Area Woman Magazine Jun/Jul '22

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 .

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.

AMBER LANGERUD photographer

Amber is a portrait and branding photographer based out of Audubon, Minnesota, specializing in helping her clients say goodbye to stiff, awkward photos with an emphasis on flattering posing and personality infused moments.

The cover story was photographed by Amber Langerud and written by Kristy Olsgaard, page 38.

JESSICA HOEPER

Jessica is a mother of five kids and resides with her family on her husband’s family farm in central Minnesota. Jessica grew up in the Fargo area before relocating to Minnesota. She is a licensed independent social worker with 15 years of human service experience, specializing in child welfare. Jessica runs her own human service consulting and training company. Most recently Jessica added author to her tagline. She co-authored a book that became an international best seller on release date, “Success Codes: Secrets to Success You Weren’t Taught in School.”

WHITNEY LYNNE DUDEN

Whitney graduated from UND with a degree in marketing. She goes by the title of “beauty influencer,” but also loves sharing fitness and fashion. You can find her balancing her career and single mom life daily on Instagram @whitney_lynne.

KATHLEEN GALLAIS

Kat runs the blog and Instagram page kattellsall.com and @kattellsall. She is passionate about exploring and sharing adventures in North Dakota, Minnesota and beyond. She is an advocate for travel close to home, and simplifies planning with detailed itineraries and travel guides.

AMANDA SILVERMAN KOSIOR

Amanda writes funny (or “funny” depending on your take) stories about herself and shares happy stories about other North Dakotans at northdakotanice.com.

celebrating 37 years read it online issuu.com/areawoman

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Area Woman is a proud member of the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce. It is published bimonthly by Area Woman Publishing, LLC and printed in the U.S.A. ©2022 Area Woman Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from AW. Area Woman is a trademark registered at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Area Woman Publishing assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs and does not necessarily agree with content or advertising presented.

publisher

JON-MICHAEL SHERMAN

art director

MEGAN ELGIN proofing editor

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advertising

MIKE SHERMAN 701-306-5119

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TAMIE ZACCHEA 701-306-7932

photography

ABBY ANDERSON

AMBER LANGERUD PHOTOGRAPHY

DAVE ARNTSON

EXPRESSIONS BY ASHTON FREEPIK.COM

M. SCHLEIF PHOTOGRAPHY PEXELS.COM

UNSPLASH.COM

PHOTO : AMBER LANGERUD PHOTOGRAPHY

We’re in Your Corner

AARP North Dakota is empowering people 50- plus to choose how they live as they age. We’re proud to ght fraud and high prescription drug prices, create more livable communities and host virtual events that connect and uplift us all. Learn more at aarp.org/ND

/aarpnd @aarpnd

Treating more than an illness WITH INTEGRATIVE HEALTH

When you’re suffering from a medical condition, you may o en experience pain, worry, stress or fear. Integrative medicine, a healing-oriented practice of medicine that takes account of the whole person including all aspects of lifestyle, tries to meet each patient where they are in life, as well as nd everyday practices to help minimize symptoms and overcome pain.

Sanford Fargo’s Integrative Medicine Clinic opened in April 2019 and features a medical team made up of physicians, physical therapists, nurses, a nutritionist, and an acupuncturist, all dedicated to your healing and recovery. For years, Sanford has had pockets of integrative medicine available for certain types of patients, but the Integrative Medicine Clinic in Fargo is the rst primary care clinic for integrative medicine in the entire Sanford footprint. The clinic provides an individualized approach to care through integrative health, an area of medicine targeting treatment and symptom management to a patient’s speci c needs and lifestyle.

“Evidence-based behavioral interventions, also known as lifestyle medicine, are used to prevent, treat and manage chronic disease and focuses on nutrition density, exercise and movement, stress management, substance use, sleep, and social and spiritual relationships,” says Dr. Eric Thompson, a physician at the Sanford Integrative Medicine Clinic in Fargo. “Our goal is to optimize many areas of people’s lives. I am excited to be a part of a conventional medical care provider like Sanford, providing a mind, body, spirit and community approach.”

WORDS : SANFORD HEALTH

DR. ERIC THOMPSON

Thompson and his colleagues work to treat conditions such as abdominal pain and GI disorders, anxiety and depression, cancer symptoms, chronic fatigue, chronic medical conditions, headaches, chronic pain, obesity, optimal aging, thyroid disorders and women’s health conditions.

Integrative medicine considers all factors that influence health, wellness and disease. Rather than simply medicating or putting a mask over the symptom, the care team may use natural or less-invasive interventions to support the mind, body and spirit.

The natural and less-invasive interventions they provide to treat and manage symptoms include acupressure, aromatherapy, deep breathing exercises, guided imagery and meditation, healthy lifestyle coaching, and energy medicine such as healing touch and yoga. By looking at the whole person, integrative medicine providers can pinpoint the cause and nd the best options that can be incorporated to resolve the issue.

The Sanford Health

Integrative Medicine Clinic, located in the Sanford Southpointe Clinic, 2400 32nd Ave. S., can help empower you to live your healthiest life. Partner with a Sanford Health integrative health expert to improve your mental, physical and spiritual health. Visit sanfordhealth.org to learn more and schedule an appointment or call 701-234-2000.

Sanford Health offers several community events, screenings, support groups and classes. Learn more about the Integrative Health Medicine Clinic and the classes and events offered to the community at sanfordhealth.org

MENOPAUSE FORECAST: Hot flashes with a chance of brain fog

Walking into a room and forgetting why you are there. Struggling to find the right words or the name of a familiar colleague. Losing your keys or sunglasses seemingly every time you need to run out the door. These are familiar frustrations for most people, but if you are a woman approaching menopause you may have a sneaking suspicion that these lapses are happening much more frequently than they used to. And you are probably right.

Menopause is a natural process, and the term menopause actually refers to the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles. However, this is not something that just happens overnight. The body begins a process of working toward menopause years before actual menopause occurs. The way the body does this is by gradually producing less and less estrogen. This period of transitioning to menopause is called perimenopause. For most women, perimenopause begins around age 40-44, but for some it could even start in their 30s. The decline in estrogen levels during perimenopause can lead to many symptoms which range from annoying to downright debilitating. When people discuss these symptoms or refer to this particular stage of life, the terms perimenopause and menopause are o en used interchangeably.

That brings us back to those lost keys. As the journey toward menopause begins, many women report issues with memory, focus, concentration and mental sharpness. According to the Seattle Midlife Women’s Health Study, out of 230 women ages 33-55, 60% noted unfavorable memory changes “over the past few years.” These memory, focus and concentration issues are o en collectively called brain fog. Brain fog can be a frustrating symptom for many women, and understandably so. Brain fog has o en been lumped in as a side e ect of other menopausal or mid-life symptoms such as stress, hot ashes or di culty sleeping. This explanation seems plausible because it makes sense that something like quality of sleep could have an e ect on mental abilities. However, research shows that this is not the whole story.

