Plymouth - June 2023

BEST

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1DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 7/31/2023. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Get 20% off your entire purchase and 12 months $0 money down, $0 monthly payments, 0% interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 6/1/2023 and 7/31/2023. Subject to credit approval. Interest is billed during the promotional period, but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid before the expiration of the promotional period. Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. License MN:BC130983/WI:266951. Excludes MN insurance work per MSA 325E.66. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. 2Values are based on comparison of Renewal by Andersen® double-hung window U-Factor to the U-Factor for clear dual-pane glass non-metal frame default values from the 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015, and 2018 International Energy Conservation Code “Glazed Fenestration” Default Tables. 3 Based on testing of 10 double-hung units per ASTM E2068 20 years after installation. ‡Review aggregator survey of 5-star reviews among leading full service window replacement companies. December 2020 Reputation.com. †It is the only warranty among top selling window companies that meets all of the following requirements: easy to understand terms, unrestricted transferability, installation coverage, labor coverage, geographically unrestricted, coverage for exterior color, insect screens and hardware, and no maintenance requirement. Visit renewalbyandersen.com/nationsbest for details. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of their respective owners. © 2023 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. RBA13299

JUNE/JULY 2023

“Do it for yourself. Go out and take photos. Don’t worry if they’re good or not. Do what makes you happy and go from there.” —Scott Mohn, Plymouth-based photographer

DEPARTMENTS

10 — Tippy and Thriving

A local foster supports felines with wobbly cat syndrome.

12 — Before the Finish Line

Take a behind-the-scenes look at one local marathoner’s journey

14 — Shutterbug Shares

His Love of Photography

Patience, perseverance and persistence are the keys to getting the perfect shot.

FEATURES

16 — Best of Plymouth 2023

Let’s celebrate our Readers’ Choice Poll winners and finalists!

22 — Community Fabric

Our Editorial Advisory Board members share their stories of Plymouth.

TASTEMAKERS

36 — My Kitchen is Your Kitchen

Commercial rental kitchen creates community for emerging food brands.

IN EVERY ISSUE

4 — Editor’s Letter

7 — Noteworthy

29 — On the Town

34 — Gallery

40 — Last Glance

Photo: Scott Mohn

The Byes Photo

SEEING PATIENTS BEGINNING MAY

15

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As the Twin Cities’ largest and most experienced cancer treatment provider, we know that treating cancer calls for more than compassion. It means giving our patients access to more than 100 cancer care experts, evidence-based treatment paths, close-to-home locations and comprehensive services to support the whole person.

Our compassionate team works tirelessly towards one common goal –fighting cancer.

FROM THE EDITOR

MADELINE KOPIECKI — MADELINE@LOCALMEDIA.CO

It’s that time of year again, Plymouth! Over the course of January, you voted, and now it’s time to celebrate the local businesses, organizations and places that make Plymouth unlike anywhere else. And at the heart of it all, whether it’s a local shop, restaurant or service, it’s the people there that make each of our winners, well, winners.

During my first Best of Plymouth issue last year, I turned to my Editorial Advisory Board members for ideas on what to write about for my Editor’s Picks. With their help, I identified a few places that mean the most to Plymouth residents and explored their history. From the original Town Hall that now houses the Plymouth Historical Society to the state-of-theart additions to the Plymouth Community Center, my research helped me connect with Plymouth in an entirely new way.

This year, I found myself thinking back to that initial request for advice, which led me to reflect on all of the incredible people and local stories I’ve been able to engage with since this time last year.

A theme for the Best of Plymouth 2023 issue started taking shape ...

My Editor’s Picks highlight the members of our Editorial Advisory Board and explores the places they are most fond of and memories in the community, but that’s by no means where the portraits end. I wanted to create a veritable gallery.

You’re going to meet a lot of people throughout these pages. From a cat fosterer finding homes for “tippy” felines (page 10) to a local shutterbug, sharing his method for capturing the perfect nature shot (page 14), all of our articles feature community members pursuing their passions. Further along in the magazine, our Tastemakers section highlights how an industrial kitchen in Plymouth has become a hub of the Minnesota makers scene (page 36). Everyone in the community has a story to share, and in this Best of Plymouth 2023 issue, we’re honored to be able to share a few more.

Until next time,

Photo: Chris Emeott

publisher Susan Isay editor president Pete Burgeson

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Take a closer look at Trillium Woods before our new expansion is fully reserved. Call 763.265.3474, scan the QR code, or visit TrilliumWoodsLCS.com to make the most of your retirement today.

BEST OF FAQS

Each year, our Best of Plymouth poll brings together our readers and social media followers, who look forward to supporting local businesses and service providers with their votes.

If you’re new to the Best of Plymouth readers’ poll or just curious about the process, read along to discover the ins and outs, so you’re ready to vote next year!

VOTING RAN ONLINE DURING JANUARY WITH THREE SIMPLE RULES*:

How does voting work?

We feature an all write-in ballot, so our voters can easily make their top choices. Once voting closed, tabulators determined which businesses were the top vote-getters.

What’s a finalist vs. a winner?

The top vote-getters in each category become finalists and were announced in the spring on our website. (Once votes are tabulated, our editorial team fact-checks the address and contact information for each finalist. If a finalist is no longer a valid selection due to a closed business, etc., the next highest vote-getter(s) moves up to become a finalist.) The top vote-getter is the winner and is announced in June on our website and in our magazine.

Can a business or organization be a finalist if it’s located outside of the magazine’s coverage area?

In order to qualify as a finalist in the survey, each business or organization must be located in the community and/or provide services to local residents.

