Area Woman Magazine Jun/Jul '15

Transformative

What's

Homeward

Becoming

Where

Husband's

Five Things Your

The

Celebrate

Sequins And Combat Boots

PUBLISHER

Area Woman Publishing, LLC

EDITORS IN CHIEF

Mike Sherman

Becky Sherman

PROOFING EDITOR

Amy Peterson

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Sydney Schermerhorn

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Mike Sherman

701-306-5119

Debbie Trombley

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Ben Nash

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PHOTOGRAPHY

5Foot20 Design Lounge

Ande Sailer

Ashley Oberholtzer Photography

Bell's Photography by Jenna Sandman

Ben Nash Photography

Elena K Photography

FATcat Studios

Golden Veil Photography

Haney's Photography

Karensa Tischer Photography

Kensie Wallner Photography

Legacy Photography

Limelite Photography

Mandey Marie Photography

Mike Smith

Nate Mickelberg Images

Ockhardt Photography

Rachel Torgerson Photography

Rick Westra

Scherling Photography

Studio A Photo

Thuen Studios

Timeless Images Photography

Traci Adamson Photography

Wolff Photography

WOMEN’S RESOURCES

WOMEN’S RESOURCES

SUSAN A. STIBBE

Susan graduated from North Dakota State University with a major in English education and a minor in speech/ communication. She is a former teacher who served on the Northern Cass School Board, the North Dakota State Board of Education, and the North Dakota State Board for Career and Technical Education. Susan and her husband, Bill, live on their farm near Hunter, North Dakota. Their daughter, Emily, attends Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana.

MEGAN BARTHOLOMAY

Megan is a Fargo native who spent nearly twelve years between New York and Los Angeles as an actor. She returned to the Fargo area in early 2009 to pursue an MFA in creative writing at MSUM. Currently, she works as a project manager at Absolute Marketing Group and lives downtown with her husband Mike and their kitties.

ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

Alicia is the creator of prairiestylefile.com, a website that showcases what’s beautiful and what’s next in North Dakota and beyond. She frequently travels across the region to cover the arts, culture, shopping, events and fashion of the Upper Midwest.

She is a local correspondent for Reuters and her work has been published in numerous magazines and newspapers in the region. She is also a featured writer for several online publications and a well-traveled public speaker.

Alicia is a graduate of Minnesota State University Moorhead. She loves traveling, reading, experimenting in the kitchen and shopping at estate sales. Alicia lives in West Fargo with her husband and their extremely busy toddler.

This issue, Amanda wrote our cover story!

AMANDA PETERSON

Amanda is an award-winning writer who loves to tell people’s stories. In addition to authoring three children’s non-fiction books, her work has appeared in numerous magazines and newspapers. Amanda previously worked as a writer and online editor for Concordia College, as well as a reporter for a Minnesota daily newspaper. She lives in Moorhead with her husband, Jason, and two children.

LIFE

The Valley is buzzing with life again. In this edition of Area Life you can read about some events that have recently taken place, and get information about all sorts of goings on. You can also get a closer look at a variety of places―from Bonanzaville to Bluestem, the Max Lounge to Gigi's Ice Lollies―as you make plans for how to spend your summer days. Information about using your CPA for more than just tax preparation and connecting with other like-minded professionals rounds out this edition of Area Life.

Image provided by Dennis Krull, 5foot20 Design Lounge.

June.July

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Note: All events are subject to change. Confirm dates and times before attending.

JUNE 2 -5

THE STRAW HAT PLAYERS PRESENTS: SOME ENCHANTED EVENING

Hits like “Climb Every Mountain” and “Surrey with the Fringe on Top” from the Golden age of Broadway! (Musical; PG)

7:30 P.M.

Hansen Theatre in the Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM For tickets, go to www.mnstate.edu/tickets Or call the MSUM Box Office 218-477-2271.

JUNE 6

SHARE A STORY FAMILY LITERACY EVENT

ALL SUMMER LONG RED RIVER ZOO EVENTS

At this free event, children and their parents can meet Buddy from "Dinosaur Train," enjoy entertainment including Penny & Pals, celebrate the joys of literacy and take home a free book!

10 A.M.- 4 P.M. Rheault Farm

2902 25th St. SW, Fargo

JUNE 3 -6

HAPPY HARRY'S RIBFEST

Enjoy great food, music and entertainment that's fun for the whole family!

11 A.M. - 11 P.M. EACH DAY FARGODOME

1800 N. University Dr., Fargo www.fargodome.com

JUNE 7

AASK BBQ MATCH EVENT

Bring the whole family to enjoy an afternoon of fun provided by Games Galore, lawn games, face painting and delicious food. Come learn about the kids who are waiting for their forever families and to find out about the joys of adoption! AASK is North Dakota's program providing adoption services to children in foster care and the families who adopt them.

11 A.M. - 2 P.M.

St. Anne's & Joachim Church Picnic Shelter

5202 25th St. S., Fargo 701-356-7988, www.aasknd.org

JUNE 9

MOORHEAD RIVER ARTS

RiverArts features a concert by 8th Hour, a petting zoo, horse drawn wagon rides, art and craft vendors, a craft activity and informational booths.

Free admission

5:30 – 8 p.m.

Memorial Park 299-5340 | www.moorheadparks.com

JUNE 9 - 12

THE STRAW HAT PLAYERS PRESENTS: "THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE"

An eclectic group of six mid-pubescents vie for the spelling championship in a riotous ride with audience participation! (Musical;PG)

7:30 P.M.

Gaede Stage in the Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM

For tickets, go to www.mnstate.edu/tickets Or call MSUM Box Office 218-477-2271.

JUNE 10

SUMMER READING PROGRAM- MSUM’S POCO FUEGO STEEL DRUM QUINTET

Minnesota State University Moorhead’s popular steel drum band Poco Fuego will bring island rhythms to Moorhead for this special concert. This Minnesota Legacy event is sponsored in part by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

10 A.M.

Moorhead Public Library 218-233-7594 | www.larl.org

JUNE 13 & JULY 25

RUSTY BARN JUNQUE SHOW

An occasional market featuring vintage and repurposed items.

9 A.M. - 2 P.M.

12753 110th St. N., Felton, MN (Approximately 20 miles NE of Moorhead) rustybarnjunque.com | FB/rustybarnjunque

JUNE 14

BBQ PICNIC FOR KIDS, TEENS AND ADULTS WITH ALOPECIA

A great time to share stories, food and fun! Bring a side dish, drinks and your family. Burgers will be provided. Please RSVP to receive updates and weather alternatives and how many burgers to put on the grill!

1 P.M.

Gooseberry Park (small pavilion on left as you enter) 100 22nd Ave. S., Moorhead, MN Pam 517-896-3731 | Find us on Facebook! eventsandinfo@gmail.com

JUNE 19

TEDDY BEAR PARADE

Each year over 700 kids and adults walk the short 1/2 mile course around Island Park with their favorite Teddy Bear buddy! Participation is free.

10:30 A.M.

Dike West Parking Lot, 310 4th St. S. www.fargoparks.com | 499-7788

Are you planning or attending an upcoming event? Submit local events online at areawomanmagazine.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS June.July

Note: All events are subject to change. Confirm dates and times before attending.

JUNE 19

MIDWEST KID FEST

All activities are free! Bring a canned food donation to the parade, to benefit the Great Plains Food Bank, along with your Teddy Bear. Concessions available for purchase.

11 A.M. - 7 P.M.

JUNE 25

GO HAWAIIAN FOR HOSPICE

Island Park, 302 7th St. S. www.fargoparks.com | 499-7788

JUNE 21

FATHER'S DAY AT THE ZOO

Celebrate Father's Day at the Zoo. All dads receive free admission.

10 A.M. - 7 P.M.

Red River Zoo

4255 23rd Ave. S.

www.redriverzoo.org

JUNE 21

SKATEBOARDING DAY

Come out for the annual Skateboarding Day where you can c elebrate with free food and pop while supplies last. Enjoy a day of skateboarding with your friends and listening to music.

4 P.M.

Dike West Skate Park

310 4th St. S.

www.fargoparks.com | 499-7788

JUNE 23

THE BIRTH CIRCLE

We will celebrate The Birth Circle's First Birthday Bash ! The Birth Circle is a free community resource for expectant couples and new parents. Join the doulas, childbirth educators, placenta encapsulation specialists and birth photographers that make up our cooperative for an evening of food, fun and prizes.

7-9 P.M.

Ecce Yoga Studio 216 N. Broadway Suite # 204, Fargo doulasrrv.org

JUNE 23 TO 27

THE STRAW HAT PLAYERS PRESENTS: "CATS"

One of the longest running musicals of all time, "Cats" tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles. "Cats" introduced the song standard “Memory.” (Musical;PG)

7:30 P.M. (Extra matinee performance Saturday, June 27 at 2 p.m.)

Hansen Theatre in the Roland Dille Center for the Arts, MSUM For tickets, go to www.mnstate.edu/tickets Or call the MSUM Box Office 218-477-2271.

JUNE 23

MOORHEAD RIVERARTS

RiverArts features a concert by Penny & Pals, a taekwondo demonstration, inflatable games, horse-drawn wagon rides, art and craft vendors, a craft activity and informational booths.

Free admission

5:30 – 8:00 P.M.

photography by Bluestem Media, LLC.

Memorial Park

299.5340 | www.moorheadparks.com for more information

CALENDAR OF EVENTS June.July

JUNE 25- 28

"JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR"

Rural Cass Community Theatre presents their 5th annual summer production.

JUNE 25-27, 7 P.M., JUNE 28, 2 P.M.

Central Cass High School Auditorium

802 N. 5th St., Casselton, ND 701-491-8096 | www.rccct.org

JUNE 25

GO HAWAIIAN FOR HOSPICE

Choice Financial invites the community to “Go Hawaiian for Hospice!” For a suggested donation of $5, attendees will feast on a pig roast, baked potato, fresh pineapple, Hawaiian Punch and a frozen treat. In addition to delicious food, prize drawings will take place during the event—need not be present to win. All proceeds directly benefit Hospice of the Red River Valley. See you at the luau!

11 A.M. - 1 P.M.

JULY 7, 14, 21, & 28

MOORHEAD FARMERS MARKET

Choice Financial

4501 23rd Ave. S., Fargo www.hrrv.org

JUNE 25

2015 HORNBACHER’S GOBBLE IT UP $5 LUNCH FOR UNITED WAY

Come to your favorite Hornbacher's location and enjoy a $5 lunch with all proceeds benefiting United Way!

11 A.M. - 1 P.M.

All Hornbacher’s locations Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead www.unitedwaycassclay.org

JUNE 26 - 27

38TH ANNUAL SCANDINAVIAN HJEMKOMST AND ANNUAL MIDWEST VIKING FESTIVALS

A celebration of Nordic culture from ancient times to today. Festival admission per day is $10 for adults, $5 for youth 13-17 and children under twelve are free with a paid adult.

10 A.M. - 5 P.M.

Hjemkomst Center

202 First Ave. N., Moorhead www.nordiccultureclubs.org | www.hcscconline.org

JULY 1

SUMMER READING PROGRAM––– CHRISTINA CHEN-BEYERS

Let’s learn about music! Christina Chen-Beyers, the orchestra director of the University Orchestra in Fargo-Moorhead will be visiting us at the library!

2 P.M.

Moorhead, Public Library 218-233-7594 | www.larl.org

Note: All events are subject to change. Confirm dates and times before attending.

JULY 6-10

CRITTER CAMP FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Just like humans, all other creatures need to eat to survive. Find out about carnivores, herbivores and omnivores - as well as what we feed the animals at our Zoo. Each Camp includes fun activities, crafts and animal encounters. For kids ages 4-6

MORNING SESSION 10 A.M. - NOON

AFTERNOON SESSION 2-4 P.M.

Members $70/ Non-Members $85

10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m. Red River Zoo

4255 23rd Ave. S. www.redriverzoo.org

JULY 7, 14, 21 & 28

MOORHEAD FARMERS MARKET

A variety of vendors featuring produce, canned goods, baked goods and more!

