Lake and Company - Minnesota Issue 19

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ISSUE 19

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Photo by John Scarr @thelakeandcompany thelakeandcompany.com

All of us at Lake and Company, both the magazine and shop, are passionately committed to celebrating the very best of lake culture and inspiring our communities to get out and explore the unknown.

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR FLIP THE SCRIPT We all hope to wake up one day and all will be right with the world once more.

Needless to say, that day is unlikely.

Our normal is different, and lots of people are reassessing their happiness as a whole. The pandemic is forcing people to look at things differently, adopt new ways of operating and rely heavily on community support … and it’s wonderful.

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36 A FRESH APPROACH

CUYUNA COVE

Get a glimpse into Stillwater’s inventive dining scene.

Stay at a boutique hotel built for the modern outdoor enthusiast.

People are searching for more balance and purpose now that work is no longer a thing we leave or turn off at 5 p.m.

— it’s how we live our lives and who we want to be. As I dig deeper into the stories from this issue, I find infinite silver linings. And the more people I am blessed to talk with, the more it helps me understand how we all think, which ultimately enhances my own way of looking at things. This issue is filled with inspiring stories of determination from people doing the unexpected.

When you flip the script on how things used to be, you can create something unique and revolutionary. We’ve found that people are hungry for new experiences, new adventures, new connections, and we’re here to share those stories. For the people, from the people.

How many of you are creating your own plan for change? For happiness? If you’re eager to start writing your own narrative, there’s no better time than now to make it happen.

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FORGING PARTNERSHIPS

The Spirit of Stillwater is serving up one-of-a-kind craft cocktails.

Go explore!

Maria Hileman

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KAYAKING THE APOSTLE ISLANDS

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Paddle to hidden caves and pristine beaches with tips from a guide.

#MinnesotasMagazine @thelakeandcompany

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MAKING WAVES IN LAKE COUNTRY

THE WILD MIDWEST

Collaborating with coastal brands to make a splash in the Midwest.

Explore Cuyuna, home to some of the clearest lakes and world-class biking trails.

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PROJECT WILD BEGINNINGS Empowering youth through adventure and hands-on learning.

For the People From the People

Want to see your favorite hot spot or most traveled trail featured?

Send us your photos, stories, and ideas to: hello@thelakeandcompany.com

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WELLNESS RETREAT

Enhance your well-being with the transformative power of Sauna.

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THE REBIRTH OF STILLWATER An in-depth guide to this year-round travel destination.

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HELPING MOMS FIND FLEXIBLE WORK

By MARY KAY ZINIEWICZ

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hroughout my career and this startup journey, I have spoken with hundreds of moms. I learn every day that there is not a one-size-fits-all mom. The pandemic is taking an enormous toll on working moms with a large number having to leave the workforce. The reasons women leave careers is different for everyone-our birthing experiences are different, our support systems are all different, our parenting is different, our values are different, our children are different--but there is one common thread that binds us all--we all want the very best for our children.

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BUS STOP MAMAS CRACKS THE LABOR GAP, REMOVES THE MOTHERHOOD PENALTY AND PROPELS THE ECONOMY WITH ONE CLICK.

This is the fuel that keeps me going. Bus Stop Mamas allows mom to prosper her way and allows business and community to prosper too. The model is a marketplace that serves everyone without judgment and corrects what is broken without preaching--literally everyone wins.

Bottom line, Bus Stop Mamas produces perpetual return.

According to a recently released report by the World Economic Forum, “it will now take 135.6 years to close the gender gap worldwide.” We believe the Bus Stop Mamas model will hasten the gap to close.

The idea for Bus Stop Mamas came to me after my husband, who was a stay-at-home dad during the first 10 years of our daughter’s life, decided he wanted to go back to working outside the home. When he went back to work, I started consulting from home and for the first time, I was at the bus stop every day with other moms, some of whom left very promising careers to take care of their children. Some of these moms desired to contribute in other ways, they wanted to interact with adults and use their other talents. Some of these moms had attempted to find work, only to be shut out by the automated tracking systems in place.

That is when I thought, I must find some jobs for these moms and correct the AI judgment that misses great candidates--the business world really needs the talent! So I started exploring the workforce space. After a few years of research and with the help of my daughter (Lily built the website when she was 12), I started Bus Stop Mamas in January of 2019.

Bus Stop Mamas is a digital platform that connects businesses with off the market talent—stay at home parents—mostly moms, but dads too. We are reimagining workforce equity by helping families find flexible work options. Moms can sign up for Bus Stop Mamas for free. Businesses pay a small, flat fee after hire. People get introduced, are connected quickly, and everyone wins--business, family and community.

To learn more visit busstopmamas.com.

Mary Kay built a new program, Bus Stop Mamas, a digital platform that combines high-tech with human touch and delivers high return for family, business, and community. She’s impacting the real world now.

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PUBLISHER + CO-FOUNDER DIRECTOR OF RETAIL + CO-FOUNDER

Kelly Kabotoff

EDITOR + DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS

Maria Hileman

You live your story, we tell it.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

be.Media is a full-service strategic marketing and production company.

SERVICES: Brand Identity Graphic Design Video + Animation Website Design Strategy Social Media Photography Publishing SEO/SEM

Megan Kellin

Sarah Vogl + Meredith Berg

COPY EDITOR

Anne Conklin

AD DESIGNER

Sam McPhillips

COVER IMAGE

Madeline Marquardt

COVER DESIGN DIRECTOR OF MEDIA PRODUCTION LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER PROJECT MANAGER CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL + BUSINESS OFFICE ADVERTISE STOCKIST SUBSCRIPTIONS

Meredith Berg John Scarr Aimee Jobe Jennifer Gorman Mary Kay Ziniewicz, Madeline Marquardt, Alex Eder, Christie Wanderer, Joe Ehlenz, Grady Linder, Cheryl Fosdick, Ayesha Gilbert, Aaron W. Hautala, Kelsey Braun, Paul Kirkman, John Sugimura, Jennifer Gorman, Grant Carlson, Teke O’Reilly 403 NW 1st Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744 For a media kit, email: hello@thelakeandcompany.com To sell in your retail store, email hello@thelakeandcompany.com thelakeandcompany.com (subscribe) hello@thelakeandcompany.com

FIND US EVERYWHERE

+ select grocers, convenience stores, and independent retailers 4 and 5 star hotels + resorts

BEC

OC A ST OME

KIST

PrintReleaf guarantees every sheet of paper a customer consumes will be reforested. Lake and Company has reforested 9,285,913 sheets of copy paper.

2021 Lake and Company. All rights reserved. No portion may be duplicated, in whole or in part, without the written consent of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, however, the publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy of information or omissions from the material provided. Lake and Company cannot be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services rendered by the advertisers published in the magazine.

INSPIRED BY THE STORIES OF PEOPLE DOING EXCEPTIONAL THINGS

— thelakeandcompany.com — 10

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MAINLAND SEA CAVES

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he best sea caves in the region can be accessed from Meyers Beach. The sea caves, including Keyhole Arch and “The Crack,” begin about a mile from the launch spot and continue for 2.5 miles along the cliffs. Because of cold water, paddling distance from the launch spot and unpredictable weather along this stretch of shore, this paddle is safest with an experienced guide and a sea kayak. With a guide, this is a great paddle for a strong beginner.

Check out Lost Creek Adventures or Trek & Trail and book early! This is the most popular tour in the area, for good reason, and thus likely to be the most crowded. An unguided trip can become an advanced coastal kayaking trip very quickly. Be sure to bring a full coastal kayaking safety kit.

Tucked away at the tip of Wisconsin before the land bleeds into Lake Superior, you can find a paddler’s paradise. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to countless sandstone caves, pristine beaches, a rich history and 21 islands to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or expert paddler, there is a route here that is perfect for you.

SHOP THE STORY

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is on Anishinaabe/Ojibwe traditional land.

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SAND ISLAND A Sand Island day trip is 8 miles round trip, including one of the most notoriously risky open-water crossings in the region. The reward for the difficult paddle is access to the Swallow Point Sea Caves, Justice Bay Beach and Sand Island Lighthouse. This is a challenging, less crowded paddle than the Mainland Sea Caves.

Book with Lost Creek Adventures to reach these island caves.

OVERNIGHT IN THE ISLANDS The best way to experience what islands have to offer is to spend a few days paddling them.

An overnight sea kayaking trip will usually start by paddling to Sand Island, visiting the Swallow Point Sea Caves and camping on the island.

From here, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure. Lost Creek Adventures offers anywhere from two-day to five-day trips in the islands. Three to four days will take you out to the beautiful U-shaped beach on York Island and the Raspberry Island Lighthouse. In five days you can reach the outer ring of islands, including Stockton, Rocky and Devil’s Islands.

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A HIDDEN CAVE Experienced sea kayakers looking for a challenge should try a 23-mile Oak Island circumnavigation. Start at the Red Cliff Casino ($4 launch fee) and paddle northeast along the shore. At the Red Cliff point buoy, cross to the Oak Island sandspit. Once you reach the northeast edge of Oak Island, hug the shore for dramatic cliffs and pop-up waterfalls.

Hidden along this stretch of cliffs is one of the least visited but most impressive sea caves in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Follow the hole in the back of the cave to reach a forest skylight.

This trip is best attempted in summer months by experienced sea kayakers prepared to deep-water self-rescue in Level 3 ACA (American Canoe Association) conditions, and can easily be turned into an overnight trip by camping on Oak Island.

CAMP MORE WORRY LESS MUG — $19.99

LAKE SUPERIOR WEATHER

THE WANDERER ZIP HOODIE — $149

Lake Superior is the largest lake in the world by surface area, known for its cold water temperatures and creating its own weather patterns. July and August are the best months to paddle, but always consult the marine forecast before launching. In the summer months, storms can pop up in the region with little warning — carry a VHF marine radio and know your exit plan.

