CONSTANT—CHANGE THE UNMOVABLE, INEVITABLE,
Happy January, Happy 2025, and Happy magazine rebrand! Yes, you've noticed that what you normally recognize as "Fargo Monthly" has a new logo, a new look, but—the same content. Our caveat, and the reason for the rebrand, our content will be more people-focused. Meaning, we're hearing from people, about people, for people. I, more than most, understand the hesitancy, and even resistance, you may feel with the new look; but, rest assured, I am still here, our amazing magazine designers and editor team is still here, and our trusted community voices are still here to guide us through this change. After all, change is inevitable, right?
Just because we're changing some things in this magazine doesn't mean we're changing everything—of course, I am still going to make this into some life lesson. And, dare I say, this might be one of the most important ones of all—change. The acceptance, the adaption, the fear, the challenge, the peace— all the things that come with change, are things that we have to not only face throughout life but embrace if we're to have any semblance of contentness.
When I face challenges, I like to remind myself of the unmovables in life. Sometimes, unfortunately, sometimes, fortunately, change is one of those constants. Time is constantly moving and change is inevitable, one of my mantras in 2025. I can accept it and not like it, and I can accept it and like it in time.
So, dearest readers, I wish you all a happy start to the new year, remember to embrace all to come this year and remind yourself that all you have for certain is time and with that comes change; and Happy Reading!
Geneva Nodland Editor
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Since 2010, Fargo Monthly has been bringing you positive, community stories and resources and we've loved every minute of it.
Now, Fargo Monthly will be known as Meet Fargo, but don't worry—we're still going to have all of the great content you've come to love Fargo Monthly for, however, we are changing our approach ever so slightly. Our new concept will be more people-focused. We always hear feedback that the people are what makes the Fargo-Moorhead community great (which we agree with). So, we decided, why not meet them?
Each month we’re going to be covering a different topic led by local voices. We’ll meet advocates, experts, and people just like you! We really mean it when we say it's the people that make the community so great. Thank you so much for supporting us over the years. We’re excited to continue to grow with you.
Let’s have a great 2025, and let’s Meet Fargo!
To the right, you can see our tentative content schedule for 2025, which we are looking for your feedback on (email us at brady@spotlightmediafargo.com).
GenerosityHeartland GenerosityHeartland A
Since its inception in 2008, Giving Hearts Day has grown into one of the most significant charitable events in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Organized by the Dakota Medical Foundation (DMF), Impact Foundation, and the Alex Stern Family Foundation, this annual 24-hour giving extravaganza has raised nearly $195 million to support a variety of charities across the region. What began as a single day for giving has evolved into a community movement, promoting generosity, innovation, and inclusivity across the charitable giving sector.
By Geneva Nodland
Photos provided by
What Is Giving Hearts Day?
Held annually on the second Thursday in February, Giving Hearts Day is both a fundraiser and a celebration of community. This year, the event falls on February 13, with early giving opportunities available from January 13 to February 12. This extension allows donors more flexibility to participate and ensures no one misses the chance to contribute.
Whether through financial donations, volunteering time, or donating goods, the event and GHD ambassadors invite everyone to embrace the mentality of "Give your way." This inclusive approach has made Giving Hearts Day an event where people from all walks of life can participate through different avenues. Giving doesn't just mean money!
Innovating the Way We Give
Last year, GHD took a significant leap forward with the launch of a new online tool.
This user-friendly feature allows donors to:
Track financial contributions
Locate drop-off points for goods
Record volunteer hours
This innovation simplifies the giving process and creates transparency in contributions of all kinds—monetary, physical goods, or time—as they are recorded and displayed on the website. Plus, it showcases the collective impact in real time!
The "Henry the Heart" mascot was introduced to serve as not only a fun a element, but a funcitonal one. At drop-off locations, donors can scan a QR code displayed alongside Henry to register their contributions. This seamless integration of technology and creativity sparked new levels of engagement, doing what the Giving Hearts Day team and the community have done best—make the act of giving both charitable and enjoyable.
Giving Hearts Day has grown exponentially since its humble beginnings. In 2024 alone, new tools and strategies led to heightened community involvement, with more people than ever choosing to give in their own unique ways. $195 million have been raised since 2008 for hundreds of local charities annually.
Get Involved
Both businesses and individuals are encouraged to participate in the annual event, here are a few ways you can make an impact.
Host a goods drive
Businesses receive a toolkit to promote the initiative, including a "Henry the Heart" cutout to spark excitement!
