Cities South Magazine - February 2023

TWIN CITIES LIVE HOST ELIZABETH RIES RECALLS AN IDYLLIC CHILDHOOD

FOLLOWING HER DREAMS

Ready. Set.

More specialists ready to go.

Ready with more doctors. Set with the most specialty services and urgent care locations open 8am — 8pm daily. Go to TCO for the care your body needs to keep moving. No referral or appointment necessary. TCOmn.com

WITH KOWALSKI’S K owalski’s new Bake at Home program offers the chance to turn your home kitchen into your favorite bakery. These delicious frozen products are designed with flexibility and convenience in mind. Each variety is made from the same Signature recipes used in our bakery department, and they are locally produced. Stock your freezer with Bake at Home and be ready all winter long for whenever the need (or the craving) strikes!

Find Kowalski’s frozen bakery treats in the Bake at Home Case: croissants • cinnamon rolls • scones pies • muffins • cookies • dinner rolls …and more!

Selection and availability of products and ingredients vary by market.

11 Twin Cities Locations • kowalskis.com

LIFE AS IT SHOULD BE The Pillars of Lakeville offers classic and charming southern-suburban senior living with personal and health care services available, when needed.

Shared spaces will connect The Pillars of Lakeville to Crossroads Church, Christian Heritage Academy and Four Square Early Learning Center which will provide unique and creative opportunities for our residents to interact with their neighbors.

opening soon!

952-208-9988 17701 Glacier Way, Lakeville, MN

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! pillarsseniorliving.com/lakeville ©2022 Fairview Health Services 901806

2

Preliminary Artist Renderings

COOPERATIVE LIVING FOR 62+

COMING TO L AKEVILLE SEE THE POSSIBILITIES OF NEW

THE PERFECT PLACE TO BEGIN YOUR NEXT CHAPTER.

SAY “YES” TO HOMEOWNERSHIP AND “NO” TO MAINTENANCE.

Write your next chapter at Estoria Lakeville, an 89-unit, member-owned cooperative for adults 62 and over. Estoria is a vibrant community designed to cater to your active lifestyle.

As the fastest growing community in the Twin Cities metro area, Lakeville is conveniently located just minutes south of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Estoria is located in a quiet, suburban neighborhood setting with easy access to parks, Crystal Lake, shopping, dining, the arts, and historic downtown Lakeville.

Discover a community of people ready to spend more time embracing and enjoying life. Estoria Lakeville is designed for younger seniors who want the financial benefits of homeownership without all the responsibility of ongoing upkeep.

Enjoy a maintenance-free, turnkey lifestyle and be a part of a vibrant and growing community. It’s the best of both worlds in one of the best places in Minnesota!

FIND YOUR PLACE COOPERATIVE L AKEVILLE CONTINUE YOUR STORY

For more information visit our website or call today!

With its convenient location and dynamic setting, Lakeville is the perfect place to build relationships and experience a life-enriching community. Welcome home to Estoria Cooperative Lakeville.

612.874.2000 | estorialakeville.com

Information Center/Showroom Now Open! 7505 Metro Boulevard, Suite 101, Edina, MN 55439

3

F E B R U A R Y/ M A R C H 2 0 2 3 Welcome to the premiere issue of the Cities South Collection, celebrating the communities of Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake.

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

10 — Eating Local

18 — Following Her Dreams

Community Supported Agriculture programs shorten the route from farm to table.

Twin Cities Live host Elizabeth Ries recalls an idyllic childhood.

12 — Path to Healing

Shop local for on-trend pieces to pack on your spring break.

6 — Editor’s Letter 8 — Noteworthy 27 — On the Town 32 — Last Glance

Eagan artist Sheila Bayle finds peace creating wearable art.

24 — Travel in Style

14 — Crisp, Cool Learning

TASTEMAKERS

An outdoor preschool in Prior Lake connects young children with the natural world.

28 — Chocolate Cravings Savor that classic Valentine gift in many forms at these local shops.

citiessouthmag.com

Photo: Courtesy of Pahl’s Market

PAGE 1 0

R.F. MOELLER Jeweler

Family owned & operated in the Twin Cities since 1951.

50th & France ◆ Highland Park ◆ RFMoeller.com

5

FROM THE EDITOR LIZ P OTAS E K — LIZ @LOCA LMEDIA .CO

W

hen my husband, 6-month-old daughter and I moved “south of the river” from Minneapolis about 10 years ago, we were looking for one thing: A shorter commute to work for my husband, but we were quickly charmed by the bigger yards, beautiful parks and excellent schools. Since then, our family has almost doubled in size (we added two more daughters to the mix), and we’ve fallen in love with the area.

As a longtime writer and editor, I’ve often longed to tell stories of the inspiring people and unique places that I discovered on my daily treks around town. So when I heard about a new magazine covering Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake, I jumped at the chance to work on it. In this issue and those that follow, I look forward to highlighting the best of our community, including the restaurants, shops, recreation opportunities and events that make living here so special, as well as the artists, designers, volunteers, philanthropists and entrepreneurs, who we’re proud to call neighbors.

But I can’t do it without you! If you have story ideas or thoughts to share, please drop me a line at liz@localmedia.co to offer your input and feedback about our new publication.

One Magazine | Four Communities

Photo: Chris Emeott

Welcome to our new publications—the Cities South Collection, which will spotlight the communities of Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake.

We proudly will feature the name of each community on its own magazine cover, while featuring content from the entire area within our pages.

Join us in celebrating all these unique and vibrant communities.

On the Cover Elizabeth Ries, photo by Chris Emeott, page 18 See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town!

