Area Woman Magazine Jun/Jul '19

what lies beneath MARIAH PRUSSIA

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Tuscany Yarmouth

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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 contributors showcased in this issue. Learn more about these and our other contributors at areawomanmagazine.com .

TONYA OLSON

SIRI THADEN

Specializing in women’s portraits, Tonya's work focuses on empowering women, creating a moment, and capturing the emotion of that moment. As a mother of three and a woman on an everchanging journey herself, she wants to inspire women to celebrate every milestone of the woman’s journey.

Siri is a former miss minnesota, media personality, and current manager of women’s community programs and education at Sanford Health. She focuses on providing and improving services to women that help them live their healthiest lives possible. She also enjoys the outdoors, hot yoga and the occasional (vegan) burger.

AUBREY TYSON

Aubrey is a lover of wine, working out, reading, all things Gilmore Girls and Target. She has a deep passion for writing, travel and the entrepreneur lifestyle. Her company Brey Tyson Digital & Design focuses on digital marketing, website design and graphic design for small to mid-size businesses. Mother of two and wife to a Brit, she takes life one day at a time while reveling in the chaos of family life.

ASHLEY HAM

Ashley is a full-time wedding, lifestyle and destination photographer with her husband Ryan at FloraPine Photography. She is passionate about documenting the every day, writing about home simplicity and renovation projects, and writing music.

LINDSAY TRUAX

Lindsay is the editor of the website Pink and Navy Stripes, a lifestyle and fashion blog. She loves to help others take the latest fashion trends and make them wearable. Lindsay and her husband have three little girls.

Our cover story was written by Siri and photographed by Tonya, page 54.

Beauty Marks Boudoir photographer

WHITNEY LYNNE DUDEN

Balancing a life of family, friends and fashion. Whitney lives for laughs, good people and great clothes, with a few other things too. Whitney graduated from UND with a degree in marketing. She goes by the title of "fashion maven" (also known as a fashion influencer). You can see her daily fashion posts, and catch her crazy ideas on Instagram @whitney_lynne.

KAYLA COTE VAN RENSBURG

Kayla, a creative entrepreneur, spends her days designing stylish screen printed apparel for local boutiques with her husband, Piet, in Dak & Collaboratives. She also creates visual branding for clients in her design and media business, Cote Creative, LLC. In her spare time she interviews community members for her lifestyle and design blog Find Your Style found at cotecreative.co/blog.

celebrating all things woman

publisher

JON-MICHAEL SHERMAN

art director

MEGAN ELGIN

proofing editor

JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

advertising

MIKE SHERMAN 701-306-5119

JON-MICHAEL SHERMAN 701-306-1288

TAMIE ZACCHEA 701-306-7932

graphic design intern

HELENA NORRAW

marketing intern

LINDSEY WAGNER

photography

5FOOT20 DESIGN LOUNGE

ARTOGRAPHY BY BETHANY

BEAUTY MARKS BOUDOIR

EXPRESSIONS BY ASHTON PHOTOGRAPHY

DALAYNA MCKNIGHT

FLORAPINE PHOTOGRAPHY

JILL OCKHARDT BLAUFUSS

JONATHAN CALIX

LILY BRUNDIN

LINDSAY KAYE PHOTOGRAPHY

MIKE SMITH

SCHERLING PHOTOGRAPHY

STACY KENNEDY

ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

Alicia is the creator of prairiestylefile.com, a website that explores the arts, culture, shopping, events and fashion of Fargo-Moorhead and the upper Midwest. She frequently travels across the region in search of what's beautiful and what's next.

DENISE PINKNEY

Denise Pinkney loves words. She's an award-winning writer who lives in Fargo with her handsome husband, Charles. She is an avid journaler, passionate speaker and competitive Taboo player.

photo by stacy kennedy

: style by francesca's

Keeping North Dakota Well Means Knowing

Why choose BCBSND?

One thousand North Dakotans working for you. Whether taking member questions or making a home away from home at Ronald McDonald House, Tracy Farahmand makes North Dakota and our members a priority.

This is health insurance, North Dakota style. bcbsnd.com/NDStyle

Tracy Farahmand

Customer Contact Center Team Leader, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

dressessummer

I AM SO EXCITED THAT summer is finally here. Well, I guess it starts on June 21, but it feels like summer starts as soon as school is out. For me, summer means three kids at home with no more busy schedules and lots of playtime. It also means summer birthdays for me and my girls, baby and bridal showers, and date nights with my husband. I always find myself looking for a dress or two to get me through all the fun of the summer events and activities.

event dress

I love finding a dress that I can wear to any event. Normally I will not buy a dress of this style without having a specific event coming up. Having a dress that sits in my closet unworn is something I loathe. I wanted to get a dress for Easter this year that I could wear to church and to other events this summer. I picked a simple lace dress with some ruffles on it because it feels very feminine. A basic dress is easy to dress up with a headband or fun shoes.

the maxi dress

Whenever I think of a maxi dress, I think of a dress that goes all the way to the ground. It can be really hard to find a full-length maxi dress that fits right! I have a hard time finding one that is long enough and I am not even that tall. Others can struggle with ones that are always dragging on the ground. Since the length on those can be so challenging, I find it easier to look for dresses that are a longer midi length. This way you still get the same feel without all the trouble. It also provides the opportunity to show off a great pair of shoes. The finished look with a denim jacket, sandals, and a great clutch is a summer date night staple.

Follow Lindsay on INSTAGRAM: @pinkandnavystripes

I have never been one to enjoy wearing shorts. That fact makes one of my favorite summer looks a casual t-shirt dress. They are so comfortable and can so easily be worn in different ways. One of my favorite ways to wear a t-shirt dress is with tennis shoes. The combination is perfect to bring on summer trips or to the lake on weekends. T-shirt dresses are available in many different stores and are budget friendly.

casual day dress for dress with a kimono

When it comes to dressing for work, I feel like we can all get sick of wearing pants year around. Maybe at times you are able to get a skirt in the rotation but I feel like work wardrobes can get repetitive. To be able to switch it up in the summer is so nice. When wearing a dress to work, length is important. If your dress is too short, the look is unprofessional, and it will only get worse when you sit down.

Investing in a kimono is a new fresh look for summer and adds a lot of versatility to your wardrobe. They can be worn so many different ways. I love them over a solid color dress. It is such a chic look. Since they can be worn so many ways, they make a great piece to pack in a suitcase on a trip. They can be worn as a swim coverup, with shorts, and with jeans as well. The floral patterns you will find on kimonos are so pretty and cheerful. They are really a great way to add some personality to your outfits.

&

dinner dressing

etting in my car, I roll the windows down. The sun beaming on my face, smiling, I wave backing down the driveway. “Have fun and behave for grandma and grandpa,” I say.

“Siri, call Hubs.” Luke answers, “Hey babe, are you ready for date night? And where do you want to go for dinner?” I give him the “Well, pizza sounds good, burgers sound okay, I’d like to enjoy the weather so a patio would be nice.” And as Luke begins suggesting places my mind drifts off to the land of “What am I Going to Wear?”

Already feeling rushed, panic sets in. It’s 5:54 p.m. We are supposed to be meeting our friends at 6:30 p.m. … and I’m not even home yet.

I feel like I always end up feeling in this fiasco. I had Luke pick out a date-night look, and I picked out a date-night look. Can you guess who chose which outfit?

words by WHITNEY LYNNE DUDE N photography by LILY BRUNDIN

Follow Whitney Lynne on INSTAGRAM: @whitney_lynne

In all fairness I did have this pink shirt on and he styled the rest of it for me. But the tee and white pants were my choice. One thing I love about both of these looks is they’re summery, date-night appropriate and easy to layer. I love to sit outside in the summertime, but I always get chilly. So bringing a jacket to wear with either of these makes it easy.

I think white linen pants are a great piece to have in the summer months, and they’re unbelievably comfortable. Better yet, these I found at Target. They can be dressed up, or down, too.

Regardless, it’s important to feel comfortable in what you’re wearing. I always say, if you’re not comfortable, you’re not going to feel confident leaving your house. You want to enjoy your time out and not be worrying about your clothing.

I have to say, Luke did a great job though! I was pleased with his choice too. Darker jeans, whether they’re distressed are not, can be worn with anything in your closet. And the pink top with the purple belt is such a fun combo.

Both of these outfits are “date night approved” in my book. Don’t be afraid to try new pieces, and mix things up. You never know what you’ll end up loving.

So now, let’s enjoy date night …

area style

Freshly picked summer arrivals, perfect for a summer day or the 4th of July.

OLIVE STREET

701-639-6990

shopolivestreet.com

Directly south of Costco at I-94 and Veterans Boulevard

with so

Strolling in #leelasummerstyle

LEELA & LAVENDER

Shoppes at BLU Water Creek 3265 45th St S, Suite 116, Fargo leelaandlavender.com

many great area shopping locations

to choose from, it's easy to find the best summer fashion pieces. We've rounded up some of our favorites from local stores to inspire you. From retro glam to fun in the sun, you'll have the perfect look for every summer adventure. Take a peek, then hit the streets to find your favorite looks.

SCHEELS

4550 15th Ave S, Fargo :

An array of playful clothing and accessories at FRANCESCA'S West Acres Mall, 3902 13th Ave S #4305, Fargo : 701-281-1592 : francescas.com

view the John Hardy Collection, exclusively at GUNDERSON'S 5601 28th Ave S, Fargo : gundersons.com

Step into summer with our favorite Toms transitional shoes.

scheels.com

photo by stacy kennedy

This Multi Colored Strapless Jumpsuit will have you ready for summer fun in no time. No matter the occasion we are here to help every women find an outfit that makes them feel beautiful.

BLUE DAISY

BOUTIQUE

1650 45th St S Unit 105-106, Fargo 701-478-6646

shopbluedaisyboutique.com

Complete any outfit with this easy-to-wear denim jacket. Designed in a light base wash, this classic jacket can easily be worn all season long.

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

2603 Kirsten Ln S, #103, Fargo 701-356-6684 : mainstreamboutique.com

Banana Blue Linen from Australia, exclusively at TALULA

701-532-1134

Directly south of Costco at I-94 and Veterans Boulevard

Bra straps slipping? Come in and get a professional fit by one of our experienced bra fitters.

CURVY DIVAS

1201 13th Ave E, West Fargo 701-532-3021

Women’s Armachillo Cooling Sleeveless Dress: Microscopic jade absorbs and dissipates heat, resulting in a cooling sensation against your skin. Plus, UPF 40 and odor-fighting treatment ensure all-day protection and freshness.

DULUTH TRADING CO.

2261 Rustad Ln E, West Fargo duluthtrading.com

area family

june.july 2019

photo: expressionsbyashton.com

MSUM and CHURCHES UNITED EXPAND PARTNERSHIP

cultivatingcommunity

Minnesota

State University

Moorhead (MSUM) education professor Steve Grineski started partnering with Churches United for the Homeless seven years ago when he required students in his Social Foundations of Education class to complete 12 hours of volunteer service at the shelter.

