Area Woman Magazine Dec'19/Jan'20

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS

yeh’smolly new season

THE FOREVERMARK BLACK LABEL COLLECTION

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Individual & Group Therapy

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 .

ABBY ANDERSON photographer

Abby is a wedding and portrait photographer who looks for the magic in love, the loveliness in people, and the joy in life. When she is not photographing, she can most often be found in her kitchen cooking a giant pot of soup with every colorful vegetable she can find in the fridge. She lives in Moorhead with her husband and two daughters.

CORI JENSEN

Livin' the dream as a mom of four and wife to a smarty pants teacher. She can't live without self-deprecating humor and coffee! Fortunately, her day job is her dream job on the radio. BOB 95 with Chris, John and Cori in the morning.

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.

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.

ASHLEY SORNSIN

Ashley is a local health, fitness and life coach with a passion for inspiring and motivating others to live their best life. She started her own business, BUFF Inc., teaches group fitness classes at the YMCA in Fargo, is a health and fitness writer, has appeared on local TV as a fitness expert, and shares her life and expertise candidly on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. To work with Ashley for nutrition, fitness and life coaching, contact her online at eatlivebebuff.com.

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 photographed by Abby Anderson and written by Alicia Underlee Nelson, page 62.

KRISTY OLSGAARD

Kristy is a freelance writer, editor, marketing consultant and word addict. When not reading or writing, she enjoys Bible study, golfing, skiing, playing cards, knitting and learning something new everyday. Most of all, she cherishes making memories with family and friends.

ANGEL EVENSON

Driven by her goal of leaving you happier than before you met, Angel's main goal in life is laughter. She owns her dream, AKA, where she is a multifaceted consultant. Her expertise ranges from business, sales and marketing to photography, writing and educating. Her man-bun wearing husband and two precious kids keep her grounded, fulfilled and grateful. Stop by for a daily dose of yoga, motherhood and all things life-inspired on her blog angelskeenangles.com and instagram @angelskeenangles.

November

The FM Area Foundation’s Caring Catalog is an easy and effective way to give to local nonprofits this holiday season.

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 midsize 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.

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.

« WASIFA AHMAD HASAN

Wasifa is a dentistry graduate, full-time blogger and makeup artist. She blogs and makes videos about beauty, makeup, fashion and lifestyle on her blog sifascorner.com.

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and glittershimmer sparkle

HOW TO WEAR

GLITTER MAKEUP FOR BEGINNERS

hen you think of holiday or New Year's eve makeup, what kind of look pops into your mind? All I can think of is glitter, shimmer and sparkles! Glitter or shimmers may sound intimidating if you are not into heavy makeup. But you can easily add these beauties to your minimal yet party-worthy makeup look. To show how you can use glitter as an adult, here are three easy looks to try.

glitter liner:

shimmery creams:

For this look, you will need cream shimmer shadow and brown shadow that is 3-4 shades darker than your skin. In picture 2 I have just added the gray cream shadow on my upper lid and smudged it with my finger. To blend the edges on the crease, I have used the brown shade (picture 3) Finish off this look with kohl liner and mascara.

For this look, you will need a black liner and a glitter liner of your choice. If you have read my article on "How to Perfect Winged Liner" in the previous issue of Area Woman, you are already halfway there. Follow your black liner with a gold or silver liquid liner. Build up the color if necessary. See how easy and neat the trick is? If you have never worn anything glittery and not sure about it, try a metallic liquid (Picture 1)

liner instead.

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY : WASIFA AHMAD HASAN

Follow Wasifa on INSTAGRAM: @sifascorner

liquid glitter:

Using powder or loose glitter as a beginner can become a little tricky. So opt for liquid glitter shadows, e.g., Covergirl Exhibitionist Liquid Glitter Eye Shadow. You just apply the liquid glitter on your lids, let it sit for a few minutes and blend the edges and the lower lash line with a transition shadow, like the brown one I used in the second look. (Picture 4)

other ways to wear glitter:

You can wear glitter on your nails or your lips. I have even seen people wearing them as part of their hair-do and looking fantastic. To be honest, you can effortlessly add glitter or metallic shades into your makeup if you are willing to be confident about it. I am sure you will look and feel amazing.

few points to remember while wearing glitter:

� If you are going for a heavy glitter eye makeup, do your eye makeup first and then go for the face makeup. That way when you get glitter-fallout, it will be easier to clean up.

� If some loose glitter has fallen on your cheek after makeup, take your powder brush with a bit of powder and brush away.

� Focus on one part. If you are going for a bold glitter eye, go neutral on the lips. If you are going for a glowy face with a good dose of highlighter, keep the rest of the makeup minimal.

Tag me on my Instagram @sifascorner if you try any of these looks. I would love to see the sparkles and glitters. Have a great holiday and New Year’s Eve!

holidays on the wild side

Christmas with young kids looks a little bit different than adult Christmas. I find myself in casual clothes with yogurt stains and frosting in places where it shouldn’t be. We get all ready and rush out the door for church trying to look put together. I know these are my “glory days,” and that I truly am living my best life, but sometimes it does not look as pretty as it used to. I have the great opportunity to raise three girls and I want to teach them to remember the important things in life. For us, that’s our faith, family and serving others. It can be so easy to lose sight of those values as we rush through the holiday season.

This year, I intend on spending as much time with family and friends as I can. The girls enjoy hosting friends at our house right now and I do not want to turn them down. I love to have Christmas parties for kids. It is so fun to have a group over to decorate ginger bread houses. I like to put out folding tables and cover them with red tablecloths for the kids to work on. If you have a messy crew, pull your cars out and set up the party in the garage. Then for the adults, you can have cider or hot chocolate and a meat and cheese tray. This is a very simple party that will create lots of memories.

Most years, during the holiday season, I am all about the plaids, buffalo checks and Fair Isle print. This year I am living on the wild side with mostly animal prints and sweaters. I love making this look more Christmassy with a bright red lip or cute headband. Pairing a red sweater with a leopard print skirt is a look I love this year. It combines a current trend with some Christmas spirit. Normally I would wear this look with sneakers, but for a dressier occasion, find a cute pair of boots and some tights to keep you warm. Evereve has some great combinations of this look.

WORDS : LINDSAY TRUAX PHOTOGRAPHY : RYAN TRUAX LOOKS FROM : EVEREVE + MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

Sweater from Mainstream Boutique

Sweater from Evereve

Jacket from Evereve

Follow Lindsay on INSTAGRAM : @pinkandnavystripes

Finding a sweater with some red and green in it can be a great way to change up a look. The one I am wearing is from Mainstream Boutique and is perfect to wear with jeans, black pants or over a dress. Being so versatile, it’s a perfect thing to pack in your suitcase when you are traveling. This one also has some sparkling details that make it a unique piece.

My favorite holiday look is the one I can wear to a party. I love being able to dress up for more than just church services. I love finding a dress to wear that can be dressed up or worn for something less formal. If I can find a sequin dress that I can wear for a Christmas party and New Year’s Eve, it’s a total win. These looks can be easily changed up with boots versus heals, a bright lip color versus a nude color, or a clutch bag versus a shoulder bag. Even a necklace can really switch up a look. Do not be afraid to look in the archives for something and then switch it up with accessories.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and can enjoy this special time with your family.

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Look from Evereve

Sequins. Metallic. Plaid. Oh yes!

The stockings are hung, the food is ready, the presents are wrapped and the outfit is … wait, the outfit? Cue the Home Alone “frantic” scene. The one on the airplane when we realize we forgot a child, frantic.

Okay, okay, that may be a little dramatic. But girl, I get it, we can all relate. Whether it’s the chaos of feeling like you left a child behind, having so much to do and so little time, or putting together the holiday wardrobe — it’s that time of year where the holly and jolly is front and center, our merry and bright is high, but the hustle and bustle is overwhelming.

Holiday parties here, school performances there, family celebrations and date nights all equate to late nights and early mornings.

Tis the season. The season of “what do I wear for all of this?”

For starters let’s just accept the fact that the diets are gone, m’kay? So let’s wear and buy clothes we will feel confident in, regardless of whether or not we have that dessert. Because dang, who can say no to dessert? Hint: it’s not me.

Follow Whitney Lynne on INSTAGRAM: @whitney_lynne

& PHOTOGRAPHY : WHITNEY LYNNE

So rule number one: dress to be comfortable and confident. Dress like you. If you do not like sequins, don’t feel obligated to wear them just because “tis the season.” Girl, if wearing hot pink makes you feel good, wear that pink.

Which leads me to rule number two. The rule is: there are no rules. Dress like you. The key to dressing for the holidays is to listen to yourself. It’s normal to go shopping with our girlfriends, sisters, mom, etc., and them assisting in convincing us to buy something when we are unsure of an item; or yes, that overly bubbly sales women. When really, what matters is that we love it. We feel confident in it. We want to wear it. If you’re having issues deciding on any items, always remind yourself that you are the one that needs to feel confident, regardless of others’ opinions.

It’s always fun to play with holiday styles so here are some that I’m crushing on this year.

PLAID: A plaid button-down is a fun item you can wear different ways. Tucked in with jeans or out with leggings and high boots. Add a faux fur vest or denim jacket for a new twist. Or maybe try a fun printed vest. This is perfect for family events and the kids’ school functions.

SEQUINS: Ah, that holiday sparkle. This is my personal favorite for the holidays. From dresses to tops, skirts and leggings, there are so many fun options. But always resort to the rules above.

METALLICS: This is fun for sweaters, skirts, or ladies … the manicure! Metallic nails are so “in” right now. If you want to try this trend but it seems like a lot, try one or two nails on each hand.

A few other noteworthy suggestions: add accessories! Try belts, they don’t always need to be worn around the waist. Add a hat. Mix and match prints, it’s okay to wear polka dots with stripes.

And, of course, those dang ugly sweater parties … or are they ugly? As Fuller’s mom wisely said, “Fuller, go easy on the Pepsi.”

1. CURVY DIVAS

Great gifts to accessorize the diva in your life. 1201 13th Ave E, West Fargo : 701-532-3021

2. GUNDERSON’S

For all the latest trends, come to Gunderson's. 5601 28th Ave S, Fargo : gundersons.com

3. OLIVE STREET

She will be cozy this holiday and for months to come in these sheepskin slippers. Directly south of Costco at I-94 and Veterans Blvd. 701-639-6990 : shopolivestreet.com

4. MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

Shop unique holiday looks and gifts at Mainstream Boutique. Blu 32: 4200 32nd Ave Suite 108, Fargo 701-356-6684 : mainstreamboutique.com

5. STABO SCANDINAVIAN IMPORTS

Wool scarf in the tradition of rosemaling in Norway. 406 Broadway N, Fargo : 701-282-0421 : stabo-imports.com

6. TALULA

Cotton bishop sleeve sweater with mini sequins adorned with exclusive Zzan jewelry from Israel. Directly south of Costco at I-94 and Veterans Blvd . 701-532-1134

7. PRIMROSE BOUTIQUE

Pendant accessories and home decor that is sure to WOW this holiday season. 1115 9th St E, West Fargo : primroseboutiquefashion.com

8. OTHERS

Soko Jewelry is handcrafted in brass by artisans in Kenya using traditional techniques. 218 Broadway N, Fargo : 701-478-8722 : othersshop.com

9. LEELA & LAVENDER

All things cozy and warm at Leela & Lavender. Shoppes at BLU Water Creek 3265 45th St S, Fargo : leelaandlavender.com

Hair Arts Hair Wrap. Made from human hair for natural volume and texture to make it look like you have a lot of hair. Downtown Moorhead : 218-236-6000

Evo cooktops are the leading live-action display cooking equipment in the world. With it’s circular, flat-top cooking surface, Evo lets you prepare virtually any cuisine from any angle. 5675 26th Ave SW #144, Fargo 701-551-0625 : jwkitchens.com

13.

A great addition to any home, the Allenton comes in traditional cherry or chestnut, with two leg options.

2420 University Dr S, Fargo : 701-235-7507 kallodcarpet.com

10. CENTRE FOR HAIR AND WELLNESS

11. TWYLA'S COSMETIQUE 2420 University Dr S, Fargo : 701-282-5303

12. JW KITCHENS

KALLOD CARPET

ECO CHIC HOME

Barr - Co Barrel Candle and Hand & Body Caddy Set. Hand & Body Caddy Set: $34 Barrel Candle: $29.99 3265 45th St S, Fargo : 701-356-6600 : iloveecochic.com

15. BURLAP RUSTIC CHIC BOUTIQUE

Farmhouse decor with a touch of rustic, vintage and modern ... all in one. 3401 S University Dr, Fargo : 701-566-8176 : burlapfargo.com

16. VINTAGE POINT

Best selling gourmet candies from Minnesota's Abdallah, since 1909. 25th Street Marketplace : 1450 25th St S, Fargo : 701-293-6336

17. THE WHITE HOUSE CO.

Vintage meets modern Christmas décor at The White House Co. From ornaments to vintage glittered Christmas villages to typewriter, we are your on stop shop for everyone on your shopping list. 14 Roberts St N, Fargo : thewhitehouseco.com

18. DALBOL FLOWERS

Merry Vintage Christmas Bouquet by Teleflora. $45 1450 25th St S, Fargo : 701-235-5864 : dalbolflowers.com

customize your holiday decor

TURN YOUR FAVORITE

CHRISTMAS PHOTOS INTO PIECES YOU’LL LOVE FOR A LIFETIME

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY : CORI JENSEN Follow Cori on INSTAGRAM: @corijensen00 and her backyard adventures: @mysunrisehill

Have you ever read “The 5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman? The premise is that there are five basic love languages, and these are ways to express love emotionally. I joke to my husband that I’ve added a few more to my primary love languages of quality time and acts of service … flowers and pictures. It’s a joke. Kinda.

