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M AY/J U N E 2 0 2 2 “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” —Audrey Hepburn, British actress
PAGE PAGE 16 10
FEATURES
IN EVERY ISSUE
10 — Dial Up
16 — Picture-Perfect Picnics
Cell Phone Permit teaches kids to be healthy digital citizens.
Courtney Smallbeck offers a new take on a summer tradition.
12 — Ride the Wave
20 — Wardrobe Revamp
Teenage wakeboarder is set to go pro.
Mezmira clothing stylist provides easy solutions to edit your wardrobe.
4 — Editor’s Letter 7 — Noteworthy 27 — On the Town 32 — Last Glance
14 — Beautox Bar Where science and beauty mingle.
Photo: Chris Emeott
DEPARTMENTS
TASTEMAKERS 28 — Flower Power Maple Grove resident creates homemade liqueur from his own plants.
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F R O M T H E E D I TO R Ava Diaz, ava@localmedia.co
A Never miss an issue of Maple Grove 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 Maple Grove Magazine stories with friends and family.
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On the Cover Lilac Liqueurs, photo by Chris Emeott
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May/June 2022
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Photo: Chris Emeott
in digital format!
s we find ourselves gravitating toward the summer lifestyle, I find myself retreating to memories as a kid growing up in Richfield. In our household, gardening was a central focus. With pristine gardens and an immaculate lawn, my mom always took pride in the natural beauty the late spring and early summer seasons had to offer. Our yard was always bursting with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, fragrant lilac bushes and an array of stunning peonies in gradients of pink. I recall getting excited to see which produce would be ready to pick and would eye the perfect flowers on the bushes to create, what I believed to be, showstopping floral arrangements. Capturing the essence of the season, these plants made it feel like home. To this day, the scent of fresh tomato plants, spearmint and lilacs instantly takes me back to my childhood, a time of sweet bliss. Transforming the way we think about our garden florals, the Uffda Chef adds another sensory experience to lilacs beyond just sight and smell. On page 28, he shares how he creates lilac liqueur (from the bushes in his backyard) to fuse into his favorite drinks. In the rest of the issue, we explore how other residents take inspiration from their daily surroundings to improve their overall experiences in the community.
VOL. 18 NO. 3 maplegrovemag.com
publisher Susan Isay
editor Ava Diaz
managing creative director Renée Stewart-Hester
managing editor Hailey Almsted
copy editor Kellie Doherty
staff writers Ava Diaz Dan Amundson Daniel Huss Madeline Kopiecki Staci Perry Mergenthal
contributing writers John F. Farrell Lauren Famigletti Kay Drache Hollie Blanchard
editorial interns Emily Deutscher Hanna McDaniels
editorial advisory board Kate Becker, Kate Becker Photography, owner Lise Spence-Parsons, Maple Grove Arts Center, president/executive director Heidi Nelson, City of Maple Grove, city administrator Birgit Gruess, writer and editor
senior managing art director Sarah Dovolos
art director Allison Nolden
lead staff photographer Chris Emeott
production director Brittni Dye
production manager Lisa Stone
senior account executives Brooke Beise Katie Freemark Cynthia Hamre Sara Johnson
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July 13-17 • Ladies of the 80’s, FlashMob!, Anderson Daniels, and more! • “Sing 2” Kids’ Movie Night d te Vo • Beer Gardens and Food Trucks y it c T S • Petting Zoo & Pony Rides BE festivale • Midway Activities • Business Expo by Maple Grov Magazine • Thursday Night Parade readers! • Fireworks • Big Truck and Car Shows
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N OT E WO RT H Y
lo c a l t ip s, tidb its & insights
MOV E
PACK UP FITNESS Travel is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves, and the benefits go well beyond taking a break from our lives. It opens us to new environments, cultures, cuisines and experiences. Staying active should be an important part of any vacation as it helps elicit dopamine, the feel-good hormone, to drive up our energy levels and keep us motivated. Here are my top five healthy tips for your next vacation: • Pack workout gear. Set aside room in your suitcase for sneakers and two sets of workout clothes. If you pack it, you will see it every day, making it hard to say, “No.” • Check out the hotel gyms. Go online before you go to check the hours, rules, equipment and if any classes are offered.
S IP
• Track your steps. Wear a fitness tracker, and set a
Photo: Chris Emeott
A Secret Summer Cocktail Memorial Day weekend is the official kickoff of the bootleg season. Bootlegs are Minnesota’s version of a Mint Julep/ Mojito (favored by the Kentucky Derby crowd) and one of our state’s best kept summer cocktail secrets. The recipe varies from place to place, as does the actual origin of the drink. Many country clubs in town sell bottles of their own bootleg mix, and these vary in color from swampy (fresh mint) to bright green (food coloring), but the basics are lime/lemonade, fresh mint and simple syrup. I put one can of limeade in a blender with as much fresh mint as I can fit (remove the bitter stems). As I blend, I add a bit of water until the blender is
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daily goal. This will push you to get out and explore. • Bring a mini resistance band.
about 80 percent full. I add about 1/2 cup of simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, simmered until the sugar blends in) to smooth it out. I store this in the refrigerator and refill it as summer goes along. Bootleg Fill a tall glass with ice. Add 1.5 oz. of your favorite rum, vodka or gin. Add Bootleg mix to about 3/4 full. Fill the glass with club soda or 7UP. Garnish with a mint sprig. John F. Farrell III is vice president; sales and merchandising with Haskell’s The Wine People. Find more at haskells.com.
