Plymouth October/November 2020

PREP ELITES

Compassion, hard work and tenacity are keys to students’ success

Plus: Plymouth 13-year-old “visits” River City in The Music Man

$15 admission for non-members

Photo by Roger Smallbeck

Welcome Back to Nature!

All Gardens, Trails and Collections Now Open for Visitors

See the colors of fall throughout 1200 acres Experience the magic of over 29,000 plants in the Annual Garden Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst world-class art in the Harrison Sculpture Garden Discover Minnesota agriculture at the new Farm at the Arb And, visit the AppleHouse for apples, pumpkins and gourds galore!

Photo by Erica E Photography

Reservations required at z.umn.edu/ArbTickets

3675 Arboretum Drive | Chanhassen | 612-624-2200 | arboretum.umn.edu

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CONTENTS PAGE

10 OCT/NOV ’20 “He’s categorically a triple threat. He sings.

He acts. He dances.

That’s rare for a child actor,” says Michael Brindisi, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre’s artistic director.

in every issue 4 EDITOR’S LETTER 6 NOTEWORTHY 26 ON THE TOWN 30 TASTEMAKERS 32 LAST GLANCE

departments 1 0 ART & CULTURE

Triple Threat

Plymouth 13-yearold “visits” River City in The Music Man.

1 2 TASTE

Change of Menu An expert explains how nutritional needs alter over time.

1 4 DOING GOOD

For the Birds

A local resident comes to the rescue.

features 18

Compassion, hard work and tenacity are keys to students’ success.

PHOTO BY LUCAS WELLS

Prep Elites

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If we’ve learned anything this year, it’s don’t wait to celebrate. Let’s have a little pomp and circumstance now and enjoy our annual Prep Elite feature. Each year, we ask local high school officials to nominate incoming seniors, who best exemplify or represent their respective schools. In turn, we review the nominations and chose four students to spotlight in our pages.

While the process is never easy—the nominated students each possess their own brands of talent, aptitude and downright impressive attitudes. We were particularly impressed with what some officials had to say about these students: “Sarah [Cao’s] teachers comment on her drive, motivation, work ethic and care and compassion for her fellow students. They emphasize that she listens intently, works meticulously, delights Follow us ! in learning and is a joy to teach,” says Debbie See what we’re doing behind the Kimlinger, counselor at Wayzata High School. scenes and around town!

“As impressive as Evan [Dimich] is as a stuplymouthmag.com dent and athlete, what amazes me most is how Plymouth Magazine @plymouthmag he treats others. This is where I see him posi@plymouth_mag tively contribute to the community firsthand,” says John Knutson, varsity golf coach and social studies teacher at Armstrong High School. “[Merlyn Mayer] has been a great ambassador for the school with her positive attitude and kind demeanor that is displayed to everyone she has met. Merlyn is a fine Christian example that reflects West Lutheran’s [mission],” says Phil Meitner, teacher at West Lutheran High School.

“Mae [Monette] has developed into a tenacious student, possessed of strong motivation, intellectual vitality and instinctive creativity, phenomenal musicality, combined with the humility of a saint,” says Sarah Hogan, college counselor at Providence Academy.

Turn to page 18, and learn more about Evan and Mae, Merlyn and Sarah, who reflect on impactful high school influences and foreshadow their futures with three simple words.

Until next time,

Renée Stewart-Hester, editor plymouthmag@tigeroak.com

PLYMOUTH MAGAZINE

@

Contact Katie Freemark

612.270.9339 katie.freemark@tigeroak.com

ON THE COVER

PREP ELITES

Compassion, hard work and tenacity are keys to students’ success

Sarah Cao page 18 TATE CARLSON

Plus: Plymouth 13-year-old “visits” River City in The Music Man

PHOTO BY TATE CARLSON

THE PERFECT GIFT

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Gentle & effective care...so you can enjoy life…and live well!

We have Expanded Our Service to include 3 Doctors! [ VOL. 17

NO. 4 ]

plymouthmag.com

publisher

SUSAN ISAY

editor RENÉE STEWART-HESTER

managing editor ANGELA JOHNSON associate editor HAILEY ALMSTED

digital editor ANTHONY BETTIN contributors MIRIAM RACHEL NEWMAN

staff writers

editorial interns

Chiropractic

Massage Therapy

•

•

Acupuncture

editorial advisory board STUART ADELMAN, Artelle Designs ELIZABETH COHEN, Studio M ANN MARIE GROCHOLSK, AMG Photography DEB SAKRY LANDE, Interfaith Outreach EMILIE KASTNER, City of Plymouth AMY PARNELL, Wayzata Public Schools

senior managing art director

art director

lead staff photographer

DANA BEDINGFIELD AVA DIAZ MADELINE KOPIECKI FEROZA MEHTA NINA RAEMONT VIVIAN SHINALL KATELYN STORCH

production coordinator

SARAH DOVOLOS EMILY HANDY TATE CARLSON ALEX KOTLAREK

20

763-420-8595 7237 Forestview Lane N. • Maple Grove, MN 55369

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production director BRITTANI DYE