THE GENEVIEVE SNAP PULLOVER — $99 CLEO SUNGLASSES — $149 SHOP thelakeandco.com

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WHAT TO WEAR For guided trips in the summer, wear shorts or activewear pants and a long-sleeve wool or synthetic top for sun protection and extra warmth. Your outfitter will provide a wetsuit if needed.

Bring a raincoat and extra layers in case you capsize and need dry clothes. Dry bags and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided by your outfitter.

For an unguided trip, wear a wetsuit or drysuit, wool or synthetic base layers, a raincoat or splash jacket, and several spare layers. You need a PFD, full paddling kit and three methods of emergency communication. There is no reliable cell service on the Bayfield Peninsula, and a Coast Guard Rescue may be several hours away.

WHERE TO STAY There are several campgrounds in the area, but all are likely to be fully booked several weeks in advance during summer months. Consider Little Sand Bay Campground within the National Lakeshore or Big Bay State Park Campground on Madeline Island, or staying at the Bayfield Inn in downtown Bayfield.

For more hiking trails, paddles and adventures in Lake Superior and the northern Great Lakes region, see the book Hidden Gems of the Northern Great Lakes: A Trail and Paddling Guide.

Madeline Marquardt is a writer, photographer and paddler currently based in Grand Marais, Minnesota. She has worked as a sea kayaking guide in the Apostle Islands and English teacher in Armenia, and has paddled and hiked extensively throughout the Lake Superior Region and state of Michigan. You can find her at madelinemarquardt.com, where she writes about the outdoors and adventure travel.

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M

AK

W A VE S I N G IN

L AK E COUNT R Y SHOP THE STORY

OUR TRAVELS AND CHANCE ENCOUNTERS HAVE MADE US NATURAL COLLABORATORS AND CONNECTORS OF THE DOTS. THE SOURCE OF FLOWING CONVERSATIONS AND EPIC PARTNERSHIPS. (AND YES, WE SPEAK IN WATER ANALOGIES WHENEVER WE CAN.)

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lose your eyes and imagine a room full of your favorite people — people who inspire you, who have adventured the world, and who share stories that make you want to push harder, live fuller and laugh louder. People who inspire you to simply be more. This room is real — this room is the outdoor industry. The industry we are so proud to be a part of.

Within our company we have been lucky enough to build a team of like-minded individuals. Our team is made up of well-traveled risk takers. Adventure seekers. Out-of-the-box thinkers. Together, as a team, we strive to make waves in the region by becoming early adopters of unique products and brands that enhance and celebrate the outdoor lifestyle. We strive to dig deep to find the why behind these brands and to bring their products and stories to the lake region.

At Lake and Company it’s always been about the stories. And we will continue to tell the stories behind the people. Behind the photos. Behind the products. We work hard to keep our fingers on the pulse of what’s coming out from the Coasts by partnering with start-up companies whose innovative products have an audience in our region. These brands are a breath of fresh air in an oftentimes oversaturated market of the same old, same old. While sometimes unknown to most, they inspire us — and the adventure seekers in our community — with their innovative solutions, sustainable practices and socially conscious missions.

We feel honored to have the ability to use our multifaceted platform of magazines, digital media, online and brick-and-mortar stores to expose these amazing product stories to our Midwest readers and shoppers. We hope it will inspire you to adventure more, to dig deeper and to spread kindness while you do it.

From our Lake and Company cofounders, Megan Kellin and Kelly Kabotoff.

Want to collaborate with us?

Please reach out to hello@thelakeandcompany.com.

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WOMEN’S YUKLATA ROBE - $148 MEN’S HIGH WATER SHIRT - $135 SHOP thelakeandco.com

TALLAC FLEECE PULLOVER - $99 SHOP thelakeandco.com

Come explore Next Career Pathways, a place where students and businesses thrive together.

By: AARON HAUTALA

@aimeejobe

@elainajoydoe

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@il_visuals

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Updates from Space

Share your story FOLLOW + TAG US FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED @thelakeandcompany | #MinnesotasMagazine

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THE REBIRTH OF STILLWATER FROM LUMBER TO TOURIST TOWN

By MARIA HILEMAN | Collage by SARAH VOGL

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nown as the birthplace of Minnesota, this once booming lumber town has transformed into a year-round travel destination. Fall in love with this serene rivertown, nestled

between majestic bluffs along the mighty St. Croix River. Enjoy beautiful scenic views and a walkable Main Street, offering the perfect dose of local flavor, shopping, outdoor excursions and restaurants sure to keep you entertained. The strong Stillwater community is what makes this place so special for locals and tourists alike.

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A HISTORICAL LANDSCAPE

Photos from left to right: South Hill Stairs; Stillwater Lift Bridge by Wildridge Photography; St. Croix River log jam photo courtesy of the Washington County Historical Society; Union Depot historical photo by John Runk; Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop photo by Anna Marum Photography, Hotel Crosby rooftop, Steamboat photo courtesy of the Washington County Historical Society

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a weekend well spent

By MARIA HILEMAN

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tillwater has so much to offer every type of visitor that a day just isn’t enough. You can explore over 100 independently owned businesses along historic Main Street. To help you plan your perfect weekend, we have compiled a list of some of our favorite stops.

SHOP THE STORY

Greg Schulz, @picturesoverstillwater

Discover Stillwater

DAY ONE

Kelley Brenner

T R E AT Y O U R S E L F Start your morning off right with a delectable pastry from Mon Petit Chéri. Every pastry is made in-house and the options are a perfect mix of sweet and savory. Try an all-butter croissant or indulge in their Bananas Foster French Toast.

Andrea Dobbs

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Go explore

REFUEL The town is filled with amazing restaurants; and right across the street from our shop is Brick & Bourbon. The Shaved Beef Salad is a perfect summer choice, and the drinks are inventive, like the Double Entendre Martini, which involves pouring a martini over cotton candy. Make sure to try out their fantastic rooftop patio.

HIT THE TRAILS Stillwater is the perfect walkable town, but it’s also a biker’s paradise. Grab a delicious latte at Green Bridge Coffee and stroll to the back of the shop to find Herman Electric Bikes Rental. Explore the 4.7-mile loop trail and cross over the renovated historic lift bridge, now open exclusively to pedestrians and cyclists.

Andrea Dobbs

Discover Stillwater

G E T O N T H E WAT E R

Stillwater, MN

Experience the beauty of the scenic St. Croix River aboard a historic paddlewheel boat. Stillwater River Boats are equipped with inside and outside decks and depart out of Stillwater twice a day.

LIGHTS OUT Stillwater has gorgeous boutique hotels offering the most glorious stays. At Lora Hotel it’s all about the details.

Their signature amenities nourish the body and soul and will make for a truly memorable weekend escape.

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DAY T W O CAFFEINE BOOST Enjoy a gorgeous walk or bike ride to Coffee Paw Cafe. Try the giant caramel or cinnamon rolls. Discover the smoothest and richest nitro cold brew around, made and kegged in-house. Also, if you bring a photo of your dog, they’ll frame and hang it in their shop.

TIME TO SHOP Stroll over to our Lake and Company shop to find a great collection of goods with stories to tell, perfect for your outdoor adventures.

We also have some amazing in-store collaborations worth checking out with our partners Grey Duck paddle boards and Voyageur Custom Saunas.

SPICE THINGS UP Celebrate the incredible flavors of Latin America at Lolito Cantina. Grab a table outside and get ready to wake up your taste buds.

Andrea Dobbs

A SWEET SPOT

Andrea Dobbs

Leo’s Grill & Malt Shop is a family-friendly retro-style diner offering up the most delicious malts and other tasty treats.

This spot features a walk-up window and a spacious outdoor patio right in the heart of downtown Stillwater.

FESTIVAL HAT - $45

SCENIC DRIVES

BERKSHIRE HYBRID SHORT - $48

Drive north on the St. Croix Scenic Byway to explore the nearby town of Taylors Falls. On the way there, make sure to visit the 50-acre outdoor Franconia Sculpture Park, free of charge 365 days a year.

EMILIA GOLD DANGLE EARRINGS - $35 SHOP thelakeandco.com

NIGHTCAP Exceptional spirits and handcrafted cocktails are what you’ll find at Forge & Foundry Distillery. The husband-and-wife duo pick their ingredients from local sources, and you can enjoy their creations either in the tasting room or in a cocktail kit to go.

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GIVEAWAY

ULTIMATE STILLWATER ADVENTURE

Lora HOTEL Two-Night Stay

LOLO AMErican kitchen

LEO’s Grill &

MALT SHOP

STILLWATER RIVER BOATS

FORGE & FOUNDRY DISTILLERY Want to experience the Ultimate Stillwater Adventure Giveaway?

For every $50 spent at a Lake and Company shop or online, you’ll be entered for a chance to win this giveaway valued at over $1,000.

Multiple entries are allowed.

Winner announcedLAKE on August 1st.

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The P lace To S tay S ince 1890

By ALEX EDER

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ur guests can truly experience the best of both worlds.

The Water Street Inn blends the romantic history of this 130-year-old establishment with modern-day updates found throughout the entire hotel. This building is rich in history: the Lumber Exchange Building was first constructed circa 1890 by lumber barons during the boom years of logging on the St. Croix River. It continued to be an important building in Stillwater for over 100 years, and in 2019 we merged the Lumber Exchange building, the location of the current Water Street, with a newly developed and purposed design model of Union Station. This brought our hotel from 41 rooms to 61.

We also were able to add our spacious rooftop bar, Papa’s, and conference rooms overlooking the St. Croix River.

The Water Street Inn is Stillwater’s only waterfront hotel and takes up an entire city block. Many of the rooms have balconies and breathtaking views of the St. Croix River and the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge. Our amazing guests have made us a part of their lives by choosing to celebrate new milestones at our property year after year, and that couldn’t make us happier.

