PLYMOUTH’S CLASS OF 2025
Meet some student representatives and see how this senior class has shaped its schools
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“Anyone can dance. I like to remind people that we all danced as children. We’re all dancers at heart—we have to give ourselves permission.” —Meghan Afonkin, SOUL Ballroom
Photo: Chris Emeott
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from the PUBLISHER
Welcome, Readers, to our 20th anniversary as Plymouth’s premier community lifestyle magazine. We couldn’t be prouder of our longstanding roots in and commitment to this community. A lot has changed over the course of two decades, but we look back with pride and joy at the friendships we’ve made, the community we’ve built and the stories we’ve told.
Over the years, we’ve met residents who are the cornerstone to the success of this community and others who are enthusiastically leading Plymouth into the future. Our pages have been filled with deeply-rooted businesses, ventures that have leaned into evolving alongside the community and newcomers who are striving to make their mark. Residents, business owners, creatives, educators, health and wellness providers and a host of others have all shared their wonderful stories within our pages.
As we’ve watched Plymouth grow and evolve over the years, Plymouth Magazine and its sister publications have done their share of growing, too. I fondly recall the excitement in 2004 when the premiere issue of Plymouth Magazine landed in your mailboxes. And that same enthusiasm has expanded over the years. From launching three magazines 20 years ago to now publishing eight thriving lifestyle magazines and operating growing websites and social media platforms, we stay true to our original mission: focusing on local residents, businesses and services while shining an appreciative light on what makes this community a great place to live, work and play.
Editor Madeline Kopiecki is eager to continue our legacy and proudly offers original, engaging and elevated content, written exclusively by our team of writers. Alongside her, our committed and talented Art, Editorial, Production and Sales team members work month after month—illuminating the spotlight that glows from within Plymouth. We can’t thank them enough.
Most importantly, thank you—dear Readers and advertisers—for your continued interest, loyalty and support of Plymouth Magazine. Some of you have been with us from the beginning, and we look forward to walking into the next 20 years with you and welcoming more readers and businesses to our pages. With appreciation,
Susan Isay Publisher
On the Cover
Plymouth Magazine @plymouth_mag @plymouthmag CELEBRATING THE PLYMOUTH AREA SINCE 2004.
See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town!
Photo:
Plymouth’s Class of 2025, Photo by Chris Emeott, page 18
VOL. 20 NO. 1 plymouthmag.com
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Kelly Cochrane, Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle and Rachel Schuehle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Douglas Broman, Emily Maxson, Amy Sundet and Katie Timcho
DIGITAL INTERN
Zoe Baden
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Findlay Drabant and Grace Knapp
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Kelley Giancola, Interfaith Outreach ; Meghan Milovich, blogger and fundraiser for Children’s Hospitals ; Zach Nelson, Wayzata School District ; Mark Poppendeck, Beez ‘N Treez Foundation ; Brian Rosemeyer, City of Plymouth ; and LuAnn Svendsen, Plymouth Reads chair and community volunteer
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
Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel, Sara Johnson, Abbie Kinn and Kathie Smith
PRESIDENT
Pete Burgeson
To subscribe to Plymouth Magazine , please visit localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co, or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2024. All rights reserved.
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN PLYMOUTH
THE FIRST ISSUE of Plymouth Magazine hit local mailboxes in August 2004. Now, hundreds of issues later, a lot has changed in our community, but our commitment to sharing local stories remains the same. Madeline Kopiecki
Population: Households: Schools: Parks: Park Acreage:
¹Metropolitan Council Community Development
*The numbers from 2004 may not be directly comparable to the 2024 numbers due to different data and methods.
²School counts were pulled from City of Plymouth GIS data and were not confirmed with Department of Education data.
Sick of tangled cords and crowded power strips?
Transitional Fashion
With a carefully curated wardrobe that reflects your personal style and incorporates versatile pieces, you can move seamlessly from one season to the next with confidence and style.
1. Layering is Key
Start with lightweight items that can be easily layered for added warmth or removed when the temperature rises. Consider adding pieces like lightweight sweaters, cardigans and scarves that you can add or remove to adjust to Minnesota weather patterns.
2. Think Social Gatherings
When you transition your wardrobe, it’s important to have versatile pieces that you can style in multiple ways. I love items like leather jackets, trench coats, bold-colored hats and midi skirts that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
3. Stay True to Your Style
It’s important to stay true to your personal style while transitioning your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new trends, but always make sure that the pieces you choose reflect your individuality and make you feel confident. Mix classic pieces with on-trend items to create a wardrobe that is uniquely yours and transitions seamlessly between seasons.