*Any rule not adhered to may have resulted in entire surveys being discarded, and all results were subject to editorial discretion.

FAQS:

How do you choose the categories?

Each year, our editorial and management teams evaluate survey categories to include topics our readers find most relevant. Readers provide feedback, which we appreciate receiving, about categories they’d like to see added or eliminated. You’ll notice several new categories this year!

How can business owners get on next year’s ballot?

We recommend encouraging clients or customers to vote for your business in our next readers’ poll, which goes live on our website in January 2024. (Remind them of the rules, so their ballots are valid.)

I’m a winner! How do I purchase a framed cover?

Winners can request a free digital copy of the Best of 2023 magazine cover design, which also indicates the winning category and the business’s or organization’s name. Winners can also purchase a framed award certificate, which is 14x17 inches and features a black, wood frame. The cost is $110 per item, including shipping and handling, and can be ordered at localmedia.co/awardcertificate. —Editorial Staff

What you should know about our annual readers’ poll.

The Best of Plymouth issue is my chance to pay homage to the folks that are doing beer right in Minnesota. Duluth’s Bent Paddle Brewing Co. is my choice for year-round quality.

Beer can be very divisive, but Bent Paddle has something for just about everyone; it has great, balanced IPAs that showcase the whole beer, not just the hops; it makes one of the cleanest, most crisp beers in its Venture Pilsner; and its Coffee Black Ale, which is actually a stout porter, might be one of the best year-round beers made by any Minnesota brewer. (There’s a noncoffee version available as well.) Now, there’s even a new light lager sold in 12-packs that is an absolute steal for a lager of its quality.

Bent Paddle also experiments with sours throughout the year and offers some great, limited availability whiskey barrel-aged beers from autumn through winter. Put simply, the brewery has set the standard of quality and variety in beers from the state of Minnesota.

TASTE

A Family Favorite

These are simply the best burgers. I have yet to meet someone who has tried them and not loved them. My mother made these often when we were growing up, and they are still a favorite for everyone in my family. Be sure to use 85 percent or 90 percent lean beef in this recipe. A higher fat content than that will cause the burgers to fall apart on the grill. For those who like more fat in your ground beef, don’t worry, the avocado adds enough fat to keep them tender and juicy. We like to eat these wrapped in lettuce with tomato. If you eat bread, they are also incredible on a toasted, buttered bun.

Avocado Burgers

Makes 8 burgers

• 2 lbs. grass fed beef, 85 percent or 90 percent lean

• 1 avocado, mashed

• 4 oz. can diced green chilis

• ¼ cup green onions, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 Tbsp. lemon pepper

• 1 tps. salt

Toppings

• 8 fresh tomato slices

• 8 large lettuce leaves

• 8 slices Monterey Jack cheese, optional

• 8 toasted and buttered hamburger buns, optional

In a large bowl, combine the burger ingredients and mix well. Form into 8 patties, and grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes on each side or until desired doneness. If using cheese, place on top burgers for the last minute of cooking. Wrap burgers in lettuce leaf with tomato if not using buns. If you are serving on a bun, place hamburger buns open face down on the grill for a minute or two to toast. Butter and top the buns with burger, lettuce and tomato.

Emily Maxson is a Plymouth food blogger and author of Emily’s Fresh Kitchen Cookbook. For more recipes, visit emilysfreshkitchen.com, or follow her on Instagram @emilysfreshkitchen.

Photos: JaneCane Photography; Belén Fleming of Belu Photography

Christian Nesheim is the owner of Vinifera Wines and Ales. Find out more at viniferawinesandales.com.

READ

Bloggers’ Picks for the Best Books

We have curated a list of our recent favorites across several genres to keep you reading all summer.

Romance

» Book Lovers by Emily Henry

» The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood

» Every Summer After by Carley Fortune

» The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

» Half-Blown Rose by Leesa Cross-Smith

Historical Fiction

» Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor

Jenkins Reid

» The Marriage Portrait by Maggie

O’Farrell

» Lavender House by Lev AC

Rosen

» Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

» Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie

Garmus

Thriller & Suspense

» I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai

» Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister

» Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka

» The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark

» Stay Awake by Megan Goldin

General Fiction

» This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub

» Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

» The Measure by Nikki Erlick

» Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng

» These Impossible Things by Salma El-Wardany

Amy Sundet and Katie Timcho are local book reviewers. They can be found @overbookedmoms on Instagram.

Tippy and Thriving

A local foster supports felines with wobbly cat syndrome.

By Zoe Deal

IF YOU’VE COME ACROSS a video of wobbly cats during your social media scrolling lately, it’s likely that you’ve already caught a glimpse of Camp Wobbly Cat. Plymouth resident and cat fosterer Kris Kaiser has garnered over 80,000 followers, sharing the stories of her fosters, nearly all of whom were born with a neurological disorder called cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), also known as wobbly cat syndrome.

These cats are just like any others in look and attitude but were born with an undeveloped or smaller than usual cerebellum, causing issues with motor coordination. Cats on the CH spectrum have a distinct wobble that varies in severity;

some have a slight issue with balance, while others have difficulty walking at all.

“They don’t know differently. They’re happy, and there’s no reason to feel sorry for them because they don’t feel sorry for themselves,” Kaiser says. “They like to play and climb and pretend to hunt and watch birds and do all the things every other cat likes to do.”

