Fargo Monthly July 2023 by Spotlight Media

JULY 2023 COMPLIMENTARY

ET’S COM OGETHER

LET'S GET TOGETHER

Folkways

Downtown Community Partnership

Fargo Park District

Fargo-Moorhead Pride

West Fargo Park District

Moorhead Parks & Recreation

Sponsored Content: The Good Times Factory

COME

TOGETHER

This month, we wanted to introduce you to some of the organizations and individuals behind the community events you appreciate and attend; not necessarily just with the hope that you will immediately mark your calendars (although, we do encourage you to), but also to show you just how much is going on in our community. Oftentimes, it's easy to feel like there's "nothing to do" or "no one to meet" or, personally my least favorite, "nothing new to learn." Just in the 10 pages that make up this cover story, you meet 6 different organizations

offering 54 different local events, with emphasis on the "different." Many of these events offer a taste of different foods, different music, different performances, different shopping vendors, and different scenery. And, above all, they offer a space for different communities, different neighbors, and different friends and families. And while all of the events and organizations offer their differences, they all also offer something the same— togetherness. I think that's one of my favorite details about any community gathering.

So, I encourage you to skim through each event listed in this month's magazine and find at least one to pencil into your calendar, because I promise there will be something new to you if you allow yourself to be curious. Wishing you all a blissful and inquisitive month!

Happy Reading!

Geneva Nodland Editor

FROM THE EDITOR

10 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

CHECK OUT

SPOTLIGHT MEDIA'S OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Bison Illustrated is your number one source for all of the behind-the-scenes action inside the North Dakota State University Athletic Department.

bisonillustrated.com

facebook.com/bisonillustrated

Twitter: @bisonmag

Instagram: bisonillustrated

Fargo INC! is our very successful business magazine which covers all things business in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

fargoinc.com

facebook.com/fargobusiness

Twitter: @fargoincmag

LinkedIN: Fargo INC

Future Farmer is our farming publication which brings great tech-focused content to readers across North Dakota and Minnesota.

futurefarmermag.com

facebook.com/FutureFarmerMag

Trendsetters magazine is our newest publication which highlights influential and trendsetting, people, places, events and more!

Instagram:trendsettersmagazine facebook.com /TrendsettersMag

You may already be familiar with our Faces of Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo publication which we publish once per year in order to highlight the faces behind all of the great businesses in the community.

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.

Most businesses are proud of the product they make, but what sets one apart is not only keeping in mind the quality of the actual product but the customers' feelings when they have it. If a consumer loves a product and keeps coming back—it probably makes them feel good. Even if we can't quite define it, Drekker may have cracked the code on what keeps people coming back, and a large part of that is credited to their ever-innovative and always- rotating collection of brews.

We're all familiar with the "weirdness"—their word!—of Drekker Brewing Company, and we love it—but why is that? The Drekker team likes to describe their company as a manufacturer of good times, which just might be the answer.

For years, Drekker Brewing Company has been a step ahead of the curve when it comes to unique brewing styles, something Co-Founder and President Mark Bjornstad said was a core value of the company from the start.

"About a year or two into the company, we were a bit more mature about what we are as a business, we had a better insight into what it means to be operating a brewery, and that gave us some confidence to know that making five flagship beers and calling it a day was never going to be the right thing for us," Mark said. "We had a lot of growth and potential, and when we looked at all of the different directions we could go and what each would turn us into, we decided that really there's only one type of brewery that we want it to be—and that's where we are today."

At the time, the norm for most breweries—not only in the area but around the nation—was to have more traditional or approachable brews on tap and a few seasonal "experimental" brews. Drekker made the decision early on to counter that model and have their tap list consist of mostly experimental brews, with a few approachable beers available for those who want that.

Stepping fully into this model was out of the ordinary, and could have been detrimental to the business's success Mark admits, but ultimately it was the step needed to create what we know as a very successful Drekker today. And, a gigantic plus for both the Drekker team and Drekker drinkers—it's fun to create new and unique brews.

"The fun part is that when we focus on the science, experimentation, and inspiration, we're not aiming to go anywhere, we just go wherever that part takes us, and that's a really fun way to do it," Mark said. "We don't necessarily define what our endpoint is, we take an idea, a thought or feeling, or even, on the science side, [we] learn a new process or [try] an ingredient, and then all of a sudden, once we can crack that code, this whole new realm of possibilities presents itself. And then we're doing stuff that we never would have dreamed of before."

14 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

In order to have the freedom to keep creating and experimenting, Drekker's menu is often rotating new flavors and styles in and out. And at first glance, you might assume this would disrupt their regulars—but on the contrary, they love it.

"[Customers] love always having something new, something changing, something different to try. That keeps them engaged, excited, and wanting to come back," Mark said. "And on the other side, it keeps us engaged, excited, and passionate about what we do. So, we're constantly innovating, we have a new project that challenges us and that we have to figure out, and that's the way we like to do it. That's not for everyone...That's an area that also just happens to line up with customers."

Yet another chance that Drekker took and differentiated themselves from the norm, and again, found success in. And after years and years of experimenting, they've yet to run out of ideas... they still claim the world as their oyster!

By the way, have you tried the oysters at the Mångata Wine & RAW BAR, LOCATED AT BREWHALLA?

Any person who creates knows it's nearly impossible to define a "creative process," so Mark told us that Drekker's brews start like any other project—with an idea.

The Drekker team might find inspiration from a certain dessert, a strawberry cheesecake for example—then they start by discussing how in the world they are going to add the structural ingredients of strawberry cheesecake to their brewing process. Or, maybe they just learn about a new way to ferment something, and so they've got to come up with a flavor combination that they want to try with this new brewing process, and then run that idea over with the Master Team of Brewers.

And possibly one of the most mind-blowing yet intriguing approaches to creating a new flavor—inspired by a vibe. Yep, Drekker creates feeling in a can.

Well, that's the goal anyway.

"I remember we made an IPA that was specifically designed in the artwork and some of the feel of having a DJ in the taproom," Mark said. "We wanted a beer and a brand, and this whole feel to match a really trippy, EDM synth-noir vibe—and we made a beer for it. You could just say, 'I like the song.' Then [ask] what the song makes you think of, what you'd want happening in the taproom, or where you're hanging out."

After playing 20 (thousand) Questions with the team and the idea has some structure, Drekker's Master Team of Brewers takes a stab at how exactly this style of brew will be made.

"Our brewing philosophy really is to take [traditional brewing styles] as inspiration points, use them as training tools, but then to shatter any norms or restrictions that are put on us by the industry or by consumers or even by ourselves. The model we always use is, 'Destroy expectations and create experiences.' And that's how we approach our beers."

-Co-Founder and President Of Drekker Brewing Company Mark Bjornstad

Ideas are great, but bringing them to life is really the magic of Drekker—and they're stocked with the mechanics to do it. There are a few pieces of specialty equipment inside Drekker Brewing that you won't find anywhere else. Take a peek!

Typically used to separate fluids with different densities (liquids from solids, cream from milk for example) from each other, the machine is a rapidly rotating container that applies centrifugal force to its contents.

may have heard of Hops before, but we'll break it down for you. Hops are a flower that comes from the Humulus lupulus plant. they are used as a bittering, flavoring, and stability agent in beer and can produce floral, fruity, or citrus flavors and aromas.

This specialty tank is packed with an ingredient and then beer is circulated through the tank, infusing the flavor into the final product.

The Centrifuge allows Drekker to create brews that contain a high quantity of hops, like in their Hazy IPAs. If they brewed with the amount of hops that they do without using the Centrifuge, the brew would end up as more of a sludge than liquid. With the Centrifuge, the brewing team can control their liquid-solid outcome, which is more cost-efficient, but not necessarily what the Centrifuge was ordinarily used for.

This mouthful of a name (and quite intimidating in person) piece of equipment is used to create adjuncts at Drekker. After spending years trying to find the piece and people trying to fabricate it, they had this one custom-made.

This is the machine that the team would use to break down 400 pounds of granola so that it can be infused into an adjunct brew.

You

16 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

One of the newest equipment upgrades in Drekker's Brewery is the Foeder. Sealed off in a new space between the taproom and Brewhalla, sits a room with giant barrels inside. In these barrels, several different types of beer are being fermented, each with a different culture of wild yeast and bacteria, and a crucial component of that is zero cross-contamination. Hence, the giant DO NOT ENTER sign outside the doors. With the Brewhalla expansion, Drekker was able to add this contamination-free room for more experimental brews!

Drekker's canning line equipment is very unique to their brewery and includes features that most canning lines don't have. It uses technology similar to what Anheuser-Busch, Coors, Pepsi, and Coke use for their bottling and canning lines for unbelievable quality, consistency, and durability, but scaled down to Drekker's assembly size.

They need these special features for the unique brews that they create. For example, their smoothie sours cannot be canned with traditional equipment because their makeup isn't like the other beers that are more liquid.

"I'm not like other beers... I'm different. I'm a semi-solid."

Hazy IPA

What started as a "fad IPA" has moved to one of the more dominant IPAs, and the IPA that Drekker has almost always solely created. Due to the hops used in IPAs, brewers can pull unique characteristics like juicy, fruity, tropical, and herbaceous flavors and it's easier to put those flavors on display with Hazy IPAs. Drekker has a new Hazy IPA out every month and they bring back three or four due to their popularity.

"The reason why we love them is that you can make an infinite combination of hops in hazy IPAs," Mark said.

Adjuncted Stouts

Drekker brews Adjuncted Stouts for about 12-35 hours, creating thick, big mashes and complicated grains. Those stouts are sticky and sweet, almost like chocolate syrup, and then they are aged for at least 18 months in old whiskey, bourbon,

or sherry barrels. After aging, they are blended together in whatever the crew deems best, and finally adjuncted with things like whole vanilla beans, tons of coconut, or graham crackers and peanut butter—really odd things to then create delicious dessert-like drinks out of it!

Sloosh

Using their own brewing process, they create delicious and sometimes strange flavor pairings for a frozen, sweet treat.

Fruited Sour

Drekker's Fruited Sours are made up of crazy amounts of fruits and sometimes an equally crazy adjunct. These drinks are where Drekker's "Adjunctologists" have fun. Some examples of unique adjuncts used in fruited sours include ones with coconut chips or granola as an adjunct, or even cream cheese to make cheesecake flavor.

"Eye Scream and Sloosh are two new areas where we're pushing off and really challenging the definition of what beer is... It took us a long time to be able to get Eye Scream not just on sale Fridays and Saturdays. we could only make so much and then it would sell out. Now we're getting better with the process, so we can make make more and get it ready. And we're trying to keep both of them around all the time."

- Mark Bjornstad

Eye Scream

A newer area of exploration for Drekker are their Eye Scream treats. Using a seltzer base, the crews makes their own 6% alcohol content soft serve ice cream and infuse it with crazy cool flavors.

Both have been an absolute hit for summertime—but don't worry, they're not exclusive to just the warmer months. They hope to keep both Eye Scream and Sloosh regular items you can get all year long.

| 1666 1st Ave N Fargo, ND 58102

| drekkerbrewing.com

| /drekkerbrewingbrewhalla

| @DrekkerBrewing

| @drekkerbrewing

So, what are all the unique brewing styles that Drekker has created?

18 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

MAS TEQUILA!

Your Fargo-Moorhead Tequila Headquarters

ounded in 2021, Mas Tequila initially opened on the concept of elevated Mexican food and drink, bringing a different market of authentic Mexican cuisine to the area. Another key component—and a direct correlation to the establishment's name—was to offer a wide selection of tequila and educate people on the market of the spirit.

