Cities South - August 2023

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

The class of 2024 is already making a positive impact in our community

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

DEPARTMENTS

10 — Building the Village Maria Stalsberg created an outdoor school to reimagine education during the pandemic.

12 — Designing

Workplace Culture

A new office in Eagan builds camaraderie among co-workers after working remotely.

14 — Connecting

Through the Ages

All Seasons Preschool brings children and older adults together.

FEATURES

16 — Senior Spotlight

The class of 2024 is already making a positive impact in our community.

20 — Fresh Start

Lunds & Byerlys to open in Apple Valley this fall.

TASTEMAKERS

28 — Waterfront Dining

Soak up lake vibes yearround at Charlie’s on Prior.

Photo: Chris Emeott

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” —Eleanor Roosevelt

South Metro Kitchen Design experts for over 23 years. PREMIER

Your Care. Your Choice.

We are a community of care – dedicated to you.

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

LIZ POTASEK — LIZ@LOCALMEDIA.CO

Igraduated from college the spring after the World Trade Towers collapsed and went to work at a daily newspaper in central Minnesota. In my first year or two of reporting, I felt like every story I wrote had at least one paragraph that started “In the aftermath of 9/11 …” I was on the arts and entertainment beat.

There are some events that are so big and disruptive, they change how we as a society and individuals view our world on every level. Obviously, the COVID-19 pandemic is our most recent example. In this issue, COVID references make their way into stories about office design, a homeschool collective, a new grocery store and a preschool.

And, honestly, I find it kind of inspiring. There’s evidence here that beautiful things are coming out of an unfathomably difficult time.

Nowhere is this more clear than in our Senior Spotlight high school student profiles. Many of these students finished their eighth grade year in virtual school and started high school under highly unusual circumstances. They took classes over Zoom and didn’t have access to some extracurricular activities that we’ve always just taken for granted.

But they still thrived. One of them taught himself astrophotography, capturing images of other galaxies. Another student was brave enough to try a new sport and ended up going to nationals last June.

And it’s not just the few students we were able to feature in this issue.

I’m certain I could write a compelling story about every student graduating this spring—they’ve all survived something that was unimaginable five years ago. I know it hasn’t been easy for these kids, but it sure does give me hope to see them thriving.

Photo: Chris

*Using U.S. and imported parts.

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. “ENERGY STAR” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For J.D. Power 2023 award information, visit jdpower.com/awards.

Values

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. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of their respective owners. © 2023 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. RBA13299

by Andersen?

TASTE

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

Hot dogs might not require much in the way of my culinary expertise, but they’re fun. Still, I have high taste expectations. In my estimation, the very best tasting dogs start with the best meat. For me, that’s Akaushi, an exclusive Kobe-style waygu beef that’s extremely tender, rich and buttery—and lately I’ve been loving a bánh mì inspired dog. Here’s the recipe, with a few other suggestions for taking your dogs over-the-top.

Bánh Mì Dogs: A homemade sweet-and-spicy mayo, quick-pickled radishes, quick Asian pickles, cukes and carrots, fresh jalapeño slices and fresh cilantro leaves

Barbecue Dogs: Barbecue-basted dogs with crisp bacon strips, Dijon mustard, sweet relish, herby-sweet coleslaw and celery seeds

Chicago Dogs: Yellow mustard, Chicago-style sweet relish, finely diced white onions, dill pickle spears, sport peppers, tomato slices and a dash of celery salt on a poppy seed bun

Coney Dogs: Warm beef chili without beans, diced white onions and finely shredded sharp cheddar

Bánh Mì Hot Dogs

Serves 4

» ¼ cup mayonnaise

» 3 Tbsp. hoisin sauce

» 1 tsp. Sriracha sauce

» 4 Kowalski’s Market Sausages Gourmet

Akaushi All-Beef Hot Dogs

» 4 hot dog buns, sliced lengthwise

⅔ through the top, lightly toasted

» Quick Asian Pickles, for garnish (Find the recipe online at citiessouthmags.com.)

» thinly sliced jalapeño peppers and cilantro leaves, for garnish

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hoisin sauce and Sriracha; set aside. Grill hot dogs, covered, until dark grill marks form and dogs are thoroughly hot (about 10 minutes), turning 3–4 times. Spread mayonnaise mixture on cut sides of buns. Place hot dogs in buns; garnish with pickles, jalapeños and cilantro.

Rachael Perron is the culinary and branding director for Kowalski’s Markets, where she specializes in product development and selection, culinary education and communications. Find more at kowalskis.com.