project coordinators ANGELA BEISSEL DEIDRA ANDERSON

senior account executives BROOKE BEISE KATIE FREEMARK CYNTHIA HAMRE SARA JOHNSON digital marketing manager

credit manager accounting

president and ceo chief operating officer

KRISTIN MASTANTUONO APRIL MCCAULEY JARED LAWSON

R. CRAIG BEDNAR SUSAN ISAY

Plymouth Magazine

ONE TIGER OAK PLAZA 900 SOUTH THIRD STREET MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55415 612.548.3180 SUBSCRIPTIONS: Plymouth Magazine is published 6 times a year. Rates $12 for 6 issues.

Back issues $5.95. ©Tiger Oak Media Inc. 2020.

All rights reserved.

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NOTEWORTHY

A GOOD GOLDEN RULE If you have a yellow leaf, there’s typically a watering issue. If you have brown leaves, that’s tends to tell you there’s a light or heat issue.

PHOTO BY TATE CARLSON

W H A T ’ S G O I N G O N I N P LY M O U T H

6 | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020

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GROW

Caring for houseplants is easier than you think.

S

urround yourself with nature, even when you’re indoors. Houseplants can have benefits beyond their beauty.

Plants increase oxygen in the air, work as natural air purifiers and can also raise indoor humidity levels to help decrease incidences of dry skin and virus transmission. Plants can also be mood boosting! But many people fret over how best to care for houseplants, so we curated some easy-to-follow plant-care advice.

WATERING Many people over water. Experts recommend letting plants dry out between watering. The best way to check that information is to stick your finger into the soil, and see what’s happening beneath the surface. Is the soil cool and moist, or does the soil feel dry? Generally, when you feel the soil is dry, you want to give your plants a good soaking.

LIGHTING Keep plants in a bright area but out of direct sunlight. Most of the houseplants you see around here don’t need a hot sun. They don’t tolerate southfacing windows as well as they do when they’re backed out of it.

REPOTTING Plants are like people. If you move into a house with too much room, you might become stressed rather than if you move into a place with the right amount of space.

Most plants like to be comfortable in their pot. Let them get tight before moving.

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Our entire staff has completed advanced training to become Fear Free Certified. We are trained to recognize stress and fear in our patients and we use special techniques, including lots of treats, to make visits more comfortable for everyone.

Making Veterinary Visits Less Stressful

Tip: Don’t be overly alarmed if the top of the plant goes into shock after it’s been repotted. It’s most likely redirecting resources to rebuilding a strong root system before turning its attention back to the top leaves.—adapted from a story in St. Croix Valley Magazine by Madeline Kopiecki

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N OT E WO RT H Y

SIP

CREATE

ART FAIR GOES VIRTUAL Some say art is in the eye of the beholder, but it might also be in the heart of your browser.

For the first time since its inception eight years ago, the Plymouth Art Fair is going virtual due to—you guessed it—COVID-19. From November 20 through December 11, the city will act as virtual host of the fair, directing viewers to artists’ websites, where they can view and purchase items of their liking.

The annual event allows artists to showcase, demonstrate and sell their original artwork. Typically an in-person event at the Plymouth Creek Center, paintings, photography, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, clothing/accessories, household items and more by about 30 local and regional artists.

In addition, Alyssa Fram, recreation supervisor,

Join cider and wine for a warm autumnal beverage.

If a trip to an apple orchard yields a sweetly tart purchase of apple cider, be sure to save some for a batch of “drunken” cider.

noted that the city plans to offer other online events with the Plymouth Arts Council during the run of the art fair.

This year’s event is sponsored by Kyle Vitense State Farm and TCF Bank.

Visit plymouthmn.gov for more information.

Hot Spiced Drunken Apple Cider • 1/2 gallon apple cider • 3/4 bottle of Gewurztraminer (or other white wine, which is not too dry) • 4 to 5 cinnamon sticks • 4 to 5 cloves • 1/4 tsp. nutmeg • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise • 3 to 4 Tbsp. honey • 1 cup fresh cranberries (or apple cubes)

Put the cider and spices in a pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes. When on low heat, add the wine. Do not boil again, so the alcohol won’t evaporate too much; just let it warm. Add the cranberries, and simmer for a few more minutes until they color the liquid a bit.

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the art fair features

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Pet doors now open!