3 - 7 P.M.

Corner of Center Ave and 4th St. in Moorhead Center Mall parking lot

299-5340 | www.moorheadparks.com

JULY 8

SUMMER READING PROGRAM––– ZUMBA FOR KIDS

Do you love to dance? It’s Zumba time at the Moorhead Public Library! The YMCA will be visiting us to lead us in Zumba for Kids!

2 P.M. Moorhead Public Library

218-233-7594 | www.larl.org

JULY 9

COMMUNITY PLAY DAY

Free play for all ages at Rheault Farm! Play yard games, do a take home craft, climb on the playground and move to music outside in the sunshine!

9-11 A.M. & 1-3 P.M.

Rheault Farm, 2902 25 St. S. www.fargoparks.com | 499-7788.

JULY 13- JULY 31

2015 SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE KICK OFF

Beginning July 13, all drop-off locations will begin collecting new backpacks and school supplies. Drop off Locations will be available in June.

FARGODOME (Volunteering & Distributions)

1800 N. University Dr., Fargo www.unitedwaycassclay.org

Are you planning or attending an upcoming event? Submit local events online at areawomanmagazine.com

COMING EVENTS

COMING EVENTS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS June.July

JULY 15-19

GOOSEBERRY PARK PLAYERS PRESENTS “FOOTLOOSE”

The heartfelt story that emerges is of a father longing for the son he lost and of a young man aching for the father who walked out on him. While its explosive music and dance numbers are said to have “defined a generation,” the message of reconciliation and overcoming personal differences is one that applies across generations

JULY 15-18 AT 7:30 P.M. AND JULY 19 AT 1 P.M. (July 16 will be a sign language interpreted performance)

Roland Dille Center for the Arts

JULY 13-31

2015 SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE KICK OFF

MSUM Campus 218-477-2271

www.gooseberryparkplayers.org

JULY 22

CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Local bands will entertain families with lively music. Get your face painted, jump in the bouncy castle and take home a craft project. This is a free event and there will be limited concessions for sale.

7:00 - 8:30 P.M.

Island Park, 302 7th St. S. www.fargoparks.com | 499-7788.

JULY 22

JOES FOR G.I.S

Sloppy Joes, chips, cookie & soda for $5.00. All proceeds donated to local military support groups. Car side to go! Call your order in to 701-280-3500. Accepting orders now thru 7/21/15.

11 A.M.- 1 P.M.

U.S. Bank Plaza Downtown & U.S. Bank Service Center (Corner of 43rd St. SW & 15th Ave., Fargo)

JULY 28

PARTY IN THE PARK

Join us in a different park each Tuesday night for an evening of family fun. Sing your favorite karaoke song, play in the bounce house, create a craft project, get your face painted and take home a balloon animal.

5:30 - 8:00 P.M.

Bennett Park, 1900 58th Ave. S. www.fargoparks.com | 499-7788

QUOTABLE

"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

Note: All events are subject to change. Confirm dates and times before attending.

‘LIFE IS WHY’

Words by Katherine Tweed

The Red River Valley Fire & Ice Heart Ball, an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, and silent and live auctions, celebrated the work of the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association.

“Life is Why” was the evening’s theme. Walls at the Holiday Inn ballroom had displays with photos and stories of our neighbors here in the valley who survived heart and stroke events.

The associations want people to experience more of life’s precious moments, encouraging a healthier future and longer lives. Better heart and brain health is their mission.

Jason Weisenburger, just weeks after his daughter was born, collapsed after running with a friend. The quick response of his running partner and the cardiac system means Weisenburger is alive to see his daughter Evelyn learn to crawl.

Stories of survival and quality of life for heart and stroke victims inspired the gathering.

Dr. Ziad Darkhabani, neurologist, and Ahren Dosch, stroke program coordinator, at Essentia Health received honors for their work.

Major sponsors for the evening were Essentia Health and Brite-Way Window Cleaning Inc.

More than $95,000 in contributions came from the generosity of the 358 guests who ate a heart-healthy meal and danced to the Front Fenders.

Photography by Nate Mickelberg Images

FORMER VIKINGS CENTER MATT BIRK

SHARES STORIES WITH AROUND 1,200 TO BENEFIT FIRSTCHOICE CLINIC

Birk tells why he declined White House invite after Super Bowl

When Matt Birk approached the packed room of FirstChoice Clinic supporters recently at Fargo’s Holiday Inn, where he shared about his transition from NFL player and Superbowl ring-bearer to public speaker, he made special note of the crowd’s size.

“Forget about North Dakota being the Bison state,” said the former Minnesota Vikings center, hinting that there’s more than just football going on here, given that comparable events in the Twin Cities where he lives with his wife and six children aren’t nearly as well-attended.

After stopping in March in Fargo, where over 600 had gathered at an evening banquet, Birk spoke at another event in Bismarck, reaching around 1,200 people in all who heard, with a flash of humor, Birk’s growing passion for being vocal about the value of every life.

Birk said his convictions began with the birth of his first child―an event he called “miraculous.” “I knew that I’d just witnessed God,” he said. “Just because something happens millions of times a day doesn’t mean it’s not a miracle.”

After the family relocated to Maryland so Birk could play with the Baltimore Ravens, he was asked to speak at an event where he ended up talking to several post-abortive women who shared their experiences of anguish following their decision years earlier.

“I was shocked at how many women who’d had abortions were there marching … and also in awe of their courage,” Birk said, adding that the women became, in his mind, “the real heroes on the field,” and that those conversations “sparked something inside.”

When the Ravens won the Superbowl, Birk was invited with his team to the White House. But he hesitated due to a growing conflict within his soul.

“I couldn’t think of a good enough reason to tell my kids why I was going to go,” he said. “As a parent you want to be that person, that father, that at the end of the day your kids can look up to you and respect you and hopefully love you , so I just quietly turned it down.”

Birk said the most compelling reason to uphold life is simply that kids are awesome. “Kids are pure, they’re in the moment, and when you share one of those moments with a kid when,

Words by Roxane B. Salonen

Photography by Dennis Krull, 5foot20 Design Lounge

for that split second, nothing else matters, you’ve glimpsed heaven.”

Others who spoke at the event included Tom Frei, FirstChoice executive director, who said the growth the clinic is experiencing shows there’s a real need for its services here.

“We want to become the first choice for those facing unplanned pregnancy,” he said, noting that humility is required in the endeavor. “We are working cooperatively with God to create the right environment for good to happen.”

Denise Cota, who works as client services director for all three of the clinics in the region – including the facility in Devils Lake – said it’s sometimes hard to convey the daily work of FirstChoice Clinic to others.

Following the banquet, Cota explained that it’s about building a relationship with clients. It’s both healthcare and social work.

“Sometimes in the safety of the clinic, it’s easy to see a bright light at the end of the tunnel,” she said. “Then (the clients) walk out the door and back into the world of their reality, and it becomes much harder again.”

FirstChoice Clinic wants to journey with its clients through those hard times, to be a voice of truth and give them choices based on information, she said.

“It’s choice for a reason,” Cota said. “You can only make a decision after you have heard the truth and the facts, and that’s what’s often missing.”

Cota said at FirstChoice Clinic, an effort is made to separate the complexities of an unplanned pregnancy with the reality of what is happening, and to help present options based not on just emotion but logic and love.

“The moment you become pregnant, you start bonding with that baby, otherwise you wouldn’t have any emotional turmoil over this decision,” Cota said. “We try to remove all the exterior stress so (the client) can truly know and feel what that experience is all about, and then move on from there.”

SEQUINS AND SAMBA

The Plains Art Museum Gala goes tropical

Hundreds of revelers at the 19th Annual Plains Art Museum Gala celebrated in style on May 2. This year’s theme, Brazilian-inspired Carnaval!, transported partygoers from the very first moment. Aerialists twisted and twirled high above the crowd as servers in elaborately feathered headdresses served tempting nibbles from skirts that doubled as tables.

Servers circulated with passed hors d'oeuvres from Mosaic Foods, while platters heaped with food beckoned to foodies from the third floor. Nichole’s Fine Pastry tempted attendees with tiny tartlets, delicate cakes and colorfully frosted, bite-sized éclairs.

The Carluster Crumplebee Orchestra kept the party pulsing as guests sampled wine and beer from Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops and sipped cocktails from Sidestreet Grille & Pub. Partygoers supplemented their evening attire (think colorful gowns, mysterious masks and lots of festive feathers) with bewitching designs from Pikadilly Face Painting and posed for photos with friends as dusk faded to dark.

“The energy levels, the excitement, the theme – it all came together in such a wonderful way,” said Amy Richardson, communications director for the Plains Art Museum. “First and foremost it’s a fundraiser, but it’s also a wonderful party. It’s a great event for a great cause.”

Ticket revenue, sponsorships and funds raised during the silent art auction help support educational outreach programs at the museum and organizers say this year was the most successful gala yet. Planning for the Plains Art Museum Gala was overseen by co-chair couples Bill Marcil, Jr. and Cris Linnares, as well as Kathryn Helgaas and Doug Burgum. [AWM]

Words by Alicia Underlee Nelson | Dennis Krull, 5foot20 Design Lounge

Celebration IS IN ORDER AT THE MAX LOUNGE

a blend of just enough relaxation, just enough entertainment and just enough space for good conversations. When you look up you will see a handmade blue chandelier that sparkles with Max character, a signature piece for the lounge. Aartisan Design did the Art Deco décor.

That’s probably why the managers and servers know they’ve been the destination for lots of all-important first dates. They haven’t celebrated an engagement yet but it will likely come soon. They have had bachelorette parties and many other regular gatherings.

Co-manager Nicolette Berge likes to see the variety of guests at the lounge. “People can have a conversation. While we’re not a sports bar, we have televisions so fans can keep track of what’s happening,” Berge said.

Max Lounge is a classy one-year-old, with hand-crafted drinks, comfortable furnishings, a stage to show off local music and a VIP room. The family of staff and guests who created the place have cause to celebrate.

The lounge is located in one of the fastestgrowing areas of the metro. The Max sits in a strip mall at 1410 9th St. E. in West Fargo, just across the parking lot from its mentor, Maxwells Restaurant and Bar.

When you walk through the door you know you entered a different place―an island with

“I love this space. It is comfortable and classy, unique – there is nothing else like it,” she added.

Berge began her hospitality career at Maxwell’s Restaurant and Bar only six years ago. She moved from her hometown of Valley City for education and employment and is preparing to take her final course at the University of Mary studying business with an emphasis on human resources. She does the marketing for both places.

She has a passion for wine. In June she takes the Introductory Sommelier Exam in West Fargo. “There is so much to learn about wine and I can’t get enough of it. Being informed allows me to help direct customers in a wine selection everyone at the table will enjoy,” Berge said. “My plate is full with school, work, studying wine – in addition to a social life – but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I am super driven and optimistic about what the future has in store for me.”

Berge is proud of the hand-crafted cocktails served. She has high praise for her co-manager,

Words by Katherine Tweed Photography by Kensie Wallner Photography

Nicolette Berge, Co-manager

Aaron Hanson, and bartender, Chad Bjork. The food comes from the highly-rated chef at Maxwells Restaurant and Bar, Michael Wald. The lounge has a gourmet, affordable menu. “We pride ourselves on quality service, food and drinks,” Berge said.

Hanson is the night owl and stays late. Berge comes in early. Bjork perfected the Sazerac. “Hanson and Bjork are excellent,” Nicolette said. This summer the Pickletini, made with vodka and dill pickle juice, will join the menu. Sometime a drink to match the blue chandelier may appear. In the meantime, the beverages include classics, signatures, martinis, draft beer and bottled beers, and red, white and sparkling wines to fill the bill. Information for the day is on butcher block paper, drawn with Bjork’s own artistry.

Berge notes they have live music on weekends They book upbeat, mellow bands from the area. Michael Leier, the most recent Fargo contestant on The Voice, performed at Max Lounge. It’s good to have a mellow band if you are part of the book club in the VIP room. If you would rather be your own DJ, you can play through your phone or study the big music billboard of who will perform next.