I AM SO PROUD TO MANAGE THE WATER STREET INN. WE TRULY HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: HISTORIC AND MODERN GUEST ROOMS, ROOFTOP AND PUB DINING, LARGE AND SMALL EVENT ROOMS...ALL INTERTWINED WITH THE HISTORY OF OUR BUILDING AND OUR READINESS TO CONTINUE MAKING MEMORIES FOR YEARS TO COME.

Greg Schulz, @picturesoverstillwater

Greg Schulz, @picturesoverstillwater

LODGING Sweet dreams were never more possible than at our hotel. We have 41 rooms in our historical section and 20 rooms in our modern section.

Settle into your Victorian Suite, designed with special attention to details and decor, featuring queen-size beds, double whirlpool baths and gas fireplaces. Many guest rooms also have breathtaking river views and spacious balconies.

DINING There’s no shortage of dining options here. Enjoy panoramic views of both the St. Croix River and downtown Stillwater on Papa’s Rooftop.

Or visit Charlie’s Restaurant — which boasts exquisite American cuisine and the finest reserve of award-winning international wines available — open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Savor your favorite microbrew at Charlie’s Irish Pub, which features live Irish music every Friday and Saturday night.

EVENTS With boardrooms overlooking the St. Croix River and a large banquet room, the Water Street Inn can accommodate groups of 3 to 300 people.

The ballroom at the Inn is an ideal setting for business meetings, retreats, private parties, catered events and weddings. There is additional space on the outdoor veranda, as well as at Lowell Park, which sits between the Inn and the river.

SUSTAINABILITY We are the greenest property in all of Stillwater, committed to protecting the environment, our guests, our employees and the community. We do this through restoration projects, recycling efforts, and our switch to dispenser toiletry amenities, compost bins for food waste and solar panels on the entire rooftop.

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FORGING PART N ER S H I PS OPENING A CRAFT DISTILLERY DURING A PANDEMIC

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art of Stillwater’s charm is the bond between the community and the businesses. When my husband, Andrew, and I started dreaming of a location to open our craft distillery, Forge and Foundry Distillery, it was important to both of us that it be located in downtown Stillwater. Andrew was born and raised in Stillwater (I am a transplant from California) and when we envisioned a place where locals and tourists could come to enjoy craft spirits, Stillwater instantly came to mind.

Stillwater’s charm draws you in no matter the season or where you’re from. Personally, I think it’s the perseverance of the people that has been here since the lumberjack days. People come for a picturesque town, but what they find is a community.

SHOP THE STORY

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By CHRISTIE WANDERE R | Photography ANDREA DOBBS PHOTOGRAPHY

For us, and our distillery, it’s what we call “The Spirit of Stillwater.” A place where people support local businesses.

We want local coffee shops, bookstores, ice cream parlors, restaurants, breweries and bakeries in our community, so we go out of our way to support them.

Opening a distillery during a pandemic hasn’t been easy.

From day one we had to be agile and learn to pivot. Plans for furniture were changed from soft fabrics to surfaces that could easily be sanitized. When we opened in August, almost five months later than planned, we were only at 50% capacity in our cocktail room and on our deck.

When the governor of Minnesota closed bars and restaurants right before Thanksgiving, we were really worried. What would we do if we couldn’t host guests in our cocktail room? We couldn’t provide drinks to go, as that legislation wasn’t passed.

We were stuck. It was a scary time with lots of sleepless nights.

We quickly realized we had all of the ingredients for the drinks on our menu and could provide one 375ml bottle of alcohol to people per day, so we turned our menu into cocktail kits to go.

We started promoting them and people came. They started buying them to try at home. Then they bought them for Thanksgiving dinner, and as the weeks of being closed stretched out, people started to buy the kits for Christmas gifts.

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ENSENADA DRESS — $70 BERKSHIRE HYBRID SHORT — $48 LELAND PULLOVER — $69 EMILIA GOLD DANGLE EARRINGS — $35 COTTON GEO BLANKET SCARF — $58 THE UTENSIL KIT — $24 SHOP thelakeandco.com

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People loved them! There was something about being able to have the craft cocktail experience at home that people loved. It honestly saved us. This community and its people saved our business and we’ve been able to stay alive because of it!

When Andrew and I started planning our distillery, community was always at the top of our mind. How do we become good stewards of the community? What can we do to not only provide a unique experience to visitors and locals alike but also build a community and support others in the community? We knew we wanted local grains and ingredients where possible. Andrew set

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out to find a local farmer to get the corn for our vodka and was able to partner with a feed store in neighboring Hugo. When we developed our first menu, many ingredients were purchased each week at the farmers market. And we partnered with two other small Minnesota companies to provide nonalcoholic options: root beer from Northern Soda Company and amazing kombucha from Bootlegger Brewing. We’re also working with a veteran-owned coffee roaster (Bridge City Roasting Company) that provides beans for the cold-brew base for our espresso martini, the “Wake Me Up Before You Go Girl.” And because we don’t have a kitchen, but we wanted to offer food to

THERE WAS SOMETHING ABOUT BEING ABLE TO HAVE THE CRAFT COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE AT HOME THAT PEOPLE LOVED.

our guests, we’ve partnered with The Board Loon for amazing charcuterie boxes. We’ve loved getting to know the owners of these other companies. All of them are so passionate about their craft and it shows in their products. Even though we’re small, we love being able to support other growing companies like ours. The partnerships we’ve forged mean the world to us.

As we start to settle into spring and summer, we’ve taken a lot of what we learned in these last few months and are building on to meet customers’ wants in 2021.

Our cocktail kits remain for those who still want the cocktail experience at home, love the drinks and want

more, and those staying at local hotels like the Crosby across the street. It’s fun to see the photos of customers making the drinks themselves.

We’ll soon be offering “boat kits” that customers can order on our website and then pick up on their way to their boat or other outing. We’re testing new flavor profiles for spirits, which we will offer later this summer and fall. And as always, we are continuing to work with local companies on forging new partnerships.

FESTIVAL HAT — $45 VONN SKIRT — $50 SHOP thelakeandco.com

The “Spirit of Stillwater” is strong and we hope to continue the tradition of community as we grow.

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A FRESH APPROACH Embracing small plates, local ingredients, seasonal menus & craft cocktails

By JOE EHLENZ | Photography by MARKO ZITZER

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.have chosen to do most of my business in Stillwater, where I was born and raised. Ask anyone who has spent the day here, and they will tell you there is something magical about this place.

I am third generation and grew up in a family who were just as invested in this town as I have become.

My grandfather was the police chief for dozens of years and later went on to become the mayor and county commissioner. I learned early on what it means to be a part of the community and how to help it grow as best as possible. Stillwater is in my blood and is the reason my partners and I chose to start our first business here: LoLo American Kitchen & Craft Bar. LoLo (locally owned, locally operated) was established in downtown Stillwater as a place where people could experience food the way my operating partner, Brad Nordeen, and I like to eat. We knew that historically the downtown was,

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STILLWATER IS IN MY BLOOD AND IS THE REASON MY PARTNERS AND I CHOSE TO START OUR FIRST BUSINESS HERE.

with a couple of exceptions, a burgers-and-beer-style landscape.

We decided to switch things up by using locally sourced ingredients, organic when possible, and local beers to set ourselves apart.

Our bar would be just as adventurous in its cocktails, using only premium ingredients, local when possible, and new techniques to create quality artisanal drinks unlike anything being served at the time. LoLo pioneered the drink list of both classic and new age cocktails for Stillwater.

We knew when we opened that all of our menus and ideas for eating for this area were different, and we knew our price point was higher, but we were determined to stick with using top-notch ingredients and producing everything we could on site. At only 1,500 square feet, LoLo was a shoebox of a restaurant, with no freezer. We have always enjoyed going out and ordering lots of dishes and sharing a family-style dinner. We wanted multiple options for people so they could experience different flavors and enjoy several dishes before feeling full. A large steak is fun, but after a couple of bites it gets to be the same. Why not have micro plates, apps and vegetable-focused dishes for guests to taste different items? Going out to a restaurant should be fun, with upbeat music, and allow diners to have options for flavors, even for the solo person bellying up to the bar.

Many people in the area didn’t think the space would work and that our ideas were too “out there” for Stillwater. I knew in my heart that I could make it work and was determined to prove the naysayers wrong, which fueled my work ethic. I heard the rumors but didn’t care. I wanted to create a restaurant that was unique. We were going be the new guys on the block hoping people chased us and mimicked our ideas. I wanted to lead the charge of what a place could be, not chase someone else.

On May 5, 2014, I got a call from the city inspector saying we were licensed and ready to go. I ran home, put my wedding suit on, and drove back to work to finally open my dream restaurant.

CRAFT COCKTAILS APLENTY LoLo pioneered the drink list of both classic and new age cocktails for Stillwater.

We casually opened the doors, and people eagerly came in to see what we were all about. I learned a lot that night, but I also learned to trust the path and the direction we were trying to go. It seemed like things were right. Guests seemed to love the space and the amount of detail we put into every square inch.

I WANTED TO LEAD THE CHARGE OF WHAT A PLACE COULD BE, NOT CHASE SOMEONE ELSE. Since that opening night seven years ago, and through a pandemic, children being born, many tears, hard shifts, robberies and plumbing disasters, we have learned a few things. Trust the path, continue listening to ourselves and continue trusting our amazing staff, as they have led us to where we are. Without them, we would not be here.

is a nod to fun Mexican foods. Next month we look to open a new concept, Stillwater Proper, a restaurant and distillery.

I hope people enjoy this new vision. All I can do is open, work every hour, never see my family and pray that people like it. The joys of a new business — working hard for endless hours —but worth it for the memories we create for a community I love and will always do anything for.