"Our goal is for people to feel at home at Mas Tequila," Founder Paola Leon said. "We want people to come in and relax and have a good time after a long day, to sip on some good hand-crafted drinks and enjoy our fresh food."

Being that tequila is such a strong component of the restaurant's theme, it only makes sense that the building's walls are filled with the story of the bottles that line the bar's back wall. Paola explained that they wanted to showcase just how special and elaborate tequila is.

Every good place has a story. People say in old brick buildings, the stone has seen it all. In some cities, you can walk the same streets that countless historic figures have. An art gallery, filled with new or old pieces, brings the four walls to life with their depictions of adventure. Not often do you find a restaurant that offers that same intricate storytelling, but decorated on the walls at Mas Tequila,

Once the plant is harvested, you can see the farmers shed the stems, leaving la piña, the core of the agave plant. This displays the traditional method of cutting the leaves off the plant.

The story begins on the west wall, to the right of the front doors. The first character you see is El Jimador, the moniker given to a person who harvests the agave plant. The job holds deep importance, as the plant takes about six years to reach its full potential.

Mas

Tequila has one of the largest selections of tequila in North Dakota!

Along with Co-owner Juan Perez, Paola Leon is one of Mas Tequila's founders.

Folkways Folkways Folkways

About Folkways

In 2015, Joe Burgum and Simone Wai saw potential in the vibrant culture of Fargo. Their simple yet powerful vision for Folkways was to stimulate the cultural landscape of Fargo by working with artists, musicians, and small business owners.

Driven by understanding and solving community challenges, such as social isolation, Folkways crafts events focused on immersive experiences and community vending opportunities. Folkways is not just a community-building venture, it's a vibrant tapestry of culture, connection, and creativity working in the community to ignite a cultural flourish and drive a sense of belonging.

What are they hosting?

Folkways is passionate about the power of culture and believes it is integral to communal belonging and economic vitality. Their initiatives, including the Red River Market, Night Bazaar, and Christkindlmarkt support this.

"One of our most influential programs is CampusFM, a student retention initiative," Co-Founder Simone Wai said. "CampusFM instills passion in students for the FM+ area, provides tools and resources for their career growth, and equips them with the necessary skills to excel in their fields through programs like the Intern Experience and the Creatorship."

What has happened?TheNumbers!

Why is this important?

More than just events, Folkways is a movement to decrease social isolation. They use experiences to address challenges like workforce retention, economic vitality, and communal belonging.

They work closely with artists, musicians, and small business owners—or as the Folkways team calls them, the keepers of a community's culture. Their work helps push the community forward in driving economic growth, enhancing the quality of life by offering unique cultural experiences, and stimulating local businesses.

Night Bazaar

Thursdays July 20 & September

21, 6-10 p.m.

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

Beginning in 2017, the Night Bazaar events come from a lively series of evening events that combine music, art, and food in a unique cultural blend. They offer a wide variety of performances and handson activities for all generations and highlight the variety of talents in the community. Happening about once a month during the summertime, these provide memorable summer and fall evenings filled with creativity and connection in the heart of downtown Fargo. This year, each of the three events will have a theme; Circus (June), Renaissance (July), and Magic (September).

Red River Market

Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

July 8 is the opening day of the Red River Market, the region’s largest farmers' market. Having started in 2015, this weekly farmers' market brings local produce, crafts, and foods right to the heart of our community to be enjoyed. By doing so, it strives to support local farms and new and emerging food businesses, to increase access to fresh, locally grown produce, to be a good steward of the planet, and to create a sense of place where all are welcome. After the grand opening, the market continues every Saturday until October 28.

Christkindlmarkt

November 17-19 and 24-26 throughout the days

Civic Center, 207 4th St N

Folkways events have attracted over 600,000 attendees and contributed $9.8 million to the local economy, 87 new businesses launched through events and programming, $35,000 in SNAP food assistance dollars have been used on fresh, locally made food, 8 public murals have been installed by local artists, and more! According to surveys, 84% of event visitors saw someone they knew at a Folkways event whom they didn't go with, showcasing that Folkways events connect the community.

This event is an annual Europeaninspired holiday market hosted since 2016. The Civic Center transforms into a festive gathering place complete with food, gifts, and entertainment, bringing an indoor/outdoor winter experience to Fargo while promoting local artisans and businesses during the holiday season. This year, the Christkindlmarkt will expand to two weekends before and after Thanksgiving!

Read a full, in-depth feature on Campus FM and what this Folkways initiative is doing for the community in the June Lifestyle & Going Out issue of Trendsetters Magazine.

28 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

About the DCP

The Downtown Community Partnership is a nonprofit development corporation for the downtown district. On a daily basis, the DCP is involved in the planning and coordination of events and activities that attract thousands to downtown and promote the city center as healthy and vibrant. The DCP also leads efforts within the community to shape public policy that advocates for the betterment and enrichment of downtown. The DCP drives initiatives in marketing downtown as vibrant, clean, and safe.

What are they hosting?

You'd recognize the DCP in many downtown-centered events held throughout the year, including the Downtown Fargo Street Fair, Xcel Energy Holiday Lights Parade, Coffee & Cocoa Crawl, and the St. Patrick's Parade. The annual street fair is a huge event with a regional reach—attendees and businesses alike get excited for its return to the downtown streets!

Why is this important?

Emma reminds us that the street fair isn't just another shopping event, it is a local tradition. This event, along with the others hosted by the DCP, works towards the mission of "supporting businesses, promoters, advocates, and visionaries of historic downtown Fargo and its future by connecting and partnering within our community and beyond."

These community traditions that we put on are not the only thing that moves our community forward. We are constantly working with the city and our partners to achieve the goals and community priorities identified through various conversations and workgroups."

- Emma Vold, DCP Community Relations Coordinator

What has happened?

With years of community togetherness under their belts, the DCP projects have seen efforts pay off. Some include establishing the Business Improvement District (BID) that organizes resources to ensure a clean, safe, well-maintained, and vibrant downtown and, with the city, the Downtown Infocus Plan—a comprehensive and open planning process to envision the future for downtown Fargo. DCP supports projects that will grow, innovate, and expand downtown.

Learn more about some of these initiatives at downtownfargo.com/about-us

Downtown Fargo Street Fair

July 13-15, 2023

In its 47th year, the Downtown Fargo Street Fair is the largest free event in the state of North Dakota. Boasting 225+ vendors spread over 8 blocks, it draws 130,000 attendees from across the state region and beyond. Attendees peruse arts & craft vendors, enjoy delicious food options, and experience the best downtown Fargo has to offer over the course of three days.

Xcel Energy Holiday Lights Parade

December 2, 2023

Every year, the Xcel Energy Holiday Lights Parade attracts thousands of spectators throughout the FM community and features approximately 100 spectacular parade floats, marching units, equestrian entries, and more. Starting in downtown Moorhead, the route crosses the Red River on NP Ave and proceeds through downtown Fargo on Broadway.

Coffee & Cocoa Crawl

February 24, 2024

The annual Coffee & Cocoa Crawl is hosted by the DCP as part of Frostival celebrations. After grabbing a mug and wristband, attendees make their way to 20+ businesses throughout the downtown district and sample coffees, cocoas, and teas from local vendors and visit the many local businesses!

St. Patrick's Parade

March 16, 2024

Since 1996, the parade has united the community and celebrated the unofficial beginning of spring with some Irish flair. The DCP has proudly hosted the FM St. Patrick’s Parade since 2019. The parade has historically attracted more than 10,000 attendees to enjoy a festive entourage of bands, equestrians, Irish dancers, bagpipes, civic clubs, and multicultural groups. The DCP is committed to keeping the legacy of this wonderful community event thriving with insight and stories from original planning members.

next page > Downtown Community Partnership (DCP) Downtown Community Partnership (DCP) Downtown Community

(DCP) 29

Partnership

Fargo Park District Fargo Park District Fargo Park District

Did you know?

40.59 acres of Island Park was transferred to the Fargo Park District at the board's first meeting in 1910, making it the first official park for the district. Now, the park district operates over 150 parks, 2,800 acres of land, and 124 miles of trails!

About Fargo Park District

Since 1910, the Fargo Park District has been dedicated to providing quality recreational and leisure services at an affordable price to improve the quality of life for all residents of Fargo and surrounding areas. With over 2,800 acres of land, the Fargo Park District takes pride in planting and maintaining the beautiful green spaces and facilities in the city, including numerous parks, trails, complexes, golf courses, and the campground along the Red River. The impact of the Fargo Park District goes far beyond green grass, offering over 1,000 programs and over 70 special events for the community to take part in and enjoy!

The Fargo Park District has an elected committee of five board members. Members meet both in small committees and monthly as an entire board, where they discuss current issues facing the district and establish district policies.

What are they hosting?

While keeping up the picturesque green areas dedicated to parks land around the city, Fargo Parks also hosts the Midwest Kid Fest! Featuring anything from a Teddy Bear Parade, to live music and entertainment, inflatables, a petting zoo, and so much more, this is an annual celebration for many in the community. They are also behind the Island Park Show and many of the beloved Broadway Square events.

New at this year's Midwest Kid Fest was the sensory-friendly area featuring sensory toys and activities from Leika Sensory Creations!

30 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Why is this important?

Through its community events, Fargo Parks offers an opportunity for the public to engage in social spaces, build relationships, and participate in cultural exchange.

"Fargo Parks events hold significant importance within the community as they foster a sense of unity, engagement, and well-being among its residents," the Fargo Parks team said. "These events serve as platforms for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to come together and celebrate shared interests and passions."

What has happened?

"We continue to strengthen our community by providing events for all types of interest to attend. The work we do is a source of positive economic benefits," they said. "Parks enhance property values, increase municipal revenue, bring in homebuyers and workers, and attract retirees."

At these events, local makers, musicians, and entrepreneurs present talents and skills, not only reflecting on the economic growth but also building respect and honor for the community's creatives.

"Moreover, Fargo Parks events promote active lifestyles and outdoor recreation, encouraging residents to embrace nature, exercise, and appreciate the abundant beauty of their surroundings," the team said.

Neighborhood Sport Series

Tuesday, July 25, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Madison Park & Bicycle

Playground, 3010 11th Avenue N Stop by a neighborhood Fargo park during a summer afternoon and enjoy a few hours with friends for fun games like football or foursquare. This event aims to create a safe and fun environment where children can develop their athletic skills, build confidence, and foster teamwork, catering to children of all ages and skill levels, and providing a wide range of sports options. This free event series is a wonderful example of how a community can come together to provide opportunities for all children. By empowering children through sports, it can help to develop valuable life skills and provide a foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle.

Activities include:

• Football toss

• Free throw challenge

• Four-square

• Tri-City United free soccer camp

• Courts Plus youth fitness class

• Make your own jersey (includes Fargo Park District T-shirt)

• Snack on Freezie Pops

Yoga in the Park Wednesdays, June–Aug 9, 6-7 p.m.

Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St S

Join in on a series of rejuvenating yoga sessions in the beautiful outdoors at Rheault Farm. Bring your yoga mat and stretch, breathe, and connect with nature. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting out, unwind and recharge in 60-minute classes led by a certified instructor through the YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties and Courts Plus Community Fitness. Admission is

a free-will donation, a minimum of $5 is suggested, and no pre-registration is required. All donations from Yoga in the Park events will benefit United Way and Livestrong.

Park It!

Thursday, July 13, 1-4 p.m.

