Area Woman June/July '23

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.

ERIN foley

Erin is a retired business owner with a degree in Graphic Design. She lives her free-spirited, ‘Be real, not perfect.’, life in Detroit Lakes with her cat, The Dude. More often than not, will answer in movie or tv quotes and is a lover and advocate for all animals. She is an Artist for Lakeshirts and loves to garden, write, paint, and cook and bake for others. You will often find her at the local yoga studio, behind the apron, elbow deep in dirt or on the lake.

ASHLEY sornsin

Ashley Sornsin is a multi-passionate entrepreneur and podcast host who loves all things business, heath and wellness. She hopes to inspire others about how the food they eat can help fuel their best lives and taste amazing. On Ashley's Podcast, 'New Day with Ashley' she interviews people in the region who have taken risks, overcome challenges and created opportunities. She shares their stories of the grit and perseverance needed to make the most of each new day.

JESSICA hoeper

Jessica Hoeper is a Social Worker, Reflective Coach, Author, Mother, and Founder of Ray of Hope, LLC. She is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 17 years of human service experience, specializing in child welfare. Jessica runs her own human service consulting and training company, Ray of Hope, LLC. Jessica grew up in Fargo before relocating to Minnesota. Jess and her husband are raising their five kids on a farm in central Minnesota. Jessica recently added author to her tagline. She coordinated and co-authored a book that became a best-seller, “Where Social Work Can Lead You: Journeys into, around and even out of social work.”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."

ALICIA underlee nelson

Alicia's stories and photos have been featured in numerous publications, including Thomson Reuters, USA Today, Food Network, Delta Sky Magazine, AAA Living, Midwest Living, Rent.com, Apartment Guide, trivago Magazine, Matador Network, North Dakota Outdoors and craftbeer.com. She is the author of North Dakota Beer: A Heady History and a co-author of Midwest Road Trip Adventures.

MEGAN elgin

Megan grew up on the family farm in small town North Dakota and graduated from MSUM. She is an artist and graphic designer who loves all things creative. She is passionate about reading as many books as possible and loves discussing them with others. Megan lives in Horace with her husband and teenage son.

SAMANTHA archer

Samantha is the co-owner and lead photographer at Images by Archer. Working alongside her videographer husband Ryan, they specialize in documenting couples, engagements, and weddings. Along with this, Samantha is currently a Ph.D. Candidate in Communication at North Dakota State University and an adjunct lecturer at Concordia College. Her doctoral work looks at the intersection of mass and interpersonal communication with specific focus on how relationships are built and maintained over technology. Find more of her work at @thearchers.studio or imagesbyarcher.com.

DAWN duncan

Dawn is driven by creativity and sharing her passion for writing, art, and healthy living with the masses. She is from Fertile, MN and now calls Detroit Lakes her home, after living in Colorado several years. She's a UND graduate and lifelong entrepreneur who is also a published children's book author. You'll usually find her hiking in the woods, kayaking, sweating in the yoga studio, or spending time with her husband, Michael, and their German Shepherd, Reva. Dawn is a writer, artist, creativity coach, and class facilitator, specializing in teaching art as therapy. Follow her @yellowbrightinc.com

DEVIN joubert

Devin Joubert (pronounced "yo-bear") is a freelance writer and also a fiction author of all things romantic comedy, humor, and true love. Stories have always been at the center of her heart, believing they change lives. She lives in North Dakota with her husband and mini zoo, where the prairies and forests collide. When she isn’t writing or wrangling her pets, she loves going on road tripping adventures with her husband. You can find out more about her at lifewritingwanderlust.com

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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. ©2023 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.

acos are a way of life, or at least they add a lot of flavor to it, don't they? Good food has a way of doing that and I’m all about good food, so I want to share some of my favorite places in the FM area to get tacos and mouth-watering Mexican fare. There’s just something so delicious about those soft, warm tortillas that can be stuffed with an endless array of fillings, folded a certain way, and topped with anything, turning them into enchiladas, quesadillas, and burritos – but tacos are an all-time American fave. Yum!

Fargo is best known for its cold winters, flat terrain, wind, and the nice people, but would you believe that with tacos and Mexican food, that this Midwestern city has some serious heat?

Let’s taco ‘bout the best spots to grab a taco in town. Along with serving up seriously fantastic food, I love how kind the owners and employees are at these places, too. That’s another thing I love about supporting small businesses in our area – the genuine, good-hearted people who are so great at what they do. I enjoy contributing to their business’ success.

Let’s Kick it Off…

Tacos Trompo is a favorite with the multiple tacos and fillings you can choose from. I’d have to say my favorite is their Al Pastor Taco, which is filled with marinated pork, topped with pineapple and fresh cilantro, and onion. This type of taco originated in Puebla and Mexico City. It is delicious! But, don’t let that limit you - they also offer a variety of other delicious fillings, including chicken and beef, as well as other Mexican dishes like enchiladas, tortas, and burritos. And you MUST try their house-made queso. “It’s to die for,” as Gordon Ramsey would say. Promise me you will order it! You can find them at: 4265 45th St S #113, Fargo, ND 58104.

I also enjoy the Quesabirrias at El Vaqueros Taqueria and Mexican Restaurant. The best way I can describe it is as a quesadilla-type taco, if that’s even possible. They’re filled with shredded beef, cilantro, and onions, and they are crunchy, yet cheesy, and delicious. These are worth your time to try. I also liked that there was a beef broth sauce for dipping! I tasted a hint of cinnamon in there, which gave it a distinct and delicious flavor.

Besides the tacos, be sure to grab an agua fresca (a delicious fruity water drink) or a favorite of mine, the refreshing horchata (a cinnamon-y vanilla milk drink). You can’t go wrong with either of them. And you’ll be able to enjoy them in a fun and colorful atmosphere. Make sure to check them out at: 3001 13th Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103

Another pick is Plaza Azteca. They are popular with locals, so be prepared to wait because it’s always busy, but for a good reason. There are now two convenient locations. One is the Veteran’s Location: 5505 28th Ave S. Fargo, North Dakota 58104, and the other is the 52nd Ave Location: 5081 Charles Way S. Fargo, North Dakota 58104.

My personal faves are the chicken fajitas and build your own tacos or their “al pastor” tacos. I love the pineapple. Don’t forget to try both of the homemade salsas for a burst of flavor. If tacos aren’t your thing, I recommend the El Fuerte Chicken Burrito. It’s drizzled with a mouthwatering cheese sauce. You really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

For the times where you are stretched for time and can’t sit down, but still need to get your taco fix, you’ll want to give Taco Bros a try. They are a wonderful choice – a food truck that sets up at 425

Broadway N, Fargo ND 58102. Who doesn’t like street tacos? I love them. You can choose from a variety of meats and don’t forget to top your tacos with their yummy salsa.

As you can tell, I love tacos and everything Mexican food, so you can trust me if you are in search of a good place to get your next taco/Mexican food fix in Fargo. It may not initially seem like a city where you can find excellent tacos, but trust me when I say you absolutely can. Try a few spots, take note, and you, too, will find that spot that speaks to you in flavor and vibe. Happy dining! [ aw ]

date night doesn’t need to be decadent to be fun! Tackling a physical challenge as a team can help you reconnect in a whole new way. Add in some endorphins from light exercise and you get a date night that energizes both body and soul. Fargo-Moorhead is packed with activities that will keep you active and push you to reach new heights—in some cases, literally!

When it’s time to rest and refuel, opt for vitamin-rich juices and protein-packed entrees to nourish body from the inside out. Need even more relaxation? Treat yourself to a massage or a spa treatment after a day of exercise. (Or skip straight to the spa day! Self-care is healthy, too.)

Climb the walls

Push your physical and mental limits at Fargo Climbing, North Dakota’s only rock-climbing gym. This is a bouldering only facility, which means you’ll follow a series of color-coordinated paths (called boulder problems) up the walls without a harness or ropes. There are plenty of cushy pads to catch you if you if you have to release your grip. If kids can do it without fear, so can you!

No experience is necessary, although there are “Intro To Climbing” classes available if you’d like more guidance. Just wear comfortable clothes that you can move in and rent your gear when you arrive.

Walk or run outdoors

Celebrate spring with a brisk walk or jog through Island Park. Fargo’s oldest park contains a scenic 0.9-mile loop that weaves under a canopy of mature trees, through a series of sculptures, and past tennis courts and basketball hoops.

Bring balls and rackets if the weather is nice enough for a pick-up game. Or, take a water or snack break in the gazebo (a popular wedding site) or one of the many picnic tables before reading the poems printed in the sidewalk along 5th Avenue South.

Rehydrate and replenish

Head to Juice Box in Fargo or West Fargo for healthy and delicious recovery drinks and snacks. The business specializes in organic, raw, coldpressed juices made with roots, fruits, and greens. You can also enjoy a warm oatmeal bowls, creamy and rich smoothie bowls, almond milk in a variety of flavors (including chocolate, vanilla and seasonal options), a range of fruity, gluten-free smoothies, and healthy coconut hot chocolate.

Select your nutrient-rich treat by flavors you want or the health benefits you need. Each recipe includes natural ingredients that help boost immunity, reduce inflammation, aide digestion or slow the aging process, as well as plenty of vitamins and antioxidants.

WRITTEN BY Alicia Underlee Nelson

Image Supplied By Juice Box ›

Practice your swing

The best thing about Suite Shots is that you can take your honey golfing in any kind of weather! The heated outdoor bays are open all year long, so it’s never too cool or rainy to work on the finer points of your swing. You can also try a game of hockey, football, soccer, and many other games on the indoor simulators.

Golfing in the bays is first come, first served, unless you pay to reserve a spot using Fast Pass. Visit early in the week or in the mornings to avoid crowds. You can also stop in on Thursday nights to enjoy live music before or after your golfing session.

Enjoy a healthy meal

Crisp & Green offers so many hearty, vitamin-packed entrees, it’s hard to know where to start. Try a made-from-scratch salad, including healthier versions of classics like a Cobb or Caesar, or shake things up with Southwest flavors like corn, black beans. and poblano peppers. Comforting grain bowls feature savory combos like rice topped with shrimp, crunchy veggies and spicy bibimbap sauce, or roasted chicken and hummus topped with feta and briny kalamata olives. Can’t decide? Get creative and make your own, full of your flavors of choice!

Sip kombucha or light aquas frescas in flavors like spiced apple and pomegranate lemon. Save room for an acai sorbet bowl of vegan chocolate chip walnut cookie for dessert.

Savor a spa day

Hair Success Salon and Spa at Blu Water Creek is waiting whenever you need to unwind. Schedule a couple’s massage or a soothing session in the salt float tank at this South Fargo spot. Treat yourselves to a full or half day of spa services, including body scrubs, manicures, pedicures, and so much more.

