Eagan, MN November 2024

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FOOD + BEVERAGE

A HIDDEN TREASURE IN PLAIN SIGHT

LOCAL SERVICES

LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

EDUCATION

BUILDING IT SKILLS FOR TOMORROW

ARTS + CULTURE

HEALING THROUGH ART

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"Express gratitude for the greatness of small things.”

Richie Norton

As we approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season, it's a perfect time to reflect on the things that make our local community so special. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the everyday blessings around us, but our community is full of them. From the friendly faces of neighbors who greet us warmly to the small businesses that bring unique charm to our town, there's much to be thankful for.

Local businesses play an essential role in creating a sense of place. Whether it’s the local café where baristas know your order by heart, the boutique shops that offer one-of-a-kind finds, or the family-owned restaurants serving up comfort food, these establishments are the heartbeat of our community. Supporting them not only enriches our lives but also helps keep our city vibrant and connected.

We're also fortunate to have residents who care deeply about the well-being of others. Volunteers step up year-round, but especially during the holidays, to ensure that everyone has something to celebrate. Whether it's organizing food drives, helping at shelters, or simply lending a hand to a neighbor in need, the spirit of giving thrives here in Eagan and Mendota Heights.

Finally, the beauty of our surroundings adds to our gratitude. The parks, trails, and natural spaces offer a peaceful respite where families can come together to enjoy the season's beauty. These spaces are not just amenities but gifts that we can appreciate throughout the year.

As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to be thankful for the community we call home. It’s the people, places, and shared experiences that make it truly special.

As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (amy.sousa@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.

November 2024

PUBLISHER

Amy Sousa | Amy.Sousa@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Matt Sousa | matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Madeline O'Neil | madeline.oneil@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com

STAFF WRITER

Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com

COPY EDITOR

Judy Sousa

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Amanda Stamm (@amandalaraephotography), Monica Lopez (@molophotographymn), Kim Tsoukalas

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Proverbs 3:5-6

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Nothing Bundt Cakes — Bringing JOY to Your Holiday Gatherings!

Our Bundt Cakes are handcrafted in every bakery in a variety of delicious flavors and sizes. To top it all off, our bakeries offer a wide selection of retail items, including party supplies, décor, and gifts, making Nothing Bundt Cakes the perfect one-stop celebration shop. Be sure to stop by our store at 1992 Rahncliff Ct Suite 100, Eagan, MN 55122 to get your cake for your next celebration!

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Union 32 Craft House: Not Your Ordinary Brewpub

The quality of craft beer brewed in this great state of ours is among the best found anywhere. Find your favorite on the Union 32 Craft House Self-Serve Beer Wall—featuring 32 homegrown beers, lagers, and ales. Among them, you'll find our own label brewed right here on site. Union 32 also offers a full menu— appetizers, burgers, tacos, and sandwiches. With 32 taps, you can't go wrong!

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HIDDEN TREASURE IN PLAIN SIGHT

GREG & LISA'S HIDDEN TREASURE HOLDS A SPECIAL PLACE IN THE EAGAN COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA STAMM
“PEOPLE CAME IN FROM OTHER STATES JUST TO SHOW SUPPORT... THE GENEROSITY WAS OVERWHELMING.”

If you’ve ever driven down Highway 3 through the Eagan and Rosemount areas, you’ve probably noticed the restaurant tucked a bit back on the west side of the road. Though the building has had a few names over the years with an evolving menu, it has become and continues to be a place for the community to come together, break bread, and enjoy a few cocktails.

Today, that place is called Greg & Lisa’s Hidden Treasure. The restaurant officially opened under its new name on April 1, 2024, in the former Cooper’s space. After a long journey filled with challenges, the new owners, Greg and Lisa Petersen, have found a deep sense of gratitude in

the support of their community and the opportunity to keep a local tradition alive.

A LEGACY OF COMMUNITY HANDED DOWN FOR A NEW START

It wasn’t just about opening a restaurant for Greg and Lisa—it was about continuing a legacy. The former owner, Randy Cooper, who owned and operated the restaurant under the name Cooper’s, battled cancer and often talked to the Petersens, who had worked there for about 19 years, about taking over Cooper’s someday. Later, Randy recovered from his illness but was still looking to sell. “Randy had been developing a three-year plan to sell the restaurant,

and we always had our eye on it,” Lisa shared. But just as they were planning their next steps, the world threw a series of curveballs their way.