Oh, how my heart sings when I get to document pictures of my kids and family. Let’s chat about next steps with your pictures. Most of us upload them to social media and that’s the end of the story. I’m one of those nutty ladies who likes to experiment with pictures.

I believe that making statement pieces that are personalized to decorate for the holidays is a fabulous way to do something new or different with your favorite family pictures, Christmas carols and recipes. Here are some that I’ve done in my home and continue to use year after year.

ORNAMENTS

I’ve been doing annual picture ornaments for 15 plus years. I believe they are timeless.

CHRISTMAS PILLOWS

Oh for the love of throw pillows! Where my girls at? Raise your hand if your pillows have a higher rotation than your wardrobe? Both of my hands are raised. There are several outlets that will make them with your own images. I’ve created some were my two oldest are giving each other a kiss at ages 2 and 4 years old. When my two youngest were 2 and 4 we did a recreate.

LARGE WALL ART

This can be done by printing pictures onto engineer prints. A big office supply store will do it in a low quality print at a low cost. I love to use magnetic wood poster holders to create a hanging piece of art. If you want large scale Christmas artwork that doesn't break the bank, here it is. One of my favorite pieces to bring out every year is the image of my four kiddos in the snow in pj’s.

PRINTS ON WOOD

A trendy way to display your favorite images and the quality is high. You can print them with or without frames and in different shapes. I really love the texture it gives and the look of no glass in the frame. One of my favorite new prints is one with the big pines in our back yard covered in snow. I made that one into a 44x22 inch framed piece.

GET CREATIVE

I have a gallery wall in my dining room. This year I’ve printed our nine favorite Christmas carols to display.

If your love language is pictures I’m hoping one of these ideas will make it into your holiday decor this year. Merry Christmas!

WORDS : KRISTI MAUL-BIXBY PHOTOGRAPHY : KAROLINA GRABOWSKA, kaboompics.com

recollections

FRESH FROM The

antiques, vintage and collectibles. We all have them, some people have more than others, and some people can’t wait to get rid of them. Whether it’s Grandma Ethel’s depression glass, Grandpa Wally’s massive tool collection, or mom’s collection of Snowbabies.

An antique, by legal definition, is an item that is at least 100 years old. If it’s not an antique, it can be vintage, but anything can be a collectible. Those items, no matter their age or value, have memories attached to them. Memories of the people to whom those items once belonged, and a life lived in their presence.

As the proprietor of The Fargo Antiques and Repurposed Market, The FARM, I make it my business to help people with their collections. For some people, it’s a house full of literally everything for which they need assistance removing, so the home can be sold.

More often, it’s the hunt for items to add to their collection, for a special piece like the mid-century lamp like the one in Grandpa’s man cave. It’s stoneware crocks featuring the names of North Dakota towns that may no longer exist, or vinyl records — or maybe even a vintage stereo on which to play them.

Or it’s just a simple appreciation for times gone by. A desire for something unique, with the design, durability and craftsmanship we don’t often see in the

era of Amazon. It can be the preference to recycle and reuse, rather than throw away and buy new. The farmhouse movement in design and decorating has its roots in antiques and vintage.

The holiday season, especially, inspires recollections from things past. The traditions we enjoyed as kids that we pass on to our own kids (and their kids) are tied to the beautiful things we remember seeing. Remember the ceramic Christmas tree sparkling on an antique buffet, the beautiful table set with Grandma’s best china, silver and linens? Mercury glass ornaments, a music box playing Silent Night and a pottery bowl filled with cinnamon-scented pinecones are the things I remember most from my mother’s home. Those are the things my home is never without during the holiday season.

If you’re searching for the things that inspire your recollections from the holidays, the Holiday Hay Loft at The FARM is a great place to start. We have curated an entire section of The FARM featuring vintage and collectible holiday décor. The 60+ small businesspeople who are vendors at The FARM will be bringing out their holiday wares as well. The vendors are curators, collectors and craftspeople and they are a great source for unique gifts for the holidays, and all year long.

Hot cider and coffee will be served all day during December. Come see us, warm up and browse. Share your thoughts about this article in Area Woman and receive a 10 percent discount on all purchases.

In the next Fresh from The FARM article, I’ll be walking you through the process of cleaning out an estate, what happens to the left-over items from a sale, and what you can expect during the process.

Happy Holidays, Kristi

a minimalist holiday

FACEBOOK:

Minimalism looks different to every minimalist you talk to. There are some who can fit everything they own in a suitcase, while others have a large home and focus on minimal décor or narrowing down their choices in life.

There is no right way to be a minimalist.

My journey started out of a desire to create and protect the one thing you can never get back: time. It is that one precious gift that we revolve our life around and simplifying that seemed to make everything a lot easier.

The holiday season can be an especially difficult time if you are a minimalist. It used to cause a lot of anxiety for me. If you are a parent and a minimalist, then it can create even more anxiety! Visions of toys scattered around the house on top of all of the ones you were already tripping over is a perfect recipe for an anxiety attack.

But, hold on. If you simplify and revolve everything around protecting your time, I have some solutions.

INVEST IN TRIPS, DATES & EXPERIENCES

One way I create an experience for our family during the holiday season is our Christmas Eve (or Christmas Day Eve) family pajama party. It consists of a new pair of Christmas pajamas (for the kids, because they grow too fast), a movie, popcorn and lots of laziness.

IDEAS FOR EXPERIENCE

GIFTS vs . MATERIAL GIFTS:

� House cleaning gift card — the ultimate gift of time

� Race registration — these are expensive and such a fun surprise

� Music or ballet lessons

� Gymnastics membership

� Gym memberships

� Sky-zone tickets — take your grandkids on a date

� Movie tickets — schedule a date with your spouse or grandkids

� Hotel or airline vouchers

� Restaurant gift cards — give to your spouse or in-laws to encourage a date!

� Foregoing holiday presents for a family trip is one of the most exciting things we do! (We even do this with birthdays on my husband’s side — “banking” birthday gifts to take a trip)

� Tickets to a sporting event or concert

� Spa day — gift for your wife, daughter-in-law or sister (and then take the kids for the day)

� Massage gift card

� Snow removal service

� Cooking class

� Family photo session

� Car wash vouchers — one of the best gifts I receive every year from my in-laws

� Remember – you do not need to spend money to create an experience

* Offer to babysit your grandkids

* Have a potluck with family

* Shovel your neighbor’s driveway

* Make some freezer meals for your busy best friend

Time is such a precious gift. When you commit your time to someone, or give them the gift of time, that shows a special kind of love.

Follow Angel's Keen Angles on INSTAGRAM: @angelskeenangles

@angelskeenangles WEBSITE: angelskeenangles.com

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY : ANGEL EVENSON

3 GIFTS: NEED, WANT, READ

We buy our kids three gifts every Christmas: one they need, one they want, one to read. It can be so easy to get caught up buying every toy they want, and this guide helps support our minimalist holiday. We are Christians and minimalists so we like to teach them the true meaning behind Christmas and it helps to relate it to the three gifts Jesus received from the kings.

GET ONE TOY, GIVE ONE TOY

Kids often times are given so many toys that they don’t even remember what they have, and then never play with them all. Yet, there are other children that do not have any. Since our first child was born, it has been a rule of ours that if they receive a toy, they give one away. Watching that awaken a giving heart in our children has been the biggest reward we have reaped thus far. Not only are they excited to have gotten a toy, they now get excited to give a toy that meant so much to them to another child.

CREATE YOUR OWN TRADITIONS

It is easy to get wrapped up in attending every holiday event that is happening. Ultimately, then, wearing yourself out even more during what is supposed to be a restful season.

Traditions like our family pajama party are so important to us because we want our kids to have memories at home with us. We love the slow pace, the laziness, and not forcing them to rush out the door to attend every event that is happening.

Due to us both having large midwestern families, it became important to us to decide how to protect our time. What that has meant for us most of the time is that we only are able to attend immediate family gatherings versus extended family.

� Prioritize what events you can and want to attend – then schedule them in.

� Create your own family traditions and schedule them as you would any other event.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with peace, joy and, most of all, time with the ones you love.

ready… set… conquer!

FINDING YOUR INNER NINJA

WORDS : KRISTY OLSGAARD PHOTOGRAPHY : CONQUER NINJA GYM FARGO

Imagine navigating obstacles like floating steps, the broken bridge or warped walls. Just watching “American Ninja Warrior” athletes attempt these feats on TV is exhilarating —muscles tense up and hearts race. Spectators wonder if they have what it takes to be a ninja. But how can they know?

Good news ninja enthusiasts! Now you can test your skills at Conquer Ninja Gym on Main Avenue in Fargo. It is attracting attention with kids and adults.

Eldon Johnson, one of the owners, says, “Ninja is a non-traditional sport gathering steam around the world, the country, and now, here. We have a huge bouldering wall, a spider climb, salmon ladders, four of the ever-popular warped walls, and much more. People of every age and ability are trying us out and coming back for more.”

WHAT IS NINJA?

Classes develop different levels of skills. Coaches instruct ninja athletes how to use physical and mental skills to master one obstacle at a time. Athletes learn to make split second decisions and micro adjustments to keep from falling. Obstacles are the competition, not other athletes. Eventually athletes run an entire obstacle course racing against time.

BENEFITS OF NINJA

The ninja world is a positive experience based on listening, respect and encouragement. Everyone cheers for each other. For example, someone tackling the warped wall hears cheers of, “Beat that wall…beat that wall.” The staff tell athletes there is no “can’t.” There’s “can’t yet,” but no “can’t.” So they work harder to beat that obstacle before moving to the next one.

Johnson, who is also a physical therapist, says, “Ninja is one of few sports that use nearly every muscle at one point or another. Sometimes kids who don’t fit into traditional or team sports flourish when they give this a try. It builds confidence they may have never before experienced.”

Member Missy Heilman says, “ Conquer Ninja is a great gym for the whole family to burn some energy, accomplish some cool obstacles and have fun. Our middle daughter discovered a love for ninja and begs to go every day. She’s gained so much confidence in just two months thanks to the amazing staff who helped her find her passion. And boy was she beaming with pride when she was awarded Ninja of the Month!”

Johnson explains ninja training helps with agility, flexibility, speed and strength, so it’s good for cross-training too. “It’s a great add-on sport for other sports, like football, hockey and basketball. Coaches have commented athletes perform better when they develop ninja skills.”

Join the CONQUER NATION

One-year memberships for individuals and families are very competitively priced. Membership is optional for people who aren’t ready to commit. For a $16 drop-in fee, anyone can check out the program during open gym hours (see their website as times vary). Coaches are on duty to help. Ninja classes are reserved for members. Introductory membership is a great option to get started: $35 for one month of unlimited classes and open gyms.

The gym is also available for special events, birthday parties and field trips. They provide summer camps and have competition teams for those interested.

One Friday night a month, they offer a ParentsNight-Out from 6:30–9:00 p.m. Membership is not required but reservations are recommended. The fee is $25 per child.

BRINGING NINJA to town

About two years ago Johnson spent a family vacation in the Twin Cities. Because their daughter announced her ambition to be a ninja warrior when she was four-years-old, they visited a Conquer Ninja Gym for fun. While there, it dawned on him ninja could be successful in Fargo.

He brought the idea of opening a ninja gym to his business partners Tyler Burcham, Chris Kraemer and Galen Danielson. “They thought I was nuts. But eventually their families checked it out and agreed it was cool. So we seriously pursued the opportunity. Now we’re the first Conquer Ninja Gym outside of the Minneapolis area.”

You can take this sport as far as you like. About ten people from the Twin Cities Conquer Ninja Gyms have competed on “American Ninja Warrior.” Johnson thinks some local members could compete on the show, as well as on “American Ninja Warrior Junior.”

Ninja promotes an active and healthy lifestyle. It’s dramatic, it’s exhilarating, and it’s positively fun. Stop by to find your inner ninja.