If you don’t know which service you want to purchase, opt for a $35 Spa Guest Pass and get unlimited use of the sauna, steam shower, and relaxation lounge where you can read, rest and sip complimentary tea, coffee, and water. The Grotto serves drinks, refreshing lunches and snacks if you decide to make a day of it.

If you like the idea of a healthy date night, try incorporating one or two a month and change things up a bit! Expanding options beyond dinner, drinks, and movies is a fun way to grow your list of activities to do together, while learning more about what’s available in our vibrant community! [ aw ]

Image supplied by Crisp & Green

Image Supplied by Suite Shots ‹ ‹

When I decided to write a story on style tips for travel, the first person I called was my college friend Sue van Heerden. Since 1996, Sue has been a commercial airline pilot and if anyone knows something about what to pack and how to look good while traveling, it’s an airline professional. After graduating from UND in 1993, Sue earned flight hours working at various locations around the country, including NASA Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama and a small commercial outfit in Utah. From there, her career took her to Continental Airlines, which stationed her in Cleveland, Newark, and Houston before the company merger with United relocated her once again, this time to Los Angeles. Today, she’s a Boeing 787 First

Amman,

Jordan

Officer for United, flying out of LAX. To say she has had a unique and interesting career would be a great understatement, as she jets off to places like Australia, Japan, France, and England (to name just a few) with the same level of casualness as the rest of us approach going to buy groceries. It’s simply the way her lifestyle is and after 27 years, she still loves to fly, explore, and seek adventure around the world. In fact, as of last year, Sue has visited all of the continents and most of them several times.

as this often included first class seats! You’re just limited in what you can take along and you don’t know until the last few minutes before the jetway closes if you are going to get a seat or have to wait until the next flight(s)).

When it comes to packing, it doesn’t really matter that I have traveled quite a bit because compared to a pilot, my skills will still pale by comparison. No, it was time to go top tier on this and get tips from a real pro so I asked Sue to share some of her honed knowledge with us. Even though we have traveled together quite a bit, I still sat here listening in awe as she rattled off, in detail yet so effortlessly, how she packs and why she makes the choices she does. And, whenever I see photos of her, her fashion sense is clear, whether she’s in gym wear or running errands, attending a concert, or walking in an exotic locale.

Keep in mind, everyone has their own style and what works for one may not be preferred by another. But, as a lifelong global traveler due to her parents being South African ex-pats and the family going overseas for several trips in her youth, Sue’s tips are ones to consider, as they have proven to be not only fashionable and functional, but timeless. In photos over the years, she always looks in style, one year to the next, and that is due to selection of quality clothing that fits, along with carefully coordinating what she brings on her journeys.

Side note: If you've flown standby before, you know that you need to dress in accordance to the airline's rules of attire. But, even if you're a regular traveler, dressing up a bit or at least in a "smart casual" way will boost your ability to possibly get an upgrade. (You'll never get upgraded to first class wearing pajama pants, sloppy flip flops, and a t-shirt while clutching a pillow.)

First, Sue recommends for trips that are 1.5 weeks or shorter, only bring carry on items. This would include a standard size rolling suitcase, small bag and purse or low profile crossbody bag. For her, she prefers a stylish leather backpack that is well constructed and comfortable, minus any logos, and not something trendy. Her favorite is a rich rust or brown leather with sturdy buckles, zippers, and straps, and one that is secure in its closures to keep personal items safe from theft or falling out.

California, with Golden Retriever, Tombi Biking in Amsterdam

I learned the hard way, as many of us have, that overpacking and creating complicated looks isn’t very smart...

- dawn duncan

“My main preference,” Sue offers, “is to not wear or bring jeans. I know that is perhaps an odd recommendation, but I like having lighter weight fabrics that have some versatility and that are a bit elevated.” For her, selecting pants and tops that coordinate, mainly in solids, works well and adds latitude to her overall travel wardrobe. “Think neutrals like navy, gray, white, black, and ivory,” she explains, “then colors that can coordinate with all of these, such as pinks, blues, and browns.” She avoids any type of logowear or “gym shoes” that are white, opting for fashion sneakers in various colors. She also opts for basics from boutiques or retailers such as J Crew that are known for fabrics that don’t shrink up when washed and that retain their color and shape well. “You also don’t need a totally different outfit every day,” she says. “You especially don’t need different pants daily. They should be able to pair with many things and this really cuts down on the overall space needed in your bag.”

Shoes are a favorite for Sue, as they are for many women! But, if you’ve ever gone on a trip and worn shoes that are either brand new, a tiny smidge tight, or are otherwise uncomfortable at all, you probably know what I mean when I say blisters are no fun. In fact, Sue graciously swapped shoes

with me in Italy one day years ago when we had trekked 25 miles in one day, just around Rome, seeing different sites and shopping. My feet were so sore and had blisters forming; thankfully, she and I wear the same size and she was a pal who gave me the shoes off her feet in order to spare me from more misery! I learned a valuable lesson that day, not only to start shopping for different shoes, but to also pay close attention to what Sue wears and continuously packs when she travels.

Her favorite shoes are Rothy’s brand, which is known worldwide for producing ultra-comfy ballet flats and sneakers that are outstanding in quality, plus they are made sustainably and can be thrown in the washer. The flats come in a huge array of colors, styles and patterns as do the sneakers, and can go from day to night, casual to dressy. They’re smart, classy, and also fun; Sue’s latest pair are a rich tangerine color that are perfect for spring/summer outfits.

Here is Sue’s list for a standard trip, with a few add-ons for overseas travel:

• 3-4 classic color t-shirts (high quality, colors that will coordinate with other items)

• 2 button down blouses

• Rothy’s flats

• Swimsuit

• 1 white button down (“You can never go wrong with a high quality white shirt that is tailored and fits well,” Sue says.)

• Sneakers (either Rothy’s or something similar, or for more “adventurefocused” travel, running or trail shoes in a fun color, such as the turquoise ones pictured in the South Africa photo)

• A simple dress (lightweight or gauzy works great for warmer destinations and you can even find something that doubles as a swimsuit coverup and dress, especially if its in a length that isn’t short. Solid colors work great, but a fun print that is subtle also works well.)

• 3 pairs of pants (think chinos, flat front pants that are cropped or tapered and in solids that will go with different shirts)

• A jacket/coat if needed for where you’re going

• Travel in a long, simple sweater

• Pack a straw or linen hat that is crushable or that you’ll wear on the plane; you’ll appreciate a hat when traveling to hotter spots on the globe.

Antarctica

Benalla, Victoria, Australia

South Africa

For places in Europe, for example, something to cover your shoulders, such a pretty wrap or scarf, look beautiful and will add flair while also function. (Note: European shops notoriously sell great scarves!)

If your trip is especially focused on extremes like sports, adventures outdoors, etc., pack gear accordingly for warmth, dryness, etc.

Extra tips: You don’t need to bring an excessive amount of undergarments, socks, or liquids. You can wash items and hang them in the shower to dry and liquids can be purchased when you reach your destination.

And, as she noted previously, always save room so you can shop and take home fun finds! Compact, foldable bags from companies like Baggalini are great to stash in your suitcase and will provide needed space for your new goods when you head home (you might have to check the bag, but now it makes sense; you shopped!)

In any case, put some thought into your packing and it will be an enjoyable experience to travel lighter and also know you’re jet setting in style! It's time to plan that next great adventure! [ aw ]

When it comes to preventing heart disease, it’s important to understand what causes it and how to manage your risk factors.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. However, many forms of heart disease can be prevented or managed with lifestyle changes.

STORY AND PHOTOS

SUPPLIED BY: SANFORD HEALTH

Who is at risk for heart disease?

Anyone can get heart disease. Some forms of heart disease are present at birth (congenital), while others develop over time. Like other diseases, the risk of developing heart disease is related to a person’s age and family history.

Those at higher risk include:

• Women over age 55 and men over age 45

• Anyone whose father or brother had heart disease before age 55

• Anyone whose mother or sister had heart disease before age 65

Other risk factors are related to lifestyle, with the biggest risks including:

• Being overweight

• Eating an unhealthy diet

• Having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes

• Not getting enough exercise

• Smoking

How can someone reduce their risk of heart disease?

Preventing heart disease starts with a healthy lifestyle. During a primary care visit, your provider can help you create a plan to reduce your risk of heart disease, which may include making changes to your diet, getting more exercise, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control, along with other lifestyle changes.

What is heart disease?

Heart disease includes a range of conditions that keep the heart from adequately receiving, pumping or distributing blood. The most common form of heart disease is coronary artery disease, where plaque builds up in the arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart. CAD can lead to chest pain and heart attack.

What is a heart screening?

A heart screening is the safest, most effective tool for learning about your heart health and finding a heart problem early. Heart screenings are recommended once every 10 years starting at age 40, unless an abnormal screening requires more frequent testing.

This painless test gives you and your doctor a better look at your risk by checking your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, body mass index, calcium levels, and more for signs of heart disease. [ aw ]

To make your appointment, call (701) 234-4800

Additional Resources:

To learn more about common heart conditions and how to keep your heart healthy, visit www.sanfordhealth.org

Your first steps into Fargo’s newest marketplace will have you thinking, “insert food here.” With so many smells, tastes, and experiences to be had, Brewhalla is a sure thing when it comes to eating, drinking, and delving into an elevated environment. All who wander will certainly not be lost when seeking a good time in Fargo’s newest mecca of markets. Created from a concept of a public market and all the opportunities it presents, Brewhalla was created with a mission to catalyze moments where people come together and share amazing experiences.

“Brewhalla is all about synergies and a shared experience,” says Hailey Von Wald, the Supreme Experience Conductor of Drekker & Brewhalla. It started as a public market with 14 local businesses and event space and evolved to have a boutique hotel as well. “We wanted it to be a space where the community could gather, but also a space to show off some of our favorite businesses in Fargo, support the local community, and to host guests from around the world.”

Brewhalla

hosts/ 14 of Fargo’s favorite businesses

Luna Market - Their Brewhalla spot is an expanded version of their popular neighborhood kitchen, offering unique meat and cheese selections to also include fresh seafood, butchery, specialty pantry goods and grab and go plates.

Mängata Wine & Raw Bar - Offering a wine bar setting and providing patrons with sustainable source seafood along with thoughtfully curated wines from small producers, all who use little to no intervention in the making of their wines.

Unicorn Park Fine Foodery - A community focused fast casual restaurant, serving up whimsical brewery fare for food and craft beer lovers alike. Using many offerings of our local farmers and producers, Unicorn Park Fine Foodery comments, “We make food that is seriously good, but not to be taken too seriously.”

The Bird Woodfire Pizza - Blackbird Woodfire’s saucy little sister serving up prairie-made, hell-fired pizza.