Research from a large epidemiological study known as SWAN (Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation) found that even a er adjusting for factors that could a ect memory like stress, anxiety and poor sleep, perimenopausal women were 1.4 times more likely to report forgetfulness than premenopausal women. This indicates that brain fog is an independent symptom of the hormone changes that occur during perimenopause. In a roundabout way this is good news because it means brain fog can be targeted using the same strategy used to treat other menopausal symptoms. This strategy is fairly straightforward: to combat the body’s natural loss of estrogen, you … take estrogen!

Estrogen replacement has been the standard of therapy for treating perimenopausal symptoms for many years. There are a variety of di erent options available in terms of type of estrogen used, dosage and dosage form. Treatment success for perimenopausal brain fog is o en found when the patient and provider work together as a team to nd the hormone replacement regimen that is most effective for the patient. It is not always a one-size-fits-all approach, and patient empowerment and feedback is critical to achieving desired results. Women experiencing brain fog or any of the other symptoms of perimenopause should consult with their health care provider to see if estrogen replacement therapy is safe and appropriate for them.

InHealth Specialty Pharmacist

Jason Cossette, PharmD, RPh is a 2007 graduate of the NDSU College of Pharmacy. He has 15 years of experience in community pharmacy and five years specializing in compounding pharmacy. Cossette is a passionate patient care advocate who enjoys teaming with patients and providers to achieve the best possible health outcomes.

▸ Master of Business Administration-Healthcare Management

▸ Master of Healthcare Administration

▸ Master of Science in Nursing

▸ B.S. Health Services Administration

▸ RN to BSN (registered nurses only)

▸ B.S. Nursing

▸ Certi cates in leadership, nursing or long-term care administration, informatics and more.

Explore all of MSU Moorhead’s academic options: mnstate.edu/academics/graduate

I wanted to attend a recognized program, be challenged, and become a better healthcare leader. I wanted high quality with a price point that supported my lifestyle and an opportunity to connect with other healthcare leaders.

– Kelly Chase, BSN, RN, CPHQ, Executive Director of Primary Care & Population Health, Cuyuna Regional Medical Center

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

Develop your strategic and operational understanding for healthcare leadership roles in diverse settings and environments.

Life is Messy

WORDS : KELSEY MIX PHOTOGRAPHY : wayhomestudio on freepik.com

West Fargo woman found the courage to seek treatment at Essentia for incontinence – and is thankful she did

In this day and age, there are still topics surrounding women’s health that many find embarrassing or difficult to discuss. West Fargo resident Cyrisse Wietstock would like to help change that.

A er struggling with and overcoming incontinence thanks to expert care provided by Essentia Health, Cyrisse is sharing her story with the hopes of eliminating the stigma surrounding this condition and empowering more people to speak up about their health — no matter how uncomfortable it may be.

Cyrisse's struggle with fecal incontinence started after she had back surgery and became worse after undergoing a procedure on her heart.

This condition was having a major impact on Cyrisse's life.

“I was living more and more like a hermit,” she says. “I was actually relieved that I didn’t have to leave my home too o en because of the COVID pandemic.”

A er one incident in cardiac rehab that resulted in her falling off a treadmill due to complications, Cyrisse met with Essentia Health physician assistant Stephanie Severson.

“Stephanie was the rst health care provider who asked me about my bowel movements,” she recalls.

At rst, Cyrisse was embarrassed to discuss her bowel di culties, but she says Severson made her feel at ease by saying “I’m in the poop business,” to help convey how common

these types of issues are. Severson then told Cyrisse that Essentia Health OBGYN Stefanie Gefroh could help.

Gefroh determined Cyrisse's muscles that allowed her to control bowel movements had deteriorated. Because pelvic physical therapy didn’t work, Gefroh suggested an InterStim implant, a medical device that emits a continuous, mild electrical pulse through a wire to stimulate sacral nerves, which strengthen the sphincter complex.

Gefroh told her that she had taken care of fewer patients with bowel incontinence compared to urinary incontinence. She also said the patients she had implanted with InterStim for bowel incontinence had excellent results. Cyrisse was willing to try anything and remembers saying, “The worst that can happen is it doesn’t work, and my life will still be miserable.”

To Cyrisse's astonishment, the InterStim trial did work, and she experienced an immediate fix. She is no longer “miserable,” having returned to a more normal lifestyle.

She says that whenever she speaks to health care providers, she urges them to have more open and candid conversations about topics like poop and sex. She says that normalizing these conversations can make all the di erence in their patients’ lives — especially for their female patients.

Cyrisse hopes her story will inspire more individuals to speak up and seek care if they are su ering from this condition.

“If I’ve learned anything from this experience, it’s that this condition can be xed and there is hope,” she shares. “Be brave, nd the courage to say, ‘I’m having trouble,’ and go see Dr. Gefroh.”

Of Cyrisse's experience, Gefroh states, "I am incredibly pleased to see Cyrisse gain con dence and joy in her life again. It was such an honor to help her. I know that talking about urinary and fecal incontinence can be scary, so I want to break down the barriers and empower women to nd their voice. I am so proud of what we can o er and excited we are adding a urogynecologist to the Essentia OBGYN team this fall who is further specialized in helping women with these issues."

Did you know that one in three women are impacted by either urinary or fecal incontinence?

If you are experiencing symptoms of urinary or fecal incontinence, make an appointment with one of Essentia’s skilled OBGYN providers at essentiahealth.org, via MyChart or by calling 701-364-8900.

DR. STEFANIE GEFROH →

De w d ingwomen,

Hi Jess,

Thanks for the column and space to wonder with you. I've been wondering about happiness. It is hard to be happy when the world looks as it does. I'm wondering how happiness coexists in an unhappy world.

— Mary T.

WORDS : JESSICA HOEPER GRAPHIC : freepik.com

De M y T,

What a great wondering! I too have spent time considering happiness and how it exists. I do not have all the answers to this wondering, but I do want to wonder with you about this question. The foundation to lay first is the preface that: It does exist. Happiness does exist. It exists today. But you’re wondering about “how it exists” is a great space to wonder into.

How does happiness coexist in an unhappy world?

I think because happiness is, on some levels, a choice. It is a conscious choice. It is a conscious choice we make even amidst real su ering, albeit it does not exist in large doses when coupled with su ering, but can still exist within su ering. I can be deeply unhappy about the happenings in the world, while simultaneously feeling happy in the moment watching my kids play. The happy/unhappy duality does coexist.

Happiness is human motivation. We strive to be happy, so we are motivated to choose it, search for it, see it and feel it. There is also a space we o en get stuck when it comes to happiness coexisting with unhappiness. We chase happiness as if it will come “when.” I will be happy when I am married, I will be happy when I have kids, I will be happy when the world is not at war, I will be happy when I make six gures at my job, etc.

I o en wonder, “How do we know we are happy?” or, “How do we know we are unhappy?” More deeply: Could we really know one without the other? Does it coexist for a reason? Hear me out, I’m not saying that the divine had a design aw and we were meant to be unhappy. What I am wondering is, if we are to think more about what makes us and others unhappy, then are those things we identify what we are to work to heal and connect within?

