TRENDSETTERS Issue 006

ISSUE 006

COMPLIMENTARY

Matthew Carlson of Fix it Forward

Jeremy Jensen of Fix it Forward

TABLE OF

TRENDSETTERS

ISSUE 006

SPONSORED CONTENT: 20 22 28 32 40

Inside The Jasper Hotel: Where Fargo’s Culture Meets Luxury Gifts That Give Back & The Giving Season Crafting Interiors Setting a New Trend in the Funeral Home Industry Holiday Cocktail Hacks

BEL L A' S D U L C E SW EE T S & T R E AT S

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TRENDSETTERS BUSINESSES 44 46 48 50 52 54 56

Redefining Life with Memory Loss Heroes Compass Baking a Difference Transforming Lives Through Transportation Compassionate Canine Care Warming Hearts and Homes Growing Together Beyond the Basics

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86

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OT H E R F E AT U R E S 62 74 86 88

Meet The Design Professionals: Chelsey Johnson Meet The Design Professionals: Rachael Boyer Strom Plans Blending Tastes of Home

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MEET THE TEAM.

MIKE

BRADY

KIM

TY

GENEVA

GRANT

JOSIAH

JENNY

PAUL

AL

TORI

AUSTIN

MIRANDA

AUSTIN

JESSICA

TOMMY

NICK

JOHN

KELLEN

BEN

MEGAN

L E A R N M O R E A B O U T U S AT SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM

TRENDSETTERS Issue 006 Trendsetters Magazine is a free publication distributed six times a year. Our mission is to highlight all of the unique and influential people, businesses and things in the region with a focus on health, beauty, fasion, lifestyle + going out, home + design and more!

Publisher

Editorial

Editorial Team Lead Creative Director

Mike Dragosavich Brady Drake Brady@SpotlightMediaFargo.com Geneva Nodland

Editor

Grant Ayers

Art Director

Kim Cowles

Editorial Graphic Designer Creative Strategist

Interactive

Business Development Manager Business Development Associate Videographer Director of Creative Strategies Graphic Designer Web Developer

Advertising

VP of Business Development

Ty Betts Josiah Kopp Nick Schommer Kellen Feeney Tommy Uhlir Megan Suedbeck Ben Buchanan Austin Smith Paul Hoefer Paul@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Sales Representatives

Al Anderson Al@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Sales & Marketing Advisor

Tori Helland Tori@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Business Development Representative Client Relations

Austin Cuka AustinCuka@SpotlightMediaFargo.com ClientRelations@SpotlightMediaFargo.com

Client Relations Manager

Jenny Johnson

Marketing Coordinator

Jessica Mullen

Operations Assistant

Distribution Delivery

Miranda Knudson John Stuber

Trendsetters Magazine is published by Spotlight, LLC. Copyright 2023 Trendsetters Magazine & trendsetters.com. All rights reserved. No parts of this magazine may be reproduced or distributed without written permission of Trendsetters Magazine and Spotlight, LLC is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. Spotlight, LLC accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the advertisers.

ADVERTISING: 701-478-SPOT (7768) spotlightmediafargo.com Send change of address information and other correspondence to: Spotlight, LLC 4609 33rd Ave S Suite #304, Fargo, ND 58104 or info@spotlightmediafargo.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

By Geneva Nodland |

Courtesy of Jasper

INSIDE JASPER HOTEL Where Fargo’s Culture Meets Luxury

Jasper Hotel stands out as the principle of modern luxury and unique experiences in downtown Fargo. From its exclusive sauna to a diverse range of guest rooms, Jasper Hotel offers something for every visitor. Let's explore some distinctive features of Jasper’s sauna and the rooms available for guests!

SAU NA Jasper's sauna is more than just a place to unwind; it's a 24/7 retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Unique to the community and rare among hotels in Fargo, the sauna promises a incredible experience for its guests.

In the wet sauna, guests can soak up the steam and feel good after a workout in the neighboring gym, destress while on their vacation, or just escape the dry, cold we're accustomed to in the state. This sauna opens its warmth to guests, offering a cozy escape from the bustle of daily life.

Geneva Nodland

S TA N DA R D ROOM The standard room at Jasper is tailor-made for the business traveler. Its compact yet luxurious design features a private bar and floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a perfect blend of comfort and functionality.

Whether you're a business traveler or not, elegance meets convenience here, not skipping on any flair while keeping it practical and comfortable.

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PA N O R A M I C ROOM If you've ever wanted to wake up to breathtaking views of not only downtown Fargo, but beyond—the panoramic room gives you just that. Equipped with a private bar and expansive windows, this room offers an incredible view of the city’s skyline. It's an ideal choice for those who seek a picturesque escape in the comfort of their room.

STUDIO SUITE The studio suite at Jasper is a blend of space and style. Ranging from 325 to 400-square-feet, these suites are decorated with local art and literature, showcasing even more of the cultural experience that the hotel offers. The suite's size, coupled with stunning views, makes it a preferred choice for those who appreciate roominess and artistic flair.

Jasper Hotel stands out with its unique room designs, local art and Fargoan culture, and an inviting sauna. Each room type offers something special to ensure every guest can find their perfect match. Whether you're a business traveler or a leisure seeker— Jasper Hotel promises an unforgettable stay filled with luxury, culture, and everything comfort!

Book your room and learn more at

jasperfargo.com 21

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Gifts that Give Back

This year, make your gift go a little bit further than under the tree! Consider giving a gift that will not only bring a smile to the recipient, but will also give back to non-profit organizations that create a greater impact.

Check these brands and products out at your local SCHEELS or online at SCHEELS.com:

Life Is Good Playmaker Project “To spread the power of optimism to help kids heal”

Mission: The Playmaker Project is all about building

a playmaker movement to help kids create positive relationships with childhood professionals, and providing those professionals training to help kids heal from trauma by creating positive and joy-filled environments, that can change that child’s life.

Impact: 10% of Life Is Good’s annual net profits are

"Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy"

Mission: UNRL partners with Folds of Honor, a

nonprofit organization, that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members and first responders who have fallen or been disabled while serving.

Impact: Proceeds from each purchase of UNRL

donated. Today, more than 16,000 Playmakers are creating a world where life is good for all kids. Every purchase adds to that donation and in turn helps to impact the lives of our future generation.

X Folds Of Honor products, supports the pursuit of education for the families of America’s fallen and disabled heroes. Since being established in 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded over 51,000 educational scholarships across all 50 states.

Items To Look For: Life Is Good Apparel and

Items To Look For: UNRL x Folds Of Honor Apparel

Where To Shop: Fargo SCHEELS, Moorhead

Where To Shop: Fargo SCHEELS, Moorhead

Products

SCHEELS, and SCHEELS.com

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UNRL Folds Of Honor

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and Products

SCHEELS, and SCHEELS.com

Bombas Bombas Giving

Pura Vida

“Giving Back + Doing Good”

“You Buy, We Get to Work”

Mission: One Purchased=One Donated. For every

Mission: Giving back is at the core of what they do,

Impact: To date, customers like you have allowed

Impact: When you purchase jewelry associated with

purchase made, Bombas makes and donates the top 1, 2, and 3 most requested items in homeless shelters: socks, underwear, and shirts.

Bombas to donate over 100 million essential clothing items. That’s 100,000,000 socks, shirts, and underwear given to those who need them most.

Items To Look For: Bombas Socks and Slippers Where To Shop: Fargo and Moorhead SCHEELS,

SCHEELS Home & Hardware, and SCHEELS.com

so naturally every purchase helps Pura Vida provide sustainable employment to artisan communities, give back to charities, and help make our planet better. one of their charity partners, Pura Vida will donate 5% of that purchase and so far they have donated over $4 million to more than 200 charity partners that they believe are making a difference in the world. With your purchase, you can help Pura Vida continue to make a positive impact on the world.

Items To Look For: Pura Vida Select Bracelets Where To Shop: Fargo SCHEELS, Moorhead

SCHEELS, and SCHEELS.com

| scheels.com

| /scheels

| @scheels

| @fargoscheels

| @moorheadscheels

| @scheelshardware

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Sponsored Content

oliday spirit fills the air, as we enjoy listening to Christmas music, decorating our homes, and preparing for our favorite traditions, but it’s important to remember the spirit of giving and celebrate the giving season. One of the greatest things to give is our time, whether with friends, family, or our community. This is something SCHEELS associates value the most and is why so many take time to volunteer with wonderful nonprofit organizations like The Great North Pole.

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The Great North Pole, with the help of so many from Cass and Clay counties, has raised millions of dollars in retail goods to help thousands of families across the FargoMoorhead area since 2017.

The Great North Pole provides families with everything from basic necessities and food, to winter gear and gifts for the children. They’re on a mission to help children and families in need in Cass & Clay counties, with the goal of bringing joy and the spirit of Christmas to every household that they touch!

A $100 investment in the GNP will turn into over $500 in basic needs products benefiting families

The Week of Giving is the Great North Pole’s opportunity to give back as a community to local families in need. A ton of time and energy goes into the Week of Giving with over 1,450 volunteers, not to mention the additional volunteers that go into the prep work to make this possible. This means our community will have invested over 3,000 volunteer hours to make this the success it is!

Next Page >

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The Great North Pole is one of the local non-profits SCHEELS associates have really stepped up to help with in terms of volunteering their time and energy. Teams of associates have given thousands of hours of their time since the very first year, as they know the impact this has on the community. It’s an amazing team-building experience for SCHEELS, and associates look forward to being a part of the Week of Giving each year!

Whether they’re unpacking items as they arrive, packing individual boxes for the 900+ families that will be blessed this Christmas season, or delivering to the homes of these families, this organization has a special place in the hearts of SCHEELS associates, as they truly get to be hands on and see the impact this has on the community.