In 2022, Kaiser fostered 11 wobbly cats, in addition to her three resident cats, Rosie, Daisy and Calvin. “I had no idea what this year was going to be like. It was insane,” Kaiser says. Snapple, the Instagram famous tuxedo cat that solidified Kaiser’s commitment to fostering CH cats, was adopted by a family

PETS

Livvy

Huxley

in Hawaii earlier this year; Timmy High Jinx and Bruno, two tabbies from different litters, became inseparable and were adopted together; and, more recently, littermates Dash, Huxley, Livvy and Romy were welcomed into Kaiser’s home. (At the time of publication, Huxley and Livvy are still waiting for their forever homes.)

“If I can get somebody to apply to adopt and come meet them, the deal is done because they’re so sweet, and they just make the greatest pets,” Kaiser says. “You see beyond the disability.”

With her platform, Kaiser hopes to continue to educate the public and connect CH cats with loving homes. In the two years since opening Camp Wobbly Cat, she’s fostered 16 wobbly cats, connected ones with new homes from states away and inspired strangers to adopt CH cats in their own communities.

Though she doesn’t plan to house another 11 wobbly cats again anytime soon, she can’t imagine life without her wobbly cats. “I’m so used to how they’re different,” Kaiser says. “For me, it’s normal life.”

Camp Wobbly Cat; linktr.ee/kriskreativ

Camp Wobbly Cat

@campwobblycat

Photos: Chris Emeott

Before the Finish Line

Take a behind-the-scenes look at one local’s marathon journey.

By Hanna McDaniels

FOR CASEY NELSON, staying active after retiring from collegiate athletics was a must. He graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth in 2005 and, after returning to the Twin Cities, Nelson’s time spent on fields and courts with friends began to wane.

Luckily, his background in sports gave him a natural leg up on his next venture.

“After I got back to the Twin Cities, I decided to try running out of the blue because I knew I could do it by myself and eventually join a group,” Nelson says. “I started to just run 5 miles daily.”

After gaining confidence and leaning into his natural abilities, Nelson decided to take it back to where it all started and ran his first marathon: Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth in 2006.

“I just jumped right into it, and I didn't know how to train. I didn’t know how to hydrate. I didn’t know any of the specifics of it,” Nelson says. “And I think the weekend before the race, I did my longest run, 11 miles. I kind of figured if I got close to doing half the distance, I could do all 26 miles the next weekend. Now, I know … you never want to do [your] longest run before a marathon.”

Even after the beginner’s blunder that left him sore for weeks, Nelson instantly fell in love with marathon running. Now, he knows just how important training is and how to let his body rest in the days leading up to the big day.

Nelson occasionally hires a running coach during the build-up to a marathon. The coach not only helps him

train, but keeps him on track. “I wanted to be held accountable. It’s what keeps me motivated. [The running coaches] put together a workout after I tell them my goal or the run time I want to achieve,” Nelson says.

But Nelson’s biggest motivator is his wife and children. “I have a 5, 7, 10 and 11-year-old,” he says. “I want to show them that, you know, you can do hard things and stick to them. So that’s really, really my main motivator.”

Recently, Nelson participated in the New York City Marathon and the California International Marathon in Sacramento, California, where he achieved his personal best. In both instances, his family was there, cheering him on.

Photos: Casey Nelson

“It’s definitely nerve-racking to be out there,” Nelson says. “The anticipation and all, and then once the gun goes off and you start moving and thinking. That’s when I look down at my watch and start to break up the run into shorter sections, so I time myself correctly and can keep up my pace,” he says.

But once those nerves ease, Nelson is setting sail to the finish line, and all of the work he put into the race pays off when he crosses the line to his smiling family. “That’s the best part, seeing them and going to grab fries and a drink after and of course … getting your personal best,” Nelson says.

MUSIC IN PLYMOUTH

SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 2023, 8:00 AM

HILDE PERFORMANCE CENTER

TM

@beardontherun

Left: Casey Nelson with wife, Lisa Nelson, and daughter, Leni Nelson, after he raced the New York City Marathon in November.

Right: Casey Nelson after competing in the California International Marathon in December.

PORTRAIT Shutterbug Shares His Love of Photography

Patience, perseverance and persistence are the keys to getting the perfect shot.

By Emily Gedde

EAGLES, HERONS and cormorants sharing the same tree in an unconventional rookery. A painted turtle squaring up against a green heron to stake its claim for a log. A warbler balancing on a lilypad. These are just a few of the fleeting moments captured by Scott Mohn’s Instagram account.

Photo: Scott Mohn

A quick scroll through the colorful feed shows that the Plymouth photographer has the eye—and patience—for the perfect shot. The images embody life in Minnesota and each of the four seasons that come with it.

“It’s something I really enjoy,” Mohn says of photography, adding that most of the images he captures are close to his home in Plymouth. “We’re fortunate to have so much wildlife in this area … It makes for some great shots.”

Completely self-taught, Mohn has won several local awards for his work, including the 2018 Picture Plymouth Best in Show award.

“There are endless opportunities with digital photography,” he says. “All you need is room on your card and batteries in your camera, and you can just go.”

And go he does.

Mohn says there are very few days he won’t venture out into nature looking for his next subject. In fact, there are times he’ll get so lost in his surroundings that he walks 5 miles before having to turn around and walk 5 more miles back.

“Photography requires a lot of walking or sitting,” he says. “Sometimes, you just need to choose a spot and let the image come to you … It’s a good peace of mind.”

Self-taught Passion

Mohn says he makes it an annual goal to learn something new about his Sony camera every year. While he’s taken a few beginner courses in photography, those sessions have solidified what he already knew or inspired him to try new things. “Taking those classes gave me confidence I was going in the right direction,” he says. Using others’ work as inspiration, Mohn encourages up-and-coming photographers to do the same. “I’ve learned a lot by talking to other photographers and looking at their work,” he says.