First came the COVID-19 pandemic, then illnesses in Greg’s family, and finally, a health crisis of their own. In the summer of 2023, Greg suffered a stroke. The recovery was long and difficult, but through it all, the idea of taking over the restaurant never wavered. By November of that year, Randy was ready to sell, and the Petersens officially opened Greg & Lisa’s Hidden Treasure.

AN ONGOING ROAD TO RECOVERY SUPPORTED BY LOCALS AND THOSE FAR AWAY

Greg’s stroke has been a turning point in his life in many ways. “I was closing down the bar one night and started feeling odd—my arm went numb,” he recalled. By the time he made it home and awoke the next morning, it was clear something was very wrong.

Greg was hospitalized for nearly a week, and though the doctors couldn’t pinpoint the cause of the clot, it was a life-changing event. “Recovery took months. Six months where Greg couldn’t do much of anything,” Lisa said. “It was scary and chaotic. I was used to working side by side with him, and suddenly, I had to hold down the fort at the restaurant all on my own. I honestly wouldn’t have been able to do it without the bartenders, servers, and cooks stepping up in any and all areas.”

During Greg’s recovery, the community rallied in ways that left them both speechless. “People came in from other states just to show support,” Lisa shared. “There was a benefit for Greg after his stroke, and I remember having to step into the backroom a couple of times to pull myself together. The generosity was overwhelming.”

This outpouring of love and kindness solidified their belief in the restaurant’s future. “We realized that we wouldn’t just be the future owners—we would be part of something bigger. The community was behind us, and that meant everything.”

“WE REALIZED THAT WE WOULDN’T JUST BE THE FUTURE OWNERS—WE WOULD BE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER. THE COMMUNITY WAS BEHIND US, AND THAT MEANT EVERYTHING.”

AN ELEVATED MENU WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Since opening in April, Greg & Lisa’s Hidden Treasure has become a go-to spot for both long-time fans of Cooper’s and new customers alike. Though they’ve kept some of the menu staples from Cooper’s, Greg and Lisa have added their own flair. Lisa’s favorite dish is the Smokehouse Power Bowl, loaded with brisket and served with sweet chili sauce on the side. “It’s a customer favorite,” she says, and with good reason.

Greg, on the other hand, is partial to the Chicken Cordon Bleu paired with waffle fries. “We wanted to elevate the menu while staying true to the community,” Lisa explained. “You can still get a great chicken sandwich or flatbread, but we’re also working on adding gluten-friendly dishes for our next menu update.”

MORE THAN A RESTAURANT

The Hidden Treasure is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat. It’s a space for community gathering—whether it’s a

church group fundraiser, a school booster event, or Lucky Fundraiser Bingo. “We want to be here for the community, not just Eagan, but the surrounding areas too,” Lisa said.

Lisa and Greg also shared the deeper meaning of their logo, including the letters “IYKYK” (If You Know, You Know). “I used to come into Cooper’s before we worked there, and I’d be sitting between a millionaire on one side and a blue-collar worker on the other,” he said. “That’s the vibe we want to keep—a place that feels like home no matter who you are.”

GRATEFUL FOR THE JOURNEY

Opening Greg & Lisa’s Hidden Treasure hasn’t been easy. From working through Greg’s health scare to the overwhelming community support, the Petersens have much to be thankful for. “Taking over a business is scary. You’re vulnerable,” Lisa admitted. “But when you have a community like this one, it makes everything feel possible.”

As the restaurant moves forward, Greg and Lisa are eager to continue growing and giving back. “We’ve been through a lot to get here, but we wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Lisa said with a smile. “This place is our hidden treasure, and we’re just thankful to share it with everyone.”

empowering change: local organizationsmaking a difference

DISCOVER HOW LOCAL GROUPS ARE SHAPING A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR ALL.

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER AND MATTHEW SOUSA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA LOPEZ & PROVIDED
Molo Photography

Eagan Unified is a club at Eagan High School for students with and without disabilities with a mission of inclusion. Originally started as an after-school buddies club called Wildcat Connection, the students wanted to do more and the club became part of the Special Olympics Unified program in 2021.

Eagan Unified’s goal is to give its members meaningful ways to participate in a variety of activities. The club has three pillars: youth leadership, whole school engagement, and competition. The Special Olympics Unified program was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.

