Kids & Pets
DISCOVER HOW COMMUNITIES ARE RESTORING STURGEON, CONNECTING THROUGH CLAY, KEEPING SAFE AROUND WATER, AND CELEBRATING ANIMAL RESCUES.
Fragile Pillars of the Family
Wow – August already! Where do our summers go? Hopefully, yours has been packed with lots of love, laughs and fond memories.
This is the time of year when we honor our children and pets. I have been fostering a rescue dog, and we have spent the last few months introducing him to a safe and happy life. It’s a lot of fun watching him love his dog bed, new toys and lounging on the back patio. This experience has reminded me of how fragile we really are, and each of us can never really take precious moments for granted. Whether it’s our kids or our pets, these two groups need extra care, attention and patience. When they get what they need, it’s amazing to watch them flourish.
It was fun to learn more from Michelle Horovitz and Ralph Nuara, owners of Forma Clay. Both passionate about ceramics, their studio provides great opportunities for all ages to enjoy this art. They have fun options for kids who are interested in learning this craft at a young age.
A bit out of the Twin Cities, we spoke with Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth about their new program to bring back the sturgeon population. Not only are they an entertaining and educational destination or road trip stop for all ages, they are also committed to conservation.
Since summers are oftentimes packed with water activities, we caught up with Tucker and his business, Hudson Valley Swim. Tucker and his team provide swimming lessons and water safety tips for people of all ages including the little ones who are just starting their journey in life.
There are a lot of great local animal rescues in Minnesota and the surrounding areas. We share a bit about a few you might want to check out. Whether it is fostering, adopting, donating or volunteering, these non-profits can always use the assistance.
Finally, you might relate to or want to check out Trey and Katie Kennedy. Trey has made a career in comedy and now the two juggle business, parenting and the day to day with a laugh here and there.
Wishing you, your family, and furry friends a wonderful rest of the summer,
ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER @MINNEAPOLISLAKES
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Kali Kasprzyk, Sarah Knieff
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lucy Hawthorne, Janie Jones, Andrew Vick
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
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A P RI VATE S AN C T UA RY I N
T HE HEA R T OF MINN EA P OL I S
One of Minneapolis’ most coveted and rarely available addresses offers breathtaking skyline views, an unbeatable urban lifestyle, and a premier location, this exceptional residence combines sophisticated design with luxurious comfort.
Thoughtfully crafted by renowned builder Streeter & Associates and designed by Ramsey-Engler, Ltd., the home features exquisite finishes, designer details, Lutron lighting, Sonos sound, and top-tier Wolf, Miele, and Sub-Zero appliances. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the living and dining spaces with natural light while framing stunning views of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and downtown skyline.
The spacious primary suite offers a spa-inspired bath and generous walk-in closet, while the second bedroom features a stylish ensuite bath. A dedicated den/home office with built-in workspaces provides flexibility for today’s lifestyle.
Enjoy outdoor living on the expansive covered balcony, complete with a fire pit, grill, and panoramic views. Just steps from downtown, the city lakes, world-class dining, and cultural destinations, 301 Kenwood Parkway delivers a truly unparalleled blend of luxury, location, and design-forward living.
Grand Hand Announces Summer Jewelry Resale Event
The Grand Hand’s Summer Jewelry Resale Event invites collectors and shoppers to discover one-of-a-kind handmade pieces at the gallery in St. Paul. Taking place July through August 2026, the event showcases previously loved jewelry offered for resale in a curated gallery setting. Visitors can explore regional artistry, unique designs, and timeless craftsmanship while finding new treasures. Located at 1338 Grand Avenue, the seasonal event celebrates sustainable style and the enduring beauty of handcrafted jewelry. thegrandhandgallery.com.
Standard Heating & MNUFC Launch School Supply Drive
Standard Heating & Air Conditioning is helping local students through a school supply drive in partnership with MNUFC. The drive runs through August 8 and benefits Neighborhood House, an organization that provides assistance to thousands of refugees, immigrants, and others in crisis or transition periods. Anyone can participate by purchasing items through Neighborhood House’s Target Wishlist or by dropping off donated supplies at its Minneapolis location. Visit neighborhoodhousemn. org or mnufc.com for more information.