Every restaurant in Stillwater is amazing. Come here and walk the streets. You’ll be welcomed with open arms. We all help each other out and will continue to support one another until the world is right again. We don’t see competition; we see possibilities and options. Stillwater is unlike any other place in the country, and for that reason, I will never stop working to make it the best it can be.

We are blessed now to have three LoLo American Kitchens, the other two in the Minneapolis–St.Paul Airport and in Hudson, Wisconsin.

We opened a space called Lolito Cantina in Stillwater as well, which

loloamericankitchen.com

Joe Ehlenzis a Stillwater native and the managing partner/beverage director for LoLo American Kitchen.

LIVE ON THE EDGE love where you live

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GREG ANSELMO 244.4648

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JEANNE ALEX STREU BLOCH 828.467.4124 244.8985

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DAN VOSIKA 398.7740

What’s in Store for Us

By KELLY KABOTOFF

A

s the waves steadied in the wake of 2020, we found ourselves with the opportunity to rethink how we do things at Lake and Company. How we partner. How we connect with our customers. How we stay the course. And how we grow. We were reminded that at the core of everything we do are the stories. And that at the core of every story is human connection. And, gosh, were we ready for some human connection! We have always found amazing people, and amazing stories, around every corner of our journey. And more often than not, these chance encounters with strangers turn into friendships, or features on the pages of our magazine, or brand collaborations in our retail spaces. These stories, and these relationships, are truly what make us the brand that we are today.

So it’s only appropriate that as we go into our post-pandemic future we would feel compelled to flip the script on traditional retail. Here’s a taste of what’s in store for Lake and Company in 2021 and beyond.

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1. STILLWATER 214 Main Street South 2. CROSSLAKE 14287 Gould Street

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3. GRAND RAPIDS 403 NW 1st Avenue 4. DULUTH Inside The Hull 345 South Lake Street 5. INTERNATIONAL FALLS Inside Whiskey + Water 436 3rd Street

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INNOVATION

COLLABORATION

Better together. It’s a real thing. And we jumped at the opportunity to collaborate with Cantilever Distillery on a retail space in International Falls that pairs the Lake and Company shopping experience with a unique tasting room and cocktail kit concept. This new idea — appropriately named Whiskey + Water — opens in June 2021. We can’t wait to see you there.

Upon locating our new downtown Stillwater retail space, we found ourselves with high ceilings, and high hopes, which led to bringing two of our contributors, and friends, into the story. You can now find Grey Duck paddle boards and Voyageur Custom Saunas on display, and available for purchase, in our Stillwater location and online.

OPPORTUNITY We feel fortunate to be connected with so many amazing communities in Minnesota and beyond.

And we love nothing more than having a physical presence in these lake towns that we love. Seasonal shops, pop-up opportunities and special events are the perfect way for us to connect with you all. This summer you can find us in Crosslake and Duluth.

Swing by and share your stories.

Think we should collaborate?

Reach out to me at kelly@thelakeandco.com

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greyduckoutdoor.com

We are different by design

Emily Hendricks, @emilyjaneandco

Everything we do at Lake and Company is inspired by the stories of people doing exceptional things.

We celebrate that in the pages of this magazine, as well as in our stores. This marketplace brings you our top picks from these inspiring brands that support adventure, innovation, conservation and community.

Read more about these brands online at thelakeandcompany.com.

MARKET PLACE SAN BLAS OVERALLS

SAGANAGA CANOE

PICA CROSSBODY

Designed to be worn for pretty much whatever your heart desires, these relaxedfit overalls do not mess around. Wear them in the garden, at a music festival, on the trail or over your favorite swimsuit at the lake. The lightweight, quick-dry spandex is meant for adventure. WARNING: Prepare to be friendly; you’ll probably get compliments every time you wear these.

The 16-foot-6-inch Saganaga is a classic prospector-shaped symmetrical canoe that has stood the test of time. This canoe is comfortable in a variety of conditions and splits the difference between other models in terms of stability and speed. It’s the perfect vessel for comfortable canoeing, whether for extended trips or shorter days on the water.

The Pica is stylish and simple, created as the perfect bag for a night out or a casual day in town. Stash your phone, keys, wallet and lip gloss while showing off your modern style. Water-resistant and made from 100% certified recycled Repreve material, this bag is the perfect companion for your next adventure.

by Grey Duck @greyduckoutdoor

by Sherpani @sherpani

by Kavu @kavu

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27” COMPLETE SKATEBOARD

LAKE AND COMPANY MARKET BAG

BOWLINE GUIDE SHIRT

Cruising on a Lander is a really good time!

Whether you’re using the board for a commute or just pushing down the street for the love of the sport, you’re going to enjoy your time with this board. The deck is lightweight and engineered with contours for serious strength. The perforated deck comes in five standard colors that pop, use less material and drain water or sand. On top of that, our stock components are really, really nice, giving a great overall ride on a setup that is built to last.

Get everything done with the Market Bag. This best-selling large bag features soft leather handles for easy carrying, a tough and spillproof inner lining, and a chic look that’s sure to turn heads. The mothers who handcraft the bags receive Fair Trade wages, annual profit dividends and a retirement fund to help them achieve their dreams, thanks to the Bangladesh Project.

A must-have with an SPF rating of 50+, mosquito repellent coating, ample doublewalled pockets to fit all your gear, and slots and hooks for zingers. Also features vented armpits, vented back with mesh liner, laserengraved buttons and custom labeling.

by Jetty @jettylife

by Apolis @apolis

by Lander Skateboards @lander.la

KEEPR The KeepR is not only a great cocktail caddy or mobile bar but also the modern-day version of a picnic basket. There is no limit to how you can organize your goodies for that fun outing. Cups, utensils, plates, fruit, and even cheese and crackers find a nice home, safe in separate compartments that are easily accessible. The KeepR carries like a pail and rests flat so it can be the center of attention and always open for service.

by RovR @rovrproducts

YUKLATA ROBE Let the good times lounge! La Sirena is a nod to vintage poolside luxury. This revelrous, feature-forward robe’s native habitat is desert poolside and beach bungalow. She subsists primarily on a diet of mimosas and sunshine, and she transitions to lake life effortlessly.

by California Cowboy @cacowboyapparel

SAND TOOLS Every day can be a day at the beach with Huckleberry sand tools! Featuring a brush, smoothing tool and triangle rake all made of sturdy and stylish bamboo, your little sand sculptor will be able to create anything they can imagine! And a portion of Huckleberry sales goes to the Children & Nature Network, so you’re doing good too. Make waves with Huckleberry sand tools!

by Huckleberry by Kikkerland Design @kikkerland

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Restoring a Duluth Landmark

I

t doesn’t take much more than a minute of time spent along the shoreline of Lake Superior in Duluth, Minnesota, to feel something special. The strong, industrial architecture, the nature — beautifully peaceful while forcefully spirited — and the residents, with offerings of Minnesota Nice mixed with the heartiness of a community proud of their city.

The piece that ties the city of Duluth together so profoundly is its extensive history. Everywhere you turn, you are met with reminders of the old shipping town, still equipped and maintaining its reputation in the shipping industry, but continuing to grow into so much more.

Along the harbor, not 20 feet from Lake Superior’s shoreline, rests an important piece of this history. Four 100-foot-tall adjoined silos can still be found standing boldly along the lake’s edge. Constructed in 1920 to store powdered cement, a key ingredient in making concrete, these silos were an essential component to what was at the time referred to as Pier B, a pier originally built in 1890 to facilitate the storage of limestone.

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Pier B was utilized for various operations including the loading of trains and trucks for bulk distribution until 2008. At this time, operations moved to an alternative site, and the once bustling pier was left quiet.

As the tides changed, local developers recognized the tremendous development potential of the site. They saw the opportunity to restore an incredible landmark of Duluth’s history, contribute positively to the environment by cleaning and restoring the land affected by the shipping industry for over 100 years, and create new city growth potential in the form of a resort hotel that would bring people from near and far to enjoy together the beauty and wonder of Lake Superior.

And with that, Pier B Resort Hotel, along with the adjoining Silos Restaurant, was born. The getaway destination later opened in summer 2016.

The only hotel on the harbor side of the Aerial Lift Bridge, Pier B Resort Hotel proudly offers 7.4 acres of land for guests

to explore — as well as a boat slip and water access for those looking for adventure on the largest of the Great Lakes.

short distance from local trails, sightseeing destinations, and Duluth’s Canal Park and downtown restaurants and businesses.

Providing guests the room to roam on-site, Pier B offers amenities that include bikes and pedal carts, paddleboats, boards, an outdoor sports court pavilion and more. And with 360-degree views of the impressive harbor and breathtaking Duluth hillside, guests experience the perfect backdrop for their getaway.

Pier B Resort Hotel is ever changing, growing, and adapting with the goal of creating opportunities for guests and locals alike to make memories while on their property — similar to Duluth, a city continually striving to advance with its residents, visitors and the world around it. Advances that will continue to endure as time goes on, and today will become the history that future Duluthians look back upon so fondly.

The presence of an always-steaming outdoor hot tub, fire pits nestled on the harbor-facing lawn, or Silos Restaurant with patio dining outside, or tall windows for diners to gaze through from within, allows respite for those who wish to relax or spend some quality time making low-key memories with those they love most.

Once placed at the center of Duluth’s shipping industry, Pier B is a perfect home base for North Shore adventures off-site.

Because it’s located in the heart of Duluth, visitors are just a

pierbresort.com

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By GRADY LINDER | Photography by BENNETT YOUNG

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s Minnesotans, we cherish our time in the outdoors.

When I was growing up, I remember our family of seven, plus our dog, jumping into the family van and heading out on amazing road trips and camping trips to places like Taylors Falls or one of the numerous destinations up north. I’m sure many Minnesotans can reflect on similar family memories camping in the Minnesota outdoors.