Cities South @citiessouthmag @CitiesSouthMag

6

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

bonfe.com VOL. 1 NO. 1 citiessouthmag.com

6,000+ Reviews

publisher Susan Isay

editor Liz Potasek

managing creative director Renée Stewart-Hester

managing editor Hailey Almsted

digital editor Madeline Kopiecki

copy editors Kellie Doherty Sherri Hildebrandt

staff writers Zoe Deal Emily Gedde Mollee Francisco Susie Eaton Hopper Daniel Huss Hanna McDaniels Josie Smith Kristie Smith

contributing writers Rachael Perron Stacy Price

editorial interns Nicole Berglund Megan Hegenbarth

editorial advisory board Melissa Ferlaak, Valleyfair Stephanie Goldfarb, The Divine Living Space Eve Heeralall, City of Apple Valley

senior managing art director

If it breaks, leaks, sparks, clogs, or just starts making one of those weird noises…

Sarah Dovolos

art director Allison Nolden

junior designer

We’ve got you covered.

Jamie Klang

lead staff photographer Chris Emeott

production director Brittni Dye

production manager Lisa Stone

production coordinator Mimi Coz

senior account executives Brooke Beise Cynthia Hamre Sara Johnson Kathie Smith

Bonfe can help keep your home safe and comfortable. We fix broken furnaces and boilers, busted air conditioners, fried electrical systems, clogged drains, collapsed sewers and a whole host of other home headaches.

Better call

president

®

Pete Burgeson

To subscribe to Cities South Magazines, please visit: localmedia.co For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co or call 612.208.6248. ©Local, LLC 2023.

All rights reserved.

612-430-6112 PLUMBING | HEATING | cooling | ELECTRICAL | sewer 7

N OT E WO RT H Y

local t i p s , t i d b i t s & in sig h ts

VENTURES

Chocolate Therapy Chocolate is more than a sweet treat at

offerings and the heart-shaped Hot Pepper

Masterpiece Chocolates—it’s an art form.

Dark. When an ingredient can’t be found in

Dale and Linda Lokkesmoe opened the choc-

their backyard, they turn to farmers mar-

olate shop at Southfork Shopping Center in

kets and enjoy partnering with other small

Lakeville in October of 2021. When Dale sold

businesses. “It’s important for us to use the

his Lakeville psychology clinic in 2020, they

freshest ingredients possible,” Dale says.

embarked on a new venture. “What I’m doing

TA S T E

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Now certified chocolatiers, the

is very different, but it’s kind of like chocolate

Lokkesmoes bring both creative and techni-

therapy, you know?” Dale says.

cal expertise to their craft. “It’s been great

Masterpiece Chocolates imports choco-

to use both of our creative sides for what

late from Belgium and directly from cacao

we do,” Dale says. The pair work together

farms in Ecuador and Peru. Chocolates are

to concoct flavors and design each new

hand-crafted on-site and are free of gluten,

truffle. “Between Linda and I, we’re a pretty

nuts, eggs and preservatives. Additional

good team,” Dale says. —Zoe Deal

ingredients, like spices, fruits and berries, are locally and sustainably sourced. Its top-

Masterpiece Chocolates

selling Raspberry Dark Chocolate Truffle

17697 Kenwood Trail, Lakeville

is made with produce from the Lokkesmoes’

612.979.5154

garden—so are each of the three mint

masterpiecechocolates.com

My husband learned early on in our relationship that I had serious skills in the kitchen.

I learned early on that he loved any pasta dish with chicken in it. This Valentine’s Day, our 31st together, I plan to make him this internet favorite and serve it with a simple green salad and a bottle of buttery chardonnay.

Whether you call it by its popular name, Marry Me Chicken, with this dish. Serve it over a bed of imported Italian linguine for soaking up all the delicious, creamy sauce.

Rachael Perron is the culinary and brand director for Kowalski’s Markets, where she specializes in product development and selection, culinary education and communications.

Find the recipe for Marry Me Chicken at citiessouthmag.com and more at kowalskis.com.

8

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

Photos: Chris Emeott, Kowalski’s Markets

or not, you’re sure to fall in love

READ

Page Turners MEXICAN GOTHIC

New Villa Neighborhood in Prior Lake

BY SILVIA MORENO-GARCIA Moreno-Garcia’s novel follows young Noemí Taboada in Mexico City in the 1950s, who is called to help her cousin in a mysterious estate where there is more than meets the eye in terms of family members and motives. Fans of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca will find connections to the suspense and gothic horror elements of this novel.

MURDER ON THE RED RIVER

BY MARCIE R. RENDON A young Ojibwe woman named Renee “Cash” Blackbear in the 1970s Red River Valley becomes an amateur crime sleuth as the body of a man is found in a local field. Using her knowledge of the land, her intuition and insight and her connection to her heritage, Cash works with her friend, Sheriff Wheaton, to put the pieces together. The novel’s heroine is tough, intelligent and sensitive as she navigates cultural prejudices and the pain of her own past.

THE WATER CURE

BY SOPHIE MACKINTOSH Three sisters are raised by their father on an island, shutting out the world and taught to fear men. One day, their father is gone, and the sisters must figure out what they will do alone,

• Model Open: Thurs - Mon 12 - 5 pm • Starting in the Mid $900’s • Cty Rd 21 & Cty Rd 42

Tracey Riess 612-860-3065

until three men appear on the island and their world is turned upside down. This novel explores feminist themes with elements of inspiration from The Handmaid’s Tale and Lord of the Flies.

Stacy Price is an adult services librarian at Heritage Library in Lakeville. Read more at co.dakota.mn.us.

MN Lic.#1220

info@ronclark.com | RonClark.com Prices subject to change without notice.

