SENIOR SPOTLIGHT
The Class of 2026 is full of positivity, optimism and leadership
“My approach is really about the whole student. They’re really reaching out to find out who they are and to find their people. We try to keep that as our north star, and remind ourselves that this is a fragile age. It helps to build the kids up.” —Patrick Bass, Valley View Middle School principal (page 26)
Writing Your Way to Success
Experts weigh in on how to create a compelling college application essay.
More Than a Match
Ryan and Tillman Stroud are passionate about building youth wrestling in Edina.
The Class of 2026 is full of positivity, optimism and leadership.
The Beating Heart of Global Care
An innovative program is changing the world and health care for children in need.
Valley View Middle School principal Patrick Bass builds a culture of belonging.
Where Culture Meets Coffee Càphin serves up bold brews with a Vietnamese twist.
Photo: Chris Emeott
from the EDITOR
I will never forget Djamshid Djan Popal’s eyes. He was in pain, and he was afraid. It was 2004, and I was standing outside the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) with a gaggle of reporters from various media. Djamshid was a 9-year-old boy from Afghanistan who had a heart condition and was brought to Canada for life-saving surgery. He had just landed in Ottawa and was heading to CHEO for an examination before being cleared for transport to Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Kids. The operation was a success, and Djamshid felt so much better that he asked if he could go home. But, no one ever told him or his father that Djamshid would need care for his whole life—care that wasn’t available in Afghanistan or neighboring Pakistan.
In 2021, a reporter chatted with Djamshid, now in his 20s. He said he regrets leaving Canada and is desperately trying to return. I was heartbroken when I read about that. I kept thinking of the poor 9-yearold looking scaredly from his gurney. He was given so much hope but ended up essentially lost. This raises the question: How do we help children in need and keep that continuity of care for their entire lifespan? The answer is education, which is fitting for our semiannual education issue. An Edina-based nonprofit has created an innovative system called Children’s HeartLink Centers of Excellence, where it works with doctors, nurses and even local governments on how to build heart treatment hospitals. The plan has worked in Brazil, China, India, Vietnam and is now expanding into parts of Africa (page 23).
From the international stage to the local platform, we bring you our yearly Senior Spotlight, which features three high school students who are making a difference in their schools and communities (page 14). Speaking of making a difference in schools, we also sit down with Valley View Middle School’s principal Patrick Bass and explore how he created the Valley View Vibe (page 26).
We hope this issue inspires you to learn and reach out to others in the community to show everyone how you can make a difference.
Feroza Mehta feroza@localmedia.co
On the Cover: Emme Couillard, page 14
Photo by: Chris Emeott
Photo:
Groves Academy, where students with ADHD, Dyslexia and Executive Functioning challenges discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and grow with purpose.
VOL. 21 NO. 1
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Feroza Mehta
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Jennifer Pitterle and Paige Udermann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Perrier Briggs, Sarah Davis, Emily Deutschman, Taylor Ellingson, Jess Fuentes, Daniel Green, Gregory Rich, Twila Singh, Maureen Millea Smith, Kelly Smith, Jasmine Brett Stringer and Laura Westlund
DIGITAL INTERN
Taylor Hamilton
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Alison Perrier Briggs, Edina Community Foundation ; Daphne Edwards, Edina Public Schools ; Greg Hoyt, Gather Venture Group ; Shelly Loberg, Edina Chamber of Commerce ; Rebecca Sorensen, 50th & France Business Association ; Jasmine Brett Stringer, Carpe Diem with Jasmine ; Kelly Vickers, Zimmer Design ; and Annette Wildenauer, Design Mode Studios
SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR
Sarah Dovolos
ART DIRECTOR
Allison Nolden
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR
Jamie Klang
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Yaz Lo
LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Emeott
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Brittni Dye
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Lisa Stone
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Mimi Coz
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre and Sara Johnson
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann
PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson
FAKEOUT TAKEOUT
I love takeout as much as anyone, but I do enjoy creating something a little healthier (and more affordable!) at home. My kids ask for my Honey Cashew Chicken weekly, and I’m always happy to make it for them. This takeout copycat recipe is so simple to make that my 7- and 9-year-olds help me make it. We typically serve it with white or fried rice and steamed broccoli for a well-rounded and filling meal.
For the full recipe, go to edinamag.com.
Taylor Ellingson’s blog, Greens & Chocolate, can be found at greensnchocolate.com.
Art is unique by definition, but does it need to be completely original to have value? Some argue that all art is either plagiarism or revolution—if it’s not entirely new, it’s an interpretation of someone else’s work. While there’s truth in this, it doesn’t mean that a modern cubist painting should be dismissed as merely a theft of Picasso’s ideas. Realism, impressionism and pointillism—all of these styles were created by individual artists or groups, yet no one artist owns a genre. A cubist painting today may not be the first of its kind, but that doesn’t diminish its value. Artistic movements evolve. The beauty of art lies in its growth and reinterpretation, allowing contemporary works to stand alongside the originals, contributing to an ongoing conversation that pushes creativity forward.
We are thrilled to welcome Gregory Rich, the owner of 9 Mile Gallery at The District Edina, to our View columnist team. Rich brings his unique perspective on art, community and design to our pages. For more information, go to thedistrictedina.com.
Photo: Taylor Ellingson
Art as Evolution, Not Imitation
A Powerful Teacher
Some of the most lasting lessons happen outside the classroom. During my family’s recent trip to Belize, we experienced firsthand how travel deepens our understanding of culture, history and people.