Take intimate relationships (children, spouse, parents, siblings, friends, etc.). We care deeply about their happiness and it is directly intertwined with our happiness. So, we look for ways to make our children, spouse, parents, siblings and friends happy and in turn we feel happy. We also notice what makes them feel unhappy. I have to become more self-aware when my children tell me what I do that makes them feel unhappy. Then I have a choice to change that in an e ort to help them

feel happiness. I wonder, could learning how we cause others’ unhappiness, then choosing to participate instead in a way that makes them happy, actually move us towards collective happiness? All the while still, understanding that happiness is also perception based. What makes me happy may not make you happy. But I may do things with you that make you happy and I will nd happiness in the doing of that with you, but that may not make me happy independent of you. For example, my husband loves to plant trees, I do not like to do this independent of him, but when I did it with him, I joined in his happiness! I wonder, when we know what makes others happy, could that also make us happy?

We are seeing that happiness and unhappiness do currently coexist. However, I think I may have le us with more wonderings than we started with, but I appreciate that might be just what we hoped for, together! To think about happiness, puts happiness on our minds. When happiness is on our minds, we are more apt to see it around us and within us.

I sincerely appreciate this wondering!

YOUR FRIEND,

P.S.

You can participate in “Dear Wondering Women” by emailing in your questions. We can join in honest, real and love-filled conversation around our shared wonderings. Write to me with your “wondering whys.” Let’s collectively as women share this wonder-filled journey of life together!

You can email questions to me at wonderingwhywithjess@outlook.com. Can’t wait to connect! Your “wondering” may be featured in an upcoming issue! [ aw ]

Preconception Testing, Fertility Assessment, Recurrent Miscarriage, Natural Family Planning, PCOS, Endometriosis, Ovulatory Dysfunction, Thyroid Disease, UTI’s, Anxiety, Depression, Obesity and more!

HairTEA

Processing my weekend plans goes something like this…

I have dinner with the girls on Friday. Saturday we have date night. Let’s not forget the picnic plans with the kids Saturday — will it be windy outside? I can’t put in the work and then have it ruined in ve minutes. Friday it’s supposed to rain — should I just wear a top knot all weekend? Do I even have time to wash my hair on Friday?

Is it just me, or is this how the female brain works with hair-wash days? I refuse to spend time on my hair if the weather, my plans, etc., don’t coordinate. I mean, I could keep going here too.

Hair, we love to love it. But we hate it. Yes?

Should we dive into the hair tea (secrets) of elongating the days between washings? We as women have to stick together, right? I should also say, the following is purely based on my experience.

First things rst, good products truly make a di erence. Good products don’t necessarily equate to a high price tag either. When I say good products, I mean ones that are paraben and sulfate free. Not only are you helping wildlife, but you’re saving your hair from unnecessary preservatives. Do your research and be mindful that what works for one person may not work for another.

Follow Whitney Lynne on INSTAGRAM: @whitney_lynne

WORDS &PHOTOGRAPHY : WHITNEY LYNNE DUDEN

An additional tip if you’re light blonde, make sure you’re using a purple shampoo and conditioner in your hair wash routine. It will help with brassy tones and reduce salon visits.

The secret to it all though? You need to “train” your hair. By train I mean get your hair used to not being washed daily. Yes, I said it. To be completely transparent, I ght with every ber of my being to only wash my hair once a week. But, choose a routine that works for you and stick to it. I promise you’ll save so much time and your hair will eventually adjust.

It will take time to adjust. During that time you can try different fun hairstyles to keep it from looking greasy. Reference my Instagram page @whitney_lynne for all sorts of fun styles. A few of my go-to styles on greasy days are a top knot or a ponytail. Another tried and true option is a hat. But eventually it will adjust and you’ll be happier than ever with your new routine. I picked Friday or Saturday to be my standard weekly hair wash day. Some weeks I adjust accordingly, but overall, it has worked well for me and I’ve been doing this for many years.

I’m also a believer in the less product the better. To each their own with this belief, but when I use more product, my hair personally seems to get so much greasier so much quicker and fall at. I put product in it once or twice during a week’s timespan and it holds well.

There are so many di erent ways to curl. But I will leave you with one nal tip. When my hair is freshly washed, I like to curl my hair in tighter curls so as the week goes on the curls will continue to fall, becoming looser. This helps with damage, as you’re not needing to apply heat to your hair daily.

Now ladies, take these tips and do your thing. Your hair is, a er all, the crown you never take o , right?

area style +

SHOPLOCAL

Refresh your wardrobe with new summer arrivals

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

Blu 32 : 4600 32nd Ave S, Fargo 701-356-6684 : mainstreamboutique.com

Styles to keep you cool all summer long. Flip flops, $32. Matching bags, $38. Striped blouse with boat details, $128.

TALULA

835 23rd Ave E, West Fargo (located south of Costco) 701-532-1134 : facebook.com/taluland

Imbued with intention, each birthstone reversible bracelet features ameaningful black sapphire gemstone on one side, and an equally meaningful yet different gemstone on the other. Available in a variety of colors and gemstones. $750

GUNDERSON'S

5601 28th Ave S, Fargo : 701-532-3020 : gundersons.com

Patio selections from Berlin Gardens and umbrellas from Treasure Garden. We have sectionals, gliders

TO Make Fargo Your Destination

WORDS &PHOTOGRAPHY : KATHLEEN GALLAIS

With the weather getting warmer and the days getting longer, we’re all craving a bit of a getaway. It can be fun to travel and explore other places, but few of us have taken the time to really experience our own backyard. A staycation is a fun way to make your hometown feel special and support the incredible local businesses who fuel our community. Save yourself the uncertainty of ights and expensive gas purchases by planning a stay in Fargo!

Any sort of planning can feel like a daunting task. I’ve tried to simplify the process by providing recommendations for activities, food and drink, and accommodations.

An easy way to begin planning a staycation is nding a fun activity or event to build around. Fargo has plenty of great events going on regardless of the season. With the warm summer months coming up, consider visiting the Red River Market located in downtown Fargo on Saturday mornings from July through October (starting on July 9). If you’re interested in sports, the Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks season runs from May to September; baseball games are a great way to enjoy our beautiful Fargo summers. Through the summer months, Broadway Square has a consistent rotation of events and entertainment. If you’re needing a little more inspiration, check out fargounderground.com for a complete list of Fargo events including music, entertainment, art and more. Personally, I love to consider eating and drinking an activity, so if that’s more your style, I’m right there with you!

RED RIVER MARKET

ROBERTS ALLEY ROSEWILD

Downtown Fargo is brimming with incredible places to eat. De nitely make time to enjoy one of our incredible local restaurants. The following are a few of my favorites to get you started. Blackbird Wood re for delicious hand-stretched pizza, 701 Eateries Prairie Kitchen for a slightly more upscale experience, The Boiler Room for their amazing selection of appetizers, or Vinyl Taco for margaritas and Mexican food. Two great spots for dessert are Silver Linings Creamery and Scoop N Dough, I’m such a sucker for a wa e cone! Finally, nish with a nightcap at the Toasted Frog or Rosewild. In the morning, opt for a decked-out wa e at Black Co ee and Wa e Bar, or french toast at Rosewild — it’s as big as your head!