Summer Exhibition at Douglas Flanders Gallery
Douglas Flanders & Associates presents a summer exhibition featuring Minnesota artists Jim Geisinger, Andy Iverson, and Kim Matthews, on view through Saturday, August 15, 2026. The exhibition brings together three distinct practices exploring color, memory, abstraction, and emotion. Geisinger’s luminous storytelling, Iverson’s intuitive visual language, and Matthews’ handmade geometry create a dialogue of joy, reflection, and curiosity. Together, the works invite viewers to slow down, look closely, and experience art as celebration, comfort, and connection. flandersart.com
CREATING ART AND FORMING BONDS
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY HAWTHORNE
A PLACE FOR COMMUNITY, FUN, AND CREATIVITY
“Ceramics is the oldest form of art and technology,” says Ralph Nuara, who co-owns Forma Clay along with Michelle Horovitz. “There's almost something instinctually within all of us to make things.”
And making things with clay, he explains, is very physical and engaging. “It's very tactile, very grounding, and feels like you’re connected to the earth.”
Michelle agrees. “It's so intense, it's so hands-on, and it's so messy that you really can't multitask while you're making pottery. You have to be in the moment. For a lot of people, and for me especially, it's helped a lot with my mental health because it's just very soothing, very calming.”
The ceramics studio, which opened in the East Harriet neighborhood of Minneapolis three years ago, was founded on three main principles: flexibility, community, and modernity.
The first one, flexibility, is accomplished by providing members with 24/7 access to wheels, hand-building areas, in-house glazes, and a wide range of shared and specialty tools. There are potter's hours during which students can request help from a teacher as needed.
Members and non-members can also take part in a wide variety of classes from beginner to expert levels. The instructors’ backgrounds range from self-taught to those with master's degrees who have taught at universities.
The second principle, community, is all about bringing people together. “We've tried very aggressively to build a culture here of conversation and collaboration as a way of sharing knowledge and teaching each other,” says Ralph.
In many ways, it was this very culture that brought Forma Clay to fruition. Michelle, who considers herself a hobby potter, wanted to use her business skills to open her own studio. When she met Ralph, a master ceramist and teacher, at another studio, she approached him about teaming up.
“Ralph had all this knowledge, creative energy, and ideas, but he had no real outlet for them. So, one of the things that we have done here is harness his expertise to offer our members and students things that they really can't get at other studios.”
Adds Ralph, “I've thought about running a studio my whole career, but I didn’t want to do it alone. With Michelle’s experience in business and leadership and my expertise in the craft of ceramics, it was a very good fit.”
The studio is filled with many modern amenities. “Modernity, the third principle, pertains to the premium nature of the studio,” says Michelle. “Ceramics can be an expensive hobby, and we really want it to be accessible. We have a shared community tools library, so nobody has to actually buy any tools. While some studios have shared tools, they’re usually just the basics. We have every tool one could want.”
Other studios provide glazes, but at Forma Clay, there are glazes, stains, underglaze, and pencils. “We have all these fun things, and they are all available for everyone to share and use.”
Sharing is a big part of what they do, not only with members and students, but with others in the community. “We have different events where we can critique those who want to bring in their work and get feedback,” says Ralph.
There are also Community Clay Days. “These give people a taste of our studio without having to purchase a class,” says Michelle. “It's like a mini class, and we fire what they make to be picked up later. It's been nice for members and students to bring friends and family in and share the studio with them at no cost.”
Children are also welcome. Summer camps for kids ages six to 17 are held all summer long. During the school year, there’s a Young Potters Program for those nine and up.
A gallery on the second floor of the studio offers people an opportunity to showcase their creations. “There are artists and teachers here who have been selling their work for many years, but a lot of our artists who are selling in the gallery have never sold their work before,” says Michelle. “So, we're trying to make Forma Clay an entry point for potters who might want to try their hand at selling their work. They’re learning how to price things and what sells and what doesn't.”
In the next few months, they’re also partnering with Brasa, which is located downstairs. “We're going to have our own little retail space there,” she says.
