redoux home • garden • living
june | july 2012 • free redouxhome.com
northfield • red wing • lake city • cannon falls mississippi and st. croix river valleys
summer living reclaimed, repurposed, renewed three diverse inns with a personal touch
day tripping
scenic stillwater cover photo by tom roster
on the table
creating a world of flavor
in the garden
front yard gardens do more than enhance your home’s appearance
PUBLISHER Nichole Day Diggins | Flying Pan Productions EDITOR Elizabeth Child COPY EDITORS Jodi Ohlsen Read Linda Day Dunlap CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth Child Nichole Day Diggins Ann Dybvik Christine Reed Tom Roster Kyle Stumpf ART DIRECTOR / DESIGN Nichole Day Diggins SALES Karen Griffiths Linda Day Dunlap Peter Diggins REDOUX (home•garden•living) PO BOX 148, Northfield, MN 55057 p: 507.301.9710 e: info@redouxhome.com All rights reserved. Copyright 2012. Copies of this publication or its contents may not be made for promotional purposes. For article reprints, contact REDOUX at info@redouxhome.com. to advertise: 507.301.9710 www.redouxhome.com
Our Co-op is owned equally by 2,200 of your friends and neighbors. How sweet is that?
Eat Local. Shop Co-op. Open Monday–Saturday 8 a.m.–9 p.m. & Sunday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. 516 Water Street S, Northfield • 507-650-0106 • www.justfood.coop
summer living
june / july 2012
features 06
reclaimed, repurposed, renewed Three diverse inns offer a personal touch
11
market season is here As the local food movement grows, farmers are enjoying a renaissance of adulation and attention.
departments
17
21
05
editor’s note
13
on the table St. James Hotel Chef Kyle Stumpf shares his recipe for seared scallops.
17
day tripping
03
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
Historic Stillwater, Birthplace of Minnesota.
21
in the garden Front yard gardens shake up traditions.
25
inspirations Glenn Switzer Q & A
27
expressions Art al Fresco – the 39th annual Stockholm Art Fair.
13
SUMMER SAVINGS! Save 10%-25% on select Window Coverings
507.581.5291
www.BudgetBlinds.com
Call Today for your FREE In-Home Consultation SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE (WITH APPROVED CREDIT) - ASK FOR DETAILS
editor’s note
WITH US, YOU’RE A NAME, NOT A NUMBER If you could receive the same high quality healthcare in a hospital that treated you like a person, not just a number, wouldn’t you make that choice? So would we.
25
200 State Avenue · Faribault, MN 55021 507.334.6451 · www.districtonehospital.com
Community · People · Quality · Healthcare
Summer greetings! Going to coffee with a brown smudge on your face and dirt under your nails. That’s the look of early summer. By now my back and hands have hardened up. I hope yours have, too. June is here and so is the payoff. The wood chips are down and the first round of weeding is done. I can sit back and be proud, as long as my eyes don’t stray to my neighbors’ on either side, whose gardens I covet, just as they sometimes covet mine (I hope). If your street isn’t under construction like mine, you may want to extend your garden to your front yard. Writer Ann Dybvik gives us some pointers on how and photographer Tom Roster shows the beauty in photographs. If you’re looking for more garden tips, read our Q&A with Glenn Switzer of Switzer’s Nursery and Landscaping. Your gardening hands can reap the harvest beginning now, and supplement your early fruits by visiting the cornucopia of farmers markets. Then plan a day trip to stroll away a summer day. Nichole Day Diggins offers highlights of Stillwater, the popular river town. Southern Minnesota also has a gem in our midst with Executive Chef Kyle Stumpf at the St. James Hotel in Red Wing. Learn more about his “Port style” as you sit on your lawn chair reading Redoux, dreaming up your perfect warm weather weekend. Elizabeth Child Editor editor@redouxhome.com
Christine Reed and her daughter at the Journey Inn
Pratt-Taber Inn
Wissahickon Farm Country Inn
Reclaimed, Repurposed, Renewed Pratt-Taber Inn
Wissahickon Farm Country Inn
MARCH | APRIL | MAY 2012 redouxhome.com
th re e d iver se inns offer a per so nal touch
6
Wissahickon Farm Country Inn
Pratt-Taber Inn
Journey Inn
Reclaimed, Repurposed, Renewed Three diverse inns offer a personal touch By Christine Reed There’s nothing quite like a motorcycle trip with my daughter riding along the St. Croix River Valley, enjoying the many winding scenic roads, parks and towns. Spending the night at one of the unique inns en route is one of my favorite parts of the adventure. I’ve been to about 63 bed and breakfast inns in 10 states, and I can tell you from experience that the owners are independent business owners who lead with their hearts. They take pride in the personal touch they add to your stay. I hope you will consider supporting B&B owners this summer as you make your travel plans. Here are three of the many I cherish. You can find more of my favorites at redouxhome.com.
