ISSUE 003
COMPLIMENTARY
Jenny Sheets,
Director of Startup Programs at Emerging Prairie/Doer of Everything
Emily Olsen,
Director of Lifestyle at Jasper Hotel/ Downtown Living Aficionado
Pretty Ricky, DJ/Vibe Curator
Town! Hit the
The Lifestyle & Going Out Issue
TABLE OF
TRENDSETTERS
ISSUE 003
SPONSORED CONTENT: 16 18 24
Rosewild: A Seat for the Community SCHEELS: The Trendsetting Experts at SCHEELS Northland Vapor: What is Kava?
GREG CARLSON
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56
66
80
90
106
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT 32 38 44 56 66
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Campus FM Greg Carlson Hannah Stelter Emily Olsen Dan Virchow | ISSUE 003
80 90 102 106 118
Jenny Sheets Natalie Sparrow Chapter University Judy Lewis DJ 1PrettyRicky
MEET THE TEAM
MIKE
BRADY
KIM
LEVI
TY
GENEVA
GRANT
SAM
JOSIAH
GARY
JENNY
PAUL
AL
DEVAN
TORI
HAILEY
MIRANDA
JESSICA
NICK
KELLEN
BEN
TOMMY
KORY
MEGAN
L E A R N M O R E A B O U T U S AT SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM JONATHAN
RYNE
JOHN
TRENDSETTERS Issue 003 Trendsetters Magazine is a free publication distributed six times a year. Our mission is to highlight all of the unique and influential people, businesses and things in the region with a focus on health, beauty, fasion, lifestyle + going out, home + design and more!
Publisher
Editorial
Editorial Team Lead Creative Director Editors Art Director Editorial Graphic Designers
Mike Dragosavich Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Geneva Nodland Grant Ayers, Sam Kise Kim Cowles Levi Dinh, Ty Betts
Creative Strategist
Josiah Kopp
Content Specialist
Gary Ussery
Interactive
Business Development Manager Business Development Associate Videographer Director of Digital Advertising Results Director of Creative Strategies Graphic Designer Web Designer Social Media Specialist
Advertising
VP of Business Development Sales Representatives
Nick Schommer Kellen Feeney Tommy Uhlir Jonathan Chicka Megan Bergeson Ben Buchanan Kory Powell-Oliver Ryne Bigelow Paul Hoefer Paul@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Al Anderson Al@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Devan Maki Devan@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Sales & Marketing Advisor Marketing Associate Client Relations
Tori Helland Tori@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Hailey Bebler Hailey@SpotlightMediaFargo.com ClientRelations@SpotlightMediaFargo.com
Client Relations Manager
Jenny Johnson
Marketing Coordinator
Jessica Mullen
Operations Assistant
Distribution Delivery
Miranda Knudson John Stuber
Trendsetters Magazine is published by Spotlight, LLC. Copyright 2023 Trendsetters Magazine & trendsetters.com. All rights reserved. No parts of this magazine may be reproduced or distributed without written permission of Trendsetters Magazine and Spotlight, LLC is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. Spotlight, LLC accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers.
ADVERTISING: 701-478-SPOT (7768) spotlightmediafargo.com Send change of address information and other correspondence to: Spotlight, LLC 4609 33rd Ave S Suite #304, Fargo, ND 58104 or info@spotlightmediafargo.com
Editor’s Picks:
AN IDEAL WEEK IN FARGOMOORHEAD WITH OUR EDITORS! Outdoorsy and athletic folks would enjoy spending a week in Brady’s shoes. Brady’s ideal day starts with a pre-work run and stretch, with time to hit the sauna and take a cold shower. His morning routine also includes eating a giant, healthy breakfast and drinking a ton of green tea. While getting ready and commuting, he typically listens to an audiobook or a podcast to stay relaxed and ready for the busy day ahead. On the way to work, if he has time, he’ll stop for a matcha latte at his favorite coffee shop, Youngblood Coffee. For lunch, he spices things up (literally) with some Himalayan Yak. After work, he invites his coworkers to Fargo Billiards and Gastropub in South Fargo, as he is a big fan of the various games they offer. At the end of the week, Buffalo State Park is his go-to spot to spend time and bond with friends. On the weekend, his favorite activities include checking out events going on at Broadway Square, going to the Red River Zoo to hang out with their animals, and grabbing an Egg of the Day and The Daily Greens at BernBaum’s. Most of all, he enjoys spending time outdoors and enjoying nature while the weather is nice!
Editorial Team Lead
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Creative and curious people will love Geneva’s ideal week. Geneva always starts her day with a cup of coffee and singing along to a banger. Though she wouldn’t dare choose a favorite song, most mornings she will be found belting out a track from Taylor Swift’s album “1989.” On her way to work, she’ll swing into Youngblood Coffee for a Brown Sugar Oat Milk Latte. Then at lunch, she’ll pick up whatever is on the day’s menu at Cracked Pepper and stop by The Silver Lining Creamery for some dessert. After work, she’ll invite coworkers to Wild Terra for a delicious, locally brewed cider. On the weekends, Geneva likes to spend time checking out local events, shopping at local vendor markets, and going to concerts with her friends—one of her go-to venues is the Aquarium above Dempsey’s in downtown Fargo! If she’s looking for a family-friendly place to go with her friends or family members that have kids, she goes to Five Below. As the weekend is winding down, she’ll go to BernBaum’s, where she might run into Brady! Geneva can be found supporting local artists and businesses all around the Fargo-Moorhead community often.
Creative Director
Imaginative and adventurous thrill-seekers would enjoy Josiah’s ideal week in Fargo-Moorhead. Josiah starts his day by cooking up a big breakfast of waffles, eggs, and fresh berries while watching Good Mythical Morning. On his commute, his morning hype-up song is "Not Dead Yet" by Lord Huron—but not before brewing a fresh cup of locally-made tea from Kanji Naturals. While he loves cooking, an ideal day would find him at Mahana Fresh for a nutrient-packed lunch and at the Moorhead Dairy Queen for some ice cream and nostalgia before returning to work. Though he doesn’t drink, Josiah might invite his coworkers to Junkyard Brewing after work just for the atmosphere and good food nearby. On the weekends, you could find Josiah at the races at North Dakota Horse Park or the Red River Valley Speedway with friends or catching a good movie at the Fargo Theater. To top off the wonderful week, he would grab brunch at the Black Coffee & Waffle Bar or Bernbaum’s in Fargo! You’re sure to see Josiah taking photographs of all of his adventures to document the memories.
Creative Strategist
Energetic foodies would have a blast during Grant’s ideal week. Grant always starts his day with a big, healthy breakfast. His morning hype-up song right now is "OKRA" by Tyler, The Creator, but that changes often—he’s always discovering new music! He makes sure his water bottle is full and ready to go before he starts his work day, then gets to work. Ideally, he brings his own lunch—but if he forgets, he may make the jaunt to his favorite downtown Fargo restaurant, Beer & Fish Company. To follow the perfect meal, he’ll head over to The Silver Lining Creamery to grab a scoop of ice cream before heading back to work. After work, you’ll likely find him with friends or coworkers grabbing a drink at NoBull Smokehouse or golfing at Suite Shots. On the weekend, he’ll check out events at Fargo Brewing or take a trip to Sky Zone. Capping off his ideal week, Grant will grab a delicious brunch at Granite City Food & Brewery on Sunday.
Editor
Those whose perfect night out is a night in would love Sam’s ideal week. Sam’s morning routine usually consists of sleeping in as long as possible and getting ready five minutes before she has to leave. Her current morning hype-up song is “No Diggity” by Blackstreet and Dr. Dre—classic hip-hop and rap are her go-to commute music. On the rare occasion that she has time to stop for tea on the way to work, she’ll grab a Passion Tango Tea from Starbucks. If she doesn’t pack her own lunch, she’s likely ordering or picking up from El Torero in Moorhead—the chicken taco salad is her favorite—and grabbing some Pirate’s Bounty ice cream from Scoop N Dough for dessert. After work, she’ll invite her coworkers to Sidestreet Grill & Pub downtown. On the weekend, you might find her doing an escape room at Fargo Escape Room in West Fargo with her friends or catching a show at one of the local community theaters with her husband. As the weekend winds down, she will grab brunch at Granite City, where she might run into Grant!
Editor
Folks who are looking for a musical adventure with a dash of nerdiness will find Gary’s ideal week perfect! His morning routine starts with catching up on daily events and a fast and easy breakfast with a cup of fresh cold brew prepared the night before. “Collard Greens” by Schoolboy Q is his current get-pumped tune. Gary’s perfect lunch spot would be either McAlister’s Deli for a lighter lunch or Smashburger for something greasy. After work, Gary likes to indulge in pastimes of the nerdy sort: a game or five of cards at Paradox Comics and Cards, after getting stuffed with all-you-can-eat tacos at Mango’s. On Tuesday, it’s time for a cheap date night at Marcus Century Cinema, don’t forget the snacks! He will spend a bit too long flipping through records at Orange Records. When it comes to the weekend, it’s all about hunting down the perfect show, either at the TAK Music Venue or The Aquarium. Gary’s ideal week is wrapped up with friends, food, and drinks at home!
Content Specialist
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Patio dining is firstcome, first-served, however, email sales@jasperfargo.com for full-patio reservations for private events!
'Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere.' That's a phrase you hear a lot, and while yes, it's a great marketing slogan, it has truth to it. When you find a spot that serves great food and delicious drinks, AND offers a space that checks all of the boxes for your perfect hang-out location, you know you've hit the jackpot.
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That prize might just be in the heart of downtown Fargo, between ice cream shops and pizza joints, under the skywalks decorated with art, with a beautiful towering building on one side and the stretch of grass and oddly infatuating red spinning chairs to the other. If you've visited this downtown square in all of its summertime glory, you've heard the chatter, laughs, and occasional musical instrument, and last summer, for the first time, you saw a patio along Broadway with floor-to-ceiling windows adorning "Rosewild." Back again this summer, the Rosewild patio offers an experience that truly champions that idea: 'Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere.' Broadway Square is the central hub for events, community, and excitement for downtown Fargo, and being right in the midst of that, the Rosewild patio offers you a front-row seat to it.
"I felt inspired by the long wait through winter. Being in my first year in Fargo, I was already planning for the following spring/summer before winter hit," Chef said. "I started the confit of tomatoes and canning them, fermenting radishes, roasting chiles, etc. ... I wanted to start off the season with things that we would normally need to wait for, as a taste of last year. Getting to feature some of my favorite preservation techniques in an ergonomic fashion was really exciting." After experiencing a bit of what Chef described as "lake exodus" last summer, this season's menu includes a kit to get the best of both worlds! The Al Fresco Kit brings a taste of Rosewild’s seasonal menu, right to your own grill.
Want to hear a secret? Rosewild is rolling out another special summer menu for the latenighters... "We're excited to announce our latenight summer menu inside the lounge, 7 days a week with new hours from 10 p.m.-midnight. We'll be running the wood fire late, grilling sausages, and offering a whole array of different meat skewers like pork seccreto, chicken thigh, shaved beef tenderloin, cod filets, shrimp, and vegetables all with their own glazes, and house-made ferments. Get as many as you want with some great cocktails all the way until midnight!" - Chef Jordan
"The patio is a lively space designed to be enjoyed socially. With the adjacent Broadway Square green space, there are plenty of opportunities for live entertainment while you dine or enjoy libations," Director of Lifestyle at Jasper Emily Olsen said. The patio offers a truly local experience, all the way down to the ingredients. Year-round you'll find that the Rosewild menu is filled with dishes that use produce sourced from local growers and farmers, and the summer menu is no different—well, maybe it is, for the better. "The summer menu is something we're always looking forward to at Rosewild, but this year, in particular, is going to be special," Executive Chef of Rosewild Jordan Hayes said. "We're leading the season off with preserved summer produce from last year to get a truly Nordic-inspired seasonal menu... It's going to be a fully curated, hyper-seasonal menu centered around fresh vegetables, fermented spring vegetables, and the wood fire that we inspire all of our menus with." Chef works with many local farmers to build the menus. In the dishes, you'll find a mix-match of ingredients from different farm operations including: Dig It Produce, Doubting Thomas Farms, Seed to Spore, and Earth to Jar Botanicals.
By Impact Social
"It has a six-pack of three types of sausage (fully cooked); smoked beef kielbasa, smoked chicken with thyme and apple butter, and a ginger and chile bratwurst (with preserved chiles from last season). To go great with all of those sausages are things like house-made sauerkraut from last season, a spicy Curtido (which is similar to kimchi), and a couple of seasonal house-made mustards. There are also a couple of dips to hold you and your group over while you cook the sausages—our Rosewild onion dip and pimento cheese spread, which come with chips and crackers. Just to make it easier, we send a cooking instruction card that covers some different ways to cook them. It's a quick grab-and-go that just takes minutes to swing
by and get and it will feed about 4-6 people with no fuss," Chef Jordan said. Whether you’re enjoying the summer in the city or out on the lake, you can dine as you would right next to Broadway Square… but, you know, there’s nothing like having a seat right in the core of the community.
| 215 Broadway N, Downtown Fargo | (701) 532-5170 | /rosewildfargo | @rosewildfargo
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SPONSORED CONTENT By Brady Drake | Photos by Josiah Kopp
SCHEELS is a cornerstone of the Fargo-Moorhead community that is deeply rooted in nearly every aspect of our metro. From community events to charitable involvement and, of course, recreation, SCHEELS touches it all. These four Experts are some of the voices behind the SCHEELS social media platforms. These platforms allow them to further engage and interact with the community where they share valuable content. They offer content relevant to their customers, including style tricks and trends, expert advice and information, hunting and fishing tips, pro interviews, how-to cooking videos and recipes, and much more. Connect with us | scheels.com 18
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| @scheels
| @scheelssports
| @scheels
| @scheels
Amanda Stumpf, SCHEELS Style @scheelsstyle
Provided by SCHEELS
What is your background?
Why is fashion important to you?
I have lived in the FM area for my entire life and graduated from NDSU with a degree in retail merchandise and a master's degree in merchandising. While in school, I completed an internship with SCHEELS as a retail merchandising intern, assisting the buyers in our corporate office. I fell in love with the work I was doing and decided to make it my career. After my internship, I managed in the women’s clothing department at our Fargo location for three years and then decided to take the leap over to the marketing team in 2021. Currently, I am a part of the marketing team and manage our social media accounts for anything clothing and shoe-related. I love being able to share my passion for fashion through social media and with our customers on @scheelsstyle.
It’s how I express myself and has become my creative outlet. I think one of the coolest things about fashion is that there is no right or wrong way to style things; it's all about personal style and what makes you feel good. I think having a good selection of classic staple pieces in your wardrobe is key, then mixing in a few seasonal trends to freshen up your closet is a great way to approach fashion so that it’s not so overwhelming. I truly believe that a well-put-together outfit can go a long way for someone. What are 5 fashion trends people should get ready for this summer? • Oversized button up shirts • Easy to throw on jumpsuits/ onesies • Chunky sandals/slides • Bright and bold colors • Athleisure skirt or short sets
Amanda's 5 Must Have Products
Nike Sportswear Phoenix Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt - This sweatshirt is a go-to for me. I love being comfortable, cozy and stylish, and this sweatshirt checks all the boxes. I usually size up to wear oversized and I like that I can get this in so many colors.
Women's Beyond Yoga Spacedye Keep Pace Biker Shorts - I can’t get enough of these biker shorts! They're the perfect shorts, as they’re comfortable enough to workout in, yet stylish enough to wear out and about or just lounging around.
Stanley H2.0 Quencher - I always have my Stanley water bottle with me, which keeps my water ice-cold for hours. Whether I’m at work, working out, or lounging at home, it’s a must have accessory that I take everywhere.
Birkenstock Arizona Platform Slides - These just might be the perfect pair of sandals. They are comfortable and stylish. I love that this platform style can be dressed up or down, making them versatile for any occasion this summer.
Varley Lasson Belt Bag I always love a good bag and this one has quickly become a favorite! It can be worn at the waist or across the body, which makes it the perfect bag for me to bring anywhere.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Tim Frie,
SCHEELS Sports @scheelssports What is your background?
Why are sports important to you?
I grew up on a farm in the small town of Holdingford, MN. I then attended MSUM, majoring in Broadcast Journalism and graduated in 2011. I started my SCHEELS career on the social media team in 2020. Ironically, my wife saw an ad for the position on Instagram and that is how I found out about the opening.
This is definitely a loaded question for me and I could go on and on. Sports have always been my passion. I am a very competitive person and enjoy being active, so sports checked both of those boxes. Sports are also ingrained in my family—the games and teams we love were always a point of discussion and were something we could bond over. Watching the Vikings at my Grandma's house with the whole family is something I'll always remember. Now, I'm lucky enough to pass along my love of sports to my daughters and support them as they grow up.
I grew up watching and playing sports all the time. I started playing football, basketball, and baseball in elementary school and continued throughout high school. I also started playing golf in high school and have been addicted ever since. When I have any free time during the golf season, I try my best to spend it on the course.
Provided by SCHEELS
Tim's 5 Must-Have Products
Garmin Approach R10 Launch Monitor - I love this tool. You can use it on the range and get instant feedback on your golf swing. With that feedback, you're able to make changes and improve your game. I also love it is because you can set it up in your garage during the winter months and have your own at-home simulator. 20
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Bushnell Wingman Golf GPS Rangefinder and Speaker - Knowing
exact yardages and what hazards are in play is a must. Plus, having the speaker built in is a huge benefit so you don't need an additional speaker if you listen to music during your round.
Waggle Golf Apparel I love the look of these polos and hats. They are also the most comfortable polos you will ever wear, whether you're on the course or headed to Zorbaz. They are a Minnesota based company so many of their designs have Minnesota and Midwest roots.
GCI Roadtrip Rocker Chair - The most comfortable chair for any type of outdoor activity. The rocking design is a gamechanger. I won't ever bring a different chair camping to or to a bonfire again after using this one.