Mohn says patience, perseverance and persistence are key to getting the best shot. “Do it for yourself,” he says. “Go out and take photos. Don’t worry if they’re good or not. Do what makes you happy, and go from there.”

Learn more about Mohn and his journey with photography by visiting plymouthmag.com for online-only content.

@mohnscot

Written by Madeline Kopiecki

Let’s celebrate our Readers’ Choice Poll winners and finalists!

DINING

Best Garden Center

1. Bachman’s

2. Gregor Farm & Greenhouse

3. Tie: Lynde Greenhouse & Nursery; Otten Bros. Garden Center & Landscaping

Best Home Cleaning Service

1. Divine Shine Cleaning Company

2. Zerorez of Minnesota

Best Home Decor and Furniture Store

1. HOM Furniture

2. Schneiderman’s Furniture

3. Abode & Co.

Best Landscape Design Service

1. MH3 Design Group

2. David’s Lawn Service

3. Quality Lawn Care & Landscaping Service

Best Lawn Service

1. David’s Lawn Service

2. Tie: Anderson Lawn; Kenlawn

ABODE

1. J Brothers DesignBuild - Remodel, Inc.

Best

Best Locally Owned Hardware Store

1. Hamel True Value Building Center

2. LeVahn Bros. Plumbing and Hardware Hank

3. Ace Hardware

Best Remodeler

1. J Brothers DesignBuild - Remodel, Inc.

2. Boyer Building Corporation

3. Cinergy Homes & Remodeling

Best Senior Living Residence

1. Parks’ Place Memory Care

2. Amira Choice Plymouth

3. Cornerstone Assisted Living & Memory Care

SELF-CARE

Best Barbershop

1. Great Clips

2. Christopher J Salon

3. Urban Eve

Best Boutique Fitness or Yoga Studio

1. Pilates MN

2. Orangetheory Fitness

3. CorePower Yoga

Best Med Spa

1. Buzzella Massage

2. Tie: Gr8Skin MedSpa; Simonson’s Salon & Spa

Best Place for a Manicure and Pedicure

1. Vick’s Nail Lounge

2. Zen Nails

3. Simonson’s Salon & Spa

Best Salon Spa

1. Urban Eve

2. Reflect Salon

3. Simonson’s Salon & Spa

WELLNESS

Best Chiropractic Practice

1. Northern Edge Chiropractic

2. Tie: Lake West Chiropractic & Natural Health; Plymouth Spine and Health Center

Best Cosmetic Dentistry Practice

1. Smile Design Dentistry

2. Metropolitan Prosthodontics

3. Harbor Dental

Best Dental Practice

1. Smile Design Dentistry

2. Ostrem Dental

3. Bay Creek Dental

Best Dermatology Practice

1. Pinnacle Dermatology

2. Zel Skin & Laser Specialists

3. Lakes Dermatology

Best Eye Care Practice

1. Kennedy Vision Health Center

2. Plymouth Vision Center

3. Four Seasons Eye Care

Best Family Medicine Practice

1. Voyage Healthcare

2. Park Nicollet Clinic Plymouth

3. Northwest Family Clinics

Best Holistic Wellness Practice

1. Legacy Wellness

2. Buzzella Massage

3. Lake West Chiropractic & Natural Health

Best OB-GYN Practice

1. Oakdale ObGyn

2. Haugen OB/GYN

3. OBGYN West

Best Orthodontic Practice

1. Smile Design Dentistry

2. Kottemann Orthodontics

3. Minnesota Orthodontics

Best Orthopedic Practice

1. Summit Orthopedics: Plymouth Clinic

2. Tie: Allina Health Orthopedics; Twin Cities Orthopedics Plymouth

Best Pediatric Practice

1. South Lake Pediatrics

2. Children’s Minnesota Partners in Pediatrics Primary Care Clinic

3. Wayzata Children’s Clinic

LEARNING

Best Dance Studio

1. Summit Dance Shoppe

2. Esteem Dance, Fitness & Tumbling

3. Just For Kix

Best Preschool Program

1. The Goddard School of Plymouth

2. Primrose School of West Plymouth

3. Tie: Providence Academy; Yellow Brick Road Early Childhood Development Center

PET CARE

Best Dog-Friendly Establishment

1. Brew Park Plymouth

2. Rock Elm Tavern

3. Luce Line Brewing Co.

Best Dog Park

1. Brew Park Plymouth

2. Plymouth Dog Park

Best Pet Boarding or Daycare Service

1. Pet Retreat Plymouth

2. Camp Bow Wow

3. Fur Baby Barn

Best Pet Grooming Service

1. Vet Partners Plymouth

2. Tie: Central Paws; Fur Baby Barn

Best Veterinarian Practice

1. Vet Partners Plymouth

2. Rockford Road Animal Hospital

3. Plymouth Heights Pet Hospital

SERVICES

Best Accounting

1. Tie: Barton Walter & Krier; Business Cents

2. Wiitala Tax Services

Best Law Practice

1. AND Law Offices

2. Brutlag, Trucke & Doherty, P.A.

3. Tie: Elliott Law Offices, P.A.; Mundahl Law, PLLC.

SHOPS

Best Apparel Boutique

1. Urban Eve

2. Abode & Co.

3. Lily Foster

Best Florist

1. Bachman’s

2. The Wild Orchid

3. Candlelight Florist, Gifts & Flower Delivery

Best Gift Shop

1. Abode & Co.

2. Patina

3. Curated Boutique

Best Jewelry Store

1. Artelle Designs

2. Tie: Continental Diamond; Jewelry World

LEISURE

Best Park, Open Space or Beach

1. Clifton E. French Regional Park

2. Parkers Lake

3. Baker Park Reserve

Best Place for a Date Night

1. Rock Elm Tavern

2. Tie: Luce Line Brewing Co.; Plymouth Grand 15

Best Place for Family Activities

1. Plymouth Community Center

2. Clifton E. French Regional Park

Best Place for an Outdoor Adventure

1. Clifton E. French Regional Park

2. Baker Park Reserve Best Place to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks

1. Hilde Performance Center

2. Excelsior Bay

3. Tie: Parkers Lake; Plymouth Creek Playfield Park

BEST OF THE WEST METRO

Best Golf Course

1. Rush Creek Golf Club

2. Baker National Golf Course

3. Shamrock Golf Course Best Music School

1. Bach to Rock

2. Medina School of Music

Best Private School

1. Providence Academy

2. Heritage Christian Academy

3. Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School

Best Outdoor Skating or Hockey Rink

1. Klapprich Park & Field

DISCOVER MINNESOTA

Best Hiking or Biking Trail

1. Luce Line Regional Trail

2. Superior Hiking Trail

3. Clifton E. French Regional Park

