Marilyn Hagerty, a prominent columnist for the Grand Forks Herald, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 99 due to complications from a stroke. Hagerty, known for her nearly 70-year tenure with the newspaper, gained significant online attention in 2012 after writing a viral review of the Olive Garden restaurant in Grand Forks. Her review was widely shared and attracted both acclaim and criticism, prompting responses from notable figures including celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain.
Beginning her career in the 1960s as the features editor, Hagerty initiated the “Eatbeat” column focusing on local dining, addressing the limited culinary options in Grand Forks. Despite the modest food scene, her restaurant reviews garnered enthusiastic community engagement and led to her first book, “Grand Forks: A History of American Dining in 128 Reviews,” which included a foreword by Bourdain. In recognition of her contributions to journalism, she received the Al Neuharth Award for Excellence in Media from the University of South Dakota.
Throughout her career, Hagerty wrote approximately 2,000 Eatbeat columns, and even after retiring from full-time work in 1991, she continued to write until October 2022. She is survived by her son, James “Bob” Hagerty; daughter, Gail Hagerty; and eight grandchildren.
- Why it matters: Hagerty’s story highlights the evolving landscape of journalism and how local voices can reach national recognition, demonstrating the power of digital media.
- Local businesses may benefit from increased interest in community-focused journalism and restaurant reviews, fostering local engagement.
- The latest: Marilyn Hagerty was working on her latest column until just months before her passing, illustrating her dedication to her craft.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/marilyn-hagerty-olive-garden-north-dakota-b2828593.html
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/marilyn-hagerty-olive-garden-north-dakota-b2828593.html