St. Croix Valley - August 2025 by Local.

Senior Spotlight

Area students are using their unique skills and interests to make a difference

“I still feel very strongly that being connected with your community and

make a difference in the way you live and general happiness.” —Amy Sonnek,

Photo: Chris Emeott

Connections, page 10

Cycling Without Age Program at Saint Therese of Woodbury

WHAT IS CYCLING WITHOUT AGE?

Cycling Without Age is a movement started in 2012 by Ole Kassow. Ole wanted to help the elders get back on their bicycles, but he had to ﬁnd a solution to their limited mobility. The answer was a trishaw and he started offering free bike rides to the local nursing home residents. He then got in touch with a civil society consultant from the City of Copenhagen, Dorthe Pedersen, who was intrigued by the idea and together they bought ﬁve trishaws and launched Cycling Without Age, which has now spread to all corners of Denmark, and since 2015 to another 50 countries around the world.

HOW IT WORKS

Volunteers (pilots) sign up for bike rides with the elderly as often or as rarely as they want to. It’s all driven by people’s own motivation. At present more than 2,200 chapter locations around the world offer Cycling Without Age from well over 3,000 trishaws – and the numbers are still growing. More than 33,000 pilots ensure that the elderly get out of their nursing homes, out on the bikes to enjoy the fresh air and the community around them. They give them the right to wind in their hair.

OUR DREAM

“We dream of creating a world together, in which the access to active citizenship creates happiness among our fellow elderly citizens by providing them with an opportunity to remain an active part of society and the local community. We do that by giving them the right to wind in their hair, the right to experienece the city and nature close up from the bicycle and by giving them an opportunity to tell their story in the environment where they have lived their lives. That way we build bridges between generations and we reinforce trust, respect, and the social glue in our society.”

Can you give up a couple of hours a month?

You can make a real differenece by becoming a trishaw pilot- and you don’t have to be an expert cyclist! We are looking for Volunteer Pilots!

from the EDITOR

How do you find community? It’s an important question—arguably the most important question there is. Who out there hasn’t felt a desire for a stronger community at one point in their lives? It’s a continuing effort for all ages, to find our people and a feeling of being at home with one’s friends and neighbors. Yet, I propose we look to reframe our outlook. Let’s not seek to just find a community but instead ask the question: How can we work to build community?

This issue highlights Valley residents who are actively involved in community-building. Amy Sonnek, a resident of Stillwater, may have inherited a root beer float party tradition from her home’s previous owner—but it’s clear her family has taken the responsibility to heart (page 12). Along with hosting the annual event, Sonnek is an ambassador for the Growing Kindness Project and grows a cut flower garden with the sole intention of sharing blooms with the community at no cost (page 6).

Educator Bob Manning has created and supported alternative education initiatives in the Stillwater area (page 10). One such initiative is Test Drive Reality Fair. In partnership with Royal Credit Union, Stillwater Area High School students spend a day navigating a simulated career, mortgage or rent, children’s expenses, car payments and more. The event draws more than 200 volunteers annually and is a testament to the community focus of residents and business leaders in the Valley.

Hosting an event is just one way to bring your neighbors together. Consider your unique strengths and situation. What do you have to give? Consider whether you can give the gift of time, food or funds. Start small and reach out to a few people in your life who could use a helping hand or a friendly conversation.

Building a community is not a science but an art. It’s my hope that the stories in these pages inspire you to identify a way to give back. Have a community story to share? My inbox is always open at zoe@localmedia.co.

Until next time,

Zoe Yates zoe@localmedia.co

Photo: Chris Emeott

Photo by: Chris Emeott

PUBLISHER

Susan Isay

EDITOR

Zoe Yates

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

Rachael Perron, Ben Thietje and Lori Schaefer

DIGITAL INTERN

Taylor Hamilton

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Nathan Hall, Hall Family Foundation ; Heather Logelin, St. Croix Valley Foundation ; Rosetta Peters, Brookside Bar & Grill ; Kristin Rohman Rehkamp, La Vie Est Belle ; and Jennifer Sayers, Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce

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

JG Everest Ends Residency on a High Note

A walk through the woods reveals a natural symphony: Birds chirp, the wind moves through the trees and water burbles in nearby streams. At Wild River State Park, a composer and musician is collaborating with nature to introduce new elements that invite visitors to listen closely.

JG Everest has been the artist-inresidence at Wild River State Park since October 2024. During his residency, he created sound garden experiences, using more than 70 small sound speakers

spread through a space. “[Sound gardens] are outdoor art installations made up of many intersecting layers of art and information,” he says. These layers include dance, history, music and poetry, which are often furnished by the park’s many events and invited collaborators.