This summer they will have live jazz bands on Tuesdays – Max’s own wine and jazz with halfprice wine by the bottle. You can keep up with what’s coming on the website maxloungend.com or call 701.356.7464.

Ramon Sosa, general manager of Maxwells Restaurant and Bar and the Max Lounge, said “I have the commitment to my entire staff to lead them down a path that will create and open opportunities for them.”

The Max Lounge is certainly that opportunity for Berge, Hanson and Bjork, and all the people who enjoy relaxing in the 100-person lounge, small enough to be intimate, large enough to celebrate.

Happy anniversary Max Lounge. [AWM]

GLORIOUSLY GLUTEN FREE

An old English proverb says, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” In the case of Paul Mehl, the need to find good food to eat that did not irritate his body’s gluten sensitivity became the springboard for his work developing alternative flour blends. Mehl has been described as “the Thomas Edison of gluten free” referring to his tireless work, despite many failures, that eventually led to success in creating a proprietary flour blend providing customers with an excellent product they can use to bake homemade bread, rolls, cakes and cookies.

Mehl was not alone in his journey. The Mehl family of Fargo, including parents Thomas and Judy, with their five children, Paul, Patty, Matthew, John and Mark, each to some degree exhibited symptoms of gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance also known as celiac disease. Although the symptoms were undiagnosed for years, in hindsight, the family can see that the signs were evident in each of their lives. When they switched to gluten-free eating, they noticed instantaneous improvement.

As young adults they began the journey of seeking to find a good variety of food that they could eat. That journey eventually led brothers Matthew and Mark to commit to

the exciting adventure of opening a gluten-free bakery featuring products made from Mehl’s flours. In the midst of the journey they became acquainted with Brenda Levos, an independent consulting and design business owner. Levos’s expertise in graphic design was useful in creating attractive packaging and signage. Her knowledge of business and experience in entrepreneurial start-ups was exactly what the Mehls needed, so as a way to pay for her services, they invited her to join them as a co-owner in the business. According to Levos, “As a business partner, I sort of got adopted into this family.” Although Brenda does not have gluten sensitivity, she is very conscious about eating healthfully and is excited to help the business flourish. She offers different perspectives about business decisions and consistently challenges the team, to “not only make products that taste good, but also make them look good!” One glance in the well-stocked display case shows that her ideas have been embraced. The shelves are full of breads, bagels, English muffins, take and bake pizzas, soups and some

Words by Carolyn Lillehaugen

Photography by Kensie Wallner Photography

Left to Right: Brenda Levos, Matthew Mehl, Paul Mehl, Mark Mehl

Mehl’s Bakery Provides Peace of Mind

of the most beautiful cupcakes you can imagine.

Since opening in early 2015, Mehl’s Bakery has met a unique need in the community by providing a wide variety of delicious gluten-free baked goods. Because some of their customers have multiple food sensitivities, Mehl’s is also nut free and produces some products that are milk and egg free. As Matthew explained, “What we’re selling is peace of mind.” People with gluten intolerance can select any product in the bakery and be assured that it will not make them sick. The impact on other people’s lives is one of the most rewarding parts of owning the bakery. “It is common to have new customers shed tears of gratitude as they tell their story of past frustration while searching for food that is both gluten-free and delicious.” A huge compliment for Mehl’s staff is when someone exclaims that “it actually tastes just like bread!”

As they look to the future, the owners of Mehl’s bakery are full of goals. They hope to add a few more tables to create an inviting space for diners to enjoy lunch. Beyond their bakery, bread products can currently be found in local grocery stores and school cafeterias. They hope to expand their range into several states and Canada in the next few years. In addition, they may seek an agreement with a large chain store to become the manufacturer of their private label glutenfree flour. “ The future is full of possibilities. One of our important tasks will be to control growth so that we maintain excellent quality and consistency,” said Levos.

As Matthew explained, “Our mission is to produce high-quality, reasonably priced food products that taste so good that the whole family will want to eat them, not just those with gluten sensitivities.” [AWM]

IF

YOU WANT TO LEARN MORE,

check them out online at www.mehlsflour.com or drop in at 1404 33rd St. South, Suite D in Fargo. They’re sure to make you feel welcome.

BLUESTEM, HOME OF TROLLWOOD PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL, SET TO HAVE A MAGICAL SUMMER

Trollwood Performing Arts School has been a treasured fixture in FargoMoorhead since its founding in 1978. Its Mainstage Musical attracts thousands every summer, and its alumni number in the tens of thousands. A 2009 move from Fargo to Bluestem Center for the Arts in south Moorhead was a much-needed and exciting change for the organization.

As Executive Director Kathy Anderson explained, “Trollwood and Bluestem are one, essentially.” Bluestem Center for the Arts, home of Trollwood Performing Arts School, is a unique collaboration between Fargo Public Schools and the City of Moorhead. Bluestem, the 38-acre venue, is programmed and managed by Trollwood Performing Arts School, a program of Fargo Public Schools, which leases the facility from the City of Moorhead. For funding, Anderson and her staff depend heavily on donations as well as a variety of other sources to make their programs possible. They have to raise about $750,000, half of their budget, each year.

Trollwood has three organizational priorities. Foremost is its youth arts educational

programming, offering 11 programs for grades K-12. “We began as a youth enrichment program,” said Anderson, “and we continue to be that.” Most programs occur in the summertime, including the Mainstage Musical Trollwood is most known for, but they also have programs that run throughout the entire year.

At the middle school level, students attend Totally Trollwood Academy in early summer for training in acting, singing and dancing. In July, this age group has the opportunity to perform in a full-scale Broadwaystyle musical ("Shrek The Musical Jr." in 2015). High school students have their own academy program at the same time, as well as the more intense Trollwood Conservatory, where students focus on a single arts discipline. Another opportunity is the Student Leadership Program, where students work alongside staff mentors for the summer. “Getting training is so important,” Anderson said. “It’s not just about being onstage.”

Trollwood’s STAR Program was created to remove financial barriers and other obstacles for students. Trollwood never turns students

Words by Gwendolyn Hoberg Photography by Paul Flessland Photo

Kathy Anderson, Executive Director, with her daughter Jennifer, a student at Trollwoood

away because they can’t afford to pay. Also, Anderson explained, some students may struggle with other issues. Trollwood’s student services team works to make sure all students have a successful experience.

Trollwood’s second priority is quality entertainment for the community. In addition to the Mainstage Musical, Trollwood staff works with Jade Presents to provide the venue and onsite support for summer concerts. They also collaborate with the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony (Symphony Rocks at Bluestem), Red River Dance and other arts organizations.

Third, Trollwood provides space for private rentals and community events. MSUM’s “Oldfashioned Community Fourth of July” will be at Bluestem this summer, and they also host many weddings, business retreats and conferences.

This July, Trollwood will present Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s "Mary Poppins" to thousands of audience members. The rights to this classic musical have only just been released, and according to Anderson it has yet to be performed in the area. “This is a huge family show,” Anderson stated. “It seems to particularly encapsulate the all-ages aspect, with a familyfriendly storyline, which isn’t the case with every musical. It’s also going to feature many special effects, including the first time we’ve ever flown an actor at Bluestem.” Anderson is also looking forward to the costumes, which include craft designs: costumes depicting animals, park statues, and similar story elements. “I’ve seen some of the initial designs, and they’re going to be magical.”

Anderson’s description of her favorite parts of her job parallels the gifts Trollwood provides to the community. “I love watching our students grow and learn and am inspired by their energy. It’s incredible to watch them build so many life skills: creativity, confidence, the ability to communicate and collaborate. I enjoy working with organizations like Jade Presents, seeing how happy a night out at a concert makes people. This is such a memorable place for so many, a part of their lives. It’s fun to be at the hub of all that.” [AWM]

BONANZAVILLE

November 2 marks 126 years since North Dakota became a state in the Union. While most North Dakotans are aware of the state’s history of Native American tribes, pioneer farming, the railroad, Theodore Roosevelt and the immigration of European settlers, many may not realize that large segments of this unique history have been preserved and maintained in one unique location: Bonanzaville.

Located at 1351 West Main Ave. in West Fargo, Bonanzaville was created in 1954 from a collaborative effort of the North Dakota Agricultural College (now NDSU), the Pioneer Daughters and local businessman Ken McIntyre. Construction at its current location began in 1967 and since then Bonanzaville has become the area’s largest historical attraction, spreading over 12 acres and encompassing 43 buildings showcasing over 400,000 artifacts. Currently operated by the Cass County Historical Society with Brenda Warren at the helm as its executive director, Bonanzaville is open to the public from May 1 through October 31, and has become a popular “educational tool for schoolchildren” as well as a unique destination for all ages. This year will also see two movie crews coming to Bonanzaville from Los Angeles and New York respectively, to film scenes for upcoming movie projects Heads or Tails and Dakota.

Relying on a strong contingent of volunteers (including the Bonanza Belles) and community support, Bonanzaville has long been touted as North Dakota’s best-kept secret. With exciting attractions such as the Cass County Museum (open year round), the Tractor, Steam Engine, Telephone and Car museums, as well as the Wheatland Town Jail and the Dobrinz one-room schoolhouse, visitors are able to step back into the past at a "living, breathing museum village" and interact with volunteers dressed in period costumes ready to answer any questions. And, with the more recent additions of an Event Center and Dawson Hall, more and more couples are looking to Bonanzaville as a one-of-a-kind wedding reception venue.

Local history buffs can also enjoy the experience of visiting “Fargo’s first home,” which was built in 1869 by Harry Moore and George Mann. At that time Fargo was only a rippling

Words by Marie Laska

Photography by Nate Mickelberg Images

North Dakota’s Interactive Living History

Brenda Warren, Executive Director, Bonanzaville

expanse of tents and canvas in the Dakota Territory, and the Mann-Moore home eventually served as both a hotel and a jail before finding its final resting place in Bonanzaville. With its wealth of history and memories it may also be of no surprise to some that paranormal investigators have identified paranormal activity in two buildings on site: the Houston Mansion and the Brass Rail Saloon.

Warren has also made it her mission to secure a permanent space within Bonanzaville for the site’s extensive collection of Rosemeade pottery. Created by North Dakotan Laura Taylor, Rosemeade pottery gained international acclaim after Taylor’s UND mosaic tile plaques were featured in the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. Out of the eleven plaques shown at the fair, Bonanzaville showcases nine of them in their rotating exhibit hall.

Within the exhibit hall can also be found the current display of “North Dakota: 125 years,” commemorating the anniversary of statehood. In the Pioneer Village itself are ongoing exhibits including the Medical Display (with medical and dental equipment dating from the 19th century), the Dahl Car Museum (with vintage automobiles dating back to 1904) and the Eagles Air Museum (which includes a C-47 plane that took part in D-Day), among many others.

The overwhelmingly popular Fourth of July celebration and fireworks, and Pioneer Days (held August 16 and 17) have also boasted record numbers in recent years. This year’s Pioneer Days includes demonstrations of woodcarving, blacksmithing and basket weaving, along with live entertainment by square dancers and clog hoppers. On December 5, Santa and his reindeer will also be stopping by Pioneer Village, with sleigh rides and live music being provided.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

on exhibits or admission rates, please visit Bonanzaville on Facebook or go to www.bonanzaville.org

THE QUEEN OF POPS:

Gigi’s Ice Lollies takes sweets to the Fargo streets

As a child, Nicole Kolbe spent many summers at her grandmother’s farm in rural Tennessee doing what kids do: playing outside, teasing cousins and, of course, getting homemade treats. In Kolbe’s case, these treats were her grandma’s farmfresh frozen ice cream bars which, in the South, are called ice lollies. So in 2011, when Kolbe moved to Fargo, ND from the Atlanta, GA, she saw an opportunity for a niche ice cream pop market.

