White Bear Lake - September / October 2024 by Local

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

These young local leaders are dedicated to uplifting others

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AS A LOCAL COMPANY, OUR COMMITMENT TO LOCAL PRODUCTS AND PRODUCERS IS IN OUR DNA.

• We have established long-term relationships with Minnesota growers to bring you the freshest, bestquality produce in every season.

• Whenever we can, we choose Minnesota Grown in order to bring you foods that are fresher by miles.

• Since 1983, we’ve partnered with hundreds of local producers to give their products a chance.

• Many of the Twin Cities’ best food success stories started in Kowalski’s Markets.

this is Regions

We deliver greatness, joy, faith, and lots and lots of babies. We fight cancer, sadness, uncertainty and time. We heal hearts, wounds, minds and spirits. Scan to learn more

Welcome to our education, homes and arts issue. “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Hygge Home, page 16

Photo: Spacecrafting

Join us for a Medicare workshop

Learn what Original Medicare covers, how and when to enroll, and Medicare plan options available in your county.

Blue Cross Medicare experts are with you every step of the way, from helping you understand benefits and coverage to selecting the right plan to meet your needs.

Beginning in October, we’ll present 2025 plan information. Workshops cover individual Medicare plans. If you’re Medicare-eligible and covered under the Federal Employee Program® or a Blue Cross group employee or retiree plan, talk with your employer. You may be able to get better coverage than an individual Medicare plan. Blue Cross offers PPO, Cost and PDP plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in these Blue Cross plans depends on contract renewal. Plans are available to residents of the service area. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call 1-855-868-5472, TTY 711.

from the EDITOR

My family loves to host—it’s a trait that no doubt has been passed through the generations on both sides. As a kid, every important occasion was celebrated at my grandparents’ lake home in Chisago City; holidays, birthdays—and even two weddings—took place on their lawn under tall oak trees. So, when it came time to start planning my high school grad party, my only major requirement was that it take place at my grandparents’ house. My mom planned for months to secure food in bulk for my requested walking tacos and set to creating photo board displays and crafting simple, travel-focused decor to speak to my upcoming cross-country move. Looking back, I can now understand the amount of work she put into the day while I enjoyed my senior year to the fullest.

Nearly a decade later, grad parties have gone up another notch entirely. Scenic locations, unique catering services and expanded guest lists are elevating these milestone days in new ways. Our managing creative director, Renée Stewart-Hester, has planned graduation parties for four children. Now, she’s sharing all that wisdom on page 40 with a guide to grad party planning. Along with a collection of local catering options, there’s a fantastic timeline to follow that covers topics like when to hire a caterer and reach out to venues.

It’s an exciting and busy time, and we adore this annual education, homes and arts issue as we return to our Senior Spotlight feature. Local schools nominated outstanding students from their halls. This year, we were impressed with each student’s unique approach to advocating for their communities. Meet four of these high school seniors on page 36.

It’s also a big moment for White Bear Lake Area Schools as high school students come together under one roof. On page 22, writer Jennifer Pitterle gives some insight into the new campus. And speaking of new beginnings, on page 24, Leona Rose Interiors shares a cozy cabin remodel in Hayward, Wisconsin, that is truly a marvel.

Here’s to an autumn of abundance! Until next time,

Zoe Yates zoe@localmedia.co

On the Cover

See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town!

White Bear Lake Magazine @whitebearlakemag @whitebearlakemag CELEBRATING THE

Senior Spotlight, Photo by Chris Emeott, page 36

Photo: Chris Emeott

Why be a bear?

Benefits of being a BEAR:

•Student-centered instruction. We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates, all can achieve.

•More academic opportunities to explore interests, excel and design your future.

•Students are agents and owners of their own learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging with high expectations for student success.

•Our educators inspire, facilitate, and challenge students, nurturing curiosity and confidence. We provide a window to their future.

•We are transforming learning. Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.

whiTe Bear lake area

VOL. 12 NO. 1 whitebearlakemag.com

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

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alexandra Eve, Ellie Fuelling, Kelly Neeb, Katie Tomsche, Nancy Thysell and Kia White

DIGITAL INTERN Zoe Baden

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Tia Benson, Findlay Drabant and Grace Knapp

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Lisa Beecroft, Beecroft Marketing ; Kevin P. Donovan, White Bear Rotary ; Kelly Neeb, Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation ; Lexi Munson, White Bear Center for the Arts ; and Russ Reetz, White Bear Lake Area High School

SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR

Sarah Dovolos

ART DIRECTOR

Allison Nolden

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Jamie Klang

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yaz Lo

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Emeott

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Brittni Dye

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lisa Stone

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Mimi Coz

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel, Sara Johnson, Abbie Kinn and Kathie Smith

PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson

www.interiorimpressions.org

GIRLS ON THE RUN

“We believe that every girl is born with limitless potential” is a value that Girls on the Run Minnesota (GOTR-MN) brings to life daily, in all that they do. Girls on the Run inspires girls of all abilities to discover, build and grow their self-confidence while connecting with one another as part of a team. The White Bear Lake community has not only been fortunate to consistently host several GOTR teams each season, but we are also fortunate to have GOTR-MN executive director Kathleen Cannon call our community home.

“[This is] a community that believes in the power of girls and is willing to invest

time and resources into supporting and celebrating them,” Cannon says. In 2023, GOTR-MN was a recipient of a Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation Community Partners grant. The Community Partners Fund provides grant support to programs and projects focused on enriching the communities on White Bear lake.

Kelly Neeb is the business manager at the Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation. For more on the Community Partners Fund, visit gwblcf.org. To learn more about GOTR-MN, visit gotrmn.org.

