Fargo Monthly August 2023

AUGUST 2023

20+ Learn about call t animals tha er R d the Re iv !

Valley home

COMPLIMENTARY

TABLEOFCONTENTS

FARGO MONTHLY // AUGUST 2023

COVER STORY

14 LET'S GET WILD 16 18 26 28

18

Buffalo River State Park Animals in the Valley with ND Game & Fish Red River Zoo Flower Guide

12 Sponsored Content: Fuel Up for Your Road Trip 30 National Days 32 Think Global, Act Local: Mr. Viet Nguyen 34 Meet the Maker: Raising Wolves Art 36 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 38 Artist Feature: Half Wolf 46 HOME & DESIGN 48 Meet Park Co.'s Elizabeth Nelson

38

58

56 FOOD & DRINK (FIKA) 58 Wine of the Month from Dakota Vines 60 PARENTS & KIDS 62 A Look Inside: Broadway Square 64 MIXOLOGIST OF THE MONTH: DAVID A. JOERGENSEN

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Volume 13 / Issue 8

August 2023

Fargo Monthly Magazine is published 12 times a year and is free. Copies are available at more than 500 Fargo-Moorhead locations and digitally at fargomonthly.com.

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FROMTHEEDITOR

IT'S TIME TO

TOUCH GRASS F

or the past few years, Fargo Monthly has put together an issue all about animals. We've featured some of the Valley's furry friends, the most exotic pets living here, and even a day in the life from the perspective of a pup, Ollie. This year, we decided to do something a little different—we stepped outside of the box, and the office, and dove into the natural wildlife in our area. Working with the North Dakota Game & Fish, Buffalo River State Park, and the Red River Zoo, we created a guide to the wildlife you can find in the natural environment of the Valley as well as one of our closest wildlife refugee areas, plus a tour through the zoo!

Throughout the process of putting together this month's issue, I was able to spend time away from my desk exploring what our area has to offer.

10 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Often, you'll hear that our landscape in eastern North Dakota and western Minnesota doesn't have much to offer.

While we may be lacking an array of elevations, there is beauty in the rolling lands here.

When visiting Buffalo River State Park, I hiked through the river bends and wooded forests (which, I think people forget we have access to just a mere 30 minutes outside of the city), but what really took my breath away wasn't the tall trees or trickling water. On the southern side of the park, the forest area clears and opens up to grassland. We can take that wide, never-ending prairie for granted, especially when we feel like that's all we are surrounded with. But, there's something special about the breeze floating through the golden tall grass and wildflowers paired with the peaceful sound of nothing, no cars or hum of

the city. The nothingness was refreshing, and, if anything, made me appreciate the rolling lands I've gotten used to here in a completely new way.

So, while the sun still shines warm and long this month, I encourage you and your loved ones to step outside of the city.

Whether it's to visit the mighty Red River by Lindenwood Park, a further out to traverse through the multiple landscapes of Buffalo River State Park, or even your backyard, say hi to the squirrels and admire the flowers.

Remember your sunscreen and take it all in.

Happy Reading!

Geneva Nodland Editor

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Are you overwhelmed trying to plan for your big day? You're not alone. We've done our best to provide all types of local resources, expert guidance, de-stressing tips and everything in between. Your wedding day is one of the mos important days of your life. Hopefully, this issue will help you prepare for that day so it's all about you.

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12 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

13

HEALTH

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By Geneva Nodland

14 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

For the past few years, Fargo Monthly has put together an annual "pet" issue, featuring Fargo's furry friends. This year, we move away from domesticated animals and venture into the wild... well, as wild as the Red River Valley gets! With help from North Dakota Game and Fish, the team at Buffalo River State Park, and the Red River Zoo, we learned about wildlife in and around the Valley.

With your family, your friends, or even by yourself, take some time to explore our area—we might be biased, but we think it's pretty great!

15

Buffalo River State Park, located about 30 minutes east of Fargo, offers a world full of recreation, nature, and serenity. With 12 miles of easyto-walk trails through wooded areas that meet natural prairie land, and even streams and rivers, the area allows you to escape the everyday life in the cities of Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo and explore what the park is home to!

Woodchuck (also called Groundhog) Keep your eyes out in the picnic area by the Picnic Shelter—you will probably spot a Woodchuck around the area. You might also call these animals Groundhogs. They come up from their wooded areas by the river to graze in the grassy areas and return to their homes that are burrowed into the ground, typically by a fallen log or something similar.

Let's take a peek at what you could spot in Buffalo River State Park.

hese animals are part of the "Friends in the Campground" at Buffalo River State Park Campground, meaning they are often found in the camping area and it is highly encouraged to not feed! These guys will appear around sites, and campers are advised to keep their trash cleaned up and say hello to these furry friends with a wave!

Richardson's Ground Squirrel Both the Franklin and the Richardson's squirrels enjoy hanging out in the prairie area between the campground and the road.

You can also find them on the Prairie View Trail on the western side of the park!

Plains Pocket Gopher Did you know?

There are two threatened species of squirrels in Minnesota, and you can see both inhabiting Buffalo River State Park—the Franklin Ground Squirrel and the Richardson's Ground Squirrel!

Franklin Ground Squirrel 16 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Buffalo River can be accessed at a few points in the park, and each offers its own "best spots" for recreation. You can find swimmers in parks of the river, as well as those fishing often. Not often, but sometimes, you can even spot a snapping turtle in the river.

Around this time of year, you might even see a baby snapping turtle!

Least and Eastern Chipmunk

While you're wandering through Buffalo River State Park, you can pick berries for a snack from the wild raspberry bushes!

Thirteen lined Ground Squirrel

You can spot deer around Buffalo River State Park—in fact, there is a mom who has twins every year and it's not uncommon to spot her and the twins around the park!

Did you know?

Bobolinks lay their eggs on the ground rather than a tree—a reason why the prairie grassland is so important to their species and why they've made their way to the park!

Bobolink With a name that's fun to say, and a call even more fun to listen to, you'll find the Bobolink bird at the highest population Buffalo River has ever seen before. The Bobolink bird population is rapidly decreasing as they lose their habitat—large areas of grassland; but Buffalo River State Park has some of the perfect prairie land for them!

Bobolinks have a unique call that sounds like a "broken R2-D2" or a robot that's dying— you can hear it for yourself at the park! Head to the River View, Bluestem, or parts of the Prairie View Trails at about dawn and dusk (6-8 a.m. and close to dusk) to catch the Bobolink singing.

SCAN HERE

Buffalo State River Park is a natural hidden gem just 30 minutes from Fargo, head out to the park to explore! Learn more about the park and check out its many guided hikes, family-friendly activities, hands-on learning, and so much more!

Buffalo River State Park | 565 155th St S Glyndon, MN | 218-498-2124 17

Photos provided by North Dakota Game and Fish The Valley is a diverse and beautiful place, and that's not just unique to the people.

The animals of Fargo-Moorhead are just as interesting as the rest of us who live here! To learn more about the creatures and critters here, we chatted with Outreach Biologist Doug Leier and found out just how interesting our furry neighbors are.

Know your Moose!

There are a few different types of moose.

Those who frequent our landscape are Northwestern Moose, which, according to Britannica.com, inhabit central Canada, North Dakota, Minnesota, and northern Michigan.

Did you know?

Moose are very large and only have a few natural predators outside of wolves, so it makes sense when Doug says, "They go where they want to go, when they want to go, and if they want to go."

Did you know?

In the U.S., we have areas home to both moose and elk; but in Europe, it is common to call them the inverse. So, if you travel to Europe and see an elk, locals will refer to it as a moose!

While uncommon in the Red River Valley, moose have made an appearance here!

Doug also argues that moose is one of the tastiest wildlife in the Red River Valley!

18 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

The average bull (male Elk) is 59 inches at the shoulder and averages 700 pounds (range 4701,100 pounds). Cows (female Elk) average 500 pounds (range 440-600 pounds) and average 53 inches!

Meet Outreach Biologist at North Dakota Game and Fish, Doug Leier!

