Plymouth - June 2025 by Local.

BEST OF 2025

Healthier starts here

The University of Minnesota Medical School is proud to train about 70% of our state’s doctors. When these innovative and compassionate individuals leave our campus, they are ready to provide lifechanging care across Minnesota—and all over the globe. By supporting aspiring doctors and ensuring they receive the highest quality education, we are creating a healthier future for all.

Learn more at: z.umn.edu/supportmeded

Healthier. Here, There, and Everywhere.

JUNE/JULY 2025

“When you see an image that is interesting or beautiful or just creative, it just makes you excited about wanting to see new places, visit new parts.” —Cathy Milostan, Plymouth resident and hobbyist photographer (page 22)

A Second Glance, page 22

A New Chapter

The Plymouth History Center continues to make history.

Sk8r Kids

3rd Lair skate shop offers a summer competition for newcomers and longtime boarders alike.

Best of Plymouth 2025 It’s time to celebrate your favorites.

A Second Glance

We’re widening the lens on some of our longstanding photo contest participants. TASTEMAKERS 29 Take a Dip

Summer days will be even brighter with fresh takes on appetizing spreads.

Photo: Bodhisatya Bhaduri

from the EDITOR

The wait is over, and what better way to kick off the summer than with a celebration? Each year, our Best of Plymouth Readers’ Choice Poll asks you, our readers, to name your favorite establishments, and you turned out in droves to shine the spotlight on local businesses, places, services and more. Summer is the season for exploration, which makes it a fitting time for our Best of Plymouth issue. If you’re looking for suggestions, keep this magazine handy—our Best of Plymouth winners list (page 16) is the perfect resource for finding something new, whether it’s a restaurant you haven’t visited or a service you’ve been waiting to try.

But this issue is also full of other ways to add excitement to your summer. Looking for a treasure hunt? The Friends of the Plymouth Library is hosting a book sale stocked with hidden gems (page 35). Looking for a bit of excitement? 3rd Lair is bringing its Summer Series to Plymouth Creek Playfield’s skate park (page 14). Looking to dip into new flavors? Our summer dips roundup offers up a dash of flavor for your next gathering (page 29).

Our Best of Plymouth issue is truly the capstone event of our publishing year, and we couldn’t do it without you. Your thousands of votes across new and returning categories served to support local businesses, share personal recommendations and overall demonstrate why Plymouth is the best place to live, work and play. Thank you.

Until next time,

Madeline Kopiecki madeline@localmedia.co

Photo: Chris Emeott

VOL. 20 NO. 6 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

Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle and Rachel Schuehle

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Douglas Broman, Emily Maxson, Ashley Meyers, Amy Sundet, Katie Timcho and Grant Whittaker

DIGITAL INTERN

Taylor Hamilton

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza

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

Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre and Sara Johnson

PRESIDENT

Pete Burgeson

JESSICA SERVAIS 2024 MN Super Lawyer

612-344-0336

KOJO ADDO “Rising Star” by MN Super Lawyer

jservais@schwebel.com CODY SCHARPF “Rising Star” by MN Super Lawyer

612-344-0304 kaddo@schwebel.com

612-344-0334

cscharpf@schwebel.com

Achieving the title of Super Lawyer is a mark of excellence, awarded to attorneys who have reached the highest standards in their field and earned the respect of both peers and the public. We’re so proud of Plymouth residents Jessica, Kojo and Cody to have been honored with this distinction. 612-377-7777 schwebel.com

The Brost Clinic continues to provide expert chiropractic care and wellness services.

Since 1986, The Brost Clinic has helped patients of all ages (from newborns to people well into the prime of their lives) resolve injuries, alleviate pain and achieve and maintain a healthier and more active lifestyle. “Each patient receives specialized therapies and adjustments for their problems and customized care, including disc decompression therapy for people suffering from disc problems,” says co-owner Caroline Brost-Sailer, D.C.

Brost-Sailer and her husband, Shawn Sailer, D.C., purchased the clinic last year from her mother, Barbro Brost, D.C., who continues to serve as the clinic’s mentor. “She has so much knowledge and skills she can continue to pass on to the team as we grow,” Brost-Sailer says. “It’s been amazing to work alongside family to understand all avenues of the business and continue to grow as we implement advanced techniques and therapies,” she says.

The 7,400-foot, state-of-the-art Wayzata clinic, awardwinning for patient care and excellent service, is one of the largest chiropractic clinics in the Midwest and continues to grow with six doctors on staff, dedicated to providing patients with successful chiropractic and natural health care experiences. “Our goal is to have 80 percent of the community under chiropractic wellness care because we know what a difference it can make for every patient that comes to our clinic,” Brost-Sailer says.

“They really listen and want to help you the best way they can,” says Jamie, a patient. “All the doctors are great, and each doctor is able to help you with any problems you are having.” Brandon echoes that sentiment, “The doctors are knowledgeable, kind and really care about their patients. I have been going for years, and they will stay late, give me extra time if I need it and always go above and beyond. Since going to the clinic, I no longer have back pain or migraines.”

“We are a one stop shop for everyone looking for chiropractic care, nonsurgical disc decompression, massage therapy, acupuncture and nutritional advice, which are critical for a healthy body and overall wellness,” Brost-Sailer says.

