Area Woman Magazine Dec'13/Jan'14

AREA WOMAN CONTRIBUTORS

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

There is an array of sights, smells and sounds that can only be experienced during the holiday season. Lights twinkling in the eyes of loved ones; bountiful feasts and sweet treats prepared with loving hands; music that floods your ears with melody and your mind with memories. This time of year stands alone in its capacity to fill our calendars, our bellies and our hearts and there is no shortage of things going on in the FM area to help.

It is our hope that even in the midst of holiday activities that you are able to take a moment and see, smell and hear the holidays happening around you. And that, in the midst of baking, buying and gathering with family, you will have a chance to reflect on the blessings in your life. Our best wishes to you now and in the New Year!

Jessi Larson

Amanda Peterson

Joyce Eisenbraun

Susan A. Stibbe

Janelle Brandon

Alicia Underlee Nelson

1. Hair Trends, 52

2. Where to Dine, 58

3. Home Showcase, 80 [Photo by Jill Ockhardt]

4. Cirque Ziva, 25

5. Weddings, 48 [AC Ellis Photography]

6. Children, 54 [Photo by Jill Ockhardt]

a SNEAK PEEK at what’s inside!

Recipe Inside! Mini Italian Shepherd’s Pies Kitchen Showdown with Sonya Goergen

AREA WOMAN LIFE

eventscalendar

December

SANTA VILLAGE

Santa and Mrs. Claus open the village at Rheault Farm with elves, reindeer, sleigh rides and more. For specific dates and times visit their website.

Rheault Farm

2902 25th Street South, Fargo fargoparks.com/event-detail/santa-village

December 7

2ND ANNUAL SNOWBALL GALA

The FM Opera’s most exciting fundraiser of the year will feature hundreds of auction items, live entertainment, dinner, a wine wall and other surprises throughout the evening. Join us for an exciting night of glitz and glamour and help keep opera alive!

6:00pm

Hilton Garden Inn

4351 17th Avenue South, Fargo 701.239.4558 // fmopera.org

December 7

CHRISTMAS ON THE PRAIRIE

Our annual celebration of Christmas tradition! The beautifully decorated village is complete with holiday carolers, horse drawn wagon rides, Christmas desserts and drinks, Christmas stories, demonstrators, photos with Santa and more!

1:00pm - 7:00pm

Bonanzaville

1351 West Main Avenue, West Fargo 701.282.2822 // bonanzaville.org

(Above photo provided by Bonanzaville)

December 7

JINGLE

BELL RUN/WALK

A fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others! Wear a holiday costume, tie jingle bells to your laces and raise funds to fi ght arthritis.

9:00am

Courts Plus Community Fitness

3491 South University Drive, Fargo 701.388.1988 // arthritis.org

December 7

4TH ANNUAL

HOLIDAY VENDOR FAIR

More than twenty-five vendors, food, beverages and door prizes. All proceeds go towards the new Rectory.

10:00am - 3:00pm

Admission: One canned food item

Holy Cross Catholic Church

1420 16th Street East, West Fargo 701.277.9681

December 10

28TH ANNUAL BETHANY

SILENT AUCTION & FOOD FEST

This silent auction and food fest will feature Scandinavian and other ethnic specialties. The auction includes gift baskets, crafts, quilts and more! Proceeds will benefit the residents of Bethany Retirement Living.

10:00am - 4:00pm

Bethany on University

201 University Drive South, Fargo 701.239.3246 // mjohnson@bethanynd.org

December 11

MARCH OF DIMES:

BOWLS FOR BABIES

Local businesses, artists and students design and paint bowls, which are displayed at the event. Select a bowl, savor delicious soups from local restaurants and keep the bowl as a souvenir! Tickets available at all Gate City Bank locations in FM.

11:00am - 1:30pm

Ramada Plaza & Suites

1635 42nd Street South, Fargo marchofdimes.com/northdakota

December 14

JAWS, PAWS & LUNCH WITH SANTA CLAUS

Join us at the Zoo for an exclusive holiday lunch in our beautiful carousel pavilion. Ride the carousel, create “presents” for the animals, make holiday crafts and enjoy lunch with Santa! Receive a complimentary photo with Santa and a special gift. Space is limited so please purchase tickets in advance.

11:00am - 1:30pm

Red River Zoo

4255 23rd Avenue South, Fargo 701.277.9240 // redriverzoo.org

Now - December 28

SCROOGE MACBETH

When only four actors are left standing after an outbreak of food poisoning, they must entertain an expectant audience in order to save their financially imperiled theatre. For specific dates and times visit their website.

Theatre B

716 Main Avenue, Fargo 701.729.8880 // theatreb.org

DON’T MISS CHRISTMAS ON THE PRAIRIE

January 13

ALLEN CARTER’S

MONDAY NIGHT BIG BAND

Seventeen of the area’s best jazz musicians come together to perform a mix of standards and cutting edge jazz originals. All proceeds fund scholarships for jazz students at the three local universities.

8:00 pm Studio 222

222 Broadway, Downtown Fargo 701.552.1020 // 222fargo.com // acmuzik.com

January 15

PINT SIZE EXPLORERS: I LIKE TO MOVE IT! MOVE IT!

Discover the different ways that animals get around. How come our animals don’t need to wear boots in the winter? Warm up with some hot chocolate and make your own animal tracks to take home! Ages 4-6.

3:15pm - 4:45pm

Tickets: Members $10, Non-Member $15 Red River Zoo

4255 23rd Avenue South, Fargo 701.277.9240 // redriverzoo.org

January 25

ETHEL AND ROBERT MIRABAL

MSUM’s Performing Arts Series features alternative string quartet ETHEL with Grammy-winning flutist Robert Mirabal in a program called “Music from the Sun.”

7:30pm

Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM 801 13th Street South, Moorhead 218.477.2271 // mnstate.edu/theatre

(Above photo provided by MSUM)

January 30 - 31

CARES FOR KIDS RADIOTHON

Join Y94 (93.7 FM) and Froggy 99.9 (99.9 FM) for the 14th annual Cares For Kids Radiothon benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network at Sanford Children’s Hospital.

6:00am - 6:00pm

Sanford Children’s Hospital 801 Broadway, Downtown Fargo Donation Line: 478.5437 (KIDS)

January 31

JOSEF’S FASHION AWARDS

Josef’s School of Hair Design puts together an annual runway hair show like no other! This student competition brings in over 300 models, live entertainment and a crowd that is electric. All ages show.

Doors at 6:30pm - Show at 7:00pm The Venue @ The Hub jsohd.com // facebook.com/jsohd

February 4

WOMEN’S EMPOWER HOUR

Enjoy free appetizers, an empowering talk and connect with amazing women in our community. This is a free event. No tickets or registration.

5:30pm - 7:30pm

Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar 1380 9th Street East, West Fargo womensimpact.org

February 8

25TH ANNUAL SWEETHEART BALL

The largest fundraiser to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities. This enchanted evening includes dinner, dancing, auctions and a program.

6:00pm Holiday Inn 3803 13th Avenue, Fargo rmhcfargo.org

February 14 - 15

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER: BULLETS IN THE BATHTUB

Welcome to the 1920s! Carlos Creek Winery’s murder mystery dinners get pretty wild! Join in on the fun of solving the mystery and dressing in gangster garb with this hilarious and interactive dinner and show! Call for advance tickets.

7:00pm - 10:00 pm

Carlos Creek Winery

6693 County Road 34 NW, Alexandria 320.846.5443 // carloscreekwinery.com

ALTERNATIVE STRING QUARTET ETHEL

ENTERTAINMENT, Art & Music

January 2

CIRQUE ZIVA

A cirque spectacular that has been thrilling audiences since 2011. This fast-paced, innovative performance includes Chinese acrobats, dance, costumes, music and theatrical techniques. The acrobats dazzle with feats of athleticism, heart-stopping stunts and the grace of their art form.

Doors at 7:00pm; Show at 8:00pm Fargo Theatre

314 Broadway, Downtown Fargo 701.205.3182 // tickets300.com

December

THE WIZARD OF OZ

This Christmas FMCT will take you away from the snows of Fargo to the Emerald Green of Oz. Make this classic tale part of your Christmas tradition. Dates and times vary. Visit the FMCT website for more information on dates and times.

The Stage at Island Park

333 4th Street South, Fargo 701.235.6778 // fmct.org

December 1

HOLIDAY BRASS

The trumpets, horns, trombones and tuba virtuosi of the FM Symphony bring Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces and contemporary holiday favorites to life.

2:00pm

First Presbyterian Church 650 2nd Avenue North, Fargo 701.478.3676 // fmsymphony.org

December 12-14

THE MASTER CHORALE OF FM

A traditional Christmas dinner concert conducted by Aaron M. Zinter. (Concert times and prices vary.)

Concordia College’s Knutson Center Centrum

901 8th Street South, Moorhead 701.306.1734 // fmmasterchorale.org

December 19-22

THE BLENDERS

The Blenders feature a unique style of vocal, harmony-based music.

7:30 pm

Fargo Theatre

314 Broadway, Downtown Fargo 701.205.3182 // tickets300.com

December 28

FARGO FORCE VS. SIOUX CITY

Family Fun Night returns! Dollar hot dogs and soda served the entire night!