A Mayan cooking class became more than just a lesson in making tortillas—it was a hands-on experience in heritage. As we ground corn by hand and shaped tortillas over the fire, we also learned words in a Mayan language and heard stories of a culture striving to keep its traditions alive. During a Garifuna drumming lesson, we discovered how drumming evolved into a powerful tool for
cultural storytelling, preserving history through rhythm as ancestors built a thriving community in Belize.
These moments reminded us that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about truly experiencing them. When we step into another culture’s traditions, even briefly, we gain knowledge, appreciation and a deeper connection to the world.
Emily Deutschman is joining our Travel columnist team. She is known for designing culturally immersive trips that go beyond the typical tourist experience. Find more at puffinnesttravelco.com.
Step into this exquisite luxury estate with meticulously designed living spaces. Nestled in the highly sought after Wayzata Schools, this stunning property offers the perfect blend of elegance, comfort and convenience. The true showstopper of this property is the resort style backyard. Your private oasis for relaxing and entertaining. Enjoy the oversized pool, beautifully landscaped grounds and a versatile two level guest house ideal for hosting visitors, a home office or your personal retreat.
Writing Your Way to Success
Experts weigh in on how to create a compelling college application essay.
By Mollee Francisco
It’s time to write that all-important college application essay in which you try to present yourself on paper in a way that catches an admission officer’s eye, all in the space of just 650 words. It can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little practice and perseverance, those 650 words can be the catalyst to a brighter future, and there are plenty of people eager to help students get those words down.
Dylan Hackbarth is a counselor at Edina High School. Each year, he works with 70 to 90 seniors on their personal statement essays. It’s the culmination of a journey that begins in earnest in 10th grade as students are introduced to Naviance, a college, career and life
readiness curriculum designed to prepare high school students for the college application process and beyond.
Hackbarth says that by the time students are wrapping up their junior year, essay practice has begun in their English classes. “We run them through idea generating tools,” he says. One of his favorite activities involves students pairing up and spending one minute saying what they love about the other person. “Whatever comes to mind helps them get to the core of what they really value,” he says.
Having a sense of oneself is key to a successful essay. “It needs to be an introspective journey,” Hackbarth says. That can be a challenge for a 17- or 18-year-old, so he suggests creative
“It’s really an exercise of self. You want to try to write a story that no one else can write.”
Rosengren, MN College Essay Coach
Photos: Edina Zephyrus; Alison Rosengren
Alison
Alison Rosengren
Dylan Hackbarth
problem-solving exercises. “How would your dog describe you? Or, there’s a billboard with three words related to you. Take one and talk about how it shows up in your life,” he says.
Alison Rosengren is an essay coach for MN College Essay Coach, a Becker-based company that offers personal coaching and group boot camps designed to help students tackle that essay and stand out in the process. “Each student is marketing themselves,” Rosengren, a Linden Hills resident, says. “We see the essay as the most important part of the college application process.” Her job is to make sure students are “adding a human touch to those essays” through prewriting activities, drafting and editing. “It’s really an exercise of self. You want to try to write a story that no one else can write,” she says.
Not everyone has an epic story to tell, and colleges understand that. “You can also offer an uncommon perspective on a common theme. Don’t be afraid to take risks,” she says. Hackbarth agrees. He says one of the best essays he ever read was about a girl who refused to wear socks when she was in first grade. “It showed she was stubborn, and I’ve never forgotten it,” Hackbarth says. That’s what the essay should do—give a taste of the writer’s essence. “What is the best way to communicate who you are?” he says.
He also encourages students to look at other personal statement essays to see what speaks to them. “We have students read those, so they realize they’re not going to say everything about themselves in 650 words,” he says. “The task is to say something.”
“They’re learning how to tell their story,” Rosengren says. “It’s an important life skill for everything from essays to job interviews.”
For more resources, visit edinamag.com.
Edina High School, 6754 Valley View Road; 952.848.3800; ehs.edinaschools.org @edinapublicschools
MN College Essay Coach; mncollegeessaycoach.com @mncollegeessaycoach
25Celebrating
YEARS
September 13, 2025
11:30 am - 2:00 pm
Edina Country Club
Celebrate 25 years of serving seniors and their caregivers in the southwest metro at an event hosted by KARE11's Emmy award-winning journalist and caregiver advocate Karla Hult, featuring lunch, a keynote presentation by Nick Buettner, VP of Community Engagement at the Blue Zones organization, friends and founders from the past, and more. Scan to buy your tickets today!
PORTRAIT
More Than a Match
Ryan and Tillman Stroud are passionate about building youth wrestling in Edina.
By Meredith Heneghan
Father-son duo Ryan and Tillman Stroud have put Edina youth wrestling on the map over the last few years. “Wrestling is a very tight-knit, small community. Once you’re in, you’re kind of addicted,” Ryan says.
Ryan goes way back with wrestling. He began in elementary school in Northern Wisconsin and improved individually over the years. He’s a two-time high school place winner in Wisconsin, plus a NCAA National Qualifier and a twotime NCAA team National Champion at Augsburg University. “The team’s success in college was something I enjoyed a lot because that was something I hadn’t really been a part of before,” he says.
After coaching wrestling at Augsburg for three years, Ryan began coaching at Edina High School in 2019. Four-year-old Tillman would join Ryan at practices and started getting excited about wrestling himself. Then, in 2022, Tillman started wrestling in earnest.
Now, Ryan also coaches Edina’s youth wrestling program, which includes kids from pre-K to sixth grade. “My longterm goal is to be around and be the youth director and guide the program as Tillman gets older,” he says.