His culminating event, Festival of Belonging, will take place over four weekends in August and September at Wild River. The free (with a park permit) event will include numerous performances,

including dance, poetry, storytelling and visual art—along with the premiere of new pieces, spatial music and sound gardens. August 23 is the opening day, and Rosie Peters will lead three storytelling walks to the river with performances and activities from Annie Humphrey’s Fire in the Village collective. —Taylor Hamilton and Zoe Yates

JG Everest will be the artist-in-residence at Wild River State Park through August. Visit stcroixvalleymagazine.com to read more.

Photo: Brett Blocker

Wild River State Park artist-in-residence JG Everest places one of his speakers—encased in a felt vessel that resembles tree bark—on a branch.

Little Moments Count

In the St. Croix Valley, a quiet revolution is underway—one bedtime story, lullaby and belly laugh at a time.

The Little Moments Count initiative, grounded in neuroscience, emphasizes the importance of playing, reading, singing and talking with young children during their first 1,000 days—the most critical window for brain development.

In 2024, with support from the St. Croix Valley Foundation’s First Thousand Days Fund, the initiative launched locally, adapting lessons from the Twin Cities to meet the unique needs of rural communities. Three key partners received grant funding to lead the work: Family Friendly Workplaces, Family Resource Center St. Croix Valley and HealthPartners’ Lakeview Hospital. Together, they’ve built a cross-sector council of over 20 partners, hosted community events, distributed educational materials and featured local family stories on the Little Moments Count podcast.

Bill and Rita Lawson of Somerset, Wisconsin, established the First Thousand Days Fund in 2022 to spark bold, early investments in children and families. Their vision has inspired others and helped bring this movement to life.

Lori Schaefer is the director of marketing and communication at the St. Croix Valley Foundation. Learn more about the Little Moments Count Campaign at littlemomentscount.org and scvfoundation.org.

TASTE

Celebrate with Seasonal Flavors

This recipe shines with its balance of crunchy, creamy and crispy textures and combination of sweet, nutty and fresh flavors. It’s also a great glutenfree alternative to crackers and cheese that will have your guests celebrating your good taste.

Parmesan Walnut Endive Cups

Makes 30

» 1 clove garlic, minced and mashed to a paste with ½ tsp. kosher salt

» 4 tsp. mayonnaise

» 2 Tbsp. lemon juice

» 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

» 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely diced

» ½ cup celery, finely diced

» 1 cup walnuts, toasted and finely chopped, plus more for garnish

» ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped, plus more for garnish

» 30 leaves Belgian endives, cleaned and trimmed

» balsamic glaze, for garnish (optional)

Whisk together garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice and olive oil; stir in cheese,

celery, walnuts and parsley. Divide salad evenly onto endive leaves; drizzle with balsamic glaze, and garnish with walnuts and parsley. Alternatively, the salad may be served in a dip bowl with the endive leaves arranged around it for scooping.

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

Photo: Kowalski’s Markets

GROW

Kindness in Bloom

Stillwater resident Amy Sonnek was feeling disconnected from her community during COVID-19 when she found an opportunity to bloom. “I was searching online and somehow came across this Growing Kindness Project,” Sonnek says. The nonprofit has a mission to empower people to spread joy in their community through flowers.

“It’s a very simple, small but mighty mission,” Sonnek says. “The main goal of it is to give flowers in kindness, just to brighten someone’s day.” She applied to be an ambassador in 2021 and, once accepted, received training on building a cut flower garden. Now, Sonnek has four raised beds in her backyard filled with cosmos, dahlias, sunflowers and zinnias.

Sonnek, a special education paraprofessional at Stonebridge Elementary, will often bring these bouquets to the school, area nursing homes and even benches at nearby parks. Four years on, Sonnek is a regional captain for the nonprofit. “There’s just something magical about giving flowers in kindness and just seeing the looks on people’s faces,” Sonnek says. “You might not have any idea how much they needed it.”

—Zoe Yates

Read more about Amy Sonnek and her neighborhood’s annual root beer social on page 12.

Growing Kindness Project; hello@growingkindnessproject.org; growingkindnessproject.org

The Growing Kindness Project @growingkindnessproject

Photo: Amy Sonnek

Amy Sonnek

Real-World Connections

Stillwater educator Bob Manning brings alternative enrichment programs to students.

By Jennifer Pitterle

Bob Manning has spent decades helping students connect classroom learning to the real world. As a former geography teacher and now a Career Pathways coordinator at Stillwater Area High School, Manning knows that kids need a sense of how their learning fits into the context of real life, including future jobs and travel.

