Area Woman Magazine Dec'16/Jan'17

YOU CAN START OVER

YOU CAN START OVER

merrt christmaw

merrt christmaw

ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING

PUBLISHER Area Woman Publishing, LLC

EDITORS IN CHIEF Mike Sherman | Becky Sherman

PROOFING EDITOR Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss

GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERN Anna Hinsverk FIND US 701-306-5119 | areawomanmagazine.com twitter.com/AWFargo | facebook.com/areawomanmagazine | pinterest.com/areawomanmag READ IT ONLINE issuu.com/areawoman

ART DIRECTOR Megan Elgin

Debbie Trombley

Marietta Hartze-Andresen

At Prairie St. John’s we are here to help with holiday and post-holiday stress, anxiety and depression. Our mental health diagnostic services and treatment are focused on the special needs of each individual’s situation.

Here are warning signs in adults that may show you need help, and that’s okay. It’s why we’re here.

• Constant worrying

• Trembling or muscle tension

• Feeling tense or inability to relax

• Feeling tired

• Having trouble staying focused

• Feeling irritable or grouchy

• Trouble falling or staying asleep

• Physically ill (with no other identified medical concerns)

Call us at 701.476.7200 to learn more. Confidential assessments available 24/7.

• Difficulty maintaining employment

• Tension or conflict with others

• Law violations

• Anger outbursts

• Difficulty communicating

• Depression

• Suicidal thoughts/gestures

• Changes in eating patterns

www.prairie-stjohns.com

The holidays aren’t always full of JOY.

CONTRIBUTORS

our writers are the voice of Area Woman Magazine. They bring to life the Fargo-Moorhead area and the incredible stories of the women we feature.

These are the talented writers featured in this issue. Learn more about these and our other contributors at areawomanmagazine.com

JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

JILL wrote our COVER STORY page 84 »

Facilitating storytelling through her work, Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss strives to show the best side of individuals, businesses and families. Her areas of expertise encompass marketing photography, editorial photography, writing and copyediting, in addition to video-documentary-style photo sessions for families. See more of her work at ockhardtphoto.com.

Carolyn

Melissa Davidson

Alicia Underlee Nelson

Andrea Arntson

Rebecca Meidinger

Kim Malakowsky

Lillehaugen

Thank you for your nominations and votes!

Our team is dedicated to providing the best quality and service for this community. To be recognized for SIX consecutive years as Best Home Builder in the Fargo Forum “Best of the Red River Valley Awards,” as well as Best Luxury Home Builder in Design & Living Magazine “People’s Choice Awards” is the biggest compliment we can receive. It wouldn’t be possible to do what we LOVE to do without the help of our trusted trade partners. You can rest easy knowing that we work with the best of the best, as voted and nominated by the community!

We work with the best in the area as voiced by you!

BEST INTERIOR DECORATOR

TREVER HILL

BEST HOME APPLIANCE STORE

FERGUSON

BEST CUSTOM CABINETRY

MILL CREEK CUSTOM CABINETS

BEST LIGHTING SELECTION

VALLEY LIGHTS

BEST TILE INSTALLER

FLOOR TO CEILING CARPET ONE

BEST FLOORING SELECTION

FLOOR TO CEILING CARPET ONE

BEST COUNTERTOP INSTALL & SUPPLY STONE COUNTERTOP OUTLET

BEST PLUMBING & SUPPLY PRECISION PLUMBING

BEST PAINTING SERVICE

RED RIVER DRYWALL

BEST PAINT

Enjoy Our Journey. Love Your Livability.

women ’ s resources

area LIFE

ENJOY THE SIMPLE PLEASURES THAT FILL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON CALENDAR, whether it's joining a book club or participating in the Fargo's outdoor Frostival. We'll also help you manage your time better and deal with the unexpected in your life. Plus, meet one spectacular little boy with a huge heart for other kids.

JANUARY 27 & 28

FROSTIVAL

Kickball, cardboard sled races, live music, beer gardens, and family friendly events across Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo.

Opening Kick-Off Friday 6:00 – 9:00 PM Competitions and outdoor/indoor activities Saturday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM 701-282-3653 | frostival.com

december JANUARY

NOVEMBER 25

FRASER, LTD.

COOKIES WITH THE CLAUS FAMILY

The Claus Family will arrive by horsedrawn sleigh at 1:15 PM. Festivities will include Games Galore, an art project, balloon animals, sleigh rides, entertainment and cookie decorating. FREE

1:00 – 4:00 PM

FARGODOME

DECEMBER

10

Moorhead JUST FOR KIX WINTER SHOW

Join us as our 3 year old — 12th grade dancers perform this holiday season. Tickets available at the door.

4:00 PM

Moorhead High School Gym

2300 4th Ave S | Moorhead justforkix.com/danceclasses/moorhead-mn/

DECEMBER 3 & 10

JAWS, PAWS AND LUNCH with SANTA CLAUS AT THE ZOO

The Red River Zoo will host Santa and guests for lunch, special crafts and a photo with the big man himself. Sorry, Rudolf can’t make it but all of our animals will. Tickets are $10/children, $15/adults and include admission to the zoo. Members get $2 discount.

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Red River Zoo 4255 23rd Ave S | Fargo 701-277-9240 | redriverzoo.org

DECEMBER 17

FAMILY FUN GINGERBREAD HOUSES

Kids of all ages and their families are welcome. All materials will be provided. FREE

11:00 AM

Fargo Main Library, Community Room

102 3rd St N | Fargo fargolibrary.org

JANUARY

MOMS CAFÉ

20

DECEMBER 16 &

Enjoy time with other moms, snacks, playtime for children and an opportunity to learn more about the club. Free and open to area moms and children.

10:00 – 11:30 AM

First Congregational Church of Fargo

1101 17th Ave S | Fargo

facebook.com/MomsClubFargo momscluboffm@gmail.com

FEBRUARY 4

ROBIN HOOD

Horace Elementary Grades K–5 with Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre presents Robin Hood

$5/ADULTS, $3/CHILDREN

1:00 PM AND 4:00 PM

Liberty Middle School

801 36th Ave E | West Fargo

hsmcnovak@gmail.com

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

FARGO PARKS and REC

provides many activities for the whole family all year long with some special events during the holidays. Love hockey? Stop by the rink Wednesdays from 11:30am-1pm for Drop in Adult Hockey. Kids can make a special gift with Mrs. Claus for their dad, grandpa or other male figure (Dec 5) and one for a special female (Dec 12), plus be sure to check out all the other holiday and monthly art events online. And a visit to Santa Village at Rhealt Farm right in Fargo is always a treat.

CALENDAR: FAMILY EVENTS

SANTA VILLAGE

Celebrate the Season of Giving by visiting Santa Village. Meet Santa, decorate a cookie with Mrs. Claus, see the model train displays, enjoy the holiday light displays, make a special craft project and make memories together as a family. Enjoy Fargo's version of the North Pole until the day before Christmas Eve.

Wednesdays through Sundays.

Dec. 3-4 | 1:00 – 7:00 PM

Dec. 7-9 | 4:00 – 7:00 PM

Dec. 10-11 | 1:00 – 8:00 PM

Dec. 14-16 | 4:00 – 7:00 PM

Dec. 17-18 | 1:00 – 8:00 PM

Dec. 21-22 | 4:00 – 8:00 PM

Dec. 23 | 1:00 – 8:00 PM

Rheault Farm

2902 25th St S | Fargo

More events, info and registration at fargoparks.com

december december JANUARY

CALENDAR: FARGO LIBRARY CHESS CLUB

LOVE TO READ?

Join

READING THE WORLD BOOK CLUB

Memoir, travel writing and fiction from non-North American or nonWestern European perspectives. First Thursday, every month Main Library

TEA TIME BOOK CLUB

Exploring recent bestseller titles. Second Monday, every month, Carlson Library

CLASSIC BOOK CLUB

Exploring classic titles.

Third Wednesday, every month Northport Library

CURRENT HISTORY BLOOK CLUB

Socio-political reads with historical background. Last Tuesday, every month, Main Library

EVERY THURSDAY EVENING, 5:30-8:30PM, MAIN LIBRARY

An informal club open to players of all levels in the Fercho Conference Room. Free and open to all ages.

FREE FRIDAY MOVIE

DEC 9 & JAN 13, 1:00 PM, CARLSON LIBRARY

Free movies are shown the second Friday of every month through May. Free popcorn is served.

PAWS FOR READING

DEC 10 & JAN 14, 1:00 PM, MAIN LIBRARY

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Sign-up for a 15-minute session to read to a reading therapy pet from Therapy Pets of the Red River Valley.

LEGO MANIA at MAIN

DEC 29, 2:00 PM, MAIN LIBRARY

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Annual LEGO design contest for kids 12 years old and under. Prizes will be awarded. Snacks will be provided.

COUNTDOWN TO ‘NOON’ YEAR’S EVE

DEC 31, 11:00 AM, MAIN LIBRARY

Kids 12 and under, ring in the New Year and still get to bed on time! A morning of fun with music, stories, refreshments and other engaging activities. Fancy dress welcome. All materials and treats will be provided. No registration is required.

All events are free and open to the public. More events, info and registration at fargolibrary.org or 701-241-1495

SALVATION ARMY

Volunteering and Giving Events

NOVEMBER 15 through CHRISTMAS EVE

BELL RINGING

Volunteer for shifts throughout each day to ring bells at 30+ locations in the community.

10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Sign up for a shift at 701-356-2691

DECEMBER 3

MASCOT CHALLENGE

Local College Mascots compete to get Red Kettle donations.

9:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Scheels All Sports

1551 45th St S | Fargo 701-232-5565

REALTORS, FIREMEN and LAW ENFORCEMENT

compete to bring in the most Red Kettle donations. Be sure to show your support!

DECEMBER 2

REALTORS RING DAY

DECEMBER 9

FIRE UP THE KETTLES

Firemen’s Ring Day

DECEMBER 13

LAW ENFORCEMENT DAY

DECEMBER 20

CHRISTMAS FOOD BOX Distribution

Sign up for shifts throughout the day to help with sorting and delivery of Christmas food boxes to area families.

9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Fargo Civic Center

207 4th St N | Fargo 701-232-5565

december JANUARY

CALENDAR: ART and CRAFTS

NOVEMBER 26

FM HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET

Join 15 local modern handmade makers for a one day pop-up holiday shopping event on Small Business Saturday.

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The Landmark Building 17 7th St S | Fargo

701-430-9538

DECEMBER 2, 3 & 4

HOLIDAY ART SALE

Support local art and artists at our third annual Holiday Art Sale. Friday night, a ticketed sneak preview event with appetizers, drinks and 10% discount on all artwork. Saturday/Sunday art sale with wheel throwing demonstrations by local ceramic artists.

FRIDAY 6:00 – 8:00 PM | SATURDAY 1:30 – 3:30 PM

SUNDAY NOON – 5:00 PM

Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Center for Creativiity

Plains Art Museum 704 1st Ave N | Fargo plainsart.org

DECEMBER 3

7TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY COLLECTIONS CRAFT FAIR

75+ booths for your holiday shopping convenience. Admission: canned or boxed food items for daily bread program. Complimentary refreshments served and door prizes awarded. All proceeds go towards the new Holy Cross Mary Rosary Garden.

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Holy Cross Catholic Church — New location south of Costco

2711 7th St E | West Fargo

701-277-9681

JANUARY 19

ARTIST TALK: DON FAULKNER

Meet Don Faulkner, professor of architecture and landscape architecture at NDSU as he discusses his exhibition.

6:00 – 7:00 PM

Plains Art Museum 704 1st Ave N | Fargo plainsart.org/artist-tak-don-faulkner/

music

DECEMBER 10 & 11

CHRISTMAS CANTATA

“Come Let Us Adore”

Features musicians including choir, orchestra and handbells. Reception will follow each performance. Free will offering, proceeds benefiting the church music ministry.

SATURDAY 7:30 PM

SUNDAY 3:00 PM

Holy Cross Catholic Church Sanctuary

2711 7th St E | West Fargo 701-282-7217

PLAINS ART MUSEUM

HOLIDAY NOON CONCERTS

Enjoy music over your lunch hour and take in the galleries for free with a purchase of lunch. Various musicians and musical groups, December 1 – 15, except Fridays and weekends. For musician info visit website.

BEGINS AT NOON

Plains Art Museum

704 1st Ave N | Fargo 701-551-6100 | plainsart.org

DECEMBER 10

HOLIDAY CONCERT FOR FAMILIES

— featuring FM Choral Artists

All ages welcome, particularly kids and families. Free and open to the public.

