Issuu

Equine therapy organization ser ves first responders and military personnel to heal trauma

Healing With Horse Power

More urgent care ready for you.

Ready with more doctors. Set with more specialty services and orthopedic urgent care locations open 8 — 8 daily. Go for more of what you need to keep your body moving. No referral or appointment necessary. TCOmn.com

View urgent care locations

C U S T O M O N E R E N O VAT I O N . C O M

a division of 1

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 /J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4 “Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire; it is the time for home.” —Edith Sitwell, British poet

PAGE 16

DE PART M E N TS

FE ATU RE S

I N EVERY I SSUE

Power Play Whimzy stocks a curated collection of toys that kids come back to again and again.

The Family That Plays Together … Think outside the (gift) box when planning holiday experiences.

4 7 25 32

Healing with Horse Power A South Metro equine therapy organization serves first responders and military personnel using the power of animal empathy to heal trauma.

14 Beating the Blues Short, dark days plus holidays can lead to difficult feelings; try these pro tips to lighten your mood.

Photo: Lucky Aspyn Photography

Never Too Young Sanya Pirani has spent her childhood giving back to other children.

Editor’s Letter Noteworthy On the Town Last Glance

TASTEM AK E RS

28 Baking up a Labor of Love Lisa Haggstrom continues her mother and grandmother’s food tradition.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

LIFE AS IT SHOULD BE The Pillars of Lakeville offers classic and charming southern-suburban senior living with personal and health care services available, when needed. Shared spaces connect The Pillars of Lakeville to Crossroads Church, Christian Heritage Academy, and Four Square Early Learning Center, providing unique and creative opportunities for our residents to interact with their neighbors.

NOW OPEN!

952-208-9988 17701 Glacier Way, Lakeville, MN

FROM THE EDITOR Liz Pota sek — liz@loca lm edia .co

On the Cover Abijah’s on the Backside, photo by Chris Emeott, page 20 See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town! Cities South @citiessouthmag @CitiesSouthMag

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photo: Chris Emeott

I always go into the holiday season with a concrete gift-giving plan for my three kids. I try to buy each of them one thing they want, something they need, an item to wear and a book to read. But there are a few shops that test my discipline when it comes to following the plan, and one of them is Whimzy in Lakeville, which is why I was delighted to find out what Whimzy owner and chief finder of fun Tami Staker recommends for gift giving this year (page 10). Now, I just need to stay strong and stick to the list. While we try to limit the amount of stuff that comes into our home this time of year, we love finding experiences to share with each other. Luckily, there are a lot of fun experiences to be had right outside our door. If you’re entertaining guests (or trying to entice adult children to visit for the holidays), check out our Family That Plays Together ... story on page 16. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for enough snow to plan a multigenerational cross-country ski outing at Cleary Lake Regional Park. Spending time outdoors is one of the techniques for fighting the winter blues suggested by the experts at Integrative Therapy Group on page 14, and it’s definitely key to my well-being during the winter! Where’s your favorite spot for winter outdoor recreation? However you choose to spend the darkest months of the year, I hope you find many moments of levity and light.

VOL. 1 NO. 6 citiessouthmags.com

publisher Susan Isay

editor Liz Potasek

managing creative director Renée Stewart-Hester

managing editor Hailey Almsted

digital editor Madeline Kopiecki

copy editors Kellie Doherty Sherri Hildebrandt

staff writers Jody Carey Mollee Francisco Emily Gedde Meredith Heneghan Daniel Huss Jennifer Pitterle Rachel Schuehle Josie Smith Kristie Smith

contributing writers Rachael Perron

editorial interns Macy Berendsen Elaina Mankowski Emma Mehl Morgan McFadden Lily Schlobohm

editorial advisory board Melissa Ferlaak, Valleyfair Sandi Fleck Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce Stephanie Goldfarb, The Divine Living Space Eve Heeralall, City of Apple Valley Michelle Sharp, Meet the Minnesota Makers Tina Goodroad, City of Lakeville

senior managing art director Sarah Dovolos

art director Allison Nolden

graphic designer Yaz Lo

junior designer Jamie Klang

lead staff photographer Chris Emeott

production director Brittni Dye

production manager Lisa Stone

production coordinator Mimi Coz

senior account executives Cynthia Hamre Mary-Catherine Hartel Sara Johnson Abbie Kinn Kathie Smith

CUSTOMONEL ANDSCAPING .COM president Pete Burgeson

a division of

South Metro Kitchen Design experts for over 23 years.

PREMIER DEALER

7611 147th Street West Apple Valley, MN 55124 • 952.997.2686

lo c al tip s, tidb its & insi ght s

N OT E WO RT H Y

Best of Voting

YOU’RE INVITED … … TO A COL L EC T IV E C EL EBR AT ION for the Apple Valley,

Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake communities and their local businesses and providers that continue to serve and support us in a host of categories. What’s the best way to honor your favorite dining spots, hometown businesses, service providers, shopping haunts, community venues and more? Vote for your favorites in our annual Readers’ Poll—the Best of Cities South 2024. Our contest is live throughout January at citiessouthmags.com, where you can vote for your “best of the best” in a number of categories. While some of your favorite local establishments will be featured, we also include a special Metro segment, which includes a broader selection of area businesses and services beyond Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville and Prior Lake. Want to view the categories? Go online—and vote!

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Here’s what you need to know:

Voting is live on January 1, 2024 with three simple rules*:

1. One entry is allowed per person; each ballot needs to include an email address. 2. Ballots must be completed by 5 p.m. January 31, 2024. 3. Voters need to vote in at least ﬁve categories to ensure their ballot is counted. 4. The top three ﬁnalists will be announced online on March 1, 2024. 5. Watch for our Best of Cities South in the June/July issue, where the winners and runners up will be revealed—along with Editor’s Picks and a host of other community highlights. *Any rule not adhered to may result in entire surveys being discarded, and all results are subject to editorial discretion.