9

FROM FIELD TO PLATE in less than 48 hours, local farms get their food directly onto the dinner tables of local families thanks to the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model.

CSAs provide customers (or members) with a steady variety of fresh, locally grown produce throughout the growing season while guaranteeing farmers an income, even if the season doesn’t go entirely as planned. CSA memberships come in a variety of sizes, and some farms even provide additional deliveries of eggs, bread, honey, flowers or meat.

This is a great time of year to sign up for a CSA share. We found three local farms with drop sites in Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake: Pahl’s Market

THE MENU

Eating Local Community Supported Agriculture programs shorten the route from farm to table.

By Kristie Smith

10

Apple Valley is home to Pahl’s Market, where the farm was settled in the late 1970s after its start in Bloomington at the turn of the century. With more than 1,200 acres, Pahl’s Market is one of the biggest sweet corn growers in the state, sixth generation farmer and production manager Jack Pahl says. “It’s our ninth year offering a CSA, where we like to use our staples and also include variety in our weekly boxes,” Pahl says.

While Pahl’s Market might be known for its delicious corn, there’s a lot of variety to be found in each CSA box.

“We try to do three items people are familiar with, like green beans, bell peppers and potatoes, and three to four items that people will need to stretch a little, oddball stuff like kohlrabi, swiss chard,” Pahl says.

Pahl’s Market picks and cools the produce on Tuesdays and packs and delivers on Wednesdays and Thursdays to 29 pick-up sites for members. The farm offers three share sizes. CSA members are also invited out to the farm on select days throughout the season.

Untiedt’s Vegetable Farm

Delivers to: Eagan and Lakeville Sign up: Shares became available in

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

Photo: Courtesy of Untiedt's Vegetable Farm

Delivers to: Apple Valley, Eagan and Lakeville Sign up: Sign up is open at pahls.com.

It’s more than just a cookie...

November and are available until they sell out. Register online at untiedts.com.

After 52 years of farming in Waverly, Minnesota, Untiedt’s Vegetable Farm has become a familiar grower to many across the Twin Cities. For the past 11 seasons, Untiedt’s has been supplying CSA opportunities. Its use of high tunnels (a type of tall greenhouse) is a game changer, according to Untiedt’s marketing director Jenna Untiedt. “High tunnels help us mitigate some of the risks associated with farming, and they also help extend the growing season on the front and back end of the season by a couple of weeks,” Untiedt says. “We are not an organic farm, but we try to use as many sustainable efforts as possible. We believe that we are borrowing land from future generations, so it is extremely important to keep the soil as healthy as possible.”

Shares are delivered on Tuesdays to stops across the Metro beginning in mid-June through about mid-October.

cookiecart.org

You have countless options.

Waxwing Farm

Delivers to: Apple Valley, Lakeville and Prior Lake Sign up: Shares become available in February and are available until they sell out. Register online at waxwingfarm.com.

Waxwing Farm, located in Webster, Minnesota, keeps its focus on understanding the needs of its members when growing and selling produce. “During the pandemic, people were worried about food supply shortages and staying close to home,” Waxwing Farm coowner Anna Racer says. “A lot of people joined then and were brand new to the concept of CSAs. We started with 25 shares in 2011, and a lot of those members are still with us today.”

After 12 years, Racer says her farm grows 40 crops, and shoppers can purchase half or full CSA shares. Full shares are delivered for 16 weeks on Wednesdays, and half-shares are every other week, throughout summer and fall. Home delivery and farm pick-up are available, giving Racer and her husband, Pete Skold, the chance to get to know their members even better.

We have one responsibility: To serve as your financial steward and help you use your wealth to accomplish your goals.

Visit carlsoncap.com/steward and we’ll take it from there.

See Carlson Capital Management’s Form ADV Part 2A for a complete summary of services and a discussion of the limitations on services.

11

A R T S & C U LT U R E

Path to Healing Eagan artist Sheila Bayle finds peace creating wearable art.

SIX YEARS AGO, Sheila Bayle made

a life-changing decision: “I was ready to go and be a full-time artist,” she says.

She spent a year wrapping up her full-time job, figuring out the financial logistics of pursuing her beadwork and discussing the plan with her husband.

In 2017, she officially made the leap.

Then she got life changing news. “Sadly in 2018, my late husband was diagnosed with ALS,” Bayle says. “The good news is that I was able to work at home in the rare hours I was able to work.”

Bayle, who lives in Eagan, is thankful for the neighbors, friends and family who helped her take care of her husband during his last few years of life. In 2020, he passed away, and Bayle found herself at another crossroads, wondering whether or not to continue pursuing her art or to move on. A good friend of hers encouraged her to “go after it,” and she says that advice is among the best advice she was

12

ever given. “It’s kept me going,” she says.

“Losing a spouse is very hard. Watching someone die of ALS is abysmal … I could just go down into my studio for just an hour and really focus on something that was really important to me. In some ways, my art is my path to healing.”

Bayle was put on the path to beadwork when she was a young girl. She remembers sitting in a church pew with her parents at Holy Rosary Church in Minneapolis and turning around to find a Native American woman with long, gray hair wearing an intricately-beaded medallion. “I just remember being fascinated,” Bayle says. “Not long thereafter, I wandered over to the traditional dime store near my parents house in south Minneapolis and found tubes of beads.

I learned in Girl Scouts to build a small loom, and I still have it. I still work with it.”

That early interest in beading was eventually put on the back burner by

the usual suspects—college, career and kids—but she returned to it in the early 1990s when a beading class reignited her passion. “I started doing small, quick projects, like earrings and bracelets,” she says. “I was giving them away as gifts, and people said, ‘Well, do you sell them somewhere?’”