“I like that it makes you tougher. Tougher in your mind and body.”
Tillman
Stroud, youth wrestling champion
For Ryan, wrestling is just as much about physical skill as well as mental characteristics. “Wrestling takes a lot of dedication. It’s not always super time consuming, but the time you put in is a lot of hard work. It’s a very demanding sport and takes a lot of self control,” he says.
Ryan says families in Edina see the value. “I do think people see the benefits you get from wrestling for other sports, even helping kids with their selfconfidence. They’re getting involved because the parents see the big picture,” he says. “We can help our kids develop and work on these characteristics of the young adults that they want their children to grow up to be. They see this as an opportunity.”
In his short time wrestling, now 8-yearold Tillman has earned incredible success. He won both Minnesota state championship tournaments in 2024 and 2025 and the USA Wrestling National Championship. He also achieved the 2025 Minnesota Triple Crown, which is when someone wins all three styles of wrestling—folkstyle, freestyle and greco. “I like that it makes you tougher. Tougher in your mind and body,” Tillman says.
Ryan and Tillman have struck a meaningful balance between family life and wrestling. “Yes, he’s a good coach. And also, well, I kind of like traveling and spending time together,” Tillman says.
“It’s really hard to explain when you have a kid and you see the work they put in and see them have success on top of it; it really is heartwarming,” Ryan says. “We try not to focus too much on the accomplishments or winning. We try to focus on getting a little bit better every day.”
Ryan coaches the youth program with two former University of Minnesota wrestlers, Brent Jones and Gannon Volk. “It’s not that we have a huge program, but where we have grown is definitely in quality. We have some very talented wrestlers out there,” he says.
Edina Wrestling Association; edina-wrestling-association.sportngin.com
MINNETONKA, GOLDEN VALLEY, EDEN PRAIRIE AND PRIOR LAKE
With a legacy of architectural, design and construction accolades, our talented team is dedicated to surpassing your expectations. Let’s bring your vision to life—contact us
Top: Tillman and Ryan Stroud
Bottom: Tillman Stroud holds up his gold medal in folkstyle wrestling.
Proven Quality. Proven Trust. Since 1975.
Written by Feroza Mehta — Photos by Chris Emeott
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT
The Class of 2026 is full of positivity, optimism and leadership.
In our annual Senior Spotlight, meet three Class of 2026 students who were nominated by their schools for making a positive difference in their school and community. They have boldness of spirit, a good heart, impact and strength. We’re honored to share a glimpse of these standout students: Emme Couillard, Sebastian Hermann-Campana and Elizabeth Teskey.
Emme Couillard
Academy of Holy Angels (AHA)
A heartfelt thank you to Kristin Peterson at Billy Reid for graciously hosting our Senior Spotlight photoshoot. Billy Reid also outfitted each student with signature looks that were equal parts timeless and modern. We are grateful for the partnership in helping us celebrate the next generation with style and sophistication.
Billy Reid, 3923 Market St.; 763.330.1983; billyreid.com @billy_reid
“Emme moved to Academy of Holy Angels (AHA) and Edina from Lakeville right [in the middle of the ninth grade]. This can be a tough time for young women to make friends and find a way to fit in. While it wasn’t an easy transition, Emme stayed true to herself and has found a solid, delightful group of friends. She hasn’t forgotten what it is like to be new. One of her teachers commented on her gift for seeking out transfer students and international students who might not know how to maneuver the AHA community and help them to adjust. She is a high achiever with a 4.18 GPA who will complete 15 AP or advanced classes by graduation … Emme’s older sister has a rare medical condition, which doesn’t get attention or research funding. Emme has spent time seeking out people who have been involved in previous research studies about her sister’s medical condition with little success, but she persists. I enjoy Emme’s energy and drive, but I most appreciate the passion and care she has for family, friends and school community.” —Ann Kjorstad, AHA college counselor
A high school experience you’re most proud of: Being selected my freshman year to attend the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Conference in Boston, [Massachusetts]. The three-day conference discussed future medical careers, and we even got to watch a live surgery. I met many other students from around the country who shared the same interests as mine, some of whom I am still friends with today.
What your peers might not know about you: I have a deep appreciation for classical literature with books like Anna Karenina and Pride and Prejudice holding special places in my heart. I am drawn to timeless themes of love and growth, and I love how these works offer new insights with each read.
Dream graduation speaker: Jane Austen
The soundtrack to your high school career: Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper
Favorite childhood book:
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Your future in three words: Learning, exploring, driven
“I am drawn to timeless themes of love and growth ...”
Emme Couillard
“One day, I hope to read all the books scattered around the floor, giving each the time they deserve.”
Sebastian Hermann-Campana
Sebastian Hermann-Campana
Southwest High School (SHS)
“When asked about Sebastian’s contribution to the school community, his choir teacher, Mr. Fisher, says Sebastian is ‘tremendously conscientious’ and ‘an independent thinker and contributor to the classroom community.’ Sebastian identifies as white-Latino. His guidance counselor, Kern Wilson, notes that while Sebastian has pride in these identities, ‘… He leads with his talents and gifts. He is comfortable in his own skin; ambitious and confident.’” —Katie
Fox, SHS social worker
A high school experience you’re most proud of: Getting into the University of Minnesota’s PSEO program. I am very proud of how I perform in the program. I still manage to maintain my 4.0 GPA while attending college-level classes part time. I plan to go full time in my senior year. I am a part of two choirs: our top chamber choir and our advanced choir. I had a lead in our recent spring musical, Anastasia.
