Peek into a Dellwood family’s year-round home and lakeside retreat, all in one
We’re a local family-owned business, so we know what it means to have the support of our community. That’s why we take pride in our commitment to helping other local businesses succeed. There are hundreds of products around our stores, in every department, that come from local producers, makers and growers.
“The real secret of happiness is not what you give or what you receive, it’s what you share.” —Suzanne Woods Fisher, American author
Coloring Our World
Painter Karen Chan pursues her creative calling through education.
Wood With a Purpose
Fillory Design Company turns locally sourced lumber into timeless heirloom pieces. FEATURES
Serenity on the Shore
Peek into a Dellwood family’s year-round home and lakeside retreat, all in one.
Senior Spotlight
Meet three high school students who are making an impact on their school communities.
TASTEMAKERS
Bonfire Bites
Some foods just taste better cooked over an outdoor flame.
Artwork: Karen Chan
Coloring Our World, page 12
DISCOVER.
WHY BE A BEAR?
• Student-centered instruction.
We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates — that all can achieve.
• Expanded academic opportunities.
Our students explore their interests, excel and design their futures.
• Empowered, supported learning.
Students are agents and owners of their learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.
• Inspiring, nurturing educators.
Our educators facilitate learning and challenge students — fostering curiosity and confidence.
• Transformative learning.
Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.
from the EDITOR
Welcome to our education, homes and arts issue! It’s that time of year again: back to school and back to the swing of things. As the summer wanes, I revel in the fleeting nature of autumn. It’s been many years since I moved back from the West Coast, where I deeply missed watching the seasons change. But, having experienced a world without a colorful autumn, my enthusiasm for each of the four seasons cannot be contained.
There’s a similar sense of joyful abundance in these pages. The idea of sharing is interwoven through the stories of this issue, as we shine a light on some spectacular individuals who are dedicated to sharing their skills and passions in distinct ways.
I’m excited to introduce you to Karen Chan, an area artist who spoke with writer Ellie Heyerdahl to share her journey from aspiring artist to beloved teacher on page 12. Chan’s oil paintings—and talent for uplifting new and experienced artists through education—are equally remarkable.
White Bear Lake resident and business owner Todd Kendall has also found his calling in a creative pursuit. At Fillory Design Company, Kendall crafts custom furnishings and products with beautiful locally sourced wood, collected and dried by Renstrom Tree Service. He explains his journey as a craftsman to writer Paige Udermann on page 14.
And, of course, our annual Senior Spotlight is back on page 22. This year’s feature highlights three area high school seniors, nominated by their schools as students who stand out in their halls. Limitless, faithful and inspiring are just a few words these students used to describe their future, which we’re certain will be just as bright as they are!
Until next time,
Zoe Yates zoe@localmedia.co
On the Cover: Serenity on the Shore , page 16
Photo by: Fluidesign Studio
Photo: Chris Emeott
VOL. 13 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
Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Jennifer Pitterle and Paige Udermann
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ellie Fuelling, Amelia Reigstad, Katie Tomsche and Kia White
DIGITAL INTERN
Taylor Hamilton
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
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
Enjoy the pride of homeownership and the potential for asset appreciation, all without the complexities of traditional real estate.
Curated Community Living
Thoughtfully designed common areas and vibrant social offerings create a connected, engaging lifestyle.
Worry-Free Maintenance
From snow removal to appliance repairs, let us handle the details while you focus on what matters most.
Bilingual Skills for Bright Futures
This fall, White Bear Lake Area School District is launching a Spanish dualimmersion program at two elementary schools. Matoska International and Otter Lake Elementary will each host up to three kindergarten immersion classrooms. The program, available to both Spanish-speaking and non-Spanishspeaking students, will expand with this incoming class through fifth grade.
“It’s really kindergarten in Spanish,” says Angela Nelson, Otter Lake Elementary principal. Classes are structured the same as the schools’ traditional kindergarten,
with 80 percent of each day conducted in Spanish. The language ratio will change with each grade level to encourage proficiency in both languages; by second grade, the ratio of Spanish to English will be 50:50.
“Learning two languages and being bilingual—what it does for a student’s brain is so critically important,” Nelson says. “It helps their brain learn in a completely different way.”
The program’s teachers and paraeducators are all native Spanish speakers who speak English as a second language.
“It’s going to be a really awesome experience, not just for our Spanish immersion kids but for our entire school, to have this opportunity to broaden our own language experience, but also our own cultural experience and to share that,” Nelson says.