“Ironically, I am the poster child for the type of student that needs the services that I offer today,” Manning says, sharing that he felt unsure about the paths available to him after high school and how his interests—like history—could fit into the real-world job market. After obtaining a degree in psychology and spending some time as an insurance underwriter, he started teaching geography at what was then Stillwater Junior High, where he stayed for 27 years. He took a year off in 2007 to develop global perspective seminars for Target’s corporate headquarters in Minneapolis and India. “That really helped me establish business connections and a perspective on the industry and their needs,” Manning says. He started thinking about how to bring that sense of global connectedness to his students. When ninth grade moved from junior high to Stillwater Area High School, the teachers moved too, including Manning. He joined the committee that would become the Pathways Program, helping students discover their strengths and plan for life after high school.

In 2014, Manning and his wife, Chris Manning, a second-grade teacher for Centennial Public School District, found an opportunity to bring geography enrichment to elementary schoolers. They purchased The Passport Club, a curriculum that helps students learn about the countries of the world with monthly book picks, activities and their own “passport stamps.”

“I thought it was brilliant to open the world early,” Manning says. The Passport Club gives students “that global perspective, empathy and interest in others that they will eventually be either working with or impacted by in some way later on in life,” he says. The club is used in Stillwater’s gifted and talented program, as well as in other schools and homeschooling groups around the country.

In addition to The Passport Club, Manning is involved with several other alternative learning experiences. He

Bob Manning

organizes career fairs, guest speakers and business tours for the high school’s Pathways Program and runs a financial literacy simulation called Test Drive Reality Fair, in partnership with Royal Credit Union, where students spend a day navigating a simulated career, mortgage or rent, children’s expenses, car payments and more. “All of our 11th graders go through this,” Manning says. “By the end, they see the reality of what their income and choices do. It’s fantastic.”

He also helps coordinate a summer “externship” program for Stillwater teachers; around 60 teachers spend a few days with local businesses, attending tours and creating lessons based on what they’ve learned about the industry. “They get to see what’s out there, make connections with these employers and bring that back to their classrooms,” Manning says.

For Manning, programs like these aren’t supplemental—they’re essential. “We are so connected to the world in an environmental, economic, political and social sense. If students don’t understand the world that they’re entering, they have no context to make the right decisions for themselves,” he says. “The stakes are higher than ever.”

Learn more about alternative enrichment opportunities at stillwaterschools.org and at

Each November, 11th graders at Stillwater Area High School participate in Test Drive Reality Fair, a financial literacy simulation hosted by Royal Credit Union.

ARTS & CULTURE

Growing Community

On Stillwater’s North Hill, an annual root beer float social brings neighbors together.

By Zoe Yates

When Amy and Aaron Sonnek began their house search, they envisioned a tight-knit community much like the North St. Paul neighborhood Amy grew up in, where everyone looked out for each other. They found all that and more when they moved into a blue house on Stillwater’s North Hill in March 2012.

“I grew up in a community where everybody looked out for one another. We brought each other’s trash cans in when we were on vacation. We could borrow a cup of sugar. The kids would run around and play tag and ghost in the graveyard at night,” Amy says. “I very much wanted that for our own family, and I feel like we have that here.”

Neighbors were quick to welcome them into the fold with cookies and conversation. Many shared the history of the home

and its importance in an active North Hill tradition. “In the closing paperwork … there was actually a little note at the very end, a handwritten note, just saying, ‘Whoever the new owners are, we would love it if you could continue the tradition of having the yearly neighborhood root beer float social,’” Amy says.

The annual root beer float social was initiated by the home’s previous owners, the Nelsons, who hosted the festivities for more than a decade. “Somebody would bring the cups, somebody would bring the spoons [and] somebody brings the ice cream—it was very much a collaborative thing,” Amy says.

At the Sonneks’ first root beer float social that August, their newborn son, Abe was just a few weeks old. Amy recalls the neighborhood matriarchs saying, “Just put

up a table, and we’ll bring the rest.”

The Sonneks have continued to host the event every August since, providing the setting for an event that is still very much a community effort. Under twinkle lights and surrounded by Amy’s lush flower beds, neighbors gather in a spirit of collaboration. They bring their own lawn chairs, rotate who brings the ingredients and chip in on the cost.

The three Sonnek kids, Abe and twins Anni and Arlo, create and deliver the invitations to area homes. Even folks who have moved away or transitioned to assisted living receive an invite. “We have their grandkids’ contact info and say, ‘Hey! The neighborhood root beer float party is coming up. Can you bring your mom or grandma?’ And so they usually do,” Amy says.

Photos: Amy Sonnek

Left: The younger Imhoffs, Sonneks and Thorps, ready to take over the planning for the next 50 years and beyond. Right: Neighbors rotate responsibilities for the party, bringing cups, spoons, root beer and ice cream to the Sonneks’ home each year.

ONE BLOCK AT A TIME

When Amy Sonnek shares stories from her magical, old-fashioned neighborhood on North Hill, people often express their desire to have something like that in their own neighborhood.

