
DR E A M HOME
Kootenia Homes leaves its mark on an up-andcoming neighborhood




Kootenia Homes leaves its mark on an up-andcoming neighborhood
Whether it’s a new injury or one that’s been lingering, you can lean on us to get you back to moving and feeling good again. And with over 20 locations, you won’t have to go far to get treated by TRIA.
PHYSICAL THERAPY
“I highly recommend Wade Hanson and team! With their help, our home sold quickly and above asking. We were impressed with their strategic go-tomarket strategy, helpful staging guidance and super professional marketing. Plus the communication was clear and timely at every step of the way.”
- Laura O.
“Wade was very helpful from the beginning. He was always on top of everything without being pushy. He is very easy to communicate with and responds quickly to your questions. I truly appreciated his help, knowledge and encouragement throughout. He made the process of selling my home as easy as it could possibly be. I would not hesitate to refer Wade and his assistant, Mia, to work with you.”
- Pat K.
“By all these lovely tokens, September days are here. With summer’s best of weather and autumn’s best of cheer.” —Helen Hunt Jackson, American poet and writer
Preserving
Take
Local
Ty
Kootenia
Sparking
Cheryllyne
Readers, I pose a question to you: Is September one of your favorite months? I tend to gravitate toward this season more than any other, especially this month. I welcome in the cozy feelings of fall: the crisp weather, chunky blankets, apple- and pumpkin-flavored everything. My favorite part of the season? My reading list.
What can I say? The months of September, October, November and so on lend themselves to cozying up with a good book. I easily fall prey to cute, romantic comedies, but I also find myself swaying more toward historical fiction and fantasy. Find my quintessential fall book picks on page 13.
September 5 marks the start of the 2024 NFL season—irregardless if you’re cheering for the home team or perhaps another, I invite you to meet Ty Okada of the Seattle Seahawks. Writer Emily Gedde connects with the East Ridge High School alumn on the topics of family, faith and, of course, football. “It’s more than being a good football player … How you do anything is how you should do everything. Live by that, and you’ll be just fine,” Okada says. Read the full story on page 18.
This September, I invite you to visit our website (woodburymag.com) to vote on our Readers’ Choice photo in the Focus on Woodbury photo contest. Voting runs September 15 through September 30, and winners are announced in the beginning of October.
Whether you’re curling up with a comfortable novel or hosting Sunday watch parties, enjoy all that autumn brings. See you next month, Readers.
hailey@localmedia.co
On the Cover
Kootenia Homes , Photo by Spacecrafting, page 22 See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town! Woodbury Magazine @woodbury_mag @wburymag
TOUR HUNDREDS OF HOMES ACROSS THE TWIN CITIES
FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS | 12-6PM
September 6 - 29
VOL. 20 NO. 2 woodburymag.com
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
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
Megan Koren, Amy Leferink, Gretchen McNaughton, Manali Shah, Patty (Stutzman) Paulus and Katie Tomsche
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Tia Benson, Findlay Drabant and Grace Knapp
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Matthew Johnson, Anew Real Estate Group at Keller Williams, Woodbury Lions Club, Woodbury Community Foundation, Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce ; Marni Kanne, South Washington County Schools, SoWashCo Community Education ; Elizabeth Kriel, Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce; Elizabeth Owens , City of Woodbury ; and Margaret Wachholz, Woodbury Heritage Society, Woodbury Community Foundation
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
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.
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.
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.
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 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 and sign up to participate. Let’s talk...
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
AS THE VIBRANT hues of summer give way to the warm, earthy tones of fall, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home’s color palette. For the next year, we are predicting a shift toward deep, comforting shades that give a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Expect to see rich burgundies, burnt oranges and deep greens dominating the scene, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere in your living spaces.
Incorporating these trending colors doesn’t mean a complete overhaul. Start small by adding accents like throw pillows, blankets and artwork. Consider painting an accent wall or a powder bathroom in a bold hue or introducing a statement piece of furniture in a standout color.
Natural materials and textures will also play a significant role in the upcoming fall trends. Think woven baskets, wooden furniture and stone accents, which pair beautifully with the season’s color palette. To enhance the sensory experience, consider incorporating dried lavender or herbs throughout your home. Whether it’s eucalyptus hanging in your shower or dried lavender in a vase, these botanical elements add a charming touch while infusing the air with calming scents.
To really up your fall vibe, throw in some cozy lighting accents like candles, or string lights in outdoor settings. And remember to pile on the textures with soft rugs, plush throws and comfy textiles to make that inviting atmosphere pop even more!
Amy Leferink is the founder and principal designer for Interior Impressions and Megan Koren is the marketing director for Interior Impressions. Design more at interiorimpressions.org.
Matt Johnson, recently retired president of the Woodbury Community Foundation (WCF), is well known in Woodbury. Friend-in-need, fun person to be around, doting dad at daughter’s softball games and family man. I have had the good fortune to learn from him how to be a good community leader. Jonhson is everywhere: He will be at a breakfast meeting in the early a.m., then available at a local coffee shop for conversations with folks who need some help or be a sounding board. He is an active member of the Woodbury Chamber of Commerce, helping local nonprofit organizations. He will be on-time and fully prepared for meetings. Be it a WCF Board meeting or greeting high schoolers for the Youth Engagement Leadership Academy program.