“She boiled with fury… battered the stage with her heels, hammering unknowable agonies into dust…”

– The Washington Post

Flamenco VivoCarlota Santana

Feel the diverse influences which have shaped this exuberant form of dance and music, including contributions from Gypsy, Judaic, Arabic, Spanish and Latino culture. Carlota Santana co-founded Flamenco Vivo in 1983 and was designated “The Keeper of Flamenco” by Dance Magazine.

WORDS : BERLY D. NELSON, Serkland Law Firm

Worried your will may get challenged after you die?

If you fear that someone may challenge your will when you die, you should consider taking advantage of North Dakota’s Ante-Mortem Probate of Wills statute. North Dakota has a seldom-used law that allows a person to essentially probate her will prior to death.

North Dakota is one of the few states that have adopted these laws, but it is likely more states will continue to adopt these laws to combat the biggest problem with will challenges — the person whose wishes were written in the will is dead and cannot defend her own wishes against the challenge. As will challenges continue to be common, this law can give the testator (the person doing the will) peace of mind knowing that her will will be held up after she dies.

Use the example of when Mom decides to leave more to her daughter than her son, and the son knows that Mom is going to leave him less in the will. If Mom (who is mentally competent and acting on her own accord) suspects that her son will likely fight her will when she’s dead, because then she cannot provide the context of why she made the choices she did in her will, this process might be an option for her. While there are certainly pros and cons to this process from a legal perspective, the benefits to someone whose will likely will be challenged are vital.

The process allows someone who has executed a will disposing of her estate to initiate a proceeding for a judgment declaring the validity of that person’s will. The will needs to be properly executed (witnessed, etc.), and any beneficiary named in the will, as well as all of the testator’s present intestate successors (meaning those who would benefit if the person died without a will, such as her children) must be named parties to the proceeding.

If the court finds the will has been properly executed and the testator has the requisite testamentary capacity and freedom from undue influence, the court shall declare the will valid and order it placed on file with the court. Undue influence is essentially when someone else is trying to exert improper influence upon a person over how she leaves her property. Lacking testamentary capacity means a person does not have the mental capacity to execute a will, which could render the will invalid.

A finding of validity by the court shall constitute an adjudication of probate, meaning the will shall be binding in North Dakota. You can change your will again after that but there is an additional proceeding required which is one of the downsides of this process. Will contests are typically an expensive process — before or after death.

If you or anyone close to you wants your will to be upheld when you die and you are concerned that someone, such as your child, may contest your will after your death, this may be a little-known area of the law that you should pursue.

BERLY D. NELSON

This article was prepared by Berly D. Nelson, a shareholder attorney with the Serkland Law Firm in Fargo. He practices in the areas of commercial and general civil litigation, including a focus on trusts and estate litigation. For more information, call 701-232-8957, email bnelson@serklandlaw.com or visit serklandlaw.com.

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

As a hands-on learner it was important for me to take what I learned in class and apply it right away to my work.

– Heather Winkler, Quality Data Analyst, Hospice of the Red River Valley

WORDS : AUBREY TYSON PHOTOGRAPHY : MIKE SMITH

Forever connection CREATING A LOVING

and SUPPORTIVE HOME

When Holly Thingelstad decided to become a foster parent, she knew the decision was a long time coming. Seeing foster care work for her close friends during childhood, the idea of being a foster parent resonated with her well into her adult life. After settling down and creating a space that she knew would provide love and support for foster children, she decided on a Sunday afternoon that it was now or never.

“I sent an email to PATH North Dakota on a Sunday. By Monday, I received a call from their office,” says Thingelstad. “The next thing I knew, I was going over the questions and concerns I’d had for so long. After the initial visit, I knew that working with PATH was the right decision. I also knew that if I were worried or struggling, they would be by my side to walk me through everything.”

Working closely with the team at PATH, she went through an extensive licensing process that included a multi-step home study and various training programs.

“The training was and still remains helpful through the trials and tribulations that come with being a foster parent. I’ve seen a lot of positive moments, but I’ve also seen dark days with these kids. What helped me through those times was the training and support from PATH,” says Thingelstad.

Part of the licensing process includes a screening which reviews who you are as a person, what your home life is like, what ages and gender you would feel comfortable fostering, and why you feel fostering is right for you. These answers are then used to help narrow down which children may be a good fit for each individual foster home.

“We want to ensure we are setting our kids and foster parents up for success and that child and family alike have a positive experience,” says Sonja Stang, director of community relations with PATH North Dakota. “We want foster parents to feel confident in being able to meet kids’ needs while we work to eventually reunify them with their biological families.”

Over the past several years, Thingelstad has had the privilege of fostering numerous children through a part-time and weekend basis.

“There’s a common misconception that fostering is part time or full time, and that’s it,” says Thingelstad. “This just isn’t true. Several times, I’ve had teenagers come to my home over a weekend in need of a place to relax and regroup while their parents did the same. Sometimes that mini-break is what helps both the children and their biological parents keep going. I’ve truly enjoyed those little moments as they’ve come.”

Two years ago, Thingelstad’s life changed when a then six-year-old girl came to live with her on a full-time basis. Welcoming this child into her home, Thingelstad felt an instant connection that she knew would last a lifetime, regardless of the outcome.

Holly Thingelstad

“As a foster parent, you understand that the goal is to give children a safe place to live until they can be reunited with their biological family. This can be a hard concept to understand. The way I see it, it can be difficult for me to say goodbye to each child. But I can’t imagine what life would be like without the safety and security of being in foster care,” added Thingelstad.

Regardless of the outcome for fostering, PATH is there for each child to give them the best chance at life.

“Kids in PATH foster care have experienced an average of 5.5 types of traumas by the time they enter PATH services, with very young children being among that group,” says Stang. “Although foster care statistics show a large age range in youth, our biggest need is for those able and willing to foster preteens and teenagers.”

Children eight years old on up to eighteen can be some of the more difficult ages to foster but can also be the most rewarding. Showing love and consistency help these young minds overcome the trauma they have faced. It helps reshape their brains to accept support and show them that life can be positive.

“Thinking of fostering a child or teenager can be daunting,” says Stang. “But at the end of the day, these are kids who need love and support while they wait to go back home to their biological family or as they start their journey into adulthood. Having a positive experience in foster care can lead to better success as an adult.”

Children, no matter the age, race, gender or trauma level, need guidance and love to make it through everyday life. If you or someone you know is considering becoming a foster parent, PATH will answer any questions and dispel some of the better-known stigmas surrounding fostering. Like in Thingelstad’s case, PATH provides knowledge and education to families in the Fargo area and across North Dakota who have joined the ranks to create a loving community for any child in need.

the BUFF life

Christmas is just around the corner, which is truly my favorite time of year. I realize it can be a stressful time of year for some, but when you stop and think about the true meaning of the season, those stressful things lose their power. Last issue I introduced you to “The BUFF Life,” which is a lifestyle that prioritizes the principles that my company, BUFF, represents: Believers Uniting Fitness and Food. By prioritizing faith, family, fitness and food, my hope is to unite and connect a community with these same values. This Christmas season, I hope you’ll slow down to be in the present moment, to live your life with purpose, prioritizing your values and what matters most. Welcome to The BUFF Life, I’m so glad you’re here!

FAITH:

This quote is one I remind myself of and use often when encouraging others. I believe that you were meant to read those words and really take it to heart. Think about what that means and what it looks like to praise God in the hallway, as you wait for that next door to open. It’s not easy, but the wait is always worth it. His plans for you are far greater than those you have for yourself. During this season, allow patience to fill you and give yourself grace. I hope you find encouragement in these words and can keep this at the forefront of your thoughts.

FAMILY:

It’s time to embrace this winter wonderland we live in and get outside together as a family. Lace up those ice skates (you can even rent them) and get to a neighborhood skating rink. If you bundle up in the proper layers, you’ll stay warm and if you’re like my family, we always look forward to a cup of hot chocolate after ice skating.

FITNESS:

Sometimes just finding time in your schedule to fit a workout in is a workout in itself. Regardless of how busy you are, I promise that you’ll feel better when you accomplish this one thing each day: 30 minutes of activity — that’s it! Choose any activity to get moving, whether it’s an intense gym session, a rejuvenating yoga class or a peaceful walk outside in our “winter wonderland,” just 30 minutes a day will leave you feeling energized, refreshed and accomplished.

“Until God opens the next door, praise Him in the hallway.”

Follow Ashley on INSTAGRAM/TWITTER: @ashleysornsin FACEBOOK: ashleysornsinhealthfitnessscoach

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY : ASHLEY SORNSIN

FOOD:

This is a sweet, salty, spicy and savory recipe for “Party Nuts” that will be your new holiday go-to. It’s the best of all flavors, wrapped in one delicious recipe. These party nuts are great for any and all occasions, whether you need a snack to set out for guests, a dish to bring to a holiday party, or even a hostess gift (these look great in a glass mason jar paired with the recipe). Enjoy!

Party Nuts

(serves 16, 1/8 cup portions)

RECIPE:

2 cups unsalted mixed nuts

2 tablespoons turbinado sugar

1 teaspoon pink Himalayan sea salt

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon molasses

1 tablespoon rosemary

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Spread mixed nuts on a baking sheet and roast for 5 minutes.

2. In small mixing bowl, combine all seasonings.

3. Pour mixed nuts into a large bowl, add molasses and stir to coat, then add seasonings and continue stirring to coat all mixed nuts evenly.

Metabolic Disorders s Weight Management

Mental Health s Women’s & Men’s Hormones

Aesthetic Services (neuromodulators, dermal fillers,

NEW

WORDS : JANE LAWSON PHOTOGRAPHY :

wellness guide’ role helps women easily navigate care

WHEN FARGO-AREA WOMEN HAVE QUESTIONS, SOMEONE IS THERE WITH PERSONALIZED ANSWERS

Women tend to think about health a lot.

But after health issues come up with young kids, spouses or aging parents, women can have a hard time focusing on their own health.

“Women really are the managers of their families in a lot of circumstances,” says Siri Thaden, a community programs manager for Sanford Women’s Health. “Women are busy — they’re super busy — and they often put their own needs last.”

Health decisions can be daunting even for women with fewer family needs — a college student or empty nester, for example. Health care systems have lots of options, so how do you choose a new doctor? What kind of doctor is actually best for you at this stage in life? Where can you go to find resources on a certain health topic?

Friends can help with some of these questions. But they may not face the same health issues as you, or know very much about programs available.

Sanford Health realizes women can use some guidance. After all, gynecology needs differ from pregnancy needs, which differ from midlife needs. So the health system offers women’s specialists, along with resources ranging from information to classes to coaching, at multiple locations.

And now Sanford Health is taking the notion of guidance and convenience one step further. Its first women’s wellness guide, JoAnna Thome, acts as that friend who always has the inside scoop.

Wellness guide as provider matchmaker

Thome, based in the newly designed Sanford Women’s Center at Sanford Southpointe Clinic in Fargo, works with women who want help navigating something in the health system.

The wellness guide service is tailored to each woman in several ways.

First, through a brief health assessment, a person can explain what she’s looking for, her location preference, and her desired time frame. To access the health assessment, people can visit with Thome in person at the Women’s Center in the Southpointe Clinic lobby, call 701-234-4HER (701-234-4437), or visit sanfordhealth.org.

Then, from the results of the health assessment, Thome compiles a personalized care outline, or schedule of services specific to that person’s interests.

For example, if someone is looking for a primary care provider, the outline might include several options who would be a good fit.

“It’s kind of doing some matchmaking,” Thome says.

ALEXA OLSON

← JoAnna Thome helps personalize care for women in her role as a Sanford Health wellness guide.

Once they choose one, she can help hand them off to a scheduler over the phone to make an appointment.

The outline could include resources about a specific health topic, dates and times for classes or support groups, events, videos or exercise programs. Stress has been a popular topic so far.

It also could offer help setting up My Sanford Chart or the Sanford Health app. Or it could provide clinic maps and directions.

Thome will communicate with the patient however they wish — in person at the clinic, through a phone call, or through My Sanford Chart messages.

Helping meet all women’s needs

A wellness guide aims to help women wherever they are in life. So the college student or newly employed graduate who’s looking for her first “grown up” primary care provider can find one, while also asking Thome about unfamiliar health care terms or acronyms. (“What’s a referral? How do I get one?” “What’s a PCP?”)

Thome can help a woman who’s pregnant or planning to become pregnant find an OB/GYN and some classes. Thome can help a mom who’s finished having kids transition beyond an OB/ GYN to a family medicine provider, or, if medical issues become more complex, to an internal medicine provider.

As more requests come in for different resources, the Women’s Center can look at offering new programs, too. For example, Thaden said they had identified a gap in service for moms who are in the postpartum recovery phase, so they just launched a postpartum yoga class for women.

Meeting women’s health needs conveniently, at any stage of life, is the ultimate goal of the wellness guide program.

“I think it gives them more of a hand in their own health care,” Thome says.

Bethany • Even de • Knute Nelson

Accelerating healing

THROUGH EXCEPTIONAL THERAPY and SPECIALIZED TECHNOLOGY

Vicki Nordman can play with her grandkids on the floor. And confidently get up.