Pratt-Taber Inn
7
redouxhome.com june |july 2012
706 W 4th St., Red Wing, MN 55066 651.388.7392 • deb@pratttaber.com • pratttaber.com For those who love beautifully reclaimed old homes with wrap-around porches in historic towns, The Pratt-Taber is the perfect candidate. Innkeeper Deb Bylander tackled a three year renovation of an 1870s quad-plex in Red Wing. Visiting the home now you would never guess it had once been burdened with graffiti and vagrants. Deb did an amazing amount of the remodeling work on her own. The projects included moving the kitchen, creating a grand entrance to her private quarters by reclaiming some antique patio doors and parts of an upright piano and adding bathrooms to each of the four upstairs bedrooms. Wonderful attention has been paid to the details of food, comfort and style. Each guest leaves feeling like they have made a new friend as evidenced by the guest room journals full of glowing comments. Deb is a natural and gracious host who shares many stories with enthusiasm and gratitude. She loves what she is doing and it shows.
Innkeeper Deb Bylander tackled a three year renovation of an 1870s quad-plex in Red Wing.
Wissahickon Farm Country Inn
9
redouxhome.com
june | july 2012
2263 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin 54024 715.488.3986 • wissainn@yahoo.com • wissainn.com If you are looking for more privacy while still being able to walk into town for dining and shopping, you may prefer to head a bit north to The Wissahickon Country Farm in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. This cottage had long been on my list of inns to check out. The idea of a business that offered just a single cottage on 30 acres surrounded by four state parks including the Ice Age Trail sounded blissfully quiet and peaceful. We pulled up their long and winding dirt road in the woods as dusk was approaching. Owner Sherilyn Liyzkow and her husband Steve came out to greet us and help us to our room. I have never met more gracious hosts! They stored my motorcycle in their garage and then offered to drive us into town for dinner so we wouldn’t have to drive in the dark on the bike. We had an amazing dinner at the Indian Creek Orchard Grill & Winery and they even came back to fetch us. The Liyzkows kindly put up with hours of questions from me as I learned of the interesting history of their business. The cottage is a replica of an old country store in the Wissahickon Creek area of Pennsylvania. The original owners built it 30 years ago in Chisago City as a reminder from their homeland. The materials used to create the walls and floors were from three 100-year-old-barns. The Liyzkows saw the building for sale and had it moved to their property where they added the bathroom and kitchen. The furnishings and decorations are antiques from friends and family. We had a wonderful breakfast followed by a guided tour of the varied terrain surrounding them. We left wishing we had more than one night to spend.
Journey Inn, an eco retreat W3671 – 200th Ave. Maiden Rock, WI 54750 715.448.2424 • info@journeyinn.net • journeyinn.net
june | july 2012 redouxhome.com
10
If you aren’t into historic buildings you may prefer the Journey Inn in Maiden Rock, Wisconsin. We enjoyed a beautiful ride along the river before veering east to a slightly more remote bed and breakfast option. The inn was built expressly for the purpose of renewing the spirit and energy of those who visit. Innkeepers Charleen Torchia and John Huffaker have carefully crafted their home to honor the earth and earthly comforts, right down to the low-VOC paint on the walls, the responsibly harvested wood on the floors and the hand chosen beds of varying firmness. The food they served was locally grown and beautifully displayed. The setting is 66 acres of prairie nestled at the foot of a wooded nature preserve in close proximity to the towns of Pepin and Stockholm. The location is a real treat for birders, hikers and bicyclists looking for trails to explore, or for those wanting a spa massage or peaceful retreat. The owners have helped restore the land around them and added a labyrinth behind the guest cottage. With nearby parks and towns there is no shortage of things to do but you may simply choose to sit back and enjoy the views from one of their many decks.
Market Season is Here! BY ELIZABETH CHILD
As the local food movement grows, farmers are enjoying a renaissance of adulation and attention. Minnesota artists, craftspeople, cooks and performers are joining them in a new breed of farmers markets with entertainment for people of all ages, every week. One of the earliest collective market fairs was the Mill City Market next to the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Founded by Chef Brenda Langton, it is now in its sixth year.
