Eagan, MN May 2024

The Ladies Issue

STYLE + BEAUTY

SUSTAINABLE FASHION

LOCAL SERVICES

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN SCIENCE

ARTS + CULTURE

WOMEN CREATING HARMONY

Meet Sama Ali-Berchem, President and CEO of Portkey SEO Solutions. With a passion for empowering small businesses and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, over the past 8 years, Sama has successfully completed website and SEO projects for over 200 clients in the Twin Cities and beyond. At Portkey, we use our design and SEO skills to create modern, intuitive, and personalized websites and marketing strategies for small businesses to attract the perfect leads. The websites we design for our small business clients, are beautiful and uniquely represent them. No two websites we have designed for our clients, look the same. We pride ourselves, in helping businesses shine bright online, by bringing their stories to life. Our business model is rooted in the success of other businesses - if they succeed, then we succeed.

“Don’t follow the crowd, let the crowd follow you.” — Margaret Thatcher

This year feels like it is going by incredibly fast. It is hard to think that it is May already. This month, we celebrate the incredible women in our lives. In Eagan, women are not just inhabitants; they are leaders, innovators, and nurturers. Whether it’s spearheading local businesses, volunteering in the community, or nurturing the next generation, their contributions resonate deeply within the community. Their unwavering dedication to their professions, families, and causes inspires admiration and respect.

In every corner of Eagan, you’ll find women breaking barriers and pushing boundaries. They’re educators shaping young minds, healthcare professionals healing the sick, artists painting the town with creativity, and volunteers uplifting those in need. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences enrich Eagan’s culture.

As we celebrate the women of Eagan, let us recognize their invaluable impact on shaping the city’s identity. Their strength, determination, and boundless spirit are guiding lights, illuminating pathways for future generations to thrive and flourish in this remarkable city.

This month, we talked to Jacqueline Elizabeth and Nikki Roberts who bring the magic of music and performance to life at Starlight Productions. Danielle Ottman, Megan Kennedy, and Pam Mason talked to us about the American Cancer Society ResearcHERS event that celebrates the efforts of women in science and programs designed to support those who have received a cancer diagnosis. Teresa Fudenberg, CEO of Storm Creek, discusses how Storm Creek champions sustainability, innovation, and women in business for a better world.

As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (amy.sousa@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.

AMY SOUSA, PUBLISHER @EAGANCITYLIFESTYLE CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/EAGAN

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Amy Sousa | Amy.Sousa@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Matt Sousa | matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Madeline O'Neil | madeline.oneil@citylifestyle.com

SALES MANAGER

Nikki Roberts | nikki.roberts@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Judith Sousa

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com

STAFF WRITER

Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Laura Sabia

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Departments

Creating Harmony in New Prague:

The Starlight Story Two dynamic women are making waves in New Prague by blending education, performance, and community

Empowering Sustainable Fashion

Storm Creek's CEO, Teresa Fudenberg, champions sustainability, innovation, and women in business for a better world

Empowering Women in Science

Jo Dee Messina

Star—Hockey Mom

city scene

1: Eagan Girls Basketball celebrates a win at the 2024 MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships. 2: Eagan High School players came out to support Eagan Girls Youth Basketball. 3: Parents versus kids for Eagan Girls Basketball. 4: Eagan Girls Basketball celebrates a win at the 2024 MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships. 5: Club president Andy Lucking presented Mr. Gattu the Eagan club trading banner. 6: Eagan High School Rotary Students of the Month Sowmik Garishakurti, Tara Le, and Jacob Braginsky. 7: Rotarian Mukesh Gattu from the Bangalore Rotary visited the Eagan Rotary while on business in MN.

ELISE MADEMANN

LEIF HAGEN

LEIF HAGEN

ELISE MADEMANN

ELISE MADEMANN

ELISE MADEMANN

LEIF HAGEN

Restore Health and Wellness - Bring on the Cold!

Our Cryotherapy Chamber uses subzero temperatures to deliver cold therapy, so you’ll need to protect certain parts of your body from the cold! We’ll provide you with a hat, socks, slippers, robe and gloves to use during your Cryotherapy session.  Once you’ve changed into your protective gear, you’ll head back to our proprietary Cryotherapy chamber. You can select some music to pump you up, then you’ll enter the chamber where you’ll stay for up to 3 minutes.