Thank you to the Great North Pole for creating something truly impactful and special for the community.

And thank you to all of the amazing volunteers who make this possible for the thousands of people who will be blessed this holiday season.

$1.5+ Million

The retail amount of products that will be distributed this year to families in our community!

Volunteering at the Great North Pole is something I look forward to every December. It is a humbling experience to have people open their homes and hearts to us.

I have volunteered packing boxes in the warehouse and on the street delivering boxes to families. When they open the door and our crew comes in carrying big boxes full of Christmas goodies and food for their family, you can truly see a weight being lifted off their ashoulders. The kids are so excited to see what is in the boxes and the parents are so appreciative of everything we bring. The Great North Pole brings Christmas Cheer to so many families in our community!"

-Ashley W., Assistant Store Leader, SCHEELS Home & Hardware

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Crafting Interiors

Meet the Dynamic Duo Transforming the Drywall and Window Treatment Business

By Josiah Kopp | Photos Provided by Red River Drywall

Did You Know?

Red River Drywall not only undertakes new construction projects but also handles remodels and works directly with homeowners.

ince its inception in 1996, Red River Drywall has been growing it's presence in the local home building industry. More than 25 years later, the brand has entered into a new chapter with new owners, Jeramie and Austin Peterson, at the beginning of 2023. Upholding the company's core values and legacy, they have introduced a sister brand, 'Brilliant Blinds & Shades', enhancing their drywall and window treatment services.

S

The rebrand primarily aimed to distinguish the window treatment division from drywall services. "Many customers have inquired about what other 'decorating' services we offered and we wanted to clarify what those were." Jeramie said. "We continue to provide the same reputable brands and quality service, just under a new name."

Red River Drywall offers comprehensive drywall hanging, finishing, and painting services with an exceptional team. They're recognized for clean, quality drywall finishing and painting. "Our service team sets us apart. Not only do we provide the standard drywall services, but we also provide the touchups, warranty and finishing touches that can often times be overlooked." they said. They also have office staff that schedules and manages those teams, to ensure quality is met on every project.

Serving Beyond Fargo-Moorhead Want to work with Red River Drywall but don't live in the Fargo metro area? Not a problem! They travel up to a 90-minute radius around the FM area, recently serving clients in Wahpeton, Jamestown, Grand Forks, Hawley, and the Detroit Lakes area.

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Next page >

Meet the New President of Red River Drywall & Brilliant Blinds & Shades Meet Jeramie Peterson, owner and president of Red River Drywall. Before purchasing the company with her husband, Austin, in 2023, she worked as their project coordinator. She has been married to Austin for 16 years and they have 3 kids together, ages 11, 9, and 2. Between running the company and running kids to activities, there is little room for downtime, but any downtime is filled with projects at home.

Jeramie grew up in construction “My dad has been in the construction industry most of his life—he went to school for drafting, ran my grandpa's lumber yard, built my childhood home, and spent the last 20-plus years in commercial construction, so I learned a lot from just spending time with him at work." she said.

"After Austin and I got married, we started a few different trade companies, across various aspects of the construction industry. Working with him, I learned a lot more; although my educational background has primarily been in the beauty industry, I have always had a passion for the construction industry."

Jeramie was introduced to the RRD team while collaborating with a builder. Former owner John Koerselman later offered her a position on his team and she couldn’t say no. "Working with John and his team was one of the best jobs I've had," she said. "So much so that instead of following through with leaving the company due to daycare challenges, I ended up making a deal and purchasing it. Purchasing RRD has been one of my greatest accomplishments and with year one of ownership coming to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the last year and I really couldn’t have done it without the support of my husband and kids behind me and the unwavering support of my team and our amazing builders. We look forward to 2024 and all the years ahead.”

Brilliant Blinds & Shades Explore these beautiful finished drywall and window treatment projects, featuring styles like these room darkening and light filtering honeycomb shades, light filtering roller shards and light filtering full fold vignettes.

The Petersons and Sheri Jacobson, their in-house design consultant, rebranded the window treatments division, giving it a unique identity. "Sheri had a great vision for the rebrand, she quickly came up with the name 'Brilliant Blinds & Shades,' the logo, and the font and color of it," they said.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Popular Brands We Carry Among the popular styles that Red River Drywall/Brilliant Blinds & Shades offers are Nantucket and Silhouette shades from Hunter Douglas, along with Faux Woods, Roller Shades, and Natural Woven Shades from Alta.

Meet Their Talented Design Consultant Sheri Jacobson, the design consultant at Red River Drywall, has been assisting homeowners and builders in creating beautiful spaces since joining the team in the fall of 2021.

window coverings to meet their needs and match their style. Additionally, she manages and updates project files, ensuring accurate translation of work scopes from builders or homeowners to the execution teams.

She not only consults with homeowners regarding drywall selections, helping them choose the right cornerbead, texture, and paint color for their homes but also offers guidance selecting the right options for

"I love everything about the process," she said. "Seeing each project through from selection to installation is very satisfying. I enjoy the industry, the people, and being creative."

Trendsetters in the Industry Red River Drywall excels in offering full-service drywall, from coordinating stocking of the drywall to hanging, finishing (including tape, texture, and paint), touchups, and warranty services. Their warranty and touchups are conducted by in-house staff, with dedicated personnel managing the department to ensure timely, quality execution.

previous customers, and customer referrals. "The new name will make it easier for those seeking window treatments to find us," Jeramie said.

Looking forward, the Peterson's are eager to grow and expand their brand, and add additional team members to provide the same quality services to more customers across the Valley.

The rebrand will help new customers more easily identify Brilliant Blinds & Shades and understand their offerings. Most of their clientele comes from builder referrals,

Schedule a Consultation Today! | 701-282-7667 | redriverdrywall.com | /redriverdrywallhorace

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| 701-353-9656 | brilliantblindsfm.com | Search "Brilliant Blinds & Shades"

Sponsored Content

By Josiah Kopp Project photos by Urban Toad Media Headshots by Josiah Kopp

W

Setting a New Trend in the Funeral Home Industry From a team of young directors to newly-designed facilities, Boulger Funeral Homes is bringing a fresh approach 32

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With a legacy spanning over 150 years in catering to families in the Red River Valley, Boulger Funeral Homes assures dependability through its compassion, knowledge, and extensive experience during families' times of need.

Throughout the generations, the Boulger family has been propelled by an unwavering commitment to attention to detail and outstanding care. Today, owner Jim Boulger carries on the legacy with his dedicated staff. Their foremost priority is treating each family with the same consideration as their own, embracing the unique identity of those who walk through their doors.

Backed by a passionate and caring team of professionals, Boulger pledges to honor and celebrate the wishes of you and your loved ones with the utmost dedication. With a few of the youngest funeral home directors in the state, Boulger is setting a new trend in welcoming young professionals to take the lead and carry on the rich legacy Boulger has created over the years.

Recognizing the diversity in cultural backgrounds, financial situations, and immediate concerns of every family, the Boulger team is resolute in collaborating with individuals to address any arising concerns or issues, always approaching them with warmth and a professional attitude.

In tandem with their dedication to service, Boulger has invested significantly in bringing a better experience to families and providing more ways to connect.

"We’ve worked hard to bring the funeral industry up with current social and technological environments," Jim Boulger said. "From our updated and evolving website to the technology utilized in the funeral home, Boulger is embracing the technology changes and expectations of our customers. We also have stateof-the-art projection and television viewing within the funeral home, as well as online streaming for those families whose members may be out of state or unable to attend in person."

Q&A

with Tia

You come from an athletic background, having played soccer in college. How does that background in teamwork help drive you in the work you do today with Boulger?

Being a team player has always been a complete mentality for me. Every staff member at Boulger Funeral Home plays an important role in how we serve our families.

Every day involves communication and relying on each other for the result which is being there and supporting our families as best as we possibly can in their time of need.

While pursuing your education, when did you realize you wanted to pursue this industry? What drew you to it and how has that passion developed to what it is today?

Meet our young

team of directors!

I have always known I wanted to be a funeral director since I graduated high school. I really thought it was going to be an interesting and rewarding job. It wasn’t until later when I had lost my dad to cancer during my pursuit of this career that I had made my real connection. It became so much more than a job to me. It is being there for a family in some of the toughest moments of their life.

Being a young female funeral director in this state does catch some families by surprise.

Times are changing and a lot more women have been coming into the field which was predominantly male for some time. I like to think I give out an ability for families to feel comfortable with me right away. Listening and adapting to what families need has always been a key role in helping families personalize funerals along with staying up to date with technology. We have been able to do way more than we ever have with funeral services including playing personal videos, live streaming, customized printing, and so much more.

What has the funeral home industry taught you about caring for your own loved ones?

It has taught me to check in with each other and always say "I love you." Always be kind as you never know what someone is going through and treat every family member that has passed as if they were your own.

There is a lot to learn from the funeral home industry and I am completely humbled by it.

Although Jim Boulger wasn't always certain he was going to go into the funeral industry, things fell into place for him while attending the University of Minnesota for his Bachelor of Mortuary Science. "During my junior year of college at the University of St. Thomas (where Jim studied prior for his bachelor in business), I knew I wanted to run a business, but beyond that, I wasn’t sure," he said. "I was never pushed into doing the family business, but I decided to give it a shot, and I loved it. I love meeting with families and working with my dad, something I feel lucky to be able to do on a daily basis."

Tia Lopez Funeral Director

Tia Lopez is a licensed funeral director in both North Dakota and Minnesota and is also a licensed insurance agent in the state of North Dakota. Her role at Boulger is to meet with families in their time of need, conduct end-oflife services, and perform embalming and cosmetics as needed. Outside the office, Tia enjoys weightlifting, thrifting, drinking craft beer, and spending time with family and friends.

