Woodbury - August 2025 by Local.

TRAILBLAZERS

Meet area students who are paving their paths to success

this is Regions

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

$845,000

“Amazing,

“This school has helped shape who I am today and made me realize how valuable my time here has been … Being able to graduate in a year that marks half a century of history, traditions and alumni before me is crazy, and I am honored to say that I was a part of that.” —Cora Johnson, a 12th grade student at Woodbury High School (page 16)

to Love, page 30

Growing With Purpose

Math and Science Academy expands to accommodate current and incoming students.

A Mission to Care

For family and friend caregivers, community support is essential.

Compassion Over Comparison

A global initiative encourages safe social media usage.

A Half-Century of Memories

Year-long celebrations at Woodbury High School will conclude during homecoming this fall.

Trailblazers

Meet area students who are paving their paths to success. TASTEMAKERS

S’more to Love

Enjoy traditional and creative takes on the bonfire staple.

S’more

from the EDITOR

The upcoming months round out a year of celebrations for Woodbury High School (WHS) as it has honored its 50th anniversary since September. As a WHS alumna, I recall the sea of royal blue and white at fall football games, the lively roar of the pep fests, the award-winning theater productions and so much more.

Since the 2024–25 school year, WHS has celebrated its golden anniversary in so many ways: welcoming back several notable alumni; a Hall of Fame induction and recognition of swimmers who have left their mark on the school, which coincided with the decommissioning of its pool; a special winter pep fest; a unique show put on by the Marching Royals; and more. As an alumna, I’m excited to see what the next 50 years will bring for a school with such a wonderful community. (Learn more about the continuing celebrations on page 18.)

In this, our semiannual education issue, we also highlight our senior spotlight feature. It’s always a pleasure connecting with today’s youth and hearing their uplifting stories. Turn to page 20 to meet area students from East Ridge High School, Hill-Murray School and WHS who are committed to academics and inspiring their school communities.

Also throughout these pages, hear from Math and Science Academy on its expansion, which aims to open for elementary schoolers (page 12); learn about a global initiative started by a Woodbury local that addresses concerns about social media (page 16); and enjoy the flavors of a bonfire staple (page 30).

Don’t forget that our annual Focus on Woodbury photo contest is open now through 5 p.m. August 31. I encourage you to submit your photos by visiting woodburymag.com.

hailey@localmedia.co

On the Cover: Stephanie Chica-Celdo, page 20

Photo by: Chris Emeott

Photo: Chris Emeott

Hailey Almsted

VOL. 21 NO. 1 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

Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Jennifer Pitterle and Paige Udermann

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Megan Koren, Amy Leferink, Gretchen McNaughton, Manali Shah, Patty (Stutzman) Paulus, Rachael Perron and Katie Tomsche

DIGITAL INTERN

Taylor Hamilton

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Shawn Hogendorf, South Washington County Schools ; Michele Magistad, Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce ; Sue McKeown, resident ; and Shelly Schafer, City of Woodbury

SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR

Sarah Dovolos

ART DIRECTOR

Allison Nolden

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Jamie Klang

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yaz Lo

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Emeott

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Brittni Dye

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lisa Stone

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Mimi Coz

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre and Sara Johnson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann

PRESIDENT

Pete Burgeson

SLIDES GALORE

Minnesota is home to the world’s first indoor dry-slide and air court park, Slick City, opened by co-owners Mike and Annie Kelly in Maple Grove. However, its next location is slated to open in Woodbury by the end of the year. The 52,0000-square-foot facility will offer a variety of thrilling activities, including 14 slides, two sports courts, a cafe and an acrobat alley with trapeze, a swing and a zipline.

“Each attraction is designed to provide a different kind of adventure, and we love seeing families and friends challenge themselves to try them all,” Mike says. “Our goal was to create a dynamic space where kids and adults alike could enjoy thrilling experiences together. We wanted to build a park that felt energetic, innovative and full of adventure.”

Mike says that part of the park’s

appeal is its versatility and availability year-round. “As parents, we know how challenging it can be to find engaging indoor activities, especially during the long winters,” Mike says. —Emma Souza

Visit woodburymag.com to learn more.

Slick City, 587 Settlers Ridge Parkway; slickcity.com

Photo: Slick City

Minnesota’s first indoor dry-slide park, Slick City, is in Maple Grove, pictured here. Its second location is slated to open in Woodbury by the end of the year, and will include 14 slides and more.

READ

The Day You Begin

“There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you.”

Walking into a new place where you don’t know anyone, and no one knows you, isn’t easy. You might be nervous because of how you look or what you eat or something else entirely. Somehow, you do it anyway.

The Day You Begin, written by National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated by Rafael Lopez, invites children to find the courage to make friends, even when they feel nervous or lonely, and serves as a reminder that they’re not alone in their feelings. A perfect children’s book to read leading up to the first day of school.