Johnson has a vision for the future of the WCF. He wants to make it the organization that citizens can turn to for many needs, a repository of funds for local charities, the place to go to for questions and solutions for other charitable organizations.
But Johnson’s most defining lesson is: Being there. Present and available. His way of giving back to his community or “his tribe” is constantly doing acts of service.
Manali Shah is a board member of the WCF and has been volunteering in Woodbury and Washington County for over 20 years. Find more at woodburycommunity.org.
The third week of September marks Child Passenger Safety Week, and September 21 marks National Seat Check Saturday. The Woodbury Police Department wants to relieve stress for parents by ensuring that car seats are installed correctly and safely.
Ashley Kowarsch, a Woodbury police officer who has been a certified child passenger safety technician for 11 years, says, “Checking car seat installs is important because every child seat and vehicle seat are different, and the technology and features are constantly evolving.”
Double-checking with a professional can help minimize the risk of car crash injury.
Four out of five car seats are misused, Kowarsch says, noting that, in 2023, most car seats arrived uninstalled and, in 2022, only around 13 percent of car seats that were brought to be checked were installed correctly.
“It can be so intimidating for especially brand new parents who have never done a seat,” Kowarsch says. “It’s really helpful to do this step by step. The parents usually feel really good when they leave.”
Woodbury residents can request a car seat check by going to the city’s website, woodburymn.gov, and filling out a request form.
A new Minnesota Child Passenger Safety Law went into effect on August 1. For the up-to-date law and exceptions, visit dps.mn.gov.
—Grace Knapp
Apple Cider and Bourbon Punch
This fall, lean into apple cider for all those fabulous flavors!
Apple Cider and Bourbon Punch
For the brown sugar and cinnamon syrup:
» 1 cup dark brown sugar
» 2 cinnamon sticks
» 1 cup water
For the punch:
» ½ cup brown sugar and cinnamon syrup
» 3 cups bourbon
» 4 cups unfiltered apple cider
» ½ cup fresh lemon juice
» ½ cup orange juice
» 4 cups ice
» 2 cups club soda, or to taste
» 1 orange, cut into wheels, for garnish
» nutmeg, to taste
To make the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar and cinnamon sticks with 1 cup water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered until the sugar has completely dissolved, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat, and let the syrup cool. Discard the cinnamon sticks. (Leftovers may be kept refrigerated for a week.) To make the punch: Combine the syrup, bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice and orange juice in a pitcher. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Strain the chilled punch into a punch bowl. Add 4 cups of ice and club soda. Garnish with orange wheels. Generously grate nutmeg on top. Serve over ice.
Katie Tomsche is the content maager for Lunds & Byerlys. Sip more at lundsandbyerlys.com
A perfect complement to Woodbury’s Heritage House is the garden just outside the front door. This was part of the European tradition the settlers brought with them. Much of Woodbury’s history revolved around gardening and work on the land. The early apple orchards, truck farms, grain crops, family vegetable plots, and the flowers were, and are, very important to the human spirit.
The Heritage Garden has several themes: local heirloom plants, trees, and vegetable and butterfly gardens. Vital to our garden is our commitment to the use of natural methods both for growing and for reducing plant pests, avoiding chemicals as much as possible.
We realized that it was important to preserve the garden plants, which grew on our early farms. We asked members and friends to donate a plant slip or a plant that had been grown for years on their land. Many people have been excited to share their plants, which were traditions in early gardens, making our garden a living museum of Woodbury’s past.
In our efforts to return to an 1870s era with our garden, we have planted heirloom seeds that represent many of the crops that would have been grown by Woodbury’s earliest settlers. Sunflowers, corn, barley, potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkins and cucumbers are some of the recent garden crops.
Patty (Stutzman) Paulus and Margaret Wachholz are with the Woodbury Heritage Society. Discover more at woodburyheritage.org.
Autumn marks the perfect time for reading: by the bonfire, on the porch, with a comfortable blanket or a cup of coffee. Get inspired with a few of my favorites for the fall— including everything from YA to historical fiction. —Hailey Almsted
• Awkward in October by Teresa Yea
• Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell
• Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica
• Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
• Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
• Spells for Lost Things by Jenna Evans Welch
• The Bite by Z.W. Taylor
• The Ex Hex Series by Erin Sterling, including The Ex Hex, The Kiss Curse and The Wedding Witch, slated to publish October 15
• The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
• The London Seance Society and The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
• The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose
• Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell
“I am genuinely passionate about helping my patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. This is the philosophy of our entire team at Art & Science Family Dentistry and everyone here is committed to that.”
- Dr. Renee Kinney
Take care when cleaning out your loved ones home— some artifacts may be vital to your community’s heritage.
By Zoe Yates and Grace Knapp
OUR LIVES ARE STORIES ever unfolding. Each year brings memories and memorabilia—high school yearbooks and graduation caps, love letters and family photographs. Inevitably, many of us will have the experience of sorting through our own belongings or clearing the homes of our loved ones. So there comes the question: What items are worth saving?