10:00 AM

Fargo Public Library

102 3rd St N | Fargo

701-241-1492

DECEMBER 11

Acappella Xpress “SOUNDS OF THE SEASON” CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Our favorite Christmas music a Capella style. Free will donation benefiting Acappella Xpress or, a non-perishable food donation benefiting local food banks.

4:30 PM

Trinity Lutheran Church

210 7th St S | Moorhead acappellaxpress.com

701-282-0421 • Stabo-Imports.com

The Hot Club of Cowtown

“This Austin-based western swing/jazz trio will bring even the tamest audience to its feet.”– Chicago Tribune

Lauded for its down-home melodies and exuberant improvisation, The Hot Club weaves a combination of styles together to its own magical effect. You’ll hear three-part vocal harmonies, yodeling, fiddling and slap-bass like you’ve never heard them before.

Saturday, January 21, 7:30 p.m.

MSUM Comstock Memorial Union Ballroom

Event moved to the CMU Ballroom, so you can get up and swing!

2016-17 Cheryl Nelson Lossett

Performing Arts Series

Purchase tickets online at mnstate.edu/tickets or call (218) 477-2271 M-F from noon to 4 p.m.

WEST ACRES MALL

Minnesota State University Moorhead is an equal opportunity educator and employer and is a member of the Minnesota State system.

REGISTER YOUR GIRL for

Winter 2017 season

We inspire 3rd – 5th grade girls to define their lives on their own terms.

Throughout the 10 week season, the girls make new friends, build their confidence and celebrate all that makes them unique through movement and active games. Girls from any school/surrounding area and all abilities welcome, no running experience required. we are a 501c3 organization

MEETS 75 MINUTES TWICE A WEEK • Feb. 27 – May 5

Register at: GOTRFargo.org

registration for Winter season opens Jan 1

INQUIRIES & QUESTIONS: Elle Irving, council director danielle.irving@girlsontherun.org

NOW taking applications for volunteer coaches, no experience necessary — will train 701-532-3131

Executive Director

december JANUARY

CALENDAR: EDUCATE YOURSELF

Every Monday

NOW – DECEMBER 12

SPRINGBOARD FOR THE ARTS: THE WORK OF ART SERIES

This professional development curriculum is designed to teach business skills to artists in all disciplines: visual, performing and literary arts. For more information go to springboardforthearts. org. Register at plainsart.org.

3:00 – 5:30 PM

Plains Art Museum 704 1st Ave N | Fargo

701-551-6100 | plainsart.org

NOVEMBER 29, DECEMBER 5 & JANUARY 17

CLARIFY YOUR BUSINESS VISION

Do you have a business dream? Benefit from the expertise of a former business owner and franchisee who will help you achieve your business hopes and dreams. Learn to analyze the competition and develop a marketing plan. Open to all area entrepreneurs. Preregistration required. FREE

5:30 – 6:30 PM OR 7:00 – 8:00 PM

Village Family Services

1201 25th St S | Fargo

701-451-4920 | nmitzel@thevillagefamily.org

JANUARY 24

MAKING TIME FOR YOU: Secrets

of The Fringe Hours

Discover the secrets for finding fringe hours to do the things that you love–from time managements tips to why it is so critical to pursue your passions. National author Jessica N. Turner will empower you to change your life by practicing self-care.

Chamber Members: $40 in advance | $50 door

Non-members: $60 in advance | $70 door

3:00 – 5:00 PM

Holiday Inn | Fargo Register at fmwfchamber.com or 218-233-1100

QUOTABLE

For I know the plans I HAVE FOR YOU, plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

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 tour heart, I will be found by you, DECLARES the LORD.

— JEREMIAH 29: 11-14

celebraqing 50 yearw

28

MOOMOO BUTTERBALL MIDNIGHT MOSLEY

HOMEWARD animal shelter

HOBBES CLEO

homewardonline.org

facebook.com/HomewardAnimalShelter

1201 28th Ave N | Fargo 701-239-0077

SKYDIVER CASEY

FirstLink at the Ramada

FUNDS RAISED FOR HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES

FirstLink’s annual silent auction took place at Fargo’s Ramada Plaza Suites, with former Valley Today anchor Daron Selvig as Master of Ceremonies. Music was provided by local band Downtown Sound while PowerPoint slides presented a list of sponsors, a database of social resources, and facts and statistics about FirstLink.

Auction items included Christmas decorations, gift baskets donated by local businesses, quilts made by the First Lutheran Church Quilters, and gift certificates for spas, restaurants, and sports clubs. For Viking fans, there was an autographed Cordarrelle Patterson photo; and for Bison fans, a football signed by Carson Wentz.

Words by Särah Nour | Photography by Dennis Krull, 5foot20 Design Lounge

Executive Director Cindy Miller took to the stage to describe the services FirstLink offers and introduce Trollwood students Greta and Konnor, who acted out skits based on real situations that FirstLink has encountered.

These skits portrayed a single mother who was provided with food, shelter and baby supplies; a man with depression who was referred to a mental health facility; and a struggling married couple who received help paying their electric and heating bills.

Raffle tickets were drawn toward the evening’s end. Prizes included a casino mini-vacation package, a "Grill n’ Chill" prize package, and a wagon full of children’s toys.

MSU

Speech-Language

Dessert Social

Words

and Photography by Lincoln Nybladh

On October 25th

the Jail Chaplains association held their annual Dessert Social and Fundraiser at the Holiday Inn. The theme for the event was “God Made a Way – Broken to Repurposed.”

WDAY News Anchor/Producer Kerstin Kealy started the event as master of ceremonies. The evening began with a live auction that featured auctioneer Max Steffes.

Board Chair Nancy Schafer provided the opening prayer and comments. The evening also featured powerful testimony from former inmates, Cass County Jail leadership and jail chaplains. Executive Director Gerri Leach spoke to the opportunity to be involved and Bishop John Fold provided the closing prayer.

my professional concierge

GIVING BACK the GIFT OF TIME

Words

Kathey Llewellyn is doing what

most people hope to one day. “People started asking for my opinion and help on things and I thought, ‘I could get paid for this!’” From that idea, Llewellyn started My Professional Concierge. The company’s website states that they “give back the gift of time.” Having started five businesses of her own, Llewellyn understands the time, commitment and dedication it takes.

Now, she wants to do that for herself as well as for other people and businesses. Though Llewellyn took the jump on April 1 to really start promoting My Professional Conceirge, she’s been slowly nurturing and expanding the idea for three years. “I just started asking people what they needed, had a couple jobs here and there to see if the market would absorb this idea,” she says. “I call it my soft opening.”

At first, when she started offering her help, people would just say, “I’ll just hire an employee,” but she notes to do that, you have to keep them busy 40 hours a week, give them vacation days, sick days. But with My Professional Concierge, you don’t have to worry about those things.

According to Forbes, on average, a business with one employee and one owner has an employee cost of about

by LaurelLee Loftsgard | Photography by Kristi Ulrich

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Brittany Llewellyn, Lisa Gigler, Kim Davidson, Kathey Llewellyn

$56,770 a year, and a typical business in the 20-49 employee range is about $40,165 a year per worker. If all you need is a few things to help get your business off the ground, or even just to make your personal life more manageable, that’s what My Professional Concierge is for. Llewellyn explains, “There are little jobs that people can’t afford to hire somebody to do for just a couple hours week, so I knew I had to be able to help with basically anything.”

And when she says anything, she means anything.

They have packages from marketing, job training and cold calls to personal needs and pet services. But even with all the services listed on the website, they’re willing and able to offer even more. “Every job is different, so some of them are better hourly and some are better with a plan. I work with people on pricing and don’t say, ‘Well, you fit in this box,’ because there is no box,” she says.

The purpose of My Professional Concierge is to help people with whatever they may need, no matter what it is. Being a mother of three, Llewellyn understands the importance of spending time with loved ones. “We can take care of those little things to get you home to your family,” she says. “I always say, ‘Don’t let your kids know you by the picture on the wall.’ You go home, and let us help you get there.”

My Professional Concierge has three hired employees and is trying to get the word out that they’re here and ready to help. “The industry has really welcomed us quite a bit— much more than I ever expected. I’m just overwhelmed by all of it right now.”

Her long-term goal is to have 50 employees in three years, expand past the Fargo-Moorhead area, and in 10 years, hopefully start a franchise. “I want this thing to grow,” Llewellyn explains, “and take care of people in our community.”

a miracle on broadway

THE GENEROSITY OF ONE CHRISTMAS WISH

Words by Andrea Arntson | Photography by Brittney and Caleb

Achild is a powerful human being. When an adult slows down long enough to allow themselves to be led through the world of a child, they can learn so many things. There is an opportunity to remove the obscured lenses we view the world through and see the innocence and wonder of our surroundings as a child does. And if offered the rare opportunity, there is a chance to understand just how miraculous the world can be.

When meeting Keaton Nelson, a ten-yearold boy who had received his wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation of North Dakota to be Santa Claus in 2015, I was gifted with that rare opportunity.

Keaton, who is now ten and in fifth grade, was born with cystic fibrosis— a progressive disease that affects the lungs, digestive system and several other organs. Being born with the disease, there isn’t much else Keaton has known. With his infectious grin and boundless optimism, it’s impossible to see the difficulties he faces on a daily basis.

“He’s on albuterol, Pulmozyme and amikacin,” his mom, Kristen Peterson explains. “He has his vest treatments for 30 minutes, twice a day. Albuterol helps to open the airways, Pulmozyme to break up the mucus and then the amikacin to aid in the infection.” Keaton takes approximately 25 pills each day when he eats food high in fat, protein and carbohydrates to aid in absorption.

Treatments are done twice a day for 30 minutes each, the medications running individually through a nebulizer as the vest pulsates to break

up mucus in Keaton’s chest. If he gets sick, treatments are increased to three or four times a day.

In April, Keaton was finally able to be taken off the antibiotics he was put on in November when diagnosed with a serious lung infection. He was on four different IV antibiotics, requiring five IV infusions a day in addition to the medications he was on regularly.

With his condition also comes diet restrictions. “High fat, high salt and protein,” his mom lists. “We do tube feedings overnight for five nights a week to help maintain and gain weight. Back in November, when his infections were first diagnosed, he was on 24/7 tube feedings because the side effects from the antibiotics were making him so ill, he was losing weight and could not keep any weight on.”

Keaton’s parents were aware of the risk of Keaton having cystic fibrosis before he was born,

thanks to state laws that require genetic testing be offered. Keaton was the first child in North Dakota to be diagnosed with cystic fibrosis based on the testing, two weeks after his birth. Both his mom and dad tested positive as carriers of the cystic fibrosis gene. “There’s a one in four chance that if you have two parents who are both symptomless carriers of the gene, that you will have CF,” his mom says.

The family was connected to Make-AWish through a referral from a family member who knew what they were going through. Make-A-Wish grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. They operate on a referralonly basis, accepting referrals from medical professionals, the child themselves, a parent or legal guardian, or a close family member who has significant knowledge of the child’s condition. The condition must be life threatening and either progressive, degenerative or malignant, and put the child’s life in danger. Once eligibility is determined, volunteer wish granters are sent out to meet the wish child and their family.

Keaton’s wish was simple—to be Santa Claus. Or, more accurately, “Keaton Claus”—as he was dubbed—so that he could help other children be happy who were chronically ill and in Sanford Children’s Hospital in Fargo.

“Most kids are stuck in the hospital for a few days,” Keaton says, “and I thought that if I could bring them toys and candy and stuff, they would probably feel better.”

“He’s such a neat kid,” his mom says. “He’s always thinking of others. He’s always concerned about others well-being.”

With a family so focused on his well-being, this comes as no surprise.

Keaton’s family is currently working on transitioning the responsibility of Keaton’s medications to him, giving him independence and the ability to be involved in his care. Keaton, however, is working on his next wish—to be a doctor that helps children like him.

Cystic fibrosis is an “orphan disease,” and its research receives little government funding compared to other diseases. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation itself does not receive any funding. To learn more about Cystic fibrosis and see opportunities for contribution, please visit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation website at fightsf.cff.org or cff.org.

To learn more about Make-A-Wish visit northdakota.wish.org or call 701-280-9474. You can be a part of making wishes like Keaton’s come true.

Story submitted by Heartland Trust

WHEN THE UNEXPECTED HAPPENS

PICTURED: PAULA STEBNER, Vice President — Managing Trust Officer

For Mary, it was her husband asking for a divorce after 26 years of marriage. One child in college, two in high school, a lake home, a home in town, a couple of cars and a dog. For another one of our clients, it was the sudden passing of her husband due to a heart attack at work. For others, it may be a tragic accident or a debilitating stroke. Sometimes in life, the unexpected happens and we need to find a way to pick up the pieces, care for ourselves, our families, and move strongly forward.