BEST OF FAQS

While voting is complete, and the numbers are tallied, there might be a few questions when it comes to how our annual Readers’ Choice Poll operates— before, during and after all is said and done.

What’s a finalist vs. a winner?

1. One entry was allowed per person; each ballot needed to include an email address.

Let’s start here. Voting ran online the month of January with three rules*:

2. Voters needed to vote in at least five categories to ensure their ballot was counted.

The top three vote-getters in each category became finalists and were announced in March on our website. (Our team fact-checked the address and contact information for each finalist. If a finalist was no longer a valid selection due to a closed business, etc., the next highest vote-getter(s) moved up to become a finalist.) The top vote-getter is the winner and is announced in this issue and on our website, starting on June 1.

3. Ballots must have been completed by 5 p.m. January 31, 2025.

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

FAQs

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

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

How are the categories chosen?

Each year, our teams evaluate the categories to ensure our poll is reflective of our local businesses and is in tune with our readership’s interests and suggestions—all while providing relevant and engaging content.

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

Encourage clients or customers to vote for your business in our next Readers’ Choice Poll, which goes live on our website on January 1, 2026.

How does vote tallying work?

Once the poll closed and the votes were validated, tabulators determined which businesses or locations were the top three (there were ties!) vote-getters.

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

Winners can request a free digital copy of the Best of Plymouth cover design, which also indicates the winning category and the business’s or organization’s name. Winners can purchase a framed award certificate, which is 14x17 inches and features a black, wood frame. The cost is $150 per item, including shipping and handling, and can be ordered at localmedia.co/bestofwinner.

—Editorial Staff

READ

SIP

Lemonade Stand

This lemonade uses the whole lemon, peel included, so no juicing is required. It is wonderful on its own, or you can add your favorite spirit for a refreshing summer cocktail.

Easy Fresh Lemonade With Mint

• 3 organic lemons, cut into 8 pieces each

• ⅔ cup fresh mint leaves

• 4 ½ cups water

• 1 cup honey simple syrup (See recipe below.)

• pinch of sea salt

• extra mint leaves and lemon slices for serving

Place all of the ingredients in a blender, and blend on medium for 5–6 seconds. Do not overblend, or the lemonade will be bitter. Pour the mixture through a mesh strainer into a pitcher with ice. Pour the lemonade into glasses garnished with lemon slices and fresh mint.

Honey Simple Syrup

• 2 cups honey

• 1 cup water

Combine honey and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, remove from heat and let cool. Store in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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

A New Chapter

The Plymouth History Center continues to make history.

By Daniel Huss

In 2019, a cornerstone of Plymouth’s past was put in jeopardy. A burst water pipe closed Old Town Hall for the next five years. Water damage impacted the lower level of the building, historic site coordinator Ryan Barland says. “While the damage to the historic collections was minimal, a lot of work had to go into rehabbing it as a work space,” he says. But while the history center was shuttered, there was plenty going on behind closed doors.

Aside from redoing the flooring and the office space, the Plymouth History Center staff worked on an upstairs exhibit that covers Plymouth’s timeline and spans Native American history up to the 1970s. Downstairs still houses historical collections, which have been painstakingly preserved. “Volunteers have given tremendous amounts of their time, keeping this building going and Plymouth’s history alive,” Barland says. “They’ve digitized thousands of photos, and they’ve done tons of indexing.”

One of the most popular uses of the archives is housing history, Barland says. Photos of houses are hit or miss. “Maps, however, can take you back to the 1800s,” he says. “You don’t know what you’ll find until you look.”

Back in My Day

While Barland acknowledges that Plymouth’s History Center has reached its limit on what it can physically accept— it can’t take grandma’s pump organ, for example—Plymouth residents can still share their stories.

The history center’s oral history recording space is simple: a couch next to a window in the upstairs research room. “The majority of the people who use it tend to be a little older, but we’ve had some younger people as well,” Barland says.

So far, Barland has done all of the interviewing, drawing from his 15 years of experience at the Minnesota Historical Society, where his fortes were oral history

and oral history interviewing.

One of Barland’s favorite stories collected at Old Town Hall was an interview with a member of the Plymouth Parks and Recreation Department. “He talked about the Millennium Garden and the origins of the Fire and Ice Winter Festival,” Barland says. “He had so much pride in his work.”

The audio recordings and transcripts go into the history center’s collections and will be drawn on in various ways. “We will use them to better tell the history of Plymouth in exhibits, books and online,” Barland says. “Researchers will also use the recordings for their own projects.”

Old Town Hall is open 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and the first Saturday of every month.

Find additional programming at history.plymouthmn.gov.

Photos: Chris Emeott

DISCOVER MORE

Plymouth’s historic site coordinator Ryan Barland will share slices of local history in our newest Noteworthy column. “My hope for the Plymouth Magazine column is to highlight all of the cool stuff we are doing here at Plymouth History Center,” he says. Look for his upcoming columns, which will explore local historic collections, provide programming announcements and offer local stories from the past.

Plymouth History Center, 3605 Fernbrook Lane N; 763.509.5229; history.plymouthmn.gov

Left: Historic site coordinator Ryan Barland at Old Town Hall.

Right: Volunteers have been hard at work digitizing historic photographs during the Hands on History series led by Barland.

Sk8r Kids

3rd Lair skate shop offers a summer competition for newcomers and longtime boarders alike.