Both you and Hannah are among the youngest directors in the state for this industry—how does that dynamic bring something fresh and new to the experience, and where do you see your strengths really coming into play?

Meet the fourthgeneration owner of

Boulger Funeral Homes

Outside the office, Jim can be found on the golf course, playing pickleball, or perusing a whiskey section looking for something to add to his collection. He also loves spending time with his three kids, fly fishing in Montana, and enjoying the natural beauty.

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Q&A

with Hannah

Your education began at MSUM and then moved on to DMACC—when did you realize this was the industry you wanted to pursue?

Hannah Blazinski-Cuhel Funeral Director

Hannah is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in North Dakota and Minnesota.

She and her team of other directors meet with families to plan services, handle all necessary planning and organizing, and direct funeral services. She also goes to the place of someone’s passing to bring them into Boulger's care and helps provide the necessary care and preparation of the deceased.

Outside the office, Hannah owns a small coffee shop in Downtown Fargo called Revival Specialty Coffee Bar, which opened earlier this fall. "I have been enjoying training my employees and creating fun new drinks for our menu as well as decorating our space and watching it grow," she said. Hannah also enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, yoga, and spending time with her family.

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I knew in my junior year of high school that I wanted to be a funeral director; I had the opportunity to job shadow at Olsen Funeral Home in Fergus Falls and seeing how much comfort and direction their director was able to provide inspired me to strive to do the same. I went to MSUM for prerequisites and later started working at Boulger.

Continuing to witness how much care and support a funeral director provides when they are needed the most confirmed the career I knew I wanted. During the pandemic, I began looking for solely online classes and was able to find a program with DMACC that would allow me to stay with Boulger full-time while completing classes in the evening. I completed my degrees there and subsequently became the youngest person ever to be licensed in Mortuary Science in North Dakota. The in-person experience of being in the funeral home every day gave me such a boost in understanding the ins and outs of the industry; I am so grateful for the time taken by my coworkers to teach me everything they know.

You’ve been a part of Boulger for four years now—what surprised you most about this industry? And what are you personally doing that is unique or different as a director that is giving a fresh approach to the BFH experience?

It surprised me how much each family has an impact on my life. I have met so many diverse and wonderful people and hold a place for each in my heart. It isn’t instinctually easy to trust someone much younger than you with such intricate and important details and it has meant the world to me that these families have put so much faith in me.

Both you and Tia are among the youngest directors in the state for this industry—how does that dynamic bring something fresh and new to the experience, and where do you see your strengths really coming into play?

Being a young female funeral director means that I may be able to make a larger, more diverse crowd comfortable being themselves during their time of need. Tia and I have this in common, which I appreciate as we are able to be such strong supports for one another. Obviously, this career is a heavy one; we take a lot with us emotionally but also need to navigate being unwavering support systems for families that are going through much more than ourselves at the moment. Being able to support each other as we support our families keeps us strong.

Dedicated to giving back "Both Boulger Funeral Homes and I as an individual are active in giving back. We’ve been lucky to have been a supporter of so many organizations over the years and we continue to strive to do so. Personally, I’m a member of the Sanford Health Foundation Board, Selected Independent Funeral Homes, and I’m also involved in Rotary Club, support BioGirls and Gigi’s Playhouse, and get to coach my son’s soccer team." - Jim Boulger

Did you know?

Many people may not be aware of the technical training and schooling needed to be in the funeral home industry. Passing both national and state-level boards and serving internships before you’re licensed and able to practice are a couple of the biggest requirements.

A newly designed space to provide comfort and lift your spirits In addition to their wonderful team, Boulger also recently finished a new remodel project, partnering with interior designer Christen Joy. "When we approached Christen, our main goal was to update the space but keep it feeling comfortable, warm, and inviting," Jim said. "We try to remodel the funeral home regularly to stay current but never want to lose the feeling of walking into a space where you can feel at home like you’re with family."

"The Boulger Funeral Home project was designed to feel warm, inviting, and comfortable—these themes are similar to one’s living room, so we designed the spaces to be an extension of a home while layering in the commercial elements that are necessary for day-to-day business," Christen Joy said.

She and her team opted to keep existing masonry work and millwork, so she coordinated selections to ensure that these elements felt a part of the design instead of feeling like an outdated feature. Warm tones echoed through furniture pieces, wallpaper, paint, and brass accents politely pulled in the kept features.

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Did you know?

"It is a common misconception that funeral directors primarily only do the 'backroom stuff,' when in reality, 90% of the job involves working with the living, making a tough time a little better."

From there they played with patterns throughout the flooring and upholstered pieces adding interest and design layers. She worked closely with her talented subcontractors to add built-ins that worked as functional elements (coffee bar, trash, refrigeration, etc.) while being an area for family members to add momentous photographs during services. The updated spaces also include "art TVs" that double as artwork and are used for slideshows.

They completed the look with brass bevels, making them truly look like a piece of artwork.

Lastly, artwork and accessories were added throughout to complete the 'extension of home' feel, creating an environment that is welcoming and warm.

"Christen has been a joy to work with," The Boulger team said. "She made a challenging project well worth the effort!"

| boulgerfuneralhome.com | 701-237-6441 | 123 10th St S Fargo, ND 58103

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Sponsored Content

Eye Health is Important to Your Overall Health at Every Age Even if you don’t have problems seeing up close or far away, regular eye exams are an important part of maintaining your overall health at every age. Our eyes are not only our windows to the world but also a reflection of our general well-being.

6 months to 5 years It's essential infants, toddlers, and children have regular eye exams to ensure their vision develops properly. We recommend children between the ages of three and five have at least one eye exam to assess their vision and detect any abnormalities while they're still growing. Your eye doctor will check for eye alignment, depth of field, astigmatism, and near-sightedness or far-sightedness. An eye exam can also reveal conditions that have long-term effects if left untreated and can impact your child’s confidence.

5 to 19 years As children enter school their vision issues are often more easily spotted, whether they’re not able to see the board or have difficulty with online lessons. While schools often perform basic vision screenings, these do not replace a comprehensive eye exam. Visiting an eye doctor for a thorough exam during these years will ensure any changes in vision are corrected and any diseases are detected and treated early.

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20 to 39 years During these years, if you don’t wear glasses or contact lenses, getting an eye exam every two or three years may be enough. But if you’re a corrective lens wearer, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment every year to ensure your prescriptions are up to date and your eyes are healthy. Ask your eye doctor how often you should get an eye exam, especially if you have a chronic disease associated with higher eye disease rates like diabetes.

40 to 64 years In this age range you may start noticing agerelated vision loss, such as difficulty reading. You may also experience reduced tear production.

Attend eye exams every two to four years during this period if you don’t have existing eye problems.

Keeping a regular schedule will help diagnose problems early. People with high blood pressure or high cholesterol may need more frequent exams.

60 and older Once you’re 60 years old, you should get an eye exam every year even if you don’t have existing eye problems. Look out for peripheral vision loss, glare, or difficulty seeing in low light. Schedule an appointment to see your eye doctor if you notice any sudden vision changes or think you need a different prescription.

Ensure your family’s eye health today. Schedule an appointment with our caring doctors at Eye Consultants of North Dakota in Fargo, ND, today!

701-235-0561 or visit eyeconsultantsnd.com

Schedule now

Photos by Elisabeth Eden

Peppermint White Russian Ingredients: • 1 Can Cutwater White Russian • 1-2oz Peppermint Schnaps • Candy Canes for Garnish

Ingredients: • 1 Can Nutrl Cranberry • Fresh Cranberries and Rosemary sprig Garnish

Rim the glass with crushed candy canes & pour ingredients over ice!

Skip the hassle of buying and measuring ingredients, and instead grab a Nutrl, find a cute glass, and garnish for the cutest festive cocktail!

A creamy, chocolatey, peppermint sipper!

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Festive Vodka Cranberry

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Root Beer White Russian Ingredients: • 1 Can Cutwater White Russian • Root Beer Pour 2 parts White Russian and 1 part root beer over ice and enjoy!

Take it to the next level and add a scoop of ice cream for a deliciously creamy, adult, root beer float!

Cranberry Mule Ingredients: • 1 Can Cutwater Vodka Mule • 2oz Cranberry Juice • Fresh Cranberries and Rosemary sprig Garnish Grab a copper mug or glass, pour ingredients over ice, and garnish for a tasty cocktail worth cheering!

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By Brady Drake

This edition of Trendsetters is a celebration of community trailblazers in the Fargo-Moorhead area—those who serve our community through innovation and generosity.

Our cover feature, Fix it Forward Ministry, is an organization that extends beyond mere vehicle repair, offering a lifeline to those in need. They ensure that mobility is not a barrier to employment and foster a sort of independence. Fix it Forward is just one of the many organizations featured in this issue, allowing us to shine a light on the individuals and businesses driven to make the FargoMoorhead area an accessible, supportive, diverse, and fulfilling community.

Flip through the pages and learn more about these fine organizations as well as some of the great businesses backing our community, plus how you can get involved too!

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BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Memory Loss The Memory Cafe of the Red River Valley Memory loss can be devastating for all parties involved.

For the affected, life can become confusing and isolating.

For their loved ones it often seems hopeless, but it doesn't have to be thanks to the Memory Cafe of the Red River Valley, the only place in the metro for members of the memory loss community to gather in a safe, welcoming environment.

T By the Numbers For the past two consecutive months, attendance has been just under 800. By the end of 2023, Kaul expects the Memory Cafe to host over 5,000 participants and guests!

"There is a lot of talk about inclusiveness these days, but up until now, those discussions haven't included people in the memory loss community," said Executive Director of the Memory Cafe Deb Kaul, who co-founded the organization due to her own parents dealing with memory disease. "There are thousands of people living with memory loss in Fargo-Moorhead.