DISCOVER

THE PLYMOUTH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OFFERS VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING. The Plymouth Historical Society is explor-

In addition, plans are moving forward

ing new ways to engage our community

with a digital-born oral history project,

during this historic time. As we enter cooler

hosted via Zoom.

months, we are planning a range of digital

Though life may be transitioning in

activities, including a monthly virtual open

many unanticipated ways, we are excited

house, which will feature highlights of

for the resulting creativity in finding

Plymouth’s history, give updates on projects

alternative means to keep us all con-

occurring around the museum and feature

nected and continue to discover, preserve

collection items of interest.

and share the historical knowledge of

On October 10, we will host a tour of

Dr. Sharon Golden Monday–Friday 9am to 6pm Located in Wayzata’s Colonial Square 952-767-0746 | goldenvetcare.com

Plymouth. More details regarding upcom-

Parker’s Lake Cemetery with a virtual tour

ing events can be found at

option. The tour will discuss the history of

plymouthmnhistoricalsociety.org.

the site, connections to the Parker family and notable Plymouth figures honored within it.

Rebekah Coffman, Plymouth Historical Society

READ

KEEP THE LIGHTS ON WHILE YOU READ. This time of year, many readers find themselves reaching for spooky reads or at least spookier than they’d normally seek.

The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James is a sophisticated ghost story, as well as a compelling story of two young women, two decades apart, seeking justice for those whose voices have been silenced.

The danger the women encounter as they dig into old

PRE K – 6TH GRADE

crimes and the relationships that form as a result keep the reader

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riveted until the very end. This page-turning novel is the perfect balance of being spooky and thought-provoking.

Just consider yourself forewarned: Keep the lights on while you read.

Raela Schoenherr is an editor at a Minnesota publishing company. She loves discussing books and writing on Twitter at @raelaschoenherr.

Join our award winning school and vibrant community.

763-545-4285 • gsgvschool.org 145 Jersey Ave S. Golden Valley, MN 55426

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D E PA R T M E N T S

|

A R T & C U LT U R E

Triple Threat

Plymouth 13-year-old “visits” River City in The Music Man.

BY AVA DIAZ PHOTO

BY DAN NORMAN

NO DREAM IS TOO BIG. No challenge is too great and, for 13-year-old Plymouth resident Hugo Mullaney, he’s ready to make them a reality. With a passion for performing arts, Hugo landed the role as Winthrop Paroo in the Meredith Willson classic, The Music Man, at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (CDT). This is his third professional gig, but his first role for CDT. (Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the production was temporarily halted. Performances are slated to resume late fall or early winter.) “He is so [self-motivated] and so self-driven. It is just a dream for him, and he is making it happen,” says Hugo’s mother, Amelia Mullaney.

Hugo’s family moved from Great Britain to North

Carolina and, eventually, Minnesota. Crediting his strong interest in performing arts to his exposure to Minnesota’s diverse art scene, Hugo says he would not be where he is now if is family didn’t move to this area.

“I like musical theatre because I love dancing so much.

There is such an energy when I dance, and you can tell a story through it,” he says.

Starting his acting career as an 8-year-old, Hugo has starred in shows at Bluewater Theatre, Wayzata High School and the Children’s Theatre Company.

Training vigorously throughout the year, Hugo takes tap dancing classes, receives voice lessons and attends acting camps as a way to perfect and learn new skill sets

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Pain relief without addictive drugs! outside of his work in each show. “He’s categorically a triple threat. He sings. He acts. He dances. That’s rare for a child actor,” says Michael Brindisi, CDT’s artistic director. Though Hugo’s role in The Music Man doesn’t feature strong dancing and speaking parts, Brindisi says that his acting skills are “superb,” making for an intriguing performance.

With a professional role comes an intense schedule. Due to his prominent character, Hugo often misses school to attend practice. However, he says that he communicates with his teachers to make sure his academic workload meets core academic requirements.

“I think that he is really happy when he is on stage. It’s like someone is switching on a light. He is alive and proud to be on the stage,” Mullaney says. “When you see that energy, it is a bit infectious, especially when it's someone that you love.” “[My husband Ian and I] are both incredibly proud of [Hugo],” Mullaney says. “It is surreal sometimes seeing him do what he does because he makes it look so easy. It is very natural for him. It is a part of his DNA.” Hugo aspires to make it to Broadway, but, for now, this rising star plans to focus on his progress one show at a time. “I just want to grow and train to get better," he says. “I think it is only up from here.”

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D E PA R T M E N T S

|

TA S T E

Change of Menu An expert explains how nutritional needs alter over time.

NUTRITIONAL HEALTH ISN’T A ONE-STOP-SHOP PROPOSITION. While we alter diets for children and

teens for proper growth and development, how many of us understand the importance of adjusting food intake as we age? For advice, we turned to Toni Swanson, RDN, CSG, LD, registered dietitian/nutritionist at Plymouth's Trillium Woods, a senior living community.

BY RENÉE STEWARTHESTER PHOTO

BY TATE CARLSON

WHY DO NUTRITIONAL NEEDS CHANGE? TS: Our calorie needs decrease as people age due to a decrease in metabolism rate from a decrease in lean body mass. We experience a decrease in immune function, hearing function, stomach acid secretion and gastric emptying. This leads to a decrease in appetite and absorption of nutrients. Older adults also experience a decrease in pancreatic enzymes and liver function (the liver size actually decreases).