Doug is a North Dakota native— born in Williston, raised in LaMoure, and a graduate of Valley City high school. He attended NDSU Bottineau and NDSU Fargo and began his career as a game warden.

He currently lives in West Fargo with his wife and their three children.

Doug works as a biologist for North Dakota Game and Fish. When asked "Why Fargo?" Doug says this, "North Dakota is the Fort Knox of the outdoors—pure #gold." So, there's not much else to say!

Did you know?

Elk are also called wapiti, an indigenous name from the Shawnee Tribe meaning white deer (referring to their white coat on parts of the body)!

These animals are not uncommon visitors to the Red River Valley, they do wander through the area. "There are sustained populations in northwestern Minnesota up in the Lancaster area," Doug said. "In the Southern Red River Valley, I probably get a sighting about once or twice a year."

This black bear was spotted near Fargo!

While more commonly found in Minnesota, the black bear is more frequent in the Red River Valley than some of the other wildlife.

On the North Dakota side of the Red River Valley, they travel in from Minnesota and can travel down from Canada. You can find black bears in the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area near the Canadian border as well.

There is no known breeding population of bears in North Dakota, but in 2020, the North Dakota Game and Fish reported that they confirm 12-15 black bears in the state each year!

"Unfortunately, one of the problems with bears in the rural areas and even in the urban areas is that if you have unsecured garbage or feed pets outside, you can attract black bears, as well as coyotes, raccoons, and other critters," Doug said.

While this is not something you'd expect in the FM cities area, Doug likes to say, "Never say never!"

Continued> 19

Did you know?

When you see animal pawprints in the snow, they might be larger than what the actual paw is. This is due to the sunlight applying heat to the track, expanding the edges so it looks bigger than it actually is!

"We do not know of a documented breeding mountain lion, a female mountain lion with kittens—but just because we don't know, it doesn't mean they haven't been here," Doug said.

When Doug gets a call about a mountain lion, he always checks the tracks. Often times he finds these tracks are huge, but because a mountain lion is a feline—those giant tracks might not actually belong to them. Cats (even these big ones), have their claws retracted when they walk. So, unless they are While they really using them at the time of do just look like big walking, the extra length from cats, they have a their claws won't show in their long tail that almost tracks. Doug says those tracks reaches the same usually belong to a dog or length of their body! coyote.

When the Valley does get mountain lion visitors, they are mostly coming from the Badlands on the western side of the state or possibly the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Continued>

I think the outdoors, the fish and wildlife of the Red River Valley, takes second place to nobody."

20 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Check it out!

Hunters refer to the pronghorn antelope as speed goats.

They're the fastest land mammal in North America with speeds up to 55 miles an hour!

An uncommon visitor to the edge of the Red River Valley is the pronghorn antelope.

Doug says that there are reports of pronghorn from the central Red River Valley in Trail County (Mayville-Hillsboro, ND area) to the edge, in the Finley, ND area of Steele County, and also at times on the edge of the Coteau des Prairies near Sargent County—but they have been in the Red River Valley.

"While they're uncommon, when they are here, it is really cool to have the fastest land mammal in North America here," he said.

Did you know?

Otters are part of the "weasel" family. The total body length of an adult otter ranges from 35-54 inches, and according to ND Game and Fish, their long tails account for 3540% of that!

You don't have to venture to the Red River Zoo to see an otter in action! While they were uncommon in the past, Doug says that otters are becoming more common on the Red River, as well as on some of the tributaries like the Sheyenne River.

"And yes, at times, you can see reports from within the city limits even in Fargo on the Red River... they are really fascinating," he said. "They're just as fascinating of a creature for me as a biologist as they are for humans just to watch. People stand for hours at a zoo and watch an otter and if they see an otter in the wild—it is absolutely just fascinating."

22 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Did you know?

Coyotes are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active at night!

Coyotes are abundant throughout the state of North Dakota, but according to the ND Game and Fish—it wasn't always like that. In the mid-1900s, the animal was nearly absent from the landscape due to the "widespread use of poisons and aerial hunting."

But since the number of coyotes has grown once again to be "one of the most abundant and commonly harvested furbearer in North Dakota."

Coyotes are so common in the Red River Valley that they can actually be found in urban centers.

"Not just Fargo, [coyotes] are found in places like Chicago," Doug said.

"Coyotes do provide a service because they help with urban rodent problems like rats. Most of the time, they're doing their hunting at night, and they become acclimated and accustomed to urbanists, just like a lot of the other wildlife."

Did you know?

Turkeys "roost," or sleep, in trees!

A common wildlife spotting, as well as complaint call, is turkeys. Doug said that the problem with turkeys is that some locals love to see them, and other neighbors don't.

"One of the funny stories of a turkey I have was when a gentleman had a problem with turkeys. They were up on the patio and they were pecking the sliding glass window on the patio.

I said what they might be seeing is their reflection. They may be a little bit territorial when they see their reflection and they see another turkey. I said, 'If you close the blinds that might help,' and he said, 'Well, then I won't be able to see the turkeys.' And that's an example of the challenges that we have in helping people deal with urban wildlife issues."

In the wintertime, turkeys will find spots that are out of the cold and near a source of food. So, people who feed birds year-round might find that they have a much larger bird to feed as well!

Continued>

23

Did you know?

According to allaboutbirds.com, Hungarian Partridge hens can lay up to 22 eggs— among the most of any bird species!

Nonhunters may see the large gray bird and think it resembles a pigeon, donning a similar puffed-out chest and round head. But this game bird is known by local hunters, also called the gray partridge or "huns."

Found just north of FargoMoorhead in Grand Forks County, the Prarie Chicken is a very rare upland game bird. Prarie chickens are also found in Clay County in Minnesota.

Doug said the bird dates back to Lewis and Clark.

"That's what's cool about it—if you read through the journals of Lewis and Clark, you hear about the prairie chicken. Sometimes they may be referencing the sharptail grouse but oftentimes, they're referring to the prairie chicken."

They're a huge gamebird, and very beautiful in the springtime when you can see them dancing in their spring meeting, dancing on their grounds.

24 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Did you know?

An upland game bird is a bird that is hunted in upland hunting—a form of hunting where the hunter targets birds like quail, pheasant, grouse, prairie chicken, Hungarian partridge, and others alike!

A newly common animal in the metro area is the Hungarian partridge, with a population that has been growing in the state, in urban areas, and especially in Fargo. Doug said that they are found in open grass spaces, park areas, and in undeveloped grassland areas.

American Bison

Photos by Geneva Nodland While there's nothing like going on an adventure into the natural habitats of the Valley, you have the option to visit some of the animals that don't originate from our landscape but do thrive in it!

Take a peek into the Red River Zoo and meet some of the animals who call it home!

The Zoo's newest exhibit, the Pride of the Prairie Exhibit, features American Bison, BlackTailed Prairie Dogs, Black-Footed Ferrets, and a Bull Snake. These bison bring an amount of excitement with them, other than the city of the NDSU Bison finally housing the animal!

Working with Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota, the Red River Zoo brought three bison that have a long history and are very rare genetically. When the bison population was decimated in the late 1800s, Theodore Roosevelt worked with the director of the Bronx Zoo to bring some bison without cattle genes to help repopulate the park. That park has sustained its bison population, and for the first time, a few of those bison traveled to the Red River Zoo, with the Zoo's intention of having a breeding program to increase the number of bison in the US. The offspring could go to other national parks, possibly other zoos that have similar conservation efforts, or Native American groups that may be trying to repopulate native lands with bison.

Photo by Red River Zoo

Chinese Red Panda One of the zoo's most popular animals, and one that they have much success in breeding, are the Red Pandas! Naturally found in northern China, these furry friends are very well-adapted to the environment of North Dakota, especially with the daily fluctuation of temperature. The zoo is known for its Red Panda conservation efforts nationally and globally.

More than 25% of Chinese Red Pandas found in zoos across the country were born at the Red River Zoo!

26 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Want to hear a secret?