The fact that the Memory Cafe is here is so important for people's well-being and mental health. As a society, we often write people off who have dementia or Alzheimer's disease. But we're here to show how it is possible to fully live with this disease. We’re not sugar-coating the disease but we create many

moments of joy for our participants during every gathering. We have a lot of fun together!”

The organization does this by allowing memory-impaired individuals and their loved ones to meet new friends and learn new skills.

"It's not just for the people experiencing impairment," Kaul said. "It's also for their loved ones.

If you come to Memory Cafe we will help equip you with the skills you need to truly be there for your loved one.”

This is an extremely important aspect of the nonprofit according to Kaul

Memory Cafes were started by a psychiatrist in Holland in 1997.

There is no connection between any of the memory cafes around the world though, every cafe is independently operated and funded.

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who says that oftentimes friends and loved ones will abandon the person living with memory impairment because they don't know how to handle the situation.

These people are not bad, they just lack the education to comfortably and respectfully interact with individuals living with memory loss.

"The loneliness that these individuals and these families feel is very detrimental to their disease and also to the overall health of the care partner," Kaul said. “It's holistically very dangerous for them because without support, they feel so isolated and alone.”

The Importance of Activities At the Memory Cafe of the Red River Valley, they believe that just because someone is affected by a memory disease, doesn't mean they can't learn new things and make new friends. That's why they offer free activities every

week including a weekly exercise program by Coach Jake Haile from CrossFit Fargo, who has a passion for working with people with memory loss, especially Parkinson's Disease. They also hire artists, a Montessori instructor, a Music Therapist and others to lead sessions.

“We really want to remind our participants that they are valued members of the community," Kaul said. "One of the big projects we do is we make 90 blankets in 90 minutes and we give them to five area nonprofits during Christmas.”

No Reservations Needed "We don't need reservations," Kaul said. "People don't need to call in advance to come.

You don't need any kind of a doctor's order—you don't need a diagnosis. If you're noticing that there are changes happening in how your brain is working, it's a good time to come to Memory Cafe. We will help you and you'll be

around other people that are experiencing the same thing which is so empowering."

How to Get Involved Everything at the Memory Cafe is free other than the annual conference they hold.

So, the Cafe is 100% reliant on donations and grants.

The Future "At some point down the road, we'd love to be able to provide a brain gym where people can really engage their brains with PT, OT, speech therapy, and intergenerational activities," Kaul said.

Support | memorycafeofrrv.org | /memorycafeoftherrv | @memorycafe_rrv

Want to Learn More?

The Memory Cafe of the Red River Valley hosts a large community educational event in June called Redefining Memory Loss.

"We have quality nationally-recognized speakers come in," Kaul said. "This high-quality dementia education is truly changing the way our community thinks about and supports memory loss."

BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Compass About Heroes Compass Heroes Compass is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving and supporting military veterans, police officers, firefighters, first responders, and their families. Founded in 2023, our organization is committed to making a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to protecting and serving our community. Heroes Compass actively engages with the community through volunteer opportunities, partnerships with local organizations, and events that raise awareness of heroes' needs.

Heroes Compass supported the Fargo Police Department

Mission: To provide essential

resources, support, and community for our heroes, empowering them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

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How Heroes Compass Makes Our Community Better

Vision: A world where every

hero receives the respect, care, and opportunities they deserve, leading to stronger, more resilient communities.

Brady Oberg Legacy Foundation:

Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN

bradyoberglegacyfoundation.org

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"Zach Robinson was my college roommate and is my colleague at the North Dakota Air National Guard," said Heroes Compass Executive Director Tim Kuhn. "When the devastating news hit, we knew we had to step up and help out."

"We serve those who serve.

The heroes in our community sacrifice so much on a daily basis and we want to give back to them. We stand by our military, police, firefighters, and first responders by ensuring they are taken care of. By focusing on these heroes' mental health,

Dedicated to supporting veterans struggling with PTSD, the Brady Oberg Legacy Foundation offers scholarships, promotes awareness, and creates a support network for veterans.

By Brady Drake Photos provided by Heroes Compass

by raising funds for the four police officers impacted by the shooting this past summer.

Heroes Compass partnered with Sandy's Donuts in Fargo, ND, to distribute 400 blue lights and a limited edition Blue Line donut, showing support to our local law enforcement officers. Over $11,000 was raised to donate to the four officers' families.

This organization honors veterans by providing them with an all-expensepaid trip to Washington D.C. to visit memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifices. veteranshonorflightofndmn.org

Fargo Memorial Honor Guard The Fargo Memorial Honor Guard is committed to honoring fallen

physical health, and family life, it makes our community a better place. This sends a ripple effect throughout our region."

adaptive equipment for disabled veterans" Kuhn said.

Services & Programs

This award is given out as a way to recognize individuals who make significant contributions behind the scenes to support our heroes.

Heroes Compass offers a range of programs and initiatives, including: Family, Fitness, Finance

This is a comprehensive program that focuses on promoting mental health and well-being among heroes. This can include counseling services, support groups, mindfulness training, and workshops on stress management and coping techniques.

Family Support Services

Heroes Compass recognizes the importance of supporting hero families by offering programs and resources that address the unique challenges they face.

Financial Assistance Program

This is a program that offers financial assistance to heroes in need by helping them with essential expenses such as housing, utilities, healthcare, and education. This program can provide short-term relief and stability for veterans facing financial hardships as well as financial literacy for long-term success.

Walk to Remember

This is annual event that raises awareness of veteran suicides and veterans facing suicidal thoughts. At the event, held on 9/22, participants walk 2.2 Miles at 9:22 AM to signify the 22 Veterans a day that die by suicide.

"We also started the first annual 'Ruck To Remember,' which is where we ruck 22km with 22 lbs on our back to raise funds for

veterans by performing ceremonial duties at funerals and memorial services. fargomemorialhonorguard.org

Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity This affiliate of Habitat for Humanity works in the Cass and Clay counties, providing affordable housing solutions and engaging communities in building homes for those in need. lakeaggassizhabitat.org

Unsung Hero Award

Hero Support Services

Heroes Compass helps provide resources, counseling, and assistance to heroes transitioning to civilian life.

Future Plans

"Our future plans involve expanding our operations around family, fitness, and finance," Kuhn said. "We believe that these areas are core components in the lives of all heroes. We would like to expand to supporting families during deployments, marriage retreats to strengthen relationships, a financial literacy program, and continuing physical fitness events with our annual walk and ruck. We also want to continue expanding awareness on the mental health challenges our heroes face on a daily basis.

Get Involved

Individuals can support us by volunteering, donating, or participating in events.

"We encourage businesses to explore partnerships that align with our mission," Kuhn said.

Support Heroes Compass | heroescompass.com | /heroescompass

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention A leading organization in the U.S., it focuses on saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide through research, education, and advocacy. afsp.org

BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Difference The Garcia Family's Journey from Hardship to Hope Amidst tough times and health battles, Bella Garcia and her family's story shows how they turned hard times into hope and help for others. From simple lemonade stands to support the homeless, to facing Bella's rare medical condition, the Garcia family has opened their own bakery, Bella's Dulce Sweets & Treats. This move is not just about running a business, but about keeping their family strong and helping others along the way.

(Left to Right) Leo, Rosalinda, Marco, Matheo, and Bella

B

"Back on October 14, 2020, I gave birth to my son and had a uterine rupture," Bella's mother Rosalinda said. "So, he was in the NICU for a while. Going to one of our NICU trips, my daughter saw the people who were living outside—that's when tons of questions came into her little head: 'Why are they there?

It's cold outside and there are apartments there. Why can't they live there?' To us, as parents, they were really good questions. We wanted to help her give back."

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for the homeless shelters, 4 Luv of Dog, and the Homeward Animal Shelters.

Then, she was diagnosed with a vascular malformation in her arm.

Despite the diagnosis, Bella was able to fill 370 Christmas stockings for people in need.

"It was tough for all of us in the family, but we wanted to pull together and still give back despite what we were going through," Rosalinda said.

Bella started with lemonade stands and selling pretzels, chocolatedipped strawberries, and cookies.

With the money she earned, she was able to create care packages

Bella eventually had surgery, which was supposed to take care of the problem. Unfortunately, earlier this year, it came back and it came

Marco: "The strength, handyman, and brains behind our delicious 'DAD bod' cookies!"

Rosalinda: "The master BAKER, marketing whiz, and multitasking extraordinaire!"

back more complex. This required more procedures and surgeries which have led to a number of complications, including necrosis which has required transfusions, wound care, and skin grafting.

"We've been going back and forth from Mayo almost every other week now," Rosalinda said. "Because of that, my husband and I decided to take a leap of faith and open the bakery so we could be in control of our schedules."

Since opening on July 1, the Garcias have been busy trying to grow the business by marketing, going to vendor events, and improving their website.

"It's pretty difficult right now because we have to be closed periodically for Bella's doctor appointments in Rochester," Rosalinda said. "At the moment, we're barely cutting even. But, there are a lot of awesome people that believe in us and our dream and our kids love the little family business. The kids have helped us with so many ideas for the business."

Bella: "At 11, she's our heart of gold, filled with a passion for helping others and sparking innovative ideas!"

"This is our business," Rosalinda said. "This is our life now. This is something that we're going to pass on to our children. We're first-time homeowners in our family and we're basically the first to go to school. We're the first that have been able to start a business. We want to break the cycle of poverty and, eventually, we would like to start giving back again once everything is settled."

What the future of that giving back looks like is not entirely set in stone yet for the Garcias.