N OT E WO RT H Y

GIVE

Unwrapping Warmth and Dignity What was once a family joke—Grandma Lucy’s annual Christmas gift of socks and underwear—became a call to action for one Eagan family. After Grandma Lucy passed away in 2000, family members began bringing socks and underwear to Christmas and donating them to nonprofit organizations. Since those items are among the most needed but least donated items at many places that serve people in need, that Christmas gift was so well received it inspired Lucy’s daughter, Debby Shepard and her husband, Stew Shepard, to found The Drawer in 2015. In 2022, the Eagan-based nonprofit gave away about 80,000 pairs of socks and underwear, and it has been donating between 10,000–15,000 pairs each month in 2023, says Gina Lindquist, executive director of The Drawer. The organization accepts monetary donations, as well as sock and underwear donations to redistribute to their community partners. —Liz Potasek

The Drawer; thedrawer.org The Drawer

SIP Crème de Cacao, Coffee Liqueur, Triple

Sweet Drinks

Sec, Amaretto and a zero sugar ready-tofor the holiday season with this low sugar Peppermint Patty. —Liz Potasek

Some people made sourdough during the pandemic. Eagan resident Jeff Roslund,

Peppermint Patty

co-founder of Dapper Barons Spirits,

Makes 1 drink

made batch after batch of liqueur, trying to remove the sugar while maintaining the sweetness and flavor that make liqueurs a

» 1 oz. Dapper Barons Peppermint Schnapps

critical component of many mixed drinks.

» 1 oz. Dapper Barons Crème de Cacao

Along with friend and business partner

» 2 oz. cream

Ryan Boudreau, Roslund brought Dapper

Barons Spirits to the market in late 2021,

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, and add

and its product line has slowly expanded to

all the ingredients. Shake vigorously

include low-sugar Peppermint Schnapps,

and strain into short glass. Serve.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photos: The Drawer; Dapper Barons Spirits

pour Espresso Martini. Get in the mood

l o ca l t i p s , t i d bits & in sig h ts

READ

Nonfiction Page Turners

New Villa Neighborhood in Prior Lake

Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism by Amanda Montell What causes people to join groups with dangerous or troublesome outcomes? Author Amanda Montell argues that it is the power of language through words, phrases and mantras that are used not only in “cultish” groups but also in modern marketing techniques. Through the lens of charismatic leaders, multilevel marketing companies and fitness groups, this fascinating book examines how our everyday lingo and social media influencers hold sway over our lives. Her Country by Marissa R. Moss Award-winning journalist Marissa R. Moss examines the country music industry’s changing wave through the journeys of three feminist artists: Kacey Musgraves, Mickey Guyton and Maren Morris. In an industry historically dominated by men, Moss shines a light on issues like sexism, racial discrimination and harassment from country radio to label executives. A powerful read that shows us where country music is reaching new audiences and fans. Vanished in Vermillion by Lou Raguse KARE 11 News reporter Lou Raguse analyzes the investigation of the 1971 disappearance of two teenage girls in rural

• Model Open: Thurs - Mon 12 - 5 pm • Starting in the Mid $900’s • Cty Rd 21 & Cty Rd 42

Tracey Riess 612-860-3065

South Dakota. The cold case stretches through decades of mystery, false leads and questionable witnesses. Readers will be riveted from the very first page, trying to figure out the answers and put the pieces of the puzzle together. A great read from a Minnesota author.

Stacy Price is an adult services librarian at Heritage Library in Lakeville. Read more at dakotacounty.us/library.

MN Lic.#1220

info@ronclark.com | RonClark.com Prices subject to change without notice.

VENTURES

Power Play Whimzy stocks a curated collection of toys that kids come back to again and again. By Daniel Huss

1) Djeco 3D Coloring kit, $27.99; Djeco Painting with Sticks kit, $31.99; Djeco Create with Stickers kit, $9.99; 2) Janod Dino Push Along, $11.99/each; Janod Cubikosaurus Dino Blocks, $44.99; 3) eeBoo Ready to Learn Dinosaur Puzzle (Tricerotops puzzle pictured; part of a set that includes four 36-piece puzzles), $24.99;

4) Make It Real Rainbow Bling Bracelets, $7.99; Fashion Angels All Alphabet Beads, $18.99; Ann Williams Craft Crush Bracelet Box Kit, $22.50; Make It Real Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes DIY Bracelet Kit, $14.99; 5) Jellycat Big Spottie T-Rex, $69.99; 6) Janod Ride on Dino Portosaurus, $99.99.

IT’S NOT A HUGE SPACE, but it still takes a couple laps to take in all the treasures that are displayed with care at Whimzy toy store in Lakeville. There’s the sweet reading corner, stocked with books; enough arts and crafts kits to keep even the busiest young artist busy for winter; games galore; dress-up clothes; baby toys; small novelties; large novelties; stuffed animals and so much more. “We look for things we enjoy,” says Tami Staker, the chief finder of fun stuff (and co-owner) of Whimzy. The independent toy store opened last September in Lakeville, and it caters to children from newborns to middle schoolers, with a healthy selection of active and imaginative play toys, fidget and sensory toys, puzzles and other delights. “We curate our own selection, and you won’t find it at [big box stores or major retailers],” Staker says. When it comes to finding fun, Staker is an expert. She and her husband, Tom Staker, first opened Whimzy in Albert Lea, Minnesota, in 2017, and they began to notice that the store attracted loyal customers from a wide area. Twin Cities’ customer visits were so common that they inspired the second Whimzy store in Lakeville. At both locations of Whimzy, shoppers find unusual toys that aren’t widely distributed. For example, it carries Djeco children’s products, which are awardwinning toys designed in Paris by internationally acclaimed artists. The store also features a large selection from Omaha, Nebraska-based Fat Brain Toy Company, which specializes in colorful toys designed to teach

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photos: Chris Emeott

bonfe.com “How can you be unhappy in a toy store?”