The zoo is hoping to greet some Red Panda cubs in the near future, so keep your eyes out for an announcement on their social media facebook.com/ redriverzoo!

| 4255 23rd Ave S, Fargo, ND | 701-277-9240 | redriverzoo.org | /redriverzoo | @redriverzoo

Eurasian Lynx A pair of feisty feline sisters can be found at the zoo, the Eurasian Lynx! Easy to spot with their tufts of black hairs pointing up from their ears, these cats can be sassy—but the Red River Zoo's team says they are just like your typical cat. The team tries to keep the Lynx's exhibit changed up often to keep them entertained.

Did you know?

The Beast character from the Disney movie "Beauty and the Beast" is rumored to be based on the Sichuan Takin!

Fun Fact!

The Takin's nose isn't just for show—it actually helps to keep them warm too! They have large nasal cavities full of blood vessels, so when they breathe in cold air in the winter, it heats it up before it gets to their lungs.

Sichuan Takin With their unmistakable horns and large noses, the Sichuan Takin hail from the Himalayan Mountains, so the two females and one male at the Red River Zoo fit right in. The Takin's coat is nice and thick in the wintertime, plus it acts like a raincoat as the animal's skin gives off an oily substance to protect it from fog and snow.

Bactrian Camel Depending on when you visit the Bactrian Camels at the Red River Zoo, they might look a little different. In the wintertime, the camels grow a thick coat of fur, which gets layered in snow. Oftentimes, people might assume since they are covered in snow, they're cold—but it's actually their thick fur coat underneath the snow that is insulating them!

Did you know?

You can feed the Bactrian Camels at the Red River Zoo! They offer different experiences with the animals for group rentals, company events, picnics, and more at the zoo! Check out redriverzoo.org/groupeducational-experiences to see what the zoo offers.

White-Naped Crane One thing you'll notice about the Red River Zoo's White-Naped Cranes right now is Stanley. Stan is what the zoo calls "a grumpy old man," as he's been with the zoo for many years, and this spring, he became a very protective dad! For the first in the Red River Zoo's history, a White-Naped Crane chick was born, and Stan has made it his mission to protect the little guy. But, it comes naturally, as cranes are fairly territorial.

27

Prairie Rose

Purple Coneflower

(Echinacea angustifolia)

(Anemonastrum canadense)

(Stellaria media)

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: Bluestem Trail, River View Trail

(Rosa arkansana)

Fleabane

Meadow Anemone

Chickweed

(Erigeron)

(Onosmodium bejariense)

False Gromwell

Black-eyed Susan

Yellow Sweetclover

Found: Bluestem Trail, Prairie View Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail, Wide Sky Trail; Prairie and Open Woods Habitats

Found:Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail, Wide Sky Trail; Prairie and Open Woods Habitats

Found: Everywhere, invasive

False Sunflower

American Vetch

(Vicia Americana)

(Amorpha canescens)

Leadplant

Showy Milkweed

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: River View Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat, along river

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

(Heliopsis helianthoides)

28 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

(Rudbeckia hirta)

(Melilotus officinalis)

(Asclepias speciosa)

Being that it's about a 30-minute drive away from the city, Buffalo River State Park gives you and your family easy access to learn and explore outside—and there's a lot to see! You can find guides and resources to help you make your way through the park and spot wildlife, just like this Flower Guide!

Venture throughout the State Park and see if you can spot this beautiful flora!

Common Milkweed

Blazing Star

(Asclepias syriaca)

(Liatris pychnostachya)

Found: Everywhere

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Rough Blazing Star

Purple Prairie Clover

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

(Liatris aspera)

(Dalea purpurea)

iNaturalist

Upright Coneflower

(Ratibida columnifera)

Found: Prairie View Trail, Riverview Trail, Bluestem Trail; Prairie Habitat

An independent nonprofit organization offers a mobile app and website for anyone to map & share observations of biodiversity across the world! Snap a photo of your outdoor observation, upload it, & discuss! Look up Buffalo River State Park to see what others have found & to enter your own findings!

Learn more inaturalist.org

By Sam Kise

Celebrating the FargoMoorhead Area through

National Days Ch ec k ou t th es e lo ca l bu sin es se s for up co min g Nationa l Day fe st ivit ies !

Every day, someone is posting about a national day of celebration that I had no idea existed. There are so many fun national days that we here at Fargo Monthly think are not celebrated enough. That’s why we are utilizing the National Day Calendar, founded by fellow North Dakotan Marlo Anderson, to highlight some of the national days you didn’t know existed—and direct you to a few local businesses to celebrate those days!

August 17

Black Cat Appreciation Day

Black Cat Appreciation Day is a day aimed at dispelling the myths surrounding black cats.

To celebrate, consider fostering or adopting a black cat from one of our local animal shelters. Or, if you can’t house a black cat, consider donating to the shelter!

Cat’s Cradle Shelter Inc. | 9 9th St S, Fargo | (701) 356-7877 | catscradleshelter.org

Homeward Animal Shelter | 1201 28th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 239-0077 | homewardonline.org

30 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

August 19

August 24

National Aviation Day is a day created to recognize pioneers of human flight. From hot air balloons to gliders to modernday passenger jets, humanity has been finding new ways to take to the air since the late 1800s.

Celebrate these innovators by exploring the Fargo Air Museum, signing up for a class or a plane ride through the Fargo Jet Center, or even building your own model airplane!

National Waffle Day commemorates the anniversary of the first waffle iron patent issued.

Whether you prefer sweet or savory waffles, you can celebrate with some of Fargo’s favorite waffle restaurants and vendors!

National Aviation Day

National Waffle Day

Black Coffee & Waffle Bar

| 550 2nd Ave N, Fargo | (701) 566-8749 | blackcoffeeandwaffle.com

Fargo Air Museum

The Shack on Broadway

Fargo Jet Center

Windsor Waffles

| 1609 19th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 293-8043 | fargoairmuseum.org

| 3801 20th St N, Fargo | (701) 235-3600 | fargojet.com

| ​​3215 Broadway N, Fargo | (701) 356-2211 | shackonbroadway.com

Catch them at the Red River Market 8.26! | iby@windsorwaffles.com | windsorwaffles.com

August 26

National Dog Day

Just like Black Cat Appreciation Day, dogs deserve some love, too! On National Dog Day, consider adopting or fostering a local shelter dog, or treating your furry friend to a special treat from a local store. And be sure to give them a good belly rub while you’re at it!

4 Luv of Dog Rescue

| 1523 23rd St S, Moorhead | (701) 205-0190 | 4luvofdog.org

Bark’n Biscuits

| 4035 40th Ave S Suite D, Fargo | (701) 203-5488 | barknbiscuits.com

Homeward Animal Shelter | 1201 28th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 239-0077 | homewardonline.org

Three Dog Bakery

| 465 32nd Ave E Suite B, West Fargo | (701) 532-2420 | threedogbakeryfargo.com

September 1

National Food Bank Day

National Food Bank Day is a day that encourages you to contribute to food banks in the name of relieving hunger. Over 10% of US households go food insecure, and donating to your local food bank helps reduce that number each day. Donate to the Great Plains

Food Bank, or directly to one of your local food pantries, to help celebrate the hunger relief that these organizations provide.

Great Plains Food Bank

| 1720 3rd Ave N, Fargo | (701) 232-6219 | greatplainsfoodbank.org

Emergency Food Pantry

| 1101 4th Ave N, Fargo | (701) 237-9337 | emergencyfoodpantry.com

Dorothy Day Food Pantry

| 45 21st Ave E Suite A, West Fargo | (218) 656-7628 | churches-united.org/nutritiousfood

September 3

National Cinema Day

National Cinema Day is a day meant to celebrate film and encourage cinema lovers to go see a movie on the big screen.

It’s the perfect day to see the most recent release you’ve had your eye on. Celebrate at one of Fargo’s theaters!

Fargo Theatre

| 314 Broadway N #4715, Fargo | (701) 239-8385 | fargotheatre.org

Century Cinema

| 3931 9th Ave SW, Fargo | (701) 281-1335 | marcustheatres.com/theatrelocations/century-cinema-fargo

West Acres Cinema

| 4101 17th Ave S, Fargo | (701) 282-6930 | marcustheatres.com/theatrelocations/west-acres-cinema-fargo

September 6

National Read a Book Day National Read a Book Day encourages everyone, young and old, to read. You don’t even need to buy a book! Head down to your local library to celebrate this national day and enjoy some books for free.