The two business partners are proud of what they have built, and Michelle finds great joy in creating something people want and need. For Ralph, sharing his craft with others is special. “Passing on the thing that I love doing is very rewarding.”
FormaClay.com | 812 W 46th St #200, Minneapolis (612) 772-5361
“THERE’S ALMOST SOMETHING INSTINCTUALLY WITHIN ALL OF US TO MAKE THINGS.”
Michelle Horovitz and Ralph Nuara
ANATOLY NOVIK COLLECTION
We’re delighted to host a collection this summer of incredibly fi ne pieces by jeweler, Anatoly Novik. Born in Belarus, “Tony” always wanted to be a jeweler, but that just wasn’t possible at that time and place. He became a tool and die maker, and then an auto mechanic. In 1979, he moved to New York City where he continued working as an auto mechanic for a time, but then became an apprentice in a small shop. Later, Tony worked for a very fi ne shop doing work for Tiffany & Co. He also began to make his own designs. He is always excited to see his results, and to see women enjoy and wear his pieces. In his free time, Tony makes sourdough bread! Come in now to see this limited time collection of one-of-a-kind pieces, including the ones pictured and many more.
BRINGING BACK the grandfather fish
GREAT LAKES AQUARIUM'S STURGEON RESTORATION PROJECT IS HELPING REVIVE AN ANCIENT SPECIES
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
sturgeon
Along the shores of the St. Louis River Estuary in Duluth, something remarkable is happening behind the scenes at Great Lakes Aquarium. Inside a specialized stream-side rearing trailer filled with cold river water, thousands of tiny lake sturgeon eggs are beginning a journey that conservationists hope will help restore one of Minnesota’s most iconic native species.
For Executive Director Jay T. Walker, the project represents far more than fish restoration. It is the realization of decades of vision, collaboration, and commitment to the Great Lakes ecosystem.
“It’s a real, really exciting program,” Walker says. “To see us having a tangible effect on the ecosystem — the work we’re doing is helping bring the species back.” Lake sturgeon, or Acipenser fulvescens, are often called living fossils. The prehistoric fish have existed for more than 150 million years, surviving since the age of dinosaurs. Once abundant throughout the Great Lakes region, they were nearly wiped out in the early 1900s because of overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction. In Minnesota, the species is now listed as a Species of Special Concern.
For decades, agencies and Tribal organizations have worked to rebuild sturgeon populations in the St. Louis River, Lake Superior’s largest tributary. Despite progress, populations remain below long-term recovery goals. Great Lakes Aquarium is now stepping into a new role in that restoration effort through a major sturgeon rearing and public education initiative developed in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
The project began with a practical challenge: finding additional capacity to raise juvenile sturgeon for stocking efforts. Walker says the aquarium initially planned to rear about 2,000 fish for the DNR. Then the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service approached the aquarium with an unexpected opportunity.
CONTINUED >
“They had another rearing trailer that they were unable to use because it was too big for where they could put it,” Walker explains.
The trailer — essentially a mobile hatchery equipped with tanks and flow-through water systems — can rear up to 3,500 fish at a time. That meant the aquarium could support not only Minnesota DNR stocking efforts, but also additional fish for the Fond du Lac Band’s restoration work.
Walker was determined to make it happen.
“I was kind of like, ‘I’m gonna make a d*mn spot,’” he says with a laugh.
Fortunately, the aquarium already pulls water directly from the St. Louis River Estuary for cooling systems, making the site ideal for the project. By using local estuary water, the young sturgeon can imprint on the chemistry of their home waters — a critical factor that may help them return to the river to spawn as adults decades later.
This spring marked a major milestone. The trailer is now operational, and the aquarium recently received its first batch of sturgeon eggs.
“We just picked up eggs this week, so there’s eggs actually in the trailer currently,” Walker says. “Our first phase has been going really well.”
If conditions continue successfully, the eggs will hatch into tiny fish within days. By fall, those sturgeon could grow to nearly seven inches long before being released into the river system.
The aquarium is working with representatives from the Fond du Lac Band to help shape the storytelling and educational experience within the exhibit, ensuring Indigenous voices remain central to the project.