Photo: Kowalskii’s Markets

SIP LEVEL UP ON FLAVOR

It doesn’t have to take much effort to transform a basic drink into something special. A little muddled fruit, a citrus garnish and a few pumps of flavored syrup are the keys to these specialty drinks from Ze’s Diner in Prior Lake and Eagan. Amal Arafa, the diner’s district manager, recommends Torani syrups. (Experiment with the number of syrup pumps to customize your drink for your tastebuds.)

Strawberry Lemonade: Fill a 15 oz. glass part way with ice, add three pumps of strawberry syrup and top with lemonade. Garnish with a lemon.

Cherry Limeade: Fill a 15 oz. glass part way with ice, add three pumps of cherry lime syrup and three pumps of lime syrup, and top with Sprite. Garnish with a lime.

Blueberry Limeade: Fill a 15 oz. glass part way with ice, drop in 3–4 fresh blueberries, add four pumps blueberry syrup, three pumps lime syrup and top with Sprite. —Liz Potasek

Fall into Art

Meet local artists, buy original artwork or make your own masterpiece at these art events in September:

Eagan Art Block

The fifth annual Eagan Art Block offers two art-filled weeks throughout the community, full of opportunities to browse through art exhibits, listen to live music, watch artist demonstrations or make your own art. September. 9–23; eaganartblock.com

Lakeville Art Festival

The Lakeville Art Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this September with an event featuring work from more than 100 juried artists, who work in a variety

of mediums. Visitors will enjoy art demonstrations and live music, as well as the opportunity to participate in a community art project and make their own piece of art. The festival is on the grounds of the Lakeville Area Arts Center in downtown Lakeville. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. September 16 and 10 a.m.–4 p.m. September 17; lakevilleartscenterfriends.org

Pleasant Street Art Walk

Stroll down Prior Lake’s Pleasant Street SE on the south side of the downtown (near the VFW and PLate on Main) to meet more than 60 artists. “I wanted to give people in the community the opportunity to talk directly to talented artists, ask questions, and purchase art in a low-pressure environment,” says Andrea Mullenmeister, potter and art walk organizer. The event also includes live music and food trucks. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. September 23; anmpottery.com —Liz Potasek

Photos: Ze’s Diner; Pleasant Street Art Walk; Lakeville Art Festival

Pleasant Street Art Walk

Lakeville Art Festival VIEW

Building the Village

to reimagine education

MARIA STALSBERG wasn’t planning on homeschooling her four children, but when distance learning started at the beginning of the pandemic, Stalsberg thought, “There has to be a better way.”

She started searching online for homeschool co-ops but wasn’t finding the right fit, so she ended up creating her own “right fit” with Our Village School and saw an immediate response from other families with similar values. The school takes the classroom outdoors, serving children ages 6–13 with classes taught by community experts, who are passionate about teaching and connect well with kids. Topics include art, science, outdoor survival, makerspace, entrepreneurship, drama, shop, cooking, movement, gardening and music. Multiage cohorts allow older kids to mentor younger kids, giving them future life skills from the beginning.

Stalsberg started offering the classes in her Lakeville backyard in September 2020 when outdoor gatherings were allowed. In 2021, the makeshift enrichment school moved from her 3-acre property to YMCA Camp Streefland in Lakeville. The camp is only used in the summer, so Our Village School students have a 65-acre wooded classroom with hiking trails, zip lines and an outdoor

Maria Stalsberg, founder of Our Village School

Photo: Chris Emeott

Maria Stalsberg created an outdoor school

during the pandemic.

By Jody Carey

“It’s truly amazing how the grass becomes a fidget, and there’s no bouncing off the walls because there aren’t any to bounce off of. It’s crucial that our kids are given time to unplug and immerse themselves in nature.”

Children at Our Village School in Lakeville learn a variety of skills outdoors in multi-age cohorts.

amphitheater to learn and explore. When the weather turns cooler, the school makes use of a shelter, kids learn to layer up and music class is around the bonfire.

Our Village School emphasizes getting kids outdoors and engaging with nature. “It’s truly amazing how the grass becomes a fidget, and there’s no bouncing off the walls because there aren’t any to bounce off of,” Stalsberg says. In a time of so much technology, “It’s crucial that our kids are given time to unplug and immerse themselves in nature,” she says.

Stalsberg worked in corporate merchandising before getting a master’s degree in teaching in 2012. She taught at St. Paul Academy before having her first child and now runs Our Village School with 104 students and 71 families. Most of Our Village School families are in the same situation as Stalsberg, calling themselves COVID-19 Homeschoolers.

Heidi Fish is the mother of twins. Like others, she didn’t think homeschooling was the right fit for her family until the pandemic. Looking to connect with other families, Fish scrolled through a Facebook group and stumbled upon an online comment Stalsberg made a year prior.