Main Library

| 101 4th St N, Fargo | (701) 241-1472 | fargolibrary.org

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

Northport Library

| 2714 N Broadway, Fargo | (701) 476-4026 | fargolibrary.org

West Fargo Public Library | 215 3rd St E, West Fargo | (701) 515-5200 | westfargolibrary.org

Moorhead Public Library | 118 5th St S, Moorhead | (218) 233-7594 | larl.org

Conclusion:

Support your local businesses and celebrate the upcoming national days with all of us at Fargo Monthly!

Check out more national days at nationaldaycalendar.com

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THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL

Meet Mr. Viet Nguyen Happy Summer!

Where do you call home?

I had the honor to connect with the NDSU Director of Development for the College of Arts and Sciences: Mr. Viet Nguyen.

I’ll always consider Columbus, OH home—where I was born and raised.

I graduated with a dual degree from Ohio State University. My whole family is there, and we welcomed my niece into the family there. Since graduating college, Fargo has given me a community to thrive and discover myself as a Vietnamese-American.

I'm traveling to Vietnam this August for the month and I'm excited to get back in touch with my family’s roots.

The Vietnamese community here in Fargo gives me opportunities to remind myself of home.

Nguyen is a stellar gentleman thriving in his philanthropic journey of impacting the lives of students by engaging not only the FM community but also the nationwide Bison Alumni family.

It is always humbling to pause, connect, and reflect with a dedicated servant-leader who keeps track of the evergrowing alumni network and the benevolent supporters of NDSU. The Red River Valley is fortunate to have Nguyen dedicate his energy to making this community a vibrant and welcoming one!

Skol!

Cyusa

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What is your journey of growth and what lessons did you learn before coming to Fargo?

The main reason why I moved to Fargo, ND was for the opportunity at the NDSU Foundation. I remember when my boss called me for an oncampus interview, and I immediately thought to myself, “What the heck

is in Fargo, ND?” But I’m so glad I took the jump. I remember going to Wild Terra after my interview, and a stranger came up to me and said, “You look like you’re from out of town,” not only did a conversation start, but they also invited me to their table and took me around downtown.

Those people are my friends to this day. That moment alone taught me that Fargo is filled with kind, curious, and diverse people.

Can you talk about your passion for music through your marching band from college?

Music has been a big part of my life since middle school. I marched the mellophone in the Ohio State University Marching Band for four years and was one of the section leaders. I occasionally would play the French Horn during the off-season.

During that time, I joined a co-ed honorary band fraternity, Kappa Kappa Psi, where we were cultivated as leaders in pursuit of furthering the college band programs. I built

By Alexandre Cyusa Photo By Josiah Kopp

and found my closest friends and became the person I am now. I continue to volunteer and give back to the fraternity so that students can continue to be leaders in their band programs nationwide. I initially joined a community band before the pandemic, FM Golden Notes New Horizons Band, and I hope to continue to keep music in my life no matter where I am.

Can you share how philanthropy impacted your life?

I grew up in a family that didn’t have many resources growing up. Our family escaped from the Vietnam War to America. The 2008/09 crisis hit our family hard, and my parents always told us to get good grades and succeed in college to have a better life. I grew up in the public school system, and even then, I saw a complete difference between the resources other schools got compared to us. The cost of attendance for college seemed out of this world and I was afraid to take out loans. However, I applied for a scholarship from a local nonprofit called I Know I Can. Because of my story as a first-generation American, they graciously offered me a full-ride scholarship and completely changed my life. I even had the chance to meet the person sponsoring my education. While I never knew I would become a development officer professionally, I'm glad I did. I've always wanted to work in higher education. It's amazing to meet so many passionate NDSU Bison who support our students.

It's so inspirational that higher education can continue to change a community. I do my best to pay it forward in whatever way I can. It's now inspiring to make an impact on a student who may have a similar story as mine.

Why should and how can people learn about things outside the Midwest?

As Fargo grows exponentially, you can meet people with different stories, backgrounds, and

inspirations. I take this thought into my personal life. It's incredible what you can find out by asking the right question. Everyone has stories, and you never know what they have experienced. It can keep your mind fresh and can help you continue learning and experiencing new things. It's incredibly important to expose yourself to new experiences, for keeping an open mind is one of the best ways to stay young.

What is one thing the FM area could benefit from that you liked in other cities you lived in?

100% a Korean BBQ. What is more North Dakotan than BBQing your own food, surrounded by your friends, and enjoying fresh beverages?

What is your 2030 vision?

Where will you be and why?

By 2030, I hope to have made Fargo, North Dakota, a better place than I found it, either through my work at the NDSU Foundation or the fantastic experiences with the community here as they make social strides to make it a home for all people. I don't know where I'll be, but I hope by 2030, I'll have my own family and easier access to see my family back in Ohio.

Pipe dream, I'll have a late-night food cart for Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches and other Asian fried food that partygoers would enjoy: I love cooking for people!

MAKER MAKER

Raising Wolves Art

Photo by Worthy Visuals

Meet The

“

You don't have to give up the things you love for someone else's idea of what you're supposed to be doing," are some crazy wise words from this month’s maker Losa Safriwe of Raising Wolves Art! We met Losa at the Annual Unglued Craft Fest this past year and were excited to learn more about her and the process behind her pop art style. Read on to meet the maker!

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Losa and I'm a local artist based in Moorhead, MN, but I'm originally from Seattle, WA. I spend most of my free time drawing or watching cartoons/ anime, but I also love to travel, read, play video games, and head out to the movie theater on Tuesday nights to catch up on the latest releases. I've been selling my art at local markets and comic cons for the past two years now and it has been such an amazing experience.

I'm constantly reminded of other like-minded individuals in town that refuse to stop being young at heart and their creativity flourishes because of it.

By Ashley Morken, Unglued

Describe what type of products you make under Raising Wolves Art.

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My art style is heavily inspired by cartoons, anime, and pop culture.

When I'm inspired after watching a good show, I sit down to draw with my iPad and then I can turn my illustrations into prints, stickers, enamel pins, keychains, and even apparel. Recently, I've even found a new passion for typography and have made a small collection of motivational prints.

Tell us how you got started with your business.

Ever since I was little, I've been drawing and trying to mimic the cartoons I watched growing up. As I got older, my love for art just kept growing, but I always thought it'd stay as a hobby of mine; it was only when I started attending local anime/comic conventions that my mentality changed.

Something about seeing real people sell their art in person finally made me realize that I could do it, too. I used to be one of those people who believed that being an artist was unconventional before I realized there are so many of them thriving in the same city I live in; if they can do it, why can't I? The Fargo art community and other artists I've met really pushed me to put my work out there and I'm so thankful for that. Sometimes you need a little nudge.

Where does your business name come from?

Raising Wolves has been my internet handle for sharing my art for over 10 years—I just didn't want to come up with a new business name after being attached to this one for so long.

Where do you get your inspiration for what you create?

I'm constantly trying to keep up with new movies, cartoons, and anime and going back to watch vintage classics that I've missed. It's actually really hard to stay up to date with the endless supply of media, but I genuinely enjoy it. If I'm having a bad day, putting on a movie will instantly lift my mood. Watching behind-the-scenes content helps me appreciate the hard work that the directors and actors pour into their craft; and if it's an animated film, the process of stitching it all together fascinates me all the more.

What is your personal favorite item or piece you've created so far?

Probably my Princess Peach portrait because it was the first thing I drew to bring to the Fargo Makers Market—the first inperson event I've ever sold my art at. She's kind of been the official start of this journey.

Everything I make now I can compare to my Princess Peach drawing and see how far I've grown.

What is the most challenging thing?

Time management is the most challenging thing for me. It feels like there are not

enough hours in a day to watch all the movies I want to, prepare for upcoming markets, and draw all the things that I want to draw. And on top of that, to be consistent on social media, creating and editing content can feel overwhelming at times.