Area families have the opportunity to choose this option during kindergarten registration starting in December. —Zoe Yates
Photo: White Bear Lake Area Schools
The Art of Noticing
One of our regular customers requested Still: The Art of Noticing by local author Mary Jo Hoffman. As soon as I read the description, I was hooked. Years ago, Hoffman committed to taking one photo a day for a calendar year, capturing items she found on her daily walks. More than a decade later, she was still doing this daily photography practice and posting the images on her blog—which then became a gorgeous book that was published in 2024.
Set on neutral backgrounds, the photographs let each piece of nature shine and are beautiful in their spare presentation. As we know, the world can feel extremely chaotic, and what better antidote to a busy, overwhelmed brain than being encouraged to slow down and notice the tiny moments of beauty happening around us every day? My favorite part of the book is the idea of microseasons. Hoffman catalogs the subtle changes and shifts happening in our local ecosystem through text and images. It’s almost like an almanac but with incredibly stunning photos and heartfelt reflections added to the mix.
Kia White is part of the team at Lake Country Booksellers. For more recommendations, visit whitebearlakemag.com, or call the shop at 651.426.0918.
WORLD AROUND US CHILDCARE
Ernest Miller’s ceramic piece, Pitcher, was featured in White Bear Center for the Arts’ A Culture of Pots 2025 exhibit this summer. The strong, sculptural lines and elongated form evoke a feeling of pride, as if the pitcher is standing tall as it pours you a glass of water. The striking contrast between the black and white glaze creates its own abstract shape on the pitcher. When you look at this piece, what does it bring to mind? How does it make you feel?
Ellie Fuelling is the communications manager at White Bear Center for the Arts. Learn more at whitebeararts.org.
Photo: White Bear Center for
GIVE
Community Building for Businesses
“If you build it, they will come.” This quote from Field of Dreams is symbolic of one of the most important business lessons I have learned as an entrepreneur and business owner: Build community.
White Bear Lake is a wonderful and supportive community. When I was pitching the idea of opening a curated retail experience, I knew building community and relying on connections and relationships was important to business success.
There are so many amazing businesses in White Bear Lake, and I know I am not alone when I say, life as a solopreneur can get lonely. Everything from sourcing products and marketing to managing finances and more falls on business owners’ shoulders, so tapping into the community is key. As a business owner, who can you work with? What other businesses can you lean on and share experiences with? Who can you ask for help?
When we work with our neighbors, share successes and build partnerships, our community of White Bear Lake only gets stronger—and that benefits everyone.
Amelia Reigstad, Ph.D., is a communication consultant, bestselling author and founder of The Women Collective, a curated retail experience in White Bear Lake. Learn more at thewomencollective.com.
ARTS & CULTURE
Coloring Our World
Painter Karen Chan pursues her creative calling through education.
By Ellie Heyerdahl
For Karen Chan, art has always been second nature. From a young age growing up in northern Malaysia, she could be found with a pencil in hand, doodling on walls, furniture and her school work. “I just love visual art,” Chan says. “It has always been a part of my life.”
Her family was supportive of her passion at the start. Chan’s grandfather would bring home art supplies and even commissioned Chan to create holiday decorations. But, as she grew older, the family’s initial support changed to disapproval. “They know that I love art very much, but they thought that art should be considered a hobby—not a profession,” Chan says.
The sentiment stuck. It wasn’t until 2008, when she moved to the United States with her husband and children at the age of 42, that her perspective shifted. Chan says the creative resources, culture and opportunity in Minnesota allowed her to consider a different path. “My passion and my love for art started becoming alive again,” Chan says. “I feel so loved, so accepted. I feel like this is where I belong.”
Her three children were her first students. As they grew, Chan stoked their creativity with hands-on art projects. She enjoyed these lessons so much that she began to consider new ways to share her skills with the broader community. She approached Ramsey County Library and offered to be an art instructor. “The response was so overwhelming,” she says. “I had people on the waitlist.”
Along the way, Chan’s daughter, Corynn, encouraged her to try oil painting. While Chan was intimidated by the medium, she ultimately took a class and fell in love. “As a painter, there’s no end to learning … to be able to paint you actually must learn how to see things,”
Chan says. “It’s up to you to bring your painting to life.”
Chan is especially drawn to chiaroscuro, a painting style defined by an embrace of contrast with deep shadows and shocking highlights. She loves painting still lifes, especially those with boldcolored fruit, like apples and pumpkins.
