Thankful Issue
So Many Blessings
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be.
This past summer, I took my first trip out of the country since 2012. Being immersed in other cultures with people from across the globe made me realize how lucky and blessed I am to be able to travel, to experience life with people from the other side of the world, and remind myself how very similar we all are as human beings. More empathy in the world today would take us a long way. And, although the trip was amazing, I found myself missing home and all of the things that make life there special.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We met with Ron Clark Construction and learned they are thankful for their long term, loyal team. We visited with Dr. Lelich of Family Orthodontics and heard about how quality, compassionate orthodontics is at the core of everything they do. We’ve also added fun fall décor ideas, holiday scents, and a great gift guide.
Our team is so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make Minneapolis Lakes the vibrant community that it is. We are also thankful for our partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let us set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those many blessings.
Wishing everyone a wonderful November and a Happy Thanksgiving,
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Celena Cisco, Sarah Knieff, Leann Parker
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andrew Vick, Leann Parker
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 Learn
ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
City Lifestyle Event with Paradise Charter Cruises on Lake Minnetonka.
Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @MINNEAPOLISLAKES
EVOLVE Fall Fashion Show 2024.
Photography by Dammel Photographic Works
More Pilates Please!
With fall in full swing, we find ourselves spending more time indoors sitting in front of our computers. Too often, tight hips and lower back pain result. Happily, there is a solution in your own backyard: Pilates Please MSP! Come to this cozy studio to alleviate your aches and pains while building strength and flexibility. Owner Kathy Heafey, a certified comprehensive Pilates instructor, offers private and semi-private lessons by appointment only. pilates-please.com.
50th & France Tree Lighting Presented by Gateway Bank
We are excited to announce that this year’s 50th & France Tree Lighting, presented by Gateway Bank, will take place on Saturday, November 30th. Enjoy roaming carolers as you shop, as well as carriage rides, cookies and hot cocoa with Santa, and a performance by Kat Perkins leading up to the tree lighting at 5:30 PM. We hope to see you there!
Dexter's Is Now Open!
Daniel del Prado's newest venture is now open. Dexter's, described as a "refined dining experience for sports enthusiasts and food aficionados," is located at 3717 W 50th St. With its elevated bar experience atmosphere, the menu includes wings, cheese curds, oysters, burgers, sandwiches and a full kids section. Visit dextersmpls.com for more information.
LEADERSHIP, LONGEVITY AND KNOWLEDGE ARE ITS FOUNDATIONS FOR SUCCESS
Building Quality Spaces for 50 Years
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI
In business for almost 50 years, Ron Clark Construction & Design continues to prosper in the Twin Cities and beyond. With its reputation for building high-quality single family homes and townhomes, and with experienced and knowledgeable employees, that’s no surprise.
“About 50% of our employees have been with Ron Clark for over 20 years and many of us have been in the construction industry for pretty much our whole lives,” says CEO Mike Waldo, who has been with the company for 14 years. “That consistency, along with an understanding of what it takes as an organization to continue to deliver high-quality products, is what makes us successful.”
Adds director of sales, Jeff Bergom, who has 18 years invested with the company, “When I meet with potential customers and they're looking at different builders, it’s longevity, knowledge and stability that they’re seeking. They are much more at ease going with us because of all the time we have as part of the Ron Clark family.”
Bergom is thankful to have worked under Ron for all these years. “He really cares about you as an individual and about his and his company’s reputation, and he just does the right thing. He’s taken family values and brought them into this business.”
Another key to its success? Being a one-stop shop. There are architects, salespeople, development experts, construction people and interior designers who know what homeowners in the area expect.
“Most of our clients want an aesthetic that’s warm and cozy, but clean and timeless,” says interior design manager, Barbara Cross, who has been on staff for 23 years, and has seen trends come and go. “The question always comes up, ‘What's the hottest trend?’ and I always say the hottest trend is going to be gone by the time your home is built. Instead, I ask ‘What do you like? What makes you feel good? What makes you feel at home?’”