“See a need; fill a need.” That’s what the Tennessee native and owner/chief lollygagger of Gigi’s Ice Lollies says is one of her mantras. So when a friend approached her with the idea of a food truck, she figured it was worth a shot. After the food truck idea fizzled, Kolbe began dreaming up ways to make her sweet treats a reality.

“It’s not like we had a lot of money to put toward this,” she said, referring to her and her husband Kasper. So they decided to put together a Kickstarter fund, asking friends and relatives to donate to the cause. “The outpouring of local support was amazing, and we reached our goal in three weeks.” The donations, mostly area locals and many in small denominations, came in fast and furious. It was then Kolbe decided the focus of her business would be to invest locally in any way she could―starting with her cart, which was made by two local artists. She settled on the name Gigi’s Ice Lollies in homage to her

Words by Megan Bartholomay

Photography by Kensie Wallner Photography

Nicole Kolbe, owner of Gigi's Ice Lollies

THE OUTPOURING OF LOCAL SUPPORT WAS AMAZING, AND WE REACHED OUR GOAL IN THREE WEEKS

grandma, whom she calls “Gigi,” and in July 2013 made her quiet debut on the corner of 3rd Avenue North and Broadway in Fargo.

The following summer, Gigi's kicked off the season with a bang, launching Lollypalooza―an ice-lolly festival at Davies Park in Moorhead. The response was explosive. “The next day was our official opening, and we literally sold out 200 ice lollies in 45 minutes!”

Gigi’s had been producing small batches of 300 lollies per week out of the Square One Kitchens, but needed to find a way to fill the demand. Enter “The Beast,” an industrial-sized ice cream machine that could keep the integrity of the artisanal ice cream, but churn out a whopping 1,000 lollies in a single day. Kolbe says she hopes she’ll be able to satisfy her growing customer base this summer.

Quickly realizing Upper Midwesterners wanted ice cream all year round, Gigi’s started Winter Club in 2013, a subscription service offering home delivery of 10 ice lollies per month for six

months. With seasonal flavors like apple strudel and pumpkin latte, the chilly confections can be savored any time of year.

Flavor is big for this Southern gal and many come from those Gigi used to make. But Kolbe says nothing goes to market without a thumbs up from her chief taste tester, her eight-year-old stepson Noam. “If he doesn’t approve, it goes back for revisions.” And are there flavors! Spiced rhubard with pomegranate, cucumber mint, frozen hot chocolate, strawberry basil and honey peaches are just a sample of the dozens of flavors she’s invented.

Keeping in line with her business's core values, Kolbe sources most of her ingredients locally, and when she gets an idea for a flavor she can’t produce locally, she leans on the organic produce departments of area stores like Swanson’s, Sydney’s and Hornbacher’s. “Everything I produce is locally sourced or organic with no artificial ingredients or preservatives and without a ton of calories. And almost all of them are naturally gluten-free. You can feel good about eating it!”

She’s also committed to keeping her products affordable. “My ice lollies have always been and always will be $3. I want everyone to be able to afford to enjoy a treat, and good, organic products should be available for everyone.” She also operates her business leaving the smallest carbon footprint possible. “Everything about my products aims to be Earth-friendly.” Her wrappers are made from a biodegradable corn-based plastic, and she recycles everything from the production process.

This summer she’ll be setting up shop at her usual haunt on 3rd Avenue North and Broadway, and will open her cart for business Friday, May 29 at 12 p.m. She’ll have five regular flavors and will spice up the selection each week with an additional surprise flavor. “We’ll be open Tuesday through Saturday from noon until we run out and from May 29 until it gets cold, or until ESPN Gameday kicks us out,” Kolbe joked.

Meanwhile the real Gigi still lives in Tennessee and has yet to taste her namesake. “She will,” said Kolbe. “She’s very proud of me.”

QUICK FACTS

COST: $3 per lolly LOCATION: Corner of 3rd Avenue North and Broadway

HOURS AND DATES: May 29—mid-September

Tuesday—Friday 11:30pm-2:30pm Saturday Noon-3:00pm

Ilaugh out loud when friends ask me to do their taxes. If they only knew that I don’t do my own! The initials behind my name can be deceiving. After all, not all CPAs specialize in tax and not all auditors work for the IRS. Below are five areas you may not have known your CPA can offer assistance in.

Divorce. It’s not fun, but it happens. From a financial (and emotional) perspective, it’s paramount to get it right. Traditionally we see people divide assets equitably to the best of their abilities at the time of the divorce without consideration of the future growth of those assets. Here are some things to consider: Are your assets income-producing? If so, will they grow rapidly or at an inflationary rate? And most importantly, where does that put each party in, say, 20 years? By modeling this out one can determine if the division of assets is truly equitable, not only today but into the future.

Dashboards. No, not the one inside your car. It’s a reporting

tool that takes your critical success indicators (CSIs) and the metrics behind them and turns them into dashboards. These dashboards are highly customizable to whatever drives your business. As CPAs we have a sweet place in our hearts for spreadsheet applications like Excel, but to efficiently manage a company you shouldn’t have to dig through rows, columns and tabs to find the key pieces of information to analyze operations. These CSIs should be identified and then made readily available to management so that timely decisions can be made.

Strategic Planning. Is your accountant ready to think outside the box? While boxes often remind most CPAs of spreadsheets or tax forms (which get our hearts racing), a few outsiders in the group would rather help you plan strategically. They have a knack for analyzing dilemmas and finding solutions that can propel an organization to the next level, overcome a barrier or solve personnel issues that can be dicey. Strategic planning sessions can involve various levels of management and

FIVE THINGS

YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOUR CPA FIRM COULD HELP YOU WITH

Article provided by Amber Ferrie, CPA/ABV/CFF, CMAP

ownership, be onsite or offsite in a retreat setting. The options are endless, and the outcomes pay dividends.

Personnel. North Dakota is in a unique position with a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. This leads to a workforce issue, where employees are difficult to find and expensive to train and retain. Positions that are even more difficult to fill can include CFOs and controllers who provide strategic advice, guidance and direction for your organization. Without these positions filled, the organization may suffer from a lack of timely reporting and decision making. Outsourcing this accounting and/or finance function is another possibility, allowing for real-time data and guidance while you’re still in growth mode.

Exit. If the Florida sun or the Arizona golf course is calling your name, call your CPA. They can help you plan for this major life milestone (and they wouldn’t mind being invited to spend a day in the sunshine or at the golf course for “onsite consulting”). CPAs are not only the go-to for the life cycle of the business, but can also help you ensure a proper exit when the time comes. Whether your goals are to transition to a family member, form an ESOP or sell to a third party, your CPA should be able to assist you in that process.

The important thing is to truly use your accountants and CPAs to their full advantage, making them your business advisor, rather than just someone you visit once a year.

AMBER FERRIE

has way too many initials after her name (CPA/ ABV/CFF, CMAP), admits to thinking outside the box, loving numbers and wouldn’t mind being invited to your new home in Arizona for a round of golf or a cocktail. Amber is a partner at Eide Bailly LLP, a CPA and business advisory firm headquartered in Fargo, ND. Eide Bailly can help with any of the opportunities listed above. Learn more at www.eidebailly.com or call 701.239.8500.

WOMEN CONNECT

Women, Business, Life.

There is something very unique about the bond that can develop between women. Whether it is its depth—unparalleled in its intricacies—or its forged-by-fire strength attesting to trials unique to the female gender, this bond has been the backbone of movies (i.e. Thelma and Louise) and at the forefront of the fight for women’s rights. And yet, it is not uncommon for women to, at times, feel a negative energy or a lack of support from other women, such as on the school grounds (a la Mean Girls) or in the workforce.

Identifying both the bond and connection that women share and also having honest conversations about the barriers that women face have become mutually inclusive themes for a new Fargo/Moorhead/West Fargo Chamber of Commerce initiative entitled “Women Connect.” Supported through grants from programs such as the FM Area Foundation Women’s Fund, Women Connect is focused on “Content, Challenge and Connection,” and works to bring together women in meaningful ways to help them “learn from each other, laugh with each other and challenge and support each other.” From these connections both professional growth (i.e. through the Coffee Challenge) and initiatives that give back to the community, such as Shoes for Dress for Success, have sprung.

Under an umbrella of “Women, Business, Life,” Women Connect was established in

January of 2015 as part of a chamber focus to “develop women in the business community.” With a mission “to connect women in a unique forum that will build connections, foster long-term relationships and encourage leadership in business and life,” a Women Connect committee comprised of twelve area women was formed. This committee has developed once-monthly community attended sessions, focusing on topics important to women’s professional and personal lives. Held at the Avalon Events Center on the fourth Tuesday of each month (starting at 3:30 p.m.), the success of the sessions has shown committee member Michelle Kommer how she “completely underestimated the appetite for these developmental opportunities created for women.” Initially anticipating 80 registrants, tickets for the first session sold out in less than two days with over 500 women registering online.

By identifying obstacles and barriers that can “get in the way of women being able to support one another,” Kommer explained that the sessions encourage communication about the overall development of women in the community. Committee Chairperson Tonya Stende, one of the founding members of 35 under 35, described how the sessions address the need “for women building and fostering each other, while holding each other accountable and being champions to each others’ successes.”

Conceptualizing that women share universal experiences—no matter their industry—but that they tend to internalize lessons learned rather than mentoring each other, Women Connect

Words by Marie Laska

Photography by Nate Mickelberg Images

Front row L to R: Julie Yourczek, Mickayla Thompson, Gail Petersen, Tracy Meckler

Back row L to R: Tracy Powell, Julie Doggett, Elly Peterson, Kaylyn Stroh, Samantha Gust, Bobbi Jo Rehder

Front row L to R: Kristen Burbank, Kristina Hein, Michelle Kommer, Jodi Heilman

Back row L to R: Susan Mathison, Kristi Huber, Katie Hasbargen, Chris Thompson, Diane Sandven, Tonya Stende, Danielle Paulus

draws no distinction between championing women in the business world or at home. Pam McGee, committee vice-chair, details how Women Connect “fills the void in the middle … It’s not about feminism. It’s about an equal spot at the table. We are not at the table and we don’t put ourselves at the table.” Whether the table is within the dining room or the boardroom, Women Connect highlights the potential for women to strengthen their roles and develop their presence, and provides an authentic voice to the barriers and experiences that all women face. Pam further details how the program’s growing success mirrors the strengthening connections formed amongst the committee members, each of whom embodies the heart behind Women Connect: taking risks, working towards their dreams, supporting one another and utilizing flanking strategies to achieve goals.

While Women Connect is still experimenting with content and welcomes ideas from the community, sessions have included (and will include) topics such as Women For Women: examining relationship dynamics in the workforce and viewing women as sources of inspiration rather than competition; and Connecting With Presence: learning how to make a lasting, authentic impact. Sessions are open to registered community members through the Chamber of Commerce website, and a social hour from 5–6 p.m. is offered to all attendees after each session as an “opportunity to connect with women at a deeper level and develop lasting relationships.” [AWM]

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

or to register for an upcoming session, please visit the Chamber of Commerce website at www.fmwfchamber.com or the Women Connect Facebook page.

TRANSFORMATIVE MENTORING

Business professionals mentor MSUM students

AMinnesota State University Moorhead education lays the foundation for career success, but its Executive Mentorship Program encapsulates it into a transformative mentoring experience that greatly elevates students’ career preparation.

“It’s a great program,” said Sarah Sakrison, a recruiter for Evolution1 and a volunteer with the Executive Mentorship Program. “I wish I had it when I was in college.”

“Our goal is to help students develop their confidence and poise,” said Jane Pettinger, coordinator of MSUM’s Executive Mentorship Program and assistant professor of management. “Through professional one-on-one mentoring, students can sharpen their focus and efforts in transitioning from college to professional work.”

Students are introduced to various industries; acquainted with the functional responsibilities of a particular position; encouraged to explore culture fit with companies of interest; and advised on leadership development.

Students say it’s one of the best classes offered to transition from college student to working professional.

“Before this class, I had never considered career options, didn’t have a resume, didn’t have professional goals, had never spoken with a professional in my potential career field, and had never toured a potential employer’s office. In one semester this all changed,” said Eric Krupke, a business administration and finance major.