Since online shopping was still in its infancy, Bayle started doing one to two art shows per year in 1993, slipping shows in as much as she was able while continuing to work full time.

Since leaving her full-time job to focus on beadwork, Bayle continues to do art shows, as it gives her direct feedback from customers, and is starting to dabble in online sales.

Bayle doesn’t have any formal art training in design or color theory; instead she draws inspiration from colors and designs she finds in nature. “What I did was just put a pile of beads down and

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

Photos: Sheila Bayle

By Liz Potasek

home

rei m agi ned.

INTERIOR IMPRESSIONS

www.interiorimpressions.org 651-337-2184

figure out how to weave it,” she says, of finding her artistic voice. “It was more instinctive to start with. A lot of it was freeform. Then I started to be interested in making shapes and forms.”

Bayle makes what she calls a “beaded bead,” which is a larger bead made up of smaller beads, and creates pieces with unique shapes using different bead types. She also loves exploring different color palettes, often taking her work outside to see how light changes each piece. “Glass beads come in any shapes, any sizes and colors, and so it’s like painting,” Bayle says. “All of the elements that go into making a painting interesting can also go into beading.”

Subscribe to your community’s magazine or purchase additional copies at loc alm e dia .co

Redhawk Beadwork @sheilabayle

13

Photos: Elizabeth Zimmerman

ENLIGHTEN

Crisp, Cool Learning An outdoor preschool connects young children with the natural world.

By Emily Gedde

14

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

FEBRUARY’S FALLING TEMPERATURES doesn’t mean outdoor play

stops. In fact, a local learning center encourages it. The nature-based Circle of Friends Nature Preschool at Jeffers Pond Elementary in Prior Lake follows the motto, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”

“Winter will be here every year, and we will always have cold days. We can choose to embrace them and have more happy days instead of dwelling on the negative,” says Annie Thoraldson, Circle of Friends Nature Preschool teacher.

“While we are outside on cold days, we make sure that everyone is staying very active. Movement helps build up our body heat, keeping us warmer. We build snowmen and all sorts of snow creations, we go snowshoeing, we spend a day ice fishing on our pond and we go sledding.”

The Circle of Friends Nature Preschool option was the first nature preschool offering in the south Metro area. Thoraldson, a 10-year Nature Preschool veteran, says those involved in the program are proud to be a public preschool that offers this option for families.

“We believe in the importance of making sure nature-based programs are accessible and affordable to all,” she says.

Research by University of Minnesota –Duluth professor Julie Ernst supports the importance of nature play in childhood development. Ernst’s studies show that spending time in nature increases children’s curiosity, creativity, resilience and executive functioning. In response to Ernst’s research, the university recently introduced a bachelor of applied sciences degree in childhood nature studies.

As an added benefit, teachers at Circle of Friends Nature Preschool have found that the format also meets the needs of a wide range of students. Playing and interacting in a natural environment has

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.

www.EspeciallyforChildren.com | 952.857.1100

Child Development Centers

Follow us on Instagram where we

S TAY CO N N EC T E D A N D C E L E B R AT E C ITI E S S O U T H @ C ITI E S S O U T H M AG showcase local people, places and events.

15

16

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

TAKE IT OUTSIDE Outdoor nature play or nature-based learning has many benefits, including: • Increased focus, imagination and creativity • Problem-solving skills • Movement and physical activity • Appreciation for nature

Teachers at Circle of Friends Nature Preschool encourage students to love all seasons—even winter. Here are a few simple outdoor activities to try on chilly days: • Try to be the only one to make footprints in the snow. Did an animal beat you to it?

• Find “the warmest” place to play based on the direction of the wind.

• Build little shelters using snow and found materials.

shown to be calming for students who might otherwise struggle in a traditional classroom setting, says Erin Metoxen, Early Learning coordinator. “It gives children a different way of learning,” she says. “Every kid should have the opportunity to at least try it.”

Before venturing outdoors during the coldest months of the year, Thoraldson says she and her colleagues check to ensure all students are dressed appropriately, noting she has a full closet full of warm gear, just in case. “On very cold days, we dress like nature ninjas,” Thoraldson says. “We only have our eyes showing. We wear neck gaiters or scarves to protect our cheeks.”

“On the coldest days, staff closely follow the National Weather Service wind chill chart and are mindful to stay outside for safe amounts of time,” Thoraldson says.

Learn more about outdoor education at education.mn.gov.

Circle of Friends Nature Preschool, 5304 Westwood Drive SE, Prior Lake; 952.226.0950; priorlake-savage.ce.eleyo.com

17

WRITTEN BY LIZ POTASEK PHOTOS BY CHRIS EMEOTT

18

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

F O LLO W IN G TWIN CITIES LIVE HOST ELIZABETH RIES RECALLS AN IDYLLIC CHILDHOOD.

H ER

D REAM S For the past 14 years, Elizabeth Ries has spent her afternoons in the homes of Minnesotans, chatting with local celebrities, demonstrating recipes, visiting unique restaurants and businesses and even sharing her personal stories. As the co-host of Twin Cities Live weekdays on KSTP-TV, viewers see Ries as friendly and approachable, and as a co-executive producer of the show, she’s responsible for its content and feel—two roles that she says make up her dream job.

And her career all started with a class at Apple Valley High School. “I was so supported at Apple Valley High School to just follow my dreams,” she says.

Ries’s family moved to Apple Valley when she was in first grade. Her father started Messiah Lutheran Church, which met at Cedar Park Elementary,

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

where Ries also went to school. (Messiah Lutheran has since moved to Lakeville.)