Our Village School was up and running by the time Fish saw the comment and knew right away she wanted to get her girls involved. She and her husband work from home and appreciate the freedom homeschooling offers, as well as the support that Our Village School offers. “It’s such a great way for them to be exposed to different learning opportunities by different teachers and community members,” Fish says. “We’re grateful for Maria and her vision and passion. She’s serving a beautiful need in the community, and we’re so grateful that she took that leap.”

Shannon Perez teaches the Nature Explores class and is an anchor teacher. As a teacher, she sees students transform each week. She’s also a parent and has watched her son’s growth since joining the program. Perez’s son struggled during the pandemic with all the changes schools had to make. He commented that he “felt trapped in a room all day.” He’s now thriving and only wishes that two days of outdoor enrichment classes could be every day.

Our Village School; ourvillageschool.com

Our Village School @ourvillageschool

Designing Workplace Culture

By Daniel Huss

WHEN GOVDOCS INC. moved from St. Paul to Eagan last year, it represented more than a change in location, it was also a reimagining of office culture in a world still emerging from the pandemic.

GovDocs Inc., a business that simplifies employment law compliance for multijurisdiction companies, was mostly remote during the pandemic. During that time, the company also started outsourcing its printing, product fulfillment and shipping needs. “We used to need an industrial-flex space,” says chief executive officer Zach Stabenow. “Without the warehouse, we’re exclusively office space.”

So faced with an expiring office-space lease mid-pandemic, Stabenow and company leaders found themselves rethinking a lot of the old assumptions about work culture. “We decided on a flexiblehybrid work model,” Stabenow says. “We’re producing at home and coming

in for collaboration and socialization.” And they needed a workspace designed to reflect that shift.

Blue Pencil Collective designers Kasey Johnson and Regan Nix took what Stabenow and other GovDocs Inc. leaders had envisioned and turned it into reality. “The project’s mission was to not only bring people back to work, but to make them excited to come back to work,” Nix says. “It’s about culture, and it’s about community.”

Ultimately, the decision to move GovDocs Inc. from St. Paul to the Eagandale Corporate Center was based on real estate’s guiding principle: location, location, location.

“It’s centrally located and has easy freeway access,” Stabenow says. “The building has a lot of amenities, and our fourth-floor space has an amazing view. We see the Minnesota River and both

Minneapolis and St. Paul skylines.”

Yet it doesn’t make sense to come back to the office for the amazing views alone. “Workers can get set in their ways,” Nix says. “They’re wondering why they would come into the office when they could just jump on Zoom.”

New technology is one answer. Instead of two or three conference rooms that were overused and overbooked, they now have a dozen conference rooms, equipped with cameras and whiteboard walls. “These tools have led to a lot of discovery,” Stabenow says. “You can’t do that over a Zoom call.”

They also have an awesome break room, which serves as the center of the GovDocs Inc. universe. “The community table is a gathering spot,” Johnson says. “It's where [the employees] eat lunch, and it’s where they collaborate.”

Stabenow adds that it’s where they

Photos: Spacecrafting; Rachabella

A new office in Eagan builds camaraderie among co-workers after working remotely.

celebrate. “We celebrate our good work,” he says. “We celebrate anniversaries, and we celebrate our community service.”

The new space is also on brand, literally. “The GovDocs brand hits you the second you walk in the door,” Nix says. “It’s a really outstanding first impression.”

The most visual piece is the company’s mantra: “We Gov Forth Together.” “It’s massive and unforgettable,” Nix says.

Law posters, which GovDocs Inc. produces by the millions, adorn 4 by 9 feet sliding-door panels.

Colors, down to custom-made tiles, match GovDocs red and white brand colors. “It screams who we are,” he says. “That’s important.”

govdocs.com

bluepencilcollective.com

Left: GovDocs Inc. new headquarters in Eagan provides plenty of meeting rooms and technology designed for creative collaboration.

Right: The office, designed by Blue Pencil Collective, includes gathering spaces for celebrating team triumphs.

GENERATIONS

Connecting Through the Ages

All Seasons Preschool brings children and older adults together.

By Liz Potasek

WHEN AVID BIRDWATCHERS

Marie and Jerry Soczynski, two residents of Lexington Pointe Senior Living, decided to hang up bird houses near their windows, they realized it might provide a great learning opportunity for their neighbors. The pair lives “a couple of windows over” from All Seasons Preschool in Eagan, and they wanted to make sure their young neighbors both respected and appreciated the residents of the new birdhouses.

“We explained the different birds that are in our area to them and showed them pictures,” Marie says. “And now when they come out—because they do play right where we have the birdhouses— they talk about the birds.”

The kids save their “bird questions” for Jerry and Marie, and last spring, a small group joined the Soczynskis with their birdwatching club on an outdoor patio, overlooking a pond at Lexington Pointe, learning to identify birds by their calls and paging through bird books together. Jerry says that teaching the children about birds has inspired him to learn more, so he can answer their questions.