READ Where Rivers Part

In her newest book, Where Rivers Part, Hmong American author Kao Kalia Yang continues her family’s powerful story from a refugee camp in Thailand to life in America. This is a retelling of her mother’s life—a beautiful and haunting story of the resolve of the human spirit and extraordinary love. Yang is the author of her own memoir and a book on her father’s story, as well as many children’s books. She lives in St. Paul.

Nancy Thysell is a co-owner of Lake Country Booksellers. Visit the shop on the corner of Fourth Street and Washington Avenue or call 651.426.0918 to find your next great read.

TASTE

Spooky Squash and Goat Cheese Pizza

Move over candy and caramel apples. Halloween has a new favorite treat, and it’s ghoulishly good! This pizza is packed with rich fall flavors and better-for-you ingredients, like butternut squash, fresh herbs, crispy kale and pumpkin seeds. The tangy goat cheese perfectly balances the lightly sweet squash, and prep is scarily simple, too—15 minutes and a handful of wholesome ingredients are all you need to get this homemade pizza in the oven. (And it has mozzarella ghosts!) Visit whitebear lakemag.com for the complete pizza recipe.

Katie Tomsche is the content manager for Lunds & Byerlys. Taste more at lundsandbyerlys.com.

Back to School Shopping

The new school year is here, but it’s not too late to think about back-to-school clothes shopping. With a few tips and tricks, you can navigate the process like a pro!

1. Take Inventory: Before hitting the stores, go through each child’s wardrobe. Donate or discard items that no longer fit, are stained or are no longer wanted. Identify what each child already has and what you may need to buy; this prevents unnecessary purchases and ensures you focus on items that will truly get worn.

2. Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on clothes. Stick to this budget to avoid overspending. Consider looking for end-of-season deals and discounts to maximize your savings.

3. Shop One-on-One: Instead of tackling the shopping trip as a group, spend individual time with each child. This allows you to focus on their unique preferences and needs, making the shopping experience more efficient,

personalized and enjoyable for everyone.

4. Versatility is Key: The concept of a capsule wardrobe can apply to children as well. Choose pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This allows you to get more mileage out of your purchases.

Alexandra Eve is a local stylist and wardrobe consultant. To learn more or for shopping help this season, visit alexandraeve.net.

Photo: Lunds & Byerlys

Creative Crop Art

Who doesn’t love the crop art display at the Minnesota State Fair? The attention to detail, the artistic ingenuity, the puns! Artist Marta Shore certainly loves the medium. Shore is an award-winning crop artist and educator who has competed in seven different crop art categories and ribboned in six of them. Shore says she loves “both the challenge of figuring out how to do a new technique and the slow meditative process of creating the piece.”

Since becoming the assistant superintendent for Crop Art and Scarecrow at the Minnesota State Fair in 2023, she has decided to no longer compete and instead teach others how to express themselves through crop art. You can find Shore teaching crop art classes around the Twin Cities.

Shore’s goal in her classes is for students to realize that they can learn this unique art form. “I have admired crop art for a long time but was too intimidated to ever start making it,” Shore says. “But when a friend of mine sat down with me and helped me get started a decade ago, I figured out how to break down the process into multiple manageable steps. And that feeling of finishing a piece and seeing it up on the pegboard in the Ag-Hort-Bee building? I want everyone to have that experience.”

Ellie Fuelling is the communications manager at White Bear Center for the Arts. Learn more about classes, programs and events at whitebeararts.org. The Minnesota State Fair starts in late August each year and ends on Labor Day.

A Hygge Home

The Scandinavian Revivalist Movement is here.

By Rachel Schuehle

ABODE

PICTURESQUE VIEWS, warm earth tones, a thoughtful blueprint—for those who dream of a peaceful escape, sitting amid tall pine trees or overlooking a quiet lake, the revival of Scandinavian home design couldn’t have come at a better time.

The Scandinavian design movement is sweeping into the Midwest from the coasts—where its popularity speaks volumes. And now, White Bear Lake architecture and design duo Kasey Johnson and Regan Nix of Blue Pencil Collective have joined forces with builder Dan Carlson of DT Carlson Company and Ben Ancel of Bold North Real Estate to focus on this up-andcoming lifestyle approach.

Connected through mutual partners and industry events, the team felt an instant connection and synergy. The result—the Scandinavian Revivalist Movement (Scandi Revival, for short)— is a full-service experience for clients drawn to the Scandinavian design approach. Whether clients are looking to remodel or build from scratch, the group hopes to assist through the entire process of creating a dream living space.

A Design Movement

Scandi Revival is built on three main pillars. Conscious living encourages clients to embrace simplicity, honor nature and enjoy a balanced life. Holistic design integrates clean lines with eco-friendly features. Warm wood accents and cozy textures provide functional yet comfortable living spaces. And each home is built with quality architecture and a passive home approach, meaning it will use 80–90 percent less energy than a conventional home.

635 Bielenberg Dr, Ste 200, Woodbury, MN 55125 952-941-4005 | hjlawfirm.com

Come visit our showroom in downtown White Bear Lake, where you can pick out a beautiful piece of wood to make something yourself or we can create a one-of-a-kind piece for you!

Our trees are locally sourced & we work with local artisans as well to keep new and exciting items coming in to the showroom.

4th Street | Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm | For an Appointment, call Todd: 763-218-1136

Conscious living, holisitic design and quality architecture are the three pillars of

Scandi Revival.

Every project Scandi Revival takes on is centered on Scandinavian heritage and design. “It’s never about the size of the home but the quality of the home,” Nix says. With each project, there are certain non-negotiables, such as the ratio of windows and doors, which ties directly to the efficiency of the home’s envelope. The passive home design keeps temperatures regulated, regardless of levels or blueprint. Clean, locally sourced materials elevate residents’ health by avoiding harsh chemicals. “It all starts with an awareness of our footprint and what we are leaving behind for future generations,” Carlson says.