7:05pm

Scheels Arena

5225 31st Avenue South, Fargo 701.364.3672 // fargoforce.com

CLASSES + WORKSHOPS

December 12

DIY: T-SHIRT BAG

Join us to repurpose those old t-shirts into bags! Registration Required.

7:00pm

Moorhead Public Library

118 5th Street South, Moorhead 218.233.7594 // larl.org

December 14

HOLIDAY FLORAL ARRANGING

Demonstration on the use of pine, fruit and flowers to create easy and unique holiday arrangements for your home this season.

1:00pm

Hjemkomst Center

202 1st Avenue North, Moorhead 218.299.5515 // hjemkomstcenter.com

December & January

CULINARY + BAKING CLASSES

Learn how to become a master in the kitchen with culinary and baking classes. A variety of classes are offered, including Culinary Boot Camp, Cake Pops, 6 Course & 6 Wine Dining Experience and more! For more information visit Square One’s website.

Register Online, Prices Vary Square One Kitchens

1407 1st Avenue North, Fargo squareonekitchens.com

December & January

DIY WOOD STUDIO

For everyone from beginners to pros, DIY Wood Studio gives you the opportunity to create your own piece! Workshops include basic woodworking, children’s furniture, coffee tables, cutting boards, benches and more! Dates, times and prices vary.

Register online.

DIY Wood Studio

3231 4th Avenue South, Studio A, Fargo 701.293.1310 // diywoodstudio.com/classes

January 21

7 CHARACTERISTICS OF TRULY MONSTER MARKETING IDEAS

In advertising, ideas are our currency. Most are small, but there’s the few that are monsters. Author Stefan Mumaw will show you what they look like and what to look for.

11:30am - 1:00pm

Register Online

Doublewood Inn

3333 13th Avenue South, Fargo aaf-nd.org

January 3 - 5

THE NEW YEAR’S REVUE: GEMS OF BROADWAY

The F-M Community Theatre holds its annual New Year’s Revue. Join us for a celebration of music from some of the best musicals ever written. Dates and times vary.

The Stage at Island Park

333 4th Street South, Fargo 701.235.6778 // fmct.org

January 11 *Rescheduled from Oct. 27*

P!NK

Doors at 6:30pm, Show at 7:30pm

Fargodome 1800 North University Drive, Fargo 701.241.9100 // fargodome.com

January 11 - 12

MASTERWORKS CONCERT III: AMERICAN GENIUS

Jan. 11: 7:30pm, Jan. 12: 2:00pm NDSU Festival Concert Hall 1511 12th Avenue North, Fargo 701.478.3676 // fmsymphony.org

January 17

FARGO FORCE VS. INDIANA

Throwback night with FM Sugar Kings custom jerseys! $7.95 tickets for youth hockey players!

7:05pm

Scheels Arena

5225 31st Avenue South, Fargo 701.364.3672 // fargoforce.com

January 18 *Rescheduled from Nov. 19* LADY ANTEBELLUM

Doors at 6:30pm, Show at 7:30pm

Fargodome

1800 North University Drive, Fargo 701.241.9100 // fargodome.com

January 23

THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE: THE FAB FOUR

The Fab Four is elevated far above other Beatles tribute groups. Uncanny, note-for-note live renditions will make you think you are watching the real thing.

Doors at 7:00pm; Show at 8:00pm Fargo Theatre 314 Broadway, Downtown Fargo 701.205.3182 // tickets300.com

February 6

THE TELL, SEASON 2: DEUX TELL

A community storytelling event, all are welcome to listen, or throw their name in the hat to Tell. Finalists go on to vie for a cash prize.

Doors at 7:00pm; The Tell at 7:30pm Studio 222

222 Broadway, Fargo thetellfargo.com

February 7

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

After dominating the global charts with his album, The 20/20 Experience, Timberlake will bring his electrifying show to F-M.

8:00pm

Fargodome

1800 North University Drive, Fargo 701.241.9100 // fargodome.com

February 7 - 16

THE NERD

The F-M Community Theatre presents The Nerd, a play about Willum Cubbert. Cubbert often spoke about the debt he owed to a fellow ex-GI who saved his life in Vietnam. Willum is delighted when the GI shows up unexpectedly, but it soon fades as it becomes apparent that the man is a hopeless “nerd.”

The Stage at Island Park

333 4th Street South, Fargo 701.235.6778 // fmct.org

February 8

LIVE ROLLER DERBY: PRETTY IN PINK

The Fargo-Moorhead Derby Girls versus Harbor City Roller Dames (Duluth, MN) & the BisMan Bombshellz (Mandan, ND).

Doors at 6:30pm, Derby at 7:00pm Fargo Civic Center

207 4th Street North, Fargo fmderbygirls.com

"For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. Then you will seek me and find me: when you seek me with all your heart, I will be found by you, declares the Lord. "

— JEREMIAH 29: 11-14

BUYING

FARGO: FIGHTING ALZHEIMER’S

Hundreds of walkers packed the Scheels Arena for the Valley Metro Walk to End Alzheimer’s on the morning of September 21. The annual event, conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association, raised $73,876 to combat the disease, exceeding the original goal of $66,500, with donations still coming in at press time.

“It’s a heartfelt event that resonates with

so many people, as one in six will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lives,” said Development Representative Traie Dockter. “With statistics like that, it’s clear most people know someone with the disease.”

The atmosphere was festive, with many groups of walkers in custommade t-shirts chatting and taking the route at a leisurely pace. The majority

It’s a heartfelt event that resonates with so many people

PHOTO COURTESY OF KELSEY REEVES >> PHOTO BY KLF PHOTOGRAPHY

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION RAISES $73,876 AND COUNTING

BY ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

of participants have a personal connection to the disease.

“Most of our walkers are from area nursing homes or assisted care facilities who walk as teams,” said Dockter. “We also have families that walk in honor of someone who has the disease or has passed away from Alzheimer’s.”

The 2014 walk will be in September, but Dockter encourages participants to register at www.alz.org/walk early in the summer.

“Many who get an early start like to host events throughout the summer-bake sales, garage sales and more--to help their overall team goal,” she said.

Donations are accepted throughout the year and the group is currently seeking table captains to invite friends and enjoy lunch and speakers at their new Reason to Hope event in the spring.

Interested parties should call 701.356.2087, visit alz.org or e-mail Dockter at tdockter@alz.org.

5 FOOT 20 DESIGN LOUNGE

PHOTO COURTESY OF KELSEY REEVES >> PHOTO BY KLF PHOTOGRAPHY

REPURPOSING LIVES

BY JANELLE BRANDON >> 5 FOOT 20 DESIGN LOUNGE

Over 775 guests participated in the Jail Chaplains Dessert Social on October 22 at the Fargo Civic Center. Income from the fundraiser totaled more than enough to trigger the $30,000 match provided by friends of the ministry.

“More than 110 individuals and businesses partnered as sponsors and donors to the live and silent auction, or by providing marketing support, all contributing to the success of the event,” said Gerri Leach, Jail Chaplains Executive Director.

A group of returning citizens who passed through the Cass County Jail showed their gratitude toward the power of the Lord they learned about through Jail Chaplains programs. Each citizen proudly walked across the stage carrying simple cardboard signs describing themselves when they entered jail versus now.

“This program should be modeled across the country,” said Paul Laney, Cass County Sheriff during a heartfelt

expression of appreciation of the Jail Chaplains’ role in his line of work. “This work is God-given and God-driven. We are going to give the men and women passing through our facility every opportunity to leave here healthier than they arrived.”

Jack Murphy, a famous one-time jewel thief, shared his powerful story of a repurposed life as he was originally sentenced to two life terms in prison yet learned a different way out of his despair and hopelessness by finding and serving God in his every action.

The scene was set with fabulous desserts, Dunn Bros.

JACK MURPHY

JAIL CHAPLAINS DESSERT SOCIAL RESTORES FAITH

We are going to give the men and women passing through our facility every opportunity to leave here healthier than they arrived.

coffee, centerpieces made out of repurposed jail clothing, praise music provided by Destiny, and special words by former governor and first lady of North Dakota Ed and Nancy Shafer.

Generous sponsorship of the event was provided by Petro Serve USA, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Bell State Bank & Trust, Quality Auto Body, Premier Benefits Group, FM Convention & Visitors Bureau, Crist Construction, along with many others.

The Jail Chaplains program began 34 years ago by now retired Pastor Curt Frankhauser. The Jail Chaplains exist to provide quality, caring ministry to inmates and their families. Learn how you can support them at jailchaplains.com. [AWM]

VIEW OR SHARE THIS STORY ONLINE AT issuu.com/areawoman/docs/h13/32

COMING EVENTS

under the Harvest Moon

Raising Funds with Food, Wine, & Jazz

BY SÄRAH NOUR >> TAYLOR MADE PHOTOGRAPHY

There was much fun to be had at the 23rd Annual Harvest Moon Fling, where lucky patrons walked out with coupons to spas, gift cards to West Acres, a vacation to Grand Cayman and a wheelbarrow full of wine bottles, among other prizes. Early in the evening the emcee, WDAY’s Christopher Gabriel, took to the stage to thank the sponsors and remind everyone that all proceeds go towards the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center.

All this happened at the swanky Courtyard of Marriott-Moorhead in a dimly lit ballroom, where local jazz trio Tre Leche serenaded the crowd through eight winetasting stations and a delectable buffet of sandwich wraps, fried chicken, garlic bread and artichoke dip.

Throughout the evening, a slideshow played advertisements for the RACC’s services and items up for the live auction, conducted by Kimberly Anderson. Then came the silent auction, which included items like sports memorabilia, coffeemakers, board games and gift packages.

The Paddle Game, conducted by Director of Development Kara Odegaard, managed to raise over $900 with simply the flip of a coin, a set of paddles and the process of elimination. By the end of the evening, several thousand dollars went to RACC’s advocacy and counseling services. [AWM]

VIEW OR SHARE THIS STORY ONLINE AT issuu.com/areawoman/docs/h13/36

FOR SOME IT’S A GOOD EXCUSE TO BUY A NEW GOWN AND DRESS UP FOR THE EVENING. FOR OTHERS, IT’S A CHANCE TO DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY, CELEBRATING A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE.

FIGHTING BACKStyle with

Heart disease and stroke are the number one killers in Minnesota and North Dakota. So on February 1, over 400 community members will gather at The Holiday Inn in Fargo and fight back with style at the 18th annual Red River Valley Heart Ball.

“The Heart Ball is an elegant, sophisticated gala event that celebrates lives saved and improved by the efforts and generosity of others in support of the American Heart Association’s mission,” said Corporate Events Director Tom Jones.

Guests at the black-tie affair will enjoy dinner and drinks, live and silent auctions, a message from a survivor and vibrant Pulse after-party featuring Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome.

The event is designed to connect survivors and their friends and family with business leaders and other community members, build awareness and fund programs that will benefit the community.

HEART DISEASE BENEFIT AIMS TO RAISE $105,000

BY ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

The event grows every year and the fundraising goals do too. Last year’s event raised nearly $90,000 and this year the organization hopes to raise $105,000 through individual and corporate giving. The money raised will support medical research, educational programs and grants to benefit the Red River Valley.

And while the event supports lifesaving programs, the Heart Ball is about much more than a fundraising goal.

“When I talk to attendees throughout the year, it’s not the dollars raised that they get excited about, it’s the survivor stories and the good times they had at the event with their friends,” said Jones. “For some it’s a good excuse to buy a new gown and dress up for the evening. For others, it’s a chance to dance the night away, celebrating a second chance at life.”

Tickets are $99 for individuals, $179 for couples and $1,000 for a table of eight. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available –contact Tom Jones at 605-787-8800 or tom.jones@heart.org. More at redrivervalleyheartball.org. [AWM]

MSUM Gives Back

125,000 SERVICE HOURS TO COMMEMORATE 125 YEARS

BY DANIELLE REBEL >> JESS & MORGAN PROUTY

Time is one of the most valued gifts a person can give and receive.

This year, as part of Minnesota State University Moorhead’s 125th anniversary celebration, students, faculty, staff and alumni hope to complete 125,000 volunteer hours during the 2013-14 fiscal year.

Becky Boyle Jones, assistant director of Student Activities and Greek Life, believes MSUM can easily accomplish that goal.

“MSUM is all about community,” she said. “Our students, faculty and staff are very good at giving back; it’s part of the MSUM culture.”

As of October 21, students logged more than 2,300 service hours. Jones is thrilled with that number. Thousands of hours are yet to go, but those involved behind the scenes are confident that students, faculty, staff and alumni will meet the goal.

“So many people already do wonderful service in the community that it’s just a matter of logging what they’re already doing,” Jones said.

With approximately 9,000 students and faculty members at MSUM, plus another 40,000 alumni in the region, the 125,000hour service goal could be easily reached if each person connected with MSUM volunteered only two and a half hours of their time throughout the year.

MSUM’s Office of Student Activities has been promoting the yearlong event via social media. Many student organizations, such as Students Today Leaders Forever and Habitat for Humanity, encourage students to make a difference in the world through volunteer service.

Sophomore Morgan Smith is actively involved with MSUM’s Students Today Leaders Forever (STLF) chapter, and works with other students to plan service projects such as blood drives or decorating bras for Bras on Broadway.

“Volunteering is something to get involved with,” Smith said. “It helps you be more than just a student at school. I’ve never thought of volunteering as boring. You can always find something that sparks your interest.”

Smith was inspired by Coach Herman Boone’s speech during MSUM’s homecoming. The coach, who is well known from Denzel Washington’s portrayal of him in Disney’s “Remember the Titans,” spoke of volunteering as a necessary part of life.

“A leader is an agent of change,” Boone said.

“If you want to change something, if you see a problem in your community, you have to stand up and say something about it,” Smith said. “That’s what it takes to be a leader. You can’t just sit back and watch it happen, otherwise you’ll miss your chance.”

Our students, faculty and staff are very good at giving back; it’s part of the MSUM culture.

Jones expects a large jump in hours over spring vacation as hundreds of students in the area spend their spring breaks volunteering across the country.

“There’s an intrinsic reward of knowing you’ve impacted someone else’s life in a positive way,” Jones said.

The MSUM community can contribute to the 125,000-hour goal in many ways: carol for a cause, rake leaves, donate blood, tutor children or walk dogs at a shelter.

Jones said the holiday season is the perfect time for people to log their volunteer hours since many donate their time anyway. Bell ringing for the Salvation Army, serving church suppers and shopping for people on a giving tree are just a few activities that count toward MSUM’s service goal. Any time contributed without pay is a volunteer hour.

“Anyone connected with the campus can participate,” Jones said. “Why wouldn’t you want to?”

MSUM students, faculty, staff and alumni can log their hours at mnstate.edu/osa-volunteer-hours.aspx

4328 13th Avenue Southwest, Fargo 701.282.6642 | lonestarsteakhouse.com

spooks

HELPING THEM FIND A FAMILY

The Humane Society of Fargo-Moorhead is primarily a pound rescue organization dedicated to rescuing dogs and cats at risk of being euthanized at local impounds. Each year, we adopt out hundreds of wonderful pets that just need a second chance at finding a “forever” home.

We have a variety of pets available for adoption, from puppies and kittens to senior pets and everything in between, and almost any breed, including purebreds. Next time you’re considering adopting a pet, please check out our shelter and consider giving a pet in need a home.

humanesocietyfargomoorhead.org ● facebook.com/fmhumanesociety

TIMELESS IMAGES PHOTOGRAPHY & JORDAN HOFKER PHOTOGRAPHY

darcy

zehira

azalea

Eleven

kyla

Lil Arcata Brixley autumn

tallulah

WOMEN’S RESOURCES

AREA WOMAN STYLE

I take you to be my best friend, my one true love. I promise to encourage you, inspire you and to love you truly through good times and bad. I will forever be there to laugh with you, to lift you up and to love you unconditionally through all of our adventures together.

>> HANEY’S PHOTOGRAPHY

SCHERLING PHOTOGRAPHY >> OCKHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

>> OCKHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY

>> AC ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY >> SCHERLING PHOTOGRAPHY

>>

A WINTERY MIX

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

>> MYSTIQUE BOUTIQUE

>> REVOLVER

>> STABO SCANDANAVIAN IMPORTS

The chill of winter sends us clamoring for all the warmth we can find. This year stylish sweaters will keep you both cozy and fashionable.

Cardigans take on a new twist with bold patterns and deep rich colors. Pair waistto-hip-length cardigans with the ultrapopular pencil skirt for a polished look great for office or evening. Top with a neck-warming scarf for added warmth.

BY KIM MALAKOWSKY >> IMAGES PROVIDED BY LOCAL RETAILERS

Long cardigans and sweaters over patterned leggings or skinny jeans pack an edgy feel when mixed with tall leather boots and plenty of toned-metal jewelry.

Don’t forget the art of layering. A contrasting high-neck sweater under a beautifully hand-embellished one will keep you feeling pretty while chasing away the cold.

And who doesn’t love a slouchy boyfriend sweater? It’s the perfect weekend warmer over your favorite jeans. Finish off with short boots and bulky mittens for a relaxed look.

Embrace our decades-old love affair with the sweater and brave the winter weather in style. [AWM]

>> FUSIONSCHEELSBOUTIQUE, HOME AND HARDWARE

>> MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

>> FUSION BOUTIQUE, SCHEELS HOME AND HARDWARE

>> MYSTIQUE BOUTIQUE

sophisticated sophisticated

Season of

BY PATRICIA CARLSON STYLED BY HAIR SUCCESS, FARGO

Holiday parties. New Year celebrations. Winter weddings. Charity galas. Whatever your reason for dressing up during this season of giving, you’ll definitely want to give your hair a chance to shine, too.

Grace Kelly would be envious of these glorious up-dos, with their pretty waves and polished features. For extra dimension, consider asking your stylist for highlights and lowlights. The lighter color on your crown will really brighten up your complexion.

If allover color suits you best, a luxurious hue partnered with a classic cut is a tried-and-true favorite. From long tendrils to choppy layers, you will never be off-trend with this sophisticated style.

From an Oscar® worthy up-do to a confidence-boosting color and cut combo, it’s your time to shine this holiday season. [AWM]

— Love You Forever,

I’ll love you forever I’ll like you for always as long as I’m living my baby you’ll be.

by Robert Munsch

Where to Shop

Whether you’re shopping for your family, friends or just for yourself, we’ve got a list of unique gift ideas to make your Holiday shopping a breeze.

Parade™ – Lyria Diamond Engagement

Ring Parade™ crafts every piece with purely essential elements, resulting in one seemingly effortless, but intelligent, design.

Riddle’s Jewelry

4055 13th Avenue South, Fargo riddlesjewelry.com

701.277.1494

Private Eyes reading glasses are not typical readers. Buy one pair, get one FREE! Keep a pair and give one as a gift or keep both! hillmer eye clinic

101 10th Street North Suite 120, Fargo hillmereyeclinic.com 701.239.9771

Clothing. Accessories. Style. mainstream boutique 2603 Kirsten Lane South #103, Fargo fargo.mainstreamboutique.com 701.356.6684

Put together a fabulous outfit with our combinations of colors to grab anyone’s attention. Scarves, jewelry, tops, bottoms, shoes & jackets.

Mystique Boutique

412 Broadway, Downtown Fargo mystiqueboutiquend.com

701.799.4390

Eco-friendly and vintage men’s and women’s clothing, accessories and handmade items. Find us on Facebook!

Revolver

627 First Avenue North, Downtown Fargo fargorevolver.wix.com/online

701.235.2883

Made from recycled t-shirts, these tie-dyed scarves are incredibly soft, lightweight (but warm), and each has a unique look! $14-$28.

Aquablue

4955 17th Avenue South, Fargo, aquabluefm.com 701.281.6465

The scents of the season! Christmas greens, bold red flowers and cinnamon sticks make this a fragrant floral arrangement for Christmas gatherings. $49.99

DALBOL FLOWERS

1450 25th Street South, Fargo dalbolflowersfargo.com | 701.235.5864

Beyond Yoga’s Fall line of exceptionally comfortable and soft yoga wear is here!

T-Back Tank: $65, Gathered Long Legging: $80

MOJO Fit studios

2119 13th Avenue South, Suite 10, Fargo mojofitstudios.com 701.526.0908

Oprah’s favorite t-shirt bra, the Le Mystere Dream Tisha bra in nude, black and seasonal colors - $69. Come in for your free bra fitting, designer bras, panties, nursing, sleepwear and more!

the crystal corset

114 Broadway, Suite S4, Downtown Fargo thecrystalcorset.com 701.478.BRAS

Unique and stylish Colorful Ozone socks for women. Available in many different styles and colors at Stabo scandinavian imports

West Acres Mall, Fargo stabo-imports.com 701.282.0421

Handcrafted quality and unique styling define

Designs. Find a variety of sterling silver pieces including bracelets, rings, earrings and more at Fusion Boutique.

Scheel’s Home & Hardware

3202 13th Avenue South, Fargo scheelshomeandhardware.com 701.232.8903

gorgeous!

aartisan home design

4575 23rd Avenue South, Suite 600, Fargo aartisan.com 701.364.5600

Introducing

Mcculley optix gallery

2553 Kirsten Lane, Fargo (Corner of 25th St and 32nd Ave S) optixgallery.com 701.373.2020

Paul Smith Spectacles. Designed in England, the line focuses on iconic and vintage inspired shapes for men and women.

Tailored, angular arms show off the European styling, along with a barely there sofa deck and cushion. In one word,

Simon Sebbag

FARGO-MOORHEAD DINING GUIDE

Local favorites to satisfy your diverse palate

SEASONS AT ROSE CREEK CARINO’S

There’s no place like Seasons for the Holidays! Every room has a view and is beautifully decorated. Whether it be a quiet dinner for two or a gathering of friends and family to a group of 150 - Seasons has it all. Superb food, great service and the festive atmosphere you are looking for.

What does Carino’s bring to the table? For starters, our highly coveted bread loaves will tide you over as you sip on your favorite drink, from cold beers to a diverse wine selection. Next, choose from a variety of Italian dishes, from our 16 Layer Homemade Lasagna and unrivaled Tiramisu, to cuisine with a Carino’s twist, like Italian Nachos or Five Meat Tuscan Pasta. During the week enjoy specials like half-price Family Platters and half-price wine bottles.

If it’s a unique and memorable dining experience you’re after, you want Carino’s. Call us at 701.282.2922 or visit carinos.com for details.

LONESTAR STEAKHOUSE

We boast a friendly neighborhood atmosphere featuring artisan food & drink. Executive Chef Eric Watson uses fresh locally sourced products whenever possible to create an eclectic menu based on traditional American fare. From our House-Ground Burger in the bar to Grilled Duck Breast & Leg Confit in the dining room, we have something for everyone. Join us for your Holiday Festivities! For menu and reservations go to dinemezzaluna.com or call us at 701.364.9479

If all you want for Christmas is a big fat steak followed by a smooth and creamy slice of New York style cheesecake, Lonestar Steakhouse is your destination.

Come and try our holiday specials from November 15 to January 1. For more information, call us at 701.282.6642 or visit lonestarsteakhouse.com.

FROM THE KITCHEN

Holiday recipes that are sure to please the whole family

Black Tie Beef Roast with Chocolate-Port Sauce

Total Recipe Time:  2.5 - 3 hours

Makes 8-10 servings

1 beef Ribeye Roast Bone-In (2 - 4ibs), small end, chine (back) bone removed (6-8lbs)

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Salt

Seasoning:

3 tablespoons freshly grated orange peel

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme

1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic

1 tablespoon coarse grind black pepper

Chocolate-Port Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter

3/4 cup finely chopped shallots

1-1/2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme

1-1/4 cups port wine

1 can (14 - 14-1/2 oz) ready-to-serve beef broth

3/4 cup whipping cream

1 tablespoon soy sauce

3/4 ounce bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

Salt and ground black pepper

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Combine seasoning ingredients; press evenly onto all surface of beef roast.

2. Place roast, fat side up, in shallow roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer so tip is centered in thickest part of beef. Do not add water or cover. Roast in 350°F oven 2-1/4 to 3 hours. Check for desired doneness. Stir in cornstarch mixture; cook and stir 1 minute or until thickened.

3. Chocolate-Port Sauce: Melt butter in large skillet. Add shallots and thyme; cook and stir 4 to 6 mins. or until browned. Add port; cook 5 to 7 mins. or until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Add broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; cook 15 to 17 mins or until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Stir in cream and soy sauce; cook 3 to 5 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Add chocolate; stir until melted. Keep warm.

4. Remove roast when thermometer registers 135°F to 150°F. Transfer to carving board; tent loosely with foil. Let stand 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise to 145°F to 160°F.) Carve and Serve.

Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Total Recipe Time: 45 minutes

3 - 1/2lb all-purpose potatoes

1 1/2 Cups Milk

6 oz Goat Cheese, softened

2 tbsp butter

Salt & Pepper

1. Peel potatoes and cut into 2-inch pieces. Place potatoes in stockpot and add enough water to cover potatoes; add salt as desired. Bring water to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook 25 to 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Drain.

2. Mash potatoes with 1-1/2 cups milk, 6 ounces softened goat cheese and 2 tablespoons butter in large bowl with electric mixer until smooth.

3. Season with 1-1/2 teaspoons salt and pepper, as desired. Serve.

RECIPES & PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ND BEEF COMMISSION

CHOOSING A SERVICE PROVIDER

Steps to consider when making decisions for your home

Homeowners are confronted daily with decisions that need to be made regarding their home. Many times these decisions involve hiring a company or individual to repair something or to make enhancements to their home. These decisions can be challenging. Who do we choose? Are they reputable? Will they follow through? Is their pricing fair? Will they be around after the work is done in case there are concerns ?

All of these are great questions because in the end, every homeowner deserves to be given world-class service.

Laney’s, a local plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical company has been providing services in the Fargo-Moorhead and surrounding areas for more than 50 years. During those years, Laney’s has made their customer the focus when called to deliver.

“Our technicians are invited in to countless homes on a daily basis to repair many different problems,” says Kevin Wolf, president of Laney’s. “They have given us this wonderful opportunity and it is our duty to treat our customers with respect and to meet or exceed their expectations. If we are not successful doing this, we have let our customer down.”

When choosing a service provider, homeowners should do their homework. One of the best resources can be friends and neighbors. They will relate their experiences very openly and will want to share their experiences – good and bad. The advice you receive will be unfiltered and straightforward. Word of mouth is a priceless form of advertising that must be earned.

Traditionally, homeowners have used the yellow pages as a source of reference. While this might be a great place to get a number or an address, it doesn’t always tell the whole story. An alternative source for finding out more about a company or individual offering services is the Internet. “I highly recommend customers to check out a company’s website and other on-line sources. While the Internet can be full of a lot of misinformation, there are reputable sites such as the Better Business Bureau that can give you some great insight into who you are considering,” Wolf said.

If you’re not making an emergency decision, it is recommended that you ask a service provider for references. While they might only refer customers that have had positive experiences, it will at

JESSICA LANDSVERK

... IT IS OUR DUTY TO TREAT OUR CUSTOMERS WITH RESPECT AND TO MEET OR EXCEED THEIR EXPECTATIONS.

BY CURT KASPER TAYLOR MADE PHOTOGRAPHY

least give you an indication that they have built some good relationships.

When you are making decisions in an emergency situation, make sure the company that you are dealing with has the resources to meet your need at a time that is convenient for you. Wolf explains, “We are in the ‘peace of mind’ business. Many times our customers’ problems happen after hours or on the weekend and they are distressed and anxious about getting their problem solved. It is our job to respond promptly, to educate our customer about the options that will fix their situation and to provide those services with a professional and friendly attitude at a great value. It is also very important for us to leave the customer’s home as clean as or cleaner than we when we were invited in.”

So as a homeowner, the next time your need to hire someone to help you in your home, make sure you take the steps necessary to increase the chances of a positive experience, because after all – you do deserve great customer service! [AWM]

LEGALLY SPEAKING

Using insurance to protect you in automobile accidents

BY JOSEPH A. WETCH JR. SERKLAND LAW FIRM, FARGO

You are in a serious car accident and have been injured. The other driver ran a red light and broadsided your car. Maybe the driver was texting. An unfortunate occurance that is all too common in today’s modern and mobile society. But the reality is that many people will be involved in a car accident resulting in an injury of some type, either to themselves or to their passenger.

Since most of us at some point in our lives will be involved in an accident that causes injury it makes sense to protect yourself to the fullest extent possible. One of the easiest and cost effective ways to do this is by the wise and proper use of insurance.

The first thing to understand about insurance in the automobile accident context is a concept of “no-fault.” In North Dakota, you are required to carry “no-fault” insurance on your car (also called “personal injury protection”) in the minimum amount of $30,000. You may carry more if you wish. If you have an accident and suffer a “serious injury,” a term defined by law, you are entitled to have your medical bills and a portion of your wages paid up to the limit of your coverage without regard to your fault in causing the accident. Since the cost of medical care is on the rise, it does not take long for the minimum amount of coverage to be exhausted through doctor visits or hospitalizations.

If you were at fault in causing an accident, the injured party has the right to recover damages from you. This typically includes medical bills and money for pain and suffering. By law, you are required to carry “liability” insurance which will pay the injured party’s damages. If you do not carry liability insurance, not only are you breaking the law, you are exposing yourself and your personal assets. We recommend to our clients that they carry liability insurance of at least $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident. Depending upon your personal situation and wealth, more coverage may be advisable.

If you are involved in an accident with a person who, despite the law, carries no liability insurance to compensate you for your injuries, than you must look to your own policy of “uninsured” (UM) insurance. UM insurance compensates you when you suffer injuries and the responsible party has no insurance. Since UM insurance is for your benefit it is crucial for you to carry it the proper amount of coverage. Again, the minimum you should carry is $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident.

A similar type of insurance coverage is “underinsured” (UIM) coverage. UIM coverage is important when you are injured to an extent that is beyond the responsible party’s liability coverage. Since UIM coverage is for your benefit in case you are injured, you should give serious consideration to carrying an amount to compensate you adequately. Coverage in the amount of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident is the minimum you should consider. An even greater amount will insure that you will be fully protected in case you were injured and the responsible party does not have adequate insurance.

It really makes good sense to protect yourself through the wise use of insurance. If you are injured in a car accident consult your attorney to determine your rights under your policy and the responsible party’s policy.

Joseph A. Wetch Jr. Attorney at Serkland Law Firm, Fargo,

232.8957 | serklandlaw.com.

WINNING THE LOSING GAME

harlotte Viou gasps as she lugs her 302 pounds up another merciless flight of stairs. At last she reaches the top and leans against a wall. It takes five minutes for her to catch her breath. She hopes no one will see her.

“Walking up those stairs at work was the turning point,” says the 46-year-old charitable-gaming director for Red River Human Services Foundation in Fargo. “That’s what got me online to research weight-loss surgery. It was time consuming, but well worth it.”

A shortened life

Always “the big girl” in high school, Viou tried over and over again to lose weight through programs, medication, a doctor-prescribed weightloss plan, and more. None brought lasting results. As the years went by, Viou’s reasons for losing weight became more serious. Her obesity brought on early-stage diabetes and high blood pressure, plus she suffered back pain from an old injury. The excess weight made it hurt even more.

There were other hurts, too: ridicule when she went to an exercise class, frustration when told time and again to lose weight and embarrassment when she couldn’t squeeze into a chair.

“The emotional part was up and down, but I knew the health issues were only going to get worse,” she says. “I didn’t want to die at 50.”

A complete program

When Viou read about Sanford’s weight-loss surgery program, she wanted to know more.

“Sanford has the best weight-loss program in this area,” says Viou. “I did some research on it and looked at other organizations and they just didn’t offer the education that Sanford offers for this surgery. It was a better choice. They had everything: a good pre-surgery program, educational sessions with dietitians, a psychiatric evaluation and followup,” she says. “At Sanford it wasn’t just surgery. You also learned the habits that would lead to long-term success. That’s what was always missing for me.”

A nationally designated Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, Sanford offers a high-qualified team, a complete program (including lifelong support groups) and proven results.

Viou took the next step, attending Sanford’s free weight-loss surgery informational session.

“There were a lot of people there who had the same questions and concerns I had,” she says. “The information presented was awesome. The speaker didn’t just give vague answers, they were precise and detailed. It’s exactly the kind of information you need when you’re making a decision that’s going to change your life.”

Fully alive!

On May 12, 2010, Viou underwent laparoscopic (minimally invasive) gastric bypass surgery performed by one of three board-certified weightloss surgeons at Sanford. The surgery and recovery went smoothly. Viou immediately put into practice everything she learned about nutrition, exercise and vitamins. Just thirteen months post surgery she reached her goal of 145 pounds -- less than half her former self. Today, nearly four years after her surgery, Viou maintains her weight loss.

ARTICLE PROVIDED BY SANFORD HEALTH

She loves her life, including:

• Excellent health. The back pain, high blood pressure and diabetes have all subsided.

• Adventures. She has participated in many running events and has taken up bicycling.

• A new outlook. “I feel like I’m alive, not just living,” says Viou. “I also have a sense of self-worth that I never had when I was heavy.”

And those stairs she struggled with before surgery? She still climbs them and never has to stop and rest. Yet she still pauses when she reaches the top.

“Every time I’m on those stairs I think about what it used to be like, all that huffing and puffing,” she says. “Now I feel amazing.”

To view Charlotte Viou’s video interview go to sanfordhealth.org; keyword: Charlotte Viou.

Sanford weight-loss surgery offers several informational sessions for patients each month. For a complete listing of these seminars visit sanfordhealth.org; keyword: weight loss surgery Fargo. [AWM]

CHARLOTTE VIOU

CHANGING WOMEN’S LIVES FOR THEIR CHILDREN’S FUTURE

BY SUSAN A. STIBBE >> SKYLOFT PHOTOGRAPHY

Education is the pathway out of poverty,” said Andrea Hochhalter, Director of Community Outreach for the Jeremiah Program in Fargo-Moorhead. “Our unique model and approach is working to break the cycle of poverty by eliminating barriers for single mothers and their young children, so they may lead productive and prosperous lives.”

The Jeremiah Program originated in Minneapolis in 1998. In 2008, community leaders began exploring the possibility of bringing the program to Fargo-Moorhead. Hochhalter became involved in 2009. “I wasn’t a single mother. I wasn’t a social worker. But, I’ve always found great joy in helping people reach their goals and succeed,” explained Hochhalter. “I have a great love for the Fargo-Moorhead community, and the Jeremiah Program not only moves families forward, it moves communities forward. Every dollar invested in a Jeremiah family can return up to four dollars to society.”

The Jeremiah Program is a nonprofit that prepares determined, single mothers to excel in the workforce and ready their children to succeed in school. It offers safe and affordable housing, quality early-childhood

education, life-skills training and support for career- track education. It is dedicated to transforming families from poverty to prosperity two generations at a time.

The Fargo-Moorhead Jeremiah Program is now offering a Life Skills Education Course. The course is designed to serve the needs of single mothers with young children who want to change their lives for their children’s future.

One young, single mother in Fargo, who completed the Life Skills Course, said, “The fact that the Jeremiah Program actually teaches life skills that I am going to use and need is why I am here. I am emotionally and mentally stronger because of this program. This course is for mothers who really want to help themselves.”

The Life Skills Course is a stepping stone to achieving the vision of a local Jeremiah residential campus and early childhood education center. “We are not making life easy,” stated Hochhalter. “We want

to provide an opportunity for success by teaching skills to become truly selfreliant. Being on our campus will be a privilege and it will require focus and accountability. Balancing family care, employment, and housing is very difficult while trying to earn a college degree – we are addressing these often insurmountable barriers.”

Jeremiah participants must be single, low-income mothers with children aged four or younger. They must have a high school diploma or GED and be pursuing a post-secondary education. “No college, no Jeremiah Program,” said Hochhalter. “Education offers young mothers the best insurance for finding career work and remaining economically independent.”

Fargo-Moorhead community leaders, referral partners, faith communities, education advocates and volunteers from all walks of life believe that the Jeremiah Program’s two-generation approach offers a great fit for our community.

“The children of the mothers who started in this program fifteen years ago in the Cities are now applying to college,” said Hochhalter. “The trajectory of these children’s lives changed significantly as a result of their mothers’ completion of the Jeremiah Program and earning a postsecondary degree.”

The Fargo-Moorhead Jeremiah Program is dedicated to changing women’s lives for their children’s future. [AWM]

Family HealthCare is one of four Community Health Centers in North Dakota and serves anyone in the region, regardless of economic status. In 2012, over 1300 patients utilized their Homeless Health Services. Individuals finding themselves living in homelessness can receive care here, free of judgment. In addition, staff is sent into the community to do outreach and build relationships with this unique population. Patients are invited to use the Homeless Health Services lobby as a landing spot where they can get out of the elements, grab a cup of coffee, or just say hello to Annie at the front desk. “They really learn to trust our staff,” says Kundinger.

FHC continues to find new ways to serve their patients and community. Because of this, half of their board consists of patients representing the different populations served. Decision makers look to them for guidance on what the community needs. The addition of a diabetic support group and optometry are among several programs added due to input from the Patient Advisory Council.

One of the many things that make this clinic so unique is their ability to efficiently serve multiple nationalities through their Medical Interpreter program. Languages offered are ever changing as they’re dependent on the needs of the multi-cultural community. Thirteen are currently offered. In addition to their nationally recognized interpreting services, a health mentoring program is also available. Staff speaks the language and understands the culture of the area’s new Americans. They provide classes which help individuals navigate nutrition, food safety, personal finance and the school system.

Being Better

2013 NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR

BY JESSI LARSON >> SKYLOFT PHOTOGRAPHY

amily HealthCare’s mission of affordable quality healthcare, compassion and respect led them to receive the Fargo-Moorhead Chamber of Commerce 2013 Not-For-Profit of the year. This honor is given to organizations that contribute to the community in innovative and creative ways. “If there ever was a year to celebrate what we do, this is the year!” says Family HealthCare Center (FHC) Director of Development, Sam Kundinger. The new clinic opened its doors at 301 NP Avenue in October 2012 in the historic Pence Automobile building. It’s important to them to help sustain Fargo’s downtown area as well as stay close to public transit for their patients. The $15 million project allows FHC to serve the community better by providing much needed space to add and expand in-demand services such as dental, fitness, nutrition and mental health. Once past the shiny new doors, one really gets to the core of what makes FHC so deserving of this recognition … their whole-hearted approach to care.

One staff member who is truly living and breathing FHC’s mission is Medical Director, Dr. Lucho Espejo. From a young age, he had a calling to help. A self-proclaimed hyper kid that wanted to change the world, Espejo originally was drawn to helping people on a large scale through healthcare policy, but eventually found his niche in family practice. He holds a special spot in his heart for mothers and infants due to their high mortality rates in his native Peru. Through years of international work with the World Health Organization, Unicef, Friends of Chimbote,

and several ministries, he has gained a unique perspective on serving the poor and marginalized. “When you expect patients can’t afford care and you still do your best,” Espejo said, “you become a better person.” An exchange program through a local church initially brought Espejo to Fargo; later he returned to complete his residency through UND at Family HealthCare. “I feel like Family HealthCare has made my life much better. I don’t feel like I’m sacrificing here. It’s such a pleasure to come to work everyday … you can ask to anyone, I sing all day long.”

Inspired to help out this incredible organization? Family HealthCare encourages people first and foremost to share its story with others. They’re happy to welcome visitors into their new home and to find a place for them to volunteer. Whether it’s getting involved with the capital campaign, sharing their mission or getting people enrolled in the healthcare marketplace, everyone has a role in the clinic’s success. Sam Kundinger is often asked if it’s difficult serving different populations. With a big smile she says, “It’s a challenge, but it makes us be creative in the most wonderful ways!

Instead of feeling beaten down by it or losing hope, we ask ourselves what can we do to better serve that patient, and in turn that will help us serve every patient better.” [AWM]

making THE DIFFERENCE Families

BY SUSAN A. STIBBE >> SKYLOFT PHOTOGRAPHY

In a world of loss and chaos, PATH offers calm and caring to foster children and families in crisis with an array of support programs and services. PATH is a private, non-profit agency serving children and families. It has been providing family-based and treatment foster care services since 1972. In 2013 it served over 1200 children and families in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Idaho.

“The biggest myth about foster care is that there is very little need in North Dakota,” said Kristi Johnson, PATH Public Relations Director. “Nothing could be farther from the truth. Right now, we have 550 foster families in our three states and a need for more. The familiar thread that runs through our core of services are the foster parents.”

Those programs include Treatment Foster Care (TFC), which emphasizes

the development of strong, healthy foster families who face meeting the needs of children with multiple challenges that impact functioning.

Nancy Horton, PATH Southeast Regional Director, said, “Each child has a wraparound team involved in the child’s life. This team includes therapists, psychologists, social workers, foster parents, as well as the child’s legal custodian and parents.”

“Our main goals are family preservation and family reunification, so proximity to services is very important. Foster children have suffered loss; we want to keep them as close as possible to their communities, schools, and friends,” said Horton. PATH has nine locations throughout North Dakota with the main administrative office in Fargo at 1112 Nodak Drive.

When reunification is not possible, some children may become eligible for adoption. The majority of these children are adopted by their foster families. Michelle Beyer is one of these parents. She and her husband, Pat, became foster parents through PATH. They have two biological children, seven adopted children, and one permanent foster child. “We prayed about it – we turned to our faith and decided it was a good fit for us,” said Michelle. “There have been struggles and lots and lots of accomplishments. There isn’t anything fabulous about me. We just take them in and love them up. I wish more people would consider becoming foster parents. PATH is like a family to us, a huge support system. It truly does take a village.”

The biggest myth about foster care is that there is ver y little need in North Dakota ... Nothing could be farther from the truth.

“Our biggest challenge is finding foster parents,” said Nancy Horton. “Anyone who wants to make a difference in a child’s life can be a foster parent. You don’t have to be the Cleavers, you can be single, living in an apartment, whatever. This is for anyone who wants to give.”

Another consideration is cost. “Nobody gets into this for the money, but it should not be a financial burden to provide foster care,” stated Horton. Tax-free reimbursement is given to all foster parents.

PATH also needs foster parents for respite homes. These parents don’t commit to a full-time placement, but instead provide episodic care, usually a few days a month, giving respite to other foster families.

PATH’s mission statement is “Families Making The Difference.” They are truly making a wonderful difference in North Dakota.

For more information or to contact PATH – call 1-800-766 9321 or log on – www.pathnd.org. [AWM]

Matters of the HEART

BY ANDY GREDER // IMAGE OF DR. KAPPHAHN PROVIDED BY ESSENTIA HEALTH

Dr. Sam Kapphahn offered her first medical opinion at age six. The kindergartener and her grandmother had gone to check on an elderly neighbor and found the retired farmer unresponsive in his home.

“According to my grandmother, I went over, felt for his pulse and declared that he had died,” Dr. Kapphahn says. The check-up seemed like the natural thing to do since she’d already decided she wanted to be a doctor when she grew up.

Thirty years later, Dr. Kapphahn is an interventional cardiologist at the Essentia Health Heart and Vascular Center in Fargo. The board-certified cardiologist treats heart problems, often in emergency situations, and then works with patients to improve their heart health.

Growing up in rural Minnesota has made her a better doctor, Dr. Kapphahn believes. She points to the opportunity to play three sports at West Central Area High School and also participate in speech, band and theater.

“That upbringing allows you to be very versatile and interact with a lot of different types of people,” explains Dr. Kapphahn, who lived on a farm near Elbow Lake. “It makes it easier to have a common ground or common understanding. As a doctor, your ability to relate and form relationships or connections with people is extremely important.”

Dr. Kapphahn wants to make a difference by providing the same high quality heart care to people who live in Fargo-Moorhead and rural areas. She finds it rewarding to regularly travel to see her patients at Essentia Health clinics in Wahpeton, Detroit Lakes, Fosston and Park Rapids.

“Patients shouldn’t have to settle for second-best because they live where they live,” the physician says. “I don’t think people should be limited by geography. I want to level the playing field.”

Dr. Kapphahn is pleased to be back in FargoMoorhead, where she did her undergraduate studies at Concordia College. She earned her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences and the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, Calif. Next, she hopped to the East Coast for her residency in internal medicine at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, N.Y. She did her fellowships in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at North Shore and Long Island Jewish Health System in New Hyde Park, N.Y.

“Every experience you have helps create you in terms of how you approach life, how you approach challenges,” says Dr. Kapphahn, 36. “For me, it’s been rewarding to go to places where I didn’t have the family structure and essentially start from scratch and deal with the challenges.”

Dr. Kapphahn says training and living in California and New York prepared her to

“ They’re particularly fascinating for me because it’s often life or death. The stakes are ver y high and that’s the appeal.

better communicate with different kinds of people and approach care as “a partnership and not a dictatorship.” She believes patients and their families deserve to have a voice when it comes to their care.

Dr. Kapphahn says the most exciting part of her job is working with patients who are having a heart attack. “They’re particularly fascinating for me because it’s often life or death,” she says. “The stakes are very high and that’s the appeal.”

But opening a clogged artery or inserting a stent is only where her work begins. “Then it’s the relationship that you build with them that helps prevent them from having another heart attack or prevents them from having heart failure that gets worse and affects their quality of life,” Dr. Kapphahn explains. [AWM]

AREA WOMAN HOME

A Family Delight

The Lifelong Passion of Chris Bachmeier

BY JOYCE EISENBRAUN >> JILL OCKHARDT

Tucked into a cul-de-sac in a new West Fargo development is the latest custom creation by homebuilder Chris Bachmeier. Like many of the other homes he’s built, he’s worked with the family, listened to the wants and dreams, and designed something that uniquely fits their needs. But this time, the satisfaction of watching the family move into the beautiful space has been even greater: the family is his own.

Chris and his bride of three years, Samantha (“a beautiful, wonderful woman”) and infant Addilynn, (“the light of our lives”), moved into the new home last summer. “Building homes is something I enjoy,” he said. “You get to see the design become a structure and progress to the day we hand over the keys. It’s a lot of fun.”

For Chris and family, the design has been carefully constructed to meet their needs as a young family. The 2700-square foot rambler is energy efficient as well as low maintenance, showcasing the style and creativity of a custom homebuilder.

I STARTED WORKING WITH MY DAD WHEN I WAS A KID ... I LEARNED A LOT FROM HIM, AND HAVE APPLIED IT TO WHAT I’M DOING NOW ... BUILDING HOMES IS SOMETHING I ENJOY.

Welcome Home

A large covered front porch with dry-stack rock pillars invites guests into the front entry. Arched windows add light to the foyer area, as do the two sidelights to the door. Hand-scraped hickory hardwood floors, 10-foot ceilings and eight-foot custom two-panel doors create a vibrant architectural foundation.

Just to the right is an office with rainglass French doors and another arch-top window to the front yard. A contemporary desk in chrome and glass is the core of

Chris’ home business, while an abstract metal art piece above offers a perspective on the world.

The great room has a tiered ceiling that ascends to 12 feet with inset maple beams. Rope lighting and can lights add a dramatic flair. An arched series of windows overlooks the lake view to the rear of the home, matching the arch of the entertainment wall. Here, a stone-framed column surrounds an inset gas fireplace with built-in cabinets, shelves and a flat-

panel television on the sides. An area rug in cream frieze anchors the oversized custom couch in linen-look taupe. Yellow pillows and throw pick up the undertones in the floral accent chair and ottoman. A charming baby chair in pink and white is just right for the youngest member of the family.

A soaring stone arch visually separates the living from kitchen and dining spaces. The kitchen island is finished in a handrubbed white glaze on maple, topped by

dark gray and cream quartz countertop. Above, two pendants hold five mini-shade lights. On the other side of the island, a large two-basin sink has a stainless apron front, matching the rest of the appliances. The rest of the maple cabinets are finished in a deep espresso color, some with decorative rain-glass fronts, and all with soft-close drawers. A double garbage pullout helps keep recyclables tidy and out of the way.

On the north wall is a bar with bianco antico granite countertop and a glazed porcelain tile backsplash, finished in gold, bronze, gray and cream tones. The wine refrigerator is below with added wine racks built in above.

The dining area overlooks the back yard, a roughed-in sunroom that Chris hopes to complete next summer, and a large paver patio with inset gas firepit. A gray and cream geometric rug positions a table set for six with four leather dining chairs and two arm chairs in cream linen. A nine-light chandelier above matches the other shaded lights.

Just to the side of the kitchen is a walk-in pantry, with an auto-light that pops on when the door is opened. The hallway then wraps back to the guest

powder room, laundry room, the drop zone with a well-designed locker system for coats and boots, as well as access to the three-stall heated and insulated garage.

Even in the powder room, Chris’ attention to detail is displayed. Heated ceramic tile floors have decorative insets of glass, stone and metal. Gray quartz countertop is accented by a translucent glass vessel sink. The mirror is a custom shape he designed, while the pendant lights are sparkling crystal and chrome. The walls are finished in deep gray and inset with a decorative tile band above the ceramic tile around the lower section.

Sleepy Time

Just off the dining room is a short hallway to two bedrooms and a “Jack and Jill” bathroom. The carpet is warm gray with complementing taupe walls. In the first bedroom, windows overlook the back yard and pond. Green and white floral print linens add a fresh color to the leather-accented bed. Walk-in closets in both bedrooms ensure plenty of storage. In the bath, the toilet and tub are closed off behind another set of pocket doors. Granite countertops are done in gray and tan with a touch of blue, harmonizing with the ceramic tile floor. A full-wall mirror is above the sink, highlighted by a four-light bar.

On the other side of the home is the master bedroom. Here the mood is purely indulgent, making it a wonderful retreat. Overlooking the back yard is a sitting room, which is currently also used as the baby’s nursery. An oversized teddy bear sleepily nods on the built-in bench seat. A low chest has a changing table top and the white crib features an aqua, black and white puff quilt.

Separating the sitting room from the bedroom is a two-sided stone gas fireplace. Windows, decorated with wood blinds, frame the room. Taupe and eggplant-colored linens accent the leather and wood bed. Geometric artwork on the wall is in corresponding shades. Above a treyed ceiling with rope lighting adds a delightful element to the romantic space.

The master bath has heated ceramic tile floors in taupe with inset glass and metal tiles. The two-person steam rain shower features a remote control and a clear-glass enclosure. An air-jet tub, with an arched Roman faucet, has a quartz surround with a privacyglass window above. Two sinks are set into an ‘L’-shaped granite countertop, with full-wall mirrors above both sides and countertop storage in the corner.

Next door is a large closet, with arched windows providing natural light for selecting clothes. A built-in bench provides handy seating under the windows, while the tall shelves, built-in cabinets and double ranks for hanging clothes ensure ample storage.

We have fantastic subcontractors and we use them from house to house because they know the quality, are conscientious and pay attention to details ...

Lifelong Passion

“I started working with my dad when I was a kid,” Chris said. “I learned a lot from him, and have applied it to what I’m doing now.” A 2002 graduate of MSUM in construction management, he started Bachmeier Custom Homes Inc. in 2004. “Although working for my dad was great, I wanted to take the plunge and see if I could make it work. Fortunately, both my parents have been very supportive and helped make this venture possible!”

Although he acknowledged he is a “smaller builder” with about 12 houses each year, most in the $300$600,000 range, it means he can spend time with each homeowner and on each house. “Every home gets personal attention because I’m at the job site, working and checking on details,” he noted. “We have fantastic subcontractors and we use them from house to house because they know the quality, are conscientious and pay attention to details. Our project manager, Brock Butler, does a great job.”

“

... it’s created more options for the homeowner to do something that is their dream

Looking back over his 20 years of building in the area, Chris said some of the biggest changes have been in improved technology. “From the building materials to interior finishes, home audio, types of wood available, electrical, there have been a lot of changes, but it’s created more options for the homeowner to do something that is their dream.” Plus, Chris noted that the energy efficiency has gotten better. In this home, he has incorporated many custom features that are typical of his homes: extra insulation, builtin audio system, Anderson 400 windows, air exchanger, highefficiency gas furnace, central vacuum, spray foam on trusses and foundation walls.

From childhood on, Chris has known he’s wanted to build. Raised here and still enthused about the area, he’s planning to continue his dream of building homes, with a dedication to creative, quality construction that will help other families achieve their dreams. [AWM]

Chris Bachmeier

701.799.2232

bachmeiercustomhomes.com

chrisbnd@hotmail.com

CHRIS, SAMANTHA & ADDILYNN BACHMEIER

PHOTO BY AJ PHOTOGRAPHY

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by Lisa Dresser

Hair Extensions & Replacement for both men and women

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Creating recipes is an outlet for me. It’s something I think about in my down time ... Just this morning I saw a picture that sparked an idea and I wrote it down. I carry a notebook of ideas and have sticky notes inside my kitchen cupboards. You never know where creativity will strike.

Kitchen Showdown

Sonya Goergen takes on national cooking contests

BY AMANDA PETERSON >> JILL OCKHARDT

With a busy life as a full-time marketing professional, wife and mother of two, you might expect Sonya Goergen to pop in a movie or grab a good book when she has a few rare minutes to relax. Instead, you’ll find this 36-year-old Moorhead woman firing up her grill and dicing veggies, with notes of recipe ideas scattered around her.

“Creating recipes is an outlet for me. It’s something I think about in my down time,” she says. “Just this morning I saw a picture that sparked an idea and I wrote it down. I carry a notebook of ideas and have sticky notes inside my kitchen cupboards. You never know where creativity will strike.”

It apparently strikes often.

PHOTO BY 5FOOT20 DESIGN LOUNGE

PEANUTTY CHICKEN PAD THAI SLIDERS, PHOTO COURTESY OF JIF

Goergen’s recipes are taking her all over the country and bringing home thousands of dollars in prizes. Since 2007, she has submitted her original recipes to four or five national cooking contests each year – and won or placed as a finalist in most of them. Her winnings include more than $30,000 in cash prizes, six trips, kitchen appliances, cookware, a year’s supply of cheese and fish, gift cards and competition on a Food Network TV show.

Her latest success, the Pillsbury Bake-Off, was years in the making. Held every other year, PBO (as the contestants call it) is the pinnacle of cooking contests. Besides being the longest running, it carries the greatest prize - $1 million. Goergen has had her eyes on at least making it to the finals since she started entering contests.

“I always get a little crazy around Pillsbury Bake-Off contest entering time,” she says. “This year was different because they had three entrance periods with different themes, so I was crazy longer. All I could think about for months was how to use a Pillsbury product to create a recipe.”

The contest recipes could only take 30 minutes in the kitchen and use seven ingredients, including one Pillsbury product and another sponsor ingredient. Goergen eventually entered several recipes, including a lemonbasil chicken dish using Pillsbury lemon frosting. “It sounds disgusting, but it tasted great,” she says.

But it was a different recipe, Mini Italian Shepherd’s Pies, that earned her a trip to Las Vegas earlier this month as one of 100 finalists for a three-day bake-off. It was a dream come true.

“Just getting to participate in the contest was an experience,” says Goergen, who traveled with her husband, Troy. “They pulled out the Pillsbury blue carpet with formal dinners, photographs, a grand march and awards ceremony.”

2013 Pillsbury Bake-Off: Mini Italian Shepherd’s Pies

Recipe by Sonya Goergen

Ingredients

1 box (9 oz) frozen chopped spinach

1 lb extra lean (min. of 90%) ground beef

½ cup finely chopped onion

1 cup marinara sauce

1 box Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on box

1 package (24 oz) refrigerated mashed potatoes (about 2 ½ cups)

2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

I always get a little crazy around Pillsbury Bake-Off contest entering time. This year was different because they had three entrance periods with different themes, so I was crazy longer. All I could think about for months was how to use a Pillsbury product to create a recipe.

Sonya with Bobby Dean at the Great Steak Challenge

PHOTO COURTESY OF SONYA GOERGEN

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Spray 36 mini muffin cups with Non-Stick Cooking Spray. Microwave frozen spinach as directed on box 3 to 4 minutes to thaw. Squeeze dry with paper towels.

2. In 12-inch nonstick skillet, cook ground beef over mediumhigh heat until no longer pink, stirring to break up large pieces. Stir in onion. Cook 3 to 4 minutes or until tender; drain. Stir in marinara sauce and half of the spinach.

3. Meanwhile, unroll pie crusts. Using 2 ¼-inch round cookie cutter, cut 18 rounds from each crust, rerolling dough if necessary. Press each round in bottom and up side of muffin cup. Spoon rounded tablespoon meat mixture in each cup.

4. Microwave mashed potatoes as directed on package 2 to 3 minutes or until warm. In medium bowl, mix potatoes, remaining spinach, cheese, ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper until well blended. Top each cup with rounded tablespoon potato mixture.

5. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown. Cool in pans 2 minutes. Run knife around edge of cups to loosen. Serve warm.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PILLSBURY

Getting Started

Goergen’s cooking contest hobby started off with a bang in 2007. She was a finalist in the very first one she entered – the National Chicken Cooking Contest. Her Mustard Chicken with Roasted Dill Potatoes garnered a free trip to Birmingham, Ala., where she competed in a national cook-off for $100,000. Though she didn’t win, she came away with dozens of cooking contest connections, cook-off experience and the inspiration to try again.

The following year, Goergen’s Adobo Quesadilla Burgers were chosen by the popular Food Network as a finalist for the Ultimate Recipe Showdown in New York, hosted by chef Guy Fieri. Only four competitors were chosen from about 10,000 entries. Goergen was thrilled.

“How many people will ever get to do that?” she asks.

In 2012, she won $10,000 for her Peanutty Chicken Pad Thai Sliders in the Jif New Classics Contest. Combining one of her husband’s favorite foods (pad Thai) and popular sliders, she created a dish Jif officials couldn’t resist.

Later that year, she made it to the second round at the World Food Championships, hosted by Food Network’s Adam Richman. She cooked Chilean sea bass on a bed of vegetable quinoa with blistered grape tomatoes – all prepared outside on a camp stove on the Las Vegas strip. Goergen won $2,000 in the second round. The grand prize in the third round was $50,000 and was awarded to a chef from the Paris Hotel.

Whether on TV or live at cooking shows, the contests have brought out Goergen’s other strengths. She’s comfortable on camera, cooking under pressure and making last-minute changes. In 2009, Goergen hauled her great-grandmother’s cast iron skillet through airport security to cook with it as required in one contest, only to find out it predated the days when Lodge (a sponsor) started marking their cookware. She had to buy a new marked Lodge skillet and give it her best shot. She won the 2009 National Cornbread Cooking Contest.

Though she rarely eats meat and can’t eat gluten, Goergen cooks with those ingredients for her family and for contests. Troy and their children, Olivia, 5, and Gabriel, 2, are happy to taste-test.

“If I know a deadline is coming up, I cook a bunch of recipes in one shot and they test them,” she says. “Recently, it got to a point where Olivia would ask me if she could eat something or if I had to take a picture of it first for a contest. We are raising foodies!”

Some people can play music by ear. My wife can do the same thing with food. She can taste a sauce at a restaurant, come home and re-create it.

Sonya at the Ultimate Recipe Showdown with host, Guy Fieri (Photo courtesy of Sonya Goergen)

Find more of Sonya’s recipes at pinterest.com/areawomanmag

Sometimes Goergen doesn’t even technically “make” her own recipes before entering them in contest. She just knows how ingredients will work together and writes up a recipe.

“Some people can play music by ear. My wife can do the same thing with food,” Troy says. “She can taste a sauce at a restaurant, come home and re-create it.”

Troy, a strict recipe follower, says Goergen truly just tosses things together in the kitchen, without looking at any recipe, either her own or anyone else’s. For contests, it’s a huge help since she won’t accidentally mimic someone else’s recipe. At home, it creates some playful banter.

“He can cook great food by himself, but I just take over,” Goergen laughs.

“I hate it,” Troy says, smiling. “I like instructions.”

A Family Affair

Goergen’s interest and talents in the kitchen date back to her toddler days. Her mother, Bev Nelson of Hitterdal, Minn., has wonderful memories of watching tiny Goergen teetering on a chair in the kitchen, cooking with her father, Duane.

“He was an excellent cook and a good teacher,” Nelson says. “He helped her gain her experience and her confidence. That’s a big part of cooking, just knowing that you can do it.”

Through the years, Duane passed on his knack for understanding how foods work together, rarely using a recipe or measuring his ingredients. By age three, Goergen knew how to boil pasta and by age eight she was making dinners for her entire family.

Her two sisters and three brothers learned in much the same way.

“Our dad was a natural in the kitchen,” says Goergen’s sister Krista Dauner of Hawley, Minn. “We picked up our skills, from making a good pot roast to frying donuts, from our dad.”

When Duane was diagnosed with cancer in 2001, the whole family rallied around him – in the kitchen, of course.

“He lost a lot of weight due to chemo treatments,” Dauner says. “On Sundays, all of our siblings would get together for lunch to feed our dad. Sonya and our sister Barb tried to outdo each other.”

He passed away in 2002, before having a chance to meet Goergen’s own children – who now stand on stools in her kitchen and learn the same way she did. She hopes to carry on his love of food and passion for cooking.

“Both of my kids really like to be involved in the kitchen,” she says. “I think it’s why they’re such good eaters. They know the process of what we did to create something, just like I learned from my dad.”

Future Contests

Goergen’s goal for this year included three top contests – Pillsbury, the National Beef Cookoff and Sutter Home’s Build a Better Burger. She was

Both of my kids really like to be involved in the kitchen. I think it’s why they’re such good eaters. They know the process of what we did to create something, just like I learned from my dad.

named the regional finalist for the National Beef with her Grilled Steak and Artichoke Sandwich and made it to Pillsbury. She’s crossing her fingers to get to participate in Build a Better Burger.

Goergen says she’ll continue to enter cooking contests, hunting for ones each year that look the most fun and have prizes she’s interested in. It’s her mom’s turn to accompany her on a free cook-off trip and the prize money is building college savings accounts for her kids. But mostly, it’s just a fun, creative outlet for her talents.

“She’s very inventive and creative,” says Goergen’s sister Barb NelsonAgnew of Mahnomen, Minn. “I’m so proud of her for all she’s accomplished. She sets goals and does her best to meet her own high expectations. I look forward to seeing what she’ll do next. She’s full of surprises.” [AWM]

For Sonya’s contest results and delicous recipes, follow Area Woman on Facebook at facebook.com/areawomanmagazine or Twitter @AWFargo. Follow Goergen’s cooking adventures at her blog, thehautedish.com.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

- John 3:16