Merri Jill Finstrom (a.k.a. MJ) owns HUTdogs with her brother Dave. They specialize in the Art of Promotion and help people get the word out about their products, services and events. During the pandemic, they launched an award-winning webinar series called “The New Normal” which facilitated connection, offered encouragement and helpful ideas to the struggling business community as they navigated the era of Zoom. She provides the marketing direction for Downtown Arcadia and is always working for ways to build community collaboration around their events. She volunteers for the Historical society helping them with their Monday morning historical Tid Bit emails. She is active in the AUSD PTSA and is a new board member for the Arcadia Performing Arts Foundation.
She has lived in Arcadia for 23 years with her husband Ferdie who often gets roped into her local marketing activities. She loves being a mom to Kiana and dog Hazel, enjoys a good zip-line, long walks, real talks and good friends.