Minnesota Golden Gophers College Vault Bucket III Cooler Golf Bag - Being a huge gopher fan, this bag is absolutely my favorite. I love the detail that is used and the old school logo on the front pocket can't be beat. Go Gophers!
my passion into a profession. I may be the outdoorsy guy in SCHEELS marketing, but outside the office, you can find me at my sevenyear-old daughter's cheerleading practice, or watching the movie Frozen with my 3-year old daughter and eight-pound Pomeranian. I am pretty fortunate to have a wife that also enjoys the outdoors, so we can go out together and I can watch her catch bigger fish and shoot larger deer than me.
Provided by SCHEELS
Why are the outdoors important to you?
Mike Anderson, SCHEELS Outdoors @scheelsoutdoors
What is your background? I grew up in a country home near Twin Valley, MN, which is a town of less than 1,000 people. Hunting,
fishing, and outdoor recreation were some of the main activities. I graduated from the University of MN in 2009 and received an MBA from NDSU in 2013. After a
few years of working with various companies and being a part-time whitetail hunting guide, I joined SCHEELS in 2019 to work in the outdoor marketing space and turned
For me, it is a great way to escape the stresses of everyday life, learn ways to improve your craft, and inspire people to get outside and enjoy nature. There are so many emotions and experiences in the outdoors that can never be found looking at a phone or sitting on a couch. I want to pass that along to both my family and anyone that follows along with SCHEELS Outdoors.
Mike's 5 Must-Have Products
Garmin LiveScope Plus Ice Fishing Bundle Forward-facing sonar brings fishing to a whole new level. The information you gain by understanding exactly where fish are and how they react to their environment is astonishing. Technology with electronics has become so advanced that you need to have a respect for the fishery while using these tools, but it's truly game-changing.
Tactacam Reveal X Pro Trail Cam with Solar Panel - Cellular trail cameras are worth their weight in gold. The ability to have pictures sent to your phone allows you to minimize disturbance in the woods, cut your drive time and gas bill, and put patterns together to develop better hunting strategies.
Eurotackle Z-Darter V2 Glide Bait - When you start using technique-specific methods, such as glide baits, you can really develop an understanding of your target species and stack up the fish. Glide baits are my favorite, as you can cover a ton of water fast, and walleye will attack these baits like you tried to steal their lunch money.
AGM Rattler Thermal Rifle Scope - Thermal scopes are becoming incredibly advanced with their capabilities, while also becoming more and more affordable. If you haven't tried hog or coyote hunting with a thermal scope, you are missing out on some of the most intense and enjoyable hunting experiences you can do. As with all weapons, make sure you know your target and what is beyond it.
Ozone - Has changed the way I hunt. The ability to destroy scent on clothing on a molecular level and bringing ozone generators into the field allows you to push the boundaries when playing the wind while staying undetected.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
How did What’s Cookin’ start? What's Cookin' started two years ago in the backyard of one of my coworkers' houses when we filmed five recipes. It started as an idea to get a couple of recipe videos onto the SCHEELS YouTube channel. From there, it has grown into 80+ videos, countless delicious meals, and a whole lot of laughs in the last two years.
Provided by SCHEELS
What are some grilling trends people should be aware of?
Cameron Aakre, SCHEELS What's Cookin' @scheelswhatscookin
What is your background? I grew up in Moorhead, MN and went to MSUM and graduated in 2014. I took a job at SCHEELS as a videographer and eight years later, I have the privilege to be working with our local experts to cook awesome food on some of the best grills and smokers.
I love all things grilling. I grew up with a Traeger Lil Tex Smoker. It didn't have any of the bells and whistles like the newer models do, but that is what made it so great. I grew a huge passion for cooking on that grill and there wasn't anything that I didn't try smoking on it. Some of my favorite random items are pizza, cookies,
cake, and salsa. My love for cooking hasn't gone away and I am still trying out new things on my Traeger. And don't worry, that Lil Tex is 15 years old and is still put to good work out at the lake cabin and makes some of the best pulled pork I've ever had.
Hop on the Ooni bandwagon while you can. The pizza oven industry is lighting up, and I'm 100% on board. I love my Ooni, and cooking pizzas for 20+ people has never been easier. Griddles are in and they are for more than just breakfast. There are so many great recipes but some of my favorites are; smash burgers, fajitas, grilled cheese sandwiches (I love adding pulled pork), Philly cheese steak, and caramel corn.
Cameron's 5 Must-Have Products
Drip EZ BBQ Prep TubWhen I'm looking for new kitchen gadgets, I'm looking for something that is super versatile. The Drip EZ BBQ Prep tub is good for everything. I love proofing my pizza dough, seasoning my favorite cut of meat, and using it as a cutting board. It is absolutely one of my most often-used tools. 22
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ThermaOne Pen - One of the most frustrating things when cooking meat is not having an accurate temp reading. With the ThermaOne Pen you are getting an accurate reading almost instantly. No more overdone steaks!
Urban Slicer Pizza Dough - Pizza night just got a whole lot easier and tastier. Urban Slicer pizza dough has helped me save time, as it's ready within an hour, by just mixing in water. This dough is a must-have for pizza night.
Ooni Karu 16 - The Ooni Karu 16 is what family pizza night is built on in my house. Invite your friends over, have them each top their own creations, and show off how cooking pizza in 90 seconds is done!
Black Dog BBQ Sauce Locally owned from Bemidji, MN, Beers Black Dog BBQ Sauce is my go-to. My favorites are putting it on pulled pork, pizza, burgers, and using it as my favorite dipping sauce. I haven't found anything it isn't good on!
SPONSORED CONTENT
By Northland Vapor
What is Kava? Your Kava Kove Primer ave you ever been interested in trying natural alcohol alternatives? Whether you are sober, sobercurious, or just curious, Kava is a great option to try! Kava is a natural alcohol alternative that has been gaining traction in the United States and harmreduction communities in recent years due to its nonpsychoactive relaxation.
What is Kava? Kava is an acquired taste. It is described as a slight bitter "earthy" taste. Brett Erpelding, Kava Kove’s CEO said “On the first of our many exploratory trips to Florida and California to learn more about Kava I had several 'Mocktails' using kava in place of alcohol and absolutely loved them. However when I drank my first shell (just straight kava tea), I thought that is definitely going to be an acquired taste – and sure enough, on all future trips, all I
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Ground Kava
The Kava Plant
continued>
The island of Samoa has a picture of a man preparing kava on their two-tala [dollar] bill. purchased and drank were shells! Where does Kava come from? The kava plant is native to the Pacific Islands region. It is cultivated across the islands but is most prominent in Fiji, Hawaii, Samoa, Wallis and Futuna, and Tonga. While it does grow in Tonga, it cannot grow in New Zealand as the climate is slightly too cold for it. Kava Culture Kava is very important to many Pacific Island cultures as part of ceremonies, gatherings, and celebrations—for this reason, some countries have used images of Kava on their currency or on postage stamps. Most notably, Wallis and Futuna had a stamp design in 1995 that showed an image of the Kava plant and the island of Samoa has a picture of a man preparing kava on their two-tala [dollar] bill. In Fiji, Kava is the national drink and is still used regularly. Typically, you can see kava being
consumed at different ceremonies, gatherings, and celebrations. At a traditional Fijian Kava ceremony, or Sevusevu, the Kava is prepared at the beginning of the ceremony and the first person to take a drink from the bowl will be the Chief or most senior person in the group. Each person must clap three times after taking a drink, often cheering “Bula!” before drinking. Bula is a Fijian expression that roughly translates as a toast or wish of health and happiness. If an important visitor comes, a Kava ceremony is typically conducted. In 2018 on an official trip, Prince Harry and Meghan Markel shared kava with the Fijians. Kava also makes a great gift! In Fiji tradition, if a son upsets his father, he can repair relations by gifting his father Kava. In another tradition, any visitor coming into a village must bring a gift of Kava to the Chief. It is also often a gift at weddings, funerals, and different “rite of passage” celebrations.
(Top to Bottom) The flags of Fiji, Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, and Wallis and Futuna, all home to Kava cultivation.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Kava, especially if you take any medications such as benzodiazepines and/or antidepressants or if you have any existing medical conditions such as liver disease or Parkinson’s. •If you plan to have surgery, stop consuming kava for at least two weeks before your surgery as Kava can increase the duration of surgical anesthesia.
What does Kava do? Kava provides feelings of relaxation, without being psychoactive. Kava can also help reduce pain sensations and could help protect neurons from damage. It is often used as an alternative to alcohol due to the fact that it provides the “loosened up” feeling that alcohol can give without the dangers that alcohol can cause. The way kava works is by introducing kavalactones into your body. Kavalactones have been found to reduce convulsions, promote sleep, and relax muscles in animals. An effective dose of Kava, according to experts, is a kavalactone content of 70-250mg. When purchasing Kava products,
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Traditional Kava preparation
•You should not use Kava if you are nursing, pregnant, or under the age of 18.
it is extremely important to find products that list the kavalactone content. You will also want to know if your Kava is noble or non-noble which we will discuss later in the article.
•Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how kava affects you.
Safety Precautions While Kava is natural and an alcohol alternative, there are some safety precautions you should follow when consuming Kava. •Kava should never be mixed with alcohol or any sedatives. This can cause unsafe interactions. • You should always consult a physician before using
• A potential risk of a rare, but severe, liver injury may be associated with consuming Kava (Required by ND DPHHS) •Most adverse effects that people experience when using Kava are due to overconsumption with low tolerance. U.S. Use Kava is popular in coastal states such as Florida and California, but what about the upper Midwest? That’s where we come in. At Kava Kove, we are bringing a taste
continued> of Fiji to Fargo with this natural alcohol alternative. Our owners have a strong passion for harm reduction and have seen and experienced the struggles of alcohol dependence from many angles. Trips to Florida helped build and enforce this passion by introducing them to the Kava bar concept. Kava Bars are abundant in Florida, it’s even known as the Kava Capital of the U.S., but they are essentially non existent in our region. The closest dedicated Kava bar is in Chicago, so we decided it was time to change that. 203 people have died in alcoholrelated vehicle crashes in North Dakota in the past five years. Underage and unsafe alcohol consumption is a large issue in the upper Midwest, as is impaired driving. Harm reduction saves lives and shows the needed compassion toward those in addiction and recovery. Kava Kove will provide the social piece that many people who are striving to get sober miss out on. Bars can provide a great community feel, but if you are working on reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption, having the temptation of alcohol while it is easily accessible can make it harder to stay on path.
The Kava bar will provide a cozy, community-focused atmosphere where you can go to play board games with friends or meet new people at the bar. We have taken the Fijian aesthetic into account while designing the interior. We have a gorgeous hand-painted mural of Fiji behind the bar to make sure you feel like you’re on a tropical vacation without all the hassle of travel! We are extremely fortunate that our Kava Kove Supervisor, Anthony Prasad (featured in previous editions), came to work for us. Anthony’s parents were born in Fiji, and he
is the first generation of his family to be born in the United States. He has been around Kava his whole life and has an extensive knowledge of Kava. Anthony is helping us in our journey to educate and excite the community about Kava and the benefits that it brings. While we currently only have our downtown Fargo location, our goal is to expand this one location into several Kava bars around the Upper Midwest in order to share our love and passion for Kava and wellness in general.
A cup of Kava
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SPONSORED CONTENT
This beautiful mural and decor inside Kava Kove will have you feeling like you are on a tropical vacation!
Noble Kava Our Kava will be what is referred to as “Noble Kava”. There are two main types of Kava, Noble and Tudei (Aka NonNoble). Unfortunately, with the lack of research into the exact differences between the two, it is hard to tell which is best, but most companies opt for Noble Kava. Tudei Kava was cultivated sparsely in the Pacific Islands and was reserved for medicinal or special ceremonial purposes, not for daily consumption. The main drawback of Tudei Kava is that there are some questions regarding its safety due to the very high potency of the kavalactones. It can cause nausea, lethargy, as well as other issues. Kava contains FKB or Flavokawain B which has been proven to be toxic to liver cells. In the prepared Noble Kava,
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the amount of FKB is negligible or non-existent, but Tudei can contain twenty times the amount of FKB. It gets complicated because recent studies have found that FKB may have significant benefits in certain clinical applications. It is incredibly important to know which form of Kava you are consuming since Tudei and Noble Kava are nearly identical once dried and ground. At Kava Kove, we have decided to opt for only Noble Kava for the safety and comfort of our customers. Have a Taste! As mentioned earlier, Kava can be mixed with other drinks to compliment the natural flavor of Kava. We will be offering traditional Kava, served plain in a bamboo shell as well as a variety of Kava mocktails! Kava can be
made into just about any mocktail by just replacing the alcohol in the original recipe with Kava. Many people tend to opt for drinks like Piña Coladas that have a strong fruity flavor to counterbalance the bitter taste of Kava. Coming Soon!
| 310 Main Ave Ste 160, Fargo, ND 58103 | 218.979.3252 | kavakove.com | Search "Kava Kove"
By Geneva Nodland |
Courtesy of Studio Freshly
icture this. One day, you're scrolling through Instagram. You see the typical Feed; your past high school prom date had a baby shower, your old coworker went on a tropical vacation, the same old, same old. Switch to Stories; your cousin is traveling abroad to study her minor in French— wait, is that a chocolate croissant? You think how tasty that sounds right now and wonder where to get one at... Oh, look, that guy who was in your Intro to Business course in college is hiking somewhere, "wow that's a nice view" you think. I mean, it's no Grand Canyon, but you're sure there are some good hiking spots around here somewhere... Switch to your Explore Page. After watching yet another "restock my cleaning supplies with me" ASMR video, you're thinking how you can't do this mundane scrolling much longer… And then you see it. Something colorful and familiar catches your eye—is that the Fargo Theatre sign? It is, and you're looking at the words "A Morning in Downtown Fargo" and—oh my god, it's a chocolate croissant, from Nichole's Fine Pastry & Café. Duh, of course, they have that treat. You're just thinking "Why didn't I think of that" when you click on the page that the
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post is from and catch the words "Best Hiking Spots in the Area" and you squealed out loud a little bit. Next thing you know, you're eating chocolate croissants at Buffalo River State Park. Through some fateful follow of a follower of a suggested follow, CampusFM's post made it to your screen, and you can profit off its seriously cool content—but, wait a minute, what is this? If you've seen @campus.fm pop up on your feed, you've probably wondered the same thing. Short explanation, CampusFM is a workforce retention initiative run by Folkways aimed at persuading students to launch their careers in the FM+ area. Its social accounts serve as a local resource for all things food, events, classes, shopping, and more in the metro, run by students or recent college graduates, as a way to immerse the students in the community and show off all that our cities have to offer. Long explanation... well, keep reading!
North Dakota currently has over 26,000 open jobs. By promoting student engagement and participation in the area, and hopefully a blossoming passion for the community, CampusFM aims to change that. "CampusFM is focused on nurturing a sense of community among students in the FM+ area, which will inspire them to lay the groundwork for their careers post-graduation. It aims to bridge the gap for students who feel detached and unsure about their life after graduation," said Simone Wai, Programs Director at Folkways. "Our goal is to ignite a passion for the FM+ area, offering students a sense of purpose and belonging." CampusFM was initially funded by Fueling our Future towards the end of 2019, with Dayna Del Val of The Arts Partnership at the helm. The project's foundation was shaped by a collaboration of community leaders, such as the GFMEDC, FMWF Chamber of Commerce, Tri-College, and many more. By the winter of 2021, Folkways assumed a full-time lead role in this initiative. As a prominent community-building force in the area, Folkways has successfully attracted almost half a million attendees to their events over the past eight years. This track record validates their capacity to unify people in the FM area. But, while it's clear why Folkways—an experienced community-building organization—would spearhead a project like this, the question remains: how exactly do they plan to implement it? To understand what exactly CampusFM is, you'd have to take a look at its online presence.
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"Through our innovative programs, local research, and dynamic social media presence we showcase the vast array of opportunities and experiences available in the area– equipping students with the necessary tools and resources to pursue their career aspirations," Simone said. "We believe that in order to build a successful future postgraduation, students must be connected with their community beyond their campus." To foster that connection between person and community, CampusFM offers Content Creatorships—a 10-week social media content development internship—to local students every semester. These creatorships serve as an adaptable learning opportunity for those students to immerse themselves in the community; live it, explore it, share it, and— reiterating the organization's goal—stay to pursue their careers long after their time with CampusFM. "CampusFM Creators curate and produce content for students, by students in the FargoMoorhead area—helping heir peers connect to the community all while learning the ins and outs of running strategic social media accounts," Simone said. Creators participate in an immersive curriculum, which enlists community experts
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to teach the art of creating captivating digital stories. After absorbing each lesson, students are expected to put their fresh skills into practice, creating stories that reflect our local community, businesses, and events. "During their creatorship, they attend weekly sessions taught by social media professionals. Our creators try new restaurants, attend events, and check out local haunts as the faces of CampusFM."
One of the real perks of this opportunity is that every student adds their unique touch. So, while these creators have specific tasks to fulfill, the places or events they highlight are chosen by them, reflecting their interests and passions," Simone explained. "We've found that the most effective way to engage with students is through their friends and on the platforms they're already using, in a language that resonates with them. We encourage our content creators to feature events and spots that they're genuinely excited about and want to share with their fellow students." "At Folkways we're all about community belonging," Simone explained, "and CampusFM is how we extend that to students. We promote content created by students, for students. Our mission is to build a supportive student community, equipping them with the right tools to achieve their goals. We believe that by nurturing an inclusive environment, we're setting students up for success in their future careers."
According to CampusFM's website, these are the Focus Areas:
Communicate "We develop pipelines to communicate with students where they are–in both the digital and real world." Connect "We strive to connect students with peers, mentors, internships, and professional opportunities." Research "We want to understand students through local surveys alongside state and national data." Collaborate "We are building an ecosystem that connects students to business and highereducation communities." Educate "We create opportunities for student interns and content creators to develop professional skills and get connected in the community."
Concordia College, Business Marketing Major
NDSU, Junior, Strategic Communications Major, Art and Business Minor
Jesus is from Brownsville, TX, he first moved to Moorhead for college and soon after became infatuated with Fargo. He has since been exploring everything the FM area has to offer. He greatly enjoys his time downtown and can be spotted at the Night Bazaar, Red River Market, and strolling up and down Broadway. He is looking forward to meeting new friends and creating a stronger sense of community alongside the CampusFM team!