Thunder Coffee - Existing to bring people together over coffee, lending to the goal to build community and a sense of belonging. Believing that coffee isn’t boring and striving to push the envelope for what coffee can be.

Nichole’s Fine Pastry - Cozy and sophisticated cafe serving European and American desserts, gelato, soups, salads and sandwiches.

Cows & Co Creamery / Duchessa Gelato - An artisan gelato, authentic gouda cheese, and fresh cheddar cheese curds produced from a family dairy farm, dedicated to producing high quality milk. Sharing their products with their customers while honoring the tradition of hard work and passion that comes along with running a multi-generational dairy farm.

The Plant Supply - Offering handmade pots and easy-care plants to help you enjoy your space and grow happier, one plant at a time. Products made with love in Fargo, enjoyed around the world.

Bark’n Biscuit - Fargo’s first pet bakery and boutique, making tails wag with treats such as Pup Tarts, Blueberry Woofles, Doh-nutz, and Woofie Pies. The cat treats are made with homemade, natural ingredients. In addition to baked goods, check out the unique dog and cat toys, leashes, and collars.

Red River Refillery - The business’ goal is to help you reduce your carbon footprint. They state, “We do this by offering bulk refills that are good for you and the earth. We also carry reusable products that replace single-use, disposable products. By making small changes, you will have a big impact.”

Livin’ the Dream Pottery - Providing high-quality, handmade pots at an affordable price and introducing the Fargo-Moorhead community at large to the joy that handmade pots can offer to our daily lives.

Unglued - A modern handmade gift shop that connects you to over 200 local and regional makers. “We are like Etsy in real life and all the inspiration you’ll need to want to get creative again!”

Drekker Brewing Company - Drekker Brewing Company“Create and destroy. That’s our process and it’s what we believe; create experiences and destroy expectations. Crank up the good, turn down the suck. We’re just a band of misfits, hell-bent on creating a community and having a good time. Handcrafted for the Viking in all of us.”

Hailey comments, “It has been so much fun to see the community’s reaction to Brewhalla. They love the market concept, the variety of businesses, but most importantly they love the overall experience that is available at Brewhalla. One of the favorite and most frequent comments is that Brewhalla doesn’t feel like it is in Fargo; they wanted to do something different and weird to push the boundaries of what Fargo can be.”

Along with daily meet and greets, Brewhalla is available to host local events. “Drekker was running out of room for the types of events we wanted to throw, so we added event space to Brewhalla not only to expand our own events, but to offer event space for the community that is different from everything else available.” Brewhalla has two large event spaces as well as a variety of smaller public event spaces on the mezzanine. “We’ve hosted everything from small graduation parties, birthday parties, and rehearsal dinners, to full wedding ceremonies and receptions and large corporate gatherings. We love throwing a good party!” Having the hotel and market attached allows for lots of creativity and uniqueness when planning a special event.

Looking for a spot to share your local business? All of the permanent market shops are filled, but there will be plenty of opportunities for other local businesses to party with us through different events and collaborations that they have planned.

Brewhalla has much to be proud of in the way they have brought the community together. “Hands down I am most proud of our team. We have the hardest working group of folks with such a diverse set of skills and talents. Brewhalla was a beast to get up and running, but doing it with the crew that we did made it not only doable, but really fun in the process. Brewhalla wouldn’t have happened without everyone on our crew,” Hailey added.

The future of Brewhalla is bright, indeed with a whole calendar full of fun, creative, and weird events on the horizon, with a plethora of ideas still forming, so much so, I am told your brains would explode upon hearing them and they don’t want that on their conscience. “One dream I have for this space is for it to be ever-evolving. I’d love for every experience at Brewhalla to be slightly different, whether that be trying new beers on

tap, attending a different event, or noticing new art or a little hidden Easter egg. I’d love for Brewhalla to grow and evolve like the living, breathing thing it is.”

Mark Bjornstad, the owner of Brewhalla has enjoyed the role of a clockmaker, designing and building the machine and then setting it to run. “My happiest moment every day has been watching people enjoy and use the market the way we dreamed of, and watching everything work.”

Brewhalla has breathed new life into the Fargo scene, which is quickly evolving and stepping up to a more diverse and sophisticated market. Mark adds, “Brewhalla is such a brand new concept for Fargo, I’d love for the community to just come check it out and see what we’re all about. There really is something for everyone here and it has already been really fun to see the diverse group of customers who walk through the doors each day.” [ aw ]

The sun is finally here to stay, and that means it’s time for special memory-making activities to enjoy with your family and friends this summer. Our community is the perfect place to explore, with its vibrant culture, flavor, and unique personality, in addition to an abundance of summertime activities. Especially after the excessively long winter we had, we are all ready for an extended, hot season so here’s a list of six seasonal events you won’t want to miss out on this summer.

Celebrate 701 Day

The FM region is so unique. The area is steeped in rich Scandinavian and Germanic history and culture. In addition, it is seasoned with multiple spices from around the world. Include a strong farming demographic and you have the FM community.

701 Day is the day to honor all the qualities that make the 701 area code remarkable. On Friday, July 1st from 11 AM to 1 PM at the Broadway Square, agricultural machinery displays will be set up, trivia games for the entire family will be available, live music will be playing, Instagrammable photo booths will be present, interactive art will be on display, giveaways will be up for grabs, and a scavenger hunt will be in full swing. Be sure to pencil in this day of 701 fun!

Also, do you collect keepsakes? How about free souvenirs? If so, hurry, don’t stroll, to get your 701 Day craft activity, your own collection of 701 Day stickers (move quickly, since they are only available while supplies last). Also, bring your own t-shirt or another fabric item (like a decorative canvas pillow case or bag) to get screen printed for free. Yay for cool and free ways to remember fun days!

Experience the Red River Valley Fair

Experiences are meant to be had at the Red River Valley Fair every year with the sun shining, your kids laughing on the carnival rides, and don’t forget to catch your favorite band performances. Kids will enjoy the petting zoos, pony rides, and other kid-friendly interactive exhibits.

The Red River Valley Fair should be on everyone's summer bucket list. This season, it’s being held July 7th to 16th. The rides aren’t the only things buzzing with energy and life at the Fargo fairgrounds. Don’t forget about the tempting food–the all-time favorites like cotton candy, deep-fried Oreos, and bacon-wrapped everything. Are you more of a salty gal or a sweet tooth? Also, don’t miss Jelly Roll, one of modern country’s hottest stars who has won multiple awards in recent years. His show is on Sunday, July 9 at 7 pm. Everyone can find something to enjoy at the Red River Valley Fair, so make your list of activities and explore this favorite tradition of the FM area! You can get tickets online at their website: redrivervalleyfair.com

Browse the Downtown Fargo Street Fair

Whenever I think of the Downtown Fargo Street Fair, visions of sunny days with freshly squeezed lemonade while wandering through the street vendor stalls with my sister and mom come to mind.

It's the ideal place to support small local businesses while also finding that classic piece of art you've been seeking, a lovely handmade necklace, or your new favorite homebrewed kombucha. There’s plenty to look through since the fair welcomes hundreds of unique vendors every year. It’s North Dakota’s largest outdoor event that’s free. 150,000+ people end up visiting The Downtown Fargo Street Fair, making it a standout event of the year! Mark July 13th to 15th on your calendar, because you won’t want to miss out on the fun.

Take part in the Red River Valley Garden Tour

Do you have a green thumb? I wish I did, but I’m inspired by those who not only keep foliage alive, but who have gardens blooming with hundreds of stunning flowers and plants. It’s an art form.

The Red River Valley Garden Tour is taking place on July 19th to 20th from 1 to 7 PM. You can get tickets online at fargomoorhead.org/event/red-river-valley-gardentour-2023 for only $10. They’ll showcase six local homeowners yards and some Growing Together Community Gardens. You’ll be able to see artfully curated private gardens filled with bright and colorful flowers, and all of the proceeds from the tours are going to Fargo’s Growing Together Community Gardens, which is a local non-profit with the goal of creating sustainable gardens for the community.

The Red River Valley Garden Tour offers a day of beauty, inspiration, and fun for flower-lovers. With vibrant colors, sweet fragrances, and flourishing greenery, you can explore some of the most stunning gardens in the FM Area with your flower-loving friends.

Rock For A Cause at ThriveFest

I know from experience that ThriveFest puts on a captivating show for the entire family. This is their sixth year putting on life-changing shows. Did you know that by going to ThriveFest to listen to your favorite Christian artists at the Bluestem Amphitheater on Saturday, August 26th, you are also supporting young girls locally who are recovering from the abuse of human trafficking?

ThriveFest is put on by Rising Hope Foundation. They are building The Freedom Ranch which is 90% complete. This will be a place where 12 to 17-year-old girls can receive recovery care, mental health services, education and life skills, and equine therapy.

There is an amazing lineup of artists at ThriveFest this year: Jeremy Camp, Brandon Heath, Love & The Outcome, Mark Shultz, Fargo Worship, and Adelaide.

Go enjoy a night out with your family and friends listening to soulful, uplifting music while also knowing that your contribution is going to make a difference in young girls’ lives forever. Tickets are being sold online at thrivefestnorth.org.

Enjoy Movies at The Square

Who doesn’t enjoy an outdoor movie experience? Every month this summer there’ll be different themes inspiring the movies that are playing every week. They’ll be playing Thursdays and some Saturdays. June is Superhero Series month, July is Throwback Series month, and August is Family Series month. Visit fargoparks.com/broadway-square/calendar to see when and what is playing every week.

It’s the perfect way to make memories with your family and friends and also a cool way to meet new people. Grab your favorite blankets, some snacks, and your family members! It’s movie time at the Broadway Square. Plus, if that isn’t cool enough, there will be vendors selling snacks, food, and drinks, too.

I'm really fond of Fargo in the summer because of the variety of thrilling memory-making activities that are available for visitors and locals alike. Everybody's welcome, from celebrating North Dakota on 701 Day, having fun on the rides and listening to music at the Red River Valley Fair, attending inspiring concerts for a cause, exploring gardens, going to the Downtown Fargo Street Fair, or watching movies in the Square.

There’s plenty to choose from, so round up your crew, grab your sunscreen and water, and make sure you have a great and sunny summer. You deserve it! [ aw ]

Chef Andrea Baumgardner has been an integral part of the FargoMoorhead food scene for decades. The James Beard semifinalist currently co-owns BernBaum’s, which she founded with her husband, Brett Bernath, in 2016. This beloved downtown Fargo deli combines their names and their ancestry to create a unique Nordic-Jewish deli concept that keeps customers coming back for more.

But Baumgardner has been creating interesting, locally sourced dishes for years. We caught up with her to chat about the countercultural way that she runs her business, the power of collaboration, how the food scene in Fargo-Moorhead has evolved since she got her start, and what people want to eat now. This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

How do you describe the BernBaum’s vibe?