11
redouxhome.com june | july 2012
But who knows ‘local’ better than the farmers and artisans in southern Minnesota? Two years since Riverwalk Market Fair burst onto the scene in Northfield, the food and art fair has drawn more than 30,000 visitors. It offers weekly events and music, as well as a selection of juried art every Saturday en plein air, 9 AM to 2 PM downtown along the Cannon River and in Bridge Square. This year look for more family events and a youth tent for emerging artists and farmers. Meanwhile, people just can’t get enough of the Red Wing Farmers Market so it is adding a Wednesday market from 4PM to 8PM in addition to its Saturday market. The market features musicians and children’s activities. Farmers bring more than produce, they bring a petting zoo of goats, alpacas, sheep, rabbits and chickens for children (of all ages) to snuggle or watch depending on their amenability. It’s all at the Train Depot along the Mississippi across from downtown. Folksy farmers markets are still available in Northfield, Cannon Falls, Red Wing and just about any town in the farm belt. The traditional Northfield Farmer’s Market is open three times a week on West 7th St. Some informal markets like the one in Cannon Falls across from EconoFoods simply happen Saturdays whenever the farmers get there and end whenever they leave. But the corn and company are just as sweet.
Farmer’s Markets Northfield Riverwalk Market Fair: Saturdays 9AM to 2PM . Held along the Cannon River & Bridge Square. riverwalkmarketfair.com Farmers Market: Mid-May through October in Riverside Park, West 7th Street in downtown Northfield. Tuesdays and Fridays from 11:45AM to 1PM and on Saturdays from 9 to 11:00 AM Faribault Saturday, 7AM to noon, Central Park, Third Avenue and Sixth Street Northwest Cannon Falls Summer to fall, Saturday mornings (no published times), public lot across from EconoFoods on Highway 19. Lake City Market by the Lake. This is a seasonal open air market featuring local produce, fresh baked goods, locally produced jellies and jams, food vendors and live music. Located In the Marina parking lot off of N. Park Street in Lake City, Minnesota. Thursdays, 6 - 8PM July - October Red Wing Weekday Market: Sunday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. City Hall Saturday Market: 8AM to 2PM, Train Depot by the river NEW Evening Market: 4PM to 8PM Wednesdays at the Train Depot. redwingfarmersmarket.org Stillwater Saturdays 7:30AM to noon, Third and Pine Riverview lot across from the historic courthouse. Hudson Saturdays 9AM to 1PM 777 Carmichael Road, south lot of Faith Community Church, Thursdays, 7AM to noon, Plaza 94 Shopping Center on the frontage road between 19th Street (Ward Avenue) and 18th Street.
Creating a World of Flavor: St. James Hotel Chef Kyle Stumpf
Brothers in fine food, Kyle and Jason Stumpf
By Elizabeth Child
13
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
Executive Chef Kyle Stumpf of Red Wing’s historic St. James Hotel has a well-traveled Fargo-born palate. He studied culinary arts at Colorado’s Keystone Resort and then broadened his repertoire in coastal Oregon. He’s home again. Nearly. For three years at the St. James he’s been combining influences and appealing to Midwesterners who know a good thing when they taste it. The mastermind behind the white tablecloth service at The Port in the hotel’s sequestered lower level, Stumpf offered to let us try a scallop dish that feeds off his coastal and Midwestern influences. He’s more comfortable letting the food do the talking anyway. Like all best-in-the-Midwest chefs, he serves fine cuts of meat, and keeps it local whenever possible, including free-range chicken from Callister Farm in West Concord and grilled pork chops and braised ribs from Hidden Stream Farm near Elgin. He also creates seafood dishes even a meat and potatoes lover will happily devour. His seafood is flown in daily and the scallops he cooked for us were lightly seared for a perfect bite. Nodding to his upbringing, he adds ham hocks. These are no ordinary ham hocks – they roast at 275 degrees for hours. Like hidden treasures among the scallops, they make the dish a tender twist on scallops wrapped in bacon. Stumpf reached for the heavy cream to create a base of pureed white beans – our mashed potato substitute? Drops of pea puree to the side and pea tendrils scattered on top added garden freshness.