What your peers might not know about you: As much as I dislike literature as a subject—something I do not try to hide— my room is filled with all different kinds of books. Every surface of my room either has an unread book I have yet to find time for or a plant. Taking care of my plants is another activity I find calming in the hustle and bustle that has now become my life. One day, I hope to read all the books scattered around the floor, giving each the time they deserve.
What you hope to do after graduation: Urban architecture, landscape design or high school education as a math teacher
Dream graduation speaker: Robin Wall Kimmerer
The soundtrack to your high school career: Our House by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Favorite school lunch: Spaghetti and meatballs
Your future in three words: Industrious, romantic, lush
Sunnyside Gardens
“I’ve especially learned that the key to good leadership is serving others—for this reason, I’ve decided to dedicate my career to bettering the lives of those in my community through STEM.”
Elizabeth Teskey
Elizabeth Teskey Edina High School (EHS)
“Elizabeth is a strong student with a diverse skill set. She is creative yet very STEM focused. She strives to get as much as possible out of her high school experience. Elizabeth is a leader that is poised to make an impact on the world.” —Paul Paetzel, principal of EHS
A high school experience you’re most proud of: My theatrical achievements … I’ve learned that theater not only requires singing, acting and dancing versatility, but grit, ingenuity and interpersonal skills as well … I owe so much of where I am today to Ella Williams, Edina’s artistic director … I would not be the performer I am now without their support.
What your peers might not know about you: I am one of Edina’s first female Eagle Scouts—the highest rank for Scouting America youth … Along the path to Eagle, I’ve led a service project to support youth theater in my community, gained real-world experience in leadership, project management and environmental awareness. I have met like-minded youth from around the country. I’ve especially learned that the key to good leadership is serving others—for this reason, I’ve decided to dedicate my career to bettering the lives of those in my community through STEM.
Dream graduation speaker: I would love it if my grandpa spoke at my graduation ceremony. He passed over Thanksgiving 2022 but always supported my dreams and inspired me by following his own. He built a career toward being the vice president of in-flight service at Northwest Airlines after growing up in a very poor family of seven during the Great Depression. He never believed in the word “impossible” and always taught me the importance of family. He also told the best stories. I would’ve loved to hear just one more.
The soundtrack to your high school career: A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman
Describe your future in three words: Musical, optimistic, helpful
To learn more about our Senior Spotlight students, go to edinamag.com.
Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival Celebrates Creativity and Community.
Edina has long served as an epicenter for artistic and creative endeavors, which is beautifully illustrated during the city’s annual Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival.
Visit Centennial Lakes Park from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. September 6 and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. September 7 to be immersed in the creative offerings of about 245 new and returning original artists. “Over 400 local and regional artists apply to the festival,” says Shelly Loberg, president of the Edina Chamber of Commerce and Explore Edina. “All applications are judged by jurors with diverse art backgrounds, and we have 11 categories of art featured, including jewelry, mixed media, pottery and two-dimensional.” At the close of the event, Jury Awards are handed out for Best in Show and Award of Merit.
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees can expect to find a host of food vendors, featuring global cuisines and fan favorites like mini donuts and corn dogs, a live art demonstration and much more. “The event also offers community members a unique opportunity to interact with both police officers and fire fighters (community EMTs) and members of the K-9 Unit along with viewing service vehicles,” Loberg says.
The festival is a partnership among the Edina Chamber of Commerce, the Edina Crime Prevention Fund, Centennial Lakes Park and the Edina Art Center. “This unique
partnership brings so much value to the community,” Loberg says. Since the festival utilizes the upper parking lot at 7601 France Ave., “Those property owners are also annual partners in allowing us to use their space,” she says.
Net proceeds from the event, raised through booth fees and sponsorships, support the park, art programming, the business community and community safety through the Edina Crime Prevention Fund, which works to keep Edina safe and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.
Be a part of Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival, celebrating more than 20 years of bringing together the arts and community of Edina.
EDINA FALL INTO THE ARTS FESTIVAL CENTENNIAL LAKES PARK
7499 France Ave., Edina
7601 France Ave., Edina edinafallintothearts.com
YOUR LUXURY REAL ESTATE ADVISORS
Our top agents provide in-depth market insights, local expertise, and targeted strategies to showcase your property and connect buyers with the lifestyle they desire. Keenan
612-926-9999
Moving what matters forward.
An innovative program is changing the world and health care for children in need.
Written by Feroza Mehta
THE BEATING HEART OF GLOBAL CARE
David Overman, M.D., has always known that medicine would be his path to serve others. “I was raised by parents who instilled in us the value of giving back,” says the longtime pediatric cardiac surgeon. “To me, it’s more about awareness and partnership with those who are not as fortunate as we are.”
Dr. Overman decided to pursue medicine after taking a human physiology class in the spring of his junior year at Edina High School. “I had thoughts of practicing primary care and doing medical missions work. On my clinical rotations in medical school, I discovered that I loved the surgical disciplines and decided to pursue a career in surgery instead, eventually being drawn to pediatric and congenital heart surgery.”
After training at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Kids, Overman joined Children’s Minnesota Hospital in Minneapolis in 1996. Still, the call to give back remained
strong. In the early 2000s, he discovered Edina-based nonprofit Children’s HeartLink. For Overman, it was a fullcircle moment.
“The Children’s HeartLink mission and vision combined medical missionary work with surgical excellence. It married two things that are core to my identity,” he says.