4. Organize Your Closet
As you transition your wardrobe, take the time to organize your closet and declutter any items that no longer serve you. Keep your seasonal items easily accessible, and store off-season pieces in a separate area to make getting dressed a breeze. A wellorganized closet makes it easier to see what you have and create stylish outfits without the stress of searching through a cluttered space.
Plymouth’s Grant Wittaker is a seasoned fashion insider,
in style consulting and production. Style more at
A Flair for the Dramatic
Minor Dramas & Other Catastrophes by
Kathleen West
West really nails the high school scene. The characters feel like real people, and you can’t help but become invested in their lives. This debut novel is not just entertaining, it’s also thought-provoking and touches on important issues with humor and heart. By the end, you’ll find yourself still thinking about the story and its messages. If you want a book that’s both smart and relatable, this is it.
Everyone on This Train is a Suspect by Benjamin
Stevenson
If you are looking for the ultimate whodunit, look no further than this mind-boggling, twisty and quite witty read. Stevenson masterfully pulls together a fantastic ensemble of back-stabbing characters who keep the reader guessing until all questions are skillfully tied up in the end. All the clues to solve the mystery are laid out in the book, but the end is still guaranteed to leave the readers shaking their heads in awe and disbelief at how they could have missed it.
Amy Sundet and Katie Timcho are local book reviewers. They can be found @overbookedmoms on Instagram.
27-29 / 12-6PM
Friday September 27, 4-6pm
Party Punch List
All that pomp and circumstance doesn’t happen by itself.
By Renée Stewart-Hester
LET’S BE HONEST. Graduation parties have—evolved. For the most part, the celebrations have become larger and more involved than the days when grad parties were primarily made up of the student of honor, the requisite family members, a few neighbors and a handful of teenagers all gathered at the honoree’s home/backyard/garage.
While that can still be the case, and those celebrations are just as wonderful, other families are going in another direction with attendee numbers tipping into the hundreds, and the food fare and décor elements ramping up their games, too.
As this year’s high school seniors start their academic year, it makes sense that the party planning swings into gear. The first step is getting organized. To help, we put together a month-to-month plan to break down the to-do list into manageable sections.
Calendar of Events
August: Hold up! Take this month to relish the last days before the academic year kicks off—unless you and the graduate have your hearts set on a party venue, book it now.
September: For the rest of you, have a discussion with your senior student. Is he/she interested in having a party, and what would that look like in terms of home vs. venue, solo vs. with friends or large vs. a quiet gathering?
October: If this is a combined event, reach out to the other parents/guardians to make sure they are on the same page in terms of budget and planning. Finalize the party date.
November: If this is a group event, bring the students and parents together to discuss tasks. Who does what? For example, put specific people in charge of beverages, food, games, set up/clean up, venue rental, etc. Set up a timeline through the date of the party. Finalize the décor theme.
December: Take the month off to enjoy the holidays. January will be here sooner than you think.
January: Finalize catering or food truck vendors. Be sure to ask about deposits, pricing, set-up/clean-up options, staffing, dining ware availability and cancelation policies. If you haven’t done so already, move on booking this month; food vendors and venues fill up with other spring and summer events.
February or March: If making photo boards, go through albums (digital or otherwise) to identify photographs you want to feature. Gather award certificates, school memorabilia, trophies, sport uniforms, etc. to include for display tables. If using annual school pictures, organize them now.
April: Meet with families to finalize décor. If decorating individual display tables, share ideas with one another, so each student feels equally represented. Create a fun backdrop that is Instagram-worthy for photo taking. If the student is attending college, order the school’s banner or a pennant to display. Order or create party invitations for family, friends, neighbors and other guests. Drop those in the mail, so it’s one less thing to think about. Make
sure students spread the party word via social media or on the school’s party page.
May or June: A few weeks ahead of the big day, check in with all the vendors to confirm final details and timelines. Once the party day arrives, enjoy it. Take time to celebrate your student and yourself. Let’s face it, K–12 isn’t a road traveled just by the students!
July: Thank you notes never go out of style, and they offer graduates a great opportunity to practice their cursive!
LET’S DO MEDICARE TOGETHER
Join us for a Medicare workshop
Learn what Original Medicare covers, how and when to enroll, and Medicare plan options available in your county.
Our Blue Cross Medicare experts are with you every step of the way, from helping you understand benefits and coverage to selecting the right plan to meet your needs.
Reserve your spot today. Call 1-877-860-2957, TTY 711 or visit bluecrossmn.com/Workshop4
Visit plymouthmag.com for a list of local vendors, food trucks and catering options.
