About Brittany Olafson

Brittany Olafson is a senior at Minnesota State University Moorhead. She is majoring in mass communications with an emphasis in online journalism.

Looking Back at the Historical HoDo

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Brittany Olafson

Manager Dale Powers stands proud behind the bar of the HoDo Lounge

Story and Photos by Brittany Olafson

A Little About Dale

Dale Powers, a day manager at the HoDo, has been in the bar business since 1997. Prior to getting hired at the HoDo, he worked at Arthur’s, a restaurant by Walker, Minn. When he was offered a job at the HoDo, it was right around the time that Arthur’s was being sold. He thought it would be a great opportunity and joined the HoDo staff in May 2003. Powers helped with the hiring process and the setting up of the bar, only to get
it ready for its grand opening in August.

HoDo History: From River Town to Railroad Town

“Prior to the railroad, it was a river hub,” Powers said. “You could look along the Red River and see where they used to have docks where they loaded stuff on, because the river in fact, goes to Hudson’s Bay.”
Powers says back in the 1700s it was a major fur trapping and trading area. People could access the river easily in order to transport goods and services.
“Years ago when they were building the railroad, there was a fire in downtown Fargo in 1893. This building, along with other stuff was rebuilt in 1894,” Powers said.
Of course the fire happened during the era when wood was still used to line the street’s boardwalks. This only fueled the fire, which continued to spread.

The HoDo Restaurant presents a comfortable dining area with local artists' pieces that decorate the walls. The Restaurant is the only area in the building that has paintings for sale.

Businesses Move in After the Reconstruction

Powers says that around 15 to 20 years ago, the HoDo building was occupied with other services. The main part of the building, the HoDo Lounge, was once a bridal shop on the corner of 1st Ave. and Broadway. The eastern part of the building, which is now the HoDo Restaurant, used to be a barbershop, and downstairs in the basement of the building was a hair salon. However, the hotel itself has always been a hotel.

Hotel Donaldson Gets a Makeover

Karen Stoker is the sole proprietor of Hotel Donaldson and the HoDo Lounge and Restaurant. Powers says this is a new venture for her, but the designs of the lounge and hotel rooms show that she knew exactly what she wanted.
“She wanted to do something for downtown Fargo, [and] this building was available,” Powers said.
Although the building is old, a lot has been done in renovation projects. The masonry between the original brick of the building has been tuck pointed, meaning it has been mortared.
“The renovation was incredible in this building,” Powers said. “I stood out here in the lounge before it was done, and I swear I could see daylight through all the floors going up, so they really did a lot of renovation.”

The HoDo Gets Dissected

The HoDo is one company with three departments: Hotel Donaldson, the HoDo Lounge, and the HoDo Restaurant, which are all connected in the building on the corner of 1st Ave. and Broadway N Fargo.
Hotel Donaldson is known as one of downtown Fargo’s “specialty hotels.” With its 17 modern hotel suites, it can accommodate guests for a number of different things, such as work-related visits, business meetings or an elegant evening stay amongst downtown Fargo’s chic nature.

Most rooms at the Hotel Donaldson include a bed, a sitting chair or love seat accompanied by a flat screen television, and a mini bar to accommodate its guests.

“This is an old building, but our rooms are totally modern,” Powers said.
Each room tells its own story, as well. Each room has several pieces of a local or regional artist’s work hanging on the walls. Although these pieces of art are not for sale, their unique differences give each room its own personality as well as bring a feeling of home to its guests.

The rooms' prices vary depending on their sizes.

Above the hotel is a rooftop venue, which has an outdoor hot tub that is open to Hotel Donaldson customers. On nice days, the rooftop bar opens, and guests can sunbathe with cocktails on the patio that overlooks the scenery of downtown.
The HoDo Lounge is a more casual hangout where patrons can enjoy a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. It is the main part of the building, with the entrance located on Broadway. It opens everyday at 11 a.m. and serves lunch all day. The Lounge is also accompanied by a bar, which makes this venue enjoyable for “night owls.”
The HoDo Restaurant is located in the eastern part of the building. It opens at 5 p.m. to guests looking for a classier dining experience. Pieces of artwork for sale to the public can be found on the restaurant walls. The one-of-a-kind, local decorations emphasize the HoDo’s unique atmosphere.

Each hotel room also has a bathroom lined in tile and a large arched shower head.

The HoDo Today

Hotel Donaldson and the HoDo Lounge and Restaurant have come from a long line of history. The business prospers in its class and originality that was built upon a woman’s determination.
Whether you enjoy visiting with friends in the lounge, dining in Downtown’s finest or setting up camp for a night in a suite, the HoDo surely is a hidden treasure.

Oddfellow's Hall is a nice area room upstairs in the hotel for guests to sit down and relax.