Amy’s advice? “Start your own little root beer float social. Put up signs, and send out invitations, and keep it simple,” she says.

She suggests coordinating the event with National Night Out/Night to Unite on the first Tuesday in August. “It'd be a great way to start creating your own traditions in your neighborhood,” she says. “Get the kids involved. Have them help plan the events. It can start with a few neighbors and gradually increase to more than that or not!”

The social is just one way that the Sonneks help to spread kindness and build community. Since 2020, Amy has been an ambassador with Growing Kindness Project, a national nonprofit where home gardeners spread kindness by gifting fresh flower bouquets in their community (learn more on page 9). In the winter, the Sonneks keep another tradition alive—a neighborhood luge course that starts on their back hill and continues through multiple yards to the next block.

“You don’t have to be best friends. You can have different yard signs. I still feel very strongly that being connected with your community and your neighbors is invaluable, and it can just really make a difference in the way you live and general happiness,” Amy says.

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Amy Sonnek

A Mission to Care

For family and friend caregivers, community support is essential.

Betsy and Dick Ellis

BY ZOE

Betsy and Dick Ellis have lived in their quaint, twostory home on a cul-de-sac in Lake Elmo for more than 20 years. Like many in retirement, the Ellises have developed a comfortable routine. Upon waking, they share a meal. They go on a walk, sometimes two, in their neighborhood or at a local park. Later in the day, they settle in to play a game or watch a sports match.

And each night, before they go to bed, Dick sends a text to the couple’s two adult children: “OK.”

It’s been nearly a decade since Betsy was diagnosed with cognitive memory impairment and, later, dementia. The check-ins, introduced in early 2025, are an important part of the family’s routine. “I felt that, if something were to happen to me, we may not have contact for a number of days, and there could be something serious going on,” Dick says.

Betsy, known to her grandkids as Beppie, is chipper, friendly and complimentary. She is observant on their daily walks, often commenting on passing planes and wildlife. Betsy enjoys playing solitaire and a board game from her childhood called Park and Shop.

Dick is a retired energy salesperson and National Guard captain. In the past few years, he’s taken to knitting and has donated more than 200 hats to Children’s Minnesota and Every Third Saturday, a nonprofit supporting veterans. As he sits beside Betsy at their kitchen table, he’s attentive and encouraging, helping her move a character on the Park and Shop gameboard.

Dick and Betsy have cared for each other since meeting as students in Stillwater Area High School’s class of ’65. Now, Dick is Betsy’s caregiver. “I didn’t see it as a conscious decision, ‘Hey, I want to do this,’” Dick says about caregiving for his wife. “You just continue on with your lives and taking care of each other.”

Empowering caregivers

The definition of a caregiver is broad, explains Jenny West, caregiving and aging educator at FamilyMeans. The term describes anyone providing unpaid care to somebody in their life, regardless of age and whether the condition is permanent or temporary.

FamilyMeans is a multiservice, nonprofit organization in the Valley that supports families through therapy and programming. Caregiver support groups, family mediation, respite offerings and programming (Memory Café and Family Night Out) are just a few examples of how FamilyMeans seeks to help family and friend caregivers find acceptance, balance and community.

“Most people don’t even think of themselves as caregivers, so it doesn’t occur to them that there might be something that could be helpful to them,”

says Beth Wiggins, director of caregiving and aging at FamilyMeans. “But if they … find us or we find them early on, we can be their support and their guide over quite a long period of time.”

While caregiving is not limited to the aging population, more and more families will have the experience of caregiving or being cared for as demographics shift. According to Minnesota State Demographic Center projections, retirees aged 65 and above now outnumber children aged 5 to 17 years for the first time in the state’s history.

Wiggins is hopeful that society as a whole will feel better prepared as caregiving becomes a reality for more people. “Many, many people are experiencing being on the caregiver end of it, and I’m hopeful that those same people are having that realization of, ‘Oh, if I plan differently, whoever’s caring for me will have an easier time than I’m having or as good a time as I’m having.’”

Seeking support

As Betsy’s disease has progressed, she’s needed more help day-to-day. “It’s always emotional highs and lows, and I just try to put a positive spin on things,” Dick says. “Over time, a person with dementia will need help with almost everything.”

The Ellises are supported on all sides by close family and friends, and Dick says he’s not shy about asking for help. “What I’ve learned is to put aside any pity I might feel for myself and just continue to look to family and friends for help. And with their support, we just keep going,” Dick says.