Furthermore, adults ages 55 and older often have a reduced number of taste cells from the salivary glands. This decrease, along with an accompanying increase in medications, can change flavor recognition and make foods unappetizing.

Additionally, a person’s level of physical activity typically decreases with age, which affects weight management, blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, and even cognitive and emotional functioning.

WHAT FOODS SHOULD BE LIMITED? According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015-2020, everyone should limit intake of saturated and trans fats, added sugars and sodium.

ARE FROZEN MEALS A GOOD OPTION? On one hand, they can be a good source of protein and

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vegetables, but on the other hand, it’s important to watch the sodium content, to ensure you’re staying below the Dietary Guidelines’ recommended 2,300 milligrams or less of sodium per day. I have found that Healthy Choice Café Steamers are the best options for lower sodium, yet balanced meals.

HOW MANY MEALS A DAY? It may be tempting to skip a meal here and there, but older adults should stick to three to six meals per day to help maintain the metabolism rate, as well as meeting calorie and nutrient needs.

LET'S TALK DINNING OUT. Most restaurants have their menu posted online, so you can look at your options ahead of time ... It is always great to split a meal at a restaurant since the portion sizes tend [to be larger than] what we actually need.

Don’t have someone to share with? Ask to get half of your meal in a doggy bag.

HOW ABOUT WATER ...

The goal for water intake at any age is 8-10 glasses of water per day ... Drink water and other beverages on a schedule ... Add flavor to your water, including low- or no-calorie sweetener; fruit (limes, lemons, oranges or strawberries); spices (rosemary, cinnamon or mint); and vegetables (cucumbers).

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... AND ALCOHOL INTAKE? At any age, but particularly for older adults, moderation is key. This means two glasses of wine or beer for men per day and one glass of wine or beer for women per day.

WHAT ABOUT MALNUTRITION? According to the National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging, half of older adults are at risk for malnutrition, which can lead to more falls, complications and hospital readmissions.

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D E PA R T M E N T S

|

DOING GOOD

For the Birds A local resident comes to the rescue.

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Your Full Service

Garden and Landscape Resource Center

WHY PARROTS? WS: I volunteered for another parrot rescue. There are a tremendous amount of parrots needing new homes. Parrots are incredibly smart. It’s frequently said they have the temperament of a 2-yearold with the intelligence of a 5- or 6-yearold. Having a parrot is like living with a perpetual toddler.

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WHAT HELP IS OFFERED? [We help] psittacines (parrots) mostly, but occasionally [we] take in passerines, doves and pigeons. We recently took in a red-legged partridge. We are a fosterbased, all-volunteer nonprofit and do not have public hours. In addition to adoption, we help current owners with behavior issues, and we do programs at schools and nursing homes. We also take birds to vet tech schools for hands-on experience.

WHAT DO PARROTS NEED O BE HAPPY AND HEALTHY? In addition to toys and socialization, they require a high-quality pelleted diet, along with vegetables, some fruit and nuts.

WHY DO PARROTS COME INTO YOUR CARE? Because they live so long, they frequently outlive their owners. Other reasons for surrender are a new baby, allergies, retiring, aggression and biting, and the bird being jealous of a new boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse … Small parrots can live 25 years, large parrots up to 80 years. People buy these wonderful creatures not realizing how time consuming they can be. They

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WENDY STEVENS is president of Plymouthbased parrothelp.com, which launched in 2010. Its PHOTOS mission is “to help educate

BY CHRIS EMEOTT the public and offer support to the owners of these beautiful creatures in hopes that with our help, these birds may remain in their home and experience a rich healthy and fulfilling life.” The organization also does surrender and adoption.

BY MIRIAMRACHEL NEWMAN

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DOING GOOD

|

CONTINUED

16 | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020

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LIVE SAFE AND CONFIDENT CALL US TODAY! 763-550-0333 • cornerstoneal.org are wild animals, not domesticated.

They are loud, messy and destructive.

They need a constant supply of wood to chew, foraging toys [and] perches. They will eat your wood trim, or furniture or cabinets if left unattended.

HOW MANY PARROTS ARE GENERALLY IN FOSTER CARE? It varies greatly. [At the time of the interview, there were about 25 in care.] We also offer direct placement, where the bird continues to live with its family while we look for a home. This works well for a lot of people that need to rehome but don’t want to advertise and interview people themselves. This also helps keep our [foster families] from being overwhelmed.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD FOSTER HOME? We are looking for people that love animals. We don’t require previous parrot experience, but it’s a plus. We also need homes willing to work with aggressive behaviors.

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WHY ADOPT A PARROT? Parrots can make wonderful companions. They are smart, funny and social.

WHAT SHOULD ONE CONSIDER BEFORE GETTING A PARROT? Parrots can be highly destructive, extremely loud and bite. They require time out of their cage and like to be with their family. Cages take up a lot of real estate, as do play stands, trees and hanging play areas … People often ask, “Does it talk?” Some do, some don’t.

