Edina, MN August 2024

KIDS & PETS ISSUE

LET’S DO MEDICARE TOGETHER

Join us for a Medicare workshop

Learn what Original Medicare covers, how and when to enroll, and Medicare plan options available in your county.

Our Blue Cross Medicare experts are with you every step of the way, from helping you understand benefits and coverage to selecting the right plan to meet your needs. Reserve your spot today. Call 1-844-626-0478, TTY 711 or visit bluecrossmn.com/Workshop3 of people understand how Medicare

1Based on enrollment data from CMS January 2024. 2Based on survey responses for 2023 Medicare workshops presented by Blue Cross. Beginning in October, we’ll present 2025 plan information. Workshops cover individual Medicare plans. If you’re Medicare-eligible and covered under the Federal Employee Program® or a Blue Cross group employee or retiree plan, talk with your employer. You may be able to get better coverage than an individual Medicare plan. Blue Cross offers PPO, Cost and PDP plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in these Blue Cross plans depends on contract renewal. Plans are available to residents of the service area. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call 1-844-626-0478, TTY 711. Y0138_062024_P01_M

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For the Little and Furry

August is that month of summer where we start thinking about all of the things we might not have gotten to yet. There is a change in the air and the to-do lists for fall start to take shape in our minds.

The August Kids and Pets issue is always one of my favorites and it brings my focus back to the little things. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families. Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation for the future. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment.

The Edina Lifestyle team put our heads together to come up with a fun and interactive community photo contest which is kicked off by our awesome photographer, Andrew Vick. Andrew and his boys share some of their favorite food spots around Edina as well as top picks off of those menus. We encourage you and your family to submit yours too! Send us a photo of you or your family eating at your favorite Edina restaurant. The winner will be announced in our upcoming Food Issue and can enjoy a $100 gift card to use at their favorite local spot.

If you are looking for a fun local adventure, the Minnesota Zoo provides programs, events and memorable attractions. From camps to the newer Treetop Trail experience, the zoo is the perfect destination for people of all ages.

But, we can’t forget the pets! The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and give. This bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship. To honor our furry friends, we have included some fun “Insta-famous” pets that have stolen our hearts, dog socializing tips and how to throw your pet a birthday bash.

Happy August Edina, and we hope the kids and pets are having an amazing one!

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com

SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR

Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Sue Baldani, Sarah Knieff

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andrew Vick, Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

An instruction manual can help you know how to do something. But know-how means bringing uncommon skill, insight, and expertise to the table. At Crown Bank, it’s the know-how we bring to every challenge and opportunity that helps make the possible, possible for our clients and our community.

What can we make possible for your business?

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PRO TIP by Andrew Vick

Fall is on the horizon with the start of school but family photos don’t have to be one of your stressors! Book early and invite us along to capture one of your family’s favorite adventures or happy place around Edina. Afterwards, make a family memory by going out for the Vick family’s local favorite chocolate-banana malt at The Convention Grill!

Get A Fresh Set

Jenny's Nails offers hand and foot beautification services for men, women and kids. From dip powder to gel, the staff aims to make every client leave feeling happy, confident and excited to show off their new nails. Have fun and get a summery design during your next 3939 W 50th St. Suite  jennysnailsmn.com.

Empowering Families: Holistic Health and Comprehensive Care

At the Center for Collaborative Health, its comprehensive testing services ensure accurate diagnoses for better treatment and outcomes for children, especially in school settings. Bridging psychology and mind-body wellness, it supports physical, emotional, and mental health for the whole family. The center is a nurturing space where diverse professionals provide personalized solutions for healing and self-discovery, empowering parents to thrive and be their best for their kids.  300 Metro Blvd., Suite 400.  centerforcollaborativehealth.com.

Pacifier — An Urban Baby and Kid Store

The first Pacifier was opened in March 2004 in Northeast Minneapolis when a suitably cool kids gift could not be found. From there, it grew to serving families and friends in Edina, Highland Park, Wayzata, and the original Northeast store hopped across the Mississippi to the North Loop neighborhood. Check out the Edina store for all things gifts.  4942 France Ave. S. pacifierkids.com.