In June 2018, Nordman could barely stand when she met with ProRehab physical therapist Heather England, who immediately offered her a walker. Recently diagnosed with diabetes, Nordman was rapidly losing strength in her legs. A bad fall November 2018 precipitated an 11-day stay at Mayo Clinic, where she was diagnosed with lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy.

Nerve damage left her unable to even lift her feet.

Nordman underwent 12 cortisone infusions and resumed therapy with England in April 2019. Whatever function she did not regain within the next two years would be permanently lost.

Soon after, Nordman progressed to using a cane. And in October, she walked without it.

“I would not be where I am today without Heather’s help,” says Nordman, 61, who resides in Fargo with her husband, Dale.

“We truly are the place people come for musculoskeletal needs,” England says.

ProRehab is an independent physical and occupational therapy clinic that provides safe, gentle therapy. Its new 7,000-square-feet facility in south Fargo features state-of-the-art technology. The space also allows ProRehab to offer fitness classes to help patients who have completed rehab to continue their wellness journey.

After years of working for large clinics and corporate health systems, physical therapists

Lynden Kurtz and Tom Baumgartner founded ProRehab in 2001 to deliver personalized results-focused therapy. They invited England, who had joined ProRehab in 2002, to become an owner in 2011.

Today, ProRehab’s medical staff consists of nine physical therapists, of which six are women, two physical therapist assistants and three occupational therapists, all women. Most of the therapists have earned their doctorate or master’s degrees. And ProRehab brings in experts for ongoing training.

Not surprisingly, ProRehab is a leading force in therapy in the region offering exceptional therapy and specialized technology to accelerate healing. For example, ProRehab was the first private practice in Fargo to offer the AlterG, an antigravity treadmill. This technology helps

WORDS : DENISE PINKNEY PHOTOGRAPHY : MIKE SMITH

Onceagain,

Heather England

post-surgical patients get back on their feet more quickly by re-establishing muscle memory and getting their mechanics back. Likewise, athletes can train unweighted while working through an injury.

Physical therapists provide the latest in successful therapy, including cupping, Graston, strain counterstrain, the Lordex Spine System (low back decompression and strength restoration) and integrative dry needling, to name just a few. They also provide specialty women’s services for osteoporosis, incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction. In addition, therapists provide one-on-one aquatic therapy at Fargo’s Touchmark.

From infants to seniors, occupational therapists help patients to develop, recover or maintain optimal daily living skills. They help children with disabilities participate in school, support older adults facing physical and cognitive changes, assist patients with lymphedema care, and perform ergonomic assessments in the workplace.

Most health insurance plans allow for direct access to therapists.

“From the front desk staff to the therapists, we complement each other in experience and personalities,” England says. “We all have a passion to help people get better, out of pain and functioning to where they were before injury.”

Nordman agrees, “ProRehab is like family almost. You just feel welcome.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION about ProRehab, call 701-451-9417 or visit prorehabfargo.com

England and a patient using the Lordex Spine System.

healing journeys

TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE within the THERAPEUTIC CONNECTION CREATING STRONGER

and HEALTHIER FAMILIES

WORDS : KRISTY OLSGAARD PHOTOGRAPHY : MIKE

Suspended in mid-air, a chrysalis embraces a caterpillar. It hangs, not in limbo, but in transformational determination. Eventually it emerges from the safe silky chrysalis into what it is destined to be — a butterfly.

Like the butterfly, we often find transformation necessary during our life journey in order to emerge from difficulties and live up to our potentials.

Chrysalis Behavioral Health Services and Training Center in Fargo is equipped to accompany people along their journeys. Healing the whole person and creating stronger and healthier families is their goal. Adults, adolescents and children entrust them to help heal the brokenness that lies beneath.

With 30 years of education and clinical experience, Dr. Angela Cavett, an Enderlin, North Dakota, native, opened this practice in September 2018. Therapies at Chrysalis are state-of-the-art and based on highly regarded research and literature.

Cavett says, “Our therapies are based on three things. First, the relationship between the client and therapist is the most important healing element. The therapeutic relationship creates an environment based on safety, trust and compassion. Maya Angelou said, ‘There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.’”

“Coping skills can be beneficial to get through a moment, but true transformation does not happen by just using a coping skill,” Cavett continues. “It happens from deeper processing with another person bearing witness and providing support and guidance.

“Second, evidence-based treatments assure clients that approaches are consistent with what research shows is most effective.

“Third, holistic approaches are integrated into care of the mind-body-spirit in order to allow for optimal change. When a person struggles with depression or anxiety or trauma, these things have an impact not only on the person’s feelings, thoughts and beliefs, but also on their bodies.”

The Chrysalis staff includes Dr. Cavett, Cathy Hjelle, Jessica Mertz, Dera Johnson, Dr. Roberta Nelson and Jessica Hotchkiss. The multidisciplinary team includes psychology, psychometry, social work, counseling and play therapy. They offer psychological testing for ADHD, trauma, autism, depression and anxiety.

SMITH

As we tour Chrysalis, we see more than offices. They have five play therapy rooms, two sand tray rooms, a sensory room and wall, four healing gardens, a labyrinth, a therapeutic kitchen and a multi-purpose room for training, yoga and drumming circles. Each of these spaces is intentional for healing trauma, anxiety, depression and behavioral concerns.

Cavett explains, “Neuroscience influences the process of therapy at Chrysalis. American Psychiatrist Dr. Bruce Perry of the Child Trauma Academy in Houston recommends treatments focus on “regulate, relate and then reason.” This means therapies must occur in this order for the best results. Most behavioral health practices focus almost exclusively on reasoning for therapies.”

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: Dera Johnson, Dr. Roberta Nelson, Dr. Angela Cavett, Cathy Hjelle and Jessica Hotchkiss

Regulating activities offered include interventions like children using the sensory wall, or adults meditating while walking around the labyrinth. Or a family therapy session could include baking cookies together for the first time while working on interactions transferable to the home.

Cavett says, “According to Perry, patterned, repetitive, rhythmic activities are necessary for helping clients become more regulated. He suggests drumming is beneficial to help calm the brain. Children and adults alike love the Beat The Odds drumming circle. Drumming helps reduce a wide range of behavioral problems like inattention, withdrawn/depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, attention deficit/hyperactivity, oppositional defiance and sluggish cognitive tempo.”

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk and Dr. Peter Levine are also experts whose work influenced the development of Chrysalis. They emphasize that since the body is involved in trauma it must be involved in treatment. For example, Cavett, Hjelle and Nelson use eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and Mertz and Cavett use sensory room therapy. Including the body allows for deeper understanding of the impact of trauma and how to help the individual heal.

Chrysalis has the largest play therapy space in the region, which is the treatment of choice for young children. Mertz, Hotchkiss and Cavett appreciate how play therapy allows children to communicate and learn concepts using the developmentally appropriate treatment.

Cavett says, “It’s astounding how playing allows kids to express things. It lets them get into things unspoken. Through puppets or sand or figurines, their stories have depth beyond words.”

C.S. Lewis said, “You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.”

Many people find the therapeutic journey rewarding, though difficult. Chrysalis exists ready to accompany people on their healing journey toward their personal destiny.

T WO AREA WOMEN making a major impact in healthcare

WORDS : AMANDA WHITMYER PHOTOGRAPHY : RICK NOFEL

Two area women have been honored by the North Dakota Medical Association (NDMA) for their advocacy in healthcare, patient services and the profession of medicine.

Jeana Peinovich

Jeana Peinovich, director of Lend A Hand Up, was presented with the Friends of Medicine Award, which recognizes the need for nonphysicians contributing to the health and well-being of communities in North Dakota.

For more than 30 years, Peinovich has been a vital contributor to the local medical community through her involvement in two immensely successful initiatives led by Dakota Medical Foundation (DMF): Giving Hearts Day and Lend A Hand Up.

“Professionals dedicated to making their expertise more accessible inspired me to find new ways to help others in the area of managed care, where education and referrals improved healthcare access,” says Peinovich.

Following many years of service at Dakota Clinic, Peinovich joined DMF in 2003 as an outreach coordinator for the Covering Kids and Families initiative, which helped more than 1,000 children in low-income families gain access to affordable, quality healthcare coverage.

Not long after, in 2008, she had the idea of creating Giving Hearts Day, a 24-hour fundraising event, that takes place on the second Thursday of February each year. This event has gone on to raise more than $70 million for nearly 500 local charities.

“I’m grateful that when I connected the dots between community need and resources to develop new giving platforms, I was working with a powerhouse of generosity, talent and driven people at DMF who bring good ideas to life in a dynamic way,” says Peinovich

For the past 13 years as the Lend A Hand Up director she’s helped volunteers raise $17 million in financial help and hope for more than 500

families facing medical crisis. From helping families host a successful benefit to providing resources and support for life’s most challenging times, Peinovich has continued to empower volunteers to enhance giving.

She says, “It’s through our combined talents that we maximize help for others as friends of the medical community.”

Dr. Mary Aaland

Driven to help save lives in rural North Dakota, Dr. Mary Aaland, was awarded the Copic Humanitarian award.

“Rural North Dakota has one of the highest death rates across the nation because we’re too far away from healthcare providers and because 911 on rural roads doesn’t work,” says Aaland, who serves as director of rural surgery and director of clinical research at the UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Dr. Fadel Nammour (left) presents Jeana Peinovich with the Friends of Medicine Award.

Dr. Mary Aaland was awarded the Copic Humanitarian Award.

Aaland has been integral in bringing the American College of Surgeons Stop the Bleed training program to rural North Dakota, which she’s been teaching in local communities and outpatient surgery centers for the past three years. Stop the Bleed is a free one-hour course for all ages that focuses on teaching people how to control bleeding using direct pressure, wound packaging, and tourniquet application.

According to Aaland, the leading causes of death in rural communities are motor vehicle accidents and gunshot wounds. She says in a matter of minutes, rural accidents can turn into life-threatening situations.

“Techniques for stopping the bleed at the scene have to take place immediately,” Aaland says. “There’s no time to wait for paramedics. If we empower and educate communities with limited resources and a lot of spirit, then we’ll see positive effects.”

Aaland says the $10,000 grant she received along with the award will further the life-saving work of Stop the Bleed in rural communities by providing the necessary kits to teach the course.

“These kits are beneficial to take to additional communities so we can train more individuals how to take care of active bleeding. Stop the Bleed will stimulate local communities, which I’m passionate about,” she says.

From empowering senior citizens to training young high school champions to Stop the Bleed, Aaland has trained more than 700 individuals this year alone, which contributes to her goal of training 1,000 people each year.

At the forefront of empowering residents in rural communities, she explains the importance of patient advocacy and the need to train more local organizations.

“Keep the patient at the center of your eye,” she says. “That’s the focus of healthcare.”

athletic trainers: Your athlete’s biggest fans

KEEPING STUDENT-ATHLETES IN THE GAME IS THE GOAL but SAFETY is ALWAYS the TOP PRIORITY.

You see her on the bench during your son’s hockey game. She’s keeping a keen eye on the action and, when your son doesn’t get up from a hit, she’s the first one on the ice to assess possible injury. She is an Essentia Health athletic trainer and she is one of your son’s biggest advocates.

The National Athletic Trainer Association says the profession encompasses the prevention, examination, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of emergent, acute or chronic injuries and medical conditions.

Tessa Martin and Alex Gebeke are two of the 16 athletic trainers at Essentia Health-Fargo as part of our orthopedics and sports medicine team. Both women were student-athletes in high school and college and say their own injuries and experiences with athletic trainers is what brought them into the field.

Their work is multifaceted. They watch practice and help to identify any possible body mechanics that may be setting an athlete up for injury. They attend games to assess injuries. They’re on hand to safeguard athletes when they are back at practices, helping with accommodations if needed and giving the final word if an athlete can practice and, ultimately, return to play.

WORDS : TARA EKREN, Essentia Health PHOTOGRAPHY : ESSENTIA HEALTH

Tessa Martin (left) and Alex Gebeke (above right) are two of Essenta Health's athletic trainers.

Athletic trainer Tessa Martin taping a wrist before a game.

“Our job is to evaluate injuries, which often happen under our watch,” Martin explains. “We’ll determine what we think happened, what we think the injury is and then we’ll decide if it’s something we can treat ourselves or if we need to consult with or refer to an orthopedic provider. We’ll also work with the athlete to rehabilitate and get back to playing when they are ready.”

Gebeke says athletic trainers ultimately have the authority to say yes or no to playing. “There are some hard conversations and we aren’t always well-liked, but we are here to do what is best for the athlete,” she says.

“We’re looking at the injury in the here and now, but also in the athlete’s life ahead,” Martin says. We want to make sure that they have function and quality of life 30 or 40 years down the road.” Injuries like concussions can cause life-long effects if not treated correctly at the time of injury.