Beginning in October, we’ll present 2025 plan information. Workshops cover individual Medicare plans. If you’re Medicare-eligible and covered under the Federal Employee Program® or a Blue Cross group employee or retiree plan, talk with your employer. You may be able to get better coverage than an individual Medicare plan. Blue Cross offers PPO, Cost and PDP plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in these Blue Cross plans depends on contract renewal. Plans are available to residents of the service area. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call 1-877-860-2957, TTY 711.
Y0138_062024_P01_M
Photo:
GENERATIONS
Aging is Changing
A focus on fitness is redefining what it means to be 55 and older.
By Kelly Cochrane
IN PREPARATION for her retirement, Lori Dietrich started the search for an athletic club before the big day. She was surprised to find one less than a mile from her home in Plymouth. Now, she visits the Plymouth Creek Athletic Club Monday through Friday and attends a total of nine classes per week.
“I attend one to three classes per visit and spend time socializing with my wonderful exercise family,” Dietrich says. She is not alone in her endeavor. Approximately 30 percent of the club members are seniors, many of whom have Silver Sneakers memberships through Medicare.
Keeping this in mind, club manager and personal trainer Steven Frolov has created a class roster curated to the 55-plus crowd. “I prefer the following classes: Step & Strength, Balance & Stretch, Silver Sneakers, Yoga for Healing, Boot Camp Fitness, Chair Yoga, Tabata, Strength Yoga and Silver & Fit,” he says.
According to Frolov, physical activity is important because as we age, our muscles lose elasticity and mass, our bones lose density and our joints are not as lubricated. “These classes can help alleviate some of the discomfort
Top: Steven Frolov works one-on-one with a client.
Bottom: A Step & Strength class targets balance and coordination along with building muscle.
by increasing strength, rebuilding muscle mass and, over time, bettering overall flexibility,” he says. “Use it or lose it is a key principle to remember.”
Frolov says he also commonly hears clients mention arthritis pain as something that prevents them from weight training or weight-bearing activities. “I’m here to tell you that it’s the exact opposite of what they should be doing,” he says. “Weightbearing training—from water aerobics or machines or dumbbells—will only benefit and reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis.”
Improving fitness and exercising regularly can slow some of the physical digressions of aging, specifically the loss of bone density and muscle mass. One of the most common injuries you hear about when it comes to seniors is falling and breaking a hip, wrist or other extremity. “This happens because as we age, we’re not able to create the same neuronal connections between our brain and muscles to keep our balance in tip-top shape. This is called proprioception,” Frolov says.
If your balance becomes less sharp and the bones become more brittle, the risk of injury increases. This is where weight training, yoga and diet come into play. “Exercise is a form of medicine. It’s cheaper, it’s fun and it’s effective,” Frolov says. “I can’t tell you enough how many of my clients tell me they feel stronger, sharper and sturdier after working together.”
No matter where you are in life, remember, it’s not a race. Your class choice and workout program all depend on where you are individually. In fact, having accomplished her goal of physical fitness, Dietrich keeps coming back for more. “Now that I feel fit, I need to keep coming to stay that way,” she says. “It has made a huge improvement in my mental well-being as well as my physical well-being.”
Plymouth Creek Athletic Club, 3131 Campus Drive; 763.559.6286; plymouthcreekathleticclub.com
Plymouth Creek Athletic Club @plymouthcreekathleticclub
Tackling That To-Do List
TruBlue of Plymouth and Maple Grove takes nagging tasks off your plate.
By Mollee Francisco
FROM DRYWALL REPAIR and light fixture installation to spring cleanup and holiday lights, finding someone to tackle all the little projects on a to-do list can be a headache. Jeanette Lang knows the struggle all too well.
“I had been looking for handy people for a long time to come in and do little chores,” Lang says. The Plymouth resident finally stumbled across TruBlue of Plymouth and Maple Grove, which
provides handyman services, home maintenance and senior modifications for residents in both cities.
“I suppose they thought they had a lot of work when they came in, and they did,” Lang says. She had the business fix a hole and install lights in her bathroom, plus tend to some weather stripping. “They were very precise,” she says. “Right on the mark.”
That’s music to Jennifer
Bauernfeind’s ears. She and her husband, Tim, bought the franchise last August. “It was the perfect combination of our skills and gifts,” Jennifer says. “Tim is the handiest man I know.”
Together, they are on a mission to provide handyman services and help seniors age in place. “Our homes are generally our largest asset, and if not properly maintained, can be very costly and in fact, lose value,” Jennifer says.