Back by the wine cellar, once the old bank building’s vault, Stumpf’s brother Jason was steeped in desk work, but it didn’t take much prodding to start the hotel’s food and beverage manager pouring wine. After all, we needed to know what wine would call out the flavors in our scallops. He didn’t hesitate to recommend a ‘dryish’ Riesling called Essence. He says, rightly I’m sure, that most people haven’t really tried a good Riesling. I am one of them so I can report my surprise that this one was fragrant and delicious, evidence that the advertised “awardwinning” wines at The Port aren’t all hype. Say you’re not in a white-table-cloth frame of mind; perhaps you’ve just come to Red Wing to shop or walk the riverfront? The Port has a bistro menu that you can enjoy in the updated bar and lounge. Bison sliders, an oyster or two or a simple flatbread pizza can be paired with an absolute delight of a drink. Test the limits of your mild Minnesota palate with a surprisingly hot and sweet passion fruit margarita made with Herradura tequila. Habañeros lurking in the tequila make for an amazing blend. When we took our leave, having been treated royally, Chef Stumpf was already whirring around the kitchen, which you get to see from the restaurant lounge, happy to be doing what he does so well as top chef among his peers... cooking for you.
on the table
Seared Scallops with White Bean & Pea Puree By St. James Hotel Executive Chef Kyle Stumpf
This simple yet elegant dish is as beautiful to present as it is to eat. Seared scallops flavored with ham hock top a white bean puree, contrasting with the delicate fresh pea puree sprinkled with lightly dressed pea tendrils. Several steps (bean puree, ham hock, pea puree) can be prepared ahead of time.
15
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
Bean puree 1 cup white beans 1 lemon, juiced 1 teaspoon garlic, chopped 3 ounces olive oil 1 ounce heavy cream Soak 1 cup white beans in water overnight, drain and rinse. Cook the beans in 4 cups of water until they are tender. Strain the beans. Puree the beans in a food processor with the juice of one lemon and chopped garlic. Slowly add olive oil and heavy cream. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ham Hock Place a ham hock in an oven safe pot with cover. Pour stock over to cover Âź of the ham hock. Cover and cook at 275 degrees until fork tender (roughly 3 hours). Pull the meat from the bone discarding the skin. Reserve the ham hock meat to add to the scallops. Pea puree 1 cup raw English peas Juice of 1/2 lemon 1 ounce water 12 shallots, chopped. Place cleaned English peas in blender. Add lemon juice, water and shallots. Blend until smooth and season to taste with salt and pepper. Pea tendrils Pea tendrils 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt & pepper Dress a handful of pea tendrils with lemon juice, olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Try our delicious shortcake! RED WING, MN
Just Add Water!
Shortcake Mix
Scallops Season both sides of six to eight large diver scallops. Heat a heavy bottom pan and lightly coat with oil. Sear both sides of the scallops until cooked medium (being careful not to mess with them) and let them sit and cook before trying to flip them.
contact: 1-800-201-9650 www.sturdiwheat.com pancakes@sturdiwheat.com
Locally made in Red Wing, MN
All Natural!
Assemble all of the ingredients quickly, placing the pea puree and tendrils on one side of the plate, then spreading the bean puree as a base for the combined scallops and ham hocks. Sourcing Scallops You can find fresh scallops locally at Coastal Seafoods in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Call to see what types have just come in! 651.698.4888 (St. Paul) or 612.724.7425 (Mpls) or visit coastalseafoods.com. Some grocery stores also carry fresh scallops.
Red Wing
BluewaterYoga.com
651-388-6099
day tripping
The Birthplace of Minnesota BY NICHOLE DAY DIGGINS
T
17
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
he charming and historic city of Stillwater seems to have it all: unique shopping and fine restaurants along with an assortment of galleries, spas, wineries and B&Bs, surrounded by parks and trails and scenic bluffs along the spectacular St. Croix river – one of America’s protected Wild and Protected Waterways. Located just 20 minutes east of downtown St. Paul, Stillwater is a popular day trip destination for people from across Minnesota and Wisconsin – and beyond.
Stillwater SHOPPING
As you stroll along Main Street downtown Stillwater, you find a wide variety of unique shops housing a wealth of treasures. Stillwater is known for its antique stores, and you’ll find no fewer than seven along Main Street alone. Then there are the art galleries, several bookshops, more than a dozen clothing boutiques, many, many gift shops, jewelers, kitchen and home furnishing shops and even an old-fashioned farm store. For a listing of shops and links to their websites, visit discoverstillwater.com/shopping
Smalley’s Caribbean Barbecue offers an interesting take on traditional Caribbean-style cuisine, tailored to please an American palette. Smalley’s prides itself on having the largest rum list in the area in the Midwest (currently at 150 rums). They even boast their own house-made rum, “Kill Devil” with a dangerously high proofing, which, coupled with its sweet flavor, will either begin or end your evening.