Eagan High School Unified

Empowering Students of All Abilities

The club is run by two faculty advisors, Jenelle Milleson and Matt Moore, who handle logistics. Twenty student captains, made up of students both with and without disabilities, meet regularly to focus on building relationships and plan events ranging from school parties to bowling outings and kickball tournaments. Many activities are planned during the school day to maximize involvement. The club typically serves more than 150 students over the school year, with 40-60 students participating regularly. One of the highlights of the Eagan Unified program is their three-time Special Olympics Unified state basketball championships.

Eagan Unified helps to make all students feel like they are a part of the community. Jenelle and Matt say that it helps the school feel smaller and that the center-based special ed students get to feel more involved in the school.

If you would like to support Eagan Unified, follow their Instagram at @ehs_unified2022 so you can keep an eye out for local fundraising activities, or come out to cheer them on at their next competition.

Molo Photography

Celebrating 40 Years of Empowering Teens at TreeHouse

Providing Hope and Support for Teen Mental Health

TreeHouse, a faith-based nonprofit founded in New Hope in 1984 by Fred Peterson, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Peterson, a teacher, noticed many students not getting the attention they needed and felt compelled to create a positive change. Despite being close to retirement, he established TreeHouse to offer teens an alternative to negative choices and provide influential support when they need it most.

TreeHouse focuses on raising awareness about mental health and provides a safe space for teens to feel heard and supported. With locations across the Twin Cities, TreeHouse hosts weekly support groups where teens can share their experiences and feelings.

THE TREEHOUSE TRUTHS

The organization is built on core beliefs called TreeHouse Truths: “You are lovable, capable, worthwhile. Loved without strings. You are not alone. You have a future.” These truths build teens’ self-esteem and resilience, helping them believe in themselves despite tough times.

TreeHouse’s programming is not just about support, it’s about acceptance. It’s about welcoming teens from all walks of life and helping them feel valued. TreeHouse offers peer-to-peer mentoring, providing teens with a supportive network. Volunteers guide the support groups, focusing on empathy rather than offering solutions.

Every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., TreeHouse hosts a faith-neutral support group. They even provide transportation and meals. Through fun activities and open discussions, teens learn to take ownership of their experiences and share struggles and triumphs.

Shawn Monroe, the site director for TreeHouse in Eagan, says, “We try to create a space for teens to show up as themselves without the baggage of having to be like someone else.” TreeHouse’s mission is to offer every teen a two-hour weekly break to remove their masks and embrace their true selves. Learn more at https://TreeHousehope.org/

The Drawer: A Legacy of Warmth and Dignity

Honoring Grandma Lucy’s Memory Through Generosity and Community Support

In 2016, with “Undie Sunday” at Stew and Debby’s local church, The Drawer became a powerful force for good. That year, they collected 4,500 pairs of socks and underwear, distributed to organizations like Loaves and Fishes and The Link.

But they felt the calling to do more. Recognizing the overwhelming need, Stew and Debby took action, transforming their efforts into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. They’ve donated over 400,000 pairs of socks and underwear, providing warmth and dignity to those in need.

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a time to reflect on the generosity that binds our community together. The work of The Drawer is an inspirational yet simple example of this spirit of giving. The Drawer has become a dignified solution for those in need, founded by Stew and Debby Shepard in honor of Debby’s mother, Grandma Lucy.

Grandma Lucy was known for her kind heart and unique take on Christmas gifts for her family, bringing a smile to their faces with uniquely packaged gifts that held none other than socks and underwear—it is an act of kindness that continues today through The Drawer.

Debby shares that the mission of Eagan-based The Drawer is simple: to provide necessities that many of us take for granted. In 2023 alone, The Drawer gifted 132,227 pairs of socks and underwear to nearly 45,000 individuals, thanks to the support of 43 new distribution partners and countless volunteers.

Want to get involved? Why not rally behind The Drawer’s mission? To get involved, consider hosting a collection drive at your business, place of worship, school, or club. Donate, partner, or volunteer. The opportunity to help provide dignity for those in need is limitless. Learn more about The Drawer via its website: https://www.thedrawer.org/

HELPING OTHERS

Healing Through Art

Gina Jermasek’s Path from 911 Dispatcher to Inspiring Artist

When we experience trauma in our lives, whether it be from the loss of someone we love to a harrowing divorce or a serious car accident, it can change who we are. These experiences often rock us to our core, not necessarily taking away who we once were but challenging us to pick up the pieces and overcome our pain to be stronger on the other side.

Gina Jermasek knows this all too well. For over 17 years she worked as a 911 dispatcher for Eagan, helping people on the worst days of their lives. Art started as a way for her to cope with the stress of her job. Using graphite, charcoal, watercolor, mixed media, and oil, she found comfort and an escape from the chaos she experienced daily on the job.

A TRAUMATIC LIFE EVENT

Her life took a dramatic turn after a traumatic car accident. Struggling with PTSD and the aftermath of the incident, Gina decided to leave her job and fully commit to her art. This shift wasn't just about changing careers but about reclaiming her life and mental health.

“It changes you,” she shared, reflecting on how the accident shaped her into a different person.

Gina’s love for color and problem-solving is evident in her work, which often depicts life—people, flowers, and plants. Her art allows her to celebrate life’s beauty despite challenges. The accident also strengthened her faith, which, along with her art, became a source of strength and healing. Today, she belongs to a church that, ironically, meets at the Hastings Art Center.

HOPE AFTER TRAUMA

Gina’s story offers hope for those dealing with their own traumas. Her story shows how art and faith can help overcome grief and find strength, never forgetting the path taken but offering light that shows a brighter future.

Her incredible talent can inspire others to find their own paths to healing. To learn more about Gina and her art, follow her on Instagram at @ginajay.art.

“She found comfort and an escape from the chaos she experienced daily on the job.” “

This holiday season, give the kids in your life the gift of swimming at Goldfish Swim School! They’ll be unwrapping more than just the usual present. They’ll be unwrapping life lessons mixed with joy and smiles, progress and confidence. They’ll be unwrapping memories and fun, in a safe and clean environment. Most importantly, they’ll be unwrapping the gift of water safety — the gift that can save their lives!

OPERATION DIGNITY

ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM TSOUKALAS

SUPPORTING GHANA THROUGH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, HEALTHCARE, VOCATIONAL TRAINING, AND FAITH

“You never lose when you reach out to others.” This point resonated with me when I recently spoke with Kathy Sullivan, who founded Operation Dignity International (ODI) along with her late husband, Jim. Though I have had the pleasure of getting to know Kathy over the last several months through an entrepreneurial women’s networking group that we both belong to, we finally had the opportunity to chat specifically about her mission with Operation Dignity, which focuses on creating a better way of life for those living in Ghana.

THE BEGINNING

It all began when Jim Sullivan, Kathy’s husband, a businessman and retired pastor, went on a pilgrimage to Ghana and felt an immediate connection to the people and their culture. Jim’s retirement dream was to make a significant impact, and that dream took root in Ghana, a West African country whose people were looking to overcome extreme poverty and build a brighter future.

Jim and Kathy spent three years in Ghana, immersing themselves in the local communities, listening to the needs of the people, and identifying where they could make the most difference. This ultimately laid the foundation for ODI, a faith-based non-profit organization with a mission to transform lives beyond simple survival. The goal is to help the Ghanaian people thrive.

Ghana, located on the West African coast, gained independence from British rule in 1957 and has since been navigating the challenges of building a young democracy. The country is working hard to grow its resources, improve its economy, and create a better standard of living for its people while preserving its heritage.

ODI’S MISSION: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, VOCATIONAL TRAINING, IMPROVED HEALTHCARE, AND FAITH BUILDING

Operation Dignity focuses on four key areas.

Economic Development

One of ODI’s significant initiatives is partnering with for-profit organizations to create sustainable jobs. In collaboration with Gus Farming, 25 farmers from Rochester, MN, have been working with local Ghanaian farmers to revise and mainstream agricultural practices.

They’ve provided integral tools and training, resulting in a substantial increase in crop yields. Kathy shared that the Ghanaian farmers could manage 25 bushels per acre before Gus Farming's involvement. Now, they’re up to 110 with a target of 150.

Vocational Training

ODI is also dedicated to equipping individuals with necessary skills through vocational training. Plans are underway to build a vocational training center for trades like sewing, agriculture, and IT skills. The products will be sold in the U.S. and Ghana to provide a more reliable revenue stream.

A literacy program is also being developed to help adults improve their reading and writing skills, which is so important for running successful businesses. This initiative will also include providing books to the training center to help encourage and develop a love for reading.

Healthcare

The Ahyiayemu Healthcare Center serves nine villages with only 23 nurses and one motorcycle, which severely limits their ability to provide care. Villagers are dying from treatable conditions because the nurses can't reach them in time.

ODI is working to improve transportation, supply exam tables, and provide essential medical kits to tackle diseases such as malaria and typhoid. They also plan to supply anti-venom kits for snake bites, a common and deadly threat in the area.

Faith Building

ODI’s faith-building efforts are not quite what you might expect. Instead of building new churches, they employ a storyteller who travels to the villages, nurturing a sense of community and sharing the stories of Jesus. This approach aligns with the spiritual nature of the Ghanaian people and helps build trust and relationships within the communities.

A COMMITMENT TO MAKING CONNECTIONS

Kathy and her team are passionate about making connections and providing opportunities for people locally to get involved. Teams travel to Ghana regularly, offering hands-on help and support. For those unable to travel, there are numerous ways to contribute, such as supporting the medical center project or participating in local fundraising initiatives.

As Kathy Sullivan, one of ODI's founders, emphasizes, "If people have a heart to help others, there is no obstacle in what can be done." This sentiment encapsulates ODI's mission to create lasting change in Ghana through community engagement and dedicated efforts.

COMING TOGETHER WITH A COMMON PURPOSE

Finally, I think it is worthwhile to share Kathy’s point about the difference that dedicated individuals can make when they come together with a common purpose. If you’re inspired to get involved or have an idea to support ODI’s mission, visit their website at odighana.org and take the first step towards making a difference.

The best way to help is by:

• Participating in short-term trips to Ghana

• Supporting specific projects like the medical center

• Engaging in local fundraising initiatives

• Contacting ODI directly to explore ways to contribute

Kathy is always happy to take a call and work to bring your idea to life.

Building IT Skills for Tomorrow

CRESCENT CAREER CENTER BUILDING IT

SKILLS FOR THE SERVICES INDUSTRY

The demand for IT skills such as AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data science, and programming languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript is higher than ever. Crescent Career Center in Mendota Heights is taking this challenge head-on, ready to prepare a new generation of IT professionals.

Traci Leffner, president of Crescent Career Center, has also been president of Sovran, a managed IT services company, for nine years. In October 2023, New Horizons Computer Training Center was acquired by Educate 360. Despite Educate 360’s purchase and subsequent disenfranchising of the global franchise, Crescent Career Center rose from the ashes and is now dedicated to continuing its mission of providing valuable career development.

VENDOR-AUTHORIZED TRAINING IN MENDOTA HEIGHTS

Crescent Career Center offers vendor-authorized training programs for industry-recognized technology partners, including Cisco, Microsoft, Citrix, VMWare, CompTIA, Adobe, and the Project Management Professional. These courses are designed to build skills and prepare students for valuable certifications, which are often a cost of entry.

Traci’s vision for Crescent Career Center makes students more than just a number. “We truly care. This is not a transactional business model. We are growing relationships with each and every student to see how we can help them,” she emphasizes. The center focuses on dislocated workers, veterans, and vocational students for whom traditional college degrees are not an option.

One of the center’s key initiatives is the “Begin Again” career networking event held every third Wednesday of the month. These events offer resume reviews, mock interviews, free headshots, and the opportunity to meet with career specialists. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like Goodwill, Easter Seals , and SEEK provide funding and career placement support.

Crescent Career Center is also committed to helping local high school students grow technical skills through initiatives like hosting Rocket League, where students learn coding and programming. The center also offers internships to help students explore various branches of IT and determine their career paths.

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

One challenge many job-seekers find is that they have obtained all the necessary training and certifications but lack the job experience that many employers require. Crescent’s on-the-job training program allows individuals to gain that real-world experience working in a live help desk environment. Residents in the Twin Cities can call (844) 658-0130 for help with IT issues at no cost.

Crescent Career Center also offers businesses in the metro area the opportunity to interview and hire candidates with no finder’s fee. “We make sure candidates are ready and when they are, we are happy to put them in front of local employers.” Since January, Crescent Career Center has placed over 27 candidates in IT positions.

Crescent’s 58-day training program equips students with up to seven certifications, followed by up to four months of on-the-job training, making sure they are well-prepared for professional entry-level IT positions.

Since February 2024, Ramsey County has partnered with Crescent Career Center to build this beta program. This collaboration will strengthen the local economy and reverse the migration trends affecting Minnesota. “We want to help. We want to contribute to our community and change Minnesota's reverse migration. We love our state and want to strengthen our economy one candidate at a time,” Traci states.

Crescent Career Center is not just an educational institution: it’s a place of opportunity. Through its comprehensive training programs and unwavering commitment to student success, the center is shaping the future of the service industry, one skilled professional at a time.

To learn more, visit the website: https://crescentcareer.com/

Union 32 Craft House

giving dip -

Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.

fig & honey brie

The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.

ingredients:

• 8 ounce brie wheel

• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam

• ¼ cup pecans

• 2 teaspoons honey

• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley

directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.

garlic herb feta dip

This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.

ingredients:

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted

• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese

• 3 teaspoons olive oil

• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon dill

• 1 teaspoon parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

directions:

First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!

loaded hummus

This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.

hummus ingredients:

• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained

• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)

• 1/3 cup water

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

toppings:

• Olives

• Cherry tomatoes

• Chickpeas

• Feta cheese

• Red onion

• Fresh Parsley

directions:

In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread Hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.

Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.

ingredients:

• 8 ounces softened cream cheese

• 1 can pumpkin puree

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

directions:

Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.

creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

NOVEMBER 9TH, 16TH, & 23RD

Sprucetip Holiday Workshop

6885 160th St W, Apple Valley, MN, 55124 | 9:00 AM

This hands-on workshop allows you to design & create Spruce Tip pots in the comfort of the greenhouse while enjoying complimentary snacks and beverages. Fun for the whole family, groups of friends, couples, or on your own! Create a masterpiece for your entryway as a warm, inviting welcome to holiday visitors. Reserve your spot today at pahls.com/2024-holiday-workshop/

NOVEMBER 10TH

Vendella euro boutique & coffee haus Annual Christmas Shopping Event

1440 Duckwood Drive, Suite 600, Eagan MN 55122 | 1:00 PM

Don't miss our annual Christmas shopping event! Tickets for the private shopping event from 1 pm to 2 pm are available for $15 each and include a coupon for $5 off a purchase of $25 or more as well as entry into a drawing for $75 gift card. Shop without a ticket from 2 pm to 4 pm. Check our Instagram, @vendella_coffee_haus for more information.

NOVEMBER 14TH

An International Evening of Eagan - Eat, Explore & Embrace!

2750 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Eagan, MN 55121 | 5:30 PM

Join the Eagan Community Foundation at Lost Spur Event Center for an International Evening of Eagan! Help us raise funds for our community grants & scholarships while celebrating the international flavor of Eagan. Enjoy international fare from across the globe provided by our culinary sponsors. Bid on fabulous auction items. Visit https://www.eaganfoundation.org/annual-fundraiser to get your tickets today!

NOVEMBER 16TH

Fight For Food 5K

1497 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121 | 8:30 AM

Come join us in our 3rd year of Fight For Food 5K! Register online for a T-shirt and get ready to race! All proceeds will go to Loaves and Fishes, a local organization helping to fight hunger! Register or donate at raceroster.com/events/2024/94391/fight-for-food-5k

NOVEMBER 20TH

Mick Sterling Presents "An Andy and Bing Christmas"

11287 Klamath Trail, Lakeville MN 55044 | 7:00 PM

One of the most beloved Holiday Shows in the Twin Cities happens for the first time for Chart House Live, featuring  Mick Sterling. Cate Fierro and Michael Donley lead a 16-piece orchestra that performs the perfect Christmas songs of Andy Williams and Bing Crosby. Visit https://briannoscharthouse.ticketspice.com/an-andy-and-bing-christmas to get your tickets today!

NOVEMBER 29TH

Opt Outside at Lebanon Hills Regional Park

860 Cliff Rd, Eagan, MN 55123 | 10:00 AM

Stop by the Lebanon Hills Regional Park and enjoy the outdoors on Black Friday, November 29. Join us for an open house style, free family event with an activity trail, geocaching, and a medallion hunt. All event materials, including medallion hunt clues, will be available in English and Spanish.

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Experience the excitement of football season at the official hotel of the Minnesota Vikings! Immerse yourself in the action at Ember & Ice, where you can enjoy delicious game-day bites and refreshing drinks while watching all the action. Make your experience even more memorable with our Gridiron Getaway package. Enjoy a tailgate amenity to fuel your excitement, plus two tickets to the Vikings Museum, where you can explore the team’s legendary history and iconic moments. Don’t miss out on the ultimate game day experience— book your stay at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel today and make this season truly unforgettable.

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