Tim and Jennifer Bauernfeind
“We want to be our clients’ ally in helping them maintain that value as well as the beauty, security, safety and comfort of their homes.”
“There’s so much we can do for people,” Jennifer says. “We care for the people and the house, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.”
Trained technicians go over each individual project, provide quotes and help homeowners come up with an action plan. “Everything is broken down,” Jennifer says. “It’s very transparent.”
The breadth of services runs the gamut from putting hoses away and trimming bushes to installing grab bars and replacing light switches.
“We all have lots of little projects,” Jennifer says. “The average home has 22.”
When it comes to helping seniors stay in their homes, TruBlue offers a free 100-touch-point safety assessment, covering both the inside and outside of a home. Specialists can help seniors identify modifications that can make living in their home easier, from lowering the height of a microwave to widening doorways to installing a taller toilet. “Sometimes, it’s just adjusting rods in a closet,” Jennifer says.
TruBlue prides itself on hiring trustworthy technicians who undergo background checks and training before they begin working with clients. “We all have to trust the people that come into our homes,” Jennifer says.
Lang was delighted to find that she had connections through both school and church with the technicians who came to work on her home. “They were very personable,” she says. Now, she’s started recommending TruBlue to her friends who have projects to tackle around their homes. “We get a lot of ‘Thank goodness I know who to trust now,’” Jennifer says.
She also notes that they strive to respond quickly when contacted with most technicians coming out to assess a project within a day or two and providing an estimate within 24 hours. And because they tackle smaller projects, clients won’t have to wait months for items to be addressed. Jennifer says, “We want to be there right away.”
TruBlue of Plymouth and Maple Grove; 763.400.3748; trublueally.com
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Written by Madeline Kopiecki
by Chris Emeott
PLYMOUTH’S CLASS OF 2025
Meet some student representatives and see how this senior class has shaped its schools.
Each graduating class plays a role in shaping its high school’s legacy—from forming new clubs and initiatives to pursuing athletic records and maintaining traditions, along with, of course, striving toward scholastic success. This issue’s Senior Spotlight highlights a few of the students who molded the latest iteration of their school community.
We couldn’t have done it without the generous assistance of administrators and educators from the high schools that serve the Plymouth community. They took the time to nominate students who are leaving a positive impact as well as students who exemplify their school communities.
So, without further ado, let’s say hello to a few of the stellar students that make up the class of 2025.
Photos
Amanuel Adane, 17
Armstrong High School
“Amanuel is not only an outstanding student, but he is an outstanding individual. He has made many positive contributions to our school community because of his involvement in various school activities, ranging from band and athletics to leadership and mentoring. He is constantly looking for ways to help others. A great example of this is during his junior year, he was looking for opportunities to tutor other students in math. He reached out to our school’s Math Resource Center and started tutoring students during his open times. The amazing thing about Amanuel is even though he has a jam-packed schedule, he is always willing to find more ways to help and contribute to our school community.” —Debbie Dragseth, school counselor
In Amanuel’s Words:
What high school achievement are you most proud of? I had the privilege of implementing Armstrong’s annual Culture Day, a day where students from all kinds of cultural backgrounds can make their culture visible for all to see. This is a part of many students’ identities that is far too often hidden away. Students have the opportunity to do this through wearing cultural dress, setting up a mini-presentation about their culture in our library and participating in our Cultural Pep-Fest.
Maddie’s future in three words: Bright, Successful, Joyful
Amanuel’s future in three words: Resilient, Inquisitive, Giving Amanuel Adane
What is something that your peers may not know about you? I love taking walks long walks, the kind where you begin to lose track of time as you wander further and further and further away from home. There’s something so magical about discovering a bakery here, a bridge there [or] a grove of trees that you just can’t leave without taking a couple of photos of. Not only does a walk let you decompress from all the stresses thrown at you in daily life, but [it connects] you to your community in a way that a car just can’t. Walks force you to take the time to admire the beauty of every building, every park and every street.
Maddie Murry, 17
Benilde-St. Margaret’s (BSM)
“There is not a student in the building who doesn’t love Maddie. She is a wonderful young lady who has a very bright future. Academically, Maddie excels among her peers, taking a rigorous course load while playing various sports. Maddie has always exemplified what it means to be a Red Knight. She’s supportive of her classmates, she’s giving to her community and she does it all with the kindest heart. It’s an honor to have Maddie as a student of mine and to see her be a role model in our school building.” —Vicky Haas, school counselor
Maddie Murry
In Maddie’s Words:
What high school achievement are you most proud of?