However, Rosalinda and Bella really want to be able to do something for families next Christmas. They also have a goal to help other families going through complex medical issues.

lot of people understand the burden of that. That's why we want to help people in similar situations."

At the time of our interview in November, Rosalinda said that Bella is nervous about her upcoming procedure in December, but that the support of family and friends has helped a lot.

"She really wants to play volleyball next year," Rosalinda said. "She wants to get healed and play volleyball—that is the biggest thing on her list right now."

Support Bella's Dulce Sweets & Treats | bellasdulce.com | /bellasdulcetreats

"That's super important because there are so many organizations out there to help families going through cancer, but my daughter doesn't have cancer—she just has a really rare disease," Rosalinda said. "What she has [like many rare diseases] can't be treated locally. So, we have to go to Mayo. I don't think a

Matheo: "Our official taste tester and the inspiration behind our dino-riffic treats!"

Leo: "At 3, he's the heart of our cookie testing and treat shop reorganization!"

BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Transportation Fix It Forward Ministry Limited access to transportation, especially in the Fargo metro, is a huge barrier. Fix It Forward Auto Care and Fix It Forward

Ministry have been working together to remove this barrier for as many people as possible.

What is Fix It Forward Ministry?

that's kind of how it all started," Jensen said. "We're all created in God's image and I think part of that image is helping others. Everyone is called to do something meaningful and we each have different and unique skill sets. This is how we can help."

Fix It Forward Ministry, originally founded under the name Higher Power Automotive Ministries by high school friends and car enthusiasts Matthew Carlson and Jeremy Jensen in 2015, is a charitable organization dedicated to providing free auto repairs and car donations to members of the Fargo-Moorhead community in need. Many residents, particularly single parents, face challenges in getting to work, school, or appointments without a personal vehicle. By repairing vehicles for free and donating cars to those without one, Fix It Forward Ministry aims to remove transportation barriers and foster independence and self-sufficiency in the community​​​.

"We were both working at Microsoft when Matthew came up to me while we were getting something to drink with the idea to fix cars for people in need—

From there, Carlson and Jensen reached out to the YWCA and asked if any of their clients could use help with car repairs. They responded with "absolutely," and let Jensen and Carlson know that the number one problem they were unable to solve for people was transportation. So that's where they started. From there, it only took a year and a half before people were donating cars to them.

Today, Fix It Forward Ministry works exclusively with 40 different casemanagement organizations in the area to identify

•442 vehicles donated in the last 5 years •934 free car repairs in the last 8 years •Over 50 employees (auto care) •4 Employees (ministry)

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individuals truly in need. They do not accept walk-in customers; all services are scheduled and prioritized for those actively working with one of their partner organizations.

"We don't restrict our services or who can participate based on any religion," Jensen said. "However, Matthew and I have faith and that's part of what we intended."

What is Fix It Forward Auto Care?

Fix It Forward Auto Care, a for-profit repair shop founded by Matthew Carlson in 2018, was started in order to help Fix It Forward Ministry expand its services.

"As the momentum of the ministry began to grow, we began to run into some issues," Carlson said. "Originally, [with the ministry] we were doing all of our work out of a shop on a farm and we quickly ran out of space.

We had other logistical issues as well, including insurance—we were uninsurable as a nonprofit doing automotive work. So, the solution we came up with was to have a public-facing auto repair shop. This provided us with the shop space, equipment, and resources we needed to do the ministry the right way."

The Future

This summer, Fix It Forward Auto Care opened their fourth location, setting up their most recent shop in Downtown Fargo. Further expansion is hopefully in the works as well.

"The more we can grow Fix It Forward Auto Care, the more we can grow the ministry, Carlson said. "We're really looking forward to the opportunity to be able to push into other communities so we can help people. We don't have any direct, immediate plans for getting there, but that's definitely the direction we're trying to go."

"Recently, we've added two new team members to the ministry, which will really help

grow the number of cars we can give away," Carlson said. "Right now, we're still unable to keep up."

How to Get Involved • Donate Cars - "Donors like you are what make this Ministry possible, thank you for your generosity. We are looking for cars that do not require any major engine or transmission repairs. We are available at either of our four Fix It Forward Auto Care shops located at 2620 2nd Ave N, Moorhead; 6219 53rd Ave S, Fargo; 102 N University Dr, Fargo; or 1224 13th Ave E, West Fargo between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. if you want to drop the car off or have us take a look. If you decide to donate your car, we will provide you with a tax receipt for your donation, and from you we will just need the car, keys, signed title and any lien release paperwork, if applicable.

The process should take around 10-15 min and we will take care of everything else from there. If you are in need of assistance moving it, we can make arrangements, but it will take a little more time as we are entirely volunteer-run and will have to coordinate schedules. Some vehicles that are donated to us will be resold if they are not practical vehicles for our clients (ie, 2-seaters or convertibles) or have a high cost of ownership (some European vehicles), and the funds from the sale used to purchase parts to repair other vehicles.”

•

Donate Money - "Generous

•

Volunteer - "Volunteers are an essential

professional Technician, a hobbyist, or a do-it-yourselfer, we welcome everyone who has an aptitude for basic repair and a willingness to learn. We also have opportunities for other volunteer interests such as administrative duties, paperwork, or other non-automotive tasks. Simply fill out the following form and one of our Program Coordinators will contact you to discuss your interests. Any volunteer under the age of 18 must have a parental release form signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Support Fix It Forward Auto Care | fixitforwardautocare.com | FixItForwardAutoCareMoorhead | FixItForwardAutoCare52ndAvenue | FixItForwardAutoCareWestFargo | FixItForwardAutoCareDowntownFargo | @fixitforwardautocare Support Fix It Forward Ministry | fixitforwardministry.com | /fixitforwardministry | @fixitforwardministry

contributions from our donors allow us to pay for the parts, tools and materials necessary for vehicle repairs. The average cost of repairs can be upwards of $550.” part of our ability to perform needed repairs on vehicles. All auto repair skill levels are welcome. Whether you are a

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BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Canine Care 4 Luv of Dog 4 Luv of Dog Rescue, based in Fargo, ND, is a remarkable example of community-driven efforts in animal welfare. Established in 2005, this entirely volunteer-run non-profit organization is dedicated to the cause of rescuing and rehoming dogs. The organization primarily serves the upper Midwest.

T

The Rescue receives no government funding and relies entirely on grants, fundraising, and generous donations from the community to provide care for all of the dogs in its rescue. A volunteer-run organization devoted to rescuing and rehoming dogs, 4 Luv of Dog Rescue does not discriminate against breed, age, or disability.

"We are nothing without our community," Fundraising Coordinator Savanna Leach said.

A unique aspect of 4 Luv of Dog Rescue is its operational model. Unlike many animal shelters, it does not maintain a traditional shelter facility. Instead, it operates on a fosterbased system, with dogs being cared for in foster homes

•6,500 dogs saved as of 2022 •Over 300 volunteers

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or at local boarding facilities. This approach not only provides a more home-like environment for the dogs but also helps in better assessing their behavior and needs in a family setting.

This system is complemented by a facility in Moorhead, MN, which is used for emergency-only housing for dogs until a foster home becomes available​​​.

have more room for in-house activities that we would otherwise pay for—this includes grooming, training, boarding, etc. It is a very large dream, but we would love to see it happen."

Potential adopters can meet dogs either by becoming approved to adopt or by attending an organization-hosted event.

This process ensures that the dogs are placed in homes that are best suited for their individual needs. Most of the dogs are in foster homes, and the organization respects the time and commitment of its foster volunteers by arranging meetings with approved adopters only.

• Volunteer

How to Get Involved • Foster • Adopt

Support 4 Luv of Dog | 4luvofdog.org | /4LuvOfDogRescue

| @4luvofdogrescue

The Future "We would love to build our own space," Leach said. "We currently lease, and we lease on a very small piece of property. Our own space would ensure longevity in the community, as well as the space to house more animals, and

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BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

and Homes

Every year, The Great North Pole gives out their Helpful Holiday Boxes, which help provide necessities to families in need.

In Fargo's frosty climate, where brisk winds and frequent blizzards are the norm, the necessity for warm winter gear

isn't just a comfort—it's crucial.

Enter The Great North Pole, an organization that warms not just bodies but hearts, too.

How the Great North Pole Makes a Difference

to participate in activities like recess," said Great North Pole Executive Director Shannon Thornton. "As temperatures decline, so does attendance.

Often, this is due to families who are at or below the poverty level not having the financial resources to outfit their children or themselves properly to make the daily walk to and from school."

The Great North Pole's main focus is providing warm winter gear needed by students in the area so that they can better engage in their school programs. Many students in the area live within a 2-mile radius of the school they go to, which makes many of them ineligible for bus transportation to and from school—this requires them to walk.

"Considering the average morning temperatures from November 2022 to March 2023 fell in the teens to below zero and that the local area averages four to twelve blizzards per year, having high-quality winter wear is a necessity to get to and from school and to be able

•$2,127,855

raised since 2017

•4,375

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households helped since 2017

"The Great North Pole's Mission is to help children and families in need in Cass and Clay County," Thorton said. "Our goal is to bring joy and the spirit of Christmas to every household we touch. We are able to do this through our generous donors, national and local corporate sponsorships, other local nonprofits, and hundreds of volunteers from our community."

Our program touches many lives from the children and their families to the teachers, counselors, and social workers at their schools. One mother sent us a thank you for the Downy she received, stating it gave her confidence going into a job interview she had because she knew she smelled fresh and clean. One of the counselors stated that absenteeism dropped for several children due to not only the coats the children received but also because the parent had also received a coat warm enough for her to be able to walk her elementary-aged children to and from school. Another family sent a thank you stating they were able to provide a gift at Christmas themselves for the first time because they didn't have to choose between having food on the table or having a present for their child."