By Jennifer Pitterle

For more than two decades, 3rd Lair skate park and shop has been a part of Minnesota’s skateboarding scene. Now located in Golden Valley, the indoor park offers a 20,000-square-foot space where skateboarders of all ages and skill levels can practice year-round. “Our primary mission as a business is to grow skateboarding participation, and we do that in a number of different ways,” says Mark Rodriguez, owner of 3rd Lair. The shop offers skateboard lessons, instructional day camps, specialty clinics for different demographic groups (girls, boys, younger adults, older adults and more) and special events and contests, both at 3rd Lair and at other parks.

The Summer Series is one of 3rd Lair’s signature events, connecting communities through skateboarding competitions held at public parks in several Metro cities, including Plymouth Creek Playfield's skate park. “We created [the] Summer Series approximately 20 years ago as an opportunity for folks whose thing is skateboarding,” Rodriguez says. For kids who might not gravitate to other sports, like soccer or hockey, participating in Summer Series events throughout the season can give them a sense of camaraderie, growth and—best of all—fun.

The Plymouth series, which is offered in partnership with the City, has divisions for all ages, from beginners to advanced skaters, along with specific categories for boys, girls and adults over 30. “The idea is to create the most comfortable, fun riding experience for the most people we can,” Rodriguez says. “It’s a low-barrier event.” What is one thing that means? The event is free to enter.

Top: Summer Series skaters have three minutes to show off their best tricks.

Bottom: The jam-style format means participants compete in groups of two or three.

Photos: City of Plymouth

Plymouth Summer Series 2025

• June 17

• Registration begins at 5 p.m., competition begins at 6 p.m.

• Plymouth Creek Playfield, 3625 Fernbrook Lane N.

On competition day, the atmosphere is lively and family friendly. “It’s much like going to a Little League baseball game,” Rodriguez says. Registration for participants opens an hour before the event.

“People show up, pop up their lawn chairs and hang out with coolers. Skaters practice, warm up and meet friends. It’s about learning new tricks, having fun and being part of the community,” he says.

The jam-style format ensures an inclusive environment for competitors. “It’s the least punishing format if you’re not as consistent on your skateboard,” Rodriguez says. Skaters have three minutes to show off their best tricks alongside one or two others. Awards for the top three competitors in each division are presented immediately after their heats in order to offer a shortened day for younger skaters and their families.

For those not quite ready to compete, 3rd Lair also partners with the Plymouth Parks and Recreation Department to offer instructional skateboarding camps at the skate park. “This is for kids who have been thinking about getting into skating and want to try it,” Rodriguez says.

3rd Lair,

850 Florida Ave. S., Golden Valley; 763.797.5283; 3rdlair.com

3rd Lair SkatePark & SkateShop @3rdlair

A whole-home generator keeps your lights, HVAC, fridge, and Wi-Fi running when the grid goes down—so you’re never left in the dark.

It’s time to celebrate your favorites.

BEST OF PLYMOUTH 2025

Long days and sunny skies are giving rise to an infectious energy, and it’s hard not to get swept up in the excitement. Whether you’re hitting one of our many trails, cooling off under a patio umbrella, soaking in live music or unfurling a beach blanket, this season always manages to bring out the best in the community.

In our annual Readers’ Choice Poll, you’ve helped us identify the very best the city has to offer, from standout local businesses to topnotch parks, recreational activities and more. So grab your sunglasses, and let’s dive into all that makes Plymouth our favorite place to live.