One of my achievements from high school that I am the most proud of is my progression in softball. When I first started playing softball at BSM, I was terrified when I received my varsity jersey. I was just an 8th grader, and it was mind blowing that I would be playing with high schoolers. But the very next year, I was moved up to a starting position. All of a sudden what I thought had been the most terrifying experience was now an almost daily occurrence. I spent a lot of time working with my fellow outfielders, staying late after practice and talking with my coach. Eventually, my teammates and I were able to develop a relationship and trust for each other, and that is something that became so incredibly important to me.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
One thing that my peers may not know about me is that I absolutely love rock climbing. I started a few years ago, and I’ve really enjoyed not only the sport itself but joining such an inclusive and supportive community. The thing that I love about rock climbing (and some people may call me crazy) is looking down when you reach the top of a wall. There is nothing that compares to the feeling of working hard and pushing yourself, then being able to see tangible results. Letting go and drifting back to the ground is incredibly relaxing as well, giving you a moment to just feel gravity take over again. There really is no feeling quite like it.
Aanya Pandey, 17
The Blake School
“Aanya Pandey is a Renaissance woman: she is an academic, a talented performing artist and an athlete. However, what is most striking about Aanya—and what was echoed the most by her teachers—is that she is a person of great integrity. She is reliable and trustworthy, she is thoughtful, and she is a student who puts the needs of the community before her own. Additionally, she is someone [who] other students trust and see as a leader because she is measured in both her reactions and her responses; students know that they can trust her to be a fair judge, and that she will look at a problem from multiple perspectives.”
—Jacqui
Niederschulte, Upper School science faculty
In Aanya’s Words:
What high school achievement are you most proud of?
For the past few years, I have been organizing an annual fundraiser that involves running a mile every hour for 24 hours. This started out first as an individual effort and then became a team effort with friends and cousins. Collectively, we have raised over $10,000. I am proud of this because I used my interest in running to make a bigger difference, encouraged myself and the team to complete a difficult challenge
Aanya’s future in three words: Fulfilling, Joyful, Challenging
Romeo’s future in three words: Undecided, Excited, Determined
Romeo Sweet
Aanya Pandey
and raised a large amount of money for causes I care about, specifically bringing clean water and food to kids in need.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
Something my peers might not know about me is that my family loves to travel, so I’ve been lucky enough to see many cool places both outside and within the U.S. These trips have brought with them many fond memories and adventures I will always remember. I hope to continue to travel throughout my life and specifically explore the world both in and out of the U.S. One of my dream destinations is Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. When I have nothing to do, I like to plan trips that we may never go on just for fun.
Romeo Sweet, 17
Providence Academy
“Romeo exemplifies the kind of student we hope to have in our community, one [who] is involved in both arts and athletics and who takes their academic life seriously. Romeo has been a student at Providence Academy in all three divisions, starting in the lower school. He makes a positive impact on his class in many ways, and it is a pleasure to have him as a student in the Upper School.” —Kurt Jaeger, Upper School director
In Romeo’s Words:
What high school achievement are you most proud of?
I am most proud of becoming a varsity captain for hockey. This honor was chosen by the former captains, and it means a lot because they are people that I looked up to. They see my leadership and the positive influence that I have on my teammates, and they trust me to lead the program that they have left. This also shows my skill as well. I have started in three varsity sports—which is difficult to balance with school and the dedication each sport requires—but I have been able to excel in the classroom, be a role model among my peers and earn every opportunity that I have been given.
What is something that your peers may not know about you? Something that my peers might not know about me is that I collect yellow rubber ducks. Whenever I go to a store, I always have to check if there is a new duck to add to my collection. I have been doing this for about a year or so now, and I have to earn each duck I can get. A collection is no fun when you can just buy a 40 pack of unique ducks, so I made a challenge out of it. Whenever I do well on a test, I reward myself with a duck. When I do have a good game, I also can get a duck. This pushes me to further my collection and to do well academically and physically.
La’Naisha Andrada, 17 Wayzata High School
La’Naisha’s future in three words: Promising, Challenging, Exciting
“What stands out about La’Naisha is her outgoing personality and desire to embrace all opportunities that come her way. La’Naisha has a determination to succeed. She never turns away an opportunity. La’Naisha was asked to join the Hennepin County Youth Advisory Board last year, and she embraced an opportunity out of her comfort zone when she was nominated for the Wayzata Rotary Club Camp Enterprise this fall. La’Naisha has shared that her Wayzata High School experience has had a profound impact on her confidence and has helped her discover who she aspires to be.”
—Brad Olson, counselor
In La’Naisha’s Words:
What high school achievement are you most proud of?