“We want it to be a community space, and I feel like the people that come there to treat us that way. It's generally nice and loud on the weekends. People seem happy. We see a lot of regulars.”

What are your customers ordering these days?

“We see several people who have dietary restrictions, because we can tell them how we cooked their food, down to the little ingredients. We write down all the ingredients in a little notebook, so servers can look at that or ask a cook for a quick follow up.

But everything sells. We have days where the vegan Reuben will really go crazy. And then we’ll have a day where we sell 15 briskets.

The big sellers are things like the Nordic lamb. We always say that’s sort of like a gateway to lamb. A lot of people have an association with lamb where they say, ‘Oh, I'm not gonna like that.’ But it's meatloaf! Or let’s say Swedish meatballs;

this dish has that sort of sweet/tart combination of lingonberries and the pickled onion. We sell a lot—a lot—of bagels. They’re really good. And why not eat a nice yummy, handmade bagel?

And on the weekends, we sell loads of lox and eggs and vegan lox and eggs, a lot of brunch things. We sell boatloads of egg bake and knishes! People have really taken to the knish, which is basically like anything in a puff pastry—it’s going to taste good wrapped in butter.”

“Food is one of those basic ways in which we care for people and we care for ourselves, emotionally and psychologically. I was just reading something about loneliness, how we're having this loneliness epidemic postpandemic. Food—or even coffee— is actually sort of an antidote.”

How has the F-M food scene changed since you got your start?

“Oh my goodness, it's changed drastically. I came here to help open the Hotel Donaldson. And one of the things that the owner and I immediately connected on was the idea of, ‘What if we sourced locally?’

I remember talking to people during that preopening, and I felt like they were just like, ‘What is she talking about? She's such a freak!’ But over the years we’ve learned what’s available locally.

In my previous restaurant, Green Market, we had these relationships with people (that we bought from) at Hotel Donaldson. We still have those relationships. We trust them and we love their products. I’ve bought from them for 20 years

I think what's impressive is that there are many talented people in town, a lot of variety, and a many great ethnic options. I think people are much more sophisticated. And now, even teenagers are sophisticated eaters because they watch TikTok.”

Many of your dishes are vegetarian or vegan. Is this intentional?

“I think I’ve always been sort of vegetable forward. I'm not vegetarian, but I do like vegetables. When I was in cooking school and cooking in San Francisco and Los Angeles, it was sort of the birth of California cuisine and local (food), and it was really mind blowing to me at the time. So I think it has really affected me.

It’s interesting to think about menu items, because Jewish food where it started (especially Ashkenazi Jewish food), didn't have dairy because they didn't have money. It was like, how do you stretch something?

And then Middle-Eastern Jewish food doesn't have a lot of dairy, except maybe feta or labneh and those sort of things, because they don’t have ranches. So it’s interesting what naturally tends towards veganism, which is good for all of us.”

How has BernBaum’s changed since you opened the restaurant?

“When it started, it was just me and Brett. And now we're a team of 22 people. We have a really diverse team and I'm really proud of the people we have and what they do. One of the things I like

“Food, I believe, is just this basic way in which we communicate to people that we care about them.”

about cooking (and this line of work) is that you can always learn things.

Restaurant work can be kind of repetitive and grueling in certain respects. And so it's really nice when you have those moments where you get to see where someone else is coming from or how they make a dish. There are always things you

How do you cultivate that respect in the workplace?

“We have certain ‘Rules of Civility’ that we work by: respect for yourself, respect for your teammates, respect for the materials, and respect for the customer.

Respect for yourself means maybe sometimes you need to go take care of something for yourself before you really can show up at work. We try to have honest conversations with the people that work for us, because things come up for everybody, right?

What advice do you have for future chefs?

“I think you have to love the actual work of it. Sometimes it's creative. But a lot of it is repetitive and the historical thing has been that you’re there for 12 hours a day or 16 hours a day. Make sure you actually like doing it—the chopping and the cutting and the cooking—and that you're comfortable with long hours.

There was this culture for a while (maybe because of Food Network and that kind of food TV) where it's like, ‘Oh, you'll be rich and famous.’ But such a tiny percentage of even really successful cooks and chefs actually go that way or make a lot of money.

can be excited by. And having a diverse team just allows you to like a broader range of things.

We get good people and then it moves in this direction because of who is part of it. It keeps evolving and keeps getting better.”

How do you attract and retain the right people for your team?

“There are certain things that have flourished in this industry for a long time that we have sort of a zero-tolerance policy for, like rampant drinking. I mean, that's a mental health problem.

I've interviewed people who have probably been very skillful but have a certain attitude that is ego-focused. That isn't going to end up working out for us.

Maybe that’s a function of age. You've worked long enough and you think, ‘Yeah, the person might be fantastic, technically, but if they can't meld with what's already there, it's not going to work. So I feel like we really focus on people being respectful.”

We've tried to think about the things that, working in restaurants over years and years, cause friction points. One of those things has historically been that you can come in as a server and work for four or five hours. It’s very, very hard work, but that cook has maybe been there for ten hours. And if they're not tipped out, they’re for sure not going to make what that server makes.

So we've been able to move things around and adjust it so that it seems more equitable. There's no front of house/back the house kind of goofiness because we've tried to equalize everyone. Everyone's tipped out. Managers make a little bit more, but everyone makes roughly the same scale.

There's not a lot of sexism because most of the people in management at this point—and I would say all of the core players—are predominantly women. And the men who have chosen to work with us are special, in that they're comfortable with that. They're willing to work on an equal footing.”

It’s a small margin business. You’re always dealing with labor and supply chain shortages, especially in the last few years. You're dealing with things that are changing, fluctuating in price. I think climate change is really going to change how we get food and the volatility of our pricing.”

How do you stay creative in a repetitive, highstress atmosphere?

“Creativity, for me, is a mix of learning and doing and just thinking and ruminating. I’m someone who has to do things wrong to figure out how to do them right.

I tend towards the burnout side where I'm going to devote all of my hours to this thing—and not realize that I'm losing the edge that you need in order to make the creative decision. And I think that's just something I get to work on continuously.

But you can have creativity in anything right?

My son and I have recently been doing this thing where he'll pick out meals from the chef on TikTok and we'll cook them and it's been really fun.”

“What I've realized about cooking is that I came to it as something that kept me busy and something I was really fascinated about, intellectually. But as I think back, all these years later, feeding people is definitely an honor.”

What are you and your son (Avi, age 14) making from TikTok?

“We make a lot of fried meat sandwiches!”(She laughs.) “We have also made pambazo, which is a Mexican sandwich.

And chicken paprikash, that’s pretty healthy. We made doner kebab the other day that turned out pretty well. I would never think to make doner kebab for dinner! It's so tasty. And that's only thanks to Avi because, if left to my own devices, we're just going to have Triscuits for dinner.

The thing you'll find with a lot of cooks is when you cook all day, when you get home you think, ‘ I can't even figure out this simple thing. So here’s your Triscuit! Here's some cheddar cheese.’ I really love mustard, so I’ll put out mustard and just eat Triscuits.”

What’s next for you?

“Food tours! That’s what I expect in my dotage. I'm going to sort of slither out of BernBaum’s and then just go learn, go travel. I do love travel. And there was a 15 year period where I honestly didn't even get to Winnipeg.

Travel is such a such a mind-bender. I spent a year abroad when I was in college. I was in France—the south of France—and Spain. It’s what drew me to cooking because my host family were phenomenal cooks. They kind of blew my mind. I ate so much.

I've been finalizing a (BernBaum’s) cookbook. My sisters are both writers and one is a publisher. And so it's been a project that's been on the back burner for a long time.”

Other than your host family’s excellent cooking, what made you decide to be a chef?

“Food is one of those basic ways in which we care for people and we care for ourselves, emotionally and psychologically. I was just reading something about loneliness, how we're having this loneliness epidemic post-pandemic. Food is one of the things that you see other people for, right? Food—or even coffee—is actually sort of an antidote. It’s a very simple antidote to a lot to some of the ills that we that we face.

What I've realized about cooking is that I came to it as something that kept me busy and something I was really fascinated about, intellectually. But as I think back, all these years later, feeding people is definitely an honor.

We get the opportunity to change peoples’ days sometimes, just by feeding them lunch. Food, I believe, is just this basic way in which we communicate to people that we care about them.

I feel like I’m really successful when someone says, ‘I really like this,’ or ‘This took me back.’ We have a customer who said, ‘Your latkes reminded me of the latkes of my childhood in New York.’

That’s so awesome. That's great, that that people get to feel a connection. So that’s definitely why I do it.” [ aw ]

AmandaandAdam

Written By Caitlin Pallai

Health

Amanda Kelley remembers when her eldest daughter, Elsie, complained of neck pain.

“I put her hair up, and when I didn’t notice anything, I suggested she see her dad so he could give her a neck massage as maybe she slept funny,” explains Amanda.

“I remember her going to Adam and he gave me a look and said, ‘Oh, I know why her neck is hurting.’”

Elsie had a very large – and painful – lymph node on the left side of her neck. “My thoughts immediately went to the worst,” admits Amanda. “It was a terrible,

Elsie Kelley, Patient at EssentiaHealth

Photographs Supplied By Essentia

Kelley, with their children

horrible feeling. My heart sank in my stomach, and I thought, ‘We need to go to walk-in, now.’”

The Kelley family visited the Essentia HealthSouth University pediatrics walk-in clinic on Feb. 9, 2022. Elsie was prescribed an antibiotic for swollen lymph nodes.

When Elsie’s condition didn’t improve, Amanda followed up with the family’s long-time pediatrician, Essentia nurse practitioner Sarah Stoops. Sarah has seen Elsie since she was six months old, as well as her two younger siblings. They all affectionately call her “Dr. Sarah.”

Swollen lymph nodes are part of the body’s response to infection; it’s fighting back.

“Usually with antibiotics, the body realizes it should stop and the swelling reduces,” Sarah explains. “This wasn’t the case with Elsie, whose swelling increased after the first round of antibiotics and was part of the reason we investigated further.” Sarah scheduled Elsie for an ultrasound in March. For Amanda, seeing Sarah was reassuring.

“You feel a little silly for being overly nervous and we don’t go to the doctor often, so I was going back and forth about this,” states Amanda. “Sarah listened to me and made me feel like what was happening was important. She calmed me but also agreed that this was a concern and we needed to look further, and here’s our game plan.

“This was more than something that could be addressed by antibiotics, but not fully explainable by myself,” explains Sarah, who recommended Elsie see Dr. David Tsen, who specializes in ear, nose and throat procedures at Essentia. “Collaborating with Dr. Tsen was really great as he picked up where I started.”

Dr. Tsen quickly laid out a plan.