6,900+ Reviews

Tami Staker, chief finder of fun stuff

problem solving and fine-motor skills. “The toy we order the most and in the largest quantities is a Fat Brain stacking and twirling toy that instills a sense of wonder as kids watch it twirl and spin,” Staker says. “I’ve seen some big smiles on parents’ faces as they play, too.” Another Fat Brain toy that Staker recommends is SpillAgain. The toy consists of a tower that’s filled with 16 balls, which “spill” once a button is pushed and a timer goes off. “SpillAgain is the greatest toy ever if you want to get back at an uncle,” she says. While Whimzy’s selection/collection is dissimilar to what you might see in a box store, it shares some similarities to other specialty toy stores throughout the country. “We belong to a toy-buying group with other really excellent toy stores,” Staker says. “We go to the same conventions, and we meet and greet the same vendors. At the end of the day, we all spend more than we should.” Since COVID-19, Staker has noticed a change in what toys customers are looking for. “We got in tune with being screen free,” Staker says. “That means sensory toys, toys you can touch with your hands. Family game nights also came back, bringing board and interactive games into the spotlight.” It’s an inventory that brings joy to customers of all ages. Staker says, “We’ve had some sourpusses come into the store, but they leave happy campers. Besides, how can you be unhappy in a toy store?” It’s also hard to be unhappy in a store that encourages playful interactions throughout its space. “Kids experience what we have, as a lot of our stuff is already on the floor,” Staker says. “They play, sit and smile, which are the best things ever.” Whimzy, 17400 Kenwood Trail Suite 302A,

If it breaks, leaks, sparks, clogs, or just starts making one of those weird noises… We’ve got you covered. Bonfe can help keep your home safe and comfortable. We fix broken furnaces and boilers, busted air conditioners, fried electrical systems, clogged drains, collapsed sewers and a whole host of other home headaches.

Better call ®

612-430-6112

Lakeville; 952.388.1332; heywhimzy.com Hey Whimzy

@heywhimzy

PLUMBING | HEATING | cooling | ELECTRICAL | sewer 11

PHILANTHROPY

Never Too Young Sanya Pirani has spent her childhood giving back to other children.

AT AGE 7, Sanya Pirani knew what she wanted to do with her life: help others. “It’s always been my dream,” she says. “I was immersed in philanthropy, volunteerism and charity at a young age.” Sanya took that dream and made it a reality when she started her 501(c)(3) nonprofit called Sanya’s Hope for Children in January 2017 at the age of 11. Sanya’s Hope operates from the belief that every child deserves basic human rights, such

as food, shelter, clothing, safety, health and education. Its vision— her vision—is that helping a child means transforming a community one life at a time. What started six years ago has grown into a well-oiled nonprofit machine, churning out 12 to 13 projects a year based on the needs of the community. “We run one project a month or so … it’s somewhat cyclical because we know we’ll need winter clothes, school supplies and

toys every year,” Sanya says. One of her favorite events is Christmas Bags, which are sustainable bags handsewn from recyclable materials and filled with necessities, such as school supplies, books, hats, toys and more. Sanya offers free sewing classes in hopes of inspiring others to volunteer their time while learning a life skill. The goal is 550 bags every winter—a mark that is met with the help of Sanya’s parents and a team

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photo: Sanya’s Hope for Children

By Rachel Schuehle

Appointments that fit my schedule Sanya’s Hope For Children continues

We provide flexible hours, personalized care and 98% patient satisfaction. Schedule online today!

to seek consistent and passionate volunteers. If you are looking for ways to give back to the community, consider helping at one of the nonprofits’ events throughout the year.

parkdental.com

of dedicated volunteers. “With the Christmas Bags, where you get to deliver straight to the kids in need … it’s so amazing to see their faces light up when they get those toys,” Sanya says. In addition to successfully running Sanya’s Hope, Sanya also recently published her first book, High Tide, which she started writing in fifth grade. She loves public speaking and competing in speech. “I’ve always been interested in English,” she says. “Which intertwines nicely with nonprofit work. I can vocalize what I need from the community.” Sanya remains focused on the momentum of her nonprofit, admitting she dreams of one day having a global reach. “My family is Pakistani, and there is so much poverty in really rural, hard-to-reach areas,” she says. “I’d love to build libraries there, so they can get the education they deserve.” Now a senior at Prior Lake High School, Sanya looks ahead while she completes college applications. She aspires to study English and film, with the hopes of teaching someday. “Education is one of the ways to help get people out of poverty,” she says, beaming. And it sure seems that when Sanya gets a dream in her head, it’s bound to come true.

READY, SET, BAKE! When it comes to holiday baking, we have you covered. For our favorite festive recipes, visit: LundsandByerlys.com/HolidayBaking

sanyashopeforchildren.org Sanyas Hope for Children @sanyashopeforchildren @SanyaPirani1 Sanya’s Hope for Children

1 5 5 5 0 E N G L I S H AV E . , A P P L E VA L L E Y, M N 5 5 1 2 4 L U N D S A N D B Y E R LY S . C O M | 6 1 2 - 2 5 5 - 5 5 0 0

Lisa Jensen and Kristy Brecke

WELLNESS

Beating the Blues Short, dark days plus holidays can lead to difficult feelings; try these pro tips to lighten your mood.