—Hailey Almsted

SIP

Smooth Start

Getting out the door in the morning for work, school or otherwise can present some challenges, and it’s important to fuel up for the day ahead. Lunds & Byerlys’ Katie Tomsche has some suggestions. “Smoothies are not only a wonderful, healthy way to start your day but also a

great mid-afternoon snack,” she says. “Filled with fruits and veggies, they’re a perfect way to beat the munchies without spoiling a meal.”

Berry Banana Smoothie

» 1 ½ cups milk, dairy or nondairy

» 1 cup frozen blueberries

» ½ cup frozen strawberries

» ½ frozen banana

» pinch of cinnamon

Daybreak Smoothie

» 1 cup milk, dairy or nondairy

» 1 orange, seeded

» 1 frozen banana

» 1 tsp. pure maple syrup

» ½ tsp. turmeric

» handful of ice

Green Smoothie

» 1 cup milk, dairy or nondairy

» 2 cups kale or spinach

» 1 cup frozen mango

» 1 cup frozen mixed berries

» ½ frozen avocado

VIEW

Three smoothies, one method: Combine the ingredients in a blender or in an immersion blender cup, and purée until smooth.

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

Picture Perfect

“My dog, Wrigley, looked so cute [lying] in the grass, so I grabbed my camera to take some photos of her,” says hobbyist photographer Julie Joyce. “I took the photo in my backyard on a pleasant summer evening.”

—Hailey Almsted

Photographer: Julie Joyce

Title: Hanging Out

Equipment: Nikon D3400

Category: Pets

Award: Second Place

Photo: Lunds & Byerlys

CITIZEN

Kathy Schakel-Carlson

“I have a passion for volunteering, largely instilled by my mother and grandmothers,” says Kathy SchakelCarlson, a manufacturing engineer at 3M.

Schakel-Carlson shows up and volunteers when needed. The task can be as simple as handing out name tags and brochures at an event, and she has been involved in a lot of worthy causes through work and her church. At work, she helps students with STEM programs and mock interviews. She is also a mentor to school students through 3M’s collaboration with the Best Prep program.

Schakel-Carlson first learned about the Woodbury Community Foundation (WCF) about four years ago. She was impressed by WCF’s community focus, so when the opportunity to become a board member arose, she quickly accepted it.

Realizing the breadth of all that the WCF does and knowing the worthy causes it supports, including the Community Academy, Youth Engagement Leadership Academy, collaborations with Woodbury Racial Equity Collaborative and One Woodbury, Schakel-Carlson enjoys the endless opportunities to volunteer. She says, “There are so many different ways to help!”

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.

Growing With Purpose

Math and Science Academy expands to accommodate current and incoming students.

By Jennifer Pitterle

Since it opened in 1999, Woodbury’s Math and Science Academy (MSA), a charter school focusing on math and science curriculum, has seen long wait lists. “We’ve always been a really popular school, and we’ve been working on expansion in one form or another since we opened,” says Kate Hinton, MSA’s executive director.

Those plans have been postponed for various reasons, including COVID-19, but an expanded campus and offerings

for MSA are finally coming to fruition. “In 2022, we started working on these plans,” Hinton says. “We expect to be approved to add grades and will open to elementary students in the fall of 2026.”

MSA currently serves grades six through 12, with instruction happening in four buildings (two owned and two leased). The expansion project will add a 125,000-square-foot building for middle and high school; if approved, the newly added grades, kindergarten through fifth,

Top: Math and Science Academy held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new building that will host grades six through 12.

Bottom: A rendering of the new Math and Science Academy building.

Photos: Zephyr Lynn; Math and Science Academy

will have their classroom space in the two existing buildings that MSA owns.

“We’re also planning on adding outdoor athletic facilities,” Hinton says. A new soccer field and track will accommodate the more than 100 students who participate in track and field, cross-country and soccer alone, making practice sessions and meets much more convenient.

Track currently practices in the parking lot, and soccer players must participate in a co-op with other schools. “That brings up some equity issues because kids have to go to another location for soccer after school,” Hinton says. “We’re really excited to be able to house those programs on site so we can involve a lot more students.”

Hinton also notes that students—and their families—are looking forward to a culinary change: the capacity to serve school lunch. “Right now, everyone has to bring their lunch,” Hinton says. “And even though they bring beautiful lunches, I think a lot of parents will be happy not to have to do that every day,” she says. “The remodel at our current site will include adding a kitchen space for food service.”

In total, the expansion will allow for 450 elementary schoolers and 1,500 secondary students, roughly doubling the current enrollment of sixth through 12th graders. “As of right now, we have 887 students on our interest list,” Hinton says. “We weren’t sure demand was going to be that high, but our families have been very excited about the prospect of starting at MSA beginning in kindergarten.”

Enrollment is organized equitably through a lottery system before the beginning of each school year. “Some people think that we accept students based on their academic history and test scores, but that’s not the case at all,” Hinton says. “It’s simply the lottery. Students come in at all ability levels, and by the time they graduate, there are virtually no achievement gaps.”

MSA’s expansion will ensure more Woodbury and area students can find their best-fit school. “Parents really like the idea that there’s a rigor, and we spend time making sure that every student succeeds,” Hinton says.