She’s thankful to have made a career with Ron Clark Construction & Design. “With Mike Waldo being CEO and now taking over ownership of the company, there hasn’t been a hitch in the same thought process that Ron Clark has.”
The whole team is thankful for their success and happiness not only in their professional lives, but in their personal lives as well. “I had kids so I could get grandkids,” laughs Mike, who lives in Maple Grove. “My life revolves around those five and as long as I keep my wife happy, life is good.”
“I'm halfway between my folks and the office, so it works,” says Barbara. “My family all live in a 15-mile circle. What I'm most thankful for is that at the age of 59, I’m lucky enough to still have both of my parents.”
Jeff and his wife live in Eagan, and they love the location. “One of the nice things about Eagan is we've got fairly quick access to St. Paul and Minneapolis, but we have some nice green spaces as well. Also, my kids are starting their professional careers here in town, and after losing my father, my mother is now back in Eden Prairie, so her closeness is very special for me and my family.”
While Ron, Mike, Jeff, and Barbara all live in and around the Twin Cities, COO Kenton Hove is a bit farther away, but he has a good reason. “My kids were born in Wisconsin, and I figured they could stay there and get through school. My family has supported me in my endeavors and puts up with my traveling back and forth.”
The commute is worth it to him. “I've known Mike for 31 years, and he's been a great mentor and partner throughout the years. Also, working for Ron Clark has been much less stressful and much more engaging. Everyone takes recommendations seriously, and we're all open to change. I'm very grateful for that.”
Adds director of marketing, Sarah Dulong, who has 28 years of seniority with the company, “You have to change with the times, and so we try very hard as a whole to adapt to that.”
Nobody's perfect, says Mike, but they solve problems together. “We might bicker just like brothers and sisters, but that drives us to continue to improve and deliver a product at a level that our customers are expecting.”
“We believe in each other,” says Jeff. “We believe in what we do.”
Ron Clark Construction & Design also believes strongly in giving back to causes close to its employees’ hearts. “One that's the most sensitive to our entire company is Alzheimer's, which we lost Ron's wife to, and I also lost my dad to,” says Mike. “We've got a bunch of employees who have lost family members to Alzheimer's too, so we do a lot behind the scenes with that.”
The company mostly does business inside the I-494 loop, including the building of seven villas on the grounds of the Golden Valley Country Club. “We always deliver a fabulous project for clients and for the neighborhood, and it’s also something that we can take pride in.”
RonClark.com
ON Fall Fun STALKING up
BY LEANN PARKER
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Cornhusk Centerpiece
When life gives you lemons, or cornstalks as it seems, make something beautiful! The holidays can be stressful. Your table centerpiece doesn’t need to be.
To create this cornhusk centerpiece, simply remove the dried tops of the cornstalks, arrange them in a vintage soup bowl adding a few ears of corn to give more stability and visual interest. Add preserved pinecones for guests’ place settings and you have the perfect touches for your table. Pinecone instructions can be found at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/pinecones-leaves
LeAnn’s Cornhusk Styling
• White Dishes & Platters
• Gold Charger Plates
• Woven Placemats
• Rust-Orange Napkins
• Thanksgiving Crackers
• Cornhusk Centerpiece
• Pinecone Guest Cards
• Real Pumpkins
LeAnn can’t wait to see what you create for your own fall table. Tag her on IG @SilvertoothHome and #SilvertoothHome so she can share.
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW VICK
team.
“I am proud to take advantage of the latest technology to deliver the best results and the best care for our patients.”
Dr. Rosemary Lelich and
A Modern, Clean and Caring Practice
Experience the Latest and Greatest in Orthodontic Treatments
When Dr. Rosemary Lelich, a native of Minnesota, took over ownership of Family Orthodontics in 2020, she wanted to ensure that the practice continued to flourish. Not only did it do just that, but over the last four years, the number of patients has increased significantly. In response, she has expanded and renovated the space to provide a fresh and comfortable environment for both her patients and staff.