The first words of advice we give individuals in this situation is to breathe and gather yourself. You need to have a clear head and be strong for yourself and your family.

Second is not to make any rash or snap decisions while under the significant stress of your situation. A wrong choice at this time may have a lifetime of consequences. Gather all of the facts and important information you can to make the most informed decision. You need to advocate for yourself and those you love. Ask questions and then ask some more. No situation is exactly alike, and there are no perfect answers, but there are some answers and choices that are better than others.

For the death of a spouse or elderly parent, the situation is a little different because hopefully there was a plan, a will, some family discussions and well thought-out direction, care and consideration for those left behind.

Third, put your team in place. You need to surround yourself with people who are there to advocate for you. This may look a little different for each individual based on your needs and unique situation, but what expertise do you need on your side of the table.

Do you have an attorney? What is their specialty? Settlements need to be negotiated, wills need to be carried out, titles need to be changed, documents need to be upgraded, new accounts need to be opened, and beneficiaries need to be named.

Do you need an accountant?

How about a trusted advisor for financial matters? Are there investments, divorce settlements, retirement assets, court judgments, real estate, inheritance or life insurance settlements that need to be managed for your lifetime of benefit?

If you do not have a relationship with an attorney, accountant or trusted financial advisor, ask for referrals, make a couple of phone calls, set up appointments with two or three, ask a lot of questions, and find the best one that fits for you. These are important members of your team. (A list of sample questions you may want

to ask can be found at our website heartlandtrust.com under the documents tab.)

Finally, create a plan for the future. Things might look blurry and scattered at the beginning with all of the changes that are going on, but the dust will settle and the better your plan is, the better the outcome will be. Your plan may include managing monthly cash flow, saving for the future, and contingencies if something were to happen to you. But more importantly, it lets you know where you are currently at and what you need to do to accomplish your dreams and vision for the future.

Throughout this entire process, care for yourself, seek support and professional help if needed. Surround yourself with family, friends and a support group that lifts you up and watches out for one an another.

One of the things I love most about working with the clients at Heartland Trust Company is that we are there when our clients need us the most. We are not limited to financial advice, we can truly step up and walk side by side with our clients in their most difficult times.

Many times, we are the first call a family makes when they need help.

As a locally owned and operated independent trust company, we are empowered to care for clients the best way possible.

— divorce, death, disability, disaster — where do you go and WHAT DO YOU DO?

We are fiduciaries, which means we are held to higher legal and ethical standards than other investment companies. What that means for our clients is that they have security and confidence knowing we are legally obligated to act in their very best interest above our own.

Clients experience peace of mind knowing that Heartland Trust Company is unique in the region. We do not accept any commission or payments from investment funds, banks or insurance companies, so we can offer our clients unbiased advice and fully advocate for them without compromise and outside influence.

We are also independent for our client’s benefit. We have no proprietary relationships so we can provide our clients with access to the best investment options, trusts and financial services to meet their unique needs and goals.

Finally, valued clients of Heartland Trust Company have the opportunity to experience better outcomes because we leverage our size and status as a trust company to purchase institutional funds for our clients to avoid hidden fees, commission and added expenses that cost our clients money and lessen their returns.

I am just one member of a team of 18 at Heartland Trust Company with years of financial services experience and expertise ready to serve you at a moment’s notice and for a lifetime.

By partnering together we can assist you in coaching your team, coordinate the efforts of your experts and taking some of the burden off of you, so you can focus on the important things in life.

Heartland Trust Company is a locally owned and operated independent trust company that manages investments, IRA rollovers, trust administration, and employee-sponsored retirement plans.

Additionally, they provide wealth management services, financial and retirement planning, asset management (farmland, commercial real estate, mineral interests and unique assets), estate settlement, conservatorships, power of attorney and personal advocacy.

THIS IS WHERE YOU FIND THE

THIS IS WHERE YOU FIND THE

bringing more STEM TEACHERS to the classroom

MSUM’S NOYCE SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDES FULL SUPPORT

Words by Lexi Byler, MSUM Marketing

| Photography by Dave Arntson, MSUM Photographer

The STEM fields of science, math, engineering and technology have historically struggled with filling teaching positions. With a shortage of math and science teachers across the nation, including Minnesota, MSUM is helping to bridge that gap.

To meet this high need, MSUM received a $1.19 million grant from the Robert Noyce Teaching Scholarship Program through the National Science Foundation (NSF) to recruit and support students to become K-12 teachers in high-need school districts. The average support for a scholar is $12,700 for the academic year. The five-year grant expires in November 2020.

“I was incredibly happy to know we can help supply our region with 35 additional science and math teachers who, in turn, will be fully funded and mentored to become our future STEM education leaders,” says Dr. Alison Wallace, one of six faculty members working with the grant.

While other universities have received the same grant, MSUM is unique in requiring scholars to take a teaching english as a second language (TESL) course. This extra training is especially important as more new Americans are locating to our region.

“For students whose first language isn’t English, it may not be that they don’t understand the material but that they don’t know how to communicate that understanding,” says Ashley Borchardt, an MSUM mathematics and mathematics education major.

Teaching math to non-English speaking students piqued her interest after her study-abroad trip to Taiwan where she spent three weeks in the classroom. The school had an English enrichment program where students would not only take math classes in Mandarin Chinese, but also in English. The combination of her experience in Taiwan and taking the required TESL course inspired her to pursue a degree in TESL as well. Without the financial support the Noyce scholarship program provided her she wouldn’t have the means to add a third major.

Christina Aigner graduated from NDSU with a degree in agricultural economics and worked in finance for 12 years before taking time off to care for her children. When she decided to go

Intern

NOYCE SCHOLARS LEFT TO RIGHT: Evangeline Holley, Ashley Borchardt and Christina Aigner

into teaching, she immediately looked into MSUM because of its renowned teaching program.

“MSUM has exceeded my expectations. I wasn’t sure if it would feel as valuable because it’s a smaller school, but it’s better. Teachers are so invested in helping students succeed,” Aigner says.

In contrast to Aigner, Evangeline Holley is an MSUM alumna who graduated with a degree in biology. Her parents both teach in MSUM’s anthropology and earth science department, so science has always been an interest to her. She originally wanted to become a teacher but was persuaded not to after being encouraged to pursue a career focused on research. After graduating, she realized her passion was really in science education.

“I started to think about what my passions really were and I realized I was more passionate about teaching than doing research,” says Holley.

In addition to full financial support and training in TESL, the mentorship received through the program has proved to be just as valuable. A team of faculty oversees the scholars and meets with them every other week.

“The mentorships are one of the best things about the program. I’ve gotten so many opportunities from the faculty that I’d never know about otherwise,” says Aigner.

These opportunities, all of which are fully funded through the program, range from attending various conferences to visiting the Kennedy Space Center and other NSF events.

With the experience gained through the Noyce scholorship program, these women each hope to impact a small community in a big way. With the support of the team of faculty who oversees the scholars, the financial assistance the program provides, and the additional resources and opportunities given to them, they will leave MSUM prepared to better our education system.

Steve Hallstrom Alex Taylor

YEAR-END TAX STRATEGIES for 2016

WORDS BY JAMES R. MARING

The holiday season is upon us. This also means there is limited time to take advantage of potential income tax strategies for 2016. However, if you are able to determine your potential tax liability for 2016 and estimate your potential liability for 2017, there are still a few opportunities you may want to explore before the end of the year which could reduce or defer your tax liability.

INCREASE WITHHOLDING

If you’re going to owe tax for the year, you may want to ask your employer to increase your withholding for the remainder of the year to reduce your tax liability at year-end. The largest benefit in doing so is that withholding is considered to have been paid evenly through the year, rather than when the amounts are actually withheld from your paycheck, which can help reduce any potential estimated tax penalty when you file your taxes.

Make Certain PAYMENTS EARLY

If you itemize deductions, certain payments for deductible expenses such as state taxes, medical expenses and qualifying interest could be paid by year-end rather than in early 2017. This would lower your tax liability in 2016 but likely increase your tax liability in 2017. Therefore, it would be important to have previously determined which year makes the most sense based on your potential liability in each year. It is also important to determine if you are subject to alternative minimum tax in 2016. This will influence the decision as to whether or not an acceleration of deductions will be helpful.

INCOME DEFERRAL

If there is a good possibility you will be in a higher tax bracket in 2016 than 2017, you may want to look for ways to delay receiving certain payments until 2017. For example, maybe you can defer a year-end bonus until early 2017 rather than receiving it at year-end.

INVESTMENT SALES

Tax motives should never be the primary factor in determining investment decisions. However, if you have an investment that is losing money that you were planning on selling anyway, you may want to consider selling before year-end to utilize the loss for tax year 2016.

CONTRIBUTE to RETIREMENT

If you haven’t already contributed up to the maximum amount allowed for a traditional IRA or your employer-sponsored retirement plan such as a 401(k), you may want to consider this before the end of the year to reduce your taxable income for 2016.

Required DISTRIBUTIONS

With some exemptions, you generally must start taking required minimum distributions from your traditional IRA and/or employersponsored retirement plan once you reach the age of 70 and a half. Take any distributions by the date required which is usually the end of the year. The penalty for not taking the required minimum distribution is equal to 50 percent of any amount that was required to be distributed.

TAX ADVICE

Getting professional tax advice tailored to your specific situation can be extremely beneficial for you to potentially reduce your tax liability.

This article was prepared by Jim Maring, an attorney with the Serkland Law Firm in Fargo, North Dakota. For more information call 701232-8957, email jmaring@serklandlaw.com or visit serklandlaw.com.

This article should not be considered legal advice and should not be relied upon by any person with respect to his/her specific situation.

area STYLE

WONDERING WHAT TO

WEAR when you think you've surpassed the juniors section but get bored with the misses selection? Meet an online boutique geared toward you. Plus find out how to show a little shoulder even in winter, and where you and your girlfriends or sweetheart should head for a special dinner to start your night on the town.

where to DINE

EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE BEST FOOD AND DRINKS IN THE AREA

PORTER CREEK

In the spirit of wine country, Porter Creek features a fresh, contemporary menu. Signature dishes include fire-roasted meats and rustic vegetables such as rotisserie chicken and duck, oven-roasted halibut and salmon, and handcrafted flatbreads. Offering 40 wines poured by the glass and scotch and tequila flights and a four-season outdoor bar to compliment the experience. Explore Porter Creek today!

1555 44th STREET SOUTH, FARGO 701-369-3669 | portercreek.com

USHER'S HOUSE

Try the elk sirloin with roasted fingerling potatoes, wilted arugula, asparagus and raspberry-red wine coulis.

700 1st AVENUE N MOORHEAD | 218-287-0080

DEEP BLUE SEAFOOD

Savvy seafood lovers can shop for their favorite seafood varieties, as well as more exotic catches. Live lobsters, oysters, Alaskan salmon, king crab, sea scallops, wild-caught shrimp, plus ever-changing seasonal selections will deliver a one-of-a-kind experience to shoppers and diners.

The cooked-to-order lunch menu features: Homemade fish chowders and soups, uniquely-prepared seafood salad sandwiches, selected raw items, fillets and hand-breaded wild-caught shrimp, gator and frog legs with homemade side dishes and other accompaniments.

4480 23rd AVENUE SOUTH, FARGO | 701-566-8776

DOOLITTLES Woodfire Grill

Featuring woodfired rotisserie cooking, Doolittles Woodfire Grill is an experience that ignites all your senses!  The woodfired rotisserie grills meat over an open flame for a savory wood roasted flavor.  The rotation of the rotisserie creates self-basting and slow roasting skewers resulting in juicy and succulent meats.  Doolittles boasts over 40 wines by the glass.  Come as you are, Doolittles is a dining experience for all occasions.

2112 25th STREET SOUTH, FARGO | 701-478-2200 | doolittles.com

MAXWELLS

Maxwells is dedicated to bringing patrons impeccably casual fine dining no matter what the occasion. Maxwells staff seeks locally produced products to ensure the freshest ingredients as it supports local growers. Maxwells offers the region’s largest selection of wines with over 100 labels offered, the finest liquors, personalized bartender service and intimate seating.

1380 9th STREET EAST | WEST FARGO

MEZZALUNA

Mezzaluna is a casual fine dining establishment cleverly hidden off Broadway in Downtown Fargo just behind the Historic Fargo Theatre. They boast a friendly neighborhood atmosphere featuring artisan food and drink. Executive Chef Eric Watson uses fresh locally sourced products whenever possible to create an eclectic menu based on traditional American fare.

