Lake Minnetonka April 2021

On Pointe Ballet school encourages dancers to achieve excellence and pursue their dream dance careers

plus: Go Play Outside Experts offer tips to keep pets safe at home and the park Canadian Bakin’ Minnetonka native pens food blog from north of the border

The Sign of Success on Lake Minnetonka.

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Your Health. Your Smile. Your Dentist.

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CONTENTS

APRIL 2021 “As parents, we can show our kids that creating nutritious and flavorful food to share is one way to express our love for each other.” -Elizabeth Lepage of The Up North Kitchen

PAGE 26

in every issue Editor’s Letter 6 Noteworthy 9 On the Town 41 Tastemakers 4 4 Last Glance 4 8

departments SU R R OU N DIN GS 1 4

The Root of Things Locally-owned business tackles lake weed removal.

PETS 1 8

Go Play Outside

Experts offer tips to keep pets safe at home and the park.

DOIN G GOOD 22

Autism Awareness

The philosophy at the Minnesota Autism Center is one size does not fit all.

26

Canadian Bakin’

Minnetonka native pens food blog from north of the border.

32

On Pointe

Ballet school encourages dancers to achieve excellence and pursue their dream dance careers.

PAGE 44

4

APRIL 2021

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELIZABETH LEPAGE AND BAD ROOSTER

features

BEFORE

M A JOR R E NOVAT IONS | K I T CH E N & BAT H R E MODE L S | 2 N D ST ORY A DDI T IONS

Our award winning team has the knowledge and experience to help you with any renovation or new addition you may be considering.

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FROM THE EDITOR Renée Stewart-Hester, lakeminntonkamag@tigeroak.com

T Never miss an issue of Lake Minnetonka Magazine with free, anytime access to our digital editions. Full screen viewing on your digital device allows easy cover-to-cover reading. You can zoom in on text or images as well as share your favorite Lake Minnetonka Magazine stories with friends and family.

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On the Cover Ava Tellier, photo by Chris Emeott

6

APRIL 2021

PHOTO BY TATE CARLSON

in digital format!

hrow open the windows of your spirit; April is here!

Each passing month can bring us to another level of appreciation for what we have endured, maintained or pivoted toward. There’s hope for what we can achieve and celebrate in a world that has repeatedly and, in some cases unmercifully so, challenged us.

Rebirth is on the horizon, and it’s time for us to till the soil—in so many ways— and replant with the promise of a bountiful harvest as we go forward.

This issue wraps itself around gardening and landscaping, and I find that most fitting. On page 14, Madeline Kopiecki writes about how a local company tends to lakeshores and beyond. (If you own water shoes, you’ll appreciate this business concept!) Page 18 offers Claire Swenson’s article about pet-friendly landscaping and public play areas. Can we agree that our pets deserve extra special playtime after all they’ve done to love us throughout this past year?

On another note, congratulations to dancers from WestMet Classical Training, featured on page 32, who competed this winter in North Carolina in a Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) Regional event. (Eight of the students and two of its ensemble pieces were invited to the prestigious YAGP 2021 finals in May.) Mound’s Morgan Johnson received her division’s Hope Award, given to a student for exemplary work in contemporary and classical ballet and who shows promise for a future professional ballet career. In the senior division, Excelsior’s Hayley Miller placed second (contemporary) and in the top 24 (classical).

Additionally, owners/instructors Allynne Noelle and Thomas Brown were presented Outstanding Teachers 2021 awards.

Until next time,

VOL. 16 NO. 11 lakeminnetonkamag.com

publisher

SUSAN ISAY

editor RENÉE STEWART-HESTER

managing editor ANGELA JOHNSON

associate editor HAILEY ALMSTED

copy editor KELLIE DOHERTY

staff writers

AVA DIAZ

MADELINE KOPIECKI CLAIRE SWENSON

editorial interns

LAUREN FOLEY

OLIVIA RIVERA MEGHAN BISHOP

editorial advisory board JACQUELINE GETTY, Minnetonka Public Schools TRACY HVEZDA-LEHTOLA, Hennepin County Library-Excelsior MICHELE PHILLIPS, blogger, writer, photographer JENNY BODURKA, Minnetonka Community Education NATALIE WEBSTER, chief creator at Webster Effect MIKE POLIS, Realtor and YouTuber Things|People|Places

senior managing art director SARAH DOVOLOS

art directors ALLISON NOLDEN

EMILY HANDY

lead staff photographer CHRIS EMEOTT

print production director production coordinator digital production director project coordinators

senior account executives

BRITTNI DYE ALEX KOTLAREK DEIDRA ANDERSON ANGELA BEISSEL BROOKE BEISE

KATIE FREEMARK CYNTHIA HAMRE SARA JOHNSON

circulation and marketing

KATIE RINGHAND

credit manager

APRIL MCCAULEY

Located 20 minutes West of Lake Minnetonka

chief operating officer chief financial officer

SUSAN ISAY BILL NELSON

Lake Minnetonka Magazine ONE TIGER OAK PLAZA 900 SOUTH THIRD STREET MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55415 612.548.3180

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NOTEWORTHY local tips, tidbits & insights

OR G A N I Z E

BEFORE YOU PLAY GO FETCH, TIDY UP.

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P

ets bring endless joy, comfort and love. I have inside a closet door or add a decorative chest of drawers to hold the supplies. Tip: I have a bench two rescued greyhounds that are 11 years old and retired from racing. Taking my furry friends on with drawers near my front door, where store pet supdaily walks keeps me active. Petting them is calming, plies and can easily put on my walking shoes.

Pet playtime is always a highlight of the day. There and seeing their wagging tales puts a smile on my face.

