Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. It’s an awesome guide to living like a local and loving life in Minot. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you totally should. All thoughts in this post are my own.
Derek always gets me the best gifts. I guess that’s what happens when you have lived with someone a long while and been best friends a long while before that. He knows my favorite gifts don’t come in jewelry boxes or in the form of the latest technology. To date my favorite gifts from him have included: a wall-mounted pencil sharpener, new headphones for listening to audio books, a two-player bocce ball set, and (most recently) a wheel thrown pottery class from the Minot Adult Learning Center.
In high school I took all the art classes our small school system offered. Each year I excelled at drawing, multi-media, art history and painting. But when the annual pottery unit rolled around I really started to struggle. The whole thing was very frustrating–because ceramics was what I most wanted to be good at. When it was time to put clay on the wheel things literally fell apart for me.
In my entire high school career I only ever got one piece successfully off the wheel. Ever since, I have wanted a second chance. I’ve longed for renewed instruction, and another chance to spin up a bowl or a mug.
But finding an open community class has been much harder than it seemed at first. We’ve lived in six different communities during our ten-year marriage and never has a wheel thrown ceramics class lined up with our schedule (or been available to me.)
Ceramics Through the Minot Adult Learning Center
I’d all but given up when Derek revealed that this year for my birthday he had enrolled me into a wheel class offered through the Minot Adult Learning Center.
The class I took was offered in five courses. Three nights were spent learning technique and building. The last two nights were spent prepping our pieces for the kiln and glazing.
While the pieces I made are not worthy of high praise, the instruction was phenomenal, the other participants were a joy to be around and I had a lot of fun. And I learned a lot too!
Each night of building focused on a different technique (I excelled most at making plates…even though I wanted to make a good bowl more than anything in the world.) After a time of set up and instruction, participants were free to practice building as many pieces as time would allow. I typically only turned out 2ish pieces per class, but others (some who had taken the class before) could turn out many more in a single night.
I loved that supplies were unlimited for use and that the class size was small enough to allow questions to be thoroughly answered and one-on-one help from the instructor when needed.
This was my first time taking a course from the Minot Adult Learning Center and it was a wonderful experience. If you are thinking about taking a class (or teaching–they’re always looking for good instructors!) here are some things to know.
Get the Course Flyer Early
New classes start in the fall, winter and spring. Get the course offerings early from their website so you can check your schedule well in advance.
Sign Up Promptly
Some classes fill up fast. (The wheel thrown pottery course always sells out.) If you know what you want to take sign up early. Don’t risk losing your place. For example, Derek signed me up the day registration opened through the Minot Adult Learning Center. Within two days the class was full.
There Are All Kinds of Classes
Classes aren’t just limited to arts and crafts. The community education program offeres courses in technology, art, wellness, and community enrichment. Their technology courses include classes in PhotoShop, Canva, and using Google apps. Art classes include drawing, painting, ceramics, and rosemaling. Wellness courses include all kinds of fitness classes (including Zumba and aqua aerobics.) And community enrichment includes things like retirement planning, book clubs and drawing social security.
In addition to these classes the Minot Adult Learning Center also offers GED prep, English courses and college/career prep.
Most Classes Have a Fee
Most classes have a fee to cover instruction and supplies. I think the cost is reasonable (especially for the fitness classes–they usually end up being about $4/class!!) However, some offerings are free and open. Check their website and schedule for details.
If you are looking to get out and try something new, I hope you’ll keep the Minot Adult Learning Center on your radar. For more on places to take classes here in Minot check out this post. And be sure to check out BeLOCAL’s listings of places to volunteer, get involved in sports/fitness and take in the arts around town.
**Please note: At the time of writing classes at the Minot Adult Learning Center have been temporarily suspended following a recommendation by Governor Burgum. Updates as to when classes will resume will be available on their website and social channels.**
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local and your should totally check it out.
Happy Minot Monday! Today’s post is all about resources for kitchen cabinets in Minot. If you’re in the market for cabinets or a kitchen remodel is on your horizon, this is going to be a good post to bookmark. Even if you aren’t, it’s still a good post because you’ll get a sneak peek at my {nearly} finished kitchen remodel.
If you follow along with me on Instagram (which you should, because we have lots of fun over there), you know I’ve been busy remodeling my kitchen. Things got a jump start in there after most of the upper cabinets fell off the wall in the fall (read about that ordeal here.) After that, we put our second floor remodel on hold and tackled the first floor living spaces instead. The kitchen, dining room and living room are all intertwined, so it’s been chaotic and messy in our most lived-in rooms. Needless to say, I’ll be happy to put this one behind me.