We connected with Woodbury Heritage Society (WHS) board director Margaret Wachholz and Washington County Historical Society (WCHS) executive director Brent Peterson to learn more about what donations the organizations may accept to include in their collections and what items they already have.
Tom Bielenberg, Woodbury Heritage director and curator of the artifacts.
Bielenberg is the son of Woodbury’s first mayor, Orville Bielenberg, and is a Woodbury Heritage Society Board director.
As you return to beloved family photographs, consider the context of the image. Often, what’s happening behind your loved ones is the most important to archive—like a shop in transition or a town parade. And this need not apply only to black-and-white images, recent photos are also appreciated.
“[WCHS is] not always looking for things from 100 years ago. We’re looking for things that have made history today,” Peterson says.
In the 43 years of WHS history, photographs have been collected from a variety of sources. Although photographs are not currently being collected by WHS, over 3,500 photos exist in its collection. Volunteers and
members are working to categorize and scan all photos, so they can be visible to the public.
The WHS posts a bit of history every morning on its Facebook page (Woodbury Heritage Society), Wachholz says, which usually includes historical photos.
Letters and documents, including club minutes, contracts, deeds, diaries, family records, letters and maps offer context and legitimacy to a moment in time. While they’re some of the most time-consuming items to sift through, they often hold the most historical value.
WHS collects authentic documents from Woodbury’s rich history. These documents are some of Wachholz’s favorite items that WHS collects,
including the Justice Dockets from 1867—still in excellent condition.
“The first settler, William Middleton, who hails from Ireland, my own coun try, was also a justice of the peace offi cial,” Wachholz says. “They’re beautiful hand-written notes done in beautiful penmanship by William Middleton.”
WHS and WCHS both have a large collection of textiles and miscellaneous artifacts, ranging from something as historical as a military uniform to common household items like a coffee grinder. WCHS even recently obtained a Minnesota House of Representatives chair.
WHS has around 300 medium to mini-sized objects from the past, including farming materials, wagons, cribs and kids toys. These objects are displayed at the Woodbury Heritage House and serve as educational tools for visitors.
“Students and children come and touch for ongoing learning every other Sunday at the open houses, so that they can really witness what children of every age did 100 years ago when the settlers came and what games they played,” Wachholz says.
Interested in donating to the WCHS collections? The best way to inquire about an artifact is to send an email with a photo and description of the item along with the local connection. Staff and committees at respective organizations will decide whether to accept the artifact. (Note: WHS is not currently accepting donations.)
“I always say that families should take what they want first because family artifacts belong in the family. But if they don’t want them—and they want to know where they are—then the historical society is the next best step,” Peterson says.
Woodbury Heritage Society, 2301 Tower Drive; heritagesocietywoodbury@gmail.com; woodburyheritage.org
Woodbury Heritage Society
Washington County Historical Society, 1862 Greeley St. S., Stillwater; 651.439.2298; wchsmn.org
Washington County Historical Society @wchsmn
Local
By Jennifer Pitterle
SOME OF THE BEST business ideas start out as passion projects. That was the case for Woodbury’s Nathan Kriel, whose carpentry business, Patriot Home Accents, offers custom-designed wall installations. “When COVID-19 happened, my wife and kids went to Arizona for six weeks,” Kriel says. “I saw a picture on a real estate ad of an accent wall, and I decided to build one in our house while they were gone because I had nothing to do.”
Kriel’s wall incorporated wooden framing pieces, similar to wainscotting, which were installed in an appealing grid, and the entire wall was painted in a monochromatic scheme. “It turned out awesome,” Kriel says. Pretty soon, family and friends were asking him to design accent walls for their homes, and his successful side hustle (He has a full-time job at 3M.) was born. His wife, Elizabeth, suggested the name for the business: “Patriot” refers to Kriel, a veteran of the Iraq War.
We asked Kriel what’s behind the popularity of wood-framed accent walls, and he notes the relative ease of installation and affordability. “It makes a big impact for somebody on a relatively small budget,” Kriel says. “You can transform an entire space.” Some of the walls he designs for clients are for small spaces, like bathrooms or offices, where it helps the space feel cozier or warmer. Others—like in living rooms—are intended to draw the eye and make the space feel elevated. Kriel’s skill as an amateur carpenter, who’s been doing DIY and handyman projects for decades, lends itself to wood framing that’s precise and neatly finished. “I remember accent walls being big 20 years ago, but it was always faux finishes and crackled paint,” Kriel says. “The trend now [with wood framing] is about texture. You can be more creative with the patterns.”
A recent project was one of his favorites. “They wanted to transform their whole living room,” Kriel says. “The main wall had two sections, and then
the side walls had wainscotting and two different colors. The end result really popped.” An existing mantel was integrated seamlessly into the design.
Client Ammie Reule asked Kriel to install accent panels on either side of her fireplace and add wainscotting on the other walls of her living room. “He was a big help in the design process,” Reule says. Kriel visited the space several times and diagrammed his design on paper, so the Reule family could visualize the final product. The updated room feels both modern and timeless, with clean lines, dimension created by wood accents and a soft gray color scheme. “My favorite part is incorporating a client’s vision with design and color selection,” Kriel says.