A Team Effort

One of the most important factors for each project is location. Ancel tackles home and land procurement, with a focus on the lifestyle and preferences of the client. “If we have a client with a vision, then it’s a targeted approach,” Ancel says. Then, the rest of the team tackles the architecture, design and build of the new space with a mind for sustainability and capturing the essence of the Scandinavian principle hygge—which speaks to finding beauty, conviviality and comfort in the everyday. “It’s really about creating a sanctuary for people and letting them connect with nature,” Nix says.

From sweeping countryside views to magnificent pine stands, the naturescape is of as equal importance in Scandinavian design as the building itself—with harmony at the heart. The indoors blends with nature through expansive windows, creating a seamless transition. “We are nature; we aren’t separate from it,” Nix says. “It’s about continuing the consciousness that we are one, which then helps us protect and appreciate nature more.

“Houses and buildings are going to be built whether we like it or not, so why not do it in a way that is respectful to the world we live in?” Nix says.

Furniture provided by DWELL44.

Scandinavian Revivalist Movement; scandirevival.com @scandirevival

"BUILDING THE FUTURERESTORING THE PAST" ™

ARTS & CULTURE

Internship, Inspired

At Studio Repose, students develop their leadership and creative skills beyond the canvas.

By Jennifer Pitterle

AMID THE BEAUTIFUL EXHIBITIONS and celebrated artists-inresidence, it can be easy to forget that, behind the scenes of a nonprofit arts organization, there exists an entire workday dedicated to keeping things running. Administrators design development campaigns, create marketing materials, interface with local artists and educators and create programming. To make sure organizations like theirs are sustained for years to come, the team members at White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA) wanted to figure out how to create new workforce mem-

bers who are ready to step into roles at successful art institutions.

Enter Studio Repose, a creative internship program at WBCA where local high schoolers can learn about running a nonprofit arts center and prepare for a variety of career paths.

“It’s a holistic approach to workforce development but through the lens of an art center,” says Lexi Munson, Studio Repose internship administrator. “It’s providing so many skills that are transferable to any sort of career.”

The program welcomed its first cohort in the 2023–24 school year,

2023–24 Studio Repose interns at the 2024 High School Visual Arts and WriteNow! Writing Contest Reception and Award Ceremony.

which included seven students hailing from Centennial, Mahtomedi, St. Anthony Village, St. Croix Preparatory Academy and White Bear Lake Area High School. Munson advertised the program via high school art teachers.

The students work on a range of projects, such as creating a marketing poster for a local musical and helping

curate and install exhibitions. “There really is intricacy and art in simply putting a show together,” says 2023–24 intern Cynthia Meisinger. “Having to hang up a painting gives you a new perspective and with that comes a source of great pride.”

The interns helped adjudicate the WBCA high school exhibition—which includes visual art and writing contests—and worked on their own mural. “People who come from different backgrounds and stories mingle together in one room, united over their love for art,” Meisinger says. “It’s really beautiful to see.”

Munson says the internship tries to emphasize that artists can be leaders. “[Artists] are creative problem solvers, and they support economies,” she says. “They bring a lot to any table they sit at.” In fact, Munson and several colleagues approached the Minnesota State Legislature for funding as part of its 2023 omnibus bill and received bipartisan support. “They were all for it,” Munson says. WBCA received funding for Studio Repose for two years; the second cohort of interns will begin their term this fall.

Munson was “the proof in the pudding” for the possible outcomes of the program, she says. “I’ve been involved with the art center since I was 11. When I was in high school and college, staff really took me under their wing and let me work on different administrative things,” she says. “I had kind of an unofficial internship, and it really shaped my career trajectory.” Now, Munson is helping pay that mentorship forward by growing a new generation of artistleaders, whether they end up at arts organizations or in other industries.

“I feel like I’ve been living in a dream ever since I got [the internship],” Meisinger says. “I’ve made so many valuable connections and learned a lot about what a career in art looks like.”

White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave., White Bear Lake; 651.407.0597; whitebeararts.org

White Bear Center for the Arts @whitebearcenterforthearts

ENLIGHTEN

Under One Roof

The unified White Bear Lake Area High School campus opens this fall.

By Jennifer Pitterle

THIS SEPTEMBER, 9th through 12th graders at White Bear Lake Area High School (WBLAHS) are coming together under one roof with the opening of the new unified high school campus.

“We’re going to provide a more meaningful student experience,” says principal Russ Reetz. Because students aren’t experiencing so many transitions (especially the old shift between the 9–10 campus and the 11–12 campus), they’ll be able to build deeper relationships with peers and staff. “It always felt like we had to convince 9th and 10th graders that they were in high school,” Reetz says. “We can now really provide opportunities for students to experience joy and pride in where they go to school.”

Associate principal Joseph Held— who’s also a WBLAHS alum and parent of kids in the district—agrees that unification is a win-win for everyone in the community. “The process that led up to this involved so many stakeholders,” Held says. “From local businesses to teachers to parents and students—I’ve never been prouder of our community. We believe we’re better together. We didn’t just want a new building; we want to invest in the future of our kids.”

Reetz and Held say the decision to unify comes at the perfect time, capturing a moment when the district is growing quickly and young families want a more robust school experience for their kids.

A New Flow

The biggest change students and staff will notice is the way the building flows. “The design was very intentional, so we could rethink teaching and learning and put students at the center,” Reetz says. In addition to traditional classroom space, the new high school has flexible

furniture, common rooms, labs and other multiuse spaces. Students are assigned to a “learning studio,” and each day they’ll use an app to find out where their studio is set up for the day—maybe an instructional space, a media lab or a workshop. The career pathways model lets students follow a vocational track and potentially earn a certification in addition to their high school diploma. Hands-on learning spaces, like an auto shop and a medical clinic room, complement those pathways.