Finding Our Kitchen Cabinets in Minot
Working on an old house presents lots of challenges. Derek and I take a “restoration-without-making-a-time-capsule” mindset when it comes to changing things in an old home. We aren’t out to create a museum piece–perfectly authentic to the time period of the house. However, we do try to be respectful of the original design. When all is said and done, we hope the house looks like it’s “always been that way.”
A major challenge for us during the kitchen remodel was finding cabinets that we loved and also stayed within our budget. We spent about a month visiting with different retailers and designers around Minot until we finally put in an order.
All in all, I have nothing negative to say about any of the places we visited. At the end of the day though, we had to decide which retailer best fit our vision, budget and personality.
The following list is not totally comprehensive, but it contains many of the places in town that provide kitchen cabinets in Minot. Like I said, if you’re in the market, this is a good list to bookmark. Hopefully it’ll help you as you start your search.
Minot Lumber & Hardware
I’ll start with Minot Lumber. Ultimately, this is where we purchased our cabinets. Minot Lumber came to our attention as a cabinet dealer late in our search, but I’m so glad we checked them out. Here are some of the things that we love about working with them:
Super nice staff
FREE design consultation and renderings (we were sent 3D renderings of our layout before placing an order). The designer I worked with was so knowledgeable and tweaked our design several times to get it just right.
Multiple cabinet lines available (at different price points)
They also deal countertops (we purchased those too), hardware and accessories.
Helped us stay within budget. This is what really sold me on buying from Minot Lumber. Our designer took lots of time to work with me on small ways to trim the cost of our cabinet order. (For example, ordering a stock color, getting cabinets in common sizes–even though everything “can” be customized, doing our own install, etc.)
No overselling. I’ve never been pressured to buy something more extravagant than what I needed. Our designer listened to me and respected my vision–never pressuring me to buy something fancier than what I wanted.
We have had a great experience with Minot Lumber. There were a couple hiccups with our order–but those were on the distributor’s end. The staff at Minot Lumber has been quick to help and get things right.
Scherr’s Cabinets & Doors
We were so impressed by the staff at Scherr’s. Everyone was so kind and helpful. To us, the most impressive part about Scherr’s business is that everything is custom made and created right here in Minot! This is truly a business of craftsmanship. The biggest set back for us ordering from Scherr’s was timeline. Because everything is made-to-order there’s a bit of a wait. Here are some great things about Scherr’s.
Locally made
Completely custom
All their cabinets are frameless–which gives you the most access and space to the inside of the cabinet boxes
Loads of door options
Staff will help you design your layout
Staff will help trim your budget (for example, you do painting/finish, they explain install, etc)
See more on their FAQ page to learn about their offerings.
Souris River Designs
Souris River Designs is my recommendation for anyone wanting a fairly hands-off approach to a remodel. While the other retailers also offer installation resources and design resources–Souris River offers especially high quality design services. Their show room is gorgeous, and full of options and accessories. If you don’t consider yourself a semi-savvy DIYer or designer this is my recommendation for you. Here are some perks we liked:
Huge, inspiring showroom
Beautiful 3D renderings of your project
Designers on hand to help with every step
Offer counters, tile, backsplash, hardware, sinks, accessories, contractors, etc all in house
It’s a one-stop-shop for a remodel if you want to outsource your project
Big Box Stores
We have two “big box stores” for kitchen cabinets in Minot. Both have cabinets in stock that you can buy and take home today. Both have custom order cabinets available. Our experience with both places was positive. Here’s a little more about what we likes about each regarding custom cabinet orders.
Free design consultation and layout help (the design center is usually pretty quiet when I’m there, so you can get in and out quickly.)
Printed designs with basic 3D rendering
Several cabinet lines and lots of colors/door styles available
Sometimes they have sales on cabinets (note the store’s military discount does NOT apply to cabinet purchases)
Sinks, hardware and everything else you need is in the same store.
I hope this helps! Starting a remodel (especially a remodel of the heart of your home) can be intimidating and overwhelming. Hopefully, having a few recommendations from a friend who has already done some leg-work will take the edge off. For more recommendations that feel like they came from a friend, remember to check out BeLOCAL! Have you ordered kitchen cabinets in Minot? Where’d you get them? Do you have other businesses to recommend?
Happy Minot Monday, everyone! Today I’m answering the burning question: What is lefse? And why the heck is it such a big deal? Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL helps newcomers to live like locals–check them out.
Most do not envision North Dakota–or Minot— as a cultural hub. But let me tell you, the culture and traditions can be as thick as pudding around here. And it doesn’t get much thicker than the weird allegiance and allure folks around here have toward lefse.