—Madeline Kopiecki

Dining

Best Bakery

1. The Fox and Pantry

2. Lunds & Byerlys

3. Dufner’s Donuts & Deli

Best Bar, Brewery or Distillery

1. Luce Line Brewing Co.

2. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill

3. Northern Taphouse

Best Breakfast or Brunch

1. The Original Pancake House

2. Peg’s Countryside Cafe

3. ElMar’s NY Pizza Bagel Pop-Ups

Best Burger

1. Rock Elm Tavern

2. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill

3. Northern Taphouse

Best Dessert or Ice Cream

1. Honey & Mackie’s

2. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill

3. Culver’s of Plymouth

Best International Cuisine

1. Lucky Street

2. Clay Oven

3. India Palace Plymouth

Best Locally Owned Coffee or Tea Shop

1. The Fox and Pantry

2. Kingdom Coffee

3. Tie: Daily Dose Cafe and Espresso; India Bazaar

Best Outdoor Dining Space

1. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill

2. Rock Elm Tavern

3. CōV

Best Pizza

1. ElMar’s NY Pizza

2. Latuff’s Pizzeria

3. Tie: Broadway Bar & Pizza; Gina Maria’s Pizza

Best Plant-Based or Vegan Menu

1. Lucky Street

2. Crisp & Green

3. Nala’s Kitchen

Best Restaurant

1. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill

2. Rock Elm Tavern

3. OAK Eatery

Abode

Best Carpet and Flooring Store

1. Floors of Distinction – FOD STUDIO

2. Hamernick’s Flooring Superstore

3. Tie: ProSource of Plymouth; UB Hardwoods & Flooring

Best Custom Home Builder

1. J Brothers Design –Build – Remodel, Inc.

2. Hanson Builders

3. Stonegate Builders

Best Garden Center/Nursery

1. Bachman’s

2. Heidi’s GrowHaus & Lifestyle Gardens

3. Gregor Farm & Greenhouse

Best Home Decor or Furniture Store

1. HOM Furniture

2. Abode & Co.

3. Schneiderman’s Furniture

Best Interior Design Firm

1. Revival House

2. J Brothers Design –Build – Remodel, Inc.

Best Landscape Design Service

1. David’s Lawn Service

2. MH3 Design Group

3. Custom One Landscaping

Best Remodeler

1. J Brothers Design –Build – Remodel, Inc.

2. Scanlon Builders

3. Tie: Custom One Renovation; JAS Corp.; Urban Refurbishment LLC

Best Senior Living Residence

1. Trillium Woods

2. Tie: Amira Choice Plymouth; SummerWood of Plymouth

Self Care

Best Barbershop or Salon With Men’s Services

1. Urban Eve

2. 18/8 Men’s Salon

3. Roosters Men’s Grooming Center

Best Boutique Fitness or Yoga Studio

1. Pilates MN

2. Honest Yoga

3. Surge Cycling

Best Hair Salon

1. Urban Eve

2. Tie: Hair District Collective; Reflect Salon + Spa

Best Manicure and Pedicure

1. Nail Smith

2. Diamond Nails

3. Tie: Solar Nails; Zen Nails

Best Massage

1. Buzzella Massage

2. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa

3. Tree of Life Therapeutic Massage & Spa

Best Med Spa

1. Elevate Medical Spa

2. Abella Aesthetics

Best Spa

1. Elevate Medical Spa

2. Woodhouse Spa

3. Abella Aesthetics

Wellness

Best Chiropractic Practice

1. Northern Edge Chiropractic

2. Plymouth Spine and Health Center

3. Lake West Chiropractic and Natural Health

Best Dental Practice

1. Boger Dental

2. Smile Design Dentistry

3. Bay Creek Dental

Best Dermatology Practice

1. Pinnacle Dermatology

2. Schweiger Dermatology Group (formerly Zel Skin & Laser Specialists)

3. Lakes Dermatology

Best Family Medicine Practice

1. Park Nicollet Clinic Plymouth

2. Voyage Healthcare

3. Northwest Family Clinics

Best Holistic Wellness Practice

1. Tie: Garland Wellness; Lake West Chiropractic and Natural Health; Penny George Institute for Health and Healing – WestHealth; Y Wellness

Best OB-GYN Practice

1. Oakdale ObGyn

2. Haugen OB/GYN

3. Voyage Healthcare

Best Orthodontic Practice

1. Smile Design Dentistry

2. Kottemann Orthodontics

3. Camp Smile

Best Pediatric Practice

1. South Lake Pediatrics

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

3. Wayzata Children’s Clinic

Best Physical Therapy Practice

1. Twin Cities Orthopedics Plymouth

2. TRIA Physical Therapy at Park Nicollet Clinic Plymouth

3. Realign Pelvic Health

Best Vision Care Practice

1. Plymouth Vision Center

2. Kennedy Vision Health Center

3. Tie: Four Seasons Eye Care; VisionSmith

Learning

Best Dance Studio

1. Tie: Esteem Dance; Summit Dance Shoppe

2. Just For Kix

Best Learning or Tutoring Center

1. Mathnasium

2. Kay Tutoring

3. Kumon

Best Preschool Program

1. The Goddard School of Plymouth

2. Primrose School of West Plymouth

3. Wayzata Community Church Nursery School

Best Swim School or Lesson Provider

1. Foss Swim School

2. Life Time Swim

3. Goldfish Swim School

Pet Care

Best Dog Park

1. Brew Park Plymouth

2. Plymouth Dog Park

3. Fish Lake Dog Off-leash Area

Best Pet Boarding or Daycare Service

1. Pet Retreat Plymouth

2. Camp Bow Wow

3. Red Barn Pet Retreat

Best Pet Grooming Service

1. Pet Retreat Plymouth

2. Red Barn Pet Retreat

3. Shaggy Dog Grooming

Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Discover Top-tier Providence Academy

Faith. Knowledge. Virtue. These are the cornerstone tenets upon which Providence Academy was established in 2001 and which it continues to uphold today, while ranking among the top 9 percent of private K-12 schools in America.

Serving students in prekindergarten through 12th grade under one roof on its 42-acre campus, Providence Academy is a Roman Catholic college-preparatory school with a comprehensive, core-knowledge curriculum that promotes superior academic achievement, mastery of skills and content, character development and citizenship within a faith-filled, Christian environment.

Providing students with academic and extracurricular facilities that lend themselves to achievement in and out of the classroom is a priority. Providence prides itself on offering quality facilities, including five new STEM labs, metal and wood shops, fine art studios and up-to-date classrooms.

While academics and faith (Mass is held weekly) are priority focuses, so too is developing the whole student. Providence offers 33 varsity opportunities, and there are more than 30 clubs for the Upper School. It is worth noting that 95 percent of Upper School students participate in two or more extracurricular programs. Lower and Middle school students are also offered various clubs and activities. Student athletes utilize three gymnasiums, an artificial

turf field (domed in the winter) for football, soccer and lacrosse; softball fields, tennis courts and a running track. A state-of-the-art performance center is available for exploring theatre arts as well as band and choir rooms supporting musical endeavors across all age groups.