Lemke Park, 1000 32nd Ave S

Park It! is a free art-in-the-park series for kids, where they can meet the art staff at a different park each time, to create arts and crafts to take home. You and your little ones can get outside, connect with nature, meet up with some friends, and express creativity! All materials will be provided, and experienced art instructors will be on hand to guide the kids. Adult supervision is required.

Movies in the Park

Thursday, July 20, 8:30 p.m.

Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St S Enjoy the movie "Field of Dreams" with the whole family in the park. Pack blankets and chairs for your movie-watching experience. Movies are shown at dusk, around 8:30 p.m.

Park It!

Thursday, July 27, 1-4 p.m Roosevelt Park, 1220 9th St N Park It! is a free art-in-the-park series for kids, where they can meet the art staff at a different park each time, to create arts and crafts to take home. You and your little ones can get outside, connect with nature, meet up with some friends, and express creativity! All materials will be provided, and experienced art instructors will be on hand to guide the kids. Adult supervision is required.

continued >

By organizing and supporting such events, Fargo Parks strengthens the fabric of the community, enhances the quality of life, and leaves a lasting positive impact on its residents. And last but not least, almost every event is free and open to the community to attend."

- Fargo Parks Events Team

Movies in the Park

Thursday, July 27, 8:30 p.m.

Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St S

Enjoy the movie "The Goonies" with the whole family in the park. Pack blankets and chairs for your movie-watching experience. Movies are shown at dusk, around 8:30 p.m.

Park It!

Thursday, August 3, 1-4 p.m.

Centennial Park, 4101 25th St Park It! is a free art-in-the-park series for kids, where they can meet the art staff at a different park each time, to create arts and crafts to take home. You and your little ones can get outside, connect with nature, meet up with some friends, and express creativity! All materials will be provided, and experienced art instructors will be on hand to guide the kids. Adult supervision is required.

Movies in the Park

Thursday, August 3, 8:30 p.m.

Rheault Farm, 2902 25th St S

Enjoy the movie "The Incredibles" with the whole family in the park. Pack blankets and chairs for your movie-watching experience. Movies are shown at dusk, around 8:30 p.m.

Weekly Wellness at The Square

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

Join us at Broadway Square as we partner with Courts Plus Community Fitness, Downtown Yoga Fargo, and YMCA

instructors to provide a variety of wellness classes throughout the summer!

Yoga at The Square

Most summer Mondays (12 & 5:30 p.m.) and Wednesdays (12 p.m.)

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

As part of the Weekly Wellness at The Square, head downtown for a blissful outdoor yoga session at the vibrant heart of the city. These yoga classes are designed for people of all fitness and experience levels and aim to improve mind, body, and life.

XaBeat at The Square

Most Sundays (6 p.m.)

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

As part of the Weekly Wellness at The Square, unleash your inner rhythm and experience a high-energy dance extravaganza! XaBeat, taught by Courts Plus instructors, is an upbeat dance class that burns calories. This class takes the latest music and turns your workout into a party, for all levels of dance or fitness.

Zumba at The Square, Most Wednesdays (5:30 p.m.)

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

As part of the Weekly Wellness at The Square; shake, move, and groove your way to fitness through the beats of Zumba! Taught by YMCA instructors, this class is a total workout, combining all elements of

fitness—cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy, and high spirits each time you leave class.

Music at The Square

Tuesday evenings, 7-9 p.m.

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

The Music at The Square series is back—bring your blankets and stretch out on the leisure lawn, or use one of the many cafe tables and chairs around The Square while you enjoy snacks, beverages, and live music in the heart of downtown Fargo.

Movies at The Square

Most Thursday evenings, 7-9 p.m.

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

Come together and settle on the lawn with your blankets or at the cafe seating in front of the Midco Mega Screen at Broadway Square. Enjoy snacks and a memorable movie night in the heart of downtown Fargo.

Gaming Days

August 6 & September 10

Broadway Square

201 Broadway N

Bring your A-game to Broadway Square's monthly summer Gaming Days and challenge a competitor to a new or old favorite game! Through a partnership with Replay Games, you'll see friendly faces at these events.

32 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

fargomoorhead pride fargomoorhead pride fargomoorhead pride

About Fargo-Moorhead Pride

Fargo-Moorhead Pride is a volunteer-run organization operated by the FM Pride Planning Committee. Each year’s Pride celebrations draw attendees from throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, and stretching into Canada, as it claims its spot as one of the area’s largest rural pride celebrations!

Fargo-Moorhead Pride began in 2000, with the very first Pride Parade marching down Broadway in downtown Fargo. Before, small groups of local LGBT individuals gathered privately in backyards and at park potlucks. It was this act of courage of those first parade marchers that paved the way for the community to come together and celebrate diversity, promote equality, show passion, and provide education in our community and beyond.

Thursday, August 10 Trivia & Karaoke at Rhombus Guys, 8 p.m.—All ages until 9 p.m.

Friday, August 11

Youth Pride Drag Show, 7 p.m., MSUM CMU Ballroom—All ages.

Pride Dance Party, 10 p.m., Avalon Event Center—21+ event.

Saturday, August 12

Pride 5K Fun Run, 8 a.m., Viking Ship Park, Hjemkomst Center—All ages.

Pride in the Park, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Bluestem Center for the Arts—All ages.

Pride Patio Palooza, 2 p.m., Wild Terra Cider—All ages + pets.

Pride Parade 2023

The parade will begin on 28th Ave S near M State and then turn north on 20th Street S. It will keep traveling north on 20th Street to 20th Ave S, turn onto 19 1/2 St S, and travel south to end at 24th Ave S near M State. Parking will be available in the north and east lots of M State and on the street where permitted.

What are they hosting?

Overall, Pride in the Park is one of the most attended and beloved events by people of all ages! Pride in the Park consists of hundreds of vendors, fun and interactive activities for kids, delicious food trucks, and live entertainment that draws nearly 3,000 spectators annually. But FM Pride celebrations span far outside of just the parks.

Why is this important?

FM Pride unites and engages individuals and organizations to empower, educate, and support the LGBTQ Community and promotes a positive image in the Fargo-Moorhead area and throughout North Dakota through community activities and services that are open and inviting to everyone in the community, providing a safe environment in which individuals feel free to celebrate their relationships.

Pride Block Party, 8:30 p.m., Fargo Brewing—21+ event. Gates at 5 p.m. to kick off the Parking Lot Party, featuring music, food trucks, bar, and beer. Outdoor Drag show at 8:30 p.m., hosted by Nina DiAngelo, featuring a special guest from RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Minneapolis’ Maxi! Tickets at fmpride.com/blockparty or at the door!

Sunday, August 13 Pride Interfaith Service, 12:30 p.m., Fargo Theatre— Everyone welcome.

Pride Parade, 2 p.m., starting at 20th St & 28th Ave S. Head to Moorhead for this year's celebration of the Pride Parade! FM businesses, organizations, and individuals create floats, signs, and toss candy and treats to spectators to showcase support for the LGBTQ+ community. Stick around for Post Parade Celebration with a welcome message from FM Pride Parade Grand Marshal, Pride Planning Committee chair, and other community leaders and advocates!

next page >

West Fargo Park District West Fargo Park District West Fargo Park District

About West Fargo Park District

Since the West Fargo Park District's start in 1957, they have taken pride in offering programs, events, and public areas for community members of all ages, ability levels, and interests can enjoy. Today, the West Fargo Park District maintains 40 parks and facilities, preserves 535 acres of park property, owns over 50 miles of trails, holds 125+ unique programs, and hosts over 30 annual community events!

"Our goal is to always provide as many free events as possible, promote inclusivity, and encourage our residents

to #GetOutAndPlay all year long," West Fargo Park District Marketing and Communications Specialist Erin Fons said.

For the continued betterment of programs and events, West Fargo Parks partners with other local organizations in the area like West Fargo Events, Three Dog Bakery, West Fargo Police and Fire Department, and First International Bank & Trust.

“The collaboration that has evolved in West Fargo has truly allowed us to bring our programs and events to the next level," Erin said.

"To this day, the Park District has been providing essential services and confronting the most pressing issues of our time—advancing mental and physical health, creating climateready parks, supporting equity and inclusion, and so much more. We know we cannot solve these challenges alone. By partnering with like-minded organizations—including nonprofits, government agencies, academics, and corporate leaders—we bring strength to our programs and mission."

Why is this important?

With the city's growth, the park district has the opportunity to host events and programming to make space for all people. West Fargo Parks is driven to bring people from all walks of life together, focusing on diversity and inclusion. In safe and innovative spaces, their events allow the community to meet and learn from each other.

What has happened?

"The West Fargo Park District and other park and recreation agencies are uniquely suited to serve as Community Wellness Hubs, connecting all members of the community to programs and services that advance health equity, improve health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life," Erin said.

34 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

- Erin Fons, West Fargo Park District Marketing and Communications Specialist

Rec on the Go Pool Party

Tuesday, July 18, 4:30-7 p.m.

Veterans Memorial Pool/Tintes Park

1201 7th Ave E

Visit a different park each month and enjoy free outdoor activities encouraging movement and creativity. Activities will include free pool admission (4:30-7 p.m.), inflatable water games, tie-dyeing free Rec on the Go t-shirts, lawn games, sports, and more. Enjoy live music from local artists and food, plus help raise funds for the West Fargo Parks & Recreation Foundation with a dunk tank! All ages are welcome, however, children ages 10 and under need to be accompanied by an adult.

Play FORE the Parks

Tuesday, July 25, 12 p.m.

Maple River Golf Course

3666 163rd Avenue SE

Grab your clubs and head for the second annual Play FORE the Parks, a fundraising event for the West Fargo Parks & Recreation Foundation. The tournament will begin at 12 p.m. at Maple River Golf Club with a shotgun start format. Limited to the first 36 teams that register and participants 21+ only. For more information and to view the registration form, please visit wfparks.org/foundation or email Erin at erin@wfparks.org.

Rec on the Go

Thursday, July 27, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Golden Wood Park

12th Ave & Co Rd 17

Visit a different park each month and enjoy free outdoor activities encouraging movement and creativity. July is National Parks and Recreation Month, celebrate with activities at Goldenwood Park, including inflatable games, tie-dying, lawn games, sports, giant bubbles, free food, and more. No registration required.

ArtNight

Thursday, August 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Armour Park

2nd Ave NW & 5th St NW

ArtNight is an outdoor, interactive, and family-friendly evening featuring multiple free youth art projects, yard games, and

prizes. This year’s live musical guest will be solo acoustic artist Jon Walters. Delicious artisan pizzas made with fresh ingredients will be available for purchase from Blackbird Woodfire. The Plains Art Museum and Members of the West Fargo Public Art Advisory Committee will be in attendance to inspire and help you create.

Rec on the Go

Thursday, August 17, 4:30-7 p.m. Maplewood Park, 1504 1st Ave E Visit a different park each month and enjoy free outdoor activities encouraging movement and creativity. Activities will include inflatable games, tie-dyeing t-shirts (only youth sizes available this event), lawn games, sports, and more! Plus, enjoy live music from local artists and food! No registration required.

Senior Picnic

Wednesday, August 23, 12-2 p.m.

Rustad Recreation Center

601 26th Ave E

Park District staff, board and Foundation, West Fargo Police Department, and West Fargo Fire Department will be serving up grilled burgers and delicious picnic sides for West Fargo residents ages 55 and older. Seniors will enjoy a free meal, and after, join in on a game of bingo for a chance to win prizes! Preregistration is required, reserve your spot early by calling 701-433-5360.

Future Fall & Winter events!