MINNETONKA, GOLDEN VALLEY AND PRIOR LAKE

Distinguished recipients of architectural and design accolades, our exceptional team takes great pride in our commitment to exceeding your expectations. Reach out to us today.

YOU ARE INVITED!

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW VICK

SUBMIT YOUR BEST FOOD PHOTOS AND WIN

As a well-traveled and award-winning family photographer living in Edina, Andrew Vick has gotten to try some of the best cuisines from around the world. And, while exploring new things is hard to beat, he has found there is nothing like the fabulous food scene in Minnesota, especially in his own hometown.

Below, Andrew shares his favorite things about a few of Edina’s treasured spots, keeping in mind that the best part is the precious family time he gets to share during a meal with his wife and two sons.

“As a family of four, it is hard to all agree on where to pick, we have our best spots, but we are always looking for more suggestions.”

Which is where you, (yes YOU!) the reader, comes in. The Vicks and all of us at Edina Lifestyle want to hear from you. Send us a photo of your family at your favorite Edina restaurant and you will be entered to win a $100 gift card to that spot.

But, contest or not, we hope you enjoy these local suggestions around town to help inspire your summertime family experiences!

01

EDINA GRILL –CHILAQUILES

CONVENTION GRILL –CHOCOLATE BANANA MALT WITH FRIES

Edina didn't feel right without the Convention Grill, so we are grateful it's back! You can't go wrong with anything on the menu but our cravings for hand-cut fries and summer malts just made the year complete. Order a “Chunky” Chocolate Banana malt to share for the win!

We as a family have logged over twenty-five trips south of the border and always say we have big Latin Hearts. Food finds along the way are our jam and we have been on a quest to find some of the best Latin food along the way. Who knew it was right out our back door! The Chilaquiles are hands down the best I have had, complete with Edina Grill's famous hashbrowns and the right blend of smoked pulled pork and crunch.

03

HOLD THE WHEAT –HAM + CHEESE DANISH

FRANCE 44 – KIDS MELT WITH TOMATO BASIL PUREE

This one isn't just for the kids! Make dinner night out fun and walk down to get a grilled cheese from some of the best cheeses around. It even comes with a side cup of puree tomato soup to dip. For the parents, grab a bottle of wine for the patio.

02

Hold the Wheat popped up in the past year as a treasure of a bakery and gives all of us something we look forward to. Feeling savory, the gluten-free Ham and Cheese Danish just melts in your mouth with the perfection of airy soft cheese.

04

STARLING – SEARED SALMON POKE BOWL

From the creators of the Parlour Burger, the new Starling kid’s menu is insane, and the seared salmon poke bowl is marinated and then done to perfection stacked as a tower and topped with their yum yum secret sauce. The coloring boxes of goodies for the kids show that they have thought of everything. Pro Tip: The kid's cheeseburger is the same size as the adult burger.

THE HILLTOP –THE FRENCH ONION SOUP

This one is hard to beat! Molten cheese is oven baked over the top as the carmelized onions soak up their famous French Dip base broth. It’s best on a Fall night or something light for the lunch hour. Pro Tip: Ask for additional croutons on the side to keep the crunch fresh as you go

EDINA LIFESTYLE FOODIE PHOTO CONTEST GUIDELINES:

This August, show us your favorite foods and restaurants in and around Edina. The contest winner will receive a $100 gift card to enjoy a family or friends’ night out at the restaurant they nominated in the photo. The winning photo and runner-ups will also be featured in the upcoming October food issue of Edina Lifestyle Magazine.

Submission Guidelines

• Photos must be taken and submitted between August 1 and 31 of this year.

• One photo submission per family or group.

• We invite kids to team up with their friends to get the perfect photo.

• Photos must be taken by or feature a kid (18 and under).

• Photos can be taken using a phone or another camera of choice.

• No filters, no edits to the photo will be accepted.

• To submit, you must be an Edina resident.

• The restaurant you nominate/feature in your photo must be in Edina.

Photos will be judged using points (points per category below)

• Tastiest/best-looking food.

• Family/friend activity connected to the food. Style points of the photo itself (lighting/composition, funny faces, creative placement).

• Bonus points if an issue of Edina Lifestyle appears in the photo.

• Photo submissions must be 1MB or larger.

Email us at edinalifestylepress@gmail.com to receive your formal submission form.