“It was a wonderful opportunity for my students because most don’t get an opportunity to work with kids at an emergency homeless shelter,” Grineski says.

He retired from MSUM in 2015 and joined Churches United part-time in 2017. One of the first things he did was propose a comprehensive and enduring partnership to MSUM and Churches United leadership that would build upon the service learning project he started seven years ago. They embraced it. Today, Grineski works to continue the partnership with MSUM and children's programs at the shelter.

“The shelter has a lot to offer that could benefit the university,” Grineski says. “And the kids at the shelter

would certainly benefit from college mentors.”

Over the years, hundreds of MSUM students have volunteered at Churches United. They mentor, supervise and transport to field trips, assist with special events, plan and implement story time and much more.

Kayli Fitz, an art education major from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, started volunteering through a class and continues to volunteer at the shelter on her own.

“My experience at Churches United is one I treasure,” Fitz says. “I have developed strong relationships with the kids, and it’s evident they feel the same.”

Rachel Green, an elementary inclusive education major from Fargo, transports preschoolers to TNT Fitness for open gym and co-leads the shelter’s Computer Club.

“We meet once a week and use the computers for kids to participate in fun, online educational activities,” Green says. “Churches United does an incredible job of providing opportunities for children to be involved in different activities.”

Volunteers help ensure a positive impact on families. The growing alliance with MSUM enriches the lives of children by providing:

• opportunities to interact with young adults

• access to activities in which they might not otherwise get to participate

• mentors for children beyond their family structure

• interactions with college students to demonstrate the possibilities of higher education

These experiences impact student volunteers and present ways to grow professionally.

Iam constantly reminded to think about each child as a whole and to consider not only their cognitive development but their physical, social and emotional development,” says Green.

MSUM art education alumna Julie Feir helps lead Art Club at Churches

Jacky Volkert and many of her Dragon basketball teammates volunteer with Churches United. Here she’s pictured with Serena, one of three children she’s worked with exclusively the past two years.

“To

United. She started volunteering when her professor presented an opportunity to work on art projects with children.

“It was definitely a good opportunity to gain experience that wasn’t in a traditional classroom,” says Feir, who is in her first-year teaching K-6 art in Perham, Minnesota. She says the volunteer experience has given her a more compassionate perspective on life and people.

“If I were told that one of my students is battling homelessness, I think I am now better prepared to help that student,” Feir says.

This partnership truly impacts MSUM students and the Moorhead community.

“For college students, interacting and working with diverse people groups expands their horizons and compassion and is a professional asset,” says Marissa Jensen, coordinator of Art Club and an MSUM art education graduate who teaches at Moorhead High School. “I believe it creates individuals who can connect with, care about, and invest in other people; the kind of people who want to make the world a kinder place. I think that’s the most important part of this experience.”

Jacky Volkert, a health services administration major from St. Paul, Minnesota, agrees. She’s been volunteering with the same family for two years.

“It’s fun knowing I’m making their day a little better,” Volkert says. “There is a lot of intrinsic gratification.”

Beyond personal satisfaction, each interaction provides an opportunity to make this community a better place.

“It might sound cliché, but serving others just spreads the love. I think that’s a huge deal in today’s world,” Volkert says. “And hopefully, the kids I volunteer with will learn to give back, too.”

Dana Bisignani Women’s Center Coordinator

Dr. Ruth Lumb Paseka School of Business Professor

Kirsten Jensen Chief Marketing Officer

Rachel Green co-leads Computer Club at Churches United and says it’s amazing to see what children create through simple computer programs.

know these activities are making a positive impact on kids’ lives is a great feeling.”

PLANNING OUT YOUR LIFE

goals involves careful decision-making. For example, postsecondary education is (or at least should be) an important component of this process. Sometimes these decisions can be handled alone, and sometimes support is needed. Independent college counselors provide advice to students who want to pursue postsecondary education.

After working as a college counselor, I stepped out of my comfort zone and left the Dominican Republic to pursue my PhD at NDSU. My life’s plans at that time involved returning home immediately after finishing to work as a scientist. But there is always a margin of error in these intentions, and I met John, whom I married and settled down with, in the Red River Valley.

Working for the Dominican government, which meant traveling between Moorhead and Washington, D.C., as well as reflecting on my personal experiences, I grasped the nuances of scholarship applications. I was amazed with the num-

ber of prospective candidates who contacted me, asking questions or needing extra support to apply for these programs. So I went full circle and specialized in college counseling through UCLA Extension. This program has opened the door to new resources and data about the field.

Now, if you wonder if there are benefits to working with an independent college counselor, I’ll list a few:

1We

help students find the RIGHT-FIT FOR SCHOOLS.

We assist in creating a list of schools based on fit. Families should hear the word “fit” often when hiring a college consultant because it is important to assess what school attributes are important for the student, and what qualities the institutions are looking for. Of course, nobody can guarantee acceptance anywhere, at least if they have an honest approach.

reasons why you should consider hiring an independent college counselor

We do not intend to replace THE SCHOOL COUNSELOR.

It is really important for the student to understand this particular point: Build a relationship with school counselors, because we can’t and won’t compete with these. If the student and the family wants us to, we can work in collaboration with them, but our work does not always overlap.

3 We prepare an INDIVIDUALIZED PLAN.

If a family decides to hire a college consultant, this should work with the student’s needs and goals. It’s good to have dreams and we should listen to them carefully, but we should also provide guidance based on data. Some students will benefit from attending big universities, some from attending small colleges, and some from attending technical or vocational school. We find many people pay a lot of attention to rankings, and that can be a problematic way of creating a schools list. There are many factors that are taken into consideration to create these rankings that don’t always relate to an individual students’ needs.

WE CARE.

Most consultants want to advise students who are truly motivated to pursue higher education and try to adapt to their possibilities. Our society benefits from educated individuals, be it university or technical school. There are families, especially those of first generation students, that feel that they can’t afford college, so they don’t even try. Others simply don’t reach out to their counselor when they should because they lack confidence.

5

WE ARE AVAILABLE.

The American School Counselor Association recommends a counselor to student ratio of 1:250, however the national average in the U.S. is 1:439. The Minnesota ratio is an alarming 1:659. There are many instances of counselors who are overwhelmed with large caseloads and other school duties. Independent college counselors work to fill the existing void and, in the majority of cases, are honest professionals who work to see an increase in student numbers in the postsecondary education institution pipeline.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit A.J. Kognos Independent College Counseling online at ajkognosconsulting.info.

Dear NICU Mama,

On January 2, our son Silas was born at 28 weeks via an emergency C-section. His birth launched us into an 87-day NICU stay with one plane transfer from the U of M Masonic Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis to Sanford Health in Fargo. There is nothing that prepares a mom to see her baby in an incubator, or to have her first interactions with them be behind a sheet of glass. But there is something extraordinary about the NICU journey and how it shapes a mother.

The NICU can often times be very isolating and lonely because to protect your child means to keep a lot of the outside world out. I remember oftentimes feeling like "mommy blogs" were irrelevant to me. I would read blogs about losing sleep at night and would get so sad because I so desperately wanted to lose sleep with our baby at home. I found it hard to find blog posts or articles of encouragement that felt like they resonated with me.

The first NICU mom I really connected with was the mom next door to us. We bonded over emergency C-sections, ruptured placentas and respiratory support. For the first time I didn't feel like I was alone. About a week later, a veteran NICU mom came and sat with me, shared her journey with me, and gave me sound advice and encouragement. It was incredibly life-giving to me. My heart desperately needed both of these friendships, which then began the stirring of a big dream in my heart.

Toward the end of our stay I started to dream up what it could look like to connect more NICU moms in our region, and also what it could look like to celebrate what they had

gone through and the miracle that their child is. After many nights of dreaming and planning, I am excited to say that on Mothers Day, Dear NICU Mama was launched.

Dear NICU Mama is a passion project designed to connect, encourage and create community with past and present NICU moms. One of the ways we celebrated the launch was with a photo shoot with seven other veteran NICU moms, each with their own unique and special NICU story. On April 28, we moms came together and shared our journeys, wrote letters to current NICU moms, and celebrated our kids. Oftentimes NICU moms don’t have the chance to have a maternity photo session done because their babies are born early, and if their babies aren’t born full term they feel like they missed the window for a traditional newborn photo shoot. This shoot celebrated their story and all they had overcome. We celebrated mamas who had babies in the NICU 17 years ago, and mamas who had babies in the NICU a few months ago; mamas who had full-term babies, and mamas who had preemies. While our stories and journeys varied, we had a kindred connection like none other. My heart came alive in a new way that day, and a sisterhood was formed.

I consider it an honor to know these mamas. They are some of the strongest women I know, and I am honored to stand alongside of them. Mother’s Day has a whole new meaning now that I am a mom myself, but also because I understand that the road to motherhood is not always an easy one. Sometimes it’s 87 days in the NICU. But, my oh my, I’m so glad I don’t have to journey through it alone.

If you are a NICU mom reading this, I want to invite you into the sisterhood that is Dear NICU Mama. Whether your NICU journey was 16 years ago or you are still sitting in the hospital today, you are not alone. There is a beautiful sisterhood of women that are waiting to walk alongside you and hear your story.

HOW TO GET CONNECTED

Join our private Facebook group Dear NICU Mama

Follow us on Instagram @dearnicumama

Stay tuned for our podcast Dear NICU Mama being released in June

Read letters and receive updates for future events and gatherings at our website: dearnicumama.com

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go far woman race evolves into family event

fundraiser benefits tiny babies

Fargo’s first all-woman race has evolved into a family event that helps support Essentia Health–Fargo’s tiniest patients and their families.

Sue Bertsch launched the Go Far Woman race in 2013 to honor her late sister, Dr. Renee Schwandt. The Fargo obstetrician and gynecologist had died unexpectedly in 2003, at age 38. “She touched many people and exuded a feeling of joy, compassion and strength throughout her life,” Bertsch says. “This race is in honor of her and continues to give back in her name.”

The first event was held in a parking lot and drew almost 1,800 participants to its 5K, 10K and half-marathon. “It was an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm,” Bertsch recalls.

“I think women were very excited to have an event that they could call their own, and one that supported the memory of my sister.”

The annual event has evolved by adding races for all ages. “We wanted to make the event something that the entire family could participate in,” Bertsch says. After the all-women races came the Go Far Girl Run, which promotes health and positive self-image in girls. Next came Go Far Baby, which has a Diaper Dash and Toddler Trot. Last year, the Champion 5K was added and opened to men as well.

2019 Go Far Woman schedule

AUGUST 9

scheels arena

Noon to 8:00 PM Expo, silent auction and packet pickup

urban plains park

5:30 PM Diaper Dash

6:00 PM Toddler Trot

6:30 PM Go Far Girl Youth Run (ages 12 and under)

7:30 PM Big 98.7 Champion 5K (men and women)

AUGUST 10 scheels arena

6:30 AM Half-marathon and relay lineup

6:45 AM Anthems and announcements

7:00 AM Half-marathon and relay start

7:20 AM 10K start

7:25 AM 5K start

for more information or to register for races, go to gofarwoman.com.