As I got older, I saw myself camping less and less and opting for easier and more comfortable travel options. But my love for the outdoors didn’t vanish — the problem was that camping options hadn’t evolved with today’s consumer.

RVs are massive, making them difficult to drive, and they get terrible gas mileage, which isn’t great for our planet or our wallets. And tent camping? Who wants to sleep on the cold, wet, hard ground?

In 2017 I was working for an early-stage Minnesota-based cold brew start-up. We were looking to get the word out, so we spent the summer traveling across the country selling to retail stores and doing pop-up marketing events. After that summer I realized there was no better way to see the country than traveling in a campervan. You can simply pull up to a campsite and be cooking dinner in a few minutes, and then crawl into bed within a few seconds.

In the summer of 2018 I launched Voyager Campervans with one van that I had built out by a company out west.

I thought that, worst case, I would have a cool campervan if the business idea didn’t work out. Fortunately, people loved the Voyager Campervan experience, and we have been working to expand our fleet ever since.

We’ve had people get engaged, elope and even take their very first camping trip ever in a Voyager Campervan.

We’re currently renting our campervans in four U.S. cities, and we even sell campervan build-outs from our warehouse in South Minneapolis. Our customized camper vans have everything you need to comfortably live, sleep, eat and explore in the outdoors. It is truly the best way to enjoy the Minnesota outdoors.

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NEED AND SUSTAINABILITY [Meeting] the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” So said UNESCO in 1983 regarding sustainability’s three-legged ecological, economic and social stool.

Our view of our country’s comparatively brief history creates the expectation of constant unrestricted change in pursuit of success.

We seem to have arrived at the measure of ourselves, believing that our prosperity literally means an abundance of possessions well beyond what our ephemeral family legacy has provided us. One can argue that it is this devotion to competing with our past for “more and better” that makes the very idea of fulfillment an obligatory forward motion with no clear resolution.

Sustainability is arguably the most popular design word of our times. Yet it is a global concept so abstract that it has become difficult to understand the root of the concept at the scale of ourselves and our families. The root of sustainability that binds us all on the planet is the word most prominent in the UNESCO definition: needs.

Is defining what we need in the pursuit of longevity and continuity over generations a fictional mindset in the U.S.? Are we a people raised in times of rugged individualism and invention, and saturated in dreams of valor and heroism, who — very simply — cannot sit still long enough to change the direction of our unsustainable travel?

The meaning of this simple word, needs, is as diverse as cultures and countries. For each of us living in the U.S., the historical perspective of one’s needs through time is often confined by the age of the nation and the rapid rate of change within that time frame It is difficult for us to define permanence and stability as part of our culture because, well, they are not typically a part of our practice or our history.

What should it mean to live for sustainability? I believe there is a tranquil mindset where need, without bowing to trend or fashion, is to desire just more than enough — enough with delight. Need comes about from the ethical and conscientious principles of individual choice that provide the possibility that we, representing our families past and present, will endure. Living a sustainable life is dependent upon understanding our lives as a direct and continuous

By CHERYL FOSDICK | Photography by ANDREA RUGG

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PROJECT 1 (Far left) Caring for a white pine forest by using sheltering northern farmstead roofs and employing a shallow, frost-secure foundation.

PROJECT 2 (Top middle) A small one-bedroom house nimbly separates inside from outside.

PROJECT 3 (Bottom middle) A memorable and efficient family entrance, with a nod to artifact and keepsake.

cfdesignltd.com Cheryl Fosdick, M.Arch / Assoc. Aia.

PROJECT 4 (Right) Both a canopy bed and a chamber in the trees, this will always be a place of dreams.

link to the past and the future — to know that we have inherited principles and behaviors and that others will inherit principles and behaviors from us.

To reflect upon the brightest continuities of one’s legacy is to anchor oneself, however subtly, to specific places and memories, to keep them relevant. How often have we witnessed friends nod to ancestors who, by land and sea, bravely and skillfully settled their families? Or explained the love of wood as a great-grandfather’s steam-bent and planed keel and lapstrake coursing in their blood?

That we need these remnant connections to our family legacy and our past is directly tied to the practice of sustainability.

On one hand, to be sustainable is to endure — to persevere in times of hardship and distress, to buoy up, as it were, the boats with low freeboard most of us find ourselves rowing these days. In music, it is that long-held note, steady in its vibrato, remarkable in its stillness, the very act of being sustainable.

As someone who owns an architectural practice, I am confronted by thoughts of sustainability every day, from clients questioning the definition of the word, to their desires to incorporate glass and aluminum, which are ecologically costly to recycle in projects

and build new and higher-tech insulated envelopes — all in the name of sustainability.

At these moments, I suggest we take a few steps backward, to the root word of sustainability, need. Let us look for the seeds first sown that formed memories around permanence, endurance, longevity and buoyancy in their past to discover what it should mean, for them, to design and build for sustainability.

It is time to look deeply at the meaning of need and realize that it comes from within, that need is just enough for sustainability, resilience, continuity and delight. No contest — no competition for bigger, for more, for trend or fashion — makes room for sustainability.

Stories of our past teach true values like durability, craft and quality, efficiency, conservation of land and water, and permanence.

So, help our buildings tell the stories of the tenants and integrity of generations past and present. Build them once and let them survive generations. Make them of robust materials, low in carbon footprint.

Detail them with care and meaning. Maintain them and nest them responsibly and compatibly in the land.

Principles and ethics, my friends, are highly sustainable.

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Set Apart From The Rest

37 1 9 W H w y 6 1 , L u t s e n , M N 5 5 6 1 2 | ( 2 1 8 ) 3 87-1 1 1 2 W W W.C A S C A D E L O D G E M N .C O M

5339 W Highway 61, Suite 101 Lutsen, Minnesota JewelerOfTheNorthShore.com

D OW N TOW N LU T SEN

A single mother’s quest to create a better future for her son and community

By AYESHA GILBERT | Photography by JOHN SCARR

I

am a mother, entrepreneur and electrician, born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota. I am also the founder of the nonprofit Project Wild Beginnings — a youth mentoring program focused on empowerment through adventure and hands-on learning experiences. As I set out, my goal was to make sure my son had the tools and experiences he needs to live a fulfilling life. I wanted to teach him the lessons I learned from my mistakes, but it has become so much more.

This is the story behind our movement.

The inspiration to start this organization came from my own life experiences. My childhood was filled with poor decisions. I didn’t know any better. I didn’t have mentors or opportunities to learn from and grow.

In the inner city, we didn’t really have programs that resonated with me or my friends. It led me to trouble. I had no place to express myself or explore my interests and passions. Most of the programs that did exist were reactive — you had to get into trouble, along with meeting other criteria, before you were accepted into one.

By high school, I started skipping class, being sassy with teachers, fighting — I was suspended multiple times. I was my own worst enemy.

I lost both of my parents by the age of 21 and in the years that followed I faced homelessness, unemployment, and addiction. It wasn’t until 2016 that I found carpentry. I found out that I loved everything about this trade. It was so empowering to see what my hands are capable of. I finally made the connection; just from this

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one learning experience, I saw my path to a better life. I followed that path with everything I had and discovered what it means to live a fulfilling life.

Fast-forward to 2020. I started my own business, a construction and maintenance company called DeRty Gigs LLC, while also working as an electrician. I would work a 10-hour shift, then go home and work 6 hours for my own business.

Meanwhile, I started watching my son make the same mistakes I did. He was getting into more and more trouble. Watching this happen scared the living hell out of me. I couldn’t stand by and watch my son fall into the same trap that so many of the youth in our community fall into. I know I’m not the only mom who has felt that fear, that pain that sits deep in your heart. I became obsessed with finding a solution.

The stress was real: how was I supposed to be an engaged and present mom AND provide financial security for my kid? All these years later and we still have mostly reactive programs. I couldn’t help myself from wondering why we had to wait for these kids to get into trouble before we could help them.

I couldn’t sleep. I couldn’t focus. I thought about what I went through as a young adult. I thought about the things that could have prevented some of the bad decisions I made.

ONE OF THE CORE BUILDING BLOCKS TO LIVING A SUCCESSFUL YET FULFILLING LIFE IS BEING AT PEACE WITH YOURSELF AND THE PEOPLE AND WORLD AROUND YOU. THAT’S WHAT NATURE BROUGHT TO MY LIFE, AND I WANT TO BRING THAT BACK TO MY COMMUNITY.

I started listing off all these experiences that I believe would have helped me as a struggling teenager. Entrepreneurship programs, trade training, glass blowing, video production, engineering, design — and then I thought, what about camping?

I couldn’t think of anyone I knew who had been backpacking, hiking — all that fun outdoors stuff. From my own experience, I know that the outdoors teaches resourcefulness, and that skill set transfers to all parts of life.

I wanted to start by teaching these kids life skills through outdoors recreation. The next thing I knew, I was writing out policies and procedures. I had figured out exactly what I wanted — a youth mentoring program that inspires curiosity through adventure and experiential learning. I want to be able to provide those opportunities that are not accessible in our communities.

So here we are, at the start of our first mission as an organization.

Our big goal is to hike all 310 miles of the Superior Hiking Trail, in segments, by the end of summer 2022. Our first step in this adventure is education. We’re running a four-day educational workshop and wilderness retreat sponsored by Little Lazy Lodge in Chippewa National Forest. For a lot of these kids, this will be

the first time they’ve slept in a tent or been totally immersed in nature. It goes without saying that we are beyond excited.

In my mind, mental health and nature go hand in hand. And if we’re working toward giving these kids the experiences they need to succeed, mental wellness is at the top of that list. In the bigger picture, accessibility and diversity in the outdoors is a huge issue, but that conversation is still flying under the radar in a lot of ways. I want to change that.

If the last year has taught us anything, it’s how important community is. We all know what we’re capable of when we work together. Ultimately, I see this program working in low-income communities across the country, so this is just the beginning.

Get involved, join the conversation and learn more about how you can make a difference at wildbeginnings.org.

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ittle

azy

odge

WEDDINGS | RETREATS | GETAWAYS | EVENTS

720.849.9131 | LittleLazyLodge.com | Northern MN

The Wild Midwest Written and Photographed by AARON W. HAUTALA

E

xplore 40+ miles of single-track mountain bike trails nestled in the Minnesota north woods of Cuyuna.

You’ll enjoy mountain bike trails for all skill levels — from beginner to expert, easy to technical — while taking in unmatched scenery.

Cuyuna is ranked among the best mountain biking destinations in the U.S., and one of the top places to visit in the world — you’d better plan to stay a while!

But we’re more than mountain bike trails. Cuyuna boasts over 100 miles of paved trail and gravel-road cycling adventures too. Here you’ll also discover farm-to-table dining, craft beer and multiple styles of lodging to suit your tastes and budget — camping, hostels, motels, lofts, B&Bs — even yurts.

Once you’ve experienced Cuyuna Adventure Town USA®, the red dirt will keep calling you back.

Emily Theisen, @emilytheisen_ Jordan Mileski, @hello_jordan_

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CLEAR B LU E LAKES RED DIRT TRA IL S P URPOS E-DRIV EN P EOPL E ARRIVE & UNPLUG

Cuyuna’s mine lakes are so deep they tapped the wellspring of the gods.

Forty-foot water clarity and unbelievable underwater adventures.

Some say our waters have magical powers.

It’s no secret what makes Cuyuna sizzle. This year we celebrate a decade of being the King of the Range by doubling our original 25 miles of trail to well over 50. Double down for the decade, y’all.

With makers, artisans, brewers, crafters, writers, photographers, teachers, doctors, nurses, engineers and, most importantly, rangers.

Get here and park the car until further notice.

When everything is set up, you’ll have a profound ability to connect not only to the Cuyuna outdoors but also to your friends, family and, ultimately, yourself.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE AT CUYUNA.COM LAKE AND COMPANY

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Frank Denney

Kelsey Braun

SH ARE IN O U R E X P LO RATI O N

By KELSEY BRAUN

M

y husband, Chris, and I grew up in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where we attended junior high and high school together. We weren’t close friends at the time, but we would occasionally run into each other through mutual friends. Fast-forward over a decade later and the two of us reconnected back in Minnesota after both living in other states for many years with zero communication.

From the moment we connected again, we knew this was something special. Our personalities and goals complemented each other and we were excited to start a life together. The past had provided many opportunities for travel, work experience and even entrepreneurship for both Chris and me. We began to compile our life experiences and knew that signing another lease in the city wasn’t what our hearts wanted. We craved the outdoors and nature to our core.

C OV E Rachel Seifert

THE CABIN AND SAFARI TENT DESIGNS CAME TO LIFE BY PULLING TOGETHER BITS AND PIECES OF OUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES THAT RESIDED IN THE FOREFRONT OF OUR MINDS. LAKE AND COMPANY

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Rachel Seifert

The great outdoors and the desire to keep creating were calling. We knew we wanted to combine our most unique and memorable travel experiences and bring them back home to Minnesota.

A few months into our relationship, we bought a 1995 30-foot Georgie Boy Swinger motorhome and began our very first renovation together. We worked for two straight months, and when it was ready, we moved into the RV with our dogs and made the journey up to our friend’s land in northern Minnesota, where we parked for the summer.

Frank Denney

It was during this in-between time of our careers and lives when we began to pause and dig deeper into what we wanted for our life and our future together. Unable to have children, we discussed what else would bring us joy, adventure and happiness. Finally, after listing all the things that made our hearts sing and considering how much we loved managing our Airbnb rentals, we decided that creating a northern getaway with a creative twist was exactly what we wanted to do.

Little did we know how difficult it would be to turn three wooded acres into a boutique hotel with five tiny cabins on stilts and five safari tents all with an indoor/outdoor feeling … in Minnesota. We faced an uphill battle, with people informing us that no one would stay in the cabins, that an outdoor shower with no door on it was not something Minnesotans would like, and that bikers coming to the area only wanted a cheap place to crash. But Chris and I kept our heads down and continued to push forward with our vision and dream.

The cabin and safari tent designs came to life by pulling together bits and pieces of our travel

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Paul Vincent

THE DESIGN HAD A VERY SPECIFIC PURPOSE: TO REMOVE US FROM OUR ROUTINES, WAKE UP OUR MINDS, REFLECT, GIVE PAUSE AND BE MORE PRESENT WITH OURSELVES, ONE ANOTHER AND NATURE. Frank Denney

Frank Denney

Frank Denney

experiences that resided in the forefront of our minds. We wanted guests to experience nature in a different way. We wanted others to be able to step out of their comfort zones and their hectic lives and be able to relax, unwind and go on adventures in a gorgeous area of Minnesota less traveled. The design had a very specific purpose: to remove us from our routines, wake up our minds, reflect, give pause and be more present with ourselves, one another and nature.

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Every detail was thought through, from the Deluxe cabin having its own outdoor shower, to the tiny-living-inspired spaces inside each cabin. The design focuses on getting away from a dark log cabin, and the south-facing glass wall allows for light to flood into the cabins and patios throughout the day. From the warm glow of the evening salt lamp night lights, to the smell of the rough-sawn wood on the walls, to the queen bed facing the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, every detail is meant to awaken your senses. Even the bathroom spray is made from calming essential oils. The window in the shower allows you to enjoy a hot shower while standing on smooth, natural rocks and gazing at the stars in the dark Cuyuna sky. Not having a TV in the boutique cabins helps promote quality time together away from our phones and away from the noise of our busy lives.

Chris and I can be found every day in the Cuyuna State Recreation Area with our two dogs. We enjoy mountain biking, snowshoeing, paddleboarding, hiking and, of course, partaking in all that

Paul Vincent

Frank Denney

Rachel Seifert

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FROM THE WARM GLOW OF THE EVENING SALT LAMP NIGHT LIGHTS, TO THE SMELL OF THE ROUGH-SAWN WOOD ON THE WALLS, TO THE QUEEN BED FACING THE FLOOR-TO-CEILING GLASS WINDOWS, EVERY DETAIL IS MEANT TO AWAKEN YOUR SENSES.

Frank Denney

Frank Denney

Historic Main Street has to offer. We even designed and wrote a 35-page Things to Do guide for our guests to give them a local’s perspective when planning their stay.

We finished building the five cabins in June 2020 in the midst of the pandemic. For two straight years, we worked our full-time jobs and continued building and working on the land after hours. We had help and guidance from my dad and a few others, but we are proud to say we had a hand in almost every single inch of Cuyuna Cove. We are expanding this summer and are working hard to finish building an indoor/outdoor modern shower house for the five Safari Tents.

Paul Vincent

Through it all, we stayed strong as a team and as a couple. We’ll be the first to tell you it was not easy and that it took a toll on us emotionally, physically and spiritually, but that this is one of the greatest experiences of our lives.

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Exceptional Taste Year-Round Launching a successful specialty business in a seasonal community

By PAUL KIRKMAN | Photography by AARON W. HAUTALA

T

he store my spouse and I envisioned was a highly curated hybrid of myriad stores we’d shopped at for years in the Twin Cities — and that we missed terribly after we gradually started relocating to the North Central part of the state in 2007.

On paper, no one would say this was a business plan with merit, but in our hearts and minds, it made perfect sense. The energy and enthusiasm of the people involved in remaking the Crosby community were infectious and made an indelible impression on us in terms of what’s possible for the future of the area.

worldwide population is lactose intolerant), we decided that our niche was real dairy products that were either lactose free or lactose friendly — meaning that people with lactose intolerance can easily digest these full-dairy products without digestive upset. And we decided that our house-made product was going to be a superior-quality full-dairy ice cream that is lactose free — one so exceptionally good that customers wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between our ice cream and other super-premium ice cream brands.

It probably goes without saying that in a conservative area of the state, it’s not common for a same-sex married couple with two adult children to launch a highly designed retail business with a hot-pink tin ceiling and be open about their family life. But, oh well, we did.

In my family, I’m the dreamer and planner — the entrepreneur who just wants to plow ahead with gut feelings and faith. My spouse, Paul VanderWaal, is the voice of reason and measured evaluation before implementing. Together, we make a pretty good pair when we allow ourselves to do what we do best.

To these ends, I enrolled in the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s short-form Ice Cream class to learn about the science behind ice cream. Additionally, I partnered with Agricultural Utilization Research Institute to help develop our ice cream. And I contracted with the chairman of the Food Sciences department of the University of Wisconsin to optimally refine my base ice cream recipe to manage the changes of the sugar structure when breaking down lactose (milk sugar) into sugars that everyone’s body can easily digest. With literally months of planning and countless batches of ice cream trials, we knew that Rave Creamworks® was the backbone of Victual.

Baklava

Dark Chocolate Ginger Orange

With multiple family members on Paul’s side being lactose intolerant (and upon learning that 20% of the U.S. population and 60% of the

We found three adjoining properties in Crosby that seemed to be a perfect place to launch Victual, but the buildings — no matter how cheaply priced — were decrepit and needed mountains of money to renovate. To drive additional revenue to support the renovation and buildout costs, Victual’s plan was extended to include product categories that aren’t typically found outside the metro area: artisan cheeses in a cut-and-wrap setting; charcuterie (cured meats); packaged specialty gourmet foods; higher-end

Pink Squirrel

In the early days of planning Victual®, with Paul’s prompting, I did exhaustive research to figure out how to launch a successful specialty business in a seasonal community. Two things came to the forefront: develop a niche that no one else is addressing in your region, and develop your own product that no one could source elsewhere. Both things create and prompt demand year-round, even with a diminished customer count in the off season.

shopvictual.com

crosby, mn

WITH LITERALLY MONTHS OF PLANNING AND COUNTLESS BATCHES OF ICE CREAM TRIALS, WE KNEW THAT RAVE CREAMWORKS WAS THE BACKBONE OF VICTUAL.

gifts/décor; and the state’s smallest liquor store (measuring a whopping 8 by 12 feet) that features estate wines from around the world, specialty distilled spirits and a broad assortment of liqueurs that craft cocktailers outside of the metro area are always searching for.

mint chip

Double Double Vanilla Vanilla

Nevertheless, our customer base has supported us to a degree unfathomable in good times, let alone during the struggles of the past couple of years. Part of our success is that we’re truly

customer service oriented — just like the olden days, when the salespeople were experts in their fields and really cared about their customers.

Two years in, we also know a couple more things — we’re contemplating expansion of our facility within Crosby, and I’m also dreaming about Victual No. 2 and where it might land. As expected, Paul is being true to himself and making sure that we perform our due diligence and strategic planning for whatever comes next.

oreo

Victual launched in June 2019. People walked into the store and literally cried when seeing the transformation of the space.

And with that, we were off and running. Less than one month later, traffic from the main thoroughfare was detoured for road construction on Hwys. 210 and 6. Less than one year later, COVID-19 struck, dramatically altering the landscape and the way people shopped. This year, traffic is again diverted for complete overhaul of the infrastructure on Crosby’s Main Street.

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be represented #1 full-service real estate office

$84 million in total volume in 2020

in Itasca County year after year 2

top 15%

over 400 transactions in 2020

in North America and

top 33% worldwide in production among all Coldwell Banker offices 3

#1 Coldwell Banker® office in greater Minnesota in units sold 3 2nd only to Edina in all of Minnesota

Selling properties for

13.3% higher than the national average 1

(218) 326-3455 | coldwellbankernorthwoods.com | 812 Pokegama Ave S, Grand Rapids MN 55744 1

140036 _ NORTHWOODS REALTY

National Association of REALTORS® 2020 Average Sale Price: $331,600

2

Based on sales volume data published by the Itasca County Board of Realtors

3

Based on 2020 Coldwell Banker statistical data

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By JOHN SUGIMURA | Photography by ASHA BELK

M

y life is a celebration of everything Japanese.

I cook to make Japan easier to understand, keep Japanese Americans socially relevant, and promote Japanese urbanity. I tell my story.

I am a second-generation chef, third-generation Japanese American and professionally trained sushi chef. I have advanced my culinary practice through my continuing study and travel to Japan. I celebrate and guard the values of traditional Japanese cuisine and highlight often overlooked traditional nuances in my preparations. My food is the ultimate expression of flavors, colors and cooking methods coming together in an authentic experience that is one of a kind.

I am inspired by my widowed grandmother’s resiliency. Following the loss of my grandfather after immigrating to the U.S., my grandmother saw food as a way of providing for her young family. She opened a restaurant in Sacramento, California, in the 1930s to support her family during a time when few women ran or owned successful businesses.

By the spring of 1942, 120,000 American citizens of Japanese descent were “sent to” hastily built assembly centers. My family was unjustly incarcerated during World War II, being forced into the Tule Lake Segregation Center. They experienced detention behind barbed wire while living in barracks. Four and a half years later, my family left the war camp with five pieces of luggage. I share in the history of the incarceration experience. I am part of a resurgence of passion and ownership in a telling of the story, primarily as a descendant. My elders have left me with many unanswered questions. Retelling stories provides invaluable lessons for us today. They let us see through the lens of human nature, both good and evil.

With the current rise in anti-Asian violence, fueled again by scapegoating and a perpetual foreigner mentality, it is painfully clear that the struggle for recognition of legitimacy and inclusion is still relevant.

Two generations and three-quarters of a century later, I am picking up where my grandmother left off. I grew up in a mixed-race family. For many years, I had a sense of cultural limbo that characterized my life. But even after many years of visiting Japan, a semester

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PEOPLE IN THE WORLD WANT TO EAT FOOD THAT HAS A STORY!

of Japanese at college and countless questions to my father, I still didn’t feel like I was getting the answers I needed.

With Japanese Americans, there’s a term called Gaman, referring to the Japanese Buddhist phrase translating as “to endure the unbearable with patience and grace.” Gaman means you’re in the war camps, you lost everything, you lost people … but then World War II is over; you’re not a victim.

Smile. Move on. This stoic nature adopted by my family meant that much of the history I wanted to engage with was either lost or hidden from memory. However, one aspect of my family life stood out above everything else. I didn’t look Japanese, and I didn’t act Japanese. Food was the one thing that outed me.

I began to delve deeper and deeper into the history of Japanese Americans through the heritage of food. In 2008, I enrolled in the Sushi Institute of America, now known as the Miyako Sushi and Washoku School in Little Tokyo, the heart of the largest Japanese American population in North America. The school is affiliated with the Japan Culinary Arts Institute in Tokyo. I specialized in sushi, and when I graduated as a Silver-certified chef, I returned to Minneapolis ready to share my food. Now a fully trained Japanese chef, I began to see my world open up. As more and more stories started to rise to the surface, my grandmother’s memories and the war deeply intertwined with food. At the end of the day, I get pleasure from seeing the support I have gained from challenging stereotypes through cuisine. People in the world want to eat food that has a story!

Eating my food is like eating in my grandmother’s restaurant in the 1930s. So, in homage to the grandmother I love but never met, I serve my Japanese-roots signature items on her platter as a hug and nod to my true inspiration.

I find comfort in exploring the thing we have in common and strive to create great food that would make my grandmother proud. That’s always the measure!

John Sugimura is the executive chef at his brainchild restaurant, PinKU Japanese Street Food, in Northeast Minneapolis and at the Minneapolis—St. Paul International Airport. On July 27, 2021, John will livestream his first class featuring Karaage fried chicken for Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Cooking School.

GIVING BACK, NOT GIVING UP

By JENNIFER GORMAN | Photography by JOHN SCARR & AIMEE JOBE

L

et me tell you something only a few people know. I got a dog to use as a tool; yes, a tool. I was dealing with undiagnosed ADHD and bipolar disorder. If I wasn’t working, I would stay in bed all day and all night or just mope around the house; I was a terror for my roommate at the time. I didn’t care about anything, my friends, my house, myself. I just wanted it all to end. I could see no way out.

I decided that instead of self-medicating or something much worse, I should figure out a way to change things. I thought to myself, “What is going to force me out of bed?” The only thing that came to my mind was a dog. A dog? Well, this is going to sound strange, but I knew I wouldn’t want a dog peeing on me, my bed or the floors, and to combat that I would have to get up.

A dog made it OK for me to walk around the neighborhood again, smile at strangers again, make new friends, hold my head high and laugh again. What my first dog gave me was permission to be me again. Nothing I ever did or said could make him upset with me, angry at me or even cold toward me. My family had dogs growing up, and they were fun, but I had never experienced that special unconditional love for a dog and from a dog until I was in my darkest space.

I have owned many special dogs, but my first foster dog, Sir Ivan Fidoski McSlushee Pants, inspired Give Back Studio.

Sir Ivan was my first foster dog from Great Dane Rescue of Minnesota & Wisconsin (GDRMW). He was an exceptional case with special needs: his breeding was atrocious with no regard for genetic factors, mental disposition or even what happened to him after the breeder received money from a new family. Ivan’s severe heart condition required close attention, and his anxiety — coupled with fear — made him a difficult dog to love. Ivan’s original family was not prepared to care for a dog with such complex issues.

When my husband, Mike, and I took Ivan in, we soon found he would require a great deal of love and dedication to be ready for adoption. In the beginning, Ivan was scared of my husband and would bark and run away from him. With lots of patience from Mike, Ivan grew to feel trust and learned that he was loved and lovable. After a while, it became clear that attempting to place Ivan in another home would be quite a challenge, but more importantly, it would be traumatizing for Ivan and only set him back in his accomplishments. He had multiple strikes against him: a life-threatening heart condition and unpredictable anxious behaviors.

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I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED MAKING THINGS, EFFECTING POSITIVE CHANGE AND GIVING BACK THROUGH MY ART.

Enter Karla. Karla is the president of GDRMW and my point of contact for all things Ivan. Karla supported us in every aspect of Ivan’s care and beyond. One day, Karla called to talk about Ivan and how the rescue wanted to move forward with him. She spoke about placing him in a hospice foster home that was prepared to also work with his behaviors — I lost it on the phone. I started crying, exclaiming she can’t take him away from us — we would NOT support transferring Ivan to some unknown foster home. I didn’t even realize I felt that way until it came spilling out.

I have never heard Karla sound so relieved. She said, “I was hoping you would say that!” We lovingly became Ivan’s hospice foster home.

Ivan was able to live his best life with us for one year and four days.

He joined our family as a hospice foster and left the family as a muse for Give Back Studio.

One day in 2019 I was talking to my friend about Ivan and how he had impacted me. I described how I wished I could make dog accessories that were unique and stylish and that somehow honored Ivan. So, in a garage in Northern Minnesota, the idea for Give Back Studio was born: make cool bandanas, snuggle dogs, support artists of all abilities and give back to animal rescue.

I have always loved making things, effecting positive change and giving back through my art. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I was given an opportunity to really dive headfirst into Give Back Studio: I lost my job working for a nonprofit that supported adults with disabilities. I was angry, frustrated and sad, and I knew I had to do something that would feed my soul. Give Back Studio was born from the love of dogs that have helped me and my desire to give back to the community in everything I do.

In my first six months of business I was able to donate 20% of my sales to animal rescue, donated nearly 100 dog bow ties for rescue organizations to sell to supporters and raise funds, and donated more than 30 bandanas to various animal rescue organizations to use when fundraising and having adoption events. Give Back Bandanas are available online and in three retail locations around Minnesota.We currently have three employees: Miss Piper Von Lotsa Shenanigans, Great Dane and model; Billie Jean Queen of Everything, miniature Australian shepherd and Lead Durability Specialist; and Beauty Baby, mutt extraordinaire and in charge of all things sassy.