For Kriel, an unexpected joy of Patriot Home Accents is the way it’s become something of a family business. While Elizabeth helped come up with the name and provides support in other ways; son, Reese, 14, and daughter, Lilly, 12, have helped with the building projects, giving them valuable experience with handiwork and quality time with Dad.
Patriot Home Accents; 651.900.3661
Patriot Home Accents @patriothomeaccents
Written by Emily Gedde
Almost everyone is asked during some point in their childhood what they’d like to be when they grow up. Ty Okada recalls his experience vividly. He says he was in kindergarten when he answered the popular question without hesitation: He wanted to be a professional football player.
While his response likely mirrored many big dreams of his peers, his was different because it actually came true. Last spring, the Woodbury native completed his first season as a safety for the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks.
“It’s such a blessing to look back at those times and see that my dream came to fruition through hard work and dedication,” Okada says. “I know a lot of kids say that, but I truly felt that was my future.”
Noticeably humble, Okada discussed his journey to the NFL, crediting faith, family and hard work for helping him reach his goal. And while he’s grateful for every opportunity he’s been given, he admits accomplishing one dream only sets the stage for the next one.
Growing up in Woodbury, Okada attended East Ridge High School as a three-sport athlete. A self-proclaimed late bloomer growth-wise, Okada laughed that wrestling or baseball seemed more of a fit for him. But it was football that he had always had his sights set on. Still, Okada’s high school career came with many awards and accolades across the board. He was a two-time All-Section Selection and 2017 All-Star Selection in baseball, and a twotime State Qualifier for wrestling, earning all-state honors his sophomore year. Okada also served as captain of the football team his senior year in 2017 and earned the All-District Offensive Player of the Year honors as a quarterback. His resume was impressive and showcased his steadfast work ethic. “I always wanted to be the best version of myself,” Okada says. That mindset was instilled in him early on. Okada says his family, friends and coaches always supported him both on and off the field. His dad, Chris, often coached his teams when Okada was a young boy, and his mom, Michelle, was always in the stands
supporting her son. Okada’s older brother, Michael (MJ), was a constant support, too, both as a teammate and a fan. The family holds their values closely and appreciates the importance of hard work.
“I was taught from an early age that if I do the best with what I have and the opportunities I was given, good things will happen from that,” he says. “I made the most of things that happened for me, not to me, and in the long run, I hoped it would pay off.”
While Okada prides himself on his strong work ethic, he says getting accepted to a Division I football team didn’t come easy. He had a few offers from Division II schools, but Okada continued to pursue that higher level.
“I had a mindset that wherever I went, a team was going to get a guy who was going to do whatever it takes to improve himself to ultimately help the team achieve their goals,” he says.
But he originally came up short. “I wasn’t hearing back from coaches. I wasn’t getting those offers,” Okada says. “I was thinking about what I did wrong to not get those offers. It felt like a huge roadblock.”
Eventually, Woodbury High School’s head football coach Andy Hill reached out to a contact at Montana State University for Okada and explained what he’d bring to their team.
“He sent an email on my behalf ... which I’m sure caught the Montana State coach off guard that it came from a player that wasn’t one of his players,” Okada says with a laugh. “In fact, Woodbury was East Ridge’s rival.”
Rival or not, the email worked— and the next year, Okada joined the Montana State Bobcats as a walk-on, aka a student who was recruited but without an athletic scholarship. In Okada’s eyes, it meant he had to work even harder to prove himself as an athlete, teammate and student.
“Looking back on my journey, it’s exactly what God had in place
for me to get where I am now,” Okada says of the challenges of getting to Montana State University. “Coming in as a walk-on helped me tremendously. I didn’t get as much leeway as a guy they recruited. I knew I had to do whatever it took to be successful,” he says.
Okada redshirted, or sat out, his freshman season, but he still won the Young Gun Award for the hardest-working player in 2017. That award set the tone for Okada’s entire collegiate career where continued hard work earned him the Montana State Coaches’ Award for Special Teams Player of the Year in 2018. He was also named second-team All-Big Sky Conference in 2021. The stage was set for the big leagues.
As Okada approached achieving his lifelong goal of playing in the NFL, he said the Seattle Seahawks caught his eye for their culture and reputation in the league.
“I felt strongly that they’d value a guy like me who was ready to work hard,” he says. “I put together a preseason that presented me with an opportunity to be on their practice squad and from there, I stayed diligent with my work ethic and consistent schedule.”
In December 2023, Okada signed to the active roster.
“Making it to the NFL has been an extreme blessing,” he says. “I try to make the most of every opportunity I was given.”
Okada understands his success is a result of the effort he put forth and credits a saying he has continuously lived his life by.
“I was told to live your life how you see yourself and not how others see you,” Okada says. “That was always really powerful for me. I knew that if I put in the time and effort, I’d have some sort of success.”
And he admits while he always kept his lifelong goal in mind, he knew that if he didn’t achieve that,
he’d find success somewhere else.