“It’s difficult to help nurture agency when students are sitting in a traditional four-wall classroom with no air conditioning,” Held says. “We want them to see themselves as creators of their own futures.”

Greater Opportunities

WBLAHS senior Sherie Lor was part of a student committee that provided input on the unified school design.

“You can’t make a school happen without students,” she says. “I’m really excited to be unified. I’ll get to know the underclassmen, and we’ll be able to develop clubs and electives that we couldn’t before.”

Reetz echoes that. “We’ll be able to offer more experiences because we’ve consolidated resources,” he says. “More kids will be able to access more activities, and participation numbers will go up. That’s a real advantage of the fouryear school.”

“It’s a place where everyone will really feel like they’re welcome and

What is Cooks in the Kitchen? Cooks in the Kitchen is a meal program for the individuals we support in our group homes.

We make it easy to volunteer! Gather your group and pick a date. We supply the recipes, groceries, and equipment.

While the time commitment is only 2.5 hours from start to finish, but the impact of the meals lasts much longer.

they belong,” Lor says.

Reetz is looking forward to seeing the whole school community come together in the new student union space. “It connects people,” he says. “We have ‘learning stairs,’ and I can’t wait to see how we leverage those spaces—send offs for state tournaments, music performances. There was never a better time for this change. Students will leave here with a sense of joy and pride.”

Learn more about the new campus at wblahs.isd624.org.

Bear Lake Area Schools @isd624

Pat Lutz, lead volunteer in the White Bear Lake Cooks in the Kitchen, assembles the prepared meal ingredients, to be packaged and delivered to our group homes.

Welcome to the Northwoods

Passion for design pours out of Kelly McGauley. The owner of White Bear Lake-based Leona Rose Interiors, McGauley says the most important thing about a home is how it makes you feel. The rest will fall into place.

Leona Rose

Interiors brings modern taste to a rustic

Wisconsin cabin.

Written by Emily Gedde

McGauley and her team took that feeling-based approach for a rustic cabin remodel in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. A Hayward cabin that once featured carpet in the great room and outdated maple cabinets is now a sight to behold. A copper bathtub, blue cabinets and an armoire-like refrigerator are defining features of a remodel that has quickly become one of McGauley’s favorite projects to date.

A Home Away From Home

The homeowners wanted the renovations to bring a sense of welcoming, relaxation and escape. “We achieved this through texture, color and finishes,” McGauley says. “We used things that wear well with time and use.”

Installing brick inlay wood floors

in the entryway promotes the space’s livability. The material is damageresistant and has a distressed finish—important with the family’s lively dog—so any scratches or dents made over time will simply blend in. McGauley also selected concrete countertops and tile for the bathroom. “We used materials that will stand the test of time,” she says.

While there aren’t many differences to remodeling a cabin versus a home, one thing McGauley learned early in her career is that a person’s second home is their honest home.

“In your second home, you’re more relaxed. You’re not as concerned with how perfect it might be,” she says.

“With that in mind, this project was a second home for this client. It’s a place they really wanted to gather as a family and with extended relatives and friends. They wanted to be able to host larger groups on occasion. They wanted to make it really inviting, and we achieved that.”

As the Leona Rose team embarked

Photos by Scott Amundson Photography

on the project, they started with assessing what original features would transfer to the redesign.

“Very quickly, it was clear that the logs and the ceiling detail would stay,” McGauley says. “Then we took note of things that were dated that would need to be more modernized. It was a big, beautiful cabin that needed to meet its potential.”

Creative Liberty

McGauley notes that the family was open to out-of-the-box thinking, bringing a good challenge and sense of freedom for the Leona Rose team.

One of the unique fixtures of the cabin remodel is the refrigerator. The owner requested that the appliance resemble an antique armoire. The result was a 30-inch refrigerator on the right and 24-inch subzero freezer on the left, leaving a 6-inch gap in the middle. Storage was created in between the two units for trays, charcuterie boards and other kitchen needs.

“The wood on the exterior of the fridge was painted and distressed, and huge, old looking hardware

The Leona Rose team focused on a redesign that would complement existing features, like the log ceiling detail. By listening to what the cabin wanted, Kelly McGauley says the team was able to create “something special.”

Take a piece of Leona Rose Interiors home with you from the company’s two showrooms in downtown White Bear Lake. The storefronts offer an assortment of home interior pieces and meaningful gifts to enhance living spaces, including furniture, decor and accents in a range of design styles.

was custom-made for this project,” McGauley says.

In the primary bathroom, the shower was confined by walls, making it impossible to make the space larger. “We installed [a] rock tile design with a frameless shower door to create a visual look of more size and space,” she says.

Custom light fixtures throughout the cabin create a feeling of authenticity. McGauley and her team were also able to utilize a few pieces already part of the house, such as the plaid counter stools. McGauley says she listened to what the cabin wanted and knew the kitchen island cabinets needed to be blue.

“It became obvious to us that it should be blue. I wish I had more of a scientific reason for why we went with blue, but that’s it,” she says with a laugh. “Again, hats off to the homeowner and their ability to trust

and envision this along with us. They played a part in inspiring us. They allowed us to run with things. They said, ‘Here’s what we want,’ and off we went.”

The completed project shines with a feeling above and beyond what McGauley expected. She credits all the creative minds involved in the project for its success, noting that collecting inspiration from various perspectives is the key to creating magic.

“It was truly breathtaking,” McGauley says of walking into the cabin upon its completion. “I’ve done this for more than 30 years, and this cabin was something special. Photos don’t do it justice.”