While many of us have experienced the upshots of are so many cute options for storing pet toys and home organization, it can be similarly good for pets, too. stuffed animals. Tip: Keeping the bins small and low to Whether you have a cat or a Great Dane, food takes the ground allow for easy access. up quite a bit of space, and bags can be unsightly. Find Remember, when it comes to home organization, it is easy to add decorative and functional options for our a decorative container to hold the kibble. Large baskets with lids or appealing trash bins are favorable options. beloved pets.

Tip: Collapsible scoops save space.

Walking pets outdoors requires that leashes and Kira Vanderlan operates Zestful Design, a home and business waste bags be readily accessible. Consider installdecluttering, organization and interior design company with a ing decorative hooks near a door, attach hooks focus on mindfulness. zestfuldesign.com

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N OT E WO RT H Y »

READ

THIS DOMESTIC DRAMA OFFERS PLENTY OF TWISTS.

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

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APRIL 2021

T RAVE L

Pack up the entire family for your next trip.

Pet-friendly travel is on the rise, and, thankfully, it’s becoming easier and easier. While we have not flown with our dog, we did bring her on a 24-plus hour road trip. It’s very feasible with a little extra planning.

For me, travel usually involves good food, so that was the most challenging—wanting to stop at a yummy restaurant and realizing that we had the dog in tow. More and more restaurants are offering dog-friendly dining, whether it’s patio spaces or under tents, so do your research. Additionally, there are plenty of pet-friendly accommodations (hotel, rental or campsite), and it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to sacrifice comfort.

Our dog loves being included in our adventures.

If your pet does, too, preplan activities, including visits to hiking trails or beaches.

Ask your vet about what is needed for your

pet, depending on your mode of transportation.

(Be prepared in case your dog doesn’t do well in a plane, car or any other type of transportation.)

Consider the need for a travel kennel, collapsible bowls for water, food and treats and other equipment or safety items. If you’re roadtripping and need to make a stop, plan on a little extra time to let your pet roam and stretch its legs, so don’t forget a leash.

Many people find comfort in traveling with their fur baby, and with the right planning and prep, it can be a paw-some (oh, yes I did!) adventure.

Mollie Krengel is the founder of adventure-based business Wild Bum. She shares travel tips and insights in this column, writing with husband, Roy, and globetrotting kids Liam, Ella and Rafi. wildbum.com

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Such a Fun Age was one of last year’s most noteworthy debut novels and worthy of all the buzz it received. Kiley Reid’s story will have readers both squirming with discomfort at the conflict between its main characters while also unable to put it down because they just have to know where it leads.

This is a plot where the less said, the better, but, needless to say, the story starts with a small series of events that quickly escalates and continues to unfold in unexpected directions until the end.

The two leads are Emira, a 20-something black woman with a part-time nanny job, and Alix, the affluent 30-something white mother, who hired Emira to work for her.

The building tension between the two women, as they navigate their complicated relationship, is sweetly contrasted by the touching relationship between Emira and Alix’s daughter. Fans of domestic dramas like Big Little Lies or Little Fires Everywhere will want to pick up this novel.

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It’s time to revisit a timeless apéritif.

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It’s a classic apéritif!

• • • •

1 oz. gin 1 oz. campari 1 oz. sweet vermouth Orange twist, for garnish

Mix ingredients, and pour into an old fashioned cocktail glass. Add twist for garnish. Note: Replicate this recipe, minus the gin and add in soda water to taste, and you’ve got another classic—the Americano.

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APRIL 2021

In memoriam: Prince’s music lives on.

“I said now, overcast days never turned me on, But something about the clouds and her mixed.” –Prince, poet, musical genius and lover of Minneapolis Hollie Blanchard, co-founder of Art Girls Mpls., says, “Prince knew Minneapolis was a creative force. His lyrics were the soundtrack to my youth and so many others. Like music, visual art comes in many genres, and really fantastic art pulls you in, and we are never the same. Gone too soon,

Prince Rogers Nelson, so thankful your music lives forever.”

Artist: Matthew Gaulke of Minneapolis Title: Prince Medium: Pencil on mixed media paper; 11x14

For more information about this or similar artwork, contact the Art Girls at artgirlsmpls. com or hollie@artgirlsmpls.com. @art_girls_mpls Art Girls Minneapolis

DIS COVE R

Historic home made a worthy move.

The past few years has seen an outcry from people wanting to preserve the historic nature of Excelsior’s built environment.

The pique of property rights versus protectionist efforts colided when Greg and Carrie Larson desired to demolish the house at 200 Lake Street.

The house was built in 1912 for Dana L. and Grace H. Case. Dana Case was the cashier of the East Side State Bank in Minneapolis. He built the bungalow in the Craftsman/Arts and Crafts style for him, his wife and his mother-in-law. The centuryold house commanded a grand view of Excelsior Bay, but it did not conform to modern needs, as it was small and had only a one-car tuck-under garage.

In an attempt to diffuse the situation, the Larsons offered the house free on the condition that it be removed from the site.

Their neighbor in Eden Prairie, Dan Brattland, had recently purchased the 1890 Walter Milnor residence at 6 Third St. with intensions of restoring it.

The property had nearly 30,000 square feet of land, and the City of Excelsior allowed him to subdivide the lot, where he moved the 200 Lake St. house to 7 George St. He now commands the responsibility of returning two of Excelsior’s architectural relics—of greatly disparate styles—to viable homes.

Scott McGinnis is a local historian and volunteer for the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Historical Society. elmhs.org

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The Root of Things Locally-owned business tackles lake weed removal.

BY MADELINE KOPIECKI

14

APRIL 2021

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WATERFRONT RESTORATION

D E PA R T M E N T S » S U R R O U N D I N G S

FEW OF US LIKE THE CREEPING SENSATION of a surprise encoun-

ter with lake weeds while swimming.