The couple attends FamilyMeans’ Memory Café at R.H. Stafford Library in Woodbury every second Tuesday of the month. It’s a safe place in the community for families to come, engage and be empowered, West explains. She encourages caregivers to use the time to step back from the caregiving role and take

Betsy, known to her grandkids as Beppie, has a custom license plate attached to her scooter.

the opportunity to embrace their previous role as a child, partner or friend. “They can just enjoy that time together,” West says.

It’s also an opportunity for caregivers to connect and help each other navigate the ever-changing landscape of caregiving for a loved one with dementia. “It’s a new experience for everyone, and, as the disease progresses, that experience changes for both the caregiver and the person with the disease,” Dick says.

Watching those connections form is a highlight for the FamilyMeans staff. “The sense of community that’s built when caregivers reach out to each other is quite stunning,” Wiggins says.

At a recent Memory Café, Dick offered advice to another caregiver, who was struggling with feeling frustrated by his wife’s repeated questions. “If you dwell on those things, it makes it a lot tougher,” Dick says. “Take care of yourself. Lean on family and friends. Engage in a new hobby. Go out and scream at the world, and come back in and go on.”

Finding the joy

Even on hard days, there are pockets of joy. “The little things are very rewarding. One day, we were watching TV, and she turned and looked at me,” Dick says, holding back tears. “She just turned around and said, ‘I still love you.’”

Dick makes sure to write down the special, happy moments the couple shares. Staying positive, practicing patience and sticking to a good routine are ways Dick seeks to keep both himself and Betsy in a good mental space. “I don’t think of myself that I’m grieving. What I realize is, she didn’t ask for this,” Dick says. “That’s the tough part about it. She didn’t ask for this. I’m just glad that I don’t have it, and I can take care of things.”

Betsy was a skilled crocheter for many years. “When she stopped doing that … we had a lot of yarn down in the basement,” Dick says. He decided to give knitting a try. Two years on, he’s gotten so efficient that he can finish a hat in an afternoon. Stacks of colorful caps sit on the bed in their spare room, waiting to

be donated. Betsy does a quality check on each hat, and Dick’s phone is full of images of her modeling his creations. Dick is content to continue caregiving for Betsy as long as he’s able. “I have our name at three different facilities here in the area, and occasionally I’ll get a call [about] an opening, but she’s comfortable here. I’m comfortable here, so it’s just not time yet.”

The caregiving journey will be unique for each family—the needs of both the caregiver and the individual being cared for will evolve over time. Considering the social and emotional needs of caregivers in your life can make all the difference, West says. Offering respite, a meal or an invitation to spend time together is a great place to start. “It’s not just saying, ‘Call me if you need me.’ It’s really taking action,” West says. “ … No one should have to do it alone.”

FamilyMeans, 1875 Northwestern Ave. S, Stillwater; 651.439.4840; familymeans.org

FamilyMeans @familymeans

FamilyMeans offers workshops, respite and therapy focused on supporting family and friend caregivers.

Planning Ahead

Caregiving can happen at any time. Whether we’re receiving care from or giving care to a loved one, it’s a whole new world to navigate.

FamilyMeans caregiving and aging educator Jenny West recommends planning ahead and initiating conversations with loved ones about end-of-life care. “[A healthcare directive] is the biggest gift that you can give to a family member, but a lot of people don’t want to think about it. It is hard. You’re very vulnerable when you do it. But once it’s in place, there’s confidence there. And there’s direction, [so] if you can’t speak on your behalf, somebody else can,” West says.

For more resources for caregivers, visit stcroixvalleymag.com.

ORTHOPEDIC SERVICES

Besty and Dick Ellis enjoy playing board games together at their kitchen table. Betsy’s favorite is Park and Shop, a game from her childhood.

Jess Brehmer, MD, FAAOS

Alicia Sund, FNP Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner

Amanda Millard, PA-C Orthopedic Physician Assistant

Written by Zoe Yates —

Emeott

Senior Spotlight

AREA STUDENTS ARE USING THEIR UNIQUE SKILLS AND INTERESTS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

In this changing world, a community finds strength in the differences of individuals. The unique attributes and passions of each person add dimension and beauty to the whole, and there is no better place to observe this than in the halls of area high schools, where young people are finding their identity and place in the world.

Each August, St. Croix Valley schools nominate outstanding students to be featured in our Senior Spotlight. We select just four incoming seniors to be included in our pages—a difficult task as every student is incredible in their own right. This year’s students have navigated health and family struggles, offered helping hands to those in need and found success in academics, athletics and extracurriculars. They each have their own unique story to share, and we’re happy to elevate a few of the Valley’s brightest young lights.