309 ROBERTS ST N FARGO

701-364-9479

dinemezzaluna.com

BASIES

Restaurant & Lounge

Basies fantastic 10 ounce filet is their signature steak. Expertly prepared to your specific taste in our exclusive 1000 degree broiler oven to insure the cut is tender and juicy.  May be ordered with any of Basies' signature dry rubs.

1635 42nd STREET SOUTH, FARGO

701-281-7105 | basies.com

SANTA LUCIA

This Greek and Italian kitchen celebrates 26 years in Fargo and 42 years from the opening of their first location in Canada. Come and relax in the polished casual atmosphere boasting many award-winning dishes and ten years of consumer choice and best pizza awards. Oppa!

1109 38th STREET SOUTH, FARGO

701-281-8656

ashwood west FASHION for the MILESTONE

Words by ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON | Photography

AGE

WWhen North Dakota State University fashion grad Marrah Ferebee saw her friends struggling to build a versatile, affordable, fashionforward wardrobe that worked with their lives, she knew she’d found a niche. Ferebee launched Ashwood West (ashwoodwest.com), an online boutique, in February 2016 with her friend, fellow NDSU fashion program graduate and business partner, Trina Hoffelt.

Hoffelt has moved on to other endeavors, but Ashwood West continues to thrive as the young company moves toward its first year in business. It’s a milestone for a business that’s built its brand around women reaching milestones of their own.

Ferebee says Ashwood West uses the term “milestone age” to describe both a stage in customers’ lives and the place they fall on the fashion spectrum. “We have always felt that people around us have struggled a lot with not quite knowing where to shop,” says Ferebee.

submitted by ASHWOOD WEST

MARRAH FEREBEE

Ashwood West sells a carefully curated selection of clean, modern basics that can take the wearer from day to night, from work to a weekend out. The clothing is on-trend, but not in your face trendy. It’s colorful and fun, but still office appropriate. And it’s available in sizes XS through 3X so women of all shapes and sizes can build their wardrobes piece by piece.

In addition to looking great, everything for sale at Ashwood West is made in the USA. Many pieces are made by “for cause” companies, which give back a portion of their proceeds to individuals in need. As the business grows, Ferebee hopes to add more “for cause” companies and expand Ashwood West’s plussize clothing offerings.

“Juniors is a little too young, misses is maybe a little too old. And they’re kind of stuck in this gap. We’re trying to fill it for people.”

S shoulder SEASON

Showing a little shoulder is a safe — but still alluring — way to push fashion boundaries. Here are three easy ways to show off the season’s favorite erogenous zone.

SHOULDER CUT OUTS:

The ongoing American love affair with activewear means that athletic styles now look equally at home at the gym and on the street. A top with sporty shoulder cutouts looks strong with leggings (or yes, yoga pants), while skinny jeans or a fitted pencil skirt dress it up nicely. This style offers coverage and comfort and easily accommodates bra straps.

Words and Photography by ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

Mainstream Boutique

ashwoodwest.com

COLD SHOULDER TOP:

The hottest silhouette of the season is quietly seductive. Thin straps and bare arms and shoulders are flirty and unexpected, but a relaxed fit elsewhere keeps things soft and pretty. Opt for statement earrings and rings instead of a necklace and let the shirt’s unusual shape shine.

OFF THE SHOULDER:

An unembellished neckline that reveals the shoulders and collarbone offers the same figure-flattering benefits as a boat neck top, just with a little more edge. And a flowing shape or strategically placed ruffles are unapologetically romantic. Balance a fitted number with a bit of volume below the waist (an A-line skirt is classic) and make a more bohemian top the star by keeping things streamlined on the bottom.

Scherling Photography

Kelsey Buchholz, True Expressions

Lindsay Kaye Photography

Elisabeth Eden

BLUSH SALON

PHYTODESS products are true beauty treatments for the scalp and hair that combine naturality, luxury and hairstyling expertise to reveal and enhance the beauty of your hair.

1650 45th St S | Fargo 701-282-9594

blushsalonfargo.com

Hair car e

FOWLERS

Refreshing sea salt and sea weed soaps and hand creams from Swedish Dream make for the perfect stocking stuffers. Available at Fowlers Heritage Company in Downtown Fargo.

219 Broadway N, #101 | Fargo 701-356-7778

where to SHOP

FARGO | MOORHEAD

PINCH & POUR

Purchase colorfully dramatic cheese platters from Pinch & Pour for your holiday party. Starting at $29.99.

219 Broadway N | Fargo | 701-356-7779

BULLY BREW COFFEE HOUSE

Tis the season... for a hot drink! Nothing says "winter ready" like a cup of coffee or tea on a cold windy day. Spread the warmth this season with one of our gift baskets. Coffee, Tea, and Treat baskets available — its a little something for everyone.

4150 40th Avenue S | Fargo

701-639-7205

bullybrewcoffeehouse.com

RED BANTY BOUTIQUE

Exclusive Bison clothing. Happy Harry's Plaza 1133 19th Ave N | Fargo

701-200-2146

facebook.com/redbantyboutique

@NAILS

Dry skin season is here! Treat your hands and feet to these deluxe treatments enriched with Collagen and Shea butter, ultra nutritious moisturizer penetrates quickly to protect, nourish and moisturize! It is paraben, sulfate, benzophenone, mineral oil, talc, ethanol, and triclosan free! For safe skin care! 3163 Bluestem Dr Suite #101 | West Fargo 701-356-5252 | atnailswestfargo.com

CENTRE for HAIR

For damaged hair 6 months on 12 benefits.

Downtown Moorhead 218-236-6000 centreforhairandwellness.com

DALBOL FLOWERS

Diamonds & Icicles Bouquet $44.99

Let it snow! As magical as winter's first snow, this all-white arrangement is accented with woodland greens and tiny golden ornament balls for the perfect touch of holiday cheer.

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

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

Find your favorite cozy sweater! 2603 Kirsten Ln S #103 | Fargo 701-356-6684 | mainstreamboutique.com

CAROL WIDMANS CANDY CO.

Carol Widman's assorted handmade chocolates and famous chippers make them Fargo- Moorhead's finest chocolatiers. They are proud 4th generation candy makers. Holiday Dessert Tray filled with Chippers and assorted Chocolates. 2.10 lbs- $45.95

4325 13th Ave S | Fargo 701-281-8664

NATURAL PET CENTER

STABO Scandinavian Imports

TOMTE and NISSER — Elves of folklore that Scandinavians have loved for generations. Available in many sizes, shapes and styles. West Acres Mall | stabo-imports.com

NORA SALON

Looking for a luxurious hair care line? Moroccan oil has a great selection for all hair types.

5670 38th Ave S Suite C | Fargo 218-201-1976

Everyday is a good day for pie!  Treat your pup to a special treat and pick from our many healthy, tasty and grain free options.  Pair it with a healthy food, fun toy or cozy bed.  Don't forget something for your cat!

3037 13th Ave S | Fargo 701-239-0110 | naturalpetcenter-nd.com

ARTISAN HAIR STUDIO

by Jaimee Schaff

HALOCOUTURE extension pieces provide longer, thicker hair in minutes. With no clips, bonding or taping, these are a perfect fit for every hair type. Choose from 23 different colors options with custom color options available as well.   located within BellaMae Salon Suites 3611 Lincoln St S | Fargo | 701-391-8668

area HEALTH

THINK YOU'RE MARKED FOR LIFE? Find out how one clinic can remove your unfortunate tattoo. Read on about preventing the post-holiday let down, and also where you can go in our area for expert care in pain management. Then discover the lasting legacy left behind by one special little boy's choice to become an organ donor.

When something is described as being “written in ink” it implies permanence. The word tattoo is derived from the Polynesian word “tatau” which translates as “to write.” Traditionally tattoos have been viewed as being a permanent body modification. Advancements in technology and medical procedures have reversed this permanence and it is now possible to wipe the slate clean.

Placing ink or other substances into the dermis layer of skin creates a tattoo by changing the skin’s pigmentation. Tattoos have been a rite of passage in many cultures and their popularity in our culture has been steadily on the rise. Some of the many reasons a person may get a tattoo range from displaying an aspect of their life or personality through artwork, honoring a loved one or cosmetic purposes. With the rise in popularity of tattoos it is not surprising that some may have regret over their tattoo and want to get it removed, or they want to create a space on their skin for new artwork.

tattoo REGRET?

REMOVAL MIGHT BE EASIER than you THINK

Words and Laser Removal Photo by LINCOLN NYBLADH

To remove a tattoo the altered pigmentation needs to be eliminated. Past tattoo removal treatments included mainly invasive procedures such as dermabrasion or excision to remove the layer of tattooed skin. Technology has now provided non-invasive laser treatments to remove tattoos in a way that is less damaging to the skin.

I sat down with Rebekka Hill from the Sanford Dermatology and Laser Clinic to discuss their services. Sanford provides laser treatments for issues such as wrinkles, rosacea, spider veins, birthmarks and tattoos. Hill said that in the initial consultation they discuss the tattoo removal process.

Hill states, “Usually there’s a lot of questions: Does it hurt? How many treatments? What does it cost?” Initially the esthetician will take a look at the patient’s tattoo and give them an idea of approximately how many treatments it will take for removal and what the price will be. The tattoo is measured and cost is figured out in square centimeters starting at $100 for a very small tattoo of one color. There is a broad range of prices depending on the size and color of the tattoo. Risk factors and side effects are also discussed. Hill says, “With any laser treatment there’s always going to be risks involved.” Possible side effects include blistering and hypopigmentation of the skin. Post treatment care is also discussed, such as keeping dressings on the treated area, keeping the skin as dry as possible, and not disrupting any blisters or scabs to prevent scarring. According to Hill, “Scarring is rare with the removal process, but it does happen.”

The laser works to fade a tattoo by shattering the ink particles. Hill says, “We’re not taking it off the top, we’re literally making the ink particles smaller, so your immune system can flush it out. There’s three different spectrums, so we can treat pretty much any color on the spectrum.”

5STRATEGIES to AVOID the Post-Holidays LET DOWN

Words by Monica Kramer McConkey »

You know the feeling. That preholiday expectancy grows as the temperature drops, leaves fall, and holiday decor magically appears in stores (in October!). Let’s admit it, the anticipation and planning begin months before the actual holidays arrive. Detailed lists are being made, gifts purchased, meals planned. Schedules are filling from midNovember through December with concerts, parties and dinners. Eagerness grows with the coziness and warmth of the approaching season. Then it is upon us; the holidays arrive in a blur of lights, music and energy. There is love and laughing and treasured time with family and friends. The long-anticipated break from work and school becomes a reality. A new year is ushered in with much celebrating.

Then, it’s January 2nd. Decorations come down. Christmas music and Christmas cookies disappear. The truth of weeks of overspending and overeating is staring you directly in the face.

Back to work and school. Back to reality. And to top it off: It. Is. Cold.

NOW WHAT?

To make the post-holiday back-to-reality transition easier, consider implementing these five strategies. 1

Pay attention to your basic needs during high stress and busy times. Eat healthy, get adequate sleep and continue regular exercise. Increase water intake. Assess your nutritional intake and add supplements if needed. 2

Begin working on New Year’s resolutions in November. Work out the kinks. Test reality. Adjust goals. And by the time the new year arrives you will be well on your way to succeeding with realistic resolutions. Examples of attainable goals would be to not gain additional weight over the holiday season, to maintain an exercise schedule in November and December, and to not procrastinate but complete projects prior to vacation. 3

Budget. Don’t use the excitement and whirlwind of the holidays as an excuse to overspend. The reality will hit hard in six months when the first payment—on what seemed like an amazing buy—is now due. Preplan purchases, including food, and set realistic limits.

4Avoid putting off work until after the holidays. Procrastinating on completion of less desirable tasks may provide some degree of instant gratification, however it ultimately adds more stress to your plate when January rolls around.

5Embrace the winter! For many of us, there is no greater stretch of colorless monotony than what exists January through March. However, that does not have to be the case. Don the layers. Ski, snowshoe, skate, sled, walk, ice fish, snowmobile and hike. Natural light is a valued commodity during the dark winter days.

If your feelings of “let down” continue, don’t despair. According to Mayo Clinic, approximately three million Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder. Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons and often begins and ends at about the same times every year. Typically symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. The good news is that this is a treatable condition. Have a conversation with your doctor or mental health professional to discuss treatment options.

Take time to think through strategies that will help you combat the post-holiday let-down. With thoughtful planning and preparation, the return to January-reality can be a satisfying transition, kicking off an exciting new year.