EVERY YEAR in March and April,

Kristy Brecke and Lisa Jensen see an uptick in referrals at their talk therapy and massage therapy practice in Eagan. But it’s not necessarily a spring-thing— it’s often the grip of winter that won’t let go. “It’s starting to get nicer [outside], but they’re still feeling crummy,” Brecke says. Brecke’s advice: “Reach out earlier.” Or better yet, start combatting the headaches, restlessness and withdrawal that can come hand-in-hand with the

dark days of a Minnesota winter before they get too big. “About 50 percent of people are affected by low vitamin D levels in the winter and about 5 percent of the general population has seasonal affective disorder,” says Brecke, a doctor of marriage and family therapy and a licensed professional clinical counselor. “However, research shows that it is as high as 10 percent for Minnesotans.” Brecke, owner of Dr. Brecke Counseling Group, shares an office

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photo: Westin Brecke

By Liz Potasek

with her sister, Jensen, a licensed massage therapist and owner of Life Massage Therapy. The two practices came together in the same space as Integrative Therapy Group in November 2019. Clients can find diagnostic assessment, talk therapy and massage therapy in one location to help them work through mental or physical pain and discomfort. Brecke and Jensen recommended these tips for avoiding seasonal depression: 1. Layer up and get outside.

Spending time each day walking in fresh air outdoors can do a lot to boost your mood. Feeling more adventurous? Explore a winter sport like skiing or snowshoeing. 2. Soak up extra light.

Brecke starts using her light box each year in mid-September. “I want to get on it right away,” she says. Light boxes should emit 10,000 BTUs to be effective, and it’s important to talk to a health professional for advice on when and how to use light therapy. While it doesn’t have the same therapeutic benefits as a light box, an alarm clock that mimics the sun by slowly making your room brighter can also help make mornings easier. 3. Do something just for you.

This time of year can be demanding socially. “People just go, go, go, go,” Jensen says. “When you come into a space for massage, you’re doing something just for you. You feel more loving and giving. It’s another way to take care of yourself.” Jensen’s massage practice offers an array of modalities, including sessions for acute and chronic pain, cupping and energy work and, yes, relaxation. No matter how busy your schedule gets, make sure that you’re checking in with your feelings and getting regular “me” time. “Decide what makes you happy and do more of that,” Brecke says. But if you’re experiencing depression—seasonal or otherwise—and your symptoms are getting in the way of everyday life for two weeks or more, it’s important to seek out help from a licensed professional.

Subscribe to your community’s magazine or purchase additional copies at localmedia.co

You have countless options.

We have one responsibility: To serve as your financial steward and help you use your wealth to accomplish your goals.

Visit carlsoncap.com/steward and we’ll take it from there.

Integrative Therapy Group, 1185 Town Center Drive Suite 225, Eagan; integrativetg.com

See Carlson Capital Management’s Form ADV Part 2A for a complete summary of services and a discussion of the limitations on services.

The Family That Plays Together …

THINK OUTSIDE THE (GIFT) BOX WHEN PLANNING HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES. Written by Renée Stewart-Hester

When visitors come to town over the holidays, hosts can be hard-pressed when it comes to planning “things to do.” And a similar situation can be had when adult children return home for the holidays. While the excitement of having full beds and occupied seats around the dining table rarely takes a dip, there can be times when a little infusion of fun out of the house is needed. There are many opportunities throughout the Metro to take a little holiday time field trip. Let’s take a look at places to go and things to do that can put a whole lot of merry and happy in your holiday season. (We realize this is by no

means a complete list. Hopefully, we can inspire you to discover new places.) Exercising a bit of creativity is good for everyone’s soul. Visit the easily accessible art exhibits coordinated by the Eagan Art House at the Eagan Community Center, Wescott Library and Storefront Gallery at Twin Cities Premium Outlets. cityofeagan.com. Charcuterie boards continue to be an entertaining fixture. Learn what takes a board from good to “grate” with the help of The Grater Good, 13315 106th St., Norwood Young America; 952.334.3225; thegratergoodmn.com. Adventure seekers won’t be

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

IT TAKES TWO

Photos: Alexis Bailly Vineyard; The Grater Good

The holidays can bring stress to families when they gather, and this can include when adult children are welcomed into the household for a visit. Family therapist Tai J. Mendenhall, Ph.D., LMFT., reminds parents that their children are now adults. “The manners in which they do any variety of things may be different than the ways that you would do things (e.g., cook, hang a towel in the bathroom or drive), but your job as a parent is no longer to guide, teach, discipline, etc., like it was when they were young,” he says. “Pick your battles, and remember that the visit is temporary. Enjoy time together—visiting, sharing, playing games, seeing shows, exchanging gifts, etc.” Adult children also have some things to bear in mind. “Remember that your parents are still your parents, and that you are staying in their home,” Mendenhall says. “Respect that. Don’t change the thermostat without asking them if it’s OK first. Clean up after yourself. Engage with them in authentic conversations—not while you scroll through social media and watch TV.” And he reiterates the importance of picking battles, recognizing the visit won’t last forever, enjoying that time together and employing the age-old adage—don’t sweat the small stuff.