For more information on the history of Fargo, click below:

Fargo History

(Edited by Meredith Wathne, MSUM multimedia journalism major)

I Hear the Train a Comin’

Posted on April 3, 2012 by Brittany Olafson

(Story and photos by Brittany Olafson, online journalism major)

WARNING: THIS ARTICLE IS CLEARLY DIRECTED AT THE BOXCARS THEMSELVES, NOT AT THE ENGINEERS OPERATING THEM.

As Johnny Cash would say, you can always hear the train coming. Well, at least in Moorhead you can.

It’s hard to speak for everyone, but if they’re anything like me, they probably are fed up with how many trains are constantly occupying the tracks in the middle of downtown Fargo and Moorhead.

Over the course of a couple of days, I drove around Moorhead, hoping to catch a few trains to see just how many would pass through. Well folks, I was in luck. On Wednesday, March 21, I kept a record of the number of trains in Moorhead between the hours of 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Because I had to go to class, I may have missed a few between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., so I apologize. I was also curious about this issue and wanted to see if others were as annoyed as I am about this locomotive nuisance. As it turns out, I was right.

Figure 1: Train passes through at 12:30 p.m. between Center Avenue and Main Avenue across the street from Wells Fargo in Moorhead

Exhibit A: The light never turns green.

Ashley Simpson-Branstrom is a server at J.C. Chumley’s, located at 1608 Main Ave. in Moorhead. She says waiting at an intersection is what gets on her nerves.

“It gets annoying because the 14th St. and 1st Ave. stoplight stays red until
the train’s gone through,” she says.

Figure 2: Train passes through at 1:17 p.m. at the Fifth Avenue North bridge over Second Street in Fargo

Dale Berg, Chief Financial Officer at Copy Kat Printing in Moorhead, has the same problem.

“The trains don’t bother me. The only time they bother me is waiting for the lights,” Berg says.

I couldn’t agree with you more, Dale. Waiting at the stoplights can be an extreme hassle, especially if all you want to do is make a left turn.

Figure 3: Train passes through at 1:45 p.m. at Fourth Street South and Center Avenue in Moorhead

Figure 4: Train passes through at 1:46 p.m. at Fifth Street South and Center Avenue in Moorhead

Exhibit B: The train whistles and the rattling of buildings. Enough said.

Ernie Olson is the owner of Copy Kat Printing, located at 1624 Main Ave.
S. in Moorhead. He says he could do without the loud whistles.

“I hate the horns, especially when they’re going South; they just blow it all across the tracks,” he says.

For as much as we hate our ears ringing after hearing those obnoxious horns, Olson says it is mandatory for them to blow them at every intersection as a safety precaution. We can still dream though, can’t we?

Figure 5: Train passes through at 5:40 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

Olson and Berg say there is a whistle-free zone. However, this doesn’t benefit them because it ends at 14th St. S.

Alma Cater is the owner of Country Greenery, located at 17 Fifth St. S. in Moorhead.

She says the whistles and rattling of the building doesn’t affect them as much as it affects other businesses.

“The whistles were a problem, but now that it’s a whistle-free zone it’s no longer a problem,” Cater says.

“I don’t know what it is about this building but it doesn’t shake,” she says.

Figure 6: Train passes through at 5:51 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

“I’ve been in the MF building [located behind Country Greenery], and that shakes,” she says.

Simpson-Branstrom says she can relate to the train vibrations when she’s at work.

“We can feel it shaking at the waitress stations,” she says.

Exhibit C: Find the loophole.

Figure 7: Train passes through at 6:11 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

Although some of us are beginning to give up hope, there are some ways to get around all this ruckus.

The underpass at Second Street North between Main Avenue and N.P. Avenue in Fargo offers some leeway.

Instead of taking Broadway to Main Avenue, I suggest taking this underpass route if you are heading to Moorhead.

You will drive right beneath the tracks.

Figure 8: An engineer waves as the train passes through at 6:59 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

If you are further east in Moorhead and need to go west, try taking the underpass at 21st St. S. between First Avenue South and Highway 10.

You will go underneath the tracks here as well, and won’t be late for that job interview. Ahh, relief!

Figure 9: Train passes through at 7:09 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

Or, if you don’t feel it’s necessary to take these routes, just stay in your car and wait while watching that light never turn green.

Here are a few things you may try if you are caught in that situation:

1. Count the number of boxcars.

(I hear it’s more fun than counting sheep.)

2. Pick out a cloud in the sky and follow it.

Figure 10: Train passes through at 7:19 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

(At nighttime, pick a flashing star and count how many times it blinks.)

3. Do the sudoku puzzle.

(This only works if you have a newspaper in your car.)

