CHAD NEEDHAM OF STANDARD HEATING SHARES HIS HEARTWARMING STORY OF SERVICE
KOWALSKI’S HAS YOUR HOLIDAY DINNER COVERED
VISIT THIS HOLIDAY WINE & STROLL FOR GIFTING MADE EASY DECEMBER
Deck the Hearts
We are here already!
This year has been the fastest I can remember. I am usually not one to wish time away, but as we turn this corner and close out the year, I am looking forward to wiping the slate clean and starting anew for 2026. If you cut through the clutter and the hustle and bustle, the holidays really can be a season of hope, gathering with loved ones, and fun. Personally, I’ve re-worded the song “Deck the Halls” in my head to “Deck the Hearts” because this is what I plan to do. This season will definitely include surrounding myself with simple things that make my heart feel full.
December is our celebration of Holidays & Giving, so if you are looking for some of the best for your family and guests this season, Mary Anne and Kris of the Kowalski family talk about their selection of quality meats. Dining with loved ones can be a source of pride, joy, and shared moments through this season and beyond, and hopefully these options can add edible delight for each of your gatherings.
Our team wanted to share an option to make shopping and gifting easy this season. Celebrating the charming neighborhood of Linden Hills, their annual Wine & Stroll event can be a fun and supportive way to give back to small, locally owned businesses this season. Whether you are wanting food, sparkle, books, optical or unique items for loved ones – this is a joyous and fun event to experience.
As we head into the cold season, Standard Heating & Air Conditioning’s team member, Chad, shares the why behind working for this particular company, and his passion for helping families keep the home running comfortably all year round.
Finally, we’ve added in some fun winter cocktails or mocktails for you to try this season.
However you keep traditions alive in your home, the Minneapolis Lakes Lifestyle team wishes you and yours a year end of peace, love and happiness.
Happy Holidays,
ALEXANDRA PATTY, PUBLISHER @MINNEAPOLISLAKES
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Alexandra Patty | alexandra.patty@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sarah Knieff | sarah.knieff@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Susan Shannon | susan.shannon@citylifestyle.com
MARKET SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Kassi Miranowski | kassi.miranowski@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Jen Bellefleur, David Scheller
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
New Gild, Janie Jones, Andrew Vick
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 Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
annual Edina Fall Into the Arts Festival 2025 at Centennial Lakes.
Ask Susan
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Dear Readers:
This month, I’d like to talk about giving, and introduce an amazing non-profit run by musician, Mick Sterling.
Susan:
Hello Mick, thank you for joining me in this month’s “AskSusan” financial column. Our readers will really enjoy this.
Mick:
Susan:
Susan, thank you for having me. It really is a pleasure to be here and have the chance to tell everyone about The 30-Days Foundation, a 501 c3 non-profit based in the Twin Cities, and tell you all what motivated me to establish this 14 years ago. Tell us how people in need can apply for a one-time, 30-day financial boost to help them get back on their feet. And if you can, please share some of the amazing results that this has had - I’ve heard a few that really touched my heart.
Mick:
Susan, you’re so right. Snap the QR code to hear the rest of my interview, success stories and how to help. Plus, there’s information on our fund-raising events for 2026. Thanks.
Hopkins Unveils Minnesota’s First Audubon Bird Murals
Hopkins has become the first city in Minnesota to participate in the Audubon Bird Mural Project, a national public art initiative by the National Audubon Society highlighting birds vulnerable to extinction due to climate change. Spearheaded by local resident Françoise Shirley, the project features three new murals in downtown Hopkins by Minnesota artists. Celebrating art, conservation, and community, the initiative raises awareness of bird conservation and Hopkins’ commitment to a sustainable, creative future. For more information, visit hopkinsartscenter.com
Snap To Donate
Snap For Interview
Twin Cities Siding & Roofing Spreads Holiday Cheer
Each year, Twin Cities Siding & Roofing (TCSR) proudly partners with the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program to bring holiday joy to local families in need. Through generous donations from employees, TCSR helps ensure children across the metro wake up to gifts and hope on Christmas morning. It’s one of the many ways TCSR continues to give back and make a meaningful impact beyond the job site. tcsidingprofessionals.com.
Now Playing: The Phantom of the Opera
Cameron Mackintosh’s revitalized production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s "The Phantom of the Opera" returns to the Orpheum Theatre on Nov.21 to Dec.7! Celebrated by London critics when it reopened in 2021, this legendary musical enchants audiences with its haunting love story, unforgettable score, and spectacular staging. Presented by Hennepin Arts, don’t miss the chance to experience the Phantom’s thrilling presence on stage. Secure your tickets for this unforgettable Broadway event! hennepinarts.org
A HEART for service
CHAD NEEDHAM’S STORY
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW VICK
It was a scorching Friday afternoon when Chad was wrapping up a service call at a townhouse complex. As he worked, a nearby resident came outside and gave his air conditioner a frustrated kick. Chad had just heard it start up and instantly recognized the issue, a bad capacitor. Even though his day was nearly done, he didn’t hesitate.