Tori Baumer Hudson High School

“Despite facing significant challenges due to hearing loss and undergoing nine surgeries, [Tori] has consistently overcome obstacles in the classroom. Tori’s academic excellence reflects her commitment to hard work, proving that she doesn’t let her struggles limit her. She actively advocates for herself, ensuring that her needs as a student are met, which displays her strength and self-advocacy skills. Tori’s ability to excel academically while navigating personal challenges makes her an inspiring example for her peers. Her perseverance, dedication and positive attitude are truly commendable.” —Emily Huber, school counselor

What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of? One thing from high school that I am most proud of is my GPA. I put a lot of pressure on myself to

Photos by Chris

Tori Baumer

get good grades. It can be extra hard for me because I have hearing loss and have had multiple surgeries. I am also proud of myself because I have learned to advocate for myself in my classes and talk more about my hearing issues when I have not always felt comfortable.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? I love roadtripping—the longer, the better! My family has driven all over the country since I was 3 [years old]. I have been to 30 states. My favorite place is the Florida Keys that we have driven to eight times.

What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career?

Long Live by Taylor Swift

What is your favorite childhood book?

The Berenstain Bears by Jan and Stan Berenstain

Describe your future in three words. Southern. Adventurous. Purposeful.

Grace Young Stillwater Area High School

“Grace is an emerging [National Honor Society (NHS)] officer who arranged a winter Coffeehouse event that raised over $800 for BIZAA, a worldwide organization dedicated to ending poverty and human trafficking in Africa through education. In addition to her NHS work, Grace plays club lacrosse to prepare for the high school season, and she takes private violin lessons for our orchestra. She also volunteers at the Solid Ground Summer Camp during the summer.”

—Robert Bach, principal

“[Grace] is appreciated, well-liked and respected by her peers. She is reliable, and I know that when we ask Grace to get something done, not only will it get done, it’ll get done early and probably better than we could have hoped or imagined.” —Sydney Piras, school counselor and NHS advisor

What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of? I am equally proud of

Grace Young

Ella Thorson

two achievements during my sophomore year. First, I made the Stillwater girls’ var sity lacrosse team that won fourth place in the 2024 state tournament. I also auditioned and was selected as a violin ist in the Stillwater Concert Orchestra. Stillwater Area High School has a tradi tion of excellence in sports and music, and preparing took years of dedication and goal setting. Earning these spots was my initial focus, but being a part of these groups is what has made my high school experience one filled with excitement, community and success.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? I enjoy creating visual arts, such as painting, drawing or baking. Starting from when I was a little girl, I enjoyed coloring, creating mobiles and filling my life with color. Now, one of my favorite things is painting watercolor birthday cards for the people around me.

What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career?

Takin’ Care of Business by Bachman–Turner Overdrive. This is the song that [plays] at Pony Stadium when girls’ lacrosse wins.

What is your favorite childhood book?

The Penderwicks Series by Jeanne Birdsall

Describe your future in three words. Adventure. Hard work. Community.

Ella

Thorson

St. Croix Preparatory Academy

“Ella is one of the people we count on here at St. Croix Prep. She lives the mission of our school every day, working hard in the classroom and pushing herself to improve in all areas of her life. She is a quiet leader who gets things done. She is kind, compassionate and inclusive. Her ability to reach out and connect with others reflects the hopes we have for our kids here at Prep. Be compassionate, be curious and be kind. Ella encompasses this each day.”

—Andrew Sachariason, principal

LASER

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TATTOO REMOVAL

DR PRP TREATMENTS

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DERMAPLANE

FAT REDUCTION

SKIN TIGHTENING

MICRONEEDLING

FACIAL PDO THREADING

CO2 SKIN REJUVENATION

SECRET RF TREATMENTS

LASER HAIR REDUCTION

What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of? I am most proud of … accepting a full-ride scholarship to play volleyball at the University of St. Thomas. I started playing volleyball in seventh grade. Ever since then, it has been my passion and goal to be able to play in college. From countless hours of training, lifting, watching film and so much more, I am proud of the athlete I have become today … [and] the person volleyball has shaped me to be. Balancing my academics … along with my other extracurriculars has been an important piece of who I am and what I achieve to be.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? This past summer I volunteered at Gillette [Children’s] ... to obtain a letter in service (100 hours of service) while also doing something that I love. This experience opened my eyes to the world of medicine and made me realize a possibility for my future career. I looked forward to every shift, and, while it taught me a lot about the job and important life skills, it was also probably my favorite thing I did all summer. Seeing all the kids’ smiles when I came in every shift, excited to see me, was remarkable as I was just as excited to see them.

What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career? Let It All Work Out by Lil Wayne

What is your favorite childhood book? The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Describe your future in three words. Driven to succeed.