What is lefse? Glad you asked. Let me tell you. But first, as always, a quick side-anecdote.
Our Introduction to Lefse
When we moved to Minot the first time back in 2012, we were just starting to feel settled when the Norsk Hostfest rolled around. If you want to sound like a local, just call it the Hostfest. You can either say “host-fest” or “hoost-fest” and not look like an idiot. (For more on the Hostfest and other annual happenings, see the listings here in BeLOCAL Minot.)
Since we didn’t know what to expect or what it was all about, we did what any good tourists do: ask the locals.
Everyone (and I do mean everyone) told us the best part is the food. “You’ll love it!” they said. “You have to try the aebelskivers,” they told us. “Be sure to save room for rømmegrøt, it’s my favorite.”
And over and over and over, we were reminded not to forget the lefse. We heard so much about the lefse, it was on our definite list of things to do at the Hostfest.
When we asked our friends the question, “What is lefse?” We got a variety of answers. To sum it all up would be something like this: It’s a flatbread thing, made from potatoes. We roll it up and eat with butter. We all eat and love it, especially around holidays and if you want to fit in here, you’ll love it too.
Confusion
So we got the lefse.
And it was okay.
But we were left feeling like we were missing something. As if everyone was in on something that we didn’t quite get. (A lot like how the character Ben Wyatt doesn’t understand the hype about Li’l Sebastian on Parks and Rec.)
I mean, come on. To our novice, non-Norwegian tongues, it tasted like nothing more than a tortilla with a lot of butter and cinnamon/sugar on it. We didn’t get it.
Appreciation
But as the years went on, something shifted. Gradually, lefse became more and more important to us. I became interested in it. I didn’t just want to eat it, I wanted to make it. And a couple times each year (namely Thanksgiving and Norwegian Independence Day) I had a hankering for it.
As I gave in to my inner desire to conform to all things native North Dakotan, lefse took hold of my heart.
And that’s the thing. Lefse is a big deal to the locals. It’s a tradition that is deeply engrained in life here. So much so, that even a friend who rarely cooks or bakes–and doesn’t even like potatoes–still owns all of the required tools for making it. It’s another weird and wonderful quirk of this place I love so much.
Making Lefse
I had dreams of learning to make lefse. Sadly those dreams never came to fruition while we were living in Minot. However, just over two years ago while we were living in Rapid City, our friend Ben came for a visit and taught us to make lefse.
Ben comes from a family of very talented bakers–especially in the bread realm. His family typically does a big annual lefse making day. They run multiple griddles, have several people rolling, and turn out enough to last through all the major holidays–Thanksgiving, Christmas and Norwegian Independence Day.
In hindsight, I think this is what makes lefse so special. It’s not necessarily about the taste or it’s splendor, but about the nostalgia it stirs. Lefse is holidays. It’s time with family and a recipe that has been used for as long as anyone can remember. That’s what we didn’t get the first time we had it. We had no history with it–and truly that’s what gives it its great flavor.
Over the weekend Ben and I got together again for a lefse making extravaganza. And I knew it would be the perfect Minot Monday post.
What is Lefse?
Okay, okay. I realize I haven’t given you a straight answer.
Lefse is a traditional soft Norwegian flatbread. It is made with potatoes, flour, butter, and milk or cream. It is cooked on a large, flat griddle. Special tools are used to prepare lefse, including long wooden turning sticks and special rolling pins with deep grooves.
Lefse is a lot like a tortilla, but it’s base is potatoes, not flour or corn.
How do you eat lefse?
Good question. According to the Internet, there are lots of ways to eat lefse. I’ll only tell you how people around here eat it. You have three options.
Slathered in butter and rolled up.
Slathered in butter, sprinkled with sugar and rolled up.
Slathered in butter, sprinkled with a sugar-cinnamon combination…and rolled up.
I’ve only had it served slightly warm or a room temperature. No utensils required–like eating a taquito.
What do you need to make lefse?
As mentioned, you’ll need some special supplies if you want to make your own lefse. Honestly, it’s better to have a friend who already owns the stuff. If you live in North Dakota, you probably won’t have to look too far. It’s seriously crazy how many people we know who personally own their own kit. (If you want to invest, here’s a kit.)
Otherwise, you’ll need:
A lefse griddle.
A cloth covered pastry board.
Lefse sticks–used for lifting and turning
A grooved rolling pin and sleeve.
A potato ricer.
At least two linen dish towels–I call these church kitchen towels.
What’s the process?
First, you make the dough. (There are a million recipes out there, here’s a link to one at Sons of Norway–it seemed most appropriate.) Then let it chill over night.