You've been doing more events and markets—what do you enjoy most about those?

Definitely, the people I meet. When I see their faces light up because they spot a character I've drawn that they enjoy, we've already found common interests and can geek out together about the shows we're into.

What is one craft you haven't really dabbled in yet that you want to try someday?

There are so many! Painting, punch needling, ceramics, and sewing have been on my list for a long time. Creating in general is therapeutic, it doesn't matter what it is.

What advice would you have given yourself five years ago?

Just do it! I wish I hadn't listened to what other people had to say about becoming an artist for as long as I did. There was even a point in time when I stopped drawing completely because I thought it was a childish hobby. I'd tell the younger me that there is bravery in growing up and being unapologetically yourself, you don't have to give up the things you love for someone else's idea of what you're supposed to be doing.

Where can people find your work?

My Instagram and TikTok are @RaisingWolvesArt

Upcoming Shows FM Pride in the Park: Aug 12 Grand Forks Library Con: Aug 26 Grand Forks Comic Con: Sept 9-10 Anime Fargo: Sept 15 Night Bazaar: Sept 21 ValleyCon: Oct 12-15 Shop online: RaisingWolvesArt.Etsy.com

ARTS ENTER TAINMENT Shopping in the Park!

Head downtown on August 26 and 27 for the Island Park Show where you can shop from 100+ booths featuring fine arts and crafts makers. For the whole family, horse-drawn carriage and barrel train rides and face painting. Plus, grab something from the various food vendors!

Good Morrow

August is Ren Faire season in the FM area, with three weekends jam-packed with jousting, chariot racing, ground combat, amazing stunts, turkey legs snacking, and more! The North Dakota Horse Park is hosting the 2nd Annual North Dakota Renaissance Faire on August 12-13, 19-20, and 26-27! Head to tickets. ndrenaissancefaire.com for tickets!

Summertime Throwback

The arts are the lifeblood of our community.

The arts are what support the uniqueness of the people here—it represents love, culture, identity, and more. Entertainment often fuels the arts, with events that bring people together to share experiences, explore unknown territory, and learn (sometimes more about themselves than the topic)! Here are a few Arts & Entertainment-related events coming up that will keep our city's heart pumping.

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Wild Terra Cider is hosting the Summer Vintage Market on August 27, featuring retro and vintage clothing, decor, vinyl, furniture, and more! Spend your afternoon shopping, enjoying live music, snacking from local food trucks, and sipping your favorite Wild Terra brews (kombucha included)!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

f l a H W o l f’ s Meet Hannah Westerholm, aka Half Wolf, an up-and-coming musician whose journey is both inspiring and extraordinary. Born into a music-loving household, Half Wolf's childhood was filled with the sweet sounds of records playing throughout the house.

Sundays were dedicated to music, where they and their brother would take turns picking albums to enjoy together. Those moments of musical exploration laid the foundation for Half Wolf's deep connection to all kinds of music. They may not have known it then, but destiny had something extraordinary in store for them. t was a concert that sparked the flame of ambition in Half Wolf's heart, forever altering the course of their life. At 14, they attended Lady Gaga's Monster Ball tour.

Witnessing the electrifying energy and connection between the artist and the audience, they were struck by a profound realization—they wanted to be on that stage, commanding the crowd

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with their own voice and passion. That night, the dream of becoming a musician was born.

live, and sharing their art with the world, became an insatiable calling that they could no longer ignore.

Yet, it wasn't just that one concert that shaped Half Wolf's determination. They attended another music celebration with their mother, gazing up at the women on stage, yearning to join them under the spotlight. The allure of performing

Choosing an unconventional path, Half Wolf decided to pursue their dream with confidence, passing on college and dropping out of high school. While they occasionally wondered about the road not taken, their singular focus

Eaux Claires Music Festival (Eau Claire, WI) Sydney Opera House (Sydney, AU) Madison Square Garden (New York City, NY) First Avenue - Main Room (Minneapolis, MN)

on music proved to be the key to their success. For twelve years, they pushed forward by practicing, writing, and sharing their original songs on social media.

opportunities. In their pursuit of success, they found themself leaving the familiar Midwest behind, venturing into the heart of the music industry—Los Angeles.

In a turn of events in 2018, Half Wolf's life took a momentous leap. A manager stumbled upon their music on SoundCloud and discovered their videos on Instagram, showcasing their original music. This fateful encounter led to an email that changed everything.

As Half Wolf continues toward stardom, their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and dreamers everywhere. Half Wolf's pursuit of music was fueled by a wide range of inspirations, as well as a perfect blend of experiences that ignited their desire to be on stage and create lasting music. From observing both men and women perform to being captivated by outstanding songwriting, storytelling, and vocals, their passion for the art form blossomed. “I definitely believe in both destiny and fate. I think that in some way, shape, or form, I’m meant to be an artist and performer.

Whatever that looks like, I'll take it,” Half Wolf said.

“It felt like a Disney Channel movie moment where the star falls in your lap. I can comfortably say that my life changed after that email. There's been many ups and downs between now and then. But it changed the trajectory of getting me out of the Midwest,” Half Wolf said.

Since that pivotal email, Half Wolf has encountered numerous highs and lows, yet they persisted with their musical journey, setting their sights on bigger stages and greater

Grateful for the pace at which they’ve grown, Half Wolf acknowledges that the path has

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

H a l fW o l f ’ s been anything but smooth. Daily encounters with anxiety and stress have become part of their reality, a testament to the demanding nature of the music industry.

Half Wolf tackled challenges headon with confidence, but as time passed, the landscape shifted.

Dealing with the pandemic and relocating to the bustling city of Los Angeles in 2019 heightened the intensity of their experiences.

2020 presented a significant turning point in their journey.

Hitting a metaphorical brick wall, they found themself grappling with an ongoing struggle to reclaim their artistic identity and stamina.

These three years have proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions and introspection.

Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic, Half Wolf recognizes it as a pivotal moment that allowed them to gain perspective and reassess their trajectory. It helped them reevaluate their path and realign it with their true purpose and passion for music. They believe that everything happens for a reason, even amid the ups and downs they continue to face.

Throughout their journey, Half Wolf's resilience and determination have been key ingredients in navigating the music industry's challenges.

Embracing the trials and tribulations, they approach each day with the conviction that they are destined to share their art with the world.

As they move forward with their music career, Half Wolf's

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experiences serve as a reminder that the path to success is often riddled with both triumphs and hardships.

Their unwavering commitment to their passion, coupled with a belief in their own artistic destiny, are the driving forces behind their remarkable rise as a musician.

And as the world awaits their next chapters, Half Wolf prepares the next stages of their musical career with an anticipated upcoming release.

In the exciting world of music, the talented musician Half Wolf is set to embark on a thrilling journey with their latest career moves.

Having just released their muchanticipated debut single, "Summer Bummer," they are now poised to make waves in the industry with their upcoming debut EP. As the lead single from this highlyanticipated project, "Summer Bummer" showcases Half Wolf's unique musical style and lyrical edge. Fans can expect even more from this rising star, as they have more singles lined up for release throughout the summer and fall.

Half Wolf is undoubtedly a name to watch as their music touches the hearts of an ever-growing audience.

As they embrace their unique journey and stay true to their artistic vision, we eagerly await the next chapter in their rise to fame. For, in the world of music, where dreams can become reality, Half Wolf is a shining testament to the power of chasing one's passion and believing in the magic of music.

HALF WOLF

QA &

The first professional performance where I felt like I had made a leap was at the Celebration of Women in Music.

It was the biggest crowd I had ever performed in front of professionally. In the second year, I was asked to come back because I had won an award when I was in high school and got to play a song. However, when I got asked to come back, it felt different. It was like I realized that I wasn't just there because I won an award; they actually wanted me to come back and play music, which was cool.