Leona Rose Interiors

4701 Banning Ave. Suite B and 2175 Fourth St., White Bear Lake 612.432.3774; leona-rose.com @leonarose_designs

HOME & GARDEN Collection

For over 50 years, our independently owned flooring store has proudly served the St. Croix Valley area, establishing a reputation built on trust and exceptional customer care. We understand that choosing new flooring is a significant decision, and we are committed to ensuring that customers feel valued and supported throughout their journey with us. While we offer competitive pricing that rivals larger chains, it is our

personalized service that truly sets us apart. We go beyond the initial showroom experience by offering complimentary in-home measurements conducted by our punctual and professional team. Our skilled installers, with their keen eye for detail, are dedicated to delivering craftsmanship that transforms your space. It’s not just about selling products— it’s about building lasting relationships.

CREATING ART FROM THE EARTH

Myhra Design Group is an innovative landscaping company, specializing in creating art from the earth. With a unique blend of imaginative vision and natural elements, it transforms ordinary areas into extraordinary landscapes. Through meticulous planning and attention to detail, it crafts stunning outdoor spaces that seamlessly blend with the surrounding environment. The team’s expertise

lies in creating visually captivating and functional outdoor areas that enhance the overall beauty and value of any property. With a passion for art and nature, Myhra Design Group brings the outdoors to life, providing clients with unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether it’s a lush garden, a serene patio or a breathtaking pathway, it excels at turning the earth into a canvas for all of its artistic endeavors.

MYHRA DESIGN GROUP, 5920 HIGHLANDS TRAIL N., LAKE ELMO; 651.248.8273; MYHRADESIGN.COM MYHRA DESIGN GROUP @MYHRADESIGN

AWARD. WINNING. LANDSCAPES.

At Green Oasis, we specialize in creating landscapes that fit your needs and budget. From the first consultation to the final result and beyond, our landscape team will create a backyard luxury like you’ve never imagined before. Whether you dream of a tranquil garden retreat, a vibrant outdoor entertainment space or a sustainable oasis, we make it a reality. With expertise in native plants, water features and personalized design, we turn your vision into a reality. Experience the difference with Green Oasis Landscaping where every detail matters, and your satisfaction is our top priority. Transform your outdoor space today!

GREEN OASIS , N8232 945TH ST., RIVER FALLS, WISCONSIN ; 715.832.0800; GREENOASIS.CO GREEN OASIS SERVICES @_GREENOASIS

YOUR LOCAL HOME EXPERTS

TYPHANNIE HARKER

CEO of Carpeting By Mike

Luxury Vinyl Planking vs. Waterproof Laminate Floors

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) makes for the best waterproof floors. Not all LVT floors are 100 percent waterproof, but higher quality products include a waterproof core and watertight joints, even protecting the subfloor from daily spills, splashes and pet accidents.

Mohawk Revwood Laminate is best known for its superior scratch resistance and waterproof characteristics. In premium products, a high-density fiberboard is topped with a high-resolution design layer that mimics the beauty of hardwood. A durable wear layer makes for a remarkably scratch resistant laminate floor. Finally, a backing layer on the bottom of each plank adds additional stability.

Carpeting By Mike, Inc. , 405 Laser Drive, Somerset, Wisconsin ; 715.247.3244; carpetingbymike.com

Carpeting by Mike @carpetingbymike

Rooﬁng, siding and windows are more than just functional components of your home—they define its aesthetic appeal and protect it from the elements. With Hoffman Weber Construction, you can trust that every aspect of your project will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Whether you need a roof replacement that guarantees long-lasting durability, new siding that adds elegance and curb appeal or windows that enhance energy efficiency and beauty, our team is here to bring your vision to life.

Why choose Hoffman Weber Construction?

• Unmatched craftsmanship and attention to detail

• Superior quality materials for lasting results

• Dedicated team of skilled professionals

• Transparent communication and exceptional customer service

• Commitment to community involvement

Now Serving the Brainerd Lakes Area!

Roofing Siding Windows Storm Restoration Award-Winning Designs

Written by Zoe Yates Photos by Chris Emeott

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

These young local leaders are dedicated to uplifting others.

Each year, area schools nominate incoming seniors who stand out in a variety of ways. It’s a highlight of the year for our magazine staff as we get to know some spectacular students who have achieved extraordinary things in pursuit of their dreams, leaving positivity and joy in their wake. We are so impressed with this group of seniors from the class of 2025—their dedication and heart for others is truly astonishing. Readers, I hope these young voices bring you as much hope for the future as they did for our team.

Tashvi Johnson Hill-Murray School

“Tashvi Johnson is a leader among her peers … She leads with empathy and kindness, often stepping into places where a person is needed, even if she has no prior experience. She is an outstanding student and human.”—Therese Walth, artistic director of theater and vocal/choral music director

“Tashvi embodies the core values of our school and, in particular, fosters a community of belonging. In her many roles at school and in our community, she has become an advocate for those who do not have a voice, making the verse ‘love thy neighbor’ a part of her core beliefs … She is humble in her service to community but is natural at living her life devoted to service.” — Jenny Vinck, school counselor

When you look back on your high school years, what are you most proud of?

I am most proud of everything I have balanced throughout the years, including work, advanced classes, theater, figure skating and other extracurricular activities. In all these opportunities, my dedication and perseverance helped me grow as an individual.

What is one experience that has shaped who you are today?

One experience that shaped who I am today is the mission trip to Knoxville, Tennessee, which I went on through

Tashvi Johnson

my church. During this week, I grew stronger in my faith, made friendships with teens from across the country and discovered a love for helping kids. Most importantly, I learned the value of leading a life with a heart for service.

What are your hopes for the future?

After high school, I plan to attend college in the Midwest, major in biology or chemistry, and attend pharmacy school. I want to work as a pharmacist in either pediatrics or medication therapy management. Outside of school, I hope to travel to all of the Seven Wonders of the World. I’ve already got one down, and now six more to go.