Best Live Theater

1. Guthrie Theater

2. Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

3. YellowTree Theatre

Best Music Venue

1. First Avenue

2. Hilde Performance Center

3. The Armory

Best Nordic Ski Trail or Alpine Hill

1. Tie: Baker Park Reserve; Lutsen Mountains

2. Afton Alps

Best Wedding Venue

1. The Hutton House

2. Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West

3. Tie: Lafayette Club; Millennium Garden

2. Tie: Plymouth Creek Park; Plymouth Ice Center

Experience the joy of music at Medina School of Music.

Experience music with a child and you have felt true joy. It is that joy that has inspired Mariana Lindblom, director of Medina School of Music, to perform and teach music throughout the world.

From the beginning, Medina School of Music has focused on positively inspiring its students to learn, grow and experience music. The school began out of director Mariana’s home music studio in Plymouth. “With so many families in this area, who invest in music lessons for their children to nurture development and a love for music, I found myself with a waiting list of students with nowhere to go,” she says. “We knew we wanted to serve more of our community with music lessons and classes.”

In 2019, the search began for a commercial location. “Four years later, from a small studio of around 40 students, we have grown to welcome over 400 music students each week,” Mariana says. “We love seeing their smiling faces and hearing their stories as we experience music together. Along with the support of my husband, Chad, and our two sons, Sebastian and Tristan, this is our family business, and we consider everyone who comes to us for lessons as a part of our family.”  Medina School of Music provides private music lessons and group music classes for ages 4 and up. Private instrument lessons are taught by university-trained instructors on piano, guitar, voice, violin/viola, ukulele and

drums. Each private lesson is personalized to the student’s pace, goals and musical style preference. Younger beginners can experience music learning in small group classes, which help them develop their musical skills and interests in a social setting while receiving developmentally appropriate instruction, including interactive activities, games and hands-on learning.

The faculty and staff at Medina School of Music believe that learning music is fundamental to every child’s development. “Our music students develop invaluable life skills that aid in their successful schooling, professional careers and personal lives while learning to make music,” Mariana says. “They also learn to express

themselves, build self-confidence, discipline, perseverance and much more. Along the way, they are having fun and building important relationships and social skills.”

“We like to envision who our students will be in 10 years—leaders in the school band, orchestras and choirs; members of the academic honor societies and clubs; leads in the community musicals; sports captains; valedictorians; and all-around awesome humans,” she says.

Parents often ask what instrument a student should start with and at what age. “The most important consideration is that the child has a great support system, ensuring that consistent learning takes place,” Mariana says. The school’s staff members are specifically trained to help parents select the right instrument and teacher for their child. “Our faculty members are kind, professional music teachers, who personalize the experience for each student,” she says. “We can easily accommodate families with different instrument interests.”

“Our mission is to offer the highest value and standards of excellence to positively inspire our students to learn, grow and experience music,” Mariana says. “We invite amazing and talented music teachers to teach at our school and are tireless in our search to attract the very best instructors to our community.”

The commitment to family and community is the foundation of the school. “We are parents first and music teachers second,” Mariana says. “I want for your children what we wish for our own two sons.”

Written by Madeline Kopiecki

Photos by Chris Emeott

COMMUNITY FABRIC

Our Editorial Advisory Board members share their stories of Plymouth.

Mark Poppendeck

Poppendeck, whose beekeeping was profiled in our August/September 2022 issue, moved to Plymouth with his family in 2000. As a “semi-retired” oil geologist, Poppendeck continues to work on projects in the field. In his spare time, he keeps bees in Medina and uses the proceeds to fund grants with his family through their Beez N’ Treez Foundation.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth?

Probably run and bike. We like to do that as much as we can. We also go around the lake with the bike quite a bit. [It’s] an 18-mile trip, which is part of the Luce Line [Trail] actually.

What’s your favorite memory of Plymouth?

I would say Music in Plymouth. When my kids were little, it was a big deal. Every year, we could go there early and get a spot. [My kids] used to see all their friends there. I’d say Music in Plymouth is a really big draw.

At Plymouth Magazine, we’re driven to share local stories that celebrate the community. And what better way to source these stories than asking community members themselves? Our Editorial Advisory Board is composed of individuals from various backgrounds and fields, all sharing the goal of helping Plymouth Magazine better reflect the stories and topics readers want to read.