Fabulous accommodations really top off the perfect staycation. I’m partial to Jasper Hotel which opened in June of 2021 in the heart of downtown Fargo. Between the incredible views of the city, wonderful amenities and friendly sta , it really is the perfect boutique hotel experience. Other great downtown accommodations to consider are the Airbnb’s by Kilbourne Group (look for host “Mari” on the Airbnb site), or the Radisson Blu hotel. For more budget friendly options outside of downtown, check out Delta by Marriott or the Home2 Suites by Hilton

A staycation is a great way to adventure in your own neighborhood, explore without the travel, and support awesome local businesses that fuel the community. With the variety of activities and events happening, a great time can be had by everyone. Fargo is expanding by the day, and becoming a true destination for locals and visitors alike!

Follow Kathleen on INSTAGRAM & PINTEREST: @kattellsall

WEBSITE: kattellsall.com

Looking for a sign to book that much-needed staycation or getaway? Here it is. Situated in the heart of downtown, Jasper Hotel offers guests an elevated boutique hotel experience, where thoughtful design details speak to Fargo’s heritage and carefully curated amenities celebrate local talent and all Fargo has to offer today. Convivial yet chic, comforting yet refined, Jasper Hotel welcomes travelers and locals alike to experience our city for the first time or in an all-new way.

OUT WITH THE COLD, IN WITH A VIEW

While staying at Jasper Hotel, enjoy Rosewild’s traditional rustic Plains preparations with a true purveyor-to-table approach and a seasonal menu that bursts with a creative approach to local flavor. Dine Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner in the heart of Downtown Fargo at Rosewild. Seasonal patio now open.

For more information and how you can participate, visit: www.homewardonline.org

BLACKBIRD WOODFIRE

WORDS : KRISTI BIXBY PHOTOGRAPHY : AREA WOMAN STAFF, pexels.com

Summer Classics

When you think back to summers as a kid, what comes to mind? Perhaps riding your bike for hours, camping, shing, going to the lake, gardening, open air markets and music. All are summer classics. Since it looks like we’re going to have summer a er all, lets take a stroll down memory lane and make plans to relive those memories this summer.

... your first tractor or bike?

... catching fireflies in glass jars?

the trusty Coleman lantern, lighting the way from the campfire to your tent, or illuminating the board games on the picnic table?

... lazy afternoons at the lake, lounging on the dock? Fishing, but not really caring if you caught anything or not?

... horseback riding?

Outdoor markets

have always been popular for produce, arts and cra s and of course the ea market. The Fargo Antiques & Repurposed Market will hold it’s annual Summer Flea Market on June 18 and 19. There will be sales throughout the store inside, additional vendors outside, and Pu the Magic Potbelly serving delicious smoked chicken and ribs to the sounds of live music. Join us for a summer classic! [ aw ]

THE MYSZKA FAMILY'S KNIFE RIVER CABIN

embracingadventure

Wade and I never set out to build a cabin when we took a trip to Duluth. Our initial visit was to celebrate our anniversary and take some time from the kids, which rarely happens when you both run businesses and have 9, 7 and 5 year old kids. There was something about Duluth that reminded us of our days when we were just two artists in our twenties hanging out in Downtown Fargo. We loved the historical architecture and the little pockets of art studios and breweries scattered throughout the town. Before our trip we had been throwing around the idea of building a cabin closer to home, but a er we returned from our adventure, Duluth was in the running.

Wade was the mastermind behind most of the cabin design. As an artist I love designing things, but to my surprise, I found I didn’t enjoy looking at the hundreds of tile options. So Wade would spend most of his evenings looking at tile, doorknobs and siding, and pick out his top three. I would add my input from there. He would pitch some crazy ideas (like glow-in-the-dark aggregate in the oor), and I loved most of them, like the oor-to-ceiling replace adorned with black dragon scale tile, the burnt look of the Shou Sugi Ban siding on the exterior, and the beautiful black and white marble tile throughout.

We incorporated as much of our own handiwork as possible. While a builder constructed the cabin through to the ooring and the painted walls, Wade and I did most everything else, right down to burning and installing the Shou Sugi Ban siding and laying the roof. Installing a roof on a twenty-foot structure that is on a steep incline is both terrifying and breath taking all at once. There were so many obstacles we faced but I think one of our strongest attributes as a couple is that when faced with a setback, we are both quick to pivot and look outside the box to solve the problem. And in construction, anything that can go wrong, will.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY : AMBER PARSONS MYSZKA

On top of tackling the task of building a cabin four hours away over the span of nine months, I homeschooled our three children. Our building experience showed me the beauty and freedom homeschooling provides for our family. We try to limit screen time for our kids in general, and by the end of the build, we realized long car rides and longer workdays are completely survivable, if not better, without a screen glued to your kid’s face. In fact, we found if we were sans technology during our ten-hour workdays, the kids wouldn’t want to leave. A er nishing their schoolwork, they spent most of their time repurposing our construction scraps and making forts.

Due to the unpredictable nature of construction, o entimes we would only know a few days in advance if we would be in Fargo or Duluth. This could feel chaotic at times, but we were able to provide the kids with consistency through the traditions we developed. One tradition was at each new place we stayed, we would turn o all the lights a er dinner and Wade and I would play hide and seek with the kids. A er ten hours of hard labor, sometimes I wonder where we found the energy, but we all looked forward to it and it’s one of those things the kids will never forget.

Looking back at the end of this entire experience, we not only have a beautiful vacation cabin, but we have so many memories. While at times exhausting, it was completely worth the growth we experienced as a family. How we embraced this adventure with all the unknowns gives me so much comfort that we can withstand any obstacle. If I had to o er my advice for any family that is looking at di erent way of living, just jump. Take the rst step. It’s exhilarating to live outside of the box.

Rent this cabin for your next vacation at heirloomvacationrentals.com/506845/

Hello, Summer Vacation

Summertime is nearly upon us, and so my husband and I have been spending our free time ensuring our children have none of it. Between baseball, science camp, goalie camp, theater, shing, swimming and golf, if we want our boys to have the same carefree days of our own youth…well, they have a few select hours between sun-up and the time when the streetlights come on to cram in any lighthearted breeziness.

This overscheduling is due, in part, to the fact that everything is so much “more” now than when I was a kid. Growing up in Grand Forks, the bulk of my summertime memories involved riding my bike and tanning at the public pool — because there was basically nothing else to do. Sure, my little sister and I would pick up the odd job here and there and when we got older we’d spend a few weeks at sleepaway camp, but the moment school ended, so did every other structured activity in town. In fact, the only items on our to-do lists were mealtimes, meaning (just like every other kid in the neighborhood), we’d head out into the sunshine and blue skies just a er breakfast and come back when the sandwich bread was being buttered for lunch. If I ever got bored of this untethered, unbounded play, my mother would hand me the tub of powdered Minute Maid and tell me to set up a lemonade stand. One summer we had six lemonade stands.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY : AMANDA SILVERMAN KOSIOR

Follow Amanda on INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK: @nodaknice TWITTER: @MrsAmandaGail WEBSITE: northdakotanice.com

Four-year-old Amanda Silverman Kosior (center) poses with family friends Leonora Gershman (left) and Emily Kushner (right) as they wait for treats at Dairy Queen in northern Grand Forks, 1984.

