Miss Høstfest celebrates heritage

Miss Høstfest 2009, Nora Mihalick. Photo: Minot Daily News.

As Miss Høstfest 2009, Nora Mihalick is excited about sharing her Norwegian heritage. A senior at Minot High School, Mihalick was born a week before Hostfest and her first official outing was to the festival. She hasn’t missed a year since.

“I’ve always liked coming to the Høstfest. Throughout the years I’d see the Høstfest queen, and I thought it would be fun to be in that position some day,” Mihalick said.

During her many visits to the Høstfest, Mihalick has participated in numerous activities. She has participated in the bunad style show, modeled Norwegian sweaters, sang with the Western Plains Childrens Chorus, and danced several performances.

“I like everything about Høstfest, everybody’s in a good mood and willing to be talkative. It’s a good place to go to have fun,” Mihalick said.

Mihalick’s Norwegian heritage traces back to her great-grandmother, whose parents hailed from Trondheim. She explained that her great-grandmother passed an interest in all things Norwegian on to her grandmother, who passed it on to her mother.

“Norwegian heritage has always been a part of my lifestyle. I love the food, and I love being able to wear my bunad when I get the chance. Norway’s such a beautiful place,” Mihalick said.

Mihalick also hopes to encourage other young people to take an interest in their heritage.

“Next year, I want to push to get more younger kids out here and get an interest in it. Kids need to learn more about where their ancestors came from, and I think kids in this area have a great opportunity to take advantage of the festival we hold every year,” Mihalick said.

Mihalick is enjoying being this year’s Miss Høstfest.

“It’s great to be able to honor the Høstfest, and it’s been a lot of fun,” she said.

Source: Minot Daily News