Math and Science Academy, 8430 Woodbury Crossing; 651.578.7507; mnmsa.org Math and Science Academy

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

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

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

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

A Mission to Care

For family and friend caregivers, community support is essential.

By Zoe Yates

Photos: Chris Emeott

Left: Besty and Dick Ellis

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

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

Dick and Betsy have cared for each other their entire lives, since meeting as students in Stillwater Area High School’s class of ’65. Now, Dick is Betsy’s caregiver.

“I didn’t see it as a conscious decision, ‘Hey, I want to do this,’” Dick says about caregiving for his wife. “You just continue on with your lives and taking care of each other.”

The definition of a caregiver is broad, explains Jenny West, caregiving and aging educator at FamilyMeans, a multiservice, area nonprofit organization that supports families through therapy and programming. The term describes anyone providing unpaid care to somebody in their life, regardless of age and whether the condition is permanent or temporary.

The couple attends FamilyMeans’ Memory Cafe at R.H. Stafford Library in Woodbury every second Tuesday of the month. It’s a safe place in the community for families to come, engage and be empowered, West explains. She encourages caregivers to use the time to step back from the caregiving role and take the opportunity to embrace their previous role, as a child, partner or friend. “They can just enjoy that time together,” West says.

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

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

Learn more about the Ellises’ story and FamilyMeans at woodburymag.com.

Compassion Over Comparison

A global initiative encourages safe social media usage.

By Hailey Almsted

“More than anything else, what we want to have happen here is we want parents to have conversations with their kids about the harms that are on these social media platforms,” Erich Mische says.

That’s the goal of the Keep it Digitally Safe (KiDS) campaign, Mische says. KiDS is a part of Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE), a nonprofit committed to suicide prevention, advocacy and raising educational awareness.

Mische, a Woodbury resident, has been the CEO of SAVE for two years and says running an organization devoted to sensitive topics is complex. “It’s a subjective matter that you have to be committed to immersing yourself in,” he says.

The Bloomington-based organization was founded 36 years ago when six Minneapolis couples each lost a child to suicide. More than three decades later, it continues to take approaches that are as

elaborate as the issue itself.

SAVE first looks toward action—knowing what to do with sensitive information if a colleague, family member or friend reaches out in a time of crisis. Its One Step Ahead program educates trainees on facts, risk and protective factors, and warning signs, and is free to enroll in. “Our training is the equivalent to CPR in suicide prevention,” Mische says.

Lethal Means Safety is another key SAVE program and aims to ensure safe storage and controlled access to dangerous items, such as firearms, medications or sharp objects. Parents or guardians can request a cable gun lock free of charge to prevent purposeful or accidental discharge. Lastly, SAVE provides assistance and resources to help suicide loss survivors, who could become at-risk themselves, navigate the loss of a loved one. “Giving them resources, access to mental health counseling [and] support groups gives us an opportunity to get involved in postvention, which serves as prevention,” Mische says.

Most recently, it is working on policy issues related to social media. The KiDS campaign supplements conversations about the negative impact of social media on kids’ mental health and suicidal ideation and is supported by these coalitions.

KiDS invites creative minds (“Whether they’re 50 or 15,” Mische says.) to design social media warning labels to raise awareness of its potential harms and will award three scholarships ($5,000, $3,000 and $2,000) to its winners. Mische says they’re looking forward to the submissions from young voices. “What are their messages on what they want their peers and peers’ parents to be aware

Erich Mische

STRIDE TO SAVE LIVES

In partnership with Saint Ambrose’s FALLFEST, SAVE is producing its second annual 5K and fun run on September 20. “... [Last year] I approached Father Peter ... and said that SAVE would love to do this event as long as everyone understood that we would talk about suicide,” Erich Mische says. “It’s an extraordinarily unique and courageous place that Saint Ambrose said, ‘Yes, let’s do this.’” The event isn’t just about miles covered but about coming together to raise awareness, Mische says. “This 5K gives us an opportunity to look someone straight in the eye and have a one-to-one conversation,” he says.

Find more information about FALLFEST by visiting save.org and saintambrosecatholic.org.

of?” Mische asks. The campaign, which launched in March, quickly found success and has grown across four continents.

“We have to teach parents not to stigmatize the kids further by making them think they’ll get yelled at or get in trouble [because maybe something happened] … and they’re afraid to tell their parents and find themselves in a place of hopelessness and despair,” Mische says. And that’s exactly what these warning labels are for—to kick off healthy conversations about the risks of social media between parents and their children.

KiDS is accepting submissions through 11:59 p.m. September 30. Find more information and submit your design at keepitdigitallysafe.org.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, the 988 Lifeline is available 24/7/365. Call or text 988, or chat online at chat.988lifeline.org.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine is available from 9 a.m.–9 p.m. CST weekdays; call 1.800.950.NAMI (6264), text HelpLine to 62640 or email helpline@nami.org.

save.org Suicide Awareness Voices of Education @savevoicesofedu @SAVEvoicesofedu Suicide Awareness Voices of Education

I create a personalized plan for cost ‐ effective updates & repairs.

