’s life was cut unexpectedly short by an accidental overdose.
The Pursuit of Success in the FM Metal Scene
Pursuit is a rising extreme metal band local to the Fargo-Moorhead area. The group is comprised of three members: Dalton Holden (bass and vocals), Henri Jourdan (guitar and vocals), and Wyatt “Kryos” Schirrick (drums). The group has gone through slight transitions and additions since their early beginnings, but the three members are eager to spread their notoriety outside of the FMWF area.
Editor's Fargo-Moorhead May Event Picks
Spring Artisan Market When: May 6 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Where: Cellar 624 Vietnam Week 2023 When: April 29 at 9 a.m. to May 5 at 5 p.m. Where: Fargo Air Museum Fargo Gala for Charity: Water When: May 2, Social Hour at 6 p.m., Dinner/Program at 7 p.m., Mingle/ Meet Scott Harrison at 9 p.m. Where: The Pines White Foreigner When: May 10 at 8 p.m. Where: SCHEELS Arena FMBallet Presents Peter Pan When: May 6 at 2 p.m. and May 7 at 2 and 7 p.m. Where: Fargo Theatre Valley Vintage Car Club Car Show...
A Look at Tracy Jorde's Busy Life
Tracy Jordre has never been one to back down from a challenge. As she balances a full-time career in architecture with JLG and a loving family, Jordre has launched Haute Hyde, a handbag line that’s getting increasingly popular by the week. Now, her biggest obstacle is time and how to fit her many creative outlets into a busy schedule. Read further to check out her background, efforts with JLG and Haute Hyde, and how she balances the many different facets of her world.
The Advice That Helped Them Get There: Lauryn Schneider
What it Takes for Success The path to success is hardly ever traveled alone, and rarely comes without a few bumps in the road. There’s often a multitude of factors that play into one person’s climb to the top of their ranks. We spoke with a handful of determined and successful people with ties to the Fargo-Moorhead area regarding what, and who, they believe helped them find success in the area we’re proud to call home. Join us as we introduce these individuals over the coming months.
FM Local Band Walking Phoenix Pursuing The 'American Dream'
Walking Phoenix is an up-and-coming band that rose to prominence in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Their new album, American Dreams, represents a culmination of the band’s origins and time spent together crafting an original sound. I sat down with the band’s four members to discuss their origins, memorable performances, creative process and upcoming plans. The idea for Walking Phoenix first began as a desire between Jaeden Alverson and Evan Wood, friends since high school, to collaborate musically.
Up & Coming Entrepreneur: Thomas Rasmussen, Owner of Rasmussen Turntable Repairs
Thomas Rasmussen, owner of Rasmussen Turntable Repairs When people embark on a new entrepreneurial adventure, no two paths are the same. Each trailblazer goes at their own pace with different circumstances and obstacles to overcome. We talked to a variety of up-and-coming entrepreneurs, each with their own unique story to tell. Thomas Rasmussen started his first business doing things like custom woodworking, painting/staining and landscaping for people in his area when he was 16 years old.
Gina Powers is Fargo's Latest Record Label Signee
Singer Gina Powers, lead of The Gina Powers Band, was originally born in San Francisco, CA. Despite doing a lot of traveling as a child, including attending 17 different schools throughout her childhood, all roads led her to Fargo, North Dakota. Powers has been pursuing her passion for music for quite some time now. While it may have been a long journey to seeing fruitful success, it’s beginning to pay off for Powers and her band.
Up & Coming Entrepreneur: Chase Evert of Chase Chapters
When people embark on a new entrepreneurial adventure, no two paths are the same. Each trailblazer goes at their own pace with different circumstances and obstacles to overcome. We talked to a variety of up-and-coming entrepreneurs, each with their own unique story to tell. Chase Evert is a rising photographer with his personal brand, Chase Chapters.
Rocking the Night Away with Local Tribute Bands at Sanctuary Events Center
Local Musicians Dedicated a Memorable Night to 90’s and 2000’s Music Fans of bands from the past will oftentimes spend hundreds of dollars to relive their glory days and enjoy a blast from the past. Groups such as Weezer, Linkin Park, Blink-182 and My Chemical Romance may not be as popular as they were a few decades ago, but they’ve certainly maintained a strong following. The 90s/00s Rock Night, hosted by Jade Presents, was held at the Sanctuary Events Center on November 12.
Five Hot Upcoming Events in December
1. FMCT presents Miracle on 34th Street: The Musical When: December 7-10 and 14-17 at 7:30 pm | December 11 & 18 at 5:30 pm Where: Hjemkomst Center The Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre is their holiday presentation of ‘Miracle on 34th Street’. Check out the Christmas classic brought to life by local community members before it’s too late! 2.