FOOD + FUN
Whatever your dining pleasure, you’re sure to find it in Stillwater. From delightful sidewalk cafes and wine bars to historic restaurants and fine dining, it’s hard to decide on just one (or two, or even three!). Find a complete list at discoverstillwater.com/diningentertainment
PHOTOS from left: Smalley’s Jerk Tacos, Babarosa (fresh berry tea & pomegranate with orange rum, mint & lime muddle), assorted custom-made jerk sauces. BELOW: Fried plantains and tortilla chips w/ habañero salsa and queso.
day tripping THINGS TO DO
Stillwater has no shortage of activities and attractions available year round. There are miles of hiking, biking and ski trails, more than 20 public golf courses and 32 parks in the area. For more information, visit discoverstillwater.com
Cruisin’ on the Croix – hot rod & vintage car show
Come to Stillwater every Wednesday night to admire the vintage and hot rod cars (or bring your own). Vendors, 50s music and festivities. Lowell Park (behind the Water Street Inn).
Summer Tuesdays – Market, Music & Movies
July 12 – August 16 – every Tuesday from 4:30-10 PM Celebrate Stillwater’s FREE Summer Tuesday events for the entire family held in Lowell Park. Market vendors, stage performances, live music and a great family movie at dusk. Bring the family and a blanket! (not available July 3 and 17) summertuesdays.com
Joseph Wolf Brewery Cave Tours
Joseph Wolf Brewery Caves tours are offered on weekends and by appointment to be added to your dining experience or wine tasting. It is a walking tour that takes about 30 minutes. 402 South Main Street / 651.430.0560 lunarossawinebar.com/cavetour
Gondola Romantica
Take a cruise in an authentic Venetian gondola. Packages available. 651.439.1783 gondolaromantica.com
St. Croix Boat & Packet Co.
Daily public lunch and dinner cruises. Private charters can accommodate groups of 25 to 675 people. 651.430.1234 / stillwaterriverboats.com
Stillwater Boat Rentals
19
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
One of the best places to enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful St. Croix River is on a boat from Stillwater Boat Rentals. Daily pontoon rentals for the half and full day. 651.439.9000 / stillwaterboatrentals.com
St. Croix Pedicab
A pedicab is basically a bicycle rickshaw. St. Croix Pedicab is now operating in the greater downtown Stillwater area. In addition to providing tours of the downtown area during afternoon and evening hours, St.. Croix Pedicab is available for events, weddings and receptions. 651.728.0580 / stcroixpedicab.com / email: stcroixpedicab@gmail.com
Stillwater Balloons
Enjoy the sensational experience of gently drifting over the beautiful and picturesque St. Croix River Valley. Every flight offers spectacular visions of sparkling blue waters and lush landscaping. 651.439.1800 / stillwaterballoons.com
Stillwater Trolley Co.
Hold on to your seat as you tour the hills and narrow streets of historic Stillwater, Minnesota’s oldest town. 45 minute narrated tours run daily. 651.430.0352 / stillwatertrolley.com
Washington County Historical Society
Warden’s House Museum open for tours through October 31 on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5pm. Built in 1853 as the residence of the Minnesota Territorial Prison warden. 651.439.5956 / wchsmn.org
A brief history of Stillwater Stillwater was platted in 1848, a town of about 600 people, nearly all of them lumbermen. That year, delegates from the area met in Stillwater and appointed Henry Sibley to petition Congress for the early organization of Minnesota Territory. The first Minnesota Territorial Legislature named the county Washington and confirmed Stillwater as its county seat. On March 4, 1854, Stillwater was incorporated as a city – the largest incorporated area in the state. The railroad came to Stillwater in the early 1870s, expanding the markets for timber and manufactured goods. This was Stillwater’s Golden Age, which saw the largest opera house west of Chicago, many magnificent brick buildings on Main Street and the grand homes of the lumber barons. The city had gas lights in 1875, telephone service downtown in 1878 and the first electric lights west of Chicago in 1888. It also boasted as many as 46 saloons and six breweries. In June 1889, the first electric street railway in Minnesota began operation in Stillwater. In 1857, Stillwater had a population of 2,800, but that number soared to 13,700 in 1884. By 1900, the lumber was running out and the mills closed and the city continued to lose population until it bottomed out at around 7,000 in 1940. Today the city is once again bustling with a population of over 18,000.
we OFFer:
Don’t Miss Seeing Your World!
eye Care | Surgical Services Glasses & Contacts Bring in this ad to get 25% OFF your purchase of frames and lenses. Offer expires July 31, 2012.
in the garden
Front Yard Gardens Shake up Tradition
You can play a part in rewriting lawn history By Ann Christy Dybvik It is an unwritten rule that with a house comes a lawn. Yet many people are rebelling with a shout-out for more variety, color and creativity. Still, the perfect American lawn is a hard tradition to shake. The tradition evolved from the manicured estate lawns of Europe after the industrial revolution. Unlike Europe where grounds keepers cared for lawns, we have had to care for our own lawns. Umpteen products have emerged to make the care and feeding of home greenspaces easier, though with some ill effects. After the second world war, herbicides and pesticides entered the picture, outgrowths of chemicals used in the war. Lawn mowers, garden hoses and weed-free grass seeds followed and spurred consumer interest in lawns. Over time, lawns became extensions of our living
21
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
areas, with decks, pergolas, fences, gazebos and walkways. Shrinking Lawns Today many people are reducing or eliminating their lawns and replacing them with perennials, herbs, ground cover, rocks, pathways, trees and shrubs. Lawns are changing into places of color and art. This trend may appeal to you if you want a more natural, less labor intensive background for your home and extended living space, and are concerned about the health risks and cost of the products used to keep lawns green and weed-free. An added benefit to creating more diversity in your garden is that a natural front yard garden will evolve into a beautiful, natural environment for butterflies, insects and birds, as native plants are able to slowly recover their foothold in our daily living spaces. Considerations when planning and planting a front yard garden include location of sun and shade spaces, which plants grow best by each other, type of soil, growing season, native plants and drainage. “Will it grow here?” is a good starter question to ask as you plan your garden. Also, consider expansion possibilities when planning. Many people begin their front yard projects and find they want to add more. Be sure to check local ordinances if you want to plant taller plants close to roadways, and it is always a good idea to let neighbors know that the landscape in your yard may be changing. With the majority of us still in ‘lawn’ mode, it is best to be proactive by signaling change. Next gardening season perhaps your creativity will inspire others!
photos by tom roster
in the garden Front-Yard Garden Themes The Minimalist Garden
Minimalist gardens may include a simple palate of plants and some rock or wood specimens. These
gardens enhance the design of more modern homes,
where function over frill is emphasized. A simple flowering crab apple tree next to a planting of green
ground cover and low growing plants is an example
of the minimalist approach. Large and small rocks can
provide a backdrop for both flowers and ground cover. The Old-Fashioned Cottage Garden
In the past cottage gardens were more than just beautiful places, they also provided food for the family.
Herbs, vegetables and flowers all grew together in small front yards, often contained by small picket
fences. Today, combining vines, flowering shrubs and plants, herbs, low and higher growing flowers with stone walkways and even a simple garden gate can add beauty and function to the front yard of a home.
23
redouxhome.com
JUNE | JULY 2012
Miniature Gardens
These gems can provide visual relief from the sameness of townhome living and offer extended living
space for owners. A small patch of land can be a place for a bench surrounded by old bricks or flagstones, with
low growing ground cover and medium sized colorful perennials like daylilies. Potted plants with height or fragrant herbs surrounding a walkway add interest and
beauty. Mound soil to create more variation in height. Add a small bird bath and watch your bird friends come!
By creating small, expandable spaces in front of your house filled with diverse mixes of plants, herbs, and
flowers, you can begin to change the environmental diversity of your own front yard space.
Tips for starting your front yard garden Make a plan. Prepare your neighbors for the change! Start small but plan for expansion. Plant fewer different plants but more of the ones you choose. Drive around and gather gardening ideas from others who have planted front yard gardens. Use rocks, small sections of fence and other items to create added interest and backdrop for plants. Use the many garden books available to design and plan your space. A good book to start with: Front Yard Gardens – Growing More Than Grass by Liz Primeau
Providing Superior Products & Services
Container Grown Trees • Greenhouse Plants • Landscape Products
Breakfast • Lunch • Pastries • Pie
Homemade from scratch food that is LOCALICIOUS! Author Beth Dooley (The Northern Heartland Kitchen) will be at Oasis Eatery at Nesbitt’s Nursery May 12th!
www.nesbittsnursery.com
Oasis Eatery • Apple Orchard • Gift Shop • Happ-E-Hill
N4380 Hwy 35 Prescott, Wisconsin • 715.792.2676
inspirations
Glenn Switzer: Growing Up Green By Elizabeth Child
Glenn Switzer has had his hands in the garden since he weeded for his grandfather’s and then father’s nursery. As the namesake, he is the architect of a new Switzer’s Nursery and Landscaping and is transforming it by focusing on designing outdoor living spaces.
