Moorheart Hall of Fame

Johnathan Judd - February 2021

Moorhead = Fantastic - September 2021 

Moorhead = Fantastic is a Facebook group administered by Mara Morken and moderated by Chris Orth and Marsha Drewlow Wichmann. The group is interested in Moorhead-specific events, ideas/dreams/solutions for Moorhead’s communities, interesting articles relating to Moorhead, volunteer/donation opportunities, celebrations, etc. These guidelines have created a proactive, positive conversation about and for the Moorhead community. This group of moderators and their Facebook page has brought out the best in Moorhead; it’s not for show or promotion, it’s the best of public interaction. Contributions from projects like Moorhead=Fantastic help bridge gaps between the 45,000 living in Moorhead and ensure the City stays a place to be proud of.

Cani Aden - October 2021 

Cani works at the Afro-American Development Center but also volunteers in many capacities, including serving as Chairperson of the Moorhead Human Rights Commission. Cani is a wonderfully selfless person who has helped so many new residents find their footing and get settled safely in Moorhead. Cani was nominated by four separate individuals in Moorhead, including one especially moving nomination: “Cani changed the life of our family. He worked for 13 months to help find jobs for me and my wife. We used to depend on County benefits but not anymore and the reason is Cani. He spends countless hours assisting new Americans by providing translation help, resolving conflicts, facilitating the flow of important information, mentoring youth, and helping people secure jobs.”

Wayne Ingersoll - November 2021 

Wayne spent the majority of his life serving the City of Moorhead and Clay County: long-time educator, Moorhead Mayor, Clay County Commissioner, City Planning Commissioner, Lake Agassiz Regional Library Board member, and A Place for Hope board of directors, just to name a few. Wayne’s nomination said: “Wayne has a way about him that makes everyone he meets feel welcomed and important. He always greets you with a smile and is curious to get a quick update on how you’re doing. The care and compassion Wayne demonstrates for the people he meets also translates to the City he lives in.” Wayne is known, loved, and respected by so many people in Moorhead; he really could be just called Mr. Moorhead!

Kim Jore - January 2022

Kim Jore is a local artist and entrepreneur and the owner of Riverzen salon, gallery, and studio in Moorhead. Kim teaches art classes within the studio space and fosters those creative outlets for others in the community to really get in touch with their creative sides. During the pandemic she created wonderful chalk art drawings all over town to allow for everyone to remember to stay creative and explorative during some of those unprecedented times. Kim’s nomination included: “Kim was one of the first people to make Moorhead feel like home to me. Going to her salon with my kid to get our hair cut was the warmest welcome. My kid is neuro-diverse and, when they were younger, Kim would have an art project set up so they would be occupied while I got my hair cut. Kim’s gentle generosity exemplifies the heart of Moorhead.”

River Keepers of Fargo Moorhead - February 2022

The Red River of the North is a prominent natural feature in Fargo-Moorhead. There is no organization that advocates for the Red more or better than River Keepers. Under the leadership of Christine Holland—and with a passionate board and volunteer brigade--River Keepers provides education, interpretation, and stewardship as it relates to the river and its sustainability. River Keepers does remarkable work with a two-person staff, Christine and Kim Radebaugh. In fall 2021, River Keepers conducted a mass volunteer clean-up of Snakey Creek that removed over 10,000 pounds of trash. Besides the clean-up efforts, River Keepers assists the City of Moorhead with canoe and kayak rentals, hosts community workshops and special events, participates in the City Beautification program, and much more.

Moorhead Business Association - March 2022 

Under the leadership of Sheri Larson — and with a dedicated board and strong support from volunteers — Moorhead Business Association (MBA) provides a helpful, caring and fun-loving support system for entrepreneurs and the surrounding community. MBA is always planning and getting the word out about how wonderful it is to be in Moorhead. From Frostival, parades, college Bridge Bash, Fourth of July fireworks and so much more, MBA involves businesses and invites the public to see what is happening in Moorhead. The MBA worked tirelessly during the pandemic to ensure Moorhead businesses were aware of available programs to keep their doors open. It also promoted restaurants that were offering curbside pickup so citizens could keep those restaurants operational.