Set up your griddle and pastry board. Get the griddle hot and thoroughly flour your board and pin. Flour is key in lefse making.
Next, you’ll roll out some dough. Ben–my resident expert uses 1/3 cup at a time. He says his mom can roll a perfect circle. Mine, however were always pretty misshapen.
Once the dough is circular and thin (we say thin enough to see the writing on the pastry board through the dough), lift it up with a lefse stick and place it on the griddle.
Let it cook on one side, then turn it with the lefse stick. Once both sides are slightly browned remove it (with the lefse stick) and place it on the dish towel. Cover it with the second towel to keep the moisture in.
Once you are done, you can eat them or store them. To store them, fold each piece in quarters and put them in a gallon zip bag. Then keep them in the fridge or freeze them.
Can I just buy it?
Yep. Grocery stores around here carry lefse. No shame in skipping the process. But you should really make some local friends so you can have the homemade variety at some point.
Conclusion
Now, when someone asks, “What is lefse?” You’ll have all the information they ever wanted to know. The love folks around here have for lefse is deliciously weird and quirky. Which is what makes it so darn great. Have a great week!
Happy Minot Monday, all! Today we’re setting aside lists and laws to dive into a delicious world of anecdotal bliss. No recommendations (okay, well maybe one)–just a look inside a quirk of North Dakota living. Today a new chain restaurant is opening in town. Anywhere else this would be only mildly exciting. Not here. Here in Practically Canada the arrival of chain food is cause for celebration and throwing all logic to the wind. Don’t believe me? You obviously weren’t here when Sonic opened. Read on to see what I mean.
Things Move At A Different Pace Here
Sometimes I allude to the fact that North Dakota is a place all its own. It’s a magical land that seems to transcend space, time, seasons and trend.
Derek and I joke that in many ways North Dakota runs about 8-10 years behind the rest of the country. I don’t mean that in a negative, “aren’t-they-a-bunch-of-bumpkins” kind of way. I love it here and I wouldn’t have it any other way. This is a place where church potlucks reign supreme, salads only have lettuce in them 70% of the time, and roller blading is a very acceptable pass time.
Things move slower around here.
When we moved here the first time in 2012, the 2011 Flood was still fresh in minds across the city. Things were being rebuilt, but because of a boom in construction and oil, it was hard to staff the “minimum wage” jobs. Fast food places closed early because they didn’t have enough employees. (Those same places were paying their employees more than what I made at my first job out of college…like $12-15 to work at McDonald’s!)
At the time, I worked part time as a fitness instructor. In my senior (as in 65+) class I’d hear the ladies comment on how much the town had changed since the flood. “Really, how?”
“Oh, you know–there are all these chain restaurants now. And new stores. It’s crowding things up. It was better before.”
Oh, really? At the time there was only a scant smattering of fast food joints and chain restaurants in Minot compared to every other town I’d ever lived in. Those comments gave me a crucial look into the minds of North Dakotans.
Things change slowly…and any change is a big deal.
That Time Sonic Opened
Flash forward a year.
It’s summer and the highly anticipated, much awaited Sonic has finally opened. Several days after the grand opening I thought I’d stop in for a quick Happy Hour drink. Wrong choice. The line to get in is miles long. A parking attendant tells me it’ll be at least an hour to get in. Bye.
Things continue like this for weeks. Finally, in the fall I get my slush.
Then there was that time Long Horn Steakhouse opened. Derek and I knew from experience trying to get in to a “fancy” new restaurant would be a terrible idea for at least a month. About two and a half months after their grand opening we decided to give it a try. “Would you like to put your name in? It’s about a two-hour wait?”
This past summer Slim Chickens opened and needed parking attendants for weeks just to keep things in line.
Every other fast food opening I’ve witnessed has been a similar tale.
I’m telling you, talk of new chain restaurants in Minot is a big deal. News articles run and there’s a buzz all over town. From church lounges to the customer service desk at Menard’s (let’s me honest–that’s my entire scope) small talk moves away from the weather and the wind to, “Do you know when _______ is going to open? “Have you heard we’re getting a ________ on North Hill?” “Have you been to ______ yet?”
It brings us together in a unique way. For natives it’s a taste of something exotic–the Sonic shake you had on vacation that one time. For imports, it’s a taste of familiar–the Panera soup you like to have when you’re sick.
Culver’s Grand Opening
Today a new chain opened. This one happens to be my very favorite of fast food, the pinnacle of quick eats: Culver’s.
Gideon and I got to Culver’s today less than an hour after the doors opened. The drive thru was only 5-6 cars deep and inside we were at the counter in a few minutes. It only took about 10 minutes to get our food (to-go…due to a certain toddler being very sleepy.)