“I told him I could call my dispatcher and find out if I could fix it while I was here,” Chad recalls.
The man was overjoyed. “I've never seen somebody so happy,” Chad says, smiling. “And he’s still a customer of ours seven years later. It’s a great feeling to help someone, and it’s really an honor when someone requests me in particular.”
About eight years ago, after working for a company that built custom aquariums for two decades, Chad was ready for a change.
The last aquarium project he worked on opened his eyes to a new direction. It was a new home build, and Chad worked alongside many contractors, one of whom was an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) installer. “He was super smart, and we got along really well,” Chad recalls. “He understood the science behind what he did, and he was curious. I could really see myself doing that.”
Inspired, Chad went back to school to learn the trade. Eventually, he interviewed with Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, based in Minneapolis and serving the Twin Cities metro area. “My wife is a massage therapist, and one of her clients happened to be a sales representative at Standard Heating,” Chad says. “I was interviewing at another HVAC company, but she convinced me to interview here instead.”
That decision changed everything.
Years later, Chad is confident he made the right choice, both in his career and in the company he calls home. “I went to school with a bunch of people who do what I do, and many of them have bounced around from company to company,” he says. “That doesn’t happen here.”
At Standard Heating, the company’s values aren’t just words on a wall, they’re lived every day. “They’re posted all over and constantly talked about by the owners, managers, and employees,” Chad explains. “The top one is integrity. Do your job with integrity.” The others are Service, Expertise, and Character.
For customers, those values translate into genuine care. “You can tell people to do a good job, you can even try to force it, but when employees feel valued, they go above and beyond because they want to.”
In addition to being a service technician, Chad helps train new employees. “We have an accredited training program that helps all our employees grow their careers and earn credentials,” he says. “It’s a huge investment by the company, one that produces highly qualified people and benefits both the industry and our customers.”
He also makes sure new hires understand the importance of culture. “When I ask them what company culture is, I get all kinds of answers,” he says with a laugh. “But I always tell them, you are the company culture. Every one of you. We help each other, work hard, and strive to be better versions of ourselves.”
Chad’s approach to customer service is grounded in education and empathy. “There’s a lot of science behind what we do, and the average person doesn’t always understand it,” he says. “So, I make a point to explain things clearly, in everyday terms, so customers feel comfortable and confident in their decisions.”
By slowing down and taking the time to communicate, Chad shows customers that their understanding, and peace of mind, truly matter.
One experience stands out. “A customer who’d had bad experiences was really guarded when I arrived,” Chad remembers. “He sat next to me, watched every move I made, and didn’t say a word. I just stayed focused and figured out the problem.”
Once Chad took the time to explain everything, the man’s demeanor changed. “What he really needed was for someone to slow down and talk to him,” Chad says. “By the end of the appointment, he was showing me pictures of his grandkids and telling me all about his life.”
For Chad, every day on the job is about more than fixing heating or cooling systems, it’s about connection, trust, and doing right by people.
“It’s a great feeling to help someone,” he says. “That’s why I love what I do.”
Winter Berries by Charles Beck
ARTICLE BY DAVID SCHELLER
WE HAVE THE *REAL* MEATS
KOWALSKI'S MARKETS
I have tried Kowalski’s Akaushi wagyu rib roast. It tastes as though a nearly impossibly chance sequence of cosmic events cast a little stone marble into some otherwise unremarkable pocket of universe, upon which light and molecular juju gradually softened raw firmament into lush grassland, and
Kowalski, owner. “The holiday requisites are all here, including oven-ready turkeys and spiral-cut hams that look like they were plucked straight from a Rockwell painting. There are delectably prepared legs of lamb that we have all but roasted for you, and Island Creek oysters fresh off the plane from
“IF IT HAS OUR NAME ON IT, THEN IT HAD BETTER BE GOOD!”
later into cattle, and later still into a civilization which produces beef so good that it causes one to reflect on how fortunate they are to occupy a very specific place and point in time.
And that’s only one example of Kowalski’s finest. The Twin Cities’ woman-owned, family-run grocery has assembled the loveliest selection of holiday meats you ever will see.
Whole organic turkeys weighing upwards of twenty pounds. Minnesotagrown Berkshire hams which put any Yorkshire’s best work to shame. Prime rib delivered to the pinnacle of tenderness by twenty-eight days of in-house dry aging. Shrimp, lobster, crab, salmon, crab stuffed inside of salmon, and plush scallops ensconced within pink and white streamers of porcine perfection.