4. Crank the volume to your music and practice your sitting-down dance routine.

(If anyone in the vehicles next to you notices, just pretend you were getting attacked by a large mob of bees.)

Figure 11: Train passes through at 7:31 p.m. on the tracks going east and west between Main Avenue and First Avenue Moorhead

5. Try to find a button in your car that starts with each letter of the alphabet.

(That one’s my favorite).

In conclusion, If you have somewhere to be and would like to be on time, I advise you to allow yourself at least 10 minutes more to get there, and 20 if you want to be extremely cautious.

You could be waiting at those railroad crossing arms for a while.

Oh, and if you’re east of 14th St. in Moorhead, be sure to have a pair of ear plugs handy.

(Edited by Kayla Van Eps, MSUM multimedia journalism major)

Downtown Fashion on a Budget

Posted on March 28, 2012 by Brittany Olafson

Story and Photos by Brittany Olafson, online journalism major

Perhaps you live paycheck to paycheck. Maybe your bills outweigh your playtime. Maybe you’re just a college student trying to get by, living on dreams and canned pasta. Whatever the case, everyone is entitled to treat him or herself once in a while.

Shopping for clothing can be expensive when you want the perfect outfit. There are ways around emptying your wallet: instead of just buying, try re-buying! Downtown Fargo or Moorhead offers several thrift and discount stores that carry affordable attire. I put together a few outfit selections at three different discount clothing stores to give you a taste of what shopping on a budget has to offer.

The Revolver displays several stylish outfits

The Revolver
627 1^st Ave. N
Fargo

The Revolver has its own originality, allowing shoppers to flashback in time and bring out their vintage styles. Prices are reasonable and the clothing and accessories are suitable for anyone who likes to capture the essence of the ‘70s. Looking for a retro outfit for a memorable night on the town? The Revolver carries men and women’s clothing. Men: Try a pair of khaki dress pants. Layer it up with a red button up long sleeve, followed by a tan sweater vest. Find the funkiest leather jacket in the store, then bring the outfit together with a matching tie. Women: Put on a pair of those recycled cotton pants. Find a long sleeve that compliments the red, waist-hugging jacket. Let the sleeves and shirt bottom flare! Both outfits cost under $70, and you both look fabulous.

This outfit is perfect for you and your date for a night on the town

Dakota Boys Ranch
1001 4^th Ave. N
Fargo

You can also find the perfect outfit at the Dakota Boys Ranch. They offer clothing and accessories for any event. Everything here is donated, but if you dig deep enough, you can find things that have never been used. Maybe you’re looking for a more casual getup to wear out shopping. The Dakota Boys Ranch has several options for men and women, all at a low price. Ladies can try this: Find a pair of white dress pants. Compliment them with a black short sleeve, preferably with ruffles. Liven it up with a colorful scarf hung loosely around the neck. Accessorize with a small casual purse. This outfit will only cost about $30. Man, it feels good to look good!

This outfit can compliment any casual day, including going out shopping or going out for a simple cup of coffee

My Best Friend’s Closet
11 9th Street South
Moorhead

Sometimes you feel like a punk rocker. Not to worry. My Best Friend’s Closet has all kinds of styles for all feelings of fashion. The clothing here is not only stylish, it’s affordable. To capture the “punk” look, here’s an idea: Find a loose-fitting tee (one with a large face on it will grab attention). Wear with a knee-length leather skirt with zippers. Cover with a black leather jacket. Accessorize with the biggest black purse you can find that has rhinestones or studs. Top it off with a pair of black high-heeled ankle boots. This outfit costs roughly around $60. Rock on, dudes.

Rock this punk look to either a concert, a date with Joan Jett, or just because

These are just a few stores Downtown has to offer. Check out others as well, including The Arc Attic Treasures, 109 Consign, Salvation Army Thrift Store, or the Moorhead Thrift Shop.

(Edited by April Knutson, multimedia journalism major)

A Street Floods With Green

Posted on March 21, 2012 by Brittany Olafson

Story and Photos by Brittany Olafson

On March 17, everyone was Irish for a day.

Hundreds of people cheer to the mascot of Bob 95

The Downtown Community Partnership estimated about 20,000 people gathered in Fargo on St. Patrick’s Day to enjoy the parade and beautiful weather.

Firetrucks kick off Fargo's 2012 St. Patrick's Day parade

Broadway in Fargo was the place to be on this holiday. The street was closed off to traffic for the 5K race put on by Lake Agassiz Pacers. There were 500 participants in the race, followed by the parade at 3 p.m.

Two St. Patrick's Day fans prance around in homemade masks

Dustin Anderson, a resident of Roseau, Minn., was in town visiting friends for the weekend and watched the Broadway march.