↗ Grayson Potter is examined by Dr. Pawl Zieba, a neonatologist in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit at Essentia Health–Fargo. Donations from the Go Far Woman helped buy an incubator for tiny babies.

← Race Director Sue Bertsch (center) poses with her daughter, Courtney (at left), and Amanda Lea of Big 98.7, at a recent Go Far Woman race. photo by kaytlin dargen

More than 2,000 participants are expected for this year’s races on August 9 and 10 at Scheels Arena, Bertsch says. Early registrations are up, with runners from 14 states and Canada.

The Essentia Health Go Far Woman benefits the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Essentia Health–Fargo and donations have helped buy equipment, such as incubators. Now Bertsch has decided to sponsor one of 14 rooms being built in a new unit. The private room for newborns and their families will bear her sister’s name. “My sister delivered many babies that needed the assistance of the Essentia Health NICU to help begin their lives,” Bertsch says. “She would have loved to have been able to continue to help these littlest of patients.”

“This race has done so much for our NICU and we are grateful for Sue’s gifts,” says Susan Omdalen, director of development at the Essentia Health Fargo Foundation. “I am so impressed by her commitment to her sister’s legacy and how she has built the race and through it raised awareness about our NICU.”

A committee of volunteers run and staff the race. Essentia Health volunteers help at a race expo and packet pickup. Fargo firefighters hand out medals and water to race finishers while the West Fargo baseball team does the same for the girls’ run.

Bertsch’s family plays important roles in the event. Her daughter, Courtney, serves as assistant race director and graphic designer, while husband, Steve, is an integral part of the race. “My mom frequents the race and has been at the starting line with me several times,” Bertsch says. “In its inaugural year, Renee’s daughter, Jessica, spoke about her mom and what this meant to her.”

Bertsch, who works as office manager in the Career Development Center at Minnesota State University Moorhead, says she is touched by the stories that people share about the care her sister gave to them and their families. “Renee’s legacy lives on through the success of those that participate in this event,” she says. “I am so grateful for the community support and the stories shared with me by people who knew Renee and loved her.”

beautiful BOY : ADOPTION THROUGH JOY

and PAIN

When are you going to start having kids?” The dreaded question, one that you start hearing about two minutes after getting married, or at your thirtieth birthday party, or at a friend’s baby shower, or …

Many have learned to not ask, but it is one of the questions that does not fit in the experience of a couple growing their family through adoption. Whether couples have always been interested in adoption or are considering it after infertility struggles, friends and family may not know how to relate or support them during the process.

For Luke and Shannon, whose son joined their family through adoption, they said they didn't expect the whole experience would be as isolating as it was. “It was challenging because it seemed like no one knew what you were going through, which most people really don't, but it was also exciting,” they explain. “It was a mixed bag of feelings. Besides talking to others who had gone through adoption or were currently in the process, it sometimes felt very lonely.”

They opened up about their process and experience with Christian Adoption Services (CAS), a local agency licensed to serve birth parents and adoptive couples in North Dakota and Minnesota.

Working with an agency whose services to birth parents is an integral part of the mission was valuable. Luke and Shannon share, “We didn't realize the amount of care our agency offers to birthmothers through counseling, preparing and guiding them through the process. We were impressed and thankful for that.”

Regarding the wait time, they expressed emotions many adoptive couples face. “The hardest part was having zero control over how long the waiting period would be,” they explain. “You don't get to have a 'due date' as you would when carrying a child. We are pretty active so it was hard making solid plans, keeping yourself busy and not dwelling on waiting while still being expectant and excited.”

“Another challenge was that many of our friends are in the middle of having kids, so it seemed like there was always someone announcing their pregnancy, having a baby, or even being matched with birth parents before us.”

Adoption openness is an area of confusion for many, though it has become more common for infant adoption. CAS has incorporated semi-open adoption since it’s founding in 1985, and continues to educate clients and community about the relationship.

“Initially, we were unsure about an open adoption and thought the birth mom may want to interfere with our parenting. After reading more and hearing other’s perspectives, we realized the relationship between a child and their birth mother or parents could be healthy and beneficial for the child. Our adoption is currently semiopen at the birth mother's request. We send pictures and letters regularly.”

When the expectant mother chose them, “our conversations went well,” they say. “It was neat getting to know her and learning about her life. It wasn't as hard talking to her as we had anticipated. Even though we haven't had much interaction with her, we love and respect her deeply.”

Luke and Shannon were welcomed by the birth mother to participate in hospital time. “While it was still an odd and overwhelming time, [CAS] and the hospital staff did an amazing job helping us navigate interactions with our birthmother and all of the decisions being made regarding our son.”

“I wish I had known [earlier] that I would deal with so much guilt as an adoptive parent — guilt over the fact that we left the hospital with this beautiful, perfect baby, and our birthmother left without the baby that she had carried and bonded with for nine months. I didn't realize how much her loss would impact me and how it still affects me today.”

Shannon expresses, “I'm amazed at how my mindset [about adoption] has changed and how passionate I am now. I've gained a completely different perspective surrounding adoption. It is such a beautiful, brave and powerful act of love, while at the same time it's founded on loss for all members of the adoption triad.”

Tina Bloch, caseworker for CAS, shares, “It was amazing to see the amount of support this adoptive couple had. At their finalization hearing, the judge asked each person in the courtroom to share who they were and how they knew Luke and Shannon. We saw first-hand the support from family, friends, church and co-workers.”

For people considering adoption, Luke says, “It is so worth it. There are many ups and downs through the process, but when you finally get to hold your baby for the first time, you forget about everything, instantly everything was 100 percent worth it. I'd imagine in that sense it feels similar to having a biological child. When you finally get to hold your baby, you just forget about everything else.”

Lynnette Lein executive director

Jennifer Crone amber valley center site director

Alison Sandvik training & education director

Stacy Gulsvig brandt crossing center site director

Renell Welle university center site director

FAMILY

photography by JUSTIN EILER

changeof plan

engineer goes back to school, finds a new career passion

Jessica

Lattimer Vold wasn’t satisfied with where her career was headed in 2009.

As a child, she had dreamed of building rockets and creating things that would revolutionize the aerospace industry. That’s why she went to college and chose to get an aerospace engineering degree.

But she wasn’t doing it. Aerospace careers doing the types of things she wanted to do were hard to find. Instead of building and innovating, she was sitting at a desk, staring at a computer screen.

Everyone always picks a major and has a romantic idea of what they want to do,” says Vold, who lives in Fargo with her husband and two young daughters. “Some of the things I was doing in my first job were neat, but it wasn’t what I wanted to be doing. I wanted to be more handson, and I wanted to do more with my career.”

CHANGE OF PLAN

Vold went back to school to make herself a better candidate for the job she really wanted. She enrolled in North Dakota State University’s mechanical engineering master’s degree program, initially hoping the aerospace industry would have more openings by the time she graduated.

However, plans changed when she joined the research team of Chad Ulven, associate chair and professor of mechanical engineering at NDSU. Ulven’s research looks at

using some of the waste from commodity products as a replacement for petroleum in plastics.

The research is exciting and groundbreaking, with potential to have significant positive effects on the global environment. It became a new passion for Vold.

“I didn’t even really know much of anything about material science,” she says. “But Chad Ulven has such a passion for it.

I could see that passion when I met with him about the research. I knew that’s what I wanted to do.”

Vold continued to work with Ulven on the research for a few more years as she continued her education at NDSU. She earned her master’s in 2013 and a doctorate in mechanical engineering in 2015.

PERFECT FIT

Vold’s research made her the perfect candidate to work for Ulven at c2renew, a spinoff of the groundbreaking research at NDSU. The business offers a variety of composite materials made of agriculture byproducts and recycled plastic to clients around the world. They’ve created and marketed coffee mugs made from coffee, glasses frames made from beer and toothbrushes made from plants.

Vold is part of the engineering team that helps guide clients through design, manufacture and testing of their composite product.

Vold also works for Renuvix, a Fargo startup that researches and develops bio-based polymers used for paints and coatings. She helps the business, which also has roots at NDSU, complete research for government grants.

She’s no longer just sitting at a desk. She’s conducting groundbreaking research, getting handson with projects, leading teams, learning about high-level chemistry, corresponding with clients and constantly innovating.

“NDSU taught me to go out there and dive into a topic on my own,” Vold says. “I’m not afraid to learn something new and try something new. And I spent so much time in a lab at NDSU that I was ready to go out and do my own learning and lead my own project. I was well-prepared to go into my current career.”

NDSU’S GRADUATE SCHOOL OFFERS a wide range of master’s degrees, doctoral degrees and graduate certificate programs. Learn more about NDSU graduate programs at ndsu.edu/gradschool.

dietrich homes photo: jonathan calix

modern design, comfortable living

farmhouse luxury

words by AUBREY TYSON photography by JONATHAN CALIX

For over forty years, Dietrich Homes has been building custom homes in the FargoMoorhead and Minnesota lakes area. With a real passion for attention to detail and making dreams come true, Clay and Tom Dietrich make a dynamic father and son duo with a reputation for outstanding service. "When I started building homes, I knew that I wanted to be different than the rest. I didn't want to turn out house after house. I wanted to provide quality over quantity, and that's what I've been able to achieve. Even more than that, I've been able to pass on the trade to my son, Tom," says Clay.

Their latest build, a modern farmhouse, is a labor of love and creativity. Nestled in a new subdivision in South Fargo, the two-story home offers clean lines and a simple look, fitting into the natural backdrop of terrain. Before walking into the house, you can see the level of craftsmanship and skill that sets Dietrich Homes apart from other area builders.

In traditional farmhouse style, the kitchen is the focal point for the main living area. With custom touches like a built-in wine rack and an expansive island with thoughtful features such as space to sit comfortably, you can sense this will be the setting for many family events and lively gatherings.

The interior of the home features a classic white-on-white color scheme. In the dining room, dark wood beams make for the perfect accent, drawing your eyes to the natural light of the space and the backyard area. In the living room, there are more custom pieces, requested by the homeowners. "The living area is about comfort and functionality. When you have kids, you can never have enough storage. The owners wanted to have a functional multi-use space for storing toys in the living room, so we built a bench seat with built-in drawers that runs the length of the windows. To keep the area well ventilated, we cut in heating and cooling vents. This will keep the windows from frosting up in the winter and help maintain even air flow throughout the space," says Tom.

In the master suite, the master bathroom and walk-in closet are something out of an HGTV show. With a free-standing tub, custom tiled shower and private water closet, the master bath is dripping with luxury. The walk-in closet, however, is truly a work of art for the woman of the house. With built-in shelves and a center "island" with drawers and extra storage, it reminds you of a Kardashian-style closet.

The upper level features three bedrooms for the kids of the family. All three bedrooms have their own en suite bathroom, ample space for living, and custom pieces like a built-in bookcase and walk-in closets.