“We have gone all out with center-ofplate items this year,” said Mary Anne
Massachusetts. We have also gathered an assortment of prime, choice, and Akaushi beef roasts – all natural, and humanely raised on ranches we have inspected personally.”
“Meat is special,” said Kris Kowalski Christiansen, CEO and Mary Anne’s daughter. “It doesn’t give imperfections anywhere to hide, which is why we do everything to source the highest-quality cuts as we’re able. Fresh. Free range. Free of antibiotics. Free of cruelty. Locally sourced. Raised or caught from the wild with minimal impact on the environment. And, of course, delicious. These are the stars which guide us on our quest to provide meats worthy of you and your loved ones during this most special time of the year.”
“Not just meats,” added Mary Anne. “Pièces de résistance.”
Do you enjoy demonstrating affection toward your loved ones by cooking superlative eats, but not necessarily preparing them? Let Kowalski’s kitchen elves take the reins on this year’s menu. They prepare fifteen-pound all-natural free-range turkeys, marinated in herb and sweet onion and spatchcocked for easy-peasy roasting; six-pound slabs of prime New York strip, wet-aged for the length of the Great Deluge and masterfully massaged into their seasonings; Minnesota-grown racks of Duroc pork which glitter like gold upon the caramelization of their apricot glaze!
Please excuse me. I have to go lie down.
“We are very proud of our culinary team’s creativity,” said Kris. “Whether they work in our meat, bakery, or deli department, they’re always coming up with better recipes than I could have ever imagined. And whenever we recognize a local vendor whose best efforts surpass our own, we’re only too eager to recruit them. For example, we acknowledge that Knoke's Chocolates and Nuts of Hudson, Wisconsin makes profoundly better peanut brittle than we can, and admit defeat by offering it at all of our stores.”
“But as any mother would tell you, mom’s recipes are always best,” said Mary Anne. “That’s why we have incorporated several of our family’s beloved recipes into Kowalski’s offerings, including my mother’s own fudge. We make it just like she used to, with one exception: we do not stick great big bowls of it outside to cool in the snow. The eternal temptation of my childhood!”
“NOT
JUST MEATS. PIÈCES DE RÉSISTANCE.”
“My father Jim’s side of the family is also well represented by his mother’s famous chip dip,” said Kris. “It’s a blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire and onion: seemingly simple, yet actually devilishly hard to proportion correctly. There have been many attempts to recreate it, but they all wind up coming out slightly different. At this rate, it’s looking increasingly likely that Grandma Betty will forever sit at the base of a phylogenic tree of dips. (The sauce, that is; not me and my cousins.)”
“Would you like the long story, short?” posed Mary Anne, rhetorically. “If it has our name on it, then it had better be good!”
Visit Kowalskis.com or stop into one of their Minneapolis locations to order the best tasties to your doorstep.
FESTIVE SHOPPING
EASY MADE
ARTICLE BY JEN BELLEFLEUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW GILD
Linden Hills’ Holiday Wine & Stroll
Minneapolitans know that the Linden Hills neighborhood is one of the city’s best kept secrets. Its tree-lined, charming commercial corridor radiates a small-town feel inside the city — an ambiance that suits holiday shopping perfectly. Local retailers thrive on the thoughtful shopper: those looking for unique, less-mass-market items. That lines up beautifully with a holiday event geared toward gifting and discovery.
A MUST VISIT
New Gild Jewelers’ one-of-a-kind fine jewelry gallery and studio will delight you with diamond and gemstone items crafted one at a time, each for the love of a stone. Unlike big box stores that need a large quantity of identical pieces, they shop gem shows and visiting vendors for stones that speak to them. They liken the stones to a chord progression, from which they will write a hopefully beautiful song. They interact with these treasures both physically and holistically to determine the best use of their beauty, without preconceived limitations on what can be achieved.
WHERE AND WHEN
On Thursday evening, December 18th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., New Gild Jewelers will host their eighth annual Holiday Wine & Stroll, an event that brings together shoppers from near and far to enjoy the quaint boutique blocks of Linden Hills. Centered at the intersection of S Upton Ave. and W 43rd St., expect twinkling lights, carolers, seasonal décor, and friends old and new discovering locally made goods, fine art, libation tastings, artisanal treats and thoughtfully curated gifts.Owners Jen Bellefleur and Kelsey Lee-Karol have an eye for diamonds and gems that are beyond the ordinary. Their design skills and onsite craftsmanship defy clichés, creating totally unique and beautiful pieces that sparkle and inspire. Find something for someone you love, or find something for yourself – and they’ll tell Santa!