Nearly 15 years after her first class, Chan teaches painting to students across the Metro. At Ramsey County Library and other state library systems, she hosts a two-hour adult acrylic painting workshop. She also is the instructor for a beginners still life oil painting class at White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA). These classes are open to artists of all skill levels and span four weeks with students completing a single painting by the end. “Her students always have amazing things to say, and [they] come back again and again,” says Libby Herrmann, WBCA program manager. “She’s really
Karen Chan
In her oil painting, Karen Chan embraces the chiaroscuro style, which focuses on deep contrast and vibrant colors.
built a consistent group of artists who take her class every month.”
Chan also offers custom art experi ences, including commissioned work and group painting events for corporate team building, fundraising and celebrations. Her step-by-step teaching style ensures that students of all abilities can follow along. “She is a bubbly person. Very positive and always smiling,” says John Schmidt, one of her students at WBCA. With a growth in confidence and skill, Chan sells her work on her website and eBay. A recent customer bought a painting of an onion for her mother, reminded of the onions her father, a farmer, once grew. “I’m moved that my painting plays a part in somebody else’s story … that it will mean something, [and] it’s not just a pretty painting on a wall,” Chan says.
Karen
Chan; karenchanart.com
Karen Chan Art @karenchanart
Wood With a Purpose
Fillory Design Company turns locally sourced lumber into timeless heirloom pieces.
By Paige Udermann
Years before Todd Kendall became the creative force behind Fillory Design Company, a White Bear Lake furniture design and manufacturing business, he was a curious 10-year-old with a saw, a loathsome wall and no supervision. “There was a wall in my bedroom I just didn’t like. So one summer, while my mom was at work, I borrowed my uncle’s saw and cut the wall out,” Kendall says.
While most kids might rearrange their toys, Kendall remodeled his room. His mother, while initially horrified, eventually admitted the space felt better. The
experience lit a spark that has yet to fade.
After graduating from White Bear Lake Area High School in 1990, Kendall dove into every aspect of carpentry and building—even trying out tiling and roofing. A few decades in, he decided it was time to use his knowledge to pursue roles in design and project management. “I kind of ran the entire construction gambit. I could build a house basically from the ground up and design the interior and now build the furniture inside of it,” Kendall says.
But it wasn’t until he met Erik Renstrom, owner of Renstrom Tree Service, that he discovered a way to bring together his skills and experience in a meaningful way. Along with tree removal, Renstrom salvages quality wood, then mills and dries lumber to sell out of his garage.
Kendall was sourcing wood slabs for a countertop when he met Renstrom for the first time. During their initial interaction, Kendall told Renstrom he should have his own furniture company. “I saw the quality of the wood, and I was just blown away,” Kendall says.
After Renstrom got to know Kendall and saw some of his finished pieces, he suggested they go into business together. “I was looking for the right person to work with,” Renstrom says. “There was something different about him.”
The duo co-founded Fillory Design Company in 2022—a space where wood is given a second life as heirloom-quality furniture. The Fillory showroom in downtown White Bear Lake displays everything from live-edge tables and benches to small items, like cutting boards and Renstrom’s specialty: wood fountain pens and cigar humidors.
“Most woodworkers aren’t necessarily salespeople or designers,” Kendall says. “They just want to make the wooden thing. I think that is what makes what we do here unique. I am all of those people. I am the one doing the selling, designing and fabricating. I love it all.”
Fillory is also home to nearly 1,000 wood slabs, waiting to be given new life. Clients are invited to explore shapes and wood types to find the perfect fit for their project, from tables and cabinets to mantels and headboards. “I’m always hoping that these pieces we create become heirlooms, and they’ll be passed down,” Kendall says.
Kendall remembers a client who approached him with wood from their
Photos: Chris Emeott
ABODE
Bottom: Along with goods like cutting boards and cigar humidors, Fillory Design Company is home to 1,000 wood slabs waiting to be given new life.
great-grandparents’ property and a request to build a bench in honor of a young girl who passed away from cancer. “It was really personal, and I poured everything into that piece,” Kendall says. Fillory isn’t filled with mass-produced items but with high-quality creations that are shaped by Kendall’s hand and heart. “Every step, through learning all these different things, has really come to a head with [Fillory],” Kendall says. “It’s great, and I love that it’s in my hometown.”
Top: Wood fountain pens are Erik Renstrom’s specialty.