Entertainment is the focus of the basement. Fully finished, the downstairs living area features a custom bar, game area, TV lounge, an in-home gym and two additional bedrooms. "The homeowners like to entertain, but they also wanted a separate area where the adults could have their own space. The in-home gym was built with electrical sockets all around the room to plug in various types of equipment. We also included an area to hang a TV. My favorite feature for this space is the antique door used as a sliding barn door. The owners saved a few old doors from their lake place, and we've incorporated them into the design. The bar area features a stunning quartz backsplash and countertops, a sit-up bar for TV viewing and enough space to host gatherings where guests can mingle comfortably," says Clay.

Throughout the house, luxury and comfort go hand in hand. Heather Sagvold, design consultant, and Melissa Meyer, CAD designer, use their design skills to achieve a balance between luxury and comfortable living for their clients. During the design process, both Heather and Melissa are heavily involved. They take ideas from the homeowners, insert creativity and thoughtful de-

sign, and put them together to produce a dream home with a fixed-price guarantee. "Heather and Melissa are an important part of our design process. Without Melissa's eye and Heather's sense of style, our custom homes would not be what they are today. Professional and patient, they take our clients’ dreams and make them come true. Once the design is agreed upon, Heather puts together a design book for everyone involved in the project. The design book has become a lifesaver of sorts. Subcontractors who have worked with us in the past know to look for the book the minute they start work on a new build," says Tom.

The design book is the glue that holds each Dietrich custom home together. Inside the book are the original plans for the house including each room broken down by size, layout, color scheme and featured accents. Ensuring all the boxes are checked, the builders, design team, clients and sub-contractors all use this design book to refer to throughout the process.

Dietrich Homes are well known for their attention to detail. Their customers enjoy the building process and seeing their home come to life. "We take a lot of pride in our homebuilding process. We are a little OCD when it comes to the amount of planning that goes into a new build before breaking ground, but that's what makes our homes turn out exactly the way our customers dreamed. We want our customers to feel like they are being taken care of, every step of the way. Once finished, we want them to walk in their new house and think, ‘Wow, I love my new home,’" says Clay.

Building a limited number of custom homes each year is the way Clay and Tom prefer it. They can manage the process without losing sight of their clients’ wants and needs. They can also actively monitor and be on the job site to ensure all the work completed is up to the Dietrich standard. Customer satisfaction is key to their business, and that belief is evident in everything they do for their customers. From the design book to custom built-in features, Dietrich Homes has a tradition for excellence and fine homebuilding. [ aw ]

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE

while you were sleeping

Remember that 1995 Sandra Bullock movie? Shy, lonely Lucy saves handsome Peter’s life and is mistaken as his fiancee. She visits him at the hospital, meets his family, and (sorry — spoiler alert!) falls in love with his brother, Jack. It was cute and sweet, and now that privacy laws have changed, it will never happen to you. In fact, if you have a fiancee, it is possible they will not even be able to visit you in the hospital.

What would happen while you are sleeping? Whom would the hospital call? Who would be making important and potentially life changing medical decisions? Who would pay your bills and take care of your assets? If you have completed a health care directive and a power of attorney, then you have answers to these questions. If not, I’m here to tell you — you need these, you need them now, and you can get them for free.

A health care directive is a document in which you set out who will make health care decisions for you if you are incapacitated. It also allows you to set out your end-oflife wishes, rather than leaving those hard decisions to hurting loved ones. It can be obtained and completed free at hospitals, clinics and the sites listed at the end of this article. Without this document, your loved ones will likely be forced to spend thousands of dollars getting a court to appoint a guardian to make these decisions. Even in the best of circumstances, the court action is expensive, time consuming and usually causes hurt feelings.

A power of attorney is a document in which you set out who will take care of your assets and finances if you are incapacitated. It can be completed free from the links below. Without it, your loved ones will likely be forced to spend thousands of dollars getting a court to appoint a conservator to make these decisions. So, if you have completed only one of these two documents, your family might still end up spending thousands seeking a court appointment because of a missing document. Did I mention these documents can be completed for free?

If you have these documents and never use them, great. The alternative, the failure to complete these, can end relationships between family members and friends. It is expensive and messy during a time that your loved ones are hurting. Some of you are thinking, “I’m married, so my spouse would take care of it,” but life is not a feel good movie and things are rarely that simple. What if your spouse is incapacitated, or your family fights them on decisions, or you are separated? If you are single and over 18, the court will probably lean toward appointing a parent or sibling. What if you are estranged from your family, or your legally defined family isn’t your chosen family, or your beliefs don’t align with your family? What if you are engaged, or committed to someone your family dislikes, would your loved one even be able to visit? You could end up with a pushy, argumentative family member making your decisions and excluding your loved ones from even visiting. In the uncommon situation where a person who has these documents still requires a guardianship or conservatorship, the decisions expressed in the documents provide guidance to the court.

Who do you want to have control over your body and money while you are sleeping? Look at the forms, download the one most applicable to you and follow the instructions. Notaries are available at banks and law offices. If you do this and bring it to any Vogel Law Firm office, we will notarize it at no cost.

I promise this will take less time than planning your next vacation and it is infinitely more important. Take action. Then take a “28 Day” vacation to “The Lake House” with “Loverboy,” knowing if you “Crash,” or if “Gravity” gets you down, your “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” “Minions” have the power to protect you. It is “Practically Magic.”

MINNESOTA

health care directive and power of attorney: ag.state.mn.us/consumer/handbooks/ probate/default.asp

health care directive

(in several languages): honoringchoices.org/health-care-directives

NORTH DAKOTA

health care directive: honoringchoicesnd.org/directives/ power of attorney: ndcourts.gov/legal-self-help/ power-of-attorney

ATTORNEY

VALESKA HERMANSON

practices in the areas of estate planning and probate at Vogel Law Firm. She handles all aspects of the planning and preservation of clients’ estates, including wills, power of attorney documents, trust creation and administration, business planning, farm succession planning, complex estate planning, planning for protection of minors, Medicaid planning, guardianships and conservatorships. For more information visit vogellaw.com

James Cailao Whitney Irish

Kleven

Valeska Hermanson

a newapproach

providing individualized patient care

Patient care is of utmost importance for the team with Homefield Health. Founded by Melissa Knecht, a certified family nurse practitioner, the practice is centered around a simple philosophy. "When you break down the mission for Homefield Health, it's really quite simple,” says Knecht. “We are here to provide our patients with individualized care through a centered approach. We understand that no two people are the same, so we bring that concept to the forefront of everything we do."

With over 20 years of experience in the medical field, Knecht has a clear image for her practice and a strong belief in providing the best care possible. When you sit down to meet with Knecht or one of her team members, you aren't just another number. "From the minute a new patient steps through the door, their care and comfort are our focus,” says Knecht. “In larger corporations, you may see your doctor for 20 minutes, run through a list of questions and answers, then

move on to a quick diagnosis. We work hard to provide the opposite of that. When I sit down with a new patient, I plan to spend at least an hour, at minimum, listening to every concern while going through medical history. If we want to provide individualized care, it starts with that initial meeting."

The list of services at Homefield range from general wellness and weight management to mental health and aesthetic services. One of their team members, Amy Knight, is a certified aesthetic nurse specialist with over 10 years of nursing experience in different backgrounds including neonatal intensive care, emergency medicine, gastroenterology and endoscopy. However, her true passion is for aesthetic nursing, skin care and wellness. Her number one goal is to provide an advanced level of aesthetic medical care with an emphasis on non-surgical procedures that provide cosmetic enhancement, and is dedicated to continuing education in the field of aesthetics.

It's not just their mission and the dedicated team that set them apart from other area practices. Their conviction for complete patient care

AMY KNIGHT, SPRN, BSN, CANS Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist

HEIDI SELZLER-ECHOLA, WHNP-C Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner

MELISSA KNECHT, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner

is evident in the way they discuss what they do and the successful cases they have worked on. "I can explain healthy living all day long to my patients, but that doesn't help them at the end of the day,” says Knecht. “What does help and what we've seen work best is the attention to detail. If, for example, a patient is finding it difficult to lose weight despite diet changes and increased exercise routines, we look for other causes. I can preach no carbs, no sugar, more water, but in truth, there could be an underlying cause. The patient may have a hard time processing insulin. Their thyroid, previously checked, may need additional testing to find the official diagnosis."

Homefield Health recently added a new team member to their staff, and they could not be more excited. “Each member of our team brings with them their own experience and a differing passion for care,” says Knecht. “Heidi Selzler-Echola, WHNP-C, is our latest addition to our incredibly dedicated team. Heidi is a board-certified women's health nurse practitioner, and she has worked in the medical field for 10 years. As an RN, Heidi worked in women's and gender health. During this time, Heidi became passionate about women's health, and continued her education and received a master’s degree in nursing as a women's health nurse practitioner. Heidi's focus is on women's health across the lifespan. She realizes the impact of gender on health, and how women have special needs and concerns in different phases of their lives. She is especially passionate about family planning, menopause, LBGTQ health and obstetrics. We know that her passion and her patient care techniques will fit perfectly into our practice."

Digging deep and looking for answers is what drives Knecht and her team to provide some of the best patient care in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Through their home-field advantage theme, they strive to keep patients within the sister cities for their testing, treatments and care, keeping costs low and effectiveness high. They are a place for patients to feel like they have an advantage, from professional medical care to skin care.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

about Homefield Health, call 701-356-0097 or visit homefieldhealthfargo.com.

how well do you know the ABCDEs?

signs and symptoms of skin cancer

After living through what seemed to be the winter that would not end, I am sure many of you can hardly wait to go out into the sunshine and give summer a warm welcome. But before you soak up the rays, there are a few things you need to be aware of when it comes to the sun and your skin.

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of skin cells that lead to the formation of tumors. This can happen anywhere in your body but it is most common on sun-exposed areas. Skin cancers are generally classified as either melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

Non-melanoma skin cancers could be described as uglier but they are not as dangerous. They can present in many different ways and some people describe them as large pimples that bleed, red warts that scab, pink freckles or a bump that hurts which does not go away. You also may not even notice them. They rarely spread to other organs and they can be treated with surgery.

Melanoma, on the other hand, is the deadliest of the skin cancers and in most cases it is either an old mole that changes or a new mole that appears. These moles do not always look ugly but they always look different than normal moles. People with red hair, blue eyes and pale skin have a higher risk for melanoma, but it can happen to anybody.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Throughout the year, you should examine your skin head-to-toe, looking for any suspicious lesions. To help you spot melanoma, think ABCDE.

A. Asymmetry

Draw an imaginary line through the middle of your mole, the two sides will match, meaning it is symmetrical. When the two halves do not match that can be a warning sign for melanoma.

B. Borders

The borders of a melanoma can be irregular, scalloped and sometimes blurred.

C. Color

Different colors in one mole is considered a bad sign. Different shades of brown, black, and sometimes even red, white, and blue are all concerning.

six months before now

Melanoma is often bigger than regular moles. It is advised to check anything bigger than a pencil eraser that is new or has any other abnormalities.

E. Evolving

Any mole that grows over time, gets elevated, changes in color, or changes in shape needs to be checked. Also anything that hurts, bleeds or itches.