Tom Suerth, founder of Waterfront Restoration, knows this firsthand from growing up on Long Lake. “His dad used to clear the area around their lakefront by scuba diving,” says Ben Maki, Waterfront Restoration’s marketing manager. “He would remove the weeds for Tom and his brother and sister, so they could enjoy a weed-free lakefront.”

As soon as they were old enough, Suerth and his siblings would help their dad with the process. After the neighbors started requesting their services, Suerth knew he was onto something and founded Waterfront Restoration in 2003— while he was still in high school.

Waterfront Restoration’s scuba diving method of weed removal may sound exotic, but, in reality, the process is very similar to what you experience in your own garden. If you pull a weed out by the root system, it will take longer for it to come back, Maki explains. “As far as how long it lasts, we typically see around three to four weeks as how long it takes for a little bit of regrowth,” he says.

Pulling out the lake weeds by hand is a longer-lasting solution than machine harvesters or chemicals. It’s also a lot more delicate, Maki says. “Harvesting is basically just a lawn mower, so when you’re cutting up these weeds, it’s spreading the seeds a lot more. It can actually create more invasive weed species than are growing to begin with.”

And if your aim is lake health, chemicals aren’t a foolproof bet either. Aside from killing indigenous and invasive species alike, chemicals create another type

LAKEMINNETONKAMAG.COM

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SURROUNDINGS » CONTINUED

BEFORE

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APRIL 2021

AFTER

“Paris is always a good idea”

Celebrate love with a Diamond Ring inspired by the Iron Lady. of lake mess. “The weeds aren’t actually being removed,” Maki says. “They’re dying off and falling to the bottom [of the lake]. That’s creating a lot of muck, which is very challenging to remove.”

Longtime customer Cathy Sweet of Wayzata says she appreciates Waterfront Restoration’s chemical-free methods.

Suerth reached out to her after initially launching the business, and she hasn’t spent a summer without its services ever since. “They’ve grown tremendously,” she says. “I remember when it was two guys, sometimes four. Now, it’s two trucks, and they’re in and out really quickly.” Aside from using the scuba diving services a few times a season, Sweet has the team out weekly to clear her lakefront on Lake Minnetonka. “They are punctual. They are flexible, and they do a phenomenal job,” she says.

Waterfront Restoration starts services mid-May, and Maki recommends tackling that first growth of the season toward the end of May and into June.

“Usually, the initial visit is when the majority of the work is being done, and then it’s just maintenance for the remainder of the season,” he says.

Waterfront Restoration can also customize its weed removal service to customers’ needs, including cleanups for special events. It also offers other lakefront management services, including zebra mussel cleanup and watercraft inspections.

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D E PA R T M E N T S » P E T S

Go Play Outside Experts offer tips to keep pets safe at home and the park.

BY CLAIRE SWENSON

18

APRIL 2021

PHOTO BY TATE CARLSON

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WITH MANY MINNESOTANS STICKING CLOSER TO HOME during

the pandemic, folks have been looking for inspired ways to use their newfound time. For some, that meant welcoming pets into their homes.

Rachel Mairose, executive director of Secondhand Hounds in Minnetonka, says the shelter witnessed an uptick in interest for pet adoptions and fostering. “Our large dog coordinator had a 75 percent increase in the number of lives saved over the summer,” Mairose says. “[Pet adoptions] is the silver lining of this whole pandemic for us,” she says. “The amount of lives not only Secondhand Hounds has been able to save, but every rescue across the country, is amazing.”

With so many pet owners bringing animals into their homes and exploring the outdoors, it brings to question how to properly care for the animals. Spending time outdoors is healthy for owners and their pets, so where are good areas to take pets for a walk? At home, is there anything owners can do to make sure landscaping elements are pet friendly?

There are plenty dog parks in the Metro, but did you know that there’s one nestled in the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum? Its Dog Commons is “a place where members [with a dog-added membership] and their leashed dogs can enjoy the beauty of the arboretum together,” says Jean Larson, PhD, manager of the arboretum’s Nature-Based Therapeutic Services and assistant professor at the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota.

During walks, Larson says that it’s essential to let dogs follow their instincts while staying on marked paths. While humans are used to moving at their own speed, it’s important to allow dogs to have a say in the pace. “When you are on a walk with your dog, let your dog sniff.” Larson says. “Sniffing on a walk

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PETS » CONTINUED

BORN TO RUN

In addition to local parkland (Find out cities’ regulations regarding on- and off-leash pet areas, including permits.), here’s a shortlist of some area dog parks.

4 Paws Dog Park at Plymouth Playfield, 9755 36th Ave. N, Plymouth Brookdale Park, 7650 June Ave. N., Brooklyn Park Environmental Nature Area, 10201 West River Road, Brooklyn Park Cedar Knoll Park, 2541 Nevada Ave. S., St. Louis Park Crow-Hassan Park Reserve, 12595 Park Drive, Hanover Dakota Park, 2643 Dakota Ave. S., St. Louis Park Elm Creek Reserve Dog Park, 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove Fish Lake Regional Park Dog Park, 14900 Bass Lake Road, Maple Grove Happy Tails Dog Park at Oakwood Playfield in the hockey rink, 1700 County Road 101, Plymouth Iron Horse Dog Park, 5180 Kentucky Ave. N., Crystal

Plymouth Dog Park, 17005 County Road 47, Plymouth Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska Susan E. Lurton Park, 3580 Wayzata Blvd., Long Lake

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APRIL 2021

PHOTO BY EMILY J. DAVIS

Lake Minnewashta Regional Park, 6900 Hazeltine Blvd., Excelsior

is extremely important for a dog’s wellbeing, and it allows us humans to slow down and enjoy the walk, too.”

Larson gives a few tips for pet-safe yard care at home. “Invest in a quality fence for your yard,” she says. “Physical fencing allows your dog to roam freely and stay safe.” She also says that careful supervision and recognizing your dog’s habits can be a great way to create a space he/she will enjoy. Is he a digger? Provide a sand pit for digging. Is she a sniffer? Feature areas of heavier cover where your dog can happily sniff. Does your dog like to sunbathe?