“Dr. Tsen was very direct, which I appreciated,” admits Amanda. “I needed someone to tell me exactly what we were doing, this is why and when, and this is how it’s going to go, versus me making that decision.”

Surgery, to collect tissue for testing, was scheduled for April 29. “They got us in fairly quickly, but we opted to push back just a little to ensure Elsie could enjoy her seventh birthday party and vacation first,” explains Amanda. “I didn’t want to take that away from her before her world could have been flipped upside down. I had to make a mom call, but it was hard because I also wanted to know what was going on with my child.”

Amanda remembers the anxiety of surgery day and how Elsie wanted to run out. “The OR team was amazing,” she says. “The anesthesiologist put on a movie and gave Elsie some medication to help her relax. After a bit, they scooped her up with her blanket and papa bear and took her to the operating room.”

In less than an hour, Dr. Tsen was back to explain that all went well, the growth had been removed, and it was being sent for review.

A few days later, the results were in; the tissue belonged to benign reactive lymph nodes with associated lymphangioma, a non-cancerous fluid-filled cyst.

“This was the best news ever,” says Amanda.

to find someone who could.

“And she did.”

Outside of her stitches, Elsie felt like herself shortly after surgery.

“I tell everybody how much I love the pediatrics team at Essentia,” Amanda adds. “I’ve always felt heard, they’ve been wonderful. They make my kids feel great and that’s important to me.”

“We listen to our families, and in this case, mom’s gut,” says Sarah. “She came to us, and we listened to her. This was part of the reason we got on this so quickly.” [ aw ]

Lymph nodes in children are usually less than half an inch across. Elsie’s was over an inch in length.

This was a byproduct of how Elsie’s body processed infection, according to Dr. Tsen. He recommended that Amanda and Adam continue to watch Elsie’s remaining lymph nodes and added that surgery wouldn’t necessarily be needed every time.

To learn more about our Pediatrics services, visit EssentiaHealth.org

“It was so reassuring. I felt like we were on the same page and that we were a team.”

“I kept telling people that Sarah didn’t give up. Sarah didn’t stop,” explains Amanda. “She was going to find us an answer and if she couldn’t do it, she was going

Sarah Stoops, APRN, CNP, Essentia Health

Bamboo Striated Hoop Earrings

Sterling silver and 18K yellow gold bamboo striated hoop earrings with snap lock.

$795.00 at GUNDERSONS, 5601 28th Ave S, Fargo, ND

Explore your beauty and style, explore a new hobby, explore the great outdoors!

All items available at Scheels Home & Hardware, 3202 13th Ave S, Fargo, ND

Would you like to read the full Mayo Clinic study? www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/ article/S0025-6196(23)00112-X/fulltext

the economic cost of hot flashes and night sweats

A recent study by the Mayo Clinic finally puts a price tag on the economic cost of hot flashes and night sweats. Over 4,400 women between ages 45-60 responded to Mayo’s polling on their menopausal symptoms.

The results are in. A full 11% of women polled are missing work days each year due to menopause. The annual cost to the US economy from those lost days is $1.8 billion and when you factor in annual medical expenses related to menopausal symptoms, the cost balloons to over $26 billion.

There also may be some significant hidden costs that go beyond just dollars spent and days lost. “Many women in midlife are at a time in their lives when they are experiencing career successes and achieving leadership roles,” the study authors explain. “That women may opt out of employment, and consequently out of the leadership development pipeline, identifies a potentially unrecognized reason for the leaky leadership pipeline and the paucity of women in senior leadership positions.”

Given the enormous cost to the economy and the potential chilling effect on career advancement and professional development, it would stand to reason that we would tackle menopause with all the tools at our disposal. However, there is a big reason why menopausal symptoms may be undertreated. The authors reference this in their study:

“The use of menopausal hormone therapy, the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms (VMS), (such as hot flashes and night sweats), has drastically declined due to safety concerns raised with the publication of the Women’s Health Initiative trials (starting in 1991), adding to the potential menopause symptom burden experienced by women. Subsequent publication of the Women’s Health Initiative trial results by decade of life has provided reassuring long-term data leading to the conclusion that the benefits of hormone therapy typically outweigh the risks for most healthy, symptomatic women under the age of 60 years.”

The good news is that effective therapeutic options are readily available. Prescription hormone therapy can be ordered by your healthcare provider to help reduce symptoms related to menopause including: hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, insomnia, irritability, depression, memory loss, decreased libido, and weight gain.

If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, you are encouraged to talk to your healthcare provider about whether hormone therapy is right for you. Some hormone therapy prescription options are available at your local pharmacy. In addition there are compounding pharmacies that specialize in helping patients navigate menopause through individual counseling and customized prescription options. [ aw ]

For those who may be interested in an individualized approach to improve menopausal symptoms simply go to:

www.inhealthcompounding. com/balance

where you can sign up for a Hormone and Wellness consult.

This study is just another voice confirming what many of us already suspect to be true, that accumulating more stuff won’t make us happy. But spending time doing interesting things and connecting with people we love truly has mood-boosting effects.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and learn some new skills and make some memories. These woman-owned businesses and female-fronted non-profit organizations give you plenty of options to choose from.

“People derive more happiness from their experiences than from their possessions,” explains Amit Kumar in an interview with the The University of Texas at Austin’s news department. The study Kumar co-authored appeared in the May 2020 issue of the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology.

Get crafty at Unglued

Ashley Morken and her husband and business partner Justin Morken have long presided over a modern craft empire that includes a workshop-heavy Craft Fest, popular spring and fall retreats, a cult classic summer camp for adults, and a shop that stocks treasures made by artists and creatives across the Midwest and beyond. However, Unglued entered a new phase in its evolution when it moved its both retail operation and its popular workshops into the Brewhalla food, beer, and entertainment complex in April.

An expanded, on-site workshop space called the Craftorium allows the Unglued crew to lean into its already deep selection of classes for kids, teens, and adults. You don’t need any art or crafting experience to thrive at Unglued—enthusiasm and curiosity are more than enough. Ashley Morken says there are a variety of classes already on the schedule for the summer and more will be added as the season progresses.

“We'll be doing quilling, painting (acrylic and watercolor), wood turning, leatherwork, embroidery, macrame, ceramics and wheel throwing, disco plants, stained glass, concrete pots and plants, drawing, and more,” she says. “We'll also have some (workshops) in collab with Leika Sensory Creations, so adults can do their workshop while kids do sensory play nearby with them.” Unglued

1702 1st Ave. N, Fargo 701-205-1597

ungluedmarket.com

Photos by Studio Freshly

Paddle the Red with River Keepers

If an active experience is more your style, try a unique one that you can’t have anywhere else in the world—paddling down the Red River in a canoe or kayak. Despite the fact that it’s quite easy and the river is accessible to most visitors, many locals have never seen the city from the water on a sunny summer day.

Moorhead Parks and Recreation and River Keepers, a conservation-focused non-profit organization headed by Executive Director Christine Holland, combine their efforts to make it easy to explore this underrated resource. Just go to the Hjemkomst Landing to rent a canoe or kayak.

Rentals are open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. The $10 hourly rental fee covers also covers your paddles and life jacket. The Hjemkomst Landing only accepts cash, so hit the ATM before you arrive or use the one inside the Moorhead museum of the same name. (The landing is located at the edge of the parking lot near the water.)

To get out with a group, sign up for the Discover the Red River Paddling Excursions on several Wednesdays during the summer months. They include a quick refresher course on paddling and safety basics and detailed information about the plants, animals, geography, and history that make this waterway special.

Register in advance on the website, as vessels are limited. The excursions cost $10 if you bring your own vessel or $15 if you rent one. Kids 5 and under are free.

Hjemkomst Landing

202 1st Ave. N, Moorhead cityofmoorhead.com/departments/ parks-recreation/on-the-river

Kick up your heels at Spirit Room

Spend the summer spinning across the dance floor The Spirit Room just celebrated 25 years under the direction of Executive Director and Founder Dawn Morgan. And this downtown Fargo institution hosts an array of dance classes all season long. Some require advance registration, while others drop-in classes. Just check out the website for more information.

To learn classic dances like the rumba, cha cha, swing, waltz, tango, and foxtrot, sign up for ballroom dance with Rebecca Kotchian. She offers a six-week group class as well as private lessons.

On Fridays, study Indian dancing with Margaret Sam. She’s a professional Bharatnatym dancer who teaches classical and Indian folk dances for all ages and skill levels. Pre-registration is required.

You can also check out the regular Sunday afternoon tango sessions or Monday night salsa dance lessons. Both classes are beginner friendly.

Spirit Room

111 Broadway N, Fargo 701-237-0230 spiritroom.org

Photos supplied by Hjemkomst Landing

Paint a Masterpiece at The Art Bar

If painting with your pals is a priority this summer, you’re in luck. The Art Bar in West Fargo offers private painting parties in a welcoming, low-stress atmosphere. Your group can be tiny (just you and a friend) or as large as 24 people. Arranging your private painting session is easy.

“All you have to do is call or email me and set up a day or time,” explains owner Betty Peterson. “Then you just go on my website and choose a painting that your party would want to do.”

Peterson says that the adorably shaggy highland cows and abstract flowers are popular at the moment. But there are dozens of subjects and styles to choose from, including calming landscapes, whimsical gnomes, and festive holiday scenes. And the best part is, you don’t need a single second of painting experience to create a painting you’ll be proud to display.

“I guide them,” Peterson explains. “I actually stand in front of them and teach them step by step how to paint a masterpiece.

The Art Bar is open seven days a week, by appointment only. Book your session anytime between 10:30 a.m. through 7 p.m. Additional details and painting options are available online.

The Art Bar

18 1st St., West Fargo 701-793-8835

theartbarwfgo@gmail.com

theartbarwfgo.com

Get destructive at Havoc House

The other locations on this list focus on creation, on learning new skills, or building on what we already know. But Havoc House, run by Janel Kerbaugh and her husband Travis Kerbaugh, is all about destruction in the best possible way. So throw all that enrichment out the window for the moment, because sometimes you just need make a mess to break something.

Every single aspect of this downtown attraction promises an immersive experience that’s a whole lot more physical than dinner and a movie. Havoc House is a 6,600-square-foot demolition zone, complete with smash rooms, competition level axe throwing lanes, a splash room and paint tossing area, and a gel blaster arena.

Get messy in the splatter and splash zone with kids ages five and older. Or try a gel blaster battle with a group. (It’s like paintball, just without the “ouch” factor.) Axe throwing is a fun way to blow off some steam and try something new.

But for the ultimate thrill, you just can’t beat the rush of a smash room. Just don the provided protective apparel, select a bat, crowbar, or a hammer and start smashing stuff (including electronics, plates, and wine bottles) into smithereens. It’s like that scene famous scene in Office Space where they destroy the printer, but even more satisfying. And it makes a great story later, too.