Nearly 1,000 students are served by an average 18:1 student to instructor ratio. Success is highlighted in a multitude of ways, including that 97 percent of graduates attend four-year colleges of which 75 percent attend outof-state schools.

“[Providence is a] great school that instills faith, knowledge and virtue on a daily basis. Is it challenging? Yes. Is there homework? Yes. But the teachers and staff are there to help,” a parent says.

Schedule your tour today and see first-hand how Providence Academy prepares students for more than college—but for life—with faith, knowledge, and virtue at the core.

Best Veterinarian Practice

1. Vet Partners Plymouth

2. Rockford Road Animal Hospital

3. Plymouth Heights Pet Hospital

Shops

Best Apparel Boutique

1. Urban Eve

2. The Foursome & Boundary Clothing

3. Abode & Co.

Best Florist

1. Bachman’s

2. Candlelight Florist, Gifts & Flower Delivery

3. Tie: Orchids Limited; The Wild Orchid

Best Gift Shop

1. Abode & Co.

2. Art 2 Heart

3. Curated Boutique

Best Jewelry Store

1. Artelle Designs

2. Bergstrom Studio

3. Tie: Continental Diamond; Veberod Gem Gallery

Best Specialty Food or Kitchen Store

1. Tie: La Cocina De Ana; Lunds & Byerlys

Leisure

Best Beach, Open Space or Park

1. Clifton E. French Regional Park

2. West Medicine Lake Park

3. Baker Park Reserve

Best Date Night Spot

1. Sunshine Factory Bar & Grill

2. Lucky Street

3. Tie: Brew Park Plymouth; Northern Taphouse

Best Outdoor Location for Graduation Photos

1. Millennium Garden

2. Plymouth Community Center

3. Tie: Clifton E. French Regional Park; Hilde Performance Center

Best Place for Family Activities

1. Plymouth Community Center

2. Fractional Toys

3. Plymouth Ice Center

Best of the West Metro

Best Alpine Hill or Nordic Ski Trail

1. Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek

2. Hyland Hills Ski Area

3. Carver Winter Trailhead

Best Alterations or Tailoring Service

1. Needle Trix

2. Amazing Alterations

3. Imagine Stitch

Best Biking or Hiking Trail

1. Luce Line Regional Trail

2. Tie: Baker Park Reserve; Elm Creek Park Reserve

Best Electrician Service

1. JZ Electric

2. J. Becher & Associates

3. Randy’s Electric

Best Financial Services

1. Encore Financial

2. Berger Financial Group

3. Tie: Merrill Lynch Wealth Management; UnderDog Wealth Management, LLC

Best Golf Course

1. Rush Creek Golf Club

2. Baker National Golf Course

3. Eagle Lake Golf Course

Best Heating and Cooling Service

1. Heating & Cooling Two, Inc.

2. Standard Heating & Air Conditioning

Best Law Practice

1. Henningson & Snoxell, Ltd.

2. AND Law Offices

Best Local Concert Series

1. Live at the Hilde

2. Music in Plymouth

Best Music School

1. Medina School of Music

2. School of Rock

3. Opus Music Academy

Best Outdoor Skating Rink

1. Central Park Ice Skate Loop, Maple Grove

2. Klapprich Park & Field

3. Centennial Lakes Park, Edina

Best Plumbing Service

1. Tie: LeVahn Brothers Plumbing and Hardware Hank; Spring Plumbing

2. Tie: Plumb Right; Weld & Sons Plumbing

Best Private School

1. Providence Academy

2. Heritage Christian Academy

3. Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School

Best Professional Theatre

1. Guthrie Theater

2. Tie: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres; Stages Theatre Company

Best Roofing Service

1. Blackrock Exteriors

2. Custom One Exteriors

3. Tie: Donnelly Stucco & Exteriors; Kuhl’s Contracting

Best Staycation Hotel

1. Hotel Landing

2. Hewing Hotel

Best Summer Camp

1. Medina School of Music

2. Day Camp Christmas Tree

3. Tie: Camp Ihduhapi; Code Ninjas Plymouth

Best Venue to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks

1. Hilde Performance Center

2. Tie: Delano 4th of July Celebration; Excelsior Commons

Best Wedding Photographer or Videographer

1. Tie: Eric Vest Photography; Jessica Hegland Photography

Best Wedding Venue

1. The Hutton House

2. Tie: Plymouth Community Center; Rush Creek Golf Club

Best Winery

1. Tie: Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery; Sovereign Estate

Written by Madeline Kopiecki

A Second Glance

We’re widening the lens on some of our longstanding photo contest participants.

September marks one of my favorite times of year as the editor of Plymouth Magazine. Submissions for our Picture Plymouth photo contest have closed, and in just a few clicks, I get to access a year’s worth of creativity.

The Last Glance, which is always found as the final page of our magazine (page 40 of this issue), serves as a showcase for these creative endeavors. But while the focus is (rightfully) on the image, I often find myself wanting to know more about the photographers. For this year’s Editor’s Pick, I sat down with some of our perennial Last Glance photographers to learn more about their creative practice—plus, they share never-before-entered shots from their files.

“I bought my first camera somewhere around 15 years back. Since then, I’ve never stopped taking pictures.”