Volunteer
Record your time using the website’s tracking tool.
Make early donations
Take advantage of the extended giving period from January 13 to February 12.
Looking Ahead
As Giving Hearts Day continues to grow, its future looks just as sweet. The integration of technology, community engagement, and inclusivity makes sure the over a decade old tradition stays relevant and easy to participate in a rapidly evolving world.
Mark your calendars for February 13, 2025 and join in this celebration of giving. Whether it’s your first time or a long-standing tradition, there’s a place for everyone in the heart of Giving Hearts Day!
Food Bank Food Bank Great Plains Great Plains
FFor over 40 years, the Great Plains Food Bank has been a lifeline for individuals and families experiencing hunger across North Dakota and Clay County, MN. Established in 1983, the organization operates with a clear mission: “End Hunger, Together.” Guided by this mantra, the food bank serves as the region’s only food distribution hub, connecting food resources to people in need while working to create and build sustainable solutions to hunger.
The food bank is committed to reaching every corner of the community to ensure no one is left behind.
“We believe food is a basic human right,” said Great Plains Food Bank CEO Melissa Sobolik, whose passion for hunger relief has been shaped by years of service in the nonprofit sector. Melissa and her team focus on both sides of the coin—immediate hunger relief and long-term solutions, like nutrition education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships.
This approach allows the food bank to serve not only urban centers but also rural and underserved areas. Programs like the Mobile Food Pantry travel hundreds of miles to deliver essentials to isolated communities, while initiatives like the Cultural Food Program ensure that differing populations in the community have access to familiar and nourishing food options.
“For families struggling to make ends meet, food assistance is often the first step toward stability. By meeting this basic need, we empower people to focus on other areas of their lives—education, employment, and wellness,” Melissa said.
Melissa and the organization’s work is dependent on passion and collaboration, driven by partnerships with food pantries, retailers, volunteers, and generous donors who share the belief that everyone deserves a full plate. Together, they are tackling food insecurity head-on and bringing hope to thousands of families each year!
Great Plains Food Bank CEO Melissa Sobolik inside the facility warehouse.
Impact by the Numbers
• Over 15 million pounds of food are distributed annually, totaling more than 12.8 million meals.
• 145,400 individuals rely on their services yearly—1 in 6 people and 1 in 4 children in their service area face food insecurity.
• Programs like the Mobile Food Pantry alone delivered 826,150 pounds of food to 57 sites in 37 counties.
Programs Changing Lives
The Great Plains Food Bank goes beyond just food distribution, here are some of their programs.
• The Backpack Program and School Pantries provide students and families with critical support.
• The Senior Food Box Program ensures older adults have access to nutritious food.
• The Cultural Food Initiative meets the needs of diverse communities with culturally relevant options.
Edith, a retired hospitality worker and a long-time resident of Devils Lake, ND, relies on the Hope Center Food Pantry, which is supplied by the Great Plains Food Bank, to make ends meet. For years, she has lived on a fixed income with disability benefits, a resource that often runs thin halfway through each month.
“So I come over here, and what they give me helps me pull through the rest of the month,” she said. Edith’s trips to the food pantry provide her with staples like bread, potatoes, and fresh produce that bridge the gap until her next income arrives.
“It’s really helpful."
The Great Plains Food Bank’s work thrives on community support. Here’s how you can help!
Looking Ahead
Despite challenges like rising food costs and increasing demand, CEO Melissa Sobolik and her team remain steadfast in their vision for sustainable solutions.
“Communities thrive when neighbors are nourished,” Sobolik said, standing strong on the organization's commitment to building a healthier, hunger-free region.
Together, we can end hunger—one meal, one person, and one community at a time!
To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit greatplainsfoodbank.org, and make sure to consider the Great Plains Food Bank this Giving Heart!
Mama Mama Dear Dear NICU NICU
A Lifeline of Hope and Connection
FFor mothers navigating the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), isolation can feel overwhelming. It’s an experience Ashley Ham, co-founder and executive director of Dear NICU Mama, knows intimately. After her son was born at just 28 weeks, Ashley longed for a community that understood her struggles. That search for connection led her to create one of her own—Dear NICU Mama was founded in 2019 as an organization dedicated to supporting NICU mothers through hope, sisterhood, and shared experiences.
“At Dear NICU Mama, we’re here to remind moms that they’re not alone,” Ashley said. “The power of peer support is transformative, and we’re committed to building a community that uplifts and connects NICU families.”