Ries remembers an ideal childhood, building forts and tree houses, exploring the wooded areas around Lake Lac Lavon and biking to what was then George’s Market (now it’s a Flowerama) to buy Bubble Tape and Clearly Canadian. “I just remember having a lot of freedom,” Ries says.

“I remember feeling really safe, and I remember having really good neighborhood friends. It was a really wonderful community to grow up in.”

In high school, Ries pursued journalism as the editor of the school newspaper, but it was the mentorship seminar that she credits as being pivotal to her success today. Through the class, Ries researched a field of interest (TV journalism in her case), and she was paired

19

“[TH E MENTORSHIP SEMINAR] WAS ABSOLUTELY CRUCIAL TO MY SUCCESS. I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO STEP INTO A TV STATION AND TO BE LIKE ‘OH, MY GOSH, THIS IS WHAT FE ELS LIKE HOME TO ME.’” ELIZABETH RIES

with a mentor, which is how 16-year-old Ries ended up being mentored by Amelia Santaniello at WCCO-TV. Ries drove to downtown Minneapolis three times a week for a trimester to learn from Santaniello and explore TV journalism.

“It was absolutely crucial to my success,” she says. “I had the opportunity to step into a TV station and to be like, ‘Oh, my gosh, this is what feels like home to me.’”

Ries remembers loving the ability to tell stories and connect with viewers through TV. After graduating from Apple Valley High School in 1999, Ries earned a bachelor of arts degree in journalism and political science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She worked in “hard news” for about seven years before

20

transitioning into lifestyle journalism and joining Twin Cities Live in June 2009.

“In June, I’ll have worked in television for 20 years. Isn’t that wild? To get to that point!” she muses with charming approachability. “I’m like a real grown up … They’re right when they say it’s so much better when you get older.

All those people are right.”

When Ries started Twin Cities Live, she was single and in her late 20s, and she’s shared her life with viewers for the past 14 years, as she’s gotten married, had three children and hit 40.

She’s even opened her kitchen through her Home to Homestead blog, featuring her own recipes, and regular appearances on Minnesota Live, KSTP’s morning show. Each Wednesday, Ries does

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

21

“ I GET TO CO NNECT WITH PEOPLE AND SHOWCASE WHAT’S GREAT AB O U T T HE COMMUNITY.” ELIZABE T H RI E S

a live shot from her kitchen and shares a seasonal recipe or cooking technique.

She also co-hosts a podcast, Best to the Nest, with Margery Punnett about bringing your best self to your home and family. “[It’s about] how to make home your sanctuary and safe landing place,” Ries says. “We talk about it being a journey, not a destination, because we’re both still working on it.”

As one would imagine, Ries’ homelife is busy. She calls Minneapolis home and is thankful for her “no commute” lifestyle (work is only a seven-minute drive away).

With three young children and a demanding schedule, Ries epitomizes the busy, working mom, dialing into meetings as she chauffeurs children through their morning school routine and organizing her day so that she’s always ready to be “on” from 3–4:30 p.m. for the program.

While she readily admits that there are hard days, Ries just loves her work.

When longtime co-host Steve Patterson left Twin Cities Live in 2021, Ries says it did prompt her to reflect on the future of her career and if she’d ever consider leaving the show. “There was definitely some time there that I started to think, ‘Boy, do I want to keep doing this? Where am I at?’” she says. “But I really love it. And even when it’s hard, it’s great … I just don’t take for granted that I get to connect with people and showcase what’s great about the community that I was born and raised in. It’s a big deal.”

22

Home to Homestead; hometohomestead.com Podcast: Best to the Nest; podcastone.com/best-to-the-nest-with-margery-and-elizabeth Elizabeth Ries

@elizries

Twin Cities Live; 3–4:30 p.m. weekdays on KSTP 5 Eyewitness News; kstp.com/twin-cities-live Twin Cities Live

@twincitieslive

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

40 BUY ONE, GET ONE

%

TAKE AN ADDITIONAL

AND

OFF Windows and Doors

AND

1

Minimum purchase of 4.

200

$

OFF each

window and door.1 Minimum purchase of 4.

$0 Money Down | $0 Interest | $0 Monthly Payments for 12 months1 Minimum purchase of 4. Interest accrues from the date of purchase but is waived if paid in full within 12 months.

TESTED, TRUSTED, AND TOTALLY PROVEN. 2

“My overall experience was great. I love the window, and from sales to scheduling, the experience was very good.

The installers are highly skilled professionals and I would recommend Renewal by Andersen to all my contacts.”

LYNN F. | RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN CUSTOMER

KEEP THE HEAT IN AND THE COLD AIR OUT! Solving your window problems and having a comfortable home is easy and enjoyable when you choose Renewal

by Andersen. Take advantage of this great offer to save money on your window project – and help save on high energy bills for years to come!

49%

2 CIENT MORE EFFI

Keep the heat in and the cold out.

Hurry! Call Today!

Nation's Best Warranty†

Schedule your FREE consultation.

651-370-9962 renewalbyandersen.com

DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 3/31/2023. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Buy one (1) window or entry/patio door, get one (1) window or entry/patio door 40% off, and 12 months $0 money down, $0 monthly payments, 0% interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 2/1/2023 and 3/31/2023. 40% off windows and entry/patio doors are less than or equal to lowest cost window or entry/patio door in the order.

Additional $200 off your purchase, minimum purchase of four (4) required, taken after initial discount(s), when you purchase by 3/31/2023. 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. ‡Review aggregator survey of 5-star reviews among leading full service window replacement companies. December 2020 Reputation. †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. 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 *Using U.S. and imported parts.