From a recruitment standpoint, making connections in the business environment is essential.

“If we don’t have an open position, maybe I can connect them with someone in our industry who is looking to hire,” Sakrison said. “Building connections and relationships is extremely important.”

Executive mentors help students:

• Learn from experienced business professionals

• Explore specific jobs, career paths and industries

• Network in professional environments

Words by Kristi Monson, MSUM Marketing & Communications Photography by David Arntson, MSUM Marketing & Communications

Left to right: Dean Marsha Weber, MSUM College of Business and Innovation; Kaitlin VanWinkle, business administration and marketing major; Ralf Mehnert-Meland, Vice President of Partnerships and International Business, Corporate Counsel, Intelligent InSites.

• Identify action steps to achieve career goals

• Elevate confidence, focus and professional presence

Business administration major Peyton Glodrey says the program helped her improve communication skills, network with professionals, and develop a solid resume.

“This program really helped me break out of my comfort zone,” Glodrey said. “I knew that I really needed to work on my speaking skills and I improved leaps and bounds in this area.”

This class is similar to expensive, intensive professional coaching, with the added benefit of connecting with area business leaders.

MSUM alumnus John Machacek, senior vice president of finance and entrepreneurial development at Greater Fargo Moorhead EDC, is in his second year as a volunteer mentor.

“I primarily do it to give back to the school, but more so to ease my mentee’s transition from student to the workforce. Until you’ve been out in the real world and out of the classroom, there is so much new knowledge to experience,” Machacek said. “It would have been nice to have a mentor when I was getting ready to graduate.”

A variety of coaching and mentoring activities are offered to students, such as one-on-one time with a dedicated mentor, community service opportunities, networking experiences, job shadowing, plus many more professional development opportunities.

“I’ve been surprised at the quality of the business education at MSUM. While the core curriculum has always been known to be excellent, the level of commitment and caring on the part of administrators and professors is surprising to me,” said Kim Kaul, vice president, senior credit administrator at BlackRidge Bank. “These folks really care about seeing their students excel in the classroom and then doing well after their education is complete. I can’t imagine a better place to obtain a business education.”

WHAT’S YOUR NAME AGAIN?

FOUR TIPS TO REMEMBERING NAMES

Article provided by Heather Ostrowski

Before we dive into the specific tips for remembering names, the key to getting better at this skill is to actually care about it. Just like any hobby, sport or skill you want to master, it requires practice. So … do you care? Are you ready to commit to practicing? Are you sure? Are you ready?

I am laughing right now at the visual of the people who just shrugged their shoulders, decided they didn’t care enough to read on, and turned the page. I also honor their honesty. To you, brave and determined soul, thank you for caring!

Why it Matters

In Dale Carnegie’s book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” he says in Human Relation Principle #6: Remember that a person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language. As if this isn’t enough reason to care about remembering names, some other good reasons are:

• helps you in your professional success

• attracts people who want to be in your circle of social contacts

• saves you from the embarrassment of not knowing a person’s name the next time you see them

• creates the impression that you’re a person who is genuine and thoughtful

Now that you are fully committed to mastering this practice, let’s move on to the tips.

The Tips

Tip #1: Stop the negative self-talk! How many times have you heard or said this statement? “I never remember names” or “I am really bad at remembering names” or “I hope there isn’t a test later, because I will never remember all of your names.”

Here’s why: Every time you say things out loud, whether positive or negative, your brain hears you. AND your brain believes you are telling it the truth. You need to tell your brain a new story about your ability to retain and recall names.

So the next time you have the opportunity to recall a name, try saying this instead: “Remembering names is really important to me and I am getting better at it every day!”

Tip #2: Catch the name and repeat it. Really lean in and listen. Did you hear it? Did you hear it correctly? Didn’t catch it? Ask again. Repeat it immediately to make sure you heard it right. Repeating it also will help it stick in your memory. If it is unique and you want to be sure you are hearing it correctly, ask them to spell it. You can insert it once

OVER TIME, REMEMBERING NAMES WILL BECOME A NATURAL HABIT

or twice in your brief conversation including “It was nice to meet you, David!” as you close your conversation.

Tip #3: Create a name association. Our memory works best when we can associate the new thing we are trying to learn with something that is already stored in our memory. Associate this person’s name with someone who has the same name you know well. Associate the name with where they work or where they live. Exaggerated pictures in your mind work well for an association.

Dale Carnegie said, “Paint a mind picture of the person whose name you wish to remember doing something that reminds you of the person’s name. Have the face and body of the person you wish to remember in the picture so that, when the picture comes to mind, you get both the face and the name.”

Tip #4: Document the name and review it. It’s up to you to determine what will work for documenting. I like to connect on LinkedIn when I meet someone new. I even send them a message that says “I enjoyed meeting you at last night’s Chamber After Hours event.” This provides a reference that helps me remember where and when the first meeting took place. Review your connections the next time you plan to be at a similar event.

Some people use file cards, spreadsheets or sophisticated contact management systems. It doesn’t matter what system you use, but you must develop a way to track the contacts so you can review them.

It’s Up To You

These tips can be used all together or in isolation. Pick one and start using it right away. It will require both commitment and practice to using these tips, and initially it may seem like more work than it’s worth.

Over time, remembering names will become a natural habit and you will surprise yourself the next time you easily recall a person’s name. You’ll find yourself saying out loud “I am really good at remembering names” and it will have become the truth.

FINDING FAMILY

at the homeward animal shelter

The Homeward Animal Shelter of FargoMoorhead 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.

Have questions? Give us a call!

Ace

Sloane

Ash

Oscar

Jordan

Buster Paris

Rambo

Dandy

Jozze

Dollar

STYLE

Keeping up with summer trends is easier with the help of the team at Midwestern Bubbly. Read more about this dynamic duo in this edition of Area Style. Get to know the team and vision behind Scherling Photography, and brush up on the area's unique shops and photographers. Image provided by the Midwestern Bubbly.

BECOMING A HORSE OF A Different Color

Words by Beth Diane Bradley

Ihave a confession to make. I’m a clothes horse. And one on-going problem I have is a crowded closet – or stable if you will -- yet I keep adding to it.

Occasionally, it’s time to be ruthless and purge everything that no longer works―like that ruffled multi-colored blouse that gave me a bad case of buyer's remorse as soon as I brought it home. How could I forget I’m allergic to ruffles? And colors that bold should only be seen on highway flaggers or deer hunters.

I’ve recently tossed things I’ve been hanging on to since National Velvet graced the silver screen. I kept them in case they came back in style, or I found something new to go with them. But I decided to dig deeper this time, and it felt great. Gaucho pants, mini-skirts―okay, I might be pulling your leggings a bit―but I did unearth some relics from the past.

Today it occurred to me I’ve been doing the same thing with myself for the past few months. It’s almost like each item of clothing I gave away corresponded with some trait in my personality that no longer fits.

I need to have faith I will have the means to go shopping and buy a new sweater if I need one, because if something doesn’t work, I should let it go. I need to trust I have enough clothes to wear, considering my career as a super model never really took off.

When I think of my closet minus those old relics, it seems symbolic I truly am leaving the past behind. I’d like to think of it as shedding some of my perfectionism, or self-doubt perhaps, that never matched a thing―and maybe some of that self-pity that was too tight. I don’t have the accessories to go with that pride anyway, so I tossed it in the pile as well. And that envy was such an ugly shade of green.

I know I have to make closet cleaning a regular habit. Both my closets and my life get cluttered and messy and frustrating―and then it’s time to push the reset button, or Google how to make a closet bomb.

So what should I do with all those empty hangers? Not a problem. I’ve heard gaucho pants will be back in style this spring. I bet you a pound of sugar cubes there’s a clearance sale just around the corner.

Hey Beautiful!

1 • Dress, Purse & Bracelet: Lot 2029

2 • Dress & Shoes: Fowlers Heritage Company | Purse & Necklace: Scheels Home & Hardware | Hat: Scheels

3. Entire outfits both from Kittsona

4 • Home Tees: Kittsona or Lot 2029 | Jean & Shoes: Fowlers Heritage Company

5 • Tank: Fowlers Heritage Company | Purse: Scheels Home & Hardware | Jeans, Shoes & Necklace: Scheels

6 • Maxi Dress & Necklace: Proper & Prim | Purse: Scheels Home & Hardware | Bracelet: Lot 2029 7 • Earrings: One World

fowlers

Shwood Sunglasses: Hand-crafted eye wear made from exotic woods exclusively available at Fowlers Heritage Company.

210 Broadway N. #101, Fargo 701-356-7778

WHERE TOSHOP

centre for hair

Halocouture offers you a totally unique and delightfully simple way to add thick, gorgeous length and volume instantly!

Downtown Moorhead | 218-236-6000 www centreforhairandwellness.com

DALBOL FLOWERS

Fargo's Wedding Florist We offer a wide selection of bridal bouquets, wedding ceremony flowers, floral cake decorations and centerpieces to fit any budget!

1450 25th St. S., Fargo 701-235-5864 | www.dalbolflowers.com

Pinch & Pour

Experience the array of spices encompassing the most exotic flavors the world has to offer.

210 Broadway N., Fargo (701) 356-7779

Twyla's cosmetique

Indulgent, ontrend lipstick shades. Hundreds of colors to choose from. Custom-blend lipsticks and lipgloss available!

2420 University Dr. S., Fargo 701-282-5303

mainstream boutique

Sheer animal print blouse is perfect for cool summer nights! Wear with capris or skinny jeans and your favorite sandal.

2603 Kirsten Ln. S., Fargo | 701-356-6684 fargo.mainstreamboutique.com

Heritage Gift Shop

There is always something new at the Heritage Gift Shop, with a variety of heritage crafts, local art, books and unique foods coming in daily.

Hjemkomst Center – 202 First Ave. N., Moorhead 218-299-5511 ext 6731

Dunn Brothers Coffee

Now offering Dunn Brothers Quality Single serve convenience! 1895 45th St. S., Fargo | 701-364-3866 1310 25th St. S., Fargo | 701-364-3877

enchantasys

Explore the experience of Chroma Therapy by using Dona Bath Salts in order to stimulate your senses, soften your skin and enrich your mood. Add some color to your down time and stimulate all of your senses. If you enjoy bubble baths then you will love the Dona experience!

2512 7th Ave. S., Fargo (701) 280-0200

Aartisan Home Design

Locally owned furniture and design shop offering customizable furnishings and unique accessory pieces like these flying pigs, available in pairs of white, black, and silver! Stop into the showroom to see what's new!

4575 23rd Ave S Suite 600, Fargo 701.364.5600 | www.aartisan.com

SCHERLING PHOTOGRAPHY

The bustling 13th Avenue South corridor in Fargo has seen immense development over the past several years, resulting in the increased presence of box stores and trendy restaurants. Which is one reason why busy commuters may not give more than a passing glance to the nondescript, brown brick building on the corner of 28th Street. The subtle exterior belies, however, the intricate compositions and memories being captured and created within.

As the home of the locally and family-owned Scherling Photography studio since 1980, and as the last remaining full-photography studio in the Fargo/Moorhead area, Scherling has been at the

Words by Marie Laska Photography Scherling Photography

epicenter of thousands of community members' milestones since Arvid R. Scherling opened the original Scherling in 1920 on Broadway in downtown Fargo.

Arvid, born in Pillager, Minn. in 1898, interned with Dewey Studio in Fargo in 1919 prior to opening his own studio one year later. During his internship he married Sophia Wagner and ultimately had three children, Daniel, Mary and Orlando. It was Orlando who then took over his father’s business in 1949, having amassed years of schooling at both NDSU and the School of Modern Photography in New York City, along with an eventual Master’s degree in 1956 from the Professional Photographers of America. Orlando and his wife Billiette had five sons, two of whom—Patrick and Larry—entered into the family business. Larry’s daughter, Tara Scherling, also joined the team ultimately becoming the fourth generation to stand behind the camera. As Larry explained, one of the things that makes Scherling Photography so unique is not only “the quality and service that we give to our customers” but the family legacy and the heart behind the pictures. “We all care so deeply about it and about carrying it on from generation to generation.”