Co-Founder and Executive Director Ashley Ham
Making an Impact
Since its inception, Dear NICU Mama has reached thousands of families, providing resources that bring comfort and connection.
• Online Community: A virtual support system for NICU moms to find empowerment, encouragement, and more.
• Podcast: With over 65,000 downloads across 40+ countries, it amplifies the voices of NICU mothers and experts.
• Hospital Outreach: More than 11,000 personalized cards delivered in 2024 alone.
• Virtual Support Groups: Hosted 24 times in 2024, offering real-time peer connections.
Programs
That Heal
Dear NICU Mama’s initiatives are tailored to address the unique challenges of NICU parenthood.
• Letters of Encouragement: Weekly messages from NICU moms, offering hope to others in similar situations.
• Merchandise Donations: Over 500 items delivered to hospitals in 2024, as part of their Walking Letter of Hope program.
These efforts ensure NICU mothers feel seen, understood, and supported, whether they’re still in the NICU or navigating life afterward.
How to Help
The community plays a vital role in Dear NICU Mama’s mission, here’s how you can get involved!
Ahead
Ashley and her team envision a world where no NICU mother feels alone. By growing partnerships with hospitals and expanding support offerings, they hope to reach even more families in need. “Healing begins with connection,” Ashley said, and Dear NICU Mama is determined to be that lifeline.
To learn more, volunteer, or support their mission, visit dearnicumama.com. One story, one mother, and one act of kindness at a time, we can rewrite the NICU journey!
Home Home
IIn 2017, mother-daughter duo Jenessa Fillipi and Charlene Kuznia founded Down Home with a vision to empower families emerging from homelessness. Combining Jenessa’s forward-thinking leadership and Charlene’s operational expertise, they built a nonprofit grounded in compassion and connection. “Family is at the core of everything we do,” Jenessa said. “We believe everyone deserves the chance to live in a stable, nurturing home.”
Down Home works to bridge the gap between homelessness and stability by furnishing homes and providing emotional and community support to families and individuals. Through their personalized home setups and empowerment programs, they aim to create spaces where people can heal, grow, and rebuild their lives with dignity and confidence.
Impact by the Numbers
In 2024 alone, Down Home transformed the lives of:
• 41 families, the highest number to date.
• Over 121 individuals, providing stability and hope.
• 10,000+ donated furniture items rehomed to create welcoming spaces.
Through over 2,500 hours of volunteer efforts, Down Home’s reach extends far beyond move-in days, offering continued support through milestone celebrations, personal connections, and an annual Christmas event.
Jenessa Fillipi and Charlene Kuznia
Programs with Purpose
Down Home’s services include:
• Traditional Program: Focuses on furnishing homes for families emerging from homelessness. The process begins by learning about the family’s needs, preferences, and favorite styles. On MoveIn Day, volunteers quickly transform the space with furniture, decorations, and personal touches, creating a fully furnished, welcoming home. It’s a fresh start filled with comfort and dignity.
• Empower Up Program: Helps individuals build emotional resilience and personal strength. Through three one-on-one sessions, participants focus on personal empowerment and emotional intelligence. After completing the program, they receive a priority room makeover tailored to their style, celebrating their progress and providing a space that inspires stability and pride.
Both programs ensure families not only have a place to live but also the tools and confidence to thrive.
• Hospital Outreach: More than 11,000 personalized cards delivered in 2024 alone.
• Virtual Support Groups: Hosted 24 times in 2024, offering real-time peer connections.
Down Home's programs emphasize lasting stability and connection, with over 95% of families remaining stable in the community—far surpassing local and national averages!
How to Get Involved
Soul Solutions Soul Solutions
Recovery Center Recovery Center
IIn December 2021, Soul Solutions Recovery Center opened its doors to a compassionate space for those battling substance use disorders. Founded by Patti Senn, who also serves as executive and clinical director, the center operates with a clear mission: “To provide services in a compassionate environment founded in the belief that each person has the capacity to hear and embrace a new way of life.”
The heart of the organization surrounds a commitment to bridging the gap between short-term treatment and longterm recovery. With an outpatient substance use disorder program, a family support program, and a Recovery Management Program, Soul Solutions addresses the complex needs of patients and their families, offering hope and guidance through every step of recovery.
Impact by the Numbers
In just three years, Soul Solutions has made a significant impact—check it out.