Rotary Club of EaganLive to Give Walk

Rotary exists to give back to the community so that all may thrive. The “Live to Give Walk” is a community event organized by the Rotary Club of Eagan which will take place on Saturday, May 4th in Eagan's Central Park. The Walk features a 1.1-mile leisurely walk and a more vigorous morning workout which includes multiple loops. Funds raised by the event this year will benefit local charities. Sign up your team today at  https://www.4giving.com/ donation/A366.

Scan to read more

Photography by Rotary Club of Eagan

Portkey SEO Solutions For All Your Website Design and SEO Needs

Portkey SEO Solutions is a local graphic design, website design and Minneapolis SEO company that provides custom graphics, logo design, branding, custom websites and search engine optimization through tactical website analysis and internet marketing services. The primary purpose of our SEO services is to provide our clients with more business. You might know that your product or service is the best. We will help make sure everyone else knows that as well. That is what we do!

Urban Growler Brewing Company—Minnesota's First Woman-Owned Microbrewery

Urban Growler Brewing Company opened in 2014 when partners in life and business Jill Pavlak and Deb Loch felt there was underrepresentation of women in beer. Centered on community and bringing people together through beer, thousands of guests have been entertained in the expansive beer garden and inviting taproom. With an elevated pub kitchen and many beverage offerings, Urban Growler is Beer For You wherever you find us!

Photography by Urban Growler Brewing Company

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CREATING HARMONY IN NEW PRAGUE: THE STARLIGHT STORY

Two dynamic women, Nikki Roberts and Jacqueline Elizabeth, are making waves in New Prague by blending education, performance, and community

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER

In New Prague, Minnesota, two remarkable women, Jacqueline Elizabeth and Nikki Roberts, are bringing the magic of music and performance to life. Their inspiring tale begins with a shared passion for teaching and a vision to spread joy through the arts. Together, they founded Starlight Productions, a female-owned organization focusing on creative learning and entertainment. And they’re touching the lives of many.

A MISSION OF MUSIC AND JOY

Starlight Productions isn't just any music school. It's a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come to explore and grow their talents. From singing to dancing and even painting, Jacqueline and Nikki have created a safe place for artistic discovery. They believe in making art accessible to everyone, turning their mission into a reality day by day.

Jacqueline, who has roots in New Prague, and Nikki, who hails from sunny California, met in college. Their bond was forged by participating with the Young Americans, a performance group that took Nikki worldwide. Eventually, Nikki followed her family to Minnesota, where she and Jacqueline rekindled their friendship and shared dreams.

A HISTORIC HOME FOR DREAMS

Their search for the perfect place led them to the Prague Theater, a gem with a rich history. “It was hard to find the right space,” shared Nikki. As we chatted, she told me how both piano and voice lessons are rich with noise, and not all property owners are excited to lease space to businesses that aren’t overly quiet.

Dedicated to overcoming the challenge of finding a space to handle the sounds associated with music lessons, they found an opportunity in this cherished building. Today, it is Starlight’s home. This space, loved by the community, buzzes with creativity and students' laughter.

THE HARMONY OF EDUCATION AND PERFORMANCE

At Starlight Productions, education takes center stage. With various classes, from private lessons in voice, piano, and the new addition of cello and guitar to group workshops and community events, Jacqueline and Nikki are crafting a comprehensive experience. Their innovative approach includes homeschool classes and musical production theory. And at the end, students can show off their hard work to family members and friends.

Starlight Productions defines what passion, dedication, and a belief in the transformative power of the arts can achieve.

Jacqueline and Nikki’s partnership extends beyond Starlight. Jacqueline is the proud owner of Ascendance Productions, where her flair for design and Nikki’s coordination skills come together to help great amazing wedding experiences. They even offer child management services through Nikki’s organization, The Kids Table, ensuring that weddings are memorable for all the right reasons.

GIVING BACK AND LOOKING FORWARD

Their commitment to the community and nurturing talent is evident. Jacqueline finds joy in giving kids the tools she wished she had, while Nikki is moved by the opportunity to help young performers realize their potential. Together, they are teaching the arts and instilling confidence and a “can-do” spirit in their students.