Lela

Johnson

Hudson High School

“Lela is incredibly driven and resilient, constantly seeking out new challenges. She is never afraid to add more to her plate. While she faces her share

Lela Johnson

of obstacles, she works hard to overcome them. She is laser-focused on her goals, and she puts in the effort every day to achieve them. Determined to be the first in her family to earn a college degree, Lela actively participates in several organizations and is always ready to lend a hand to those in need. I have no doubt she will succeed in achieving all of her dreams” —Lori Rossini, school counselor

What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of? I am the most proud of my commitment to taking rigorous courses even though I may not always be at the top of my class. The challenges from these courses push me to work harder, improve my skills and develop resilience. I have learned to value the process of learning itself rather than just focusing on grades. My persistence and determination to tackle difficult subjects, despite setbacks, have shaped my growth as a student and as an individual.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? While I appear quiet and closed off in school, I am actually a very social person at heart. I enjoy meeting new people and love engaging in conversations with anyone, regardless of their background. Another side of me that few know is my love for nature and being outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, camping, kayaking or simply walking, I find peace and balance within nature.

What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career?

Stronger by Kelly Clarkson

What is your favorite childhood book?

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Describe your future in three words. Nurse. Traveler. Scholar.

Visit stcroixvalleymag.com to learn more about these outstanding seniors.

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TASTEMAKERS

A Fresh Perspective

Young entrepreneur Berkli Dias brings a healthy beverage alternative to the Valley.

Written by Meredith Heneghan — Photos by Chris Emeott

Berkli Dias is 15 years old and already a successful business owner. At Freshness In A Bottle in downtown Stillwater, Berkli is serving up cold-pressed juices and learning the ins and outs of entrepreneurship at a young age.

Growing up on Eagle Eye Farm in River Falls, Wisconsin, Berkli helps care for the family’s diverse herd of animals, including alpacas, Kunekune pigs and goats. Since founding Freshness In A Bottle in May 2024, she’s also balanced a busy schedule of academics and swim team practices with running her business.

“I have been a competitive swimmer for almost my whole life, and I’m super passionate about it. It’s my thing,” Berkli says. “A couple years ago, when I got really serious, I realized you can’t get your goals accomplished by just working out; it has to be from your nutrition too.”

Since she’s not a vegetable person, Berkli found that juicing was the perfect fix. And as her interest grew, she discovered a way to build on the family business. “We used to have sodas in our farm store,” Berkli says. “I remember one day, I was working at the store, and someone was buying a soda. I was like, ‘Why are we selling soda?’”

After a conversation with her mom, Kerri Harting, Berkli was encouraged to find an alternative. Now, her products provide a tasty, fun alternative to sugary drinks while providing essential nutrition from fresh fruits and vegetables. Freshness In A Bottle operates out of All Things Sheared, Harting’s storefront on Stillwater’s Main Street.

VOTED BEST PATIO

Berkli Dias displays house-made juice options available at Freshness In A Bottle, a juice shop located inside All Things Sheared in downtown Stillwater.

“I think it can really help other people in the same way that it helped me,” Berkli says. “That’s really exciting for me because it’s so hard to eat healthy all the time. This is such a good solution. If I can share that with just a few people, that’d make me happy.”

In early 2024, Berkli and Harting took a multiweek course from Goodnature, a juicing company, to learn all about juicing, the nutritional benefits of specific fresh ingredients and winning flavor combinations. The result is a diverse menu of juices with specific health benefits.

Berkli’s favorite blend is Brilliant Beet, a juice made with apples, carrots, beets, ginger and oranges. “I drink it right before swim meets because it helps with your endurance,” Berkli says, adding that beets are known to help aid muscle recovery after exercise.

The most popular juice at Freshness In A Bottle is Perfect Pear, a sweet green

juice. “It has pear, apple, celery, cucumber, kale and an algae called spirulina, which turns the juice blue and has anti-inflammatory properties,” Berkli says.

Freshness In A Bottle sources its ingredients locally whenever possible. “It’s easier in the summer, but there’s a farmers market right up the street, so we would go there every week,” Berkli says. Armed with a lengthy list of potential ingredients, Berkli is inspired to try new recipes and ideas with produce from local growers.

Beyond juices, Freshness In A Bottle also offers açai bowls, chia seed pudding, French press coffee, house-made almond milk, hot chocolate, hydrating waters, overnight oats and smoothies.

Even as the new kid on the block, Berkli has made meaningful connections with other business owners in downtown Stillwater. “On Main Street, I know almost all the business owners,”

Berkli says. “They come in and talk to me and stuff. It’s so nice I can go to any store and talk to anyone about anything.”

In January, Freshness In A Bottle partnered with Wild River Running for a juice tasting. “They did a class, and they gave their runners our juices,” Berkli says.

Despite not being able to be at the store every day due to her busy student schedule, Berkli loves watching people enjoy her juices—especially kids. “I feel like you don’t just give your kid a salad, but kids come in and they want my juices,” she says. “It’s so rewarding because then you’re not arguing with your kid about eating veggies!”