The nonprofit partners with hospitals in low- and middle-income countries to develop Children’s HeartLink Centers of Excellence (CHCoEs) in pediatric cardiac care. These centers provide life-saving surgeries, train local medical teams and build sustainable health care systems and infrastructures. Jackie Boucher, president of Children’s HeartLink, says CHCoEs and partner hospitals hosted more than 170 training opportunities, teaching more than 5,800 medical professionals.
“The ability to share this knowledge base and skill set where those services
aren’t nearly as available is a great privilege,” Overman says. He started by volunteering in Brazil to work with hospitals there to grow them into CHCoEs. He now works with two locations in India. “And it’s not a one-way street. We learn from them too,” Overman says.
CHCoEs are far more than surgical hubs. They are long-term investments in systemic change. From building strong nursing programs to developing care protocols and ICU infrastructure, every detail matters. Most of the work, Overman says, isn’t about the surgery itself but the system surrounding it.
“Successful outcomes depend on the quality of nursing care and infrastructure. If you don’t have skilled ICU recovery, you can’t be a Center of Excellence,” he says. “It’s a team sport. And a huge part of that is creating a culture of empowerment where nurses and therapists feel safe to speak up.”
Left to Right: David Overman, Anu Codaty and Jackie Boucher
In many parts of the world, this open communication between doctors and nurses doesn’t exist. “The idea that a nurse could speak out to a doctor, there’s nothing like that,” Overman says. “Even in the West, it’s a struggle. But we work toward creating transparency and trust across disciplines.”
Establishing a new Center of Excellence is no small feat. The evaluation process typically takes one to two years. Children’s HeartLink staff, including medical directors, nurses and surgeons,
assess everything from case volumes to ICU readiness and have a track record for training other clinicians in the region. Political and economic stability, support from hospital leadership and a baseline of capability are all essential. The entire process for a hospital to grow into a CHCoE takes seven to 10 years.
“You can’t just go start doing congenital heart surgery in New Guinea,” Overman says. “There needs to be a structure in place that we can build on.”
Once established, CHCoEs serve as regional training centers—true educational hubs. Local doctors become the teachers, shifting the model from foreignled to community-led. “It’s the ‘teach a man to fish’ philosophy,” Overman says. “They become self-sufficient in delivering excellent care, conducting research and training the next generation.”
For Anu Codaty, a longtime Edina resident and Children’s HeartLink board member, this shift is exactly why she’s
dedicated more than a decade of her life to the organization. “It’s an organization I’m deeply passionate about,” Codaty says. “It’s both global and local. That’s what makes it so meaningful to me.”
Codaty first got involved when a Medtronic executive, also a board member, reached out about her expertise in global strategy. Children’s HeartLink began in 1969 when a medic in the Vietnam War found children suffering with symptoms and diagnosed them with congenital heart disease. For 23 years, Children’s HeartLink would bring children to Minnesota for treatment, helping more than 600 patients. But the need is greater. What was missing was followup care in the child’s home country or Centers of Excellence.
“You really need to build resources locally,” Boucher says. “Annually, there are 1.3 million babies born with a heart defect. Every five minutes, 10 children are born with a heart defect. Nine out
Top: David Overman, chief of the division of cardiovascular surgery at Children’s Minnesota, embraces a patient at the celebration of CardioPedBrasil® becoming a Children’s HeartLink Center of Excellence.
Bottom: Nurses from Mayo Clinic provide training to their counterparts at G. Kuppuswamy Naidu Memorial Hospital in Coimbatore, India. The hospital is on track to become a Children’s HeartLink Center of Excellence.
Photos: Children’s HeartLink; Scott Streble
of 10 don’t have access to a treatment … We knew we had to change the model.”
With Codaty’s expertise, what began as leading Children’s HeartLink’s strategic planning quickly became a calling. “What really struck me was the question, ‘What happens after the mission trip?’ Surgery alone isn’t enough. Health care needs long-term follow-up and a full continuum of care,” she says.
Codaty, with the help of others, helped shape what would become Children’s HeartLink’s long-term strategic vision: building in-country capacity. That meant training local professionals to the highest standards and equipping them to train others.
“We are really developing longterm partnerships with hospitals in the countries where we work. We match our hospitals we identify with a medical volunteer team from United States, Canada and the [United Kingdom],” Boucher says. They work on knowledge, skills, team collaboration, evaluating and improving outcomes, training others, research and creating thoughtful leaders who can train others in their region.
“The model became sustainable,” Codaty says. “Now, you’ve trained people in the country who are serving their own communities. Their fellows go on to serve other regions. It’s multiplying.”
Children’s HeartLink has CHCoEs in countries like Brazil, China, India, Malaysia and Vietnam. And the return on investment, Codaty says, is incredible. “These models are high impact. The value of the dollar goes so much further,” she says. “It’s one of my greatest joys to see the strategy come to life with so much impact.”
As a board member, Codaty continues to expand the organization’s global reach, connecting it with key leaders and partners. “This is truly a world-class organization, right here in Edina,” Overman says. “It’s leading conversations with the U.N., the World Health Organization and other global NGOs. And it’s doing it all with incredibly limited resources. This is an organization the community should feel proud to host. It leads the way among NGOs in congenital cardiac care, and it’s changing lives every day.”
Children’s HeartLink, 6800 France Ave. S. Suite 440; 952.928.4860; childrensheartlink.org @childrensheartlink
VALLEY VIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL PATRICK BASS BUILDS A CULTURE OF BELONGING.