Havoc House

222 Broadway N #200, Fargo 701-478-4664

havochousefargo.com

Paint and create at Clay Your Way

This Fargo studio makes it easy to paint your own unique pottery creation. Owner Abby Januszewski says that mugs and gifts featuring kids’ hand and footprints are very popular. Clay Your Way also stocks “all sorts of useful things,” including salt and pepper shakers, measuring cups, planters, and bowls just waiting to be customized. You can book a pottery painting party for 6-18 people or just drop in on a whim.

“Our main studio is just walk-in, so it’s first come, first served and you can come anytime,” Abby Januszewski explains. “We just recommend coming an hour before closing so you have enough time to paint.”

This soothing experience is open to painters of any age and skill level. Clay Your Way also offers take-home projects that are a good fit for families with kids or anyone who wants to take a little extra time or finish a project in their own space. No matter where you paint, Januszewski recommends sharing the experience with someone you love.

“You can make art, but it’s also a really fun time just be with the people you want to be with,” she says. “It’s a good way to make some memories.” [ aw ]

Clay Your Way

4600 17th Ave. S, Fargo 701-356-9229

clayyourway.com

Photo Supplied By Havoc House

Photos Supplied By Clay Your Way

response by :: jessica hoeper

Dear Sue,

What a great wondering! Control is a funny concept. We all feel like there are areas where we have control, need control, or don’t have control. Control often feels safe and certain. Did you know some synonyms of control are power, authority, command, and dominance?

Some things we try to control and cannot (i.e., others, time and the weather)! Time ticks by without any ability to control it, but we most certainly can influence what we do within it. I often wonder if the barrier to control that is most frustrating is not being self-aware of what we really have some “control” over. I can control the things I do that influence others, but I cannot actually control the other.

As a yearly practice, my circle of women and I come up with a word or phrase for our year ahead. My aunt’s phrase was “walk on the sunny side of the street”. This seems so interconnected to acceptance of what we can control and what we cannot. You cannot control which side of the street is sunny, but you are free to choose which side to walk on and that is what makes the difference in outcome. Control can be converse to adventure, when what we are trying to control is outside of us! Adventure is stepping out of our controlled comfort zone.

It is a great personal practice to self-reflect on what we are trying to control and what we can really control. We most certainly cannot control others, but we can often control our own mind, thoughts, free will, and choices. There are of course exceptions to this, not to minimize intense emotional pain. I am thinking along the line of thoughts that occur in situations like when someone cuts me off in traffic, I can choose to be mad and flick them off or I can choose to assume that everyone has moments and offer that driver forgiveness. The thought I choose in that moment will have direct impact on my day, not theirs. My thought in that moment was controllable. When I wonder about control, and really get connected to what I have control or influence over, it is so internal and within me. This is where my curiosity peaks about how to build our self-awareness muscle, our eyes look outside of our body, easily considering the things we see as controllable. When really, the things we have control and influence over like free will and thoughts are derived internally. The idea that control could have ease and flexibility is built through intentional self-reflection, hanging our own mirrors.

Thank you, Sue, for participating in this wondrous space! You are appreciated, and sparking us all to consider what we try to control and what is really in our control! I am so honored to join readers in this way. Until next time!

Your friend, Jess P.S.

Write to me with your “wondering whys.”, a column where we can join in honest, real and love filled conversation around our shared wonderings. Let’s collectively as women share this wonder filled journey of life together! I plan to respond to a reader’s “wondering why” in each issue.

You can email questions to me at wonderingwhywithjess@outlook.com.

I can’t wait to connect! Your “wondering” may be featured in an upcoming issue! [ aw ]

Hi Jess, I wonder why people want to control things; I wonder how we decide what is “controllable”?

Best, Sue

Have you ever met someone so inspiring, you instantly get teary-eyed, even before meeting them? That was the exact reaction I had sitting in the parking lot at the Red River Zoo on the morning of my interview with Sally Jacobson.

As I sat in my vehicle, watching parents with their children file into the building, I was instantly transported back to my childhood and my very first memory of going to the zoo. The things I remembered in that moment were a completely untainted, wide-eyed look into a world of wonder (cue wavy scenes from an 80’s Friday night sitcom). I thought about pockets heavy with quarters to put into a red candy machine that distributed corn instead of candy while walking the winding sidewalks alongside peacocks that roamed as freely as the zoo visitors did. I recalled watching the otters playing as I heard baying goats in the distance and monkeys swinging from limb to limb gazing at me in just as much wonder as I was showing them. And then, cue to the reality of adulting.

Whether what I was watching was it was the first or tenth visit for those kids filing in that morning, the smiles on their faces as they waited for their Saturday adventure to begin were familiar to the core and their excited energy radiated throughout the lobby. No adult present could escape from remembering that old familiar feeling of kinder.

As a group of Daisies started their day of adventure, I was left in the lobby with two white-faced Saki monkeys, Comet and Zeke. As we stared at each other through the glass between us, I secretly wished I was one of the Daisies, embarking on a day full of meeting amazing creatures, learning, and crafts. Unfortunately, I think a strange adult, unaccompanied by a child, following a group of kids, would seem a bit odd! Still, it made me think of how fun their day would be and how much they would take in from such an awesome adventure.

Sally Jacobson, CEO of the Red River Valley Zoo, gets to live the life of wide-eyed wonderment every day. One of her first memories as a child was visiting a zoo in Washington D.C. and seeing a polar bear exhibit. “When I was very small, we lived in Arlington VA. My parents would take my sister and I to the National Zoo quite often. This is where my first memories formed, memories that put me on a path leading to my life's work. I remember, very clearly, seeing the polar bear swimming through the underwater viewing area. From that moment on, I knew that I wanted to work to protect animals when I “grew up.”” This aspiration is one that Sally has fully achieved and lives every day. With a degree in Anthropology, she continues to live her passion in her hometown of Fargo.

Zoos today are nothing like what you remember from the past. It is very important for the animals to be given a choice and control over their environment to thrive. Each individual animal has a specific and extensive training and education they must go through. Learning everything

“ My parents would take my sister and I to the National Zoo quite often. This is where my first memories formed, memories that put me on a path leading to my life's work.

Sally Jacobson

from how to go into a kennel for transport or like the Sichuan Takin who, after six years of patient training, learned to accept a blood draw. “They are never forced into learning and it can take however long it needs for an animal to learn a behavior. Each of our animals has an individual training plan, which changes over the course of their lifetime based on a number of factors. We use positive reinforcement to shape behaviors. We start with basic behaviors and build on them. Some animals progress very quickly and others can take more time depending upon various factors.”

Sally’s favorite animals at the zoo are the people who come and visit. “It is incredible, seeing the family bonds the zoo can help bring together, especially after the pandemic.” Being isolated for such a long time really played a large part in the decline of mental health, but having places like the Red River Zoo are an integral part in bringing families and communities together.

Sally took time away from zoo life to raise her own children. “I was home for about five years when my kids were small. During that time, I was the resident manager at Ronald McDonald House on Broadway for a couple of years. I enjoyed visiting with the guests and making every effort I could to ensure that their stay at RMHC was as comfortable as possible.” Her children are teenagers now, a 16 year old boy and a 14 year old girl. “I am very lucky; they are fun, easy going, and compassionate teens.” While she was away from zoo life, she felt like an artist without a paintbrush. When she was ready to adapt back into zoo life, the previous Executive Director, Lisa Tate, took her under her wing. “I was so grateful to be mentored by Lisa; she had an outstanding reputation both within the zoo world and at other non-profit organizations.”

Fewer than 10% of zoos are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which means the Red River Zoo has the highest standards for a zoological institution. Accredited zoos are a tightly-knit group. “Everyone wants everyone to succeed. There is no competition, only a combined effort to provide the best quality of life and dignity every living thing deserves.”

All the animals at the Red River Zoo are specifically chosen to because of their ability to adapt to the North Dakota climate. The Red River Zoo participates in Species Survival Plans (SSPS) for several key species. SSP programs are led by expert advisors who cooperatively work together to maximize genetic diversity and appropriately manage the demographic distribution and long-term sustainability for specific animal species. There is a lot of strategic planning that goes into every species and no breeding of an animal is done unless there is a place and purpose for it. “Every animal deserves a place to live that is beautiful and purposeful,” Sally states.

“ Every animal deserves a place to live that is beautiful and purposeful.

Sally Jacobson

Sally’s passion for wildlife and wild places goes beyond the work she does at the zoo. She is the Board President for a national nonprofit called the Wildlife Restoration Foundation along with also being on the MSUM Oceanarium advisory board. When she finds some free time, she spends her time enjoying nature: kayaking, hiking, climbing trees, snowshoeing, and mushrooming. “Nature centers me and gives me energy.”

The Red River Zoo not only has a superwoman as its leader, but a stellar group of caring and compassionate individuals who commit their life's work to the animals they care for. The zoo has a full time veterinarian with a surgery room. There is an education department for ongoing learning for everyone to continue their knowledge on the sections of individual animals they care for. “Our zoo is filled with passionate and knowledgeable staff, working along with volunteers and community members to create meaningful experiences. Each day brings new reasons to smile, new challenges to overcome, and innovative ideas. For me, it is the perfect mix. I get to facilitate scientific research, implement fun educational programming, create opportunities for families to have fun, AND ensure exceptional care for a variety of unique animal species. It is an absolute joy.”

Giving the animals the utmost care in regards to their environment, mental and emotional health,

and their diets. They get a food delivery truck like most restaurants and they have a program with the local authorities when a deer gets hit. They bring it in for the wolves, so the wolves are able to eat as close to what their natural habit would provide and the life of the deer is not wasted, but used for good.

The Red River Zoo is unique as it was built from the passion of volunteerism and donations from the Fargo community. “Everything is here because of the community coming together.” Located on 34 acres, the zoo has plenty of room to spread its wings. When asked what’s on the horizon for the fearless leader of the pack, she was more than happy to share her vision and is ready to implement it!

Master Plan

“The zoo has a dynamic strategic master plan. The master plan details potential future exhibits, guest amenities, play spaces, guest circulation, and operational needs. Within the plan, the zoo is divided geographically with the main areas being: North America, Asia, and a future space called Viking Wilderness. In addition to the geographically based exhibits, we also have the Children’s Zoo farm and Diederich Family Carousel. There are a plethora of amazing animals that could be featured in each area. The master plan is a living document that is reviewed annually along with our business plan and is broken down into smaller, achievable goals. It gives us a road map for the future and our future is exciting!”

“

I get to facilitate scientific research, implement fun educational programming, create opportunities for families to have fun, AND ensure exceptional care for a variety of unique animal species.

It is an absolute joy.