SUNBLOCK

To help prevent melanoma and protect your skin, sunblock is key. The best sunscreen to use is the one you will apply and reapply. I recommend using one with no chemical blockers. Simple ingredients such as titanium oxide and zinc oxide is all you need.

Look for an SPF 30 that blocks about 97 percent of the UV rays. Anything higher than SPF 30 will give you a slight increase in blocking UV rays, but no sunscreen will block 100 percent. Don’t skimp when applying. You should apply a shot glass (one ounce) amount on your body and a half teaspoon on your face.

Reapplying is key. People often tell me: “I had sunscreen on but I still got burnt.” When reapplied correctly, and in the correct amount, that should not happen. If you get wet or sweat make sure you reapply. Creams are better but powders and sprays when applied correctly also do the job.

TAKE CHARGE

If something does not look right tell somebody. Call your primary doctor; go to an urgent care clinic; make an appointment with your dermatologist; send a picture. Be proactive about it. Melanoma is never good but when found early it is treatable. Always make sure somebody with experience checks it.

We all want to enjoy the sun and all of the good things that come with it. You can have a great summer, just make sure you pack your sunscreen whenever you go.

DR. TANIA GONZALEZ SANTIAGO

is a dermatologist practicing at Sanford Dermatology & Laser Clinic. To schedule an appointment please call 701-234-8860

Majid Ghazi, MD Interventional Pain Medicine

Dustin Goetz, MD Interventional Pain Medicine

care for the caregiver

When caregivers begin to experience compassion fatigue, it creates a sense of guilt for not being able to do everything for their loved one.

Wendy Tabor-Buth, a volunteer coordinator and licensed social worker with Ethos Home Care and Hospice in Fargo, says for caregivers, admitting they have needs while caring for someone who has a much greater need often causes additional stress and strain.

“Many caregivers feel a tug of war with the heart,” she says. “There may be an element of guilt on the part of the caregiver as they maintain their health while watching their loved one’s quality of health decline. They may also experience grief over the loss of the life they planned together which may not come to fruition, while also becoming aware that as a caregiver, they have needs too.”

By definition, compassion fatigue, or caregiver burnout, is the emotional and physical strain of caring for a loved one — but in reality, it is so much more.

While the person who is ill is dealing with many emotions over their loss of health, their loved ones are dealing with similar feelings as they come to grips with a different future than they had planned. Caregivers often feel isolated, as their normal social activities outside the home become limited and they begin to focus solely on the person for whom they are caring.

Along with the feelings of isolation, learning to manage a new routine and details related to the medical appointments, medication management, making meals, household tasks and financial concerns while dealing with interrupted sleep and physical strain can create the tendency for personal neglect. The myriad of changes that occur during health crisis can cause undue strain and fatigue, shrinking the world of the caregiver even further.

“Caregivers often think, ‘I’m the only one who can do this for my husband, wife or other loved one,’” Tabor-Buth says. “The truth is that there are often many other people and options to provide support for both the patient and the caregiver.”

Health care staff recognize the importance of managing stress and take care to check the caregiver for:

• High levels of anxiety or panic attacks

• Loss of sleep and appetite

• Extreme fatigue

• Feelings of depression

• Mood changes or irritability

• Headaches

• Upset stomach

• General discomfort with no obvious cause

While these are all signs of caregiver fatigue and burnout, there are many resources available to provide care for patients while providing a better balance for caregivers.

As with anything, communication is key — especially letting people know how they can help. Often there are other family members, neighbors

WENDY TABOR-BUTH, LSW

and church or community members outside of the situation who are wondering what they can do to help. The team at Ethos Home Care and Hospice works with caregivers to connect with those individuals as well as offering respite care both inside and outside of the home.

“Just as grief shared is grief divided, we know that stress shared is stress divided,” Tabor-Buth says. "The smallest change can help and the difference we see is incredible. We see the caregiver become more empowered, brighter and more hopeful when they realize they're not alone."

Things like personal tasks, meal preparation and light housework can be performed by a home care agency or homemaker services. Physical and personal care can also be taken on by nursing care from a home care agency — giving the caregiver time to socialize with friends, get a good night's sleep and rejuvenate.

There are many local resources that can provide caregiver support and assistance and caregivers are encouraged to ask their healthcare provider for options.

When those providing care receive the support they need, they are better able to support their loved one and protect their own health and well-being.

“The worst scenario is when the caregiver’s health is compromised and they are unable to care for their loved one,” Tabor-Buth says. “Reaching out for and accepting help is a sign of strength — not a sign of weakness.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT how Ethos Home Care and Hospice can assist you and/or your loved one, please visit ethoscare.org or call 701-356-3803.

Home Care & Hospice

Bethany • Even de • Knute Nelson

from left to right: LIZ JAGOL, Home Care Clinical Nurse Coordinator and SHELBY MORROW, Director of Hospice

regenerative medicine

reduces pain, promotes healing, provides hope

katie webster still remembers hearing her right knee pop.

She was out for a walk with a friend one fall day in 2017. After her knee popped, it felt strangely warm, then bombarded by sharp pain. A determined Webster limped the last two blocks to her home in West Fargo. The following day, at the urging of her husband, Tom, and coworkers, she went to an orthopedic walk-in clinic in Fargo.

And after that, everything spiraled downward, Webster says.

Over the years her right knee had become increasingly prone to pain and swelling, and she had received a cortisone injection earlier that summer. Tests revealed Webster’s knee had osteoarthritis. Without treatment, Webster would need a total knee replacement in five years. And she wasn’t even 40.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, two million Americans younger than 45 have symptomatic osteoarthritis in their knees.

Webster refused pain medication. As the American Red Cross regional disaster officer for Dakotas Region and a mother of three boys, the youngest was four at the time, she felt she couldn’t afford to be groggy. Her knee pain added stress to an already grueling schedule of up to 12-hour work days either on her feet or sitting in meetings, with her leg elevated, orchestrating crisis efforts.

In less than a year, Webster underwent three more cortisone injections, physical therapy and a lubrication injection. And still, she battled pain, swelling and stiffness. Yet, she didn’t want to be the mom who slowed down her sons in family activities. “I just sucked it up, kept trucking through and paying the consequences at night when I would put my leg up and feel throbbing pain,” she says.

Despite her determination, life became increasing difficult. Webster often could not find a comfortable sleeping position, and the pain often roused her out of a dead sleep. She decided against arthroscopy because it did not offer permanent pain relief. With limited options, Webster became discouraged.

Then, in May 2018, her husband’s best friend told her about a new experimental treatment that had helped him: stem cell therapy. He explained regenerative medicine is usually not covered by insurance plans. Even so, Webster made an appointment at the Center for Pain Medicine in Fargo to meet with Dr. Majid Ghazi, a board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain physician.

“Dr. Ghazi was the only one to assure me,” Webster says. “I was impressed with the confidence he had, and he answered all my questions.”

Ghazi founded the Center for Pain Medicine in 2014 to promote the development and practice of safe, high-quality and cost-effective interventional pain management procedures for diagnosis and treatment of spine and joint-related pain disorders.

Unlike cortisone injections or surgery, stem cell therapy immediately stimulates the new growth of cartilage, tendons, ligaments, bone and fibrous connective tissues. And patients experience a reduction in pain in four to six weeks.

“Regenerative medicine has the potential to change traditional medicine and replace cortisone injections or even surgery,” Ghazi says.

Webster regards the out-of-pocket expenses as an investment toward her body. Her husband agreed, encouraging her to move forward with the procedure. “He hated seeing me in so much pain,” Webster says.

Adult stem cells are extracted from pelvic bone marrow, processed in a centrifuge, and then re-injected into your damaged joint under X-ray or ultrasound. Ghazi performs the out-patient procedure in the center’s in-house operating room in a sterile environment. Patients are under intravenous sedation, known as conscious sedation.

Webster underwent the procedure on Friday, June 29, 2018, and returned to work the following Monday, experiencing some tenderness near the extraction site. She completed physical therapy to strengthen the muscles supporting her right knee. Within three weeks, Webster’s right knee was significantly better.

“Your own body can heal itself,” she says. “You are guaranteed you will be injected with your own body biologics.”

Today, Webster not only walks without fear of popping, but she also runs. And she keeps up with her sons and husband in family walks and bike rides. It’s the small things Webster appreciates, such as not needing to wear pants large enough to fit over her swollen knee on date night with Tom.

“I didn’t go in expecting to receive an 18-year-old knee, but it has definitely exceeded my expectations,” Webster says.

FOR MORE INFORMATION about the Center for Pain Medicine, call 701-551-6980 or visit centerforpainfargo.com.

Her step, certain; her gaze, focused; her handshake, warm, yet firm.

Her very name has become synonymous with strength. She is Mariah Prussia. And to the Fargo-Moorhead community and beyond, she is known as the mother, writer, speaker, personal trainer, fighter and force to be reckoned with in the MMA and boxing world. But it is who she says she is that has led her to become all those things, “A strong, dedicated female whose mission is to reach the masses and create a positive ripple effect of change needed in the world.”

Prussia exudes a strength beyond the physical that so many of us as women aspire to attain. Her strength permeates to a soul level, and it is one she aspires to share. Rather than having realized this power through the number of workouts completed in a gym, or wins achieved in the ring, she reveals that it came through a much deeper, more personal channel. Who she is today comes from a past of hurt, struggle and brokenness. Remarkably, instead of stuffing this away, she reveals, “It’s once we allow ourselves to be vulnerable that we can share and help others.”

On this day, she appears anything but vulnerable. Prussia is in her final week of preparing for another fight: her second professional boxing match of her career. Her posture is grounded and her energy is steady. But, she reveals, laughing, “My emotions are a little raw today — mainly because I’m a little hangry.” It is here that a beautiful cohesion between power and vulnerability are felt through her words as she shares who she is and what has made her the woman she is today.

“I was ‘Mariah the Athlete’ growing up,” she begins. She credits becoming strong at a young age to growing up on a farm. “It wasn’t easy,” she says, “but it gave us work ethic.” By “us,” she refers to herself and her two older sisters. They may have been a family of all women, outside of their father, but their gender did not make them exempt from farm work. “We’d have to be up at 5:00 a.m. to make sure all the chores were done before we left for school.” Curfews and outings were also limited to one weekend a month, depending on their sports schedule. Looking back, Prussia appreciates her parents’ stringency. “They are my foundation.”

While thankful for that firm foundation, college was a whole new world that Prussia, like so many of us, struggled to navigate. “When I got to college there were no restrictions; no limitations,” she remembers. “I had no idea how to handle that.” Being involved in sports, time with her teammates was centered on athletics and parties. It was at one of those parties that she experienced what haunts so many women for the rest of their lives.

… I am empowering women to not set limits on themselves

“I was

at a party with a couple of teammates and clearly had too much to drink,” she remembers. One of the male athletes offered to walk her back that night. He began making advances on the way home, with those advances becoming stronger when they arrived at her dorm room. Despite saying “no” multiple times, as the drinks kicked in, she started to lose consciousness. The next thing she remembers is waking up, finding herself compromised, and the perpetrator leaving. “I was in shock; I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t want to appear weak and I started worrying if my peers would even believe me.” For years, Prussia “stuffed it away”, sharing her story with no one. When she finally opened up about it in an article in the Forum, she was nervous. “Things still trigger no matter how much time passes.” She has since turned this pain into purpose as she now empowers women through self-defense classes on

campuses and in corporate businesses, local gyms and other organizations seeking to serve their female population. During these sessions, she reminds women of their strength, teaches them how to establish healthy boundaries, and educates women on situational awareness.