“I’m not Irish but St. Patrick’s Day is one of my favorite holidays,” he said. “I don’t remember the last time it was that nice outside on the holiday, so that was pretty sweet to watch the parade.”

A young boy waves at the crowd from the inside of a Case tractor

People in all shades of green lined the streets to watch the several unique floats. The sun was high and the temperature was 77 degrees, leaving no excuse not to be outside.

Children watch in amazement from the tops of their parents' shoulders

Jeremy Olson, a 28-year-old Fargo resident, enjoyed the festivities of this Irish holiday.

“The floats were very entertaining to watch,” he said. “And I don’t care what age you are, you’re never too old for candy.”

Scrappy Doo blows bubbles and throws candy at the anxious crowd

Looking for ideas for next year’s St. Patrick’s Day? Check out this board on Pinterest!

Old Man Winter brings fellow sledders together

Posted on March 1, 2012 by Brittany Olafson

Story and Photos by Brittany Olafson

Just when we thought Mother Nature wasn’t going to show us winter, a heavy snowfall dropped into Fargo late February and literally took us for a ride.

Sledding [sled-ing] n. A recreational activity permitting use of a sled for either transportation or entertainment, usually when snow is present.

A little snow never hurts, but a lot of snow can be fun, which is what many folks in the F-M area discovered at Dike West in the early afternoon of Feb. 25. More than 100 people were gathered at this sliding hill, having a ball with one of the first major snowfalls Fargo has seen this year.

Sledders bundle up and gather at Dike West

Tara Mackner, a parent of two sled riders, proudly watched her kids soar down the hill.

“They have sleds here for you and you just turn in your ID. There was a big snow so it’s a lot more fun now,” Mackner chuckles.

People haul their sleds up the dike to slide down

Dike West provides sleds to the public for free with either a photo ID or a $20 deposit that is refunded when the sleds are turned in. It gives people something to do for fun, and is a way to warm up on a cold, snowy day.

Sledders gather at the top and the bottom of Dike West

This snowfall couldn’t have happened at a more convenient time, either. The sledding hill’s dates of operation are from December … to Feb. 25. There’s nothing like closing out the season with one last big day of sledding at Dike West.

Sunday sliding is enjoyed by several Dike West visitors

Craig Hauglie, a former Minnesota resident, was also a part of the festivities that afternoon. “Get your stuff on and get on top of the hill,” he says. “It’s the only hill in North Dakota.”

(Edited by Courtney Ficek, photojournalism major)

Top 5 Restaurants in Downtown Fargo

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Brittany Olafson

Story and Photos by Brittany Olafson, online journalism major

In the midst of exploring downtown Fargo’s unique shops one can build an appetite. When this happens, downtown can offer several options. A survey conducted shows the top five most popular restaurants.

Wasabi Sushi & Asian Grill
623 NP Avenue 

Watch the chef prepare your cuisine

Wasabi offers both traditional and trendy sushi items. Sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare your dish or grab a booth with all of your friends and explore the Asian cuisine. The relaxing atmosphere makes it a casual dining experience.

Rhombus Guys
606 Main Avenue

Looking at Rhombus Guys from the street

If you are in the mood for pizza, Rhombus Guys has 34 gourmet pizzas to choose from. The restaurant also provides a wide selection of beer on tap, 20 different kinds of wine, and Coca-Cola products available.

King House Buffet
122 Broadway

Explore the buffet inside King House

King House Buffet is a popular Chinese restaurant downtown that offers several entree choices. Pay at the door, load up your plate and fill up your stomach. Students receive a discount with their student ID.

Spicy Pie
322 N. Broadway

Choose from your favorite slice of pizza, tacos or grinders

This pizza parlor specializes in New York style thin crust pizza. Order the whole pie or just a slice. It also serves grinders, tacos, beer and liquor. This venue is even open late on Fridays and Saturdays to satisfy that midnight snack attack.

Subway
115 N. Broadway

Sandwich artists create the sub of your choice

Subway is known for its traditional foot-long or six-inch subs. The prominent food chain features personal pizzas, daily fresh baked cookies that make great snacks. Subway is also open for breakfast.

A one-question survey was conducted amongst 50 people between the ages of 20 and 40. Based on asking random people in the street, at MSUM, and a form of crowd sourcing via Facebook, the sample size was to answer one basic question: Where is your favorite place to eat downtown Fargo? Wasabi Sushi and Asian Grill took first place with eleven votes, and following close behind was Rhombus Guys with nine. Third on the list was King House Buffet with eight votes, and Spicy Pie followed in fourth with seven. The fifth popular place to eat downtown is Subway, which had four votes. The other 18 percent was scattered among Drunken Noodle, JL Beers, Bertrosa’s, and Juano’s.