Happy Halloween from Rocky's Downtown Hour! Rocky Schneider, executive director of the Downtown Community Partnership, celebrates the welcoming diversity of the holiday and shares his own experience dressing up as Gru for a downtown trick-or-treating event.
This episode dives into the heart of downtown Fargo, touching on several key topics:
Fargo Theater's Legacy and Upgrades
The historic Fargo Theater is celebrating 100 years and working on enhancements to keep up with the times, including potential new seating. The theater's iconic marquee is recognized as a vital part of Fargo’s identity, drawing tourists and locals alike.
New Bike Trail Opening
Rocky announces the grand opening of the All-American Trail North, a new entry-level mountain biking course connecting downtown to Lindenwood. This project is praised for investing in the quality of life, culture, and unique experiences that define the community.
Spotlight on Unique Downtown Shops
The episode features interviews with two distinctive downtown business owners:
- Dee Dahlstedt of Lunatique Boutique: Located in the First Avenue Market, Lunatique is an oddities, art, vintage, and antique shop. Dee discusses her "Velveteen Rabbit Syndrome" philosophy, giving new life to old, imperfect objects. She also shares a heartbreaking local ghost story about Marie Wick, who haunts downtown.
- Crystal Larson of Mystic Moth Studio: Crystal discusses her metaphysical shop, which offers crystals, herbs, teas, books, and oddities focused on nature like insects and bones. She emphasizes the store as an "anchor of light for weirdos to find their weirdos" and a place for engaging conversations and community connection. Mystic Moth also hosts classes and intuitive readers.
Relocating the Downtown Engagement Center
The city commission recently voted to move the Downtown Engagement Center to a new, more welcoming location at 2001 First Avenue South. This relocation is supported to provide a better, more centralized, and welcoming space for people to access numerous social services. The community is currently fundraising to help with the capital investment needed for the move. Rocky also advocates for separating the issue of bad behavior downtown from the issue of homelessness to address both problems more effectively.
The hour concludes with a reminder to embrace the spirit of Halloween—go out, share a smile, and celebrate the season!