By the time we left, the
drive thru was wrapping around the building. Suddenly that “prime”
parking spot by the door looked more like a trap. The drive thru wait was not
blocking us in. Exiting the lot took longer than pulling in and getting our
food.
My best guess is this will be the last time I have a Butter Burger for quite some time, while we wait for the hype to die down. But at least I feel like I’ve done my job best to be a “real” North Dakotan–and gotten in on a new chain on opening day.
And if you want to live like a local you’ll need to start thriving on the excitement that new chain restaurants in Minot can bring.
It’s all part of the charm. It’s something to do and something to look forward to. I really love living in a place that knows how to get excited–even about the small stuff.
But God bless us if we ever get a Chick-fil-A. That will be madness of an indescribable magnitude.
What chain restaurant would you wait way to long for?
Minot Monday and this post about Kroll’s Diner in Minot is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local. See other eateries listed here. All thoughts and opinions seen here are my own.
Happy Minot Monday! I thought it was high time I start adding some food profiles into our Minot Monday posts. When I move to a new place I like to explore eateries. So mixed in with tips on things to do and how to navigate life in Minot, I’ll start adding in some of my favorite places to eat. Today, because I’m a huge fan of diners and dives, I’m profiling Kroll’s Diner in Minot.
Where is Kroll’s Diner in Minot?
Kroll’s Diner is an adorable 50’s style diner that specializes in German and American food. It’s got a pretty chrome exterior and the inside is decked out with checkered floors, vinyl seats and neon lights. Kroll’s Diner in Minot is easy to get to. It’s just off of 20th Ave SE. From Broadway, you’ll drive all the way until 20th starts to turn by the Sierra Inn. By that point you’ll be looking right at Kroll’s.
Kneophla Soup
For nearly a week now, I’ve had a hankering for Kroll’s. It’s been cold (obviously, it’s winter in Minot), and temps have been fluctuating above freezing. Snow has melted a bit, leaving me damp and chilled to the bone. When I get cold like that I want a good, hot bowl of soup.
Particularly knoephla soup.
Kneophla soup is a German dish, and in my opinion Kroll’s has the best. Oh, wait. You don’t know what kneophla soup is? Let me enlighten you.
Kneophla soup is potato soup with little doughy dumplings in it. It’s broth is thick and creamy. If you are into doughy textures, you’ll love it. If that thought makes you gag, you better skip it.
Last night, we went out and I finally got the big bowl of kneophla soup I’ve been craving so long.
My Other Favorite Menu Items
Outside of the soup, I’m also a big fan of another German dish called, fleischkuekle. It’s meat wrapped in a pastry and fried. At Kroll’s Diner it comes with mashed potatoes and choice of side (obviously, I think you should get the kneophla.)
Besides that, I love the grilled cheese, any of their burgers, and anything off of the breakfast menu (which is served all day.)
Dessert
Lots of folks rave about the milkshakes, but I prefer their sundaes or root beer floats. Sometimes when the shake machine is really busy, the shakes can start to taste machine-y. (Just my opinion, like I said, most people love the shakes and malts.) Also, you should know the pastries and baked goods are top notch.
Last night when we were at Kroll’s Diner in Minot, they were busy and understaffed. However, the service was spectacular–especially when I mentioned that I was with a hungry (boarder line hangry) toddler. Guys, our food came our lightning fast. It was incredible.
Eating With Kids
Pro tip–if you’re with a hungry kid, take a look at their kids menu online and put that order in when you order drinks. Then you can get the littles settled and eating before your food comes and yours will still be hot when you are ready to eat. (Pssst–BeLOCAL has a list of places in town where kids eat FREE!)
Tips and Specials at Kroll’s Diner in Minot
If you really want to eat like a pro at Kroll’s Diner in Minot, take advantage of their specials and these tips.
It’s a great and often overlooked breakfast spot.
All items are available to go.
Weekdays they offer a $5.99 lunch special, it’s really good value.
Mondays are 2-for-1 milkshakes
Wednesday is 2-for-1 root beer floats
Sunday after 3pm is 2-for-1 root beer floats
Happy eating! For other Minot eateries, see the listings in BeLOCAL Minot.
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. A guide to living like a local. You should totally check them out for tips/tricks on loving life in Minot. All thoughts, opinions and anecdotes below are mine alone.
Several years ago when we lived in Minot the first time around, I remember watching a story on the local news about speeding fines. The point was that the state of North Dakota was collecting far less income from speeding tickets than other states. At that point, Derek and I both laughed out loud and commented on the fact that North Dakota speeding tickets are basically just “pretend-toy-tickets” anyway. In this edition of Minot Monday, we are talking about the silly, unbelievable world of the North Dakota speeding ticket.