-Executive Director, Shannon Thornton

One of the Great North Poles' key initiatives is their Helpful Holiday Boxes. These boxes help to subsidize families' monthly expenses for basic needs items in the month of December to help bring joy and the spirit of Christmas to every household they touch. These boxes often include warm winter gear, pantry items, personal and household basic needs products, and supplies.

"To distribute goods we partner with local counselors and social workers in the Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead school districts," Thornton said. "Each school receives a limited number of students/families to enroll who are on the Federal Free/Reduced lunch program and fall at or below the poverty level.

This ensures the students and their families who

are in the most need are enrolled in our program.

We also partner with local nonprofit charities who work with children and families in need such as the YWCA, the Jeremiah Program, CCRI, and The Village Family Services."

"Our program touches many lives from the children and families to the teachers, counselors, and social workers at their schools," Thorton said.

"One mother sent us a thank you for the Downy she received, stating it gave her confidence going into a job interview she had because she knew she smelled fresh and clean.

One of the counselors stated that absenteeism dropped for several children due to not only the coats the children received but also because the parent had also received a coat warm enough for

her to be able to walk her elementary-aged children to and from school. Another family sent a thank you stating they were able to provide a gift at Christmas themselves for the first time because they didn't have to choose between having food on the table or having a present for their child."

How to Get Involved • Volunteer - many

opportunities are available all year • Donate - “We appreciate your time, talents, and treasure.”

Support the Great North Pole | thegreatnorthpole. org

| /theGreatNorthPole | @thegreatnorthpole

BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Together Farm in the Dell Emma McIntyre

Farm in the Dell, based out of Moorhead, is a non-profit organization with a compelling and compassionate mission. This organization is dedicated to enhancing the emotional, physical, and spiritual lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

A Emma McIntyre

Studio Freshly

At the heart of Farm in the Dell's mission is the transformative idea of turning disabilities into abilities. To do this, they provide employment to individuals with developmental disabilities in a farm setting. These employment opportunities are not just jobs; they are a means to empower, uplift, and provide a sense of purpose and belonging to those who are often marginalized in society.

"We work closely with local families and agencies to connect individuals with purposeful work that fills their spirits, sharpens their minds, and cultivates joy," said Executive Director Anna Sather. "At the farm, our employees find space to discover their abilities and explore their passions."

The organization extends its impact through a Community

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Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and participation in local farmer's markets. Located in Moorhead, MN, Farm in the Dell of the Red River Valley provides CSA services to the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area, selling a variety of produce like tomatoes, peppers, corn, and dozens of other garden produce items.

This program not only offers employment to individuals with special needs but also connects the community to locally grown, fresh produce​.

How to Get Involved This organization also offers a range of opportunities for those interested in supporting its mission. Such initiatives not only support the farm's operational needs but also create a bridge between the community and those with disabilities, fostering a sense of inclusivity and support​.

The Future "In our commitment to further the mission and impact in the Fargo-MoorheadWest Fargo community of ‘transforming disabilities into abilities’ through purposeful employment opportunities, we are seeking ways to more deeply serve our Garden Engineers," Sather said. “One way in which they hope to do that is by providing year-round employment, as they currently provide employment offerings during the growing season between May and October.

We are excited about the potential that our mission will have on our team and community. There are exciting days ahead.”

They invite the community to get involved in the following ways: • Pray that the mission positively touches lives • Donate dollars to help support the mission • Donate much-needed farm supplies • Attend their seasonal events • Refer employees, volunteers, and partners • Follow them on social media Support | farminthedellrrv.org | /farminthedellrrv | @farminthedellrrv

BUSINESS TRENDSETTER

Basics Furniture mission of the red river valley The Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley is a non-profit organization based in North Dakota that works to provide essential household furniture and items, at no cost, to individuals and families facing challenging times.

O

Operating as a faith-based organization, the Furniture Mission, which was founded in 2020 by Evert Van Engelenhoven, specializes in facilitating access to furniture for households in crisis or undergoing significant life challenges. Their work involves collecting gently used furniture donations and then re-gifting these items to people who are in the process of rebuilding their lives. Essential items such as beds, dressers, and lamps, which are fundamental in setting up a home, form a significant part of their donations​​.

In order to ensure that the most inneed people are getting access to their donations, the Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley works with 40 other agencies in our community. These agencies

•20,000 pieces of furniture given out over 3.5 years •1 Employee

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are also walking alongside people as they navigate a lot of really challenging situations, including homelessness and domestic violence situations.

"There are a lot of different situations that these people are coming from," said Jordan McCormick, the Furniture Mission's executive director and only employee. "The common denominator is that these individuals and families are completely starting over. Inventory is always a challenge so we might not have something that everybody needs, but we're here to help people with the basic necessities so they can get back on their feet."

According to McCormick, the average family takes home 12 pieces of furniture with them and they work with an average of 17 families per week.

"Last year, we served 624 families in the calendar year," McCormick said.

"Furniture insecurity is a real thing in our community, unfortunately. You don't think of this when you think of basic needs. You

need shelter. You need food. You need access to medical care. But furniture can fall between the cracks and it can really make or break a situation where someone is doing all they can to get back on their feet."

Support Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley | furnituremissionrrv.org | /Furnituremissionrrv

Types of Furniture "We take couches, loveseats, chairs, table sets, dressers, lamps are the only thing we accept that plugs in, and beds are our most requested items," McCormick said. "And, they're the hardest thing for us to keep stocked because usually when we get them, they go right out. Obviously, beds can be gross, so we're pretty picky when it comes to which bed we will accept—we want to serve people with dignity."

How to Get Involved • Volunteer • Donate Furniture • Donate Money

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BY JOSIAH KOPP |

P R OJ E C T P H O T O S B Y PA U L E T T E H A G E N | H E A D S H O T S B Y J O S I A H K O P P

MEET THE DESIGN Professionals

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CHELSEY JOHNSON

and residential projects. Her sister Leah Petersen works alongside her as the next generation of owners in their family firm.

Principal Prairie Design Studio CHELSEY'S RESUME • Principal Designer & Co-owner • Former City Council Member for Horace, ND • Jeremiah Program Volunteer • Wife & Mother

Chelsey Johnson grew up immersed in her family’s architecture firm located in Horace, ND. Prairie Design Studio (PDS), started by her father, Kim Stokes, in the early 1980s, designs structures from large-scale apartment complexes and skilled care facilities (nursing homes) to office buildings and residential properties.

Chelsey has worked at PDS for 20 years, managing commercial, industrial,

She recently served on Horace city council helping shape the growing community, “It was a wonderful experience, I have immense respect for anyone serving their community and the time and effort it requires,” she said.

Now she volunteers at Jeremiah Program, which supports single mothers as they get their college degrees by providing housing, daycare, and tools to help them excel in life.

Her free time consists of yoga, golf, and time with her family.

Every month, she looks forward to her peer group meetings, led

by Kelsey and Grace with You Flourish Company, a local agency helping people prevent burnout, accomplish their goals, and thrive alongside other career-driven individuals. They meet monthly to strategize problems, set goals, and connect. They also host local events throughout the year like their quarterly Breakfast and Bibles geared for men and women, which includes a speaker along with networking and reflection, and their Goal Setting Summit, among other curated events.

Featured Project

Stokes Family Lake House C O M P L E T E D I N 2 0 2 2 - L A K E PA R K , M N

HOME EXTERIOR, FRONT

"The goal when designing this home was to create a home large enough to hold four families comfortably while keeping the design modest yet beautiful," Chelsey said.

Berming the soils and building into the land contours gave her the opportunity to utilize natural elements to achieve the family's goals.

The exterior of the house has brick paver pathways connecting three outdoor patios. The main beach is accessed by a dock bridge over a marsh and the home is

surrounded by nature, giving it a very serene feeling. The development, Grand View Estates, is a common area community with 72 acres, filled with walking and UTV trails. The buildable lots are organized in a way that keeps the natural environment intact and usable to all the residents.

With beautiful natural views in all directions, the home is a tranquil retreat from everyday life for three generations of family.

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HOME & DESIGN

T H E LO W-S LO P E R O O F G I V E S T H E H O M E A P R A I R I E -STY L E A E ST H E T I C W H I L E K E E P I N G CO STS D O W N .

The main level consists of a large kitchen with a round prep island and seating for 15 to eat comfortably, along with a shuffleboard table against a feature wall of brick and stone mixed. Chelsey and her team took stone from the exterior siding and mixed it with the veneer brick on the interior wall and fireplace to give it a rustic feel.

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Fun Fact

Th e h o m e o w n e r had a painting of a bear done by a local artist that she wanted to hang in the living room, so all the main floor finishes and furniture were coordinated to work with this painting.

There is a main floor bedroom with en suite and private patio access which is used as a guest room or future primary if needed. Halfway up to the second floor is the screen porch accessed from the stair landing which has a gas fireplace and a three-season screen system with roll-up clear panels, allowing the porch fireplace to be utilized almost year round. The porch has views of both Nelson Lake and Middle Cormorant Lake.

The second floor has a beverage bar at the top of the stairs with a family room on one side and on the other is a hallway with access to the rest of the bedrooms. One of the big concerns for the family was to be able to sleep in or take naps in a quiet space. This hallway can be closed off with double doors for noise separation from the rest of the living areas. The primary bedroom at the end of the hallway, along with the upstairs family room, has access to the second floor deck and great views of the lake.

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HOME & DESIGN

1.

PLAN YOUR LOT

"Make sure to choose your lot before designing or choosing a house plan. How you harness the sunlight, winter winds, and natural landscaping can vastly affect the quality of the home."

2.