• Over 12,350 patient and family member encounters since opening.
• Regular use of the Hope and Coffee Recovery Café, which serves as a community hub and hosts weekly recovery support groups.
Executive and Clinical Director
Patti Senn
Key Programs and Community Connection
Hope and Coffee Recovery Café inside Soul Solutions aims to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use disorders while creating a sense of belonging. The café is open to the public and offers a Community Space that is used for recovery support groups, celebrations (like birthday and graduation parties, baby showers, and more), and even local craft fairs. They invite both community members and people in recovery from the facility into the cafe for treats, coffee, and events to encourage long-term, sustainable recovery integrated with the community.
Throughout the year, the center collaborates with other nonprofits, this year, they are collaborating with Heart-n-Soul Community Cafe and Hospice of the Red River Valley for a "Hope and Oats" breakfast to kick off Giving Hearts Day.
How You Can Help
Soul Solutions thrives on the support of its community. Here’s how you can get involved.
Stop by Hope and Coffee
Enjoy a cup of coffee while supporting the nonprofit’s mission—“Come for Coffee and Leave with Hope.”
Participate in Events
Join the Annual 5k Fun Run/Walk for Recovery each September and watch out online for more community events to be announced.
Monetary Donations
Help fund essential programs not covered by clinic services—third-party reimbursements for substance use disorder services—like the family support program.
Looking Ahead
Soul Solutions is dedicated to expanding its holistic services, incorporating mental, physical, and psychiatric care into its offerings. “Our goal is to provide a comprehensive path to healing for every patient and their family,” Patti said.
To learn more or get involved, visit soulsolutionsrecovery.org and be a part of the solution to create a brighter future for those in recovery!
FAcademy Academy Peace Peace
Nurturing Children, Enriching Parents, Strengthening Community
Founded in 2022, Peace Academy has quickly become a cornerstone for families in the Fargo-Moorhead community, providing high-quality childcare, preschool education, and parent support.
“Our mission is rooted in creating a holistic environment where children thrive, parents are empowered, and the entire community is strengthened,” Founder and Executive Director Jana Bruhschwein said.
Programs with Purpose
Peace Academy’s key offerings include:
• Childcare and Preschool: Programs for children ages 3-5, soon expanding to infants and school-age kids.
• Parent Education: Free classes open to the community, providing tools and resources for caregivers and continuing education credits for childcare professionals.
• Ambassador Program: Partnerships with organizations like the Red River Human Services Foundation offer adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to volunteer, serve, and gain meaningful experience.
Making an Impact
Peace Academy’s work is making a difference, check out these numbers!
• 160 families currently served, with plans to double by 2025.
• Over $75,000 in tuition assistance awarded since opening.
• 500+ parents, teachers, and caregivers have participated in monthly educational sessions.
• With their move to a larger facility in 2025, the academy is poised to expand its reach even further.
Community Connection
Peace Academy engages the community in unique and meaningful ways through its programs and partnerships.
• “Grandfriends” Program: Seniors from Touchmark Senior Living join preschool classes for intergenerational activities, fostering connection and joy.
• Sustainability Partnership: Collaborations with Harvest Hope Farm turn kitchen scraps into animal feed, while fresh produce is supplied for the children.
"We believe if you can sing it, dance it, or play it, you can learn it. Come for a tour to feel the Peace Academy difference where all children are seen, heard, and loved." - Founder and Executive Director Jana Bruhschwein
Founder and Executive Director Jana Bruhschwein
Peace Academy relies on community support to fulfill its mission, here's how you can get involved!
Looking Ahead
Peace Academy’s vision includes expanding its programs, advocating for better childcare policies, and continuing to nurture the next generation.
“Every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and loved,” Jana said. “We’re building a brighter future, one family at a time.”
H HERO ERO
Medical Supplies
Healthcare Equipment Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization Recycling Organization
SSince 1996, the Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization (HERO) has provided critical access to affordable medical equipment and supplies. Driven by a mission to ensure that no one goes without the tools they need for a better quality of life, HERO combines sustainability and compassion to serve individuals locally and globally.
“These aren’t wants—they’re needs,” HERO’s Development Coordinator Stephanie Ressler said. “Our work ensures these essential items are available to those who need them most.”
HERO operates by collecting donations of gently used medical supplies and equipment from individuals, healthcare facilities, and agencies. Items are carefully inspected, sanitized, and redistributed through the HERO retail store at affordable prices. For those facing financial challenges, the HERO Cares Program steps in, providing essential supplies at significantly reduced costs to ensure dignity and accessibility.