Freshness In A Bottle, 125 Main St. S., Stillwater; 612.123.4567; freshnessinabottle.com

Freshness In A Bottle @freshnessinabottle @freshness_in_a_bottle

Berkli Dias’ favorite juice, Brilliant Beet, is one of many beverages made from scratch at Freshness In A Bottle, including smoothies, juice shots, almond milk, chia seed pudding and more.

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Yoga is just one aspect of the River Valley Yoga Festival. Ticket-holders can also enjoy activities and workshops on a variety of wellness topics.

STRETCH AND DE-STRESS

Roll out your mat! River Valley Yoga Festival returns for a fourth year.

The idea for River Valley Yoga Festival came to Stillwater resident Allissa Obler in a dream. She then spent eight years researching and preparing and founded her own yoga studio, Mudita Wellness, in the process in 2020. The first festival came to life in 2022 at an idyllic 80-acre Stillwater farm.

This year, the River Valley Yoga Festival will take place over the autumn equinox from September 18–21. The multiday, outdoor festival will feature workshops and special events with a focus on yoga, meditation and wellness. The event grows each year with about 35 teachers and 65 different sessions organized for this

year’s gathering. The property is home to trails and peaceful spots to journal and relax, and ticket holders are invited to enjoy cold plunge pools, healing tents, a sauna tent and a vendor market between classes.

The event is open to all abilities, even those who are yoga-curious. “It’s really for anyone who is interested in yoga, meditation or just overall health and wellness,” Obler says. —Ellie Heyerdahl

More information and tickets can be found on rivervalleyyogafestival.com.

Compiled

Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza

LOCAL EVENTS

08.15–08.17

North Hudson Pepper Fest

Celebrate North Hudson’s Italian heritage with a beer garden, food, games, live music, a parade and a queen coronation. All ages. Free. 5–11:30 p.m. Friday, 11:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday. Pepper Fest Park, 400 Seventh St. N., Hudson, Wisconsin; pepperfest.org

08.17

Hastings Historic Car Show

Join the Hastings Downtown Business Association and the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau for music, food trucks and a variety of historical cars from 1985 and older. All ages. Free. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Second St. E., Hastings; hastingsdba.com

09.19–09.21

Bacon Bash

Celebrate all things bacon with live music, vendors and, of course, bacon at River Falls’ annual Bacon Bash. All ages. Free. 4–8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday. Festival grounds, 232 W. Maple St., River Falls, Wisconsin; 715.425.2533; rfchamber.com

09.20

Log Run Half Marathon

Participate in a half marathon, 10-mile, 10K or 5K races through Stillwater. All ages. $50–$80, registration required. 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Water Street Inn 101 Water St. S., Stillwater; 651.504.4044; runstillwater.com

09.27–09.28

Spirit of The St. Croix Art Festival

Enjoy an interactive art experience supported by the Hudson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau in partnership with The Phipps Center for the Arts. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Sunday. Lakefront Park, Downtown Hudson, 505 First St., Hudson; 715.386.8411; business.hudsonwi.org

AREA EVENTS

08.03

Minneapolis Vintage Market at Utepils Brewing

Browse one-of-a-kind pieces from various vendors while sipping on craft beer. Ages 21 and older. Free. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Utepils Brewing, 225 Thomas Ave. N., Mpls.; 612.249.7800; utepilsbrewing.com

08.08–08.10

Irish Fair of Minnesota

Celebrate Irish heritage, culture and community in this two-day festival full of activities, dance, food and music. All ages. Ticket prices vary, registration required. 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

08.09–08.10

Downtown 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

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

To have your event considered: email stcroixvalleymag@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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We enjoy helping people move. The Joy Erickson Real Estate Team Edina Realty 612.802.7150 JoyTeam@EdinaRealty.com JoyErickson.com

Offering reliable, personalized, and flexible dog care backed by 15 years of experience. Customized services include daily walks and in-home sitting. Call or text to discuss your dog’s needs.

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Balloon on the River

Karen Schulz was on a boat ride on the St. Croix River last summer with her husband when they came across several hot air balloons. “Trying to take a photo while in a small boat, rocking in the waves, can be a challenge,” the Stillwater resident says, adding that she hoped to capture the bright colors of a balloon as it neared the water. Schulz grew up taking photos with 4-H and has never stopped. “I almost always have a camera with me when I’m boating or kayaking on the St. Croix River,” she says. —Zoe Yates

To view other Lens on St. Croix Valley photo contest winners, visit stcroixvalleymag.com.

Photographer: Karen Schulz

Title: Balloon on the River

Equipment: Sony DSC–RX10

Category: Places

Award: Second Place

LENS ON ST. CROIX VALLEY