Bodhisatya Bhaduri

If you’ve noticed a long exposure shot of fireworks lighting up the silhouette of the Hilde Performance Center, there’s a good chance you’re looking at the work of Bodhisatya Bhaduri. It can be difficult to capture these ephemeral displays, he says, which is why he usually uses a tripod. “Sometimes, I take multiple shots and combine them. Sometimes, it’s just one long exposure,” he says. Bhaduri says that photography has changed the way he looks at things in his daily life. “If I’m walking or even if I’m getting groceries, I would always see things and think, ‘OK, would this look better at this angle?’” And although he laughs saying this, he adds that he enjoys these sudden bursts of inspiration. “Sometimes, if I have the camera or even if I have the phone handy, I would just take a shot and see how it looks.”

The Unwanted Guest by Bodhisatya Bhaduri

“When you see an image that is interesting or beautiful or just creative, it just makes you excited about wanting to see new places, visit new parts.”

Cathy Milostan

Cathy Milostan says one of the things she loves about living in Plymouth is the multitude of parks and lakes. The busy trails at Clifton E. French Regional Park are a particular favorite for the resident and have appeared in a number of her Picture Plymouth submissions. “It’s just a lot going on,” Milostan says, citing natural elements like brooks and ponds but also architectural elements, including bridges and boat launches.

A hallmark of Milostan’s work is the contrast between natural elements and manmade structures. “I just like looking at how you can develop different angles, different ways of looking at the same view,” Milostan says. The ethos of her photography is capturing the excitement of discovering something new. “It could be a situation where the clouds are just right, or there’s a bird that happens to wander in your view, and you realize this is something really interesting and unusual that you normally wouldn’t see,” she says.

Blue boats ready for another fun day at Medicine Lake in Plymouth by Cathy Milostan

“I treat it like a treasure hunt. For me, the biggest thing is just get out there, and you’ll find something.”

Larry Paulson

Retiree Larry Paulson says that throughout his career as an engineer, he was constantly working with the analytical side of his brain. “When I retired, I wanted to flip the script and spend the rest of my years working more on the creative side of the brain,” he says. “Photography has been one of the main ways that I’ve pursued that.”

Paulson describes his work as nature photography. “That can include, for me, anything like sunrises and sunsets or moonrises and moonsets, landscapes or cityscapes,” he says, noting he’s also started pursuing more wildlife photography. “I guess the thing that ties them all together is it’s a great excuse to get outdoors,” he says.

Nature can be a fickle subject, especially when you have a certain shot in mind. Clouds don’t always cooperate; you miss the moonrise. “But invariably, something else will turn up,” Paulson says. “You might not find what you left the house to find, but you’ll probably find something else.”

“The nice thing about photography is that it’s very straightforward to get into. There’s a set of best practices in how you take pictures, and if you follow them, you’re halfway there.”

Matthew Prior

Sunrise in French Park by Larry Paulson

Winter Sunbeam by Matthew Prior

Although he started out predominantly interested in wildlife photography, Matthew Prior says he’s become increasingly diverse in his subjects. “I enjoy trying to capture beautiful images,” he says. This has evolved over time into what Prior describes as a more planned stage of his photography. “I see something in my life, I visualize the image, and then I go back and capture the image,” he says. Many of these images are captured on the Luce Line State Trail, which Prior says offers up a host of subjects from wildlife to light manufacturing, residential homes to views of Medicine Lake. “It’s a lovely place to be,” he says. “There’s no traffic; there’s no noise. It’s just a wonderful, peaceful place where you can see all different parts of Plymouth.”

“For me, it’s all about getting a decent picture, and it doesn’t matter how many different species [I see]. I would rather have one good one than 20 lousy ones.”

Jan Speak

Although she guesstimates that her photography files are 95 percent birds, Jan Speak draws a distinction between herself and birders. “As long as they can see it or even hear it, they record that as, ‘Yup, got this bird today,’” Speak says. “For me, it has to be a good picture.”

But even though the end goal is different, Speak still shares a similar passion for knowledge. “Over the years, I’m just learning more and more about their habitat, sound, where you can find them, where they migrate and how big they are,” she says. “It’s fascinating.”

For Speak, there’s a particular sense of accomplishment that comes from capturing rare or particularly flighty subjects. “If I find a bird that’s hard to get, and I just happen to get really lucky and get a good picture for that millisecond that it’s sitting there, and it’s clear and in focus, that would be a success for me,” she says.

Whooo are you looking at? by Jan Speak

CATCHING THE BUG

Through the process of interviewing these local shutterbugs, it was impossible not to find their enthusiasm for photography infectious. Over the course of this winter and spring, I took to the parks and trails of Plymouth with an eye out for aesthetic opportunities.

Setting out with a specific intention changed the way I viewed my surroundings. A pretty moonrise at Millennium Garden became a practice in framing. A particularly gnared tree hollow at Lake Camelot became an experiment in lighting.

My favorite outting was to the Luce Line State Trail around the golden hour. I tried my (shaky) hand at macro photography, capturing clusters of shell-like mushrooms on a thin trunk. I documented a fallen birdfeeder with the inscription, “Come eat at Northern Taphouse.” I looked for unique ways to contrast industrial concrete pipes with the budding purple leaves of a nearby bush.

Overall, my biggest takeaway from my photography adventures was to just get out there, and try. You never know what you might find, and there’s fun to be had in the process. —Madeline Kopiecki

Our Picture Plymouth photo contest is open for submissions. Turn to page 40 for more information.