I pick the best items and trusted pros for each jobs. I schedule and oversee everything — handyman, painter, cleaner, inspector, junk removal …You name it!

Call me today to see how I can help you rest easy tonight — just

A HALF-CENTURY

Year-long celebrations at Woodbury High School will conclude during homecoming this fall.

Written by Emily Gedde

In 1975, 94 students became the first class to graduate from Woodbury High School (WHS). Now, half a century later, the 477 members of the class of 2025 donned the school’s royal blue and white caps and gowns to become the 50th class of the South Washington County school.

It’s a milestone that has been full of excitement from generations of students, teachers and alumni. Festivities were spread throughout the year and will conclude during homecoming in September. Groups have joined together to celebrate the legacy, memories and future of a school that has stood as a cornerstone of the Woodbury community.

Jodi Loeblein-Lecker, assistant principal of activities at WHS, says celebrations have been a blend of nostalgia and excitement with alumni sharing their cherished memories and participating in various events. One of her personal favorites was the Hall of Fame induction during the homecoming football game last fall. This event was particularly significant as it coincided with the decommissioning of the school’s pool, a bittersweet moment for the WHS community. The school’s swimming and diving program was celebrated with a special recognition of swimmers who have made their mark over the years. “It was fun to see the swimming community come back,” Loeblein-Lecker says of the alumni who attended the event to bid farewell to the pool.

The Marching Royals, the WHS marching band, added to the festive atmosphere by performing songs from different decades, reflecting the school’s

rich history. The winter week celebrations further highlighted the 50th anniversary with a vibrant display of school spirit.

Cora Johnson, a Class of 2025 graduate and student council president, helped organize the winter pep fest that focused on highlighting the school’s 50th anniversary. She says the goal of the event was to commemorate the tradition and legacy created throughout the past 50 years of Woodbury High School. “Celebrating excellence is something that we do often at Woodbury High School, so I knew something had to be done to honor this milestone,” she says.

One of Johnson’s favorite parts of the event was a school-wide rock-paperscissors competition. She explains that students wore blue clothing to represent WHS colors and were provided gold beaded necklaces to represent the golden anniversary. “If you won a game of rock-paper-scissors, you get to take your opponent’s beads, and if you had 25 or more at the end of the day, you were able to participate in the championship round at the pep fest,” she says. “This was a great way to get students involved and a fun way to rally around the 50th anniversary.”

Johnson says organizing the pep fest deepened her appreciation for WHS history and traditions. “This school has

helped shape who I am today and made me realize how valuable my time here has been,” she says. “This experience really reinforced how special this place is to me ... Being able to graduate in a year that marks half a century of history, traditions and alumni before me is crazy, and I am honored to say I was a part of that.”

ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS

• 150 conference championships

• 114 section champions

• 114 state tournament appearances

• 12 state championships

• 21 second-place state championships

Loeblein-Lecker says another memorable celebration was Heritage Night hosted by the Black Student Union during Black History Month in February. The event featured Alan Gregory, the first Black student to graduate from WHS in 1979. Gregory, a three-sport athlete and homecoming king during his senior year, shared his stories and experiences with the students. “I [came back for] the students and to see the support,” Gregory says. “They got to organize and put

THEN AND NOW

together a special program.”

OF MEMORIES

Gregory recalls some of his most fond memories attending WHS, including playing in the school’s first state basketball tournament his junior year and when the tree in his front yard was covered in toilet paper for homecoming. Speaking about his experience coming back to WHS, he says, “It’s not every day one is recognized at that level for being a first in anything ... I’m grateful and humble.”

His visit was a strong reminder of the school’s journey toward diversity and inclusion. “He’s a great individual,” Loeblein-Lecker says. “It was fun to give back to him and have him interact with our students. He told stories about what high school was like for him, and it was rewarding for him to see how diverse [WHS] is now.”

Reflecting on the changes over the past 50 years, Loeblein-Lecker highlights the transformation in education, facilities and sports. The school now boasts a greater number of sports programs and levels with upgraded facilities that cater to the needs of today’s learners. The use of technology in classrooms has changed teaching methods, moving away from overhead projectors and chalkboards to interactive and engaging learning experiences. “We really try to use technology in meaningful ways that will advance our students to be 21st-century learners and have a lot of engagement in the classroom,” Loeblein-Lecker says.

The strong sense of community at WHS shows in the alumni who continue to live and work in the area. This connection showcases the school’s impact and the sense of belonging it creates. As Loeblein-Lecker describes it, WHS is a place where people feel they belong and want to stay.

Looking ahead, the future of WHS is bright with ongoing renovations and upgrades. The school is excited to unveil modern classrooms and facilities that will enhance learning opportunities for

“Celebrating excellence is something that we do often at Woodbury High School, so I knew something had to be done to honor this milestone.”

Cora Johnson, a Class of 2025 graduate and student council president

students for the next 50 years.

The 50th anniversary celebrations will conclude during homecoming this fall (Homecoming week is September 21–27, and the homecoming football game is September 26.) and the event will be a time to further reflect on the school’s rich history, celebrate its achievements and look forward to a future filled with promise and potential. The sense of community

and belonging at WHS is stronger than ever, making it a place where people feel connected and proud to be a part of.