WORKING towardw MIRACLES

NANCY AUSTIN, SHAREHOUSE RECOVERY COACH

he sunshine yellow wall

behind Nancy Austin’s desk is a perfect backdrop for this woman filled with warmth and an outpouring of compassion. Her work, like her life, has been one of dealing with addiction recovery, days measured by joyous highs alternated with deep lows. Her stories speak volumes about the challenges and triumphs of her work.

Words by Kim Malakowsky

Photography by Dennis Krull, 5foot20 Design Lounge

Twenty-one years ago Austin joined ShareHouse, Inc. in Fargo, ND as director of residential services and later trained to become a recovery coach. ShareHouse houses those struggling with addiction. It is a place of refuge, a place to heal and begin to form a new life. In Austin’s words, “If you come and you invest in your future you’ll have a wonderful opportunity to see the rest of your life through sober eyes.”

There are two residences. Each is gender specific and house adults over the age of 18. People come from all walks of life, all ages, with varying levels and types of addiction. “Heroin seems to be the very popular one right now,” tells Austin, “ along with meth, alcohol, and some abuse of prescription drugs.”

Austin explains the role of a recovery coach is a new service not offered in other centers and is funded through philanthropic funds. “It’s not a counselor, it’s not a sponsor, it’s someone else. I learned that the recovery coach approach is the best of both worlds. I can meet with the client and we talk and I’m looking for the positives, instead of pointing out the negatives. Usually when someone walks in to the door of a treatment center they feel shame, guilt and blame, so when I say ‘What do you do well?, What makes you happy?’, it feels good to them.”

Austin talks about the importance of trust and honesty in a coach-client relationship. It’s important to have a foundation of support. She explains the little black phone sitting at the edge of her desk, “Addiction doesn’t start at eight o’clock a.m. and end at five. I tell them, I’ll answer your call whenever, and it’s been working.”

She works hard to build something sound while in the house because it doesn’t end there. When clients move back out into the community and they don’t feel like anyone understands they know Austin is only a phone call away.

She tells the story of a young man in the facility who was moving to the middle of North Dakota, a rural area where they didn’t have any AA meetings. He needed some place to touch base. Austin smiles as she recounts his phone calls. “Hi, Nancy. I’m doing great. I’m working hard, got to see my son last week.”

“That’s the important stuff,” says Austin.

One of the first people Austin worked with as a recovery coach left the house more than a year ago. A woman with a dual diagnosis of mental illness along with her addiction, she struggled tremendously. Austin remained in contact, speaking to her every Tuesday at 2:00 for as long as she needed. “I just spoke to her on Friday,” says Austin, “just this last Friday, she’s still sober and she still calls me. I tell her all the time. You’re just a miracle. Keep up the good work.”

The stories are not all happy ones with outcomes like these. There are clients who cannot face the

About ShareHouse

For over 40 years ShareHouse has served adults, and the families of those challenged by alcoholism, substance abuse, and/or mental health disorders. Their one focus is helping clients begin and continue their lives in recovery. Services are offered on an Outpatient basis as well as Residentially.

www.sharehouse.org

outside world, collapse back into their addictions, and continue to struggle. Some come back to try again. Some come back more than once.

“It takes a lot of courage to come back if you’re not making it out there,” Austin admits, “They’re afraid of the judgment. It’s human nature to wonder what people will think, what they will say. We welcome them back without question. We tell them we’re glad to have you back. This took a lot of courage.”

The little office filled with sunshine is also filled with mementos. Austin pulls a stack of cards from her desk drawer, reminders of the people she has served. She walks across the room and brings back a receipt with writing scrawled across its surface. She describes a day at Christmastime when she returned to find a $100 Wal-Mart gift card on her desk. On the back of the receipt was a note that read, “This is $100 for you to spend as you please. I was at ShareHouse 7 years ago at age 19. I was broke, homeless, hungry, and had very little hope. I have been sober since Oct. 17, 2005 and am no longer any of those things. This is a gift to you from someone who stayed long enough for the miracle to happen. Good Luck on your journey!!!”

Her eyes moisten as she says; “I could hardly read it without crying.”

If you ask Austin to describe herself she’ll tell you, “Hello, my name is Nancy Austin and I am a person in long term recovery. What this means is, I have not found it necessary to use alcohol for the last 31 years. Some of the benefits of my recovery are, I am a better spouse, a better mother, a better employee, a better friend and an awesome gramma! One of the rewards of my recovery is that my grandkids have never seen me under the influence.” [ aw

one heart

TOUCHES MANY LIVES organ donation becomes Bobbi’s mission

BOBBI FETZER of Fargo has become an advocate for organ and tissue donation after her 7-year-old son, Mikey, died. She also was an advocate for a new memorial wall for donors and their families at Essentia Health-Fargo.

Words

Connie Wirta

The heart

of Bobbi Fetzer’s 7-yearold son now beats in the chest of 17-year-old girl.

“Michael isn’t here physically but he’s growing up through his recipients,” says the Fargo mother who lost her son on June 3, 2011, and decided to donate his organs to help others.

June 2 was the last day of school and Mikey was at a friend’s house when he decided to head home to ask permission to spend the night there. The second-grader was hit by a pickup truck as he crossed the street.

Just weeks before he died, Mikey had been inspired by a presentation by West Fargo Elementary School Principal Loren Kersting. He had lost his daughter as she waited for an organ donor. Mikey told his family he wanted to be an organ donor. “I thought ‘When you turn 16 and get your driver’s license – then you can sign up to be an organ donor because your mom and dad are donors,’ ” Bobbi recalls.

Bobbi and her husband, Jeffrey, decided to donate Mikey’s heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, intestines, eyes and tissues. His heart saved the life of Mia Brickey, then an 11-year-old Salt Lake City girl whose heart was failing due to a rare condition.

Her parents, Tom and Heidi Brickey, first thought their daugh-

ter had the flu. As her condition rapidly declined, they learned a transplant was her only option. “They told us the average waiting time for a heart is five months,” Tom recalls. Mia’s doctor believed she had only five days.

“I gave permission for them to go ahead with a transplant no matter what heart came,” Tom says. “I said don’t bring me a bad heart.”

Mikey’s heart turned out to be a perfect match.

“We’d been faced with death,” Heidi says. “Mia was in a room dying when we learned the possibility of getting a heart. We were elated, but the feeling was unreal. You really don’t know how to feel because at the other end there is sorrow and a severe loss for someone else.”

Mia is now a healthy 17-year-old high school senior who plans to go to college. She passed the five-year milestone for transplant patients without complications, which her parents were told means she’ll live a full life.

“It’s Mia but it’s still Mikey,” Bobbi says. “He’s living on through her and doing all the things that she does.”

“Mikey is part of Mia and she knows it — she lives it every single day,” Heidi says. “Mia calls Mikey her ‘little heart warrior.’ ”

by

| Photo by Scott Thuen of Thuen Studios

BELOW: Michael Fetzer

The Brickeys say they can’t express the gratitude they feel for the Fetzer family. “Their gift keeps our lives in perspective,” Heidi says. “We teach our kids to be grateful for what you are given. We were given the ultimate gift and we try to live it in our day-to-day lives.”

Bobbi says Mikey’s liver went to an 11-monthold girl who is now a healthy 6-year-old. A kidney went to a father of six who was on dialysis.

Both families have become advocates for organ donation. Bobbi, who works as a unit secretary in the Emergency Department at Essentia Health-Fargo, has been trained as a certified designated requester. She meets with families facing a loved one’s death and asks them to consider organ donation. She answers questions and provides emotional support during a difficult time. “I can make a personal connection because I’ve been there,” she says.

Bobbi was one of the advocates for a new memorial wall in the Emergency Department’s waiting room that honors donors and their families for their gifts of organs, eyes and tissues. “This is a place for families to know that their loved ones are not forgotten,” says Bobbi, who explains the wall is also intended to raise awareness about the need for donors.

“Organ donation has been such a good experience for our family,” Bobbi says. “If we hadn’t donated Mikey’s organs, we wouldn’t be as close as we are, or as well-functioning as we are today. We could have let it be a tragedy but we turned it into something else. We turned our tragedy into a miracle.”

[ aw ]

BECOME A DONOR

When you check “donor” on your driver’s license application, you’ve made a legally binding decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor. It’s that simple.

If you live in North Dakota or Minnesota, you can also register online at donatelifend.org or donatelifemn.org.

In North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota the organ donation process is overseen by LifeSource. The non-profit organization is federally designated to manage organ and tissue donations in the region.

For more information, or to register as an organ donor, go to life-source.org.

OVERCOME PAIN, LIVE FULLY

Words by Rebecca Meidinger | Photography by Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss

Few things interrupt the joy of life like chronic pain. The way pain interferes with one’s ability to do the normal tasks of everyday life, the way it seeps into one’s emotions causing curt words and harsh tones, the way it saps a person’s energy and steals one’s rest. Indeed, pain is no friend, but it’s something nearly every person will encounter at some point.

It’s also something that the staff at PT/OT Partners desire to help you change in your life. Founded in 2011 by Deron Redinger, an occupational therapist, and Mike Kroke, a physical therapist, the practice consists of six therapists, who together treat every joint in the body including myofacial (muscular) pain, acute and chronic pain, and neck and back pain. Their expert techniques include the lesser known but highly effective use of dry needling to treat muscle pain. Of their work in that practice, Kroke says, “The technique provides more immediate and longer-term relief of muscle pain than conventional therapies and has become a specialty of our practice.”

Marc de Celle, author of “How Fargo of You,” attests to the success of this treatment. Awhile back, de Celle’s right shoulder froze up, causing significant pain while he was using his keyboard and mouse—essential tools for any writer. As his pain and lack of motion became too much and hindered his work at increasing levels, he knew it was time to seek medical care. De Celle’s orthopedic doctor referred him to PT/OT Partners for physical therapy and dry needling treatment. Of his first experience, de Celle exclaims, “Here’s what’s remarkable: the first time we met I only had half the motion I should have. After the very first dry needling procedure with therapist Sarah Perkerewicz, my range of motion had increased by 20 percent. By the sixth appointment, the range of motions was over 75 percent and is still improving. I can’t say enough good things about it. I found the procedure very dramatic.”

MIKE KROKE DERON REDINGER

Anita K. was referred to PT/OT Partners by her dentist for temporomandibular (TMJ) joint pain. Suffering from discomfort, she would wake up daily with jaw tightness and headaches. Sometimes she was even unable to open or close her jaw. After seeing PT/OT Partners therapists for a comprehensive program including physical therapy and dry needling treatments, she has seen remarkable improvement. “My pain level has dramatically decreased and I have regained my mobility in being able to open and close my jaw,” says Anita. “Being a nurse myself the past 19 years, I highly recommend this type of treatment.”

As their practice grows and their ability to help more people overcome chronic pain increases, PT/ OT Partners is excited to launch a second location this winter. Partnering with the Center for Pain Medicine, PT/OT Partners will open a second office within the new Center for Pain Medicine building at 2401 41st St. S. in Fargo. This new location will specialize in the comprehension treatment of the spine—acute and chronic neck and back pain— while the current location in the University Medical Center on South University Drive, will continue its practice of sports medicine and general therapy.

While physical pain is a reality that nearly every person will encounter at some point, PT/OT Partners wants to join you in overcoming that pain so that you can live each day to the fullest. Each day is a gift—may today be pain free.

Apex Physical Therapy and Wellness Center keeps patient experience at the top of their business.

THE PEAK of PERFECTION

Walk through the door and you’re greeted by name with a friendly smile as you sit down to enjoy the charismatic crackle of the fireplace. It sounds like you’ve just settled in at a friend’s place for some good conversation and company. But for patients at Apex Physical Therapy and Wellness Center, this warm, personal welcome is a regular occurrence. It’s how the company does business, and it extends from their atmosphere to their treatments.

THE STARTING POINT

Apex is a West Fargo outpatient physical therapy clinic that, since its humble beginnings in 2008, has kept its vision for the ideal patient experience a key priority.

“Kameron and I knew each other from grad school, and as we began to enter the professional world we realized we shared the same values and vision for what we thought physical therapy should entail,” says Brooke Erstad, coowner with Kameron Ihry Hodem and one of six physical therapists at the facility.

Ihry Hodem, also a physical therapist, recounts how their idea of the perfect patient experience began to take shape. “We both lived in Fargo and worked in Breckenridge, Minnesota as therapists and commuted there daily over the course of nearly two years. Needless to say, we had plenty of time to talk.”

The West Fargo practice now includes six physical therapists, two massage therapists as well as a personal trainer. And the company’s roots have even extended to the owners’ hometowns, LaMoure and Jamestown.

What they do is hands-on, literally, but the therapists at Apex see beyond tissue manipulation and strength-training treatments.