TUESDAY

THURSDAY

MONDAY

WEDNESDAY FRIDAY

sustainable living, experience countless chances to make new memories, discover new passions, and add new friends to your life story — with even more opportunities to broaden your horizons coming with our brand-new expansion.

On our verdant 46-acre

focused on green, sustainable

life story — with even more opportunities to broaden your horizons coming with our brand-new expansion.

experience countless chances to make new memories, discover new passions, and add new friends to your life story — with even more opportunities to broaden your horizons coming with our brand-new expansion.

discover new passions, and add new friends to your life story — with even more opportunities to broaden your horizons coming with our brand-new expansion.

Take a closer look at Trillium Woods before our new expansion is fully reserved.

Call 763.265.3474, scan the QR code, or visit TrilliumWoodsLCS.com to make the most of your retirement today.

Retirement isn’t a time to slow down and settle in. It’s a time to live it up and break free. Discover what you’ve always thought was possible — at Trillium Woods, the only true LifeCare® community in Plymouth, Minnesota.

Take a closer look at Trillium Woods before our new expansion is fully reserved.

Call 763.265.3474, scan the QR code, or visit TrilliumWoodsLCS.com to make the most of your retirement today.

On our verdant 46-acre campus, focused on green, sustainable living, experience countless chances to make new memories, discover new passions, and add new friends to your life story — with even more opportunities to broaden your horizons coming with our brand-new expansion.

in Plymouth, Minnesota.

Take a closer look at Trillium Woods before our new expansion is fully reserved.

Call 763.265.3474, scan the QR code, or visit TrilliumWoodsLCS.com to make the most of your retirement today.

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

Take a closer look at Trillium Woods before our new expansion is fully reserved. Call 763.265.3474, scan the QR

TAKE A DIP

Summer days will be even brighter with fresh takes on appetizing spreads.

Written by Editorial Staff

Photos by Chris Emeott

If there’s one thing Minnesotans do best, it’s summer get-togethers. Whether your party finds its rhythm poolside or on a sun-soaked patio, there’s one appetizer that’s sure to be on the menu: dip. No crudités, charcuterie or bowl o’ chips is complete without a flavorful dip. Simple to make and a versatile addition to the appetizer table, a quality dip is sure to get more repeat customers than the main course.

CURRY VEGGIE DIP

This veggie dip has become a mainstay at all Kopiecki family gatherings. The Madras curry powder adds the perfect zip without the heat, making it ideal for even those milder Minnesotan palates. I serve it up with baby carrots, cauliflower, celery, English cucumbers, radishes and snap peas. It’s also been known to make an appearance on burgers when the grill gets going. —Madeline Kopiecki, digital editor and editor of Plymouth Magazine

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 Tbsp. garlic powder

• 1 Tbsp. onion powder

• 1 Tbsp. Madras curry powder

• 1 Tbsp. white wine vinegar

• 1 Tbsp. stone-ground mustard

• green onion, chopped, for garnish

Combine all ingredients; mix until smooth. Let the dip sit for at least 10 minutes. Store in an airtight container if you plan to make the dip a day or two ahead of time. Garnish with chopped green onion prior to serving.

LAYERED TACO DIP

I first tried this recipe when my mother-in-law, Janice Jorenby, made it one summer evening. With five layers,

it brings together all the best flavors of a taco into one delicious dip. It’s perfect for summer get-togethers, a day on the water or a picnic spread. This dip pairs wonderfully with—you guessed it!—tortilla chips, but why not try something different? Pita chips or naan bread would make delightful partners to this recipe.

—Hailey Almsted, managing editor and editor of Maple Grove and Woodbury magazines

• 8 oz. cream cheese (Avoid low-fat cream cheese.)

• 2–4 Tbsp. taco sauce, to taste

• 1 cup iceberg lettuce, chopped

• 4 Roma tomatoes, diced

CurryVeggieDip

• 2 jalapeño peppers, optional

• shredded Mexican cheese, to taste

Warm cream cheese until it’s soft and spreadable. Pour taco sauce of choice into the softened cream cheese. Mix to combine. Spread mixture around on a pie plate. Refrigerate for at least one hour (or until it’s cool). Top with lettuce, tomatoes and jalapeño (if desired) and Mexican cheese. Serve.

SUN-DRIED TOMATO DIP

This recipe falls into the oldie but a goodie category, since it’s been in my nibbles repertoire for as long as I can remember. I don’t think sun-dried tomatoes get their due, so I happily feature them whenever a recipe needs some depth of flavor. Additionally, this recipe has weight to it, meaning you can use a dipping vehicle of your choice: Chips, crackers or crudités can equally carry this dip from plate to palate without a hitch. —Renée Stewart-Hester, managing creative director and editor of Lake Minnetonka Magazine

• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil

• 8 oz. cream cheese

• ½ cup sour cream (I often substitute with Greek yogurt for added protein.)

• ½ cup mayonnaise (Healthier versions can be used.)

• 10 dashes Tabasco sauce

• 1 tsp. kosher salt

• ¾ tsp. pepper, freshly ground

• scallions, sliced (The more the merrier, I say. And be sure to save some for garnish.)

Puree ingredients through pepper in a blender or a food processor. Add two sliced scallions. Pulse twice. Place the dip in a serving dish; add extra sliced scallions for garnish. Serve.