Eric Bailly & Amy Anderson - April 2022 

Eric Bailly and Amy Anderson purchased seeds and other materials and conducted research to build a demonstration pollinator garden at Daily Park. Because there is no water access at the park, they hauled water from their home several blocks away. They patiently handled setbacks and challenges, including a drought and a mishap when construction equipment was inadvertently dumped in the garden. They even found friends to “babysit” the garden when they were out of town. They posted updates and information about the garden throughout the growing season so others could learn about and celebrate the garden as it grew. As the growing season wound down, Eric and Amy volunteered to be part of a pollinator garden walking tour where they explained what they had done and shared information to help others start pollinator gardens. Eric’s and Amy’s advocacy and commitment encourages others to take pride in their neighborhoods.

Lezlee Bertie & Amber Ferrie - May 2022 

Lezlee Bertie and Amber Ferrie were recognized for their joint effort and commitment in creating the M3 mental health program for Moorhead’s youth. The M3 Program was designed by Lezlee and Amber to help youth address mental health challenges. Moorhead is stronger because of the efforts of these two “Spud” moms who were moved to provide more resources for kids after the loss of student athlete Eli Johnson in 2017. While the entire community mourned, Lezlee and Amber took their grief and fear and redirected it to create a program that addressed the need for change and the spirit of openness in supporting Moorhead’s youth. They helped young people realize that no one should have to struggle alone. Their nomination included: “M3 offers support and hosts events throughout the year that bring focus to mental health. Lezlee and Amber created M3 so kids in our community know it’s OK to not be OK and that when it’s not OK, it’s important to talk to someone. Their shared passion for this community, shared love for not just their own kids, but other kids as well, and shared commitment to simply making this community a more mentally healthy place to live demonstrates why they should receive this award.”

Destiny Holiday - June 2022 

Destiny was posthumously honored as the founder of “The Birthing of a Diamond” and “Diamond Kids” nonprofits, which empower and support single mothers and children from disadvantaged and underrepresented communities. The mission of Birthing of a Diamond is “To unmask and disarm the strongholds over the lives in Our Communities” and “Empower the lives of families, women and single women with children.” Diamond Kids branched out from Birthing of a Diamond in order to provide programs, activities and “stepping stones” that promote positive paths and better outcomes for “youth of color, African/Negro American, Indigenous youth and others.” Destiny also organized the first community celebration of Juneteenth in Moorhead in 2019. Moorhead is more united and resilient because of the efforts of Destiny “Grandmamma” Holiday, who was able to take the hardships she endured as a struggling black woman and create programs and community that strive to give others who struggled like her the resources and tools they need to succeed.

John Cunningham - July 2022 

John (JC) Cunningham is a day-maker, plain and simple. While many people driving down 8 Street South may not know his name, they do know that they love seeing and waving to him and getting an enthusiastic smile and wave right back! John shows that you do not need to move heaven and earth to help impact community members in a positive way that will stay with them. We know this to be true as John was featured in a story written in the Forum in 2019, explaining how someone was so touched by John and his unwavering kindness that he bought an electric scooter to help John get around easier. This is just one example, but imagine how many lives have been touched by John’s positive attitude. His nomination included: “First, I will admit that I have never met John personally. I see John nearly every time I drive on South 8 Street. I wait in anticipation to see if he is outside and move to the right lane so I can be sure he sees me wave or honk. And then he waves back. And I smile. It’s that simple. No matter how bad my day, no matter what is on my mind, John makes me smile. Wouldn’t it be amazing if everyone in Moorhead decided to try to make all the people around them feel happier?”