Written by Jennifer Pitterle
Serenity on the Shore
Peek into a Dellwood family’s year-round home and lakeside retreat, all in one.
When Jake and Patty Gibbs started designing their lake home in Dellwood, they had a unique advantage: They intimately knew the land. “About 12 years ago, we bought our lakefront property,” Patty says. “We primarily used it as our summer cabin.” The couple, who lived in nearby Hugo, loved that they could drive just 10 minutes for a getaway—including sailing, swimming, wake surfing and waterskiing—with their now 18-year-old daughter, Georgia.
In 2020, the family decided to sell their home in Hugo and move to Dellwood full time, knowing they’d need a full teardown to bring the home into the 21st century.
Patty and Jake reached out to Mahtomedi’s Fluidesign Studio to get the project started in early 2021. Fluidesign is an intentionally small firm, so owner Shelly Lindstrom and design partner Carrie Steiger can be hands-on with every project. “We start from the initial design concept, work with the architect, work with the landscape architect, work with the builder,” Lindstrom says. “We’re designing the whole building with details in mind.”
Left: On the main level, floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outdoors in.
— Photos by Fluidesign Studio
Initial Challenges
Before any design work could be done on the Gibbs home’s interior, it was all hands on deck to figure out the footprint of the house. Landscape designer Alyson Landmark, of Southview Design, had the daunting task of fitting the house “into a site with an almost 20-foot grade change and numerous restrictions,” she says. Because the property needed a new septic system—and had to conform to modern building codes—it was a true puzzle.
Once those initial storms were weathered, Landmark took pride in designing the home’s hardscaping and gardens. Unable to build a patio due to hardcover surface limits, the team opted for artfully placed Adirondack chairs around a fire pit, making a cozy seating area in the backyard. A terrace extends from the home’s lower level into the yard, making a smooth transition from indoor to out and hiding the septic field.
Right: A cozy fire pit looks out onto White Bear Lake.
Bottom: A three-season porch creates an intimate gathering area for lakeside lounging.
Life on the Water
That indoor-outdoor connection became the focus of the home. Lindstrom says the main “function question” was, “How does this house take in guests and funnel them out to the lake?” Entering the home on the nonlake side, visitors can immediately take the stairs down to the lower level, which opens to the backyard and the lake. “There’s a mudroom down there with a washer and dryer for towels and swimsuits and a kitchenette,” Lindstrom says. A bathroom with a full shower allows guests to rinse off sand and sunscreen. Penny round floor tile and sea-blue cabinets give the bathroom a classic feel.
Nautical touches are woven through the lower level: deep blue cabinets in the bar area and accent pieces—like a brass fish sculpture and a painting of a girl near the water—that nod to the lake itself. In the bar, the design team chose a whitewashed wood ceiling, which turned out to be one of Lindstrom’s favorite features. To avoid the nautical aesthetic feeling too “theme-y,” Lindstrom and Steiger focused on subtle details and a bit of local history. “The house isn’t far from the White Bear Yacht Club, so we borrowed some of those traditional blues and whites and wood tones,” Lindstrom says. Brass light fixtures echo boats’ swinging lanterns.
Top: The home embraces a neutral and elevated take on the nautical theme.
Right: The design of the lower level bar area nods to White Bear Yacht Club, with deep blue cabinets and brass accents.
Top: The kitchen features warm wood tones, with wooden posts and beams made from rift-sawn white oak.
Bottom Left: The pantry is owner Patty Gibbs’ favorite part of the home and features classically milled cabinets.
Bottom Right: The upstairs bedroom reading nook provides the perfect escape, overlooking a cottage-style pitched roof.
Rooms With a View
On the main level, floor-to-ceiling windows are a centerpiece. “For guests, [the windows] provide a panoramic lake view from the minute they come in the front door. For our family, it allows us to enjoy the lake all day, every day,” Patty says.
The living room, dining area and kitchen are delineated by wooden posts and beams, made from rift-sawn white oak that’s cut so the grain is tight and subtle. “The main level has those clean lines and warm wood tones,” Lindstrom says. “We also focused on texture in the trim details.”
A three-season porch is Jake’s favorite space in the house. “It’s just the perfect place to work or relax,” he says. “It has a great view of the lake but provides privacy as well.”
“The porch is amazing, but I love my pantry,” Patty says. The pantry features classically milled cabinets in a deep blue and a combination of closed and open shelving and drawers.
