Edina September 2020

Digital entrepreneurs connect and create

KITCHEN KISMET

| plus | Edina family tours scenic bike trails

Thank you to Edina residents and Edina Magazine readers who voted us Edina’s Best Builder and Best Remodeler for 2020.

We appreciate this great honor!

L

S

72

S

H

Custom Homes and Renovations

952-935-9100 • www.JKandSons.com 0920EDN_Book.indb 2

8/4/2020 11:02:14 AM

Closed sta nor any af

YOUR HOME SALES LEADER Coldwell Banker NRT is the No. 1 residential real estate brokerage in the United States for the 22nd consecutive year based on sales volume

CBBURNET.COM 35 years’ experience Top 20 managers nationally Personal coaching service Real estate business planning 7 rookies of the year in the last 15 years Past President of the Association

Be Your Own Boss!

Have you considered a career in real estate?

Let’s Talk! Kevin Knudsen: 612-578-5294 7550 France Ave. S., Suite 100 | Edina, MN 55435

LD

SO

D OL

S

LOWRY HILL

M FLATS – NEAR U OF M

Bruce Birkeland • 612-414-3957

Refined Lowry Hill residence with jaw dropping Mpls skyline vistas and thoughtful renovation set on picturesque lot! 4BR|5BA|$2.15M

Diana Johnson • 612-720-6031

Maryanne Grobe • 612-308-2090

Stunning high quality kitchen renovation will “WOW” the gourmet cook! Turn-key living at it’s best! $745,000

LD

SO

R

612-822-4296

5060 MALIBU, EDINA

Totally updated like new 2bd/2ba condo w/ in unit laundry, balcony + heated parking. Nice southern exposure! Steps to light rail – green line. 2900 University Ave SE #205 $249,000.

MIKE RUPNOW TEAM REALTORS

JoinCBBurnet.com

Mike@mikerupnow.com U.S. BENCH CORP.

6804 BROOK DR. - EDINA

MINNETONKA ONE LEVEL LIVING!

Ellyn Wolfenson • 612-703-8229 Exceptional updated 4BR/3BA rambler, a sanctuary on rare large lot! Spectacular backyard w/ tranquil brook view, $765,000

Amy Cohen • 952-484-7577 Fabulous Minntonka townhome, great location, amlost 3,000 sq ft, 3bd, 3ba and a must see! $549,900.

LD

SO

7214 14TH AVE S, RICHFIELD The Nancy Walker Team • 612-799-2768 Adorable updated rambler featuring gorgeous new master bedroom suite and gorgeous new outdoor patio. 4 Br, 2 Ba, 2 Car Garage

6712 SIOUX TRAIL

EAGAN BLOOMINGTON Janice Jaworski • 612-210-9672 Recent remodel, great location, large living room and backyard deck 3 beds / 2 baths on one level. 2 fireplace & 3/4 bath in LL. Move in ready. $339,900

Steve Schmitz • 952-484-6045 Updated and fresh Edina Rambler. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout, center island kitchen, level yard. $599,900

LD

SO

Coldwell Banker Realty sells more homes than our 3 competitors combined.

HYLANDER TOWNHOMES

Contact your Coldwell Banker Realty agent today!

Stephane Cattelin • 612-703-8229 Updated spacious 3BR, 4BA, 2800+ sqft walkout, maintenance-free living, Edina Schools!

Closed statistics are based on the single family home, townhome, and condominium listings sold units reported as of January 14, 2019 to Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota Inc. (RMLS) for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. Neither the Realtor Association, RMLS, nor any affiliated agency guarantees or is in any way responsible for data accuracy. This data may not reflect all real estate activity in the market place. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Burnet are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Burnet.

0920EDN_Book.indb 1

8/4/2020 11:02:14 AM

CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER ’20 The best weather of our Minnesota summers often lingers into September.

So get outside with this issue and linger over all of these great local stories. in every issue 4 EDITOR’S LETTER 7 NOTEWORTHY 31 ON THE TOWN 3 4 GALLERY 36 TASTEMAKERS 4 0 LAST GLANCE

departments 1 0 PERSPECTIVES

Rediscover History

Edina Historical Society celebrates 50+ years.

1 2 WELLNESS

ALTR in Edina

Another option in highintensity interval training.

1 4 DOING GOOD

Helping Hands

Edina Crime Prevention Fund celebrates golden anniversary.

1 6 TASTE

Foodie Famous

Edina High School student isan online sensation.

features

ISP

MN L

18

Kitchen Kismet Digital entrepreneurs connect and create.

26

Pedal Pusher PAGE 26

Edina family tours two easy and scenic bike trails.

TATE CARLSON

SCH VIR DES

2 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 2

8/4/2020 11:02:16 AM

ISPiRI.com

MN LIC. BC627402

Inspi begs  o Design S howroom s

LET’S CREATE YOUR DREAMS TODAY

SCHEDULE YOUR VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON DESIGN CONSULTATION 0920EDN_Book.indb 3

DESIGN SHOWROOMS EDINA 952 999-7720 WOODBURY 651 578-0122 8/4/2020 11:02:16 AM

from the ED ITOR whether recreating a familiar space or finding a new one, your home should work for

today.

W

hat I’ve discovered from spending more time at home is that it’s important to have functional living spaces. A well-designed kitchen likely tops the list of most homeowners’ dreams since it can make all of that at-home meal prep more of a joy than a chore. But beyond a luxury, a great kitchen becomes essential if cooking is your job. So, when local food blogger, cookbook author and Edina Magazine recipe contributor Taylor Ellingson of Greens & Chocolate moved her family to Edina, she knew her kitchen would eventually need an upgrade. Seeing the results of her home remodel by Construction2Style has me swooning and itching to overhaul my own kitchen. And what’s cool about the design/build firm the Ellingsons hired is that the company’s website also offers lots of great DIY info for those Follow us ! brave souls who choose to take on their own home Find more stories & photos online. improvement projects. So, whether you’re in the Plus, tag us in your Edina pics! market for some upgrades or, like me, you like to live edinamag.com vicariously through other people’s projects, you’re Edina Magazine @edinamag going to love our feature story on page 18 Prefer to get out of the house rather than remodel it? Then check out our bike trail feature by Edina writer Feroza Mehta on page 26.

Mehta documented her family’s summer biking excursions complete with suggestions for great places to check out along the way. Biking is a wonderful family or solo activity to enjoy during our beautiful autumn days. Send us pictures of your outdoor adventures or tag us #edinamag in your biking, hiking, dining, shopping photos on social media so we can share in the fun.

And, as always, this issue provides insights into how you can support local artists, charities and businesses. Got a lifestyle story idea you’d like to see shared in the pages of Edina Magazine? Be sure to email us. We’d love to hear about the people, places and things in our community that you think deserve a bit of the spotlight in our pages.

Angela Johnson, editor edinamag@tigeroak.com

now offering virtual & in-person

Digital entrepreneurs connect and create

emilyvonvett.com

KITCHEN KISMET

ON THE COVER Construction2Style page 18 CHELSIE LOPEZ PRODUCTION

| plus | Edina family tours scenic bike trails

PHOTO BY LISA BUTH

consultations.