HOW ELSE CAN PEOPLE HELP? Toys, perches and food are always needed. Toys can be purchased or hand made.

Cash is always welcome … We can always use people willing to help with transport of donated cages and transport of parrots.

parrothelp.com; 612.208.2203

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[ P R EP ELIT ES ] COMPASSION, HARD WORK AND TENACITY ARE KEYS TO STUDENTS’ SUCCESS. For students, this time of year brims with new beginnings and fresh challenges. As seniors in high school embark on months of endings and “lasts,” they, too, are preparing for a new transition after high school.

Before it’s time to don the mortarboards, let’s take a moment to give a tip of the hat to this year’s Prep Elite students, who were among students nominated by their schools and chosen by our editorial team.

Written by Renée Stewart-Hester

Photos by Tate Carlson

SARAH CAO WAYZATA HIGH SCHOOL “Sarah’s teachers comment on her drive, motivation, work ethic and care and compassion for her fellow students. They emphasize that she listens intently, works meticulously, delights in learning and is a joy to teach … [Sarah] is a well-rounded student, who exemplifies the mission and values of Wayzata High School. She is a member of the state champion synchronized swim team and also earned individual state champion honors.

She is captain of the swimming and diving team and has achieved All State honors for her performance. She served as a senate member on the Student Council in 9th and 10th grades and was voted vice president this year.

Sarah is a member of the National Honor Society, assists freshmen as a Link Crew leader and engages in the Youth Extending Service Club, earning the Presidential Gold Award in 9th–11th grades. She serves as the DECA vice president of finance and placed third at internationals her sophomore year. To stand out in a school of 3,800 students is a monumental challenge; Sarah Cao has done just that.” – Debbie Kimlinger, school counselor

WHAT OR WHO INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST DURING HIGH SCHOOL? Although stereotypical, my mother has undoubtedly influenced me the most throughout my time in high school. My mom has always given me the freedom to make my own decisions and learn from my own mistakes.

Without that independence to take my own initiatives, I would not be where I am today. On top of pushing me to take ownership of my own goals, I know that, at the end of the day, she’ll always be one of my most steadfast supporters. – S.C.

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Your future in three words:

FULFILLING PURPOSEFUL HAPPY

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MERLYN MAYER WEST LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL “In addition to being an amazing student in the classroom with a 3.8 GPA, [Merlyn] also plays volleyball and is the manager of the girls’ basketball team. She has been a great ambassador for the school with her positive attitude and kind demeanor that is displayed to everyone she has met. Merlyn is a fine Christian example that reflects West Lutheran’s [mission]. She is active in her church and school communities, and her willingness to help people is evident in all she does.

I have been a teacher of Merlyn’s for two years, and I have witnessed her growth as an individual and seen first-hand her positive interactions with the West Lutheran community ...” – Phil Meitner, teacher

WHAT INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST DURING HIGH SCHOOL? My freshman year at West Lutheran, I wanted to be on the basketball team, but I was unable to because of a knee injury. The [junior varsity] coach suggested that I become a team manager. Although it was not exactly what I had in mind, I would come to realize that the team is a body, and each member has an important role in sustaining it. That concept can also be brought into any situation where each person’s abilities are valuable, and I will take that with me into the future. – M.M.

Your future in three words:

STEWARDSHIP REFLECTIVE DEPENDABLE

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Your future in three words:

INNOVATIVE ENTREPRENEUR HAPPINESS

PHOTO BY MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY

EVAN DIMICH ROBBINSDALE ARMSTRONG HIGH SCHOOL “Evan maintains a 4.0 GPA while taking challenging courses such as AP calculus, enriched chemistry and AP U.S. history … I know the hard work Evan puts forth, often doing several hours of homework at night … Evan’s hard work and leadership are also evident in athletics. He is a member of Armstrong’s varsity hockey and golf teams …

Having Evan on the team is almost like having another coach. Evan is a strong leader of the team and was voted captain by his peers following his sophomore year. He is often the first to arrive and last to leave practice. He is inclusive of others, especially our younger players, in practice, games and competitions. His hard work leads to success as Evan was named all-conference following his sophomore season ... As impressive as Evan is as a student and athlete, what amazes me most is how he treats others. This is where I see him positively contribute to the community firsthand.” – John Knutson, varsity golf coach and social studies teacher

WHAT INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST DURING HIGH SCHOOL? During the summer prior to my junior year at Armstrong, I attended the National Student Leadership Conference at the University of CaliforniaBerkeley. This [nine-day] conference was a mix of engineering and leadership courses, workshops and lectures ... Not only did I learn a lot about engineering and leadership, but this conference also helped me [get] out of my comfort zone in a college setting. It forced me to spend time with people I had never met before and built relationships that I hope will last a lifetime. – E.D.