Programs with Purpose
HERO achieves its mission through two main avenues:
• Recycling and Redistribution: Donated items are sanitized, inspected, and sold or distributed affordably through the HERO retail store.
• HERO Cares Program: Community referrals help reduce costs for those facing financial hardships, with a small co-pay.
This approach meets critical needs but also reduces waste, keeping perfectly usable medical supplies out of landfills.
Making an Impact
HERO has transformed lives through a variety of outlets— check it out!
• Serving 60,000 individuals locally over the past 28 years.
• Donating $10,000 worth of equipment and supplies each month through HERO Cares.
• Program, which assists uninsured and low-income individuals.
• Supporting global medical missions by providing life-saving supplies to developing countries.
Did You Know?
Beyond local impact, HERO also supports medical missions abroad, extending its reach to underserved communities around the world!
Development Coordinator Stephanie Ressler
How to Support HERO
Help with daily tasks like sorting supplies and preparing items for redistribution.
Visit the HERO retail center before turning to bigbox stores for medical supplies. Volunteer
Donate
Looking Ahead
With growing demand, HERO’s biggest challenge is space. Future plans include opening additional locations to better serve rural communities and meet rising needs. “When people walk through our warehouse, they leave in awe of what’s possible when a community comes together,” Stephanie said.
Be part of the growing hope, health, and better future for those in need—get involved today!
Feeding
Community & Growing Hope
Eats Eats West Fargo West Fargo
SSince its first pop-up event in 2020, West Fargo Eats has been on a mission to combat food insecurity with compassion, dignity, and respect. This grassroots organization, now led by Director Chelsie Bormann, provides food to individuals and families through innovative approaches like hybrid shopping events and pop-up pantries.
“We’re more than just a pantry,” she said. “We’re here to be a source of relief and empowerment for our neighbors.”
West Fargo Eats combines traditional food distribution with a personalized touch, offering in-store shopping experiences alongside drive-through and walk-up events. Monthly pop-up pantries bring food directly to those who need it most, creating accessible opportunities for the community to get support.
Programs with Purpose
West Fargo Eats supports the community through a variety of options for food distribution and engagement.
• Hybrid Shopping Events: A dignified, choice-based approach to food distribution, combining in-store shopping with drive-through options.
• Pop-Up Pantries: Monthly events from May to October that serve families in need directly in their neighborhoods.
• Collaborations with Senior Living Communities: Partnerships with Milton Earl and Homefield Senior Living ensure seniors receive the resources they need.
Making an Impact
In 2024, West Fargo Eats served:
• 7,097 neighbors, including 2,557 children and 1,578 seniors.
• Distributed over 87,500 pounds of food, equating to nearly 73,000 meals
• The organization’s success is fueled by its volunteers, who contributed 1,871 hours last year alone!
Programs That Make a Difference
West Fargo Eats supports the community through a variety of options for food distribution and engagement.
- Hybrid Shopping Events: A dignified, choice-based approach to food distribution, combining in-store shopping with drive-through options.
- Pop-Up Pantries: Monthly events from May to October that serve families in need directly in their neighborhoods.
- Collaborations with Senior Living Communities: Partnerships with Milton Earl and Homefield Senior Living ensure seniors receive the resources they need.
Director Chelsie Bormann
How to Get Involved
West Fargo Eats relies on community support to fulfill its mission, here's how you can get involved!
the Word Follow and share West Fargo Eats’ mission on social media to increase awareness.
Looking Ahead
West Fargo Eats dreams of expanding its reach with a larger facility and increased programming. “We hope to grow and offer more opportunities for neighbors to visit us when they need help,” Chelsie said.
A Path from Crisis to Stability
FFor over a century, the New Life Center has been a place of hope for individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and other challenges in the FM area. Founded in 1907, the organization’s mission is simple: “To serve people who are on the journey from homeless and hurting to whole and healthy by meeting basic needs and transforming lives through the love of Christ.”
New Life Center provides a wide range of services to meet both immediate and long-term needs through its emergency shelter (including meals, clothing, and hygiene products) and its recovery and job training programs.
“Our focus is on transformation,” Advancement Director at New Life Center Andrea Feigum said. “It’s about giving people the tools to rebuild their lives and move forward with dignity.”