At some point between my own childhood and that of my sons, all of the grownups got together and decided there were far too many lemonade stands and something needed to be done. That war on boredom coincided with the invention of the Internet and the enlightening of society as to all of the bad stu that could happen to children who were le un-helicoptered. The Internet, and ensuing social media, also turned the spotlight onto a whole new level of parental competition — all of it together leading to the rise of more activity, more structure, and more fun, dammit.

The thing is, all of these activities are more fun. For one, there’s something for everyone. Don’t like sports but want exercise? Try Ninja Warrior. Or horseback riding. Or Ninja Horseback Warrioring. Plus, most of the programs have scholarship opportunities so no kid (or horse) is le behind.

Also, the kids like it. My husband played organized hockey as a boy two days a week, for roughly three months in the wintertime. Our ten-year-old, by comparison, skates and/or trains almost every day for almost the entire year. When we realized the insanity of that schedule and tried to reduce it, Ten got mad that he was missing out on fun with his friends. And, on more than one occasion, my husband has said, “I wish I had all of this opportunity when I was his age; I would have loved it.”

Still, childhood is precious, and free play is precious, and summer break is especially, especially essential to happiness (starting a petition now to give grownups summer break, too). So, my husband and I are also making a conscious e ort to build in some long “vacations” from all the structured fun so that our boys have the time and space to ride their bikes all over the neighborhood (wearing their Gizmo watches so that I can track their movements every second of the day), create elaborate scenarios with their action gures, and host as many lemonade stands as the neighborhood can stomach. [ aw ]

“Dr. Bauer-Olson truly listens and this is so rare to find in a doctor.”

Fishing at Larimore Dam in Larimore, ND.

you should work at Small Wonders

Millions of people are resigning their positions, looking for careers that feel more rewarding, where they can make a lasting di erence in other people’s lives. Many have found that ful llment and reward helping teach young children. Small Wonders is a Christian children’s center that has been serving the Fargo area for over 23 years, and has been voted the best of the best many times by parents and teachers. Small Wonders provides employment opportunities for those who enjoy being part of a team, working hands-on teaching and nurturing young children.

one

Teamwork is top priority

In today’s remote working environment, the struggles range from loneliness to challenges with poor communication. But Small Wonders strives to build a synergy that comes with being part of a team that cares for you and is ready to help. Staff lunch is always provided by Small Wonders. Team activities promote and create opportunities for collaboration.

WORDS : AREA WOMAN STAFF WRITER

Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities

Small Wonders provides opportunities for both full-time and part-time positions. With options for full-time careers, work experience while in college, or exibility with scheduling, they strive to provide a wide range of experiences. They offer world-class hands-on, in-house training for free to all new staff.

three Faith is at the forefront

If you’ve got room in your home — and your heart — to help a child in need, Nexus-PATH Family Healing can help. Learn more about fostering today at FosterwithNexusPATH.org.

According to Lynnette Lein of Small Wonders, “As teammates, we all have a deep faith in nding joy and laughter in children. We're team players, who enjoy working closely with our teammates. The professionalism we enjoy in our teaching provides a ful lled lifestyle within a structured professional environment. So if you know that it’s not about babysitting children, that it's truly a profession, and want to be in an environment where the parents have high respect and support the teachers — well, then Small Wonders would be the perfect t for your career.”

Want to apply?

Contact the team at swonderskids@yahoo.com or 701-356-4180 extension 21

WORDS : WENDY REGNER PHOTOGRAPHY : pexels.com

First comes love, then come the in-laws

It’s wedding season! Brides-to-be are immersed in last-minute details, wanting their wedding days to be perfect. I remember those days, preparing for my wedding and marriage to my husband of now almost 34 years. There were plenty of things I was excited about, a few things that brought anxious or nervous feelings and other impending changes or challenges I was completely oblivious to — like the relationship with my husband’s parents and family. In my case, his parents were kind, friendly people that I had known in the community for several years. So, I gave virtually no thought to the idea of needing to form a di erent kind of relationship with them. The kind that is both mutually respectful and based on healthy boundaries. Nor did either my husband or I realize it would take some important and sometimes di cult dialogue between us to shape those relationships.

Having a healthy in-law relationship requires awareness and e ort from everyone — husband, wife and parents. Lack of intentionality can lead to assumptions that point to disappointment and frustration at minimum, and resentment or irreparable damage at worst. And nobody signs up for that. So, I’d like to o er some insight and suggestions on making those relationships be the best they can be.

The steps that go into having great in-law relationships are not complicated. They are not always easy, but at their foundation they simply involve the tools of communication, self-awareness, exibility, grace, honesty, mutual respect, consistency and elimination of assumptions as much as possible.

Talk about what you want, don’t want, have seen modeled and any traumatic relationship experiences you’ve had. Respect each other’s ideas.

Considerthese key topics (and others based on di erences in existing parent/child relationships, di erences in cultural expectations, etc.).

» What do each of us want to be called by our partner’s parents?

» If we live in the same area, will we call each other before visiting or is dropping by OK?

» How often will we call or visit each other?

» How will we navigate holidays?

» Will all parties give the others the freedom to say no to invitations to spend time together or other requests?

» Will financial support or involvement be accepted, and within what parameters?

» How will gift giving and receiving be handled?

» How will differences in parenting values and strategies be handled?

» What is each person’s definition of fairness and realistic expectations?

» How will compromises be reached?

» What does a balance of responsibility and authority look like for both the young couple and their parents?

To achieve those things, you and your spouse or spouse-to-be will want to:

Agree on a game plan.

Onceyou feel good about the things each of you want and need in terms of expectations and support from each other, you’ll need to communicate those things to the parents. The conversation may involve some vulnerability and discomfort up front but the payo of establishing a healthy foundation now will be worth it as you experience years of peace and joy versus resentment or con ict. It will be very important to follow through on the things you’ve agreed on and committed to in order to minimize confusion and honor each other.

Givethe parents the opportunity to express their boundaries and ask questions. This facilitates an atmosphere of mutual respect and emotional safety as well as an early opportunity to practice compromise.

Not only are these steps worth it for the sake of your relationship with your partner’s parents, they also minimize scenarios when one of you feels stuck in the middle. They also set you up to model healthy boundaries to your children and set them up for wonderful relationships with their grandparents.

When we treat our family members and new family members with respect and love, we are setting the stage for strong family relationships for years to come.

At the beginning we tend to feel like planning a wedding that honors our love and is memorable is of key importance. But preparing for life a er the wedding is fully as important and will yield an abundance of bene ts for everyone.