KEEP ’EM GUESSING Add a little excitement or mystery to your hosting duties. Rather than telling family members where the upcoming field trip will take them, make a game of it by offering clues. The first to guess the destination can be the first in line, get the primo seat or even receive a small treat associated with the activity.

disappointed with downhill skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing options at Buck Hill, 15400 Buck Hill Road, Burnsville; 952.435.7174; buckhill.com. If you’re hungry for a new culinary challenge, cooking classes can satisfy your hankering. Visit The Abundant Kitchen, 223 Water St., Excelsior; 952.401.3682; abundantkitchen.shop. Take in a concert or show at the Lakeville Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville; 952.985.4640; lakevilleartscenter.com. If you missed being a member of a winter Olympic team, play the part with a group curling experience at the Dakota Curling Club. Book a sheet of ice, which accommodates eight players, and the club provides the rocks, brooms, supports and sliders you need to get started, along with a dedicated instructor. Make sure to book in advance as space can be limited. 20775 Holt Ave., Lakeville; 952.479.0322; dakotacurling.org. Increase your knowledge of making spirits by dipping into a distillery, including J. Carver Distillery, 1320 Mill Lane, Waconia; 952.442.2433; jcarverdistillery.com. Want to escape? Find out how well your group thinks on its feet during a stop at Labyrinth Puzzle Rooms, 20730 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville; 612.666.0980; labyrinthpuzzlerooms.com. Check out the public open skating schedule at the Eagan Civic Arena in preparation to carve ice with fellow skaters. Skate rental is available. 3870 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan; 651.675.5590; cityofeagan.com. Don’t leave out your furry guests. If you’re not the only one suffering from cabin fever, bring your four-legged friend to an indoor dog park like Brew Park Plymouth, 2605 Fernbrook Lane N. Suite J, Plymouth; 763.337.4433; brewparkplymouth.com. Bury the hatchet with an evening of axe throwing. A dedicated Axe Master will guide you through all the basics and game play. Minnesota Axe Eagan, 2055 Cliff Road, Eagan; 651.905.4927; mnaxe.com. Tip: Each player needs to pick a name for the scoreboard—axe puns encouraged. Please both the wine and the beer drinkers with Minnesota wine and beer served at one destination: Omni Winery & Taproom, 15701 Biscayne Ave., Rosemount; 763.286.2258; omnibrewing.com. Who doesn’t love a great holiday light show, especially from the warmth and comfort of your car? Check out the new Magic of Lights at Viking Lakes, 2685 Vikings Circle, Eagan; magicoflights.com. Lose yourself in wintry fun by navigating an ice maze. Try your cold-weather orienteering skills at the Minnesota Ice Festival, featuring the Minnesota Ice Maze, 2645

Vikings Circle, Eagan; 612.254.8330; minnesotaicemaze.com. How does this sound? Ice skate around a 10-acre “lake,” spread out among three ponds, which are connected by winding canals and gives a decidedly “unsuburban” vibe at Centennial Lakes Parks, 7499 France Ave. S., Edina; 952.833.9580; edinamn.gov. Test your collective courage without leaping out of an airplane during indoor skydiving at iFly, 12415 Wayzata Blvd. Suite 15, Minnetonka; 612.444.4359; iflyworld.com. Tip: The photo ops alone are worth it. Snowshoe through 11 miles of trails along more than 1,200 acres of woodland, prairie and open fields at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, 3675 Arboretum Drive, Chaska; 612.624.2200; arb.umn.edu. Tip: Be sure to check about trail accessibility and equipment rental. Who in your group is the holder of the most information (useless or otherwise) or is in constant pursuit of all things trivia? There are plenty of breweries and dining spots around the Metro that feature these questionable nights of fun. Sip wine and savor the scenery during

Alexis Bailly Vineyard

The Grater Good

MORE TO THE STORY

“Play is essential for mental health, and it can be a powerful way to bond (between friends, couples, family members, anybody). Board games, yard games, Valleyfair, community events, sports, etc.—any and all of these things: Do them!” Tai J. Mendenhall, Ph.D., LMFT

Minnesota Ice Festival

a wine tasting. Alexis Bailly Vineyard offers wine yurts, heated tents that accommodate up to six people. Pack a picnic or order food from the vineyard, and bring a game to play for an ultimate bonding experience. Alexis Bailly Vineyard, 18200 Kirby Ave. S., Hastings; 651.437.1413; abvwines.com. Tip: Yurt reservations are $25 for two hours, so make reservations in advance of your visit to secure your yurt. Immerse yourself in the Westin Edina

Galleria’s Winter Village. Throughout a three-month installation, the team offers weekly spirit and wine tastings, private dinners hosted by local chefs, and special activities through its Weekend Wonders program at 3201 Galleria, Edina; 952.567.5000; marriott.com. Before you head out the door, be sure to check venues’ or activities’availability. Scheduling can change after this issue’s publication.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photo: Snack Media

One might assume that family bonding happens early in a child’s life, and no effort is required after a certain point, but it’s not that simple. “Relationships require ongoing work, maintenance and nurturing,” says Mendenhall. “… the reality is that most relationships that fail do so because of neglect. We’re ‘too busy’ with other things to authentically nurture our relationships.” In some households, family members stop engaging beyond routine interactions. There’s a risk that this can happen between family households. “We don’t call each other just to check in, say ‘Hi’ or just share something great that happened at our child’s school or in our work,” says Mendenhall, a professor at the University of Minnesota and medical family therapist with M Health Fairview. “We experience visits as a chore and distraction from the things that we really want to do.” Mendenhall reminds that family bonding should continue to be tended to maintain healthy connections. “Early attachment processes between infants/ children and their caretakers (parents, grandparents, etc.) continue throughout the life course,” he says. “Relationships change and evolve, of course, as parents and children go from parent/ child relationships to more adult/adult relationships, and this takes effort.” “Cultivating and maintaining connections across generations is key in continuing family legacies, stories and related narratives,” Mendenhall continues to say. “Closeness, support and sense of belonging are basic human needs—and most of us receive (and offer) these things within family contexts.”