After college, Prussia began training clients at a gym in town. She was also seeing someone at the time. She remembers not long into the relationship that she noticed concerning signs, but admits, “It was more of a physical relationship than an emotional one.” Life continued to progress and before she knew it, two incredible opportunities came her way: the chance to start her own gym, and bringing her first of two sons into the world. “I didn’t know I was going to be a mom,” she says honestly, “but they have taught me more than anything life could.” While she cherishes this gift, the means by which it came is not. It wasn’t long after her son Antonio was born, that she saw those concerning signs in her partner become alarming. “He started demanding to know where I was all the time and became very jealous.” It escalated to the point that one weekend, while away for a softball game, she discovered 200 missed calls and text messages from him. She even found out he had been sending inappropriate text messages from her phone to men on her contact list to see if they would text back in kind. “He assumed I was cheating, but the funny thing is, he was cheating the whole time.”

Shortly after, she made him leave. Instead of ending the abuse, it only took on a new form — stalking and terrorizing. “He used Antonio to manipulate both of us,” she says. “At one point he even told me that if he ever caught another man in my house, he would kill us.” As she struggled through the abuse and the setbacks that other women have similarly experienced, she found herself going back to give him a chance once more. Not long after, she found out she became pregnant with her second son, Jace. “I had people, even clients, asking me, ‘How could you go back to him?’” But as she looks back on it now, she shares, “It’s hard to get out of the storm. And as women, we want to see the best in everyone and every situation. It takes getting knocked down a few times to have a clear vision.” She now advises women in similar situations, “Look out for yourself and your children. The key is not to hide or keep it a secret. There are so many people and programs out there to help.”

I wouldn’t change anything that happened to me. I wouldn’t be able to grow and connect with women had I not gone through it all.

But even with victory, the road does not necessarily get easier. At only 26 weeks of pregnancy, Prussia’s water broke and she found herself on bed rest in the hospital. With her new training business to run and a new sales staff hired, the last thing Prussia had on her mind was bed rest. Yet, neither was giving up. She laughs as she remembers even convincing the doctors to let her run a boot camp for 36 clients on hospital grounds from her wheelchair. Every class, every client was needed, and yet it was still difficult to make ends meet. “One month, I realized that I had no idea how I was going to pay my house payment,” she says. Miraculously, she was given $1000 from Bell Bank’s Pay it Forward program after a member of her gym had nominated her.

As she looks back and recounts all that she has been through, she says without hesitation, “I wouldn’t change anything that happened to me. I wouldn’t be able to grow and connect with women had I not gone through it all.” It was this mindset that lead her to take on a challenge no one expected. “One day a gym member’s sons told me, ‘You know what, Mariah? I think you should fight.’” She was 36 years old, had pushed herself as an entrepreneur, business owner and single mother; but as she explains, “I needed something more.” So she began training in February of 2013. She was preparing to have her first fight in October of that year. Barely four months into training, she tore her Achilles tendon. Training became next to impossible following her surgery. And still, she continued to do everything she could despite her limitations. “When

I set my mind to something, I’m going to do it,” she says. As October started closing in, she remembers her coach, who was set to be her corner man, pulling her aside and warning her, “When you get in there, there’s no getting out until it’s done.” And she decided, limping and all, she was going in there. As expected, the fight was tough. But, as the adrenaline coursed through her and the cheers of her family and friends screamed in her ears, she came back to win her very first match. After that, she was hooked.

And what does her family think? She smiles, “They are actually really supportive.” While her father makes it out to almost every fight, she will admit, “After my first fight, my mom was crying and like, ‘Someone was choking my baby!’” she laughs. “That was the only fight she came to.” Not everyone has been supportive of her passion. Some have asked her, “How are you empowering women if you are fighting them in a cage?” She answers, “How am I not? I am empowering women to not set limits on themselves.” She also reassures that despite appearances, these fights are not nearly as gruesome as they seem. “We are displaying our training, and afterwards you see fighters embrace. There’s mutual respect there.”

As she prepares for her next fight, 5-3 in MMA and 1-0 in boxing, what motivates her? What is she still fighting for? “I’m fighting to learn more about myself, to test my limits,” she answers. “So many of us take the back seat of our lives. I want to be in the driver’s seat.” This is not just for herself either, but to teach and help others. Whether it’s teaching boxing to at-risk youth, speaking around the region, or hosting a radio show, Prussia fights to help others find themselves and know their purpose.

Today, she awaits her next fight in a ring. But, as she puts it, “Every day is a fight.” Whether it’s a fight to escape the cycle of abuse, or the fight to find and love who you are, we all have a battle we are fighting. She might bear the etchings of an athletic physique that were gained in a gym; but it’s the pains and hurts of a past that she has fought through that have equally etched and defined who she is.

So while she may be known by many titles and accolades, it’s only when you peel back the layers and see the far greater fights that Mariah Prussia has fought, that we as women can be encouraged that true strength does not come from the wins in life, but the journey it took to earn them. [ aw ]

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PRUSSIA’S LIFE, watch for the release of her documentary “Prussia,” available soon to the public.

photo: stacykennedy.com style: francescas.com

a blast from the past:

the plains art museum

GALA DAZZLES

The sleek, silver DeLorean attracted passersby like a magnet. Grown adults grinned like children and mugged for photos in their formalwear. Couples slung their arms around their date’s shoulders and groups of friends struck a pose, as drivers did a double take and craned their necks for a better view. The vehicle, made famous by the “Back to the Future” film franchise, was just one of the many surprises at the Plains Art Museum Spring Gala, one of the biggest and most-anticipated parties of the season.

The annual event, which took place this year on May 3, is the museum’s largest fundraiser of the year. The money raised on this playfully raucous night is a vital part of the Plains Art Museum’s ongoing mission to offer free admission to all. And while the artists, philanthropists, art collectors, event sponsors and theme party enthusiasts who fill all three levels of the museum certainly have this noble mission in mind, the event’s high energy art auction, wine tasting from Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops, tempting hors d’oeuvres and desserts from Catering by Concordia, Chef’s Table Catering, Urban

Foods Catering and Nichole’s Fine Pastry and Café, live music and electric atmosphere offer their own rewards.

So too, does the promise of an excellent theme party. While modern cocktail attire is always welcome at the Plains Art Museum Spring Gala, most regular attendees are inspired in some way by each year’s theme. Fargo resident Emily Brooks, dressed in a sparkling black gown and eye-catching hat, was one of them.

“When I found out the theme for this year’s gala was ‘Time Machine,’ I instantly thought of ‘The Great Gatsby,’” says Brooks. “I collect hats and fascinators, so of course I wanted my outfit to include one.”

Jodi Borgen was inspired by the 1920s as well. She flew back from Colorado to don a sequined flapper dress and join her friends for what’s now become a spring tradition.

“We do this every year,” she says. “We call it adult prom.”

A walk through the first floor gallery, where guests were busy eyeing the items in the art auction, revealed looks as varied as the art on display. Dapper men in top hats rubbed shoulders with 60s waifs in maxi dresses and flower crowns. A woman pondering a painting gave a formal 80s minidress new relevance. A man dressed like a prehistoric cave dweller ambled by. Women wore 1940s flocks topped with fur stoles and pearls. You could spot the occasional gentleman in tweed breeches, a handful of Greek and Roman goddesses and at least one Renaissance maiden.

As Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome took the stage and the dance floor began to fill, Fargo’s Ashley Johnson stood out among the partygoers in her demure look. Dressed in a powder blue dress and a sweet little white hat, Johnson created her look in homage to another powerful woman of the past.

“I have been obsessed with Lucille Ball since I was a little girl,” Johnson says. “Aside from the whole, like, subservient woman thing, I’d love to live in the 50s.”

In contrast, Hilary Ray took her inspiration from a stylized version of the future. The Moorhead resident created a gleaming silver dress (which included a hidden hula hoop for an outrageously curvaceous hem) and painted a helmet fashioned from Styrofoam she found in the floral department at Michaels and odds and ends from Ace Hardware to bring her vision to life.

“I relish any opportunity to dress up,” she says. “My idea was a person of the future as viewed by set designers in 1962.”

As the clock ticked toward midnight, billowing princess gowns were topped with sensible jackets and more than a few high-heeled slippers were tucked away in favor of more sensible flats for the walk back to the car. The goddesses in their comfortable sandals fared better, twirling on the dance floor deep into the night.

Next May, on a night much like this one, many of the revelers will be back at the Plains Art Museum for the Spring Gala yet again. When the festivities are this fun — and benefit a worthy cause — the magic repeats every year. [ aw ]

compassion for nutrition

how the emergency food pantry provides to those in need

Imagine yourself in line at the grocery store, counting down the seconds until you can pay, loading them up and moving on with your day. Now, imagine as you are walking to your car, all the groceries in your cart disappear in the blink of an eye. Immediately, anxiety sets in and you ask yourself this question: How will you provide healthy meals for yourself or your family?

Many people in our community face questions like this every day. Based on income, statistically one in nine people in Cass and Clay counties live in poverty. That means one in nine people may not have access to healthy food to put on their table. Chances are you know someone who has experienced a level of poverty.

One organization that is working hard to make a change is the Emergency Food Pantry, which provides healthy food to families living in poverty. Most people who visit the food pantry are working one or more jobs or have recently lost a job. Other factors such as fire or illness can push a person over their means to afford food or other basic necessities.

The organization was established in 1972 as a result of an idea that came from a social work class at Minnesota State University Moorhead in 1970. The organization has a total of four staff, including executive director, Stacie Loegering. When she took the position nearly four years ago, Loegering and her newly hired staff managed around 50 regular volunteers. Today they manage around 170 regular volunteers and numerous partnerships.

The Emergency Food Pantry provides food to clients in a variety of different ways. The lobby, located in the front of the building, is open daily to families in need, with a refrigerator as well as two shelves typically stocked with bread and other items that are needing to be eaten within a couple of days’ time.

A client is eligible to receive a full food basket once every two months. Clients can pick from a menu of that day's available foods, as well as write in a list of items they need that are not on the menu. A volunteer then brings them to the back area to shop for the remainder of their cart. The shopping experience includes choosing from a variety of foods, such as deli items, meats, dairy, bread, fresh vegetables and more. The staff works hard to provide clients with well-balanced items. Items like peanut butter and tuna are regularly stocked by the organization's dollars. Loegering says, "It's

important to keep those two options available so we are offering different nutrients within the basket."

Among the items they receive is a pre-made bag, which has basic foods, toilet paper and a bar of soap. Loegering says, "If a family can't afford food, they likely can't afford general toiletries."