SETTING THE STAGE

“We know patients need our hands-on expertise, but they also want that same level of attentiveness when it comes to their physical therapy experience as a whole,” Erstad says. “And our facility and staff are what set the stage for this.”

Whether it’s the person welcoming you into the warmly lit atmosphere or your therapist discussing your concerns, that elevated patient experience means getting to know you as well as your condition, history and goals. It also means being the best resource for patients that they can.

In a time where the typical clinic visit happens in the blink of an eye, Apex takes a different approach, spending as long as an hour with patients during each visit to hone in on the individual’s needs.

“Physical therapy is not a Band-Aid type of treatment. It’s most successful when you take

the time to get to the root of the issue and work through the treatment with patients, giving them as much time as they need,” Ihry Hodem says. “Ultimately our goal is to set people on the path to self-management and give them a greater quality of life.”

FINE-TUNING PERFECTION

Apex treats a wide range of conditions, from ankle and lumbar strains requiring acute rehab to degenerative and chronic disorders, such as migraines. But again, Apex brings more to the table, and its treatments are no exception. Every therapist at the facility has spent a great deal of time gathering the tools needed to perform some of the most innovative treatments within their realm of specialty, whether its women’s health, orthopedics or pediatrics. The therapists at the facility, including Erstad, bring unique services to our region.

Erstad is one of just two therapists in the state who specialize in pelvic rehabilitation for men, women and children. This can include a host of conditions, such as bed-wetting, bladder issues, painful periods, painful intercourse

Brooke Erstad

Kameron Ihry Hodem

Words by Melissa Davidson

Photography by Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss

and post-vasectomy issues — often conditions people may not even realize can be treated with physical therapy.

“With our realm of medicine there are a lot of conditions many people just don’t know our treatments can help them with. And it’s not just pelvic rehab,” Erstad says. Migraines, dizziness, general back pain and post-chemo fog are just a few other examples of the types of issues the physical therapists at Apex can help improve. And they’ve dedicated a lot of time fine-tuning the tools in their belts to take it all on and ensure patients get the most out of every visit.

Ihry Hodem holds the only Manual Therapy Certification in the state of North Dakota, a feat that required passing 19 tests over the course of six days to accomplish. For therapists at Apex, these tools are more than designations, they elevate the physical therapy experience to another level.

Erstad adds that physical therapy is often very different from therapist to therapist. They all come out of school with the same basic set of skills, but each can have very different approaches to treatment.

“Physical therapy can be a relatively creative field,” Erstad says. “And we’re always looking for ways and encouraging our therapists to learn and try new techniques, which is just one more thing we can do to add value to the patient experience.”

REACHING THE PEAK

The definition of “apex” is the highest point, and Apex Physical Therapy and Wellness Center lives up to that definition. They strive to be among the best, so they can give patients an optimal physical therapy experience that leaves them at their best.

area PROFILES

KNOW YOUR PASSION BUT THINK IT'S TOO LATE TO FOLLOW YOUR CAREER DREAMS?

Then cover girl Julie Rivenes' story on a life-changing second go-round in college is a must-read. Read about a super smart spider-silk researcher and one woman's goal to end the cycle of human trafficking. Plus we've packed this issue with amazing recipes to warm you right up this winter.

heart

MASTER'S

LOVING OUR NEIGHBORS with the HEART OF THE MASTER

Words by Rebecca Meidinger

In a world filled with immense need, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, not knowing exactly how to make a difference. When we think of missional service, our thoughts might first turn to passports, long flights and difficult conditions. Yet we don’t have to look too far into our own community to find families and individuals struggling with poverty, hunger and lack of opportunities. Numerous people right here in our midst need us to turn our faces and hearts toward them. Master’s Heart, a local Christian mission non-profit organization, is doing just that as they prayerfully and strategically strive to meet felt needs within some of Fargo’s neighborhoods.

Founded in 2008 by Richard and Ruth Irish and Dan and Kari Sikkink, all of Fargo, Master’s Heart has developed relational partnerships in Nepal, India, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa — routinely taking medical and evangelistic mission teams to those regions. With a motto of “making Jesus famous” and a mission of “bringing hope to the needy by showing the love of Jesus Christ in practical

ways,” Master’s Heart works primarily in three ways. First, they bring hope to impoverished communities through clean water initiatives, training in income-generating skills, orphan care, medical outreach, and evangelism. Second, they build partnerships with churches both stateside and abroad to increase community impact. Third, they bridge the gap between the Church in the United States and ministry partners around the world by sending both longand short-term mission teams to serve and love in the name of Jesus Christ. For those seeking long-term service, Master’s Heart offers their Engage program. Volunteers commit to a full year of service, which includes 2-3 months of training here before travelling overseas to serve with a global partner.

Over the past few years, the team at Master’s Heart has felt called to serve our own community as well. As Sarah Moline of Master’s Heart says, “Our heart is to serve the nations. And when we look around our community, we see that God is bringing the nations here. We need to serve them here as well as abroad.” Locally, Master’s Heart provides the Hope Skills Training Center, teaching both welding and English language classes to underprivileged and refugee individuals. The welding training is a partnership with Amity Technology, which donates the use of a shop two evenings per week for this

Photography by Ben Nash Photography

SARAH MOLINE

eight-week course. Upon completion, participants earn a welder’s certificate, giving them an opportunity for employment and a livable wage. With their English language classes for new Americans, Master’s Heart has found that stay-at-home mothers have a particularly high need to learn. Another local mission aim of Master’s Heart is widow care — providing needs such as plumbers, electricians and car mechanics for women in need. Moline states, “God has opened our eyes to what’s going on locally and given us tools to meet local needs.”

This summer Master’s Heart will launch its second Summer Hope initiative, reaching out to the Jefferson district community in Fargo. Kicking off on June 18 with a celebration in a nearby park, Summer Hope will provide weekly summer activities planned in a strategic effort to share the love of God in tangible ways: food, shoe and book drives, English classes, sports camps, park days, gardening instruction, arts and crafts afternoons, and more.

In their desire to serve as a catalyst to unite churches in serving the community, Master’s Heart invites local churches to join in the Summer Hope project. Several churches have already committed to the initiative, and more churches are welcome. Additionally, Master’s Heart seeks the help of individuals who feel led to love and serve in this way. Individuals can get involved with Summer Hope in a variety of ways: praying for the movement and the community, donating shoes (new) and children’s books (gently used or new), volunteering for various events throughout the summer, and giving financially to this endeavor.

Whatever our lot, may we all turn our faces toward the broken and downtrodden among us; may our hearts learn to love like the heart of the Master.

Learn More or Donate: mastersheart.org

mail@mastersheart.org

— TAMMY

OUR HEART IS TO serve the nationw.

CAN WE USE IT for FREEDOM?

Words by Rebecca Meidinger | Photography by Ben Nash Photography

Occasionally we cross paths with someone who has dedicated her life to speaking on behalf of those whose voices have been silenced. The experience is humbling and inspiring, challenging us to consider how we’ve used our own voices. A growing number of individuals have recently felt led to speak up for those who’ve been silenced and enslaved through human trafficking. Lisa Hanson of Fargo is one of these people. Over the last few years, she has chosen to be a voice for those who’ve been taken captive through forced labor and sex trafficking, both around the world, and even more specifically in our own community, state and nation.

Lisa is the founder of Voice for the Captives, a local faith-based non-profit organization that serves to raise awareness and bring education to our community about the reality and presence of human trafficking — what it is, how to see it, and how to fight it. Lisa explains that in 2012 when she first encountered the opportunity to learn about this subject matter, her heart was closed. She wanted nothing to do with it. “I didn’t want to open my heart to that. But I knew that God was tugging at my heart. He kept speaking to me about this issue. When I finally started learning about it, it shattered my heart. I knew I needed to do something about it.”

Lisa started doing what she encourages anyone with this particular heart-tugging to do: get educated. She watched human trafficking documentaries, read books, and found organizations that are fighting this evil both here and abroad and read their stories. As she researched, Lisa found out that every state has trafficking, including North Dakota and our own city of Fargo. In her desire to educate others, Lisa held movie nights at her church, showing the documentary “Nefarious.” Each time she showed it, a few people would linger afterwards and ask her, “Okay, now what do we do?”

Eventually Lisa knew she was being called to do more. Through the winter and spring of 2013, she gathered interested people to meet and discuss how to move forward. As she looked around the table at her meetings, she realized that, among others, God had drawn together a web designer, a photographer and a graphic artist. This was a team of primarily young people with the necessary skills to market an organization — all eager to offer those skills for a cause. From these meetings, Voice for the Captives was born. Lisa says of the early days, “Sometimes I just wanted a day off from knowing. But these girls [who are being trafficked] don’t get a day off, so why should I? At first I couldn’t sleep knowing about it, but now I can’t sleep not doing anything about it.”

Voice for the Captives’ mission is “abolishing sex trafficking through the love and power of Jesus Christ.” Their emphasis is preventative care: working to bring awareness and education to individuals, school faculties, church leadership, medical professionals, law enforcement and anyone who is willing to learn. This initiative happens through a five step process: joining people in prayer, creating community awareness through events, working with state lawmakers to bring justice, unifying churches to fight trafficking, and bringing healing to the victims. Over the last three years, Lisa has noticed that the greatest struggle is bringing healing to the victims of trafficking. Most victims have little to no financial help, which makes building a life after trafficking overwhelming.

source list of people and businesses that can offer free or reduced services for victims (such as car and home maintenance, housecleaning, plumbing and hairstyling), sharing time, love and skills in tangible ways as victims get back on their feet.

To the person who is wondering how to speak up for the captives, Lisa says this: “Pray first. Learning about human trafficking means opening your heart and mind to a horrible evil, so pray first, and then begin educating yourself.” On the Voice for the Captives website you’ll find many resources to help you learn more about modern-day slavery and how to be on the lookout for it in your own community. Talk to your church about hosting a movie event to show a documentary. Educate your kids. Although we want to shelter our kids from something so horrible, they need to know what this is and what the signs are so they can guard themselves and their peers. Offer your skills. If you have skills or

IT whattered MY HEART.

The women coming out of trafficking often have young children, little or no post-secondary education, few professional skills, and little to no support outside of shelters. The post-traumatic stress and psychological and emotional trauma they’ve suffered is severe and requires tremendous support and counseling. Additional financial assistance for victims is critical. North Dakota recently received a federal grant, awarded to Youthworks of North Dakota, to set up seven host homes around the state for rescued trafficking victims.)

To help meet these desperate needs, Voice for the Captives birthed a sub-organization in early 2016 called The Next Step ND, which exists to provide needed financial support to victims, with no strings attached. As Lisa says, “These girls come out of trafficking feeling totally alone. Often they feel like the only way to feed their kids is to go back to their trafficker. We absolutely have to help them.” As a simple outpouring of love, The Next Step ND desires to build its financial pool to be able to provide housing, food, clothing and childcare expenses for victims who are trying to build a life after trafficking. Another goal is to develop a re-

resources that could help a victim get on her feet again, please consider adding your services to The Next Step ND’s resource list. And, of course, the victims of human slavery need financial help. The Next Step ND cannot provide finances for victims without a growing and generous donor base. If you desire to serve those who’ve been silenced and abused in our community and state, perhaps giving financially to trafficking victims through The Next Step ND is the right step for you. Whatever next step we each take, may we raise our voices together, for freedom for the captives.

To Learn More or to Give:

web:

voiceforthecaptives.com

thenextstepnd.com

email:

voiceforthecaptives@gmail.com

I knew I needed to do something about it.

When I finally started learning about it,

free indeed

COOKBOOK AUTHOR DEVELOPS RECIPES for People with Food Sen sitivities

Enjoying dinner with family and friends can provide some of life’s most treasured times. However, for people with food sensitivities or intolerance, the aftereffects can be anything but pleasant. Many people experience adverse food reactions after eating trigger foods and medical science is learning that these sensitivities are more much common than previously realized. In fact, over 3 million cases of food sensitivity are treated in the U.S. each year. Symptoms can be dramatic, with a sudden feeling of sickness, or symptoms can be vague, such as bloating, weight gain, acne, depression, joint pain or lack of energy. Sometimes a person can go for years without realizing the cause of their discomfort is food intolerance. But once they make adjustments to their diet the change can be remarkable.