An achievement from my high school career that I’m most proud of is the opportunities I’ve had to give back to my community. The sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing I’m making a positive impact is truly special. I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in various projects that have allowed me to contribute in different ways, and I take great pride in that accomplishment.
What is something that your peers may not know about you?
One thing my peers might not know about me is how much I enjoy being out in nature. Whether it’s a leisurely walk, a bike ride or hitting the tennis courts, I’m always up for any outdoor activity that gets me moving. If it means I get to get my steps in and get some vitamin D, count me in.
La’Naisha Andrada
HEART AND SOUL
Meghan and Igor Afonkin
BALLROOM DANCE STUDIO HELPS WEDDING COUPLES SHARE THEIR LOVE STORY.
WRITTEN BY JENNIFER PITTERLE
PHOTOS BY CHRIS EMEOTT
Meghan Afonkin has been immersed in the dance industry since the day she was born. Her parents, Scott and Amy Anderson, have been pillars of the Twin Cities dance scene for decades, garnering national and international acclaim on stage while also owning and operating three dance studios locally.
It comes as no surprise then that Meghan, who grew up in her parents’ studios, soon joined the competitive dance program at Summit Dance Shoppe (then called the Dance Shoppe), specializing in ballet, jazz, lyrical and tap. “I dabbled in ballroom,” she says. “Just doing fun little routines with my dad and a few competitions here and there.”
Although Meghan had launched a successful career in public relations after graduating from Minnesota State University, dance kept calling to her. “I decided to make the leap and start working for a ballroom dance studio,” she says. She never looked back.
After a few years of teaching at various studios in Minnesota and Wisconsin, Meghan was matched with a dance partner who would change her life. In 2016, she and Igor Afonkin became professional dance partners—and a romance quickly bloomed. Partly inspired by their own dance-focused love story, the Afonkins wanted to open their own studio where they could offer personalized instruction to wedding couples.
“Movement, especially to music, can really bring up emotion inside of you,” Meghan says. “To be able
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to dance with someone you love is really intimate. It’s like you’re moving as one.”
She and Igor spent two years looking for their own studio space and opened SOUL Ballroom in Plymouth in May 2023. Meghan was familiar with the area from her time dancing at Summit Dance Shoppe and knew a ballroom studio would be a great fit for the community. “Plymouth has been great, and the community has really welcomed us,” she says.
SOUL Mate
Meghan and Igor have tailored a dance instruction program for wedding couples that’s truly heartfelt, inspired by their own story of falling in love while dancing. The program, SOUL Mate, starts with an individual 45-minute consultation. (And don’t worry—even the first meeting includes a few dance steps!) Then, the instructor works with the couple to create a customized plan based on their goals. Some brides and grooms
want to choreograph a traditional first dance number, says Meghan, while others want a modern or funny routine to surprise their guests. Maybe, they want to learn a handful of traditional ballroom dances—like the waltz or rumba—that they can do in a group setting while on the dance floor during the party.
“I love being part of their journey,” Meghan says. “The couples come in and are already at that stage where they’re so excited. There’s so much
Meghan and Igor Afonkin continue to express their love through dance.
“Anyone can dance. I like to remind people that we all danced as children. We’re all dancers at heart—we have to give ourselves permission.”
MEGHAN AFONKIN, SOUL BALLROOM
love. To be able to help them create a memory that truly lasts a lifetime is so rewarding.”
Anyone can dance, Meghan says. “I like to remind people that we all danced as children,” she says. “We’re all dancers at heart—we have to give ourselves permission.”
SOUL Mate packages can include up to 10 private lessons, along with a practice performance and a few group classes. The top-tier package also includes a class for the wedding party, where brides and grooms can bring their attendants and learn together.
One couple, who brought their love story to life through dance, are Emma Squires-Sperling and Patrick Burns. They were married last October and learned the waltz for an instrumental arrangement of So This is Love for their first wedding dance.
“It was a highlight during our wedding because it was a chance for us to express our love for one another without having to use words and gave us a little moment that was just ours,” Squires-Sperling says.
Their lessons with Igor were fun, Squires-Sperling adds. “We were looking for lessons with a more personal experience, not just going through an A-Z lesson book, and SOUL provided the best of both worlds,” she says. Now, she and Burns have a brand-new skill set and hobby to share. “Learning to dance parallels what romance is,” she says. “It takes work, patience and dedication to learn. While frustrating at times, we always walked away after a lesson smiling and holding hands.”