Over the course of 2022, we refreshed our board members to bring in fresh perspectives and new ideas. Now, it’s my pleasure to introduce you to Plymouth Magazine’s Editorial Advisory Board.

MarkPoppendeck

Special thanks to the team at the Plymouth Community Center for our beautiful backdrop.

BrianRosemeyer

Currently the communications coordinator for the City of Plymouth, Rosemeyer has worked for the City of Plymouth’s communications division since 2014 and worked at the Plymouth Sun Sailor for two years prior to his current role.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth?

Exploring new areas of the city. Through my time in Plymouth, I’ve been able to get out to many parks, neighborhoods and businesses—but there are still many more. It’s fun to go somewhere in the city and see something new. The community has so much to offer.

What’s your favorite memory of Plymouth?

We have special events through all seasons, and residents come out and enjoy them whether it’s the height of summer or the middle of winter. In the same year, it can be below zero at Fire & Ice and nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit at Music in Plymouth. Either way, you’ll see smiling faces and the community coming together.

Brian Rosemeyer

Meghan Milovich

Milovich, her husband and three children moved to Plymouth from San Francisco in 2017. Milovich is an 11th grade American literature, journalism and publications teacher at Providence Academy. “This is my first year back to teaching full time, after taking a break to raise my three little ones,” Milovich says.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth?

My favorite thing to do in Plymouth is get ice cream at Honey & Mackie’s with my husband and children. Their creative flavors make it easy to try something new each visit.

What’s your favorite memory of Plymouth?

I don’t have a specific memory to share, but I want to add that I love that our children are growing up here. There is much Plymouth offers for families, and we moved away from California to raise our children in a safe place with great schools and family-oriented activities.

MeghanMilovich

LuAnnSvendsen

LuAnn Svendsen

Svendsen and her husband moved to the Schmidt Lake Hills neighborhood of Plymouth in the spring of 1985. “By December, we had a Bunco group established,” she says. A few years later, Svendsen says they started a women’s book club. “Both groups still meet monthly, and my goal of making my neighborhood feel like a small town was launched.”

The Svendsens owned an insurance agency in Plymouth for 41 years before retiring. Never losing their strong need for purpose, both spend much of their time doing volunteer work. Svendsen

is the current chair of Plymouth READS, an annual community read and series of events that take place every spring. She has also been on the board of Friends of the Plymouth Library since 1995, wearing various hats including president, vice president and treasurer.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth?

My favorite thing to do in Plymouth is explore parks with my grandchildren, who also live in Plymouth.

What’s your favorite memory of Plymouth?

My favorite Plymouth memory is of the Four Seasons Mall being built … Unfortunately, my second favorite memory of the mall is of its recent tear down. It was painful to look at that vacant, deteriorating place at the front door of the city of Plymouth for so many years.

Nelson has worked in Plymouth in the Wayzata School District since September 2019. He and his wife live in Maple Grove, so Nelson says they find themselves in the Plymouth area from time to time outside of work.

KelleyGiancola ZachNelson

Kelley Giancola

Giancola is a lifelong Twin Cities resident and has lived in Plymouth since 2015. She is the fundraising communications manager at Interfaith Outreach & Community Partners, a human services nonprofit based out of Plymouth.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth?

Check[ing] out new (or favorite) parks with my kids or [shopping] at the local thrift stores.

What’s your favorite memory of Plymouth?

The first day I moved in with my family, we saw the nearby cul-de-sac of parents and young children sitting there in the sun, just talking and playing. That was exactly what brought us to Plymouth. It was such an idyllic, welcoming moment— I immediately ran over and introduced myself to all of them!

“Growing up in Wisconsin, I wasn’t familiar with the Twin Cities or specifically the west Metro,” Nelson says. “Working in [Wayzata Public Schools] has given me the opportunity to meet a lot of great people in the area and truly understand the value of the greater Plymouth community, specifically the connection to the schools.”

What’s your favorite thing to do in Plymouth?

My favorite thing to do in Plymouth is spending time outside on the trails or at the parks. The Luce Line Trail is wonderful. Clifton E. French Park around Medicine Lake is great, as well. And we always like bringing our dog to the Plymouth Dog Park.

What’s your favorite memory of Plymouth?

My favorite memories in Plymouth are riding my bike at sunset on Luce Line Trail. Nothing beats a good summer evening outside in this area.

Get Involved: Our Editorial Advisory Board members are chosen by the editor to serve a two-year term. During the term, members support the magazine by connecting us with local stories and sources, offering feedback and lending their own experience to the magazine. If you’re interested in becoming a member, please contact madeline@localmedia.co.

Zach Nelson

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JUNE READING PICKS

Hennepin County librarian shares Juneteenth books for all ages.

RECOGNIZE AND CELEBRATE

Juneteenth this year with a trip to the Plymouth Library. Tiffany Casey, senior librarian and a member of the Black History and Culture team at Hennepin County Library, has three excellent recommendations of books to explore for different age groups.

—Clare Greeman

Recommendation for Adults: The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel

Wilkerson

Juneteenth is a great time to explore African American history. Wilkerson’s award-winning historical study shares the history and impact of this day.

Recommendation for Teens: Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi

Jason Reynolds, the popular children’s and teens’ author, explores the history of racism in America. This book is the teen version of Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X Kendi.

Recommendation for Children: Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd

Cooper

Learn about Juneteenth and the meaning of freedom alongside Mazie. This is a great picture book for children in kindergarten through grade 3.

To access these books and more, you will need a library card. Visit the Plymouth Library or any of the other 41 Hennepin County libraries or get an e-card to access online resources: hclib.org/about/library-cards.