Private Wealth Management for Select Individuals LPL BY THE NUMBERS

MARKET SHARE

INDEPENDENT BROKER/ DEALER

among 3rd-party providers of brokerage services to banks and credit unions³

In the United States²

$1T+

ZERO

Brokerage and advisory client assets, serviced or custodied

PROPRIETARY LPL PRODUCTS WITH THOUSANDS OF INVESTMENT OPTIONS

24/7

Access to a breadth of investment solutions – from mutual funds to bonds to alternative investments – and fee - based investment programs that your financial professional can leverage to craft your customized portfolio

Robert D. Bayer

ChFC®,CLU®,CASL®,RICP®,BFA®

Access to you account information via our mobile app and portal

Office: 952-223-6515 17850 Kenwood Trail Suite 221 Lakeville, MN 55044

www.stonebrookewealth.com As reported by Financial Planning magazine,June 1996-2022, based on total revenue. 2021-2022 Kehrer Bielan Research and Consulting Annual TPM Report. Based on market share of AUM, revenue, and advisors. Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC.

Cities South in digital format! Never miss an issue of Cities South Magazine with free, anytime access to our digital editions. Full screen viewing on your digital device allows easy cover-to-cover reading. Share your favorite Cities South Magazine articles with friends and family.

Learn more at citiessouthmags.com 19

Written by Jennifer Pitterle — Photos by Chris Emeott

Healing with Horse Power A South Metro equine therapy organization serves first responders and military personnel, using the power of animal empathy to heal trauma.

akeville resident Taber Akin usually has a lot on his plate. The principal of Eastview Elementary— already a busy role—has also recently retired as an on-call firefighter for the Lakeville Fire Department, including a six-year stint as district chief. As you might have guessed, Akin feels called to serve others; he’s a natural helper. But what happens when our community’s helpers need help of their own? “I was suicidal,” Akin says. “It was often a thought when things got difficult. I was overwhelmed.” In a serendipitous moment at a firefighter training exercise, a colleague told Akin about his experiences with Abijah’s on the Backside, an equine therapy organization in the South Metro that serves first responders. “I was so curious,” Akin says. He’d participated in traditional talk therapy, “and nothing really clicked.” He couldn’t shake the feeling that Abijah’s might be a good fit for him. Akin filled out an online interest form and got a call almost immediately from Sally Mixon, Abijah’s founder. “She said, ‘Come and see me at 5:30 in the morning,’” Akin says. “So I did. And it was just right out the door. I was a big mess,

crying and totally connected. There was no wall to break down. Immediately, I felt like I was in a safe place.” Creating that safe place has been the lifelong work of Mixon, a Wisconsin native, who now makes her home in Shakopee, close to Canterbury Park’s racetrack, where most of Abijah’s therapy horses live during the racing season. “When I was 5, my parents sent me to this little farm, Red’s Riding Ranch, and I started scooping poop,” she says with a laugh. “I loved it. I got rides and lessons for free.” As a young adult, Mixon faced mental health challenges, including an eating disorder that forced her out of college and into recovery. “I almost lost my life,” Mixon says. When she finished her rehabilitation, she went back to college (She now also has a master’s degree in counseling.) and started a career that was always included either touching therapy or horses—and often both. Several years ago, she made her way to the backside of Canterbury Park, the legendary racetrack in Shakopee. “The ‘backside’ is the stable area, where the horses and trainers live and work,” Mixon says, nodding to her organization’s name. (Abijah is a Hebrew

word that means “the Lord is my father” and was also the name of Mixon’s very first horse.) At Canterbury’s backside, she got a job galloping horses as an exercise jockey and formed friendships with many of the trainers and jockeys. In 2020, she officially founded Abijah’s on the Backside and now employs a handful of retired thoroughbred racing horses from Canterbury who act as cotherapists for her clients. “Our mission is to elevate the racing industry by using these retired thoroughbreds to save the lives of military and first responders,” she says. Those clients don’t pay a cent for equine therapy via Abijah’s. “And we don’t take insurance,” Mixon says. “That is very liberating for somebody who’s maybe struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and worried they might lose their job with a documented diagnosis. We remove those barriers.” Abijah’s on the Backside has received state funding to treat active police officers and firefighters. “We have $250,000 this year and next year to go toward that,” Mixon says. The organization is currently offering equine therapy to first responders and military members at Canterbury and other nearby locations; clients come

Editor’s Note: This story includes mentions of disordered eating and suicide.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Taber Akin

from all over the Metro. Mostly, Abijah’s is funded completely by private donors who want to support its mission. Every session includes a mental health professional, an equine specialist and—of course—a horse. “There’s no riding involved,” Mixon says. “You don’t have to know anything about horses. The reason we use horses is that they’re so intuitive. They’re prey animals, so they’re on alert all the time.” The horse picks up on the emotions and energy of the client and expresses those externally. “For example, if we’re feeling depressed, the horse might lie down,” Mixon says. “The clients are watching the horses give them their words. They’ll say, ‘Yeah, that’s how I feel.’” That powerful externalization of emotions is at the heart of equine therapy. Mixon says, “Trauma is stored in our bodies, which is why sometimes talk therapy only gets us so far. With equine therapy, it gets us out of our heads and into our bodies.” Clients’ senses are stimulated just like they are in moments of trauma—but this time, it’s for the good. Akin knows the power of equine therapy firsthand. “It’s very much nontraditional therapy,” he says. “It’s so hands-on. It’s helped me really tangibly connect with what I’m feeling.” The horses have helped him learn to stay in the moment, instead of letting his thoughts spiral. On a walk with Wave, one of Abijah’s therapy horses, he was connecting with her for the first time. “She’s a strong, independent horse,” Akin says. “If what you’re doing isn’t working for her, she’s not going to do it. About halfway through our loop, I thought, this is going really well. I don’t want to jinx it.” The pair encountered a few distractions and challenges— other animals, other people. “My job was to walk Wave,” Akin says. “It felt so good. I can remember the elation and joy of that walk. I was with Wave, and she was with me. I learned to be here, now.” Abijah’s on the Backside @abijahsonthebackside