Celebrating learning and growth in every stage of life—as well as Minnesota’s four seasons—is at the heart of All Seasons Preschool in Eagan. The preschool with a nature-based, arts-centered curriculum was purposefully located in a senior housing community to allow seniors and preschoolers the benefits of daily interactions. “It’s so rewarding to see the faces of the seniors light up when they see the children,” says Joanne Esser,

Children at All Seasons Preschool in Eagan play games with the seniors who live in housing connected to the school.

Photos: Chris Emeott

All Seasons curriculumn is focused on nature and art, and teachers create lesson plans based on students’ questions and interests.

the director and art teacher at All Season Preschool. “They’re so generous with their patience and their time.”

Whether they’re participating in formal programs—like sing-a-longs— or the kids are bringing up extra homemade banana bread they made for snack to share with the residents of the senior living community (who they refer to as the grandmas and the grandpas), it’s clear that everyone benefits from the time they spend together.

The Eagan preschool is the second location of a school that was founded about 14 years ago in Inver Grove Heights. The Eagan location was designed and built along with a new senior living community and opened its doors mid-pandemic in September 2020. Yet, the school has been growing steadily, and as pandemic restrictions have lifted, the preschoolers and seniors have had more opportunities to interact.

The preschool, which is in the lower level of the senior living building, has a toddler classroom and two preschool classrooms, along with a dedicated art room and indoor large movement play space, as well as a large outdoor nature play yard, complete with a garden, playground and a water feature that replicates a creek and can be turned on or off depending on the day. There’s also a pond and woods nearby, which the school uses for hiking, playing and exploring. “We’re really responsive to ideas that children generate and what they notice outdoors, what they find interesting,” says Esser, who taught elementary school for several decades before earning her master’s degree in early education and teaching preschool. “As the seasons change, we respond to that.”

Last spring, the class tapped boxelder trees to gather sap and make syrup. Once the syrup was made, they helped plan a pancake breakfast for the “grandmas and grandpas.”

“This is our future, and I think it’s so enlightening to see how much they know and how inquisitive they are,” Marie says. “It’s so convenient here, too, because it’s right here in the building.”

All Seasons Preschool of Eagan, 3385 Discovery Road, Eagan; 952.466.1471; allseasonspreschool.net

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

THE CLASS OF 2024 IS ALREADY MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY.

This class was just finishing middle school when COVID-19 seemed to stop time, and they started their high school careers in a world that interacted mostly online. Yet, they’ve found inspiring ways to connect with their classmates and communities and develop their skills for the greater good.

written by LIZ POTASEK photos by CHRIS EMEOTT

ON LOCATION AT ZE’S DINER

Thank you to Ze’s Diner in Prior Lake for letting us use their dining room to photograph these high school seniors. The diner, which also has a location in Eagan, serves breakfast all day, burgers and classic comfort food. Ze’s Diner, 16731 State Highway 13, Prior Lake, and 3448 Denmark Ave., Eagan; zesdiner.com

Kaiden Cheung, 17

PRIOR LAKE HIGH SCHOOL

Even during his free time, Kaiden Cheung finds a way to give back. Cheung founded a tutoring program with his friend Alex Wang. Every Wednesday during Laker Time, a free period during school, Kaiden can be found helping other students with homework. “I’ve always wanted to use leadership skills to help the school,” he says.

In addition to volunteer and academic activities, including National Honor Society, Computer Science Club and Junior Optimist Club, Kaiden competes on the school’s swim team. Kaiden has been swimming competitively since he was 10 years old and says swimming has helped him develop leadership skills. He competed individually and as a part of a relay team at the state level in swimming last season, and the Prior Lake High School Boys Swim Team took home third place in the team standings at state. “It’s like a family,” Kaiden says of the swim team. “You can be your true self.”

After high school, Kaiden is planning to attend college on a premed track and hopes to pursue a career in cardiology or neurology. “I’m actually fascinated by the brain,” he says.

Abby Leach, 17

PRIOR LAKE HIGH SCHOOL

Last March, Abby Leach unexpectedly found herself as a key witness in a trial being argued in the Federal Courthouse in St. Paul. She was a part of a Mock Trial team for Prior Lake High School and even though half the team was competing in Mock Trial for the first time, they were delighted to compete at the state level. “It was a lot of work, and it was cool to see that work pay off,” says Abby, who will be a captain on this year’s team.

Abby is also a part of Laker Leaders, a mentorship organization composed of leaders from Prior Lake High School sports and clubs, and she’s a senior leader on the Speech Team. She competed in the categories of Prose and Duo last season. This summer, she competed at the national speech tournament in Arizona.