Upstairs, one bedroom features a cozy reading nook with windows that overlook the lake and a cottage-style pitched roof. Spots like these allow the Gibbs family to find the tranquility they dreamed of in a lake home. “The house provides spaces where we can spend time together as a family and also spaces we can each escape to,” Patty says. “Lake life is active and social, and there’s a great sense of community. We enjoy being a part of it.”
Bald Eagle Builders, 2025 Gateway Circle, Centerville; 651.407.6979; baldeaglebuilders.com
Southview Design, 2383 Pilot Knob Road, St. Paul; 651.203.3000; southviewdesign.com
Southview Design @southviewdesign
Award Winner Best Roofer
Written by Zoe Yates — Photos by Chris Emeott
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT
Meet three high school students who are making an impact on their school communities.
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 discover their identity and place in the world. Each year, White Bear Lake area schools nominate outstanding students to be highlighted in our Senior Spotlight. We select just three 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 balanced academics and athletics, built up their community through service and leadership and pushed through challenges in the pursuit of their goals. We are thrilled to highlight these young voices from our community.
HANNAH MARKELL
Liberty Classical Academy
“Hannah Markell is a dedicated and respected [student] at Liberty Classical Academy. She exemplifies perseverance and determination both in and out of the classroom. As a varsity volleyball player, she demonstrates incredible commitment, skill and sportsmanship, balancing the rigorous demands of athletics with her academic responsibilities. Despite having a learning difference, Hannah never allows it to hinder her progress or define her. She is consistently putting in extra effort to overcome obstacles and achieve her goals. This past school year, Hannah faced an unexpected medical injury, which tested her mental and physical strength. Rather than being discouraged, she used the experience as an opportunity for growth and relied fully and faithfully on the Lord. Her positive attitude and hard work have made her a role model to others, as she demonstrates how to handle adversity with grace and determination.” —Emily Thomson, learning specialist director
What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of?
My junior thesis. At Liberty, the high school years are referred to as “The Rhetoric Phase.” Rhetoric is the science and art of reasoning well, and at Liberty, we
complete a junior and senior thesis. This means that, over a full semester, we write a 10–12 [page] paper, then present and defend it in front of our peers, parents and judges. This is an accomplishment I value as it helped me learn how to analyze and articulate a position I believe in: a skill I will need my whole life.
What is something that your peers might not know about you? Although I go to a small school, and we know lots about one another, my peers might not know that my plan is to go into the sports industry. I have always been passionate about sports and the amazing stories that come from teams and competition. I would love to be part of that world whether that be sports management, sports law or eventually becoming an agent.
What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony? Herb Brooks
What is your favorite childhood book? Fancy Nancy by Jane O’Connor, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser
Describe your future in three words. Faithful. Ambitious. Accomplished.
GRACE SCOTT
White Bear Lake Area High School
“Grace Scott exemplifies the core values of White Bear Lake Area High School: relationships, ownership, awareness and respect … Grace’s passion for service and inclusion has made a lasting impact on both our school and community, creating a more positive, connected environment. Grace is working to establish a chapter of Glamour Girls, a club dedicated to empowering women in nursing homes, showcasing her commitment to service and her desire to make a difference. She is the kind of student who inspires others—someone you want to learn from, listen to and collaborate with. Most notably, Grace approaches her role at school and in the community with a deep sense of selflessness. Grace is our true example of leadership and character.” —Grace White, school counselor
“Grace’s presence at White Bear Lake Area High School is felt daily as she helps to nurture the core values that create a positive culture. When thinking of future students who will attend this school, she stands as a role model. It is an honor to know and teach Grace.” —Alex Dahm, business educator
What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of?
My biggest experience that I will forever be proud of is being the first class to run and control White Bear’s apparel store [ROAR store] inside the school this year! My favorite memory is being one of four students to team up with our apparel representative and create merch that we thought students would love.
What is something that your peers might not know about you? Most people don’t usually know I’m not from Minnesota! I was actually born in Charlotte, North Carolina. Me and my family moved up to Minnesota when I was around 7 years old!
What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony? Lauryn Hill
What is your favorite childhood book? The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Describe your future in three words. Successful. Fulfilling. Inspiring.
