We will be the first to lend a hand (when you slip on the ice) and brave the elements to dig you out of the ditch when your car inevitably gets stuck. Fargonians are unlike any other counterparts to the South or even our neighbors to the North in Canada. You might have to peel back our layers to get to the heart of a true Fargonian, but once you do you will have a friend for life.

1. Fargonian Friendly is no joke
   1. You’ve heard of Southern Hospitality but wait until you experience a genuine Fargo Friendly welcome. We are often overly friendly and willing to chat with just about anyone who sits down near us. Once you get to know Fargonians we will always say hi, offer a helping hand and be your friend for life.

1. If you need something, we will borrow it to you
   1. When you go out on the town with a Fargonian, they will be sure to make sure you have what you need. If we are getting up to grab another local libation we will ask if you need anything too! Heck we will even take turns buying rounds - Scout’s honor.

1. Sick? Lose a loved one? Down on your luck? We have a hotdish for that.
   1. If you’re having a rough day, Fargonians will be ready to comfort you in the best way we know how ...with hotdish of course. If a loved one has died, prepare for many home cooked lasagnas to arrive at your door. If you’ve been through an illness or welcomed a new little one, Fargonians will no doubt organize a meal train to ensure that you have home-cooked meals filled with butter and love.

1. We ask permission (& avoid confrontation)
   1. Are you saving this seat for anyone? Do you have an extra cup of sugar? Is it okay that I parked in the driveway? Fargonians like to avoid any confrontation and aim to please in all areas. We don’t want to inconvenience you - we will check (and double check) to make sure they have your permission. Afterwards, we will probably apologize for taking so much of your time too.

1. Sorry is our favorite word but we mean it
   1. If we only had a scotcharoo for everytime we said the word sorry…. Fargonians are famous for uttering the classic “ope, sorry” even if it wasn’t our fault to begin with. We are quick to accept the blame and respond with a meaningful apology. Don’t believe us? Try intentionally bumping into us in Downtown Fargo and see what happens.

1. The two finger wave is only the beginning
   1. If you are out driving on a back road (or even a city road) and another car approaches, prepare for the true Fargonian greeting. With your hand firmly planted on the steering wheel, lift your index and middle finger in a slight wave. While this greeting may seem insignificant, if it is forgotten you will be sure to hear about it at the local bar. Fargonian salutations continue in all areas from walking the dog to the grocery store. It doesn’t matter that we’ve never met, we will acknowledge you with a warm smile and conversation that probably lasts just a ‘tish too long.

1. We don’t go back on our word
   1. We love to meet with our fellow Fargonians for drinks, lunch, dinner or even some exercise (we have to stay warm somehow). You may think that we will forget about these invites; however, Fargonians will be sure to follow up, often with a few different local venue suggestions.

1. We learn to appreciate the little things
   1. The sun is shining in the winter. The river didn’t flood ~as bad~ this year. A new restaurant opened downtown. The blizzard was only 8 inches of snow instead of 12 inches. Our neighbor snowblowed our sidewalk. The car started in the -41 degree windchill. Whatever it may be, the little things are always celebrated with our fellow Fargonians!

1. We are darn proud of where we are from
   1. No matter how far we roam, Fargonians will always share with you how proud we are to be from Fargo, North Dakota. More often than not we will list the many pros of living in Fargo from the warm summer, the booming downtown, the support of local businesses and of course our love for the people that make up our community. This will quickly be followed with “well, it wouldn’t be so bad without the wind/snow” but we truly mean it and love living in this great city!

Until next time, stay warm Fargo!