WENDY REGNER To Have and To Hold Couples Care

Wendy is a licensed professional counselor in private practice in Fargo. She is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), American Counseling Association (ACA), a certified SYMBIS pre-marital preparation facilitator, and a certified emotionally focused couples therapy practitioner. She has a passion for helping couples and individuals navigate the challenges life brings and learn to bravely live life to the fullest. [ aw ]

OUR FASHION EXPERTS WILL HELP YOU UPDATE YOUR WARDROBE WITH FUN PATTERNS

Creativity Leads to National Honor

MaryJo Nelson has always been a master at combining her interests in nontraditional ways.

That creativity paid o when the sophomore was recently named a Goldwater Scholar, the 14th Minnesota State University Moorhead student to earn the honor in the past 20 years.

“Being at MSUM, I’ve had so much opportunity to do research, write grants and take on leadership roles,” she says. “I work hard, but the environment is so supportive.”

The Goldwater Scholarship is one of the most prestigious undergraduate awards given in the sciences. Congress established the scholarship in 1986 in honor of former U.S. senator and 1964 presidential candidate Barry Goldwater.

This year, the scholarship was awarded to 417 college students from across the United States. It provides $7,500 per year for educational expenses to sophomores and juniors majoring in math, science and engineering.

One of Nelson’s areas of study is ecology; she has done extensive research on a species of falcon called a merlin, a small bird of prey with a shrill, chattering call that lives in the northern hemisphere. But she also studies lm. This combination is just one way she has challenged the status quo.

Nelson graduated from West Fargo High School in 2008 and decided to postpone college. “School was always the plan, but I was busy doing other stu ,” she says.

For example, she danced with the traveling performance arts group, The Young Americans. This experience allowed her to tour the U.S., the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Japan and China.

She completed her touring commitment and continued to work for the group out of its California o ce for three years.

She went on to serve with a crew on a sailboat that went from San Diego to central Mexico. She

then made Mexico her home for six years, making a living teaching and performing aerials.

Only when she was pregnant with her daughter, who is now 6, did Nelson decide to start taking college-level classes. “My goal was to go into medicine,” she says.

She was still living in Mexico, so she took online classes at Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Eventually, she and her daughter moved back to the Fargo-Moorhead area and she transferred to MSUM.

“The big selling point for me was I could study both science and lm,” she says.

And while Nelson intended to pursue a medical degree, she recognized she could study any discipline as long as she had taken any required courses and performed well on the medical school entrance exam.

“I was interested in ecology and conversation,” she says. “That’s what interested me the most.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: DAVE ARNTSON

As part of her studies at MSUM, Nelson has conducted research on merlins. She began research under the mentorship of Dr. Christopher Merkord, an associate professor in the biosciences department.

“I knew I wanted to do research and he invited our whole class to come to his lab,” she says.

Before long, she was plotting where merlins are nesting in Moorhead. Researchers are trying to identify why the raptor’s territory has been expanding into urban areas over the past four decades. Nelson will be presenting a poster at the annual meeting of the American Ornithological Society in Puerto Rico this summer.

In the future, Nelson wants to do more than conduct research; she wants to tell the story of the process. She dreams of combining her loves of science and film by creating a National Geographic-esque series that reveals how research happens.

“Right now there’s a massive distrust of science,” she says. “I want to use TV or lm to build a better understanding of how research works.”

Nelson’s ultimate goals have changed. Instead of medical school, she expects to pursue a Ph.D. in a field like marine ecology or conservation. Some day she wants to live on a sailboat and sail around the world. She’d love to continue her research on raptors.

But she also recognizes she has other interests and responsibilities: lm, dance, yoga, mom.

“There’s so much to do,” she says. [ aw ]

I want to use TV or film to build a better understanding of how research works.”

— MaryJo Nelson

Horsewomen the Modern

WORDS : KRISTY OLSGAARD PHOTOGRAPHY : AMBER LANGERUD PHOTOGRAPHY

Calie Lindseth & Cadie Craddock

Enthusiasm horse sense and breeds success

A successful partnership

blends the strengths of each partner’s abilities while being adaptable, durable and dependable. And so it is with Brassy Bit Tack, created by partners Cadie Craddock and Calie Lindseth . Both are filled with positivity and high energy. Their individual gifts, passion and drive turned a hobby into a highly regarded business that provides tack and saddle services to horse enthusiasts far and near.

Brassy Bit Tack is nestled on a ten-acre plot in Spring Valley Township near Glyndon, Minnesota. Their ability to collaborate is somewhat innate as Craddock and Lindseth are not only co-owners, but also identical twins. Starting a business, well founded within their mutual passion for horses, seemed as natural and invigorating as riding.

Brassy Bit Tack’s priority is building relationships with clients to ful ll the needs of both the horse and their owner. They provide a wide variety of saddle services and support equipment.

…we turned our crazy collecting into a viable venture.”

— CALIE LINDSETH

You learn more repairing saddles than building them.”

— CLIFF LANGERUD

Lindseth says, “Our focus is on reusing equipment and there are no limits to what our store o ers. We’re the only tack store within a hundred miles, but we work with clients across the region, nation and even world.”

Craddock says, “We are saddle makers, saddle tters and saddle retailers. Whether you need a better t for your current saddle or desire a new one, we’re ready, willing and able to nd something just right for you.”

From bits and conchos to saddles, their inventory is impressive. About 12 saddles a week are sold and at least ten are shipped across the country.

Carrying on a tradition

About eight years ago, Craddock called Cli Langerud at Langerud Custom Saddles of Barnesville, Minnesota. This man with a horse whisperer type of voice spent 30 years in the saddle business. She heard he’d retired but was curious if he’d take on some repair work. Langerud said, “I don’t know who started that nasty rumor, but I’m not retired and I’d love to.”

From that moment on, Craddock says she spent a lot of time watching Langerud repair their saddles. And she means a lot of time. “Sometimes Cli would say, well it’s time for supper, so I guess we’re done for the day.

“A er xing many saddles with him, Cli said, ‘You could x these yourself, Cadie.’ I thought, yes I could. Watching Cli matches my learning style. One of Cli ’s sayings is: You learn more repairing saddles than building them.”

After about five years as Langerud’s informal apprentice, he turned to Craddock from his work and said, “I’d like to do more shing.” Which meant he was ready to retire, and it was time for the sisters to make a decision. They jumped at the opportunity. Langerud Custom Saddles became CL Custom Saddles as a tribute to Langerud's, Lindseth’s and Craddock’s initials. The legacy continues with Langerud still a valuable part of this journey.

The shaping of their passion

The twins can’t remember a time when they didn’t ride ponies. If asked how long they’ve been riding, they look at each other, laugh, and say, “Forever.” Growing up in the horse community of western Nebraska and Minnesota, they showed horses in various arenas for 4H, Paint and Pinto, and a bit of working cow horse thrown in there too. Their love for horses and the sport grew.

Eventually though, time with their favorite pastime became limited. Growing up meant higher education, careers and less time for their passion. Lindseth even served 12 years in the ND Army National Guard while pursuing multiple higher education degrees, including currently working towards her PhD.