Woodbury High School, 2665 Woodlane Drive; 651.425.4400; whs.sowashco.org

Woodbury High School @woodburyhighschool_

TRAILBLAZERS

Meet area students who are paving their paths to success.

Written by Hailey Almsted - Photos by Chris Emeott

Woodbury is at the cornerstone of excellence in education. Our students are more than just bright; they’re changemakers, visionaries and trailblazers. In this, our annual senior spotlight, we are pleased to shine a light on these students.

Earlier this year, we asked school administrators and staff to nominate outstanding students (Class of 2026) who will leave an indelible mark on their school’s history. After a panel met to discuss each nomination, it had to make decisions with great difficulty. That brings us to the present, where you’ll meet three graduating seniors who are passionate about the imprint they leave behind—and their brilliant futures ahead. Learn more about each student at woodburymag.com.

“Angie’s resume of accomplishments is outstanding, but more importantly, Angie shows care and compassion for everyone she interacts with. Her leadership skills are top-notch, [and] her ability to create a positive rapport with everyone she meets is exemplary. I have seen very strong, academically talented students over the past 27 years as a principal—none of them can match Angie as a person. I am so thankful to have Angie as a student at our school, and that I have had the opportunity to watch her grow. It will be exciting to see the places that she will go!” —James Smokrovich, principal

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

Community-building is an essential part of how I enjoy STEM. Last summer, I founded the Minnesota Youth Math Outreach to make competition math—a powerful tool that builds confidence in students to take on STEM-related careers—more accessible to middle school students, especially those from underrepresented

backgrounds. I led a team of passionate students in running a free online summer camp and the first student-run in-person math competition in Minnesota. Leading these initiatives taught me the profound impact of outreach: Students who had never met each other formed new connections working together. There’s nothing more inspiring than seeing students themselves become inspired.

What is something that your peers might not know about you?

… I find myself fascinated by the exhilaration of watching sports like American football. Since elementary school, I’ve experienced all the ups and downs of being a Vikings fan. But behind the thrill of the game are pieces worth analyzing themselves—whether it be thinking about how to make the most fruitful choice for my Fantasy Football team or pondering about the statistics involved … And the shared moments I experience with family and friends make watching football that much more special.

What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony?

Maryam Mirzakhani. She was the first woman to win the Fields Medal, and her work in math is incredibly inspiring, especially given that she pushed through obstacles in a field where she was often the only woman in the room.

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

Long Live by Taylor Swift

What is your favorite childhood book?

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Describe your future in three words. Interconnected, infusive, transpiring

EAST RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

ANGIE HUANG

KEELEY WHITCOMB

HILL-MURRAY SCHOOL

“Keeley is a very talented artist in and outside the art classroom at Hill-Murray. She makes beautiful portraits out of watercolor and other media that give the people in her portraits a celestial glow. Keeley regularly makes work that appears in the Hill-Murray art shows and has won prize ribbons in the Minnesota State Fair K–12 art contests over the past few years. She is currently one of the leaders of the Hill-Murray Art Club and was instrumental in organizing the creation of a huge mural for Women’s History Month. Art will always be a big part of her life.”

Sam Dahl, art teacher

“Keeley is a hardworking and determined studentathlete who consistently gives her best effort. It’s always fun to chat with her about her speed skating and the places around the world that it’s taken her. Her bright smile and uplifting spirit have a way of lighting up a room and making those around her feel encouraged. She is truly an inspiring individual!” —Mike Kolb, French teacher

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

One of my proudest moments was achieving my Olympic Trial qualifying time in the 1000m for long-track speed skating. After years of early mornings, all-weather workouts and endless laps, that race was my ultimate “It’s all worth it” moment. I was able to spend the month of October training in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, travel to Calgary, Canada, for seven days in November and maintain a 4.0 unweighted GPA, making it even sweeter. I’m beyond excited to compete in the trials in Milwaukee from January 2–5, 2026!

What is something that your peers might not know about you?

… My love for Japanese culture. I’m currently learning Japanese and hope to study and continue

training for speed skating in Japan during college. My most recent skating competition was in Salt Lake City, Utah, and I was invited to stay with an all-Japanese team for an immersive cultural exchange experience, which was incredible. I made many new friends, learned about the Japanese language, cuisine, culture and traditions, and was able to share a lot about Minnesota and the U.S. I’ve stayed in touch with every one of the Japanese skaters through communication apps and social media.

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

Changes by David Bowie

What is your favorite childhood book?

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. My dad and Poppy, my grandpa, would always cry at the end.

Describe your future in three words. Driven, adventurous and creative

STEPHANIE CHICA-CELDO

WOODBURY HIGH SCHOOL

“Stephanie embodies what it means to be a friend, student, global citizen and future leader in our community. She is a student who is dedicated to her studies, to the Spanish language and culture, to promoting the Hispanic/ Latino Community through her leadership in the Latino Student Union and Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica. She excels in her classes and takes educational setbacks as learning opportunities. She demonstrates and emulates kindness, patience and respect for others in everything she does. She is

not only

a top-notch student,

but

a unique member of our Spanish Immersion Community.”