GOOD VIBES
Photos: Chris Emeott; Ramla Hasanali
At a time when children can feel unmoored, uncertain or on the outside of things, middle school administrators—including those in Edina Public Schools—have an opportunity to create an environment where every student feels like they belong.
And for Valley View Middle School principal Patrick Bass, that mission of inclusion and belonging drives his every action. “If we can offer a good experience that trickles down to everyone, and staff feels happy to be here, then kids will be happy to be here,” Bass says. “I want to have this model of ‘everyone helping everyone’; that’s how a school is going to thrive.”
Bass is in just his second year as principal of Valley View but brings years of experience as an educator to his current role. In fact, the variety of positions he’s held and places he’s taught makes him uniquely suited to the Valley View environment—from his teenage years in Edina to a stint abroad in Australia.
“I was born in Houston, Texas, and moved to Minnesota with my brother when I was 16,” Bass says. “He bought a house in Edina just off Gleason Road.” Bass attended high school in Minneapolis, where his brother was a coach, but spent plenty of time in Edina. What followed high school were undergraduate studies at St. Olaf College in Northfield and teaching in Osseo Area Schools. Next came a period of travel and teaching in Arizona, Australia and Spain. Eventually, his role as chairman of the Equity Task Force for Arizona’s Mesa Public Schools put him in front of parents and other stakeholders, engaging the community in curriculum design and inclusion programs. “I was really grateful to be in that work and leading really significant change for those schools,” Bass says.
In 2023, a family need necessitated a change. “My youngest son has hydronephrosis, a kidney condition,” Bass says. “We’d been thinking about moving back closer to family and having some support, plus the excellent care at the Mayo Clinic.” When the Valley View principal position opened for the 2023–24 school year, Bass leaped at the chance and hasn’t looked back. “I got to really take everything that I’ve learned from my mentors and networks” and put it into practice, Bass says. He also credits Valley View assistant principal Erik Lowe with making the transition a great one. “I wanted to infuse my knowledge with Erik, who has a historical and institutional knowledge of Valley View,” Bass says. “He’s a rock star, and we’ve been able to marry some ideas together and see them come to fruition.”
Lowe has been a Valley View fixture since 2015, first as the dean of students and now as assistant principal. “I’ve worked under three principals here at Valley View,” he says. “Patrick has brought a lot of wonderful energy and ideas here.”
Bass has implemented a variety of initiatives and
programs for “lifting up the vibe,” a phrase he and Lowe use often as part of their larger Valley View vibe focus. He greets students as they arrive at school each morning, often dragging a large speaker through the hallways and playing buoyant music; he attends every individualized education plan meeting with the whole admin team; and he sends a personal newsletter each week to Valley View families.
Both Bass and Lowe recognize that middle school can be a time of optimism and fun. Students are young enough to be goofy but old enough for some additional responsibility. “You can level up your trust with them,” Lowe says. “One of my philosophies is that if we want kids to learn to make good choices, we’ve got to let them make choices so they can learn from them.”
Part of the recipe for giving students more autonomy is a strong rapport with parents. Bass says Valley View is “a fluid space with revolving doors. Parents
Burhanuddin Tiewala poses with principal Patrick Bass during Spirit Week at Valley View Middle School, which often includes themed days, such as Classy or Comfy Day.
Student
are here in our hallways and at lunch, and community partners come in to give guest speeches. We’re in constant partnership.”
That sense of community is evident in Valley View’s active parent-teacher organization (PTO).
“Principal Bass opened up the doors to the school and encourages parents to come in,” says Ramla Hasanali, mom of ninth grader Burhanuddin Tiewala. Even beyond volunteer opportunities, Bass welcomes community members in above-andbeyond ways. “When the power went out in parts of Edina, principal Bass opened the school doors to the Valley View community, so we could come and work remotely in the school,” Hasanali says. “Personally, he is curious about our faith, culture and family dynamics. He is so grateful for the parents’ support at school.”
PTO president Erika LaDousa echoes that. “Everyone wants to feel like they are being heard ... and parents are no different,” LaDousa says. “There can be a lot of emotions when an issue arises, [and] a quick response from the administration or a short email in recognition of an issue brings a sense of relief to parents.”
LaDousa, mom to eighth grader Eloise and 11th grader Emma, also notes how critical the middle school years are to kids’ development. Middle school “... can help to build healthy relationships, a sense of self-worth and belonging, and the feeling of being part of a community,” LaDousa says.
“My approach is really about the whole student,” Bass says. “They’re really reaching out to find out who they are and to find their people. We try to keep that as our north star and remind ourselves that this is a fragile age. It helps to build the kids up and juice up the experience with some fun—whether it’s music or asking kids for their own ideas.”
Valley View Middle School, 6750 Valley View Road; 952.848.3500; valleyview.edinaschools.org
Edina Public Schools
@edinapublicschools @edinaschools
Principal Patrick Bass addresses an assembly of students in the Valley View Middle School gym.
Photo: Ramla Hasanali
ALICE CICOLINI
Where Culture Meets Coffee
Càphin serves up bold brews with a Vietnamese twist.
Written by Mollee Francisco — Photos by Jeremy Lee Photography
As second-generation Vietnamese Americans, husband-and-wife duo Savio and Jenny Nguyen grew up with a mix of modern Western culture infused with a deep appreciation for the Vietnamese traditions their parents brought with them to the United States. Among those traditions is the use of a phin, a Vietnamese coffee filter used to make delicious cups of robust coffee. They are now sharing that tradition with coffee lovers at their café, Càphin Minneapolis, at the intersection of 44th Street and France Avenue. “This is combining my love of coffee culture with flavors of my childhood. We are opening up our culture to people through flavors,” Savio says.