Soon after marrying her husband, Jason, in 2012, Leah Knight realized that she had a problem. Jason, who had struggled with his weight and health for years, had learned that he was sensitive to gluten. Leah, a woman who loved to cook, found that she had very few recipes that worked to accommodate his dietary restrictions. Additionally she was lacking energy herself and didn’t understand how she could be so tired all the time. Looking for answers to solve their eating dilemma, Knight began doing research. She watched “Hungry for Change,” a documentary that proposed the concept that much of the food that is common in the standard American diet is actually detrimental to a person’s health. She also read several books and articles on nutrition and wellness. This new information prompted Knight to change her diet, and soon afterward, she realized that she felt much healthier. As she explains, “I did not even know I had food sensitivities until I began eliminating some of the common trigger foods. Through changing my diet, I experienced the benefits of healthy weight loss, clearer thinking and much more energy.” However, as Knight’s knowledge of health-

ful eating increased, so did her frustration about cooking. She tried to make minor modifications to recipes, but as she describes it, “nothing was turning out well!”

As a music major at Dickenson State University, Knight had excelled. There she was named outstanding graduate and earned several awards at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, including the opportunity to sing at the Music Teachers National Association national conference in New York City, and to study for a year at the Frost School of Music in Salzburg, Austria. Knight credits her musical training with helping her learn to be organized, inquisitive and attentive to detail, skills that would help her tremendously as she addressed this new challenge of dramatically changing the way she had cooked and eaten her whole life.

In the summer of 2014, Knight buckled down to concentrate on the task of developing a whole new set of recipes that were nutritious, free of gluten, dairy, soy and processed sugar, that also had a wonderful texture and taste. Starting with

Words by Carolyn Lillehaugen

Portrait by Lindsay Kaye Photography

Food Photography by Madison Bartz, "That's Nice" Photography

favorite family recipes, she worked in her small apartment kitchen experimenting with every part of the recipe including the ingredients, mixing techniques and cooking times. Her tenacious approach paid off as through trial and error she eventually learned what would and wouldn’t work. Knight explains that her experiments taught her surprisingly, small things such as the order in which the ingredients were mixed turned out to be tremendously important.

After successfully creating a collection of recipes, friends encouraged her to develop a cookbook and share them with others. Using an independent publishing house in Indiana, Knight published “Free Indeed; A Guide to Cooking Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Soy-Free and Free of all Processed Sugars.” Not only does the book contain recipes for gluten-free bread products, but also for appetizers, soups, main courses, desserts and much more. The collection is unique because as Knight explains, “Unlike other cookbooks, it provides over 130 organic recipes that will simultaneously accommodate many dietary restrictions without compromising on taste or texture.” The introduction to the book includes a specific list of products to help a cook know what to purchase at the supermarket as well as clear step-by-step instructions to insure that the recipes turn out with a desirable texture and taste. “It was my intention to make the recipes simple and repeatable, using products easily found at either a grocery or health food store.”

As a select vendor at the Pride of Dakota Showcase, Knight enjoys meeting customers, providing samples and discussing wellness with interested people. Among the many supporters of her cookbook, Dr. Todd Ferguson, a naturopathic doctor from Moorhead, Minnesota, is pleased to be able to recommend the cookbook to patients. As he explains, "'Free Indeed' is a much needed appeal to the senses for the sensitive.”

When Knight reflects on the challenges that forced her to begin the “Free Indeed” project, she can’t help but be thankful for the end product. “Because of the positive change in my life, it has become my goal to help other people who are also trying to provide healthy and delicious meals for their friends and family.”

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT

Knight’s cookbook, or order a copy for yourself, go to freeindeedcooking.com

spider silk research

GIVES STUDENT CONFIDENCE, CAREER OPTIONS

Words by Dave Nilles | Photos by Dan Koeck

A team

of North Dakota State University

students and faculty are researching ways to use spider silk for medical treatments.

Catherine Gruat-Henry is a graduate research assistant in an NDSU lab led by Dr. Amanda Brooks, assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences. It’s a multidisciplinary lab, with undergraduate and graduate students studying mechanical and electrical engineering, pharmacy, animal science and medical laboratory science. It’s a well-rounded group figuring out ways to use spider silk’s many properties for various projects.

Spider silk proteins are natural organic materials that allow a spider to create different micro-scale sized silk fibers with different mechanical properties. The features include things like strength, elasticity and heat resistance.

Gruat-Henry’s focus is on the electrical properties of spider silk, but she is active on other projects as well.

“Untreated spider silk acts as an insulator,” Gruat-Henry says. “By modifying the silk with, for example, metallic nanoparticles, it can become a flexible conductor.”

Another avenue of research is drug delivery to human patients. Spider silk doesn’t cause the usual immune response to foreign objects in humans, so drugs and devices can be safely inserted during surgeries or when used to attack cancer cells.

Gruat-Henry wasn’t used to rigorous research until coming to NDSU in fall 2015. She joined the master’s program in electrical and computer engineering after earning an engineering undergraduate degree at the University of Stuttgart, 50 miles north of her hometown of Albstadt-Ebingen, Germany. Her emphasis was on engineering cybernetics, or the control of systems using technology in both biological systems and machines.

Now she enjoys a hands-on experience in the lab. On a recent Monday morning she peered inside a golden orb spider, searching for the glands that produce drag-line silk. They are the strands that give spider webs their strength.

She is trying to find a way to recreate the protein artificially without a tedious extraction process that includes sedating

the spiders. The process doesn’t harm the spiders, but it is time-consuming work and the fiber can vary slightly between spiders and even from the same spider.

After collecting the correct drag-line silk gland, Gruat-Henry is ready to produce the proteins. She used her engineering background to design 3D-printed microfilament devices to produce fibers that mimic the properties of the silk.

The research team’s work has even taken on an entrepreneurial twist. The team of students has created Spinthesis, a company trying to imitate spider silk to create a versatile, sustainable and biodegradable material. One of the company’s goals is to use spider silk fibers for pressureresponsive compression bandages. Current bandages don’t adapt to position- or pressurechanges in the wrapped limb, causing the bandage to slip or cut off blood circulation. The newly formed start-up is working on developing intelligent bandages that combine adjustable compression with elasticity for movement.

The research has helped strengthen her presentation and mentoring skills outside the lab. In April, Gruat-Henry was part of a team that presented research on using engineering to unravel the mystery of spider silk formation at the annual Rocky Mountain Bioengineering Symposium.

This spring she will mentor young women who are interested in careers in mathematics, science, engineering and medical fields. The Expanding Your Horizons workshop is set for April.

Gruat-Henry hasn’t decided if she will pursue a professional or academic career. She’s considering a biomedical-focused degree. Beginning in fall 2017, NDSU will offer a two-year Master of Science degree and a four-year Doctor of Philosophy degree in biomedical engineering. Thanks to her experience in NDSU labs, GruatHenry has many career options.

“I’m an older-than-average student and I’ve always felt like I’m not where I’m supposed to be in life,” Gruat-Henry said. “Now I feel like I have found my path, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

[ aw ]

YOU can START OVER j ulie rivenes and how she went ALL IN on a NEW CAREER

Words and Photography by Jill Ockhardt Blaufuss

those who think it's too late to dream

about a new career, that you’re too busy with children, that you’d have to simultaneously work full-time just to pay for it—talk to someone who did all those things and still says, “Jump in feet first and go for it.”

Those are the words of 41-year-old Julie Rivenes who now has her dream job as a social worker at the Salvation Army in downtown Fargo

When Rivenes started college for the second time, you wouldn’t have thought she picked the best time to start over in a new career. She was a full-time optician, a wife and a mother of two young daughters ages 4 and 8, the oldest one newly diagnosed with autism. Rivenes was also providing in-home care to her grandmother-in-law whose health had deteriorated due to dementia. Rivenes regularly interacted with her grandmother-in-law’s hospice workers. “I was in awe of how amazing they were,” Rivenes recalls, “I remember the social worker that came to visit her and how she truly cared about her well-being.” They displayed a capacity for compassion, resilience and helping that Rivenes knew was inside her as well. As that little spark grew, Rivenes knew she wanted something more in a career. At age 31, she made the life-changing decision to go back to college for social work.

Using the tortoise and the hare as an analogy, Rivenes knew she wasn’t the hare anymore. With very little time left over each day to focus on herself, she started with just one class that first semester. Each semester following she pecked away at classes, all while working full time and volunteering at Hospice of the Red River Valley.

It wasn’t until she had been in school for eight years, during her final semester of college in the summer of 2012, that Rivenes got a taste of the type of social work that would speak most to her. Needing to complete a 40 hour per week internship—one that could accommodate her full-time day job—Rivenes found the Gladys Ray Homeless Shelter and Veterans Drop in Fargo where she could fulfill her internship working evenings.

Rivenes is still amazed at what many of the people she met at Gladys Ray had survived: physical abuse, mental abuse and mental illness—on top of what they were able to do to get through each and every day having little to no support on which to fall back. Rivenes explains that some shelters serve either breakfast or lunch or supper—but not all three. A typical day might include braving the elements to make it to one agency to get breakfast, waiting in line to hopefully find work for the day, walking across town to get another meal, and then trying and find shelter for the night. She explains that the shelters are often full, especially so in the wintertime. “If you don’t get into one shelter, you’ll walk to another and hope they have a bed.” Rivenes says you need to be at most shelters by 5 p.m. to get a bed. You and your things need to be out again by 8 a.m. If you’re applying for jobs all day, you might skip a meal because it’s too far to the nearest shelter for lunch. And, she says, it’s hard to apply for jobs if you don’t have an address. “Their bodies and minds take such a beating,” she says, “yet they push through.”

During a point-in-time count conducted in January 2016, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development determined there were 923 homeless people in the FM area. More specifically, 694 households, including families with children, did not have permanent shelter. Until she worked at Gladys Ray, Rivenes says she had no idea there were so many people in our community that were homeless. “I just assumed that homelessness was something that happened in the bigger cities, like Chicago or New York.”

sometimes

ALL SOMEONE NEEDS is just to BE HEARD, qo know that someone is taking the time to listen and CARE ABOUT THEM.

At Gladys Ray, Rivenes realized something big: the importance of a good support system. “The people I met were not much different than me,” she says. “The main thing that seemed to separate us was pure luck.” Luck, Rivenes says, that she was raised by a family she could rely on when times got tough. If there was something too big for her to handle, she knew that not only her immediate family, but also her extended family, would be there.

After that summer at Gladys Ray, and following her graduation from Minnesota State University in 2012, eight years after she had begun, Rivenes finally achieved her ultimate goal of being a social worker and was hired as a case manager for the Supportive Service for Veterans Families Program at the Salvation Army. In that position, Rivenes worked hard getting those that were homeless into housing, and maintaining housing for those that were in crisis. When that position’s funding was moved to another organization, Rivenes chose to stay with the Salvation Army, becoming the organization’s Pathway of Hope case manager and service point data integrity specialist. In layman’s terms, she was a fully immersed life coach, helping clients reach their goals by breaking the cycle of inter-generational poverty using methods that were never taught to them in their lifetime. On top of that, she kept track of all the people served by Salvation Armies across North Dakota, making sure people and program reports were done correctly and the programs themselves were affective. Now Rivenes is the Salvation Army’s volunteer and public relations manager, juggling people and situations and making sure the right help, gets in the right place at the right time.

Rivenes has many stories that she feels validate she took the right path in life.

As a case manager for the veterans’ community she served, she had one client who she made regular visits to. His home, by choice of his own, was a hay bale. Because of the effects his PTSD, he was most comfortable living outside. By accepting this, and understanding that everyone has different needs, Rivenes was able to form a relationship and help get him the services he actually wanted and needed.

Rivenes, like many on her team at the Salvation Army, understand that generational poverty is overcome one success at a time, big or small. Rivenes’ team helped one woman

whose main obstacle was getting her driver’s license. A caseworker on Rivenes’ team at the Salvation Army helped her practice behind the wheel, and the team cleared their parking lot to help the woman learn parallel parking. Getting her driver’s license brought her one step further away from poverty as she could perform the basic tasks of getting to her job, transporting her small children to daycare and other appointments, and maintaining a household.

On another occasion, Rivenes remembers talking to a man who came in to the Salvation Army for food who she learned had been living in his car for months. It was winter and Rivenes didn’t like the idea of him being in his car in the cold. She called a landlord with whom she had a good rapport and found out he had a vacant apartment, but it required cleaning before anyone could move in. Rivenes brought the man to view the apartment that same day. After seeing it, he said he was more than willing to move in as-is and clean it himself. The landlord said he didn’t think it right that the man have to clean his own apartment, so he offered to pay him to clean it instead. A few weeks later, the man came by to visit Rivenes. He told her he had recently

been taken to the emergency room and pronounced dead on the table. He told her he wouldn’t have made it had he not had his new apartment. Because of his new home, he felt like he had something to live for. Something to go back to and take care of.