They will not put your suitcase over the weight limit. They pack a big punch and offer similar resistance to weights. • Explore the area. Being somewhere new brings on a sense of adventure. Check out a new workout that you have always wanted to try, find out what is popular in the area and give it a go.
Laurel Famigletti is an area resident and owner of EndorP.H.I.T, where she provides virtual group fitness classes, in-home personal training and virtual nutrition coaching.
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Join us in welcoming Dr. Brian Brumfield to our team!
N OT E WO RT H Y
VIEW
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There can be an unconditional bond when it comes to our pets. For centuries, dogs have been coined as “man’s best friend” as bonds of unfailing love, devotion and loyal companionship deepen with time. I was moved when I saw the life that artist Karin Jacobs captures in her original pet commissions. The animals’ personalities were on full display, and the sincerity of their souls echoed in their eyes. Jacobs feels overjoyed with the fact that her clients “feel” their beloved dog or cat in her artwork.
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Contributed by Hollie Blanchard of The Art Girls. View more at artgirlsmpls.com. Art Girls Minneapolis @artgirls_mpls
May/June 2022
READ
Thriller with Twists
In Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarczuk, detective Janina lives alone on the outskirts of a forest. Caring for several neighboring summer homes during the long Polish winters. When her neighbor, whom she has nicknamed Big Foot, dies, Janina begins speculating about his death. However, her disreputable appearance and strange manner cause others to ignore her theories as best they can. When others in the community die in more bizarre circumstances, only a few individuals stand by Janina’s comments, but they are unable to act on them. This mystery will take readers on a captivating journey through Janina’s unique inner life and creative thought processes. As the novel progresses, Janina’s background is revealed, and the person who emerges is far more complex to the image of the crazy recluse.
Kay Drache is a librarian at the Maple Grove Library.
maplegrovemag.com
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ENLIGHTEN
Dial Up
Cell Phone Permit teaches kids to be healthy digital citizens.
WE WOULDN’T toss car keys to a
teenager without receiving appropriate instruction and earning a permit. So why do we hand over the responsibility of a mobile device to our children (many younger than 10 years old) with only a verbal warning about the dangers of the Internet and social media? Plymouth resident and mother of eight Joanne Brozozog is changing the way we introduce safe technology and digital citizenship to adolescents. She and her husband, Jonathan Brozozog, developed Cell Phone Permit, an interactive comprehensive course teaching students to
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navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with owning a cell phone. The idea came when their oldest son, Alexander, was 14. “I wouldn’t give him a cell phone because teenagers and adults are consumed by it, and I know it’s free access to the Internet and opens doors to ... all these negative things,” Joanne says. “But there's also a lot of positive.” So, they created the only nonprofit, stand-alone course in America that educates kids how to manage a cell phone properly before they get it, challenging them to consider the benefits and pitfalls. “If we set them up for success, they’re
going to be much better stewards,” Jonathan says. All sixth grade students at Heritage Christian Academy participated in the Cell Phone Permit course in 2021. “In a society that stresses the need to have a cell phone 24/7, there has been little instruction on how to use these devices wisely,” says Scott Thune, the middle school and high school principal at Heritage Christian Academy. “Cell Phone Permit has tackled the problem of teaching young phone users practical digital citizenship as it relates to cell phones.” Heritage Christian
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Photo: Cell Phone Permit
By Staci Perry Mergenthal
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Your loved one’s life was unique, and their services should
reflect that. Academy is one of four Minnesota schools (Maranatha Christian Academy, Creative Academy and North Heights Christian Academy are the remaining three) to implement the Cell Phone Permit in the school. Overall, the purpose of the program is for change to happen before it’s too late. “My goal is for parents to become more knowledgeable in what their students are walking through and for teenagers to understand what they’re doing and the long-term effects to it,” Joanne says.