Miso White Bean Hummus With Chimichurri, Dairy-Free Spinach Dip and Ruby’s No-Fuss Green Chutney.

READING LIST

The Friends of the Plymouth Library will host the book sale of the summer.

Bookworms have reason to rejoice (and declutter their own shelves) this summer. A book sale, hosted by the Friends of the Plymouth Library (FOPL), is supplying an expansive selection of books, puzzles and more.

“I think people really like the thrill of the chase,” says Josh Velasquez, FOPL president. “There are lots of fun treasures to find at these sales.”

The book sale is stocked by a combination of donations and inventory that has been taken out of circulation by the Plymouth Library, which leads to plenty of diversity. “It’s basically the entire library’s worth of genres,” Velasquez says. There are also CDs and DVDs available.

Book donations are accepted throughout the year on the first Saturday of every month at the Plymouth

Library. “Then on the Friday before each sale, we accept donations,” Velazquez says.

Pre-sale opens from 9–10 a.m. for FOPL members and Friends of the Hennepin County Library members. Velasquez notes that people can also sign up for membership at the door. Doors open to the general public at 10 a.m., followed by a $5 bag sale from 2–3 p.m.

“[The sales] keep getting better every time,” Velazquez says. “It’s really an exciting time to be part of this, and people seem to have a lot of fun with it.” Proceeds from the sale support the Plymouth Library. —Madeline Kopiecki

All ages. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. July 12. Plymouth Library, 15700 36th Ave. N.; 612.543.5825; hclib.org

The Friends of the Plymouth Library book sale grows year over year in both popularity and size.

LOCAL EVENTS

06.17

Plymouth Concert Band

Delight in the symphonic stylings of a community band composed of 65 local members. All ages. Free. 7–8:30 p.m. Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.; 763.509.5200; plymouthmn.gov

06.18

Farmers Market

Explore the first Farmers Market of the season with vendors, food and more. All ages. Free. 2–6 p.m. Parkers Lake Playfield, 15500 County Road 6; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov

06.28

Music in Plymouth 5K

Walk or run alongside neighbors, friends and the Plymouth community at the Music in Plymouth 5K. All ages. Prices vary. 8–11 a.m. Northwest Greenway Pavillion, 5250 Peony Lane N.; info@plymouthvivicleague.org;

07.02

Music in Plymouth

Enjoy live music, blanket runs and fireworks at this annual event. All ages. Free. 7 a.m.–11 p.m. The Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.; info@plymouthvivicleague.org; musicinplymouth.org

07.10–07.31

Church Basement Ladies

Go back to the music that started it all, and enjoy a performance by the Plymouth Playhouse. All ages. $40–$47. Times vary. Plymouth Playhouse, 2705 Annapolis Lane N.; 952.491.0711; 4communitytheatre.org

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.

Photo: City of Plymouth

Music in Plymouth

Year in Review

Our August/September 2024 issue marked our 20th anniversary as Plymouth’s premier community lifestyle magazine. Over those two decades, we have had the opportunity to share stories that introduce local faces, explore area organizations, and support new and longstanding businesses. We couldn’t have done it without your support. Thank you. I look forward to what the next year holds for Plymouth Magazine —Madeline Kopiecki

2025 Arc Gala: Celebrating 75 Years of The Arc

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The Arc Minnesota celebrated its 75th anniversary at its annual gala on March 1, hosted at the Depot in Minneapolis. Plymouth Magazine was proud to be the media sponsor at the event, which raised more than $550,000. Each year, the gala highlights an area of need, and this year’s focus was on employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc says despite their abilities, people with disabilities face obstacles in finding meaningful employment. Money raised helps The Arc continue its mission of connecting individuals with job opportunities, educating employers and helping employers and employees navigate workplace accommodations. Urban Eve Salon & Boutique 190 Westfalen Trail #300, Medina 763.478.8100 urbanevemn.com

Our Annual Photo Contest is a Few Clicks Away

“I was inspired by seeing all the great photos from the contest last year,” 11-year-old Joshua Pui says. “Over the summer, I asked my dad and mom to take me to various places in Plymouth to capture the wildlife, scenery and other beautiful things. I loved how the Music DeLIGHT photo captured the sunlight as well as a music instrument.”

—Madeline Kopiecki

Photographer: Joshua Pui

Title: Music DeLIGHT

Equipment: iPhone 15 Pro

Location: Near the fountain across from Hilde Performance Center

Category: Places

Award: Third Place

Each July and August, we invite readers to share fresh perspectives of the Plymouth community through our annual Picture Plymouth photo contest. Photographers of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to submit images that capture the unique essence of Plymouth, whether the focus is on local scenery, friends and family, community events or creative self-expression.

Look through your images of the last year, and submit those that best encapsulate the beauty and spirit of Plymouth. We look forward to viewing your submissions!

Categories include: Abstract, People, Pets, Places, Seasons and Wildlife. Judges reserve the right to recategorize submissions if they feel the photographs are better suited to a different category.

The Details:

• Submissions are accepted between 8 a.m. July 1 through 5 p.m. August 31 at plymouthmag.com.

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

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

• Photos should be taken in the Plymouth area.

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

• Readers’ Choice voting is open September 15–30 on our website.

• Winning images could be featured in our magazine, website and social media platforms.

• The results of the contest will be posted on our website by October.

—Editorial Staff

Visit plymouthmag.com for additional rules and information.