I’ll preface everything else I’m going to say by reiterating the fact that I love life in North Dakota. However, my love for the state only stems from the truth that this place is totally unique among the rest of our nation. North Dakota moves at a different speed. Trends hit us late (sometimes years late), things are slow to change, and good-golly there are just so many odd nuances about life in North Dakota that make it utterly fascinating.
It’s just a weird, wonderful place. I often describe it as life inside a mashup of a mockumentary and Hallmark movie. But I’m getting off topic.
The point of today’s Minot Monday is North Dakota speeding tickets. (I should take a second and give another warning. I do not condone breaking the law. Not even speeding. This article is not an endorsement to break the law in any manner.)
Our North Dakota Speeding Ticket
I’ve never been issued a North Dakota speeding ticket. I do, however vividly remember the day Derek came home with a speeding ticket after work. When he told me he’d gotten a ticket, my heart sank. Tickets are expensive. This would suck the “fun money” right out of that month’s budget.
But wait! This isn’t a speeding ticket in Florida, Oklahoma, Indiana or Louisiana (the other places we’ve lived.) This was a North Dakota speeding ticket. No need to cancel plans! No need to fret!
Why?
Because at that time tickets amounted to $1 per mph you were exceeding the speed limit. Derek’s infraction didn’t even cost us $15!
Yes, you’re reading that right. If you aren’t living in North Dakota, you can just add this to the list of things you envy about us. It’s just one more reason life in the Legendary North is so sweet.
Remember where this article started? The news story about low revenue from speeding tickets–now can you see why it was so silly?
North Dakota Speeding Ticket Changes
Before you throw all caution to the wind (and remember, this is not an article encouraging you to speed), let’s look at how the speeding ticket fines have changed since we’ve lived out of state and moved back.
Like my search for landfill/waste management answers in last week’s post, this proved to be trickier than it should have been. As of publishing this post, I still don’t have a link to a 2020 list of speeding fines. While fines have increased, they are still laughably low. Derek’s same infraction would have cost us nearly $160 back in our home state of Indiana.
Something else that makes North Dakota so great is how genuinely shocked locals are when they realize a $10 speeding ticket isn’t the norm. I love everything about living here. (Well…not the wind chill. But the summers and the people make up for it.)
Absolute Speed Limits
Speed limits are posted, but here is a group of “absolute speed limits” in North Dakota in case you’re wondering. It’s good information to have tucked away in your brain.
North Dakota Speeding Ticket Costs
The most recent information I can find indicates that North Dakota has added a $30 fine for breaking the speeding law. Drivers will pay that plus a fine for their speed. Fines for speed look like this:
1-5mph over the limit=$5
5-15mph over the limit=$1/mph exceeding the limit
16-20mph over the limit=Fine of $15 plus $2 for each mile per hour in excess of 15 miles per hour that the driver exceeds the limit.
21 -25 miles per hour over the limit=Fine of $25 plus $3 for each mile per hour in excess of 20 miles per hour that the driver exceeds the limit.
Beyond that, rates continue to go up. See the full scale here.
In this case going 10mph over
the limit would result in a $40 fine.
Highway Speeding Ticket Costs
For offenses on highways
where the speed limit is above 55mph things are a little different. I believe
the most recent fine scale to be $5 for every mph exceeding the limit. For
example:
5mph over=$25
15 mph over=$75
25 mph over=$125
It’s all very weird and
quaint, right? For the most accurate information check with local law
enforcement or the clerk’s office. Or you can ask a local with a heavy foot.
For more on North Dakota speeding tickets see the funny story here, the Bismarck
Trib article comparing our rates
to surrounding states, or this OpEd
piece from the Grand Forks Herald
calling for a raise in speeding fines.
And now that you are fully
armed with a little extra knowledge of North Dakota roads this just might be
the perfect time to take a road trip. BeLOCAL has a list of day/weekend trip
ideas right
here. Happy driving!
Today’s Minot Monday, all about the Minot Landfill and Waste Management is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a publication and guide to living like a local. All content and opinions in this post are my own.
Today might not be the most exciting Minot Monday post ever to grace the blog–but it’s going to be useful. Today, I’m talking about trash. Specifically the Minot landfill. A lot can be said about the trash situation here. Locals don’t think about it, but when you move in it can be a little jarring. Because I’m your friend, I don’t mind sitting down to write a post completely dedicated to how you can dispose of your garbage. Let’s go.
As I said, I’ll be focusing mainly on the Minot landfill today. But I’ll touch on a couple other issues first.