“It’s different than … success vs. failure,” Okada says. “I think you need to look at it as am I growing as a person? Am I getting better? Am I doing something that will teach me a lesson in life? I think that’s the most important mindset to have.”
He also offers advice to others with big dreams to apply themselves in all aspects of their lives. A big piece of work ethic is how
someone does anything is how they should do everything, he says.
“It’s more than being a good football player. It’s being a good teammate. It’s being good in the classroom,” Okada says. “It’ll be hard to find success if you’re lazy in one area and really committed in another area. How you do anything is how you should do everything. Live by that, and you’ll be just fine.”
Kootenia Homes leaves its mark on an up-and-coming neighborhood.
Written by Rachel Schuehle — Photos by Spacecrafting
Named after the Kootenai River that runs through western Montana, Woodbury’s Kootenia Homes, a home builder specializing in customization, was established in 1969. In 1983, David Frosch joined the company as a full-time drafter but took over managing the company in 1996 when the original owner retired. Years later in 2014, Frosch’s son, Steven, joined the team and now serves as vice president of production. The unstoppable duo has created countless awe-inspiring neighborhoods and exceptional homes across the East Metro, including Woodbury’s own Aster Landing and neighboring cities, such as Afton, Grant, Lake Elmo, North Oaks and Stillwater. Although typically the man behind the blueprints, Frosch and his wife, Judith, fell in love with the Aster Landing property for its nature-filled scenery and grandiose view of Bailey Lake. “I always wanted to be on a lake,” Frosch says. “The backdrop across the lake is all trees. It feels like we’re Up North somewhere.” Trees swaying in the wind, birds chirping and a nesting eagle, the sights of turkey and deer all made the land the ideal spot for the house of their dreams.
If you ask Frosch about the design of their house, he admits the centerpiece of it all is the wall of windows. “The focus is the view,” Frosch says. “To walk in the front door and just be wowed.” Massive 30-foot-long and 13-foot-high windows sprawl the entire length of the room, offering picture-perfect views of mature trees and the glistening lake. It took Frosch a sit-down with Anderson Windows to understand how to build a postless wall of windows, but they accomplished the task. Tucked in the ceiling are retractable, programmable blinds, hidden from view when not in use.
Adjacent to the room-length windows are the kitchen and dining spaces.
“We wanted the great room altogether, so that it’s easy to enjoy the windows anywhere,” Frosch says. In addition, the space needed to be wide enough for the kitchen table to extend, for family dinners or holiday parties.
Although the island doesn’t boast bar stools, it extends and drops down to table height for smaller group meals or close conversation.
TheWoodburyDaysCouncil sincerelythanksourevent sponsors.Yourinvaluablesupport iscrucialinmakingourcommunity eventamemorableand meaningfulgatheringforall!
Russell Room
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Xcel Energy
Sweet Paris
Creperie and Cafe
Alma Flor Ada
Catalyst Graphics
Image360
Urgency Room
Woodbury Lions
City & County Credit Union
Inver Grove Toyota
Park Dental
Pet Suites
Hy-Vee of Oakdale
Board & Brush
•
Mauer Auto Group
Jerry’s
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Horticultural Services
Egg Roll Queen
Smead
By the Yard
That’s My Idea
Marketing
Hellmuth & Johnson
Custom Electrical Services
Legacy Hoops
Culver’s
Kawohl Realty
Woodbury Car Wash
& Detail Center
The kitchen’s show-stopping tile backsplash, showcasing a geometric, blue flowering pattern, was chosen by Judith, a delightful pop of color in a modern space. The open shelving units and unique lighting fixtures bring another touch of decadence to the open spaces. Located in the first-floor bathroom, the blue granite countertop adds an additional layer to the beautiful home. It is complete with another geometric tile—this time, blue with golden tones— tops off the exceptional powder room.
Throughout the home, gorgeous stained glass pieces adorn the walls, each one holding a story in its image. In the primary bath, the stained glass portrays the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus, and this particular piece has been with the Frosches in four separate houses, taken along in the move each time. They also installed a light box behind it, so it can be admired any time of day. In the basement chapel, 12 additional stained glass pieces hang along the top of the wall, each square representing one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus. The transom window (above the door frame) holds a delicate stained glass piece from the church where the Frosches were married.
The artwork throughout the home is significant, as each piece was acquired during the couple’s travels, and each is a representation of a religious person, event or story. The painting over the fireplace was purchased in Ronda, Spain. “If we find something cool, we’ll take it and bring it back,” Frosch says. “They all have a story. We love to travel.”
The small statue of Jesus on the cross is a smaller replica of the statue in Woodbury’s Saint Ambrose Catholic Community. “The artist who made it is in St. Paul, so we had them make a smaller replica for the entryway,” Frosch says.
“Downsizing was made easy with the great teamwork when buying and selling our homes! Pricing right, timing was right, sold fast with multi o ers on our home that we sold! All completed in 6 weeks! Phew! Very pleased and thankful!”