Most people don’t realize the wide scope of knowledge athletic trainers must have to assess injuries from a variety of different sports involving athlete’s musculoskeletal systems. In addition, they are certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and able to respond to a variety of situations as a healthcare professional.

Martin and Gebeke agree that multitasking and excellent communication skills are vital in their work. “Being able to prioritize multiple injuries in a game and put the attention where it’s needed most — as well as being able to explain what’s going on with an athlete, to the athlete, as well as the coaches and parents — is critical in our work,” Martin says.

Gebeke offers a piece of advice for student-athletes. “Don’t be afraid of the athletic trainers. If you are hurt or injured, let them help you. Our goal is to keep you in the game and, if that’s not possible, get you back as soon as possible. We all want the same thing — athletes who are playing the sport they love.”

vaping: BIG TOBACCO

WORDS : TAMI NORGARD & AVERY ZASADA PHOTOGRAPHY : BRITTA TRYGSTAD

When it comes to smoking, I’m the non-smoking sandwich generation. My early years in a mobile home with two parents smoking daily killed any intrigue about smoking. My brother and I regularly rebelled, making overly-dramatic choking sounds, hiding packs of cigarettes, and even defiantly breaking all my dad’s cigarettes in half once. With maturity, I learned that smoking is a life-long addiction and a daily struggle for too many. As companies disclosed health impacts, my parents ultimately quit smoking, a few times ... at least until the addiction beckoned again.

As a new lawyer at a large Minneapolis law firm in the mid-1990s, I worked for one of the “Big Tobacco” companies sued by the State of Minnesota to recoup state smoking-related health care costs. This assignment provided me with an all-expense paid tour of duty to a windowless warehouse basement in North Carolina, pouring through confidential Big Tobacco documents for 15 hours a day. Each state sued Big Tobacco, seeking reimbursement of public health systems costs allegedly caused by tobacco-related health problems. States claimed Big Tobacco’s marketing tactics intentionally appealed to children, hooking them young to guarantee replacement smokers as the older smokers died prematurely. After years of litigation, the states settled. North Dakota spent almost half of its $600 million in settlement funds to date on public water projects, like the FM Di-

version, Red River Valley Water Supply Project and area water treatment facilities. Minnesota’s settlement has netted $6.5 billion to date. In addition, thousands of smokers filed individual lawsuits against Big Tobacco, some resulting in multi-million-dollar jury verdicts.

I regularly emphasize the health impacts of smoking, and now vaping, to my kids. When they were ages 5 and 8, we visited the Minnesota Science Museum’s “Human Body” exhibit, where they experienced an impactful visual: real dead bodies with exposed healthy lungs, which resembled pink slabs of steak, versus a 70-year old smoker’s lungs, which looked like a black shriveled walnut. My inquisitive then 8-year-old daughter, Avery, asked me why smoking was legal. Why allow people to ingest toxic substances that could kill them? That led to a great discussion of civil liberties and personal freedom. She was destined for law school at an early age.

While cigarettes finally became largely passé among teens, along came vaping, along with a strong sense of de ja vu. With numerous reports of vaping deaths and respiratory illness this year, I sense history may be repeating itself, this time with a different nicotine delivery method.

Big Tobacco’s early marketing efforts framed cigarettes as health products to relieve digestive ailments and respiratory conditions. E-cigarette marketing is promoted as a healthier alternative to smoking. Like early Big Tobacco marketing, vape product advertising is argued to not-so-subtly target America’s youth. Liquid nicotine flavors like Bubblegum and Cotton Candy appeal to teenage consumers. Research establishes that these efforts are creating a new nicotine addicted generation.

In 2019, 1 in 4 high school seniors reported e-cigarette use in the past month, along with 1 in 11 eighth graders. As vaping use has increased, so have incidences of possible vaping-related lung illnesses. The U.S. Surgeon General recently took an extraordinary action, declaring vaping a public health epidemic.

What’s next for the multi-billion-dollar e-cigarette industry? A number of states recently banned fruit-flavored nicotine pods. Cities like San Francisco have banned Juul brand devices altogether. Juul discredits such actions, emphasizing that their products are meant for adults and that no single e-cigarette product has been tied to lung ailments. Numerous class action lawsuits have now been filed in relation to e-cigarette abuse and addiction, claiming Juul engaged in false advertising, failure to warn users about health concerns, and negligent marketing to minors. Numerous individuals have also sued the e-cigarette companies, claiming personal injury and wrongful death.

As federal investigators launched a criminal investigation this fall, Juul’s CEO stepped down from this $38 billion company and Juul stopped all advertising. Congress recently asked Juul to hand over internal documents on marketing strategies and health impacts. Is this the beginning of the end for e-cigarettes? Maybe my law school-bound daughter will get her own tour of duty in a windowless warehouse basement, this time in Silicon Valley. History repeats itself.

WE ALL HAVE ONE THING IN COMMON WE’RE ATTORNEYS

No other North Dakota law firm comes close to the number of women attorneys as Vogel and we work hard to assure your success. Our wide range of practice areas include:

Family Law / Wills and Estate Planning

Criminal Defense Law / Business Law

Litigation / Immigration Law

Personal Injury and Wrongful Death

Environmental, Water Law and Land Use

Employment Law

Brenda Blazer Jerilyn Branter-Adams Lisa Edison-Smith Janel Frank

Valeska Hermanson

Whitney Irish Debbie Kleven

Angie Lord Vanessa Lystad Ariana Meyers KrisAnn Norby-Jahner

Tami Norgard Briana Rummel Charlotte Skar Rusch Michelle Eaton Scimecca

Caren Wanner Stanley Leah Sonstelie Warner Diane Wehrman

Megan Gordon

Tami Norgard (above right) is an attorney and managing partner at Vogel Law Firm. Her daughter, Avery Zasada, is a Concordia College pre-law student and former Vogel Law Firm employee.

GATE CITY BANK’S key to success:

A DIVERSE GROUP OF INNOVATIVE and PASSIONATE FEMALE LEADERS

Being a female leader in a male-dominated industry like banking has historically meant facing the glass ceiling. However, at Gate City Bank, a longstanding focus on building leaders based on their abilities has resulted in a culture that fosters growth and leadership opportunities for women.

The national average of women in banking who occupy a management role is a staggering 30.8 percent, according to financial regulation and compliance firm, Trupoint Partners. At Gate City Bank, not only do women have a seat at the table, they are making decisions that are imperative to the future success of the bank. Over 70 percent of the company’s leadership team are women and they bring unique perspectives and innovation to accounting, data strategies, compliance, culture and more.

“In 1997, when I joined the management team at the bank, I was the only female at the table. Today, five women out of nine represent the executive team,” says Kim Meyer, executive vice president

and chief human resource officer. “The female leaders and their commitment to our customers, communities and team members have a direct impact on the success of the bank.”

As most things go, this wasn’t always the case. Meyer reflected on a policy from 1961 which stated that women were done working at five months of pregnancy until three months after their baby was born, with no guarantee of a job upon their return. When new team members joined the bank in 1977, they received a handbook which included advice such as how to shape your eyebrows and appropriate apparel — skirts and panty hose were required.

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY : GATE CITY BANK

While times have changed, Gate City Bank has gone above and beyond to empower and expand opportunities for women. What is Gate City Bank doing to provide a better way of life for female team members? The answer to this starts from the top.

Gate City Bank’s executive chair and chair of the board, Steve Swiontek, is passionate about supporting women in leadership roles and mentoring them to success. “I look for leaders that are innovative, creative, constantly asking why and taking initiative without asking permission. Our diverse leadership team gives us a competitive edge and provides new perspective on how we can deliver an exceptional customer experience,” says Swiontek.

We sat down with a few of the female members of the Gate City Bank leadership team to uncover key themes that define their organization and create a thriving culture for women leaders.

“We invest in our team members and are committed to making their lives better by providing competitive compensation and excellent benefits,” says Heather Rye, senior vice president of human resources and development.

These benefits coupled with a family-friendly culture — including 12 weeks of fully paid maternity leave, four weeks of fully paid paternity and adoption leave, and generous paid time off — equate to greater job satisfaction and increased team member retention. A designated infant-friendly workplace, the bank provides private and secure rooms to support nursing mothers as they transition back to work. ››

Quality, convenience, flexibility

“I love the 8-week course plan the MBA program follows. You are able to set your own pace and enroll in however many classes you think is manageable.”

- Brittany Gapinski, St. Michael, Minnesota Specialize in areas such as:

I look for leaders that are innovative, creative, constantly asking why and taking initiative without asking permission.

— STEVE SWIONTEK, executive chair and chair of the board

“It meant everything to be able to spend those first 12 weeks and all those firsts with my son,” says Stacy Smith, executive manager. “I am so grateful the bank allows their team members to do this, and they realize that family comes first, and family is most important.”

Gate City Bank leaders are also trained to assist team members in developing clearly defined career paths within the company.

“Opportunities for females to advance their careers through the bank’s development programs include an Emerging Leaders Program, mentorships and job-shadowing. Continuing education and trainings are also ways we invest in professional and personal development. If a team member wants to attend an external program or training, we are going to support that and are excited about their passion for self-development,” says Rye.

Gate City Bank provides paid volunteer hours and matches their volunteer time with a monetary donation. Additionally, the bank encourages philanthropy to charities throughout North Dakota and Minnesota by matching up to $1,000 per year, per team member.

“One of the greatest gifts of working at Gate City Bank is our powerful connections to community partners. We love giving back,” says Kim Settel, executive vice president of retail banking and lending.

“Since 2003, we’ve been able to make a $27 million charitable impact and dedicate 222,000 hours to team member volunteerism,” says Amanda Torok, senior vice president of culture. “Working with team members and non-profits to make a difference in our communities has been a very rewarding experience.”

Gate City Bank’s commitment to supporting women extends beyond the workplace. The bank donated $1.5 million to Grace Garden, a YWCA supportive housing program with space for 30 families at risk of homelessness and many who are escaping domestic violence. The largest gift in the YWCA Cass Clay history will also provide educational, financial and emotional outreach support to help families successfully transition into their own safe living situations.

“When we announced our commitment to the Grace Garden project in 2017, we were excited to build upon our long-standing partnership with the YWCA. We are so proud to see our gift provide the resources needed to help women and their children on their journey to a better life,” says Swiontek.

As part of Gate City Bank’s commitment to bettering the lives of residents at Grace Garden, team members are providing creative solutions to help establish credit and provide financial education to both parents and children for a financially sound future.

“Focusing on these opportunities to foster growth and community impact have made Gate City Bank an employer of choice and directly support our unique culture, team member retention and recruitment efforts,” says Kevin Hanson, president and CEO of Gate City Bank.

“Our leaders at Gate City Bank come from many different backgrounds and experiences,” says Amy Durbin, executive vice president of data strategies and marketing. “But the one attribute they have in common is that they are influencers. Female or male, our leaders strive to motivate, mentor and lead by example. One of the things I am most proud of is being able to show my daughters that female executives are the norm, not the exception.”

Female or male, our leaders strive to motivate, mentor, and lead by example. One of the things I am most proud of is being able to show my daughters that female executives are the norm, not the exception.

— AMY DURBIN, executive vice president of data strategies and marketing

For A Better Way Of Life Gate City Bank

For 96 years, Gate City Bank has been providing a better way of life to customers, communities and team members. Innovative products and services, supporting communities and investing in team members is how we make a difference, every single day.

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moving forward

NDSU MBA PROGRAM ACCELERATES CAREERS

For many business professionals, it can be hard to stand out when trying to reach their career goals or get a dream job. That’s why Kristen Shand and Brittany Gapinski are pursuing a Master of Business Administration at North Dakota State University. They are at different stages professionally, but both know the MBA will accelerate their careers.

Shand, from Richfield, Minnesota, earned a bachelor’s degree in sport management with a minor in business administration from NDSU. She never saw herself as someone who would continue her education, but an impactful experience as an undergraduate at NDSU made her want to push forward.

“The NDSU College of Business opened my eyes to a whole new adventure that I could not pass up,” she says.

Shand’s goal is to work in the marketing department for a professional sports team. She knows the challenges women can face in the industry, but doesn’t plan to let that stop her from pursuing her passion.

“You can’t hold yourself back from things. Once you think about it, go do it,” Shand says. “You need to make an action in order to see success.”

For Shand, the MBA is a way to achieve a higher level of professionalism. It will prepare her to be a manager, which will separate her from other candidates in the sports industry. The skills and knowledge she is gaining in leadership, finance and marketing will help her become more well-rounded as a professional.

“I knew NDSU’s MBA program would push me outside of my comfort zone to be a successful woman in business,” she says.

Like Shand, many students choose to pursue their MBA right after earning a bachelor’s degree. Other students, like Gapinski, return to school while employed full time. Gapinski has experience in

WORDS : CARLEY HAUGEN PHOTOGRAPHY : JUSTIN EILER

Kristen Shand

Brittany Gapinski

a few different professional roles. She found her passion in the health care industry. She currently works full time at a physical therapy office in Fargo and plans to become the COO of a children’s hospital. “I think getting my MBA at NDSU will help me achieve it faster,” says Gapinski, from St. Michael, Minnesota.