Kylie is from Rochester, MN. She came to Fargo in 2021 to start her education at NDSU and fell in love with the community and culture Fargo has to offer. Kylie is active in her school's PRSSA club and wildlife society. She spends her free time exploring local coffee shops, working part-time at a dog daycare, and spending time with her cat (Marble) and bearded dragon (Beardy). Kylie is excited to meet new people and be a part of creating an involved community through CampusFM.
Courtesy of Jesus Iracheta
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Courtesy of Kylie Coppock
MSUM, Junior, Digital Media Management
2022 NDSU Graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science & Microbiology
Maddie is originally from Oakes, ND and fell in love with Fargo-Moorhead area because of its community and diversity. She is active with her jobs as a waitress and on-campus job and enjoys her free time in the sun and with her cat Rebel. She looks forward to learning all the ins and outs of Fargo-Moorhead with CampusFM.
Mal was born and raised in Moorhead, MN, and has been living and working in downtown Fargo since 2020. She loves her two cats Wesley and Aspyn, and one day dreams of opening her own cat cafe. Her favorite part of Fargo is that she never feels like a stranger anywhere she goes, and it seems like everyone she meets is only one circle away from each other. She is excited to join the CampusFM team to showcase Fargo’s vibrant atmosphere!
Courtesy of Maddie Reiser
Courtesy of Mal Selberg
While this content may be produced by students and dons the name "campus," it is a wonderful and engaging resource for anyone who wants to venture into the FM community—and we know there are countless opportunities to do so. Follow along with these creators this summer and see what new adventures you can explore in the community! Learn more about the CampusFM initiative at campus-fm.org @campus.fm
@campusfm 37
Josiah Kopp
Professor at Concordia College, Film Expert, Fargo Film Festival Champion, Father 38
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Greg Carlson BY BRADY DRAKE
reg Carlson is a professor in the Communication Studies and Theatre Art department at Concordia College in Moorhead, where he currently serves as the director of the multimedia journalism and film studies programs. Carlson has built a following as the Film Editor of the High Plains Reader, where his reviews, interviews, essays, and features have appeared in print and online since 1997. Carlson is also the Projects Producer of the Fargo Film Festival and has volunteered since the inaugural year of the event in 2001. Every March, among other things, he programs the festival’s popular 2-Minute Movie Contest, one of the longest-running showcases of its kind. Carlson loves attending film festivals large and small, and often brings students to Park City, Utah to experience the excitement of world premieres at the Sundance Film Festival.
An accomplished filmmaker, Carlson is a four-time finalist in the Fusion/International Documentary Challenge and has produced and directed movies that have screened at Slamdance, Hot Docs, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival, the South Dakota Film Festival, the Free Range Film Festival, the Orlando Film Festival, the Honolulu International Film Festival, and many others. With Scottie Knollin, Carlson cofounded the North Dakota Film Society in 2019. He also serves on the board of directors of the Fargo Theatre, his favorite place in the world to see movies. Carlson lives in Fargo with his wife Katie Smith, their children Forrest and Violet, and pet guinea pigs, Pluto and Galaxy.
An Accomplished Resume Greg Carlson has had films screened at: • Fusion/International Documentary Challenge • Slamdance • Hot Docs • Big Sky Documentary Film Festival • Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival • South Dakota Film Festival • Free Range Film Festival • Orlando Film Festival, • Honolulu International Film Festival • And many others.
CO N T I N U E D >
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GREG'S
Favorite Annual Events & Activities Fargo Film Festival
This year's Fargo Film Festival took place March 21-25 and "JessZilla" won Best Picture.
"Every March, under the leadership of Fargo Theatre Executive Director Emily Beck, the FFF programs more than 100 movies in five days. From local to international productions, the features and short subjects represent a variety of budgets, genres, and techniques. One of the best experiences of my life was hosting visual effects wizard, founding Industrial Light & Magic member, 'Star Wars' Oscar-winner, and Fargo native Richard Edlund."
Fargo Record Fair
This year's Fargo Record Fair will be taking place on October 21!
Some upcoming shows include: Train with Better Than Erza (August 5), Natalie Rateliff & The Night Sweats with Thee Sacred Souls (August 15), Lindsey Stirling with Walk Off The Earth (August 23), Thrivefest featuring Jeremy Camp (August 26) 40
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"My friend Dean Sime has been running the Fargo Record Fair for years, where music fans catch up with other record collectors and dig through the crates in search of the perfect album. I won’t be parting with my Breeders 'Head to Toe' 10-inch or my Pickwick 'Sounds of Terror!' LP anytime soon, but I am still on the lookout for a reasonably priced copy of the Rauschenberg edition of 'Speaking in Tongues' by Talking Heads."
Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra: A Night at the Oscars "Jane Linde Capistran has inspired so many students and musicians over the years that it is hard to bear the thought of her (well-deserved) retirement. I hope the FM Symphony Orchestra will continue its annual Oscars concert, a fantastic program of perfectly curated selections from Academy Award winners and nominees past and present. The trio of Elmer Bernstein themes this year, which included 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' just knocked me out."
Jade Presents
Bluestem Concert Series "Our community is fortunate to have a promoter like Jade Nielson and a worldclass amphitheater like Bluestem. Winter is always coming, and the summer months fly by, so I take advantage of outdoor shows as often as possible. Robert Plant, Ween, Dinosaur Jr., and Violent Femmes are just a few special memories at this incredible venue. Since Missy Elliott at the Fargodome was canceled back in 2003, can we try again at Bluestem?"
GREG'S
Restaurant Recommendations
1.
CAFE ALADDIN
2.
G R E AT W A L L
3.
BERNBAUM’S
4.
THAI ORCHID
5.
"Closing in on three decades, Aladdin is as magical as the lamp of its namesake. I hope Ahmad and Younis never stop. Lucky for me, Aladdin happens to be my daughter’s favorite restaurant. The stuffed vine leaves are hard to beat."
"Only the 'regular' version of chicken broccoli appears on the menu. Ask to have it prepared with their signature garlic sauce and you will be back for more. And speaking of garlic sauce, the eggplant at Lucy’s is spectacular."
"I am always ready for Nordic lamb meatloaf with lingonberries and pickled onions followed by a slice of chocolate cake! In November, my wife and I attended the Native Heritage Dinner prepared by Candace Stock and Edward Rodriguez. We haven’t been the same since. I still dream about that night."
"I will miss the Moorhead location, but won’t stop regular visits when it moves to West Fargo. The red curry is the most comforting dish on a frozen January day and I urge you to make friends with the shiitake mushroom spring rolls if you have not already had the pleasure."
MOORHEAD FREEZ "When I was young, my grandfather introduced me to the joy of the hot fudge malt. I graduated from nearby Moorhead High School. An open campus meant lots of lunchtimes spent at what was then known as the TF."
Josiah Kopp
that people should make sure they watch?
WITH GREG CARLSON
If Greg Carlson were to create the perfect array of movie snacks, what would he include? I have been working on the design and build of a home theater that includes a concession stand. I tend to stick with a classic line-up: hot buttered popcorn, ice-cold soda, and a box of Junior Mints.
What local film creators and professionals should people be aware of in the area and why? Are there any particular pieces
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There is so much talent here. Toby Jones and Tucker Lucas are currently working on an ambitious comedy (full disclosure: I play the main character’s dad). I love everything that my colleague Kyja Kristjansson-Nelson makes. Whenever she goes to Iceland, she always returns with a gorgeous movie. Mike Scholtz, who lives in Wrenshall, Minnesota, is one of my oldest and closest friends. His documentary shorts and features explode with humor, life, and color. Mike makes learning fun. He is also a workhorse who just keeps getting better and better with each new project.
What should the beginning filmmaker's starter kit include? While it is a thrill to play with expensive gear, I tell students of all ages that you don’t need to spend a fortune on equipment to make movies. In 2006, David Lynch shot “Inland Empire” in standard definition on the Sony PD-150—the same prosumer-grade camcorder model we
were using in production classes at the time. I remember when Monte Hellman’s final feature “Road to Nowhere” played at the Fargo Theatre in 2011. That movie was captured on the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, a very affordable camera. A light bulb blinked on for independent, do-it-yourself storytellers. Before the digital revolution, cost was a much bigger barrier to entry for aspiring moviemakers. Today, the smartphones in so many of our pockets capture high-quality images and sounds that can be edited in apps/programs like iMovie, Adobe Premiere Pro, PowerDirector 365, and Sony Vegas. Vimeo even offers an easy video editor. Technology changes so rapidly and there is such a huge price range that it is impossible to suggest an ideal camera. I like the plucky charm and revolutionary spirit of the GoPro line as well as the versatility of the Panasonic HC-X1. My friends Tucker, Lucas, and Toby Jones are using the Blackmagic Pocket 6K on a project right now. Duncan Williamson, senior film producer at Tellwell, favors the Sony FX6. He notes the camera’s “perfect balance between image quality and nimble size” for documentary production.
More Reccomendations FROM GREG
1.
R E A D A B A N N E D B O O K AT T H E F A R G O P U B L I C L I B R A R Y.
4.
G E T A R E CO M M E N D AT I O N F R O M G R E G D A N Z AT Z A N D B R OZ .
2.
S H O P T H E G R E E N H O U S E AT B A K E R G A R D E N A N D G I F T.
5.
CHECK ON THE CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS OF THE ISLAND PA R K S W I M M I N G P O O L .
3.
S E E A P E R F O R M A N C E AT T H E AT R E B .
Everyone likes to talk cameras, but a decent handheld audio recorder is also a must. The Zoom H4N and the Tascam DR-100MKIII are good places to start for beginners. I have no idea whether the upcoming TP-7 field recorder by Teenage Engineering will deliver, but I am intrigued by the promise of its audio transcription feature. I will be elated if it works as advertised.
What is your involvement in the Fargo Film Festival? I was not a member of the group that started the Fargo Film Festival, but I have been a
volunteer since the beginning. The great film professor, my mentor Ted Larson of Minnesota State University Moorhead, died a few months before the original event. Even though my life had been turned upside down, Rusty Casselton asked me to participate. I made dubs of submitted movies for jurors to screen, helped set up the second venue, and edited the video of Leonard Maltin accepting the inaugural Ted M. Larson Award, the Fargo Film Festival’s highest honor.
of Congress Film Preservation Tour. Ted Larson had previously hosted cinema luminaries Lillian Gish and Colleen Moore in addition to producing Silent Movie Night and Summer Cinema at MSUM. He also regularly took students to Cinefest and Cinecon in New York and Los Angeles. I know he would be thrilled to see the growth and evolution of the festival.
I am so glad that then-Executive Director Margie Bailly and a talented group of friends had the vision to do so following the March 2000 visit of Janet Leigh as part of the Library
Connect With Greg! /greg.carlson.927 gcarlson@cord.edu 43
Gifted Artist, SelfLove Advocate, Body Positivity Inspiration Photos by Chase Evert of Chase Chapters
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Hannah Stelter BY SAM KISE
Lady. This art supply and gift shop opened in November 2022 and is now located in the heart of downtown at 408 Broadway N.
Hannah Stelter is an artist and entrepreneur based in Fargo, ND. She creates art with the intention to inspire others to embrace imperfection and celebrate self-love and body positivity. Most known for her "Scribble Ladies"—her signature portraiture style—she is now recognized as "the Scribble Lady." Hannah does all her work with a pen made out of glass, and in 2021, she released her own glass pen kit. That kit has since inspired her to launch an entire art supply line—her new company Scribble
Aside from her art, Hannah is an advocate for embracing oneself in more ways than just physical art. She is an aerial artist in her free time and competes in national pole-sport competitions, dabbles in sewing her own clothes, loves exploring the fashion limits, and has a deep love for traveling—she can be found on the road or in a plane quite often. She inspires others to be their authentic self, embrace their differences, and shout it proudly to the world. CO N T I N U E D >
New Location Just last month, Hannah Stelter and her team moved their Scribble Lady shop to Unglued's old location on Broadway, when Unglued moved their store into Brewhalla. They've completely revamped the space to fit the business's personality and plan to continue to make the store their own. Visit Scribble Lady's new location downtown at 408 Broadway!
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Hannah's Favorite Annual Events & Activities TO TA K E PA RT I N A R O U N D FA R G O - M O O R H E A D The I F*@%ING LOVE MYSELF Event "Of course, my first favorite annual event is my own event. This is a self-love celebration that I host every April in honor of my 'art birthday.' Since my message as an artist is self-love, and April is when I officially made the leap to pursue sharing my message full-time, throwing a massive self-love birthday party seemed like the perfect thing to do. Every year, the event has a boudoir photographer doing empowering photo sessions in a private room, self-love activities such as a paint-your-own-affirmation station, mystery performances about knowing your worth and loving yourself, a red carpet, dancing, and so much more."
The Unglued Craft Fest "This event, which takes place in March, is special to me because the first year that I was a vendor at this show, I made enough money to have the confidence to pursue art full-time, and the day after the show finished, I quit my job. Besides that, I have always enjoyed attending this event and seeing all the cool things local artists have for sale. It’s the perfect place to buy gifts or to treat yourself to some unique pieces. They also have workshops and DJs; the whole event is just so incredible."
The Zero Gravity POLEtergeist Halloween Showcase at the Windbreak "I guarantee this is like nothing you've ever been to at the Windbreak. It's hosted by my aerial art gym Zero Gravity Alternative Fitness every October. There are 10-15 performers on a variety of apparatuses from Pole, Lollipop, Lyra, and Silks, and also there have also been belly dancing, twerking, and hula hooping performances. I personally perform in this show with so many other talented aerialists in the area and it's always so incredible to see the talent. From zombies to cowboys to magicians, the Halloween showcase has the most fun-themed performances. They also host a spring showcase in April with themes like Outer Space, 80s Extravaganza, Enchanted, etc."
Christkindlmarkt "Hosted by Folkways every November, this is such a fun magical weekend inspired by the European holiday markets. I have sold my art at this in the past, but I also LOVE attending with my friends, watching the performances, roasting marshmallows under the snow falling, and just soaking up all the holiday vibes. Folkways also hosts monthly Night Bazaars downtown that are like a mini summer version of this that I also 10/10 recommend."
Unglued Summer Camp "This adult summer camp is hosted by the local business Unglued, but it takes place at the YMCA's Camp Cormorant. If you like art, crafts, making things for fun, and trying new hobbies, you need to attend. It is held during the last weekend of August and the first weekend of September. Get ready for the adult version of your nostalgic summer camp memories, and if you never attended camp as a kid, there is no better time than now to start."
FM Pride "We CANNOT forget about FM Pride in August! From the parade to Pride in the Park to the block party, FM Pride is definitely something to look forward to every year (and rumor has it that Scribble Lady and I are planning some totally awesome pride events as well)."
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HANNAH'S
Entertainment Recommendations
1. 2.
SCRIBBLE NIGHTS WITH SCRIBBLE L ADY "I used to go to weekly live figure-drawing events when I lived in Berlin and I found them to be my favorite part of the week, so I am super pumped to be bringing them to Fargo! Our first event was May 18th at Marge’s Bar and our model wore/posed for a space theme! Bring your own art supplies and come hang out and practice drawing with me!"
STARTUPBREW "This weekly Wednesday morning event is hosted by Emerging Prairie and is such a fun and inspiring way to start the day, and there is free coffee! It’s such an amazing networking opportunity and a cool way to see what kind of inspiring entrepreneurs Fargo has."
3.
C R E AT I V E M O R N I N G S "This is a monthly event, similar to StartupBREW but more focused on creatives. I just recently heard about it and will be a regular attendee for sure. It is hosted at the Jasper Hotel, and there is free coffee and free breakfast snacks!"
4.
DOWNTOWN MARKETS "Both the Red River Market and Night Bazaar are hosted at Broadway Square downtown and are a must for me in the summer. A free activity to get out of the house, see some cool performances, and, yes, maybe buy a few things if you want. Supporting local and just having a fun evening— what’s not to love?"
5.
CLAY YOUR WAY "Clay Your Way is one of my favorite activities to do when the weather isn’t so nice but you want to get out. They have a huge selection of premade ceramics and you get to paint them however you like. They will then fire them and send you a message when your art is ready to pick up! I will literally go here alone it’s so fun."
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One of our other trendsetters in this issue, Jenny Sheets, is the Director of Startup programs at Emerging Prairie and is heavily involved in StartupBREW. Read more about Jenny on page 82!
After taking some time away during COVID, Creative Mornings are back in 2023! The event always takes place on a Friday, and registration opens the Monday before the event. Keep up to date on upcoming speakers at creativemornings. com/cities/far
HANNAH'S
Favorite Bars and Restaurants
1.
MARGE'S BAR
"Marge’s Bar is my number one favorite bar in Fargo. First of all, it's underground in Robert’s Alley, hidden down by the Boiler Room, which in general just feels fun. The vibes in there are immaculate, with unique decorations, a cozy seating area, and an intimate feel. This bar is my favorite place to go for a fancy cocktail and a great conversation with friends. I end up here for most celebratory occasions because it’s not usually too packed or too loud, but the energy is amazing. And they have great cocktails."
2.
FRONT STREET TAPROOM
"Front Street Taproom is another downtown gem that is close to home. I used to live right by there and would frequent it on many occasions. They host open mic nights, DJs, and trivia on a regular basis, and also have an underground comedy cellar. Also, they have a cute little upstairs mezzanine which is perfect for an afternoon tap and workspace during the day, and in the evening bodes well for conversation. They even have a kind of hidden patio in the back alley which is gorgeous in the summer."
3.
HAROLD'S BAR ON MAIN
"Harold’s on Main is another gem of a bar located in Moorhead. With their huge patio, this is one of my favorite places for a drink in the summertime (and they also host karaoke). The décor is gorgeous, even down to the bathroom details."
4.
THAI ORCHID
"Thai Orchid in Moorhead is by far my favorite Thai place. It's always so calm inside, which makes it the perfect spot for dinner. Can you tell I am not big on places that are overwhelmingly loud? If I am being honest, I most frequently order pickup and enjoy their food from the comfort of my couch after a long day's work."
