&ARTS ENTERTAINMENT

Best Local Radio Show

BEST MUSEUM/ GALLERY BEST NEWSPAPER COLUMNIST

THIS SIDE OF COUNTRY WITH TRAVIS 95.9 KRFF

Location: Fargo

Why do your fans love your show?

“I feel that listeners enjoy the show because it shines a bright light on the talented artists that are right here in our community, statewide, and across the Midwest,” Producer and Host Travis Hopkins said.

What does your show offer that listeners can’t get anywhere else?

“Many of the artists that we play are hearing their songs on the radio for the first time. We’re excited that our show is the one to do it,” Hopkins said. “Something that is also missing from a lot of radio is fair airplay for female artists. We proudly play as much as, if not even more, female artists.” honorable mentions

What local artist should we all be listening to right now?

“Annabelle Maher, Bryan Loweree, Brianna Helbling, Zach Thomas, Rachael Ianiro, Aaron Simmons, Nattie Jean, Dan Brekke, Gina Powers, Dan Wagner, Matt Aakre, Abby Stugelmayer, 32 Below, SLAMABAMA, Blue Red Roses, Jessie Veeder, Terry Mackner, and and and…” he said.

SECOND PLACE: JESSE, AMANDA AND GORDO IN THE MORNING BIG 98.7

THIRD PLACE: BO JANSSEN IN THE MORNING WITH JESSIE AAMODT EAGLE 106.9

FOURTH PLACE: CHRIS, JOHN & COREY BOB 95 FM - KBVB-FM

FIFTH PLACE: Y94 MORNING PLAYHOUSE

Plains Art Museum Jim Shaw

Location: Fargo

What programs or exhibitions have patrons been excited for in the past year?

“The Museum has launched two podcasts –one called ‘5 Plain Questions,’ which focuses on Native American creatives and leaders throughout the region, and ‘High Visibility,’ which focuses on contemporary artists in rural spaces,” Director and CEO Andy Maus said. “As far as current exhibitions, we’re super excited to share the prints and sculptures of New York-based international art star Chakaia Booker.”

What upcoming exhibitions should we be looking forward to?

“In February of 2022, we will have an exhibition by Grupo Soap del Corazón celebrating their longevity as an artist group,” Maus said. “Also, we are very excited about a solo exhibition by Hazel Belvo opening in September of next year.” honorable mentions

SECOND PLACE: BONANZAVILLE USA

THIRD PLACE: FARGO AIR MUSEUM

FOURTH PLACE: HJEMKOMST CENTER

FIFTH PLACE: GALLERY 4

Location: The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead

How

does it feel to win?

I am so thrilled. What this tells me is that what I’m writing is connecting with readers. The other four nominees, to be mentioned in their company is an honor in itself. It’s an honor and a privilege to have this platform. It’s gratifying that people see the commitment I have week to week.

What resonates with readers?

We started off the year with lies about an election and an insurrection, and we still have this brutal pandemic. It brings out the emotion in people. Clearly people who don’t like what I have to say are still reading and that’s good too.

Last year you said the win meant a little more because along with positive comments, you got, “so many nasty horrible comments.” Does it feel different this year?

If you’re not careful you can really let the hate mail get you down. Some comments are so touching, so gratifying. There’s a relevance and importance to what I’m writing.

honorable mentions

SECOND PLACE: TAMMY SWIFT

THIRD PLACE: DON KINZLER

FOURTH PLACE: MIKE MCFEELY

FIFTH PLACE: TONY BENDER