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

MEET HAM, FINN AND STAN

THREE INSTA FAMOUS PETS FROM MINNESOTA

Introducing Ham, Finn and Stan: Three adventure loving pets living and thriving in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Whether they are climbing up trees, boating or racing at Canterbury Park, these guys sure know how to enjoy life to the fullest. All us humans can do is cheer them on through Instagram, where they share all their escapades and have racked up quite a following.

So without further ado, here are their stories.

“Some people talk to animals. Not many listen though. That’s the problem."  – A.A. Milne

Ham, known as @hampurrburgerhelper on Instagram, is a threeyear-old spotted adventure cat based in Minneapolis. Ham is leashedtrained and goes everywhere with his human, Rachel Gernander. They lead an active life hiking, biking, boating, attending art exhibits and traveling the United States together.

Ham proudly smashes misconceptions about what cats can and can’t do. When he isn’t exploring Minnesota’s many hiking trails, you can regularly find him sporting stylish outfits and frequenting pet-friendly establishments. From book shops to wineries, baseball games to pizza farms, you never know where Ham will pop up next!

Recently, Ham was published in Cats and Cocktails, a hardcover book featuring 52 cocktails and mocktails modeled by kitties from around the world. Proceeds benefit Mission Meow, a 501c3 feline-centric nonprofit. Check out the book at catsandcocktailsclub.com.

Ham

Woof! I’m Finn! I’m a happy-go-lucky German Shepherd, living my best life since 2021, when my Mama adopted me. She quickly realized my goofy and loving personality was too good not to share, so now we spread joy and positivity on Instagram, @lifeisbetterwithfinn, daily! Our followers know life is better with Finn.

I get to go on so many adventures all over Minnesota. My days are filled with fun, especially when I visit Adventure Is Barking daycare in Hopkins. Also, my pack walks with Fur The Love of It in Stillwater which is another highlight – running around with my furry friends is the best!

Most weekends, my family takes me on a car ride to our lake place in Crosslake. It’s my absolute favorite spot in the whole world! I love swimming, hiking and exploring all the wonderful nature there. You can find me out and about in the Twin Cities when I’m not at the lake. No matter the season, I’m always outside, enjoying everything Minnesota has to offer. Life is pawsome!

Stanley Finn

Hi there, I’m Stanley and I’m a hound dog. I’m a 10-year-old pup living in Minneapolis with my family. Now I may be getting up there in age, but that doesn’t stop me from living my best life.

A few things about me are that I love naps, pup cups at Starbucks, going to pumpkin patches, taking long walks on the beach, watching the Vikings, spending time with the two mini humans in my life and dressing up in different costumes to match each season.

Oh yeah! I also like racing in the Basset Hound Races at Canterbury Park. I’m not sure if I will run this year, the fam says I’m getting old or whatever, but I will try to convince them so all my adoring fans can watch me do my thing.

Well, that’s me. Stan the Basset, living life to the fullest. Check me out on Instagram, @stanthebasset, to see everything I get up to.

PROTECTING MOMENTS LIKE THIS

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI

A LOT TO DO AT THE ZOO

The Minnesota Zoo has always been a big draw for both children and adults, and now it’s better than ever with some new and exciting offerings for summer and all year round.

NEW ANIMALS, EXHIBITS AND WILD SUMMER NIGHTS

“We just brought in a brand new species for our zoo: two California sea lion pups named Hudson and Flynn,” says communication manager, Zach Nugent. “They’re turning one this month and are about 100 pounds.” Later this summer, the two pups will be joined by three adult California sea lions, which weigh about 700 to 900 pounds.

Another fun event this summer is its bird shows, which will take place three times a day. “We have free flight macaws and a number of different exotic and native Minnesota species,” he says. Visitors can learn about their natural behaviors and some of the issues they face in the wild from a conservation standpoint. “It's a really fun, unique and engaging show, and we've never offered it three times a day.”

Out at the zoo farm, there are milking demonstrations, horse demonstrations, and the opportunity to interact with pigs and chickens as well as with the keepers of the animals.

“We’ll also be doing some public training demonstrations with our gibbons, feeding demonstrations with our penguins and within our shark reef aquarium,” says Zach.