Joy Shadrack Mahtomedi High School

“Joy is a student with an amazing positive attitude. She makes those around her better and makes them feel important. Whenever we have worked together, she leaves the interaction grateful for the opportunity to have talked. Joy carries herself with confidence and helps to do the same through her optimism and kindness. In school, she’s been a leader in many different organizations and one that stands out is Link Crew, which gives her the opportunity to mentor younger students in our school. It’s hard to not have a smile on your face when working with Joy. Joy is also an outstanding student and chooses to challenge herself with a demanding schedule that includes AP, honors and College in the Schools.”

—Keith Miley, school counselor

When you look back on your high school years, what are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of the opportunities I took. These opportunities really opened me up to new perspectives and experiences that impacted me positively and expanded my horizons. I also enjoyed learning more about and connecting with new communities that I otherwise would not have connected with.

What is one experience that has shaped who you are today?

An experience that has really shaped who I am today is my faith. As a

Joy Shadrack

Christian, my faith has always been very important to me. The experiences and connections forged through my faith and Christian community have provided me with mentors, friends and peers that have challenged, understood and encouraged me. Growing with that support and connection has definitely shaped and strengthened who I am today.

What are your hopes for the future?

When looking at my future, the possibilities seem endless. With all the available opportunities, I’m still undecided but will continue to pursue my education while keeping my options open and exploring topics in and outside of school that spark my interest and pique my curiosity.

John Pietruszewski Hill-Murray School

“Even if John were the least academically talented and least athletically accomplished kid in the school (which he isn’t), he would stand out from his class for his ability to step up and take chances—small, usually, but chances nonetheless. If nobody else was cleaning up spilled milk, John would be the one to step in. Leading by example is rare among teenagers, but John’s subtle but unmistakable commitment to stepping up is an invaluable asset to his class.” —Ben Pieper, English teacher

“John Pietruszewski is an incredible young man whose influence and impact permeate throughout our school and community. In my 15 [plus] years of coaching, John’s energy, positivity, maturity and leadership landed him in the top 5 percent of all student athletes I have coached.” —Charlie Cicalello, varsity baseball head coach

When you look back on your high school years, what are you most proud of?

I am the most proud of the great relationships I have built with my friends, teammates and coaches. I have been able to find amazing friends who allow me to be myself and enjoy my high school years to the fullest. I have also been able to connect with and learn from my extremely knowledgeable coaches throughout my years at Hill-Murray.

John Pietruszewski

What is one experience that has shaped who you are today?

One experience that has shaped me today is going to State for football in the 2023–24 season. As a team, we worked so hard for months, and in the end, it truly paid off. This experience taught me that no matter how difficult the task is at hand, there is always a way for you to achieve it with hard work and dedication.

What are your hopes for the future?

In the future, I hope to go to college and play baseball. I want to earn a degree and get a job somewhere in the medical field. Lastly, I want to start a family of my own and be a great father and husband.

Amelia Nachtsheim

White Bear Lake Area High School

“Amelia has stood out as a leader on the [cross country] team from the beginning. She is a great encourager and displays discipline and determination in her own work to lead by example. I’m excited to have her as a captain and create a culture for the rest of the athletes to look up to.” —Audrey Kirschling, cross country coach

“Amelia is a driven student who has taken multiple college-level courses while making the A honor roll throughout high school. She is an exemplary learner who models dedication and hard work. I admire her capacity to excel across many curricular areas as well as her leadership skills in varsity athletics.” —Rochelle Vavricka, school counselor

“Amelia is an enthusiastic learner with a positive outlook and attitude in the classroom. Her ability to communicate with others is commendable. I’m continuously impressed by her collaboration, and I enjoy hearing her thoughts on our classwork.” —Cassandra Lydon, chemistry teacher

When you look back on your high school years, what are you most proud of?

I am proud of the relationships I’ve built with my teammates, especially the younger girls. I have put a lot of work and effort into making sure

that everyone feels like a family and included, and I feel that is a legacy I will be successfully leaving behind. Having an older girl come up to you and ask you how your day is and be friends with you used to be the highlight of my days. I am proud that I can do that for other girls.

What is one experience that has shaped who you are today?

An experience that has shaped me into the person I am today was my freshman year of cross country. This team not only taught me a lot about the sport, but about high school and perseverance, too. I was able to gain close friendships with girls on the team and found my closest friends

from it. Freshman year cross country taught me what I should look for in friendships and how to push through struggles I face. [It has] shaped me to have a more positive outlook on things.

What are your hopes for the future?

My future dreams and aspirations are to successfully complete college and then hopefully move [to the] East Coast to continue my career and life. I want to be able to live on a big farm with a lot of land and acres of my own. Living on the East Coast has been a dream of mine for a long time, and I hope to be able to achieve it.

Visit whitebearlakemag.com to learn more about these outstanding seniors

Amelia Nachtsheim

TASTEMAKERS

Party Punch List

All that pomp and circumstance doesn’t happen by itself.

Written by Renée Stewart-Hester — Photos by Chris Emeott

LET’S BE HONEST.

Graduation parties have—evolved. For the most part, the celebrations have become larger and more involved than the days when grad parties were primarily made up of the student of honor, the requisite family members, a few neighbors and a handful of teenagers all gathered at the honoree’s home/ backyard/garage.

While that is still the case, and those celebrations are just as wonderful, other families are going in another direction with attendee numbers tipping into the hundreds, and the food fare and décor elements ramping up their games, too.

Since the second semester of senior year brims with plenty of deadlines (college and scholarship applications, housing contracts or gap year decisions) and milestones (the last spring break, prom and the ending of spring sports—cue the tears), it can be overwhelming. Add in planning a graduation party and emotional chaos might ensue.