The ladies at Starlight Productions are excited about their upcoming summer programs . From Disney-themed camps to Broadway intensives, Jacqueline and Nikki are planning a summer filled with fun and learning. They invite everyone to step into the spotlight and shine.

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN BUSINESS

The story of Starlight Productions is also one of female entrepreneurship. With three companies under their leadership, Jacqueline and Nikki are examples of women empowering women. They are not just building businesses but a community where creativity, joy, and the pursuit of dreams flourish.

Starlight Productions defines what passion, dedication, and a belief in the transformative power of the arts can achieve. Jacqueline and Nikki have created more than a music school; they’ve created a family where every note played and every step taken on stage builds toward a future where everyone can find their voice and let it sing.

In New Prague, the lights of Starlight Productions shine on the marquee. The theater and the talented women inside bring hope, happiness, and endless possibilities that await when you dare to dream. Join Nikki and Jacqueline in this joyful adventure and discover the music within you.

PRAGUE THEATER SUSTAINS DAMAGE FROM A MARCH 2024 FIRE

Starlight Productions' beloved Prague Theater suffered a devastating fire in early March. The damage was extensive, with the interior filled with water, ash, and debris. Nikki and Jacqueline are determined to rebuild and continue their mission despite the challenges and emotional toll.

#StarlightStrong

Jacqueline Elizabeth and Nikki Roberts are not just teachers; they are visionaries who have transformed their love for music and performance into a budding community. Starlight Productions is their stage, where every lesson is a step towards artistic excellence, personal growth, and community connection. Through their summer programs, private lessons, and public performances, they invite us all to be part of something bigger than ourselves—a world where art is a shared language of joy and inspiration.

In New Prague, the story of Starlight Productions is still being written. Every student, every note, and every performance adds to its legacy. It's a place where dreams are nurtured, talents are celebrated, and the future of the arts looks brighter than ever. Thanks to Jacqueline and Nikki, the love of music and performing arts in New Prague is not just alive; it's thriving, growing, and inspiring new generations.

Let's celebrate these incredible women and the community they're building. Starlight Productions isn't just a school; it's about power, passion, partnership, and perseverance. Here, in the heart of New Prague, the arts are alive, thanks to Jacqueline and Nikki.

WITH GATEWAY BANK

Championing Sustainable Fashion

Storm Creek's CEO, Teresa Fudenberg, champions sustainability, innovation, and women in business for a better world.

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE

As our May issue of Eagan City Lifestyle is our ladies’ issue, it seemed only right to highlight an extraordinary woman running a rather extraordinary business in the heart of Eagan. Under CEO Teresa Fudenberg's stewardship, Storm Creek is not just a clothing brand; it's an inspirational symbol of sustainability, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

As I sat down with Teresa, her passion for "Better Product for the Greater Good" was palpable, a mantra that Storm Creek lives by through every fiber of its being.

Joining the company in 2014, Teresa brought with her a wealth of experience in brand and marketing, having previously founded On Your Mark, a firm specializing in Fractional Marketing and Business Strategy. Her meeting with Doug Jackson, Storm Creek's founder, began a synergistic partnership. Doug's focus on product, brand, and big relationships complemented Teresa's vision for brand, people, and purpose, making them co-visionaries in an endeavor to redefine the essence of clothing as we know it.

STORM CREEK: AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

Storm Creek has an unwavering commitment to sustainability. It’s evident the moment you walk into their showroom. The brand takes pride in using upcycled materials, with each piece repurposing an average of 10 to 15 water bottles, transforming waste into fashion-forward designs. "Every time we reorder, we look for a way to build on the recycled content," Teresa shared, emphasizing their passionate and relentless pursuit of improvement.

With a team of 40 employees and always on the lookout for passionate individuals to join the team, Storm Creek is a testament to the power of a values-driven culture. Their core values encourage curiosity, engagement with purpose, the constant pursuit of better, and a passion for growth. It's a culture where even Hazel, the dog who models their merchandise, embodies their ethos, albeit in a playful manner.

THE YEAR OF THE CUSTOMER? IT’S ALWAYS THE DAY OF THE CUSTOMER

2023 was dubbed the "Year of the Customer,” but for Teresa and her team, every day is an opportunity to focus on their customers and the planet. Their foundational principles are deeply rooted in the Entrepreneurial Operating System, which emphasizes vision, traction, and healthy team dynamics, ensuring the company stays ahead of the game.

Teresa and Doug's shared mission of giving back is evident in Storm Creek's operations. From being a proud women-owned business to their 1% For The Planet commitment, they are dedicated to making a tangible difference in communities and organizations in need. “We’re committed to giving our five-millionth dollar to charity by 2030,” Teresa shared.

Storm Creek is not just a clothing brand; it's an inspirational symbol of sustainability, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

EMBRACING AN INCLUSIVE AND PURPOSEFUL WORK ENVIRONMENT

The people behind Storm Creek are a reflection of the brand's values. Chloe Ward, the Marketing Manager, praises the inclusive and purposeful work environment, where every voice is heard and valued. This collective purpose is why Storm Creek has succeeded in upcycling over 32,000,000 plastic bottles, an eye-opening achievement that speaks volumes about their commitment to the planet.

As I left the Storm Creek showroom and said my farewells to Teresa and Chloe, I was struck by the profound impact the organization, guided by Teresa's visionary leadership, is making in the fashion industry and beyond. They are not just creating clothing but weaving a future where style, sustainability, and social responsibility intersect seamlessly. For Teresa Fudenberg and Storm Creek, it's about leaving a legacy that transcends the fabric of their apparel, embodying the true spirit of "Better Product for the Greater Good."

In this May 2024 ladies' issue, we celebrate Teresa Fudenberg, a woman who is not only reshaping the landscape of sustainable fashion but also empowering women entrepreneurs to lead with purpose, vision, and an unyielding commitment to the greater good. Storm Creek is an outstanding example of what it means to build a better world, one stitch at a time.

DO YOU WANT TO BE PART OF THE STORM CREEK STORY?

Do you want to be part of the Storm Creek story? Supporting this female-owned enterprise means aligning with a sustainable and innovative fashion vision. Visit their website at https://www. stormcreek.com/ to discover their journey towards eco-conscious apparel.

Stay informed and engaged by subscribing to their newsletter. This ensures you never miss their bi-annual warehouse sales in April and November. Spread the word and let fellow business owners know: Storm Creek offers a sustainable and stylish choice for outfitting their teams.

Storm Creek is an outstanding example of what it means to build a better world, one stitch at a time.

Spring clean your finances

Don’t let your finances gather dust—let’s spring into action

ACCESS

C h i r o W a y o f E a g a n , N o w O p e n !

TO CONVENIENT AND AFFORDABLE CHIROPRACTIC CARE JUST GOT EASIER L e a

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN SCIENCE

Celebrating Minnesota's Trailblazers in Cancer Research and Advocacy at the American Cancer Society's ResearcHERS Event

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER

Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes (and ample road construction projects). But we’re more than that. In fact, within our great state, a movement is underway that symbolizes the strength and resilience of women in the battle against cancer. Spearheaded by the American Cancer Society (ACS), this movement is supported by the efforts of three remarkable women: Danielle Ottman, Megan Kennedy, and Pam Mason.

The ResearcHERS initiative celebrates women in research and aims to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in science.

These women are the driving force behind various programs within the American Cancer Society. One program, the ResearcHERS event in May 2024, celebrates the efforts of women in science, and is designed to support those who have received a cancer diagnosis, and more.

THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: HOPE, PATIENT SUPPORT, AND ADVOCACY

Founded in 1913, the ACS has provided hope, advancing cancer research, patient support, advocacy, and development through its four pillars. The Society's commitment to discovery, advocacy, patient support, and fundraising has paved the way for groundbreaking research and comprehensive care. The goal is to ensure that cancer survivors are never alone.

Megan, senior development manager and the lead on the ResearcHERS project, has also been instrumental in the efforts of the Rochester Hope Lodge . This program provides a no-cost nurturing environment for those undergoing treatment and their families. She is also integral in organizing the Hope Lodge Gala , an event designed to raise funds for the Rochester HopeLodge operations throughout the year.

Meanwhile, Danielle oversees critical events across the broader state of Minnesota, including the much-anticipated ResearcHERS luncheon on May 20, 2024, at the McNamara Alumni Center. Approximately 200 attendees will participate. Attendees can buy individual tickets or sponsor tables. There will also be a few fun ways to donate money to the cause, including a dessert dash.

The ResearcHERS initiative celebrates women in research and aims to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in science. By highlighting the successes of female researchers in Minnesota, the event seeks to break barriers and foster a community where women can thrive in STEM fields.

Pam is the associate director of cancer center partnerships and works with cancer center program staff across the state to bring visibility to the various programs that support those living with cancer.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FUNDING FOR THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

Funding is the lifeblood of research and development, and through events like ResearcHERS, the ACS ensures crucial financial support for cancer research grants. The ACS is the largest non-profit funder of cancer research in the U.S., with investments exceeding $5 billion since 1946. In Minnesota alone, ten grants totaling over $6.4 million demonstrate the state's significant contribution to the national effort.

The ResearcHERS event will honor outstanding female researchers with the Rising Star Researcher Award and the Legacy Researcher Award. These accolades recognize both emerging talents and established leaders in cancer research. The goal is to celebrate women's critical roles in advancing our understanding and treatment of cancer.

ONE IN EIGHT WOMEN WILL BE DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER

Cancer screening is another focal point of the ACS's mission, with recommendations for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer screenings based on age and risk factors. These guidelines emphasize the importance of early detection, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates. For example, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Still, with regular mammograms and screenings, catching the disease early can greatly increase survival.

The American Cancer Society's efforts in Minnesota are vital to a larger puzzle, contributing statewide and nationally to a future where cancer can be defeated.

Megan’s passion for social causes and creative event planning is matched by Danielle and Pam’s dedication to making a tangible difference in people's lives. Their work and the support of the community and corporate partners embody the spirit of philanthropy and the collective effort to combat cancer.

As we approach the ResearcHERS event, it's clear that this is more than just a fundraiser. It's a movement. The American Cancer Society's efforts in Minnesota are vital to a larger puzzle, contributing statewide and nationally to a future where cancer can be defeated.

Let's support the ResearcHERS event and the remarkable women leading the charge in cancer research this May. Through advocacy, support, and unwavering commitment, we

can make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and survivors. The goal? Provide a brighter future.

ARE YOU IN NEED OF CANCER SUPPORT SERVICES?

The American Cancer Society offers various programs designed to support women through their cancer diagnosis. From the Reach to Recovery program to the ACS CARES app, which you can download on your phone, these programs connect women with other women who have walked in their shoes.

To learn more about the ResearcHERS event, please visit the event website at https://e.givesmart.com/events/BX9/

supporting locally owned

(That’s driving joy )

By choosing locally owned and operated Christian Brothers Automotive, you’re not only getting award-winning service, you’re keeping the place where you live vital. We’re proud to support the communities we live and work in so that our neighborhoods thrive

Jo Dee Messina

COUNTRY STAR—HOCKEY MOM

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA AND MATTHEW SOUSA

Originally from the picturesque town of Holliston, Massachusetts, Jo Dee Messina ventured into the heart of country music at the tender age of 19, making Nashville her new home. Since then, her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. With two platinum and three gold-certified albums accredited by the RIAA, Messina has etched her name in the annals of country music history. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first female artist to consecutively top the charts with three multi-week No. 1 hits.

Recognized by the Country Music Association as a Horizon Award winner in 1999, Messina's illustrious career boasts six CMA Awards nominations, alongside two GRAMMY Awards nods. Her vocal prowess has been acknowledged with accolades such as the Best Female Country Vocal Performance for "That's The Way" in 2001, and the Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for "Bring On the Rain," featuring Tim McGraw, in 2002.

Beyond the accolades, Messina's connection with her audience is evidenced by her consistent sold-out shows across the United States. Recently, she electrified packed arenas while supporting country legend Reba McEntire, igniting an atmosphere of pure euphoria. As The Columbus Dispatch noted, "The crowd's fervor for Messina's performance was akin to a roaring cheer, marking each hit song with fervent sing-alongs and unbridled enthusiasm."

In the digital realm, Messina's impact is equally profound, with her music surpassing a staggering 1 billion streams collectively across platforms like Pandora, Spotify, and Apple Music. Her influence remains

evergreen, with over 4 million streams per week, a testament to her enduring appeal and resonance with fans.

Every 90’s child can likely sing the Rolodex of Jo Dee’s songs on repeat. Her music has woven itself into the fabric of nostalgia for many, serving as a soundtrack to countless memories and milestones.

When she is not working on her music or touring, Jo Dee spends her time “chasing ice” as a hockey mom of two boys. Her older son plays for his high school team, and her younger son plays in a local Nashville league. She says that hockey mamas are the closest with their children because they spend so much time in the car together! It's this bond and understanding of family dynamics that resonate deeply with her fans, making her not just a celebrated artist but also a cherished role model. Messina was thrilled to be a headliner at the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft Music Festival and perform during the NHL Draft and Awards when they were hosted in Nashville.

Amidst the anticipation surrounding Jo Dee Messina's upcoming tour, there's a buzz about the promise of fresh, exhilarating experiences awaiting fans. With a new record on the horizon, Messina is eager to share her latest musical creations, offering audiences an exclusive glimpse into her evolving artistry. As the spotlight shines on her upcoming shows, fans can expect a dynamic fusion of fan favorites interwoven with the allure of unreleased tracks, creating an atmosphere brimming with excitement and anticipation.

Messina will be at Vicki's Camp N Country Jam in Redwood Falls, MN on Friday, June 28

Hockey mamas are the closest with their children because they spend so much time in the car together!

Planting Spring Flowers

Helpful tips for planting spring flowers

Sun-Loving Plants:

Spring is here! We compiled a list of flowers that - depending on your planting zone - can be planted in the season.

Plumbago

Has beautiful dark blue or white flowers on a large shrub of 3 to 5 feet. This tends to freeze down in winter and comes back from roots in the spring.

Hibiscus

The tropical variety will not survive the winters so move those pots inside. The plant can get up to 5 feet tall and there are many different colors and varieties. The perennial varieties will freeze to the ground but come back in the spring. The variety Moy Grande is known as the dinner plate hibiscus. The Texas star hibiscus has beautiful flowers in red or white.

Bougainvillea

These colorful plants can be planted in baskets and pots, not in water-logged or low areas where water might collect. They will grow best when given enough space to spread out, and should be planted in an area that will allow them a minimum of 5-6 hours of sunlight every day. Colors include orange, pink, purple, white, red, tangerine and fuschia to name a few.

Purslane

This is great in baskets for trailing leaves with lots of colors. The bees love it!

Butterfly Weed

This 3 to 4-foot bush is a must for monarch lovers. Monarchs feed on the leaves before making their cocoons. It has beautiful orange and yellow flowers.

ARTICLE BY LORI HAWKINS

Shade-Loving Plants:

Lantana

This is a great hot weather plant that comes in many colors and varieties. Trailing varieties only get about 1 foot tall but can get 3 to 4 feet wide. There are bush varieties that get 4 feet tall and dwarf bushes only get about 2 feet tall. It comes in yellows, purples, reds, oranges, pinks, fuschia, and many others.

Greggs Blue Mist

This fuzzy light blue flower is a butterfly favorite.

Pentas

This is another bee and butterfly favorite that grows about 10 to 12 inches tall. There is a graffiti variety in different colors that works in beds or pots.

Vinca/Periwinkle

This plant comes in upright or trailing varieties. There are many colors to choose from: lavender, white with a red center, peach, white and red pink to strawberry.

Sages

There are many varieties of sage. The Texas sage is a shrub that has beautiful lavender flowers - a favorite for bees. They usually bloom around the time it rains. Henry Duelberg variety is a smaller bush 18 to 20 inches tall with blue stalks of blooms. Russian Sage is a tall silver lacey foliage with light blue flower spikes and grows to 4 feet tall. Deer tend to stay away from most of the sages.

Turk’s Cap

This plant makes a large bush of red or pink flowers. It has low water needs once established and can tolerate drought conditions and hot temperatures. Prune back plant in winter if it gets too leggy.

Impatiens

These need more water than most other plants and come in many colors. They are valued for their vibrant colors, abundant blooms, and tolerance for shade.

Caladiums

With lush multicolored leaves, many larger than the palm of your hand, caladiums have become one of the most popular foliage plants for shady or semi-shady gardens—with many recent introductions being sun tolerant.

We’re celebrating 20 incredible years of smiling out loud in Eagan with a BIG announcement! Dr. Jennifer Orthodontics is proud to begin a new chapter in industry-leading orthodontic care as Lakeside Orthodontics. Our new name and logo reflect the heart of what we do—we make the Twin Cities smile.

JENNIFER EISENHUTH DR. CHAD

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH SUNDAYS UNTIL JUNE 16TH

A Year with Frog and Toad at Children's Theatre Company

2400 3rd Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55404

Meet Frog and Toad, best friends who embark upon a year’s worth of adventures with great merriment, comedic agility, and joyful song-singing. Join them as they go swimming, rake leaves until they ache, and send letters via a real live Snail Mail!

MAY 4TH

Live to Give Walk

1507 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121 | 9:00 AM

The Rotary Club of Eagan, joined by presenting sponsor SPACES, will host the fourth annual Live to Give Walk at Eagan’s Central Park on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Funds raised will benefit nonprofits aimed at supporting the community and include South Metro Community Services, Pawsitivity Service Dogs for Veterans, Guild and the Eagan Rotary Foundation. Sign up to walk at https://www.4giving.com/donation/A366.

MAY 10TH

21st Annual Women of Hope Luncheon

2141 Lindau Ln, Bloomington, MN 55425 | 11:30 AM

The 2024 Women of Hope event marks the 21st anniversary of this best-in-class legacy luncheon, gathering women and men who share TreeHouse’s passion for bringing the power of hope to teens. Guests will enjoy lunch and connection while garnering insight and encouragement from keynote speaker Osheta Moore. Visit https://treehousehope.org/womenofhope for more information.

Rick Anderson's 16th Annual Bike Sale

5905 Upper 147th St, Apple Valley, MN 55124 | 11:00 AM

Rick Anderson is seeking bicycle donations for his 16th annual sale benefiting two Dakota County nonprofit organizations: Kids ‘n Kinship  (matches adult mentors with kids in need) and  DARTS  (connects seniors to services and partnerships that improve their quality of life).  Rick and his team refurbished, sold, and/or donated 470 bikes last year and is looking for even more for his next sale.

realty report

Listings were pulled from the NMLS. This reflects a 30-Day time period prior to our print deadline. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of activity. *DOM = Days on Market

SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN EAGAN AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS.

MAY 16TH

events

Party for the Pantry—Open Door Spring Fundraiser

2280 Cliff Rd, St Paul, MN 55122 5:30 PM

Join us for an evening of fun and philanthropy at The Open Door’s inaugural fundraiser, “Party for the Pantry”! Enjoy a fun dinner with friends, test your knowledge in a thrilling live gameshow, and bid on exclusive auction items, all while supporting The Open Door’s hunger relief efforts! Reserve your tickets at  https:// theopendoorpantry.org/party/

MAY 19TH

Holz Farm Spring Festival

4665 Manor Dr, Eagan, MN 55123 11:00 AM

Enjoy a spring afternoon of old-fashioned fun at Holz Farm. The Friends of the Farm and the City of Eagan invite you to learn about life on the farm. Guests can enjoy a hayride, tour the house and listen to live music! Tickets required for all individuals 12 months and older, tickets available onsite or ahead of time at discovereagan.com

Indulge in a rejuvenating spring escape at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel. Whether you’re looking for family fun, a girl’s weekend getaway, or anything in between, we can help you plan the perfect retreat. Take part in Nordic tradition with the ritual of thermotherapy in our full-service Idlewild Spa. Indulge in one of our four restaurant and bar offerings including Kyndred Hearth, James Beard award-winning chef Anne Kim’s take on familiar favorites. Relax in upscale accommodations and enjoy a relaxing break this spring at Omni Viking Lakes.