TOGETHER

Along with traditional photography sessions, the Scherlings have expanded over the years to offer senior photos, prom photos, business cards, birth announcements, wedding albums and holiday cards. Though the face of the photography industry has changed dramatically in recent years due to the emergence of digital photography, the Scherlings have maintained a strong presence as the only full-time printing and developing studio in Fargo and are sought out nationwide for their services. Patrick remarked that “we do all of our own printing and digital editing right in the studio, so one of the things that sets us apart is that we’re so diversified.” Though understanding the draw of “Facebook photography,” Patrick explained how “very few individuals have had the technical training of posing, lighting and composition.”

Along with their diversity the Scherlings have become known for their consistent presence at photography conferences nationwide as part of their ongoing pursuit to stay abreast of new technology and techniques. They are also proud to offer Fargo/Moorhead residents ever-expanding

WE’RE THERE WHEN FAMILIES ARE

options such as thousands of cloth backgrounds to choose from during studio sessions and can even specially print a background upon request. Other specialized services offered at sessions include an iPad synced with the camera so that parents watching their son or daughter having their senior photos done can see each picture as it’s shot and pick and choose favorite ones on the spot.

Tara Scherling, who recently returned from a Nashville Imaging Convention, has helped to create specialized shoots such as the “Bellies to Babies” package—a “complete package of six sessions, photos and extras from maternity until your baby’s first birthday,” which as Tara explained, helps to fully capture the “constant changes from the newborn stage to the first year.”

Over the past 95 years Scherling Photography studio has been witness to the most memorable moments for the residents of Fargo/Moorhead, or as Larry stated it: “we’re there when families are together.” Though customers know that the Scherlings can be counted on to have the most upto-date photography techniques and equipment, the Scherlings themselves are quick to point the lens outward, stating “we wouldn’t be here without our customers, as we really owe it all to them. We just feel good knowing that we’re bringing happiness to them, and that our most common complaint is that ‘there are too many good pictures to choose from.’” [AWM]

FOR MORE INFORMATION

or to schedule a session, please visit www.scherlingphotography.com

Left to Right: Tara Scherling, Patrick Scherling & Larry Scherling

Scherling Photography

Ockhardt Photography

Inna Photography

Kensie Wallner Photography

SENIORS 2015

Scherling Photography

Bell's Photography by Jenna Sandman

Inna Photography

Scherling Photography

IT ALWAYS PROTECTS, ALWAYS TRUSTS, ALWAYS HOPES, ALWAYS PERSEVERES. LOVE NEVER FAILS.

Jeff & Lisa Hagel Ockhardt Photography

Aaron & Brianne Hass Scherling Photography

Chris & Sarah Eide Scherling Photography

Aaron & Amy Brehmer Scherling Photography

Brandon & Catherine Hass Kensie Wallner Photography

YOU HAVE PUT GLADNESS IN MY heart

Ockhardt Photography

Bell's Photography by Jenna Sandman

Scherling Photography

Scherling Photography

Ashley Oberholtzer Photography

Ockhardt Photography

WOMEN’S RESOURCES

WOMEN’S RESOURCES

HEALTH

When it comes to our bodies, there are often things we take for granted. Like having children on our schedule and the ability to walk and speak at will. Those that struggle with infertility or have suffered from a stroke can take solace in the health care they can receive here in the F/M area. Articles from Sanford and Essentia give hope to those that find themselves in these situations.

Image provided by Sanford Health.

IN IT TOGETHER

e tried for about a year, but it just wasn’t working,” said Lindsey. “I had heard really good things about the reproductive medicine program at Sanford , so we made an appointment.”

Lindsey and Justin began meeting with the reproductive medicine team at Sanford Health Fargo including Stephanie Dahl, MD, who specializes in reproductive endocrinology.

“Lindsey and Justin came in at just the right time,” said Dr. Dahl. “We recommend couples who have no obvious issues to schedule an appointment after trying to conceive for a year with no results. If the woman is over 35, she should come see us after six months. If she is over the age of 40, has irregular menstrual cycle or other health issues, she should make an appointment right away.”

During these first appointments, couples will

undergo a routine evaluation to help discover any possible problems.

“We usually do a few other basic things to evaluate reproductive health,” said Dr. Dahl. “After this, we can start with oral medications and other non-invasive options and sometimes, that is all it takes for a woman to conceive.”

However, this wasn’t the case for the Stoeltings.

“We just needed some extra help like a lot of couples,” said Lindsey. “And when you start down that path of other treatment options, it can be very overwhelming. But the crew at Sanford was amazing. They took the time to make sure we understood the process and what was happening.”

The Stoeltings decided to try IUI (intrauterine insemination). They had five procedures but sadly it didn’t work.

Article Provided by Sanford Health

“We took some time and thought, ‘What are we doing?’” said Lindsey. “But we decided to try IVF.”

“In vitro fertilization, or IVF, is usually the last thing we try,” said Dr. Dahl. “It has good results, but it is expensive, more invasive and has certain risks, like conceiving multiples, associated with it.”

But in this case, IVF was just what Lindsey and Justin needed. Two weeks after the first procedure, they received the happy news

“I was so tempted to take a home pregnancy test,” remembered Lindsey. “But we decided to wait the two weeks and have a blood test. We’d waited essentially three years, but those two weeks were the longest ever. But when the nurses called and said we were pregnant, I was just overjoyed. And I think the nurses were about as excited as we were! We had spent so much time with them that they were truly happy for us.”

And through all the appointments and ups and downs, Lindsey was able to receive her care while staying close to home, which is true for many women in North Dakota and Minnesota.

“We offer care in several outreach locations across the region,” said Dr. Dahl. “We often see patients for their initial visit in person locally at our outreach sites and then help adjust medications or check in with them through our Tele-health system so they don’t have to travel to Fargo.”

After a stress-free and easy pregnancy, Lindsey gave birth to her daughter Bria, who is now nine months old.

“She completes our family and brings us such joy,” said Lindsey. “It took her awhile to get here, but it was all in God’s hands and worked out how it was supposed to.”

TO FIND OUT MORE

about the reproductive services offered at Sanford Health Fargo or to find an outreach location near you, visit sanfordhealth.org.

Debbie Bartholomay didn’t plan to give her husband his best birthday gift ever last January. And she didn’t know it would be simply hollering for Larry to come into her hospital room.

But the South Fargo couple hadn’t expected Bartholomay to suffer a life-threatening stroke on January 2 either.

Bartholomay’s coworkers at Ascensus Trust had been worried about her that morning. She wasn’t acting like herself and didn’t look well, so they sent her home to rest. They had reason to worry. Bartholomay, 53, has had three open-heart surgeries. She has a pacemaker and a mechanical heart valve.

Larry let Bartholomay sleep and then had trouble waking her for lunch. When she awoke, Bartholomay had difficulty speaking, the right side of her body was weak and the corner of her mouth was drooping. Larry

recognized the symptoms of a stroke and immediately dialed 911.

The ambulance crew activated a stroke alert so a specially trained team was waiting for Bartholomay when she arrived in the emergency department at Essentia HealthFargo. She could not speak or understand language. Her right arm and leg were completely paralyzed.

Dr. Ziad Darkhabani, an Essentia Health interventional neurologist, quickly diagnosed a blood clot blocking her left carotid artery. Blood was not flowing to the network of vessels in her brain’s left hemisphere. “Time is of the essence because a stroke kills 30,000 brain cells a second,” Dr. Darkhabani explained. “There can be no delay in treatment.”

Bartholomay was quickly transferred to the neurovascular suite where Dr. Darkhabani and his team began a minimally invasive

endovascular procedure. First, Dr. Darkhabani expertly threaded a tiny catheter through the artery to the clot and delivered a clot-busting medicine. Then he used suction to carefully remove the clot in one piece. The large vessel opened completely, restoring blood flow to Bartholomay’s brain.

Even though the procedure was a success, Dr. Darkhabani told Larry that Bartholomay could suffer paralysis and be unable to speak, at least at first. So imagine Larry’s surprise when he returned to the nurses’ station after a few hours of sleep and realized he was hearing his wife calling to him from her room.

“I was hollering, ‘Larry, come in here and talk so I can hear,’” Bartholomay recalled. “I said that twice. And Larry was like, ‘Is that Debbie?’”

Less than 24 hours after the procedure, Bartholomay was speaking again. For Larry,

HUSBAND’S GIFT IS WIFE’S QUICK RECOVERY FROM A STROKE

Words by Jodie Tweed at Essentia Health

Photography by Scott Thuen/Thuen Design

Debbie Bartholomay of South Fargo suffered a stroke last Jan. 2. Prompt action by Essentia Health’s stroke team helped her to a full recovery.

who turned 59 that day, it was the best birthday present ever.

“I was shocked. I couldn’t believe it,” Larry explained.

“Debbie had an amazing recovery,” Dr. Darkhabani said. “The next morning she was back to normal, except for a slight facial droop and that improved by the next day.”

A CT scan showed Bartholomay hadn’t suffered any brain damage. She went home three days after her stroke.

“For a large-vessel stroke like Debbie’s, we now have multiple studies showing endovascular intervention is the best option and achieves better outcomes for patients,” said Dr. Darkhabani, a interventional neurologist. Six recent studies, including one in the New England Journal of Medicine, found patients who have endovascular procedures fare better than other treatments, he explained. One study found more than 35 percent of these patients were able to live independently or nearly independently after recovering from their strokes. Without any procedure, less than 20 percent of patients were able to live independently or nearly independently, he said.

“We have a new standard of care for people with large-vessel strokes who are treated within the first six or eight hours,” Dr. Darkhabani said. “We know it will give patients a better outcome. While it once was a procedure of last resort, now it is what we can do and should do.”

“To be honest, I feel better now than I have in the last year,” Bartholomay said. “I’m peppier and happier. I feel good. I couldn’t have asked for a better doctor. Dr. Darkhabani is just unbelievable.”

Bartholomay said she’s grateful for the care she received at Essentia, which gives her more time with her family, including son, Kasey and his wife, Lisa, and grandchildren, Brooks and Claire.

“I truly believe there was an angel above who was watching over me that day,” Bartholomay said.

HOME

F/M area residents have two new unique options when it comes to hassle-free living. Get the inside scoop from two area teams endeavoring to provide upscale, quality construction. Heritage Homes and Roers each have something different to offer, and each is committed to the needs of their clients. Read about them in Area Home. Image provided by Ockhardt Photography.

M etropolitan A partments : Modern, Sophisticated Living

SStart with a great south Fargo location, add sophisticated design, gorgeous common areas, lots of amenities, and you have the perfect recipe for modern, upscale apartment living. It can all be found at Roers’ Metropolitan Apartments 4400 Calico Drive South just three blocks north of 32nd Avenue and directly east of the Urban Plains Center. These apartment homes are south Fargo’s answer to sophisticated living.

Phase 1 of Metropolitan Apartments opened in 2011 and Phase 2 opened May 1, 2015. All total, there are 75 units in the complex. They include one bedroom, one bath + den; two bedrooms, two baths; and three bedrooms, two baths. The amenities include: a washer/dryer in each unit,

Words by Susan A. Stibbe | Photography by Jill Ockhardt

air conditioners in the bedrooms, central air in the new units, community space with fireplace and rooftop terrace, trash chutes, on-site management, elevator, electronic locks, and large balconies. Off-street parking is included with each unit and single and double garages, both heated and unheated, are available for an additional charge.

Melissa Rydell, residential property manager, said, “We have a small community feel with all the amenities of a much bigger complex. We are always looking for new ways for residents to get to know each other and make connections.”