-Lori & Scott
When the weather is nice in Minnesota, it’s a requirement to escape to the outdoors. For the Froschs, the three-season porch and patio spaces are a respite any time of day. With Dale Road so close to their property, Frosch prioritized a sound barrier and built a retaining wall that doubles as a fountain for white noise. Whether sipping on a cold glass of iced tea, roasting a s’more at the fire pit or soaking in the hot tub, there is no limit to relaxation.
Kootenia Homes, 1890 Wooddale Suite 400; 651.731.2345; kooteniahomes.com Kootenia @kooteniahomes
Strengthening your financial securitySM Visit us at www.pinkwmg.com.
Thomas Pink, CFP®, AAMS® Managing Director – Financial Advisor Senior Consulting Group (952) 476-3725 | thomas.pink@rbc.com
SAREE HANDCRAFTED IN: West Bengal, India
WEAVE STYLE: Vintage Swarnachuri silk saree with pure gold thread EARRINGS: @mn.make
CHERYLLYNE VAZ USES HER CLOTHING TO ADVOCATE FOR CHANGE.
Written by Meredith Heneghan — Photos by Chris Emeott
Cheryllyne Vaz learned in late 2019 that she had a brain aneurysm. What started as slight swelling in her neck progressed further, and after an overnight stay and an MRI, doctors discovered two side-by-side aneurysms over her left lobe. From that point on, and as she learned more, Vaz realized how important self-advocacy, education and community would become on her journey—especially among other women.
SAREE HANDCRAFTED IN: Assam, India
WEAVE STYLE: Silk saree with embroidered Parijat (jasmine) flowers
EARRINGS: @e.floyd_earrings
Last year, Vaz knew of five different women who died from ruptured brain aneurysms. All the women were from minority communities and mothers, like Vaz, and none of them knew they had aneurysms. They brushed off symptoms, like many people do, as just a headache. After the women died, Vaz realized she had to take action.
“Those five women were a sign. I started my research; I wanted to learn what causes aneurysms,” she says. “I started getting angrier and angrier. Why are women dying, leaving their family behind? I came up with creative ways to start talking to people, and that’s when I thought of just wearing a saree and talking about the facts.”
Vaz came up with a yearlong campaign she’s calling #366DaysOfSaree. Every day, she wears a different saree, a traditional Indian garment of loosely draped, colorful fabric. In wearing the saree, Vaz opens up conversations with people and connects, shares her story, and educates people about aneurysms.
“When people stop to say, ‘Oh, what a lovely saree. What are you wearing?’ Then I have the chance to talk to them about why I’m doing it. I speak to at least one person every day, and my job is done,” Vaz says.
She posts her sarees on social media and has unexpectedly developed a following. “When you start something, the universe opens up for you,” she says. “I didn’t realize this whole legion of Indian women supporting me, saying, ‘We didn’t know about this.’ They started sending emails and DMs, telling stories of their mother, aunt, grandmother who died. And then sarees started showing up on my doorstep as gifts … One lady sent it all the way from
SAREE
HANDCRAFTED IN: Maharashtra, India
WEAVE STYLE:
Paithani silk saree
EARRINGS: @chosen_and_free
SAREE HANDCRAFTED IN: Tamil Nadu, India
WEAVE STYLE: Kanchipuram silk saree
EARRINGS: @obsidianpause_wearablepaperart
SAREE HANDCRAFTED IN:
Andhra Pradesh, India
WEAVE STYLE: Kalamkari appliqué on silk saree
EARRINGS: @createlaserarts
England. That’s when I realized how far the story was spreading. I never expected strangers to pay attention.”
September is National Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month, and the Brain Aneurysm Foundation shares that women are more likely to die from brain aneurysms: Not only is it more common in women, but also because of disparities in how women seek and receive healthcare. Vaz finds this information frustrating and motivating. “Rather than be dismissed by someone else, we dismiss our own concerns,” she says. Preventative screening, self-advocacy and better information can save lives.
By now, Vaz is a bona fide advocate for early aneurysm detection, promoting campaigns for preventative screening and has gone to Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., with the Brain Aneurysm Foundation for Advocacy Day in March. She and her friend, Cindy Sorensen, a brain aneurysm rupture survivor, alongside Minnesota elected officials, have had conversations together about how to impact change. Recently, elected officials signed Ellie’s Law into place, which honors a 14-year-old aneurysm victim whose headache was dismissed by doctors and who later died as a result. The law advocates for federal funding for brain aneurysm research.
“A great call to action would be for people to go to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation website, look up the advocacy page and we ask that everybody click the link and it will send to your representatives, requesting that they support Ellie’s Law,” Vaz says.
@cheryllyne.vaz
Brain Aneurysm Foundation; bafound.org
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Written by Emily Gedde
Different materials and shapes help range hoods become artwork for your kitchen.
Kitchen trends are always changing. Twotoned cabinets, rustic accents, terracotta tiles and more have remained popular for a long time. This year, interior designers are taking note of a rising trend in statement range hoods— move over hidden hoods, you’re being replaced by bright colors, bold shapes and a variety of textures.
We caught up with two local experts on range hoods. Angela Warner, talent development manager at Warners’ Stellian, a Twin Cities retail appliance specialist store, and Sara English, design manager for Ispiri, a Woodbury-based interior design company. Both women agreed that statement range hoods are here to stay—and offered their perspectives on how to transform your kitchen from basic to luxurious and functional.