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MAE MONETTE PROVIDENCE ACADEMY

“Mae Monette is among the most poised students at Providence, likely due in part to the fact that she has been a decorated musician for much of her years, devoting several hours per week to her musical endeavors (vocal and​ instrumental) ... Mae has developed into a tenacious student, possessed of strong motivation, intellectual vitality and instinctive creativity, phenomenal musicality, combined with the humility of a saint. What is remarkable about her accomplishments … is that she maintains a genuinely selfless demeanor and tutors her peers in several areas, including Spanish (she is also fluent in Japanese), English and history. Mae’s contributions as a golf captain, Theater Council member (veteran cast member), as well as a student ambassador with our Admissions Department, only add to her layers … Mae divides her summers between enrichment experiences, most recently at the University of Chicago, studying neuroscience, and time visiting family in her mother’s home country of Japan, where she has served as a teaching assistant in local schools. Mae [planned]to travel this summer to Costa Rica to conduct in-depth research with our science faculty and Seeds of Change ...” – Sarah Hogan, college counselor

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CHANGE BEAUTY FOREVER

Getting safer products into the hands of everyone.

Your future in three words:

SUCCESS HAPPY MEANINGFUL

BAND OF BEAUTY MEMBERSHIP

$29 annual fee; get free shipping on purchases over $100; 10% credit toward future purchases and free welcome gift. beautycounter.com/angelakauch @angelakauch | ang88@comcast.net * Beautycounter now offers an installment payment option through Klarna, reach out to learn more. Holiday gift sets will be available soon for the holiday season.

Matt Duff DVM Chalaine Morrow DVM Barbara Arend DVM Callyssa Cronick DVM Eileen Mesa DVM

WHAT INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST DURING HIGH SCHOOL? During my freshman year, I was able to perform at the North Central/Central ACDA Regional Convention in Chicago with my school’s chamber choir ... It taught me the importance of hard work in an ensemble. I had to learn to work with upperclassmen, [who] I did not know, which was hard at first.

However, the work that we put in preparing our songs paid off at the concert. It was rewarding to perform at such a great venue, and it was amazing to be able to listen to other incredible choirs. – M.M.

Top rated veterinary practice in the Plymouth area for over 30 years!

Dental Care • Emergency and Critical Care Immunization and Wellness Care • Microchipping Nutritional Counseling • Pain Management • Surgery • Ultrasound Chiropractic and Acupuncture Care • A Lifetime of Care

3900 Vinewood Lane Suite 16 | Plymouth, MN 55441 rrahospital.com | 763.559.7554 PLYMOUTHMAG.COM | 25

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ON THE TOWN W H A T ’ S G O I N G O N N E A R P LY M O U T H

RACHEL NADEAU

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We are devoted to the physical and psychological wellfare of every patient. Using low-stress handling techniques, we provide your pet with the best medical care in a fearfree setting.

Day Trip to Delano

7000 E. Fish Lake Rd • vcamaplegrove.com • 763.420.7958

Head to Apple Jack Orchards for a fun-filled, activitypacked day.

A

re you looking for a family activity in the fresh fall air? A day trip to Delano may be just what you need. Apple Jack Orchards has you covered with activities and apple picking that can create fun, fall memories.

This self-titled “one stop shop for all things fall,” lives up to its name when you consider the extensive list of things to do. Boasting 20 different apple varieties, you’re sure to find your favorite as you move through the sprawling rows of apple trees to pick your own fruit. Orchardgoers can enjoy everything from the classic Honeycrisp to unusual finds like the Chestnut Crab apple.

For kids (and kids at heart), there’s little possibility of boredom. Go on a wagon ride, jump on the giant jumping pillow, dive into the corn pit, get lost in the apple maze or pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. There’s even an option for thrill-seekers, who can take a ride on newly installed zip lines.

Don’t skip the gift shop. Grab some of Apple Jack’s signature salsas and other apple specialties, or warm up with some of the orchard’s bestselling apple cinnamon donuts (best enjoyed outside overlooking the scenic Crow River).

—Vivian Shinall

* Dr. Corey Jensen*, Dr. Jennifer Betrand, Dr. Brett Moore**

**

Be sure to call ahead, or visit the orchard’s website for any changes in hours or events.

Built on a Foundation of Excellence, Artistry and Comfort.

* Apple Jack Orchards 4875 37th St. SE, Delano; applejackorchards.com; 763.972.6673 applejackorchards

Apple Jack Orchards

3475 Plymouth Boulevard, Ste 100, Plymouth, MN 55447 763.537.1238 | smiledesigndentistry.com Convenient appointments: 7:30 am - 7:00 pm and Saturdays

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O N T H E TOW N

11 The Wedding Fair

From florists to photographers, DJs to dresses, all your wedding needs can be met. All ages. Tickets $20.

Noon–4 p.m. 1302 Second Ave. S., Mpls.; 763.529.1900; mnweddingguide.com

On Halloween eve, monster mash your way into a Halloween celebration at the Plymouth Creek Center. Dress in your best costume, and enjoy festivities, ranging from carnival games to enticing treats, all while celebrating the spookiest time of the year.