Find a sunny spot where your dog can warm his belly.

Larson recommends using dog-safe materials in landscaping and warns against cocoa bean mulch and commercial weed killers. Kristi Flynn, DVM, assistant professor, Primary Care, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, says fertilizers with bone meal can also be dangerous. “[They] prove to be irresistible for some dogs and can make a dog sick if they eat too much,” Flynn says.

Be strategic about planting gardens, avoiding elements that are harmful to pets if ingested. Yews, castor bean, holly and lilies are a few that can quickly become dangerous. “The best prevention for keeping your dog healthy is to research plants that work in your zone and are safe for your dogs,” Larson says.

She suggests Dog Friendly Gardens by Cheryl Smith, or visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ online library for information.

“Plants can cause drooling or mild [gastrointestinal] signs right away, while others can have more serious adverse effects delayed after ingestion,” Flynn says. If you are worried your pet ate something they shouldn’t, contact a vet or a pet poison center, including the Pet Poison Helpline at 855.764.7661.

If you have questions about your pet’s health, don’t risk it. Contact your veterinarian.

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D E PA R T M E N T S » D O I N G G O O D

Autism Awareness The philosophy at the Minnesota Autism Center is one size does not fit all.

APRIL 2 MARKS WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY. The entire month

is known as National Autism Awareness month and works to spread awareness, promote acceptance and ignite change, according to the Autism Society.

“We spend all day, every day of the year, working with families and children on the autism spectrum,” says Tony Thomann, director of strategy and innovation at the Minnesota Autism Center (MAC). “But National Autism Awareness Month in April is good for people to

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APRIL 2021

understand that there are real people dealing with these challenges.”

For families with an autistic child, they’re far from alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in 44 children in Minnesota has been diagnosed to be on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

MAC, headquartered in Minnetonka with sites around the state, provides support and therapy for individuals diagnosed with ASD. Its programs focus on those from 18 months to 21 years old,

where the center works diligently to provide individualized support for children and families. “Our therapy’s goals usually focus on one of two outcomes—preparing a child to be able to go to school and have success or preparing them with independent living skills,” Thomann says.

“Our intake specialist and clinical team will work through an assessment to help determine what the appropriate services are for the family and their child,” Thomann says.

The center offers several therapy

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options, including occupational therapy, speech therapy and applied behavior analysis, which helps teach everyday life skills, such as using language to express emotion and navigating social situations.

For Angel Thao and her family (husband, Chris; 1-year-old Nivora; and 8-year-old Veyera), MAC has been life changing. “Veyera was medically diagnosed with ASD at 3 years old [and also] Sensory Processing Disorder,” Thao says.

“She is still entirely nonverbal [and] utilizes a speech tablet to communicate, and she knows a few sign language gestures.”

Thao’s family has been with MAC for two years, and Veyera engages in several types of therapies, centered around applied behavior analysis and positive behavior interventions and support.

MAC supports youth with ASD and also works with families. “We work to help them understand how autism is impacting their child,” Thomann says.

“By [having family members] understand, we put them in a better place to help their child reach their full potential.”

Thomann says that early intervention is key. “While receiving a diagnosis of autism can be scary, knowing early and having a team of people on your side makes a big difference,” he says.

“Without MAC, Veyera would not have met as many milestones today,” Thao says.

“With any individual with special needs, there will be many difficult times and experiences,” Thao says. “But it is also significantly rewarding. Veyera brings so much joy, peace, love and kindness in our lives … And though she may be completely non-verbal, if you listen closely, you can hear her speak through her heart.”

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CANADIAN BAKIN’

Elizabeth Lepage (née O’Connor) grew up in Minnetonka, where she credits her mother, Kathleen O’Connor, with having a natural ability to create and maintain beautiful gardens. “She

taught me a lot about how to care for different plants and how to set up a garden visually and thoughtfully to ensure it would continue to grow year after year,” Lepage says. “When I was young, she showed my sister and me how to grow our own large herb garden. We called this our jelly bean herb garden due to its shape, and we always had so much fun rubbing the leaves of the different varieties of mint or eating the chives straight from the garden.”

After meeting her husband, Matt (from Manitoba), while both attended Indiana University School of Optometry in Bloomington, Ind., the couple moved in 2014 to Winnipeg to start a life and careers together.

Lepage practices primary care optometry in a private practice and works for a corneal surgeon.

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Photos by Elizabeth Lepage

While Lepage continues her career, homegrown interest in garden-to-table cooking and a love for photography set the groundwork for her to launch her blog, The Up North Kitchen, in 2020. “I have always loved taking my favorite comfort food recipes and trying to make them healthier,” she says. “… It seemed like a natural creative outlet for me to start to share my recipes.”

The blog features traditional comfort food’s healthier cousins. “I have adapted these recipes to ensure toddlers and parents are both completely satisfied with the flavor,” she says. “As parents, we can show our kids that creating nutritious and flavorful food to share is one way to express our love for each other.”

“After having my son [Benjamin, 3], I knew that I wanted to make sure that he was always exposed to new flavors and foods and to try to show him that eating healthy is delicious and, frankly, just the way we live as a family. Of course, we also eat treats and convenience foods regularly, but we try to show him how

FAMILY PORTRAIT BY KELSIE VANHHEYST

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cooking healthy meals or baking can be a really fun way to spend time together.” The family also includes daughter, Margot, 10 months.

Lepage has another motivation to promote healthier menus—her work. “We see people with chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes and heart disease that not only affect their eyes, but have long lasting systemic problems that could be prevented or helped with a healthy diet,” she says. With family members, who also have chronic health problems, the couple is committed to serving healthier food options.

Making her home in Canada for nearly six years, Lepage is well versed in comparing Canadian and American cooking. “I think they are very similar, although there are many dishes that are distinctly Canadian that I am still getting used to,” she says. “Poutine is a favorite of almost everyone I have met in Winnipeg, as are pierogies and anything traditionally Ukrainian. Winnipeg has a great food and restaurant scene, so I have been able to try

a lot of new dishes since moving up here. There are many French foods as there is a larger French-Canadian population where I live.”

Speaking of American cuisine, are there any Minnesota dining spots that Lepage craves? “The Twin Cities always has so many amazing options for foodies, so I feel like the restaurant scene is constantly adapting every time I get a chance to try something new,” she says, pointing to Adele’s Frozen Custard in Excelsior, CōV in Wayzata and D’Amico & Sons in Wayzata on her must-visit menu. “Luckily, I get to travel back to the Minnetonka area to visit my family and friends very frequently. When I am home, I get the chance to have dishes and [baked goods] that I grew up with.”

Lepage visits local grocers, too. “This might sound silly, but I miss finding my ingredients at the grocery store in ounces and pounds,” she says. “Everything is measured with the metric system, and it took me a while to get used to it ... I’m still not used to it, to be honest!”

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MENU PLANNER

We’re hopeful that Lepage’s recipes will inspire readers to plant more herb gardens. Her love of cooking and gardening marries into some wonderful spring recipes we all can enjoy.

Herby Egg Bake—Three Ways

Broccoli Cheddar Egg Bake (single serving) • 3 eggs • 1/3 cup broccoli • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, chopped or shredded • 1 Tbsp. chives, chopped • 1 Tbsp. parsley, chopped Preheat the oven to 350 F. Spray 18.6 oz. baking dish/ramekin with olive oil.

Break eggs into the ramekin, using a small whisk to break up the yokes.

Steam the broccoli by placing in the microwave for 30 seconds. Add it to the eggs. Sprinkle the chopped cheddar cheese, chives and parsley into the eggs. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Bake for 25 minutes. Note: The baking time may vary based on the dish you

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use. Allow the eggs to set for a few minutes after baking.

Parmesan Asparagus Egg Bake with Microgreen (single serving) • 3 eggs • Microgreens • 2 spears asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces • 1 Tbsp. chives, chopped • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded • 1/2 tsp. paprika Preheat the oven to 350 F. Spray 18.6 oz. baking dish/ramekin with olive oil.

Line the base of the dish with microgreens, and break three eggs on top without breaking up the yoke. Add the asparagus, chives, paprika and Parmesan cheese on top of the eggs.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Bake for

25 minutes. Note: The baking time may vary based on the dish you use.

Allow the eggs to set for a few minutes after baking.

Caprese Egg Bake (single serving)

• 3 eggs • 2 pieces of sun-dried tomato, thinly sliced • 3 cherry tomatoes, sliced in half • 3 small mozzarella balls, chopped • 2 basil leaves, sliced • 1 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese, shredded Preheat the oven to 350 F. Spray 18.6 oz. baking dish/ramekin with olive oil.

Line the bottom of the dish with half of the sun-dried tomatoes. Break eggs on top of the sun-dried tomatoes, but do not break up the yoke. Sprinkle tomatoes, mozzarella and Parmesan on the eggs. Top with basil. Add salt and

pepper to taste. Bake for 25 minutes.

Note: The baking time may vary based on the dish you use. Allow the eggs to set for a few minutes after baking.

Thrice Baked Potatoes • • • • • • • • • •

1.5 lb. red mini creamer potatoes 4 Tbsp. olive oil 8 cloves of garlic, pressed 1 tsp. chili powder 1 tsp. smoked paprika 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. cumin 2 Tbsp. fresh thyme 1 shallot, sliced thin

Preheat the oven to 400 F. Put a layer of parchment paper on a baking sheet. Put the mini potatoes (do not slice) in a large bowl, and coat with 2-3 Tbsp. of olive oil. Place them on

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theupnorthkitchen.com

@theupnorthkitchen

the baking sheet in a single layer, and bake for 20 minutes. Take the roasted potatoes out of the oven, and lightly smash each potato on the pan until they are slightly open. Once the potatoes are slightly smashed, use your fingers to spread the pressed garlic over all of the potatoes. Mix the chili powder and smoked paprika in a small bowl, and sprinkle the mix over the smashed potatoes. Put them back in the oven to bake for another seven minutes. Take the pan out of the oven, and increase the heat to 450 F. Move the potatoes from the pan to a large mixing bowl, coat with 1 Tbsp. of olive oil and put them back on the pan in a single layer. Lightly smash the potatoes again to expose more of the inside of the potato. In a small bowl, combine salt, garlic powder, cumin and thyme. Sprinkle mixture over the potatoes. Spread shallot over top of the potatoes. Bake for the final time for seven minutes at 450 F.

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@theupnorthkitchen

Zesty Citrus Baked Donuts • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. ground ginger 1 Tbsp. lemon zest 1 Tbsp. orange zest 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled for a minute 1 egg 3 Tbsp. lemon juice 3 Tbsp. orange juice 3/8 cup honey 1/4 tsp. almond extract

Donuts

Preheat oven to 400 F. Zest two lemons and two oranges, keeping the zest in separate bowls. Juice the lemons and oranges after zesting, keeping the juices in separate bowls. In a large mixing bowl, combine coconut oil, egg, juices, honey, almond extract and zests. In a

separate mixing bowl, whisk the flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt and ground ginger. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined. Scoop the batter into a large plastic storage or piping bag; cut the tip off the plastic bag. Spray a donut pan with coconut oil, and pipe the batter into each donut well until about 2/3 full.