25
redouxhome.com
JUNE / JULY 2012
You say you were like a typical farm kid who did minimal chores and then found trouble. Does it surprise you, then, to be the proprietor of your family’s business? GS: In high school and college I had this policy wonk thing going. I had been an FFA [Future Farmers of America] officer and I was a poly sci major with a defense minor at the University of Minnesota. Then I toured the Landscape Architecture Department with an FFA officer friend and I thought it was cool. I applied to the program and we were roommates. How has Switzer’s changed since you took over? GS: My dad had a full season business from asparagus to seed potatoes and landscaping. Toward the end of college he needed help and I came back to the nursery. A few years ago I discontinued the retail nursery to devote myself to my passion for design and I changed the tagline to ‘The art of landscape design.’ How do you approach designing landscapes? GS: I can visualize a plan in my mind to the last detail. I think spatially. Plants are important, but I don’t often plan a design based on plants. They might die off or you might want to change what you plant. If the space is correct, plants will enhance the overall effect. I also think in terms of the human experience in relation to the space and how you transition from the inside to the outside. I blur the lines between the indoors and the outdoors. Even in Minnesota when the bugs are bad you can sit on a porch and listen to a fountain flowing in your garden.
2012 Landscape Design Grand Honor Award Minnesota Nursery & Landscape Association
photo by Dan Iverson
Why is water so important in a landscape? GS: All the elements need to be there. I balance a landscape using the four basic elements: air, earth, fire and water. When the balance is right, you know it. It tugs at the human spirit. The water element could be manifested in a large pond, but it could also be as simple as a birdbath or rain barrel. What could the fire element be in a garden? GS: It could be a candle, a tiki torch or the color red. Or it could be the cooking area or a fireplace. What is one thing anyone can do on a budget to immediately improve their landscape? GS: Plan with the big picture in mind. Everything you do builds toward that plan so you’re not wasting time, effort and money. To get ideas, surround yourself with people you want to learn from. Get involved in your garden club. Visit gardens like the Carleton’s Japanese garden and parks. Go on garden tours. And if you don’t have time or inclination but want a beautiful outdoor space? GS: Hire a professional. About Glenn Switzer Family: Wife Michelle Millenacker and two chocolate labs Favorite artist: Alexander Calder or Jackson Pollack
The Art of Landscape Design
Best indoor-outdoor space: Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain
Patios • Pergolas • Outdoor Living
Best local space: National Farmer’s Bank of Owatonna designed by Louis Sullivan
(507) 645 - 9741 (651) 460–2171 SwitzersNursery.com
Other occupations: Mayor of Dundas, owner of the Historic Archibald Inn, co-founder (with Michelle) of the Dundas Historical Society, board of directors of Art.org and Mill Towns Trail.
expressions
39th
STOCKHOLM ART FAIR
art al fresco
the 39th annual stockholm art fair The Stockholm Art Fair has come a long way since its inception in 1974. Back then, a group of artists who had recently moved to the area held the art fair as a way to “let the people know who we were and what we did.” The thinking was that if no one showed up, it would be just a picnic.
27
redouxhome.com JUNE | JULY 2012
But people did come to the upstart fair along the Mississippi River. Chickens were bartered, kittens were given away, and enough art was sold to set in motion an evolving annual event. This year marks the 39th annual Stockholm Art Fair, now a juried fine art show which is a very big event for the tiny town of Stockholm.
great art fine food live music
Saturday, July 21, 2012 Village Par k
10am to 5pm
Stockholm WI
The Stockholm Art Fair is one day only (always the third Saturday in July). On July 21 this year, 107 artists will fill Village Park just off the Great River Road (Highway 35 in Wisconsin) on scenic Lake Pepin. Artists will come from five states to show and sell their paintings, jewelry, clay, glass, sculpture, fiber, leather, photography and more. The fair also features live, original music all day long and local foods made by area chefs. Each year a different artist creates the poster (collected by many) and this year the poster was created from a painting by Northfield artist Chris Holmquist. He and his wife Sue have participated in the fair for years and have also been award winners at the show. The Stockholm Art Fair is truly a happening community celebration, anticipated by thousands of people every year. You’re always sure to find diverse and outstanding fine art, music and ambiance – a perfect way to spend a summer day in a small town.