Another popular draw is Llama Trek, which runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. “We have about 20 free roaming llamas, and people can wander the trail barrier free, letting the llamas come up and engage with them.” Camel rides are another unique offering.

The Minnesota Zoo is also excited to offer adult-only evenings. Its Wild Night summer festival series takes place on five Friday nights throughout the summer, and the next one is on August 9. “We close the zoo at 4 p.m. to our daytime guests and reopen at 5 p.m.,” he says. “From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., adults have access to all of our zoo trails, and can grab some food from the food trucks along with beverages.”

There is also a small artisan market to roam.

“Then from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m., we have two

stages with two headlining bands.” Since each band does two sets, people can go to one stage to check out one band, listen to their set, and then go to the next stage and check out the other band performing their second set.

An additional interesting development at the zoo is its Treetop Trail that opened last summer.

“We repurposed a former monorail track into an elevated walking path, and worked with the same engineers who developed the New York City High Line. It's a 1-1/4 mile loop, which makes it the world's longest elevated pedestrian loop, and about half of it goes over animal habitats.”

The other half goes through undeveloped forests and wetlands that are part of the zoo's property, which is the 5th largest in the country.

“It's a really immersive, restorative experience,” says Zach.

13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley MNZoo.org | 952-431-9200

littles... by sweet

Galleria, Edina

@littlesbysweetivy

ivy

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn says that boundaries can be learned by dogs of any age.

“There’s a nasty perception along the ‘can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ line of thinking,” she says. “While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you. Dog training isn’t just for struggling pups either. Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”

ARTICLE

BY LISA MOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

STYLED BY ANGELA

BROOCKERD

“Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”

CONTINUED >

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”

Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.

“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

DOG SOCIALIZING TIPS:

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:

Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.

• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.

• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.

• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.

• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.

AUGUST 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THURSDAYS

Farmers Market

Centennial Lakes Park | 3:00 PM

The weekly Edina Farmers Market lets people purchase directly from farmers, growers and producers, ensuring a high level of freshness and quality. Back this year, the Farmer's Market will also feature live music on the patio, Edina Liquor in Hughes Pavilion, and multiple fresh food vendors along the boardwalk. Free parking is available by Hughes Pavilion with more free parking north and south of the park. CentennialLakesPark.com.

AUGUST 2ND - 3RD

Basilica Block Party

Boom Island Park

The biggest block party yet. Get ready for two days of musical bliss at the new Boom Island location nestled on the mighty Mississippi. basilicablockparty.org.

AUGUST 4TH

Minneapolis Police Band

Maetzold Amphitheater | 7:00 PM

The Minneapolis Police Band plays at concerts, parades and other performances in Minnesota. The band was formed in 1917 and is made up of civilian volunteers, and retired and active police officers. Visitors also may bring a blanket or lawn chairs to sit on the lawn. Picnics are allowed (no alcohol). Popcorn, ice cream and beverages are available for sale. mplspolicemuseum.org.

CONTINUED >

AUGUST 17TH - SEPTEMBER 29TH

Renaissance Festival

12364 Chestnut Blvd.

The Minnesota Renaissance Festival is celebrating its 53rd Season! Come and be a part of this long-standing tradition by visiting the festival grounds in Shakopee. The festival is open weekends and Labor Day, rain or shine. renaissancefest.com

AUGUST 22ND - SEPTEMBER 2ND

The Great Minnesota Get-Together

State Fair Grounds

A cherished end-of-summer tradition, the Minnesota State Fair welcomes over 2 million guests annually to a showcase of agriculture, entertainment, food, art, science and industry. Check its website for the latest updates. mnstatefair.org

AUGUST 24TH

Mat Class

Edina Crisp & Green | 9:00 AM

Grab a friend and come to "Fitness in the Plaza" hosted by Club Pilates Edina and Crisp & Green, starting at 9am. Bring your own mat and get ready to experience the transformative power of Mat Pilates in the heart of the city. The expert instructors will lead you through a dynamic workout designed to strengthen, tone, and energize your body from head to toe. crispandgreen.com

Urgent Care TCO Edina

Walk in 8 - 8

Ready to serve Edina and the surrounding community.

Set to be your first stop for sudden, unexpected injuries. Go for more of what you need to keep your body moving. No referral or appointment necessary.

Ready. Set. TCO.