Their organization makes it a point to go beyond food by providing other types of products, such as a grant-funded vitamin program for women who are expecting. They also have an area for specific household and hygiene items. They rely on donations for these types of products and always try to provide them as they can.

Funded by a local church, the birthday bag for kids contains a cake mix, frosting and a handcrafted card made by local youth.

They've trained their volunteers to watch for any items that fit the need for dietary restrictions, such as glutenfree breads or non-dairy milk. They are aware of other dietary restrictions

and label their pantry items indicating they are available for those specific needs. Loegering emphasizes, "We try to be thoughtful. It doesn't make sense for somebody to get food that they can't eat or is not healthy for them to eat."

They are aware of the environment and plan the best ways to utilize the items they've received. They also have partnered with a local entity that recycles any plastics and bags from their site. Loegering says, "We're really proud of how we reduce and reuse. Also, we must use the local resources to the best of our ability. We feel really proud of having the relationships we've set up."

The Emergency Food Pantry believes in a compassionate and caring approach to anyone who walks through their door. In the past, they've offered clients other resources they may be in need of, such as blood pressure checkups and information on services providing heating assistance. Loegering says, "We make sure to educate our clients so they have enough resources to stay safe and healthy."

One client once told her, "When somebody volunteers their time, when they buy groceries, or they donate something from their home, they're caring about me. They don't know me, but they're helping feed me." It's testimonials like this that fuel them to keep going each day. Loegering states, "If we're respectful and compassionate, we can't go wrong."

You can get involved by donating your time or items, as well as by spreading the word about the services the Emergency Food Pantry provides with friends and loved ones.

TO LEARN MORE, visit emergencyfoodpantry.com, on Facebook @emergencyfoodpantryfm or by phone at 701-237-9337.

Bring donations to the food pantry 8 AM – 4 PM, Monday through Friday.

moondance

Nice

WHAT MAKES MOOND ANCE THE FESTIV AL OF THE SUMMER

the warm sun kissing your shoulders, your body outfitted with that festival attire you have been planning all winter, and a cold mug filled with your favorite summer beverage in hand – it’s Moondance season! Whether it’s rock, country, dueling pianos or harvest moon, Moondance has become known for its easy feeling and good times. At any given event, if you’re not already a regular, you’ll soon become one. With the majority of its attendees coming back year after year, you wonder, what draws these loyal crowds and creates the Moondance family? Meet Kathy and Bill Bieloh.

It all started when Bill’s father passed away in 1983, leaving the couple with a plot of land in Walker, Minnesota. “We looked at each other and thought, ‘We should do something with this,’” Kathy remembers. So, in 1989, Moondance Ranch was born. The funny thing about it, Kathy laughs, is “we didn’t know anything about horses!” But as local grocery store owners, they were always focused on providing something beneficial to their community. Before long, the couple started to explore the idea of bringing music into the mix. Though not particularly big festivalgoers themselves, Kathy remembers them talking at a festival and saying, “You know, we could do this at the Moondance Ranch.” It was in the summer of 1992 that Moondance Jam was born.

For the first few years, Kathy describes it as being largely a community event called Moondance Jam and Barbeque. “We started with maybe 200 people, mainly staff and friends. I cried on

photo by steve loftness

Sunday thinking, ‘Oh man, how am I going to do this again?’” But each year it returned bigger than the last. Its growth was seen as features came and went, from horseback riding to dunk tanks. “I re member thinking at about three to four years in, ‘Maybe this is not a dunk-tank event anymore,’” says Kathy. Staff grew too, many of whom have stayed to this day. “We have had 75–100 of our staff for a minimum of 10 years,” Kathy proudly shares.

Moondance Jam, the original rock festival, contin ues to be known for its classic rock focus. And for a rock festival, amazingly, Moondance is known across all festivals for its “Moondance nice.” This small-town, homegrown and welcoming vibe at tracts the following it has gained year after year. In 2007, Moondance Jammin Country Fest joined the line-up, becoming known for debuting up-andcomers including Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Zac Brown Band and, most recently, Old Dominion.

But, in 2010, tragedy struck the Moondance fami ly as Bill Bieloh died suddenly of a massive heart attack at the age of 51. “It was devastating,” Kathy shares. “But with our 20th coming up in 2011, I knew I had to do it just one more year, for every body.” Amazingly, Kathy and her “lieutenants” (managers fondly named at Moondance) and the whole crew were able to carry on the festival because of the belief of what it meant to those who attend year after year. Now, eight years later, they’re still going strong. “I have people tell me all the time, “Omigosh, everyone’s so nice. Everyone’s so happy we’re here,’” Kathy shares. “Others tell me, ‘This is our family reunion every year.’”

In remembrance of her husband and co-founder, every year Moondance plays a video of the long-held Bill and Kathy tradition of raising their mugs to a toast with the entire festival crowd. That video plays every Friday night. Their commitment to the military also shines through every Saturday night with their “tribute to the troops.” While some things remain the same, like the commitment the festival has made to giving all ticket holders access to the front row, new traditions are in the works. “We are working on opening up the grounds for camping all summer long, and each Friday night having live bands in the MDJ Saloon,” Kathy excitedly shares.

photo by jerry ecklund

photo by steve loftness

So whether you are already a part of the family, or someone who is curious to experience it for the first time, Moondance welcomes anyone and everyone with open arms and a front row seat to the show.

MOONDANCE JAMMIN COUNTRY

JUNE 20-22

The Biggest Little Country Fest!

MOONDANCE JAM

JULY 18-20

Minnesota's Largest Rock Festival!

For more on this year’s events and lineups, check out moondanceevents.net

I have people tell me all the time, ‘Omigosh, everyone’s so nice, everyone’s so happy we’re here.’

stride for strays

at the 29 th ANNUAL PAWS WALK

P WS WALK

Tails are wagging

with excitement for Homeward Animal Shelter’s 29th Annual Paws Walk event on Tuesday, July 23, at Rheault Farm in Fargo. Mark your calendars and be sure to come out with your family, friends and furry companions for this half mile fun walk and pet party to support the homeless dogs and cats of Homeward Animal Shelter. Registration will begin at 6 p.m. and the walk will start at 7 p.m.

Last year, over 350 people and over 210 dogs (and a few cats) attended to support the shelter animals of Homeward. In addition to the walk, the event includes music, inflatable games, face painting, doggy wading pools, a photo booth, vendor booths, free food and beverages and more. Fun for the whole family — both two legged and four!

Homeward Animal Shelter would like to encourage you, your business or organization to start a team and participate in the 29th Annual Paws Walk event. Donations for the Paws Walk are collected by participants prior to the walk. Prizes will be awarded to the top teams and individuals who raise the most for the shelter animals.

Paws Walk is a fundraising event for the homeless dogs and cats of Homeward Animal Shelter. All proceeds directly benefit the shelter animals; providing them with food, shelter, and veterinary care while they await their forever homes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

on this event and how you can participate, visit homewardonline.org or call 701-364-9013

#MuchInHutch explore hutchinson, minnesota

On occasion, a person just needs to get out of dodge, and Hutchinson, Minnesota, is a lovely community waiting for your arrival. You’ll find shopping, arts and history, entertainment and relaxation in Hutchinson, known as Minnesota’s hometown. Main Street is lined with flowers and community welcome banners, and is home to several boutique shops, niche stores and more.

ENJOY

Right in the middle of downtown is the historic and adored Library Square, with benches for relaxing, enjoying a frozen treat, reading a book, or just people-watching. Downtown is home to several of the Sculpture Stroll pieces, the Center of the Arts, as well as creativity‐based businesses. You’ll find something to eat and drink from nine options within a one block radius of Library Square. On summer Monday nights, there

is free music to enjoy, along with treats to be had. Bring a bottle of wine and have a slice of pie or other goodies prepared and sold for non-profit fundraisers.

VERY CONVENIENT: You can make your own art at The Paint Factory, visit the Center for the Arts, or imagine your next sewing project at Quilt Haven on Main.

EXPLORE

The vibrant downtown indicates the healthy economy and business of Hutchinson. Driving south on Main Street where it stretches into Highway 15, there is a large variety of well-known retailers, restaurants and Bobbing Bobber Brewery. Just outside the city limits you’ll find the Crow River Winery and Clay Coyote Gallery.

While an infrastructurally progressive community, Hutchinson cares deeply for the history which brought it to present day. You will not see electrical or service poles anywhere in city limits; everything was buried underground many years ago. You will see many preserved historical homes and parks — 39 parks! When the Hutchinson brothers discovered the land now known as Hutchinson, they set aside green space for parks in their layout.

Library Square RiverSong StageLadder Dam Law Enforcement Statue

Our South and North parks are the second‐oldest platted parks in the United States. Which park is the oldest you ask? Central Park in New York. The Hutchinson brothers were musicians from the east coast and knew of the beauty being preserved there and understood the importance of creating green space inside the city. Bike and walking trails are everywhere, including the Luce Line Trail, which was recently paved.

VERY CONVENIENT: You can ride your bike from Hutchinson to the winery and the bike shop downtown — Outdoor Motion has friendly and knowledgeable staff.

EXPERIENCE

July brings the beautiful summer days we all dream of during the winter months, and Hutchinson blooms with activity. RiverSong Music Festival, Orange Spectacular, the Minnesota Pottery Festival and Crazy Days. These events keep Hutchinson very busy with community volunteers driving the work happening during each of these events. The Minnesota Garlic Festival is held in Hutchinson in August, right before the county fair.

VERY CONVENIENT: Using the chamber’s community calendar makes it easy to find the events taking place locally.

2019 is the 45th Annual Arts and Crafts Festival. One hundred craft vendors, 20 food vendors and a handful of musicians come for 12,000 guests. This event brings arts, crafts and people together for two days during the waning summer days of September. The Friday/Saturday weekend includes the famous “Warehouse Sale” at Stamp‐n‐Storage, the large used‐book sale at the Hutchinson Library, and Peak of the Season Farmers Market. Downtown retailers generally have a great number of deals lining the sidewalks during the festival.

THIS

IS A FUN COMMUNITY

with welcoming proprietors and friendly staff. You can learn more about all the events, businesses and opportunities on the chamber’s website explorehutchinson.com. You can also see many posts using #muchinhutch on various social media platforms.

and good news gives health to the bones.”

FirstLink's 11 th ANNUAL breakfast

On May 1, FirstLink held their 11th Annual Breakfast at the Hilton Garden Inn in Fargo. Over 130 people attended to hear the presentation for this year with the theme “Navigating the Seas of Life,” featuring the Community Navigator for Addiction program. Tables displayed FirstLink’s impressive helpline and program outcomes, Executive Director Cindy Miller recognized Mayors’ Blue-Ribbon Commission on Addiction for conceiving the program and selecting FirstLink to pilot the project with support from Dakota Medical Foundation, Essentia Health and Sanford. Jennifer Holtz of FirstLink shared her experience in the role since its launch in September 2018. Through this program, people living with a substance abuse concern get connected to support, treatment and recovery resources. A participant of the program joined Holtz on stage to share her personal story and the important role the community navigator program played in connecting her with resources that supported her sustained recovery. Other achievements highlighted include the development of a help and info guide available on the FirstLink website. The Community Navigator em-

phasizes the importance of increasing access to treatment, coordinating care, linking people with recovery support services, and enhancing effective use of community resources.