AIDAN CARLSON
Mahtomedi High School
“Aidan Carlson is a committed and talented student-athlete at Mahtomedi High School. With a strong work ethic and a passion for improving, Aidan has excelled in the classroom and on the wrestling mat. In addition, he has been a servant leader in both areas. As a captain on the wrestling team, he has pushed his teammates to improve and also helped coach our K–6 wrestlers. In the AP Calculus classroom, Aidan is the first to offer help to his classmates. He does all of this while still performing at the highest level.”
—Matt Oswald, AP calculus math teacher and head wrestling coach
What is an achievement or experience from your high school career that you are most proud of? The thing I’m most proud of in my high school career is always trying to learn more and push myself to the best of my ability in everything I do. Usually, this is regarding my academics—taking a large variety of classes in all subjects. However, this is also regarding my athletics and doing everything I can to be the best athlete that I can be whenever competition arrives. Finally, I’m committed to personal growth … and how I can change to make myself the best person possible.
What is something that your peers might not know about you? Although I am usually busy wrestling, dedicating a significant amount of time and energy to the sport, I always find great joy in spending time in nature. Being outdoors allows me to relax and appreciate the beauty that the Earth has to offer. Whether it’s hiking through a forest, swimming in a lake, fishing in a quiet stream or even just mowing the lawn and feeling the fresh air, I am always down to spend time in the environment around us.
What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony? Robin Williams
What is your favorite childhood book? Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Describe your future in three words. Intriguing. Abundant. Limitless.
HOME & GARDEN COLLECTION
Cates Fine Homes and Christina Lynn Interiors
At Cates Fine Homes and Christina Lynn Interiors, we’ve spent years building more than just homes—we’ve built a trusted partnership. With a long-standing history of working side by side with clients, we’ve developed a seamless design-build process that delivers custom homes as thoughtful as they are beautiful. From the first sketch to the final walkthrough, every decision is made with one goal in mind: creating a home that perfectly fits your life. Together, we bring expert craftsmanship and intentional design to every detail—because our collaboration isn’t just about building houses; it’s about building the place you’ll call home. And that’s what matters most.
2152 Third St. Suite A, White Bear Lake 651.274.8832
catesfinehomes.com | christinalynninteriors.com
Cates Fine Homes Christina Lynn Interiors @catesfinehomes_ @christinalynninteriors
Great Plains Windows and Doors
Are your windows and doors drafty, not operating well or no longer energy efficient? Upgrading to high-quality, expertly installed Andersen® windows and doors can enhance your home’s comfort, efficiency and value. Since 1991, Great Plains Windows and Doors has proudly provided homeowners with a no-pressure, hassle-free experience, ensuring every project is done right. Trust our expertise and the lasting quality of Andersen to bring you peace of mind for decades to come.
6866 33rd St. N. #100, Oakdale 651.207.4571
greatplainswindows.com
Great Plains Windows @greatplainswindows
Landscapes Unlimited
At Landscapes Unlimited, we don’t just build landscapes—we create outdoor experiences that inspire. From elegant patios to full door transformations, our team brings passion, precision and creativity to every project. Our commitment to excellence is why your neighbors voted us Woodbury’s Best Landscaper in 2025. Discover the di erence of working with a team that puts your vision first and delivers results that last. Ready to elevate your outdoor spaces? Visit landscapesunlimitedmn.com to schedule your complimentary consultation. Your dream yard starts here!
7280 Dickman Trail, Inver Grove Heights 651.216.2883
landscapesunlimitedmn.com
Landscapes Unlimited @landscapesunlimitedmn
Myhra Design Group
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.
5920 Highlands Trail N., Lake Elmo 651.248.8273
myhradesign.com
Myhra Design Group @myhradesign
Green Oasis
For over 45 years, Green Oasis has been the trusted local choice for exceptional landscaping services. We specialize in creating custom outdoor living spaces that enhance the beauty and function of your outdoor space. From vibrant garden beds and patios to decks, pergolas and even water management, our experienced team delivers lasting results built for Midwest conditions. As a locally owned company, we take pride in building strong relationships and creating landscapes that thrive season after season. With Green Oasis, you’re not just getting a service, you’re investing in quality that stands the test of time. N8232 945th
SOME
FOODS JUST TASTE BETTER COOKED OVER AN OUTDOOR FLAME.
TASTEMAKERS
Bonfire Bites
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester
Photos by Chris Emeott
Let’s be clear; we will always support s’mores as the campfire foodie champ. No doubt. No question. No argument. But, as Minnesotans, we appreciate making the most of our time outdoors, and that includes during gatherings around a bonfire at home, the lake or a campsite. Can we agree that we need more than chocolate, graham crackers and marshmallows to share around the fire?