That community feeling starts with the common spaces shared by all residents. On the first floor there is a fitness room with workout machines, weights, and a big screen television. Large windows look out to the perfectly landscaped

east lawn. On the fourth floor, there is a spacious sunroom with a fireplace, big screen television, seating, a small kitchenette, and large windows and doors that open out to a well-appointed rooftop terrace. It is the perfect size for casual socializing and can be reserved for more formal entertaining. The management staff has hosted different building events since opening its doors back in 2011. These have included grill outs on the rooftop terrace and a wine and cheese night. They also had a pie social to introduce Morgan Almer, the site manager, when he began in 2014. “We wanted all the tenants to have a chance to meet Morgan.” said Rydell. “It was a big success and Morgan is an important part of our community feeling.”

Almer’s duties include interactions with tenants and showing apartments to prospective renters. “I enjoy my work and it’s very easy when your product is superior,” said Almer. He is on site Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. And there is 24hour emergency maintenance.

Melissa Rydell

Morgan Almer

According to Almer and Rydell, the tenants really vary. There are young professionals, business and medical professionals, busy married couples, and empty nesters. Rydell said, “This is great place to downsize. It is maintenance free with no yard work or snow removal.” Almer added, “It is the perfect stepping stone for anyone who wants the maintenance-free lifestyle that comes with the Metropolitan.”

“We are within walking distance to many restaurants like Sonic, Applebees, People’s Organic Coffee, Five Guys as well as other services such as banks, and gas stations. And we are a short car ride to Scheel’s Arena. And, of course, very easy access to I-94. It’s a great location!” said Almer.

The modern and upscale design make the Metropolitan a place in which you want to spend time. “It was exciting to work with the Roers teams on this project. The development team, architects, designers, construction team, and management team are all top notch,” said Rydell. “When working with this group you have the opportunity to influence decisions from the beginning.”

That attention to detail is apparent in the units. The appliances are stainless steel, the upper countertops are granite, the backsplashes are beautiful modern glass tile, and the unique fixtures complement the décor. The layouts are well-thought out with efficient use of space and generous closets. In the two-bedroom units, each bedroom and bath is located on opposite sides of the apartment guaranteeing maximum privacy and quiet. Some units have designated storage spaces, while others have storage space in their units through utility or laundry areas. Each unit has a patio or balcony, large enough for table, chairs, and a gas grill.

Metropolitan Apartments truly delivers on their promise of an upscale, downtown feel in the heart and convenience of south Fargo. [AWM]

Metropolitan Apartments

4400 Calico Drive South | (701) 388-6801

COMING SOON: HERITAGE HOMES THE ASPENS AT TIMBER CREEK

Words by Joyce Eisenbraun

Sophisticated style in a peaceful neighborhood is combined with carefree maintenance and intelligent design in South Fargo’s newest development. Twenty-six luxury residences, nestled together in friendly townhome style, offer a spacious sanctuary from busy lifestyles at The Aspens at Timber Creek by Heritage Homes.

“We had homeowners asking us for something different than what they could find in our market,” said Tyrone Leslie, Heritage Homes President/Owner. “They wanted us to create a home that wouldn’t require a lot of exterior upkeep, but still retained the spacious family, kitchen and bedroom areas they had in their present home.”

After researching the needs of the area, Leslie and his team at Heritage Homes developed a new concept for the market. “This will not only be great for retirement, it is also ideal for the semi-retired and professionals wanting to live the carefree lifestyle,” noted Steve Larson, director of sales. “We really created this to meet the needs of those people who have a busy life, and don’t want to take care of the lawn or snow removal. There are a lot of people in the area who have a lake place, and want the freedom to lock the door and walk away for a week or month, without worrying about who’s handling the upkeep.”

Typical of Heritage Homes’ other projects, The Aspens will utilize the Woman-Centric design elements that have become sought after in the region. In most homes, the woman often takes the lead when deciding how the home will be used, based on her needs and the needs of the family. Through the Woman-Centric design approach, Heritage Homes creates interiors that cater to her needs, from storage and entertaining to personal areas for de-stressing and adaptable spaces that are flexible for changing needs. “We focus on having a better

understanding of our homeowners so we can serve their needs,” said Leslie. “The result is they stay happily in our homes for years, because we’ve asked the right questions.”

Although the exteriors of the townhomes will be similar throughout the development, each homeowner will have the flexibility to create their own living style within their home. A lovely covered entry with stone accent pillars brings family and guests into the private front entry of the home. To the right is a guest bedroom and full bath. Generous living and dining areas, complete with 11-foot ceilings in the family room, encourage entertaining and family get-togethers. Gourmet kitchen amenities include granite countertops, tile backsplash and maple custom cabinets in your choice of finishes as well as a selection of appliances. Tucked just off the kitchen is a handy open area for a bench to put your shoes on, coming from the garage and laundry area. The master bedroom suite incorporates lush comfort with a spa-like master bath and large walk-in closets.

All the townhomes at The Aspens have private, charming covered patios, perfect for morning coffee or afternoon socializing, with access either from the dining room or master suite.

If the almost-2,000-square feet on the main level isn’t sufficient for your needs, this innovative concept by Heritage Homes offers a second level, providing an additional 1,300 square feet to accommodate more living space. And there’s plenty of room in the two-car garage, which is oversized, insulated and finished with a floor drain.

“We’ve designed these homes to be easily accessible,” said Leslie. “There are no steps from the outside into the home, you can just walk

Photography by Nate Mickelberg Images

Tyrone Leslie, Heritage Homes president/owner & Steve Larson, director of sales.

right in. With a crawl space below, the floors are warm, it’s built to high-efficiency standards so each home is not only private, but quiet.”

The neighborhood is located near the intersection of Interstate 29 and 52nd Ave. S. in Fargo, next door to Timberline, Fox Run and Rose Creek developments, and just a short distance to major employers and retail outlets. The development is laid out in a large cul-de-sac setting, with green park space bordering one side. Most of the townhomes will be in groups of four, each home having a private entrance and view from their covered patio.

“Building a home for someone does have a positive influence on their lives,” stated Leslie. “It’s an honor for us to build for them, and one we take very seriously. Fortunately, we have a great team who loves what they do.”

Winner of the Best Builder award by the local and state Home Builders Association, and voted Best Home Builder in the Red River Valley for the past four years, Heritage Homes has a well-earned reputation for quality, innovation and meeting the needs of their customers. The beautiful development, The Aspens at Timber Creek, offers another glimpse of the creative, thoughtful and extraordinary vision of the Heritage Homes team. Perhaps that is why Heritage Homes already has eight of the 26 homes reserved, and is breaking ground this summer on the first homes in this beautiful, peaceful development.

TO CATCH A GLIMPSE

of this new concept in Fargo, please visit the Heritage Homes website “Our Plans” tab for a 3D virtual tour.

For more information, please contact:

Heritage Homes

Heritage New Home Sales Specialists

1815 38th St. S.| Fargo, ND 701-281-7184 | www.heritagefargo.com

Marketed by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Premier Properties

www.bhhspreproperties.com | 701-356-3600

PROFILES

Getting

to know some of the incredible people

in the F/M area is one of the great reasons to read Area Profiles. In this edition you can read about Lanelle Vasichek, the woman behind celebrating Mommy Milestones, get to know Ms. North Dakota, Laura Kleihauer, and experience the passion that drives Charlotte Tuhy to care so much for so many creatures. Image provided by Nate Mickelberg Images

“CELEBRATE THE MOMMY MILESTONES”

Words

Underlee Nelson

The early days of motherhood are a whirlwind of sleepless nights, everchanging routines and baby milestones. Lanelle Vasichek’s new book, “Celebrating The Mommy Milestones” urges moms to celebrate a different kind of milestone – their own.

"I think we focus so much on others, we sort of forget about all the accomplishments we experience along the way,” said Vasichek. “I think we have our ideas of what we consider ‘celebration worthy,’ but if we wait for those scarce birthday parties and anniversaries to celebrate (which most of the time we are the ones planning), we are losing out on a whole lot of opportunities to find ‘best day ever’ moments that are worthy.”

From taking the baby out of the house for the first time to retiring the maternity clothes to the first post-baby date night, Vasichek encourages moms to celebrate the little victories and transitions that can get lost in the shuffle of everyday life. Busy moms know that some days even just the act of getting out

of pajamas and into the shower feels like it deserves a blue ribbon – and Vasichek is here to give it. (Literally – there’s a cheerful blue ribbon pictured by each Mommy Milestone in the book. And scheduling time for showering is one of them.)

“So often moms are the hub of the household and keep things running smooth, keep everyone fed, keeping track of the last time anyone had a bath,” said Vasichek. “Those activities don’t seem to make it on a ‘celebration’ list, but[…]we should realize that what we do every day counts and that’s pretty awesome.”

This is the book Vasichek wished she received as a gift when she was a new mom. The experiential marketing contractor and firsttime author was a busy professional when she had her two kids, Michael (now nine) and Katelyn (now seven.) Like so many moms, she was excited to start her parenting journey. She read, she researched and she worked hard to create the best possible environment for her little ones.

Illustrations by Annette Wood

Celebrate the

Lanelle Vasichek

TM

by Alicia

Photography by Mark Sorgaard, FATcat Studios

Lanelle Vasichek & her family Fargo author urges moms to find joy in life’s little moments

Despite her preparation, the transition wasn’t easy. “The demands of a new little person surprised me,” said Vasichek. “Becoming a mom was definitely amazing, but so exhausting at the same time. I really hope that anyone who reads the book feels like they are not alone in all the crazy moments of motherhood – new moms and seasoned moms alike.”

“Celebrate The Mommy Milestones,” with its whimsical illustrations, breezy tone and super short sections (perfect for a busy mama with just a few moments of free time at any given moment) is a fun, feel-good read. Vasichek’s voice rings through the pages, as chatty and real as a friend across the kitchen table. Her anecdotal stories about her adventures with the Boss (baby, of course) and frank discussion of everything from the herculean effort of a trip to Target to the complicated emotions that follow getting the “all clear” to resume the adult activities that created baby in the first place will have moms of all ages nodding along.

The book is available at Evereve and Shannalee in Fargo, on amazon.com and on Vasichek’s website, mommymilestones.com. Vasichek is also developing a line of cards to promote the oftenoverlooked milestones in a mother’s life, which will be available on the website soon. These milestones include a woman’s Mommaversary, a term Vasichek coined to celebrate the anniversary of the day a woman becomes a mom. Women can register the date they became a mother and submit their own Mommy Milestones on mommymilestones.com.

Celebrating the little moments and honoring the accomplishments of mothers is Vasichek’s mission. And the first step, she explained, is for women to be kind to themselves.

“No one is perfect and life is messy and busy and sometimes sticky and that is ok,” she said. “If we could laugh a little bit at ourselves or our situation, I think we all become a little more realistic, not be so hard on ourselves and enjoy everything a little more. We all have so much good going on in our lives that if we could all just take a moment and really look at our days, we will realize how amazing we already are.” [AWM]

SEQUINS AND COMBAT BOOTS

Words

Alicia Underlee Nelson

Ms. North Dakota Laura Kleihauer is as comfortable in combat boots and fatigues as she is in a crown and heels. The Fargo resident won her title in Fargo in March and since then she’s balanced the demands of her title with her work as Director of Youth Development at YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties and her calling as a solider.

Laura has been a Military Police and Air Defense Officer with the North Dakota National Guard for three years. She also recently accepted a position as Family Readiness Group Lead for the North Dakota National Guard. So how do her fellow soldiers react to a beauty queen in their midst?

“It's funny seeing their physical reactions at first,” said Kleihauer. “When my soldiers first found out I was a title-holder they told me I did not look the part―until they saw my picture. But after they thought about it for a second they realized it was fitting for me, being that I am so involved in my community and a philanthropic individual. I just keep telling people life is always about new experiences and challenges and I am proud to be a part of an experience that is greater than me.”

Kleihauer had been a pageant contestant in the past, but hadn’t competed in eight years, concentrating instead on her education and her civilian and military career. She admitted that her experience is a little unorthodox for a pageant competitor, but sees her unconventional background as major asset.