I’ve lived in a lot of places. If I were to do a side by side comparison of waste management from all of those places–Minot would not come in first place. Don’t get me wrong. You know I love Minot. I’m the town’s biggest cheerleader. So everything I say from this point on is simply to help you navigate life here. Not negative, just fact.
Curbside Trash Pick Up
Minot offers curbside garbage pick up in the city. It’s pretty standard. Where we live the truck comes twice each week–which means our bin is never full or overflowing. I’ve had a hard time finding a list of what is acceptable to put in the dumpster. After much searching I dug this up from the City website. This PDF includes a complete list of what you can and cannot put in the trash bin at the curb.
If you’ve got large items, you can add them to your curbside lot, but additional fees apply. (See here.) To arrange a pick up of a large item (furniture, appliances, etc–this does not include building materials) you’ll need to call Public Works (701-857-4140) and schedule a pick up. BeLOCAL has a quick guide to all important “city” phone numbers here.
Yard Waste
One specific rule is that yard waste (think leaves, grass, etc) cannot be placed into your curbside dumpster. This can go to the Minot landfill (we’ll chat more about that in a minute) or one of the yard waste collection sites. Again, I’ll link up this PDF, because it can be hard to find on the City’s website. (Spoiler, if you look under collection locations…you won’t find it.)
There are special yard waste collection sites (see a map here) open until the end of November. After that, yard waste must be taken to the landfill. Unlike other debris–the Minot landfill accepts yard waste at no cost. AKA, for free.
Christmas Trees and Free Mulch
After Christmas two of the yard waste sites reopen to collect Christmas trees. You can drop your tree off at Oak Park or the 16th Ave/16th St SW location. Trees are taken to the Minot landfill and turned into mulch. Then something super cool happens–that mulch is available FOR FREE to residents!
Spring and Fall Clean Up
Twice a year (in October and May) a giant clean up week happens. During Fall and Spring Clean up, you can put basically anything out at the curb for pickup. An-y-thing. Things that don’t fit in your bin, things that normally aren’t picked up by waste crews. It’s pretty much all fair game. It’s free and convenient. You can see the FAQ here for all the details. (Again, you’re welcome. This information is really well hidden on the website.) Dates will be posted here once announced.
Hazardous Waste and Freebies
Now let’s talk hazardous waste. Hazardous waste is anything chemical/liquid that should not be put out with more “traditional” trash. The category includes things like paint, stain, pesticides, etc. The Minot landfill accepts hazardous waste spring through fall. And here is a little known fact: anything suitable for reuse is available, free of charge to anyone who wants it. There is more information on hazardous waste disposal here and here.
Recycling in Minot
Something Derek and I consistently struggle with is how to dispose of our recyclables. The city of Minot doesn’t offer a recycling program or recyclable pick up. There are several places in town where you can take recyclables–and all are a little different. (I plan to do a full post on recycling once I’ve done a little more research.) Here are all the places you can recycle and links to their information.
Best Buy (appliances and electronics of all kinds)
Plastic bags are collected at Market Place Foods or can be donated to any of the thrift stores in town.
The Minot Landfill
Now let’s talk about the Minot landfill. The landfill is on the outskirts of town, up a hill. If roads are snowy or icy it can be hard to get up the hill without four-wheel drive.
To drop items off at the landfill there is a minimum $10 fee. The landfill used to accept items for free from residents (with proof in the form of a city water bill). However, they’ve no longer do that.
Upon entry, your vehicle is weighed. Then, you are given a number and instructions on where to drop off your waste. After you finish, you are weighed again and pay the fee on your way out.
Before making my first trip to the landfill (first since moving back to Minot) I tried to find a schedule of fees online. I was initially unsuccessful–so after dropping items off I snapped this photo from the payment window for future reference.
The Minot landfill offers lots more than what is easily found on the website, so I hope this helps you navigate the system. Remember to meet up with me on Instagram or Facebook stories to see this week’s event round up. Every Monday I share my picks for fun events going on in town. I’d love to connect with you!
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. Their publication is a guide to living life life a local and getting the most out of our town. All opinions and passion for square dancing are my own.
Ten years ago, if I had envisioned my future I would never (ever) have guessed it would look like the life I’m living. When I was a newly wed, fresh out of college–it never crossed my mind that I’d be living in North Dakota…let alone loving it so much that I write about life here every week. Even if I had seen a move to North Dakota coming, I don’t think I ever would have envisioned sitting down to write a post all about Square Dancing in Minot, ND. Alas here we are.
Yes, today is the day I tell you all about a pass time that is near and dear to my heart: Square Dancing in Minot.