The center's holistic approach ensures that individuals not only find shelter but also have access to the resources they need to achieve stability. “We’re not just providing a bed for the night— we’re creating a path to long-term success,” she said.
Center NewCenterLife New Life Programs that Transform Lives
New Life Center offers targeted initiatives to address diverse needs, check them out.
• Genesis Recovery Program: A 12-month faith-based program that combines life-skills training, counseling, and aftercare support for those overcoming addiction.
• Passport Program: Tailored services for veterans, including case management, peer support, and housing assistance in collaboration with the Fargo VA.
• Dining Services: A vital program that prepares meals for guests and partner organizations, ensuring no one goes hungry.
• Thrift Store: Provides affordable goods to the community while offering job training and employment opportunities for program participants.
Making an Impact
In the last year alone, New Life Center made significant strides in changing lives:
• Provided over 120,000 meals to individuals in need.
• Offered more than 39,000 nights of shelter, giving men a safe place to rest and recover.
• Supported 95 men in transitioning to stable housing.
• Helped 21 veterans secure housing through the Passport Program.
Advancement Director Andrea Feigum Haney’s Photography
How to Help
Community support is essential to the mission of New Life Center. Here’s how you can get involved!
Volunteer
Assist with meal preparation, mentorship, or thrift store operations.
Donate
Contributions—both financial and in-kind—help provide meals, shelter, and recovery programs.
Shop or Sponsor
Shop at the thrift store or sponsor events like the annual dessert social to directly support programs.
Looking Ahead
As demand for services grows, New Life Center is focused on expanding its programs and facilities to serve even more individuals in need. “With the support of our community, we can continue to make a lasting difference for those who need it most," Andrea said.
Be part of the hope and healing that go hand in hand with New Life Center!
North Dakota North SkateboardingDakota Skateboarding Association Association
F(NDSA) (NDSA)
Rolling Toward Community Connection
Founded in 2022 by lifelong skateboarder Tom Kemmer, the North Dakota Skateboarding Association (NDSA) is on track to transform how the FM area sees, experiences, and engages with skateboarding. With a mission to increase youth skateboarding participation and highlight its physical, mental, and social benefits, the NDSA is working to create a space where skaters of all ages and backgrounds can connect and grow.
"I grew up skating downtown Fargo when it wasn't what it is now," Tom said. "I want to change the way people think of [skating], I want to help educate the public about what it is, and how it impacts the community."
A lot of the NDSA’s current work can be seen at The Hawks Nest, an indoor skatepark that offers open skate sessions, youth nights, and community events year-round—an important offering in a region where we see all four seasons. By providing a safe and inclusive space to skate—especially during harsh winters— the organization helps to create belonging, community, and opportunity to grow for skaters from all walks of life.
Though there has been an air of mystery surrounding the nonprofit—especially since the Hawk's Nest used to operate more privately—they are excited to make 2025 the year of not only visibility but a physical step towards their goals. With an expected opening date this spring, the NDSA, a 501(c)(3), will merge with the Hawks Nest, an LLC, and expand from their current, outgrown space into a larger neighboring building. This is the first step in the expansion of the NDSA!
Programs with Purpose
While the NDSA has been raising funds for the move, they have simultaneously offered certain programming to help build experience and garner interest.
• The Hawks Nest: Weekly open skates, women’s nights, and special events ensure everyone feels welcome.
• Skate Camps: Beginner-friendly sessions for kids to build skills and confidence.
• Community Events: Pop-up skateparks at local events bring the thrill of skating to new audiences.
Making an Impact
Although still young, the NDSA is already making waves— check it out!
• Hosted its first kids' skate camp in 2024, teaching the basics to a new generation.
• Increased participation in open skate sessions, with more young skaters under 10 joining each week.
• Brought skateboarding to public events like the Folkways Night Bazaar and Go Skateboarding Day
Founder Tom Kemmer Josiah Kopp
How to Get Involved
The NDSA thrives on community support. Here’s how to help: Spread the Word Share
Volunteer Assist with events or camps.
and family.
Looking Ahead
In 2025, the Hawks Nest will triple its skateable space, adding community rooms and offices to better serve the growing skateboarding community— but this is just the beginning. They hope to expand to outdoor public skateparks in the future, as Tom and his team are building something that will bring people together for generations.
EVENT CALENDAR
MONDAY
Recurring weekly on Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m. Front Street Taproom, The Cellar days that are still a tad too short. Whether you're starting the new year with exciting plans, embracing the beauty of the season, or just chasing that cozy winter vibe, this guide has everything you need to make the most of the season— check it out!