“I do not consider myself ‘typical’ in the realm of pageant competition,” she said. “However, I believe that all my life experiences that have happened in the past eight years have made me more well-rounded and competitive.”

by

Photography by Nate Mickelberg Images

Ms. North Dakota Laura Kleihauer balances work, family and service to country

Her Ms. North Dakota platform―community connections with military service members and their families―will take her across the state in the coming months. She will work to establish relationships between communities, local business leaders and military units in their cities.

“Soldiers and their families need support not only when soldiers are away from home serving, but also when they are home and need to integrate back into society,” she said. “By establishing community connections, local businesses and organizations can help provide resources for soldiers cooping with mental and physical issues, help with financial and employment hardships and offer services and entertainment for their families.”

Balancing these very different worlds would be a challenge for anyone, but the new Ms. North Dakota takes it all in stride. “I am huge on priorities and I can thank the military for that!,” she said. “I would not take on anything in life that I could not handle. With that being said, everything has a place in life because life needs to be balanced. Everything makes me happy though. I love to stay super busy.”

Keeping busy won’t be a problem for Kleihauer in the coming months as she continues to add Ms. North Dakota engagements and appearances to her already busy schedule. She will serve as Ms. North Dakota until the spring of 2016. [AWM]

I JUST KEEP TELLING PEOPLE LIFE IS ALWAYS ABOUT NEW EXPERIENCES AND CHALLENGES AND I AM PROUD TO BE A PART OF AN EXPERIENCE THAT IS GREATER THAN ME.

A Place of Healing

Tucked away in the countryside near Hawley, Minn., is a special ranch that is changing lives. Home to about 80 rescued and rehabilitated horses, Hightail Horse Ranch and Rescue is using compassion, homeopathic medicine and good, old-fashioned hard work to give horses a new chance at life.

By Amanda Peterson | Photography by Jill Ockhardt

IT’S A PLACE OF HEALING.

Talk to any of the ranch volunteers and they’ll say they are the ones changed. Apparently spending several hours a week pouring energy, high-protein meal and love into neglected horses doesn’t leave you untouched.

Kris Grier of Lake Park, Minn., and her two daughters, Emily, 18, and Katie, 12, began volunteering a year ago. Katie’s love of horses and struggle with anxiety issues led them to the ranch. The changes in Katie were striking.

“She was having a really hard time. Lots of things made her anxious,” Kris said. “When she’s out here, the horses calm her.”

Soon, mom, daughters and even dad, Dean, were doing chores up to three days a week. Emily helped start an adoption program for barn cats. Kris overcame her own fear of horses. Katie took riding lessons and bonded with rescued horses.

One mare, Blue, captured Katie’s heart instantly.

The bond was so apparent, the ranch even found sponsors to cover the adoption and boarding costs for Blue, so Katie could keep her forever.

“It’s amazing to watch,” Kris said. “Blue takes pretty good care of her. She feels very safe with her.”

They are all thankful for what Hightail has done for their family.

“It’s very calming and relaxing just helping the animals,” Kris said. “You are so focused on them the whole time you don’t have a chance to worry about your own problems and issues.”

Helping Horses

Hightail Horse Ranch and Rescue is owned by Charlotte Tuhy, 54, and her husband, Joel Hildebrandt, 54. Last year alone, the ranch rescued more than 60 horses and found homes for nearly as many – not to mention the rescued pigs, goats, cats, dogs, donkeys, chickens and ducks.

It’s not just horses healing out there. There’s something about nature and animals that helps you get your head together.

–

Hightail volunteer Katie Shaw of Moorhead

When Tuhy first purchased the 43-acre farmstead in 2006 she named it Hightail Horse Ranch, a nod to her special interest in Arabian horses who characteristically carry their tails high. She envisioned raising her daughter, Jordanne Bruns, now 22 and a farrier, and a few horses out in the county. But her big heart for animals couldn’t be contained.

“Rescue work has always been a calling for me,” said Tuhy, who rescued her first neglected dog at 13. Later in life, she spent a decade running the Natural Pet Center in Fargo, where she also placed dogs and cats for adoption.

Once Tuhy moved to a ranch, people began contacting her about horses in need. Some of the horses were surrendered by overwhelmed owners, others were found wandering the countryside and even more were rescued from slaughter buyers at auctions.

“I’d leave the auctions in tears and usually with a full trailer,” she remembered.

Tuhy applied for nonprofit status in 2010 and began serving as a rescue agency for local law enforcement with suspected animal abuse and neglect cases. In its first county seizure in November 2012, Hightail rescued 11 horses from a farm in Perham, Minn. Since then, the ranch as rescued another 50 horses, three llamas, six rabbits, two dogs and a goat during seizures or in surrender cases.

Each time, all of the animals were taken to Hightail for evaluation, careful feeding regimens, homeopathic vet care, flower essence treatments for healing and lots of love from volunteers. Sometimes, like in the case of two of the llamas, they don’t make it. But most often, with gentle, consistent care, they do.

Horse trainer, riding instructor and volunteer Hannah Mork works with the neediest horses. Once they are physically and mentally healthy, she trains them for handling and riding. During her two years at the ranch she’s brought many horses from not trusting a touch to allowing kids to ride them.

“One of the saddest things about getting the

rescue animals is not the dull look in their eyes, their open wounds or their boney hips” Mork said. “For me, it’s offering the 30-year-old horse a treat and realizing that he has no idea what to do with it because he’s never had one given to him before. That first gesture of love is amazing, seeing the surprise and understanding in a horse’s eye.”

When the horses are healed and trained, they are put up for lease or adoption, on their way to new homes. Hightail’s unique leasing program allows a person to take over the care and expenses of a horse, while boarding it at the ranch. The horse has the stability of one owner, who can take as long as necessary to make sure the horse is a good fit. About 30 of the horses currently at Hightail are already leased or adopted.

“Most of the people leasing horses are likely going to finalize their adoptions,” Tuhy said. “They fall in love with their horses and those horses end up with a home.”

This approach led Marsha Jorgenson of Moorhead to Hightail to find ponies for her children, Remington, 6, and Hannah, 8. Char helped match them with two rescued ponies and lined up riding lessons with Mork. The kids can’t wait for their weekly Saturday lessons, knowing each one brings them closer to finalizing their pony adoptions.

“It’s a great place to give a horse a second chance,” Jorgenson said. “They are going to work with you and make sure the horse is a great fit.”

Helping People

In 2011, Tuhy created horse education classes―for people. Offered through the ranch and Moorhead Community Education, the “How to Be With Horses” classes are about much more than how to ride. They teach the details of grooming, feeding, understanding behavior, respectful care and the responsibilities of horse ownership.

When Jaime Aasen of West Fargo was looking for a horse-riding class for her 8-year-old daughter, Emery, she stumbled across Hightail online. She immediately loved the approach.

“This was the perfect program for Emery because they taught her how to interact with the horses before she ever got on one,” Aasen said. “She gained confidence and was totally at ease on the ranch with the horses and staff.”

The horse classes brought Katie Shaw, a Moorhead mom of five, to the ranch too. She volunteered weekly for three

Charlotte with her husband, Joel Hildebrandt

Kim Sargent, former volunteer at Hightail

Terry Carbone, volunteer at Hightail, with Red

years and plans to visit again when her family schedule allows.

“It’s a place of healing,” Shaw said. “It’s not just horses healing out there. There’s something about nature and animals that helps you get your head together.”

The horse education classes and horse rescue work walk hand-in-hand. As people take a few classes, they support the rescue mission with their class fees. They also fall in love with the horses and find themselves pitching in before or after class by mucking stalls, grooming the cats and dogs, or feeding the chickens. They make new friends with other volunteers and bond with a few more horses. It just keeps bringing them back.

Linda Dregseth of Fargo is a prime example. After her husband suffered a stroke, Dregseth’s doctor encouraged her, as primary caretaker, to do something for herself. Looking back on her childhood love of horses, she decided to sign up for a “How to Be With Horses” class. Now, more than three years later, she’s a regular Thursday volunteer at the ranch and is working to adopt her first horse in more than 40 years, a gelding Arabian named Rio.

“When I hit that driveway, everything else drops away,” Dregseth said. “It’s a place I go can and be fully present. The rest of the world is just put on hold.”

Regular, dedicated volunteers are exactly what Tuhy needs. Running an operation of this size simply isn’t possible for one person or one family.

“Char is able to attract students, teachers, volunteers and other extraordinary people who use their skills to work here,” Hildebrandt said. “We need everybody.”

Jim Wannemacher of Foxhome, Minn., has volunteered four days a week at the ranch since his retirement. He appreciates the chance to reconnect with his farm roots while making a difference in the lives of animals and making friends.

“Lots of good people volunteer there,” he said. “The volunteers are always ready to help.”

Some of those volunteers include at-risk youth from Fargo-Moorhead. Since 2013, Cyndi Lind of Fargo has brought more than a dozen different teens to the ranch weekly to volunteer―first through Youth for Christ and now through her own ministry, Do Something Ministries. As the youth dig into very physical chores of cleaning stalls, filling holes in the driveway or picking rocks in a pasture, they experience the satisfaction that comes from helping others.

“They really connect with the animals because the animals have had a hard time too,” Lind said. “It’s a privilege to partner with Char and Joel. They give my youth the opportunity to shine. They are giving them a second chance.”

The youth also assist with fundraiser pony rides in the community, helping lead horses and walk alongside riders. At one particular event, six of Lind’s youth helped a young man who was quadriplegic ride one of the horses. As a team, they lifted him up, supported him with their many hands, and watched him beam with pride and joy. Lind chokes up remembering the moment.

“That was such a highlight for this young man to be able to do this,” Lind said. “The youth were able to help fulfill someone else’s dream by just giving of their time.”

Happy Endings

Look at a few photos of the starved and neglected horses Hightail has rescued and it’s hard to believe they are the same animals out in the pastures today. The dull eyes and protruding ribs are gone. Plump, bright-eyed, calm and curious animals are in their place, munching together at the hay bales, basking in the sun.

Others, like Zane, one of Hightail’s most beloved horses, are happily settled in new homes. The silver Arabian stallion was found starved and hanging in a sling during the Perham seizure. During his first eight days at Hightail, he collapsed four times and Tuhy was sure they were going to lose him. He never gave up and neither did the volunteers who rallied around him.

Today, Zane lives in Eau Claire, Wis., with Dan McCargar, who fell in love with him during a news broadcast. After a thorough adoption interview and many calls with Tuhy, the experienced horseman drove the 18-hour round trip to adopt a recovering Zane. Now a healthy, happy, slightly chubby, affectionate gelding, Zane has settled in with the four other horses at McCargar’s home. He’s bringing his owner tremendous joy.

“Oftentimes when you enter into something like this, you think you’re rescuing the horse,” McCargar said. “But there’s always a bit of the horse that’s rescuing you. You’re getting more of a reward from it.”

Stories like Zane’s are what keep Tuhy, Hildebrandt and all of the volunteers putting in the long hours and heart-wrenching work. They long to see the horses healed, happy and adopted.

“It’s a joy sending horses like Zane to new homes,” Tuhy said. “It’s bittersweet though. You really have to trust other people. You’re putting faith in other people to continue what we’ve started.”

For more information on Hightail Horse Ranch and Rescue or to volunteer, visit hightailhorseranchandrescue.com. You can reach Charlotte Tuhy at chart@loretel.net.

SPONSOR A RESCUED HORSE

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Volunteers are always appreciated at Hightail Horse Ranch & Rescue, but there’s a new way to help too. Individuals and businesses are invited to sponsor a rescued horse. Through a monthly donation (amounts vary depending on the need of each horse), you can sponsor the cost of a rescued horse’s stay at the ranch until it finds a new home. You’ll be providing much needed shelter, food, medical care and healing during this important time. In exchange for your gift, you will receive a framed photo of your sponsored horse, as well as a printable copy of its story. The photo and story, along with your name or business, will also be added to the ranch’s Wall of Thanks in the barn, its Facebook page and Website. For more information or to begin a sponsorship, contact director Charlotte Tuhy at chart@loretel.net.

HELLO SUMMER!