Càphin (pronounced like caffeine) Minneapolis opened in February 2024 with a built-in fan base thanks to regular appearances with its mobile café at the Midtown and Mill City farmers markets as well as several events over the previous year. There, they began introducing the public to the unique flavors of Vietnamese coffee, including the Cà Phê Sữa with sweetened condensed milk and the Cà Phê Tr ng with whipped egg yolk mixture. “[Coffee and egg yolk] don’t feel like they should go together, but it’s not as scary as you think. It’s fun to see the surprise on people’s faces when they try it,” Savio says.
Cà Phê Mu i is usually a salted coffee, but this version kicks it up a notch with a salted caramel cold foam. Cà Phê Tr ng is a strong brewed coffee with egg foam
Left to right: Cà Phê Sữa in its classic form is made with sweetened condensed milk.
Enhancing the Local Coffee Culture
The Nguyens didn’t grow up with dreams of opening a coffee shop. “The idea started brewing—no pun intended—in 2021,” Savio says. He had long been a fan of the Twin Cities’ coffee culture, but it wasn’t until he and Jenny stumbled across a couple of Vietnamese-focused coffee shops in Seattle that they started to consider what they could contribute to their own local community. “It dawned on us that it was not niche but a growing trend.
We saw a wave coming and jumped on it early,” he says.
The couple began selecting and perfecting their recipes, knowing that they wanted a mix of Vietnamese and American coffee options. “We really wanted to position ourselves as a coffee shop that happens to specialize in Vietnamese coffee,” he says. Then came time to dip their toes in the Minnesota marketplace. The Nguyens started small, investing in a trailer that they could easily sell if things didn’t work out. In 2023, they set up their mobile café at farmers markets and events around Minneapolis and
started selling coffee, each cup featuring Vietnamese-grown robusta and arabica beans. Before long, they had amassed a following. “People were messaging us from places like Duluth and Waite Park to see if the trailer would be out before they started driving down. It was very validating,” Savio says.
But even with the validation, the duo didn’t immediately jump at the chance to set up a brick-and-mortar location. They waded through a full farmers market season and when a space at the border of Morningside and Linden Hills fell in their lap, they took the leap.
Latte art creates a cozy moment in a cup.
“We are opening up our culture to people through flavors.”
Savio Nguyen, co-owner of Càphin
Step up your matcha game with Ube Matcha or Strawberry Matcha Latte.
A Bold and Blended Menu
Càphin Minneapolis is designed to be a place where “tradition and innovation blend seamlessly,” according to its website. Not only will customers find Vietnamese and American specialties on the menu but also a selection of creative concoctions dreamt up by employees and customers alike. Savio says the most intriguing might be The Devon, which combines matcha, soda water and a pickled limeade. His personal favorite is the Cà Phê Lá D a, a specialty latte infused with house-made pandan syrup. “Pandan is a leaf extract that’s used a lot in Southeast Asian desserts,” he says, noting that they also offer the Ube Dream, a latte infused with the creamy flavor of the purple yam (ube), another dessert staple in Southeast Asia.
“It’s a nice way to reconnect with our heritage, [and] highlight and give back to our parents,” Savio says. And what do their parents think? “These are people—our parents and other older Vietnamese—that are not afraid to say that something is bad. So, if you get a slight nod of approval, that’s good,” he says, proudly adding that they have received many of those nods, further validating their efforts.
That doesn’t mean they’re looking to create a coffee empire. “We’re pretty content with the one that we have here. We feel pretty lucky and don’t want to get caught up in the wave,” Savio says. What they do plan to do is endeavor to make every visit to Càphin a memorable one for customers. “We want to continue to develop this café, fine tune the experience and give staff the creative freedom to develop their own drinks,” he says.
Càphin Minneapolis, 4503 France Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.314.6124; caphinmpls.com Càphin Mpls @caphinmpls
LIFE’S BET TER WHEN YOU’RE PROTECTED UNDER OUR ROOF.
Save up to 23% when you bundle auto and home*
A TIME TRAVELING ADVENTURE
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to attend a concert from the early 1900s, now is your chance. Treat yourself to the annual Lighthouse Night and Torchlight Concert. The evening kicks off with entertainment from a bygone era. This family-friendly event features an Italian organ grinder, magicians, a mechanical man and a Wurlitzer band organ. Model T Fords will be on display, as well as penny-farthings, which are the old bicycles that had a giant front wheel and tiny back wheel. A barbershop quartet will also be performing, and 25-cent ice cream cones will be available.
The evening ends with the annual Torchlight Concert performed by the First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band, sponsored by Explore Edina. If you stay to the end, the conclusion is a fun fireworks display set to Stars and Stripes Forever. A truly timeless way to spend a summer evening.
—Feroza Mehta
Lighthouse Night and Torchlight Concert: Free. 6:30 p.m. August 10. Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S.; edinamn.gov
Photos: City of Edina
Left: The First John Philip Sousa Memorial Band performs at last year’s Torchlight Concert. Right: Throwback entertainment abounds at the annual event. In addition to penny-farthings and magicians, there is also a mechanical man.