“This is a stand-alone building that I own in St. Louis Park, and after a year of planning and another year of construction, the practice is now expanded, modern and up-to-date,” she says. “We have maintained the same principles that the practice has always prioritized: quality, compassionate orthodontic care for our patients with individualized, comprehensive treatment plans. I wanted to make this the best environment possible for my patients and my employees. I also wanted to create a modern, bright environment for all of us to enjoy each day.” During the project, Dr. Lelich and her team never stopped providing care for their patients.
When walking in, patients will find an entirely new layout with an expanded
waiting room. The new consultation room is a great place for patients and their families to meet with Dr. Lelich or with her associate orthodontist, Dr. Molly Erdman, for their initial appointment. They can view and review their digital X-rays and photos on a large TV screen. “A new break room provides space for our team to gather and is a place where we hold both meetings and celebrations,” she says. “We love it.”
In the new clinic, there are floor to ceiling windows with treatments that allow sunlight in while providing privacy. Along with new and more numerous dental chairs, a private treatment room has also been added. “We have a new sterilization area and a new lab area too,” she says. This renovated and updated space includes all new equipment that provides the latest technology and makes this a true state-ofthe-art practice.
One of the technologies she is most excited about is LightForce, a customized digitally-planned braces system. “We are seeing exceptional results,” says Dr. Lelich. “Predictability of movements is improved and patients love being able to see a digital plan of how their teeth will move the day they get their braces on or even before.”
She adds, “I am proud to take advantage of the latest technology to deliver the best results and the best care for our patients.”
As a child who had braces, Dr. Lelich knew she wanted to one day become an orthodontist, and she is thankful for the path her career has taken. “I purchased this practice from Dr. Angela Ross, who established and built a wonderful practice with a fantastic reputation here in St. Louis Park. There's nowhere else I would rather practice. I love this community and the people in it.”
Dr. Lelich feels it is important to support the community and the area in which she works and lives. “I enjoy supporting our schools and team fundraisers and I enjoy being able to help wherever I can.” Family Orthodontics recently sponsored the Kids Run for Justice, which empowers young people to make a difference in the world.
Her patients come from St. Louis Park, Edina, Minneapolis, and throughout the Greater Twin Cities. “I feel like we’re one cohesive community, and we serve patients from the Cities and beyond,” she says. Dr. Lelich lives five minutes from her office and loves taking part in everything the neighborhood has to offer.
“My husband and I have a young baby, so we take advantage of the nearby community spaces, lakes and parks. Being able to walk to local coffee shops and restaurants is a great thing for our family.” Her husband, Dr. Mitchell Loeb, is a pediatric dentist nearby with his own practice, Kid Grins, in Edina.
In addition to her husband and baby, she is very thankful for her parents. “They do so much for us, and I'm very grateful for the opportunities that my education and my family have provided me to be where I am today,” she says.
“Owning and working at Family Orthodontics is more than I could have dreamed of, and I am grateful to my wonderful team, my patients, and my associate orthodontist, Dr. Erdman, who came on board last year and brings awesome and diversified experience.”
Dr. Lelich also wants to thank the team of people at Karkela and Foundation Architects who worked on the renovation project over the last two years. “It was a large project and they did phenomenal work. We will enjoy the new space for many years to come,” she says.
To find out more, and to experience everything the practice has to offer, go to FamilyOrthoMN.com
5804 Excelsior Blvd | 952-922-7117
Call or Text 763-283-8752 to schedule your FREE consultation today!
Serving Minneapolis & Surrounding Area
Minnesota's Premier Agency For All Your Child & Pet Care Needs info@nurturingnannies.us
www.nurturingnannies.us
A THOUSAND NESTING DOLLS
FEATURING THE LARGEST COLLECTION OF RUSSIAN NESTING DOLLS IN AMERICA
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
‘Tis the Season of Gifting
It’s that time of year again: the season of gifting. Don’t be caught without a present. Explore our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide to find the perfect little something for everyone on your list.
1. CozyChic Adult Robe: Named one of Oprah’s Favorite Things, nothing compares to the soft and luxurious feeling of Barefoot Dream’s legendary robe designed for women and men. It’s irresistibly cozy and the perfect way to start and end your day. $138. barefootdreams.com
4. Dark Chocolate Cherry Espresso: Nostalgic, bold, dark chocolate notes balanced with a tart, bright cherry acidity. Perfect for your home espresso machine, a batch of cold brew, or a nice crowd-pleasing batch of hot coffee. $18. Jones.coffee
2. Custom Charm Necklace: Personalize a charm necklace by choosing the perfect designs to match the wearer’s personality and style. $30+. shopjennyinthecity.com
5. Gema Holiday Ornament: Inspired by the vibrant Gema family, this collection of radiant snowflake ornaments is presented in Swarovski brand colors with a nod to the holiday season. $199. swarovski.com.
3. Dainty Diamond Stackable Ring: Are you looking for a piece to complete your stack or the perfect gift? Look no further than New Gild’s ever-evolving collection of simple diamond rings. Rings in this style range from $310-$1800. shop.newgild.com
6. Gold Matryoshka with Flowers: Vibrantly hand-painted 5-piece nesting doll. $26. shoptmora.org
7. Handmade cards: Stock up on greeting cards for all occasions with these locally created art pieces. Prices vary. thegrandhandgallery.com.
10. Legend Sweater Shirt: The most comfortable and versatile flannel you’ll ever wear. $178. fahertybrand.com
8. Hunt & Gather Gift Card: For those who love all things antique, kooky and quirky. Pricing varies. huntandgatherantiques.com
9. Jellycat Bartholomew Bear Musical Pull: A tiny version of the most loved character, with signature choc-drop nose and rounded tummy, can be pulled to play an original Jellycat lullaby. $40. us.jellycat.com.
11. Neutra Chronograph Brown Leather Watch: Meet Neutra, a mid-century-inspired chronograph. Sleek and minimalist, with a green sunray dial and rich brown leather strap. $160. fossil.com.
12. Oleavia EVOO with Garlic: Use the premium extra virgin olive oil mixture to complement salads or drizzle over veggies. $24. coccinellastore.com.
13. Oscar Stripe Light Blue Dog Bandana: Brooke & Lou’s striped dog bandana is their most classic and loved pattern for your furry friend. $25. brookeandlou.com.
16. Rowan Super Soft Scarf: What’s cozier than a scarf? A Yak scarf of course! Super chunky and warm, made from recycled polyester. $37. lucyandyak.com/en-us
14. Penobscot Cotton Blanket: As a customer favorite, this blanket is known for its luxuriously thick yet incredibly soft feel, simple and elegant herringbone design, and versatile and timeless colors. $295. faribaultmill.com
17. Signature Pumpkin Cocotte: Inspired by a timeless fairy tale design and the brilliant colors of autumn, the Signature Pumpkin Cocotte is a delightful seasonal addition to your kitchen and table. $368. lecreuset.com
15. Queenie & Pearl Gift Card: The perfect gift for a fashionista in your life. Pricing varies. queenieandpearl.com
18. Sophie Giraffe Fanfan Fawn: Made with natural rubber from rubber tree latex and food-grade paint. It draws baby’s gaze by way of the dark, highly contrasted spots all over its body and becomes a familiar, reassuring object that is easily recognized. $27. ohbabystyle.com
19. The Faerie Apothecary: Readers are introduced to the healing benefits of herbs and plants like Chamomile, St. John’s Wort, Pine, Elder, and more in this charming tale, which lightly weaves knowledge into a story that will enchant both children and adults. $18.99. wildrumpusbooks.com
22. Wild Rice Pancake Mix: All natural. No preservatives. Contains 33% wild rice flour. $7.50. northlandvisions.com
20. The Ultimate Art Scratcher: This cat scratcher seamlessly blends into your living space, providing an attractive and functional space for your cat to play, scratch, and rest, while enhancing your home’s aesthetics. $75. furrther.com
23. Yellowstone Geyser Cozy Socks: Keep it comfy while out and about in Parks Project’s nature-ready cozy socks. Proceeds go to the company’s goal of protecting and preserving parklands. $14. parksproject.us.
21. Victrola Bluetooth Suitcase Record Player: Combining classic design with all-new vinyl streaming technology, any music buff will fall in love with this record player. $79.99. sergeandjane.com.
24. 1000 Flowers Reglisse Noire Spray: A cult classic for those who love English Liquorice Allsorts. Notes include: White pepper, fresh ozone. spearmint, shiso leaf, bergamot, star anise, ginger, black liquorice, cocoa, allspice, patchouli, vanilla beans, vetiver, cedarwood and musk. $45. shopsenti.com.
HOW TO: seasonal home scents
ARTICLE BY CELENA CISCO
M SWEET
B E W E L L N E S S
Fall essential oil combinations provide a warm and cozy scent while also protecting those from sickness prevalent in the colder season. Follow these oil combinations to create your own seasonal scent.
immune boost
DIRECTIONS :
Combine the following essential oils with a base oil (coconut oil).
INGREDIENTS:
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiseptic
• Lemon: Uplifts, Kills Bacteria; Reduces Inflammation
• Oregano: Antimicrobial; Antioxidant
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant and Provides Healing
HOW TO USE:
Apply to wrists or feet. Do not use it on your face.
home defender
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the following essential oils.
INGREDIENTS:
• Orange: Reduces Stress; Antimicrobial
• Eucalyptus: Decongestant; Provides Healing
• Cinnamon: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Black Pepper: Supports the Nervous System
• Clove: Antibacterial; Antiviral
• Rosemary: Reduces Stress; Helps with Respiratory fatigue
HOW TO USE:
Fill the diffuser with water and apply the desired amount of drops.
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events
OCTOBER 4TH - JANUARY 25TH
White Christmas
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
For the first time ever on the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ Main Stage – it’s White Christmas! Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. chanhassendt.com
NOVEMBER 1ST - MARCH 30TH
Nordic Village
Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis
In its third season, Nordic Village features a new addition in The Lodge – a cozy cocktail lounge with seating for up to 24 – as well as evolving Nordic-inspired menus, optional wine pairings, apparel and accessories. Reservations available now. fourseasons.com.
NOVEMBER 9TH - DECEMBER 29TH
A Christmas Carol
Guthrie Theater
A Christmas Carol, the Guthrie's cherished tradition, celebrates its 50th year and continues to delight audiences of all ages this holiday season. guthrietheater.org.
NOVEMBER 17TH
Nicollet Island Fall Market
Nicollet Island Pavilion | 10:00 AM
Mark your calendars for the Nicollet Island Fall Market! This bustling market is the perfect place to kick off your holiday shopping with a festive flair. With over 50 local handcrafting vendors, you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your list! minneapolis.org.
NOVEMBER 21ST - 24TH
Disney On Ice presents: Mickey’s Search Party
Xcel Energy Center
Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. xcelenergycenter.com.
NOVEMBER 23RD - DECEMBER 29TH
I Am Betty
History Theatre
Betty Crocker has helped shape America’s homes, kitchens, and recipes for over a century. Surprising to many, she was not a real person! Enjoy last season’s runaway hit and experience this musical. You will be singing along and craving to bake with Betty as it examines the lives of women and society throughout the past 100 years. historytheatre.com.