1

23

Travel in Style SHOP LOCAL FOR ON-TREND PIECES TO PACK ON YOUR SPRING BREAK. Written by Mollee Francisco Photos by Chris Emeott

While vacation may mean to vacate one’s normal life, there is no need to sacrifice style or comfort when traveling this spring. With the help of local boutiques, we’ve selected pieces that will help you reach your destination looking chic and relaxed.

INDULGE BOUTIQUE Indulge Boutique has been a mainstay in Eagan for 15 years. Sue Korkowski was such a fan of the store that when the opportunity came to purchase it four years ago, she left her job in nursing and took the leap. “It’s always been a lifelong dream of mine,” she says.

“I’ve always loved fashion.” Korkowski says she likes to bring in pieces that are versatile and appeal to a wide demographic. She carries a mix of comfortable, casual clothes alongside dressier

24

pieces, perfect for a business meeting or date night. Korkowski is thoughtful when she goes to market to stock her store. “I touch everything,” she says.

“I make sure that fabrics have the stretch, the coziness that my customers are looking for. I think about that customer that wants to keep their arms covered or that customer that’s always cold. Customers are truly valued here.”

Zaket & Plover Zip-Up Hoodie One touch and this super soft zip-up hoodie will have you hooked. With a blend of 95 percent cotton and 5 percent cashmere, this sweater has a fantastic texture that oozes supreme comfort. The zip-up style makes it easy to throw on alone or layer over a tank top or a tee. Its simple design incorporates wardrobe staples gray, black and

white, but with a trendy pop of color on the sleeves and ties. It’s perfect for dressing up with jeans or keeping casual on the plane over yoga pants.

Available at Indulge Boutique. $159.99 Tribal Sweater What better way to welcome spring than with this vertical striped sweater from Tribal. Offered in contrasting shades of oatmeal, tan and pink, this casual sweater brightens up the black and white scene. At 85 percent cotton, the sweater is cozy, soft and breathable, making it as easy to wear as it is to pack.

Available at Indulge Boutique. $99 Indulge Boutique, 1095 Diffley Road, Eagan; 651.454.3900; indulgemn.com Indulge Boutique @indulgeboutiquemn

Zaket & Plover Zip-Up Hoodie, Indulge Boutique, $159.99. Above right: Submarine Beltbag, Wild Ruffle, $98. Below right: Tribal Sweater, Indulge Boutique, $99.

WILD RUFFLE Wild Ruffle has been through quite the evolution since its launch 11 years ago.

What began as Cate Mezyk’s lifestyle blog and pop-up jewelry shop in 2011 quickly turned into an online shop and then a brick-and-mortar store in downtown Prior Lake in 2014. With the addition of clothing designer Tammy Hiveley, Wild Ruffle built a dedicated customer base through regular fashion segment appearances on Twin Cities Live and the Fox 9 Morning Show. When its lease was not renewed last summer, the team decided to head back to the internet, changing its focus exclusively to online sales. Wild Ruffle maintains a warehouse space in Prior Lake that offers a local pickup option for customers and will play host to the occasional shopping event. Though they aren’t manning

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

a storefront, Hiveley and Mezyk maintain an active online presence with plenty of try-on videos showcasing their merchandise. “We make a big effort to find real life people in a variety of sizes,” says Mezyk. She says that their niche is that casual everyday look for women.

“We work hard to find things on trend, but age appropriate,” she says.

Submarine Beltbag This versatile genuine leather beltbag is the ideal accessory for travel with an adjustable leather strap, allowing it to be worn around the waist or across the body. The slim-fit style is comfortable enough to keep the bag on throughout the day’s adventures while the main zippered compartment is sized to fit all the basic necessities, including a phone, small wallet, lipstick and keys. Available in

two colors—cognac and black—this beltbag adds a sophisticated pop to any outfit. Available at Wild Ruffle. $98 Wild Ruffle, 15981 Jordan Ave. SE, Prior Lake; 952.381.7405; wildruffle.com Wild Ruffle Wild Ruffle

@wildruffle @wildruffle

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE Mainstream Boutique in Apple Valley is the flagship store of a nationwide franchise with about 80 locations and counting. “We’re always testing new things,” says store manager Mac DeNicola Ketterling. “Many of our designs come from hands-on work with the customers and seeing what fits best for them.”

Founded by Marie DeNicola (Mac’s mom), the store celebrated its 31st anniversary last fall with throwback photos of the

25

Mac and Me Jeans, Mainstream Boutique, $68–$98.

tie-dye jumpsuit that put them on the map. Today, the store carries stylish, classic pieces that appeal to a wide range of ages. While the styles have changed, the mission hasn’t: “We haven’t wavered from our mission since the beginning—to love the women that walk through our doors,” DeNicola Ketterling says. “And that in itself is timeless. We hope you feel loved, strengthened and celebrated every time you stop in or shop with us online.”

Mac and Me Jeans These jeans, part of a clothing line designed exclusively for Mainstream Boutique with input from founder DeNicola and DeNicola Ketterling, are known for their buttery, soft material and ability to enhance a wide range of body shapes. They also pack well and play nice with a variety of different tops. Available at Mainstream Boutique. $68-$98 Mainstream Boutique, 15322 Galaxie Ave. Suite 115, Apple Valley; 952.423.7469; mainstreamboutique.com Mainstream Boutique Apple Valley @mainstreamboutiqueapplevalley

Your Logo Here.

Your Photo Here.

You’ll be in great company with fellow Local small business owners when you join “Vocal About Local,” our exclusive special section.

Business Name Address Phone Number Website

Family owned and operated for over 40 years. The experienced team at 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 with us as welcoming and comfortable as possible.