Sally Jacobson

A Conservation Plan

The importance of conservation is demonstrated in the Red River Zoo’s Mission and Vision statements. “Although considered a smaller institution, we believe we can make a real and measurable impact on our visitors and our community.” In addition, the zoo believes they have an important role to play in the conservation of cold climate species. “Our conservation plan provides the framework for institutional energy and natural resource conservation efforts, contributing to and supporting in-situ and ex-situ conservation programs, and fostering a culture of conservation among our visitors and program participants through conservation messaging and by connecting people to nature. Every exhibit we create keeps the goals of our conservation plan top of mind as we develop the exhibit design, educational messaging, and opportunities for action.”

Amur Tigers Plan

The master plan includes some pretty dynamic animals. One animal species that has always been on the zoo’s collection plan is Amur tigers, previously known as Siberian tigers. Amur tigers are the largest cat species in the world and are an IUCN Red List Endangered species. “We feel that they would be a perfect fit for our zoo, given our dedication to caring for cold adapted species and our mission of helping to save animals from extinction.” When designing new exhibits, the zoo is dedicated to providing the highest quality habitat for each animal, one that provides high quality of life and welfare for the animal, while also giving guests a beautiful experience. “We are in the beginning phase of exploring the possibility

of creating an Amur tiger exhibit at our zoo This includes designing a dynamic space, developing a potential budget, and conducting a feasibility study to determine if our community would support the capital campaign. Our zoo relies completely on earned revenue and philanthropy to operate and grow, so feedback from community stakeholders is an essential piece of the puzzle prior to moving forward. I love that our zoo has been created for our community, by our community!”

A Lantern Festival

“In addition to creating new exhibits and updating older exhibits, the zoo also examines new ways we can provide unique experiences to its guests. One way is through events. We have established annual events that guests look forward to like Zoo Brew and Boo at the Zoo. But as we grow, there is potential to bring in seasonal experiences like lantern festivals or animatronic dinosaurs. I would absolutely love to have a colorful, knock your socks off lantern festival featuring large animal and plant lanterns throughout the zoo.” In order to do this, the zoo will need to invest in its infrastructure and secure funding for the exhibit. “We are making great progress on addressing our infrastructure needs and I think our community would absolutely love to see a large scale lantern festival. We just need to find partners to help make it happen. That’s one thing that is so fun about our zoo. It’s the direct result of a caring community and individual people that want to make magic happen!”

Education & Therapy Programs

“I am really proud of the zoo’s educational programs. We have a small-but-mighty education team that hosts classes, camps and internship opportunities for people of all ages.” They also reach people off site through their Zoomobile, which brings our educational programming to schools, daycares, and senior living centers. They reach thousands of people each year through these fun and educational experiences. “We are constantly assessing the needs of our community and looking for

new ways we can be of service. We are currently looking at how we can provide therapeutic programs for individuals with memory loss. It’s quite exciting! It is so gratifying to know that the work we do impacts people in so many ways. We love collaborating with people and organizations to provide meaningful experiences. It’s one of the reasons we get up in the morning.”

Working at a zoo is a lifestyle, one requiring dedication and compassion. “It is an honor to take care of rare and endangered species,” Sally comments.

Sally’s passion for the zoo is evident with every breath she takes, every word she speaks, and every animal she encounters, including the human ones. The zoo and its inhabitants are her world and life's work, we are all just lucky enough to get a glimpse into the life of an extraordinary woman who is making an impact on the lives of so many in and outside of the zoo. She is a standout example of human kindness.

We are all long overdue for a walk of wide-eyed wonderment down memory lane. Hop in your vehicle, turn on Simon and Garfunkel’s “At the Zoo”, and introduce your children to your inner child. It’s time for a day of laughter and adventure and it’s all happening at the zoo! [ aw ]

words from :: megan elgin

Oh,how wonderful the first rays of summer sun feel! As I write this, summer is just around the corner. I hope you, dear reader, are soaking up the sunshine as you read about the titles that made me feel like summer, even before it arrived. From a resort in the Catskills to adventure in the air with a flight attendant, summer music festivals to a road trip for the whole family, these reads are sure to keep you entertained all season long.

Last Summer at the Golden Hotel

by Elyssa Friedland

If your summer memories include family reunions or sunny days at a favorite lake resort, a trip to the Golden Hotel will be a hit of nostalgia perfect for your summer reading list.

Area Woman’s resident Bookista, Megan Elgin, serves you up with books worthy of spending your entire afternoon with. Search for Megan by name on Goodreads or @meganann on Litsy and find out what she’s reading now.

Read one of these books? Searching for something new to read? Tell us what you thought by using #areawomanbooks in your online review or send me an email with requests and questions at bookishmeganann@gmail.com.

“Last Summer at the Golden Hotel” follows the Goldman and Weingold families as they reunite for one last summer in the Catskills. The Golden Hotel was the crowning jewel of the Catskills vacation scene in its heyday. Built by friends and business partners Benny Goldman and Amos Weingold more than sixty years ago, the hotel is now outdated and slowly falling into disrepair. When a tempting offer to sell comes in, the families convene at their beloved hotel to make a decision — can they save the Golden or is it too late?

Filled with drama, humor, secrets and scandal, this novel follows the two families from the grandparents who built the Golden into a glamorous resort to their children and grandchildren all struggling with their own lives both inside and outside the hotel. They all get a vote on what happens to the resort, and the ending is not quite what you might expect. Fans of tv series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Schitt’s Creek” will love this one!

LOVED THIS?

If you want more nostalgic memories while saving the estate and uncovering family secrets for your next read, pick up “The Audrey Hepburn Estate” by Brenda Janowitz. For something fun, lighthearted and vacation inspiring try “People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry.

Fly Girl: A Memoir

by Ann Hood

Maybe your dream summer vacation is to fly off to an exciting destination? This memoir of Ann Hood’s time as a flight attendant in the 80's is a must read.

Fresh out of college in 1978, Hood knows she wants to experience the world. She applies to be a flight attendant for every major airline of the time from Pan Am to United. After countless interviews, she accepts an offer from TWA and heads off to training where she learns everything from how to mix cocktails to emergency procedures — including evacuation of seven different types of aircraft — and most importantly how to stay calm in any situation. Adventure awaits and in the air Hood finds both the exciting new experiences she dreamed of and the unexpected realities of her job. She tosses salad and serves drinks, finds romance in more than one far flung destination, deals with sexist standards on the job and unwanted advances of passengers, and dines in front of the pyramids in Cairo. She walks more than a million miles in high heels through deregulation, an oil crisis, furloughs and a labor strike. And as the airline industry changed around her, Hood began to write her own stories.

Capturing funny, moving and shocking stories of life as a flight attendant, I loved the way she includes the history of air travel amidst her personal stories. She also addresses the sexist standards a career as a flight attendant was built on — including weigh-ins and height, age and size restrictions — and I appreciate the way she does so while also revealing how the job ultimately empowered her. This is a fascinating read that captures the glamor of air travel at its height.

LOVED THIS?

“The Great Stewardess Rebellion” by Nell McShane Wulfhart is about the group of spirited stewardesses who fought for their rights as women. Looking for more travel stories … perhaps with the entire family in tow? How about “At Home in the World” by Tsh Oxenreider where the author chronicles her family’s adventure around the globe with three kids under ten.

Songs in Ursa Major

by Emma Brodie

If summer brings to mind music festivals and warm nights outside listening to live performances, “Songs in Ursa Major” is the beach read you’ve been looking for.

The story itself kicks off in July 1969 at the Bayleen Island Folk Fest. Folk rock star and festival headliner Jesse Reid is in a motorcycle crash on the way to the show opening the door for a new star to take the stage. Local band The Breakers is asked to fill in and lead singer Jane Quinn delivers the performance of a lifetime, stopping the disappointed audience in their tracks. As Jane navigates the production of her first record with her band, she forms a friendship with the recovering Jesse and he soon becomes her advocate. A shared calling turns to a passionate love affair and when the two bands go on tour together, Jane is captivated by the life of a rock star — late nights, giant stadiums, wild parties and media attention. So focused on navigating her new fame, Jane is blind-sided when she stumbles across Jesse’s dark secret. With nowhere to turn, Jane finds herself battling her own shadowed past and pours everything into writing what will become one of the most iconic albums of the decade.

LOVED THIS?

If you want more summer music festival vibes try “Three Day Summer” by Sarvenaz Tash. Looking for romantic longing, escaping through travel and secrets that change the narrative?

Pick up “Halfway to You” by Jennifer Gold.

People can’t help but compare this novel to “Daisy Jones and The Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. While they have some similar themes revolving around music and art, “Songs in Ursa Major” is solidly its own story. It pulses with romantic longing and questions how much female artists are expected to sacrifice for their dreams.

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise

by Dan Gemeinhart

A road trip read you can share with the entire family! This middle grade novel (written for ages 9-12) follows twelve-year-old Coyote and her dad, Rodeo, as they travel the country in an old school bus. Coyote hasn’t been home in five years. That’s also how long ago she lost her mom and two sisters in a car crash. She’s been crisscrossing the American landscape living on the road with her dad ever since. When she learns the park in her old neighborhood is being demolished, she devises an elaborate plan to get her dad to drive 3,600 miles back to Washington state in four days … without him realizing it. Along the way, they’ll pick up a crew of misfit travelers who soon become the friends they didn’t know they needed.

LOVED

THIS?

My family also loved “Some Kind of Courage” by the same author. It was a fantastic audiobook listen during a previous summer road trip.

A journey of thousands of miles teaches Coyote that friends can be found along the way … and with them by her side, she can still go home. A heartfelt saga that deals with grief in a way that kids will relate to while still being overall a fun read.

Moms, you might want to have a box of tissues nearby as Coyote and Rodeo find their way back home — I got a bit emotional towards the end, but in the best kind of way. And this would be a great family read for school age kids and teens where you can discuss the choices Rodeo and Coyote make. [ aw ]

I JUST DID THE NEXT THING IN FRONT OF ME.

Anne Blackhurst

— President, MSUM

Nothing in Anne Blackhurst’s early academic life suggested she would one day become a university president.

In high school, adults told her she wasn’t living up to her potential. In her first year of college, she failed several classes. And then, something changed. A treasured teacher told her she was capable of doing so much more. That encouragement transformed her life.

Blackhurst has served as president of Minnesota State University Moorhead since 2014, when she was named its 11th president. She stepped into the role after three years of serving as the university’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.

She will retire in June.

Blackhurst never dreamed that she would join this elite calling in higher education. Every experience prepared her for the next. “I just did the next thing in front of me,” she says.

But she also never forgets what it took to get there. “It’s important for students to hear these types of stories,” she says. “It’s important for them to hear that you can struggle and not be defined by that.”

As a new university president, Blackhurst wanted to rebuild MSUM’s reputation and increase its visibility. She accomplished this by encouraging the campus to focus on what makes it distinctive and building stronger relationships with the community.