First and foremost, should homeowners have a range hood?
Angela Warner (AW): Overall, yes. Having a hood protects the investment of your kitchen and your home, including cabinets, walls and window treatments from grease and moisture that can stay in the air for up to three days. We’re helping people select the hood that makes sense for cooking equipment, but also their home, their aesthetic and what’s important to them.
Sarah English (SE): I haven’t worked on a house where we haven’t put a hood in. They’re important for people who cook. Hoods can help optimize
storage and use all the space in your kitchen by adding a space for spice storage in the hood. People are really investing in fun, different ways to get a fun visual appearance to enjoy their space.
What type of range hood is currently the most popular?
SE: Oversized hoods are popular. We see a lot of Venetian plasters and very sleek designs. We’re also seeing a soffit above the space to create a little nook. When you get into woodwork, there are so many things you can do with shapes. People are getting away from angled and tapered hoods. There are a lot of people using shiplap on it, which adds texture and clean, sleek lines.
AW: Making the hood a little bit bigger helps it work better, and it’s more of a statement piece. A lot of people are ditching the microwave over the range as their vent. Those vents are like a starter kitchen; when they’re ready for the next level, they might choose to put a hood in. We’re seeing people want to move in that direction. It not only brings the kitchen’s appearance to another level, but it’ll also work better, too.
How can homeowners make the range hood stand out?
AW: Adding a little flare to the hood helps make it stand out. There’s a lot to do with color and different metals. Adding a piece of chrome to the front
or including hammered copper accents can really bring a look to life. Different textures and colors can really impact the look, too.
SE: A lot of simple clean lines and working with different materials can make it really a statement piece. A white hood with a band of wood around the base of it is simple, yet really adds to the look. People are also using shiplap, metal, tile, quartz, porcelain and granite. A lot of times, the hoods are custom made, and the skies really are the limit.
What are the options homeowners should consider when choosing a range hood?
AW: One of the things I talk to customers about is the difference between the range hood looking good
and working well. Some brands accommodate both looks and efficiency. We work with customers on finding out how they plan to use their kitchen and what look they’re going for. There’s a lot we can do with different materials to match the look and functionality they’re hoping to achieve in the kitchen.
Do you think statement range hoods are a trend that will go away?
SE: I think this trend will continue. A lot of cabinet suppliers have been making standard, oversized hoods that really stand out as a statement piece in the kitchen. People’s cooking habits have changed, and multiple users are in the kitchen, generating the need for a good hood that is pleasing to the eye.
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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.
Aamodt’s Apple Farm is a go-to for many locals due to its proximity to Woodbury. 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 over 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 is open daily through October 31.
Enjoy pick-your-own apples and Cafe’ ala Apple, serving up fresh apple cider, donuts and fritters, alongside 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 in-tune to the best days to visit. The large grounds also feature a corn maze, wagon rides, a pumpkin patch, caramel apples, fresh apple cider and other fresh-baked goods. 450 Apple Orchard Road, White Bear Lake; 651.429.7202; pinetreeappleorchard.com
To learn about more apple orchards in the East Metro, visit woodburymag.com. —Hailey Almsted
Compiled by Tia Benson and Findlay Drabant
Racers of all abilities are welcome at this third annual family-friendly race. Three events are available: 50 meters, 1K and 5K. All ages. $15–$25. 8:30 a.m. Colby Lake Park, 9715 Valley Creek Road; 651.738.9888; familyachievement.com
SEPTEMBER 12
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EVENTS
Poppy Days 09/06–09/08
The Woodbury American Legion Post 501 and VFW Post 9024 is hosting its semi-annual Poppy Days, where Poppies will be distrubted by Post veterans at local Woodbury businesses including Sam’s Club, Walmart, Total Wine, Jerry’s Hy-Vee in Oakdale and Cub Foods. The red poppy is a nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice worn by Americans since World War I, and the donations from Poppy Days support veterans and provide scholarships. All ages. Free. Times vary. Locations vary; americanlegionpost501.org
Bash for Brains 2024 09/07
The annual Bash for Brains welcomes an evolved mission: Serving the Now, Saving the Future. Guests are encouraged to wear white, as the color signifies the first survivor and the vision they hope to manifest. Ages 18 and older. Prices vary. 6:30–11 p.m. Location TBD; bashforbrains.com
Just Between Friends Sale 09/11–09/14
This weekend-long consignment sale features clothing, toys, books and more. All ages. $5 admission or free tickets online. Times vary. M Health Fairview Sports Center, 4125 Radio Drive; woodbury.jbfsale.com
Kickball Tournament
09/13
Join the community for the sixth Annual Kickball Tournament and enjoy food trucks and fun. All ages. Team of up to 15 Players: Members $295, Nonmembers $395. 9:00 a.m.—3:30 p.m. M Health Fairview Sports Center Fields, 4125 Radio Drive; 651.842.9480; members.woodburychamber.org
Suicide Prevention 5K
09/14
Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy
Memory Care at Woodbury Senior Living is available in both Woodbury Estates and Woodbury Health Care Center.