A Walk in the Park Date, Time & Location are TBD Walking has been proven to provide endless health benefits for seniors, including a reduced risk of obesity, heart disease, and stroke. The West Fargo Park District is excited to invite older adults to join us for an active morning for our fall A Walk in the Park. During this free event, participants will have a choice to walk a short route or a scenic route, and after the walk, participants can enjoy music and refreshments, and a light snack.

Fall Rummage Sale

Date & Time are TBD

Veterans Memorial Arena

1201 7th Ave E

The 28th annual Fall Rummage Sale will have over 225 booths filled with baby, youth, and adult clothes, odds and ends, home items, collectibles, antiques, home-based businesses, and more! If you are interested in being a vendor, please view our vendor application form at wfparks.org/rummage-sales-2/ or contact Cole Wiechmann at cole.w@wfparks.org.

Honkin’ Haulin’ Hands on Trucks

Date & Time are TBD

Veterans Memorial Arena 1201 7th Ave E

Kids will get the opportunity to see what it’s like to be in the driver’s seat of large trucks, construction, and farming equipment during this free event! Grab a picture while they pretend to drive and honk the horns. All participants will receive a free t-shirt, safety vest, lanyard, and driver’s license while supplies last!

Autumn Pumpkin Party

Date & Time are TBD

Join the West Fargo Park District for a festive afternoon filled with fall art and craft projects, pumpkin painting (pumpkins available for purchase while supplies last), and a fall-themed photo booth!

Treat Street

Saturday, October 29 from 1-3 p.m. POW/MIA Plaza, 400 Sheyenne St

West Fargo Events and the West Fargo Park District are partnering together for an afternoon of Halloween fun at the POW/MIA Plaza and surrounding businesses!

Skate with Santa

Date & Time are TBD

The Lights, 3150 Sheyenne Street

Bring out the whole family to say hi to Saint Nick while skating to your favorite Christmas songs! Enjoy free cookies and hot chocolate while supplies last.

next page >

Moorhead Parks & Recreation Moorhead Parks & Recreation Moorhead Parks & Recreation

About Moorhead Parks & Recreation

The mission of Moorhead Parks & Recreation is to enrich the lives of its citizens by providing a comprehensive system of parks and affordable, diverse recreation programs that encourage health, fitness, relaxation, and cultural enrichment, as well as providing opportunities for community involvement.

Annually, the Recreation Department offers numerous programs, classes, camps, special events, and other activities

What are they hosting?

Moorhead Parks and Recreation presents dozens of community events throughout the year including some you'll recognize from the Frostival activities, the Celtic Festival, the Moorhead Farmers Market, RiverArts concert events, Greater Moorhead Days, Halloween and holiday events, river paddling excursions, and more!

Annually, beginning in 2004, the Celtic Festival invited Celtic artists to perform music, dance, and storytelling in addition to other cultural enrichment performances and presentations. Numerous vendors and information booths share Celtic heritage. Partnering with Concordia College Catering, a full menu of Celtic cuisine is provided for visitors. 2024's Celtic Festival will be Saturday, March 16, at the Hjemkomst Center.

RiverArts' five-day music series celebrates the broad array of local art and culture. Throughout the season, RiverArts hosts 10 live music or dance performances, 5 artists presenting demonstrations/activities for all ages, inflatables, yard games, vendors, tabling organizations, food, drinks, and more all in Moorhead’s Memorial or Woodlawn Parks. These familyfriendly, accessible events bring people from all walks of life together in the name of music, community, and fun. The remaining RiverArts events this season are Tuesdays July 25 (Memorial Park) and August 8 (Memorial Park), 5:30-8 p.m.

with emphases on arts, culture, nature and physical activity. Offering diverse programming is important in their effort to serve all populations. Youth athletics, adult fitness, adaptive activities, after-school programs, summer programs, river activities, volunteering events, and more combine to provide something for everyone in the City of Moorhead.

In its 10th year, the Moorhead Farmers Market is the only farmers market in Moorhead. Setting up shop at the Hjemkomst Center parking lot in the last year has allowed for a growing lineup of diverse vendors and recreation opportunities on the river and in the green space of Viking Ship Park. Market days at this location offer canoe and kayak rentals during the paddling season, free museum entry from the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County after 5 p.m., live Music at the Market 4-6 p.m., and an active biking/walking path for community members to enjoy. These opportunities empower customers to support products from local growers and vendors, increase the consumption of fresh, healthful foods, and decrease the demand for foods that are transported long distances by promoting local foods.

Why is this important?

Moorhead Parks & Rec believes everyone deserves to have fun, experience connection, and enjoy open, green spaces. These things are so important for a community's mental and physical health."

"Whether an event is connecting people to each other, to nature, to physical activity or the arts, creating opportunities for citizens to recreate, learn, and just enjoy fellowship is really what drives a community forward and makes a city like Moorhead a really great place to be," Moorhead Parks & Recreation said.

36 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

What has happened?

Moorhead Parks & Rec has been involved with many projects to better the community, including projects within the Moorhead Community Fund! Those include providing opportunities for youth scholarships, community projects, and amenities.

Donations to the fund are tax-deductible and 100% of the donations go to the scholarship or project selected. Some of those current projects are the Inclusive Playground—a playground space for all ages and abilities to play together located at Southside Regional Park next to the Miracle Field; Rotary Natural Play Hill—led by the partnership of The City of Moorhead and FM Rotary Foundation to construct a Natural Play Hill in the downtown Moorhead Riverfront Park; River Corridor and Trails—supporting the addition of recreational amenities such as benches, message boards, decorative lighting, art/sculpture, and historical markers along the Moorhead River Corridor; and so much more! Learn about all of the projects at cityofmoorhead. com/about-the-city/ community-fund.

Moorhead Farmers Market

Tuesdays through September 26, 3:30-6:30 p.m.

Hjemkomst Center Parking Lot, 202 1st Ave N

Find produce, baked goods, hand-crafted items, & more. SNAP Benefits are accepted with matching dollars courtesy of Hunger Solutions of Minnesota. Enjoy live music

4-6 p.m.!

FM Kicks B& Summer Concerts

Thursday, July 20, 7 p.m.

Gooseberry Park 100 22nd Ave S

Enjoy vocal & instrumental arrangements of classic & contemporary big band music composers in a variety of genres. This is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

Moorhead RiverArts

Tuesday, July 25, 5:30-8 p.m.

Memorial Park, 111 8th St N

Featuring music & cultural performances, artist-led demos & activities for all ages, inflatable games, a photo station, & more. Bring a chair or blanket, enjoy the live music, & engage with community organizations & vendors, including Hiahli, Fishing Clinic, & free carriage rides! Grab food & drinks from Moorhead Midday-Central Lions, & adult beverages from Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre & Swing Barrel Brewing Co. on varying evenings. Nonprofits, organizations, & individuals can sell goods, share their expertise or provide a fun, interactive game or activity for attendees.

River Paddling Excursions

Wednesday, July 26, 5:30-8 p.m.

Hjemkomst Landing, 202 1st Ave N

Join these relaxing downtown river tours as local guest speakers share their expertise, featuring "History of the Red River" hosted by the Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County! All skill levels are invited & will begin at 6 p.m. with the basics of canoeing & kayaking. Register in advance & arrive at 5:30 p.m. $10/person if you bring your own kayak/canoe; $15/ person with a rental. Find the schedule & register now at moorheadparks.com

FM Kicks B& Summer

Concerts

Sunday, August 6, 12-5 p.m.

Gooseberry Park 100 22nd Ave S

Enjoy vocal & instrumental arrangements of classic & contemporary big band music composers. Enjoy a variety of music including funk, rock, blues, swing, & more.

Moorhead RiverArts

Tuesday, August 8, 5:30-8 p.m.

Memorial Park, 111 8th St N

Featuring music & cultural performances, artist-led demos & activities for all ages, inflatable games, a photo station, & more. Bring a chair or blanket, enjoy the live music, & engage with community organizations & vendors, including Front Fenders, Dunk Tank, & free carriage rides! Grab food & drinks from Moorhead Midday-Central Lions, & adult beverages from Fargo-Moorhead Community Theatre & Swing Barrel Brewing Co. on varying evenings.

River Paddling Excursions

Wednesday, August 9, 5:30-8 p.m.

Hjemkomst L&ing, 202 1st Ave N

Join these relaxing downtown river tours as local guest speakers share their expertise, featuring "Animals & Habitats of the Red River" hosted by Red River Zoo!

Doggy Dip

Monday, August 14, 3:307:30 p.m.

South Park Wading Pool, 2102 14th St S & Northeast Park Wading Pool, 1817 8th Ave N

Bring your pup for a swim for $5/dog, with all proceeds benefiting Moorhead’s dog parks. Dogs should have a collar, carry ID tags, be properly licensed, vaccinated, & in good health to swim.

River Paddling Excursions

Saturday, September 9, 3 p.m.

Memorial Park, 111 8th St N

Join these relaxing downtown river tours as local guest speakers share their expertise, featuring "Discover the Red River" hosted by River Keepers!

FM Kicks B& Summer Concerts

Wednesday, August 9, 5:30-8 p.m. Memorial Park, 111 8th St N

Enjoy vocal & instrumental arrangements of classic & contemporary big band music composers. Enjoy a variety of music including funk, rock, blues, swing, & more.

Greater Moorhead Days

September 7-16

Various locations

Enjoy a variety of fun & exciting events for all ages, including the Greater Moorhead Days Parade, Midco Kids Fest, the Medallion Hunt, & more. This 10-day celebration is the perfect time to show Moorhead pride.

By Sam Kise

Celebrating the FargoMoorhead Area through

National Days

Check out these local businesses for upcoming National Day Festivities in July/August!

Every day, someone on my social media feed 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!

July 16

National Ice Cream Day

There’s no better time than the middle of summer to hold National Ice Cream day. Grab an ice cream from one of these businesses to celebrate the day!

Kone's Kreamery

koneskreameryboba.com

Moorhead Dairy Queen

moorheaddairyqueen.com

Scoop N Dough Candy Co.

scoopndough.com

The Silver Lining Creamery

silverliningcreamery.com

Tea & Crepe

teaandcrepe.com

July 19

National Hot Dog Day

Summer is the perfect time for grilling, which means it’s also the perfect time for National Hot Dog Day! These local restaurants will be sure to serve you up a great frank on July 19.

The Dogg Pound

623 NP Ave, Fargo

Hi-Ho Burgers & Brews

hihoburgersandbrews.com

The Hot Dog Peddler

thehotdogpeddler.com

July 20

National Lollipop Day

It’s a good thing National Lollipop Day is in the summer—it’s the perfect time to bring the kids for a treat at one of FM’s candy stores!

Carol Widman’s Candy Co

carolwidmanscandy.com

Sweet Dreams Confections

sweetdreamsconfections.com

Yeobo Sweet Shop

yeobo.co

38 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

July 26

National Bagelfest Day

July 26 is a day to celebrate a quite versatile bread. Whether you eat them plain, with cream cheese, or as the bread portion of a sandwich, bagels are an excellent addition to any meal!

BernBaum’s bernbaums.com

Boppa’s Bagels

boppasbagels.com

August 3

National IPA Day

Fans of craft beer will absolutely love celebrating this national day in the FM area—we have tons of breweries that concoct some delicious IPAs to enjoy on National IPA Day.