When thinking about sharing some bonfire-friendly recipes, we had some parameters: Was the recipe somewhat easy to assemble outside with only flames and moonlight offering illumination? Did the fun factor hit most age groups? And would the recipe keep everyone in their seats, sharing stories (spooky and otherwise!), cracking wise and spending precious time with family and friends? After all, outdoor living is one of the best ways to spend time together in the Bold North.
We turned to our resident camper and outdoor living enthusiast Brittni Dye, our production director. At all times of year, she and her family can be found living their best lives, gathered around a campfire with good friends and good food.
CAMPFIRE NACHOS
Put your cast iron skillet to good use over the campfire with these cheesy nachos, which are great for a crowd. We give added bonus points for being a vegetarian option that you can eat right out of the skillet— no extra plates! Tip: Use a grill grate.
• vegetable or canola oil, to prep the skillet
• tortilla chips
• 15 oz. black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
• Mexican cheese blend, shredded
• 1 large avocado, cubed
• cilantro, chopped (optional)
• lettuce, shredded (optional)
• lime, quartered (optional)
• sour cream (optional)
• aluminum foil
Oil the cast iron skillet to prevent sticking. Layer ingredients, starting with the tortilla chips, followed by beans, tomatoes/chilies, cheese and avocado. Repeat layers. Loosely cover the skillet with aluminum foil; place it on the grill grate. Let the nachos warm up for 5 minutes or until the cheese melts. Remove from the campfire; top with optional toppings.
CAMPFIRE BACON-WRAPPED
JALAPEÑO POPPERS
These poppers are great for a group sitting around the campfire because they’re easy and fun to assemble, and they don’t require silverware to eat! Tips: Use a grill grate, and it helps to throw in a few pieces of charcoal to maintain the heat. Let the charcoal sit off to the side of the main fire for about 10 minutes before starting to grill the poppers.
• toothpicks (Soak in water if using wooden toothpicks.)
• 4 oz. cream cheese
• ½ cup cheese, shredded (I use American, cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.)
• 8–10 jalapeños
• 4–5 slices of bacon, halved
Mix the cream cheese and cheese. Remove the tops of the jalapeños, cut them in half lengthwise and discard the seeds, using a spoon. Spoon the filling into the jalapeño halves, trying not to overfill them. Wrap a half of a slice of bacon around the filled jalapeño, and secure with a toothpick. Place the jalapeño halves, cheese side down, on the grill grate for 7 minutes; flip them over for another 7 minutes or until the bacon is crispy to your liking.
Campfire Nachos
For more recipes, visit whitebearlakemag.com.
If you’re into serving dip at your bonfire gatherings, visit our website for our July/August issue, which features delicious, savory dip recipes, easily shared indoors and out!
SCARY DELICIOUS
Placing a portable firepit front and center of Halloween candy distribution efforts is becoming de rigueur for some families. Driveways and extended front yard patios serve as ideal spots to greet trick-or-treaters.
While you wait for the Halloween revelers to make their way to your home, how about noshing on spooky twists of hot dogs to keep your spirits high and appetites at bay for a full night of treat distribution? Adam Johnson, executive chef and part-owner of Stonehouse Catering and Stone & Oak, offers a recommendation.
Mummy Dogs on a Stick
• crescent roll or biscuit dough
• hot dogs or veggie dogs
• mustard or ketchup (for eyes)
• skewers or roasting sticks
Unroll crescent dough, and cut it into thin strips, resembling mummy bandages. Skewer each hot dog lengthwise on long campfire cooking skewers. Wrap the dough strips around each hot dog, leaving a little gap near the top for the “face.” Place the skewered Mummy Dog over the fire (not directly in the flames), and rotate it until the dough is golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Once slightly cooled, use mustard or ketchup to dot on little mummy eyes in the gap before serving.
Stonehouse Catering and Stone & Oak Restaurant, 4466 Centerville Road; stonehousemn.com
Stonehouse Custom Catering @stonehousecateringmn
Campfire Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
A COMMUNITY FOR CREATIVITY
Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl returns for a second year.
Last year, four White Bear Lake area women came together to create a community art crawl, opening their homes and yards to the public and hosting more than 50 artists, crafters and musicians. The event went so well, the group decided to move forward as Bald Eagle Lake Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on connecting the community through art.