Woodbury Senior Living is pleased to o er a variety of Integrative Therapies to enhance your well being.
O ered for those who need to regain strength and independence after surgery, injury or illness and are in transition from home or hospital. Our experienced clinical team provides a spectrum of rehabilitation and therapy services on-site to restore individuals to their fullest potential. Also included in transitional care are customized integrative therapies, wellness and spirituality programs, including social activities, educational and intellectual programs, physical wellness activities, vocational programs and spiritual services. Visit our website for a full list of services and special features included in rehabilitation/therapy!
• At Woodbury Estates, this living option o ers comfortable, specialized care for individuals with memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, while giving their families support and peace of mind.
• At Woodbury Health Care Center, this living option o ers comfortable, specialized care for individuals with memory impairment as well as complex medical needs. It includes the same level of support found within our skilled nursing care, with the added bene t of customized activities tailored to memory care individuals.
Integrative therapies, also known as complementary therapies, are a wide array of healing practices that fall outside purely pharmaceutical or surgical treatments but are intended to complement medical care.
Due to their proven results, their use is growing rapidly around the country.
The following therapies are free of charge.
• Guided Imagery: Using your imagination to direct your thoughts towards healing.
• Energy Based Healing Modalities: Gentle, non-invasive treatments that work to restore the natural ow and balance of the body’s energy system. In times of stress, injury or illness this energy system can become congested, blocked or unbalanced.
• Essential Oils: Extracts of plants that are used to restore balance to the body and emotions primarily through the sense of smell. The essential oils used at Woodbury Health Care Center are extracted from high quality, organically grown plants and blended by a certi ed aromatherapist.
Each memory care unit is located in a monitored area within the building. Our licensed sta is trained to understand the unique needs of the memory and work with each resident and their family members to customize a personal plan to maximize both self-motivation and functional independence.
Race for a good cause at the 13th Annual Suicide Prevention Collaborative 5K Run and Walk. There will be merch and swag bags for participants, prizes for top finishers and a DJ at the finish line. All ages.
$20–$30. 9:30 a.m. Colby Lake Park Pavilion, 9715 Valley Creek Road; raceentry.com
Vintage Baseball Game
09/15
Attend an authentic vintage baseball game with the Woodbury community. Ballpark food is available for purchase. All ages. $5 per person, $10 for a family of up to five people. 1:30 p.m. Lake Middle School, 3133 Pioneer Drive; 651.714.3564; woodburyheritage.org
Saint Ambrose FALLFEST
09/20–09/21
The seventh annual festival is returning with carnival rides, a silent auction, bingo, a beer garden, kids’ games, food, a 5K race and more! There will also be family trivia and live music both evenings. All ages. Free. 5:30–10 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday. 4125 Woodbury Drive; 651.768.3030; saintambrosecatholic.org
Family Bingo
09/22
Enjoy food, drinks and lots of bingo fun at this family-friendly game day. All ages. $1 per game. Noon. 3rd Act Craft Brewery, 4120 Radio Drive; 651.998.2337; 3rdactbrew.com
To have your event considered: email woodburymag@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.
Memory Care at Woodbury Senior Living is available in both Woodbury Estates and Woodbury Health Care Center.
• Gives the resident control in a situation
• At Woodbury Estates, this living option o ers comfortable, specialized care for individuals with memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, while giving their families support and peace of mind.
• Enhances attention, memory, speech,
• At Woodbury Health Care Center, this living option o ers comfortable, specialized care for individuals with memory impairment as well as complex medical needs.
It includes the same level of support found within our skilled nursing care, with the added bene t of customized activities tailored to memory care individuals.
Each memory care unit is located in a monitored area within the building. Our licensed sta is trained to understand the unique needs of the memory and work with each resident and their family members to customize a personal plan to maximize both self-motivation and functional independence.
• Creates an outlet for emotional expression • Alleviates pain, stress, decrease symptoms of depression, enhances overall well-being • Motivator and reward for physical activity
651.501.2105
The Woodbury Community Foundation held its annual Friends Fest celebration on April 26, 2024. Dinner at the Derby included a sit-down dinner, silent and live auctions, mingling and more. The goal was to raise $100,000 to make an impact on local families and the City of Woodbury. For more information, visit woodburyfoundation.org.
To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to woodburymag@localmedia.co.
A winning image captures the hues and textures of a quintessential Minnesota autumn.
“That was the scene when I looked down from my deck in the backyard. [It wasn’t] inspired, just a ‘that looks cool’ moment,” Teresa Rumppe says about her award-winning image. “I am a teacher and bought a camera when I was literally losing my mind during COVID-19 distance learning. I am definitely an amateur, but it is a hobby. I do it with a friend that bought the same camera at the same time—we made a pact to learn the camera together.” —Hailey Almsted
To view other Focus on Woodbury photo contest winners, visit woodburymag.com.
Photographer: Teresa Rumppe
Title: Elements of Nature
Equipment: Nikon 7500 with a 70–300mm lens
Location: The Rumppe’s backyard
Category: Seasons Award: First Place
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