Drekker Brewing Company

drekkerbrewing.com

Fargo Brewing Company

fargobrewing.com

Granite City Food & Brewery

gcfb.com

Junkyard Brewing Company

junkyardbeer.com

Pixeled Brewing Co.

pixeled.beer

Swing Barrel Brewing

swingbarrelbrew.com

Conclusion:

August 9

National Book Lovers Day

Get ready to celebrate National Book Lovers Day at FargoMoorhead's independent bookstores!

Zandbroz zandbroz.com

Ferguson Books

fergusonbooks.com

More Than Words

morethanwordsfm.com

August 12

National Bowling Day

Bowling is a favorite pastime of many in the FM area. National Bowling Day just happens to fall on a Saturday this year—the perfect day to spend a night out at a local bowling alley with family or friends!

The Bowler

thebowlerfargo.com

Kingpinz kingpinz.com

Sunset Lanes bowlingsunset.com

West Acres Bowl 3402 Interstate Blvd S, Fargo

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

Fargo,

Framed

By Geneva Nodland

I might be biased, but I think the Valley has some of the most beautiful spots to photograph; be it the landscape that merges prairie and city at the furthest corners of our towns' blocks, the diverse individuals and families, students, children, and elders who make up our community, or the small moments that tell the story of everyday life in a mid-sized city on the eastern side of a relatively diffuselypopulated state. If it's so wonderful, why not show it off? We're thinking the same thing.

So, please take a peek at Fargo, Framed; where we feature a handful of photographers from the area who are working behind the scenes to showcase and tell the story of the region and those within it.

Chase has had a camera in his hand since he was a kid and is now in his third full year of shooting professionally.

With a parent in real estate, he grew up pointing his camera around open houses. He now captures spaces for architects, real estate agents, interior designers, and even historical societies.

His focus is on documenting not just the room or the building, but the spirit of a place as well, resulting in images that evoke a sense of warmth and intrigue—of a story already in motion.

Chase Evert of Chase Chapters Photography

| chasechapters.com | @chasechapters | @cforchase | @cforchase

40 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

NEXT PAGE>

"Photography has always been an integral part of my life—even my last name is Frame (yes, really)."

"It’s the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do. I find joy in whatever I’m photographing, whether it be weddings, selfportraits, senior photos, or personal projects my friends and I come up with for fun. Whimsical photos with rich, true-to-life colors are my jam."

| @tylarframephoto Tylar Frame of Tylar Frame Photography

Fargo, Framed

Ryley Wiering of Ryley.Anne Photography

"I’m a photographer who is passionate about making people feel their absolute best in front of the lens."

"I specialize in portraiture— covering high school seniors, families, business professionals, and the occasional event."

"In 2014, a friend asked me to take their senior portraits and I've been hooked on photography ever since."

| @ryley.anne.photo

42 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

BURUNDI FINEST DANCERS

Mugire Amahoro! (Peace be upon you in Kirundi.)

I hope the summer is treating you well!

As we all enjoy the outdoor season, I wanted to visit with five super-talented dancers who won the Fargo Got Talent Show 2023. I visited with Jeanne and Adel, the managers of the Burundian-American dance group called the All-Star Afro Dancers.

The All-Star Afro Dancers is a dance group collective consisting of five Burundian-American cousins. From youngest to oldest: Francine (7), Racheal (9), Berma (10), Kayla (11), and Angel (11). The burning passion they share for dance is matched only by their pride in their cultural heritage, which they put on full display with their performances at every event. They are managed by their aunts Jeanne & Adel. Dance has been their means of expression for at least 5 years, but they have, in the past year, started dancing for events and competitions. They perform at weddings, graduations,

schools, and any child-friendly events. Some big events they have danced at include Fargo Juneteenth, Fargo's Talent Show, UND African Culture/UND Feast of Nations, The Night Bazaar, and the Red River Market. Outside of dancing, they like to spend time with each other, hang out with family and friends, play at the park, swim, and attend church.

If you ever come across one of their dance performances, you will have your breath taken as their passion on stage is contagious and their ability to tell a story by dancing is very impressive.

Until Next Time, Skol!

Cyusa

Where do you call home?

Fargo is where we call home. We were born and raised here. Fargo is where our family and friends are. We feel a sense of belonging to the culture and the community.

What is the story of your passion for sharing your culture through dancing?

Dancing is a universal language that can be understood and appreciated by people from all backgrounds. By sharing our dances with others, people can promote understanding and appreciation for different ways of life. It helps to create a more connected and inclusive world. Our dances are fun, energetic, and bring

THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL

44 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

people joy. When we dance, we are able to express ourselves and connect with others. We express our emotions and our creativity in a unique and powerful way.

What has it been like being Afro-Dancers in the Fargo community?

We started dancing when we were 5 years old. We are cousins and our parents have always lived right next to each other so we will get together to watch a lot of YouTube videos of other kids dancing. Then, we would memorize the entire thing and repeat it during family gatherings. We started our group in 2021. Our first performance was at our uncle’s graduation party. As an Afro-Dancer you get to explore different styles and rhythms of African dances, which are often inspired by traditional dances from different countries and regions of Africa. People are always telling us how we bring so much joy and excitement on the stage. People love our facial expressions while we are dancing. Overall, being an AfroDancer is a rewarding and fulfilling experience that allows us to express ourselves creatively while learning about different cultures and styles of dance.

What are some misconceptions about people of East African culture?

As an Afro-Dancer we have heard comments like, "Oh, we didn't know East Africans could dance to afro beats." People frequently assume that we are from West Africa. Another misconception that we have heard is that East Africans have the same customs and traditions. However, East Africa is a diverse region with a multitude of cultures, languages, and religions.

Can you share some of the dance shows you do every year?

A few of the dance performances we perform each year include graduation

By Alexandre Cyusa

parties, weddings, African culture nights, and community gatherings. Additionally, we took part in the Fargo Got Talent Show organized by Frederick Edwards Jr, where we won first place. We are active on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

As community members, what is the next problem you are trying to solve?

As community members, we are working towards promoting diversity. Diversity is an important part of our world that should be celebrated and embraced. It refers to the variety of different cultures, languages, religions, and traditions that exist within our global community. By embracing diversity, we can learn from each other and build bridges across cultural divides.

What is your vision for 2030 for the Fargo-Moorhead community?

As dancers, our vision for 2030 is to have a thriving dance career. We want to continue to improve our dance technique and style, while also exploring new dance forms. We see ourselves as a leader in the FargoMoorhead dance community, running our own dance studio and teaching students of all ages and skill levels. We will also consider competing in national dance competitions or even appearing in a dance movie or TV show. We are excited to see where our passion for dance will take us in the next decade and beyond.

| Search: All-Star Afro Dancers

| @allstarafrodancers

Photo By Geneva Nodland

Meet The MAKER MAKER

Hello Lucy

After doing Unglued for over 10 years, it’s been really cool to see the growth of local makers’ businesses and how they evolve over the years! We met Cindy of Hello Lucy when she was creating super cute retro aprons and today she has made a fulltime business selling a huge variety of coasters, drinkware, and more! Learn more about the business and local maker below.

Tell us a bit about yourself. I grew up on a farm outside Walhalla, ND and the beautiful Pembina Gorge. I spent many years on the West Coast but found my way back to rural North Dakota in the mid-1990s. In 2007, I made the move to Fargo. However, there was one home requirement, a room for sewing. I have always enjoyed sewing, a gift I got from my mother. It was a skill I used from childhood, making clothes for myself and eventually for my own children. My other favorite pastimes are theater, riding bike, and camping. Eventually, I was able to combine my love of sewing with the theater and began creating costumes for Frost Fire Theatre near Walhalla. It is such a thrill to see what you’ve created on stage.

As for Hello Lucy, what started as a side hustle creating aprons has evolved into my full-time career. It has allowed me the freedom to pursue other loves, like bike riding. I have done many tours throughout North Dakota and will be venturing to Tennessee this fall. More

By Ashley Morken, Unglued Photos provided by Ashley Morken

46 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

recently, I have started going on gravel rides. It’s fun, but it’s a challenge, just like my business, Hello Lucy.

Describe what type of products you make under Hello Lucy.

Coasters are my most popular item. I also sell drinkware, magnets, throw pillows, metal and wood signs, coozies, and potholders. I create most of my own graphics using digital tools as well as drawing and painting, and I use my own photography. Occasionally I’ll enlist the help of my daughter who is a graphic designer.

Tell us how you got started with your business.

When I moved to Fargo, I began sewing more regularly. Aprons were popular at the time and I entered a few craft shows and sales were good, so I created a space on Etsy. What started as a hobby business changed when I went to my first trade show and learned about sublimation. I decided I would add to the business. The business started evolving with the addition of coasters, specifically of Fargo area landmarks and highlights at the Fargo Street Fair. I was selling out each day and making more each night. I was so excited! So, as the business grew and I found myself in the position of finding a new job, I decided to try the business full-time. If it didn’t work out, I would find another job. Well, it worked!

Where do you get your inspiration for what you create?

I love photography, whether it be with a camera or on my phone. When I see landscapes, whether it be buildings or windmills blowing on the prairie, my mind goes to how I could use that image. Many of my items touch on my Scandinavian background and it is so fun to showcase them at Norsk Host Fest in Minot, ND each year. My customers challenge my creativity, too. If they have an abstract idea and ask me to make something, it often inspires a windfall of designs. And sometimes, just seeing something I like or something that brings me joy makes me say, “that would look great on a coaster.”

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

Fargo Theatre. It’s iconic.

What is something you've enjoyed the most about doing this handcrafted business?

I love the ability to be creative at work all the time and I enjoy the freedom of working whenever and wherever I like.

What is the most challenging thing? Well, whenever and wherever don’t always translate to good time management, so I’d say that’s my biggest challenge and benefit.

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

Ceramics. I love the craftsmanship involved.

What is a word that best describes you? Resourceful.

What advice would you have given yourself five years ago?

Take the time to go home and visit my mom. Regardless of when you lose a parent, it doesn’t make it easier. I miss her. The foundation of this business was from the knowledge passed to me.

Where can people find your work?

In the Fargo area, my work can be regularly found at Unglued Market in the new Brewhalla and Minn Dak Market in West Acres Mall. During summer months, I can be found at street fairs & craft shows and leading into the holidays at Pride of Dakota events around the state. I have an Etsy online store and more recently began selling on the site Faire.

Website/social to find you online and stay in touch?

| Hellolucys.etsy.com

| /hellolucys

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.

ARTS ENTER TAINMENT

Summer Rain Never Looked So Good!

Beat the summer heat with an onstage rainstorm in Trollwood's Singin' in the Rain performance! For three weekends in July, watch and sing along to this adaptation of an award-winning screenplayreserve your tickets at trollwood. org/box-office!

Embrace the Blues

Enjoy two days of blues music at the Fargo Blues Festival! With 12 world-class bands, 40 vendors serving food, brews, and shopping, and camping and lodging access, you can sing the summer blues at Newman Outdoor Field with those who appreciate it! Head to fargoblues.com for your tickets!

Shrek Rave (that's it)

Yep, you read that right, a Shrekthemed rave is happening at the Sanctuary Events Center on August 4. As the hosts say, “WHO CARES. COOL IS DEAD," so go have fun flaunting your favorite Shrek, Lord Farquaad, or Fairy Godmother outfit interpretation! Check out jadepresents.com for tickets!

48 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Alex Durow, known professionally as Durow, has been musically inclined since the beginning. The musician began singing in second grade, playing piano when he was 7, and using production software (FL Studios) when he was 13, among experience with playing the trombone, guitar, and ukulele.

“I learned the piano and then they had me do the sheets, which weren’t fun to me in the slightest. My issue was that I didn’t like people telling me what to do. It’s way more fun to come up with original ideas and be a true songwriter,” Durow said.