K E E P Y O U R S PA C E T I M E L E S S

"Create drama in your home with things that can be easily changed like paint colors or furniture, and keep the bones of the home timeless with classic styles of millwork, cabinetry, and flooring."

3.

CHOOSE QUALITY FINISHES

"Choosing finishes that stand the test of time will create long-term value in your home. If this is something you’re not comfortable with, use an interior designer. A quality designer will create lasting value in your property."

4.

UTILIZE LARGER WINDOWS

"Larger windows let more light into your home and make the exterior look more expensive. Don’t try to save money with smaller windows."

5.

B E M I N D F U L O F H A L LW A Y S F O R F L O O R S PA C E

"Hallways can create drama in a home, however, if you're designing a new home and want to keep your square footage down, hallways are a waste of space. Sometimes you can’t avoid hallways but if you can put that space into a room you’ll get more bang for your buck."

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Chelsey's

HOME & DESIGN

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TRENDS & COLORS FOR 2024

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HOME & DESIGN

THINGS I RECOMMEND FOR THE HOME 1.

I N T E G R AT E D S P E A K E R S THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE

"Work with an experienced professional to be sure speakers are placed properly for the best sound, fire codes are met, and the right equipment is chosen to suit your needs."

2.

WIRING FOR SECURITY CAMERAS

3.

G A S L I N E H O O K- U P F O R O U T D O O R FIREPLACE AND/OR GRILL

"Wiring for cameras up front can save on maintenance and trying to hide wires around the house later on. Security cameras bring peace of mind to many homeowners and are a great way to feel safer in your home."

"Not having to replace propane tanks when they are empty is a luxury that can take one thing off the to-do list. Never again start dinner and realize you need to make a trip to the store before you can start the grill."

4.

ZONED HVAC SYSTEM

"Different levels of a home can vary widely in temperature causing someone in the family to feel a little less comfortable.

Making sure different levels are on their own thermostat can rid your home of that freezing basement or hot bonus room."

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5.

O U T L E TS I N C L O S E TS OR STORAGE ROOMS

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E L E CT R I C B L I N D S F O R H A R D -TO - R E AC H O R L A R G E G R O U PS O F W I N D O W S

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M O T I O N - S E N S O R N I G H T L I G H TS

"We have so many items that need power, and sometimes, like battery vacuums, those are better out of sight, having places to plug things into the closet is very handy."

"Closing multiple windows in multiple rooms can be timeconsuming—having blinds open with a push of a button lets you have more control over your spaces. Hard-to-reach windows can be blinding when watching a movie with no way to reach them. Electric blinds are available with batteries but ideally are hard-wired during construction."

"Motion-sensor night lights in bathrooms, kitchens, and stairs are main the key areas so you don’t have to turn on blinding lights when you're trying to sleep. They are a safety feature on stairwells to avoid falls as well."

Chelsey's Local Picks

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HOME & DESIGN

Q&A

Outside the design world, you've had experience as a city council member for the city of Horace—what have you loved most about being involved in and giving back to the community?

I was on the city council for four years (my term ended last year). I would highly recommend anyone willing to come to the table for their community, be a problem solver, and put the best interests of the people they are serving first, should be a public servant. It helps you understand the important decisions that are made.

It also gives you more respect for those in that position— they have to make difficult decisions every day.

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You love yoga and golf—what other ways do you keep your heart and mind refreshed and inspired?

I learned about meditation and energy healing five years ago through a book called "Becoming Supernatural"

by Joe Dispenza—it changed my life. I have always had a craving for ways to live my best life and when I found this book, It gave me that new perspective I was waiting for and taught me how to gain power over myself and my life. From everything I’ve learned, I think the most important thing is knowing how to find peace, even in the hardest moments or wherever you are in life—meditation can really help with that.

You're now the principal at PDS, what do you love most about continuing your family business legacy alongside Leah?

My Dad, Kim Stokes, worked hard to build a great company. One of the most valuable things he taught me is how to make our clients feel good about the experience they have when working with us. Leah and I talk a lot about what kind of experience our clients are getting— making sure they’re going to come back for their next project or refer us to a friend is our number one priority. I love that, as a team, we are striving to grow a future we can be proud of and hopefully pass along one day.

The lake home has a lot of woodsy and earthy textures—I love it. What other textures have you been experimenting with lately?

Designing spaces with an eclectic look by mixing modern with vintage can give a sleek updated feel but warms it up with the classic vintage textures. For example, using vintage woodgrains and architectural details but pairing them with modern flooring or lighting gives a good balance and creates a more ageless space for years to come.

How does your family inspire your creative journey?

and balance in my buildings while my sister Leah is awesome at the technical side of the design process, so we make a great team.

What do you want to illustrate to your kids through your work?

I was just talking about this the other day... no parent is perfect but we all have our strengths and one of mine is showing them a loving and hardworking mom. My small family-owned firm is a blessing when it comes to balancing my kids and work.

They grow up fast and I believe the kids learn most by what we model for them. For me, it's my strength, happiness, and selfcare.

How To Support

Chelsey

Creativity runs in my family, I excel at creating flow 73

BY JOSIAH KOPP |

PHOTOS BY SCOTT THUEN

MEET THE DESIGN Professionals

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RACHAEL BOYER Owner Authority Companies RACHAEL'S RESUME • Co-founder & Owner of Authority Companies • Founder & Owner of Studio A • Published author • Healthcare professional & entrepreneur • Wife & Mother

Rachael Boyer is a serial entrepreneur, whose focus in building businesses is to better the lives of those around her.

She started out in the medical field, with an M.S. in Biology and Chemistry that led her to obtain her Physician Assistant Certification.

Rachael's time spent as a Physician's Assistant involved her launching both a bariatric program and a nutrition program for the healthcare system she worked in. Her passion for building programs and businesses extended into her married life, as she and her husband Jeff launched a painting company, The Brush's End. After taking advantage of opportunities to launch three additional companies within the construction field and one in the automotive industry, Rachael realized that her heart was set on business development and construction.

Rachael left the medical field in 2016 to focus solely on her business development.

Since 2016, Rachael has grown The Authority Companies substantially, which include subsidiaries like The Brush's End (re-branded to The Coatings Authority), The Home Authority, Inc., Cabinet Authority, Authority Home Services, Shed Authority, as well as Studio A, which is Rachael's expansion into the Minneapolis market through interior design and home furnishings firm.

Above all of her professional accomplishments, Rachael's most significant accomplishment in her personal life centers around her husband, Jeff, and their son, Caleb.

Her willingness to dream bigger, not limit herself with preconceived notions of what one is "supposed" to do, and her ability to adeptly navigate changes have provided her the greatest sense of accomplishment.

HOME & DESIGN

The Studio A furniture and decor were an integral part of bringing this remodel to life.

A fully equipped Butler’s Pantry provides design interest and ample storage and prep space.

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Featured Project

The Generational Homestead The Cossette family reached out to Rachael and her team after they had found a home in an ideal location, but the home itself was not the layout and style they desired. "One of our specialties is remodeling what we call 'New to You' homes, with a proprietary process that efficiently transforms a family’s ‘new to them’ home before they move in," Rachael said. "This was the perfect opportunity for us to help the homeowners achieve the needs they had for their home and their investment in it." Rachael's goal with the project was to bring this family together via an optimal floor plan and integrate design choices that truly felt like home for them. The Cossette’s goal was to create a generational homestead for their family to gather together for decades to come.

The remodel involved a full interior renovation—the Authority team transformed every room in this home, creating the ultimate entertaining and hang-out space in the basement, optimizing the flow of the first floor, developing a modern farmhouse feel unique to this family’s tastes, updating

the bathrooms, making the bedrooms into personalized retreats, and taking what started as a bedroom and transforming it into the ultimate walk-in closet. They made the garage a place to spend time with a bar and relaxation spot, along with the perfect storage system including cubbies and slat walls. They made updates to the exterior of the home as well by refinishing the existing brick with a white stain wash, installing a new roof and gutter system, and adding roughcut cedar accents on the windows and porch.

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HOME & DESIGN

The homeowners elected to keep and refinish their existing windows. There are pros and cons to going this route versus purchasing new windows.

The Coatings Authority team dismantled every part of the windows and refinished them to a factory-like finish, and in that process, they discovered one of the windows was rotted and needed to be repaired. "It’s impossible to plan for something like this, as the window needed to be dismantled before the problem could be identified," Rachael explained. "We were able to make the window repair and refinish and were ultimately grateful to uncover the issue, which is a major reason why we don’t just slap a coat of paint on top of the window trims and hope for the best."

"The Cossettes love to spend time together playing games, and we incorporated their love of gameplay into the basement design," Rachael said. This introduces one of the most unique elements of the project: a custom-fabricated, beautiful dart board and pool/ping-pong table storage feature to enhance both the look and function of the basement entertainment area."

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The basement is an entertainer’s dream, with a full wet bar and custom-fabricated dart board.

The master bedroom, bathroom, and massive closet create a spa retreat at home.

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5

Rachael's

HOMEBUILDING & REMODELING HACKS

WORK WITH A CONTRACTOR YOU CAN TRUST

"Communication and transparency are key when considering what remodeling contractor to choose for your project. If you don’t feel confident in the ability to efficiently communicate with a contracting team from day one, you want to consider how it will feel to not be able to reach anyone when your home is torn apart mid-project. Look for proven processes, a shared project schedule, and a clear budget from the get-go to experience a stress-free remodel."

2.

CONSIDER ROI FOR YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

"Receiving a positive return on investment is not just about quality work or a beautiful end result—it also involves understanding the value consideration within your unique neighborhood. You’ll want to either research the local real estate market to gain insights into resale potential and comparable property values yourself or work with a remodeling team that will do that legwork for you."

3.

4.