Up & Coming Entrepreneur: Chase Evert of Chase Chapters
When people embark on a new entrepreneurial adventure, no two paths are the same. Each trailblazer goes at their own pace with different circumstances and obstacles to overcome. We talked to a variety of up-and-coming entrepreneurs, each with their own unique story to tell. Chase Evert is a rising photographer with his personal brand, Chase Chapters.
The Advice That Helped Them Get There: Local Artist & Business Owner Hannah Stelter
What it takes for success The path to success is hardly ever traveled alone, and rarely comes without a few bumps in the road. There’s often a multitude of factors that play into one person’s climb to the top of their ranks. We spoke with a handful of determined and successful people with ties to the Fargo-Moorhead area regarding what, and who, they believe helped them find success in the area we’re proud to call home. Join us as we introduce these individuals over the coming months.
Local Holiday Events and Activities for The Whole Family
Check out what’s returning (and new) to the area this holiday season! The holiday season is one that Fargoans look forward to year after year. As the Christmas lights illuminate the sky, they put a flicker of joy in each of us for the shining moments of our brisk winters. This season, West Acres is hosting a wide range of fun events and activities for the whole family that you sure won’t want to miss out on.
Movie Review: Sanctified Shines A Light On North Dakota's History
Daniel Bielinski’s latest filmmaking effort is a Western crowd-pleaser, regardless of North Dakota pride North Dakotans take pride in their state and its history. That’s why our interest peaked when we heard about a film that was shot and set in North Dakota.
Five Hot Upcoming Events in Fargo-Moorhead
1. Fargo Pride of Dakota Showcase When: Friday, November 18 – Saturday, November 19, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm Where: SCHEELS Arena, 5225 31st Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103 Pride of Dakota provides local business owners with business development resources and marketing opportunities to be successful. Coming soon, Pride of Dakota is taking over the SCHEELS Arena to showcase over 200 Pride of Dakota members’ products. Support shopping locally when completing your holiday shopping list! 2.
The Advice That Helped Them Get There: Hannah Stelter
What it takes for success The path to success is hardly ever traveled alone, and rarely comes without a few bumps in the road. There’s often a multitude of factors that play into one person’s climb to the top of their ranks. We spoke with a handful of determined and successful people with ties to the Fargo-Moorhead area regarding what, and who, they believe helped them find success in the area we’re proud to call home. Join us as we introduce these individuals over the coming months.
Local LinkedIn Leaders
Check out some of FMWF’s most essential business leader social media content LinkedIn can be an immensely beneficial tool for those in the business world. Whether it’s developing new connections, sharing breakthrough news or searching for new career positions to better yourself, LinkedIn proves to be a great resource. One of the most overlooked tools, however, is arguably the advice that everyday local community leaders post on their LinkedIn pages.
Business Spotlight: KLN Family Brands
KLN Family Brands is a company headquartered in Perham, Minnesota, that manufactures a diverse and expanding range of human and pet food products. Three manufacturing companies are under the KLN Family Brands umbrella: Tuffy’s Pet Foods and Kenny’s Candy & Confections, and Tuffy’s Treats Company, which is located in Delano, Minnesota. Whether the products are intended for people or pets, KLN Family Brands strives to make each and every product exceptional.
Business Spotlight: Dakota Fence
Dakota Fence is one of the area’s most prominent installers of residential and commercial fence. The company evolved from a back garage operation to open offices in Bismarck, Minot and Williston, North Dakota and added a location in the Twin Cities in February 2022. Today, Dakota Fence remains headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota and is one of the largest fence companies in the United States.
The Advice That Helped Them Get There: The Greater Fargo-Moorhead EDC
What It Takes For Success The path to success is hardly ever traveled alone, and rarely comes without a few bumps in the road. There’s often a multitude of factors that play into one person’s climb to the top of their ranks. We spoke with a handful of determined and successful people with ties to the Fargo-Moorhead area regarding what, and who, they believe helped them find success in the area we’re proud to call home. Join us as we introduce these individuals over the coming months.
Trendiest Halloween Costumes 2022 & Where to Find Them in the FM Area
Picking out a Halloween costume can be a challenge, to say the least. As most people try to be stylish, funny and culturally relevant all at once, picking out the perfect costume takes some thought and preparation. As Halloween nears this year, let’s take a look back on some of 2022’s biggest pop culture moments that are sure to be Halloween hits! Maverick From Top Gun Everyone loves a good comeback story; and who wouldn’t want to dress up as one of the most recognizable stars of the 1980s?
Office Space Products with InterOffice
An office space can oftentimes be a reflection of the culture within it. Having strong office furniture can keep a space from becoming outdated and a thing of the past. Check out a select few of the latest and greatest office space products from InterOffice! Aeron Chair The Aeron Chair from Herman Miller is described as ergonomic to the core. This chair was designed for a wide range of body types to utilize.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Grant
Contact Grant, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack