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We have moved next door to 1472 Yankee Doodle Road, Come see our new space! Shop with us on Facebook Live on Tuesday nights at 7pm. Don’t miss our Back to School Event from August 1st-3rd!
651.478.1102 fashionfruitboutique.com 1472 Yankee Doodle Rd, Eagan, MN Saturdays 10am-4pm CURATED SEASONAL COLLECTIONS PROFESSIONAL AND VERSATILE STYLES SIZES XS-3X
“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow...”
Happy Summer, Eagan! There is something special about summer in Minnesota. Whether it's hanging out on a patio with friends, heading to the lake, or working in the garden, it's just a wonderful time of year to enjoy everything that the Twin Cities have to offer.
One of the best parts of a summer in Minnesota is being able to take advantage of the amazing weather and make time to explore. This can mean different things - checking out a new restaurant, visiting a new town as part of a sports tournament, or taking a break and heading out of town for a few days.
Sometimes it is nice to stay close to home and explore the hidden gems of the local community. Engaging with your community helps build a sense of belonging and fosters social bonds. By participating in local events, volunteering, or simply getting to know your neighbors, you can create a supportive network that can provide assistance, friendship, and a deeper connection to your surroundings.
This month, we wanted to highlight different businesses that can help you with your exploration, both near and far. Dean Victorson from American Cruises and Tours talked to us about the benefits of booking your next adventure ahead of time. Our own Lisa Cline highlighted the different elements at MSP airport that can enhance your time there before your next flight. Darin Delaney from Affordable Inflatables showed the options they have to enhance your next barbecue. Jennifer Peery from Pink Cow Ice Cream talked about how much fun it is to bring ice cream and smiles to your summer function. Finally, we wanted to give you some new ideas of dishes to explore during your next summer cookout.
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.
Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com
STAFF WRITER
Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com
COPY EDITOR
Judy Sousa
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lauren Lane, Lisa Cline
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1-10: It was a great afternoon at Smash Park Roseville for the Kontonso Fundraiser Tournament of Champions supporting Operation Dignity International in their quest to fund a new medical center in Ghana.
Photography by Amanda LaRae Photography
7am-5pm
The Little Gym — Grow skills, learn, and have SERIOUS FUN!
Much more than exercise for children, The Little Gym challenges your child to master physical, emotional, and life skills. Our approach supports the whole child and helps them grow...but they'll just see it as SERIOUS FUN! Find a class that’s perfect for your schedule and your child’s age range. Each class is designed to support your child’s physical, social, and emotional growth. Book your introductory class at https://www. thelittlegym.com/minnesota-eagan/ classes/#schedule
Photography by The Little Gym
The Goddard School of Eagan - Enroll Now
The Goddard School Eagan is a premier childcare center that will nurture and educate children to ensure they develop the skills they need for longterm success in school and life! The Goddard School embraces the magic of childhood to help inspire a love of learning from a young age. Every day is a great day to explore new subjects, develop lasting skills and have fun while learning! Visit https://www. goddardschool.com/schools/mn/eagan/ eagan for more information.
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Photography by
The Goddard School of Eagan
ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA
Agents can arrange exclusive tours, recommend local dining spots, and provide insights that might not be easily accessible to the average traveler.
Early Planning Ensures Better Vacations
How early vacation planning can lead to incredible deals and unforgettable experiences.
When it comes to exploring, there is nothing better than a well-planned trip to see a new location or revisit an old favorite. This month, I talked to Dean Victorson from American Cruises and Tours about the benefits of booking your next trip early.
One of the biggest reasons to book early is to make sure you get what you want out of your vacation. Booking early ensures you will be more likely to get the best flight times, the best seats on flights, your preferred hotel, and access to tours and attractions that may sell out at popular destinations.
Booking early can also be a great way to save money. Many tours offer discounted airfares if booked ahead of time. It can also be a good way to budget for your trip by giving you more time to save. After making your initial deposit, many cruises, tours, and resorts allow you to pay over time, which can be a great way to pay for your vacation. If the price drops after you
book your trip, you can have your vacation repriced to the better rate up until your final payment is made.
Many cruise lines and resorts offer incentives for booking early. These can include room category upgrades, extra amenities, free nights, and free meals.
When should you book your vacation? That depends on what type of trip you are planning. Shorter, spontaneous trips can be planned between one to three months in advance. Longer trips with more complex itineraries should be booked at least 12 months in advance to ensure availability and the best deals.
Booking your vacation early gives you more time to create your ideal itinerary to make sure you get the most out of your vacation. You can spend time researching your destination, securing reservations at “must-eat” restaurants, and maybe even learning some important phrases if you are visiting a foreign destination. Bon voyage!
ARTICLE BY LISA CLINE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE & PROVIDED
DISCOVER DINING, SHOPPING, ART, AND WELLNESS OPTIONS AT MINNEAPOLIS-SAINT PAUL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
MAXIMIZE YOUR MSP EXPERIENCE
Whether you jump in the car or hop on a plane, the summer months are made for exploring in Minnesota! If your travels happen to take you through our award-winning Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), there are
MSP staple Shoyu (G Concourse) has just that along with handmade dumplings and sushi. Looking for an organic option? The French Meadow Café (North Mall) has an extensive menu. And to keep you awake, Minnesota’s
EMBRACE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE
ALL THAT THE AIRPORT HAS TO OFFER.
plenty of ways to make the most of your time pre-flight and enjoy what the airport has to offer. From dining options to shopping and wellness, here's a guide of what to do at MSP to ensure an enjoyable experience.
FOOD
The vibrant Minneapolis and St. Paul culinary scene is reflected in the extensive, diverse options to fuel up while waiting for your flight. You can find a classic breakfast at the HiLo Diner (F Concourse), local favorite Juicy Lucy burger at the Blue Door Pub (C Concourse), or an elevated dining experience at The Cook and The Ox (North Mall). The Stone Arch (South Mall) offers flights of local craft brews, or pop into Vino Volo (C Concourse) for a glass of red or white. Local decorated chef Justin Sutherland of Top Chef fame serves up delicious fried chicken at his restaurant Northern Soul (South Mall). Settebello (South Mall) fires up unique, delicious pizzas under strings of glowing café lights. Craving ramen?
own Caribou Coffee has multiple locations throughout the airport.
SHOPPING
Whether treating yourself, grabbing a souvenir, or in need of last-minute travel essentials, MSP has an array of shops to meet your needs. As you clear security and enter into the airport mall, many boutiques and well-known retailers greet you. Prince fans can pick up unique items at his namesake store on the south end of the mall. Just steps away is the beautiful Open Book with shelves full of current bestsellers or unique reads. Continue on to Hammermade for their modern button-down shirts. Frivolous, on the north end of the mall, is a great spot to find a truly unique item at MSP. Additionally, if you want to explore regional specialties, head to Minnesota! Land of 10,000 Lakes for a selection of locally inspired souvenirs and gifts. You betcha! Forgot an essential, Hudson and Duty-Free shops pepper the mall and concourses.
ART
MSP is home to an impressive array of art installations and cultural exhibits, providing a unique opportunity to experience creativity and inspiration pre-flight. Take a leisurely stroll through the concourses to admire the diverse artworks on display. Many of these pieces showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of the region, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local arts scene without leaving the airport. As you enter the ticketing area or collect your items at baggage claim, you can see the newest addition “The Aurora” by artist Jen Lewin. The shimmering, two-story installation is an impressive and immersive piece that adds a sense of wonder and beauty to the airport environment. Some of the most unique visuals are the floor murals found extensively throughout the airport.
WELLNESS
If you're looking to stay active during your layover, the MSP loop is a 1.4-mile loop throughout the concourses, allowing you to stretch your legs and get some exercise while exploring the airport. Start from the mall and head east down the C Concourse, take a right at Gate C12 and cross over to the G Concourse via the connecting walkway, then head back towards the mall. Keep an eye out for small green circles on the overhead signs to let you know how far you’ve gone! The Chiroport offers adjustments to keep you feeling great before a long flight. Relax in the many nooks throughout the airport, including the quiet space located in the mezzanine above the mall. This area is the perfect place if you need to get some shut-eye or focus on work.
MSP IS HOME TO AN IMPRESSIVE ARRAY OF ART INSTALLATIONS.
FAMILY FUN
Have a geocacher in your travel party?
MSP has a few great options including two Adventure Labs. Download the app and log in to get started exploring the airport. Keep a lookout for unique fossils found in the stone flooring throughout the airport. Tally up who can find the most in your party for added fun!
So, the next time you find yourself with some extra time at MSP, embrace the opportunity to explore all that the airport has to offer.
Bounce Houses Giant Games Obstacle Courses
WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
BOUNCING INTO FAMILY FUN
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
AFFORDABLE INFLATABLES FOR LOCAL CELEBRATIONS
Now that summer is officially here, it promises warm days and family gatherings. Many of us, myself included, are thinking of summer get-togethers, picnics, potlucks, and anything to get the kids out of the house to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather (and take a break from those addictive screens). But who wants to plan a party that is just the same as the year before?
Enter Affordable Inflatables, a company that has been adding bounce to parties across the southern Twin Cities area for over a decade. Owned by Darin Delaney, this Inver Grove Heights-Eagan-based business offers more than just fun; it brings communities together.
INFLATABLES: A FUN PURCHASE THAT TURNED INTO A COMMUNITY BUILDER
Founded 13 years ago after purchasing an inflatable slide at Sam’s Club, Darin started Affordable Inflatables by renting out the slide to offset the purchase cost. The venture quickly escalated from a side gig into a thriving business offering various entertainment options, from inflatable bounce houses and obstacle courses to movie screens, photo booths, party buses, dunk tanks, tents, tables, chairs, and much more.
"Our most popular items are the bounce house with a slide and the slip-and-slide waterslides," Darin shares. "But what excites me the most is helping our local schools and churches create fantastic community events." Darin is deeply invested in supporting local community groups, frequently partnering with them for fundraisers and family fun nights, particularly in Apple Valley and Eagan.
This focus on community engagement is a big part of what makes Affordable Inflatables what it is today. For instance, Darin is developing a unique double dunk trailer equipped with a 360-degree camera that can live stream to social platforms—a perfect addition to any fundraising event. And who doesn’t love the opportunity to share their entertaining experiences on social media?! He also plans to launch a nonprofit that utilizes his new ice cream truck and this dunk trailer to support various community-based causes.
MINNESOTANS LOVE THEIR SNOW CONES
While we only get a few months of summer fun each year, those summer months come with extreme heat. And what better way to cool down and enjoy some time in the shade than with a snow cone?
"One project I'm passionate about involves our snow cone machines," Darin explains. "We are willing to donate the snow cone machines, all the syrup and supplies, and a table or one of our lemon stands so your kids can set up the snow cone stand. We are looking to raise money for the homeless and disabled Veterans. It’s a great way to teach kids about charitable giving, letting them choose their cause while having fun.”
“If we raise enough money, I was thinking about taking a group of kids on the party bus some weekend and having the kids ride out to a homeless shelter or help give out the money to people in need,” Darin shared.
BOUNCING INTO FAMILY FUN
The company's range of services doesn't stop at inflatables, snow cones, and ice cream trucks. It also provides photo booths for events like weddings, with options ranging from magic mirrors to selfie booths. "Photo booths are a hit, especially at school events," Darin notes. “Little kids love posing for photos with their family members and friends. And they love the ability to keep their photos after the fact.”
Darin has enjoyed the success of his business so much—and putting smiles on faces—that he is also exploring new frontiers with plans to open an indoor event center. While the space has not yet been secured, his vision includes a private party venue that can also serve as a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs to enter the party rental business. “I’m always happy to work with aspiring business owners in this space. They’ll be able to use the space and store their gear in the warehouse that will be attached,” Darin shared.
A FOCUS ON BETTERING OUR COMMUNITY
Its extensive inventory, community focus, and flexibility set Affordable Inflatables apart. "We offer some of the longest rentals in Minnesota," Darin says. "Our customers can pick up on a Friday and return it on Monday or later, which provides more bang for your buck."
As we gear up for a season of celebrations, whether a block party, a church event, or just a fun family weekend, Affordable Inflatables is ready to deliver joy and excitement. It’s not just about the fun, though. Every bounce, slide, and splash echoes Darin’s deeper mission—to create joy and help build a stronger community.
"In the end, it's about bringing fun to everyone and helping create lasting memories," Darin concludes with a smile. "That’s what really matters."
Jeremy Jackson Wealth Advisor, CIMA®, FIC 763-633-2905
jeremy.jackson@thrivent.com
Josiah Parker Financial Advisor 612-990-4125
josiah.parker@thrivent.com
realty
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
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
Sweet Treats on Wheels: Pink Cow Delights
Bringing joy and community spirit through ice cream at local events and gatherings.
Are you looking for something fun to do this summer? Do you love ice cream? Why not host a summer celebration and invite The Pink Cow ice cream truck to serve delicious cold treats at your event?
Ever since my conversation with Jennifer Peery, co-owner of The Pink Cow ice cream truck, I’ve been inspired by how a simple idea can bring so much joy to a community. It all started in March 2023 when Jennifer, a school bus driver with a knack for working with kids, and her husband, Chris, received a message to steer them into a new adventure. The previous owners of Pink Cow were looking to pass the torch, and they knew Jennifer and Chris were the perfect fit to keep the wheels of joy turning.
SWEET TREATS ON WHEELS: PINK COW DELIGHTS
Transitioning into their new roles was fast and full of excitement. By May 2023, just about 45 days after taking over, they were ready for their first event. Pink Cow isn’t your typical ice cream truck that meanders through neighborhoods with a jingle. Instead, it focuses on bringing frozen treats to special events like daycare functions, birthday parties, and even senior living homes. The anticipation and delight in the eyes of both the young and the young at heart when Pink Cow arrives is truly a sight to behold.
“It’s the excitement you see in faces when we show up at an event," Jennifer shared with me.
“You’ll see smiles from the five-year-olds and the ninety-year-olds alike.”
The business model is simple and community-oriented. There’s no charge for the truck to roll up to small or mid-sized events, just a minimum purchase requirement of $50, which is easily met
with around 20 people. Their prices, ranging from $2 to $5, make indulgence accessible, and they're willing to adjust to fit different budgets.
One aspect of Pink Cow that stands out is its commitment to giving back. Last year, it participated in a school carnival, where a portion of its sales supported local charities. This mix of business and benevolence improves community ties and amplifies the joy that Pink Cow spreads. And the team behind Pink Cow is looking for more give-back opportunities this summer.
PEOPLE LOVE THEIR ICE CREAM
As Jennifer aptly says, “People love ice cream, and we love giving that happiness to other people.” It’s a simple exchange but one that enriches the community immensely. For those in Eagan, Apple Valley, and Burnsville looking to sweeten their next gathering, booking Pink Cow might just be the cherry on top of your event planning. Email Jennifer at pinkcowicecream@gmail.com to get started.
explore a variety of flavors at home
TAKE YOUR FAMILY'S BACKYARD GATHERING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
ARTICLE BY LAUREN LANE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
With warm weather and longer days ahead, it’s the perfect time to host unforgettable gatherings in your own outdoor space. Your backyard can be the ideal setting for creating lasting memories with friends and family. From delicious grilled meals to refreshing drinks and exciting games, let your backyard be the go-to destination for summer fun and enjoyment.
Instead of traditional barbecue fare, we hope to inspire you to explore a variety of tastes with the following recipes. Delight your guests with a selection of dishes that go beyond the usual hamburgers and hot dogs, offering a diverse array of flavors that can cater to all palates.
YIELD: Serves 6 ingredients
• A few big pinches of Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 2 teaspoons fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 large heirloom tomatoes or large plum tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes. (about 2 1/2 pounds total)
• Two peaches
• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or small balls
• 4 ounces burrata cheese
• 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves plus additional whole leaves for garnish
directions
1. Combine salt and olive oil.
2. Place the burrata cheese round on a platter. Arrange the tomatoes, peaches and mozzarella balls around the cheese.
3. Drizzle with dressing from bowl. Sprinkle with more salt and pepper. Garnish with additional basil leaves and serve.
CONTINUED >
TOMATO PEACH BURRATA SALAD
Tomato Peach Burrata Salad
HUMMUS WITH TOPPINGS
YIELD: Serves 6-8
ingredients
• Your favorite store-bought hummus, or make my recipe @ Lauren-Lane.com
topping options:
1. 1 small zucchini or a few radishes, thinly sliced
2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
3. 1 handful of watercress or microgreens
4. Additional topping ideas: fresh basil, crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts or capers
5. Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl. Using your spoon, make a few swirls on the top.
6. In medium bowl, toss toppings together. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to combine.
7. Drizzle hummus with olive oil and top with the dressed toppings. Serve with pita chips and/or veggies for dipping.
GRILLED CORN SALAD
YIELD: Serves 4-6
ingredients
• 2 ears corn, grilled and cut from the cob
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced into rings
• 1/4 cup fresh feta or goat cheese, crumbled
• 3 sprigs basil, leaves removed and torn
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Black pepper to taste
• Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
directions
1. Place corn kernels into a bowl with the rest of the ingredients and stir to combine.
2. Taste, and re-season with salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste.
Hummus with Toppings
Grilled Corn Salad
STEAK WITH CHIMICHURRI PITCHER VODKA LEMONADE
Sauce
YIELD: Makes about 1 cup
ingredients
• 1 cup (packed) fresh Italian parsley
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup (packed) fresh cilantro (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 3/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
Steak
ingredients
• 1 ½-2 pounds flank steak, or steak of choice.
directions
1. Make sauce: Puree all ingredients in processor. Transfer to bowl. (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Cover and let stand at room temperature.)
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Sear steak for 6-8 minutes on each side until heavily browned on the outside and slightly pink in the middle.
3. Thinly slice steak across the grain and top with Chimichurri sauce.
YIELD: Makes six cocktails ingredients
• 48 ounces homemade lemonade (or store-bought)
• 12 ounces vodka
• Ice, for serving
• 1 lemon, sliced thinly
• Fresh mint for garnish
directions
1. Make the lemonade or pour store-bought in a pitcher.
2. Add vodka and lemon slices (can be made the day before).
3. To serve: pour cocktail over ice and garnish with fresh mint.
Recipes by Lauren Lane Culinarian
For more recipes follow her at: Blog: Lauren-Lane.com Instagram: Lauren_Lane_Culinarian
Steak with Chimichurri
Pitcher Vodka Lemonade
Mendakota Country Club is open to the public for all meetings and events. We offer an excellent location and impressive facilities for your next special event or business meeting. Our catering department is happy to work with you to create a truly unique event catered to your needs. From a quick efficient breakfast meeting, business lunch, gala, wedding, a festive anniversary celebration, or a corporate golf outing,
JULY 2ND - 4TH
Eagan’s July 4th Funfest
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Viking Lakes and Eagan Central Park
Eagan’s July 4th Funfest has been occurring annually for over 50 years. Beginning as a small group of children riding around town on decorated bicycles, the event has grown into a three-day festival at two locations with live bands, rides, lots of food, a parade, and a fireworks show that attracts more than 100,000 people.
JULY 6TH
Eagan Kick-Start Rotary 5K & Kids Run
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 7:00 AM
Join us for the 3rd Annual Eagan 5K and Kids Run hosted by the Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club. Proceeds from this fundraiser will support the greater Eagan and Twin Cities Metro Area non-profits including The Open Door, Eagan Community Foundation, Guild, The Drawer, Kids N Kinship, Can Do Canines, Caponi Art Park, Local Public Safety and many more.
JULY 11TH
Magic in the Park
360 Butler Ave E, West St. Paul, MN 55118 | 3:00 PM
Join the cities of West St. Paul and Mendota Heights for a whimsical afternoon of enchantment! Enjoy mesmerizing magic tricks for all ages, indulge in delicious ice cream delights, and get creative with some craft activities. It's a magical blend of entertainment, sweet treats, and hands-on fun that the whole family will adore. Don't miss out on this spellbinding free family event!
JULY 12TH - 13TH
Celebrate Mendota Days with Lucky's Pub and The Mudd Room
1352 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Mendota, MN 55150
Lucky's Pub tent will have live music on Friday, July 12 & Saturday, July 13. Lucky's tent has a $10 cover per day. Kids 10 & under are free. There will be food & drinks in Lucky's tent, as well as the restaurant being open with regular hours. The Mudd Room will have music indoors starting at 7:30 PM both nights with no cover, but it is 21+.
JULY 15TH
Theater in the Park - Shrek Jr. The Musical
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 10:30 AM
Theater in the Park returns to the Eagan Rotary Bandshell. ETC Productions along with Apple Valley High School will be performing Shrek Jr The Musical. This free, live theater experience will be performed BY young people FOR young people. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy all that Eagan’s Central Park has to offer before or after the show.
JULY 18TH
Music in the Park
1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 | 6:30 PM
Spend an evening in the park listening to The Dakota Valley Symphony and Chorus. They will perform their 2024 show “Stage and Screen” with popular film scores and hits from Broadway. Bring your own lawn chair and enjoy the 100-member symphony and chorus!
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Longer Days, Longer Stays at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel.
Create your summer story at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel. The more nights you stay, the more you save— up to 20% off. Conveniently located along I-494 with easy access to both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, our four-star, full-service hotel features an indoor heated pool, a full-service spa and multiple dining options.