Bake donuts for seven minutes at 400 F. Remove donuts from the oven, and flip onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Icing • • • • •

1 1 1 1 1

1/3 cup powdered sugar Tbsp. lemon zest, extra for garnish Tbsp. orange zest, extra for garnish 1/2 Tbsp. lemon juice ½ Tbsp. orange juice

Combine all ingredients in one bowl.

Dip the top of each donut (smooth side) into the icing bowl and coat completely with icing. Add extra zest on top.

Harden on a cooling rack.

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Ballet school encourages dancers to achieve excellence and pursue their dream dance careers.

Written by Ava Diaz

Photos by Chris Emeott

On Pointe Inspiring young ballet dancers to achieve excellence through their technique and love of the art, WestMet Classical Training in Long Lake provides preprofessional guidance to students interested in pursuing a serious career in concert dance.

Open since May 2020 (for virtual classes, later expanding to in-person instruction), Allynne Noelle and Thomas Brown used their knowledge from their extensive dance careers to develop a place that inspires students to achieve their dreams. The program is home to four skill set levels with less than 10 dancers in each to encourage personal growth through individualized critiques. Practicing an average of 17 hours a week, the training structure prepares dancers to, hopefully, receive scholarships or placements in top-ranking ballet schools, leading to professional careers. “Our goal is to train these dancers and equip them in the best way possible,” Noelle says.

In addition to teaching technical elements, Noelle says that gaps in the traditional style of training must be addressed to prepare dancers for professional careers.

Emphasizing the importance of professionalism, the school also focuses on career skill sets beyond just body movement. “Fantastic technique and a beautiful body can only get you so far if you can’t truly function as a professional in a company,” she says. “[Brown] and I started WestMet Classical Training to really offer that fully holistic understanding of what it means to be a classical dancer.”

She continues, “I thought that it was unfair for young dancers to get thrown [to] the wolves and have this expectation on them that they are supposed to know how you should operate and what you are supposed to do. It is kind of a sink or swim moment.”

Addressing elements, such as embracing what it means to be an understudy, learning how to act on stage and understanding

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character dance (a subdivision of classical ballet that focuses on theatrical elements in song and movement), the school creates an environment where individuals can have conversations about roles and learn the necessary skill sets to achieve success.

In addition to the work in the studio, WestMet also prepares dancers for on-stage experiences. Each year, the school prepares for a Nutcracker performance at the Westonka Performing Arts Center (unfortunately cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19) and a June performance series. In addition, dancers compete in the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), an international classical ballet scholarship program, featuring a competition that provides exposure and oppor-

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tunities for young dancers to train at other prestigious ballet schools around the world. From summer programs, short-term stays and even boarding schools, the YAGP provides exposure for their future careers.

Though WestMet requires an audition to join the school, its approach to gaining new members is different from some studios in the area. To ensure that individuals are the right fit, Noelle says that they “get to know each dancer, their skill set and facility” through one-on-one interviews and a 30-day trial period. “It is important to get to know the dancers, their learning curve and their personality in class,” she says. “It is a way to give them an actual adjustment period to make sure that it is what they want … and they are happy as

Allynne Noelle and Thomas Brown founded WestMet. At the time of the photoshoot, Noelle was eight months pregnant with a baby girl.

Ava Tellier strikes an impressive pose.

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much as we are happy.”

For 15-year-old WestMet student Ava Tellier, it was the school’s inviting environment and unique teaching style that drew her in to join. Taking ballet, jazz and tap lessons since she was 5 years old, Ava was able to experience WestMet’s approach three years ago at Summit Dance Shoppe, where the Noelle and Brown once co-directed the ballet program. “I think that each [ballet] class was different, so I was never bored,” Ava says about her experience at Summit. “Each class was really fun and something new.”

Originally considering ballet as her least favorite dance style, Ava says that she was drawn to the art form after working with Noelle and Brown. “I fell in love with it,” she says. “I literally owe it all to them.”

For the last few years, Ava has heavily focused on ballet. Practicing 20 hours a week, she hopes to attend the Pacific Northwest Ballet in Seattle upon high school graduation. “[Dance] is something that I enjoy doing a lot,” she says. “I also like that it is always something that I can work on because I know that it is not always going to be perfect. I just really love it.”

C areer P layb ills Brown and Noelle bring a host of experience to WestMet. While beginning at different starting points, careers brought the nowmarried couple together, eventu-

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WestMet serves as a jumping point for dancers, who aspire to develop a professional career. Gaining entrance into prestigious summer training programs is one way to achieve that goal. WestMet dancers have been accepted into the following summer programs:

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WestMet Classical Training, 2073 W. Wayzata Blvd., Long Lake; 714.675.4618, westmetclassicaltraining.com @westmetclassicaltraining @TrainWestMet WestMet Classical Training

Noelle and Brown perform during their time spent at The Suzanne Farrell Ballet at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

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Los Angeles Ballet Company, where she danced for five seasons as the lead principal and started her own summer intensive for young dancers, starred in award-winning short dance films and held guest principal roles throughout California.

Noelle joined The Suzanne Farrell Ballet, where she met Brown. Developing as dancers, they began guest teaching at various studios and became codirectors of the ballet program at Summit Dance Shoppe in Plymouth, their first experience teaching at a competition studio. The couple shares the title as YAGP Outstanding Teachers in 2019, 2020 and 2021.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALLYNNE NOELLE

ally landing in Minnesota.

As a Florida native, Brown fell in love with ballet by the age of 14, attended Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville and later joined the Richmond Ballet, where he spent most of his career (2003-2015.) With the company, he performed multiple principal roles in ballet classics, such as Giselle and Swan Lake in places like the Egg in Beijing, the Royal Opera House in London and The Grand Shanghai Theatre.

Joining The Suzanne Farrell Ballet in Washington, D.C., in 2015, he continued to expand his principal role experience, working in ballet, contemporary and modern styles.

Noelle began her professional career at 15 years old at the Los Angeles Classical Ballet and later at Inland Pacific Ballet in California. Upon graduation, she moved to Florida to join the Miami City Ballet, where she danced as a soloist for seven seasons. Progressing in her career, she joined the National Ballet of Canada. Her time there ended shortly after a serious foot injury caused her to return to California. She later joined the

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ON THE TOWN things to see and do around Lake Minnetonka

Eggs will be available at the event for an athome hunt!

There are 17 eggs in this photo — can you find them all?

HOP TO IT Excitement simmers for annual egg hunt.

ILLUSTRATION BY EM HANDY

BY RENÉE STEWART-HESTER

O

ur Savior Lutheran Church and School’s 25th annual Easter egg hunt is going COVIDfriendly with a drive-through event between 10 a.m.–1 p.m. April 3 at the church/school parking lot, 23290 Highway 7 in Excelsior.

(This replaces the community Easter egg hunt, which is typically held at the Excelsior Commons.)

Preregister at excelsioregghunt.com, and choose a 30-minute period to arrive. Registration automatically enters families into a prize drawing, which includes items from local businesses. Kids should bring their Easter baskets to hold eggs and

other items received while remaining safely in their vehicle.

Watch the Easter story unfold with colorful scenes and live characters while children hunt for the items that help tell the story. Each child will also receive eggs for an at-home Easter egg hunt, or spread Easter joy and share them with neighbors and friends.

The event will also feature appearances by special friends, including bunnies from Peacebunny Island and Bob and Larry from the Veggie Tales.

For updated information, visit excelsioregghunt.com or call 952.474.5181.

LAKEMINNETONKAMAG.COM

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O N T H E TOW N »

APRIL 21

6–8PM

L A K E MI N N E TO N KA E V E N TS

1

April Fool’s Day Art

Have a kid who loves pranks and art? Gear up for an even sillier April Fool’s Day after your kids make homemade craft pranks. Supplies included. Ages 4–8 or grades K–3. $45.

9 a.m.–noon. Minnetonka Community Education Center, 4584 Vine Hill Road; 952.401.6800; minnetonkaschools.org

2–30

Out of the Box: Twelve Dancing Princesses

Launching in April and continuing into May, this self-paced and dance-filled viewing experience includes videos, craft projects, suggested recipes and admission for four people at an outdoor, inperson interactive movement class.

Ages 3 and up. $50. Stages Theatre Company, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins; 952.979.1111; stagestheatre.org

8

Virtual Breathwork

This workshop makes room for participants to virtually gather, practice self-love and tend to their wellness. All ages, adults encouraged. $30. 9–10 a.m. Kim Lovejoy Holistic Healing; lovejoyholistic.com

Let’s Knit a Mother’s Day Gift Whether made for Mom or someone else, a handmade, knit necklace is a great way to show love this Mother’s Day. Knitting experience is not required. Supplies included. Ages 18 and up. $45. 6–8 p.m. Minnetonka Community Education Center, 4584 Vine Hill Road; 952.401.6800; minnetonkaschools.org

Community Breakfast

Open to the community, the Fourth Saturday Cafe’s monthly event gives families, couples and individuals alike the opportunity to enjoy free, warm breakfast and pleasant company in a friendly atmosphere. All ages. Free. 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 715 Minnetonka Mills Road, Hopkins; glconline.org

To have your event considered: email lakeminnetonkamag@tigeroak.com by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

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

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APRIL 2021

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AREA EVENTS

3

Egg Hunt at Castle

Come celebrate Easter at this family friendly event at the American Swedish Institute with an egg hunt in the castle gardens, storytime with the Easter Witch (påskkäring) and Swedish-style crafts. Registration required. Recommended for 10 and under and their special adults. $10 members, $15 non-members.

9–10:30 a.m. or 1–2:30 p.m. American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave., Mpls.; 612.871.4907; asimn.org

8

Virtual Nature Journal

Connect with nature at home with your children by registering for the Arboretum’s Nature Journal Academy: Looking for Lichen. This online class will be a great way to get your children excited about the bloom of spring. Ages 5–12 and their special adult. $20/family. 10–11 a.m. Online with the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum; 612.301.1210; arboretum.umn.edu

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Arts & Crafts Affair

This family-friendly spring arts festival features over 500 artists and crafters from 30 states and is the perfect spot to pick up unique, handcrafted gifts and spring decor. All ages. $10 adults, $9 seniors, children under 10 free. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Canterbury Park, 1100 Canterbury Road, Shakopee; 402.331.2889; hpifestivals.com

17

Earth Day 5k Bee Run/ Walk and Cleanup

Help save the bees at this dog- and family-friendly event at Boom Island Park. Come enjoy the beautiful historic views on the Mississippi River all while doing something meaningful for nature. All ages. 8 a.m.–noon.

Great River Coalition, 724 Sibley Street NE, Mpls.; greatrivercoalition.com

l e s j o n e s ro o f i n g . c o m | 9 5 2 . 8 8 1 . 2 2 4 1 LAKEMINNETONKAMAG.COM

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Keep on Truckin’ FOOD TRUCK DEVOTEES ARE OUT OF THEIR ‘CLUCKIN’ MINDS.

BY CLAIRE SWENSON

44 APRIL 2021

PHOTOS BY CHRIS EMEOTT

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In 2020, a new face (read: rooster) strutted into the Lake Minnetonka culinary scene.

A family-owned business, Bad Rooster food truck, set up shop on Minnetonka Mills Road and began traveling around the Twin Cities, bringing with it a variety of inspired chicken recipes and fiery sauces.

Soulaire Allerai, the saucy engine behind Bad Rooster, wears many career and life hats—owner of the Soulful Journey Wellness Center, spiritual director and lead minister of Living Faith Spiritual Community (LFSC), life strategist, host of the Get Real with Soulaire podcast, mother and partner.