LOCAL EVENTS

Marcus Lere Live 06/03, 06/29

Local singer/songwriter Marcus Lere rocks Cowboy Jack’s in Plymouth. Ages 21 and older. Free. 9 p.m.–1 a.m. Cowboy Jack’s Plymouth, 4120 Berkshire Lane N.; 763.559.0257; theaftermidnightgroup.com

Summer Series

Skateboard Contest

06/20

The City of Plymouth and 3rd Lair Skate Park host a jam-style skateboard contest. All ages. Free. 5 p.m. Plymouth Creek Park, 3625 Fernbook Lane N.; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov

Parkers Lake Play Day

06/23

The City of Plymouth hosts evening activities including inflatables, swimming, food trucks, fishing and more All ages. Free. 6–8:30 p.m. Parkers Lake Park, 15205 County Road 6; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov

Compiled by Hailey Almsted and Clare Greeman

Music in Plymouth 5K

06/24

The Plymouth City League and the City of Plymouth invite you to enjoy the first of their Music in Plymouth events, a fun run for everyone. All ages. Donations are required for entry. 8 a.m–10 p.m. Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.; musicinplymouth.org

Music in Plymouth at Hilde Performance Center

07/06

Music in Plymouth’s second event brings live music to a beautiful outdoor stage, ending with a bang in a fireworks display. All ages. Free. 7–11 p.m. Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.; musicinplymouth.org

AREA EVENTS

Grand Old Day

06/04

After a three year hiatus, Grand Old Day is back in full swing this year with products for sale from local makers,

Forgiveness Workshop

07/20

Attendees will learn the power of forgiveness and hopefully leave this workshop lighter and happier as they learn to let go of old hurts. Ages 18 and older. $20. 5–6 p.m. Healing House Energy Spa, 3900 Vinewood Lane N. Suite 9; 763.205.9906; healinghouseenergy.com

Serving individuals with memory loss including Alzheimer’s Disease, Lewy body dementia, FTD, and Traumatic Brain Injury

Memory care that celebrates each moment. Contact Cari at 952.443.6113 or cari@giannahomes.org

Minnetonka & Plymouth www.

Mind. Body. Spirit. At Gianna Homes we lovingly care for them all.

food, music and more. All ages. Free. 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.. Grand Avenue, Dale Street to Fairview Avenue, St. Paul; grandave.com

St. Paul Summer Beer Festival

06/10

What could be better than beer samples from 45 local craft breweries, live music, food and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds? Ages 21 and older. Ticket prices vary. 2–5 p.m. Minnesota State Fair Grounds International Bazaar, Underwood & Judson, St. Paul; stpaulsummerbeerfest.com

Stone Arch Bridge Festival

06/17–06/18

Every art medium you can think of is brought forth by local artists, framed by music, food, drinks and the view

June/July 2023

Providing MEMORY CARE with a LOVING KINDNESS that respects the dignity of each resident.

surrounding the Stone Arch Bridge. All ages. Free. Times vary. Locations vary. 952.473.6422; stonearchbridgefestival.com

To have your event considered: email plymouthmag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

Due to the fluidity being experienced in the current environment, please note that some events/dates and even some business operations may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

Music in Plymouth at Hilde Performance Center

Year in Review

My Kitchen is Your Kitchen

Written by Mollee Francisco

by Chris Emeott

SO MANY OF US TOOK TO OUR KITCHENS during the height of the pandemic, whether it was simply to cook a meal at home or finally master the art of the crusty boule. And when lockdown restrictions eased, there were more than a few hobbyists who realized they wanted to share their goods with the public.

Ashley Carmody allowed the pandemic to be her wake-up call to finally make a career out of doing what she loved—baking. Carmody started Sugar Butter Mpls and began selling her giant cookies at Twin Cities markets. The cookies were a hit, and before long, she needed more space than her home kitchen could offer.

Carmody went in search of a commercial rental kitchen, and she found MSP Kitchenery in Plymouth. “It was a match made in heaven,” Carmody says. “They’re there to build their business, but they’re also there to help build yours.”

MSP Kitchenery is the brainchild of Nikkolette Krumheuer of Nikkolette’s Macarons. There, she has created a community of makers, who not only share her kitchen space, but encourage and support each other as they pursue their passions.

“We want this to be a place where our tenants want to be,” Krumheuer says.

Filling a Need

Krumheuer has been in her tenants’ shoes. She spent nearly two decades in finance before giving up her day job for the French macaron. “I started the macarons on the side,” she says. “It kinda grew from there.”

Krumheuer initially rented space in a commercial kitchen that was operated by a catering company. For four years, she went in on nights and weekends to make her macarons. Then, fate stepped in.

“The caterer was retiring, and the building was up for sale,” Krumheuer explains. “I was looking for an opportunity to grow, so I decided to take the leap and buy the building.”

Krumheuer’s background as a financial analyst helped her understand the numbers she would need to make the business work. “I knew macarons alone wouldn’t be enough for this building,” she says. “But I also knew there were a lot of people like me.”

Krumheuer was aware that there was a lack of rental kitchens in the Twin Cities so, in 2019, she opened MSP Kitchenery in Plymouth. Last year, she opened a second, nearly identical, location on Dale Street in St. Paul.

Between the two buildings, there are

Commercial rental kitchen creates community for emerging food brands.

Photos

currently 25 businesses that rent kitchen space from her. “We’re focused on makers with products,” she says. “No caterers and no food trucks.”

At any given time, there may be someone in the kitchen blending spices, baking cookies, frosting cakes or packaging pretzels. With four rentable zones, there is space for multiple operations to be happening simultaneously.