I stepped out alone on the stage, walked up to a piano, and played to what I think was over 200 people seated in the Fargo Theatre. It was a very special experience

that further confirmed that I wanted to pursue this path. Even though I was freaking out, I felt comfortable up there. I remember pacing backstage, absolutely freaking out, and feeling like I was going to pee my pants. My right leg used to shake uncontrollably whenever I got on stage to play the piano. I learned how to press my knee against the bottom of the piano really hard so that it wouldn't look like it was shaking, which I remember happening. Despite all that, it was fun to come off stage, and people were like, 'You're such a rockstar,' and I'm thinking, 'Little did you know I was a mess.' But it was still fun.

I would describe myself as a conversational songwriter. The songs that inspire me the most are those that sound like everyday language. As an

artist, I take that language and turn it into melody and music. This approach resonates with me more than flowery metaphors, which have their time and place, but I believe in expressing myself through a stream of consciousness. I prefer talking about my day, from start to finish, with a guitar in hand, rather than trying to force a song.

When I speak plainly in my songwriting, I feel I am getting to the core of something. Whenever I attempt to write a good song, it often ends up filled with metaphors, which is two steps removed from what I actually want to say.

Writing my first single, 'Summer Bummer,' which was released at the end of July, was an interesting experience for me. During the pandemic, my partner and I challenged ourselves to write 14 songs in 7 days, 2 songs per day.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

However, before I knew it, my world turned upside down, or maybe it was just set right side up. Everything was spinning, that's for sure. I found myself having multiple meetings with various labels. One of these meetings was with Elektra, where I met a great guy, a genuine and non-stereotypical industry professional working in A&R. It was Thursday when we met, and he asked if I could play for them the following Tuesday. Without hesitation, I responded, "Of course, I can do that." However, as soon as we left the meeting, reality struck, and I started freaking out, realizing that I had to perform the most significant and important show of my life in just four or five days, and I was leaving town for the weekend. But fortunately, I had a great support system around me.

The purpose was to push ourselves and get out of our own way creatively.

However, by the last couple of days, I found myself frustrated and stuck in repetitive ideas and melodies.

On the final day of the challenge, I felt the pressure to complete the last song, and my competitiveness added to my anxiety. As I sat on the bed, trying to write a love song, I started feeling more anxious and had almost reached a panic attack. It was then that I realized I had been unconsciously sucking in and flexing my stomach, adding to my tension.

In that moment of self-awareness, I let my gut hang out and sang with the guitar, expressing my frustration honestly. The song then flowed out naturally, reflecting my true feelings. This experience taught me the importance

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of being present in the moment, describing the surroundings, physical sensations, and emotions. Whether I'm feeling happy, upset, sad, or anxious, it becomes a window into my subconscious.

I've been very lucky to have had many such experiences at this point. One of them involves both collaboration and performance. In 2019, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a label showcase shortly after moving to LA. Initially, my plan was to come to LA to play some shows, embrace the Fargo vibe, perform in dive bars, connect with communities, and immerse myself in the music scene of Los Angeles.

I had been working with Brian West for a couple of months, who introduced me to Elliot Bank, an incredible guitar player. With them and my manager, we gathered at Brian's house, and it became a boot camp for me—a night I loved. The three closest collaborators and the people I respected the most gathered to help me improve. We went through an all-night session, playing and critiquing my performance and vocals until 4 a.m. Brian's words stuck with me as he told me that I had to elevate my performance skills overnight if I wanted any chance of sealing the deal or impressing these industry professionals. I appreciated his seriousness, as it fueled my excitement as an artist to collaborate and receive feedback and criticism honestly and constructively. It's the most effective way to grow, and that night was my favorite part of the whole experience.

In the following days, we practiced, tweaked, and had discussions about

HALF WOLF

our goals and what needed improvement. We continued practicing daily until the day of the show arrived. Although I had played numerous shows in Fargo, Minneapolis, and a couple in Los Angeles before, the ones in Los Angeles hadn't gone as well as I wanted them to. So, understandably, I was a bit nervous before rehearsals began.

However, as the day of the show approached, I knew that this was the moment I had been preparing for my whole life, and I felt ready. Despite a nerve-wracking soundcheck filled with feedback and technical issues, I maintained a balance of healthy fear and confidence as I stepped onto the stage. It felt like everything I had ever learned about performing came into play in that moment. The culmination of years of experience from Fargo shows to the advice of different directors all seemed to align perfectly during those 20 minutes I played on stage.

I became a conduit for the music, feeling incredibly present yet slightly out of my body. The energy was electric, and I could sense that every single person in that room was captivated. I took the responsibility of entertaining them very seriously, and it was a special and beautiful moment in my life. It was a moment of trust in my abilities and a testament to my growth as an artist, proving to myself that I was more than capable of handling it all.

The challenges for local musicians today include the internet, social media, and algorithms. This trend goes back to around 2016-2017.

When I moved to Minneapolis with the intention of pursuing a music career, I faced difficulties getting gigs because I didn't have a significant following on Instagram.

Initially, I tried the traditional approach by visiting various bars and venues, introducing myself, and handing out CDs, but most places directed me to submit online applications and provide links to my social media profiles. They even had a box to fill in the number of followers I had. This discouraged me as I believed that my internet presence shouldn't be the sole criteria for getting booked. I had been working hard on my music and felt that bookings should be based on my performance and ability to draw audiences.

To navigate this challenge, I chose a different path. Instead of focusing solely on growing my social media following, I took matters into my own hands and created my own venue in my apartment. I booked myself and invited my friends, allowing me to express myself freely, experiment with new ideas, and build a fan base. This approach was my way of rebelling against the system that seemed to value online metrics more than artistic

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

talent. In my opinion, the current music scene should be a space for exploration, learning, and growth, where musicians can experiment and take risks. However, it appears that many artists are now prioritizing online branding and image-building before showcasing their talents in live performances. While there's nothing inherently wrong with this approach, if musicians are denied opportunities to perform in front of real audiences, they may miss out on crucial experiences and interactions that shape their artistry. It's unfortunate that some bookers in the music industry seem to favor convenience over nurturing genuine talent.

H a l fW o l f

Yes, I have faced significant challenges.

Growing up in an underprivileged family below the poverty line set me back about ten years compared to others.

Moving to LA, I realized that those who grew up here were already five years ahead due to various advantages.

Whenever I received money from contracts, it went towards basic necessities rather than investing in my music career. Struggling to survive while pursuing art full-time brought numerous challenges and setbacks.

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| patreon.com/halfwolf | /CallMeHalfWolf | @CallMeHalfWolf | @CallMeHalfWolf

In 2019, I had to make a tough decision: either give up music to secure a stable job and an apartment or continue pursuing music while living in my car.

The financial pressure was immense, especially in an industry where the costs of producing music are exorbitant. Being a full-time musician under contract left me the most financially challenged I have ever been.

I believe it's essential for more artists to openly discuss this reality. Many musicians are struggling financially, yet the industry expects us to bear the entire burden of production costs. Additionally, with declining revenues from music sales and music often being distributed for free, it's even harder to make ends meet.

Reclaiming my situation and rejecting the industry's expectations has been liberating. I've chosen to be transparent about my financial limitations and create music that genuinely reflects who I am

and what I'm experiencing.

Pretending to have lavish productions and resources I don't possess would be disingenuous and unhelpful.

Instead, I'm focused on investing in my art honestly and letting my work speak for itself.

Though it's been challenging, I love what I do, and I'm grateful for the success I've achieved.

However, the financial struggles persist, and I'm determined to raise awareness about this issue in the industry.

Yes, Red Raven holds immense importance in my music career. It is the single most vital physical location in the entire music industry for me. Without Red Raven, I wouldn't be a musician, guitar player, artist, or curator. Another impactful initiative is the Celebration of Women in Music, started by Deb Jenkins, which has supported and nurtured not only my music career but also many others.

Red Raven will have a new location opening soon. Any patronage or donation to this initiative is vital to me as a musician.

HOME DESIGN Make the switch to LED bulbs in your home!

Starting August 1st, The U.S. is banning standard incandescent light bulbs as an initiative to promote more energy saving in homes. How much of a difference do LED bulbs make? Not only do they use at least 75% less energy, but they are also around three to four times brighter and last 25 times longer.