The exhibit’s centerpiece will eventually feature live juvenile sturgeon from the rearing program itself. Beginning in 2027, visitors will be able to observe some of the young fish before they are released into the wild.
The aquarium plans to keep select fish for an additional year before stocking them, dramatically improving survival rates.
“When they grow for another year and stock, their survival rate goes way up,” Walker explains. “They’ll be so big that there’s no predator that could really take them out.”
Construction on the new addition is expected to begin this summer, with the building portion completed later this year. The exhibit itself is projected to open in fall 2027.
“It’s a very important fish. There’s some just fascinating stories that go along with this species.”
— Jay T. Walker
The restoration effort is about much more than science. Because Great Lakes Aquarium is a public-facing institution, the organization wanted visitors to witness and understand the conservation work firsthand.
Plans are already underway for a new 1,300-squarefoot exhibit gallery connected to the aquarium. The exhibit will focus on the restoration of the St. Louis River Estuary, the life cycle of lake sturgeon, and the species’ deep cultural significance to Indigenous communities.
In Ojibwe, lake sturgeon are known as “Name,” often translated as “grandfather fish” or “kingfish.”
“It’s a very important fish,” Walker says. “There’s some just fascinating stories that go along with this species.”
The entire initiative represents roughly a $1.5 million investment, supported in part through Minnesota Legacy funding and the LegislativeCitizen Commission on Minnesota Resources.
For Walker, who recently celebrated 27 years with the aquarium, the project carries profound personal meaning.
“I was here when we started,” he says. “Thinking of what people hoped this facility would become, and now we’re in a place where we can actually get some of those visions into reality — it just brings me a lot of joy.”
That joy extends beyond the aquarium walls. Every young sturgeon released into the St. Louis River represents another step toward rebuilding a healthier ecosystem, restoring biodiversity, and reconnecting communities to a species that once defined the Great Lakes watershed.
And for visitors walking through the future exhibit gallery, the project offers something equally important: a chance to witness conservation in action, right in their own backyard.
353 Harbor Dr., Duluth | 218-740-3474 | glaquarium.org
Remodeling Is Our Thing
Second Chances Start Here
Four Midwest animal rescues changing lives through compassion, community and countless happy tails
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
Every adoption story begins with a second chance, and behind each one is a dedicated team of volunteers, foster families and animal advocates working tirelessly to change lives. Across the midwest, rescue organizations are doing far more than finding
Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue
Founded in 2010, Coco's Heart Dog Rescue has become one of the region's largest foster-based rescues, placing more than 23,000 animals into loving homes. While dogs remain at the heart of its mission, the organization also rescues cats, pocket pets and even farm animals. Every animal receives quality veterinary care and lives with a foster family before adoption, allowing volunteers to learn each pet's unique personality and match them with the right home. Powered almost entirely by volunteers and generous donors, Coco's Heart continues to prove that compassion, dedication and community can transform thousands of lives.
Ruff Start Rescue
RUFFSTARTRESCUE.ORG
Ruff Start Rescue believes every companion animal deserves a safe, loving home. Since 2010, the foster-based nonprofit has rescued thousands of dogs, cats and small animals from neglect, abandonment and overcrowded shelters. Beyond adoptions, Ruff Start focuses on education and providing resources that help families keep their pets healthy and together. The organization also offers extensive veterinary care before adoption and relies on an incredible network of foster homes and volunteers throughout Minnesota. Its mission extends beyond rescue – it's about building stronger communities where both pets and people can thrive together.
COCOSHEARTDOGRESCUE.ORG
homes for dogs and cats – they’re providing medical care, educating communities, supporting pet owners through difficult times and ensuring that animals receive the love and attention they deserve. Whether rescuing abandoned puppies, helping senior pets, caring for animals with special medical needs or keeping families together during times of crisis, these nonprofits are making an incredible
Underdog Rescue MN
For more than two decades, Underdog Rescue MN has been giving overlooked dogs a fresh start. The organization specializes in rescuing former breeding dogs and local shelter animals, providing medical treatment, rehabilitation and the patience needed to prepare them for forever homes. Every adoption is made possible through dedicated volunteers, foster families and supporters who believe every dog deserves another chance. With thousands of successful adoptions and a commitment to individualized care, Underdog Rescue continues to transform the lives of both animals and the families who welcome them home.