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Cell Phone Permit Course
The course is available for anyone, but the Brozozogs gear it to those ages 10–15, who either don’t have a cell phone or need discipline with their phone use. Offering it digitally (eighthour course) or in-person (18 hours of interactive classroom discussion), the topics addressed but not limited to are texting, addiction, mental health, social media, cyberbullying, digital tattoo and long-term effects, gaming, mature content, screen time, consequences and hate speech. Students and parents also sign a parent-regulated Cell Phone Permit accountability agreement by the end of the course. MG For more information on the program’s details, visit cellphonepermit.com. Cell Phone Permit
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Ride the Wave Teenage wakeboarder is set to go pro. By Dan Amundson
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Photo: Jay Lorenzano
FA C E S
EACH SUMMER, the Minnesota lakes fill up with a myriad of fishermen, water skiers, wakeboarders and more. As seasonal hobbies for many people, Maple Grove Senior High student Avery Ruegsegger sports wakeboarding year-round. Running in the Ruegsegger family, wakeboarding is an activity that was once and still is a passion of both of her parents. Exposed to the sport at a young age,
Avery has excelled at it ever since. At only 15 years old, she competes in the U.S. Junior Pro Women’s circuit and recently represented Team USA at the PanAm Games in Mexico. It was there where she won a gold medal in the individual competition and in the team division. “It was just so cool,” Avery says. “I got to meet a bunch of people from across the world.” The Junior Pro circuit consists of young women ages 14–18 from all over the United States, and it is the last step before going pro. Out of all junior athletes, Avery’s dad and coach Joe Ruegsegger says she ranks among the top 30 wakeboarders and thinks she can make it to the next level. “She’s pretty well set up to go pro,” he says. “We’re looking for colleges where she can be on the water all the time.” Living in Minnesota poses its challenges for training. Spending a lot of her time practicing on Fish Lake during the summer, the Minnesota winters propose a different agenda. When the lakes freeze, the Ruegseggers make frequent trips to the Orlando Freedom Wake Park in Florida as to ensure Avery will be ready when competitions start up again in the spring. Not only can she practice year-round down there, but she has also had the opportunity to get to know some of the Florida professionals. “I just love wakeboarding,” Avery says. “I can go out, do what I do and just have fun.” During the offseason, Avery trades in her wakeboard for a snowboard and trains at Elm Creek Park Reserve for the United States of America Snowboard and Freeski Association competitions. It’s no surprise Avery is also talented on a board in the winter, and she hopes to take her snowboarding to the next level as well. Her accomplishments have afforded her with the opportunity to share her knowledge with other boarders. With a bright future ahead of her, Ruegsegger says the two are willing to also assist others improve their athletic skillsets in the sport. “Not a lot of people get coached,” he says about wakeboard training. “So, we can do it if people want.” MG
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SCENE
Beautox Bar Where science and beauty mingle.
WORKING TO RESTORE your face’s
original shape and proportions can be difficult, but the latest fads in aesthetic beauty would say otherwise. Turning back the clock, Botox and fillers have transformed the world of beauty and have provided a simple solution to regain a youthful look. For best friends Nicole Langer and Elizabeth Peterson, aesthetic beauty is
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their muse. Established in 2016, Beautox Bar in Maple Grove was created to provide transparency to medspa clients. After reflecting on their own personal experiences receiving Botox injections, they found that many services were not educating clients properly about the process or the products involved with certain procedures. Combining their two backgrounds (Peterson was in business,
and Langer is a former registered nurse for more 20 years), to create an environment that specializes in safe solutions for desired aesthetics. However, even though they offer the tools to achieve a specific look, they emphasize the importance of understanding the body’s need to maintain it. “Your skin is your canvas, and the first thing people see,” Langer and Peterson say. “Though Botox and filler are
May/June 2022
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Photo: Beautox Bar
By Ava Diaz
amazing treatments, if clients aren’t using nourishing, anti-aging skin care, they are not going to look their best.” The Lip Flip
As a relatively new nonsurgical cosmetic procedure, the lip flip provides the look of a fuller lip. Injecting Botox into the middle of the upper lip, the procedure works to relax the muscles around the lips and “flips” the lip upward. Typically desired for plumper lips, Langer and Peterson say it is also used to eliminate a “gummy smile.” As a quicker and cheaper alternative to traditional lip filler, they say it is important to understand the difference between the two from a time, cost and result perspective. Flip • Botox is injected and fills solely the upper lip. Botox helps to prevent the skin from contracting and reduces unwanted lines for a smoother appearance. • The treatment works to define your cupids bow and provides individuals with their desired shape. • It provides the appearance of fuller lips. • It requires a five to 10-minute-long appointment. • Results appear within two weeks. • This treatment lasts about two months. Filler • Juvéderm (a dermal filler that contains hyaluronic acid to improve facial aging and restoration of facial contours) is injected into the entire lip(s) and lines them to give shape. This filler works to restore the fat pads to keep the face fuller and more youthful. • An hour-long appointment is needed. • It takes up to 28 days for the treatment to settle. • This treatment lasts up to nine months. MG
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written by Madeline Kopiecki
picture-perfect picnics Courtney Smallbeck offers a new take on a summer tradition.
