There is much joy in folks gathering, sharing laughter, engaging in conversation and enjoying entertainment. After a three-year lapse, the Heritage Singers Variety Show is back; for sure, there will be plenty of the above listed happenings at the shows.

The diamond of the show has always been male chorus singing, and there are some wonderful numbers that the gents will be singing. There will be jovial skits, a nimble band, beautiful and vigorous piano playing by Lynn Jensen and whiz-bang, impressive piano duet with Jensen and DeVera Bowles. All of this is held together by the unwavering, systematic and synchronized leadership of our director Dave Jensen. We would expect nothing less from a former gallant projectionist at the Westhope Theater!

Speaking of movies, there will be screens for easy viewing. These screens will also feature hilarious clips from previous shows. Each of the members has a unique album of personal memories: mental snapshots of songs, skits, and moments they lived as performers. We know, too, that many members of the audience have these albums as well. During this performance we are going to take some time and look through several entertaining highlights together. COVID has reminded us how important it is to relive memories, to learn from them, to take time to pass on the joy of singing when we have the chance to add to them.

Being in the Heritage Singers is and always has been a treasured brotherhood. The focus of the group is to gather and enjoy male choral singing, and we do that and so much more. It is fulfilling to watch members work together to bring beauty into our world through voice. They also know how to look at things differently, especially during variety show skits! Music inspires, comforts, and can allow us to see ourselves and things differently. Music enhances our lives and certainly comforts us in times of trial.

A tribute will be given in memory of Todd Magnuson and Dave Norton, former members, who have passed away since our last variety show. Both Magnuson and Norton were engaged with skits and extra entertaining in the variety shows. They not only had singing in common but teaching as well. Magnuson taught math and coached and Norton educated students in biology. They had a passion for life which was easy to see. They took pride in their families, savored education, worked in the community, served in their churches and sang joyfully in the Heritage Singers. Their morsels of insight on living well will forever accompany their memories. Their untimely passing reminds us that time is limited, so don’t waste it — focus, give, and enjoy life.

It was 49 years ago that the late Dr. Joseph Hegstad (Doc) had the vision for chartering a male choral singing group in Minot. Dave Jensen was invited by Doc to join the group and he said to Dave before they parted “say bring your wife along.” Doc knew the talent and command Lynn has for playing the piano. She has been at the ivories ever since; she truly is the beloved Sweetheart of the Heritage Singers. Lynn’s focus on practicing is unfaltering and we know and appreciate her masterly method. We also smile from time to time when she showcases her savvy, quick-witted nature to our director!

We are back and looking forward to putting on a fine show for the Minot and the surrounding communities. It will be happy, lively, with plenty of male choral singing! Performances will be held February 16, 17, and 18 and February 23. 24 and 25 at 52 Pines.

Both Todd and Dave enjoyed meals — and especially desserts. Our board meetings are not complete until we have enjoyed a food delight. I was thinking of Todd and Dave when I recently made these chocolate-covered strawberries. This was a first for me. The trick to making easy to use chocolate dip is to use a double boiler. I added 1 tablespoon of olive oil to each bag of chips used and it remained easy to use for over an hour.

I view having a double boiler as an important part of our kitchen inventory, and this recent adventure proved it! Not having a double boiler would be like having a car without a muffler.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Select strawberries of choice and leave stems on

1 12-oz bag of Hershey’s Semi-Sweet chocolate chips

1 tablespoon olive oil

Using a double boiler, fill water to the bottom kettle so that it does not touch the bottom of the top kettle. Add olive oil and add chips a little at a time. Melt completely before add more. Dip strawberries as desired and place them on wax paper allow them to set up in refrigerator.