Resilient Moorhead - August 2022 

Resilient Moorhead ensures Moorhead is a place full of collaboration, trust, and commitment for the good of the community, a place where people care about and support each other. Resilient Moorhead is a nonprofit organization that strives to position Moorhead in such a way that our community is able to anticipate, adapt, and flourish in our ever-changing world. It arose out of the Moorhead Community Resilience Task Force, formed in 2019 at the initiative of Concordia College and through the efforts of Ken Foster and Tim Hiller. Its work has been funded by a Bush Foundation Community Innovation Grant, administered by Concordia. Over the past several years, the stakeholders have collaborated to support a variety of projects, research, and community-wide initiatives, such as the Comprehensive Planning process. In 2022, Resilient Moorhead supported a process to promote equity and a project to plant pollinator-friendly urban prairies and “pocket prairies.” Its nomination said: “Resilient Moorhead’s link tree website is amazing in connecting all other important organizations, programs, and news and uniting them in one place where community members can come together and understand how they can become better involved and prepared with current happenings in our neck of Minnesota/the world. This allows the Moorhead community to be better connected in different mitigation and transition strategies.”

Brian Cole - September 2022

Brian is the orchestra instructor for grades 5-8 at Horizon Middle in Moorhead who is also committed to finding ways to stay connected with residents of Moorhead past, present, and future. Brian encourages everyone in Moorhead to get involved with the community. He shared his community spirit in his feature participation in Moorhead’s “Where the Strong Belong” video in 2019, indicating, “I think when you have a strong community, you are going to have a sense of belonging.” His orchestra motto is “life lessons through music,’ and the five values he instills in his pupils are life, joy, peace, patience, and kindness. Each of these – the motto and values – help kids develop necessary life skills. He also facilitates the Moorhead Spud History Facebook page and provides research for the Spud History Book, a project that will commemorate the first 150 years of Moorhead Area Public Schools. “Spud Spirit” is in Brian’s DNA, and he uses those skills and talent to inspire Spud pride throughout the community.

FM Legion Riders - October 2022

The FM Legion Riders are committed to supporting local veterans and charities through community events and service. The FM Legion Riders encourage everyone to give back to their communities and to always support and take care of one another. The FM Legion Riders’ nomination includes the following statement: “The FM Legion Riders are an incredible mix of veterans and non-veterans that share an enthusiasm of motorcycles. They have a heart for the country and community. During Frostival they brought together hundreds of people to the Moorhead American Legion Post 21 to raise $35,000, collected over 1,000 pounds of food, a trailer full of clothing for the homeless, and 15 dog care packs for 4 Luv of Dog Rescue. In the last year they have escorted unclaimed vets, put together a free zoo day with a pizza party for the families of deployed soldiers, and participated in multiple events to honor veterans. They’ve donated funds to Veterans Honor Flight of ND/MN, CCRI, Culley’s Kids, Brady Oberg foundation, Churches United, PADS, and Young Life. This group is about connecting vets and bringing them the healing experience of serving in the community that they protect. They are Moorhead’s guardian angels.”

Peter Ferguson - November 2022

Peter Ferguson is committed to youth outreach through his nonprofit Enrichment Operation, which encourages everyone in Moorhead to become better versions of themselves through enrichment opportunities with exposure to the arts, nature, food, music, and the joy that comes with giving back. Enrichment Operation provides children in our community with experiences such as fishing, camping, crafts, hunting, and learning life skills. Peter is a friend, mentor, champion, and cheerleader for our area children; without his support, many would not have the opportunity to enjoy the various activities that Enrichment Operation provides. His nomination said: “He simply wants kids to feel love and success. He has a way of bringing out the best in others and helping them realize how important they are to our world. He is a treasure to our community!”

Pastor Sue Koesterman - January 2023

Pastor Sue Koesterman, CEO of Churches United, is committed to her service of reaching out and helping neighbors in need, whether that be through shelter, food, or some other compassionate act. Sue encourages everyone in Moorhead to remember and advocate for those around us who are struggling with homelessness and poverty. Her relentless drive, problem-solving and compassion for everyone around her makes Moorhead a better place. Her nomination included: For the past six years, her leadership and guidance have impacted countless individuals through her steadfast commitment to treating others with compassion, concern, dignity, and respect. In everything (Churches United does), Pastor Sue is at the forefront setting the example and advocating for our community. She even took an extra step – or paw – by having her rescue dog, Wanda, certified as an emotional support animal. Pastor Sue Koesterman truly is here for every neighbor in need.”