Back from one deployment, Lindseth purchased a couple saddles, which renewed the motivation to pursue their pastime. Then she acquired more saddles. Before

long, the sisters uno cially launched a full-blown saddle-hoarding hobby.

An enviable amount of saddles were squirreled away in Lindseth’s family’s garages.

“The men in our lives are such good sports, but between lling up their spaces and dropping four saddles on a brother-in-law’s Beamer, they announced this isn’t working. We had to reduce the clutter.”

Lindseth’s eyes sparkle as she recalls that time. “Cadie and I agreed to part with some of our collection, so we organized a garage sale with our sister-in-law. That sale turned out insanely successful, so we decided to reinvest our pro t in some nicer things. A er another sale, we realized we were onto something. All of a sudden, we turned our crazy collecting into a viable venture. I advise though, this is not how you start a business.”

But it worked for them.

Cadie Craddock checks the fit of a custom made saddle.

From passion to proprietors

Northeast of Glyndon where Craddock lived, an opportunity arose to buy a larger property next door. She says, “It was about to be condemned, but I wanted to save it. It had the potential to provide exactly what we wanted.”

She and her husband purchased and remodeled it to t their personal and business needs. Lindseth lives just a couple miles down the road so they each enjoy owning places to protect their treasures and share their spoils with other equestrian enthusiasts.

Lindseth says, “We mainly buy, sell, refurbish and consign. Our focus is on reusing not only to give new life to quality used tack, but also make this hobby more a ordable. The current popularity of thri store shopping applies to used saddles and tack; it’s economical and make a lot of sense. Our goal is to keep things in use for a second or third life or more. Currently 75% of our stock is used. Our new stock inventory is higher than usual but that changes constantly. Another service we o er is buying inventory from those closing their stores. It’s a great way to o er new and new old stock while working and learning from those who came before us.”

Lindseth works full time as the ND Department of Veteran A airs women’s coordinator. Her Brassy Bit duties include buying and inventory management, which means posting everything for sale online. She shoots professional photographs in their studio and writes descriptions of every item. O en they research an item’s history.

Craddock says, “The oldest saddle we’ve handled is a McClellan, probably from the late 1800s. McClellans go back to the Civil War and are still in circulation.”

Besides Craddock ’s position as nance manager at Muscatell Subaru of Moorhead, she handles Brassy Bit’s accounting, saddle building and repairs, and is the lead saddle tter. Her most trusted associate in the shop is an eighty year old she refers to as Bertha, who previously resided at Langerud's workshop. This 1942 Army Air Corps Singer sewing machine is her most prized possession. Bertha sewed slings to drop Jeeps behind enemy lines in World War II. Craddock genuinely adores Bertha. “She may not be a spring chicken but she’s de nitely a rare bird.”

The store contains much more than saddles, like hundreds of horse bits, bridles, reins, saddle pads, horse wear and so much more. They describe their store as contained chaos, but it’s reasonably organized. Currently over 120 saddles are for sale. Saddles sell from $99 to $5,500 and every saddle is thoroughly inspected to ensure its safety and integrity.

The support from the men in their lives is immensely appreciated. Even Ted, Lindseth’s father-in-law who booted them out of his garage, made the saddle racks for the shop. The well-built racks display over 80 saddles. Ted scolds, “Those racks are designed for a single saddle!” But it’s more likely they are double or triple stacked.

These partners have formed networks to expand their o erings. If someone wants a trail-riding saddle or a work saddle or anything in between, they have the connections and knowledge to locate them.

One client loves her saddle but it hurts her tailbone. Craddock says, “I’m adding padding. When a saddle ts a horse well, some modication can make it work better for a rider too.”

This 1942 Army Air Corps Singer sewing machine is her most prized possession.

“The tness and anatomy of the horse and rider are vital factors in saddle tting. A beautiful Arabian had a calci ed mass from a shoulder injury that caused him to buck when wearing a saddle. A er trying eight or nine saddles, we rebuilt one of our custom saddles based on his injury and that did the trick. Finally both Romero and his owner enjoy riding.”

During the pandemic, their business actually thrived. Lindseth explains, “As the U.S. learned to navigate during COVID, we were already selling online, so we were ahead of the game. We even had our best year in 2021.”

While 15% of their clientele is local, they’ve shipped 200 saddles across six continents. Shipping costs are up about 20%, but they work with a small local vendor who provides excellent service.

Like Craddock hung out at Langerud's, he’s returning the favor by regularly stopping by to help glue leather to a saddletree or sharpen knives. Craddock appreciates all the advice he o ers.

Between Langerud's equipment and their own, the workshop is filled with materials and tools. Besides Bertha, the workshop contains a Ferdone industrial sewing machine, a clicker press, rolls of leather, and saddletrees. Dozens of saddle pattern pieces hang on one wall. One of Cliff’s custom saddles provides Craddock with guidance. She claims she’s taken it apart and put it back together ve times.

Rubbing her ngers, Craddock says, “Every saddle needs a di erent size needle. So I have a wide array of big needles, but the repercussions are giant calluses.

“Custom saddles aren’t our focus, but it’s fast becoming a larger part. It takes ve to six weeks to produce a new saddle and current orders are about a year out.

“When someone orders an intricate design carved into the leather, that’s Calie’s department. I’ll use the clicker press or hand stamps for designs, but I find carving miserable while Calie will carve for hours.”

Lindseth says, “I really enjoy learning a new cra . Leather carving and tooling is cathartic. It’s amazing to create art that will be around far longer than I.”

Clearly, these sisters are dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the cra .

Calie Lindseth works on carving a design into a piece of leather for a custom saddle.

A saddle for every rider

They are passionate about supporting other equestrians afford their hobbies, whether finding new saddles or tack at a great price, or selling old items. They even talk people out of spending thousands of dollars if it’s not a good fit for them or their horse.

For young riders, they help nd a ordable quality equipment. They accept trade-ins, and o er a few nancing options with the goal of expanding the hobby, not limiting who can a ord it.

“There’s always more room at the table,” Lindseth says.

The upshot

Fitting services are available at their site or they travel to a client’s location upon request. They also attend horse- tting events across the Midwest. Store hours vary and are scheduled about three times a month. Watch their social media for updates.

According to online reviews, these ladies know their stu . Next time you want to saddle up, give the Brassy Bit Tack horsewomen a call. They will t you and your horse until you both feel just right.

Between the two of them, they own 13 horses. At least once or twice a week, they nd time to enjoy their own favorite pastime, which makes this whole crazy ride even sweeter.

The Brassy Bit team from left to right: Mikala Wodarek, Cadie Craddock, Calie Lindseth, and Bekah Wallace.

Sometimes angels choose fur instead of wings. These are just a few of our furry angels awaiting their forever homes.

LO MEIN

ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN FOR 2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR

“Catholic schools was really a non-negotiable for us and we have been amazed by the leaps and bounds our kids have grown, and by the opportunities they have been given.” -Chris & Gina Ahlers SONNY

For information or a tour call 701-893-3271 jp2schools.org

JERSEY

homewardonline.org

facebook.com/HomewardAnimalShelter/ 1201 28th Ave N, Fargo | 701-239-0077

Homeward Animal Shelter is a local and community-funded, nonpro t animal shelter. Its mission is: “Rescue. Shelter. Protect. Rehome.” It provides a second chance at happiness to lost, abandoned and owner-surrendered animals and educates the community in the proper, loving and kind treatment of animals.

JuneJULY

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

June 18 &

July

16

FARGO MASONIC VENDOR & CRAFT SHOW

Come see our local vendors and crafters and shop their booths at the Fargo Masonic Building. Lunch will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Fargo Masonic Center 1405 3rd St N, Fargo 701-235-7875

June 18-19

Fargo Antiques & Repurposed Market Annual SUMMER FLEA MARKET

All the hot items, and much more, will be available at The FARM’s annual Summer Flea Market. Our parking lot will be filled with vendors, music and other activities, including the Puff the Magic Potbelly food truck. Storewide sales inside and out. Saturday and Sunday

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Fargo Antiques & Repurposed Market 5258 51st Ave S, Ste 300, Fargo

June 28

10 th Annual

GO HAWAIIAN FOR HOSPICE

June 7

REDEFINING MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVER CONFERENCE

Chances are good that someone in your life will be affected by dementia — a neighbor, a friend or even a loved one. Or, perhaps you are a professional serving people living with dementia. Knowing what you should do can be confusing, as you sort through the unending stream of information from doctors, authors and experts. This conference will help you refocus on what the person with dementia or other memory loss needs you to know. A variety of topics will be covered throughout the day, concluding with a panel of experts who will be sharing experiences, strategies and insights. Please note: This conference is approved for four ND LSW CEUs with each professional registration. All registrations include conference materials, lunch, snacks and refreshments; community resource vendors and a silent auction will also be available.

8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Holiday Inn 3803 13th Ave S, Fargo eventbrite.com (search “redefining memory loss”), or visit memorycaferrv.org

QUOTABLE:

June 8

EAT UNITED FOOD TRUCK FEED

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Food Truck Feed event will support United Way of Cass-Clay with a portion of food truck sales being donated. The event is free and open to the public and will feature live music, a variety of food trucks and a tasty lunch while supporting a great cause.

11:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, east parking lot

4510 13th Ave S, Fargo

June 13-18

June 14

CHRISTIAN ADOPTION SERVICES SUMMER BBQ

God has blessed CAS over the years, and we want to celebrate with you! Our founder, Pat Larson, will also be sharing about the history and ministry of CAS. Sloppy Joe’s, hotdogs, chips and drinks will be provided.

4:00 — 8:00 PM

Lindenwood Park

1905 Roger Maris Dr, Fargo christianadoptionservices.org

Sanford Health’s ROGER MARIS ALL STAR WEEK

Let’s gather for a week of sun, fun and special events inspired by the life and legacy of hometown hero and baseball legend Roger Maris. The week will be dedicated to our local cancer patients, survivors and all those touched by this devastating disease. One hundred percent of funds raised will support cancer research and patient care at Roger’s namesake, Sanford Roger Maris Cancer Center. Various events will be held at different locations throughout the week, including a free public celebration on June 16 at Island Park.

Visit rogermarisweek.org for a complete schedule of events.

Choice Bank invites the community to Go Hawaiian for Hospice! Join us for the tenth annual luau lunch. For a suggested donation of $55, attendees will feast on a pig roast, chips, fresh pineapple, Hawaiian Punch and a frozen treat. The event will be held in the Choice Bank parking lot. All proceeds directly benefit Hospice of the Red River Valley.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Choice Bank 4501 23rd Ave S, Fargo

July 19

32 nd Annual PAWS WALK

Come out with your family, friends and furry companions for the 32nd Annual Paws Walk, a half-mile fun walk and pet party to support the homeless dogs and cats of Homeward Animal Shelter. In addition to the walk, the event will include music, inflatable games, face painting, doggy wading pools, a photo booth, vendor booths, free food and beverages, and more!

6:00 – 8:00 PM

Rheault Farm 2902 25th St S, Fargo homewardonline.org or 701-364-9013

"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

PHOTO : M. SCHLEIF PHOTOGRAPHY

Fargo Public Library Events:

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

Fargo Public Library, 102 North 3rd St., Fargo | 701-241-1472

Northport Branch, 2714 Broadway, Fargo | 701-476-4026

Dr. James Carlson Library , 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo | 701-476-4040

Main Library Circulation Desk 701-241-1472

Children’s Services 701-241-1495

June 1 – August 20

OCEANS OF POSSIBILITIES!

This summer the Fargo Public Library is all about oceans and the creatures that make the ocean their home. It’s also about stories, crafts, events and challenges. The Fargo Public Library’s summer reading challenge promises a variety of activities and events centered on our amazing oceans and reading for kids, teens and adults of all ages throughout the summer. The program starts Monday, June 1, and continues through Saturday, August 20. In person activities are planned throughout the summer. All ages are invited to complete challenges, read every day, earn prizes and participate all summer long!

Adults, teens and children can register at any library location to participate in the Fargo Public Library’s summer reading challenge. The program can be done online with the Beanstack app (paper reading logs are available by request) and residents can pick up a schedule of events at any Fargo Public Library location or view it online at fargolibrary.org.

Every Thursday throughout the summer

BEGINNER YOGA FOR ADULTS

This is a class for those who haven’t tried yoga before or who want a refresher. Along with gentle stretching, this class will teach breathing exercises to provide calmness. The class meets most Thursdays at the Dr. James Carlson Library. Bring a yoga mat (or a large towel), and wear comfortable clothing that is easy to move in. This program is recommended for adults. For details, email Lori at lwest@fargolibrary.org. No registration is required.

6:00 PM Carlson Library

Tuesdays, June 7 – August 23

TEEN GARDEN CLUB

Teens age 11–18 can join the Teen Garden Club at the Dr. James Carlson Library this summer. Meetings are held every Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. from June 7 through August 23. Volunteers will help care for and maintain the Fargo Public Library's community garden. To participate, fill out a Teen Garden volunteer application and return to any Fargo Public Library location or contact Bree at 701-476-5978. This is part program, part volunteer opportunity.

3:00 PM Carlson Library

1:00 PM Main Library

June 16

BOOKBIKE PICNIC PARTY AT LINDENWOOD PARK

Pack a lunch and meet up with the BookBike by the Lindenwood playground. A brief storytime will start at noon, with a reading party after. You can bring a book to read or check one out from the book bike. We’ll bring dessert to share! Contact Children’s Services Dept. at 701-241-1495.

12:00 Noon

Lindenwood Park in south Fargo

June 18

RIVER KEEPERS AT MAIN

Learn about what the River Keepers organization does in our community and for the Red River. No registration is required. Contact Steve at 701-241-1492.

10:00 AM Main Library

July 6

AUTHOR VISIT WITH SARAH VOGEL

North Dakota author Sarah Vogel will visit the Main Library to read from and discuss her book “The Farmer's Lawyer.” No registration is required, and books will be available for purchase.

7:00 PM Main Library

PHOTOGRAPHY : ABBY ANDERSON