Durow has always chosen to take the less-beaten path to fame by incorporating an array of genres, musical styles, and a little edge into his musical career. I sat down with the rapidly expanding local musician to discuss his recent albums "Fun Hate" and "I Kept The Knife," his motivating inspirations, what’s next for the up-and-coming artist, and much more.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 50 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Throughout Durow’s life, his studio could usually be found directly next to his bed, because it’s how he has tried to pay his bills. As he endlessly crafts ideas that come to him in the early hours of the morning, he’s going through a neverending process of deleting, adding, and changing parts of each song until the project at hand is structured how he envisions it.

“I’ll work on stuff together with others sometimes, but it’s usually just me alone in my room being an introvert and hiding from the world. I'll turn my phone on "Do Not Disturb" and be in there for as long as I possibly can, letting ideas come to me naturally. I want to get into a more collaborative environment with fellow artists around me since having five brains is better than one sometimes,” Durow said.

Durow has been focused on learning to play the guitar for the better part of a year now. According to him, learning the guitar was one of the greatest skills he could have taught himself, as it has opened up an entirely new lane of songwriting for him.

I want to do weird stuff that ends up being pop because it’s so good and catchy and has never been done before,” Durow said.

“These verses speak on very palatable topics, but that’s not to downplay the seriousness of what the album means to me. It's taken four years of my life, but it's still very much a pop album. It's centered around telling my story in a way that you can hear on the surface over chords that are rhythmic and balanced, like something from Justin Bieber or Ed Sheeran.”

While Fargo has significant metal, punk, and hip-hop music scenes, Durow believes that the opportunities are ripe in other genres, citing that the Top 40 Pop sound has inspired him to make songs such as "Icarus" and "Saturn," two of his biggest hits to date.

“I knew when I listened to the songs "Saturn" and "Icarus" that I did my thing. People would not expect something that sounds like that to come out of Fargo, so it’s pretty cool that it did. Also, both of the tracks "Melting" and "Brittany Spears" didn't blow up like I thought they would,” Durow said.

Earlier this year, Durow released his long-awaited pop album titled "Fun Hate." The album, written over four years, consists of 15 songs with strong hooks and drums that will have you grooving out all summer long. According to Durow, pop music can often receive a bad reputation, but pop can also be reinvigorated by pushing that sound further than ever before.

“Pop music gets a bad reputation because people immediately think of a lack of substance, but I’m not trying to make pop music that you’ve heard before.

“I almost didn’t put the song "I Live In A Microchip With You" on the album, but that’s getting the attention that I was expecting "Brittany Spears" to receive. I don’t know what I did differently as they were marketed the same, but I’m happy that we can all have our own opinions about the music and no one person is right or wrong.”

"Fun Hate" exemplifies Durow's cohesive display of artistic growth over time. His debut album, titled "It Came With the Head of a Bull," featured seven

Zach Buresh

songs from seven distinct genres. Through dedicated practice, Durow has shifted his focus toward elevating his career to new heights.

Looking past the commercially accessible "Fun Hate," Durow is determined to embark on a journey far less traveled as he progresses further into his career. As he continues to better himself at his craft, Durow looks forward to expanding his genre palate to include a plethora of music, ranging from house and acoustic pop to hiphop and hyper-pop.

Sneak Preview: CHAMOMILE by Durow. Coming this fall.

“Over the years, I’ve been trying to make the most unique songs with the best rhythms, production, and vocals I can give. I got so caught up in trying to prove my artistry that I forgot that all you need is four chords and the truth,” Durow said.

“I feel that it’s my first album that sounds like everything's supposed to go together. I've been developing my sound, figuring out how to create a larger product, and getting a lot better at cohesion in projects.”

Fresh off the success of "Fun Hate's" songs, music videos, and performances, Durow plans to release “I Kept The Knife,” a bold, unique, experimental album that pushes Durow’s artistry to a new level. Rather than lean into the standards of current music as Durow did with "Fun Hate," he goes against them while telling a cohesive story.

“It’s a wild experiment. Some songs

are only a minute and a half long, while others are five minutes long with beat changes throughout. With 'I Kept The Knife,' I want to tell a story with amazing transitions. Each song tells part of a story, each with a completely distinct and unique vibe. Everything is intense and experimental, yet there's cohesion within the frantic energy,” Durow said.

“[I Kept The Knife] has some of the deepest lyrics and most intense songs that I’ve released to date. My goal is to keep growing as an artist. I see myself as a painter with sound, trying to get better by learning new instruments and tools. Once I get good enough at the guitar, I'm going to pick up the violin or drum kit. I'm just going to keep writing songs and trying to get better at it because that's who I am, what I do, and all I know.”

himself to the next echelon of success. “I'm promoting albums, putting out music videos, doing shows and listening parties, and traveling every weekend for shows. There’s only so much time in one day, and I'm working my ass off to get on your radar. The best thing that my dad has ever told me was to do the work first. No one wants to do the work and learn how to use production software, sing, or play the guitar or piano. You have to work harder than everyone around you because there’s no shortcut to being a great human,” Durow said.

Following the triumph of "Fun Hate" and a confidently-expanding fanbase, Durow is fully engaged in a demanding schedule over the upcoming months to propel

My goal is to make something that people will look back on and remember when I die. All you can do is be authentically you and have the guts to share your art with the world knowing that no matter what you do, someone's gonna hate on you no matter what.”

with Durow

Tell me a bit about your songwriting process.

I tend to get inspired lyrically by personal experiences. I’ll get a general concept, then start to fill in lyrics based on keywords and find a melody. There are other times in which I’ll write a whole song in one straight shot. I love that I don't have a single specific genre, so I don’t have to fit into any boxes when writing songs.

Sometimes I'm inspired to write a punk song, while other times I’m inspired to write a pop or rap. Other times, I’ll hear a super aggressive song and have an idea for a rap song in my head. I’m not much of a rapper, but if an idea comes then I have to follow it. If an artist usually does one style, but they have a cool idea for another project, they should never shy away from trying something new.

What makes a song challenging to write for you?

The hardest songs to write are the ones that are bigger than a single emotion. I wrote a song about one of my friends during my senior year of high school who killed himself. It wasn't hard in terms of what to say, but it was challenging to capture my perspective as I moved through the process of grief.

Some lyrics sounded angry, while others sounded more accepting. What would I say to him if I had the chance to speak to him again?

It took a long time for those lyrics to percolate into authentic, solid, cohesive verses that were still true to the idea.

Who in Fargo inspires you?

Fargo has a lot of movers and shakers in the area. If you give many of them a week to plan an event or bring a project together, they’re going to make it the best it

can be. Riley Sloan, Matt Becker, and Jade Nielsen are some of the local people that are making dreams come true. I want to do great things for Fargo like them. When you're carving your own path just as they did, you're going to get hit by the branches and get in the weeds. You’re going to have no clue if you're going in the right direction, but it’s a lot more exciting than taking the normal path.

How has it been watching your music spread across the country?

It's been very grassroots so far. If you've heard or read about me, it’s because I've put in the hard work and haven't quit. It’s crazy to see that some of my monthly most listened-to cities on Spotify are New York City, Dallas, and Chicago, and that’s just through organic promotion. I don’t know

1,000 people in New York, but over 1,000 people are listening to me there. It’s crazy to think that they took the time to listen to something that came from my brain.

How do you decide on your setlist when performing?

It’s frustrating because every show and audience is different, and everybody likes a different side of me. If I show up and play all my rap music, the people who wanted to see me sing are upset, or the other way around. It’s been a fun challenge over the years to craft a better and better setlist.

Check out Durow’s music on all streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music! |

/DeadDurow | @DeadDurow | /DeadDurow

@DeadDurow

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 54 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Emily Durow

HEALTH, SPORTS, REC

Voice of the Bison

Sam Neidermann has coined the name having been signed with NDSU as the new radio play-byplay announcer! Beginning this month, Sam will handle play-byplay duties for football and men's basketball and host the one-hour coaches' shows for radio and television during sports seasons.

Doesn’t Get Putter Than This

Or will it? The West Fargo Sheyenne boys' golf team ranked No. 17 in the National High School Golf Association rankings, and they're heading to the High School Golf National Invitational in Frisco, Texas next! Good luck golfers!

Cobber Andy Gravdahl

transitions to RedHawks

Concordia's Andy Gravdahl recently debuted in the FargoMoorhead RedHawks' starting lineup, coming from a successful collegiate run with the Cobbers. Gravgahl holds a spot on Concordia's all-time list with 197 career hits.

Whether you are a local sports fanatic or an everyday Joe looking for a little fun or fitness, here are a couple of the things happening in the community

56 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

And... They're Off!

Fargo's North Dakota Horse Park is amping up for a thrilling summer of racing

By Josiah Kopp

Growing up on a North Dakota acreage with horses—as well as a fierce competitive spirit—I naturally took to horse racing at a young age. Growing up with movies like Dreamer, Seabiscuit, and Secretariat were all influential in my love for the sport, and even watching modern stars like California Chrome and American Pharoah race on TV further fueled my passion and goal to one day watch a horse race in person. Little did I know I didn't have to travel far to experience that dream, and that's when I attended my first races at North Dakota Horse Park.

Head west on 19th Ave N past I-29 and you'll soon find yourself on the peaceful grounds of Fargo's 100-acre horse racing venue. The 6-furlong track, which was built in 2002, has a unique story, best told by no one other than one of the founding members and an influential expert in the horse racing industry, Susan Bala.

Susan Bala and the History of horse racing in North Dakota

Fargo native Susan Bala is a first-generation American whose parents emigrated from England and Eastern Europe, and she comes from a legacy of horse racing. Her great-uncle was a tick-tock man (responsible for calculating odds and communicating them across the track via hand signals) at York Racecourse in England, one of the world's oldest and most famous courses.

Bala first became involved in the North Dakota horse racing industry when former ND Governor George Sinner approached her and some associates to conduct a feasibility study for North Dakota in the 1980s. This was a time when the world of racing was changing significantly, as the US Supreme Court had just ruled that parimutuel horse racing (betting

HEALTH,

58 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

| Photos by Josiah Kopp

SPORTS & REC

pools) was legal in the country, opening more opportunities for horse racing across the country—including North Dakota.

With each state now working to legalize parimutuel racing, Bala and her colleagues wrote a business model that would drive the economic development of the horse racing industry in North Dakota by obtaining a license for simulcast systems and building off-track betting networks around the country.

The simulcasting network was a huge success, building not just networks across the country but internationally as well. In April of 1990, North Dakota opened its very own simulcast system, and from then until 2000, Bala and her colleagues at the racing commission worked to get all of the breeding programs underway to help support a racing venue, and in 2002, North Dakota Horse Park in Fargo was born.

Did you know?

Food trucks will return to the park this season, giving fans tasty eateries while enjoying live racing. Additionally, there will be a sloppy joe eating contest this season!

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of the ND Simulcast System on April 28, 1990.

self-love ~ sensuality ~ strength NOW OPEN euphorialingerie.com DOWNTOWN FARGO 74 BROADWAY N (701) 639-4189

Pictured L to R: Susan Bala (co-founder, partner, and president of Racing Services, Inc.), R.D. Hubbard (owner of Hollywood Park and Los Alamitos), Bruce Quick (Chairman of the ND Racing Commission), admin assistant to the ND Racing Commission.

Hugh Drexler and North Dakota Horse Park Today

Boston native Hugh Drexler is the current general manager at the North Dakota Horse Park, and also comes from a racing family—in fact, his parents met at a racetrack in Puerto Rico. His father was a jockey, and his mother's father was a trainer, so it's no doubt racing runs deep in the Drexler blood.

Drexler loved growing up in the racing world but ultimately took a different path after high school and pursued real estate in Phoenix. But once racing is in your blood, it's hard to get it out.

"I realized that I missed my passion," Drexler said. "I missed my love of horse racing, so I went back to the University of Arizona and actually got a degree to go along with my experience in the industry. And here we are about four years after I graduated, and I got the opportunity to become the general manager at North Dakota Horse Park."

Drexler's goal in being with ND Horse Park is to help create more opportunities for longer racing schedules and more family-friendly enjoyment each race day—and this summer, there's a lot in store!

A summer packed with fun for the whole family

July 14

Opening Night - College Night

This summer, fans can enjoy six live racing dates to attend, with each race day offering unique activities, events, and themes for everyone to enjoy. The first race day of the summer is "College Night" and will take place on Friday, July 14. The race evening will feature exciting live horse racing, happy hour specials, as well as the return of celebrity magician John Stessel—an internet sensation who has appeared on many TV shows and has performed with some of the biggest names in the industry. Gates open at 3:30 p.m.

July 15

Budweiser Clydesdales Day

The following day, live horse racing will continue, along with a special showing of the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales for fans to interact with. Gates open at 11 a.m.

July 22

Horses and Heroes

ND Horse Park's Horses and Heroes Day honors our heroes—including retired and active-duty military personnel, EMTs, and first responders—with free admission. This would be a great opportunity for families to enjoy live racing with their loved ones. The race day will include giveaways, as well as special opportunities to take photos in the winner's circle with the winning horses and their connections. Gates open at 11 a.m.

July 23

Family Day

Although each race day is family-friendly, if you're looking for the perfect race day to bring your little ones to, Family Day race day is a must! The day will offer plenty of interactive activities and entertainment for kids, including a petting zoo, face painting, balloon animals, and more. Gates open at 11 a.m.

Founding member Susan Bala and general manager Hugh Drexler at the North Dakota Horse Track grounds

HEALTH, SPORTS & REC 60 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

July 29

Derby Day

ND Horse Park's most popular race day, Derby Day is your chance to dress to the nines in your finest, most elegant attire, just like fans would at the Kentucky Derby. The day will feature live racing, signature drinks, giveaways, as well as a best-dressed award and best hat contest. If you're looking for the perfect date idea, or if you love getting dressed up, this is your day!

On the racing front, this will be the largest horse race day in the state, with the thoroughbred derby offering a $30,000 purse. Gates open at 11 a.m.

July 30

$1 Dollar Day & ND Cornhole Tournament

The final racing day of the summer will feature $1 admission, live racing, a cornhole tournament as well as a $100,000 horseshoe toss— fans will have one chance to get a ringer, could it be you? Gates open at 11 a.m.

For more information, tickets, off-track betting, merch, and more, visit hrnd.org

/northdakotahorsepark

@northdakotahorsepark

5180 19th Ave N, Fargo, ND

argo-Moorhead is known for a lot of things, be it football national championships, fantastic restaurants and breweries, or a great art scene. But what you might not know is West Fargo is home to Red River Valley Speedway, which offers some of the best racing around and even attracts some of the biggest racing names in the world more on that later! I sat down with competition director Nicky Skalicky to learn more about the speedway's history, this year's racing schedule, and some of the unique experiences families can look forward to this season.

Nick Skalicky and the history of the Speedway

They say that once racing is in your blood, it stays forever. And although Skalicky has been retired as a driver for some time, his involvement in motorsports is greater than ever. He started the Red River Kart Club in 2010 with the goal of keeping the cost of kart racing affordable for families and their youth. Since then, the club has grown significantly and races Monday nights throughout the summer, just down the road from Red River Valley Speedway.

HEALTH, SPORTS & REC

West Fargo's Red River Valley Speedway is the perfect experience for the whole family JOSIAH KOPP

62 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

by josiah kopp

The speedway, which sits on the Red River Valley Fairgrounds, was founded in 1967 and has hosted some notable names throughout its history, from NASCAR legends like Kenny Wallace, Tony Stewart, and most recently, 2021 Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson. Legendary World Of Outlaw Sprint Car drivers like Doug Wolfgang and Steve Kinser have also raced at the speedway, along with many other local stars throughout the years.

In 2010, the track was reconfigured from its original halfmile distance to three-eighths of a mile, along with other renovations to make it an even more exciting and immersive experience for the whole family. In 2016, the track reopened, once again welcoming back Friday night racing.

"We're gaining fans," Skalicky said. "If you look at now versus 20 years ago, there's so much going on [in the FM area]. And that's why we try to put the best product out there."

Skalicky has a particular interest in investing in the youth and helping raise the next generation of race car drivers. Additionally, a lot of work has gone into making race days even more of a family-friendly experience. In the grandstands, there are multiple seating options to fit you

and your family's comfort level, including a non-alcoholic section. In addition to the exciting racing, Skalicky and the speedway are also working to bring food trucks and other enjoyment to the track to welcome more fans to race events.

One of the unique things racing provides is an immersive experience for fans, especially kids. In between races, sponsors and the speedway provide special activities for kids, whether it be meeting drivers in the pits and receiving a hero card and autograph, or getting to join the race winner on the track after the race. Some of the drivers also like to do giveaways and give bicycles to kids.

"The kids really like coming out onto the track," Skalicky said. "They sit in the stands and watch [the racing] all night, but when they finally get to put their feet on the track, that's pretty cool [for them]."

This year, World of Outlaws will return to the track for the first time in two years, which provides some of the best racing the track sees during the course of its season. Late models hit the RRVS track for a special race during their touring schedule on June 28, and the sprint cars will visit the speedway later this summer on August 26.

MASON EISENZIMMER

NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Larson racing at Red River Valley Speedway for the first time in August 2020, later taking home the victory.

58-year-old racing veteran and Moorhead, MN native Tim Church began racing in 2016 and quickly became a regional sensation, having won National Rookie of the Year and Northern Region Rookie of the Year in the IMCA series. His favorite racing memory was his first win at RRVS his rookie year. With his wife Bonnie as the crew chief, the Church family is a team, both on and off the track. Bonnie has even won Crew Chief of the Year at Norman County Speedway in 2019.

"This is our eighth summer racing, and I could never have achieved this without my best supporter, my wife," Church said. "[She's] always there for me through the good races and the poor races."

You can watch Church hit the track Friday nights at Red River Valley Speedway in the IMCA Hobby Stock class.

Felton, MN native Andy Pake has been racing since he was 11 years old. His inspiration for racing came when the ISOC snowmobile racing circuit came to town—he signed up to race and has been racing ever since.

At Red River Valley Speedway, Pake races IMCA sprint cars. "My dad raced sprint cars and snowmobiles, so he helps me work on my car and snowmobiles, set them up, and also teaches me a lot about how to drive and race," Pake said. "I like how [sprint cars] are responsive and fast when they are working right. With the wing on the top, they hook up really well and it feels like you’re on a rail around the corners."

Pake's favorite memory at Red River Valley Speedway was winning his first sprint cars feature in the summer of 2022. "I made a few passes and got to the front, and it was really fun," he said.

You can watch Pake race Friday nights at Red River Valley Speedway in the IMCA Sprint Cars class.

HEALTH, SPORTS & REC

TIM CHURCH

64 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

ANDY PAKE

Some people take an interest in racing later in life, and some people are born with racing in their blood. That's been exactly the case for West Fargo native Torey Fischer, who grew up in a racing family and frequented Red River Valley Speedway.

Fischer's career began at age 7, when she started racing gokarts. Through the years she and her dad have built and raced in various classes, from Hornets to Hobby Stock. Today, she races in the IMCA Northern Sport Mod class in her #9 teal and white scheme, the number being a tribute to her childhood favorite NASCAR Cup Series driver, Bill Elliott. She is vying for her first

win in the series—and I have a feeling her time is coming. She's already won in Hornet and Hobby Stock classes.

"The racing community has become family to me and that’s what I love about this sport," Fischer said.

Off the track, Fischer is a business owner, having started Birdy's Detail—an auto detailing shop in West Fargo—a year ago.

You can watch Fischer race Friday nights at Red River Valley Speedway in the IMCA Northern Sport Mod class.

For tickets, season schedule, and more, visit redrivervalleyspeedway.com | 1805 Main Ave W West Fargo, ND | 701-388-6637 | /redrivervalleyspeedway | @redrivervalleyspeedway 65

JOSIAH KOPP

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.

HOME DESIGN

Budding Inspiration

Need inspo for your home garden from somewhere other than from your Pinterest feed? Explore six local homeowner yards and Growing Together Community Gardens over July 19 & 20 at the Red River Valley Garden Tour 2023! Profits benefit Fargo’s Growing Together Community Gardens, a nonprofit seeking to create sustainable gardens in the community! Search "Red River Valley Garden Tour" on Eventbrite to grab your tickets!

Showcase Your Home Project!

Want to show off your hard work on your home? Sign up for the Fall Parade of Homes! Now welcoming remodels and rentals in addition to newly constructed homes, throughout the month of July you can register! Head to paradefm. com/registration for details!

Lovesac Furniture Store Coming To West Acres

Coming soon to West Acres, Lovesac is best known for its popular "sactional" couches and bean bag chairs with washable removable covers, making them great options for homes with pets. The furniture store, which is currently just a section within Fargo's Best Buy, will move into the former Stabo space in the mall as a standalone store.

66 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

By JosiahKopp Photos provided by Design 2Sell

This vacation rental remodel by Design 2 Sell is a must for lake getaways

The Riverside Escape project is a vacation rental property that Design 2 Sell owner Skye Fingalson and her husband Troy recently renovated and brought to life. They purchased the property in July of 2022, began renovating it at the end of 2022, and the home is now completed and up and running. The Riverside Escape on Big Detroit sits on a beautiful city lot where the Pelican River runs right through the yard and filters out into Big Detroit Lake. "Our goal was to make this property feel like a tropical getaway," Skye said. "We wanted it to be extraordinary and differentiate it from any other vacation rental in our area."

Walking through the bright pink door to enter the home, you will first step foot into the unique kitchen that features dimensional gold starshaped pendants, blue cabinets, and live-edge floating shelves. The colorful artwork selected for the home is bold and fun, unique, and different, immediately making you feel like you're on vacation.

Incorporating distinctive furniture for all to enjoy adds an entertaining experience while staying at this unique home. "We wanted guests to be able to visit an eccentric atmosphere," Skye said. "Planning a vacation is all about staying somewhere that is fun! Interior design is meant to be unique and so often can be too serious. Bringing in color, fun textures, bold wallpapers, and funky furniture are all part of the aesthetic."

All three of the bathrooms in the Riverside Escape host individual flair. Featuring fetching tile with gorgeous mirrors, attractive lighting, and daring wallpaper, each bathroom is determined to bring you an independent experience.

Entertainment at its finest is provided throughout this vacation home. A large 9-foot kitchen island, a dining room table featuring a fun booth seat, and two large family room areas are sure to host a multitude of friends and family. Grab a friend and channel your inner childhood by playing Foosball, Pac-Man, or Connect Four in the openconcept game room!

HOME & DESIGN HOW TO SUPPORT SKYE

shopdesign2sellatthelakes.com | alluredetroitlakes.com

@design2selldl

@alluredetroitlakes

/design2selldl

/alluredetroitlakes

68 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Want to see more? Check out the latest issue of our sister magazine, Trendsetters, to get home decor hacks from Skye, Skye's colors and trends for 2023, as well as an exclusive Q&A! 69

FOOD DRINK

Farmers Market Frenzy!