After high school, Abby plans to attend college but is undecided on a major. In addition to her excellent communication skills, Abby enjoys biology, STEM and humanities. She recently earned 36 on the ACTs, which is the highest possible composite score and a feat that only 1 percent of test takers accomplish, so her future looks promising wherever she decides to focus her interest.

Noah Kujawski, 17 SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Noah Kujawski captures inspiring photos of the night sky from the backyard of his Lakeville home, and his compelling work has been recognized in an international competition.

The senior at the School of Environmental Studies in Apple Valley says he’s always had an interest in space, but his passion for astrophotography really took off after he got his first telescope in 2018. “I would hold a phone up to the eyepiece and take pictures,” he says.

Noah got a DLSR camera and a star tracker (a piece of equipment that moves the camera with the Earth’s rotation to get long-exposure images that don’t look blurry), and started taking his own pictures of the galaxy and other bright objects in the night sky.

He’s continued to accrue more equipment and refine his skill. His photos take patience, planning and perfectly clear skies. He’ll set up equipment to take hundreds of photos over the course of an evening, and use software to blend the images together.

Two of his images—one of a lunar eclipse and the other highlighting minerals found on the Moon— were on the shortlist for the Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2022, an international contest.

After high school, Noah plans to major in physics and study astronomy or meteorology in college.

Ella Fowler, 16 LAKEVILLE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL

Ella Fowler isn’t waiting to follow her dream of working in the medical field—she already volunteers at Fairview Ridges Hospital in Burnsville, serves as president for her school’s HOSA Club for future health professionals and was a part of a medical mission to Honduras, where she got to observe surgeries. She loves her volunteer work, transporting patients and supplies at Fairview, because “I have a sense of purpose there,” she says. “My actions benefit others.”

Ella isn’t afraid to push herself academically, as well. “I take as many AP [Advanced Placement] classes as I can,” Ella says, adding that her favorite subject is economics. She took AP Macroeconomics as a sophomore, and last year she took AP Microeconomics. Her passion for economics undoubtedly fuels her success in DECA, a club that inspires future business leaders through competition. Ella competed in the national DECA conference in the category of school-based enterprise for her work at the school store.

Ella has also been playing hockey since she was 7 years old. She plays forward and credits her teammates for helping her grow on and off the ice. “Our team is a family,” she says.

Carter Will, 18

Carter Will has a sign hanging above his door that says, “How are you going to make a positive impact today?” And it’s clear that Carter takes that sign seriously in all of his many pursuits.

In the sports arena, Carter has been on the varsity football and track teams since his sophomore year, and won the 2023 State Championship in weightlifting— his first year in the sport and Eagan High School’s first year with a weightlifting team.

He takes honors math and college level English classes and is a member of the National Honor Society and World National Honor Society.

He also finds the time to mentor other students, whether he’s coaching a seventh grade football team, teaching religion to fourth graders at St. Joseph’s in Rosemount or serving as president of the Special Olympics Unified Club at Eagan High School.

His work with the Unified Club, which promotes inclusion through sports and other activities, has even inspired his career aspirations. Carter hopes to continue playing football in college and plans to major in special education, with the goal of becoming a teacher and a coach.

Brandon Durgapersad, 17

APPLE VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

As a high school junior, Brandon Durgapersad was already making significant contributions to global health research. Through the University of Minnesota’s H2U: Global Health and Health Equity Research program, which provides high school students with handson research experience, Brandon worked with Caleb Skipper, MD, on research in Uganda involving an HIV/ AIDS related infection. While Skipper was in Uganda getting samples, Brandon analyzed the samples in a lab in Minnesota. “I didn’t know I was capable of doing something that big,” Brandon says.

Brandon says his older siblings have driven him to excel in academics throughout high school. “There’s some sibling rivalry,” he says. “I’m trying to live up to the expectations they’ve set and finding my own self.” Last spring, his hard work was recognized with two awards from AVID, a college prep program, one for academics and another for acting as an impactful member of the community.

After high school, Brandon hopes to study at the University of Minnesota and wants to pursue a career that blends his passion for the medical profession with business.

EAGAN HIGH SCHOOL

Fresh Start Lunds & Byerlys to open in Apple Valley this fall.

written by JOSIE SMITH

Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner, a beer on a rooftop patio or a week’s worth of groceries, the new Lunds & Byerlys in Apple Valley aims to offer it all when it opens September 14. “We’re bringing the best of everything we have to offer into this store,” says Aaron Sorenson, senior communications manager for Lunds & Byerlys.

The grocery store chain is off to a fresh start at the corner of Pilot Knob Road and 155th Street, and it’s leaning on local talent to make the newest location and 29th store a success.

