You May Know It As the Duck Capital of North Dakota, But Here's What Else is Going on in Cando, ND

Chantel gives us an inside look at the hospital's diverse services, which include a long-term care facility, senior living center, clinic settings, emergency room, inpatient services, and more. She also shares her personal journey of moving to the Cando area, marrying a local resident, and raising her family in this close-knit community. Chantel expresses her appreciation for the small-town lifestyle and the support she feels from the people in Cando, North Dakota. Tune in to hear more about the hospital's advancements and Chantel's experiences in her role and community.

Our 2nd guest we feature Jim Gibbens, a fourth-generation farmer who lives in his great-grandfather's house, which has stood for 140 years. Jim provides an insightful look into the history of Cando, discussing the arrival of the railroad in 1884 and the town's incorporation. He shares stories about the population changes and the ups and downs the community has faced over the years.

After college, Jim returned to help his family and began working on the farm. He didn't stop there; his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start several businesses in Cando, employing over 200 people at one point. Now, as he gets older, he has scaled back his business ventures to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.

Jim's commitment to the community is evident through his various roles, including serving as mayor, being on the police commission, and participating in many other boards. His deep roots in Cando and his active involvement in the town's development make him a fascinating guest, offering a unique perspective on both the past and present of this small North Dakota town. Tune in to hear Jim's stories and learn about his contributions to Cando's history and community life.

Our 2rd guest we welcome Mark Fox, whose life story is both inspiring and unique. Mark grew up in Cando and left for college in 1979, attending school in Wahpeton before moving to Colorado. Over the next 40 years, he worked various jobs, including as a photojournalist. Despite living away, Mark frequently visited his family in Cando.

Mark's deep connection to his roots is evident in his work. Mark is a poster child for the concept, "You can take the boy out of the country, but you can't take the country out of the boy." This sentiment reflects his enduring bond with Cando. One of his notable books, published through Pediment Publishing, is titled " Dirt Roads to Downtown, the Peace Garden State." This coffee table book features photographer’s journey from all 53 counties in North Dakota, showcasing the state's beauty.

About three years ago, Mark bought a house in Cando, and in the fall of 2022, he moved back permanently. Now mostly retired, he spends his time doing artwork and photography. He's also actively involved in the local art gallery and contributes to the community in various ways, including sharing his photography skills.

Tune in to hear Mark's captivating stories about his journey, his love for Cando, and how he's contributing to the community now that he's back.

Our fourth guest is Melanie Wahl, the current president of the Chamber of Commerce in Cando. Melanie juggles a full-time job and family life, being married with children. After high school, she moved away to attend college but eventually returned to Cando, drawn by her love for the small-town atmosphere.

In her role with the Chamber of Commerce, Melanie is deeply involved in promoting tourism and enhancing the community. She highlights various attractions in Cando, such as the campground, city park, pool, and the recently built sports complex, which was part of the new hospital plan. Melanie is also serves on the golf board, helping manage the local golf course.

Melanie discusses the importance of raising her family in Cando, emphasizing the strong sense of community and the value of being close to family and friends. Her dedication to Cando and her various roles in community organizations make her an inspiring figure. Tune in to hear Melanie's insights on community involvement and the many activities and amenities that make Cando a great place to live and visit.

Our final guest is Amy Zachrison who has just completed her first year as the school superintendent in Cando. Amy brings a wealth of experience from her previous position at a private school in Fargo, North Dakota. She wanted to be close to her family in Bottineau, and when the superintendent position opened up in Cando, it seemed like the perfect opportunity for her.

The school she oversees in Cando serves students from pre-K through 12th grade and has approximately 327 students, known as the North Star Bearcats. Amy shares her enthusiasm about the school's sports teams and the recently built sports complex, highlighting how it enhances the students' athletic experience. She also praises the school's strong arts programs, mentioning the band and choir's achievements, including their success at the state level.

Amy is particularly proud of how well-rounded the students are, participating in multiple activities and excelling in various areas. She attributes much of this success to the dedicated teachers who strive to provide a comprehensive education. Amy feels fortunate to be part of the Cando community, appreciating the close-knit atmosphere and support from residents.

In her discussion, Amy emphasizes her excitement about the future of the school and her commitment to fostering a positive and enriching environment for all students. Her dedication to education and community involvement make her a valuable addition to Cando. Tune in to hear more about Amy's journey from Fargo to Cando.