The Bond Between
Formerly known as Secondhand Hounds, The Bond Between has evolved into a unique animal well-being organization focused on strengthening the connection between people and pets. Along with rescuing tens of thousands of dogs and cats, the nonprofit offers community programs including pet food support, respite foster care and veterinary resources designed to help families stay together during challenging times. Through adoption, fostering, volunteering and outreach, The Bond Between recognizes that caring for animals also means caring for the people who love them – creating healthier communities for everyone involved.
impact every day. If you’ve been considering adding a furry family member or are looking for a meaningful way to give back, these four Minnesota organizations offer countless opportunities to adopt, foster, volunteer or donate. Every contribution helps write another happy ending – for both animals and the people whose lives they enrich.
WEEKLY EVENTS
Monday - Trivia Mafia
Tuesday - All day Happy Hour
Wednesday - Two for one pizza special and $20 pitchers
Thursday - 30% off all crowlers
Friday & Saturday - Live music and pop-up cocktail bar
Sunday - Bloody Mary & Mimosa bar
Buying or selling? Two agents, one mission: smooth deals, strong results, and expert local guidance.
Kate Buckley kgbuckley@cbrealty.com ● 612-817-7554
Sarah Balestri smbalestri@cbrealty.com ● 612-590-7703
HUDSON VALLEY SWIM BRINGS PERSONALIZED, SAFETY-FIRST INSTRUCTION TO THE TWIN CITIES
MAKING WAVES
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
IN WATER SAFETY
In a state defined by its water – nearly 12,000 lakes across Minnesota – learning to swim isn’t just a seasonal pastime, it’s an essential life skill. That belief sits at the heart of Hudson Valley Swim, where owner Tucker S. is bringing a safety-first, highly personalized approach to swim instruction in St. Louis Park.
Originally founded in New York in the early 2000s, Hudson Valley Swim has steadily expanded along the East Coast. Tucker’s Twin Cities location marks its western reach – and a meaningful one. “Water safety is the most important thing,” he explains. “Our mission is to save lives by teaching people of all ages how to be safe around water and how to swim.”
But at Hudson Valley Swim, the approach goes beyond awareness. It’s about building confidence, comfort, and competence – starting as early as four months old and extending well into adulthood. In fact, Tucker notes that some of his most rewarding students are adults in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s who are learning to swim for the first time.
“There’s this idea that if you didn’t learn as a kid, it’s too late,” he says. “But we’ve created a space where people feel comfortable, supported, and not judged.”
That environment is no accident. Lessons take place in a warm, indoor pool with direct deck access, minimizing distractions and eliminating the chaos often associated with larger swim schools. With small class sizes – never more than four students beyond early parent-and-child sessions – each swimmer receives focused, hands-on instruction. The structured curriculum ensures students meet
“ADAPTIVE LESSONS ALLOW US TO MEET SWIMMERS WHERE THEY ARE AND HELP THEM SUCCEED IN A WAY THAT WORKS FOR THEM.”
specific skill benchmarks before progressing, reinforcing real learning rather than simply checking a box.
Sessions typically run seven to eight weeks, with classes meeting once per week. Families are encouraged to practice between lessons, reinforcing skills and accelerating progress. “It’s like learning an instrument,” Tucker says. “If you only practice once a week, you’re not going to improve as quickly.”
One of the program’s most impactful offerings is its Adaptive Swim Lessons, designed for swimmers who benefit from individualized instruction. Whether a child experiences anxiety around water, sensory sensitivities, or motor coordination challenges, Hudson Valley Swim tailors each lesson to meet their needs. Using flexible pacing, sensory-aware teaching strategies, and one-on-one or small group settings, instructors help swimmers build comfort first – then skills.
“Not every student learns the same way,” Tucker explains. “Adaptive lessons allow us to meet swimmers where they are and help them succeed in a way that works for them.”