Compiled
by
Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
LOCAL EVENTS
08.03
Minneapolis Police Band
Enjoy an evening performance of classic band music by the Minneapolis Police Band. All ages. Free. 7 p.m. Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S.; 952.833.9580; edinamn.gov
08.04
Canvas Fun: Pet Portrait Painting
Paint a furry friend in this step-by-step class. Send in a picture of the preferred pet, which will be transferred onto the canvas for a picture-perfect stencil to paint a masterpiece. All ages. $45, registration required. 5–7 p.m. Edina Art Center, 4701 W. 64th St.; 952.903.5780; edinamn.gov
08.06
Chromatography Class
Investigate scientific mixtures, and examine the various compounds that make up markers to solve a mystery in this exploratory science class. Grades 4–9. Free, registration required. 2–3 p.m. Edina Library, 5280 Grandview Square; 612.543.6325; hclib.org
08.13
Hornet Kindergarten Playdate
Meet other young Edina Hornets entering kindergarten for the 2025–26 school year. Intended for kindergarteners. Free. 4:30–6:30 p.m. Highlands Park Playground, 5200 Doncaster Way; 952.848.3900; edinaschools.org
08.13
Trivia Night
Test your trivia skills while sipping on craft brews from Wooden Hill
952.843.8268 | cynthia@localmedia.co To Advertise
cynthia Hamre
Take Control of Your Health and Thrive.
At Accelerate Wellness, we deliver elevated, personalized care for those who expect more.
ADVANCED CARE YOUR WAY
Visit us at our new Edina satellite clinic—or experience concierge-level care virtually from home or work. Our expert-led services include advanced lab testing, hormone optimization, GLP-1 weight loss, PRP therapies, and personalized longevity plans. For the ultimate convenience, we can even send a phlebotomist to your home or office.
Brewing. Teams are limited to six people. All ages. Free. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Wooden Hill Brewing, 7421 Bush Lake Road; 952.960.9663; woodenhillbrewing.com
08.26
Princess Gathering
Enjoy a meet-and-greet and sing-along experience with a variety of Disney princesses in the park. All ages. Free. 10 a.m. Centennial Lakes Park, 7499 France Ave. S.; 952.833.9580; edinamn.gov
AREA EVENTS
08.02
Minneapolis Food Truck Festival
Enjoy local cover bands with over 40 food trucks and four-wheel vendors, such as clothing and photo trucks. All ages. Free. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Father Hennepin Bluff Park, 420 Main St., Mpls.; mnfoodtruckfestival.com
08.03
Minneapolis Vintage Market
Browse one-of-a-kind pieces from various vendors while sipping on craft beer from Utepils Brewing. Ages 21 and older. Free. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Utepils Brewing, 225 Thomas Ave. N., Mpls.; 612.249.7800; utepilsbrewing.com
08.07–08.17
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Gather at the Orpheum Theatre for its production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: The Musical Ages 6 and older. $95+. Times vary. Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; 612.339.7007; hennepinarts.org
08.08–08.10
Irish Fair of Minnesota
Celebrate Irish heritage, culture and community in this two-day festival full of food, activities, music and dance. All ages. Ticket prices vary, register online. 3–11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. –11 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday. Harriet Island, 175 W. Water St., St. Paul; 651.461.4990; irishfair.com
Sioux Falls • Edina • Omaha SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE
08.09–08.10
Minneapolis Street Art Festival
Admire unique chalk and spray art, murals and performances while snacking on food. All ages. Free. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Downtown Minneapolis, 803 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.; mplstreetartfest.com
To have your event considered: email edinamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. 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.
A Little Film With a Lot of Heart
Edina filmmaker Brennan Vance released his latest micro documentary, How to Care, as part of the Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF) on April 11. The film tells the story of caregivers for Dan Stallsworth, an artist living with cerebral palsy. More information about the documentary, Stallsworth and Vance will be in our December issue.
To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to edinamag@localmedia.co.
Photos: How to Care MSPIFF
Where Passion Meets Possibility
Best Seat in the House
Mark Bergeron and his wife often take their evening walks through Yancey Park. “I usually have a camera with me. If we’re lucky with our timing and weather, we can catch a good sunset overlooking the park,” Bergeron says.
But one June evening, he found he wasn’t the only one hoping to catch a spectacular view. “We just also happened to catch these two finding the best seat in the house that evening,” he says. “It makes me smile as it would have been something I would have done when I was younger with my brothers or buddies.” —Feroza Mehta
To view other Images of Edina photo contest winners, visit edinamag.com.
Photographer: Mark Bergeron
Title: Yancey Postgame Show
Equipment: Leica M Rangefinder
Category: People Award: Second Place
IMAGES OF EDINA
The Cedar Roof Man
STRAIGHT TALK FROM STEVE KUHL
Let’s face it. Cedar roofs look great but owning one is a little scary. “Has it been damaged by hail?” “Will it blow off in a storm?” “I hear something chewing up there!” But despite what you may hear, your cedar roof is still one of the most beautiful and long-lasting products on the market. The only catch is you have take care of it.
That’s where I come in. My free, written estimate includes a thorough analysis of your roof. Bringing over 25 years of experience to the table, I will evaluate its’ condition to determine whether or not maintenance, repairs or replacement is the best option for you. Worst case scenario you get a free inspection from a true expert. Best case, we work our magic on your roof and add years to its lifespan.
In fact, Kuhl’s Contracting is looked to for the evaluation and restoration of cedar roofs by more insurance companies, home inspectors, realtors and architects than any other company in Minnesota. Not to brag, but we are pretty awesome. Don’t take my word for it. Check out our talents at www.kuhlscontracting.com. Or ask around. We have probably done work for someone you know.
I started this company in 1987. Since that time we have worked on thousands of homes around the Twin Cities. My approach to business has never wavered. Be honest, be
and do great work. As a result our list of
Owner, Dad, Wood Roof Geek