Sally Mixon Photo: xxxxxxxxx

If you or someone you know needs immediate help with a crisis, dial 988 for the suicide and crisis hotline. Visit abijahs.com to learn more, book a session or make a donation.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

Let Lakeville’s Beauty HQ prepare you for the holidays. With a mission to deliver exceptional patient experiences and safely provide personalized services to enhance clients’ natural beauty, Beauty HQ opened its doors last May in Lakeville. “We take time to educate you, so you can maintain and get the best long-term results possible,” says co-owner Melissa Pavelka. Though new to the area, the team has over 20 years of experience and offers Botox, Dermal Fillers, Dermablading, Diamond Glow Facials, Dysport, Glowtox, PRP Rejuvenation, Sculptra, SkinPen and VI Chemical Peels. “I cannot say enough good things about Nicole, Melissa and their beautiful new space—so warm, welcoming and knowledgeable,” client Jessica says. “I don’t trust my face with anyone other than these experts. I recommend them to anyone who’s a skincare and injectable veteran or a newcomer.” While offering quality services is paramount, Beauty HQ is also committed to providing top-notch customer service. “We do everything we can to go above and beyond and make clients happy and feel special,” Pavelka says. “I help my clients look at their face as a whole and discuss how we can take a comprehensive approach to addressing problem areas or concerns without putting a temporary bandage on the area,” says co-owner Nicole Wente, R.N. “Nicole is amazing at what she does. She knows exactly how to treat my problem areas, without making it look ‘fake,’” Alexandra says. Caren says, “I had a comfortable consultation with Nicole today, and she didn’t make my questions seem silly, and she was thorough in her responses. I felt confident leaving.” November is the perfect time to get holiday-ready. Wente says, “Your skin will be glowing by Christmas if we start a series of VI Peels or SkinPen treatments. We could complement those with some Botox to really impact your skin. The Diamond Glow Facial, coupled with Dermablading, can make your skin glow with zero downtime.” Beauty HQ offers memberships that feature the best pricing on services. And gift certificates are ideal gifts!

Nicole, Megan and Melissa

16023 Elmhurst Lane, #103, Lakeville 952.246.1840 • beautyhqmn.com

lo c al things to se e an d do

O N T H E TOW N

A Minnesota Nutcracker features iconic Minnesota landscapes and characters, such as this custom-designed Stone Arch Bridge backdrop in the Snow Scene.

NUTCRACKER FOR ALL

Photo: Brianna Bland

The Twin Cities Ballet offers an updated, distinctly Minnesota twist on the classic ballet with a sensory-friendly performance. RE ME M B E R T H AT S CENE in the Nutcracker ballet when Mother Ginger comes out with a bunch of clownish children dancing out from under her skirt? In the Twin Cities Ballet’s A Minnesota Nutcracker, Mother Ginger is a big Mississippi paddle boat, and the children are dancing fish. It’s the latest in tweaks to the scenery and costuming that put a decidedly Minnesota spin on the classic Russian ballet. In previous years, audiences have spotted the Stone Arch Bridge, Rice Park and the golden statue on the capitol building. In addition to giving the ballet Minnesota roots, the Lakeville-based ballet company is also focused on offering a sensory-friendly performance of the ballet. This performance provides any age with sensory sensitivities the opportunity to experience the sensation of the Nutcracker with “relaxed theater rules,” including house lights on, open doors and a quiet zone. A social narrative is also available prior to the performance, so audience members can learn the elements of the ballet and know what to expect during the ballet. The performances are a part of the company’s core belief that dance is for everyone. —Macy Berendsen A Minnesota Nutcracker; December 7–10, Ames Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville; twincitiesballet.org

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Compiled by Elaina Mankowski, Morgan McFadden and Emma Mehl

LOCAL EVENTS

DecemBRRR Dazzle 12/01 Meet Santa, cozy up by the bonfire and watch ice sculptures be made at the DecemBRRR Dazzle. All ages. Free. 6– 8:30 p.m. Lakefront Park, 5000 Kop Parkway SE, Prior Lake; 952.447.9800; priorlakemn.gov

Holiday Craft and Gift Show 12/02–12/03 Shop for your holiday gifts from more than 120 local businesses and crafters selling handcrafted items, clothing, baked goods, jewlery and more. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan; 612.695.0512; rosecraftshows.com

O N T H E TOW N

Twin Cities Holiday Princess Ball 12/10 A family-friendly day of magic and dancing for all Disney lovers. All ages. $20–$35. Times vary. Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan; eventbrite.com

Cookies for Santa 12/16

DESIGN FOR LIVING

Join Spider Monkey’s Bake Shop as it walks you through making four decorated cookies for Santa, who may be in attendance. Ages 4 and older, ages 4–

6 need an adult present, 6 and over do not. $40. 10–11:30 a.m. or 12:30–2 p.m. Lakeville Heritage Center, 20110 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville; 952.985.4620; lakevillemn.gov

Ali Sultan: A Night of Comedy 01/12 Ring in the new year with some laugh-

612-385-4520 WWW.THETIME4DESIGN.COM

ter with comedian Ali Sultan and special guest Abenezer Merdassa. Ages 18 and

older. $28 for balcony tickets, $35 table seating on the main level. 7:30 p.m. Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville; 952.985.4640; lakevillemn.gov