Brian Miller has been named the new general manager for Apple Valley’s Lunds & Byerlys store. After nearly 27 years in the grocery industry, Miller says he’s excited to be opening a new location in his hometown. “I’m super excited about being back in my own community and bringing a grocery store like this to the Apple Valley area,” Miller says.

He and his wife, Tamara, (who both

attended Apple Valley High School), have four grown daughters and eight grandchildren. “I’ve lived in the Southwest Metro for 45 years,” Miller says. “My mother lives just down the street, and I live just a few miles down.”

The grocery store chain has evolved over the years, reshaping itself as needed to adapt to its consumers’ changing shopping habits. One way it’s responding to customer feedback is by offering more self-serve options. The Apple Valley store will be the second location to feature serve-yourself beer.

“It’s quite popular. It’s a concept we’re seeing more and more throughout the Twin Cities,” Sorenson says. “I think the thing people really enjoy about it is the ability to try things: ‘I’ll just have a few ounces of this, see if I like it.’ Just a great way to try new beers. Once you know what you want, maybe pour a glass of that.”

There will be eight self-serve taps with craft beers at The Mezz, (short for

mezzanine), and will include plenty of choices for those who enjoy sampling local brews.

Customers stopping by for a quick bite to eat can expect to find a wide selection of cuisines. “Our delis are amazing,” Miller says. “The best of the best salad bars. I tell people our salad bar is literally the best in the state. I truly believe that.”

The new Apple Valley store will also offer Hissho Sushi; a taco bar, featuring build your own tacos, burrito bowls or nachos; and a wok bar with rice bowls, noodles, egg rolls and steam and stirfried veggies.

Something that’s relatively new

to Lunds & Byerlys is its Easy Eats section. “It’s all of the quick, prepared offerings: our deli, meat and seafood, produce and ready-to-cook stir fry veggies,” Miller says. “Instead of keeping all of those things in their own departments, we brought them together into one section of our stores. It’s a much easier place for consumers to shop for those items.”

From an environmental standpoint, the grocery store chain is leading the way with its use of eco-friendly technology, too.

The company has begun the process of installing CO2 refrigeration systems at a few of its stores, including the Apple Valley location. At the Lunds &

Photos: Lunds & Byerlys

Byerlys

Customers can choose from hundreds of artisan cheeses, sourced locally and from around the world.

Lunds & Byerlys’ newest store in Apple Valley is scheduled to open in September and will include two levels of indoor and outdoor seating.

Highland Park store in St. Paul, the technology is already in place and is anticipated to reduce CO2 emissions by 540 metric tons, which is equivalent to the annual electricity usage of 94 homes. This has earned the grocery store chain a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Green Chill Award. “CO2 is a natural refrigerant,” Miller says. “It’s probably the most innovative technology of late that leads the industry. It’s very, very efficient and conserves energy.”

Meanwhile, plans for opening a Lunds & Byerlys store in Apple Valley have been in the works for a long time. “It’s an area we’ve been looking at for many, many years,” Miller says. “It’s a community that has such vibrant growth going on right now. We’re excited to be a part of that growth.”

Lunds & Byerlys, 15550 English Ave., Apple Valley; lundsandbyerlys.com

Lunds & Byerlys @lundsandbyerlys @lundsandbyerlys @LundsandByerlys

Since 1986 we have been serving students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. We offer a rigorous curriculum in a safe environment with no hidden agenda, building leaders with a heart to serve their community.

Christian Heritage Academy 7320 175th St. W., Lakeville 952.953.4155 chacademy.com

Family-owned and operated for over 40 years. Lakeville Dental is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality, most comfortable dental care available. We want our patients to have a healthy and beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime and are committed to making every experience as welcoming and comfortable as possible.

Lakeville Dental Associates 20171 Icenic Trail, Lakeville 952.469.3300 lakevilledental.com

The deli department will feature a seemingly endless array of meal options, including a salad bar with roasted and fresh veggies, proteins, artisan cheese, housemade dressings and more.

things to see and do in and around our community

SIDEWALK GALLERY

Watch temporary masterpieces made with chalk come to life in Prior Lake.