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

O N T H E TOW N

th in g s to se e a n d d o in and aro und o ur c o m m unity

HOT DATES FOR CHILLY NIGHTS Raise your heart rate with outdoor evening events at Lebanon Hills Regional Park. under the stars this year with special evening events at Lebanon Hills Regional Park.

Whether you want to celebrate on February 14 (it’s a Tuesday this year) or save the festivities for the following Friday, here are two activities sure to get your heart pumping:

CELEB R ATE VA LEN TI N E’ S DAY

Valentine Snowshoe

Join one of the park naturalists at Lebanon Hills Regional Park for a guided hike in the moonlight on February 14.

“It is a way to enjoy a holiday outside,” says Autumn Hubbell, outdoor education supervisor at Dakota County Parks. “It can be the most intimate thing to do.” At the end of the night, there will be a bonfire and hot cocoa for everyone to enjoy.

Trails by Candlelight Valentine Snowshoe | 6:30–8 p.m. February 14; $15/person (open to ages 16 and over).

Trails by Candlelight | 6–9 p.m. February 17; $8/person (open to all ages).

Lebanon Hills Regional Park, 860 Cliff Road, Eagan; 651.554.6530; co.dakota.mn.us

Compiled by Nicole Berglund and Megan Hegenbarth

Choose your own adventure—on cross country skis, snowshoes or ice skates—at this event for the entire family on February 17.

Luminaries dot the paths, lighting the way on ski, snowshoe and ice skating trails. “The park is at its coziest during the candlelight event,” Hubbell says. “There are hundreds [and] hundreds of candles. It’s just magical.” There will also be bonfires around the park and hot cocoa. —Megan Hegenbarth

Snowshoe the Ritter 5K 02/04 Grab your snowshoes or ice traction

and 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Viking Lakes, 2645 Vikings Circle, Eagan; explorevikinglakes.com

shoes for this 5K. The race course leads LOCAL EVENTS

participants through trails highlighting

Kenny Wayne

the beauty of Ritter Farm Park. All ages.

03/19

$40. 10 a.m. Ritter Farm Park, 19300 Ritter Parkway Trail, Lakeville; raceentry.com/ snowshoe-the-ritter/race-information

Air Supply 02/03

Photo: Courtesy of Dakota County Parks

Get ready for soft rock from an Australian duo at Mystic Lake Casino

The Amazing Gnip Gnop Circus

Hotel. Ages 18 and over. Starting from $75. 8 p.m. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. NW, Prior Lake; 800.262.7799; mysticlake.com

02/10

Sing along with Kenny Wayne for his 25th Anniversary Tour at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. Ages 18 and over. Starting

from $34. 8 p.m. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. NW, Prior Lake; 800.262.7799; mysticlake.com

This glow-in-the-dark ping pong ball circus features acrobats, tightrope walkers, clowns and more. Ages

To have your event considered:

3 and over. Free. 1:30–2 p.m. Galaxie Library, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley; 612.724.1435; zpuppets.org

email citiessouthmag@localmedia.co

festival, featuring fireworks, music,

Winter SKOLstice

Due to the fluidity being experienced

food and activities. Music starts at

Through 2/19

in the current environment, please note

5 p.m., and fireworks start at 7 p.m.

Embrace the winter’s chill with ice skat-

that some events/dates and even some

All ages. Free. 3–7 p.m. Johnny Cake Ridge Park West, 14255 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley; applevalleymn.gov

ing, pond hockey tournaments, curling

business operations may have changed

demonstrations and the Minnesota Ice

since these pages went to print. Please

Maze. All ages. 4–10 p.m. Monday–Friday

visit affiliated websites for updates.

Mid-Winter Fest 02/04

by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

Embrace the elements at this free

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

27

TA S T E M A K E R S

Bakery at Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar

Chocolate Cravings Savor that classic Valentine gift in many forms at these local shops.

Written by Zoe Deal

28

Photos by Chris Emeott

Edelweiss Bakery

Abdallah Candies

F EB RUA RY IS CHO COL AT E SEASON . If there’s ever

a time to indulge in a sweet treat, it’s the month of enduring love, snow and cold. There are so many ways to enjoy one of the world’s favorite flavors—from Valentine’s Day chocolate boxes and fluffy macarons to warming winter hot chocolates and flaky chocolate croissants. And with a plethora of area shops selling locally made chocolate treats in a variety of forms, there’s nothing stopping us—or you.

To get you in the chocolate mood (if it’s even possible to not be), we’ve put together a list of some standout bakeries, cafes and chocolatiers that you should put on your radar this year.

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

— Edelweiss Bakery —

For 17 years, Edelweiss Bakery has brought European-style baked goods to the corner of Dakota and Main streets in Prior Lake. This award-winning company, known around town for its caramel rolls and lemon blueberry scones, doesn’t hold anything back when it comes to chocolate. The chocolate croissants are painstakingly crafted layer by flaky layer each morning, with bakers coming in as early as 2 a.m. to hand-make Edelweiss’ classically made goods for the morning rush.

“I never shy away in telling anyone, this is a really hard job … but I just love it,” says owner Laurie Lin. “There’s just something

29

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

TA S T E M A K E R S

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

about working with your hands, creating something, watching people come through and enjoy it, and it brings a smile to their face. Especially with everything that’s going on in the world, just that simple joy of people coming in and getting a great cup of coffee and a pastry and sitting down and having conversation with somebody and knowing that you’re providing that space for them, I really just love it.”

Since Lin and her husband, Joe, took the helm in January of 2019, Edelweiss has kept all of the best of its original menu and mission, with a few updates. Display cases now include rows of colorful French macarons, scones and decadent cakes among a classic assortment of chocolate donuts. Whatever time of day, visitors to Edelweiss will be tempted to sit and stay awhile, partnering its sweets with a latte or savory meal.