4 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 4

8/4/2020 11:02:17 AM

[ VOL. 16

NO. 8 ]

edinamag.com

publisher

SUSAN ISAY

editor ANGELA JOHNSON

managing editor ANGELA JOHNSON

associate editor HAILEY ALMSTED

digital editor ANTHONY BETTIN

copy editor KELLIE DOHERTY

staff writers AVA DIAZ DANA BEDINGFIELD MADELINE KOPIECKI FEROZA MEHTA

editorial interns VIVIAN SHINALL

KATELYN STORCH NINA RAEMONT

editorial advisory board JEANNE ANSELMO, JJ Designs TINA BOHRER, Edina Community Foundation SARAH DULONG, Ron Clark Construction KAYLIN EIDSNESS, City of Edina CHERYL GUNNESS, Edina Community Education KRISTA JOHNSON ELIZABETH KRIEL, Jerry’s Foods JEFF OHE, Cahill Financial REBECCA SORENSON-BELL RACHEL THELEMAN, 50th and France Business Association

Join us Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Top Dog Country Club 10am – 3pm Open House & Canine Wellness Fair Free!

senior design director art directors

COURTNEY NIELSEN SARAH DOVOLOS EMILY HANDY associate art director OLIVIA CURTI

junior designer ALLISON NOLDEN

lead staff photographer TATE CARLSON

staff photographers RACHEL NADEAU

c reative services coordinator

production director

project coordinators

ALEX KOTLAREK

BRITTNI DYE ANGELA BEISSEL DEIDRA ANDERSON

senior account executives BROOKE BEISE KATIE FREEMARK CYNTHIA HAMRE SARA JOHNSON

digital marketing manager

credit manager accounting

president and ceo chief operating officer

KRISTIN MASTANTUONO APRIL MCCAULEY JARED LAWSON

R. CRAIG BEDNAR SUSAN ISAY

Edina Magazine

ONE TIGER OAK PLAZA 900 SOUTH THIRD STREET // MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55415 612.548.3180

Evening by the Pond 6pm – 9pm Outdoor concert with Nashville star Jeff Dayton Locatedto20Benefit minutes Lake Minnetonka TopWest Dogof Foundation TicketDaycare, DonationGrooming, $28 Boarding, VIP Ticket Donation $160 - includes Transportation, Training Jeff Dayton, Hors d’ oeuvres with Je www.TopDogCountryClub.com Wine Tasting & Concert (952)353-2600

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Edina Magazine is published 12 times a year. Rates $18 for 12 issues.

Back issues $5.95. ©Tiger Oak Media Inc. 2020.

All rights reserved.

Register for both events at https://topdogcountryclub.ticketleap.com/ www.TopDogCountryClub.com EDINAMAG.COM | 5

0920EDN_Book.indb 5

8/4/2020 11:02:18 AM

OPENING OWN YOUR LIFE | 55+ LIVING

FAL L 2020

START LIVING LIFE YOUR WAY. The best in 55+ active turnkey living is here!

All the amenities you want in an apartment home with none of the maintenance. Take a vacation when you want to or lock up for the winter and live your life the way you want to.

Enjoy all the things that The Elmwood offers to keep you active. From our high-end fitness room, yoga studio, bike storage and nearby trails, we cater to your health, wellness and holistic lifestyle. ©2020 | 900088

N O W TA K I N G R E S E R VAT I O N S 952.999.0023 | ElmwoodLiving.com 5605 W 36th St, St Louis Park

CANCER’S NOT CANCELED. Give today.

The pandemic is changing everything. But it’s not stopping the fight against cancer. When you give to the Cancer Kids Fund at Children’s Minnesota, you help local families keep fighting. Your gift supports everything from unique therapies to life-saving research to mortgage and rent relief during a time when more families need your help. Your gift today is more important than ever.

This September, you’re invited to Shine Bright for Cancer Kids by donating online or shopping with participating businesses. childrensMN.org/shinebrightforkids

6 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 6

8/4/2020 11:02:18 AM

Noteworthy WHAT’S GOING ON IN EDINA

Local Artist Paints with Persistence Mason Jones builds an online audience for his art.

It all started when Edina local Mason Jones was little, drawing and creating with his family. He took art classes in high school and honed his skills. “As I got older and into my senior year, I kind of started to take things more seriously,” Jones says.

Once, when his older brother was home from college, Jones was surprised to discover him painting. But Jones’ brother encouraged him to give it a try and they started painting together before Jones began creating solo pieces. “I had a lot going on in my life, and I think painting definitely started to become an outlet for me,” he says.

Jones made his debut at the Edina Art Fair after his senior year of high school and made his first large sale. He says, “From there, everything just kind of kickstarted and I got into doing more shows in Minneapolis and collaborating with other artists. It’s just hard work and being persistent.”

Jones is pursuing an associate degree in fine arts at Normandale Community College. He’d like to open a store that doubles as a gallery space so that he can combine selling his custom clothing and shoes as well as display and sell his large paintings. “It’s all happening so fast, which is really cool,” says Jones.

Want to help support local artists during COVID-19? Jones suggests connecting through social media so artists can gain more support and recognition.

—Katelyn Storch

@masonjonesartwork @masonjonesartwork COURTESY OF MASON JONES

EDINAMAG.COM | 7

0920EDN_Book.indb 7

8/4/2020 11:02:18 AM

N OT E WO RT H Y

COMMUNITY

JULY 4TH PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

The Edina Community Foundation awarded $50 Lunds & Byerlys gift certificates for each of these photographs in a contest initiated to help celebrate Independence Day in a creative new way for 2020.—Angela Johnson

DRINK

NAPA CAB

A wine pick for your next patio sit.

What a wild year so far!

Hopefully you’ve been pulling corks on some of your favorite bottles during COVID-19.

With the end of summer and its warm evenings, barbecue aroma and lots of backyard laughter with friends, let the wine times roll into September.

For you Napa cab lovers, I’m recommending one of the oldest family bodegas in Rioja, With 143 years of winemaking experience, it’s like having a piece of history in each bottle.

I recommend the 2007 Vina Tondonia (current vintage), a blend of mostly Tempranillo with notes of vanilla, vibrant red fruit and soft tannins. Put it in your fridge for a half hour or so to bring temp down a bit.

Cheers!

Contributed by Scott Anderson, a certified wine professional; @andersonbytheglass

PHOTOS BY TARA FINN, SHERI HENDRICKSON, KIM SABOW, REBECCA PETERSON

Spain--Lopez de Heredia.

8 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 8

8/4/2020 11:02:21 AM

New Listing!

READ

6021 Saxony Road Edina

EMOTIONAL TRUTHS TAUGHT

BY FICTION Eddie Adler, his brother, Jordan, their parents, Bruce and Jane, board a flight in New York to Los Angeles.

They are moving there for his mother’s work as a scriptwriter. Eddie is 12 and Jordan, 15. The flight crashes.

Eddie is the only survivor. This amazing novel is the story of Eddie’s life after the crash, and the stories of passengers on the plane. Eddie’s aunt and uncle, Lacey and John, fly to Colorado to take custody of their nephew. After more hospitalization, Eddie moves into his aunt and uncle’s home in New Jersey. It is there that he meets Shay, a neighbor girl his age. There are emotional truths, and facts, that fiction can teach. Ann Napolitano accomplishes this feat in Dear Edward. Although published for the adult market, this book would be highly appreciated by teenage readers. Like Eddie, teens are learning how to live with tragedies that they never saw coming.

Contributed by Maureen Millea Smith,

$1,899,000 This classic 2-story by “Traditions by Donnay” is situated on close to 1/2 acre in Parkwood Knolls. Walk-out lower level with very high end finishes and detailed woodwork. Architect brings open design that won’t disappoint. 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, and 5,202 finished

a librarian at the Edina Library and

square feet. Some of the ammenities include; 2nd floor laundry,

a Minnesota Book Award-winning

main floor office, heated floors, bathroom ensuite, jack & jill bath,

novelist. maureenmilleasmith.com

spacious lower level with custom bar and excercise room, thermador

PHOTOS BY TARA FINN, SHERI HENDRICKSON, KIM SABOW, REBECCA PETERSON

appliances, 2 fireplaces, and fully landscaped yard with irrigation.

JOHN MCWHITE (612) 805-1577 JohnMcWhite.com

EDINAMAG.COM | 9

0920EDN_Book.indb 9

8/4/2020 11:02:21 AM

D E PA R T M E N T S

|

PERSPECTIVES

Rediscovering History

BY AVA DIAZ

ESTABLISHED IN 1969 as a way to collect and preserve community historical items, the Edina Historical Society (EHS) works to bring citizens together through storytelling.

Once a small mill town on Minnehaha creek, Edina flourished into a large central suburb. Southdale Mall, the first indoor shopping center, may have truly put Edina on the map in 1956. Beyond commercial advancements, Edina is also home to a rich agricultural past and is well-known for high quality residential developments and education.

In its 51st year of operation, EHS operates a museum and two living history programs. In an effort to make history more intriguing, board member Bob Moore says the organization works to captivate visitors (both new and reoccurring) through interactive experiences and visually appealing exhibits for all age groups.

The museum at Arneson Acres park is home to over

20,000 items (approximately 13,000 photos, 5,000 artifacts and 2,000 documents) which are displayed in a rotation between two galleries and a research library.