As this year’s seniors start their academic year, their graduation party planning should swing into gear. The first step is getting organized. To help, we put together a month-tomonth plan to break down the to-do list into manageable sections. (This is a loose timeline because all parties are as individual as the honorees, but this can serve as a guide for your perfect party planning.)

Calendar of Events

September: If you and the graduate already have your hearts set on a party venue, book it now. (Note: Some places require reservations several months or a year in advance.) For the

rest of you, have a discussion with your senior student. Is he/she interested in having a party, and what would that look like in terms of home vs. venue, solo vs. with friends or large vs. a smaller gathering?

October: If this is a combined event, reach out to the other parents/guardians to make sure they are on the same page in terms of budget and planning. Finalize the party date. Be sure to take into consideration potential district/ regional/state appearances for extracurriculars in the spring.

November: If this is a group event, bring the students and parents together to discuss tasks. Put people in charge of beverages, food, games, set-up/clean-up duties, venue rental, etc. Set up a timeline through the date of the party. Finalize the décor theme. Research food vendors. If not done already, it’s not a bad idea to get the venue locked in. When talking with venue representatives, ask about table/ chair counts and if linens are included. If not, research other vendors for those items.

December: Take the month off to enjoy the holidays. January will be here sooner than you think.

January: Finalize catering or food truck vendors. Be sure to ask about deposits, pricing, set-up/clean-up options, staffing, dining ware availability and cancellation policies. If you haven’t done so already, move on booking this month; food vendors and venues fill up with other spring and summer events.

February: If making photo boards, go through albums (digital or otherwise) to identify photographs you want to feature. Gather award certificates, school memorabilia, trophies, sport uniforms, etc. to include for display tables. If using annual school pictures, organize them now. (If a year is missing, contact the school to see if it has a version from the yearbook archives.)

March: Meet with families to finalize décor. If decorating individual display tables, share ideas with one another, so each student feels equally represented. Using sports equipment can be a fun and easy way to decorate a space. (Place skis a few feet apart,

string cord between them and hang photos along the cords. Prop up tennis rackets or hockey or lacrosse sticks. Fill large, clear vases or containers with baseballs/softballs, pucks, tennis balls, etc.) Create a fun backdrop that is Instagram-worthy for photo taking. If the student is attending college, order the school’s banner or a pennant to display.

April: Order or create party invitations for family, friends, neighbors and other guests. Drop those in the mail, so it’s one less thing to think about. Make sure students spread the party word via social media or on their high school’s party page. Ask a couple of friends or

older teens to serve as party helpers, refilling food trays and beverage coolers, bussing tables and the like.

May or June: A few weeks ahead of the big day, check in with all the vendors to confirm final details and timelines. If doing a group party, have final check in with families. Once the party day arrives, enjoy it. Take time to celebrate your student and yourself. Let’s face it, K-12 isn’t a road traveled just by the students!

July: Handwritten thank you notes (not emails or texts) never go out of style, and they offer graduates a great opportunity to practice their cursive!

Food for Thought

Aside from the graduate, food is a major attendee at any graduation party. If the thought of making all the food yourself is giving you pause, here’s a starting point for local catering options.

Bella Vida Catering: With meal buffet and snack bar options (including mac ’n’ cheese!), this menu is made for grads. 651.702.2766; one23events.com

Donatelli’s: Celebrate as they do in Italy, with an array of mouth-watering homemade fare. 2692 County Road E East, White Bear Lake; 651.777.9199; donatellis.com

HomeTown Creamery: You’re never too old for an ice cream party. 651.779.4400; hometowncreamerymn.com

Kowalski’s Markets: Tried and true. Locations vary; 651.313.6870 (catering); kowalskis.com

Lunds & Byerlys: Consider this party regular that never disappoints. Locations vary; 952.897.9800; catering.lundsandbyerlys.com

Orchid Restaurant: Order trays of your favorite Vietnamese dishes. 1190 County Road J Suite 100, White Bear Township; 651.426.3558; orchid-restaurant.com

Red Luna Taco Factory: Add some Mexican flair to the festivities. 5960 US-61, White Bear Lake; 651.788.7136; redlunatacofactory.com

Stonehouse Catering: From small events up to large gatherings, these are the folks to call. 4466 Centerville Road, White Bear Lake; 651.426.8831; stonehousemn.com

Tally’s Dockside: Bring Memphisstyle BBQ to your backyard. 4441 Lake Ave. S., White Bear Lake; keith@cghooks.com; cghooks.com

IN SEASON

September marks the beginning of apple harvesting in Minnesota.

ACCORDING TO the University of Minnesota, most apple varieties in Minnesota should be harvested during the month of September. The East Metro is chock-full of apple orchards offering pick-your-own apples, sweet treats and more.

Where to Pick This September:

• Aamodt’s Apple Farm Offering nearly 25 varieties throughout August to December (17 of those being available in September!), Aamodt’s offers pick-your-own apples, fresh homemade apple pie, local honey and more in its Apple Barn and Bakery. Head next door to Saint Croix Vineyards and Thor’s Hard Cider for award-winning cold-climate wines and hard cider. 6428 Manning Ave., Stillwater; 651.439.3127; aamodtsapplefarm.com

• Afton Apple’s fall harvest season begins in late August and the orchard is open daily through October 31. Enjoy pick-your-own apples and fresh apple cider, donuts and other fall favorites. Activities include a playground, petting farm, yard games, hayrides and more. 14421 90th St. S., Hastings; 651.436.8385; aftonapple.com