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maplegrovemag.com
Photos: Perfect Picnic Co
Written by Madeline Kopiecki
In March 2021, local Courtney Smallbeck, like many of us, found herself with a fairly empty social calendar. The difference in Smallbeck’s case was she’s an event planner. “My friend Melissa called me up and said, ‘How do you feel about picnics?’” Smallbeck says. It was then that she became introduced to a trend already sweeping the West Coast: boho-style luxury picnics. “I, of course, loved it because it channels so many of the things that I enjoy about event planning and also dining outside,” Smallbeck says. “I started Perfect Picnic Co. thinking that perhaps we would just do a few picnics over the next month, but as it turns out it really took off … by the end of summer I’d booked over a hundred picnics.” Unlike her West Coast inspiration, Smallbeck doesn’t err on the side of minimalism. Smallbeck says she focuses on layering “beautiful items,” as she calls them. From unique tableware and fresh flowers to knotted napkins and etched glass goblets, Smallbeck’s picnics are informed by her own personal aesthetic. “It feels like it shouldn’t be in a park,” Smallbeck says of the finished picnicscapes. “It feels too elevated to be part of a picnic, which just makes the experience very magical.” The style seems to resonate with viewers on social media, who, Smallbeck says, are usually familiar with her posts and ask for packages based on their favorite styles. Smallbeck also coordinates with each client, drawing from a horde of décor elements in a well-organized storage unit to match color scheme and various themes her picnickers have in mind. Food options are equally open to collaboration, from bring your own to catered eats from a Maple Grove company called The Diner. “We started out offering food with all of our packages, but we found that a lot of people like to bring their own,” Smallbeck says. Now, picnics are split into two options: the set up or an upgrade to food options as well. “Our basic picnic includes delivery and set up and includes a large rug, a custom wood picnic table, plentiful pillows and cushions in various colors depending on what color scheme you’d like to go with," Smallbeck says. “I include a table runner, boho décor, candles, fresh flowers and then we do a complete setting for each
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guest which is placemat; at least a plate, sometimes several plates layered up; napkins; silverware and a glass wine goblet. In the fall we also add blankets.” If clients are looking for food, Smallbeck says fancy charcuterie plates are a perfect item for a picnic, but the offerings don’t end there. “We also offer things like picnic sandwiches, salads, we do little tea sandwiches sometimes or cake balls are another popular ask if you’re celebrating a birthday.” Smallbeck says the best part of her
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work is seeing people’s faces when they walk up to the picnic. “I think they somewhat know what to expect, because we have a lot of photos on our website and social media, but photos cannot capture the magic of a luxury picnic,” Smallbeck says. “When you walk up to it, you can usually see it at a distance, it’s just … this avant-garde experience that’s set up just for.” Smallbeck says she’s set up picnics from Maple Grove to Mahtomedi, with many sprinkled throughout Wayzata, Mendota Heights, in any one of
Minneapolis’ numerous parks or simply someone’s backyard. A question Smallbeck says she’s often asked is what happens when it rains. For light sprinkles, Smallbeck sets up a clear bubble tent over the picnic which she says ultimately makes things cozy and intimate, especially if there’s a chill in the air. If the weather is inclement or the group is larger, Perfect Picnic Co. brings the picnic to client’s homes. “This summer when it was a group of people for a bridal shower or a baby show-
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er and they didn’t want to reschedule, in those cases we moved them inside their homes and created a little oasis in their living rooms,” Smallbeck says. “[It] sounds like it would be a little disappointing but in fact was really charming." Thankfully for one autumn picnic in mid-October, the weather held and gave a couple the chance to experience a life-changing picnic in a special outdoor location. “Ben [Rorvick] reached out to me and initially didn’t tell me it was a proposal,” Smallbeck says. But when Rorvick’s questions made Smallbeck suspicious, she says he confirmed that it was. “His soon to be fiancée really wanted to be engaged looking out on Lake Minnetonka,” Smallbeck says. “Unfortunately, most of Lake Minnetonka is private property.” Smallbeck and Rorvick did some research and discovered a space in front of the Wayzata Library that included a view of the lake and the city. Smallbeck says it was just perfect, and she set to work ensuring the proper permits to make the location happen. “It was absolutely stunning,” Rorvick says. He had a picnic in mind as the setting for his proposal and found Perfect Picnic Co. online. “The picnic that [Smallbeck] set up was more than I imagined it would be,” he says. Smallbeck says she devotes extra time to proposal picnics because they’re such a once-in-a-lifetime event. In Rorvick’s case, he says he incorporated the fall colors his fiancé loves through pillows and chose the tent as a special touch. “We did a picnic for two and we also set up our lace teepee, which they sat inside of while seated at the table,” Smallbeck says, noting the teepee was carefully aligned to look out on both the city and the lake. Rorvick says the spot was picture perfect. “It was a great picnic fit for our engagement. [Schumacher] was shocked and said, ‘Yes,’ of course!” MG
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Mezmira clothing stylist provides easy solutions to edit your wardrobe
W A R D R O B E R E VA M P As a local stylist for over 10 years, Maple Grove resident Amy Seeman always knew her passion lied in fashion. Her favorite pastime as a child was playing dress-up in her closet, finding new ways to reinvent her existing pieces. “Fashion is one of the greatest forms of self-expression and it is truly a creative outlet for me,” she says. “It is the safest place where I can push new boundaries and try new things without real repercussions for getting it wrong.” Growing older, she took this skillset to the next level and began assisting her friends with their wardrobes. “I mastered my craft simply by doing,” Seeman says. Transitioning into fulltime styling in her later years, Seeman eventually sought after an opportunity last year to fuse her
corporate background and her love for experimenting with clothing. Joining the Mezmira team (a digital platform that provides professional styling to professional women) as the head of styling and fashion last spring, she says she can help empower women to look and feel their best. “There is a lot of women, especially in corporate America, that don’t have the time, the skillset, the energy or the tools to figure out how to get dressed right,” she says. “We want to make fashion easier and more accessible to the working woman.” With a push for consumers to consistently buy new things in the market, Seeman says this causes many of our closets to fall flat or contain too many items that we barely wear. To counter that, she
works with each client via Zoom to pare down their wardrobes in a way that is most sustainable to their lifestyles and their wallets. “Fashion continues to grow and evolve. It is not a one size fits all,” she says. Diving deep into each closet, she helps clients declutter, reimagine old favorites and evaluate the gaps within their preexisting selection while also adhering to their unique styles. “It truly is transformative,” Seeman says about her experience working with clients. “Whenever they have that aha moment discovering something that no one has ever told them in their life … it is those light bulb moments that truly are educational and empowering, and it builds their confidence.” Story by Ava Diaz Photos by Chris Emeott
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THREE-DAY WEEKEND GETAWAY Incorporate items you can reinvent to reduce the amount in your bag and give you more options in case of schedule or weather changes. Seeman says to consider garments as simple as an ivory-toned knit sweater that can either be worn comfortably or dressed up with jeans or trousers for a seamless transition to a night out on the town. We asked Seeman what essentials should be packed in a carry-on for a quick weekend oasis.