At Bad Rooster, Allerai works alongside a team of close friends and family members, including her son, Soulmar, who is the head chef.

The food truck hit the road in March 2020. When the pandemic and subsequent initial quarantine arrived, the team decided to take an opportunity to perfect recipes and relaunched the food truck a month later. “The downtime kind of helped us work out our kinks,” Allerai says. “Launching a business in COVID is insane.”

For the uninitiated, Bad Rooster’s menu includes favored family recipes, chicken sourced from humane-practice farms in Minnesota, sauces crafted with local ingredients (maple from Sapsucker Farms in Mora) and brioche buns from Franklin Street Bakery in Minneapolis. Add to it a heaping portion of cleanliness. “My people that are here with us have the same values,” Allerai says. “They believe in clean.

They believe in sanitary. They believe in health code safety.”

In the short time that Bad Rooster has been operating, it has gathered a dedicated fan base that will wait for hours in line, drive from the border of Canada and even fly in from out of state to procure their favorite order, according to Allerai. Roberta Brown, a Bad Rooster regular and self-proclaimed “huge fan,” says her go-to order is the crispy Nay Nay or chicken tender basket. Her tips for a

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TA S T E M A K E R S »

newbie? “[Order the] chicken tender basket, and choose your homemade sauce.

Make sure to get the Cluck Sauce for the waffle fries.”

“We’re not fast food,” Allerai says.

“I don’t skimp on quality. I don’t cut corners. You’re going to get what I tell you.” Though lines may be long, Allerai and Bad Rooster fans know this is a

46 APRIL 2021

testament to the quality of and hard work behind the food. They might also have something to do with the 14 sauce varieties, which range from “sweet” to “out of your cluckin’ mind.”

Want to take some of that signature cluck sauce home with you? Keep an eye out for the future Bad Rooster ventures, which could include bottled

sauces and even a brick-and-mortar location. In the meantime, find Bad Rooster serving at its home base, the Soulful Journey Wellness Center, or visiting various locations and events around the Twin Cities. Check its website’s calendar for updated scheduling.

Pro Tip: Use the online ordering system to skip the lines.

See all that your community has to offer.

CHICKEN WITH A SIDE OF KINDNESS Bad Rooster is founded on Allerai’s personal mantra: “If you’re going to

Check out our Community Directory!

All of the best resources at your fingertips. lakeminnetonkamag.com

do it, do it your best. Don’t do it halfway.” This is evident through its commitment to great cooking and health standards, but, more importantly, how the business utilizes profits.

“I love Soulaire and everyone that

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works with her,” says Brown, as she praises the spirit of giving that follows every profit of Bad Rooster.

“What a big heart Soulaire has.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, earnings from Bad Rooster were used to help cover the rent of the 13 businesses that also occupy the building where Allerai’s wellness center is located, meaning that they could keep their doors open and continue supporting the community. “After seeing business after business fail, I decided that I did not want to see that happen to these people,” Allerai says. “I had an ability to keep the truck going and also make the mortgage payments on the building. I was very grateful that this food truck is such a success.”

Bad Rooster has also become a partner to LFSC, often hosting food shelf and toy drive donation efforts.

In addition, Bad Rooster donates funds to local food shelves and other local organizations. “Bad Rooster is a small business you want to support,” Brown says.

To schedule a price quote you can: Reach our shop at:

Serving the twin cities metro area home owners and builders for over 25 years.

badrooster.com @badroostertruck Bad Rooster Truck @BadRoosterTruck

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New homes and remodels

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Interior and exterior repaints

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Custom wall and cabinet finishes

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Wall coverings of all types

763.658.4121

Visit our website: galluspainting.com

• Wood garage door and deck refinishing experts

LAKEMINNETONKAMAG.COM

47

LAST GLANCE

SECOND PLACE Activities & Events

Reflections of Aurora Boat owner captures a quiet moment on the water.

BY RENÉE STEWART-HESTER

REFLECTIONS placed

second in the Activities and Events category of our annual photo contest, Lens on Lake Minnetonka.

Michael Gilbertson took the photo on an iPhone 7 during an evening visit near

48

APRIL 2021

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GILBERTSON

Wawatosa Island (Boy Scout Island). Posing perfectly for her photo is Aurora, a 22-foot Hunter, owned for more than 20 years by the Gilbertsons.

“I especially liked the reflection of the ripples in the water of the side of the hull. I

also appreciate I didn’t drop my phone in the lake taking the picture,” Gilbertson says.

The Mound resident’s names anywhere on or near Lake Minnetonka and along the Dakota Rail Trail as prime photography spots.

Your home is a hot commodity CANDI & SCOTT STABECK YOUR LAKE MINNETONKA AREA SPECIALISTS SINCE 1987.

5TH generation

Contact us for a complimentary, no obligation market analysis of your home.

It might just be worth more than you think.

897 Over 897 homes

WWW.THESTABECKGROUP.COM

Lake Minnetonka residents

$480MIL

Over $480 million Sold/Closed volume

successfully sold in the lake area

3%

2021 Edina Realty‚ Executive Circle Award ~ top 3% of Edina Realty agents

CANDI STABECK candistabeck@edinarealty.com | 612.987.4801 SCOTT STABECK scottstabeck@edinarealty.com | 612.747.5863 SUE RODELIUS Client Services Manager 952.475.4906

Make “the perfect new home for us” happen Michael Sluis Home Mortgage Consultant 612-667-3743 michael.a.sluis@wellsfargo.com michaelsluis.com NMLSR ID 400516

New neighborhood. Bigger house. Closer commute. Whatever your reason for buying your first or next home, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

You’ll have personal support, low down payment options, and online resources to help you find the right loan — and enjoy your new home for years to come.

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2019 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801.

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