5.
CELLAR 624
"This new venue is also kind of hidden and happens to be right next to my art studio. In the basement of the Delendricies building, this venue hosts so many events like wine tastings and Wine and Paint classes that I teach. They also hosted the first annual 'I F*@%ING LOVE MYSELF' event. They have a whole wall displaying some of my larger Scribble Lady Portraits, too. On Wine Wednesdays, they have a happy hour that is open to the public with different featured wines every week, and they have delicious cheese plates to compliment them as well."
HANNAH'S
Perfect Day in Fargo-Moorhead Paul Flessland
In the summer, I love to have the sun wake me up in the morning. When I am feeling like it, I will attend a 7 a.m. yoga class at Yuj Yoga as the perfect start to my day. Regardless of if I make it to yoga, I make myself a full breakfast almost every morning. I sit there, enjoy my breakfast, and then get ready for the day. From 10 a.m. to noon, I will work from my laptop, usually from home. Occasionally, I like to work from Youngblood if I need some extra motivation and focus. For lunch, on a perfect day, I will be meeting one of my friends at BernBaums. I always order the Chicken Salad Sandwich, and we will sit outside, people-watch, and soak up the sun. After lunch, we will pop into my store Scribble Lady (which is right next door), say hello, and then head over to Scoop N Dough for some ice cream to enjoy in Broadway Square while we catch up on life. In the afternoon, I will head to my studio to paint for a few hours before ending my day around 5 p.m. Then, I will head to Zero Gravity for a pole dancing class! I will pick up groceries on the way home, make myself a delicious dinner, and enjoy the evening with friends and an outdoor movie night on our patio.
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HANNAH'S
Top Tools for Aspiring Artists "There are no must-have items to create art. You can use what you have if you are low on budget, and sometimes that can make the work even cooler. Paint with coffee. Get free partially used house paint at the hazardous waste facility. Use your phone camera for photography until you can upgrade. That being said, here are some of my personal favorite tools as an artist."
Watercolor paints I love that they are portable and easy to travel with.
A squeeze bottle for applying paint
Paint markers
My glass dip pen
My sketchbook
they are easy to use, and way less messy than paint with a similar effect.
it is 100% the most therapeutic art supply I have ever used and allows me to sit and draw for hours.
"And because being an artist also means you are a business owner, my other favorite tools are:"
My phone
Profit First Quickbooks
to keep my finances straight.
Shopify
My accountant
my website platform.
because we are artists, we don’t need to be stressing over numbers.
A mini microphone for my phone so my video voiceovers sound crisp.
to document my process, share photos, and social media.
this book is my holy grail for money management as an artist.
Studio Freshly my photographer for all my headshot and art photo needs. Good presentation is key.
YouTube
there is no better place to learn for absolutely free.
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"As a writer, I second this idea. Traveling can be inspiring for all kinds of creative endeavors!" - Sam Kise, Editor
HANNAH'S
Creative Inspiration Tips & Tricks "Looking for inspiration? Here are some things I like to do to get inspired."
1.
DRAW YOUR SURROUNDINGS "Sit at a coffee shop and draw my surroundings, people, etc."
2.
TRAVEL "Whether it's a short road trip or an overseas flight, taking a trip is one of my favorite ways to get inspired. I always find myself renewed with ideas upon returning."
3.
BE ACTIVE "From Yuj Yoga to Zero Gravity, I find inspiration in the beautiful shapes of yoga and aerial arts that I love to work into my pieces."
4.
GO TO EVENTS "Go to events like the night bazaar, art syndicate events, and crafting events with Unglued."
5.
GO TO ART MEETUPS "I get together with my art friends frequently to talk about art, the art business, and so much more. We inspire and bounce ideas off each other and I always leave with fresh ideas."
"Since Fargo is a smaller city, it can sometimes feel like there isn’t enough going on, or there are more or cooler things to do in a bigger city. My advice? If there is something you wish Fargo had, find a way to start it or make it happen! There is a really good chance others will be just as excited as you!"
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HANNAH'S
Local Artists Recommendations Kary Janousek
@oldschoolcollodion
P H OTO G R A P H Y AT O L D S C H O O L CO L LO D I O N
“Does very beautiful tintype portraiture using an authentic process and the coolest old camera. She has walk in days every once in awhile, so pop in and get your vintage dream photo taken!”
Elizabeth Moore
@e.mooreart
E.MOORE ART STUDIO
"One of my art besties. She does amazing digital fan art fulltime and even has a store E.Moore Art Studio. She works in the convention space and has been killing it since I met her.
Chase Evert
@chaseevert
CHASE CHAPTERS LLC
"Chase is another of my art besties and is a photographer. He focuses on cowboy/Midwestern photography and it is so stunning."
Ashley Strachan
@beyondloveandlight
BEYOND LOVE & LIGHT_WORK
"Ashley makes adorable polymer clay earrings and I’m totally obsessed. I sell her earrings in Scribble Lady and she just released her PRIDE collection. She also makes boob earrings and they are literally incredible."
Christina Lang
@see_lang_design
SEE LANG DESIGN
"Christina is a quilling artist and illustrator. Her work is intricate and beautiful and I absolutely adore the piece of hers that I have."
Connect With Hannah! Scribble Lady 408 Broadway, Fargo
/scribbleladyco
contact@scribblelady.com
scribbleladyco
scribblelady.com
@scribbleladyco
@scribbleladyco
Personal itsdesignedbyhannah.com
@hannahstelter2
/designedbyhannahart
@hannahstelter
hannahstelter
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Photo by Studio Freshly
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Emily Olsen BY GENEVA NODLAND
mily Olsen is a local creative, Downtown Fargo superfan, and Director of Lifestyle at Jasper Hotel. Most often, you’ll see Emily supporting local happenings around the city or hosting her own at the newest boutique hotel downtown. Emily has always been passionate about all things artsy—designing content, creative writing, and planning events for the community are the highlights of her personal and professional life.
music festivals and juried art shows, and in her downtime, she created alongside them both. This unique upbringing always came with connections to artists and makers that inspired Emily to follow in their footsteps throughout her life. She attended North Dakota State University and received a BA in Strategic Communication and a minor in Visual Arts which helped to support her future career in the arts. Emily most enjoys working with like-minded change makers to contribute to the further development of downtown Fargo, her favorite place.
Emily grew up with an artist for a mother and a hobby musician for a father, which meant her childhood was spent traveling to countless
CO N T I N U E D >
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FM EVENTS
On Emily's Calendar #1 Rocky Horror Picture Show at The Fargo Theatre "My all-time favorite happening in Fargo-Moorhead is The Fargo Theatre’s presentation of Rocky Horror Picture Show. This is an event I look forward to each year as the highlight of my Halloween! This evening is more than just a screening of the cult-classic film—all attendees show up and show out in their best camp fashion for the theater’s cosplay competition which always comes with a coveted prize. During the show, sit and watch as the most random props are thrown about the room and the crowd shouts throughout the movie. Plus, you can enjoy your favorite movie theater snacks while you’re at it. This truly is a must-attend experience!"
#2 The Night Bazaar
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
"Folkways’ Night Bazaar is an iconic event in downtown Fargo and boasts the best summer vibes, three times a year. Personally, I go to enjoy the great food, live music, surprise entertainment, and local vendor shopping, all in Broadway Square! Walking through this scene with a refreshing drink in hand and sunny skies is what summer is all about. Plus, you know it's cool when the street is closed for a skating half-pipe and flame twirlers."
#3 CreativeMornings: Fargo “Fargo is among over 226 cities across 67 countries that host CreativeMornings—a monthly breakfast lecture series that brings people together over something we all have in common: creativity. CreativeMornings is an organization I volunteer for, and I have come to love it for what it stands for and what it offers the community each and every month. Come to Jasper (the host for all 2023 events) ready for a cup of delicious coffee provided by Stumbeano's and a pastry from Rosewild to start your morning off right—I will see you there!"
Night Bazaar is a monthly event run by Folkways. The magical evenings are filled with food, music, art, and performances. Underneath the twinkling lights on Broadway Square, you can shop from local artists, makers, and vintage shops while you snack on food from your favorite (or, to-be new favorite!) food vendors. This year's dates for Night Bazaar are June 22, July 20, and September 14!
#4 FM Symphony Masterworks Concerts
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
“Let’s be honest, classical music is underrated. Fargo’s Symphony Orchestra is a gem in town that everyone should be proud of. Having a performing orchestra of their caliber is a testament to the rich arts culture Fargo has fostered. Going to the symphony is entertaining, educational, and inspiring—keep things interesting and take your next date to the symphony, you won’t regret it. Fun fact, in their upcoming season, they will be playing selections from Legend of Zelda!"
#5 Rosewild’s Ice Cream Social with Silver Lining
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"Now this is one I personally plan, and it brings me so much joy each year. For me, summer kicks off in downtown Fargo at Rosewild’s Ice Cream Social with Silver Lining Creamery. Our community takes to social media to submit their dream ice cream flavor ideas for the summer season and the winning scoop is designed by Rosewild’s Executive Chef and Silver Lining Creamery. Then it makes its grand debut in Broadway Square! Plus, the opening night of Music @ The Square is the perfect place to soak up some sun, listen to live music, and enjoy a sweet treat."
This year's winning flavor, Grilled Peach with Hot Honey, is the epitome of summer living!
E M I LY ' S
Favorite Bars and Restaurants
Geneva Nodland
Rosewild Burger & Baby Kale Salad
"Rosewild is hands down my favorite restaurant in Fargo! I love taking my family and friends here to enjoy a delicious, hearth cooked meal. Whether it’s a weeknight bite before a show or a Friday night dinner to celebrate a special occasion, Rosewild is the spot. For a more casual meal in the Lounge, the Rosewild Burger is phenomenal, but if you’re looking for dinner, the Baby Kale Salad is my ultimate recommendation."
BERNBAUM'S
3.
HAROLD'S BAR ON MAIN
4.
POUNDS
Emily 's c: Re
2. Geneva Nodland
Egg of the Day
“BernBaum’s is my midday meal destination. I am in the camp that agrees that breakfast foods should be an all-day affair, and their Egg of the Day confirms that theory. This adorable, mid-century modern-clad, Nordic-Jewish deli is the coziest space to hit up next time you’re spending the morning or afternoon downtown. Plus, they are open seven days a week!"
“If you're looking for that perfect night out, I highly recommend checking out Harold's on Main. This cozy bar has quickly become a go-to spot for a fun night with friends or a relaxed evening of intimate conversation. Their delicious, innovative drinks combined with a perfectly lit, moody atmosphere makes Harold’s an easy choice on any night out. Bonus, if you stop by in the summer to take advantage of their patio Tiki Bar!"
“Pounds claims 'good vibes since 2015' and I have to agree. Their playful interior and 8-bit branding make this spot a ton of fun to hang out in, and the food is the cherry on top. A major perk is their picnic-style patio that is totally pup-friendly, making this a regular destination for my wife and I during the summer season. My order? The Cherry Lime Cooler and the Yin and Yang Hippie Bowl."
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
5. Visit Fargo-Moorhead
ROSEWILD
c: Re
1.
Emily 's
BREWHALLA “The newest hot spot for Fargo is Brewhalla, and I’m already a dedicated regular. The small business mall layout reminds me of Dairy Block in Denver in all the right ways. Being able to shop iconic local businesses like Unglued or Livin’ The Dream Pottery while sipping on a Drekker beer on tap makes this experience unlike any other in town." CO N T I N U E D > 59
Studio Freshly
E M I LY ' S
Perfect Day in Fargo-Moorhead On the off-chance that her schedule is totally clear for a day, we asked Emily what her "perfect day in Fargo-Moorhead" looked like.
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MORNING
"The perfect day for me would start with a walk to Youngblood Coffee for my caffeine fix. If not an Americano, I’ll order a matcha latte and then head to Terrace Yoga at Jasper—there is something about vinyasa and the views overlooking Broadway that keep me coming back!"
AFTERNOON
"After that fresh air, a trip to BernBaum’s with friends is my go-to. If we are really lucky, we might get the corner booth in the window to enjoy our post-workout meals. From there, I'd take a walk downtown or a motorcycle ride to Island Park to get some sun, relax in a hammock, and play catch to fill the rest of my late afternoon."
NIGHT
"After a chill day, I will typically seek out a special event in town, check out Fargo Underground for suggestions, or hang out at one of my previously mentioned top bars or restaurants (Rosewild, Harold’s, Pounds, or Drekker & Brewhalla) to end the night with a great drink and meal in good company."
The
E M I LY ' S
Hack to Downtown Fargo "As a downtown Fargo superfan, hearing folks say the reason they don’t frequent downtown is the lack of parking spots makes me immediately jump into hospitality mode—there is so much more parking availability than people may think (over 2,000 spots)! After hearing about some of my favorite places, hopefully, you will want to come to experience this district yourself, and when you do, park in the Mercantile Ramp, the Civic Ramp, the ROCO Ramp, or surface lots like the NP Avenue Lot. Some of these options even allow for free parking for the first few hours of your visit! I will see you there!"
Parking Deets MERCANTILE GARAGE 410 5th St N, Fargo Daily Rate: 0-2 Hours FREE 2-4 Hours $3 4-6 Hours $5 All-Day $8 Lost Ticket Fee $8 Free evenings, 5 p.m. - 8 a.m, & Weekends
CIVIC CENTER RAMP 411 2nd Avenue N, Fargo Daily Rate: $1.75 / Hour $8.75 All-Day Lost Ticket Fee $8.75 Free evenings, 5 p.m - 3 a.m., & Weekends
ROBERTS COMMONS (ROCO)
Other Free Surface Lots:
Evenings, 5 p.m. - 8 a.m, & Weekends 3rd Street Surface Lot, 320 Machinery Row N, Fargo 4th Street Surface Lot, 20 4th Street N, Fargo C1 Surface Lot, 222 4th Street N, Fargo C2 Surface Lot, 401 3rd Avenue N, Fargo Monthly rate parking is available for all locations!
217 Roberts Street N, Fargo Daily Rate: 0-2 Hours FREE 2-4 Hours $3 4-6 Hours $5 All-Day $8 Lost Ticket Fee $8 Free evenings, 5 p.m. - 8 a.m, & Weekends *ChargePoint EV Charging Station
NP AVENUE LOT 411 2nd Avenue N, Fargo Daily Rate: $1 / Hour $5 All-Day Free evenings 5 p.m. - 8 a.m, & Weekends CO N T I N U E D >
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E M I LY ' S
Emily's Pro Tip: "Reserve Theater 2 for a private screening of your favorite movie—just bring in your own copy and kickback for the best time with friends!"
Local Picks for Entertainment #1 Movie Night at Fargo Theatre “The Fargo Theatre is a mere block from my apartment, so a night at the movies is a short walk away! I have always been a film fan, and my ideal date night definitely involves shared theater popcorn. The selection of films Fargo Theatre brings in is just as unique as the building itself; the iconic blockbusters are sure to be screened, but you can also catch some lesserknown, indie films there.
#2 Shopping Day Downtown
Geneva Nodland
Emily's Pro Tip: "Rosewild will be hosting patio bars at each of these concerts throughout the season—now you can grab a refreshing drink while spending some muchneeded time outside!"
“My guilty (not so guilty) pleasure is browsing the shops downtown. Start at Zandbroz Variety to pick up a new book, work your way down to Scribble Lady Co. for local art, then to Proper and Kindred People for some new staple outfit pieces. I never miss stopping by Revolver to get lucky with a great vintage find or two. This is a great way to support local businesses and kill some time on a Saturday!"
#3 Put up a Hammock in Island Park
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
“When the weather calls for it, I'll be at Island Park with my dogs, my hammock, and a mit to play catch. With basketball and tennis courts, grills, picnic tables, a playground, and a gorgeous gazebo, it's truly a downtown gem. Two thumbs up to Fargo Parks on their maintenance of this space for the community! Keep an eye on their calendar—the Island Park Show is another cool vendor shopping experience every year."
#4 Catch Live Music in Broadway Square
Josiah Kopp
“Did someone say free outdoor concerts all summer long? Broadway Square works hard to program incredible musicians for performances several times a month throughout the summer season at Music @ The Square. Lay out a blanket on the green space and take advantage of one of the coolest, complimentary community offerings in downtown Fargo."
#5 Take a Yoga Class at Yuj Yoga Emily's Bonus: "If you’re new, use promo code BREATHE to attend your first class free!" 62
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Geneva Nodland
"“Let me start by saying I should absolutely be doing more of this, but taking a yoga class with Allison Grippe at Yuj Yoga is one of my favorite wellness experiences downtown. Sometimes trying a new group wellness class can be intimidating, but Allison is so welcoming and has curated her new studio beautifully to make everyone feel comfortable and set up for a great class."
W I T H E M I LY O L S E N
Q: With the role of Jasper's Director of Lifestyle, how do you find inspiration for the events that you plan?
A: My inspirations come from
the vision I have for where Jasper is headed next, whether it’s in dreaming up the next big occasion or in partnering with local creatives to bring something entirely new to our community. I love keeping up with what local artists and business owners are up to, and if I can, I want to help bring those plans to life alongside them. These kinds of conversations are the birthplaces for my favorite local partnerships that make their way into the programming at Jasper Hotel.
Q: And, how do you make sure that the type of activities you plan are what the community wants to participate in?
A: It is no secret that not every
individual event will appeal to everyone. However, it’s my goal to
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offer Jasper Hotel as a space for people to enjoy in whatever way appeals to them most. Whether it's enjoying a cocktail accompanied by live music, working on wellness at Terrace Yoga, or having a night out at a party like COLOR, I try to activate the space with a wide variety of happenings, but only to compliment what is already a highly social and super cool space for anyone to take advantage of.
Q: You played a large role in bringing CreativeMornings back to the community. Why did you feel that this was necessary, and why did you think Jasper was the right venue fit?
A: CreativeMornings is an event
that brings me joy for so many reasons, and I am proud to serve as the Secretary of the Fargo chapter. Being a creative person (which everyone is, by the way) can come with what I call a “silo”. Our work can become independent, introspective, and personal in a way that may lead to a bit of isolation. CreativeMornings is a space that encourages discussion
about projects and points of view with like-minded change-makers, monthly. Plus, a little sweet treat and caffeine never hurt! Jasper’s vision of supporting local art and creating spaces for communities to gather parallels that of CreativeMornings—the partnership was only natural.