Located on the other side of Edina are the two living history programs in Frank Tupa Park: Cahill School and Minnehaha Grange Hall. In conjunction with one another, these buildings are some of Edina’s oldest standing buildings and are frequently visited by thousands each year.

To bring the city’s pioneer past to life, the living history programs are comprised of interpreters from the 1888 Time Capsule program, an organization that combines authentic experience with Minnesota Education Standards-based lessons to retell the state’s history.

Together these people work to create a realistic experience through basic lessons, storytelling, games and acting in the setting of the original 1864 schoolhouse.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EDINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Edina Historical Society celebrates 51 years of storytelling and community preservation.

10 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 10

8/4/2020 11:02:30 AM

As a 501-c nonprofit, EHS relies heavily on public and member support.

D

L SO

4609 Tower Street

UPCOMING EVENTS Thank You for Shopping with author Kristal Leebrick October 8, 2020 from 7-8:30 p.m.

For years department stores dominated the consumer industry. At this event, visitors will take a look at how megastores like Dayton’s, Donaldson’s and YoungQuinlan redefined the way we shopped and socialized.

100 years of Christmas at Dayton’s with historian James Negabour December 4, 2020 from 7-8:30 p.m.

December 5, 2020 from 4-6:30 p.m.

Location: EHS Terrace Room Come holiday season Dayton’s, the iconic department store, made magic through window displays, unique gifts, store promotions and Santa Land. This event will take a behind-the-scenes look at how Dayton’s became synonymous to Christmas shopping.

6613 W Shore Drive

5229 Hollywood Road

6320 Westwood Court

5805 View Lane

Please contact us for more information.

Susan & Gary Wahman 651-270-4709 • 952-334-4663

EDINA HISTORICAL SOCIETY 4711 W. 70th St.; 612.928.4577; museum@edinahistoricalsociety.org @edinahistory @edinahistory FRANK TUPA PARK 4918 Eden Ave.; 612.928.4577

susangarywahman.com EDINAMAG.COM | 11

0920EDN_Book.indb 11

8/4/2020 11:02:35 AM

WELLNESS

| D E PA R T M E N T S

ALTR in Edina THERE ARE ALMOST AS MANY WAYS TO EXERCISE as there are lakes in Minnesota. The thing that

BY DANA BEDINGFIELD

works for you is a combination of what you need and what you like. One person’s invigorating cardio workout is an unbearable sweaty endurance for another. Are you looking for a group of like-minded people to take a fun class with, or do you want a trainer who focuses on you like you’re training for the Olympics? Do you want to follow your comfortable path or be challenged? Some of those questions have different answers on different days … I mean, is it Monday?

ALTR, which opened an Edina location at the beginning of the year, wants to be your fun-group-of-people-

to-take-a-class-with answer and your Olympic trainer answer. The high-intensity interval training program offers a workout of the day and a trainer—they call them ALTR pros—to give you the group experience and the personal trainer experience all in one package.

Kari Ament and Vincent Amendola are the owners of ALTR. Their first location was in the North Loop, and Edina seemed like the best place to expand.

“Many of our North Loop community members live in the area,” Ament says. “Also, we just love Edina and the area has the kind of healthy demo we’re looking for.”

The ALTR pros are all certified in other kinds of workout programs before they go through the ALTR training.

PHOTOS BY MITCH HIRN

Another option in high-intensity interval training.

12 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 12

8/4/2020 11:02:35 AM

ALTR 3925 W. 50th; 612.314.7575; altrfit.com altr altrfit @ALTRfit

Let us HeLp protect Your dreAms. Burnett &Your Associates, LLC Let us HeLp protect dreAms. Kelley Burnett, Agent

The workout of the day is a an ever-changing programmed experience that doesn’t differ from one location to the other or by time of day, but it’s never the same workout two days in a row. So, you get consistency and variety.

Sarah Manneh was one of the first ALTR clients; she stayed with the program because she says it has had the biggest impact on her body. “Unlike many programs out there, it is well designed, each day is very different than the previous,” Manneh says. “Using vertical skiers, rowing and assault bicycles as the core of the cardio, it effectively integrates with the strength portions, to include all muscle groups for a total body work out.” And when she talks about muscle groups, she knows what she’s talking about—she’s a doctor.

Before they launched the business, Amendola and Ament traveled all over the country looking at fitness centers and gyms. “We tried to put ourselves in the user position,” Amendola says. That research led them to understand that a certain level of pampering goes a long way. “We talk about industrial luxe,” Ament says. “And we deliver that.”

The showers are nice, the products— shampoos and soaps and whatnot—are high end and the towels aren’t thin, rough gym towels. Also, client Manneh says the music is always on point and she finds all the little details can be motivating.

Ament says they recognize there are a lot of choices in their field. “It’s a vibrant and competitive landscape,” she says.

“We work to eliminate the intimidation factor … we’re easy in, easy out.” There are no long-term contracts—they offer single drop-in classes and online workouts with different pricing tiers if you decide to make a commitment.

The thing that Amendola wants you to know about ALTR is that their highly trained pros are there to help you. “We meet you where you are,” he says.

Burnett & Associates, LLC 7301 Ohms Ln Ste 300 Kelley Burnett, Agent 7301 Edina, Ohms LnMN Ste55439 300 Bus: (952) 933-8495 Edina, MN 55439 Bus: (952) 933-8495 kelleyburnett.com kelleyburnett.com

24-HourcLAims cLAims reporting & customer 1-800-mYAmfAm 24-Hour reporting & customer serviceservice 1-800-mYAmfAm (692-6326) (692-6326) Home| Auto | Auto| Life | Life | Business AmfAm.com Home | Business | fArm| &fArm rAncH& rAncH AmfAm.com American Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and Its Family Insurance Family Company, AmericanFamily Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I.Operating and Its Companies, Operating American Companies, American Insurance Company, American LifeLife Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 010996 – Rev. 7/17 ©2015 11339799 AmericanFamily Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 010996 – –Rev. 7/17 ©2015 – 11339799

consultingradiologists.com

(952) 915-4320

Expert radiologists and technologists specializing in women’s imaging

S C H E D U L E Y O U R M A M M O G R A M T O D AY Extended Hours

Walk-in Appointments

Same Day Results EDINAMAG.COM | 13

0920EDN_Book.indb 13

8/4/2020 11:02:35 AM

DOING GOOD

| D E PA R T M E N T S

50 Years of a Helping Hand

BY FEROZA MEHTA

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT is important to public safety. “The [Edina Crime Prevention Fund or ECPF] was formed 50 years ago with the support of the community. Denny Maetzold, ECPF treasurer and former Edina mayor, says. “Over the years, funding rewards has been the core of our mission. The community enthusiastically supported our mission.”

So enthusiastically that Maetzold estimates the nonprofit, volunteer-run organization has donated more than $2 million over the past five decades.

“We help fill a gap for police department programs and equipment,” he says.

The fund’s goal is to support the programs of the Edina Police Department through community outreach.

ISTOCK.COM/AIJOHN784

Edina Crime Prevention Fund celebrates golden anniversary.

14 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 14

8/4/2020 11:02:37 AM

EDINA CRIME PREVENTION FUND edinacrimefund.org

welcome home!

Details that elevate life.

They finance the foot patrol over the holiday season at 50th and France, and the bicycle and motorcycle patrols. It's best known for its support of the K-9 Unit and has also contributed to a memorial garden at City Hall.

“Our funds support our K-9 unit. That includes purchasing the dogs, training the dogs, caring for their vet bills, providing for their care even after they retire,” Shelly Loberg, board member and vice president of Edina Chamber of Commerce, says.

ECPF also helps pay for the junior police program in elementary schools, community outreach programs and any extra equipment.

“People don’t realize the things that aren’t in budgets that are needed,” Jon Barnett, board chair, says. “There’s things that come up all the time that aren’t in the budget that the police would like to have to help us with crime prevention and help our officers and department make our community safer … Recently we granted a request for funding of face masks and gloves for our officers to assist with their protection from COVID-19.”

Chief of police Dave Nelson is also on the board. “I can’t say enough about the ECPF and how much benefit it is,” Nelson says, adding the police force’s budget is set every two years and requires advance planning with little wiggle room.

The ECPF steps in when an unexpected need arises. But, one of its biggest fund raising events is the Fall into the Arts Festival typically held in September. This year's event has been cancelled due to health conerns surrounding the pandemic. But you can still support the ECPF by going to edinacrimefund.org

• OVER 50% SOLD OUT in Phase I • Several models to view • Homes range from the upper $500’s to the $800’s • Amenities: clubroom, guest suite, fitness center & heated underground parking

Jeff Bergom 612-799-5057 C O N D O M I N I U M S

Located just west of Carlson Towers (I-394 & I-494)

RonClark.com | Oakcroft One LLC, Owner & Contractor, proudly hires Ron Clark Construction & Design — Manager & Broker. *Pricing, information and specifications subject to change without notice.

Custom Building & Remodeling Distinctive Homes and Lasting Relationships!

952.697.5075 • Woodstone-Renovation.com MN Lic. BC 638985

EDINAMAG.COM | 15

0920EDN_Book.indb 15

8/4/2020 11:02:37 AM

D E PA R T M E N T S

|

TA S T E

Famous Foody Edina High School student is an online sensation.

EDINA HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ELI AILLONI

spends most of his time hanging out with friends or playing with his miniature poodle, Bentley. When he’s not relaxing, he’s busy connecting with over two million Instagram and TikTok followers through his food videos.

Growing up in an Italian household, Eli says food has always been a major part of his life. He’d always taken pictures and videos of food, and even recalls bringing his Nintendo DS to restaurants like Benihana to snap pictures. And so it only made sense to share his passion for food with the world.

“I share my journey as I travel and eat new foods on my Instagram and TikTok,” Eli says. “Honestly it’s a funny story. I always posted my food when I went out to eat and never thought much of it …

I started to see a lot of food-oriented accounts popping up on Instagram. I told myself, ‘I could totally do that.’”

Eli started his Instagram account, @foodychannel, in 2016 that has since grown to nearly 300,000 followers—going from reposting other creators’ videos to filming his own videos with a DSLR camera. He shares videos and photos of overthe-top food creations around the Twin Cities and the country.

When a new video-sharing platform called TikTok took off, Eli didn’t have interest in joining; he only enjoyed watching the 15- to 60-second clips.

“I didn’t think [TikTok] meant any-

PHOTOS BY MILES AND SMILES PRODUCTIONS; ELI AILLONI

BY HAILEY ALMSTED

16 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 16

8/4/2020 11:02:38 AM

thing to food creators,” he says. “But that all changed when I went to a local Minneapolis Bloggers Union meetup and Molly Hale, a digital strategist, was presenting and later told me I had to get a TikTok.” So, Eli created his account. He posted his first video on April 18, 2019 and received 500 views. He posted a few more videos the following day: one received 33,000 views and another received half a million. “By lunchtime I had 10,000 followers,” he says. “After two weeks, I had 100,000 followers and two million likes.”

Since then, Eli joined the TikTok creator program and is now verified—boasting nearly two million followers and over 40 million likes.

Though Eli will continue on his social media journey, in the future he has plans to attend college and has interest in the medical field—and he’s already spent time at premed programs and, of course, has taken collegiate-level social media analytic courses.

When asked if he expected to become an Internet sensation, he says, “I never expected anything, to be honest. I was just having fun … I never imagined it would pass 10,000 followers. It feels amazing to know that people spend time watching my videos.”

@foodychannel

CREATE. LAUGH. LEARN. Your child will grow and develop through caring relationships and research-driven, play-based learning curriculum. Serving infants through Pre-K at 8 Twin Cities schools. Family- and Locally-owned.

Child Development Centers

www.EspeciallyforChildren.com | 952.857.1100

952.473.4440 thesittingroomstudio.com

EDINAMAG.COM | 17

0920EDN_Book.indb 17

8/4/2020 11:02:38 AM

0920EDN_Book.indb 18

8/4/2020 11:02:40 AM

When food blogger, cookbook author and Edina Magazine contributor Taylor Ellingson was ready to remodel the kitchen in her Edina home, it makes sense that she would connect with another Minnesota blogger who’s also mastering the digital marketplace. Meet the visionaries behind Construction2Style and take a peek at their work for the Ellingsons in Edina.

Jamie and Morgan Molitor are the husband and wife team behind Construction2Style, a full-service residential remodeling company that is also a media company. It all started back in 2012 when the couple were dating, and Jamie purchased a foreclosed home as an investment property. “I thought he was playing a prank on me,” Morgan Molitor says about when she first learned of her boyfriend’s plan to remodel and sell the home. “But, slowly, over time, as I watched the updates and how he did everything himself,” says Molitor ... she became a believer in the potential of a creative business model.

Molitor’s background is in fashion merchandising and marketing, so her initial contribution to that first

remodel was to start a blog about it.

“I didn’t have any idea what to do it at first, but I figured out how to build a website,” says Molitor. “That’s how we came up with the [company] name. He was construction. I was style.” She writes all of the website’s blog posts and credits the site’s success to how she speaks from her heart and shares her family’s lifestyle. She says, “I laugh because an aunt, who is an English teacher, told me, ‘little did you know you’d become a writer.’” Molitor tries to be open and honest with their online followers about life, including recipes and home organization tips, and about home improvement projects. She makes a point to share both the good parts and the things that didn’t go well and why.

The blog evolved organically into a DIY resource for people who want to make cosmetic changes to their own homes. The couple’s relationship also evolved. They got married and had children. Jamie went to school to become a licensed carpenter and contractor and Construction2Style grew into a full-fledged design, build firm.

After the arrival of the couple’s second child in 2015, Molitor aban-

OPEN THE DOOR TO YOUR

FIRST HOME! TREVOR & SARAH ELLEFSON ROYAL CREDIT UNION MEMBERS

We Offer First-Time Homebuyer Loans!

rcu.org/FirstHome 800-341-9911

Continued on page 22 EDINAMAG.COM | 19

0920EDN_Book.indb 19

8/4/2020 11:02:40 AM

SO LD

THINKING OF A CONDO OR TOWNHOME?-

STEPS TO PARKWAY

EDINBOROUGH CONDO

Please give us a call ... we have helped many buyers successfully transition to an “easy living” lifestyle. Our years of experience will help you make the move with ease.

Beautiful and updated home steps to Minnehaha Parkway and just west of Lake Nokomis.

4br/3bth/2car and a hard to find lg. main floor family room. Newer kitchen w/ spacious eating area.

Spectacular location!

Freshly updated 2BR, top floor condo. Sunfilled with vaulted ceilings and skylights, open and airy. Newer kitchen with granite/stainless.

Fantastic location and views from the screened in porch among the treetops.

Mary Krieter - 612.719.0665

Mary Krieter - 612.719.0665

Margie Sampsell - 612.701.6081 Laura Bergman - 612.644.7799

Pe nd in g

Pe nd in g

EAST EDINA CENTER HALL COLONIAL!

GORGEOUS RE-MODEL

2 LEVEL TOWNHOME

5 bedroom 3 bath spacious home in great location near parks with rinks, playgrounds and ball fields. Two story addition with main floor family room and spacious bedroom suite. $699,900

Lovely 4 bed/3 bath home on large corner lot in Brookview Heights. Beautiful kitchen re-model created open concept floorplan with center island, hardwood floors, granite & stainless appliances!

Lovely 2bed,2bath+loft home near transit, trails, shops & dining. Enjoy open airy spaces, eat-in kitchen, tons of storage, in-unit laundry, patio & heated attached garage

KIM Melin - 952.201.4758

KIM Melin - 952.201.4758

Dave Anderson - 612.750.2209 www.realtorDA.com

SO LD

SO LD

5101 TIFTON DRIVE

7224 TARA ROAD

Classic all brick rambler on an exceptional corner lot. Incredible kitchen with 16ft granite center island, high-end appliances, and walk-in pantry. Hardwood floors throughout the main.

This home is a wonderful opportunity.

Tara Road is a hidden gem within the wonderful neighborhood of Prospect Hills. Tucked away for great privacy and quiet enjoyment.

Wonderful outdoor living space by MA Peterson. Four bedrooms, three updated bathrooms, and a three car garage.

Mark Granlund 612.803.8129 Jane Larson 612.720.1048

Mark Granlund 612.803.8129 Jane Larson 612.720.1048

Edina Realty 50th & France | 952.920.1960

0920EDN_Book.indb 20

8/4/2020 11:02:41 AM

East Edina ½ acre on the Creek

Expect the exceptional.

A modern Masterpiece! Former Dream Home; open flr plan; Great views! Green & Smart home technology; 3 car Gar; 2sty glass bridge & every amenity! $1,995M Tour at: JohnEverett.com

John Everett 952.221.5464 Cole DeVries 612.205.2653

Exceptional Condo- 50th & France

“On a Clear Day You Can See Forever”

Edina - Spectacular

Spacious 2 BR+den end unit. Rare with windows to the south & quite Owners suite; Open floor plan; Walnut flrs; covered Veranda; A lifestyle!

Walk to everything! $1,495M Tour at: JohnEverett.com

Extraordinarily private setting and panoramic views are yours from this wonderful walk-out one level home. Enjoy woodland, wildlife, exceptional quality and move-in ready condition! Great value!

Newer executive home with a captivating design and stunning architectural detail. A striking setting on a private half acre lot with gorgeous mature landscape. 5br/4bth/5car. Open, sunfilled floor plan, absolutely breathtaking throughout!

John Everett 952.221.5464

Exceptional Two Story!

Single family privacy with Association benefits!

One level living ease in this immaculate, beautifully remodeled 3BR Villa in Nine Mile Cove.

Just off Lincoln Dr between Edina and Hopkins.

Marcia Russell- 612.965.7997 Meg Meyers - 612.718.5201

Margie Sampsell - 612.701.6081 Laura Bergman - 612.644.7799

Enjoy the gourmet kitchen, open main floor living, and excellent sunlight exposure. Generous bedroom sizes, main floor office, home theater, recreation room and immaculate condition.

Backyard oasis with inground pool, sun filled deck, pergola with spacious patio area. 6 Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 car garage. Built in 2013. $1,125,000.

Jonathan Sells - 612.327.6240

Mary Krieter - 612.719.0665

SUBURBAN LIVING WITH “UP NORTH SETTING” Stunning open spaces with panoramic wooded views. Timeless design offering four bedrooms and five baths. Amenities included are home theatre, large workout/sports room, heated three car garage, screened porch, deck, and large paver patio.

Pristine condition.

Mark Granlund 612.803.8129 Jane Larson 612.720.1048

Edina Realty 6800 France | 952.927.1100

0920EDN_Book.indb 21

8/4/2020 11:02:41 AM

Continued from page 19

doned her corporate career to work fulltime at Construction2Style. She helps collaborate with brands and create the company’s online content for a growing audience that loves all the behind-the-scenes videos and social media peeks into the couple’s real life. The company now also employs a full-time interior designer and project manager.

The team’s creativity gains an outlet through the Molitor’s personal spaces.

They use their own homes, now on their third, to be imaginative with renovation. “We use [our home] to inspire readers and test boundaries, get edgy and try different, bold ideas,” she says. “Jamie likes to be challenged

with his carpentry and craft. He wants to try different things so he doesn’t get bored.” And it’s all documented on the company’s website. Beyond that, the business has also evolved into a media company that helps other entrepreneurs through online tutorials.

But even though the Molitors enjoy pushing design boundaries in their own home and business, they strive to let their clients’ personal vision shine through when working for them.

“Topher [the company’s project manager] has a background in psychology,” says Molitor. “He can read clients so well and he calls things out so that things come to life which is awesome.

And the company’s designer does all of

the renderings and plans.”

Like a lot of connections these days, Molitor’s first connection with Ellingson was via social media.

She says, “My cousin’s best friend went to high school with [Ellingson] and asked me if I followed her blog [greensnchocolate.com]. I started following her and then she started following us. Later, Ellingson would contact Construction2Style about a front entryway and mudroom project.

She wondered if the project was too small,” says Molitor, “but no project is too big or too small for us.” Then, this past year, the Ellingsons were ready to remodel their kitchen and dining room. Molitor says the kitchen

22 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 22

8/4/2020 11:02:43 AM

You never know what Expect the best! you’ll find, stopresale in often!

Upscale Upscale resale

952.929.7919 952.929.7919 fashionavenueresale.com fashionavenueresale.com

JIM KIDD Realtor Ji%.Kidd cbburnet.co% 1 2 3 0

Minneapolis Lakes Office, 3033 Excelsior Blvd Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.

remodel was a super fun project and that she loves how it serves as a backdrop to what Ellingson does fulltime, cook.

In the original floorplan of the Ellingson home, the kitchen was separated from the dining room. They wanted an open concept so that when Taylor Ellingson is cooking, which is often, she can keep an eye on her three young children. Ellingson says, “Our previous kitchen was not only outdated, but also lacked functionality for our growing family. We wanted a space that was more open to the living areas and a large island where our kids could gather for breakfast and lunch.”

That island ended up being Ellingson’s

NOW ENROLLING

PRESCHOOL

Our Preschool classroom focuses on

building children’s confidence and independence so they feel comfortable venturing out, exploring on their own and asking questions.

Enroll today.

Primrose School of Edina 7399 Metro Blvd., Edina, MN 55439 763.381.4971 PrimroseEdina.com EDINAMAG.COM | 23

0920EDN_Book.indb 23

8/4/2020 11:02:44 AM

BEAUTIFUL MINNETONKA 2-STORY!

3427 Groveland Lane

$909,000 • 4 BDRM/5 BATH • 2019 BUILD "LIKE NEW" • HARDWOOD FLOORS • STUNNING OPEN KITCHEN W/ THERMADOR APPLS & W/I PANTRY • 3 BEDROOMS UP ALL W/EN-SUITE BATHS • UL LAUNDRY • MAINT FREE DECK W/PRIVATE WOODED & POND VIEWS • WALKOUT LL W/FAMILY RM & WET BAR

DANIEL & JULIE DESROCHERS Call us to get the expertise and personal attention you truly deserve.

612 554 4773 | 612 867 3041 DANIEL

JULIE

favorite part of the finished project. She says, “It’s definitely our family gathering spot and I love how long it is. It’s the first place the kids go when they wake up in the morning and I love being able to cook and clean up while they are sitting right in front of me.”

The Ellingsons also wanted a very neutral color scheme that would work well with Ellingson’s food photography. Ellingson says, “We wanted a timeless look to our kitchen, so we went very neutral with the colors. At one point we had the island being green, but when it came down to it, I just couldn’t do it. I wanted colors that I knew would carry through the years.”

Molitor wasn’t really a big fan of white on white kitchens before this project. “It’s risky,” says Molitor, “because all whites aren’t the same and some brands have different tones.”

Knowing how much the Ellingsons love and appreciate the cohesive look

of an all-white kitchen, the Molitors delivered with a stunning renovation that includes an oversized island, custom cabinetry and molding as well as white appliances with contemporary gold fixtures. “It was fun to incorporate these new and different details,” says Molitor.

Ellingson adds, “When I saw the white and gold Cafe Appliance refrigerator and range, I knew we had to incorporate them into our kitchen and I’m so glad we did. But, I didn’t want all gold, so we chose black cabinet hardware and a mixture of black and gold for the light fixtures and appliances for a modern look and I love how the black and gold look together.”

Throughout the success of their full-service renovation business, the Molitors still continue to support and provide tips to their DIY audience. In fact, during the Ellingson remodel, they documented the installation of

DREALTYG.COM 24 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 24

8/4/2020 11:02:46 AM

EDINA’S MOST CONNECTED SENIOR LIVING Senior Living Apartments | Assisted Living Memory Care | Stay By The Day Transitional Care Visit the only continuum of care connected to Fairview Southdale Hospital

Call 952-848-8803 | AuroraOnFrance.com ©2020 Fairview Health Services 800170

JENNIE KWON DESIGNS

engineered flooring and shared it online. “Some people prefer to guard their trade secrets,” says Molitor. “But we want to be a resource and hope that if [followers] value our work, that they’ll choose us if they ever decide to hire a contractor.”

EX PERIENCED. LOCA L . TRUSTED. TONY SMITH,

MORTGAGE BANKER

Your mortgage team should make you feel right at home. Alerus brings you a personalized approach that makes the entire process easy, with no surprises. It’s why our streamlined pre-approval process makes buying your dream home a reality.

OFFICE 952 . 417. 3 798 : : CELL 612 .867. 5660 TONY. SM ITH @ALERUS .COM : : N M L S #938947

EDINAMAG.COM | 25

0920EDN_Book.indb 25

8/4/2020 11:02:46 AM

PHOTO CREDIT

Photos courtesy of Feroza Mehta

0920EDN_Book.indb 26

8/4/2020 11:02:50 AM

Pedal Pusher Take up biking with two easy and scenic trails.

PHOTO CREDIT

Writen by Feroza Mehta

COVID-19 put a wrench into our family’s traditional summer plans.

Gone were the favorite summer camps and closed were many community swimming pools. So what else could we do? The light bulb went off: We could bike.

We weren’t alone in our sudden flash of inspiration. Since bike shops were deemed essential during Minnesota’s shelter-in-place order, they were swamped.

“It has made things pretty crazy,” Amy Patee, marketing coordinator of ERIK’s Bike Shop, says. “People who have never biked before are coming to buy their first bike. Those who haven’t ridden in years are choosing to dust off the bike in their garage and bring it in for a tune-up. Biking is something you can easily do alone or at a safe social distance with others.

It’s a great stress reliever, a way to get exercise and it’s fun.”

Over the past few months, we’ve gone through miles of trails with two tweens, one of whom has special needs. What we’ve found are two gems of trails: Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail and Dakota Rail.

Dakota Rail Regional Trail

Dakota Rail Trail stretches 30 miles, a fair chunk of it along the north shore of Lake Minnetonka. It starts in Wayzata and is scenic, but the first few miles wind through parklands that are interrupted by residential roads and driveways. While the scenery is pleasant, prepare for a plethora of stop signs along the route. The momentary pauses are worth it for the view while crossing the Arcola Bridge, providing a panoramic view of Crystal and Smith’s Bays. The waterfront views continue for about nine miles. If you want a straight

EDINAMAG.COM | 27

0920EDN_Book.indb 27

8/4/2020 11:02:50 AM

Minnetonka Drive-In 4658 Shoreline Drive, Spring Park

Adele’s Frozen Custard 800 Excelsior Blvd., Excelsior

St. Boni Bistro 8516 Kennedy Memorial Drive, St. Bonifacius

Maynards 685 Excelsior Blvd., Excelsior

Gale Woods Farm 7210 County Rd. 110W, Minnetrista

Excelsior Brewing Company 421 3rd St., Excelsior

Big Stone Mini Golf 7110 County Rd. 110W, Minnetrista

Victoria Burrow 7999 Victoria Drive, Victoria

Family-Friendly Roundtrip on Dakota Rail Trail: Where to Park: There’s a small lot tucked away near the Wayzata post office. It’s at the intersection of Brown Road and N. Shore Drive in Wayzata.

Start: Ride toward Minnetonka Beach. You will cross the bridge over Crystal Bay. End: Eat lunch at Minnetonka Drive-In in Spring Park. Turn around and go back after eating or continue on for mini golf at Big Stone Mini Golf in Minnetrista.

PHOTO BY TATE CARLSON

Stops along the way:

28 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 28

8/4/2020 11:02:51 AM

Eric Perkins Realtor®, Edina Realty EricPerkins@edinarealty.com • 612-219-0234 6800 France Avenue Suite 230, Edina, MN

shot ride with no stop signs, park in Mound and continue on to the charming small towns of Mayer, New Germany and Lester Prairie. A good place to stop for food is about halfway through the trail in Spring Park at Minnetonka Drive In. A staple since 1961, cyclists are often tickled to find the restaurant has a special speakerphone for ordering. Carhops bring food to your picnic table. For those who don’t want fast food, venture a few miles down the trail to stop in St. Bonifacius for fresh and organic food at St. Boni Bistro.

Behind every smile is a great dental team

Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail This trail spans more than 15 miles from Hopkins all the way to Carver Park Reserve in Waconia. It grazes Lake Minnetonka’s southern shoreline.

If you’re feeling ambitious, haul a tent to camp at Carver Park Reserve. It’s an unpaved trail, but is easily traversable by any bike thanks to the crushed limestone. While there are various sights to see on the trail such as Lowry Nature Center and Grimm Farm Historic Site, COVID-19 may cause closures.

The trail is full of culinary delights, so start out with a small breakfast.

Some bikers like to bookend their trip with a beer, starting with a pint at LTD Brewing in Hopkins and finishing with another glass at Excelsior Brewing in Excelsior. If beer isn’t your thing and you would prefer to relax by the lake, Maynards dock is your ideal bet. For dessert, pick up a delicious treat from Adele’s Frozen Custard.

If you find yourself biking beyond Excelsior, stop in Victoria for some axe throwing at Victoria Burrow.

CARL E. SCHNEIDER, DDS AND STEVEN J. VEKER, DDS

3925 W 44th St. Edina 952.922.2159 www.44thStDental.com EDINAMAG.COM | 29

0920EDN_Book.indb 29

8/4/2020 11:02:51 AM

The Cedar Roof Man KUHLS CONTRACTING: 1515 SOUTH 5TH STREET, HOPKINS, MN • 952.935.9469

www.kuhlscontracting.com

STRAIGHT TALK FROM STEVE KUHL

Five signs your cedar roof may need some TLC 1

Let’s face it. Cedar roofs look great but owning one is a little scary. “Has it been damaged by hail?” “Will it blow off in a storm?” “I hear something chewing up there!” But despite what you may hear, your cedar roof is still one of the most beautiful and long-lasting products on the market. The only catch is you have take care of it.

Owner, Dad, Wood Roof Geek

That’s where I come in. My free, written estimate includes a thorough analysis of your roof. Bringing over 25 years of experience to the table, I will evaluate its’ condition to determine whether or not maintenance, repairs or replacement is the best option for you. Worst case scenario you get a free inspection from a true expert. Best case, we work our magic on your roof and add years to its lifespan.

Loose Nails & Staples

2

In fact, Kuhl’s Contracting is looked to for the evaluation and restoration of cedar roofs by more insurance companies, home inspectors, realtors and architects than any other company in Minnesota. Not to brag, but we are pretty awesome. Don’t take my word for it. Check out our talents at www.kuhlscontracting.com. Or ask around. We have probably done work for someone you know.

I started this company in 1987. Since that time we have worked on thousands of homes around the Twin Cities. My approach to business has never wavered. Be honest, be reliable and do great work. As a result our list of happy clients grows daily.

Cupping & Curling

3

Before Moss & Algae

4 Call us today to schedule your free estimate:

952-935-9469 Steve Kuhl’s Motivation Task Force

Giggle Manager

0920EDN_Book.indb 30

Inventory Princess Hungry Hound

After Evil Critters

Other KUHL Capabilities:

5

•Asphalt, Cedar & Flat Roofing •Chimney & Masonry Repairs •Ice Dam Prevention •Siding & Carpentry •Remodeling Missing Shakes

8/4/2020 11:02:53 AM

on the Town WHAT’S GOING ON IN EDINA

Day Trip to Delano

Head to Apple Jack Orchards for a fun-filled, activitypacked day.

Looking to get your family off the couch and into the fresh fall air? A day trip to Delano may be just what you need. Apple Jack Orchards offers activities and apple picking that can create fall memories to look back on for years to come.

This self-titled “one stop shop for all things fall,” truly lives up to its name when you consider the extensive list of things to do. Boasting 20 different apple varieties, including classic Honeycrisp to unusual finds like the Chestnut Crab apple, you’re sure to find your favorite as you traipse through the sprawling rows of apple trees to pick your own.

Go on a wagon ride, jump on the giant jumping pillow, dive into the corn pit, get lost in the apple maze or pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. There’s even an option for thrill-seekers, who can take a ride on newly installed zip lines.

Don’t skip the giftshop. Grab some of Apple Jack’s signature salsas and other apple specialties, or warm up with some of the orchard’s bestselling apple cinnamon donuts (best enjoyed outside overlooking the scenic Crow River).

For craft-lovers, the orchard will host its 4th annual Farmhouse Market on September 12th from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. The event is planned to have over 30 artisans and crafters selling gifts, home goods and more. Call ahead or visit the orchard’s website for any changes. —Vivian Shinall Apple Jack Orchards 4875 37th St. SE., Delano; Open 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; applejackorchards.com; 763.972.6673 applejackorchards Apple Jack Orchards

RACHEL NADEAU

EDINAMAG.COM | 31

0920EDN_Book.indb 31

8/4/2020 11:02:55 AM

O N T H E TOW N

7 Mystery Book Club

In Vitro Fertilization

Donor Egg IVF

In Vitro Fertilization

LGBT Family Building

LGBT Family Building

Egg Donation Program

Egg Donation Program

LOCAL EVENT

Thursdays through Sep 24 Edina Farmers Market

Enjoy your favorite fresh and local ingredients Thursday at the Edina Farmers Market. The market will follow precautionary COVID-19 measures to ensure safety and cleanliness so you can still enjoy your favorite vendors and purchase fresh fruits, veggies and more. All ages. Free. 3-7 p.m.; Rosland Park, 4300 W. 66th St., in the parking lot closest to the Edina Aquatic Center; edinamn.gov

ONLINE EVENTS

1 Vegan Recipe Swap Egg Freezing Fertility Preservation Ovarian Assessment

And So Much More...

Egg Freezing Fertility Preservation Ovarian Assessment

And So Much More...

Jacques P. Stassart, MD Jani R. Jensen, MD Phoebe D. Leonard, MD

Experts who care Jacques P. Stassart, and experts youMDcan trust.

Jani R. Jensen, MD Phoebe D. Leonard, MD

MD, in StateJacques of the P.ArtStassart, Laboratories Jani R. Jensen, MD & Phoebe D. Leonard, MD

Experts who care Woodbury and Edina. and experts you can trust.

Experts who care State of the Art Laboratories in and experts you can trust.

Woodbury andAT Edina.

FIND US State of the Art Laboratories in

www.rmia.com Woodbury and Edina.

651.222.6050 FIND US AT

www.rmia.com

Are you vegan or curious to try out a more sustainable diet? This virtual event hopes to build community, asking participants to share their favorite vegan recipes, cookbooks, blogs and YouTube channels. The event is open to all who’d like to listen and learn more, but if you want to show off your latest vegan creation, you can prepare a dish beforehand to show over the call. All ages. Free. 6:30–7:30 p.m.; info@exploreveg.org; exploreveg.org

5–11 9/11 Virtual Climb/Run/Walk

Help spread awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder through this event that commemorates the first responders who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The goal is to either run five miles or walk three miles to represent the 110 floors and 2,071 stairs those first responders climbed. This virtual event can be done alone, with family members or within your community. All ages.

Free. Sept. 5, 8 a.m.–Sept. 12, 11 p.m.; 651.207.3945; runsignup.com/races

10 Accelerated Global Connections (ACG) Talks Live Broadcast Online Event So much time in quarantine may have your professional skills feeling a bit rusty.

Business owners, sales professionals and entrepreneurs alike can attend this monthly seminar to polish up and learn alongside peers in the business world.

All ages. Free. 5–7 p.m. joinagc.com

AREA EVENTS

2, 9, 16, 23 Nicollet Makers Market

The Nicollet Makers Market is a hub for local artisans. All are welcome at this farmers market-esque event that aims for inclusivity and representation through art. From homemade earrings to candles, you are destined to find a perfect piece of art at this local event. All ages. Free. 11 a.m.– 2 p.m.; Nicollet Mall, 651 Nicollet Mall, Mpls.; nicolletmakermarket.com

12 12th Annual Minneapolis Monarch Festival Celebrate the incredible journey the Monarch Butterfly goes on from Minnesota all the way to Mexico. Enjoy a variety of food, music, hands-on activities and plants for sale. Oh, and don’t forget the butterflies, as there will be plenty to see up close and opportunities to learn about their habitats. This event is fun for the whole family and takes place right on the beautiful Lake Nokomis. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.;

ICON BY ISTOCK.COM/BANANAJAZZ

Donor Egg IVF

In need of a thrilling read? Join the Hennepin County Library for a virtual book club meeting. For September’s meeting, the group will be discussing The Widows of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey. Participants can request a curbside pickup of the book or access the title through the library’s eBook collections. Those who register will receive a link to the virtual meeting 24 hours before the meeting takes place. All ages. Free. 6:30–7:30 p.m.; hclib.bibliocommons.com/events

651.222.6050

32 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 32

8/4/2020 11:02:55 AM

COMPILED BY NINA RAEMONT, VIVIAN SHINALL, KATELYN STORCH

JIM VANDERVELDE YOUR TRUSTED NEIGHBORHOOD REALTOR®

2401 E. Minnehaha Parkway, Mpls.; 612.724.5652; monarchfestival.org

13 Wheels of Italy 2020

Put the pedal to the metal and get down to the Bde Maka Ska area for this year’s Wheels of Italy car show! Car-enthusiasts will enjoy top-of-the-line Italian cars and motorcycles, as well as great food.

All ages. Free. 3033 Excelsior Blvd., Mpls.; 612.385.3111; wheelsofitaly.com

952.212.6542 | JimVandervelde@edinarealty.com | www.JimVandervelde.com

19 Minnesota Craft Beer Festival 2020

Want to support Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity while enjoying some tunes and brews? This event has all of that, with over 100 participating breweries serving limited-release beers and live music performed by Rough House, a Twin Cities based variety band.

Proceeds go toward The House That Beer Built, a Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity program. Ages 21 and up. $44.99 General entry tasting, $64.99 Early entry tasting. 1–5 p.m.; Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 Second Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.335.6000; minneapolis.org

26–27 Stone Arch Bridge Festival

Get a taste of the Twin Cities art and culture scene. Stroll through the culinary arts market and pick up some savory spices, find a vinyl to call your own at the vintage market and explore the 200+ artists whose work will be on display. All ages. Free. Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Minneapolis Riverfront, SE Main Street, Mpls.; stonearchbridgefestival.com 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 edinamag.com for updates.

TO HAVE YOUR EVENT CONSIDERED email edinamag@tigeroak.com by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

RESIDENTIAL | CHURCHES | COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS SERVICE & MAINTENANCE lesjonesroofing.com | 952.881.2241

EDINAMAG.COM | 33

0920EDN_Book.indb 33

8/4/2020 11:02:56 AM

GALLERY

Say Their Names ...

Local students and community activists stepped out in support of justice and reform during a protest march in the wake of George Floyd’s death while in Minneapolis police custody.

TO VIEW MORE PICTURES from these events, as well as others, visit edinamag.com.

TO HAVE YOUR EVENT CONSIDERED send date, time, location and contact information to edinamag@tigeroak.com.

34 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 34

8/4/2020 11:02:58 AM

JASMINE STRINGER AND JULES GEISLER

YO U R D R E A M S / O U R E XP E R TI S E / YO U R HOME

FREE SEMINARS

How to Avoid the Biggest Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Mistakes SEPT. 19 & OCT. 17, 2020 / 9:00-10:30AM

!

NEW

Remodeling your Kitchen and Bath with Aging in Place in Mind SEPT. 19 & OCT. 17, 2020 / 11:30AM-1:00PM

WHERE: Crystal Kitchen + Bath, 3620 Winnetka Ave N, Crystal, MN 55427 RSVP: 763-544-5950, Seating is limited

Visit crystalkitchen.com for details.

FALL REMODELERS SHOWCASE OCTOBER 2-4 / 12-6PM WHERE: 318 Waycliffe Dr N, Wayzata, MN 55391 UNVEILING PARTY: Oct 2 / 4-6pm Come for the grand reveal and stay for wine and appetizers

LIC# BC007200

EDINAMAG.COM | 35

0920EDN_Book.indb 35

8/4/2020 11:02:58 AM

TA S T E M A K E R S

Recipe for Success

POPULAR BAKERY CHANGES HANDS BUT STAYS TRUE TO ORIGINAL WINNING FORMULA.

BY MADELINE KOPIECKI

Even if you’ve never visited the Wuollet Bakery right off 50th and France, odds are you’ve sampled their baked goods, whether you knew it or not. From the towering fruitcakes of Christmastime to the iconic pistachiogreen fondant of the Princess Torte taking center stage at birthdays, Wuollet has been serving Edina and

PHOTO BY TATE CARLSON

surrounding neighborhoods since 1944.

Now under new ownership, the thirdgeneration, family-run bakeshop and brand is entering its next chapter. “We’re going to start harkening back to the way bakeries were historically run,” says new owner and Edina resident Eric Shogren.

“From the days when we were kids, our mothers would come to Wuollet Bakery;

they picked up a loaf of bread, maybe a dozen cookies, made each kid a sandwich or two to take to school, and maybe threw a cookie in there too.” Cultures change, Shogren concedes, but Wuollet will be there with its fresh baked breads and from-scratch confections for the new generation of Edina resident.

“We’re not going to try to change

36 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 36

8/4/2020 11:02:59 AM

Retirement solutions for you and your employees.

Glynne B Bassi

Financial Advisor 6600 City West Pkwy Suite 120 Eden Prairie, MN 55344-3261 952-217-4604

MKT-5894I-A

what Wuollet is, we’re going to accentuate what Wuollet is,” Shogren says.

“For the most part, we still make all our stuff from scratch. We’re using real butter, we’re making our own jams, our own fillings, and that’s something we pride ourselves on and something we find important.”

This isn’t Shogren’s first foray into local bakeshops. In 2016, Shogren and his wife Olga bought Minneapolis favorite A Baker’s Wife after the founder made the decision to retire.

“Baker’s Wife is a classic bakery where it’s also a neighborhood gathering space,” Shogren says. “People come in in the morning to get their donut, their Danish, their cookies, whatever. It becomes kind of a ritual almost, where people come in a couple times a week.

And there’s some who stop in every day.

It’s a routine for people.”

For Shogren and his family, Wuollet Bakery has similar local roots. But in the case of the Edina shop, its reach extends beyond the immediate neighborhood. “Wuollet is a chain of bakeries with a 75-year history, which does much more than just serve as a community bakery.”

With its European tortes and custom-order cakes, Wuollet has been there for birthdays, weddings, celebrations and holidays. “That’s a significant part of Wuollet’s connection with people, it’s not just being around on a daily basis but being there for special events,” says Shogren. “There’s been families that are in their third, we believe even the fourth, generation of weddings now. We’ve got a few people that are looking for pictures of their great-grandparents’ wedding cake.”

Thoughts of retirement did cause the Wuollet family to consider selling, but that doesn’t mean all the Wuollets have left the kitchen. “The late third generation of the business, one of them wanted to retire and that triggered the

MN License #CR001050

YOUR SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY! 10% OFF

(Up to $1,500)

Coupon must be presented at time of estimate.

Not valid with insurance or other offers.

Expires 3/20/2021

Ask about our financing programs:

Up to 12 months

Interest Free

Subject to credit approval.

Minimum monthly payments required.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Residential & Commercial Roofing . Siding . Windows Roof Repair . Gutters Hail Damage Assessment Storm Damage Restoration We now offer no contact appointments & virtual consultations to get your work done while keeping your family safe.

Free Estimates - Call!

Mpls: 612-424-5179 St Paul: 651-237-5274 www.selaroofing.com

As a member of the Better Business Bureau, you can trust Sela to help you protect the investment you’ve made in your home!

EDINAMAG.COM | 37

0920EDN_Book.indb 37

8/4/2020 11:03:00 AM

TA S T E M A K E R S

other to have to think, ‘Okay, what do we want to do?’”

Cousins Mike Jurmu and Doug Wuollet, whose grandfather founded the bakery, knew their children didn’t necessarily want to work in the company for the next 50 years like they had.

“They wanted to see the brand live on,” Shogren says, adding that many family members still work in the company.

“When I bought it there were still, I think it was 10 family members still involved with the business in some capacity. And to this day, only some of them have retired.”

The Wuollet family’s connection to Shogren goes back a ways. Before moving back to Minnesota, Shogren was living in Russia and building a chain of bakeries, called Kuzina. “About 15 years ago I brought some of my Russian bakers here to be trained. And the Wuollet family was nice enough to let them train at Wuollet Bakery.”

Shogren kept in contact over the years. He says, “It wasn’t so important for them to sell or me to buy, what was more important was for us to come together to see how this business can continue to succeed.”

In taking over the business, Shogren has also brought some elements of his Kuzina bakeries to Minnesota with

him. “Wuollet has always sold Russian tea cookies, but we’re taking it up a notch. People love our peanut brittle, they love our Russian tea cookies and our button cookies, why not sell them year-round?”

Those aren’t the only old-world fare making a comeback. “I think you will see us return to making more traditional European tortes. In the old days, Wuollet made a lot more varieties of European torte; we’ll return to that. What we’ll probably do is you’ll see us increasingly return Wuollet to some of its roots.”

For Shogren, bringing back tradition doesn’t have to come at the cost of excluding current trends. “In the last few years we’ve seen an incredible drive in the coffee and drink business, which means we’re going to be enhancing and increasing the quality of our coffee program, because it goes handand-hand with our baked goods. That’s something that’s just evolved over time.

My grandparents would have had black coffee and my kids are going to have a cappuccino. It’s just the way it goes.”

Shogren’s vision for Wuollet includes making it more of a meet-up space like the bakeries of old. That plan includes selling fresh, warm donuts in the morning; opening up the 50th and France location to more seating; lowering the prices

38 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 38

8/4/2020 11:03:00 AM

PHOTO BY RACHEL NADEAU

of key daily products like donuts to make them more accessible to more people.

Annie Hall, who had been working the counter over the entire course of our interview, is in the best position to attest to Wuollet’s place in the community. She’s worked at the bakery for 15 years and says that the best part of her position is how people from the whole Twin Cities come to the bakery, either through the doors or over the phone. “A lot of kids come to this location too,” she says with a smile.

There’s something undeniably special about bringing a kid into a bakery.

“Imagine a kid, a couple feet tall, coming into a bakery and looking at those windows and seeing all that wonderful stuff,” Shogren says. “That’s the kind of stuff you remember. I’m not trying to be sentimental, but I think we all are to a certain extent. One of the things I remember is my dad taking me to places like Wuollet, taking me to a bakery where I know exactly what I’m going to get.”

Wuollet Bakery 3608 W. 50th St. 612.922.4341; wuollet.com Wuollet Bakery @wuolletbakery @WuolletBakery

EDINAMAG.COM | 39

0920EDN_Book.indb 39

8/4/2020 11:03:01 AM

LAST GLANCE

Embracing Change Local photographer captures pink clouds and progress.

We regularly feature photo submissions from our Images of Edina photo contest in the pages of Edina Magazine and online. This month, we asked Burton Hanson to tell us about photograph titled “Sunrise on Season of Change at 50th and France.”

What’s your favorite thing about this image?

Maybe that it turned out better than I expected since I had to act quickly and didn’t have time to carefully crop with the camera … I believe I lucked out additionally in that the clouds were not only of a lovely sunrise tint but in that they were narrow and horizontal, which seems to contribute to the horizontal forward movement provided by the forward left-to-right descent of the plane, and the implied hopeful progress theme of the pic.

PHOTO BY BURTON HANSON

What inspired the shot?

On previous walks I had noticed the passenger jets on their typical west-to-east descending flight pattern above and north of the construction site of Nolan Mains.

I resolved to keep my eyes open for a sunrise shot of a descending plane if the overnight position of the construction crane happened to be in a favorable position and if everything else, including the cloud pattern and lovely early light, materialized. The picture wouldn’t have worked as well as I think it does without the visually contrasting sense of left-to-right or forward motion provided by the smoothly descending plane.

Do you typically take photos like this or is this out of the norm for you?

It’s hard to say because even pics I take over time of the same subjects like [Landmark’s Edina Cinema] are often unique and fresh to me.

What prompted you to submit your photo to Images of Edina?

I have been regularly submitting to the contest since 2015. My interest in photography is much longer. I got my first camera as a birthday gift in 1956.

40 | SEPTEMBER 2020

0920EDN_Book.indb 40

8/4/2020 11:03:02 AM

Architecture Interior Design Remodels Additions Condominiums New Homes

QUARTERSAWNDESIGNBUILD.COM 612-208-1727

0920EDN_Book.indb 3

8/4/2020 11:03:03 AM

0920EDN_Book.indb 4

8/4/2020 11:03:03 AM