SOUL Ballroom, 76 Nathan Lane N.; 763.496.5553; soulballroom.com SOUL Ballroom @soulballroom
TASTEMAKERS
¡Bienvenido a Todos!
Restaurant offers modern mashups of Mexican fare.
Written by Meredith Heneghan — Photo by Chris Emeott
IF YOU’RE A TACO FANATIC or you love a Margarita on a summer evening, you’ve probably noticed that there’s a new game in town. Lago Tacos opened its latest location in Plymouth this past spring, adding variety to the food scene with its signature modern spin on Mexican favorites. The local business opened its flagship location in Excelsior 11 years ago, expanding to the LynLake neighborhood in Minneapolis a little over 10 years ago. These original locations are staples in their communities, and the Plymouth location is likely well on its way to a similar status.
“Everyone was so excited,” says Emily Mendoza, Lago Tacos area manager, regarding days leading up to the restaurant’s soft opening in March. “Every day, people would stop and be like, ‘I can’t wait for you to open,’ because a lot of the people in Plymouth know us from Excelsior. So right out the gate, people were excited to have [Lago Tacos] on this side of the lake.”
For those not already in the know, the Lago Tacos menu has many Mexican menu staples, including chips and guacamole, quesadillas and tacos six ways to Sunday. But what makes Lago Tacos unique is all of its modern mashups. Fried
Avocados, Sesame Chicken Tacos and the Guava BBQ Pork Bowl all stand out.
“Everything’s fresh, made in-house,” Mendoza says. As for crowd favorites, “By far, the biggest thing that we’re known for is our queso sauce,” she says. “That is a hit every single time ... As far as presentation-wise, our Nacho Stack is insane. It’s super big. Every time I serve one, there’s three more that go out right after.”
The Plymouth location also serves up some exclusive menu items that can’t be found at the other locations, including elote, vegan chorizo dishes and fajitas.
Mendoza knows firsthand what makes Lago Tacos great goes beyond just the food. “We want people to feel like they’re at home, that they are very welcome in this atmosphere for a quick lunch or to catch up with an old friend or somebody’s birthday,” she says.
The newest location of Lago Tacos at the Plymouth Town Center is a novel venture because of its size, too. “We’re definitely able to accommodate larger parties here than the other two locations,” Mendoza says. “We have a semiprivate room in the back that is really nice for office parties or even for family outings.” The latest location also features a dog-friendly patio.
Fall Festivities
September is a celebratory month for Mexican cuisine, with National Guacamole Day falling on September 16 and National Quesadilla Day following shortly after on September 25. When it comes to guacamole, it’s all about the texture in Emily Mendoza’s estimation. “Our guac is made fresh every day, and we keep it with a consistency to where it still has texture in it. You’re not just getting a guacamole sauce,” she says.
As for Lago Tacos’ quesadillas, “The thing that I love about our quesadillas is that we have multiple different protein options. Any protein that we have in house, we can make it into a quesadilla,” Mendoza says, noting the dish is large enough to share. “We put grilled onions and poblano peppers in ours with the protein.” The dish is served with the classic fixings of sour cream, pico de gallo and guacamole on the side.
Let’s Talk Tequila
The foundation of every Margarita starts with the tequila (or, as occasion may have it, the mezcal). But what do different tequila labels truly mean?
Similar to Champagne, tequila is only considered true tequila if it comes from certain parts of Mexico that grow the blue agave plant. “If it’s from a different area, it’s an agave spirit,” Emily Mendoza says. The age of the spirit determines its color, flavor and oftentimes price. “It’s similar to meat. When you dry age it, the longer it goes, the more expensive it is,” Mendoza says.
Two months to one year
Sesame Chicken Tacos and Elote
Labeled As
Plata (Silver) Unaged Citrus with a trademark bite
Jalapeño Cucumber
Reposado (Rested)
Sweeter with a hint of caramel
Ultimate Margarita
Añejo (Extra Aged) One to three years
Notes of nuts, honey and coffee
Añejo Old Fashioned
Mezcal (Smoked) Varies
Smoky and complex with hints of earth Grilled Pineapple Margarita
Barrel Aged Flavors As Seen In
Photos: Lori Dalrymple
Corey Medina and Brothers perform at the 2023 Brews, Eats & Beats concert.
BREWS, EATS & BEATS IS BACK
The Fabulous Armadillos is headlining Mount Olivet’s annual outdoor concert.
Lake Rd. Maple Grove, MN 763-420-7958
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CRAFT BREWS, local foods and rockin’ tunes are returning to the grounds of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church of Plymouth on August 3. The name might have changed—from Blues, Brews & BBQ—but the goal of the show remains the same: to raise funds to fight against hunger in the community.