Mark Peihl - February 2023

Clay County Historical Archivist Mark Peihl encourages everyone to learn about and appreciate the history that shaped Moorhead and the surrounding area. He inspires people to appreciate history through his passion and ability to make it meaningful and exciting. Mark’s nomination included: “Mark serves the citizens of Moorhead every day as he collects, preserves, interprets, and shares the history and culture of Clay County. Not only does he serve the community by archiving local history, writing researched newsletter articles and exhibits, and researching reference questions, but he gives 30-75 free public presentations in the community each year. He also helps the media who contact him about historical context for current events, and is often interviewed and quoted in the media for his expertise. He is always ready to receive researchers in the archives with a smile. Mark has done this meaningful work for 36 years on behalf of the citizens of Moorhead.”

Sadiyo Osman - March 2023

Sadiyo Osman is committed to supporting others in Moorhead who are trying to create more opportunities for themselves. Her efforts include volunteering and teaching early childhood development, childcare and English to New Americans. Sadiyo’s selfless volunteer efforts encourage other to pay it forward and help out whenever possible. Sadiyo’s nomination includes: “I have witnessed firsthand how valuable Sadiyo’s work is for our students. Sadiyo is a first-generation Somali American whose background allows her to connect deeply with our students (many of whom are Somali) both culturally and linguistically. It took courage for Sadiyo to decide to volunteer with us, as she is not a native speaker of English herself and, most of the time, immigrants do not feel they are ‘qualified’ to teach English. Sadiyo is not only a solid English tutor, but she’s been extremely helpful in translating for beginning students who can become lost or intimidated if they have to communicate completely in English. Sadiyo has also taken the initiative to bring a training program to students so that they can begin receiving child care training once a month that will not only enhance their understanding of child development but can also lead to licensure for at-home child care.”

Dr. Carrie Leopold - April 2023

Dr. Carrie Leopold is committed to providing children accessible, hands-on experiences through “secret learning” strategies and the recognition that each child understands and learns at their own pace. She encourages students, teachers and the greater community to focus on resilience and creative problem-solving. Her work with The Inspire Innovation Lab helps Moorhead’s younger community members recognize that how they learn can enhance creativity, collaboration, communication and critical thinking. Dr. Carrie’s nomination includes the following statement: “Every year, Dr. Carrie changes the lives of hundreds of kids and their families in Moorhead. She meets them where they're at, emotionally, educationally, socially, and economically. Dr. Carrie invests thousands of dollars in our community through scholarship opportunities for Moorhead families. She believes in our kids and in their power to change the world. When the time came to find a new home for the Lab, Carrie never even considered moving to the other side of the river, though finding space would have been much easier. When asked, Carrie said she'd never be able to accomplish what she'd built without the community of Moorhead, she belonged there. Moorhead is better because of Inspire Innovation Lab and because of Carrie Leopold.”

Addison Loerzel - May 2023

Addison Loerzel is committed to serving her community through many different service projects and activities including the annual ‘Addie’s Royal Cupcake Stand’ event, ‘Backpack Blessings’ service project, and Churches United events. She also shows her philanthropic spirit by volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House. Addison’s nomination includes the following statement: “Addison is an outstanding young Moorhead citizen. Most people know her from ‘Addie’s Royal Cupcake Stand’ where she brings cupcakes, princesses, and our community together to help the Sunshine Foundation make dreams come true. It is an event that she has been hosting since 2013. She has raised over $80,000 and helped make dreams come true for 11 MN/ND kids. Addie works hard to plan Global Youth Service Day projects to get local youth involved in community service. Her project, ‘Backpack Blessings’, has encouraged hundreds of youth to pack backpacks full of necessity items for our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness. These are just a few of the examples of Addison being an exemplary citizen. Not only is she a role model for area youth but she is a role model for all of us!”