It’s not a question what Rivenes goes back for. Each and every week she knows she’s got people like that man to take care of, to help—something her parents instilled in her since her childhood. “My parents are some of the best influences on my life,” says Rivenes. “If someone was struggling, you helped them—that is just how it was.”

Not only did their spirit of service inspire Rivenes, but their personal stories were an inspiration for her eventual career change.

“My parents taught me that no goal is too high,” she says, explaining that both of her parents came from very low-income backgrounds. Growing up, Rivenes’ father’s family did not have running water. He had to take showers at school. Her mom was ten years old and one of ten children when their father died. Rivenes’ grandmother became

the sole breadwinner of a family that had one pair of boots between ten kids—each taking turns going outside to play in the snow. Both Rivenes’ parents went on to prove obstacles can be overcome if you have goals. Both, for instance, went to college and became teachers. They were very involved in civic roles in their community. Rivenes says, “Anytime there was something going on in town, my parents were either the head of it or involved in some way.” When Rivenes was ten, her father went back to college, all while still working full-time and coaching sports. He became a principal, and eventually a superintendent. Rivenes remembers her own decision to go back to school for social work during one of the busiest times in her own life. “I thought, if he could do it while raising four kids, then so could I,” she says.

Rivenes’ mom stepped up when her dad went back to school, and Rivenes had her own spouse, Danny, supporting her in every way. “I wouldn’t have been able to do it without him,” she says. “He would take the kids out so I could lock myself in the bedroom and do my homework.” When she went back to school she knew she was giving up time with her kids. “Everyday was hard,” she says. “Just finding the time to be there for my kids and not miss important moments in their life.” It was a delicate balance. On top of staying involved with family life, she also wanted to find time to do everything cor-

rectly in school, plus she didn’t want to neglect her job. “No matter what, I always felt I was missing out on something,” she explains. “ But I knew it would get better eventually and that is what kept me going.”

Rivenes and her husband have been married now for 19 years. Their two daughters are now in their mid and late teens. The eight years it took to finish her degree were some of the most trying times Rivenes says she’s gone through, but she’s firm that she made the right choices for herself and her family. “I would not change a thing,” says Rivenes. She’ll admit, however, that if she’d had to have a full-time job on top of the full-time internship for any longer period than that last summer of school, she may not have been able to physically make it. “I barely slept during that time,” she says. “It was the most fascinating, draining time in my life. But I truly got to understand what this population’s struggles are and what they’re going through. If I hadn’t had that internship, I wouldn’t have had a grasp on what I’m doing today.”

Having served individuals directly, Rivenes is better attuned to the needs of the people she’s helping while organizing the volunteer labor for the programs she supports. “I don’t think people realize that we have a very small staff at the Salvation Army, so we rely heavily on our volunteers,” Rivenes says.

RED KETTLE fundraising

As the holiday season approaches, the Salvation Army’s programs, including the Red Kettle Program and the Holiday Food Basket Registration are in full swing. And so is Rivenes’ role as volunteer manager. Among the types of volunteers needed, Red Kettle bell ringer volunteers play a huge role in helping fund the Salvation Army programs that Rivenes has been a part of. And while you might want to walk right by those kettles—hands tied up with grocery bags,

loose change or cash tucked away deep in your wallet or purse—remember even the smallest amount can make a difference. So take the time to stop and throw any amount in.

Your loose change adds up to provide things that make a big difference in people’s lives. It can buy seemingly small things like bus tickets to a new job until that first paycheck arrives or even just a toothbrush, to something as big as a deposit on an apartment— someplace to feel good about coming home to, a huge stepping stone in self-esteem and independence. You’re buying a cup of coffee and a piece of bread for someone’s breakfast, a Thanksgiving meal that makes a person feel like things are normal again during a time of crisis—even if for just one meal. You might be paying for a simple paper program during the Salvation Army’s worship service.

Your donations also fund meals for the MOMs (mobile outreach meals) program that provides hot meals five days a week to kids who normally get free or reduced-price meals during the school months, but are left to fend for themselves during the summer. The meals are brought to neighborhood parks for kids who otherwise wouldn’t get a hot meal all day. “A lot of the kids come alone—we don’t ever see the parents.”

GIVING YOUR TIME

Aside from your monetary donations, your time is one of the most impactful things you can give this year. Rivenes urges those with a giving spirit to give her a call or send her an email. From there, she says, “I’d want to meet you in person and find out what your interests are so we can set you up with something you’ll enjoy.” It doesn’t take more than an hour or two to volunteer and make a difference.

Below are some of the typical time commitments involved in just some of the programs

Rivenes staffs:

FEEDING PROGRAM: 1.5–3 hours (prep of serving at Salvation Army)

BELL RINGING: 2.5 hour shift

REGISTRATION FOR FOOD BOXES: 3.5 hour shifts (at Salvation Army)

CHRISTMAS FOOD BOX FILLING and DELIVERY: 2–6 hours

MOMS PROGRAM: 1–2 hours

(serving or helping with activities)

EMERGENCY DISASTER SERVICES

(training involved) (hours vary)

Rivenes found her calling in her 30s, maybe a little later than most, but it shows that it’s never too late. Rivenes also reminds us that making a difference in our community doesn’t necessarily mean switching careers. “I look at our individual volunteers who come in on a daily or weekly basis,” says Rivenes, “and how the people who come for our services really look forward to seeing the same volunteers.” The Salvation Army provides many programs, but, Rivenes says, “We wouldn’t be able to do it without all the help we receive from the community.”

Rivenes says of all the things we can give, it’s the free things her clients value the most. She says she’s learned that giving someone a simple smile can change someone’s day. That taking time to listen can make a world of difference. “Sometimes all someone needs is just to be heard,” says Rivenes, “to know that someone is taking the time to listen and care about them. Kindness is free, so don’t be afraid to give as much as possible.”

To find your perfect volunteer position, call Julie Rivenes directly at 701-356-2688 or email julie_rivenes@usc.salvationarmy.org.

my grandma's RECIPE

my grandma's RECIPE

creamed chicken and pan-fried biscuits

CREAMED CHICKEN

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons minced yellow onion

8 skinless chicken drumsticks (or a whole cut up chicken)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon pepper

1 tablespoon water

1 quart heavy cream

optional: ¼ cup water mixed with 2 tablespoons corn starch

Heat oil in large fry pan on medium (a nonstick pan was used in this recipe). Add minced onion to oil and cook for two to three minutes or until just starting to brown.

Add chicken to pan and lightly season with some of the salt and pepper. Pour one tablespoon of water over the chicken, cover, and turn heat up to medium-high. Turn chicken when it starts to brown on one side — about two to three minutes each side.

When chicken is lightly browned on both sides, add one quart heavy cream and sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper. Bring to just bubbling, then reduce heat to low and cover fry pan. The cream and chicken should be simmering or gently bubbling. Watch closely to make sure the cream doesn’t boil over. Cook for at least 30 minutes, but optimally this

should cook for well over an hour. The lower and slower you cook this, the more tender your chicken will be.

The cream thickens and the chicken easily comes away from the bone when it has cooked long enough. Serve as is or, alternately, remove the meat from the bones and return meat to the sauce. For a thicker sauce, slowly add the cornstarch/water mixture, stirring constantly on medium heat until thick and bubbly with the cover removed. Remove from heat and serve over panfried biscuits.

BISCUITS

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 teaspoons minced yellow onion

1 can refrigerated biscuits (8 count)

Heat oil and minced onion on medium heat in a smaller non-stick fry pan.

Cut biscuit slices in half and arrange on top of the oil and onions in the fry pan. Pour one tablespoon of water into the pan, cover, and let cook on medium heat for 10 minutes, being careful not to remove the cover.

After 8-10 minutes (the biscuits should have started to puff), use a large spatula and flip the biscuits as one unit. Using a fork, separate the biscuits, then replace cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes. serves 4-6

When Jenny Davis asked her family which recipe from their grandma Evelyn Miller’s repertoire stood out in their minds, there was a resounding vote for her creamed chicken. Davis describes Miller as an equally good baker as she is a cook, with a kitchen open for helping out, and an equally open cupboard policy for snacking. And I saw for myself the love and pride she has for her family, their framed images decorating the walls of her and her husband’s home. The quintessential grandmother. Miller lovingly recalls a

young Davis coming out to Montana for a visit to grandma and grandpa’s. Miller’s aversion to tuna fish somehow disappeared that visit when Davis set to work one day making, of all things, tuna fish. To Miller’s surprise, whatever Davis she did to it, it somehow changed her tune towards tuna fish.

Miller learned to cook on the family farm near Flasher, North Dakota, from her mother and grandmother, and honed her skills cooking for her own family of five. Whether it’s in her genes or skills honed from moving many times for her husband’s work managing Cenex stores when their kids were young, Miller is grounded and organized, even in the kitchen. Davis remembers her grandma’s ability to easily step in when she was needed to run the kitchen at Davis’ grandpa’s convenience store, and her ability to cook a huge family meal and the kitchen somehow remain tidy. Miller is easy-going and a great conversationalist. She welcomed me into her home and then cooked and fed me the perfect meal for the cold, rainy day that it was.

I watched granddaughter and grandmother make the chicken together, and as the creamed chicken was finishing up (Miller adding that if she had her druthers the chicken would be cooking on low for another hour) she began to open up a package of refrigerator biscuits. Pre-made biscuits seemed out of place after seeing the creamed chicken evolve from the ground up, everything done from scratch. But when Miller started cooking the biscuits in a fry pan with olive oil and more fresh minced onion, letting them sort of steam/fry cook, I saw the genius in it. It reminded me of French chef Jacque Pépin, author of, among others, Fast Food My Way. Pépin doesn’t scoff at utilizing canned ingredients in the place of fresh ones. Sometimes that’s all you’ve got time for, or all you have available.

There’s an art in taking something ordinary, and putting a spin on it that is all your own. And Miller’s spin on creamed chicken and biscuits is nothing short of art.

If you and your grandma (or another special lady) have a recipe you’d like to share, contact design@areawomanmagazine.com.

RECIPES with NORTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN

crusty citrus pork chops with edamame walnut salad

Make your fire on both sides of the grill, then put the pork chops in the center — this is called indirect grilling. The chops will cook slower, keeping them moist and succulent.

CHOP RUB:

½ cup dark brown sugar

½ tablespoon coarse ground pepper

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon sugar

½ tablespoon smoked paprika or paprika

4 2-inch thick pork chops

Olive Oil

2 oranges, cut in half

Preheat grill.

slow cooker calico beans

1 (16-oz.) can baked beans

1 (15.5-oz.) can black soybeans, rinsed and drained

1 (15-oz.) can tan soybeans, rinsed and drained

1 (12-oz.) package frozen shelled edamame

1 cup maple syrup or barbecue sauce or a combo of syrup and barbeque sauce

¼ cup cooked bacon or turkey bacon bits

Combine baked beans, black soybeans, garbanzo beans, edamame, syrup or barbecue sauce and bacon bits in 4 to 5 ½ quart slow cooker.  Cover and cook on LOW 6 to 8 hours or HIGH 3 to 4 hours. If necessary, stir in ½ cup water to desired consistency. Serve with corn bread or corn muffins.

Combine first five ingredients; stir well.  Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.  Brush lightly all over with oil.  Using your hands or a spice bottle, sprinkle chop rub over chops (reserving 1 teaspoon for salad below). Pat gently to form a crust, but do not rub hard.

Place chops in the center of the cooking grate over indirect medium heat.  Let grill for 15 minutes before turning.  Turn and let cook 10-15 more minutes or until done.  The outside should be crusty and the inside juicy and just a little pink.  Remove from the grill and let sit for 5-10 minutes.

While the pork chops are “resting” put orange halves on the grill cut-sides down, over direct heat for 5 minutes or until charred. Remove from grill and squeeze the juice from half of an orange over each chop.  Serve with Edamame and Walnut Salad.

EDAMAME AND WALNUT SALAD: Serves 8

½ heaping teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

Sea salt

Freshly ground pepper

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

1 teaspoon chop rub

4 navel oranges peeled and sectioned

12 ounces shelled cooked edamame

½ cup walnut halves, toasted

Combine first 7 ingredients, whisk together until emulsified. Combine orange sections, edamame and walnuts. Just before serving, toss salad with about half of the vinaigrette, adding more if necessary.

Slice oranges between the membranes to make “supreme” slices of orange sections.  Mix gently with the cooked edamame and toss with enough of the Ginger Dressing to moisten the salad.  Taste for salt and pepper and adjust as necessary.  Crumble toasted walnuts on top and serve with Crusty Double-Cut Pork Chops.

adiet

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

MATTHEW 10:28-30

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