It's finally here, the annually longanticipated Red River Market is kicking off the season this month, every Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. through October 28. Held in Broadway Square, you can find fresh food, homemade goods, music, snacks, drinks, downtown shopping, and, most importantly— community. Experience it for yourself!

Fargo EATS

Back again this August, the Fargo Food Truck Festival is celebrating 10 years of feeding the state, and they know just what to serve up! Learn about the festival's humble beginnings and what we can look forward to this year on page 74!

Fargo M(eat)s Hot Pot/ Korean BBQ

A brand new eating experience is coming to Fargo, featuring a combination of Asian hot pot and Korean BBQ! The U.S. chain KPOT will be opening soon in the old Johnny Carino's location off 17 Ave in Fargo, offering a social and delicious adventure! Keep an eye out on their website, thekpot.com/ press, for more information!

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.

70 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

(FIKA)

Wine of the Month.

Petite Pearl

4E WINERY, 2022

"Because of its delicate flavor profile, we decided to make this variety into a soft delicate wine in the style of a Pinot Noir," 4e owners Greg and Lisa Cook said. "The yeast was selected to soften the acids and bring out the fruity qualities of the grape. Our Petite Pearl was aged with American oak just long enough to provide a solid structure without overpowering the elegant flavors. The wine provides aromas of raspberries mingling with hints of cherry. Don't let the light body fool you—the acid dances in your mouth and we love how the flavors transform from the moment it touches your tongue to the lingering delicate finish."

lingering delicate finish

FOOD & DRINK

Photo by Josiah Kopp REVIEW BY ASHLEY SERBUS OF CELLAR 624

72 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

The Review

This Petite Pearl is my kind of red! I am a big fan of Pinot Noir and Gamay wines; something light-bodied, fruitforward, and dry. On the nose, I found aromas of dried fruit (raisin), red fruits (currants and raspberries), as well as hints of oak. The palate was a nice medium body with great acidity and a balanced tannic structure.

This is a very easy-drinking, approachable wine with notes of red cherry and raspberry.

The tannins linger a bit and remind me of cranberry herbal tea. The Petite Pearl

can be enjoyed with or without food, although, I am always an advocate for food when I am enjoying a glass!

As far as pairing this wine, there are many options. Anything from a sweet and sour salmon dish to beef stroganoff would be great options. Charcuterie pairings that stuck out to me were salty meats, olives, and gouda. Personally, I would love to enjoy this wine with a woodfired pizza topped with red sauce, pepperoni, olives, and mozzarella, or a Mediterranean-style pizza with oil, kalamata olives, feta,

prosciutto, spinach, onions, and artichoke. The Petite Pearl is a great everyday wine with a ton of versatility!

IS A GREAT EVERYDAY WINE WITH A TON OF VERSATILITY!" - ASHLEY SERBUS, CELLAR 624

Cellar

PETITE PEARL

While the initial event in 2013 faced challenges like rainy weather and the accidental shared date of the first ESPN Gameday being hosted in the valley, it still brought in about 800 foodies. With those unforeseen circumstances and the eight vendors who were in attendance that first year, Mike didn't think much about reviving the event in 2014—but as he said, "Boy, did we hear about it when it didn't happen again that next year."

So, in 2015 the second food truck celebration was hosted, and it took off. So much so, that Mike hosted the same

event that fall in Bismarck to see more success. From that fateful 2013 event to a wildly popular 2015 to today, the Fargo Food Truck Festival has ultimately resulted in annual events in Bismarck, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, and Watford City.

Mike Schmitz, the founder of Fargo Food Truck Festival & 701 Food Truck, has been involved with everything from conceptualization, execution, and expansion into different markets. According to Mike, Fargo hosted the very first Food Truck event held in not only North Dakota but South Dakota and Montana as well.

Historically, food trucks have some of the best dishes, but are often the hardest to track! In an effort to pull the whereabouts, top recommendations, and more, Mike founded the Facebook page 701 Food Truck Fans. The page is all about the food truck scene in the Dakotas and surrounding states, to "find out about new tastes, new trucks, specials, events, and vendors." Vendors can share their next stop, and foodies can share their favorite finds! Head to /701foodtruckfans on Facebook to check it out!

Over the years, as the general food truck scene has changed, the festival has with it. There is more variety of food trucks and their offerings, along with higher quality. As with many other annual events, 2020 was a difficult event to manage—but innovation got the best of it.

FOOD & DRINK 74 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

In an attempt to restore something normal to the FM foodie scene, Mike told the vendors, "Let's do a drivethru festival." Lots of time was spent thinking about what exactly to do.

"All of these vendors had just lost every event of their summer, and we knew the public needed something to look forward to. In June, we hosted the first public event to happen really anywhere in the state since the shutdown. We thought of every aspect and successfully ran a threeday Drive-Thru Food Truck event. It was so successful that the Minnesota State Fair duplicated it later that summer. We then held different variations of our standard events throughout the fall," Mike said, adding that later, the group even held a winter Drive-Thru Food Truck event.

"Lots of things have changed and come up since we started 10 years ago, but this group of vendors has been resilient and willing to adapt. I'd expect in the next 10 years, we'll be ready to take on just about anything," he said.

After years of adapting, innovating, and, of course, celebrating, Mike explained why this year's event is extra special.

"It's our 10th year and we'll be in the second year of our new location—Red River Valley Fair—and we think we'll have the most diverse collection of food options that we've ever had," Mike said. "We'll shoot for 18-20 vendors as we have for the past 5-6 years. There will be some returning trucks that have played critical roles in our history, but don't always make it every year."

This year's festival will expand to community connections as well, as the lineup includes a nonprofit food truck that operates with a mission of community give-back and will feature a different celebrity chef each day. They're also hosting a fundraising vendor whose pop-up spot will create an avenue for them to increase their mission accomplishments and visibility.

Another exciting addition this year is the announcement of the inaugural inductees of the North Dakota Food Truck Hall of Fame, along with a few other surprises!

The Food Truck Festival is celebrated statewide. Whether you're traveling this summer, you want to send loved ones that way, or maybe you're planning on following the festival, check out the other locations and dates for the event!

Fargo Food Truck Fest—

August 11-13

Grand Forks Food Truck Fest—

August 25-27

Bismarck Food Truck Fest—

September 8-10

Dickinson Food Truck Rodeo—

September 22-24

While there are more that will be announced on Facebook on the 701 Food Truck Fans page, check out the confirmed food trucks for the 2023 Fargo Food Truck Festival!

"This is Fargo-Moorhead's most 'flavor'ite event of the summer and has really launched the Food Truck scene in the region," Mike said. "We're grateful for all of your support [over] the past 10 years, and can't wait to see everyone in August"

Mark your calendars for August 11-13 at the Red River Valley Fair, and come hungry!

|701foodtrucks.com

/FargoFoodTruckFestival

/701foodtruckfans

@ndfoodtrucks 75

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.

PARENTS KIDS

Cosmos Conversation

In collaboration, the MSUM Planetarium and the Moorhead Public Library are presenting a special outer space exploration! Kids should bring their most pressing space-related questions, and prepare for enlightenment from 2-3 p.m. on July 20!

(Story) Squad Up!

Grab the kiddos and head to the West Acres Mall Center Court every other Tuesday from 9:30-11 a.m. a.m. to join in on the Story Squad! Listen in on a free story time plus try a themed activity each week. Upcoming themes are “Cooks in the Kitchen” with Creative Kitchen (July 25) and “Mad Science” with FM Science Museum (August 8).

Get Glowing!

Complete with lasers, music, and blacklights, SkyZone will be a full-on jumping dance party at their Glow Jump event on July 28! From 8-10 p.m., kids will have an entirely unique experience in the trampoline park. Grab your family's tickets at skyzone.com/fargo/programs/glow!

76 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Local Park Tour

Check out these unique parks in the FM area!

Parks are often considered a sanctuary from the busy hustle and bustle of everyday life. While some parks have similar amenities such as open spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, others stand out for their unique features or history. From a hidden garden to a heartwarming past, these parks have their own personality and charm. Take a walk with us as we explore the hidden outdoor gems across the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area!

Great Northern Park

We all know Broadway Square in downtown Fargo, but did you know there sits another green space in the downtown hub? Located just west of Great Northern Bicycle Company, Great Northern Park is a perfect spot for a picnic lunch downtown, featuring picnic tables and a small grass area!

| 425 Broadway N, Fargo

By Geneva Nodland

VA Hospital Park

In North Fargo, the VA Hospital Park is an open, grassy area near the hospital itself. The perfect space to have a picnic, set up a yard game, or bask in the rays!

| 1805 Elm St N, Fargo

An unlikely median sits near the river, a few blocks from downtown Moorhead, diverging 4th Street and 3rd Street. This median creates a neutral triangular space—the perfect piece of land for a mini park. At least that's what Michael J. Daily thought in the 1920s. The green space was tended to by Mr. Daily until 1940. Forty-three years later, in 1983, a city employee crafted an unofficial sign naming the park with the note "Moorhead's Smallest Park." A short three years later and Daily Park was officially a Moorhead park, making it the city's smallest park at 0.013 acres. Today, the small triangle park has been upgraded to a pollinator garden, planted and cared for by loving neighbors. This tiny but mighty park is worth the visit—even if just for the history!

| 301 3rd Ave S, Moorhead

PARENTS + KIDS

Visit Fargo-Moorhead

Geneva Nodland

78 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

Geneva Nodland

right next to Fargo Fire Department Fire Station #1, jutting out in a triangle shape between Roberts Street North and Northern Pacific Avenue. Its peculiar shape and location are almost forgotten when you see the size—0.076 acres, making it the smallest park in Fargo. Its small size doesn't deter residents—in fact, it draws them in. So much so, that part of the park is a community garden featuring seasonal plants like tomatoes and cucumbers. While there might not be enough room for a game of ball, there's still plenty to explore here!

Citizens Park

On the Sheyenne River, this greenspace is a small neighborhood pocket park full of history. In the mid-1980s, Mr. Alin, a neighbor to the piece of land, led the development of revitalizing the overgrown lot into a park. He coordinated the efforts of the West Fargo Park District, the West Fargo Chamber of Commerce, and the West Fargo Beautification Committee to establish a plan to develop a small passive park overlooking the river. The land was gifted to the Park District by the Dipple family and it became an official West Fargo park in 1986. Through donation efforts, the park project was completed. Benches, a small path around the park, flower gardens/other plantings, trees, a flagpole, and a boulder inscribed with the park's history can be found there, as well as the "Circle of Fun" statue serving as the centerpiece of the park. Honing its name from its actions, the park was built by the citizens, for the citizens of West Fargo, deservedly called Citizens Park!

| 508 7th Ave W, West Fargo

| 10 Roberts St N, Fargo Geneva Nodland West Fargo Park District

Mixology

Rim 12 oz glass with salt, top off with ice, add fresh squeezed lime, orange, and grapefruit. Add tequila and pinch of salt and Tajin. Top off with grapefruit soda.

Puerto Vallarta

4323 45th St S Suite 101, Fargo, ND

Perla Valdez

Cantarito

Ingredients

2 oz El Tesoro

1 oz Lime

1 oz Orange

1 oz Grapefruit

4 oz Grapefruit Soda

Pinch Of Salt & Tajin

80 | JULY 2023 | FARGOMONTHLY.COM

meet perla