Pat Lenertz - June 2023

Pat Lenertz is committed to making his community better through his music and mental health advocacy work. Pat inspires others to give back by connecting them through music. Pat’s nomination included: “During the pandemic, Pat enlisted the help of a friend with a flatbed truck, hooked up a PA system and drove to local elderly care facilities to provide them some music and a connection to the outside world when it was badly needed. He has donated countless hours of performance time to charity efforts. What a lot of people might not know is that giving back to his community really begins every workday at CCRI, where Pat is a licensed Mental Health Practitioner and often performs for the staff and clients. He used the connections he built as a local musician to launch the Hot Peppers for CCRI fundraiser in 2016. To date, those efforts have raised several thousand dollars to support CCRI.”

FM Trailbuilders - July 2023

The FM Trailbuilders is a group of cyclists led by Laurens Robinson that maintains and improves off-road trails commonly used by area cyclists. The group puts in extra effort to ensure that trails are accessible to all who wish to use them. The group’s nomination included: “In 2010 a group of off-road cyclists got together and decided it was time for a cohesive and enjoyable off-road trail in the Fargo Moorhead area. Hard work, weed whacking, log removal and lots of bug spray all led to a 2.5-mile single-track trail at MB Johnson Park in Moorhead MN. The effort spurred numerous conversations to continue efforts to establish and promote the use of off-road recreational trails for biking, hiking, and just getting outdoors. Over 50 volunteers regularly work to maintain the three major Fargo-Moorhead area trail systems.”

Bill Bartholomay - August 2023

Bill Bartholomay selflessly serves the Moorhead community through his work with vehicles – and is well known as the driving force behind Moorhead Cruise Night. He encourages everyone in Moorhead to find unique ways to help fellow community members. Bill’s nomination includes the following excerpt: “Bill has been a champion for anyone looking for some advice or help. Moorhead Cruise Night is as fantastic and fun as it is because Bill is behind all of it, getting it all together to ensure a fun and safe way for the community to come together and spend some quality time outside. Borrowing trucks, helping setup stages and tents, moving sandbags, and leading when people need it…they aren’t easy tasks he’s helping with, but Bill does them with a smile.”

Alison Wolbeck - October 2023

Alison Wolbeck is committed to mental health awareness and advocacy in our community. She connects with Moorhead residents to show what is needed regarding mental healthcare and how to advocate for those changes. Alison’s nomination includes the following statement: “Alison is a tireless advocate for mental health services in our community. For the last 12 years she has served on the Minnesota State Advisory Council on Mental Health, 8 years as the co-chair for the Clay County Adult Mental Health Local Advisory Council and is also the board chair for A Place for Hope: Recovery and Wellness Center & Food Shelf where she is also a regular volunteer. Alison pushes for positive change in our systems, reduction in barriers to receiving care, and elimination of stigma through her open and honest sharing of lived experience.”

Mary Arnholt - November 2023

Mary Arnholt has helped keep her community safe by maintaining the accessibility to the fire hydrant near her home during the winter months through the City of Moorhead’s Adopt-a-Hydrant program. For the past 20 years, Mary has worked to keep the hydrant near her home clear of snow and ice to help protect her neighborhood. Mary’s neighbors in the Woodglen Condominium Association wrote in the nomination: “Mary has lived at this address for 40 years and for 20 of those years she has been taking care of the fire hydrant on the adjacent property next to her driveway. No one was clearing the snow, dirt and debris from around the hydrant, and Mary assumed the responsibility winter after winter. Her work with a snow blower that’s almost bigger than she is ensures that our neighborhood will have year-round access to the hydrant and the water it provides.”

Peter Haberman - November 2023

Peter Haberman encourages students to come study music in Moorhead as well as supporting them once they are here. While Peter is a talented musician and Director of Bands at Concordia College, he also encourages everyone in Moorhead to remember why Moorhead is a beautiful place to live. Peter’s nomination includes the following statement: “As director of bands at Concordia College, Peter literally drives all over the state of Minnesota, finding remarkable musical talent and touting the benefits of living in Moorhead. Once students move here, he mentors them. He works tirelessly to make sure their experience here is fruitful for them and the band. Of course, that is not all that Peter does that expresses his heart. He also makes sure there is a place for international students at his personal Thanksgiving table. When the dining hall closes for the holidays, international students – who are prevented from holding a job – must find their own food. Peter makes space for them at his table.”