Years ago (when we lived here the first time) we were invited to try square dancing in Minot. I was a little hesitant…because, well it was square dancing. But–I’m nothing if not teachable and willing to try. My grandpa was a square dance caller in Iowa, so I remember hearing my grandparents (and my dad, too) talk fondly about square dancing.
Being willing to try, passionate about keeping old-fashioned social settings alive, and a sucker for any activity that comes with special clothes (I’m also into bowling, skiing, theme parties, etc), I said I was in.
Square dancing was a perfect fit for me when we first learned and started attending dances. I had recently had back surgery and an unforeseen lengthy and complicated recovery process. I wanted to be active, but could not participate in the high-impact activities that I loved. Walking was therapeutic…but Minot winters aren’t exactly conducive to walks outdoors.
While square dancing is technically a dance, it’s mostly walking in specific patterns. It was an activity that got me out of the house, active, engaged with others, and using my brain. For me, learning to square dance was part of my healing process. But I liked it as more than just an activity to do while I was injured. It’s something Derek and I love to do together, and something I consider a perfect winter activity.
Hopefully you are little sold on Square Dancing in Minot (or somewhere else–there are clubs alllll over the US). Here are all the details you need to know to get involved.
Actual square dancing is more than just linking arms, saying do-si-so and skipping in a circle. Square dancing is a collaborative activity between four couples (standing in a “square”) and a caller who calls out steps for everyone to follow. The steps weave dancers in circles and patterns–all while dancers attempt to follow along and run into each other.
There is no real “dance” skill involved. If you can walk, you can square dance. Since the steps are all called out for you (and learned in advance) you never need to freestyle or worry that you’ll look silly. And for that point, there are no “silly” moves. As I said, it’s all about being able to walk.
I used to wear a FitBit to dances and was amazed that I would walk several miles in the course of a night of dancing.
When I asked Derek how he would describe square dancing he said, “Awesome.” When I prodded for a more specific answer he said he likes it because it’s a “non-food-centered activity that is excellent physical, mental and social exercise.” Very well put.
Where Can I Learn to Square Dance in Minot?
Glad you asked. The Magic Squares (Minot’s square dancing group) host lessons once enough interest has been generated. And you are in luck! We were supposed to have lessons this past weekend, but nasty winter weather caused a postponement.
Watch their Facebook page for dance information. Right now they have been hosting ABC dances. This means they dance a beginner dance (for folks who’ve never danced or don’t know all the moves), then an advanced dance, and then a line dance for all. It’s a great way to start learning.
The next ABC dance is January 25, 2020, 1:30-4:30pm at the location TBD (watch their page for details.) Dances are usually held in the evening, but this is an exception. The full lessons (to finish learning what we didn’t at ABC dances) are going to be rescheduled in February (hoping for February 8.) If you have questions shoot a message to me or their page! We’d love to have you try it out!
Do I Need Fancy Clothes?
Nope. You can come in jeans and a t-shirt. After full lessons take place folks might start breaking out their square dancing skirts, but even then it’s just for fun. Right now everyone (especially new dancers) come casual.
When we took lessons years ago, there was a big dancing-attire swap that happened at the end. I came home completely outfitted. (As did Derek.) My mom dug up my grandma’s square dancing clothes and sent those out to me too. Now I’ve got more puffy skirts than I will ever need..and I’ll be sharing with new dancers.
Is It Hard?
Like learning anything, square dancing takes a little time and gets easier with practice. It’s definitely a mental workout–but it’s not physically exhausting. As for remembering all the steps, they flow well and are easier to pick up than I thought they’d be. But even experienced dancers get tangled up sometimes. It’s all part of the fun.
Is It Expensive?
Nope. The lessons (refresher course for people who have been coming to the ABC dances) is $18 which includes lunch. Dances have a $7 fee and are usually about two hours long.
Who Comes to Dances?
I’m adding this because it’s exactly what Derek and I wondered when we started. The answer is, all kinds of people. Some are empty-nesters. Some are our age (sigh…30’s). There is a surprising number of college students that join, as well.
Everyone is nice and normal (well…as normal as anyone really can be.) It’s not required, but a few people usually bring sweets to share that are off to the side.
Come Join Us!
Now you know all the details about square dancing in Minot. If you watch my Instagram stories (or on Facebook) you know how much I look forward to square dances. It was on my mind the day my cabinets fell off the wall. And it was the thing I was most looking forward to this past weekend. Research shows that we can feel more isolated during the dark, cold months. Square dancing is a great way to get out, get involved, enjoy Minot and make meaningful connections that combat the seasonal depression that can set in during these harsh months. I hope you’ll join us!
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