• Pine Tree Apple Orchard—a personal favorite!—offers a variety of locally grown apples and shares estimated harvest dates on its website, so pickers are always tuned into the best days to visit. The large grounds also feature a corn maze, wagon rides, a pumpkin patch, caramel apples, apple cider and other fresh-baked goods. 450 Apple Orchard Road, White Bear Lake; 651.429.7202; pinetreeappleorchard.com

• Sunnybrook Apple Orchard celebrates its sixth anniversary selling apples this year, including Zestar, SweeTango and Honeycrisp varieties. This locally owned orchard has walking trails and picture-perfect spots ideal for families. 9085 Jeffrey Blvd. N., Stillwater; 651.432.4866; sunnybrookeappleorchard.com

• Whistling Well Farm is a go-to for apples, pumpkins, mums and more. Whistling Well offers free admission and complimentary wagon rides, is dog-friendly and includes a kids climbing area, goats and chickens, live music, food trucks and more. 8973 St. Croix Trail S., Hastings; 651.998.0301; whistlingwellfarm.com —Hailey Almsted

Afton Apple

Compiled by Tia Benson and Findlay Drabant

LOCAL

EVENTS

Taste of White Bear Lake 09/07

Sample food and drink from a wide array of local businesses, and support the White Bear Rotary in its annual fundraiser. All ages. Time TBD. Jacobson’s Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road; info@tasteofwhitebearlake.com; tasteofwhitebearlake.com

Bear Water Run 09/14

Support the White Bear Lake Lions Club by racing in this annual fundraiser run around White Bear Lake, where participants can choose between running 10 or 20 miles. All ages. $50–$65.

8 a.m. Ramsey County Beach, 5050 Lake Ave.; 651.426.5199; whitebearlions.org

White Bear Township Day Celebration

09/21

Celebrate your community with live music, a car show, a vendor market, bingo and fireworks. All ages. Free. 2–

8 p.m. Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Road; 612.616.0711; whitebeartownship.org

Farmers Market

09/06–10/25

Enjoy the last few weeks of the farmers market, where over 50 farmers sell fresh produce every Friday. All ages. Free.

8 a.m.–noon. Clark Avenue, White Bear Lake; 651.429.8526; whitebearlake.org

Minnesota State Fair

Origami Class 10/15

Join this workshop and learn how to craft cranes and flowers out of paper. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–noon. White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.; 651.407.0597; manyfaceswblarea.org

Scare in White Bear 10/26

Dress up, and get spooky at this festive half-mile and 5K race, followed by trick or treating on the beach. All ages. $15–$40. 6 p.m. Memorial Beach, 4958 Lake Ave.; 651.440.9625; mmraces.com

AREA EVENTS

Minnesota State Fair Through 09/02

Celebrate the Great Minnesota GetTogether with food, carnival rides, music and more. All ages. $16–$18. 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Ave., St. Paul; 651.288.4400; mnstatefair.org

Minnesota Renaissance Festival 09/01–09/29

Take yourself back in time and experience the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in Shakopee. All ages. Children $16.50, Adults $24.95. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Renaissance Festival Fairgrounds, 12364 Chestnut Blvd., Shakopee; 952.445.7361; renaissancefest.com

American Pottery Festival 09/06

Purchase pottery at this event, and support the Northern Clay Center’s annual fundraiser. All ages. Free. 6–9 p.m. Northern Clay Center, 2424 Franklin Ave. E., Mpls.; 612.339.8007; nccshop.org

LoLa Art Crawl 09/21–09/22

Browse and purchase art from local makers while exploring the Longfellow neighborhood. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Longfellow Neighborhood, Mpls.; longfellowartists@gmail.com; lolaart.org

St. Jude Walk/Run 09/29

Participate in the annual St. Jude Walk/ Run for Pediatric Cancer. Individuals or groups must raise funds to qualify. All ages. Price varies, registration required. 10:15 a.m. Elm Creek Park Reserve, 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove; 952.412.1262; fundraising.stjude.org

Twin Cities Veg Fest 09/22

Enjoy vegan and vegetarian food trucks, art vendors, live music, cooking demos and presentations on plant-based nutrition at this event. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harriet Island Regional Park, 49 Harriet Island Road, St. Paul; 612.276.2242; tcvegfest.com

To have your event considered: email whitebearlakemag@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.

Sheila J. Kelly Law Firm, LLC 4856

Farmers Market

Autumn’s Paintbrush

An award-winning photo captures the seasonal color palette.

One spring morning, guided by the perfect morning light, Rachel Cain positioned her tripod on the west shore of White Bear Lake. There, she snapped this image; what seems to be a reflection of colorful fall foliage is, in fact, a mirror image of boats docked at the nearby marina. “It just seemed like a peaceful image,” says Cain, who has pursued photography as a hobby for 20 years. More of her work can be found at rachelcainphotography.com. —Findlay Drabant

To view other Lens on the Lake photo contest winners, visit whitebearlakemag.com.

Photographer: Rachel Cain

Title: Boat Reflections

Equipment: Nikon D500 with zoom lens

Category: Abstract Award: First Place

Vote for Readers’ Choice in the Lens on the Lake photo contest September 15–30 at whitebearlakemag.com.

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All over America, strangers with different political views are coming together, two at a time, to talk about their lives—not debate politics—and discovering they actually have a lot in common.

If you’re among the 9 out of 10 Americans who are tired of our country’s divisions, check out One Small Step, where you can listen to these meaningful conversations and sign up to participate.

Let’s talk... for a change.

All over America, strangers with different political views are coming together, two at a time, to talk about their lives—not debate politics—and discovering they actually

If you’re among the 9 out of 10 Americans who are tired of our country’s divisions, check out One Small Step, where you can listen to these meaningful conversations and sign up to participate.

If you’re among the 9 out of 10 Americans who are tired of our country’s divisions, check out One Small Step, where you can listen to these meaningful conversations

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