The university’s values – grit, humility, and heart – were always part of a Dragon identity. During Blackhurst’s tenure, however, emphasizing those values became key to building pride and embracing what it means to be part of the MSUM community.

Article and Photos supplied by MSUM

Blackhurst lived out those values early on. She saw one of her roles as being a walking, talking logo for the university. At first this meant wearing splashes of red. Then she slipped on a signature piece of clothing: her red blazer.

But this also meant connecting with others through humor. In the days before her installation as president, President Anne bobbleheads showed up. An early adopter of social media, she willingly stopped to take selfies with students as she strolled through campus. The #Annefan hashtag became part of her story as she shared MSUM’s.

“Humility is about not taking yourself too seriously and that’s important when interacting with students,” she says. “It’s about trying to have fun while getting work done.”

These were small but visible steps that established pride throughout the campus. “That’s where you need to start. If we don’t feel pride in our institution, we can’t portray that externally,” she says. “This is a special place.”

Next, Blackhurst worked tirelessly to demonstrate how central the university is to Fargo-Moorhead’s social, cultural, and economic well-being.

She stepped into community leadership roles with the United Way, the local Chamber of Commerce, Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, and Downtown Moorhead, Inc., among others.

Anne Blackhurst — President, MSUM

She led efforts to establish strong partnerships with businesses like Essentia Health and Forum Communications. These relationships provide expanded experiences for students and well-educated employees who can fill local workforce needs.

In addition, Blackhurst built an infrastructure to sustain fundraising by the university. During her tenure, MSUM completed its first comprehensive campaign and raised more than $60 million to support student success, academic programs, and a new alumni center to be completed in the summer of 2024.

“Clearly, she has put MSUM on a sustainable path both programmatically and financially. She will leave behind a lasting legacy and a strong forward-looking institutional momentum,” said Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra in a statement about her retirement.

After retirement, Blackhurst’s plans are simple. She has a son and two grandkids in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she plans to spend more time. She expects to move to the Pacific Northwest.

What will never change is her belief that higher education has the power to change lives. She’s seen it happen in her own life; she sees it happen on campus every day.

MSUM is home to students who are hard-working and gracious, she says. They often have no idea of what they’re capable of achieving until someone believes in them. And that’s where the transformation happens.

“I’m not directly responsible for that, but I witness it and it’s been an honor to be part of it,” she says. [ aw ]

HUMILITY IS ABOUT NOT TAKING YOURSELF TOO SERIOUSLY AND THAT’S IMPORTANT WHEN INTERACTING WITH STUDENTS.

Jun 6/13/20/27

Jul 11/18/25

STORYTIME AT MAIN

If you bring your friends, I'll bring mine to storytime and we'll have a super time! Storytime is every Tuesday at the Main Library (no storytime July 4). Storytime begins at 10am and runs from June 6 to July 26. Families are welcome. Storytime is most appropriate for ages 2 - 6. No pre-registration

TIME: 10 AM

LOCATION: Main Library, 101 4th St North, Fargo

CONTACT: Children's Services 701-241-1495

Jun 7

TEEN VOLUNTEERS AT THE FARGO PUBLIC LIBRARY

Come volunteer at the Fargo Public Library! You can help make the library, earn volunteer hours for clubs or scholarships, and have fun all at the same time! Participants must be 12-18 years old and will need a signed permission slip from a parent or guardian.

TIME: 1 PM

LOCATION: Main Library 101 4th St North, Fargo

CONTACT: Teen Librarian at 701-298-6960

Jun 7/14/21/28

Jul 5/12/19/26

STORYTIME AT CARLSON

If you bring your friends, I'll bring mine to storytime and we'll have a super time! Storytime is every Wednesday at the Dr. James Carlson Library. Storytime begins at 10am and runs from June 6 to July 26. Families are welcome. Storytime is most appropriate for ages 2 - 6. No pre-registration is required.

TIME: 10 AM

LOCATION: Dr. James Carlson

Library, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo

CONTACT: Children's Services 701-241-1495

Jun 11

IGNITE CHURCH OUTDOOR SERVICE

Ignite Church invites you to join us for an outdoor worship service at the Gooseberry Park shelter on Sunday, June 11th at 10:30 am. After the service, we'll enjoy a picnic-style meal, hang out, and play yard games. We are excited to kick off the summer with you all and hope to see you there!

TIME: 10:30 AM

LOCATION: Gooseberry Mound Park 100 22nd Ave S, Moorhead CONTACT: 218-443-1462, info@ignite.church, https://ignitechurchfm.churchcenter. com/calendar/event/123883662

Jun 20

MEET THE MUTTS OF HOMEWARD ANIMAL SHELTER AT THE LIBRARY

Stop by the Carlson Library and visit with adoptable dogs from Homeward Animal Shelter! We are so excited to meet the cuties they have for adoption and hope you will join us. Homeward Animal Shelter (formerly Humane Society Fargo-Moorhead) is a local and community-funded, non-profit animal shelter.

TIME: 4:30 PM

LOCATION: Dr. James Carlson

Library, 2801 32nd Ave. S., Fargo

CONTACT: Lori West at 701-476-5977

Jun 21

CELEBRATE THE LONGEST DAY

June 21 marks the summer solstice in our half of the hemisphere, when the North Pole tilts closest to the sun, giving us our longest day. Let's celebrate the occasion along with people around the world! Kids ages 6-12 are invited to join us at the Main Library for an open house event including sun-related crafts, activities and snacks. No registration is required.

TIME: 2-4 PM

LOCATION: Main Library, 101 4th St North, Fargo CONTACT: Children's Services 701-241-1495

Jun 22

SALAD LUNCHEON

Come and enjoy a variety of salads June 22 from 11-2 at the Moorhead Masonic Family Center 1815 11th St N in Moorhead. The cost is $10 per ticket.

TIME: 11-2 PM

LOCATION: Moorhead Masonic Center 1815 11th St N., Moorhead

CONTACT: https://fb.me/e/4qu1fhK5S / 701-238-3173

FARGO MASONIC VENDOR & CRAFT SHOW

Come to the vendor & craft show and support small businesses. The show will be from 11-3 and lunch will be served from 11-1. It all takes place at the Fargo Masonic Center.

TIME: 11 - 3 PM

LOCATION: Fargo Masonic Center

1405 3rd St N, Fargo

CONTACT: www.fargomasoniccenter.org 701-235-7875

Jul 20

ZOO VISIT TO THE LIBRARY

What amazing animals will the zoo bring to the library this year? Don’t miss out on the Red River Zoo Visit at Fargo Public Library! Stop by the Main Library anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. to see some awesome zoo animals, and do an animal craft!

TIME: 1 PM LOCATION: Main Library, 101 4th St North, Fargo

CONTACT: Children's Services at 701-241-1495

Jul 22

SILENT READING PART AT BEAR CREEK WINERY

B.Y.O. Book or check out a librarian-selected title. Find a cozy spot and a beverage and read with others who appreciate the same. Librarians will be on hand to provide snacks, suggest books, set up library cards, and check out books. This is a 21+ event.

TIME: 2 PM LOCATION: Bear Creek Winery, 8800 25th St S, Fargo

CONTACT: Sarah at 701.241.1492

Jul 24

TRAVELING LANTERN THEATRE PERFORMANCE

Rhonda Appleseed & the Tree that Learned How to Speak

Rhonda is a descendant of Johnny Appleseed, and everyone calls her Ronnie. When she learns about her great great uncle's story, she grows fascinated and then proud. Ronnie decides that she wants to follow in his footsteps. She decides she will protect nature and all the creatures on our planet from climate change. But how? She takes a journey to visit one of the beautiful, kind, wise old apple trees that Johnny planted so long ago to ask how she can help. The tree teaches her that her voice is needed to bring people together to do the right thing. The show is best suited for anyone ages 5 and up.

TIME: 1 PM LOCATION: Main Library, 101 4th St North, Fargo

CONTACT: Children's Services 701-241-1495

SEND US YOUR PICK FOR NEXT ISSUE!

Area Woman magazine celebrates women in the Fargo-Moorhead area who are making a difference. If you would like to nominate someone for this special recognition, please email us at design@areawoman.com

That was Hannah Scheidecker’s response when asked what advice she had for other young female professionals entering law school or the workplace. Hannah has been practicing law in the areas of estate planning, probate, guardianship, mental health, and business since October 2020. After graduating from Concordia College in 2016 with a double major in History and Political Science and a minor in Psychology, Hannah attended the Mitchell Hamline School of Law. She successfully completed the bar exam at the height of the pandemic in 2020, earning her Juris Doctorate and moving back to Fargo-Moorhead.

"Know your worth and do things that challenge you."

Hannah’s keen appreciation and love for social justice, however, did not start in college. Her first encounter with the criminal justice system came from shadowing her father who was and still is a probation officer. Her appreciation for social justice was only further developed during her undergraduate degree at Concordia, of which she was particularly drawn to topics on racial justice. One of Hannah’s biggest influences was Dr. Rick Chapman and a class titled "Black American History," which deepened her understanding of racial injustice and oppression. While at Concordia, Hannah also worked at Creative Care for Reaching Independence (CCRI), where she assisted people with developmental and physical disabilities. For Hannah, her undergraduate coursework combined with her caretaking at CCRI guided her career path: “I knew I wanted to somehow develop this into my career.”

After law school, Hannah started her solo practice in Moorhead, but soon realized she was best suited to join a firm: “I realized I am too much of a people person to do solo practice. To be in a place to brainstorm and interact with colleagues was a huge reason for me to join a firm.” Hannah interviewed with Fremstad Law Firm, eventually joining their firm in 2022.

One of the most exciting and rewarding parts of Hannah’s work is her mental health contract through Clay County. There, she serves as an appointee to represent individuals subject to court appointments and civil commitments. She comments, “Most of the population I serve are disadvantaged with regards to housing security, violence in the home, or other issues that exacerbate chemical dependency issues.” With her trauma informed certification, Hannah hopes to provide a thoughtful and informed experience as they engage with the criminal justice system. Although a challenging

role to assume at times, Hannah remarked on the rewarding side of her job: “It makes me excited to see someone go from lower point to an appreciative stance in their life. Its rewarding to see people no longer need my services.”

Looking to the future, Hannah is looking forward to growing at Fremstad Law and focusing on estate planning, probate, and guardianships. Hannah advises that young female professionals never hesitate to connect with a seasoned professional, always advocate your worth, and continually try do the things that challenge you. [ aw ]

If you’re looking for an estate planning, probate, guardianship, mental health, or business attorney, or if you’d like to connect professionally,

Hannah Scheidecker can be reached at hannah@fremstadlaw.com.

"I realized I am too much of a people person to do solo practice. To be in a place to brainstorm and interact with colleagues was a huge reason for me to join a firm."