Give a luxurious pause to your unstoppable mom.
• A silk pajama set is an easy way to add a chic touch to an evening out and it takes less space in your suitcase. Seeman suggests pairing one of these silk tops with your favorite pair of jeans, some simple booties and a fun hat. • Wide leg silk pants are easy to transition option from day to night and is also a great way to add a pop of color to the fit. Seeman’s current go-to is pairing these with a simple sweater and sneakers. • Invest in a classic car coat you can throw over loungewear for a coffee run or with a blouse and jeans for a night out.
FINISHING TOUCH • Jewelry is the cherry on top to any outfit. Start subtle with layering dainty necklaces. From there, you can dress the combination up/ down to fit the occasion. Try mixing in one or two chain varieties or play with pendants to incorporate your own unique flair to classic staples. Seeman also recommends bringing a statement earring as an easy way to dress up a simple knit.
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• When you don’t have time to fix your hair or the sun is just too bright, Seeman suggests a wide brim felt hat—an easy way to bring color/texture to your outfit.
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SEE WHAT’S TRENDING Staying up to date with the everchanging trends can be tough, but Seeman says it all comes down to choosing garments that are genuine to your lifestyle. “I always say do you. If it doesn’t work for your body type or doesn’t feel authentic to who you are, sit that one out,” she says. “You don’t have to be on trend to still look polished and fashionable.” Seeman offers her take on the trends that are worth feeding into this season. • As a wardrobe staple, the blazer is an incredibly versatile piece. Take your look from day-to-night by swapping out trousers with loose fit jeans and sneakers. For a fun and flirty option, pair it with a dress to create the perfect “boy-meets-girl” aesthetic. • Cutouts in garments and cropped shirts are here to stay, but Seeman says you can adhere to this trend without feeling too exposed. Try for a high waisted paint to offset the amount of skin showing and create balance with your look. • For added texture and movement try a fringe on a jacket or on the hem of a dress.
WHAT AMY IS WEARING Page 19
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Floral cropped top: Express at the Shoppes of Arbor Lakes
Blazer and yellow flower set: Urban Eve
Orange trousers: Express at the Shoppes of Arbor Lakes
Blue trousers: Queenie and Pearl Layered necklaces: Express at the Shoppes of Arbor Lakes
Express at the Shoppes of Arbor Lakes, 121413 Elm Creek Blvd. N. Space A26; 763.424.7921; express.com The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes @express Queenie and Pearl, 5014 Xerxes Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.413.8560; queenieandpearl.com Queenie & Pearl @queenieandpearlmn Urban Eve, 190 Westfalen Trail Suite 300, Medina; 763.478.8100; myurbanevemn.com Urban Eve Medina @urbanevemedina
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AVA DIAZ GETS STYLED I have always found value in showcasing my personality through clothing. I love wearing bright colors (my favorite colors are yellow and orange) and diverse textures. However, I draw the line at patterns. As one who is always searching for ways to be unique, I found the need for the in-between. A balance of basic neutrals if you will. Working to reinvent what I already had, I hopped on an hourlong zoom call to talk with Seeman about my lifestyle, my fashion challenges and my favorite places to shop. After learning a bit about my personality and my wardrobe goals, we dove into my closet. Pulling some of my favorite pieces (my multicolored pastel boots, an array of puff sleeve shirts, a teddy brown corduroy puffer coat, fur trimmed cream cardigan and a long sleeve, lime green tie top), we discussed ways to elevate the garments even further through layering, color and silhouettes. To bring new life to the pieces I already own, Seeman used a color wheel to explain the science behind color blocking. Using my Kellygreen trousers as an example, she explained the relationship between certain tones and why what might seem random actually works. Suggesting complimentary colors such as cobalt blue and lavender, she also fed into my love for warmtone hues like tangerine and hot pink to contrast against the pants. After our first meeting, she followed up with a list of links to items that fill the “holes” in my closet. Some of the pieces included were a blue silk midi skirt, orange and lime blouses, leather pants and many structured blazers. For each garment, she provided ideas on how to pair it with the other suggested items, as well as the pieces in my own closet. Her ability to pinpoint my taste with these fashion finds was astonishing and I truly had a blast learning from her expertise. MG Mezmira; mezmira.com @mezmira_styling
May/June 2022
maplegrovemag.com
LIFE CHANGING COMMUNITY Surrounding yourself with people who will be there for you creates lasting change. Together, we charge forward to change the conversation about fitness. At Burn Boot Camp, we build each other up.
A Card My Yard greeting is the perfect gift for birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and celebrations of any size. We are a full service yard sign rental company—you book the order and we take care of the rest.
Burn Boot Camp 14500 Weaver Lake Road 651.600.1517 burnbootcamp.com/maple-grove-mn
Card My Yard Maple Grove 509.499.1143 cardmyyard.com/maple-grove 23
Comfort Keepers® is here to help seniors thrive safely while living independently at home. Our empathetic caregivers are specially trained to provide uplifting care and support. We’re here to help! Comfort Keepers 524 Central Ave. N., Osseo 763.273.4207 comfortkeepers.com
Full service interior design. Creating livable spaces with design that reflects your style. “Love where you live!”
Designs By D Maple Grove 763.639.3573 designsbydmn.com
DONATO’S FLORAL EST. 1988
Device Pitstop is your one-stop tech shop! Shop, sell, repair and recycle Apple, Windows and Android-based computers, cell phones and tablets. Satisfaction guaranteed.
Device Pitstop 13732 83rd Way N. 763.568.7578 devicepitstop.com
Donato’s Floral is a family owned business. We have been a part of this community for over 35 wonderful years. We deliver daily joy with natural botanicals. Donato’s Floral 10200 73rd Ave. N. Suite #102 763.416.0488 donatosfloral.com
Helping you buy/sell/invest 1,460+ thrilled clients Voted #1 Realtor in Maple Grove We look forward to serving you! Jarrod Peterson Real Estate Group 7767 Elm Creek Blvd. 763.258.4400 askjarrodheknows.com
K/\LL/\ LILY salon and spa
Be part of something beautiful! We are a family owned salon and spa serving our community for 15 Years offering hair, facials, hydrafacials, massage and waxing treatments. We are passionate and committed to providing you an extraordinary experience. Thank you for keeping it local! Kalla Lily Salon and Spa 9851 Maple Grove Parkway N. 763.478.5510 kallalily.com
Looking for a great burger, a place for happy hour or a food truck to cater your event—Rock Elm at The Grove has you covered.
Rock Elm at The Grove 15641 Grove Circle N. 763.205.9784 rockelmtavern.com
Family owned and operated with a selection of 2000 + frames + sunglasses. Six doctors are in office 7 days a week! We Know Eyes at Maple Grove Pearle Vision.
Right at Home provides best-in-class home care services for seniors and elderly adults who may be facing medical or nonmedical home care services needs. Contact us to learn how we can assist you and your family.
Maple Grove Pearle Vision 13195 Weaver Lake Road 763.420.5112 maplegroveeye.vision
Right at Home 4205 Lancaster Lane N. Suite #104, Plymouth 763.231.5720 rightathome.net/plymouth
At Spavia we value creating customized, result-driven treatments! Unwind in the Spavia retreat room with your spa robe, spa sandals and a warm aromatherapy neck pillow for a relaxing experience.
We are here to meet all your flooring needs! Quality service you can trust. Check out our 5-star Google reviews.
Spavia 11738 Elm Creek Blvd. N. 763.923.7000 spaviadayspa.com/maple-grove-mn
Town and Country Carpet 9669 63rd Ave. N. 763.533.2486 townandcountrycarpet.net
We do flooring right!
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Summit Orthopedics
Stands at the Forefront of Patient Care Throughout the Metro and Beyond.
T
rust is important when it comes to choosing your healthcare provider, and Summit Orthopedics has more than 30 years of experience with locations in Plymouth, Maple Grove, Minnetonka and more than 20 other locations. With nearly 1,000 staff members, the team continues to grow and recently welcomed Michael Freehill, MD, and Brian Walters, MD. These highly respected surgeons are strong additions with their breadth of experience and commitment to patient health and positive outcomes. In practice for 22 years, Freehill specializes in shoulder orthopedic care. He’s instructed other surgeons nationally and internationally and worked alongside other experts to develop new shoulder treatments. “One of the most important qualities of my practice of orthopedics is the ongoing relationship between me, my patients and their families,” Freehill says. His outlook is reflected in his patients’ satisfaction. “Dr. Freehill has provided me exceptional care throughout my journey, surgery and recovery. I appreciate not only his professionalism and expertise, but also his kind and very thoughtful care,” says one patient. In practice for seven years, Walters was named a Rising Star by Mpls. St. Paul Magazine and specializes in complex shoulder surgery, joint preservation and biologics, commonly treating joint pain, ligament and meniscal tears of the knee, labral and rotator cuff dysfunction (shoulder) and labral and cartilage disease (hip).
“You will always get the very best that technology and research have to offer, and care for my patients mirrors what I’d offer for any member of my own family,” Walters says. Forthright communication is a cornerstone of his practice. “My goal is always to be realistic about what you can expect, set clear goals and work tirelessly to achieve them. Patients have a clear understanding of their care plan,” he says. “Every single member of your team is top-notch, and I just don’t know where I would be if I hadn’t found you guys,” says one of his patients. Accommodating patients’ needs is fundamental at Summit, and its team understands that urgent medical concerns happen at all hours. The practice offers OrthoQUICK Orthopedic Urgent Care, available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily at four Metro locations.
SUMMIT ORTHOPEDICS
15700 37th Ave. N., Plymouth 651.968.5201 • summitortho.com/schedule
O N T H E TOW N
th in g s to se e a n d do in and aro und Map le Gro v e
Compiled by Emily Deutscher and Hanna McDaniels
LOCAL EVENTS
Maple Grove Boulevard Planting 05/19 This free volunteer event aims to make our town a greener place. Planting will take place on the meridian of Elm Creek Boulevard and Weaver Lake Road. Registration is required. All ages. 9 a.m.– 1 p.m., Weaver Lake Road and Elm Creek Blvd.; 763.494.6500; maplegrovemn.gov
Omni Beer Run 06/11 Run for beer this year at Omni Brewing’s 5K beer run. The 5K course will begin and end at the Omni Brewing Co taproom. A free craft brew from the brewery is included, as well as a choice of collector’s pint or a swag item. A raffle for prizes
MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION Community members to commemorate veterans at Central Park.
will also be held. All ages. $30–$100. Omni Brewing Co., 9462 Deerwood Lane N.; 763.424.6664; omnibrewing.com
Kaiju Creation with Scott Rolfs 06/14 Are you a fan of Godzilla? How about other strange and wonderful giant monsters? Learn how to create your own at
like Maple Grove legionnaire Kristy Ann Janigo, Memorial Day has always held a special meaning. From a young age, she attended Memorial Day commemorations with her grandfather, a World War II veteran. “It was always very impactful for me,” she says. “That’s one of the reasons I joined the legion.” This year, Maple Grove and Osseo American Legion Post 172 will partner with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (an organization dedicated to connecting service members with community resources) to host a public Memorial Day ceremony at Maple Grove Veterans Memorial in Central Park. Janigo encourages community members to take part in this year’s commemorations to show support. In past years, she says the Maple Grove Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day celebrations brought forth a lot of participation from community members and city leaders. “These days are a time for the community to come together to help better understand the issues that service members and their families face,” Janigo says. For more information about this year’s Memorial Day commemorations, visit legionpost172.org. —Emily Deutscher
Kaiju Creation with Scott Rolfs, a featured
Free. All ages. May 30.
Due to the fluidity being experienced in
Central Park, 12000 Central Park Way
the current environment, please note that
Photo: Chip Janigo
FO R V E T E R A N S
program at the Maple Grove Arts Center. This summer event features a discussion about Kaiju monsters and the history of their inception, as well as a tutorial on creating your own. All ages. $40. 10–
11:30 a.m. Maple Grove Arts Center, 11666 Fountains Drive; maplegroveartscenter.org
To have your event considered: email maplegrovemag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.
some events/dates and even some busiLegion Post 172, 260 Fourth Ave SE, Osseo;
ness operations may have changed since
763.425.4858; club172@manager@comcast.net
these pages went to print. Please visit
Osseo/Maple Grove American Legion Post 172
May/June 2022
maplegrovemag.com
affiliated websites for updates.
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TA S T E M A K E R S
Flower Power Maple Grove resident creates homemade liqueur from his own plants. BY DAN AMUNDSON
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PHOTOS BY CHRIS EMEOTT
May/June 2022
maplegrovemag.com
Hey you. We’re glad you’re here. We’re putting wellness in good hands. Yours.
Welcome to whole-person primary care.
AS THE SEASONS C HA N G E,
the wildlife emerges to reveal the growth of thick foliage and pops of color from flowers in full bloom. This new growth brings a fresh aroma to the air. One of the greatest contributors being that of lilac bushes. Blooming from May to late June, lilacs provide the perfect addition to any garden with their rich scent and pink and purple (sometimes white) hues. However, these plants offer so much more than their look and aroma. Maple Grove resident Mitch Holthaus discovered an alternative use for the fragrant flower: lilac liqueurs. “I was interested in infusing vodka with other flavors,” Holthaus says. “I did some research and saw people were using lilacs.” Using lilacs from his own backyard, Holthaus says he enjoys sourcing his own ingredients. His property also has an abundance of maple trees from which he makes his own syrup. “It’s cool using your resources in your own backyard,” he says. “It’s a fun project.” Holthaus says the process is simple but is a little more tedious than he expected. It starts with gathering the blossoms and picking every single individual bud off the stem. After the blossoms are ready, Holthaus places them in a jar with the vodka or gin of his choice. (He recommends 1–1.5 cups of blossoms for every 1–1.5 cups of liquor.) He lets the concoction sit for four to seven days, shaking the jar once every day. After, he strains the liquid. Holthaus says you can either leave it as is or add fresh blossoms for a few more days if desired. Simple syrup can also be mixed in for a touch of sweetness. As a fun and organic process, Holthaus says it could even be a family activity as the kids can help with the petal-picking process, which would make the tedious part a lot more fun. However, he warns to watch for bees that might be lingering in the flowers while picking the blossoms.
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LILAC LEMON DROP 2 oz. Vodka .5 oz. lilac liqueur 1 oz. simple syrup 1 oz. lemon juice Optional: Sugar rim and lemon peel twist for garnish Fill a shaker with ice and add vodka, lilac liqueur, simple syrup and lemon juice. Optional garnish: Rub a lemon wedge on the rim of a martini glass and coat the rim of the glass with sugar. Pour the contents of the shaker into the glass and enjoy!
LILAC LEMONADE 1.5 oz. gin .5–.75 oz. lilac liqueur lemonade Optional: 5–7 blueberries for color and a lemon peel twist for garnish Fill the shaker with ice. Add the gin, lilac liqueur and optional blueberries. Shake until chilled. Fill a tall glass with ice, and pour the contents of the shaker through a strainer into the glass. Top off the drink with lemonade, and garnish with lemon peel twist.
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IT’S TIME FOR MORE FUN & LESS WORK! Though the smell of the liqueur is comparable to prunes, Holthaus says the flavor doesn’t match the scent. “It tastes more floral and springy,” he says. A lot of drinks can be made with a lilac liqueur, but Holthaus is still figuring out what he likes best. Out of everything he’s created so far, the Sidecar is his favorite. He makes his version with brandy, lilac liqueur, orange liqueur and lemon juice. “It’s almost like a nice summery drink,” Holthaus says. He has also made a lilac lemonade with gin, lilac liqueur, blueberries and lemonade. Similar to the lemonade but a slightly simpler is the lilac lemon drop, which consists of vodka, lilac liqueur, simple syrup and lemon juice. The lilac liqueur is the first liqueur Holthaus has experimented with, but it won’t be the last. He says he wants to try more things with some of his maple syrup, but he has been too busy playing around with the lilac liqueur. Developing the liqueur adds to Holthaus’ list of food-centered hobbies. He enjoys experimenting and trying new things in the kitchen. Showcasing his passion for homemade food and drinks on his Instagram (@uffdachef ), he features a variety of his creations alongside reviews on his new or favorite breweries around Minnesota. MG
SilverCreek on Main offers the engaging worry-free lifestyle you desire and deserve! With an array of programs, entertainment and a health club, we provide a great way to meet new friends and start living your best life.
Call 763.955.1750 or visit silvercreekonmain.com for more info or to view our floor plans & model apartments. SENIOR APARTMENTS • ASSISTED LIVING • ENHANCED ASSISTED LIVING • DEMENTIA CARE
8200 Main Street North, Maple Grove, MN 55369
@uffdachef
T N E G R U
Help provide critical supplies and support to children affected by the war in Ukraine.
unicefusa.org/tigeroak
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E N I A R K U F O N E R D L I P H L C E E H TH D E E N Y L
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LAST GLANCE
By Ava Diaz
FIRST PLACE:CITY LANDMARKS
Maple Grove Moon Setting Glowing moon wins first place in City Landmarks category.
W ITH V ERY L IM I T ED OP P ORT UN ITI E S to capture
the full moon, photographer Rod Smoliak says it is important to plan your desired location down to the right minute or even second to get the perfect shot. “Looks can be deceiving. It might be hard to imagine, but the water tower is about one mile away from where the picture is being taken,” he says about his winning image. “The purpose of this is to have the object next to the moon appear as small as possible in order to make the moon stand out as much as possible.” MG
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Photographer:
Rod Smoliak
Title: Maple Grove Moon Setting
Equipment: Sony A7R4 camera with a Sony 200-600mm lens
To view other Focus on Maple Grove photo contest winners, visit maplegrovemag.com
May/June 2022
maplegrovemag.com
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Loving Your Kitchen Doesn’t Need to be a Luxury
T
he team at Kitchen Tune-Up believes a kitchen is a home’s heart and soul, and it should look and act the part! “Kitchen Tune-Up has been helping people fall back in love with their kitchens for more than 30 years,” says Bobbi Croshaw, owner and principal designer of the Northwest Minneapolis branch. “We specialize in affordable one- to five-day kitchen remodels with less mess and less headache.” With traditional renovations stretching out between three to five months, saving time matters, especially where the heart of the home is concerned. Croshaw comes to the business with a unique perspective and brings undeniable enthusiasm to the space. “I spent years as a designer thinking every kitchen was a full gut job,” she says. “When I started designing my own kitchen, I realized there was a lot that I wanted to do but couldn’t afford to do. It got me thinking. It’s one thing to offer this service to the people who can afford it, but where is the service for people who want to remodel a kitchen and stay within a reasonable budget?” Kitchen Tune-Up is the solution, and Croshaw is passionate about offering the creative option to homeowners. The team understands that not everyone can afford or wants a full kitchen remodel, but every homeowner deserves the kitchen of their dreams. “We can make your kitchen beautiful at every price point. We have options for the homeowner with a $6,000 budget and upward,” Croshaw says. What’s the first step? Croshaw meets with clients in their home to get a true feel for their space— Who’s using the kitchen? What doesn’t work for them at the moment? And more! “It is rare that someone moves into a home specifically made for their wants and needs,” she says. “I offer kitchen solutions while elevating the aesthetics at the same time.” Bottom line, Croshaw views your kitchen as your sanctuary. “The goal should be a warm and inviting place where those closest to you can gather together, relax and make lasting memories!”
KITCHEN TUNE-UP
bcroshaw@kitchentuneup.com 612.508.9696 • kitchentuneup.com