Edelweiss rebranded in 2022, giving its cafe space a facelift and expanding hours with an evening wine bar concept that includes small plates, grazing boards, wine and beer. “We have a whole new look and a whole new logo and, yeah, people are really excited about it!” Lin says. Weekend visitors can often be met with lines stretching down the sidewalk. Though those who are in the know order their favorites online at the beginning of the week to skip the line on Saturdays.

Edelweiss Bakery, 16186 Main Ave SE #102, Prior Lake; 952.440.2773; edelweissbakerypl.square.site Edelweiss Bakery – Prior Lake, MN

— Abdallah Candies —

Each chocolate and confection at Abdallah Candies in Apple Valley holds a legacy of perseverance. For more than a century, family has been at the heart of its operations. Original crafter and Lebanese native Albert Abdallah made his way in Minneapolis through his candies, perfecting recipes and building a lasting business. Today, fourth-generation family owners Karen and Steve Hegedus continue in Abdallah’s legacy with small-batch candy making, pure ingredients and a few of Abdallah’s original copper kettles—all found at the factory and gift shop in Apple Valley.

From its home base, the Abdallah staff craft and sell more than 200 varieties of candies to locals and fans nationwide.

Even after 42 years at Abdallah, gift shop manager Judith Florio is still as much a lover of chocolate as ever. “I honestly don’t have a favorite,” Florio says, “I used to say there’s one that I don’t care for, but since that time, I’ve decided that’s ridiculous, and I have gotten to love and appreciate it, too.” Some of the shop’s top sellers include whipping cream truffles, nut clusters and sea salt caramel chocolates. Visitors can choose from a selection of candies and assorted boxes. Abdallah also offers hand-packed

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

boxes where customers may select pieces from the display case to fill a box of their choosing. Come Valentine’s Day, Abdallah will offer heart-shaped boxes as well. And gift-wrapping is always complimentary.

“One of the favorite sayings that came down from Mr. Abdallah through the generations is that it’s delicious on purpose,” Florio says. “... Everybody that’s involved with it— whether it be the owner or his family or the people that are working at it—they all realize that where they’re working is pretty special, and they work hard to produce something that is a quality candy.”

Abdallah Candies, 6075 147th St. W., Apple Valley; 952.890.4770; abdallahcandies.com Abdallah Candies

@abdallahcandies

— Bakery at Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar —

Enjoying a chocolate cupcake is just one way to experience the Bakery at Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar (formerly known as Cupcake Bakery) at Thomas Lake Center in Eagan. With a quaint setting and modern décor, Bakery patrons can enjoy a coffee and conversation along with a sweet treat.

When it comes to sweets, cupcakes are the main event. Since 2004, the bakery’s artisanal cupcakes have been the talk of the town, garnering many local and national awards, including the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars. Some chocolate standouts include cup o’ mud, a rich chocolate cake topped with chocolate mousse and rolled in Oreo crumbs, and handle caramel, a chocolate cupcake filled with caramel sauce, topped with caramel mousse and dipped in dark chocolate ganache. The bakery also offers an assortment of gluten-free and vegan options, including a gluten-free raspberry chocolate cupcake and vegan grasshopper cupcake. “We try to ensure we always have something for everything,” says Ryan Mayer, chief marketing officer at Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar. “We offer five flavors of vegan cupcakes, four flavors of gluten-free cupcakes and all 15 flavors of our French macarons are always naturally gluten-free.” Cupcakes can be purchased in-store or ordered ahead of time for store pickup or local delivery. Other options for chocolate lovers will come in the form of French macarons (including a white chocolate lavender flavor), mousse cups, Sebastian Joe’s ice cream and rotating pastries.

Bakery at Mason Jar Kitchen & Bar, 1565 Cliff Road Suite 1, Eagan; 651.340.7809; masonjar.kitchen/bakery.com Mason Jar Kitchen

@masonjarkitchenandbar

31

LAST GLANCE

By Liz Potasek

Sunshine on Snow Wayne Moran captures the beauty after a winter storm.

PH OTOGRA P HER WAYN E M OR A N of Eagan is always looking for

the next stunning shot. On his frequent walks throughout Lebanon Hills Regional Park, he notes beautiful compositions and then makes plans to return with his camera when the lighting is “just so” or after a fresh snow.

“It’s important to go out when there’s interesting light,” he says, explaining the inspiration behind this picture taken at Lebanon Hills in 2013.

“It was pristine and beautiful. A storm had just blown through.”

Moran, who is a software engineer by trade, has always had a passion for photography and built a following online through Flickr and Instagram (@waynemoranphotography), where he has more than 88,000 followers.

In addition to his day job as an engineer, Moran also works as a travel writer and photographer and a photography teacher.

32

Have you taken a beautiful or interesting photo that highlights our communities of Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake? Send the photo, along with your contact information and a few sentences about the image, to editor Liz Potasek at liz@localmedia.co. And watch for details about our first photo contest, launching July 1!

February/March 2023

citiessouthmag.com

Inspiration Begins in Our Dign Showr L E T ’ S C R E AT E Y O U R D R E A M S T O D AY

MN LIC. BC627402

MN LIC. BC627402

EDINA DESIGN SHOWROOM

5009 FRANCE AV S | 952 999 •7720 | ISPiRI.com

Learn to live without back and neck pain.

Start at Summit.

EASY TO START

EASY TO BE SEEN

EASY TO GET CARE

Online scheduling

No referrals needed

Same-day appointments

SUMMITORTHO.COM