MAKE YOUR OWN MARK or admire the work of professional chalk artists along Main Avenue in downtown Prior Lake during Chalk Fest. The two-day festival features live music, food trucks and interactive art displays. Put your own skills on display by registering for the amateur chalk art contest from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday —Liz Potasek

Chalk Fest; September 15–16; Main Avenue between County Road 21 and Dakota Street SE, Prior Lake; priorlakemn.gov

LOCAL EVENTS

Prior Lake Days

08/11–08/12

Celebrate Prior Lake at this two-day community festival with wine and beer tasting, along with food and live music at a 21-plus event on Friday night in downtown Prior Lake. Families can explore bounce houses, participate in a cornhole tournament and buy food from local vendors during the day on Saturday. Ages 21 and older. Free. Times vary. Main Avenue, downtown Prior Lake; priorlakechamber.com

Coffee Connection

08/15

Welcome a new church to Apple Valley with coffee, treats, meeting new people and fellowship. All ages. Free. 8–9 a.m. Eagle Brook Church, 14960 Florence Trail, Apple Valley; 651.429.9227; eaglebrookchurch.com

Taste of Lakeville

08/17

Sample what the Lakeville culinary scene has to offer with tastes and sips from many local establishments. Ages 21 and older. $50. 5–9 p.m. The Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville; tasteoflakeville.org

The Open Door Third Annual 5K

08/19

Support The Open Door’s mission to end hunger for low income, food insecure residents of Dakota County with a 5K run, 1-mile fun walk and 1/2K kids run. All ages. $15–$35. Packet pick up begins at 7 a.m. Casperson Park, 19720 Juno Trail, Lakeville; theopendoorpantry.org

Disc League Championship

08/25–08/26

Watch the Ultimate League Championship at the TCO Stadium, featuring 24 teams competing in seven highly athletic team matches. All ages.

General admission $35, VIP $125. 5 p.m. Friday; 6 p.m. Saturday. TCO Stadium, 2600 Vikings Circle, Eagan; eaganmn.com

Photo: City of Prior Lake

Compiled by Hailey Almsted and Clare Greeman

A Race to End Suicide

09/09

In remembrance of Jordyn Clark, the annual 1-mile and 5K races invite members of the community to run in honor of loved ones and community members lost to suicide. All ages. $35 for 5K, $25 for 1-mile and $45 for virtual runs. 9 a.m. Central Park Pavillion, 1497 Central Parkway, Eagan; 612.581.3492; jordynclark.org

Buck Hill Concert Series

09/14–09/16

Enjoy three days of live music, featuring Jameson Rodgers, Drive-By Truckers, George Thorogood and The Destroyers, and more at Buck Hill. All ages. $30–$150. Buck Hill, 15400 Buck Hill Road, Burnsville; buckhill.com

Fall Festival

09/30

Revel in all the flavors that fall has to offer at Pahl’s. Save on apples, squash and pumpkins, pick your own apples and enjoy fun autumnal fun with family. All ages. Free. 9 a.m. Pahl’s, 6885 160th St. W., Apple Valley; 952.431.4345; pahls.com

AREA EVENTS

Summer Music Clinic

08/01

This clinic delves into the power of music in scripture and the joys of music sung in church; this event features two workshops and lunch. All ages. Free. 8:30 a.m.–2:45 p.m. First Lutheran Church, 1555 40th Ave. NE, Columbia Heights; augsburgfortress.org

Minneapolis Fringe Festival

08/03–08/13

The fringe festival celebrates culture, expression and artists. With 1,000 performing artists, this is one of the largest performing arts festivals in the Midwest. All ages. Price TBD. Times vary. Minnesota Fringe Festival, 79 13th Ave. NE Suite 112, Mpls.; 612.872.1212; minnesotafringe.org

Child Development Centers

CREATE. LAUGH. LEARN.

Your child will grow and develop through a research-driven, relationship-oriented, play-based learning curriculum. Serving infants through Pre-K children. Family- and Locally-owned since 1976.

Minnesota Irish Fair

08/11–08/13

Join the Irish gathering in the Metro area. Hundreds gather to celebrate everything Irish. All ages. Prices vary. 3–11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.–11 p.m.; 10 a.m.–11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday. Harriet Island, 175 W. Water St., St. Paul; irishfair.com

St. Paul Gangster Tour

08/12

A bus tour takes you through the world of 1930s St. Paul gangsters. The tour guide will take you past the most infamous hideouts and nightclubs. All ages. Tickets start at $40. Noon–2 p.m. Wabasha Street Caves, 215 Wabasha St. S., St. Paul; 651.292.1220; wabashacaves.com

Minneapolis Mile Automotive Festival

08/12–08/13

Welcome to a festival celebrating everything on wheels. Enjoy car, truck and motorcycle shows, food trucks, drifting, autocross and more. All ages. Price TBD. Times vary. Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S., Mpls.; minneapolismile.com

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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.

Written by Kristie Smith Photos by Chris Emeott

THERE ARE JUST TWO SEASONS at Charlie’s on Prior: ice in or ice out. The lazy days of August are peak ice out season, which means diners enjoy their meal—along with gorgeous lake views— on three levels of outdoor patios and two levels of lakeside dining, while boaters pull up to the restaurant’s dock for a bite. “Be prepared to come out and relax,” says Randy Ehlers, vice president of operations and a partner of Water Street Restaurants Group, who has worked with Charlie’s for

nearly five years. “It’s a great vibe with a great view from any of our indoor and outdoor spaces,” he says.