Festival June 25 - 30
Plein Air Art And Music FestivAl Artwork painted in the open air
July 21 & 22, 2012
GAllery show
Hannah’s Bend Park
June 30 - August 26
Cannon Falls, Minnesota
418 Levee Street, Red Wing, MN www.redwingartsassociation.org
Art Festival - FREE
10am – 5pm FREE LIVE MUSIC
upcoming Red Wing Arts Association events
July 15 – Annual Garden Tour Six gardens with artists, Master Gardeners and musicians July 20 - August 4 – Garden Tour Art Show September 1 - October 28 – Chap Achen, photography • Art Kenyon, drawing, painting, printmaking • Regionally-recognized artists • Paper Art • A variety of art forms created in paper
ONLY $20 Saturday & Sunday
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Trinichad
June 25 - 30 – Plein Air Art and Music Festival 30 artists painting in the open air June 30 - August 26 – Plein Air Gallery Show Work from the Plein Air Festival
Wine Tasting
NOON — 4 pm
SAT 11:30-1:30pm
Glider with SAT Dave Hagedorn, 1:30-3:30 pm Jazz Trio
The Cactus Blossoms SAT 3:30-6 pm
Mark Stillman SUN 1-4 pm
SPONSORS Sons of the American Legion
rochester
ROCHESTERMAGAZINE.COM
October 13 - 14 – 46th Annual Fall Festival of the Arts Featuring 100 booths Email: cannonfallswineandartfestival@gmail.com
bazaar Structural Integration Rolfing & Yin Yoga The Rolf method of structural integration helps you find stability and alignment to increase flexibility, decrease pain and create a sense of peace. Call for individual sessions in: • Structural Integration (Rolfing) • Yin yoga Daniel Martin Certified Guild for Structural Integration practitioner and yoga instructor Northfield Buddhist Center 313 ½ Division St., Northfield 507.664.9418
JENNIFER WALLIN – NATIONALLY CERTIFIED MASSAGE THERAPIST Massage Therapy helps rid the effects of stress and can decrease tension headaches. New modality MyoKinesthetic focuses on bringing balance back to your posture, which can reduce chronic aches and pains and even headaches! $35 for 30 minutes $60 for 60 minutes $65 for 75 minutes $75 for 90 minutes Noble Chiropractic Clinic 507.645.8242
SHANTI TATTOO STUDIO & PERMANENT COSMETICS Look your best ALL day, every day! Eyebrows • Eye liner Lip liner • Full lip shade Beauty marks • Licensed • Professional • Sterile equipment • Friendly Call now for your FREE consultation: 507.301.2927 shantitattoostudio.com 103 3rd Street W, Northfield
THE INDIGO CONFERENCE ROOM IS AVAILABLE FOR BUSINESS MEETINGS Features: • Roof Deck overlooking the Mississippi River • Elevator Access • Special Daytime Rates • Downtown Red Wing in the restored Indigo Building 325 Main Street • Red Wing 651.267.0076
Experience gets results Reiland Team Paul & Juliette Reiland and Erik Severson 952-292-5999 reilandteam.edinarealty.com
President’s Circle 2010, 2011 and 2012
JOURNEY INN, an eco retreat. Spend a quiet night in a nature-inspired guest room at Journey Inn and receive $10 off a relaxation massage at the EarthSky BodyMind Center. Come for a day visit or spend the night. • massage & energy therapy • life direction coaching • Passage Program for life transitions www.earthskybodymind.com info@earthskybodymind.com www.journeyinn.net 715.448.2424
SHEPHERD’S WAY FARMS Minnesota Artisan Sheep Cheese Shepherd’s Way Farms, a local family-based sheep dairy, produces award-winning artisan cheeses on the farm, just outside Northfield. Find Shepherd’s Way cheeses at Just Food Co-op in Northfield, or other local coops, specialty cheese shops, or Byerly’s, Lunds & Kowalski’s. shepherdswayfarms.com 507.663.9040
Custom cabinetry and furniture. Traditional. Modern. Local.
nestwoodworking.com 612.716.5347
Reveal Renew
“Transcend is a hidden gem for Hudson and the St.Croix River valley”
Enhance Indulge
Be the First to Experience Our New Harmony XL Laser! The Most Advanced Laser Technology in Skin Treatment … With No Downtime! The Harmony XL uses infrared technology for skin tightening at its best. Featuring advanced treatments for face, eyelids, lips, upper arms, inner thighs, gluts, abdominal and knee areas. This amazing new technology also works beautifully on crepe skin, stretch marks, scar revision and tattoo removal. Call us today to make an appointment.
50% Off Your First Treatment (Originally $199)
As seen on
$8 Botulinum Toxin (Botox or Dysport) Lowest per unit in the region!
Transcend Medi Spa Medical Laser & Skin Spa
715-808-0681 www.transcendmedi-spa.com
Carmichael Centre • 131 Carmichael Road • Suite 204 • Hudson WI 54016