OCTOBER 30 All ages. Prices vary. Plymouth Creek Center, 14800 34th Ave. N.; plymouthmn.gov

OCTOBER / ONLINE

20 LGBT Career Fair

Connect with companies in the Twin Cities area that celebrate a diverse workplace. The list of businesses and community organizers participating in this event will be released two weeks prior to the event. All ages. Free. 5–7 p.m. chris@ chaleurcreative.com; chaleurcreative.com

24 Annual Bloom Event

Bloom provides moms (new parents or expecting) with support and education and is presented by Twin Cities Mom Collective, Breck School, Park Nicollet, HealthPartners and City Mom Collective. Moms of all ages. $24–100. 10–11:30 a.m. amanda@twincitiesmom.com; twincitiesmom.com

OCTOBER / IN-PERSON

4, 11, 18, 25 Happy Tails Rescue Adoption Events Come see adorable dogs and cats up for adoption, and bring a home walkthrough video in case you find the perfect addition to your family.

All ages. Free. Noon–5 p.m. Happy Tails Rescue, 7940 University Ave. NE, Fridley; 612.588.0188; dogs@ tailsrescue.org; tailsrescue.org

10 Craft and Gift Show

Peruse local handiworks, all while picking out the perfect holiday gifts for the ones you love. All ages.

Free. Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Road, Maple Grove; cadybethshows.com

Sip your way through the best of the bloody Mary’s the Twin Cities has to offer. Tickets include all participating bloody Mary’s, provisions from participating companies and one vote for The People’s Choice Award.

Ages 21 and up. Prices vary. Time varies. Union Depot, 214 Fourth St. E., St. Paul; thebloodymaryfest.com

17 Witchcraft and Wizardry Get together six friends, and put on your cloaks to solve a spell-binding mystery. You’ll work as fast as you can to crack clues, solve puzzles and save the realm. It’s all the fun of an escape room but outside! All ages. $48 per team (kids play free). Start anytime between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Secret start location to be revealed; cluedupp.com

25 The Grand Tasting

The Sixth Annual Whiskey on Ice celebration offers 300 whiskeys from around the world. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served, and you’ll be able to purchase your favorite varities at the end of the night for a discounted price. Ages 21 and up. General Ticket $100, Designated Driver Ticket $30. Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot, 225 Third Ave. S., Mpls.; whiskeyonicemn@ gmail.com; whiskeyonicemn.com

Due to the fluidity being experienced in the current environment, please note that some events/dates and even some business operations may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit plymouthmag.com for updates.

ISTOCK.COM/SOLSTOCK

Halloween at the Creek

16-17 Bloody Mary Fest

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COMPILED BY NINA RAEMONT, VIVIAN SHINALL AND KATELYN STORCH

Yoga + Cerveza = Calma October 7, 14, 21, 28 6:15-7:15 P.M. Join fellow beer and yoga enthusiasts at this weekly event for a fun, social way to unwind.

Led by meditation guide and wellness coach Annie Hayes, this class is for any level of experience. This will be held outdoors with COVID-19 safety practices.

La Doña Cervecería, 241 Fremont Ave. N., Mpls. dameladona.com

31 Halloween Spooktacular

Go at your own pace at this 5k walk/run event, and finish off with a crisp cold one (non-alcoholic beverages available). A portion of the ticket sales will go to helping local nonprofits. Enjoy food trucks, local venders and exclusive merchandise sold at the event. All ages. Tickets range from $30–$100. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Fulton Brewing Taproom, 414 N. Sixth Ave., Mpls.; 612.333.3208; fultonbeer.com

31 Halloween Race

Feel the Halloween spirit in this alllevels race—costumes encouraged. The course will offer striking views of the Mississippi River, Mill City and the Stone Arch Bridge. All ages. Ticket prices vary. 8:30–11:30 a.m. Stone Arch Bridge and St. Anthony Falls, 500 Main St. SE, Mpls.; minneapolishalloweenhalf.com

TO HAVE YOUR EVENT CONSIDERED email plymouthmag@tigeroak.com by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

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TA S T E M A K E R S

BY EDITORIAL STAFF PHOTOS BY TATE CARLSON

As the sun and the moon trade spots in the Halloween sky, many streets and neighborhoods teem with adorably-costumed, candy-seeking kids; teens eager for sweets (but less inclined to don a costume); and parents, many of whom relish escorting their kids on the annual candy rounds.

If you don’t have trick or treating-age kids, don’t worry. Head on out! For adults, Halloween is turning into a progressive party of sorts—the last chance for houseto-house visits before snow and cold separates neighbors until the spring thaw.

If you’re feeling Halloween hospitality vibes, our goody-loving editorial team pulled together some sweet treats and beverages for you to offer your neighbors. Set up an outdoor food and beverage table, fire up a portable fire pit (safely, of course), and take a seat on your driveway or yard for a front row view of Halloween 2020.

Monster Cupcakes (Contributed by Beth Hill of Woodbury and adapted from Ghoulish Goodies: Creature Feature Cupcakes, Monster Eyeballs, Bat Wings, Funny Bones, Witches’ Knuckles, and Much More! by Sharon Bowers) Cupcakes: • 1 1/2 cups flour • 1 tsp. baking powder • ¼ tsp. salt • 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice • ½ cup butter • 3/4 cup sugar • ½ cup canned pumpkin puree • ½ cup buttermilk • 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Zombtini

House-to-House Hospitality

HOMEMADE HALLOWEEN TREATS FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

Ingredients for assembly: • 1 container cream cheese frosting, colored with green paste food coloring • 18 large marshmallows • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips • 18 pretzel sticks • chocolate sprinkles or other candy for faces Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 18 muffin pan cups with paper liners.

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Monster Cupcakes

Sift flour, baking powder, salt and pump-

• grenadine

Mix center ingredients, and kneed well.

kin pie spice into a medium bowl, and set

• ice

Roll into balls or small logs, and place in

aside. Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl

• plastic eyeball for garnish

the freezer. Melt the caramel ingredients

with an electric mixer until smooth. Beat

together, and dip the frozen balls/logs into

in the eggs on at a time. Blend in pumpkin

Combine ice, rum, melon liqueur and juice

the caramel. Roll them in salted, blanched

puree, buttermilk and vanilla. With mixer

in a martini shaker, and shake well.

peanuts. Place on waxed paper to set.

on low speed, add the flour mixture; blend

Pour into a martini glass (2/3 full), and add

until combined. Spoon the batter into lin-

Sprite. Drizzle grenadine over the top with

ers. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a cake

a spoon. Add (but don’t eat!) the eyeball.

tester inserted into the center of the cupcakes comes out clean. Cool, and assemble.

Caramel Apple Bites

Salted Nut Rolls (Contributed by Renée Stewart-Hester) Center

• Knudsen’s hand-wrapped caramels,

• 2 lbs. powdered sugar

sliced into fourths

Skewer several apple cubes with a piece

(Pinterest) For guests who’d rather have a sip than a bite, offer this easy-to-mix nod to a classic Minnesota candy bar.

• 3/4 part RumChata liqueur • 1/4 part butterscotch schnapps

(Kowalski’s Markets)

• 2 apples, cored and cubed

Salted Nut Roll Shot

• salt

• 2/3 cup corn syrup

Dip the top of a shot glass in salt or sprin-

• 2/3 cup butter, melted

kle some in the glass, and add in the liqueur

• 2 tsp. salt

and schnapps.

• 2 tsp. vanilla

of caramel on four-inch bamboo skewers

Spooky Spiked Halloween Punch

Caramel

(Conservamome.com)

• 12 oz. peanut butter chips

• 1 cup orange soda

• 2/3 cup corn syrup

• 1/3 cup pinot grigio

(Contributed by Cindy Erickson

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 1 scoop vanilla bean ice cream

of Woodbury)

• ¼ cup butter

or party picks. Serve immediately.

Zombtini • 1 oz. white rum

Combine the wine and ice cream in a glass.

• 2 oz. melon liqueur

Coating

• 1 oz. 100 percent pineapple juice

• peanuts, blanched and salted

Add orange soda, and stir together.

• ½ oz. Sprite

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LAST GLANCE

Girl Power This high kick gets the top choice.

FIRST PLACE Activities & Events

BY RENÉE STEWARTHESTER

HI-YAH! BY REBECCA SHAMBLIN

placed first in the Activities and Events category of our annual photo contest.

“The subject is my daughter, Bellatrix Shamblin, age 5 at the time,” Shamblin says. “She is a student at the Plymouth National Karate school … I’ve been doing martial arts for PHOTO BY REBECCA SHAMBLIN

years, so it’s been a thrill to see her enjoy karate classes and participate in tournaments with me.”

The photo was taken with a Sony a7 III mirrorless camera and a Sony 55mm prime lens with natural lighting.

“My favorite place in Plymouth to take photos is in my own studio, but I also enjoy shooting at [Clifton E. French Regional Park] and Parkers

Lake, especially for fall colors,” Shamblin says. “I specialize in newborn portraits and love photographing babies of all ages. My own children are my most important subjects, and they are very patient with me as I constantly pull out the camera. Bellatrix has actually started requesting that I take her photo when she notices a pretty background or golden hour lighting—a little photographer in training.”

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CANCER’S NOT CANCELED. Give today.

The pandemic is changing everything. But it’s not stopping the fight against cancer. When you give to the Cancer Kids Fund at Children’s Minnesota, you help local families keep fighting. Your gift supports everything from unique therapies to life-saving research to mortgage and rent relief during a time when more families need your help. Your gift today is more important than ever.

Thank you to the 30+ businesses that partnered with Children’s Minnesota in September to raise funds for our cancer and blood disorders program. childrensMN.org/shinebrightforkids

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