Get ready for Fall Parade of Homes Fall Parade of Homes kicks off September 16-18 and also runs from the 23-25. More info coming soon—check paradefm.com for updates.

Have a home project you'd like to feature?

Send your submission to editorial@spotlightmediafargo.com for a chance to have your home project in one of our upcoming issues.

The Red River Valley is constantly blooming with new architecture, trend-setting designs and industryleading artists to help bring your home and living spaces to life. From the hottest new design trends to the newest spaces in town, consider this your local beat for all things home and living.

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HOME & DESIGN

KAYT WINKELS PHOTOGRAPHY

R E A LT O R F E A T U R E :

Elizabeth Nelson Although Elizabeth Nelson has been with PARK CO., REALTORS® for the past 16 years as both a REALTOR® and Broker, her resume expands far beyond the home industry. From being a lead vocalist for a blues band to training and showing dogs, to even co-running a hobby farm, Nelson is one of those salt-of-the-earth people who has a true zeal for life.

Nelson was born and raised on a farm near Sabin, MN, showing various animals in 4-H and enjoying all that farm life has to offer. She graduated from

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University of North Dakota in 2003 with a bachelor's in clinical psychology and a minor in forensic science.

In 2007, she joined PARK CO. as a full-time REALTOR® and also holds her Broker's License. Over the years, Nelson has also been the lead vocalist for several blues bands in the metro area. Today, her hobbies include training and showing her Doberman and whippets in various venues, running her hobby farm with her fiancé Neal, and continuing to remodel their home in Horace, ND.

Life as a Singer “I never intended to front a blues band,” Nelson said. “I happened to sing at a REALTOR® function and a short while later a REALTOR® who was also a musician called me to see if I was interested in filling a lead vocal spot in their band.” And even though the band went through a few members, transitions, and names throughout those three years, Nelson loved every minute of it.

Fun Fact!

Elizabeth studied ASL (American Sign Language) in high school and college and is still conversational in it today.

“My time spent singing was a huge confidence builder,” she said. While she had experience with singing in high school and college, lead vocals in a band was never an opportunity Nelson thought she’d have, so she lept at the opportunity.

“A few things people might not realize is you work very hard for very little money,” she said. “Sure a well-known national band does really well. However, your local musicians are truly in it for the passion to share their music.

It’s long hours, late nights, lots of setup, tear down, and you get hardly anything at the end—but it is some of the most fun you will ever have.”

Even today, Nelson still gets stopped on the streets by fans who were impacted by her music. And that's what it was all about for her; connecting people from all walks of life through music. “[Music] makes people feel joy, remember loved ones, and fall in love,” she said. “Music is capable of taking away stress, and making them feel every emotion possible. Creating that for people is a pretty amazing thing!”

N E XT PAG E >

BRAD WALDERA 49

HOME & DESIGN

Hobby Farm Life MY DAD A LW A Y S SAID, 'DRIVE FA ST, TA K E C H A N C E S .'

D E F I N I T E LY WORDS I TRY TO L I V E B Y."

- ELIZABETH NELSON

ELIZABETH NELSON WITH HER SHOW DOBERMAN, KRIEGER

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Nelson’s love for the hobby farm life can be traced back to her childhood, growing up in a family that was passionate about animals. It’s no wonder that as soon as she purchased some acreage of her own, she quickly filled it with critters.

Her hobby farm in Horace has all kinds of fun animals, including two Southdown lambs (Crumpet and Marmalade), hens, six baby chicks with more coming this fall, and four dogs—including a new puppy! Inside the house, she has a cockatiel named Soy Sauce.

Aside from all the routine chores of feeding the animals, Nelson also trains her dogs and works them on various skills for showing. “I have several very successful show dogs… after growing up showing horses, moving onto dogs just made sense,” she said. Nelson researched and bought her first show dog out of college,

ELIZABETH'S SOUTHDOWN LAMBS, MARMALADE AND CRUMPET

Krieger, who is her oldest Doberman and is now retired. Krieger has shown at Westminster in NY and has had a very successful show and breeding career.

“He’s produced some very loved family dogs and some really nice show dogs, including his daughter, Tallulah, who has exceeded all expectations for me,” Nelson said. “She’s not just a great show dog, but she’s also an awesome worker, excelling at agility, obedience, and scentwork.” Nelson also has two whippets, Maya, who is also a finished show dog, and her nephew, Macho, who is just eight weeks and will start his show career this winter. “I love the sport of purebred dogs, it’s definitely a huge passion and a Iove to share as well.” Nelson also teaches conformation and agility classes at the Fargo Moorhead Kennel Club.

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KAYT WINKELS

ELIZABETH WORKING AND TRAINING HER SHOW DOG

Meet Our Experts

Dr. Emily Huber

Dave Ross

Audiologist

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Dr. Matthew Frisk Audiologist

Dani Borchardt Hearing Instrument Specialist

Kim Essig Audiology Assistant

Karla Jabs Medical Office Assistant

Specialized in: • Diagnostic Audiologic Evaluation • Earwax Removal • Evaluation for Hearing Aids • Hearing Aid Dispensing & Fitting • Hearing Aid Repair & Maintenance

• Hearing Care for Infants & Children • Industrial Hearing Screening • Live Speech Mapping • Remote Hearing Care

HearingSolution.net | 2700 12th Ave S Suite D Fargo, ND 58103 | 701.232.2438

For Buyers

For Sellers

KEEP IN MIND THE 80-10-10 RULE. If it has 80% of what you want, 10% you can change, and the last 10% you can live with, then it’s probably the house for you! No house is perfect.

DO THE WORK. Your agent knows how to maximize your money—listen to them! I know the market is good for sellers but a little time put in will be dollar signs at the end. Make your house the best one in the price range!

IT’S OKAY IF THE RIGHT HOUSE IS THE FIRST ONE YOU SEE. So many buyers get hung up on thinking they need to see a lot of houses. If we are doing our job, we have narrowed down the search good enough so we are taking you in the best options possible and that is very likely the first couple homes you go in. If you love it, write the offer!

DON’T GET HUNG UP ON THE I N T E R E S T R AT E S .

If the mortgage amount is affordable for you, then write the offer.

Interest rates will always be changing and waiting until they go down means you will likely miss out on the right house at today's price and end up paying much more down the road.

3

TIPS & ADVICE FOR BUYERS AND SELLERS IN 2023

DON’T LISTEN T O W H AT T H E INTERNET SAYS YOUR VALUE IS — I T ’ S N E V E R R I G H T. The online calculations of price do not take any variables into consideration like location or condition.

So many sellers are set up for disappointment when they get an actual market analysis done by an agent. Rely on the professionals for information when pricing your home.

B E P R E PA R E D F O R A HOME INSPECTION. Even in a busy sellers' market, you can often expect a buyer to want a home inspection.

Be prepared to make some fixes or, better yet, have a pre-listing home inspection and know exactly what could pop up. Sellers are often shocked at what a Buyer wants fixed and often don’t realize the hidden defects in their own home. With all the emotions tied up in listing your home, having a pre-listing inspection can mentally prepare them for the reality of selling. Every home, no matter how loved, can have something that needs fixing.

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HOME & DESIGN

Life as a REALTOR ® in 2023 Nelson believes in having a deep passion for loving where you live. While not everyone wants to care for a farm, taking pride in the ownership of your home is something she really embraces. “Helping people fulfill the dream of home ownership just goes hand in hand with how I live my life,” she said. “I think it’s important to find the type of property that speaks to how you live. It could be a condo, single family, hobby farm, lake place, or full-on large acreage. I want you to have the right space to suit your lifestyle.”

Post COVID-19 had definitely made people re-evaluate how their home suits them. Many are seeking more space, distance from the metro area, or even relocating due to the ability to work from home. Neighboring towns in the Fargo-Moorhead area are growing, and people are spending more time in their homes.

“I think the biggest thing that having a hobby farm has taught me is service,” Nelson said. “Service to the animals I have; they need to be taken care of and fed before I do anything for myself. Service to caretake the property and everything living on it. When I look at what I do for a living, I really don't ‘sell’ anything.