Gapinski earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business administration. She chose NDSU’s MBA program because of its eight-week classes that are offered in the evening. The schedule allows her to finish her degree in a timely manner and connect with her professors face-to-face. She also can continue to work full time.

Gapinski has built relationships with her professors who have shown an interest in helping advance her career beyond coursework. Her mentors helped her meet with local health care business leaders to network and learn about her future career. The opportunity was offered because her mentors at NDSU cared about her success, Gapinski says.

The NDSU MBA program includes interactive features like case studies and in-class discussions. Students not only get to learn from professors with industry knowledge, but also from fellow students with varying backgrounds and levels of experience.

“Students build relationships in the classroom and learn from the case study method about how to solve complex business problems collaboratively,” says Scott Beaulier, dean of the NDSU College of Business.

NDSU’s MBA program allows students to fit their degree to their needs. “Our slim core requirements allow for maximum flexibility for students to pursue specialties in finance, digital marketing, data analytics, leadership, and many other areas of focus,” Beaulier says.

The course flexibility led Gapinski to take electives in public health, and Shand in digital marketing and innovation.

Their time in the MBA program has Gapinski and Shand excited for the future.

“This degree from NDSU will keep pushing me where I want to go,” says Shand.

season of caring

MAKE HOLIDAY SHOPPING MORE MEANINGFUL with the FM Area Foundation Caring Catalog

How do you show you care?

Perhaps you show you care by taking a friend out for coffee, hosting and attending holiday gatherings, and exchanging gifts with loved ones. What if you could show how much you care for your entire community this holiday season? Now, with the Caring Catalog you can do just that.

The FM Area Foundation’s Caring Catalog is an online, crowdfunding platform that makes giving easy and effective. It connects you to many local charities through just one link. This year, the Caring Catalog runs November 22 through December 31 and features 86 local nonprofits. You can browse the Caring Catalog from the comfort of your own home and make your holiday shopping more meaningful by supporting nonprofit organizations in the areas of basic human needs, the arts, education and community building. All organizations are based in either Cass County, North Dakota, or Clay County, Minnesota, so when you give, your dollars will go to work right here in our community.

WORDS : COURTNEY LARSON, Communications and Marketing Officer, FM Area Foundation

Photo provided by Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre, Taken by Perry Rust

Photo provided by FM Area Foundation at Emergency Food Pantry

For nearly sixty years, the FM Area Foundation, your local community foundation, has been providing philanthropic services to people of this region. The Foundation manages and stewards $80 million in permanent, endowed assets. Charitable funds have been established throughout the years by families, individuals and businesses wanting to make a lasting impact.

“The FM Area Foundation started with a $100 donation in 1960 and, today, we have given away $48 million in grants to nonprofits and scholarships to students. As a public community foundation, we were built on the idea every donation matters, and together, we can accomplish more,” says Tim Beaton, executive director of the FM Area Foundation.

“We are a foundation for everyone who has a desire to invest in our community. Not everyone has the means to set up their own private foundation, but everyone can give to their community foundation to help make a difference.”

The Caring Catalog is a tool designed around a similar concept — many people contributing to make a collective impact.

Gifts made through the Caring Catalog are tax-deductible. Credit card fees are covered by the FM Area Foundation, so 100 percent of your donation goes to the participating nonprofits. ››

Photo provided by BIO Girls

“All the charities have specific requests for what they are raising money for this time of year. There are so many wonderful projects to give to, and everyone can find a project to support,” Beaton says.

Requests range from the YWCA seeking funding to provide household items to women escaping domestic violence, to CCRI wanting to purchase smart technology so people with disabilities can live independently, to the Kicks Band looking to bring unique jazz experiences to area students.

“Each organization is requesting $5,000 or less for their unique programs and projects through the Caring Catalog. That means, if our community can come together and raise $400,400 between November 22 and the end of the year, we will fully fund every single Caring Catalog project request,” says Beaton. “Think of how many people will be served in our community because of your generosity.”

There are also incentives for giving. Every Monday, starting November 25, is FundayMonday, which means if you give to an organization on a Monday, that organization will be entered in a drawing for a $1,000 to put toward their fundraising goal. The FundayMonday prizes are generously sponsored by businesses and individuals. There will also be surprise incentives given away on #GivingTuesday, an international day of giving that takes place every year the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This year, #GivingTuesday is December 3.

“As the community foundation, we provide services, such as endowment and legacy giving, tax credits, scholarship and donor advised funds. The Caring Catalog is just one more way we hope to encourage the spirit of giving in the communities we serve,” says Beaton.

To the right is one of the 86 Caring Catalog requests.

We were built on the idea every donation matters, and together, we can accomplish more.

— TIM BEATON, Executive Director of the FM Area Foundation.

and click on the Caring Catalog button to browse the full list and to make your caring donation.

Photo provided by Community of Care

Photo provided by Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity

DOWN HOME

Requesting: $5,000 Christmas Tree Package

Give the gift of Christmas for families transitioning out of homelessness this year! Families served by Down Home will receive a Christmas Tree Package, which includes a tree, lights, tree skirt, tree topper, extension cord, ornaments and a container for the storage.

Many of the families Down Home has served have never had a Christmas tree. Imagine the faces of their children decorating and enjoying a Christmas tree this year. Christmas Tree Packages will be given to families at Down Home's annual Christmas party.

Founded in November 2017, Down Home's mission is to completely furnish and decorate homes for families transitioning from homelessness into permanent housing. Down Home turns an empty space into a home to embrace, feel secure, and empower families to succeed and ultimately break the cycle of homelessness. To date, Down Home has served 45 families impacting 140 lives in our community.

Every $250 raised will provide a Christmas Tree Package for a family served by Down Home who transitioned out of homelessness in 2019.

Photo provided by Down Home

Excelling beyond the classroom

MSUM PROJECT MANAGEMENT STUDENT GAINS REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

Clara Derby, a project management and English major at Minnesota State University Moorhead who will graduate in 2020, has always wanted to work in event management. When she was given the opportunity to do so with MSUM’s Project Management program, she took it.

“The program is very applicable. It’s one of those programs where you can see it’s preparing you for your career,” Derby says.

The encouragement, support and opportunities the project management program and faculty offer will not only help Derby in the real world but will help all MSUM project management students after graduation.

“All project management classes blend theory with application. Students have a chance to take an industry Dale Carnegie class that focuses on communication, presentation and leadership, a project management simulation, and a capstone class where students apply their PM skills to a business, education or community project,” says Pam McGee, MSUM associate professor of project management. “They can also participate in Dragon Consulting, internships, co-ops and international exchange programs.”

“Every single one of the faculty has industry experience, so they bring in a lot of applicable real-world examples as well as valuable industry connections,” Derby says.

MSUM is just one of a few Midwest universities that offers a project management program entirely online, helping Derby earn not one, but two degrees. Taking project management courses online and with the majority of her English courses in the classroom, Derby has experienced the best of both worlds.

“Taking classes online gives you the time and flexibility to pursue educational and career opportunities while also going to school,” Derby says.

Throughout her courses in the project management program, Derby had the opportunity to gain hands-on experiences. She was the event manager for a 1 Million Cups event held on campus.

WORDS : AMBER WESTERENG, MSUM marketing intern PHOTOGRAPHY : DAVE ARNTSON, MSU Moorhead

Clara Derby

Pam McGee

“It was fascinating. It was a lot of pressure because it was a high visibility event. I was proud to be a part of it,” she says. Derby was also instrumental in planning a Virtual Reality Certification event at MSUM this past year.

The faculty in the project management program are more than professors for their students.

“Everyone has been super welcoming and supportive and treats everyone with respect and gives value to everyone’s ideas,” Derby says. Even without taking one of her classes, Derby built a close connection with McGee.

“Pam McGee invited me to work with her. I didn’t think I could do it, but she did, and she gave me the support and confidence to go out and prove her right. That has been greatly impactful on my life, and I am deeply grateful for her,” Derby says.

“Clara is going to change the world because she is smart, kind, driven and innovative. I’m proud to say she is a Dragon and a PM student,” McGee says.

The project management job market continues to grow and expand, giving project managers entering the work force the opportunity to follow their passion based on the industry they wish to be in.

“It’s one thing to do well in school and have the qualifications on paper, but to get the opportunity to go out and apply them and prove to yourself and others that you really can do that is so powerful,” McGee says.

The project management program at MSUM is globally accredited by the Project Management Institute, making it a high-value program not only at MSUM, but around the world.

LEARN MORE

about MSUM’s nationally ranked project management program at mnstate.edu/project-management.

yeh’smolly new season

the award-winning food writer and television host steps into different roles

WORDS : ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON PHOTOGRAPHY : ABBY ANDERSON

MAKEUP :

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food blogger, television personality and cookbook author

MOLLY YEH cooks and eats seasonally. But at the moment, she’s in a time warp. But

The calendar says that it’s autumn, the heart of the High Holidays, a time of celebration and reflection between Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish new year) and the day of atonement, Yom Kippur. The just-aired episode of her Food Network cooking show, “Girl Meets Farm,” (for which she was nominated for both a Daytime Emmy Award for outstanding culinary host and a James Beard Foundation Award in 2019) concurs. Filmed on the northwestern Minnesota farmstead that Yeh shares with her husband and new baby girl, it’s mix of hearty Oktoberfest fare, and sweet and savory treats with a twist — both seasonally appropriate and indicative of her approachable, mix-it-up style.

It’s a pretty harvest scene. But the weather — surprisingly summery now, with major snowfall looming in the forecast — seems to have missed the fall memo. That’s probably just as well, since inside Yeh’s sunny prairie kitchen, it’s already December.

The award-winning food blog that launched this farmhouse empire, My Name Is Yeh, is in full recipe development mode. Like most of Yeh’s oeuvre , this recent crop of holiday recipes deconstructs old favorites and playfully reassembles them into new forms. And since Christmas and Hanukkah overlap this year, Yeh — who grew up with a Chinese Christian father and a mother with Hungarian Jewish ancestry — is planning a gleeful celebration as unapologetically food focused as the ones she grew up with. That’s an impressive goal considering her family’s annual international dumpling bash has been known to induce food comas due to excessive consumption of steamed buns and cheese blintzes.

“Every holiday was based around the food,” Yeh says. “Does it smell like a brisket cooking? Then it was one of the Jewish holidays. Does it smell like oil, frying donuts or latkes? Then it was Hanukkah. During Christmas and Hanukkah, we would have ‘Our Dumplings of the World Party’ or gingerbread house-building parties, or we would have bagels and lox on Christmas Day. The best part about Thanksgiving was just hanging out in the kitchen all day and cooking. So honestly, I would just say that basically every family tradition revolves around food.”

Those family traditions seem especially resonant this year, as her husband Nick races the weather through the endurance challenge that is the sugar beet harvest (the Rosh Hashanah brisket has been served in the cab of a combine more than once), and Yeh chops garden vegetables as their daughter naps. This spring, readers rejoiced at the arrival of Bernie, a curious little sweetheart who spends her days kicking her chubby baby feet to Raffi (her parents, who met as classical musicians at Juilliard, did try Bach and Mozart too). She peers out at the world from a carrier on her mama’s chest, as Yeh

cooks in the farmhouse kitchen originally customized for her husband’s grandmother. Bernie will be the sixth generation to grow up on the family farm outside of East Grand Forks. Yeh is already passing down this agricultural legacy along with the family recipes.

“I want her to know the smells of the Rosh Hashanah feast cooking and the smells of Thanksgiving, and to just really enjoy the whole process of getting ready for these feasts and the process of going to the market and buying all the ingredients,” says Yeh, who speaks like she writes, chatty and conversational, her sentences spilling over each other good-naturedly. “Or going out into the garden and picking the vegetables and the herbs for everything, and going to our apple trees and picking the apples for apple pie and knowing where food comes from. And then also knowing how to make recipes that are meaningful and that are celebratory.”

like she writes, chatty and conversational, her sentences spilling pes that are meaningful and that are celebratory.”

Yeh’s 2016 cookbook, “Molly On The Range: Recipes And Stories

fluences, from her childhood in suburban Chicago to the dive into as her interest in a career as a classical percussionist was waning.

Yeh’s 2016 cookbook, “Molly On The Range: Recipes And Stories From An Unlikely Life On A Farm,” features plenty of both. Written in the relaxed, familiar tone of her blog, it explores her culinary influences, from her childhood in suburban Chicago to the dive into the New York restaurant scene that sparked her interest in food just as her interest in a career as a classical percussionist was waning.

Molly Yeh, baby Bernie, and husband Nick on Girl Meets Farm.