“We wanted to evolve our event a little bit to include a broader appeal,” event co-chair Mark Schmidt says. “That doesn’t mean we’re excluding blues either but just to give us a little bit more flexibility. Other parts of the event—gathering together, serving the community, particularly in causes around hunger—still remain.”
To Schmidt’s point, the blues will still be well represented by Corey Medina and Brothers, a blues-rock band, returning for the second year in a row. “Corey really gets into his music. He pours his heart into it,” Schmidt says. “[The performance] should roll right into The Fabulous Armadillos for just a really great evening.
“[The Fabulous Armadillos are] just really talented musicians,” Schmidt says. “They put on a fun concert and do a great job of getting people involved. That’s what we’re hoping for as well, is a level of energy and activity that will make it really fun.”
The local brews and eats will be supplied by Plymouth mainstays, including Rock Elm Tavern and Honey and Mackie’s, among others. Ticket proceeds will be donated to organizations, including PRISM, Loaves & Fishes and Every Meal. —Madeline Kopiecki
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Compiled by Findlay Drabant and Grace Knapp
LOCAL
EVENTS
Beaches, Bands and Brews 08/09
Get sandy at East Medicine Beach, and listen to a set from local band Sawyer’s Dream. There will also be food trucks and yard games. All ages. Free. 6–9 p.m. East Medicine Lake Park, 1740 E. Medicine Lake Blvd.; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov
Music in Millennium
08/10
Enjoy an evening of live music with the Plymouth Rockers in Millennium Garden. All ages. Free. 7–8 p.m. Millennium Garden, 14800 34th Ave. N.; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov
Kids Fest 08/15
Complete with carnival games, entertainment on the Hilde stage, a petting zoo, face painting, a bounce house and STEM and art activities, this annual kids’ event makes learning fun. All ages. Free. 5–8:30 p.m. Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov
Farmers Market
09/04–09/25
Every Wednesday at Parkers Lake Playfield, sink your teeth into farmfresh produce harvested locally. All ages. Free. 2:30–6:30 p.m. Parkers Lake Playfield, 15500 County Road 6; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov
Run for Beer 09/08
Out-and-back 5K and 10K courses start and finish at Luce Line Brewing. Runners ages 21 and older receive a free beer, and younger participants get a free soda. All ages. $35–$50. 11 a.m. Luce Line Brewing, 12901 16th Ave. N.; breweryrunningseries.com
Native Plant Garden Club 09/13
Volunteer, and help sustain a local orchard and plant garden. Ages 14 and older. Free. 9–11 a.m. Fazendin Park 17040 24th Ave. N.; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov
AREA EVENTS
Grand Piano Spectacular 08/01
Marvel at the skills of four talented pianists as they take to the stage. All ages. $35–$69. 7–9 p.m. Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.; 612.371.5600; minnesotaorchestra.org
Culinary Olympics: Italy 08/02
Enjoy a menu of Italian salad, pasta and Bolognese sauce, flourless chocolate cake with berries and Chantilly cream during an Olympic-inspired cooking competition. Ages 21 and older. $99. 6–8:30 p.m. Bellecour, 210 N. First St., Mpls.; 612.223.8167; cooksbellecour.com
Powderhorn Art Fair
08/03–08/04
Art is abound at this 33rd-annual celebration, which will host over 150 artists and feature art from across 20 different mediums. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Powderhorn Park, 3400 15th Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.722.4817; powderhornartfair.com
Minneapolis Street Art Fest 08/10–08/11
Browse the works of over 100 local artisans as they set up shop for a weekend in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Nicollet Ave., Mpls.; didstreetart@gmail.com; mplsstreetartfest.com
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To have your event considered: email plymouthmag@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.
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Enter your photos in the Picture Plymouth photo contest through August 31 at plymouthmag.com, and vote in the Readers’ Choice category September 15-30 on our website.
Picture Plymouth
A bicyclist pauses to capture a moment of natural beauty.
“The backlighting made the dandelion fuzz glow beautifully, inspiring me to capture the moment,” Masahiro Sunohara says. “It’s a reminder that if we take a moment away from the daily hustle, we can notice little glimpses of beauty around us.” —Madeline Kopiecki
To view other Picture Plymouth photo contest winners, visit plymouthmag.com.
Photographer: Masahiro Sunohara
Title: Morning Glow on Wisps
Equipment: Nikon D5 + Tamron 90mm Macro f/2.8
Location: Near the Northwest Greenway Pavilion
Category: Seasons Award: Second Place
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