Ultimately, you choose the house—what I do is provide the service of my time, expert advice, negotiation, transaction management, and lots of problem-solving, while keeping everyone focused on that end goal of either buying or selling. It’s all about delivering high-quality services and putting others first.”

Ready to buy or sell? Connect with Elizabeth Nelson to help make your home dreams come true. | (701) 212-5496 | elizabethnelsonhomes.com | elizabeth@parkcompany.com | 4170 41st Ave S Ste 102, Fargo, ND 58104 54 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

FOOD DRINK

(FIKA)

Pounds a Few Doors Down

One of downtown Fargo's beloved eateries, Pounds, has officially relocated! Moving out of their original spot on 1st Ave, they are now located right on Broadway—in the block housing Precision Dental Lab, All Fur Paws, and Gathering Collective! Head over to see some of the same colorful decor and delicious food you know and love!

New Eats

The FM is getting another dose of new dining spots! Check out these new restaurants that have opened or will soon!

• • • • • •

In Sweden, the word fika translates to a coffee and cake break, but in Swedish culture, some consider it to be more of an essential concept: a time to take a break and share a little something with friends. So take a break with us friends, and read up on all of the latest food and drink buzz in the Fargo-Moorhead area. You might just find a new favorite fika spot.

56 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Spaghetti Western, 524 N Broadway Dr, Fargo Taj India, 2877 45th St S, Fargo SoHo23, 1450 25th St S, Fargo (Former Himalayan Yak building) KPOT, 4410 17th Avenue S, Fargo Vampire Penguin, 4600 17th Ave S, Fargo Bobaholic Tea House, 3051 25th St S, Fargo

FOOD & DRINK

Wine of the Month.

REVIEW BY ASHLEY SERBUS OF CELLAR 624

Photos by Josiah Kopp

Tundra

(American Edelweiss)

DAKOTA VINES, 2021

"The fermentation process of Tundra plays a crucial role in shaping its character. Fermented in a stainlesssteel fermenter, this wine retains its crisp and focused profile. The fermenter was chosen to ensure that the wine maintains its vibrant acidity and freshness, providing a lively and invigorating experience with every sip. One notable aspect of Tundra is the carefully selected yeast used during fermentation. This yeast contributes to the wine's overall profile by gently reducing the acidity, resulting in a smoother and more approachable wine. Additionally, it enhances the fruit flavors and aromas, elevating the tropical notes of pineapple and accentuating the lusciousness of the Edelweiss grape."

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mediumplus body

perfumed long finish with a nice sweetnessto-acidity balance with hints of ambrosia apples

noticeable pineapple aroma and notes of green apple, pear, and pineapple

"IF YOU ARE A WHITE WINE DRINKER, I RECOMMEND THE TUNDRA AS A REGULAR GO-TO." - ASHLEY SERBUS, CELLAR 624

The Review Dakota Vines does a wonderful job capturing the character of the Edelweiss grape varietal. This semisweet wine is bursting with aromas of juicy peaches, melon, pineapple, honeysuckle, and the slightest hint of bubblegum.

The tundra is a medium plus-bodied wine with initial flavors of pineapple and green apple on the palate, followed by a perfumed long finish. The finish is a nice balance between acidity and sweetness with notes of ambrosia apples.

This wine is perfect for all sorts of food pairings; if you

are a white wine drinker, I recommend the Tundra as a regular go-to for pairing with your charcuterie boards.

This wine complements most cheeses, along with salty or spicy fare. You can enjoy it with a simple light appetizer, fruit, or even with Thanksgiving dinner! Some savory pairing suggestions are chicken kiev, scallops, or linguine in a white wine butter sauce.

When I think of local dishes, what immediately comes to mind are the sea scallops from Maxwells, or any of the tacos from Mas Tequila!

Overall, the Tundra from Dakota Vines is a great option

for a variety of pairings throughout the year. A local staple for your guests to try at any get-together.

Cellar 624 | 624 Main Ave

Ste 4B, Fargo

| cellar624.com

Dakota Vines | 17355 Co Hwy 4

Colfax, ND 58018

| dakotavines.com | /dakotavineswinery | @dakotavineswine

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PARENTS KIDS Saturday is for Science!

Through a partnership between Buffalo River State Park and Minnesota State University Moorhead’s Regional Science Center, the public is welcome to enjoy some interactive activities and the opportunity to talk to park staff on August 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.— head to page 16 to learn more about what's going on at Buffalo River State Park!

Horace Bean Days

Celebrate 150 years of the community of Horace with Bean Days! Some of the weekend festivities include a parade, car show, fireworks, food and shopping vendors, live music, bean bag tournament, bingo, and so much more! Celebrate Horace August 17-20!

Pioneer Days at Bonanzaville Bring the family out to historic Bonanzaville for a trip back in time! Enjoy demonstrations in blacksmithing, wood carving, butter making, and rosemaling, plus a parade, street dance, wet plate photography opportunities, and more! Mark your calendars for August 27 and 28!

At Fargo Monthly, we know that raising a family is no easy task. That's why we keep our eyes peeled for useful information and resources to help you in your day to day.

60 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

PARENTS + KIDS

A Look Inside

Broadway Square

Right in the middle of downtown Fargo, Broadway Square is the host of many events, plenty of entertainment, plates of delicious food, laughs from families and friends, shopping experiences, and even weddings! At its core, Broadway Square is a community space, utilized in many different ways.

Background

Broadway Square opened in December 2020, just in time to light the tree for the holidays and open the skating rink—two things that have become annual traditions since! The space was born as a collaboration between Kilbourne Group, R.D. Offutt Company, and the Fargo Park District.

It is maintained by the Fargo Park District, occupied by the diversity of Fargo, and loved by the community as a whole.

For Everyone!

Broadway Square is hosting, even when it's not hosting. The soft green turf is well-loved by many during the spring, summer, and fall, and complete with the "spinny red chairs" we all know and love. The splash pad is appreciated by adults, youth, and pups alike. The long bench on the southwestern corner is enjoyed by the community year-round, just as the Midco Stage on the northeastern corner is filled with echos of joy, somehow even in the subzero temperatures! When the square is hosting events, there are people and vendors touching every corner of the space.

By Geneva Nodland Photo by Josiah Kopp, Frozen Pines Photography

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Programming

When it comes to programming at Broadway Square, you'll find the park has a pretty full calendar. Some of the more popular summertime events include the Red River Market, Yoga at The Square, Folkways' Night Bazaar, Movies at The Square, and more. In the colder months, the Square transforms into a winter wonderland with the SCHEELS Skating Rink, complete with string lights strung above and the Skate Shack offering grab-and-go concession items!

Schedule

The late summer is hot with events held at Broadway Square—check out the dates for future events!

Red River Market Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Movies at The Square: Family Series Alternating Thursdays & Saturdays, 7-9 p.m.

XaBeat at The Square Sundays, 6-7 p.m.

Yoga at The Square: YMCA (Gentle Yoga) Mondays, 12-1 p.m.

Yoga at The Square: Downtown Yoga Fargo (All-Levels Yoga) Mondays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, 12-1 p.m.

Zumba at The Square Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Walk Crew Thursdays, 12-1 p.m.

Music at The Square Every Other Tuesday, 7-9 p.m.

See all of Broadway Square's events at fargoparks.com/ broadway-square/calendar

Broadway Square

| 201 Broadway, Fargo | 701-551-5898 | fargoparks.com/ broadway-square | /fargobroadwaysquare | @fargobroadwaysquare | @FargoBdwySquare

Gary Ussery

VFW West Fargo

444 Sheyenne St Suite 101, West Fargo, ND 58078

David A. Joergensen Maroela Blanco

Ingredients • 1.75 Oz Tres Generaciones Tequila Plata • 1.25 Oz Amarula Cream Liqueur • 1 Oz House Made Demerara Syrup • Cinnamon Stick Directions • Add tequila, cream liqueur, and demerara syrup to shaker.

• Shake for 8-10 seconds for proper dilution.

• Pour into rocks glass over ice.

• Garnish with lit cinnamon stick.

64 | AUGUST 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

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