Photo by Food Network

every holiday was based around the food

Impossibly pretty cakes feature prominently. (“If I had a free day to do anything I wanted, other than hanging out with Bernie, I would bake a cake and decorate it,” Yeh says, a confession that shocks no one.) But so do lighthearted takes on the Lunchables and forbidden cheese fries of her youth, the makings of her unmissable pizza night tradition, and her version of the hummus — and the über embarrassing story — that preceded Yeh and her husband’s first kiss.

Since Nick grows the ingredients that are processed into the wheat and sugar in Yeh’s cupboards, we know it all worked out in the end. They also raise chickens (all named Macaroni), so eggs are readily available. The garden and fruit trees on the property mark the seasons and

(when retrieved from one of her four freezers) make frequent appearances in Yeh’s recipes throughout the year.

“We have the apples that I always like using. We have our rhubarb patch that just pops up in the spring,” says Yeh. “Between the pantry samples that we have, and then all of our fruits and vegetables from the farm, and then also our eggs, I rarely have to leave and go to the grocery store because we have so many things that we can just grow here and use.”

She’s used to the rhythms of farm life now. But there was definitely an adjustment period when she arrived in 2013.

Photo by Chantell and Brett Quernemoen

“I thought that you could walk through a field barefoot at sunrise and kind of, you know, pick something off of the plants and eat it. And it was just this very twee version of a farm and you can wear a sundress in the fields and it was very poetic and romantic,” she says, her voice simultaneously sunny and wryly self-deprecating. “And then when I got here I saw how muddy it is and how you would never want to be barefoot in a field, ever. And it's just so many hours, such hard work and it's so tied to the weather. That is just beyond anything I could have imagined before moving here.”

New to a community where many of her neighbors had known each other their whole lives — and with her partner spending long days in the field — Yeh found herself with an unprecedented expanse of free time on her hands. Her food career was planted in New York, but it bloomed in Minnesota.

She threw herself into her work. As she experimented with squeezing herself into the Betty Crocker mold as a recipe contributor and honing her baking skills during the early morning shift at the dearly departed Dakota Harvest Bakers, Yeh was developing both her blog and the hallmarks of her style.

Yeh’s blog writing is personable (and occasionally smart mouthed and silly), written all in lowercase and sprinkled with a generous dose of gleeful italics and exclamation points. Photos showcase each dish in soft, natural light. Her recipes combine breathless, utterly unrepentant food nerdery with a deeply pragmatic Midwestern streak, all while retaining her own uniquely joyful and occasionally irreverent voice.

Her food is flavored by ingredients that that previously seemed exotic to her Midwestern neighbors — tahini, za’atar, rosewater, dukkah. But living in Minnesota allows her to introduce readers across the world to her version of regional pleasures like the addictive fried pickles at The Toasted Frog, the meat-heavy pizzas at Rhombus Guys, and the proudly veggie-free cookie salad that’s beloved by potluck attendees but baffling to diners outside the Midwest. But for the ultimate introduction to Midwestern food, Yeh always recommends one thing. “Definitely tater tot hotdish,” she says. “Whenever I have friends come to visit from out of town who don't really know Midwestern cooking, I make them a hotdish with tater tots on it, and they love it every single time. It's just so good.”

LEFT: Yeh making sesame pretzels with za’atar mozzarella sauce on My Name is Yeh. Photo by Chantell and Brett Quernemoen

BELOW:

Yeh with Nick and Tom at a harvest party on Girl Meets Farm.

Photo by Food Network

ABOVE: Yeh with her sister, Jenna, mom Jody, baby Bernie, and Aunt Cathy on Girl Meets Farm. Photo by Food Network

Her husband’s Scandinavian heritage has woven its way into her recipes as well, with Nick’s mom, aunt Elaine and great-aunt Ethel as her guides. They’ve made labor-intensive Norwegian blood sausage from scratch. She learned the exacting art of making perfectly thin potato lefse on her mother-in-law’s griddle. Food is a frequent topic of conversation.

“Nick’s mom’s church cookbooks have been really informational,” she says. “My favorite thing to talk about whenever I meet another one of his family members is their family recipes.”

Yeh is as excited about perfecting her first kransekake (a multi-tiered almond cake from Danish and Norwegian tradition) as she is about her newly planted raspberry bushes and discussing her next cookbook, which is in the earliest stages of planning and dreaming. These Scandinavian dishes join Chinese New Year dumplings and other culinary traditions that she looks forward to passing on to Bernie when she’s old enough to roll up her sleeves and tie on an apron.

“I want her to always feel creative in the kitchen,” Yeh says. “And so I think it would be really fun to make donuts with her, and then have her make her own filling, or decorate them herself or decorate cookies herself or, you know, make little gingerbread houses or, you know, come up with fun different ways of topping latkes. I'm all about making a mess in the kitchen, for the sake of creativity. I want her to feel like she knows our family recipes, but that she can also make her own spin on them.”

Molly Yeh has made a career of putting her own spin on family recipes. By writing passionately about her Chinese heritage and her early childhood food foibles, being a visible face of the evolution of Jewish cuisine, championing the flavors and ingredients of the Midwest and writing authentically and humorously about her own very specific food fascinations, she’s managed to sidestep narrow categorizations and enjoy broad appeal.

She feels like someone you know — or hope to. The readers who devour her kosher recipes in The Forward see themselves in her. So do the kids of ‘90s suburbia, the urban foodies who have followed her since the beginning, and the new neighbors who pass her in the grocery store, who are largely unaware that the cheerful, unassuming woman with a cart full of tahini, olive oil and butter is one of the freshest voices in American food today.

Molly Yeh has built an empire on specificity and authenticity. And she’s done it while being a homebody who lives 1,519 miles from the media center and food mecca where she got her start, switching between her roles as a television personality and larger than life food writer and her quiet existence as farm wife and new mother with apparent ease and good humor. Prepping Hanukkah food in October and other such time warps are just another part of this particular season of Yeh’s merrily unconventional life.

Whenever I have friends come to visit from out of town who don't really know Midwestern cooking, I make them a hotdish with tater tots on it, and they love it every single time. It's just so good.

CLUES

latke hotdish

MOLLY YEH from “MY NAME IS YEH”

INGREDIENTS

2 ½ tablespoons canola or vegetable oil, divided

2 pounds brisket, cut into 2 inch pieces

kosher salt

black pepper

1 large onion, sliced

2 carrots, chopped into ½ inch coins

2 celery stalks, chopped into ½ inch pieces

½ cup red wine

1 tablespoon brown sugar

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 can (14 ounces) chopped tomatoes

2 cups beef or vegetable stock

leaves from 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped

2 apples, cored and sliced

1 small butternut squash (2 – 2 ½ pounds), halved and deseeded a good pinch of crushed red pepper

1 batch latkes (recipe follows)

chopped fresh parsley, to serve, optional (if you’re feeling fancy)

Heat two tablespoons canola oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Add the brisket, season with 1 ½ teaspoons salt and a few turns of black pepper and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, carrots and celery and cook, stirring, until softened, about 10 minutes. Add the red wine and cook for a few minutes until it’s reduced by half. Add the brown sugar, tomato paste, canned tomatoes, stock, rosemary and apples. Simmer uncovered for 2 ½-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until meat is tender. You want this to reduce and get quite thick and saucy, however if it reduces too far to where it’s more gloppy than saucy, add a bit more stock.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F, brush the innards of your squash with the remaining half tablespoon of oil, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt and a few turns of pepper and roast until a fork pokes easily into the center, begin checking at one hour.

Puree the squash and then stir it into your hotdish mixture with crushed red pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Increase the oven heat to 400°F. Transfer the mixture to an 8x12 inch casserole dish and top with latkes lined up in nice neat rows. Bake until the mixture is bubbly and the latkes are deep brown, about 45 minutes. Let cool slightly and then top with chopped parsley, if using, and serve.

PHOTOGRAPHY : CHANTELL AND BRETT QUERNEMOEN Serves 6

LATKES

This makes enough mini latkes for this hotdish, plus a few more to nosh on as you’re cooking.

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ pounds russet potatoes

1 large yellow onion

¾ teaspoon kosher salt

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon lemon juice cup (43 grams) all-purpose flour

black pepper

canola or vegetable oil, for frying

CLUES

Shred the potatoes and onions in a food processor or with a grater or mandoline. Place in a strainer that’s been lined with cheesecloth. Toss with salt and let sit over a bowl for 30 minutes. Gather the top of the cheesecloth and then use your hands to squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. Transfer to a bowl and mix in the eggs, lemon juice flour, and a few turns of black pepper. Heat a skillet with a ¼ inch oil until shimmering. Working in batches as not to crowd the pan, fry up loosely packed rounded tablespoons of the latke mixture until browned on both sides. Add more oil to the pan as needed. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate and set aside until ready to use.

SCHERLING PHOTOGRAPHY

ABBY ANDERSON

CHALCEE SCHUCK PHOTOGRAPHY

KELYN & CO. STUDIO

EXPRESSIONS BY ASHTON

storyteller at heart

At her core Jessie Veeder is a storyteller, and this infuses just about everything she does — her songwriting, photography, speaking and parenting.

Many will recognize Veeder’s name from her columns in The Forum in addition to her work as a musician. When people hear her name, they light up with recognition at the woman who shares a poignant, intimate and humorous look at her daily life and adventures with her family and her work.

As a teenager pursuing music, living in the middle of nowhere, Veeder never imagined that she would be able to live her dream life — capturing each of her passions.

“I'm sitting in my mid-30s and I've been able to make music, songwriting, writing and the ranch

into a career that I'm proud of, that supports the family that I have always wanted to raise, in this place I love,” she says.

Veeder was strongly influenced by her dad, who she describes as a folk musician, rancher and community-minded individual. He encouraged her to sing, write and seek out opportunities to perform. He helped cultivate her love for folk/Americana music and song writing. As she listened to him play songs by Harry Chapin and Guy Clark she says, “I wanted to tell stories like that, in a three to four-minute melody. I don't think I would still be singing and performing if it wasn't for that opportunity and my drive to write.”

It was during her senior year in high school, while touring the Midwest for her second album, that Jessie Veeder first performed for the Celebration of Women and their music. She returns to the show this January 2020 with several years of performing, recording and touring under her belt.

She says she has drawn from the example of the celebration’s founder Deb Jenkins throughout her career as a singer/songwriter and storyteller, “really leaning into the idea that as artists, we can be better together.”

Veeder adds, “The celebration showed me what other female musicians were doing in the area at the time and what could happen when we empower one another, support one another and celebrate the music and stories that come out of us.”

Her passion and talents align with her work as an advocate and director of arts programming in her community in western North Dakota, with a mission to bring arts and arts-based opportunity to the rural community that she loves. Veeder says, “It is such fulfilling work to see my community support arts education and programming in our schools, in our nursing homes and in our everyday life.”

WORDS : SARAH MORRAU

She is currently working on a nostalgic project, a new album full of music that she used to sing as a young girl, including the music of artists like Neil Young, Guy Clark, Nanci Griffith and Kathy Mattea. She heads to the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Nevada with this music in the new year. Veeder says, “I love that my music can really help advocate and tell the story of agriculture and working rural America.”

And although it’s challenging at times balancing her family with the multiple ideas and projects she wants to pursue, she says, “I want to show my daughters that you can pursue a passion, do good work, and still love your family and your home fiercely.”

Above all she is looking forward to seeing how music impacts her daughter’s lives, as for her, “It’s truly been a gift that keeps on giving.”

Her advice to aspiring musicians is to “make music you truly love, do it your way, hone your skill, practice and let people in on the process.” She wishes that early on she would have let more people be part of her process and says she feels she missed out on collaborations and inspiration by being so private.

She describes her music as Americana, and rootsbased. “It tells a story. There's dobro and a harmonica wherever I can put one in,” she says.

Veeder says she feels incredibly lucky to perform for audiences. “I love to tell the stories and see them relate and connect and take those breaths with me.”

Jessie Veeder performs at The 23rd annual Celebration of Women and Their Music on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at the Stage at Island Park. Additional performers include: Hot Lunch (Emily Swedberg), Kris Kitko, Taylor Paige (2018 award winner) and the Viotti String Quartet (Alison Wallace, Alyssa Nystrom Miller, Anna Goodin-Hayes and Justin Hayes with guest artist Jennifer Peterson).

For more about the celebration, visit facebook.com/celebrationofwomenandtheirmusic, or debjenkins.com/celebrationofwomen.

For more information about Jessie, to purchase her book, “Coming Home,” or her music, visit jessieveedermusic.com or her blog at veederranch.com.

December january

December 6 & 7

33 rd Annual NUTCRACKER & HOLIDAY SHOW

The Bonnie Haney Dance & Performing Company is celebrating the 33rd Annual Nutcracker & Holiday Show. The Nutcracker performance tells the story of a young girl, Clara, who has a fantastic dream after a Christmas party. She witnesses a struggle between her favorite toy, the Nutcracker, and the King of the Mice. The Nutcracker transforms into a handsome prince and takes Clara to the Land of Sweets. The Holiday Show is a unique show with holiday themed dances featuring our holiday tappers, holiday hi hoppers, holiday lyrical and jazz dances, and Celtic holiday dancers. Tickets are available at the Bonnie Haney School of Dance office and Wizard of Kids in Fargo, Haney’s Photography in Moorhead, and online at bonniehaneydance.com.