“[The first crawl] just went beyond expectations; the community showed up in numbers. It was a steady flow at all of our host sites,” says Alyssa Boldischar, Bald Eagle Lake Arts board vice president and art crawl host. “The artists felt seen, there was communication on how they created their craft and it was just amazing to watch people connecting over art.”
The second annual Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m on September 13, promising a bigger and better opportunity for art lovers to enjoy the work of more than 80 featured artists at 10 host sites around Bald Eagle Lake. Using an event map, visitors are encouraged to travel by foot, bike and car in search of beautiful art and a good time.
This year, each site will feature live music, and a few stops will include kids’ art stations, including an opportunity to make a piece of art with a therapy dog. For more information and to get an event map, visit belarts.org.
—Zoe Yates
Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl @baldeaglelakeartcrawl
09.06
Taste of White Bear Lake
Try out different foods and drinks from various White Bear Lake restaurants while supporting the traditional cork pull fundraiser and enjoying live music. All ages. Tickets start at $40, must purchase in advance. 2–5 p.m. Jacobson’s Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road; 612.940.8669; tasteofwhitebearlake.com
Photos:
Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl
Compiled by Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza LOCAL EVENTS
Apples for everybody! Apples in pies, doughnuts, rollovers, muffins, bread and cider.
09.13
Bear Water Run
Join the White Bear Lake Lions Club by running 10 or 20 miles to raise money for the club’s long-standing work. All ages. Tickets start at $50, registration required. 8 a.m. Ramsey County Beach, 5050 Lake Ave.; info@whitebearlions.org; whitebearlions.org
09.20
Township Day Celebration
Listen to live music, explore vendors, eat food, play bingo and more at White Bear Township’s annual celebration. All ages. Free. 2–8 p.m. Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Road; 612.616.0711; whitebeartownship.org
10.25
Scare in White Bear
Run a 5K or fun run in the dark on a torch-lit course for a spooky fun family night. Costumes ar encouraged. All ages. $20+. 5–7:30 p.m. Memorial Beach, 4958 Lake Ave.; 651.440.9625; mmraces.com
10.25
Candy Crawl
Trick or treat at your favorite business to get a start on Halloween fun. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Downtown White Bear Lake; info@downtownwhitebearlake.com; downtownwhitebearlake.com
10.27
Stories From The Stones
Discover the history of the cemeteries in the White Bear Lake community while learning about symbolism. All ages. Free. 6–7 p.m. Ramsey County Library—White Bear Lake, 2150 Second St.; 651.407.5327; whitebearhistory.org
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.
C’mon out... This is the place to make you smile.
FUN for the whole family with a corn maze and pick-your-own pumpkins.
Pine Tree Apple Orchard
North of White Bear Lake off East Hwy. 96 651.429.7202 | www.pinetreeappleorchard.com
See our website for our calendar of events!
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Beetlejuice Jr.
Every spring, under the direction of Odelis Garcia Anderson, White Bear Lake students from Central and Mariner Middle schools perform a musical at the 1,000-seat Central Middle School Community Auditorium. After months of rehearsals by the 62-member cast and crew, Beetlejuice Jr. opened to rave reviews for its high energy, outrageous humor and exceptional costuming. —Jay Rendall
To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to whitebearlakemag@localmedia.co.
Photos: Jay Rendall
Children’s Discovery is a local, family owned child care. Our mission is serving families through the exceptional care and education of children. Discover the difference, today!
Children’s Discovery Academy Vadnais Heights | 651.653.9871 Little Canada | 651.484.4931 childrensdiscoveryacademy.com 651.426.8998
Inspiring Insects
Lindsay Abraham has had an affinity for insects for as long as she can remember. “I’ve always loved observing small things and finding beauty in unexpected places,” Abraham says, adding that her camera roll is filled with bug snapshots. “One spring, my husband gifted me a clip-on macro lens, and that small addition transformed my photography, allowing me to capture even more detail and depth,” she says. This award-winning image was captured at Abraham’s plot at Mahtomedi Community Gardens in late August. “Many people are afraid of bugs, but once you look closer, you can really see their beauty, purpose and place in the neighborhood,” Abraham says. “This bee was working right alongside me in the garden. I find that so beautiful.” —Zoe Yates
To view other Lens on the Lake photo contest winners, visit whitebearlakemag.com.
Photographer: Lindsay Abraham
Title: Brown Belted Bumble Bee
Equipment: iPhone 12 Pro Max with a Xenvo Pro Lens kit