Q: This may be an impossible question but, what is your personal favorite event to attend in the FM area, and why?
A: Hands down, The Fargo
Theatre’s presentation of Rocky Horror Picture Show. Every year around Halloween, this cult classic is revived before sold-out audiences all dressed in true camp fashion. Sitting in this historic, art deco movie theater, snacking on classic boxed m&m’s and popcorn, and watching as the most random props are thrown about the room is unlike any other night-out one could have in Fargo.
for everyone, no matter your interests. My favorite resource for these opportunities is social media—when you discover a brand, club, or event that you like, chances
A: I wasn’t born in Fargo, but
when I’m asked, Fargo is absolutely my hometown. I grew up in Boise, Idaho, but moved here in 2010 and quickly fell in love with this place. Being engaged in the community has shown me aspects of my city that I would not have otherwise seen beyond a surface-level glance, whether it’s in the people I've met, the memories I’ve made, or the one-of-a-kind experiences I have had in one-of-a-kind spaces. The wildest part is that there are still amazing spots on my list that I haven’t visited yet!
Did you know? The café in Jasper serves the iconic Stumbeano’s Coffee to fuel you all day long!
YOU NEED A BREAK FROM THE BUSY? "When I’m looking to unwind, I pick up my camera and take a walk downtown or to a nearby local park for a hobby photography session (emphasis on hobby). Downtown Fargo is very architecturally intriguing and makes for a great subject that never gets old. When I'm done, I'll stop into a space like Youngblood to enjoy an almond milk matcha latte and edit—just for fun!"
YOU'RE IN THE MOOD FOR A GOOD TIME? "My friends and I have nailed down our good-time routine recently, and the formula is simple. The first stop is at Pounds for a delicious bite to eat either on the patio or in their very aesthetic dining room. After that, stop by Drekker for a craft beer—they always have something unique on tap! Beer is something I’ve only recently come around to, and it's solely because of the atmosphere I get to enjoy while sipping on one at Drekker."
A PLACE YOU'D SHOW OFF TO SOMEONE SPECIAL?
Emily's
D
A classic cosmopolitan.
"It truly depends on who this someone special is, but a place nearby that makes for a great, intimate conversation is Harold’s On Main. This cozy, midcentury modern lounge serves excellent craft cocktails and notably does not have a single TV on its walls which adds to its already phenomenal, moody lighting."
k Rec:
A: In Fargo, there is something
Q: How do you think engaging so much in the community has influenced your time in Fargo?
Where are you going when...
rin
Q: How should someone who is interested in being active in the community go about finding opportunities? What resources can you recommend?
are they are on social platforms. Follow them to keep up with their happenings! Pro tip: take a look at whom your favorite accounts are following, and chances are you’ll find your next favorite thing in town you may not have heard of yet. If you’re not on socials, then head straight to Fargo Underground or visit the Fargo-Moorhead local online calendars for a concise list of the coolest things happening on any given day.
YOU NEED TO GET STUFF DONE? "This may seem biased, but the premier space to get creative or productive is in Jasper Hotel’s Lounge and Lobby. This space was meticulously styled to blend high design with midwestern comfort, and it shows. Sitting in front of the fire at a long, communal table sets you up for a great meeting or solo-work session, and if you’re marathoning your work day, you can get breakfast, lunch, and dinner there from the delicious Rosewild restaurant!"
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Radio Personality, WorldClass Photographer and Videographer Courteney Larson
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Dan Virchow BY GRANT AYERS
an "Chow" Virchow is a photographer, videographer, and radio host from West Fargo, North Dakota. As a lifelong fan of rock and metal music, Virchow has been a staple on Fargo airwaves since joining the team at Q98 (now Q105.1) in 2012. Always looking to support the rock scene in any way possible, Virchow has since developed a passion for concert photography after shooting various bands that ranged from local and regional all the way to globally recognized acts like Metallica and AC/DC.
such as Slipknot, Corey Taylor, and Cherry Bombs. Alongside his work with bands, there are a couple of other "B" words that are a big part of Dan's world: bikes and burgers. Dan has worked at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as a photographer and MC for the last 10 years, and is also the Multimedia Director for Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews, documenting the restaurant's rapid growth across the United States. Always looking to develop new skills and put them into play, Dan has developed a reputation as a "one-man band." CO N T I N U E D >
After years of shooting shows as nothing more than a passion project, Virchow began hitting the road as a traveling photographer in 2021, working with notable acts
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DAN’S
Favorite Events & Activities in Fargo-Moorhead #1 Red River Valley Fair “If you can't find a way to have fun at the RRVF, you might just not be capable of having fun! There’s so much to do, so much to see, and an amazing entertainment lineup every year that spans every musical genre.” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#2 Fargo Street Fair “If you haven't been to the Fargo Street Fair, you won't believe the size and scope of this event—it is massive! It’s an awesome place to see creativity on display and there are so many incredible vendors, great food, and live entertainment. It’s a great place to shop for yourself or for gifts for others.” Fargo Street Fair
#3 Bike Night at Sickies Garage “Bike Nights at Sickies are a huge event with over 400 bikes in attendance some weeks. Every Wednesday from 5-9 p.m. and running Memorial Day through Labor Day, they offer live music, games, giveaways, vendors, and more. There's really nothing better in the summertime than finishing up work, hopping on the bike, and heading to Sickies Garage to check out live music, kick it with friends, and enjoy the outdoor weather.”
#4 St. Patty's Day Pub Crawl “I love a good pub crawl. The St. Patty's Day Pub Crawl always feels like the community's unofficial spring kickoff party. That is, of course, when it's not 0 degrees and snowing on pub crawl day!” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#5 Roughrider Ink & Iron Expo “This is the ultimate showcase of creativity in the FM area. There's live entertainment, tons of vendors, and an awesome selection of motorcycles on display. Even if you don't have any tattoos (I've been MCing the event for almost 10 years and still don't have any tattoos!), you'll gain a new perspective on the craft as you walk around and see so many artists doing their thing.”
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DAN'S
Recommended Bars & Restaurants
#6 Dia Del Taco “Tacos and pro wrestling? Sometimes I feel like this event was created specifically for me!”
1.
B R E W H A L L A AT DREKKER BREWING
2.
WURST BIER HALL ON VETERANS AVE
3. 4.
Geneva Nodland
#7 Happy Harry's RibFest “This is when it really starts to feel like summer in Fargo. The food. The music. The people watching. Three of my favorite things in one! Obviously, the food is the selling point, but I really dig going to the concerts. You can't beat an outdoor show in the summer!”
5.
“Brewhalla is probably the coolest place in all of Fargo-Moorhead! It's a true spectacle. If you have friends coming to town and are wondering where to take them, this is the spot.”
“Wurst Bier Hall has food incredibly unique to the area and an incredibly comfortable vibe at this location. They have an excellent Glazed Ham Sandwich and Sweet Potato Fries with a Marshmallow Fluff dip that is truly world-class.”
BOILER ROOM “Great place to meet up with friends and grab some apps. I've been around the world and still haven't found a place that makes Scotch Eggs better than them!”
TEXAS ROADHOUSE “Sure, it's a chain restaurant, but it's probably my favorite place to eat. I love a good gimmick! Also, it's probably the best 'bang for your buck' restaurant in Fargo.”
SICKIES GARAGE BURGERS & BREWS “Huge selection and an awesome atmosphere. Have you tried the CHOWZILLA yet? ;)”
CO N T I N U E D > 69
SHOT BY
Virchow Kymberly Whitehall
Dan Virchow in action photographing a live show!
Corey Taylor of Slipknot
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Alicia Taylor of Cherry Bombs
As a full-time multimedia director and freelancer creating content for various companies, Dan Virchow has assembled quite an extensive and impressive portfolio of work from various live shows and projects. Check out some of his impressive work!
Caleb Shomo of Beartooth
Papa Emeritus of Ghost
Lajon Witherspoon of Sevendust
CO N T I N U E D >
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DAN'S
Favorite Things to Do Around Town for Entertainment #1 Outdoor Concerts at Fargo Brewing Company “This place has become my top concert destination in Fargo. Outdoor shows at Fargo Brewing Company have become synonymous with summer to me.” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#2 Fargo Force Hockey “I'm not a huge hockey fan and I even love going to these games! The energy at Force games is unmatched. Plus, they're always in the hunt for the championship. It's fun to cheer for winners!” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#3 Live Music at The Windbreak “The Windbreak is a reliable place to catch some great live entertainment every weekend. Good For Gary and Fool House are both can't-miss bands!”
#4 Live Music at the Fargodome “The Fargodome brings in some serious names and tends to do so on the weekends which is always a plus.” Geneva Nodland
#5 SDSU Beating NDSU “I'm a Jackrabbit alum and always enjoy it when the Jacks come to town and leave with the Dakota Marker. Go Big, Go Blue!” CO N T I N U E D >
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DAN'S
Favorite Local Spots #1 Brewhalla “How cool is this place? The visual spectacle alone is enough to make for an excellent day, but add in all the shopping and great drinks… it's probably the raddest place in the F-M area.” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#2 Fargo Brewing Company “The additions and renovations that are constantly being made at FBC guarantee a new experience every time you stop in. Plus, their indoor and outdoor live music stages have become two of my favorites in the city.” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#3 Anywhere outside the city on a motorcycle “There are so many open roads to cruise right outside of Fargo. Riding around with space and music cranking as the sunsets might be the best feeling.”
#4 Orchard Glen Park “Orchard Glen is an awesome place to walk around, snap some photos, and just chill out. Excellent for short hikes and photo opportunities. There are some views at this park that will truly make you wonder if you're still in the FargoMoorhead area.” Fargo Parks District
#5 Island Park “It's a great place to relax on a Saturday morning/afternoon. Also, its proximity to downtown Fargo makes it a great starting location for a day out on the town.” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
CO N T I N U E D >
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DAN'S
Favorite Local Musicians Bree Bolin
Tell me a bit more about live music in Fargo. “I've been to so many great shows over the past couple of years. The Windbreak is a reliable place for live music that doesn’t mess around. The Aquarium and Dempsey's both have great stages with fun events going on all the time. They all consistently have music on Fridays and Saturdays, whereas there’s no guarantee with some other venues. I love the Fargodome for bringing national acts to our town. Fargo Brewing Company does a great job bringing in a blend of up-and-coming artists and large, national acts. One great thing about their shows is that they’re smart by booking them on the weekends. They know that we’re a very working-class community that wants to enjoy top-tier entertainment in our free time. I love going to live shows since it’s crazy how far we’ve come. Fargo has done a great job upping the ante in our entertainment frequency lately.” - Dan Virchow
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1.
LOW STANDARDS
2.
MAUL
“They're exactly what a local live band should be: a ton of fun. At their core, they're big fans of 2000s pop-punk music like Blink-182 and other bands from that era. They play that music, but they also sprinkle in a lot of 2000s hits from Britney Spears and Backstreet Boys. They're really fun for anyone in my age group especially, as that’s the music that I grew up with. The fun thing about their band is that you can tell that no one is having more fun at their shows than they are and that's why I love going into their shows. Don't be surprised if you yourself wind up on stage at a Low Standards show!”
“I love heavy metal music and these guys are BRUTAL. Fargo houses a handful of really impressive, aggressive bands, and it was only a matter of time before Maul broke out. They’re one of the hottest bands in the world of death metal right now and they're from right here in Fargo. They’re making waves touring nationally right now, and they got really great reviews from a lot of credible sources in the industry on their latest album, so I love to see that they’re blowing up now. When they start, you can feel the mood of the room change. They create an atmosphere that’s truly something special. If you're in the mood to bang your head completely off, find your nearest Maul show.”
Dan Virchow
3.
ASHFALL “Ashfall is an excellent hard rock band with punishing riffs and exceptional musicianship. They have more of a traditional metal sound, like Iron Maiden meets Judas Priest, with other similar influences in that era. They're really great musicians with a unique sound, and they're great people too. I've done some photography projects for them in the past and I'm a big fan of motivated bands that are actually going for it and putting in the work!” Dan Virchow
4.
P E R F E C T LY S T I L L “These guys are really going for it. They spend money on their show because they’re motivated to give the best performance possible through great stage production with catchy hooks. They create this amazing stage atmosphere through a light show with smoke, which is invaluable from a local perspective. These guys with hopes and dreams are investing in themselves, and I respect that a lot.” Dan Virchow
5.
SAVE ME CJ “What makes them fun is that they have wild setlists that span from the 80s and 90s to the 2010s and modern songs, which they do extremely well. Their talent level far exceeds what's required of the songs they're playing. They're really fun, energetic, super-talented musicians who have a great setlist that keeps you guessing every time. You never know what you're gonna get next and that's what makes it so compelling and awesome. Three hours could pass of watching one of the best party bands in the area and you wouldn’t even notice!” CO N T I N U E D >
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Courteney Larson
Q: What does Fargo mean to you? What keeps you here?
A: I travel a lot lately. WITH DAN VIRCHOW
Fortunately, now I'm in a position where I'm traveling the world. I just got back from an awesome trip to Australia, Indonesia, and Japan and I’m going to be in Europe next month. I go to these amazing, exotic places, but there's something about Fargo. You have everything you need here. Everybody here lives a very comfortable life and they make others around them comfortable as well. There are a lot of major businesses that have either started or been based out of here. It's difficult for us to get through these winters, but I feel that spurs up a lot of creativity. It’s a very fun and thriving entrepreneurial town that I get to call my home base.
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Q: What does your "perfect day in FargoMoorhead" look like?
A: For me, the perfect day
in Fargo is a walk around the city's parks and downtown with a camera in hand. There's something so peaceful about capturing the happenings of any place through street photography.
Q: What work of yours has had the biggest impact on you?
A: I was fortunate to take
photos at one of Chris Cornell's final performances before his passing. Some of my shots
were used at festivals nationwide as a tribute Dan Vircho w in the following weeks. So me of Virc As a huge fan of his how’s phot os from on e of Chris C music and career, it ornell’s fin al perform ances. was surreal to have my eye's view used as a tribute for all to see in the CAUTION: following weeks, and really kickstarted my Wet Floor sign to the face. Not photography career. my greatest night!
What have been some of your most memorable experiences with radio?
A: One random Tuesday at the station,
I was asked by a sales associate if I knew who Ric Flair was. As a massive wrestling fan, I was almost insulted to be asked such a thing! Flash forward to the next day and I was working an event at the Fargo Theatre with the Nature Boy, passing the mic between each other and cracking wise. It was unbelievable. WOOOO!
Q: What's the most "out there" event that you've worked on?
A: I've worked in Sturgis for years, and
every day there tends to be WAY "out there.” But one event I worked on that comes to mind was being an "imposter" at a Micro Wrestling Federation show at The Venue at The Hub (now Avalon Events Center) years ago. My night ended with a cookie sheet to the head and a
Q: Is there anything else that you want to say to the readers?
A: When you’re down in the dumps,
which we all get sometimes, you have to remember what hobbies and passions you like to do and do them. If you don't have those things, there's always more time to find a new one. Sometimes those hobbies can accelerate and blow up into full-blown careers, which is kind of what happened to me. Growing up, I’ve always been a huge heavy metal and hard rock fan and aspired to be a touring musician. As life went on, that didn't happen for me, but now I'm able to go on tours for photography and videography with the musicians that I admire. I love that because the only real currency in life is your memories. I create memories all the time, all over the world, and I'm fortunate for that. I had to work at it really hard, but hard work pays off and dreams do come true. You just have to make it happen.
Contact Dan Virchow
| danvirchow.com
| dannyvirchow@gmail.com
Startup Champion, Avid Outdoorsperson, Mother Gary Ussery
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Jenny Sheets BY BRADY DRAKE
enny Sheets is a nomadic spirit who has spent her life cruising I-94 between Fargo and the lakes of Minnesota, to western Montana and beyond. After her parents left her in the Grand Tetons (on what was supposed to be a short vacation) when she was 18, she discovered her obsession for the outdoors. She started climbing, biking, skiing, and running up mountains and continued that for the next 18 years before having a baby during the pandemic. She then packed up the husband, baby, and dog and moved back to the Midwest to be closer to family.
Now, she works as a cheerleader for the startup ecosystem as the Director of Startup Programs at Emerging Prairie. She's also an avid writer (after earning an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Montana) and writes creative nonfiction essays rooted in place. Jenny and her family love to travel, run the river trails, visit new restaurants, and be outside as much as humanly possible, even in the winter. "Layer up," she likes to say. Most recently, she started skateboarding at 37 years old, because why not? CO N T I N U E D >
A Busy Life Jenny Sheets is currently in the process of living a busy life which has included: • A six-month solo backpacking trip to South America • A Master's degree in Public Administration from Montana State • An MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Montana • Tons of skiing, trail running, and mountain biking during a 15year stint in Montana • A 10-day hiking trip in Antarctica • Time as the CEO of a startup • Time as a Writing Instructor at the University of Montana • And so much more!
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Jenny's Favorite Annual Events & Activities TO TA K E PA RT I N A R O U N D FA R G O - M O O R H E A D
Fargo Marathon "I love the Fargo Marathon week! The city is buzzing with excitement for spring and a readiness to cheer on all the runners. There are events for the whole family and every level and ability."
Plains Art Museum Spring Gala "This is a par-tay! The Plains Art Museum is so creative with each year's theme and the design is incredible. You feel like a red carpet celebrity walking into the museum for this gala. Get dressed up, grab a drink, and dance all night to some great music—all while raising money for a great museum with free admission."
Friends of the Moorhead Library Book Sales "This small library is so nostalgic for me, and such a great reminder of the importance of libraries in communities. They have frequent book sales throughout the year that fill the entire basement with awesome treasures."
Abraham Talam Kipkemei won the men's division of this year's Fargo Marathon with a time of 2 hours and 19 minutes and Sadie Smith won the women's division with a time of 2 hours and 57 minutes.
This year's event took its theme from Alice in Wonderland and was magical as always!