Karley Mejia, Spanish immersion teacher

“Stephanie embodies what it means to be an AVID student. She believes in herself and acts intentionally to build relationships, persist through obstacles and activate her academic, social and emotional skills to reach her potential. Outside of the classroom, Stephanie shines as a varsity cheerleader and as an AVID mentor at Kids Club. Stephanie embraces teamwork and community, using her leadership skills to uplift those around her and create a supportive environment where everyone can grow and thrive.” —Julie Onken, AVID teacher

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

I’m most proud of being able to be a part of the creation of the Latino Student Union at our school. Being able to create a safe space where people who think and look like me can share our culture, experiences and identities together is the most rewarding for me. I love being able to be part of a community where I’m surrounded by people who understand me, and I understand them.

What is something that your peers might not know about you?

… I’m the third (youngest) child and only daughter in my Ecuadorian household. I have three cats [and] two dogs, and I lived in Minneapolis until the start of my freshman year. In my free time, I love to binge-watch Asian soap operas, and I like to read memoirs/reading in general.

What person in history would you most like to speak at your graduation ceremony? I would want Ruby Bridges to be at my graduation because she is the embodiment of resilience, hope and breakthrough—a symbol of inspiration.

What song should be used as the soundtrack to your high school career? Sunflower by Post Malone

Describe your future in three words. Positive, strong and driven

Cycling Without Age Program at Saint Therese of Woodbury

WHAT IS CYCLING WITHOUT AGE?

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

HOW IT WORKS

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

OUR DREAM

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

sainttherese org/woodbury 651-209-9100

Can you give up a couple of hours a month?

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

Does your bank give you local discounts and perks*? At CorTrust we offer rewards with our Premium and Preferred Checking accounts thanks to our partnership with BaZing®! Discover the 300,000+ deals and discounts for dining, shopping, travel, and more. Visit us today and raise your expectations of what banking should be.

Woodbury Leadership Academy offers academic rigor and leadership development.

With a guiding commitment to student success, academic rigor, small class sizes and high teacher retention, Woodbury Leadership Academy (WLA) offers a welcoming, diverse and inclusive culture to all learners, including 1,100 students for the 2025-2026 academic year.

“WLA offers the benefit of small class sizes, which allows for more personalized attention for your child,” says parent Jennifer M. “The great teachers are dedicated and provide quality

education. Additionally, the close-knit environment ensures that staff members know your child, creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere.”

For more than a decade, WLA has been based in a core knowledge curriculum, which can be described as traditional, rigorous and content heavy, producing students who are active, successful learners. “The Core Knowledge Sequence focuses on knowledge and skills in geography, history, language arts, mathematics, music, science and

visual arts from preschool through grade eight,” says Jonas Beugen, superintendent. “Students build a strong academic base, meeting and exceeding Minnesota Academic Standards.”

WLA also embraces an educational philosophy that intertwines strong academics with leadership development, striving to cultivate students who are both knowledgeable and capable leaders. “We integrate leadership-based programs and strategies to prepare students to take on academic and

leadership challenges as they progress through their education and throughout life,” Beugen says.

“For us, we love the academic rigor and focus on leadership,” says parent Jennifer N. “Our experience has been that the WLA staff are all experts at what they do—from the teachers and special ed staff to the front office team alike … They really care for their students and enjoy helping them learn and grow.”

Additionally, WLA supports character education, focusing on gratitude, humanity, perseverance, respect and responsibility. “As a free, public charter school, we are also dedicated to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment,” Beugen says. “The school promotes equity and is committed to providing all students with the resources and support they need to succeed.”

Student success is also grounded in WLA’s facilities. Students utilize modern technology in their classrooms while also having access to multiple outdoor recreation areas. “At WLA, we strive to give students the best of all worlds by having state-of-the-art

classrooms while still being tucked away in nature,” Beugen says. In 2021, WLA expanded its facilities to include a 60,000-square-foot addition, featuring large classrooms, a fully outfitted gymnasium and a premiere walking track. There’s more to come as the school expands its footprint to include a third building, completing the campus.

Another pivotal element to WLA’s campus and community is its families. “We have a community of families that is heavily involved in the school and place a high value on the education of their children,” Beugen says. “The active PTO is always working to lift up teachers/staff, [and] the events that WLA hosts are great ways for families and staff to connect and celebrate” says parent Melissa K. Additionally, the ParentSquare app encourages familyschool communication to facilitate a strongly connected school community.

“We wanted a great education for our son but also wanted more; we wanted him to be in a smaller, community-based school where he could know everybody and everybody could know him,” says

parent Tammi S. “We chose WLA for that reason, and it has held true. The education he is receiving is amazing, and the topics they learn about always amaze me. The community aspect has really played a vital role …”

To join the WLA community, registration for 2026-2027 opens December 1 through the website. Families must apply by January 31, 2026, to be ncluded in the February 2026 lottery.