Friday, December 6 at 7:00 PM

Saturday, December 7 at 1:00 PM Moorhead High School Auditorium (Door 13) 2300 4th Ave S, Moorhead 701-232-9900, bonniehaneydance.com

November 29 – December 21

THE LAST SCHWARTZ

In this fresh and funny holiday drama, the Schwartz siblings gather for a Yarzheit — the anniversary of their father’s death. And like with any distanced relatives, things get awkward and complicated when everyone’s closer. By Deborah Zoe Laufer. Contains adult themes.

Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7:30 PM Sunday Matinees December 8 & 15 at 2:00 PM Theatre B 215 10th St N, Moorhead 701-729-8880 | theatreb.org

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

November 30 –

December 23

SANTA VILLAGE

Celebrate the season of giving at Rheault Farm this holiday season by planning a visit to Santa Village. Santa Village, located on a 15-acre enclosed farm site, is a non-commercial village where children and adults can make holiday memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy the winter wonderland from November 30–December 23. Times and dates vary. Check fargoparks.com for more details.

Rheault Farm

2902 25th St S, Fargo fargoparks.com

December 7

10 th Annual “HOLIDAY COLLECTIONS”

CRAFT/VENDOR SHOW

Over 75 artisans will be available for all your holiday shopping needs. Hosted by Holy Cross Catholic church of West Fargo. This is the largest church-held craft/vendor show in the region. Door prizes will be drawn each half hour and lunch will be available for purchase. Admission: $1 with all proceeds going to the Daily Bread Program and the “Last Brick” campaign.

9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Holy Cross Catholic Church

2711 7th St E, West Fargo (just south of Costco)

For more information, please call 701-282-7217

December 7

CHRISTMAS ON THE PRAIRIE

The pioneer village will be transformed to a simpler time where carolers sing the sounds of the season and cookies are baked in a wood-burning oven. Explore a beautifully decorated pioneer village, check out the model trains, grab a hot drink and mix up your own creation, check out the sweet treats on the caramel apple bar, enjoy blacksmith demonstrations, print a Christmas card on an old press, take a horse drawn sleigh ride, decorate and design your own Christmas treat, call Santa’s elves at the North Pole and visit with the big man himself! Other activities include s’mores over an open fire, crafts for the kids, and a holiday craft show just in time to do some Christmas shopping! Families will gather to celebrate the joys of Christmas, both past and present. Regular admission prices apply.

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Bonanzaville 1351 Main Ave W, West Fargo bonanzaville.org

December 7

J2K CRAFT SHOW

Make sure to stop out at the Craft & Vendor Fair for some amazing Christmas gifts. One of a kind crafts, specialty items and direct sales companies that can't be found in stores. Christmas on the Prairie is going on in Bonanzaville where there’s fun for the whole family!

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Dawson Hall at Bonanzaville 1351 Main Ave W, West Fargo

December 11

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE

Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the 2019 holiday season with its critically acclaimed holiday extravaganza. Not to be missed, this circus-like holiday stage spectacular features ornaments, costumes and acrobatics that come alive celebrating holiday themes, music and traditions for the entire family. With over 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 artists from every corner of the globe, Cirque Dreams Holidaze is the greatest variety show on the planet! Tickets at fargodome.com.

8:00 PM

FARGODOME 1800 N University Dr, Fargo

December 13 & 14

A MAGICAL MEDORA CHRISTMAS

Medora’s hit Christmas show is returning to Fargo for its fifth year, A Magical Medora Christmas features vocal performances by the stunning Emily Walter and the suave Broadway soloist, Job Christenson. Medora

Musical’s Coal Diggers Band pianist Travis Smith and former Medora Musical bandleader Chad Willow accompany on piano and banjo. This year Chad brings his talented wife, Kimberly, a former Burning Hills Singer who performs vocally and on piano. Throughout the show Bill Sorensen, Wild West Prestidigitator, will wow you with magic true-to-the-season and light-hearted humor the whole family will love. Visit medora. com for tickets and the latest information. $30 plus fees to support the Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation.

Friday, December 13 at 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 14 at 3:00 and 7:30 PM Fargo North High School 801 17th Ave N, Fargo medora.com or 1-800-Medora1

December 14

COOKIE DECORATING WITH SANTA

Bring the kiddos out to meet Santa, have their picture taken, and bring their letter! They will also be able to decorate Christmas cookies and go home with Tupperware’s new Deco pen and the cookies they decorated, if they don’t eat them first! This is an open house style event. Register by calling or texting 701-212-2956. Admission $20 ($5 per additional child without additional Tupperware.)

9:00 – 11:00 AM Tupperware Studio

3650 Veterans Blvd S, Fargo

December 17

THRIVING: The Mindfulness of Imperfections

Perfectionism can be one of the most destructive traits to motivation and self-esteem. Whether it is in the workplace environment or everyday life, attendees at this session will learn how to enable the presence of imperfection and truly thrive. Please consider bringing sensory toys, large exercise balls, flip sequence boards, diffusers with calming oil, or bean bags to donate to the North Dakota Autism Center.

Chamber members: $25 in advance | $35 at the door

Non-members: $45 in advance | $55 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or by calling 218-233-1100.

3:30 – 5:00 PM

Delta by Marriott 1635 42nd St S, Fargo

23 RD ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF

TH

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

THE STAGE AT ISLAND PARK

333 4th Street South • Fargo

Featuring: HOT LUNCH [Emily Swedberg]

KRIS KITKO

TAYLOR PAIGE [2018 award winner]

JESSIE VEEDER

VIOTTI STRING QUARTET [Alison Wallace, Alyssa Nystrom Miller, Anna Goodin-Hayes and Justin Hayes with guest artist Jennifer Peterson.] and PERFORMANCES by AWARD WINNERS

DOORS OPEN: 6:00 pm

SHOWTIME: 6:30 pm

TICKETS at the door: $20 General | $40 VIP Meet & Greet 4:30 pm

MISSION: To recognize artistic passion in women and create opportunities for emerging and established artists by opening avenues for networking, mentoring, support and promotion of their individual talents.

Sponsors: ruth roseberg evans prairie public gate city bank

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit our Facebook page or for a complete list of events check out debjenkins.com/celebrationofwomen.html

December 20-22

FMBallet’s THE CLASSIC NUTCRACKER

The FMBallet is ready to bring holiday magic to the NDSU Festival Concert Hall stage December 20-22, 2019. This production is like no other, with original choreography by artistic director Matt Gasper, the beautiful sounds of the professional Wonderland Orchestra, angelic voices from the FM Youth Choir, and, of course, the stunning FMBallet company dancers. This season we have guest artists sharing the stage from Florida, Minneapolis and Fargo-Moorhead. You won't want to miss this holiday tradition. Tickets on sale now at fmballet.org/ tickets or by phone at 701-234-9440.

Adult: $26-48

Senior (65+): $23-$42

Student/Child: $16-$30 (Note: No additional ticketing fees will apply)

December 20 & 21 at 7:00PM

December 21 & 22 at 2:00PM

NDSU Festival Concert Hall

12th Ave N & Bolley Dr, Fargo 701-234-9440

January 10-12

7 th Annual FIGHT THE FROST

Games Galore and the Fargodome have teamed up again for their 7th Annual Fight the Frost, and indoor inflatable carnival to beat the winter blues. Kids of all ages will enjoy three days of jumping on inflatables at the Fargodome. Visit us on Facebook for fightthefrost.com/fargo for more info.

Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sunday from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

FARGODOME 1800 N University Dr, Fargo fightthefrost.com

January 18 & 19

PAW PATROL LIVE! “Race to the Rescue”

No job is too big, no pup is too small! Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group present PAW Patrol Live!

“Race to the Rescue,” an action-packed, music-filled production, presented by Pedigree. The heroic pups from the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, will visit Gate City Bank Theatre at the Fargodome.

Saturday at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM

Sunday at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM

FARGODOME 1800 N. University Dr, Fargo fargodome.com

January 18 23 rd Annual CELEBRATION OF WOMEN AND THEIR MUSIC

Read more about performer Jessie Veeder and the celebration in "Storyteller at Heart" on page 74. Tickets at the door: $20 general | $ 40 VIP Meet & Greet 4:30 PM

Doors open at 6:00 PM, Showtime at 6:30 PM

The Stage at Island Park 333 4th St S, Fargo debjenkins.com/celebrationofwomen

January 21

WOMEN CONNECT’S ANNUAL CELEBRATION featuring Marissa Orr

Join The Chamber and Women Connect in celebrating its sixth anniversary at this special event. Delivering this year’s keynote message is Marissa Orr, author of the Amazon best-seller “Lean Out: The Truth About Women, Power and the Workplace.” In “Lean Out,” Orr offers a compelling answer to the question few dare to ask: What have we gotten wrong about women at work? Every attendee gets a FREE copy of her book. Sponsored by Essentia Health.

Chamber Member: $55 in advance | $65 at the door Corporate Table Sponsor (table of eight): $700

Non-members: $65 in advance | $75 at the door Register at fmwfchamber.com or 218-233-1100.

3:00 – 5:00 PM

Delta by Marriott 1635 42nd St S, Fargo

5th Annual FROSTIVAL

January 15-February 22

Embrace the cool of winter with six weeks of outdoor events such as cardboard sled races, snow golf, kickball and family friendly events! Frostival is free and open to the public. See the list of official Frostival events sponsored by Fargo Park District below, or find a full schedule of events online at frostival.com.

January 18

CARDBOARD SLED RACE

Time to flex your recycling muscles! Gather your supplies and test your hand at creating an amazing cardboard sled. There are sled races and a contest for the most creative sled. Registration begins at 9:30 am in the warming house with races starting at 10:00 am. Pre-registration is not required. Get more details at fargoparks.com.

10:00 – 11:30 AM

Mickelson Park & Softball Fields

901 Oak St N, Fargo

January 20

S’MORES & MORE

Come join us at S’mores & More for a night out with the family! Cook your own s’mores, drink hot chocolate, listen to music and skate on the outdoor rink. Don’t forget to bring your skates. The rink and warming house are available to use during the event.

5:00 – 7:00 PM

Roosevelt Park

1220 9th St N, Fargo

January 24

FROZEN BUSINESS SHOWDOWN

Get your co-workers out of hibernation for a series of competitive events to promote physical fitness and friendly competition in the business community. Teams battle for points in these all-new winter activities with a twist! The Frozen Business Showdown includes an eightteam competition to test your teams physical, mental and teamwork skills. Bragging rights are on the line, does your organization have what it takes? Pre-registration is required. Get more details at fargoparks.com.

Noon – 6:00 PM

Edgewood Chalet

19 Golf Course Ave N, Fargo

January 25

UNIQUELY FARGO: WINTER WARRIORS

Grab your squad to face off for the title of Ultimate Winter Warrior. Teams compete against one another in an epic battle of one-of-a-kind winter activities. Sweep your teammates to victory with Human Curling, test your arm with Yukigassen (our take on the crazy Japanese snowball fighting competition), show off your snowy speed with the Sasquatch Challenge, and boast your strength in the Icy Tug-of-Winter. Pre-registration is required. Get more details at fargoparks.com.

Noon – 4:00 PM

Edgewood Chalet

19 Golf Course Ave N, Fargo

January 27

S’MORES & MORE

Come join us at S’mores & More for a night out with the family! Cook your own s’mores, drink hot chocolate, listen to music and skate on the outdoor rink. Don’t forget to bring your skates. The rink and warming house are available to use during the event.

5:00 – 7:00 PM

Clara Barton Park

1451 6th St S, Fargo

February 1

FROZEN PRAIRIE

YOUTH POND HOCKEY DAY

Grab your friends and come enjoy a day of hockey played where it all started, on the ponds! Each team has a 3 game guarantee in this jamboree-structured day. All games are two 10-minute halves. Divisions are 10U, 8U, and 6U (all divisions are coed). Teams can have a max of 6 players. Pre-registration is required. Get more details at fargoparks.com.

9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Edgewood Public Golf Course

19 Golf Course Ave N, Fargo

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

me y christmas

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God.

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

Help During the Holidays

We know it may seem easier to deal with issues in unhealthy ways. Whether you’re stressed about money or family hardship over the holidays, we are here.

Call Prairie St. John’s today at 701.476.7800 to schedule an appointment to talk with one of our trusted therapists.

Offering Help & Hope for over 20 years.

www.prairie-stjohns.com

See yourself how you’ve always imagined.

Sanford Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery specializes in:

• Non-invasive injectibles (Botox & Dermal fillers)

• Breast augmentations and lifts

• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

• Rhinoplasty

• Face lifts

Call (701) 234-8900 to schedule your appointment. sanfordhealth.org Now