OPEN MIC COMEDY IN THE CELLAR
Fargo Masonic Center
DREKKER BREWERY TOUR
BOAT & MARINE SHOW
January 24 & 25 FARGODOME
January 26, 2 p.m.
Peace Lutheran Church
FLIP TO THE NEXT PAGE FOR FEBRUARY’S EVENTS calendar here!
Meet The MAKER MAKER
AP Creations
By Ashley Morken, Owner, Unglued
Photos provided by Ashley Morken
You’ll know you’ve found your favorite cardmaker when you see a balloon animal on a card next to a disco ball on a card next to a cassette tape on a card! Amy Miller creates bright, colorful moments of joy through paper and even the shreds of it. And, she really makes it all feel like a party you want to be a part of. Learn more about this local maker sprinkling in both the feels and fun to share!
Tell us a bit about yourself. I'm a wife and mom of two amazing kids, we also have two dogs and a cat. I work full-time crunching numbers and love to be creative in my downtime, it balances me out. Cardmaking has been a hobby of mine for roughly 14 years—I can't believe it has been that long—and I couldn't possibly use them all, but I really tried. Then I decided to start selling them—this way other people can enjoy them as much as I love making them.
Describe what type of products you make under AP Creations. I make greeting cards, keychains, bookmarks, gift tags, magnets, and any odd thing my mind dreams up—ahem, golf hole magnets. Recently this year, I was thinking of ways to use up scraps of paper left over from die cutting, and I was talking to a friend who also loves paper, and bam the idea of shredding the paper and making confetti art was born.
Tell us how you got started with your businesses.
Honestly, it started with applying to be a vendor for Unglued Market and applying for the Unglued Craft Fest in 2021. Before then, it wasn't a business, it was something I did for fun. When I was accepted, this was the kick in the butt I needed to get my sh*t together and get the business fully fledged and set up. From there, I've met so many amazing makers who have helped me make connections all across Fargo-Moorhead.
What are your personal favorite items you've created so far?
I have a special place in my heart for making cards but this past year it has been the confetti art and the gift tags I whipped up for the Very Makers Market at Brewhalla. The confetti art was such a long slow burn that the gift tags were a refreshing change of pace. Also, there's something about tackling a new challenge and making it work that drives my very soul.
What was one of the most difficult pieces you've created?
I made a miniature golf hole magnet. The size and figuring out if I could make it clean enough to sell was difficult. Also, the confetti art was difficult from conception to reality. I took each step and broke it down and tried to figure out the best way to accomplish the look I wanted. I honestly still have some tweaks to make but that's the fun part!
What is the most popular item you specifically sell?
My greeting cards. I really try to make something you can't typically find and I love me some dimension. Some of my favorites from the year were my ribcage Valentine card which was a little dark but funny. My cassette tape cards, fun colors, and the nostalgia just hit right. They also stand alone by themselves and can be their own little works of art. I also dreamt up the idea of making some Father's Day cards using actual golf holes to make the letters for Dad. I did some digital work to
draw up the holes and rearranged them to spell "Dad." Then I printed and cut them out, and, in all, I ended up making some pretty funny Father's Day cards. I'm sure I went a little too far in the design but they were so much fun to make.
We are obsessed with your confetti art! Tell us about the process a bit. Well, thank you! I'm obsessed with them too. When I make cards, I always have extra paper offcuts. I felt so bad about throwing them away because they can't all be recycled due to composition. I decided to start shredding them and see what I could make from the shreds. Confetti art was born. I glue the shreds down onto a hardboard canvas and seal coat them so they hopefully are fade-resistant and durable. I use my 3D printer to make letters that float away from the confetti board. The program I use to make my 3D files is the same one I use to cut paper electronically, so I cut paper to match the 3D letters which adds that extra bit of pizazz. The glitzy paper I primarily use on the lettering is not only beautiful but it is also forgiving, just in case I have some rogue glue. They take a lot of time and effort to get everything to behave, but they are seriously awesome and worth it. My favorite part so far is getting different colorways due to what I'm working on with the card side of things. I just keep shredding so I don't always know what it will look like until I open the shredder. It has been a fun surprise when I finally take out the shreds to make some new art.
Where can people find your work and stay in touch?
I sell primarily at Unglued Market! But I can make custom orders if you reach out to me at apcreationsnd@gmail.com