This year’s featured guest speaker was Adam Martin of the F5 Project. Adam shared his story of recovery, beginning with the difficult but most important first step of asking for help. He explains that recovery may not have been possible if it weren’t for his friend answering the phone when he needed help the most. As Adam explained, FirstLink is a first responder, always available when people need help the most. FirstLink call specialists listen and connect people to resources 24 hours a day, offering hope and help to navigate life’s challenges.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEEDS HELP

please call FirstLink at 2-1-1 or 701-235-7335, or text your zip code to 898-211.

JUNE 1

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Featuring Billy D and the Crystals, Redline and The Challengers.

6:30 PM – MIDNIGHT

Earl “Skip” Bute Alumni Stadium NDSCS Campus, Wahpeton, ND

JUNE 2

DAKOTA FUSION FC

WOMEN’S First Home Game

Come support our regional semi-professional soccer team of talented young women from this and surrounding areas play their first home game. Meet the players and enjoy an evening outdoors. Concessions provided.

7:00 PM

Jim Gotta Stadium, Moorhead High School 2300 4th Ave S, Moorhead dakotafusionfc.com

JuneJULY

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

JUNE 8

SHARE A STORY

Come out to Rheault Farm for a free family day of fun with activities, science experiments, music, games, free books for children — and you can meet Nature Cat from the popular PBS Kids show.

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Rheault Farm 2902 25th St S, Fargo prairiepublic.org

JUNE 8

FREE COMMUNITY PICNIC

Please join us for a family-fun picnic featuring hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, and treats. Contact Mike Kinzler at 218-291-1992 or moorheadcoc@integraonline.com for more info.

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (weather permitting) Moorhead Church of Christ 1800 30th Ave S, Moorhead moorheadchurchofchrist.com

JUNE 10

PASSPORT to HEALTHY LIVING GROUP BIKE RIDE

Join us for the group bike ride. We’ll go at a relaxed pace with the total ride averaging 10 miles. Check in by 6:15 p.m. and bring your own bike and helmet. Sponsored by AARP North Dakota.

6:30 – 8:30 PM

Great Northern Bicycle Company 425 Broadway N, Fargo aarp.cvent.com/FargoBike6-10-19

JUNE 11

THE STATE OF THE ARTS

SUMMER NIGHTS

AT THE ZOO

Experience the Red River Zoo in a whole new light! Featuring zookeeper talks, animals, educational activities and more. Each week will have a new theme. Regular admission rates apply. Zoo members are free.

TUESDAYS FROM 5:00 – 9:00 PM redriverzoo.org

The Arts Partnership, in conjunction with Microsoft and Flint Group, will host a three-part business series, moderated by Sandy Piatz of Microsoft, focusing on recruiting and maintaining a strongly-skilled and talented workforce in the Fargo-Moorhead community. The program stresses the importance of the arts in our community and how a strong cultural influence draws potential employees, and thus potential businesses, to the area.

7:30 PM Barry Hall, NDSU campus 811 2nd Ave N, Fargo eventbrite.com/e/the-2019-arts-partnership-business-breakfast-seriestickets-55374616970?aff=erelexpmlt

photo: stacykennedy.com style: francescas.com

JUNE 15

FATHER’S DAY

OVERNIGHT CAMPOUT

Celebrate Father’s Day with a camping trip here at the Red River Zoo. We might still be in Fargo, but there will be plenty of wildlife to see and ways to enjoy the outdoors. Activities and programs will begin the evening of June 15 at 7:00 p.m. and end the morning of June 16 at 9:00 a.m. Enjoy the zoo for the rest of the day with complimentary admission on June 16th. $25 per adult camper/$15 per child camper (ages 12 and under). $75 family camper bundle (includes admission up to four campers).

7:00 PM

JUNE 16

FATHER’S DAY AT THE ZOO

Bring Dad or Grandpa to the zoo this Father's Day! Free admission for all dads.

10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Red River Zoo redriverzoo.org

JUNE 22-24

ROSE CREEK GOLF COURSE

The Roger Maris Charity Golf Tournament will take place June 22–24. The three-day event will include golf, banquet, auction and youth baseball clinic. To view the full event schedule or to register to golf, visit rogermarisgolf. com. Proceeds support Hospice of the Red River Valley, Shanley High School and the Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center.

JUNE 25 7 th Annual GO HAWAIIAN FOR HOSPICE

Choice Bank invites the community to “Go Hawaiian for Hospice.” For a suggested donation of $5, attendees will feast on a luau-style lunch with all proceeds directly benefitting Hospice of the Red River Valley.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Choice Bank 4501 23rd Ave S, Fargo

JULY 16

FAMILY CAREGIVERS TELEPHONE TOWN HALL

This is the second in a series of telephone town halls to help support North Dakota family caregivers. What does a caregiver need to know when a loved one is being discharged from the hospital? What questions should be you asking at the time of discharge? Join the conversation by phone from the comfort of your home. You must register to be sure to receive the phone call to join the town hall.

1:30 – 2:30 PM Meeting takes place by phone aarp.org/nd

JULY 23 19 th Annual PAWS WALK

Stride for Strays during this half mile fun walk and pet party to support the homeless dogs and cats of Homeward Animal Shelter. All proceeds go directly to the shelter animals; providing them with food, shelter and veterinary care as they await their forever homes. A minimum $25 donation is required to participate in the walk.

6:00 – 8:00 PM Rheault Farm 2902 25th St S, Fargo homewardonline.org or 701-364-9013

JULY 23 PASSPORT to HEALTHY LIVING PICKLEBALL PRIMER

At this demonstration class, get the scoop on this fast-growing sport that is low-impact and easy for beginners to learn. We’ll provide the equipment; you bring a lawn chair and wear athletic shoes. Sponsored by AARP North Dakota.

6:30 – 8:00 PM

Brunsdale Park 1702 27th Ave S, Fargo aarp.cvent.com/FargoPickleball7-23-19

JULY 25

TED x FARGO

TEDxFargo is an independently organized TED event. It’s a day for our community to gather and be inspired. Hear from 20 plus speakers as they share their ideas to help solve problems and create possibilities.

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Fargo Civic Center 207 4th St N, Fargo tedxfargo.com

Summer events at the FARGO PUBLIC LIBRARY

Fargo Public Library events are free and open to the public. A complete schedule of upcoming library events is available at all Fargo Public Library locations and at fargolibrary.org.

locations and contact info:

MAIN LIBRARY

102 3rd Street North | 701-241-1472

DR. JAMES CARLSON LIBRARY

2801 32nd Avenue South | 701-476-4040

NORTHPORT LIBRARY

2714 North Broadway | 701-476-4026

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

701-241-1495

TEEN LIBRARIAN BREE

701-476-5978; teens@fargolibrary.org

JUNE 3 – AUGUST 10

A UNIVERSE OF STORIES: Summer Reading Incentive Program

A variety of activities and events centered on exercising the mind with books and reading for kids, teens and adults of all ages throughout the summer at all three library locations. Register and pick up a schedule of events at any library location or online at fargolibrary.org.

JUNE 3

TO THE LIBRARY AND BEYOND! Intergalactic Get-Together

Summer Reading Program kick-off events for kids. We invite you to discover a universe of stories at your library. All ages are welcome. Space activities, crafts and snacks. No pre-registration is required to attend and all materials will be provided.

10:00 AM – Main Library

3:00 PM – Dr. James Carlson Library

11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Northport Library

JUNE 4

ESCAPE THE LIBRARY EVENTS for Teens

Based on the popular Escape Room concept, teens will work in a group and use teamwork to gather a series of clues to figure out how to escape the library. All materials will be provided. Pre-registration is required; register online or call 701-241-1492.

1:00 PM, 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM Main Library

JUNE 7

ROCKIN’ ON and SPACIN’ OUT!

Have you ever wondered what a rock from the moon looks like? The Fargo Public library along with the North Dakota State Library will have moon rocks on display with a certified Moon Rock Specialist on hand to answer any questions. This event is open to all ages. All materials will be provided and no pre-registration is required to attend.

11:00 AM

Main Library

JUNE 10

YOUNG ADULT SNACK and CHAT BOOK CLUB

A quarterly book club designed for 15–20 year olds. Come ready for a discussion about the book Four Dead Queens by Astrid Scholte. No pre-registration required.

6:30 PM

Northport Library

JUNE 17 & JULY 15

RESTORATIVE YOGA for Adults

A 90-minute session for adults. Bring a towel or yoga mat. No registration required.

6:00 PM

Dr. James Carlson Library

JUNE 24

MAKE

SPACE IN YOUR SPACE

Spark joy at the library and learn how you can incorporate various tips and habits in your life to conquer the clutter. No registration required. All materials will be provided.

6:30 PM

Main Library

JULY 8

GREAT SCIENCE FOR TEENS

JULY 8 & 9

LITTLE SQUIRT ASTRONAUT

TRAINING

ACADEMY

Would you like to be an astronaut someday? It takes a lot of training to make the cut. See if you have the right stuff at our Astronaut Training Academy. This event most appropriate for children ages 3 to 5. All materials will be provided and no pre-registration is required.

10:00 AM – NOON

Dr. James Carlson Library

6:00 – 8:00 PM

Main Library

Another all-new edition of Great Science for Teens led by Dr. Graeme Wyllie of Concordia College. Lots of interesting, safe science experiments for teens in grades 6–12. All materials will be provided. Pre-registration is required; register online or call 701-241-1492.

6:30 PM Main Library

JULY 13

The Traveling Lantern Theatre Company presents MY MOTHER THE ASTRONAUT: TO THE MOON AND BEYOND

The Traveling Lantern Theatre Company is back with another amazing, family-friendly production. My Mother the Astronaut: To the Moon and Beyond is the story of Aquarius, whose mom is an astronaut. All ages are welcome to attend and no pre-registration is required.

11:00 AM Main Library

JULY 16

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT at Northport

Phone home and invite the family for a showing of everyone’s favorite extra-terrestrial. Popcorn and beverages will be provided. No pre-registration required.

6:30 PM

Northport Library

JULY 30 & AUGUST 1

TEENS’ END OF SUMMER PARTY with SOLAR SYSTEM BRACELETS and ASTRONAUT ICE CREAM

Snack on some astronaut ice cream while you make a bracelet inspired by the planets in our solar system. Pre-registration is required; register online or call 701-241-1492.

JULY 30 | 2:00 PM, Dr. James Carlson Library

AUG 1 | 2:00 PM, Main Library

QUOTABLE:

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

— JEREMIAH 29: 11-14

It means cancer care created for you. A community fighting alongside you.

Holding your hand. Crying with you.

Here every step of the way.

On the good days. In the tough moments. We are in this together.

Cancer care at Sanford Health

cancer.sanfordhealth.org

I felt confident in my doctors and nurses. Receiving my care here was such a blessing.

– Dave Ekman, Fargo