I’m looking forward to what the future holds for Give Back Studio and how I can continue to grow the business and give back to the community in even more creative ways!

SHOP THE STORY DOG BANDANA — $26 SHOP thelakeandco.com

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A little

OFF THE WALL MODERNIZING HISTORIC BOUTIQUE HOTELS AND THEIR LEGACY

By MEGAN KELLIN

T

here are over two dozen wallpaper patterns at the historic 1850s-era Anderson House Hotel in Wabasha, Minnesota. Floral seems to be the most common design, but you’ll also find pinstripes, vertical lines, horizontal dashes, a sort of pointillism motif that appears to blend together if you stand far enough away ... but my favorite pattern is plastered to a wall in the back corner of the hotel (which is currently used to store forgotten hotel furniture, likely the same vintage as the hotel). In this little corner of the oldest hotel on Minnesota’s stretch of the great Mississippi is a wall covered with dogs. It’s the most unique wallpaper you’ll ever see.

Imagine the stories of people who have looked and touched this same peculiar wallpaper over the last nearly 200 years. It’s so odd and so old it has come full circle to be in vogue once again — something you might see at the Ralph Lauren restaurant in Manhattan.

The Anderson House Hotel is a “sequel” property to the historic Grant House Hotel, located halfway between Minneapolis and Duluth, just off the interstate in the town of Rush City, Minnesota.

Like the Anderson House, the Grant House is a kind of time capsule that is filled with old wallpaper, wonderful small-town history and countless memories.

Both hotels are part of a new business model that is emerging in a world that still limps from both the physical and the mental pain inflicted by 2020. The vision is to reinvent a model that has historically been difficult to make sense of: the boutique hotel. Not the new wave of 90-room hotels built by publicly traded companies, but the original 10- to 40-room hotel that emerged around the turn of the 19th century, when cowboy hats covered each bar patron’s sweaty brow, and horse buggies, rather than electric cars, waited patiently outside the hotel entrance.

Today the vision is to merge the old and the new, using technology and economies of scale over multiple markets to make sense of the original 20-room hotel model. Here we sit down with one of the co-founders of Superior Stays, Grant Carlson, to better understand his hospitality team’s vision.

LAKE AND COMPANY: Your hotels are flipping the script on

traditional modes of operation as we know it. What’s your vision?

GRANT: Our business model utilizes technologies like Airbnb to streamline small hotels that have historically been difficult to turn a profit. Ten to thirty rooms is a ton of work to operate as a sole proprietor, and oftentimes too small to benefit from many economies of scale. By bringing in new technologies, we can better control overhead and better make sense of the hotel’s budget.

We hope to uncover some of these scaled benefits after we have successfully launched both the Anderson and Grant House Hotels.

Our model will also include thoughtful food and beverage offerings in a first-floor restaurant/bar. One thing I often tell people when discussing our digital check-in/check-out model is that we still want each of our guests to have a human interaction on their vacation, but it will come from the bartender rather than at check-in. I’ve always been fascinated by marrying the old charm of a 200-yearold hotel with the cutting-edge technology that helps manage the building and business.

L+C: Why did you choose to initiate this project in

Minnesota?

G: The short answer is I grew up in Minnesota. Moving back here after living around the country has not been a linear process for me. It took some time getting used to life in the Midwest after being away for so long, but another historic tax credit project of mine was the impetus for my moving back to Minnesota. Since [I’ve been] back, other opportunities and new partnerships, like the House Hotels, have presented themselves. And in the meantime, I have been reminded of many other amazing qualities of life in the Midwest that a person forgets while cruising around Los Angeles or sitting in a crowded New York City subway car. Time at the lake and time with family are both at the top of the list.

L+C: What attracts you to the historical buildings?

G: I’m most drawn to the architectural details found in older

buildings, which in turn tell the history about the building. For example, my project in Duluth is the former county jail. It was designed by a famous American architect, Daniel Burnham.

The outside facades are magnificent. The levels of fine detail in the masonry work, and specifically the terra-cotta cornice, are unreal. The historic wood banister that spans all three floors of the Anderson House, juxtaposed with the loud carpet and even louder wallpaper is another example of architectural detail that catches my attention. Or perhaps even more interesting is, in the basement of the historic Grant House Hotel, [you’ll find both] the heavy Douglas fir floor beams from the originally constructed

hotel that burned less than 20 years after it was built and “new” beams from the current hotel’s construction in 1896. The brick and fieldstone foundation also tell the story of the building’s fire and provide an awesome detail. I suppose my draw to details like this can be attributed to my degree in architecture and being around old buildings with my dad, who also redeveloped historic buildings.

L+C: Reframing things can unlock a vast array of solutions to

problems big and small. How have you set out to reframe these buildings and how they are viewed in a community?

G: The most obvious reframing is in building systems and deferred

maintenance that an old building needs from time to time in order to begin its next chapter. Things like forced heating and air-conditioning, more weather-efficient windows, and new roofing systems are obvious upgrades. But you can also think about a building’s lighting system going from candlelight to light bulbs, to fluorescent lighting, to now LED lighting in some cases. We also want to go above and beyond contemporary lighting and mechanical systems to things like keyless entry and electric car chargers.

Wabasha and Rush City are both in electric car charger “deserts” and we’ll offer our hotels to a population who need to charge their car if they drive to such a rural location. In fact, one of my partners drives a Tesla, so we joke about him finally being able to visit his own hotel once we get charging stations installed.

L+C: Why rural?

G: Our vision for hotels in rural areas has become an interesting dialogue over the last year. Among other reasons, the pandemic helped solidify our business plan that revolves around small towns within driving distance of major metropolitan markets. People everywhere were forced to change how they live, how they travel and how they work. I think people have rediscovered the domestic road trip and “staycation.” We also enjoy learning about each small town: its history, the varying economies and, best of all, the people and stories they share. It’s our mission to bring it all together and preserve not only the building but also the town that makes it what it is.

L+C: What’s next?

G: For now the focus will be on the first two House Hotels, with the possibility of expansion into other small-town markets. Perhaps assemble a whole collection of house hotels — this is just the beginning.

With over 20 years’ experience in commercial real estate and development, Grant Carlson has built upon his family’s knowledge and support to develop a unique portfolio of historic properties in several markets throughout the Upper Midwest.

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r u o Y e t a r b i l t a a t c s e o R m r e h T r e n In

By TEKE O’REILLY

TESTING THE BODY’S LIMITS, AND TRAINING THE MIND AND BODY TO ENDURE AND ACTIVATE, OPENS A GALAXY OF NEW AND DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF OURSELVES, AND A CONNECTION TO DEEP, LASTING, EVERYDAY HEALTH.

T

here are at least two lenses to view the Art of Sauna through: Experience and Practice. The Experience of Sauna is singular, and personal. For those who have mastered the Practice of Sauna, the Experience has core elements that passionate enthusiasts insist upon every time.

The most essential, of course, is the heat source. A traditional, authentic Sauna experience demands a woodfired stove and carefully selected rocks upon which ladles of water are thrown, creating a luscious and balanced envelope of steam. The Finns call this Loyly, and the Estonians call it Leil — both words indicating a deep respect for the mystic “Spirit” of the steam, our friend and teacher.

Entering the hot room pulls you inward, your breathing slows down, the heat quietly overwhelms your internal and external senses, the mind calms, the body’s immune and cleansing systems activate. When the body says enough, you steal away outside, letting the much cooler air spring your senses into vitality. If a cold plunge is available (and it really must be for the complete Experience), the exhilaration and joy of the Sauna Experience multiplies ad infinitum. One cycle, one session of Experience. Repeat.

As the Sauna Experience is re-created and refined in different contexts over the years, so begins the Practice of Sauna. These singular joys, and our subjective tastes, tested and shaped over time, yield increased health benefits and, most importantly, accrued wisdom about the nature of our health. Testing the body’s limits, and training the mind and body to endure and activate, opens a galaxy of new and deeper understanding of ourselves, and a connection to deep,

lasting, everyday health. A weekly Sauna Practice has been scientifically proven to give enthusiasts the highest marks in physical and mental health. The more Sauna is woven into your lifestyle, the more your health and happiness organically follow, leaving you and your loved ones with a persistent satisfaction and contented spirit.

Perhaps the most practical result of the Practice of Sauna is what we call recalibrating your internal thermostat.

Sensations that usually bring discomfort like high humidity and extreme cold gradually become welcome co-conspirators.

Through Practice, our bodies flip the script on the seasonal extremes, turning what was once a nuisance into a visit with an old friend.

It’s an exciting time for Sauna in the North Lake Country.

Saunas are experiencing an international boom, with Minnesota, Wisconsin, Canada and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan leading the revolution. Sauna solutions are becoming more available, with new mobile units coming online every month, and big plans moving forward on brick-and-mortar facilities. Share the experience of Sauna with a seasoned practitioner, and turn the tables on the seasons.

Based in Downtown Minneapolis, freelance writer Teke O’Reilly has been a driving force in front of the Urban & Mobile Sauna Revolution for nearly a decade. Teke is also building SaunaShare.com, a peerto-peer sharing platform bringing Sauna enthusiasts and hosts together to share bench time — anywhere in the world.

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Wellness Retreat YO U R

On the road, in the wild, at home, or out in the backyard your authentic sauna journey begins with Voyageur.

HAND BUILT IN MINNESOTA

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VOYAGEURSAUNAS.COM

Aimee Jobe, @aimeejobephoto

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You’ll be in good spirits visiting Ranier, Minnesota!

C A N T I LE V E RDI ST I LLE RY.C OM