The emphasis on safety extends beyond technique. A new initiative encourages every swimmer to “high five” an instructor before entering the water – a simple but powerful reminder to never swim alone. “We want kids, and adults, to always be aware of who’s watching and making sure they’re safe.”
For Tucker, launching Hudson Valley Swim isn’t just a business venture: it’s a purpose-driven endeavor. Inspired by a desire to make a tangible difference, he sees each lesson as part of a larger ripple effect, one that extends from individual swimmers to families and communities.
“If we can help even one person avoid a tragedy, it’s worth it,” he says. “But the goal is bigger than that – to make water safety a non-negotiable for everyone.”
In a place where water is woven into everyday life, Hudson Valley Swim is helping ensure that Minnesotans of all ages can enjoy it safely, confidently, and for years to come.
3555 MN-100, St Louis Park | (612) 4459995 | slp.hvswim.com
Fast & Flexible Financing
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
by cari Ann carter
realty report
Ask Susan
Susan Stiles
Dear Susan: Can a Family Pet Teach Children About Financial Responsibility?
Susan:
While a family pet won’t teach a child how to invest or build a budget, it can help develop habits that support future financial responsibility.
Feeding, walking, grooming, and caring for an animal teaches consistency, accountability, and commitment. Children also begin to understand that caring for something they value requires resources, planning, and ongoing expenses. Pets aren’t free. Those early lessons can help shape behaviors that support future success, including planning ahead, honoring commitments, and recognizing that every choice comes with responsibilities.
Snap the QR code below for my follow-up video discussing the importance of establishing early financial building blocks your child will carry with them throughout their adulthood.
Send “AskSusan” questions to: AskSusan@stilesfinancial.com.
AUGUST 2026
AUGUST 1ST
MN Food Truck Festival
420 Main St. SE, Minneapolis | 11:00 AM
The MN Food Truck Festival brings together over 40 of the Twin Cities’ most popular food trucks for a day of nonstop flavor, live music, craft beverages, and family-friendly fun along the riverfront. Guests can explore global eats, enjoy games and giveaways, and experience one of the region’s most popular free summer celebrations. mnfoodtruckfestival.com.
AUGUST 6TH - 16TH
Minnesota Fringe Festival
Various Locations
The Minnesota Fringe Festival transforms the Twin Cities into a citywide stage, showcasing hundreds of short, bold, and experimental performances across dozens of venues. From comedy and drama to dance and multimedia works, artists push creative boundaries in an open-access format that celebrates risk-taking, diversity, and discovery. Audiences can experience nonstop, one-of-a-kind storytelling. minnesotafringe.org
AUGUST 7TH - 9TH
Uptown Art Fair
Lake of the Isles + The Mall
The Uptown Art Fair transforms the neighborhood into a vibrant outdoor gallery featuring hundreds of juried artists, interactive installations, live performances, and creative experiences for all ages. Visitors can browse original works across painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media while enjoying local food, entertainment, and the energetic spirit of one of Minneapolis’ most iconic arts celebrations. uptownminneapolis.com
CONTINUED
AUGUST 7TH & 8TH
Hadestown: Teen Edition
Children’s Theatre Company
“Hadestown: Teen Edition” reimagines the ancient myth of Orpheus and Eurydice in a haunting, contemporary musical journey to the underworld and back. With a powerful score blending folk and jazz influences, this production follows love, loss, and fate as young dreamers confront the rulers of Hadestown in a richly emotional and visually striking retelling of a timeless story. childrenstheatre.org.
AUGUST 8TH
5k Fun Run x Forgotten Star Brewing
Forgotten Star Brewing
The 5K Fun Run brings a relaxed, community-focused experience where participants of all abilities can run, walk, or jog a scenic course before celebrating at the finish with a local craft beer. It’s an untimed, welcoming event that emphasizes connection, movement, and post-run fun with friends, neighbors, and fellow runners and great local craft beer. forgottenstarbrewing.com
AUGUST 27TH - SEPTEMBER 7TH
State Fair Grounds
A cherished end-of-summer tradition, the Minnesota State Fair welcomes over 2 million guests annually to a showcase of agriculture, entertainment, food, art, science and industry. Check its website for the latest updates. mnstatefair.org