8089 Globe Drive, Woodbury 651.571.2100 • wlamn.org

TASTEMAKERS

S’more to Love

The s’more—an ooey gooey melty combination of roasted marshmallow, chocolate and graham cracker, of which its ability to make a sticky mess is eclipsed only by its ability to delight taste buds. The bonfire staple takes center stage on August 10 for National S’mores Day.

Enjoy traditional and creative takes on the bonfire staple.

Written by Mollee Francisco — Photos by Chris Emeott

So what is it about the s’more that keeps us clamoring for s’more? “The obvious answer is chocolate,” says Rachael Perron, culinary and branding director for Kowalski’s Markets. “Melted chocolate.”

Perron is an admitted lover of s’mores.

“There’s a pure outdoorsy, nostalgic part

of it,” she says. “It’s the campfire and the people and the whole thing that goes along with it.” Another thing to love?

The textural combination. “You’ve got the gooey marshmallow, the melty chocolate and the crispy cracker that wraps around it,” she says.

Left: Consider leveling up your average s’more with decadent sea salt caramel chocolate.

Right: Peanut butter lovers will be delighted with a peanut butter cup s’more.

Left: Enjoy the delicious taste of a s’more wherever you are with

Right: The Travel Campfire lasts for 6–8 hours and is perfect to bring to a campsite, an outdoor park, in your backyard or on-the-go.

A Better Mallow

Mike Nelson loves s’mores so much that he started making his own marshmallows for fun. Mike and his wife, Christine Nelson, now own North Mallow, a small s’mores and hot cocoa gifting company based in Long Lake—with products sold in Kowalski’s Markets—that specializes in flavorful marshmallows with cleaner ingredients. “I bring marshmallows everywhere I go,” he says. “Everyone knows I’m the s’mores guy.”

A decade ago, Mike started tinkering with a recipe for marshmallows with a goal to take out ingredients like high fructose corn syrup as well as artificial flavors and colors and replace them with “actual ingredients,” Mike says, like agave and organic vanilla bean. After three and a half years of experimenting, Mike had his perfect marshmallow. “Our marshmallows are always light and fluffy,” he says. “You can taste the vanilla, and they roast much better. They actually caramelize instead of burn.”

North Mallow offers six flavors of marshmallow, including Caramel Swirl, Chocolate Chip and Vanilla Bean, alongside seasonal offerings like Gingerbread Spice and Mocha Chip. It also makes graham crackers as well as s’mores kits featuring their creations. The s’mores kits launched five years ago and has made its way to be the company’s No. 1 selling product.

In addition to selling their products online and in select grocery stores like the Woodbury Kowalski’s Markets and Whole Foods, Mike says they also offer business gifts and catering. North Mallow puts together s’mores bars each year for corporate events, grad parties, mitzvahs and weddings. To say the team knows how to dress up a s’more would be an understatement.

Top: North Mallow flavors include Caramel Swirl, Chocolate Chip and Vanilla Bean.

the Travel Campfire by North Mallow.

Longevity | Functional | Regenerative Medicine Medicine Medicine

Take Control of Your Health and Thrive.

At Accelerate Wellness, we deliver elevated, personalized care for those who expect more.

ADVANCED CARE YOUR WAY

Visit us at our new Edina satellite clinic—or experience concierge-level care virtually from home or work. Our expert-led services include advanced lab testing, hormone optimization, GLP-1 weight loss, PRP therapies, and personalized longevity plans. For the ultimate convenience, we can even send a phlebotomist to your home or office.

Sioux Falls • Edina • Omaha

LEMON MERINGUE S’MORES

Recipe courtesy of Kowalski’s Markets

» 24 graham cracker squares (12 sheets, broken in half)

» 8 oz. lemon curd

» 12 jumbo marshmallows

Preheat a broiler. Arrange 12 graham cracker squares on a rimmed baking sheet; top each with a spoonful of lemon curd and a marshmallow. Place under preheated broiler until marshmallows are golden, puffed and toasty (about 1 minute).

Top s’mores with remaining graham cracker squares or serve open-faced.

“You can pretty much make a s’more out of anything. You just have to have a marshmallow.”

Mike Nelson, North Mallow

Unique Flavor Combinations

“You can pretty much make a s’more out of anything,” Mike says. “You just have to have a marshmallow.” Basic variations start with the chocolate, swapping out the tried-and-true basic chocolate bar for something else. “I love using Ghirardelli chocolate,” he says.

“With chocolate, there are so many things you can do there,” Perron says. “A darker chocolate can help balance the sweet and give an elevated flavor experience. Or you can try a chocolate with other flavors in it—pretzels, crispy rice, peanut butter or caramel.”

The two agree that peanut butter cups are a good starting point for playing with s’mores ingredients. “They are always delicious,” Mike says. He also likes to experiment with alternatives to the graham cracker, including chocolate sandwich cookies, crispy cookies or pretzel crisps.