Markus Krueger - January 2024

Local historian Markus Krueger has been committed to learning about and spreading knowledge about the rich, diverse history of Moorhead through his work at the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County. Markus’ work has brought to light that Moorhead has always been a diverse community, and that history needs to be celebrated. Markus’ nomination includes: “A few years ago, Markus discovered that Felix Battles, one of Moorhead’s first Black citizens, was a veteran of the Civil War. Markus dug deep into Mr. Battles’ past and discovered that he had been enslaved as a child, fought as a Union soldier in the Civil War, and ended up settling in Moorhead and working as a barber. In order to honor Mr. Battles’ life, he designed a statue that could be placed in a public space and raised money to build and erect the statue at MSUM. He also organized a display at the Hjemkomst Center, providing information about other Black citizens of our area. The statue and the exhibit at the Hjemkomst invite all Moorhead residents to feel like they belong here as members of a dynamic, diverse, and welcoming community.”

Steve Moore - February 2024

Steve Moore serves as Director of Operations and Emergency Management for Moorhead Area Public Schools. Every day, Steve shows his dedication to improving our schools. Most importantly, Steve organized and led the transition of equipment, students, and operations from the old high school to the new state-of-the-art facility, which opened in January 2024. Steve’s nomination includes the following statement: “Steve has been an amazing asset to Moorhead Public Schools. He is a creative problem solver, an incredible planner and a positive professional. He has proven himself essential to the Moorhead Public Schools leadership team. Steve had to figure out how to move almost everything from the old high school to the new school in just two and a half weeks, in the middle of the school year. He and his team did it so well that our kids' year wasn't disrupted in any way. That's a huge undertaking. As parents of MHS students, we nominate Steve Moore for the MoorHeart award for his outstanding work in our community supporting Moorhead Area Public Schools.”

Jen Traska - March 2024

Jen has been an advocate for making the Moorhead community accessible for everyone, especially through her work with the Inclusive Playground. Jen also serves as the Vice Chair of the Human Rights Commission where her passion and unwavering commitment to human rights can shine. 

Jen’s tireless efforts have significantly impacted the lives of Moorhead residents, particularly in her work towards establishing an Inclusive Playground—a project that reflects her commitment to creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. Jen has been instrumental in making the vision of an Inclusive Playground a reality. Her advocacy is not limited to discussions as she takes concrete actions to ensure that the voices of those often marginalized are heard and considered in community development. Jen's inclusive mindset and compassionate approach make her an inspiration to others and a driving force for positive change.

The City of Moorhead thanks Jen for her dedication to building a community that values diversity, equality, and inclusivity. Her hard work is valued and makes Moorhead a better place.

DeAnn Syverson - April 2024

DeAnn is committed to finding and rescuing lost dogs in the Fargo-Moorhead area! DeAnn dedicates hours of her life to safely retrieving animals in our community. 

“I want to nominate DeAnn Syverson for the MoorHeart Award for all the work she does in our community for the wellbeing and safety of dogs through her work at The Retrievers. The Retrievers is an all-volunteer team based in Minnesota offering the tools, experience, and expertise to help rescues and individual owners find their lost dogs. She is the only “retriever” in this area and will travel to the surrounding areas to set up live traps. DeAnn puts countless hours setting up live traps and luring lost dogs to safety. The longest DeAnn has sat on a trap is 18 hours. She devotes as much time as she can to ensure the dog gets to safety. This work benefits not only the health and safety of the lost dogs but also members of our community. In addition to devoting hours to setting traps and luring dogs to safety, she helps to educate residents on how to best handle any situation regarding a lost dog. We are a very animal oriented community and I’m so glad we have DeAnn to have such an impact!”