Tenants have 24-hour access to the building as long as they are on the schedule, making it ideal for the entrepreneur growing his/her business while still working a full-time job.

A Close-Knit Community

Last summer, Carmody rented space at MSP Kitchenery upwards of three times a week to make her oversized cookies— including her best-selling, half-pound OMG! Chocolate Chip Cookies—to sell at farmers markets in Plymouth, Richfield and Linden Hills, as well as local events, such as the Uptown Art Fair and James J. Hill Days. Even during the quieter winter months, Carmody still rents space at least once a week. “It’s been a game changer being at MSP Kitchenery,” she says.

The close-knit community of makers is always eager to share their experiences, good and bad, with one another. “It’s a good place to bounce ideas off of each other,” Krumheuer says, noting that they’ve exchanged notes on everything from the best markets to sell products at to packaging tips and tricks.

Krumheuer has carefully cultivated the group of makers at MSP Kitchenery.

Nikkolette Krumheuer

MSP Kitchenery Entrepreneurs

• Bobby’s Gourmet – Cookies

• Craft + Joy Graze Boards –Charcuterie and graze boards

• Eli’s Hot Rockin’ Cereal - Hot cereal

• Grandpa’s BBQ Shop - Barbecue sauce

• Here’s the Deal Spice Co. –Hand-blended spice mixes

• Honey Smitten - Honey

• Ink Sweets – Luxury cakes

• Maytown Foods - Specialty chili sauce

• MinneBun – Bao buns

• MINNEØATS – Oatmeal

• Minnesota Dairy Lab – Ice cream

• Nikkolette’s Macarons - Macarons

• No Milk – Coffee, cold brew and cookies

• Northeast Pretzels - Handmade soft pretzels

• Num Nuts – Maple rosemary mixed nuts, nut gravel and cocoa gravel

• P&TY Granola Co. - Granola

• Sjokolade - Fudge

• Sugar Butter Mpls – Cookies

• The Simple Gourmet - Spice mixes, sauces and overnight oats

• Toffee by Jane – Hand-rolled pecan toffee

• VIP Wellness Tea – Tea blends

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to Jeanne Rosengren for being named to the Forbes “Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State” 2023 list, published on February 2, 2023. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2022.

Boyd Wealth Management Group

Source: The Forbes “Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State” list, published on February 2, 2023. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2022. Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes “Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client impact, industry experience, review of best practices and compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC InsuredAre Not Bank GuaranteedMay

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

Lose Value

Ashley Carmody of Sugar Butter Mpls

“We’re very picky on our people,” Krumheuer says. “We need to make sure it’s a good fit. We need people to be a little further along than just an idea.”

Krumheuer says that the ideal tenant is at least a year into his/her business with an established product, company name, logo, bank accounts, liability insurance, etc.

For those who make the cut, Krumheuer also offers a small storefront inside the kitchen. Though she originally intended it for pickups, it ended up being the perfect way to showcase the items made in the kitchen and provide a place for customers to pick up products outside of markets and events.

With two successful rental kitchens under her belt, Krumheuer is open to more. “There’s definitely opportunities to expand,” she says.

But for now, Krumheuer is content making macarons and helping others build their businesses while enjoying the maker community they’ve created at MSP Kitchenery. “Even though I work way more than I ever did in an office, it doesn’t feel like work,” Krumheuer says.

MSP Kitchenery, 3425 US-169; 651.334.4567; mspkitchenery.com

MSP Kitchenery @mspkitchenery

WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN THE TWIN CITIES

At OBGYN West we are passionate about delivering high-quality women’s health care. No matter what stage of life you are in, our physicians are here to provide individualized, compassionate care. Our physicians and physician assistants provide a variety of services including adolescence care, pregnancy care, screening mammograms, infertility, menopause, urinary incontinence, sexual health, pelvic pain and genetic cancer screening.

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Ourprovidersofferpersonalizedcompassionate careforallyourwomen’shealthcareneeds.This includesadolescentcare,infertility,obstetrics, gynecology,incontinenceissues,weightloss, ob/gynphysicaltherapy,andmenopause. Maintainingstrong,caringrelationshipswithour patientsisimportant.AtOBGYNWest,youwill findaproviderthatwillbewithyoueverystepof theway.

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Welcome New Categories to our Annual Photo Contest

2nd Place Activites & Events Go Plymouth Bodhisatya Bhaduri

THROUGHOUT ITS PAGES , Plymouth Magazine showcases our community in a multitude of ways, and one of our favorite methods is through our annual photo contest— Picture Plymouth. Photographers of all abilities are encouraged to share their images through which they’ve captured fresh and artistic angles of our beloved community.

Previously, we’ve encouraged readers to offer submissions during the month of August. This year, the photo contest will be open during July and August on our website.

After the contest closes, photos are carefully reviewed and voted on by members of our editorial and art departments. (Runners-up and

honorable mentions are selected as the number and quality of photos allow.) Subject matter, photo quality and reflection of the community are all taken under review.

Winners, runners up and honorable mentions in the following NEW categories receive consideration for photo placement in an upcoming issue of Plymouth Magazine and on our website and social media pages.

Photo Contest Rules and Details

• Submissions are accepted at plymouthmag.com between July 1–August 31.

• Entrants must live, work or attend school in Plymouth.

• Entrants may submit up to five photos, with no more than three in any category.

• Photos should be taken in Plymouth.

• Generally, photos should have been taken within a year of the submission date.

• Readers are invited to vote online for their favorite photo submissions in the Readers’ Choice category between September 15–September 30.

Photo: