“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
As we enter November and the season of gratitude, it’s a time to pause and reflect on the many blessings that surround us. In our busy lives, it’s easy to rush past the small moments, but Thanksgiving invites us to be present, to appreciate the people in our lives, and to honor the spirit of giving back.
This month, we are proud to highlight two organizations that embody what it means to serve others. The Rotary Club of Eagan has long lived by the motto “Service Above Self.” Their members dedicate countless hours, talents, and charitable gifts to enrich the lives of those in our community. From local service projects to global initiatives, their impact is felt far and wide.
We are also honored to feature Neighbors, Inc., a nonprofit rooted in South St. Paul and dedicated to supporting community members in Dakota County and beyond. Their mission of “neighbors helping neighbors” comes alive through programs that provide food, clothing, and critical resources to those facing challenges. Their vision—to be a trusted, valued neighbor advancing well-being—is a reminder of how collective generosity strengthens us all.
Of course, gratitude can also be found in the simple joys that bring us together. This issue shares festive fall drinks to warm your gatherings and add a touch of seasonal cheer. Whether enjoyed with family, friends, or neighbors, these small traditions remind us of the joy in slowing down and savoring the moment.
As we prepare to gather around our tables this Thanksgiving, let’s take time to celebrate the blessings of community, the organizations that uplift others, and the everyday kindness that makes Eagan and the surrounding area such a special place to call home.
As always, I would like to thank all of Eagan City Lifestyle’s sponsors. Their generous support enables us to get our magazine directly into our readers’ homes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me (eagan@citylifestyle.com) if you have a story to share or a business to recommend.
With gratitude,
AMY SOUSA, PUBLISHER @EAGANCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Amy Sousa | Amy.Sousa@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Matt Sousa | matthew.sousa@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Jacqueline Elizabeth jacki@ascendanceproductions.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa Cline | cline.lisa.marie@gmail.com
STAFF WRITER
Ann Schreiber | copywritingforyoucorp@gmail.com
COPY EDITOR
Judy Sousa | eagan@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Leif Hagen, Kathy Sullivan
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas Learn
• Download our planning ahead checklist
• Know what questions to ask on a tour
• Review what to expect during the move
• Learn the best way to meet friends in your new home
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: It was a heartwarming afternoon at the Omni Viking Lakes for puppy cuddles, adoption inspiration, and supporting Healing Hearts Rescue’s mission.
Photography by Dakota Country Regional Chamber
business monthly
The Commons on Marice: A Quarter Century of Care
The Commons on Marice, a senior living community in Eagan, celebrates 25 years of compassionate care and innovative programs in 2025. Offering independent living, assisted living, care suites, and memory care, the community is known for its Montessori-Inspired Lifestyle® approach, intergenerational connections, and enriching wellness programs. With a licensed nurse on-site 24/7, residents enjoy peace of mind, engagement, and belonging. Guided by The Goodman Group, The Commons on Marice continues to honor seniors with care and community.
Break Free from Burnout with Maddy Trenholm Counseling
Maddy Trenholm Counseling specializes in helping individuals break free from perfectionism, burnout, and chronic stress. With a compassionate yet empowering approach, Maddy guides clients to quiet their inner critic, reconnect with their authentic selves, and reclaim joy in daily life. Using advanced methods such as EMDR therapy, she helps reduce anxiety, build self-esteem, and create lasting change. Whether you’re a professional, parent, or athlete, Maddy provides the support you need to flourish and thrive.
Celebrating Service, Dedication, and Client Care
Congratulations to Rachel on her work anniversary with Mike Theisen's State Farm agency in Woodbury! Rachel’s dedication and commitment shine through in every client interaction, helping families across Minnesota and Wisconsin protect what matters most. Mike Theisen’s team specializes in auto, home, life, health, renters, condo, and even pet insurance. Rachel, thank you for being such an important part of a team that provides trusted, local service and peace of mind.
Private Suites, Premium Style at Opulent Hair & Lash Studio
Opulent Hair & Lash Studio has arrived in Lakeville, just off I-35 and minutes from Eagan. This modern salon offers private suites for beauty professionals to launch and grow their businesses in a supportive, teambased environment with unmatched benefits. Featuring a newly renovated, upscale design, the studio creates a serene atmosphere where clients can enjoy exceptional services under one roof. Opulent Hair & Lash Studio is redefining high-end self-care and beauty in the Twin Cities.
HOW THE EAGAN ROTARY PUTS GRATITUDE INTO DAILY ACTION
Giving Back, One Project at a Time
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEIF HAGEN & KATHY SULLIVAN
“If you want to do, Rotary gives you the chance to do.”
Rotary isn’t just a lunch meeting or a name on a sign. For the members of the Rotary Club of Eagan, it’s a way of life. With a mission rooted in the motto Service Above Self, this group of civic-minded individuals has been pouring time, resources, and compassion into the Eagan community for nearly four decades.
Karen Peterson, the current Rotary Club of Eagan president, joined the organization twelve years ago. At the time, she was working in Lakeville and planning to help open a wellness center in Eagan. A friend encouraged her to meet with Jeff Mortensen, CEO of 360 Communities, and a longtime Rotarian.
“He helped me understand what the Rotary was about,” Karen says. “He didn’t just sponsor me. He inspired me.”
Karen, now retired, sees Rotary as a natural outlet for her passion to serve. “We are all lucky to live where we do. It feels right to give back.”
NOT JUST A SOCIAL CLUB
While plenty of business relationships are formed through Rotary, Karen is quick to point out how it differs from other professional organizations. “There are so many organizations great for networking,” she says. “But Rotary is about action. You build trust with people who care about the same things you do.”
It’s a space where service-minded people come together not just to make connections, but to make a difference.
That difference shows up in countless ways, from scholarships and student programs to local improvement projects and long-term community investments.
SERVICE THAT STICKS
Eagan Rotary members aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. Take their recent project updating a breakfast nook at Dakota Woodlands, a local shelter for women and families experiencing homelessness. “It was a humbling experience,” Karen shares. “We were tearing down old wallpaper and installing
new cabinets. We wanted to transform the space into something beautiful.”
For the past five years, the Rotary Club of Eagan has hosted its Live to Give Walk , raising nearly $250,000 to support a wide range of programs from literacy and student scholarships to nonprofit grants and service projects throughout the city.
This year, the club is mixing things up.
On May 4, 2026, Rotary will host the first-ever Eagan Rotary Beer Fest at Union 32. The restaurant is donating its space for the occasion, which will feature tasting stations set up throughout the venue, exclusive brews from local vendors, and appetizers included with each ticket. Breweries from across Minnesota are participating in what promises to be a fresh and flavorful new experience.
Proceeds will continue to fund the club’s community programs. Tickets will go on sale in early 2026 through the Eagan Rotary website.
As far as the enthusiasm that Rotarians put into these events, “When you know the story behind these efforts, it becomes personal,” Karen says. “That’s what keeps us going.”
SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION
Rotary invests in its future. At Eagan High School, the club sponsors Interact , a student-led service organization modeled after Rotary itself. For students ready to take the next step, Rotaract supports college-aged young adults in continuing their commitment to service.
From ethics workshops and Camp Enterprise (a three-day entrepreneurship experience for high schoolers) to student scholarships and the Student of the Month recognition program, Eagan Rotary continues to prioritize mentorship and leadership for the next generation.
“My 28-year-old son recently joined our after-hours club,” Karen says. “He wanted to give back, and this format worked for him.”
ROTARY THAT WORKS FOR YOU
The Rotary Club of Eagan meets Wednesdays from 12:00 to 1:15 p.m. at the Lost Spur Golf and Event Center. Every meeting includes a guest speaker and an opportunity to connect with others who want to make an impact.
But Rotary has evolved. For members who can’t attend traditional daytime meetings, there’s now an after-hours club. Meeting on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at Union 32 Craft House, the after-hours group is part of the noon club but follows a unique rhythm. The first Tuesday of the month focuses on learning, and the third Tuesday focuses on a hands-on service project.
“This gives people a way to be involved that fits their schedule,” Karen says. “You get to make a difference, without needing to commit to something that doesn’t work for your life.”
The evening club has assembled diaper bundles for Neighbors Inc., organized a school supply drive for Kaitlyn’s Kloset, and just completed an underwear bundling project this past August for The Drawer.
GIVING IT ALL AWAY
“We raise money to give it away,” Karen says with a smile.
That’s not an exaggeration. In addition to funding student programs and nonprofit grants, the club also
supports scouting troops, provides scholarships to graduating seniors, and honors community members such as teachers, veterans, and safety officers.
Over the years, Eagan Rotary has also taken on largescale projects like helping fund the Eagan Bandshell at the Community Center. And they’re not done yet. One of their next goals? To partner with other Rotary clubs to help 360 Communities in supporting the Lewis House, a shelter for victims of domestic violence.
“When people are in need, Rotary is there,” Karen says.
COME SEE FOR YOURSELF
Thinking about joining? You don’t have to make a big commitment right away. Visitors are always welcome at the weekly lunch meetings or evening gatherings.
Rotary is a global organization with 1.2 million members worldwide, and the Eagan club is proud to be part of that network. “People are craving connection,” Karen notes. “We offer that, and we give people something meaningful to do with their time.”
Whether you're new to town, in a new phase of life, or simply looking to meet people who care about giving back, Rotary has a place for you.
“There’s a reason we’re still here after 38 years,” Karen says. “It’s not about us as individuals. It’s about what we can do together.”
“It’s not about us as individuals. It’s about what we can do together.”
NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS
How a South St. Paul nonprofit continues to meet the growing needs of our community
ARTICLE BY ANN SCHREIBER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA CLINE
For more than five decades, Neighbors, Inc. has quietly held down the corner of 222 Grand Avenue West in South St. Paul. What began as a grassroots movement among local churches to feed and clothe neighbors after the meat-packing stockyards decentralized has grown into something even more meaningful: a trusted anchor for people who need a hand and a hub for those who want to help.
“We wish we could work ourselves out of a job, but the need keeps growing every week.”
Now in its 53rd year, Neighbors serves thousands in Dakota County with hunger relief, clothing assistance, and growing support services through its Financial Empowerment Center. It’s one of only five food shelves in the county, but what makes it just a bit different is the level of dignity built into every offering.
“Neighbors will always be a place where people can turn to for food and clothing,” says Cody Semo, Community Engagement Coordinator. “But now we’re expanding the ways we support people, through job training, career exploration, and financial education.”
A NEW MODEL OF SUPPORT
Walk through Neighbors’ doors on any given weekday, and you’ll find volunteers sorting through fresh
vegetables, shoppers selecting canned goods from a grocery-style layout, and visitors browsing clothing racks in the on-site thrift store. But what may surprise you is what’s upstairs: a career support center dedicated to workforce development and financial empowerment.
Inside the Financial Empowerment Center, visitors can meet with job counselors, work on resumes, explore career paths, prepare for interviews, and receive free short-term training through local community colleges. The center also helps with job applications and offers support services for people looking to stabilize or change their work situation. It’s a natural extension of the nonprofit’s mission: helping people excel, not just get by.
“Career support doesn’t replace our mission to provide hunger relief,” Cody says. “But it gives people another path forward.”
HELPING HANDS, FULL HEARTS
Cody knows firsthand what it means to find purpose in helping others. Born and raised in South St. Paul, he lives within walking distance of Neighbors. After spending years in corporate purchasing, he made the leap to nonprofit work when a marketing role opened up at Neighbors.
“I was behind a computer all day, and something was missing,” he says. “Now I get to work with people and be part of something that helps my community every single day.”
He’s not alone. Neighbors has more than 200 active volunteers (meaning they’ve worked at least one shift in the past year). From stocking shelves to assisting shoppers, opportunities exist for every type of personality.
“There’s something for extroverts, introverts, students, retirees, you name it,” Cody says. “And we have opportunities available at night and on the weekends. Volunteers are the heart and hands of what we do.”
FIGHTING HUNGER WITH DIGNITY
Neighbors operates a choice-model food shelf, which allows guests to select their own groceries based on their needs and preferences. “Instead of handing someone a bag of random items,” Cody explains, “we let them pick from categories, just like you would at a regular store.”
Each guest is allowed one full shop per month and can visit additional food access programs like the Neighbors' Nook, which doesn’t require an appointment. There are also nine community distribution sites across Dakota County that bring relief closer to those who might not be able to visit in person.
The demand, however, is growing.
“Utility and grocery costs are climbing. And unfortunately, the need isn’t going away,” says Cody. “We wish we could work ourselves out of a job, but that’s just not the case.”
Most hunger relief efforts are supported by individual donations and faith-based organizations. Neighbors purchases food in bulk from groups like Second Harvest Heartland and The Food Group, and also “rescues” food daily from grocery chains such as Cub, Walmart, and Target.
“Even the smallest time commitments can really add up. We become a second family to our volunteers. One shift at a time.”
“We do everything we can to avoid waste,” Cody says. “We’re there daily, collecting overstock and items nearing expiration to get them to people who can use them.”
GIVING BACK AND GETTING INVOLVED
Neighbors relies on its local community, not just for donations, but also for visibility and connection. “We show up at events. We talk to business owners. We get involved because we live here, too,” Cody says.
People often ask how they can help. The truth is, any contribution, whether it be time, money, or even word of mouth, can make a difference.
Financial gifts are used efficiently, especially since the organization purchases food at deeply discounted prices through nonprofit partnerships. Volunteering can be as simple as a two-hour shift once a month. And for those who
want to make a bigger commitment, Neighbors offers year-round opportunities for groups, individuals, and families.
“Even the smallest time commitments can really add up,” Cody says. “We become a second family to our volunteers.”
A SAFE PLACE TO LAND
Most people who walk through Neighbors’ doors aren’t looking for handouts. They’re looking for help. They’re trying to figure out how to put food on the table, dress their children for winter, or move one step closer to a better job. And if you’re in a position to give back? The door is open for you, too.
To donate, volunteer, or learn more, visit www.neighborsmn.org or stop by the building at 222 Grand Avenue West in South St. Paul.
VIKINGS PARKWAY
autumn sips of comfort
WARM, SPICED DRINKS TO CELEBRATE CRISP FALL DAYS IN COZY STYLE
ARTICLE BY AMY SOUSA
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm, spiced drink. Fall flavors bring comfort in every sip, whether you crave the pumpkin-spiced sweetness of a latte, the cozy indulgence of maple and cinnamon, or the rich warmth of a buttered rum. Each drink is topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice, making them the perfect companions for autumn gatherings, quiet mornings, or fireside evenings.
1. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin spice.
2. Heat until steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
3. Whisk until frothy, then pour into a mug with hot coffee.
4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
ingredients
• 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream & extra cinnamon
directions
1. Warm milk in a saucepan until hot.
2. Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla.
3. Froth with a whisk or frother until foamy.
4. Serve in a mug topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
ingredients
• 1 cup hot coffee
• 2 tbsp spiced rum
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Whipped cream & nutmeg/cinnamon for garnish
directions
1. Stir butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into the hot coffee until melted.
2. Add rum and stir well.
3. Top with whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon.
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
NOVEMBER 5TH AND 19TH
Eagan’s Indoor Market
1501 Central Parkway Eagan, MN 55121 | 4:00 PM
Get your favorite local goods on select Wednesdays in the Oaks Banquet Rooms at the Eagan Community Center. You will find bread, baked goods, sauces, cheese, body products, artisan items and more! Stay up to date by subscribing to the Market Fest email list at cityofeagan.com/marketfest. No admission to attend.
NOVEMBER 9TH
Vendella euro boutique & coffee haus Annual Christmas Shopping Event
Don’t miss Vendella euro boutique & coffee haus’s Annual Christmas Shopping Event! Discover unique, heartfelt gifts while you sip, shop, and soak in the holiday spirit. Perfect for checking off your list in style. Follow @vendella_coffee_haus on Instagram for event details and festive updates.
NOVEMBER 13TH
An International Evening of Eagan - Eat, Explore & Embrace!
2750 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Eagan, MN 55121 | 5:30 PM
Join the Eagan Community Foundation at Lost Spur Event Center for an International Evening of Eagan! Help us raise funds for our community grants & scholarships while celebrating the international flavor of Eagan. Enjoy international fare from across the globe provided by our culinary sponsors. Bid on fabulous auction items. Tickets are $70 at eaganfoundation.org to get your tickets today!
Experience the excitement of football season at the official hotel of the Minnesota Vikings! Immerse yourself in the action at Ember & Ice, where you can enjoy delicious game-day bites and refreshing drinks while watching all the action. Make your experience even more memorable with our Gridiron Getaway package. Enjoy a tailgate amenity to fuel your excitement, plus two tickets to the Vikings Museum, where you can explore the team’s legendary history and iconic moments. Don’t miss out on the ultimate game day experience— book your stay at Omni Viking Lakes Hotel today and make this season truly unforgettable.