Make the most of the last few days of summer with Wednesday night “Live on the Landing,” an outdoor celebration featuring live music and local breweries, or just pick a perfect day to luxuriate in the view of Upper Prior Lake. Ehlers can even help you navigate the Prior Lake restaurant’s extensive options: “Start with Fried Avocados, beer battered [and served] with

a queso fresco, Southwest seasoning and a jalapeño ranch dipping sauce,” Ehlers says. “Or try the Big Buoy Pretzel, served with a warm queso sauce. It’s made by Milwaukee Pretzel especially for us.”

After an appetizer, Ehlers recommends ordering Charlie’s Pan Seared Walleye while sipping Dreamyard, a New England IPA from Modist Brewing Co. in Minneapolis. Cap the meal off with bread pudding.

There’s plenty on the menu if you’re not

Charlie’s on Prior’s Pan Seared Walleye pairs nicely with a view of Prior Lake.

“Our family loves how Charlie’s brings the Prior Lake community together. The summer months are especially enjoyable as we boat over to listen to live music, have a delicious meal or catch up with friends and neighbors. The kids are always happy when we end with the various ice cream treats.”

Amanda Holcomb, diner at Charlie’s on Prior

The beer battered Fried Avocados are topped with queso fresco and ranch seasoning.

feeling like freshwater fish. Lago Tacos, Firecracker Shrimp Bowl, BBQ Brisket Sandwich (smoked on site) or Dirty Fries are just a sampling of the restaurant’s expansive menu.

As the days get shorter and that second season— ice in—begins to loom, Charlie’s still offers relaxation and beautiful views, with a slight vibe shift. “Our menu changes,” Ehler says. “We add fall- and wintercentric items as a separate menu in our ‘other’ season … In October, we host a Rock the Docks event with a bigger local (musical) act.”

In February, snowmobilers take part in a beer and barbecue festival as 25 local breweries pour beer samples on the ice and local musicians warm things up. A few weeks later, pond hockey takes center ice on the four rinks in front of the restaurant as part of Pondy on Prior: a pond hockey tournament that raises funds for a hockey family in need.

The season officially comes to an end with a springtime Rock the Docks concert, featuring a band floating on a barge.

For Ehlers, seeing summer staff return each year is proof the restaurant really cares about everyone’s experience. “My favorite part is seeing our seasonal employees come back to work on their summer and holiday breaks,” he says. “Now, they’re a little older, have more experience [and] they really want to be

here. It’s a reflection of our managers, who make it a great place for everyone to come back to.”

Giving back is part of the focus at Charlie’s.

“We partner with the Special Olympics once a summer and host Tip a Cop,” Ehlers says. “Our local police force joins Special Olympics athletes to raise money by busing and greeting guests at the restaurant with all tips benefiting the Special Olympics.” The restaurant also hosts a breast cancer fundraising fashion show and partners with the Prior Lake High School to support school activities.

Open year-round, the local favorite also welcomes company parties, rehearsal dinners and opportunities for guests to host special events. And, if Thanksgiving cooking seems like too much, the chefs at Charlie’s smoke turkeys on site (along with all of the holiday fixings) to bring home, so holiday dinners are all about the fun and not about the stress of getting the bird in the oven by 6 a.m.

But now is the time to soak up summer. It’s still patio season, and the lake is calling.

Charlie’s on Prior, 3950 Green Heights Trail SW, Prior Lake; 952.226.5253; charliesonprior.com

Charlie’s on Prior @charliesonprior

The Big Buoy Pretzel, served with warm queso sauce, is specially made for Charlie’s on Prior.

Treasure Hunt

Local mother captures her three children looking for agates at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve.

LAURA MILLER spends time in nature, observing flowers, butterflies and insects, and she started documenting her discoveries during the summer of 2019, when it became a much-needed form of stress relief after her husband’s cancer diagnosis the previous winter. When she can, she encourages her three children to join her. “They spend enough time indoors and on screens,” she says. “They may sometimes complain about going out on our nature adventures, but in the end, I can usually catch them having fun on our walks.” In this picture, they’re searching for agates at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve. “When I am not able to be out in nature, you can find me on the sidelines of my kids’ sports and activities, taking fun photos of them and their teams,” Miller says.

Contribute your expertise to our first annual Focus on Cities South photo contest. Photographers of all abilities are encouraged to share their images through August 31 at citiessouth mags.com. Vote for your favorite photo submissions in the Readers’ Choice category between September 15–30.