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
Folkways Night Bazaar "I don't need an excuse to enjoy the gorgeous summer evenings in downtown Fargo, but the Night Bazaar sure sweetens the deal. Check out local vendors and witness some awesome art (even skateboarding) at this great downtown event."
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The spring book sale happened on April 29 and 30, but be on the lookout for more in the future.
StartupBREW Fargo "Obviously, I have to choose StartupBREW as one of my favorite events in Fargo, not only because I host it, but because it's genuinely one of my favorites! We have two company founders tell the story of how they founded their company in six minutes each. It's fun, upbeat, and inclusive, and I get to make really bad jokes on stage."
Curiosity Week "This year, Fargo will have its first in-person Curiosity Week October 9-13. There will be events and talks on artificial intelligence, drones, interactive art, women in business, nonprofits, and more. Think startup week + TEDx + art + weird + big ideas + Fargo-Moorhead. It's going to be big."
About StarupBREW Fargo StartupBREW Fargo is a weekly event held on Wednesday mornings from 8-9:30 a.m. meant for entrepreneurs, innovators, creatives, and community members.
Women and LGBTQ+ Skate Night "Every Monday (for most of the year) the indoor skatepark, the Hawks Nest, hosts a night exclusively for women and those in the LGBTQ+ community. It's a fun, supportive, and inclusive night for anyone looking to skateboard. There are people getting on a board for the very first time all the way to people practicing crazy advanced tricks on the half pipe."
TEDxFargo
This event is held every Monday night from 6-9 p.m. at the Hawks Nest. Follow @ sleeptalkskate and @hawksnest.fargo on Instagram for current event schedules.
"Held every summer downtown, this inspiring event is an auxiliary of the well-known 'TED Talks.' Every year an eclectic group of speakers, from sports mascots to business owners to farmers and artists, take the stage to share their stories. It's high energy and the right amount of unpredictability."
"Silent" Reading Nights "The Fargo Public Library hosts 'silent reading' parties at different locations throughout the year, such as Wild Terra and Fargo Brewing. Maybe it's because I have a toddler at home, but the thought of sipping a beverage and reading in a social spot sounds so divine."
Don't miss out on this year's TEDxFargo which is being held on July 20.
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JENNY'S
Entertainment Recommendations
1.
RUN, HIKE, BIKE THE RIVER TRAILS "We have some incredible dirt trails in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Thanks to the FM Trail Builders, volunteers, and our park districts, the river trails are great for beginner to experienced mountain bikers and offer a reprieve from the bustling city."
2.
S H O W S AT T H E FA R G O T H E AT E R "I always feel so fancy when I watch a show at the Fargo Theater. The ornate, 'Gatsby-esque' decor will take you back in time and make you feel like you're truly on a vacation. Grab some snacks and a drink and settle into a great show."
3.
POP-UP CONCERTS "Somehow, I've gotten onto an SMS list that gives me alerts about upcoming pop-up concerts and events. I'm not sure how the robots found me, but I'm glad they did. I have learned about rooftop concerts, basement parties, and DJs in the park. I'm not really sure this tidbit is helpful for anyone, but just know that cool things are going on in Fargo-Moorhead."
4.
THE RED RIVER MARKET "I love biking downtown in the summer and perusing the vendors at the farmers market. I try and plan my meals around the fresh produce and products available at the market. I also have an impossible time passing up the delicious baked goods and a tasty latte to go. Stick around for the music in Broadway Square and maybe a cooking demo!"
5.
D I K E W E ST S K AT E PA R K "Even if you're not a skateboarder, going to the skatepark is an awesome warm-weather activity. Watch these talented skaters catch big air and try new tricks. There are a few picnic tables as well as a grassy dike for spectating." Visit Fargo-Moorhead
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The Red River Market is just around the corner with opening day scheduled for July 8!
JENNY'S
Favorite Bars and Restaurants
1.
THAIKOTA "I am always blown away by every bite of food I have at Thaikota, a northern Thai restaurant attached to a gas station off of University. The yellow curry with tofu and papaya salad are my favorite. Eater beware: when they say 'spicy,' they mean it."
2.
MADINA CUISINE "This is a 'wow' restaurant for me. This East African restaurant specializes in Somalian and Ethiopian food and has both meat and vegetarian options. I can't even begin to describe how great the flavors are; just go check it out."
3.
HAROLD'S BAR ON MAIN "This is my absolute favorite hang out spot, whether with friends or on my own. The interior reminds me of a bar in New York or Portland but with a special Moorhead flare. It's fancy-meets-humble and everyone is welcome."
4.
LUNA "Another local favorite, but it has to make my list. Located in a strip mall on University, in an unassuming space, the food will knock your socks off. Chef Ryan Nitschke sources local ingredients and creates simple dishes that put the unique ingredients front and center. Make a date night of it. I'm also a big fan of taking yourself out on a date, so belly up at the bar and dig into some good food."
JENNY'S
Perfect Day in Fargo-Moorhead My perfect day in Fargo-Moorhead would definitely occur in the summer. I would wake up early and go for a run in Gooseberry Park (their dirt river trails are my favorite) and then grab coffee at Twenty Below in Moorhead. By this point, I'd probably have to return to mom life, so I'd grab my family and we'd head downtown to Broadway Square so little Henry Danger can run around and tire himself out before we grab lunch at either Pho D'licious, BernBaum's, or Little Brother.
Gooseberry Park
Broadway Square Josiah Kopp
If we're lucky, Grandma and Grandpa might take the kiddo for a little afternoon break so my husband and I could grab an afternoon cocktail at Marge's Diner or a beer on the Rhombus Guys rooftop. When Henry wakes up from his nap, we'd all probably jump on our bikes and take a big tour of the river trails, from Lindenwood heading north and over to the Original Homestead Park in Moorhead which has an actual homestead! Then, we'd swing over to Moorhead Freez for some delicious ice cream outside. After this, we'd probably swing by She Said Butcher Shop and grab some fixings for summer grilling with friends. We would definitely need beer to-go from Junkyard Brewing Company as well. We'd grill and hang out with friends in our backyard as the warm sun set over the city. After that? Well, we're parents who go to bed by 9 p.m. Unless the robots tell us about a cool party. Then, maybe...
What are some "hacks" or "hidden tips" people should know for going out in Fargo Moorhead?
Original Homestead Park in Moorhead
Moorhead Freez
Gary Ussery
1. "It's far easier to bike commute in the city than people think!
There are hundreds of miles of commuting trails (paved and dirt) so give them a shot."
2. "Parking ramps are free overnight downtown—don't drink and drive."
3. "If you want a spot to work remotely during the day that's
cool, but not too loud, go to the Jasper Hotel lobby. Plenty of seating, great light, and beautiful space. They also have a coffee bar and a daytime food menu."
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She Said Butcher Shop Owner Melissa Evans
Junkyard Brewing Co.
JENNY'S
Favorite Places for Outdoor Recreation in the Area
1.
M B J O H N S O N PA R K "I love this park because it feels like an escape from the city. Thanks to the amazing volunteers, the trails stay well-maintained, even throughout the winter. You can hike, bike, run, and ski, and many of the trails are wide enough for a stroller."
2.
G O O S E B E R R Y PA R K TO L I N D E N W O O D "I live in Moorhead, so I love starting a run or bike at Gooseberry—the mountain bike trails are so fun—and looping over to Lindenwood. Sometimes I'll go into the park and other times I'll head north to the dike. We have so many beautiful trail options."
3.
S H E Y E N N E N AT I O N A L G R A S S L A N D S "This is a little outside of the city, but worth the hour drive. I can't believe I grew up here and had no idea this gorgeous place existed. There are incredible hiking and mountain biking trails, and a few basic campsites. The landscape is spectacular!"
4.
DETROIT MOUNTAIN
"Also a little outside of Fargo, Detroit Mountain is about 45 minutes from the city and an absolute gem in the region. The little mountain offers year-round activities from downhill skiing and cross-country skiing, to hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Coming from the rugged mountain biking trails of Montana, I wasn't sure what Minnesota could offer, but let me tell you: these trails are legit. They were designed by experts flown in from out of state and they are so fun! Bring your own gear or rent it at the mountain." Visit Fargo-Moorhead
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As a mother in a young family, what are some places in the metro that other families should know about? 1. "I'm going to let you in on a secret: the downtown skyway is a gold mine for young kids, especially on the weekends. It's a quarter mile one way (from the Black building to the Civic Center) and kids can run free without running into anyone or knocking anything over. One time, we saw somebody playing fetch with their dog. I don't think this is allowed, but my son loved it!"
2. "The river trail by the city hall is another great place to
let the kids run or ride bikes. It's separated from the busy street by a retaining wall and you're sure to see some birds and maybe a kayaker or two."
3. "Need a coffee break and a way to corral your kids? Twenty Below in Moorhead has a great kids area that is barricaded off from the general space. Caffeine + indoor playground = win."
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
JENNY'S
Product Recommendations
1.
F I R S T A N D F O R E M O S T, GET GOOD FOOTWEAR.
3.
P I C K A B A C K PA C K T H AT Y O U L I K E TO WEAR WHILE HIKING OR BIKING
"Whether it's summer or winter, your feet need to be taken care of. I like Chacos in the summer because they have good traction and stay tight on the feet (which prevents blisters). In the winter I go for waterproof tennis shoes or Mukluk boots, the warmest boots on earth."
"It should be big enough to carry water, snacks, and layers, but not so big that it's bulky and you'll get sick of it after a short time. There are so many brands and options, and you don't need an expensive model, so choose one that works for you. How many pockets do you need? Do you want a water reservoir? It's very important to try a backpack on, so if possible, try it on and purchase it in person."
2.
DRESS IN LAYERS.
4.
SNACKS!
"You don't need the fanciest, most expensive gear, but prepare for the elements so you can stay outside longer. Base layer (tank top in the summer, wicking long sleeve in the winter) and then a top layer that can repel wind or water. If you're going for a sweatshirt, choose something lightweight that you can tie around your waist or stuff in a backpack. "
"Never leave home without healthy snacks. Avoid food that is high in sugar so you don't crash, and aim for all-natural choices. CLIFF Bars and Luna Bars are my go-to options when I am lazy—they taste fine, not great, and are kind of expensive. When I plan ahead, I pack nuts and dried fruit, or tortillas with peanut butter and bananas. "
Connect With Jenny! search "Jenny Sheets Emerging Prairie" jennys@emergingprairie.com 89
Elena K Photography
Entertainment Industry Agent, Fashion Expert, Traveler
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Natalie Sparrow BY SAM KISE
atalie Sparrow represents and develops models, actors, influencers, and makeup artists. Her business, Ultimate Image LLC, started in 1998 as an Image and Wardrobe Consulting firm. In 2001, she launched the model/talent agency after encouragement from a friend she met while volunteering for a local fundraising fashion show. Natalie travels all over the world with her clients to help them experience the industry firsthand. Some of the places traveled to include New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, and Paris,
among many others. Her goal as an agent and mother agent is to build and provide experiences that are unique to our area and help provide opportunities that give models/talent a lifetime of memories. CO N T I N U E D >
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N ATA L I E ' S
Favorite Annual Events & Activities The Christmas Gift's Fashion Avenue "The Christmas Gift holds the biggest fashion show of the year in FargoMoorhead. It is an annual event that helps families in need during the holidays. Radio personality, Dan Michaels, created this event over 20 years ago and it has generated thousands of dollars for families in need, helping make holiday dreams come true!"
It's A Girl Thing "This show brings together various businesses and is an all-afternoon event with seminars from local businesses sharing tips on inner and outer health and beauty. It's a fun afternoon to spend with your girlfriends."
Fun Fact: During the It's A Girl Thing event, there are usually sampling stations of different seltzers, ales, ciders, and other beverages. This year, local cidery Wild Terra was included in the sampling!
The Plains Art Museum Spring Gala "Every year has a theme and they do not disappoint with the decor, entertainment, and food. Different caterers provide various finger food options and never disappoint. There is always wine tasting from a variety of beverage companies. And, of course, incredible art! The best part of this event is dressing for the theme! It's so much fun to see the creativity of the guests attending. Past themes have included Wonderland, Prom 90's style, The Great Gatsby, and so many more."
The Jeremiah Program's Journey for Hope "This is another local event that has a new theme each year. The themes are based on a different country and feature heritage dishes from the designated country. The event is an evening filled with silent and live auctions, including a heads-or-tails-style auction. The proceeds of this event benefit the Jeremiah Program, helping single moms with housing, education, daycare, and life skills. It is truly an inspirational event!"
The proceeds from the Plains Art Museum's Gala go directly back into the community, helping the museum provide free educational and artistic experiences.
North Dakota Horse Park "The horse races at the North Dakota Horse Park take place Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for three to four weekends in July. Horses and trainers are brought in from around the country and it is so wonderful to see a unique sport brought to North Dakota. The races are family-friendly and include local food truck vendors. My favorite day to go is Ladies' Day at the Races, where they include a derby hat contest. The art and creativity of the hats are so fun to see every year."
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N ATA L I E ' S
Entertainment Recommendations Happy Harry's RibFest "RibFest is always a favorite. They bring in entertainment from the 80s and 90s—my kind of bands!"
Dempsey's Public House Karaoke Night "It's great to see talented people sing along to songs of now and songs of yesterday."
Karaoke at Dempsey's is on Tuesdays from 9 p.m. all the way to 2 a.m., so you have plenty of time to get up on stage every week!
Theater at Davies High School "The Davies High School has some incredibly talented productions. I have enjoyed watching their plays throughout the recent years. Everything from the costumes, makeup, acting, and choreography is top-notch. Very impressive!"
The Fargo Film Festival "The Fargo Film Festival is an incredible event showcasing films from across the globe. Some of the films are local films and showcase local actors and actresses. The event has been known to bring in famous actors and actresses as guests of honor for the event."
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Another of our Trendsetters, Greg Carlson, is heavily involved in the Fargo Film Festival each year. Check out his feature on page 38 to learn more about the film scene in FargoMoorhead!
N ATA L I E ' S
Favorite Bars and Restaurants
1.
THE TOASTED FROG
2.
MAS TEQUILA
3.
B E E R & F I S H CO M PA N Y
4.
HAROLD'S ON MAIN
"They have the best Martinis and amazing Lavosh!"
"I am always in awe of the Tequila bar at Mas Tequila. I am told there are over 300 different Tequilas on their shelves. They have incredible servers who are full of personality and are especially great at providing wonderful suggestions for food and beverage. They change the menu frequently and give the guest a new experience often. I love that the food is not heavily smothered in cheese and not over-the-top with serving sizes."
"This is my favorite place in town for great seafood and drinks. My favorite is the Tiger Shrimp and their special sauce. I always forget what's in the sauce, but it is so delish! Their Tuna Tartare is unlike anything I have ever had—it's a must-try!! Top off dinner with their fun drinks list, served in unique glasses—like the Puffer Fish, served in a puffer fish glass. Great environment and great staff!"
"The inside of Harold's is so cool and the bar has such a unique environment. It's a great place to go for a quiet night out, and they occasionally have Karaoke nights. The outdoor seating in the summertime is a fun place to hang with friends."
5.
THAI ORCHID "This restaurant provides homestyle-cooked Thai food and the owner and servers are always so kind and caring to their guests. They bring authentic Thai food to the FM area that is unique and tasty. I love their Thai Tea and their unique dish, the Happy Tiger (it sizzles in front of you on a hot plate)."
CO N T I N U E D > 95
Dreamcatchers Photography
N ATA L I E ' S
Perfect Day in Fargo-Moorhead
MORNING
The perfect start to the day is to walk or bike the trails in North Fargo, along the river. the trails wind through the city and are very long.
Natalie's Lifestyle and Going Out Pro-Tip: "Many people are not aware of the various fashion shows that take place within the community. My favorite shows are the Christmas Gift Fashion Avenue show, taking place every November and helping families in need during the holidays; the International Women's Day Fashion Show, showcasing local fashion designers and traditional garments from all over the globe; and coming soon—Fargo Fashion Week, celebrating community, culture, fashion, and art.
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AFTERNOON
In the afternoon, I love to meet people for coffee at a few of my favorite places, even though I don't drink coffee. (I am a tea drinker, so my decisions are solely based on coffee shops with great tea.) My favorite coffee shops with great teas are Babb's Coffee House (Seattle Surprise Tea), Nichole's Fine Pastry (Evening In Missoula), and Beans Coffee Bar (Jade Cloud). If coffee isn't on the agenda, it would be Teaberry where I can get my favorite Boba Milk Tea. An afternoon dessert (If I didn't partake in dessert at Nichole's) would be THE HULK (Green Tea Ice Cream) at Tea & Crepe, topped with coconut flakes and strawberries.
NIGHT
In the evening, dinner would be at Beer & Fish Company with my family, where I would get Tiger Shrimp and Tuna Tartare. Then, I would meet up with my friends for a special event like a play at the FMCT.
N ATA L I E ' S
Style Advice In your 20s...
"Your 20s is an age range where so many different transitions are happening, from finding jobs/careers, starting/ending school, starting a family, and so much more. It’s the time in life when you can wear a super cute and casual top with jean shorts for hanging out with friends, then pair it with a cute pair of jeans for work or school, and then dress it up with a skirt for a night out with friends."
In your 40s... "Your 40s is the time of life where various changes take place, including personal, career/school, and family. The lifestyle can be anywhere from super casual to traveling or attending fun events, like fundraisers and galas. Do not be afraid of trends, or the ‘youthful’ styles. You can wear trendy styles that complement YOU. If the trend feels like too much, wear it in smaller doses and pair it with something that compliments your lifestyle, personality, and body type. Be adventurous and mix and match prints, as sometimes the unexpected is a winning combination."
In your 60s... "Women in their 60s love comfort and layering! The fabrics of today are much better than they were years ago, including jeans that are no longer stiff and uncomfortable. Wear a denim skirt with some stretch for ease of movement. Pair cropped jeans with a top with print, and layer with a jacket. Celebrate prints and patterns that match your personality. Don’t be afraid of skirts or shorts! There are many lengths—find the length that suits your style. Play with colors and patterns as accent pieces in shoes, purses, and accessories. Don’t settle for less—be more. Get creative and have fun!"
All ages "Explore color! Create a wardrobe with more than just black. Color can add multiple options to your closet, including layering with prints and patterns that match your personality. The solid color adds interest and doesn’t limit the options to mix and match with multiple pieces in your closet."
Photos by Amber Mattson of Dreamcatchers Photography
CO N T I N U E D >
N ATA L I E ' S
FM Makeup Artist Recommendations Danielle Grunewald @daniellegrunewald "I trained Danielle and she was amazing from the first practice application on her model. She is always ready to learn and apply new techniques to help gain knowledge and skill. She is precise in her application and extremely calming to work with for bridal and production work."
Olivia Guertin /hairandmakeupbyolivia "Not only is she the queen of curly hair (her own hair is absolutely gorgeous and she works magic on her clients!), she rocks an incredible application for bridal and special event makeup."
Siede Peter /SiedeBeauty "I met Siede at the airport and hit it off with her from the moment we met. She is extremely thorough in her skin prep and spends extra time to achieve the perfect level of hydration to perfect her artistic creation. She is extremely knowledgeable about all skin types and color ranges. Her attention to detail is incredible and will deliver amazing results!"
Carrie Schwanke /CarriesTwistedArt
And of course, don't forget to utilize Natalie's makeup artistry talent!
"Not your traditional makeup artist. She is an actual artist (like, beyond faces... she creates amazing artwork through her paintings). Carrie is extremely talented with SFX (special effects) makeup and creates fantastic zombies, Halloween characters, skeleton faces, and so much more."
CO N T I N U E D >
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N ATA L I E ' S
FM Fashion Designer Recommendations KARI DAHLEN @stylebykari
FRALEN DESIGNS fralen.biz
MICHELLE UBERRESTE @michelleuberreste michelleuberreste.storenvy.com
NUBI COLLECTIONS nubicollections.com
REROUTE STREETWEAR @reroutestreetwear
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N ATA L I E ' S T I P S F O R
Entering The Model Industry "There is more than one ‘model type,’ and not all models are fashion models. Commercial models have the look of the ‘guy/girl-next-door’ and can model any consumer-friendly product (such as toothpaste, medications, skincare, etc.). Commercial models can be any age, size, and look." "You should build a strong portfolio book in order to become a professional model." "Take improv classes. Improv skills help with everyday life, as well as with preparing for the camera." "Don’t be afraid of who you are—love yourself!" "Find yourself a good support system. It’s an extremely difficult industry and can be lonely. Surround yourself with people who believe in you!"
Support Natalie! 1445 1st Ave N Suite 2, Fargo (701) 271-0402 nataliesparrowmgmt.com @nataliesparrowmgmt /NatalieSparrowMgmt
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Chapter University By Sam Kise |
HOW CHAPTER AESTHETIC STUDIO IS REVOLUTIONIZING EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAMS
Chapter Aesthetic Studio
When Chapter Aesthetic Studio launched its intensive professional training program, Chapter University, the goal was to give employees eight to 12 weeks of top-tier aesthetic training so when they began working in the studio, they would be fully ready to treat guests. Often when people get hired for a new job, they spend the first couple of weeks onboarding onsite to get to know their job responsibilities while simultaneously working directly with clients and adjusting to a new company culture. But at Chapter, employees are given the time and support to fully learn their job before ever treating a guest. Created by Chapter Founder & President Melissa Rogne, Chapter University offers training to every employee from all of their locations before their first in-studio day. The curriculum is determined by Chapter’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ben Wood, a boardcertified plastic surgeon, with programs lasting from eight to 12 weeks based on provider role. Every employee receives hands-on experience and an immersion into the company’s culture at the training. This is so that every studio, whether it is in North Dakota or New York, offers the same quality experience for every person who walks through the door. We sat down with Rogne and Wood to learn more about Chapter University, why it is important for their business, and how others might benefit from similar employee training programs. Dr. Ben Wood observes the aestheticians perform a procedure. 102
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A class of Chapter University graduates pose with their certificates of completion.
THE GOAL As Chapter Aesthetic Studio began expanding, Rogne and her team knew they wanted the experience at every one of their studios to be consistent. Often in the service industry, one branch or location of a business can have variable levels of professionalism and care depending upon who is hired and how they are trained—even if they are both part of the same company. Rogne and her team knew that was not an option for Chapter and they looked to find a solution so their guests would always experience the same level of care. That solution? Chapter University. “We realized the only way to successfully integrate that service consistency into every studio around the country was to bring our employees to Chapter University in Fargo and create a training experience that mimicked exactly what we had created in Fargo,” Rogne said. “It came from the understanding that what
Fun Fact
we had created was really special. We had done an exceptional job of recruiting value-focused, culturallyaligned expert medical professionals and making them experts in the aesthetic industry.” With the ultimate goal to unify the employees and provide high-quality aesthetic services, it made sense that Wood would also be highly involved in the university’s development. Dr. Wood knew before he even started in his CMO role that Chapter’s unique culture and commitment to exceptional care was something that already stood out. “I thought what was already being built and put into motion in terms of company culture was such a visionary approach," he said. Aside from emphasizing the company culture, Chapter University aims to bridge the gap between the demand for aesthetics, the lack of training
Chapter Aesthetic Studio has 18 locations spread across North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and even New York! All employees from every location come to Fargo to participate in Chapter University.
available to those who are interested in working in the aesthetics industry, and the large range of practice standards from state to state. “What we have recognized and experienced over the past 15 years, in particular, in the aesthetics industry, is a dramatically increased interest in aesthetics—and nonsurgical aesthetics specifically,’’ Wood said. “And while there was a draw for more providers, there remains an insufficient amount of comprehensive training available. So the vision of an eight- to12-week immersive program was really ahead of the curve.” 103
IMPLEMENTATION & EVOLUTION
Once Rogne and the team had the idea for Chapter University, the next step was planning and implementing the program. Though Chapter Aesthetic Studio already had a training curriculum when Dr. Wood came aboard, it was something he has continued to develop. “The curriculum was already taking shape when I came on board, and it was already very comprehensive,’’ he said. “It's one of those things that will continue to evolve—this industry evolves really quickly. We've already expanded our trainer team, and we're quickly reaching capacity with the training facility itself with the number of trainees we're bringing in. We'll continue to evolve the curriculum as well as continuing education and development opportunities for our providers.” Aside from the clinic and culture training, Chapter also aims to support its employees when they are back in their home studio. “As we open more studios, a key part of the clinical development portion of training is to continue supporting the providers once they're active in their studio,” Wood explained. “There's the upfront training and learning journey that they complete, but then once they're in their studio actively practicing, we want to provide ongoing support and career development. We'll continue to expand the trainer team to accommodate that growth so that Chapter University can continue to offer the career development options that our providers are seeking.” Rogne emphasized that the continued evolution of the curriculum, which she and Dr. Wood collaborate on, will always be a top priority. 104
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“I would say the curriculum is absolutely a partnership between Dr. Wood and me,” Rogne said. “He is the clinical expert and what he brings to the table—and what he has brought since he joined the organization—was leveling up our curriculum from an expertise standpoint. What I bring to the curriculum is the culture. How can we make sure that our guests are treated the way we expect them to be treated across the platform?”
Did you know?
A recent study found that combination aesthetic treatments lead to greater improvement of psychological well-being than single treatments alone.
While the main goal of Chapter University is to ensure a consistent experience for guests, Wood emphasized the positive experience it gives the employees as well. “We work with all of the trainees to ensure a high-yield format for their training experience,’’ he said. “Employees complete virtual didactic and interactive learning modules prior to travel so that when they are in Fargo, it's a really structured use of their time. When they come to Fargo for the first week of training, they establish connections and build relationships with their colleagues and the trainer team. Then all of the time
going forward is in-person hands-on training for each of the services that we provide, with ample opportunity to review, refresh, and support them as needed.” Along with their own curriculum and trainers, Rogne explained that they also have many of their product vendors come in to train employees on their products, too. “We have received amazing support from our vendors,” she said. “They make the trip to come and present at Chapter University and collaborate with the teams. They have been just exceptionally supportive. This university takes a village, and we want to make sure that we have a diverse aesthetics curriculum. So it's not just our team—we're able to work with various industry experts to bring in this comprehensive, 360-degree training program.” Rogne added that Chapter University also gives the Fargo studio team members more advancement opportunities than they’ve ever had before. “That's been one of my biggest accomplishments with Chapter University, is to be able to provide those opportunities for our Fargo team members,” she said. “All of our clinical trainers, except for one, originated from the Fargo studio. It's been great for me to be able to promote them and provide opportunities and career paths that weren't available previously.”
Founder and President of Chapter Aesthetic Studio, Melissa Rogne, celebrates the opening of a location in Rochester, MN!
LOOKING AHEAD As Chapter Aesthetic Studio continues to expand and Chapter University thrives, Rogne and Wood are always looking to recruit more aesthetics providers. When recruiting, they are looking for people who fit with the company culture and have a passion for learning. “We're recruiting for cultural fit and learner aptitude,” Wood said. “We want someone who's really excited about learning and continuing to learn as they grow in their career, because we support it from day one as a provider and employee with Chapter throughout the training.” Wood and Rogne agree that this continued training is vital to the continued success of Chapter, which is why they are spending so much time, money, and energy on it.
“We are investing a very large amount of capital into ensuring that our culture and our clinical expertise is consistently replicated,” Wood said. “That's really one of the key ways that Chapter differentiates itself … replicating not only the experience, but the trust that our guests have when they go to any of our locations. They're going to have a trusted provider there for any level of clinical service.” It’s likely that Chapter University (and Chapter Aesthetic Studio) is not going away anytime soon. In fact, expansion is likely in the future, with more and more people desiring the aesthetic services that Chapter offers. With their unique and effective training program, they are surely setting a trend for businesses in the area and beyond.
Chapter Aesthetic Studio - Fargo 3301 45th St S, Fargo
@mychapterstudio
701.356.7546
@mychapterstudio
mychapter.com
@mychapterstudio
/mychapterstudiofargo
Seasoned Thespian, Teacher, Community Builder
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Judy E Lewis BY SAM KISE
udy E Lewis is a theatremaker and community builder. Judy directed her first professional play at the age of 19 and has spent her life since finding ways to bring theatrical pedagogy to the people in her life. Judy is a lifelong learner and holds a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University, as well as a master's in applied drama and theatre for the young from Eastern Michigan University.
the Education Director, and was promoted to Executive Director in December 2020. Judy believes that the FMCT is the perfect place to bring people together to build a strong and thriving community through the art of theatre. In addition to working in the theatre, she enjoys serving on community boards, having served on the arts and culture board and has been involved in the Women’s Club, City Round Table, and Parks and Recreation.
Before moving to North Dakota, Judy worked in the arts in New York City and San Diego, and more recently served as the Theatre Director at the Lamphere School District in Michigan for ten years, where she developed music curriculum, implemented reading strategies, and directed and produced school productions. In August 2019, she moved to Fargo, ND to join the team at the Fargo Moorhead Community Theater (FMCT) as
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The 10-Minute Play Festival typically takes submissions for scripts and holds auditions in the fall, with performances taking place in January of the following year.
Fun Fact: The Gate City Bank Young Artist Program doesn’t actually have an age limit for auditions, but typically chooses performers between the ages of 23 and 35.
JUDY'S
Favorite Annual Events and Activities 10-Minute Play Festival at FMCT “This two-weekend event is a great way to bring a global perspective to the FM Area. It gives brand new directors an opportunity to grow and learn, and it’s a very small time commitment for anyone interested in taking a chance at acting. If you’ve ever thought about being on stage—this is your chance to give it a try! Be sure to get your tickets early, as seating is limited and it sells out quickly each year.”
FM Opera’s Gate City Bank Young Artists Performances “The Executive Director of the FM Opera travels to top opera schools, bringing groups of young professionals to Fargo from late January through April of each year. The Young Artists perform at schools and community events, and are featured in two FM Opera productions each year. Many of these young artists go on to perform on some of the largest opera stages in the world and it’s special that they got their first professional experiences right here in our community.”
FM Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” “Each year, the FM Ballet stages the classic Nutcracker with a blend of professional dancers and some of the best student dancers that the region has to offer. There is nothing more magical at Christmas time than this beautiful classic brought to life in our community.”
Red River Market “The Red River Market is the best of everything we have to offer in the FM Area! It’s a perfect example of what and who we are in this community—a display of commerce, ingenuity, entrepreneurial spirit, agriculture, hard work, talent, crafters, makers, musicians, food, and artists all coming together to share the best parts of our humanity. It’s inspiring to see so many people living their best lives by meeting the needs of others.”
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Symphony Rocks at Bluestem Amphitheater “This is one of the things that we earn for enduring such a long hard winter! The amphitheater out at Bluestem is inspiring, the FM Symphony is incredibly talented, and the way that the ‘Symphony Rocks’ event includes dancers of all ages and abilities is truly special. The joy and excitement leading up to the event is felt all over town, and the energy at the event is electric. There’s no better place to be on a perfect summer evening! It’s a fun event for the entire family.”
Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) at the Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre “In March every year, we entertain 3,500 K-2 students. Our TYA is often the very first theatre experience of these young people’s lives. It’s my favorite and most rewarding theatrical experience year after year!”
Pangea at the Hjemkomst Center “This event, hosted by the Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County, is held in November every year and brings culturally diverse music, storytelling, and dance from all of the communities in and around the Red River Valley. It’s an incredibly inspiring event.”
This year’s “Symphony Rocks” event, to take place on August 17, is inspired by the Grammys duet by Stevie Wonder and Chris Stapleton. It’s a combo of country and funk you won’t want to miss!
The FMCT already has next year’s TYA show planned— Junie B. Jones, The Musical! The show will be performed in schools all throughout the FargoMoorhead area from February 29 to March 10, 2024.
This year’s “Pangea” event is set to take place on November 18!
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JUDY'S
Favorite Bars & Restaurants Drekker/Brewhalla “My number one favorite bar/restaurant is Drekker and the new Brewhalla! At Drekker, the vibe is about 'just being together.' There are no TVs—just a welcoming space, music, board games, and really unique and delicious beer. The new add-on Brewhalla space has everything anyone could need. Whether I’m in the mood for upscale or fast food, the Brewhalla marketplace always has what I’m craving. The vibe is upbeat and eclectic—it’s like being in the center of a thriving community and I love supporting so many different risk-takers all at the same time.”
Blackbird Woodfire “The first restaurant I visited when I moved to Fargo was Blackbird; the owners are outstanding community-minded people who know how to make delicious pizza! The sausage and apple pizza is my favorite. I always say I’m going to get something else—but I never do.”
BernBaum’s “BernBaum’s is my go-to when I need something quick and tasty. Whenever I miss a New York deli, I take a trip to Bernbaums—the counter, the bagels, lox, soup, and that vinaigrette side salad take me right back to the city.”
Rustica Eatery & Tavern
“I’ve been to Vic’s a few times, and I absolutely love the atmosphere! It’s cozy and never too busy, plus their food is delicious and not too expensive.” - Sam Kise, Editor
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“Rustica is the weirdest restaurant that I’ve ever been to, and I love it! From fancy filets to fingerling potato poutine and pizza, Rustica has something that literally everyone will enjoy. When I think of the FM Area, this restaurant sums us up: cultured and appreciative of the finer things, but hardworking and humble enough to know what’s good.”
Vic’s Bar & Grill “Vic’s is the cleanest dive bar that I love to frequent. As a former restaurant manager, I know exactly what a clean restaurant does and doesn’t smell like and I can confidently say that even though I haven’t seen it, the kitchen at Vic’s is clean; they keep that deep fat fryer (that is getting a lot of use) smelling fresh! The Crowne Club sandwich is my go-to order with a side of waffle fries—delish!”
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JUDY'S
Entertainment Recommendations
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EXPLORE DOWNTOWN FARGO “Walk downtown and go shopping at all of the very cool stores on Broadway: the Mason Jar, The Nines, Zandbroz… and of course, we should have a little coffee from Young Blood and maybe some ice cream from the Silver Lining Creamery enjoyed on the lawn at Broadway Square.”
W ATC H A T H E AT E R PERFORMANCE “Go see a play! Almost any Wednesday-Sunday in the FM area, all year round, a person can see a play: at the Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre, any one of the high schools or colleges, Theatre B, West Fargo Events, Act Up, Straw Hat, Tin Roof, Wheelhouse, Studio Vibe Arts, Harwood Prairie Players, Trollwood, Gooseberry, or the FM Opera. Every group offers something unique, wonderful, and excellent.”
GO TO A DERBY EVENT “I love to go to the John E Carlson Coliseum to see the FM Derby Girls! They’re a group of women who are about empowering individuals to fulfill their potential, both on and off the track. It’s radical, good, clean fun!”
AT T E N D A CO N C E R T AT T H E B LU E ST E M A M P H I T H E AT E R “To be able to sit on the lawn with friends, food, and wine enjoying our favorite music together on a perfect MN night—well, it just doesn't get better than that! Even though the venue seats 3,000, it still feels intimate.”
The Bluestem Amphitheater also hosts a plethora of theatre events—most notably, Trollwood Performing Arts School’s summer mainstage musical. This year, Trollwood will be performing “Singin’ in the Rain” from June through August!
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JUDY'S
Must-See Musicals
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PHANTOM OF THE OPERA “As a theater history buff—‘Phantom of the Opera’ is a must-see because it’s the longest running show on Broadway with breathtaking spectacle.”
THE SECRET GARDEN “‘The Secret Garden’ was one of the first musicals to bring a woman’s voice to the forefront in theater. The score is haunting and beautiful.”
ON YOUR FEET! “‘On Your Feet!,’ the Gloria Estefan Musical, is a must-see because it’s a high-energy true story about a woman. One of my favorite onstage moments is the laundry scene—beautiful.”
T H E H E L LO G I R LS “‘The Hello Girls’ has THE hardest score and most beautiful music I’ve heard in a very long time, and the story is inspiring and true.”
The Hello Girls was FMCT’s most recent mainstage musical, having run from June 1 through June 11!
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B R I G H T STA R “‘Bright Star,’ written by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, is the music of my family tree, and Steve Martin is one of the most underrated musicians of our time.”
CO N T I N U E D >
Josiah Kopp
a dress from the clearance section, put it on, and applied for a job as a make-up artist and that’s how our great NYC adventure began. We took in everything the city had to offer and learned as much as we could. WITH JUDY E LEWIS
I read on the FMCT's website that you spent time in Michigan, New York, and California before ending up in Fargo-Moorhead. How did you end up moving here? What was that process like for you? I was born in Michigan and moved to New York right after college. My husband had an interview at Playwright Horizons, [an Off-Broadway theater company in New York City]—we packed two backpacks with enough clothes for our twoday trip, and when he was offered the job, we never went back home. I went to Macy’s, bought
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After an all too common “me too” moment with a very famous movie star, I decided that I was meant to be an educator to help young women know that they’re worth more than their figure. So back to school I went, and I began a career in educational theatre. After some years spent working in California and Michigan, I took a group of students to Scotland and saw a production from Fargo. After that, I began to follow FMCT on social media, and soon I saw a position posted to be their Education Director. I applied and interviewed; from the moment I arrived in Fargo, I knew this was where we are meant to be.
How does your experience in those other areas of the country, especially in theater/ performance hubs like New York and California, translate
into your current role as Executive Director at FMCT? It’s sometimes difficult to realize and appreciate what you have when you’re in the middle of it. I think as someone who has lived in places that are considered art meccas, I have a very unique perspective on the FM area. And honestly, of all of the places I’ve ever lived, the FM area is the most artistically saturated community I’ve ever been a part of. I’ll never forget the morning of the first Saturday classes I was teaching at FMCT, as parents and students were waiting for classes to begin, most of them were reading—small children, teenagers, and parents, all reading books! I was stunned! I’ve spent my adult life telling people that theatre builds foundational reading skills, reading skills are the foundation to all learning, and learning is the key to a successful life—and here was a room full of new theatre students who were already reading! Perhaps it’s that we have nine months of winter, so reading and the indoor sport of theatre are important to the community across the board; it is something that everyone can do, regardless of age or ability. But in the FM area, attending
the theatre appears to be a norm and that’s inspiring! Theatre experiences consistently begin in the elementary schools throughout the FargoMoorhead region, and by the time a student gets into high school, the quality of what gets put on the stage is higher than a lot of what I saw in NY—the auditoriums are certainly nicer than most of the theatres I performed in. So, the best part of having been a part of the art world in NY and in CA is that I can easily recognize the greatness that we enjoy here in the FM area. The expectations are high, the experiences are vast, and the opportunities are plentiful. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. As the Executive Director from out of state, I’m expected to be an artist and the community rightly expects to be a part of what we create.
Aside from the Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre, what other local/ regional theatres, performing arts venues, or theatre events should people be aware of? The Hennepin Trust operates the Orpheum, State, Pantages, Hennepin, and Dudley Riggs theatre venues, bringing fantastic, professional performances to our community about three hours from town in the Twin Cities area. There are 11 high schools with theatre programs in the FM Area, two colleges, Theatre B, West Fargo Events, Act Up, Straw Hat, Tin Roof, Wheelhouse, The Knaves Iambic, Harwood Prairie Players, Trollwood, Studio Vibe Arts, Gooseberry, and the FM Opera. Every one of these organizations reaches and includes a different piece of our community.
operates in this way. We all do something unique at different times throughout the year and we support each other in those endeavors. It’s truly a community that strives to make one another better. We share resources and talent and cheer each other on as we serve our community.
How would someone interested in theatre in the area get involved in FMCT or other theatre companies? The simple answer is… Show up! Put yourself on each theatre's volunteer list. Call them and ask to be on their volunteer list. Go to a show and offer to volunteer as an usher, or as a backstage hand, or with costumes and makeup. There’s something for everyone. When you sign up, show up with a positive attitude—be ready to learn and grow. A community of wonderful people awaits! If you’d like to try your hand at acting: follow each of the theatre companies you are interested in on their social media or websites and pay attention to audition dates. And remember, auditions are SO intimidating… for everyone! The trick is to remember that everyone is nervous and insecure; we’re all just people, and the director just might be looking for you. Prepare an audition: select a monologue from a play, just one minute long. Something that speaks to who you are as a person. A monologue that fits your age and look is always preferred. Memorize that monologue and think of it as telling the director a story about yourself. If you don’t know how to find a monologue, call FMCT and we’ll give you several.
“I didn’t realize there were so many theatre in the Fargo-Moorhead area. I know what I will be doing for date nights for the foreseeable future!” - Sam Kise, Editor
If you’re auditioning for a musical: Prepare a one-minute monologue and a song. The song should be in the same style as the musical that you’re auditioning for. You should cut your song down to 32 bars (NO MORE—directors don’t like it when actors sing an entire song for an audition).
At FMCT we have students as young as three years old, and they are in year-round classes with us. When these students get into high school, we feel like we’ve done them a great service when they participate in the theatre at their schools, or Trollwood, or Gooseberry. The entire theatre community in this region
If you’re not ready to audition for a fulllength play or musical, sign-up for an acting class at FMCT. We offer acting classes for all ages. FMCT also has open auditions for our 10-Minute Play Festival. The festival offers new actors a chance to get onto the stage with very little commitment, and a 10-minute play is an easy way to see if you enjoy the craft of acting.
It’s also a great opportunity for people who want to try their hand at directing. Reach out to us at FMCT if you’re interested in directing a 10-minute play at next year’s festival. Directors will all be selected every year in August. The Fargo-Moorhead area is rich with theatrical opportunities. From elementary school students through senior citizens, the FM area has countless opportunities for all of its residents. At the Fargo Moorhead Community Theatre, we offer theatrical opportunities for people as young as 3 and this year our oldest participant was 93.
What resources are available in the area for aspiring theater performers? All of the summer production programs for K-12 students in the FM area are fantastic for aspiring theatre performers. It’s really important that artists have the opportunity to work with many different companies, programs, and directors because it prepares them to work with the many different types of people they’ll encounter in the future. Trollwood offers summer classroom curriculum for grades K-12 and FMCT offers year-round classroom curriculum for ages three through senior citizens and is the only program in the region to offer year-round educational opportunities for theatre. FMCT’s mission is to engage the community in educational and artistic opportunities of high artistic quality and strives to create opportunities that are not only focused on the final product, but also on the process. Many people spend several years on the FMCT stage and then audition for roles in other companies, too. FMCT creates a lot of opportunities for artists to emerge on the scene.
What resources are available in the area for aspiring theatre performers? All of the summer production programs for K-12 students in the FM area are fantastic for aspiring theatre performers. It’s really important that artists have the opportunity to work with many different companies, programs, and directors because it prepares them to work with the many CO N T I N U E D >
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different types of people they’ll encounter in the future. Trollwood offers summer classroom curriculum for grades K-12 and FMCT offers year-round classroom curriculum for ages three through senior citizens and is the only program in the region to offer year-round educational opportunities for theatre. FMCT’s mission is to engage the community in educational and artistic opportunities of high artistic quality and strives to create opportunities that are not only focused on the final product, but also on the process. Many people spend several years on the FMCT stage and then audition for roles in other companies, too. FMCT creates a lot of opportunities for artists to emerge on the scene.
I think when a lot of people think of theatre, they think of musicals. I know a lot of the theaters around here, their main draws are mainstage musicals. What theater options or resources are there in Fargo-Moorhead that aren't musical-related? This is a huge problem in the FM area! The struggle is real. I don’t hate a musical, but it sure isn’t my favorite form of theatre! Unfortunately, I think too many people in this region have been forced to sit through "On Golden Pond" too many times. Plays are often thought of as long and boring. To make that obstacle worse, we’re living in a digital society that gets answers and info in a matter of seconds, so theatre has to change
in order to keep up! At FMCT, we are working hard to include two short mainstream plays in each of our seasons. We’re working to keep the run time under 90 minutes, the content/ subject matter relevant and meaningful, and the production as entertaining as people think a musical would be. This is a huge goal and will take time to build some social capital. We know that it will take time before patrons trust that a play won’t bore them to death or make them feel dumb. A really exciting theatre experience happening in the FM area is the theatre happening at Theatre B. It is Theatre B’s mission “to ignite conversations that transform our community through intimate and courageous stories.” And that is exactly what they do. For people looking for an artistic experience that challenges social injustices and norms, Theatre B provides a high level of artistry and meaning.
“I love Theatre B! I saw a two-person performance of 1984 there years ago, and I have loved that theater ever since. I highly recommend it, too!” - Sam Kise, Editor If you love a farce, the Harwood Prairie Players put on one of the best and most zany.
Who are some big names in the local theatre community, or people who are doing big things in theatre who originally came from FargoMoorhead? • •
• • • •
Angie Dickenson Josh Duhamel Cody Gerszewski Dustin Hoffman directed three plays at FMCT right after he filmed "The Graduate" before it was released in theatres.
What would you recommend as a theatre actor/actress's "must-haves," or things to always keep on hand if you want to make it in the theatre world? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
A great attitude! A tough character. A realistic view of oneself. Dance/rehearsal shoes. Paint clothes. A book to read. A water bottle. A pencil. A highlighter. Make a habit of being on time (that means at least 10 minutes early). Always rehearse outside of rehearsal— memorize your lines early. Follow directions. (Being a great leader means being a really good follower.) Learn how to listen to understand, not to be understood. A spoonful of courage. A few hugs—sorry, theatre people tend to be huggers.
Nina Grollman Becky Gulsvig
Support Judy and the FMCT! fmct.org @fmctheatre @FMCTheatre /FMCTND 116
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Photo by Studio Freshly
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LIFESTYLE & GOING OUT TRENDSETTER
Richard Pallay, III
1PrettyRicky: By The Numbers
BY GRANT AYERS
10 AVERAGE EVENTS PER MONTH 2,500+ FOLLOWERS ACROSS SOCIAL MEDIA 15,000+ PLAYS ON SOUNDCLOUD
ichard Pallay, III, who goes by the stage name 1PrettyRicky, was born and raised in Los Angeles, and is now based out of Fargo, North Dakota. He brings his uniquely LA style to the Midwest, seamlessly blending Hip-Hop, R&B, and House music, creating a feel-good environment and a full dance floor. He's been digging and discovering treasures since 2017.
Midwest and around the globe.1PrettyRicky is the future of soul! 1PrettyRicky streams unique shows through Twitch and hosts nonjudgmental environments for events. He also hosts a monthly podcast on Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music called COLOR {house mixes}, where he explores house music through a spectrum of sound. CO N T I N U E D >
1PrettyRicky is a game changer and with his unparalleled determination, he continues to shine bright all throughout the
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What’s The Vibe, 1PrettyRicky? CHILL VIBE “The Jasper Lounge has such an eclectic vibe of sights and sounds, and no matter what seat you take, you will be comfortable.”
ROWDY VIBE
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
“It doesn’t get more rowdy than a Friday or Saturday night out at Dempsey’s Public House. The crowd is SO diverse, the music is loud, the service is fast, and in the heart of downtown, it is the perfect stop on your night out!”
WARM, LOVING VIBE “I love the family environment they create at Deaner’s Diner. Not only do you see patrons of all ages eating their delicious breakfast, but all of the staff seem to enjoy each other like family too. I like that.”
CLASSY VIBE “Mezzaluna all the way! They have excellent service and they truly are the pinnacle of fine dining in the Fargo-Moorhead area.” Jeremy Albright
ARTSY VIBE “Go check out Marge’s Bar! How they can pack so much Midwestern nostalgia and coolness into such a small space is amazing. Plus, I feel like there is always something new in there every time I come.”
FOR AUTHENTIC FLAVORS “For a location with plenty of authentic flavors, check out Mas Tequila! They serve elevated Mexican cuisine, warm and welcoming service, and if you go, take a look at their “tequila cabinet” for bottles of tequila that you wouldn’t know existed!” Visit Fargo-Moorhead 120
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CO N T I N U E D >
Buja Boy Films
1PRETTYRICKY’S
Perfect Day in Fargo-Moorhead MORNING
“I love starting my day with some breakfast. I’m making it at home most of the time because breakfast is my absolute specialty. Nevertheless, on the days that I don't want to cook, I really enjoy Deaner's Diner. The portions are perfect and I love the familial, feel-good environment that they create there.”
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AFTERNOON
“For a perfect afternoon, I really am seeking out three Ps: Patios, Parks, or Pools. FargoMoorhead has some of the best lounging spaces, and enjoying the weather on a restaurant's patio, in our numerous parks, or at our public pools (or at the splash pads) makes for the best afternoon.”
NIGHT
“I love going out to eat and exploring new, interesting types of cuisine. The food options are so plentiful, and my perfect dinner choice will be based on my mood. After a good meal, I would then swing over to Harold's on Main for karaoke. I love hearing all of the singers, and if my friends are with me, then I am definitely going to get up and sing a song (or three). Lastly, I usually like to close out the evening with some ice cream or a cookie, so before I head home I like to get ice cream from Dairy Queen in Moorhead or Tea & Crepe. Or, if it's a cookie I am after, then I’m picking up some sweets from Insomnia Cookies.”
1PRETTYRICKY’S
Favorite Places to Check Out Music Visit Fargo-Moorhead
CO N T I N U E D >
1.
THE AQUARIUM “I will always continue to recommend The Aquarium to check out live music! They have so many amazing concerts and live performances, and arguably have the most diverse acts and shows in town.”
Visit Fargo-Moorhead
1PrettyRicky’s Opening and Guest Appearances JA RULE DJ WONDER
2.
UMAMI
FRONT STREET TAPROOM
ZHALDEE
“I love attending the open mic nights at Front Street Taproom. We have some incredibly talented people in our region, and Front Street provides the perfect stage for performers to show off their skills.”
MURCUTIAN
NICKFRESH DJ LOW KEY GRACIE CHAVEZ DJ MACKSWELL Visit Fargo-Moorhead
ERICALANDIA BOOGIE BROWN DON GORDO CABEZA DJ LAZYBOY AUSTIN MILLZ
3.
BOSTON CHERY
E S S E N T I A H E A LT H P L A Z A A T T H E L I G H T S “I really enjoy spending time watching concerts at the Essentia Health Plaza at The Lights, especially on a gorgeous day! The music sounds so great and I love the fandom and camaraderie you build almost instantly when you are shoulder-toshoulder singing back to the artists.”
IMARKKEYZ TONY H JON REYES BO KNOWS DJING AND MANY MORE!
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1PRETTYRICKY’S
Don't-Miss Events Throughout the Year #1 Frostival “We all know where we live and we know how cold things get, but the Frostival puts the fun back in being cold, and I love how much participation we have from both businesses as well as attendees. It really helps make the winter not seem as long too, because the events usually happen over two months.” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#2 701 Day “July 1 is 701 Day and there are so many events happening that day to celebrate all things North Dakota. WEAREONE and Camp Lone Tree are partnering to host “701 Day Celebration: Summer Camp” that you don’t want to miss!” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#3 The Annual Unglued Craft Fest “The Annual Unglued Craft Fest has expanded to two weekends, but they still sell out every single year for good reason. It is one of the most fun, innovative, connecting events of the year and it really is for everyone! Even if you aren’t 'crafty,' they have curated this event to have something for most people!”
#4 Christkindlmarkt “Christkindlmarkt is a Holiday extravaganza and I love all the care and thought that goes into the whole event! Food, vendors, and fun really help set my mood for the season, especially when the cold is coming!” Visit Fargo-Moorhead
#5 Xcel Holiday Lights Parade “The Xcel Holiday Lights Parade literally lights up the downtown Fargo area. I love seeing all of the creativity that people put into their floats!” Visit Fargo-Moorhead 124
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1PRETTYRICKY'S
Most Underrated Events in the Area
1.
T H E AT R E B P R O D U CT I O N S
2.
COMEDY IN THE CELLAR
3.
FARGO FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
4.
FM DERBY GIRLS
“Any of the productions put on by Theatre B are worth attending. They host off-beat plays that will invoke emotion and get you talking.”
“The Comedy in the Cellar events at Front Street Taproom are comedy gold! They book regional and national acts, give shine to our local comedians, and these nights are side-splittingly funny.”
“The Fargo Food Truck Festival gets bigger and bigger each year because we have new trucks popping up in our region all the time. There are so many different types of food available, so I love sampling a little something from each truck.”
“If you love sports and hard-hitting action, our FM Derby Girls are fantastic and I love attending their bouts during the season. Fun for the whole family, they have a beer garden in the rink, and it is very fast-paced.”
5.
W H AT ' S U P ? STA R S & S O U N D S “Check out “What’s Up? Stars & Sounds” hosted by me and the MSUM Planetarium. It is a 60-minute show hosted on the evening of the First Tuesday of the month during the Fall & Spring semesters. It combines the wonder of the night sky with future beats to set the mood for the journey!” CO N T I N U E D >
WITH DJ 1PRETTYRICKY
Q. What about our area's music scene attracted you to living in Fargo?
A: Fargo has an incredible variety
of music, with a growing diversity of genres. We have local music artists and DJs that play country, hiphop, folk, jazz, K-Pop, metal, and much more. As a DJ, I am always listening for artists who may not be on my radar, no matter the genre, because you never know when their music is going to be a perfect accompaniment for your event!
Q. Where do you believe Fargo’s music scene is heading?
A: Our music scene is flourishing,
alternative, and electronic music. Post-pandemic has certainly peaked more interest in live music across all genres.
Q. What's the most "out there" event you've DJ'd?
A: In partnership with Sound
Engagement, we held a “silent disco,” which was part of a fundraising event for Choice Bank last fall. It was awesome! My buddy Zach Anderson played the old school music on the Blue channel and I played the new school music on the Red channel, so people could choose which channel they wanted to listen to in their headphones. There were no speakers; all the music was played from their headphones and it was the loudest party with the quietest dance floor ever!
with solo musicians, bands, producers, and DJs playing more public shows than ever before. Promoters and artists themselves are hosting shows at venues across the region, and I think this is possible because our culture is looking to support more metal,
Contact 1PrettyRicky
| djprettyricky.com | /1prettyricky
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| @1prettyricky | @1prettyricky | /1prettyricky
| @oneprettyricky | /1prettyricky
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