New Gild has both a gallery of gorgeous ready-to-give as well as full custom capability and repair and restoration of old jewelry, too. They can use your old jewelry to gently upcycle the materials into something that suits your style today, as well as something that will become a future heirloom.
newgild.com | 612-402-0561 | 4300 Upton Ave. S, Minneapolis
Owners Jen Bellefleur and Kelsey Lee-Karol have an eye for diamonds and gems that are beyond the ordinary. Their design skills and onsite craftsmanship defy clichés, creating totally unique and beautiful pieces that sparkle and inspire. Find something for someone you love, or find something for yourself – and they’ll tell Santa!
SHOP, STROLL, EAT
Beyond the holiday rush, this event is a chance to invest in a hyper local economy, made up of independent shopkeepers and service providers where neighborhood delight is all part of the experience. Local retailers include a clothing store, an art gallery, coffee gifts, a Tibetan store, toy and craft stores, and more. Wonderful service providers include everyone from aestheticians to massage therapists, and holistic practitioners to coffee roasters. A libation or a quick bite are available at the neighborhood’s plentiful food and beverage destinations – why not finish with an ice cream cone?
Whether you’re after a special gift, a cozy stroll among lovely storefronts, or just want to soak up the neighborhood spirit while supporting small business owners, this event promises to deliver. Mark your calendar, invite a friend, and make a day of it.
December 5, 2025 - January 11, 2026
@elliotparkhotel
WINTER in a glass
HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS
SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP
A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.
FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ
A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
BOURBON VANILLA
BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE
An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
INGREDIENTS:
• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 oz bourbon
Topping: 4 large marshmallows
Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate.
Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth.
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
HOLIDAY SPICED GINGERBREAD LATTE
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
INGREDIENTS:
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink:
Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.
“I’m in the business of life’s biggest
moments - the milestones, the transitions, the fresh starts. It just happens to involve real estate, but it’s really about honoring wherever you are in your journey.”
-Cari Ann Carter
realty report
events
AUGUST 1ST - JANUARY 31ST
T. Rex
Science Museum of Minnesota
"T. REX" tells the true story of three kids who discovered a teenage T. rex fossil, brought to life with cutting-edge CGI and the latest paleontology. Narrated by Sam Neill, the giant-screen documentary showcases the T. rex from hatchling to adult, alongside Triceratops, Quetzalcoatlus, and Sinraptor, offering the most complete and accurate look at this iconic predator. new.smm.org
NOVEMBER 20TH - DECEMBER 31ST
Winter Lights
University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
Experience a dazzling winter wonderland with illuminated gardens, glowing tunnels, and nature-inspired light displays, including a new indoor evergreen forest. Enjoy seasonal treats, specialty drinks, live music, and festive holiday lights celebrating plants, trees, and the magic of winter—a vibrant, family-friendly way to connect with nature and the community. arb.umn.edu/winterlights
NOVEMBER 28TH - DECEMBER 21ST
European Christmas Market
Union Depot
Enjoy the European Christmas Market with free admission for all! Savor seasonal treats, shop handcrafted gifts, and enjoy live music and festive entertainment. Kids can write to Santa, decorate cookies, ride the train and carousel, and more. Marvel at beautiful lights, Christmas trees, and decorations while celebrating the holiday season with family and friends. stpaulchristmasmarket.org.
DECEMBER 14TH
2025 CPKC Holiday Train
STEP St. Louis Park | 4:00 PM
All aboard for the 2025 CPKC Holiday Train! Witness a thousand feet of brilliantly lit rail cars, a lively concert, and festivities that draw thousands annually. This beloved event raises awareness and funds to combat local food insecurity, while serving community. Gather for an unforgettable evening of music, lights, and joy! Special thanks to sponsor Cari Ann Carter Group. www.stepslp.org
DECEMBER 16TH & 17TH
A Minnesota Nutcracker
Carlson Family Stage
By popular demand, Twin Cities Ballet’s “A Minnesota Nutcracker” returns to Northrop! This beloved holiday classic blends traditional story and music with Minnesota flair, featuring iconic local characters and landmarks. Praised as “one of the twelve essential holiday events” by MPR, it’s a magical, family-friendly performance full of artistry and athleticism. northrop.umn.edu.
DECEMBER 21ST - 23RD
Christmas on the Prairie
Chanhassen Dinner Theatres
Celebrate the season at “Christmas on the Prairie.” Enjoy a festive collaboration of Minnesota’s favorite musicians, featuring vocalists Mary Jane Alm, Aimée Lee, Boyd Lee, and performers Kevin Kling, Richard Kriehn, Gary Raynor, Joe Savage, and Peter Johnson. A holiday event you won’t want to miss! chanhassendt.com/holidays.