D E S I G N F O R T H E S PA C E Y O U A R E I N

5.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

"It can be tempting to just copy and paste your favorite HGTV or Pinterest inspiration onto your home, but designing for a remodel needs to incorporate the existing space. Keep in mind any elements that are staying the same, and also account for the floor plan and flow of your home. Incorporate your updated design into what’s already there, creating a beautiful blend of what’s original and brand new."

"Remodeling is about optimizing both the form and the function of your spaces. As you redesign your home and think about all of the ways you want it to look differently, don’t forget to take this time to streamline the ways you use your home as well.

A remodel is the perfect time to add closet storage systems, cabinet organizational tools, and built-ins that tuck away clutter, and create a flow throughout the home that better suits you and your day-to-day life."

T H R E E W O R D S : F I X E D . P R I C E . C O N T R A C T.

"Hearing a cheap remodel price on the front end of your project means nothing if it’s not a fixed-price contract. You can be sold a too-good-to-be-true estimate, only to find that halfway through your project your contractor needs thousands upon thousands of additional dollars to complete the job. It sounds like a rare nightmare, but it’s a scenario that homeowners experience far too often. A fixed-price contract gives you control over your budget and provides financial peace of mind."

Continued >

Fun Fact Wo r k i n g w i t h f a m i l i e s f o r o v e r 25 y e a r s a n d helping them navigate major transitions at home via moving and remodeling inspired Rachael to write a c h i l d r e n ’s b o o k s e r i e s , " Th e A d v e n t u r e s o f S u p e r D o u g i e ! " Yo u c a n f o l l o w along with Dougie the D u m p Tr a i l e r a n d a l l of his shenanigans at

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HOME & DESIGN

Rachael's

TRENDS & COLORS FOR 2024

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A I R P U R I F I C AT I O N SYSTEM

"EPA studies indicate that the levels of many air pollutants may be two to five times higher in indoor air than in outdoor air."

2.

KOHLER SHOWER SYSTEM

"Digital Shower Panel enables easy control of temperature and water pressure, with the ability to save your favorite shower settings and includes a system warm-up and pause feature for water conservation."

3.

GARAGE S L AT W A L L

"Everything has a place in the garage with a slat wall system.

They create so many unique options for storage—from hanging baskets to hooks for tools to floating shelves. You’ll never dig through another random tote again!"

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THINGS I RECOMMEND FOR THE HOME

4.

AIR EXCHANGE SYSTEM

"These are especially important throughout the winter months when windows are closed and air becomes stale."

5.

CUSTOM GARAGE F L O O R C O AT I N G

"This was a game changer for winter especially—a quality custom coating doesn’t just look nice. It protects your concrete surfaces from the winter elements and also prevents slips and falls for you and your family members."

People I love working with R ya n D e j o n g a t R D I A p p r a i s a l s "Ryan is the appraiser who guides our team in providing the best recommendations to homeowners in how to invest properly in their homes."

Rachael's

LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS

C U S T O M M E TA L W O R K W I T H B O B

"No matter your metal needs, Bob has you covered.

Crafting metal framed doors, railings, room dividers, and more—Custom Metal Work with Bob will incorporate a modern touch in any space."

CARPET WORLD

"The quality of flooring and tile is second to none, and the incredible selection of options makes it easy to find the perfect fit for any home design. The Carpet World team is also fantastic to work with!"

Continued > A n g i e S c o v i l l e a t We s t e r n B a n k "Angie is our par tner in providing homeowners with renovation financing.

Angie takes the time to get to know homeowners and research the best possible financing options for their project."

How To Support

Rachael | authoritycompanies.com | homeauthorityinc.com | @homeauthorityinc | /homeauthorityinc | /authoritycompanies

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S T RO M PLANS

By Brady Drake

W H AT I S S T RO M P L A N S ?

Strom Plans is a project by Strom Architecture offering a series of pre-designed, templated cabin plans for clients. These plans enable clients to have cabins built with ease by their chosen contractors.

"We're providing the design and the construction documents for clients to hand over to the builder to build them their cabin," Strom said.

MEETING CLIENT NEEDS WITH EXPERTISE Jackson Strom acknowledges the gap in the market: clients seeking quality designs without the need for comprehensive architectural services. "We really wanted to help clients out there that weren't necessarily looking to utilize our full set of services," Strom said.

This approach is not just about diversifying their offerings but about democratizing quality architecture.

D E S I G N P H I LO S O P H Y : B L E N D I N G FUNCTIONALITY WITH AESTHETICS Strom Plans' blueprints are grounded in years of architectural expertise and insights. "The designs are really based on things that we have learned over the years about what works and what doesn't," Strom said. True to the firm's roots, the designs carry a distinct Scandinavian influence—minimalistic, functional, yet aesthetically pleasing. These designs are not just visually appealing; they are also pragmatically simpler to build. This ensures fewer complications during construction.

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R E VO L U T I O N I Z I N G CA B I N CO N S T R U C T I O N W I T H S CA N D I N AV I A N - I N S P I R E D D E S I G N S

There are very few of us out there who wouldn't enjoy having a cabin, a place to retreat, find solitude, and gather with loved ones. Strom Architecture, owned by Jackson Strom, is introducing "Strom Plans" to make owning your perfect cabin a little bit easier.

T H E F U T U R E O F S T RO M P L A N S Initially, Strom Plans will feature 6-8 cabin designs, with a commitment to evolve based on client feedback.

Strom Plans is a testament to Jackson Strom's vision of making high-quality, thoughtfully designed homes more accessible. By offering plans that can be executed by almost any contractor, Strom Architecture is not just selling designs; it's facilitating the creation of dream homes for a wider audience.

Strom Architecture stromarch.com /stromarch @stromarch

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BLENDING TASTES OF

HOME

DISCOVER THE LOC AL FAVORITE, CHAI MOTO, IN A NEW SPACE!

By Geneva Nodland |

Geneva Nodland

In newer developments near Veterans Boulevard, a new cafe has opened to offer handmade teas, fresh coffee, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Driving by, you'll see large lettering over the front doors saying, "Chai Moto," accompanied by a logo local tea lovers are all too familiar with.

This spot marks the latest venture of entrepreneur Pasteur Mudende, whose journey from a tea enthusiast to a business owner perfectly portrays passion turned profession.

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their favorite blend or a coffee and enjoy the cozy, warm environment Pasteur built inside.

you're familiar with Chai Moto, you probably remember Pasteur from the Red River Farmer's Market, or maybe you've been a longtime supporter of handmade blends and have shopped online. Now, new or old, customers can visit Chai Moto cafe and not only shop the vast tea selections in the storefront section but also order a cup of

The hallmark of Chai Moto has always been Pasteur's dedication to quality in each tea. From the beginning, he has picked herbs and highgrade ingredients to form the perfect blend, all of which are influenced by East African teas.

After moving to America from Rowanda, Pasteur began exploring tea blends himself in 2000. His exploration of different herbs and mixtures was not just about enjoying the cup,

but about finding a taste of home. Specifically, he found that what was called Chai tea in America, was very similar to black tea; whereas East African Chai tea— Masala—had more spices in the blend.

He wanted to share his tea blends with the community, so Pasteur joined the variety of vendors selling their goods at the Red River Farmers Market in 2018.

He worked with an artist in Costa Rica, Majo Rodríguez or @entropia_illustration on Instagram, to design

CONTINUED >

DID YOU K N OW ?

At the bar, Pasteur had a tool installed, made specifically for tea brewing, which dispenses the hot water at the correct temperature, to the correct fill line for one cup of tea—making single cups of tea (made to order) easy to brew!

the packaging, inspired to put some of the raw ingredients of the teas in a pattern for the packaging.With a successful few years of running his business via the markets, as well as an online shop, Pasteur began looking for a location to set up a cafe.

Initially, he searched for a spot in the downtown area that he was familiar with, but soon found the location near Veterans Boulevard and 40th Avenue South.

On the corner suite, Chai Moto is showered in the morning and early afternoon light with its window-lined east and north walls. A beautiful bar closes in the south wall, with jars of teas, mugs, and steepers lining the walls. Behind the counter, there is a drive-through window built into the strip mall—which Pasteur said is not currently in use, but is something Chai Moto may incorporate in the future.

In the middle of the space, against the north wall, a fireplace separates the room with a large enclosed firebox and chimney extending to the ceiling. Scattered throughout the lounge area are a variety of seating options, including couches and cushiony chairs, two or more seated table

CONTINUED >

One of the coolest items on the menu at Chai Moto is a blooming tea ball. The only item not specifically made by Pasteur, but too hard to pass up, this is technically a tea blend, but the blend is packed into the shape of a ball first. Then, once the hot water is added to steep, you watch it expand and "bloom" to reveal a flower in your cup! The best part?

It's not just for show, the flavor is a sweet, floral white tea blend that is as pleasant to sip as it is to watch.

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and chair set-ups, a floating counter with bar stools, and even seating around the bar counter.

The lounging options serve those looking to connect, a group hoping to catch up, a student or worker dedicating time to focus, a reader flipping through the pages, and just about any other combination, all over a cup of tea.

FM community excels at; and whether that philosophy comes from the variety of makers markets offered year-round, the number of small businesses thriving, or just a unique midwest mindset, it's something that is grown and supported all over the community—and something Pasteur was happy to bring into Chai Moto.

Pasteur's specialty is tea, of course, but he also wanted to serve coffee. While he admitted he still has things to learn about making coffee, he partnered with Thunder Coffee to serve espresso drinks at the cafe. Businesses partnering with other creatives and makers is something the

Chai Moto held a few soft openings in late November and early December but is now officially open, operating from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Stop in at 3955 56th St S, Fargo to try a cup, and visit chaimoto.com to learn more about each blend and shop Chai Moto teas!

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