Perron likes to play with fillings, testing out various spreads like hazelnut spread, jam or peanut butter. “I like adding fruit into s’mores,” she says. “Raspberry jam with chocolate, orange marmalade, bananas.” Her current favorite is a lemon meringue s’more using lemon curd with the marshmallow and graham crackers. Playing around with different ingredients quickly becomes half the fun of making s’mores. And the combinations are endless. “It’s hard to mess it up,” Mike says. “I love the challenge.”

northmallow.com

North Mallow

@northmallow

Kowalski’s Markets, 8505 Valley Creek Road; 651.578.8800; kowalskis.com

Kowalski’s Markets

@kowalskis_markets

Kowalski’s Markets

Sliced fresh, served fresh—Port of Subs in Woodbury delivers crave-worthy Subs with quality meats and cheeses. Locally owned and always here to Sub-port our neighbors!

Port of Subs

8362 Tamarack Village #112

651.478.4187

portofsubs.com/locations/mn/ woodbury/243/

RUNNING FOR A REASON

The Live Brave 5K is back for another year, uniting runners for a cause.

Beginner athletes, leisurely runners and elite racers alike: It’s time to lace up those shoes for the fifth annual Live Brave 5K and 1-mile race on August 9. The race aims to break the stigma around eating disorders by financially supporting local nonprofits.

“There is something so magical about coming together for a cause while also doing something physical,” says Live Brave co-founder Alice Halvorson. “Moving together, striving together for a cause.”

Live Brave started when Halvorson and her running coach, friend and former colleague Jeff Burkart felt a drive to make an impact on their community. Creating a race was the natural answer for the fitness-minded pair. With both having seen or lived through the detrimental effects of eating disorders, they knew they wanted to run for a cause.

The events take place at Colby Lake

Park with the 5K starting at 8:30 a.m. and the 1-mile race at 10 a.m. Runners can also participate in both events (called the Brave Challenge) if interested. Prizes, food and DJ Ray Mills—the official DJ for the Minnesota Vikings—will greet runners at the finish line.

In addition, the Live Brave Fund, founded in 2023 under the Woodbury Community Foundation, allows for what Halvorson calls a “sky’s the limit” approach to giving. “It’s a long-term vision that allows Live Brave to make an impact long after race day,” Halvorson says. —Emma Souza

Interested runners can donate and register at runsignup.com. Registration closes at 10 p.m. August 8. Registration is $35. Kids 12 and under can run the 1-mile race for free.

Photo:

Compiled by Ellie Heyerdahl and Emma Souza

LOCAL EVENTS

08.09

Tiny Tot Triathlon

Run, bike and splash in this triathlon course and receive a sticker from a police officer or firefighter. Participants must bring their own bike and helmet, as well as be monitored by a family member or friend over the age of 12. Ages 2–5. $10, registration required. 9–11:15 a.m., start times vary. M Health Fairview Sports Center, 4125 Radio Drive; 651.714.3500; woodburymn.gov

08.16

Credit Unions Fighting Fraud: Free Educational Seminar

Several area credit unions have partnered with Woodbury Public Safety to help attendees learn to prevent and protect against scams. The event also features secure paper shredding and e-waste disposal. All ages. Free, registration recommended. 9 a.m.–noon. East Ridge High School, 4200 Pioneer Drive; fraud@novation.org; eventbrite.com

WOODBURY MAGAZINE: PLATINUM LEVEL SPONSOR

08.22-08.24

Woodbury Days

Celebrate the Woodbury community in this two-day festival full of live music, food stands, kids’ activities, a parade and more. All ages. Free. 4–10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday. Ojibway Park, 2695 Ojibway Drive; 651.735.0409; woodburydays.org

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.

Scholarship Golf Tournament

The Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce held its 38th annual Scholarship Golf Tournament on June 2. Golfers enjoyed 18 holes at Prestwick Golf Club, plus an awards banquet, a buffet lunch, course contests, a social hour, an introduction of scholarship recipients and sponsored activities. The funds raised go toward scholarships for graduating high school seniors who live in the community and provide a donation to the Woodbury YMCA’s youth summer programs.

To have your event considered: send date, time, location, photos, contact information and a brief description of the event to woodburymag@localmedia.co.

Photos:

“We are so grateful for our clients,

and connect at our

Selling and buying homes is such a personal process; everyone has unique needs, and it is sometimes emotional. We love that you choose us over and over again to help you through these special transitions. It is such an honor! Thank you to our faithful tribe of ASG fam.”

-Angela Sadat and Team

Capturing Celebrations

The annual Woodbury Days festival is a playground for photographers like Kent Nye, who enjoys taking photos with challenging lighting. “My goal was to capture the design of the festive lights while they were in motion,” he says of the photo. “I liked capturing something that the eyes can’t really comprehend, since we only see in real time.” Find more of Nye’s work on Instagram at @67knye. —Emma Souza

To view other Focus on Woodbury photo contest winners, visit woodburymag.com.

Photographer: Kent Nye

Title: Woodbury Days Celebration

Equipment: Nikon Z50 with tripod

Location: Woodbury Days festival

Category: Places

Award: Second Place