Ritter Fest 01/20 Visit the Ritter Family Farm for snowmobiling, s’mores and snowshoeing in the great Minnesota outdoors. This event includes dogsledding, which requires registration. All ages. Free. 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Ritter Family Farm, 19300 Ritter Trail, Lakeville; 952.985.4600; lakevillemn.gov

AREA EVENTS

Cirque Du Soleil 11/24–12/03 The world-renowned circus brings its first holiday show to Minneapolis, based on the classic Clement Clarke Moore poem,

Shop with us ! In-Store or Online

14401 Highway 7 in Minnetonka www.generalstoreofminnetonka.com

’Twas the Night Before Christmas. All ages. Prices vary. 7:30 p.m. Northrop Auditorium, 84 Church St. SE, Mpls.; northrop.umn.edu

Star Watch Astronomy 12/01, 12/02, 12/15 Enjoy the night sky through one of the largest telescopes in Minnesota. Ages 8 and

older. $12/person. 7–8:30 p.m. Eden Prairie Outdoor Center, 13651 Staring Lake Parkway, Eden Prairie; 952.949.8479; edenprairie.org

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

l o ca l t h i n g s to se e a n d d o

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! 12/01–12/31 Join the Children’s Theatre Company for a performance of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! This show is an original production that runs for two hours packed with plenty of fun. All ages. Prices vary. Times vary. 2400 Third Ave. S., Mpls.; 612.874.0400; childrenstheatre.org

Summit Avenue Artisan Festival 12/02 Local artisans, a bake sale, a silent auction and crafts for kids are all on Summit Avenue. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.

900 Summit Ave., St. Paul; eventbrite.com

Field and Festival Holiday Market 12/02, 12/03, 12/09, 12/10, 12/16, 12/17 Shop for the holidays from local farm-

CREATE. LAUGH. LEARN.

Your child will grow and develop through a research-driven, relationship-oriented, play-based learning curriculum. Serving infants through Pre-K children. Family- and Locally-owned since 1976.

ers, foodies and makers. All ages. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Wagners Garden Center, 6024 Penn Ave. S., Mpls.; fieldandfestival.com

Winter Wonderland Tour with Jan Brett

www.EspeciallyforChildren.com | 952.857.1100

Child Development Centers

12/03 Beloved picture book author Jan Brett talks about her research in Alaska and demonstrates illustration related to her bestselling book, Cozy. All ages. $20. 5 p.m. O’Shaughnessy Education Center, University of St. Thomas, 2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul; eventbrite.com

Holiday Music Festival 12/04–12/23 (excluding 12/07 and 12/08) The Mall of America is back with its annual holiday music celebrations with various performers. All ages. Free.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Wednesday–Monday. Mall of America, 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington; 952.883.8800; mallofamerica.com

To have your event considered: email citiessouthmags@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. 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 affiliated websites for updates.

Baking up a of Love 28

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

TA S T E M A K E R S

Lisa Haggstrom continues her mother and grandmother’s food tradition. Written by Josie Smith — Photos by Chris Emeott

SOME OF OU R M OST C HER ISHED MEMOR I ES of the holiday season come from

gathering around the table with family and friends. Apple Valley resident Lisa Haggstrom of Cookies and More by Lisa remembers the anticipation of biting into that first slice of walnut Potica—a traditional Slovenian dessert prepared by her mother and grandmother. Potica, (pronounced poh-TEET-sah), is a pastry that can be sweet or savory in flavor. Once the dough is rolled out and stretched thin, a filling is spread over the top. “Potica is a big deal for Slovenians during Christmas and Easter,” Haggstrom says. “It’s the labor of love type of dessert. If you’re ever gifted one, that’s a big deal. It’s labor intensive.” Potica is derived from the Slovenian word poviti, meaning “to wrap in.” The tasty dish is well-known among folks living up on the Iron Range. Haggstrom spent most of her childhood in Eveleth, Minnesota, alongside her two younger sisters and one younger brother. Her Slovenian heritage comes from her mother’s side of the family. “I come from a long line of cooks; everything was homemade,” she says. “That’s how you show your love, you feed people.” After meeting her husband, Haggstrom moved down to the Twin Cities and raised their two sons in Apple Valley. She spent 30 years in the food service industry, working as a corporate restaurant training manager and later as a bakery manager before launching her own venture in 2015. “I like the business side of food,” Haggstrom says. “I like the science side of food. It’s fascinating to me.” Cookies and More by Lisa is a custom, madeto-order Minnesota cottage bakery, specializing in decorated cookies, home-style bars and cookies, potica, cocoa bombs (a sphere of chocolate with cocoa mix and marshmallows inside) and more. While her cookies are her best sellers, she still gets plenty of requests for potica around the holidays. Typically, she receives about 12 to

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

24 orders for Christmas and 18 to 24 orders for Easter. She makes an apple potica as well, but most of her customers ask for walnut. “Some people do almond, but the walnut flavor is the tradition at Christmas and Easter,” Haggstrom says. “Tarragon is one that is still very popular over in Slovenia.” Rolling the dough is a time-consuming task, so acquiring the right table is essential—one that’s large enough and at a good height for rolling out dough. “It gets stretched thin, so that it covers the whole table,” she says. “The goal is always to have real thin layers.” The process of rolling and stretching the dough takes about an hour; the recipe she uses makes

Lisa Haggstrom

Christmas Cookie Countdown Inside Haggstrom’s home in Apple Valley, an entire room is dedicated to her cookie-making craft. Known for her intricate and uniquely designed baked goods, she has a desk set up in the middle of it all, allowing her

Lisa Haggstrom’s walnut potica is made by stretching dough into a very thin layer, topping it with a filling, rolling it up and baking it in a loaf pan.

to decorate with precision. She ends up selling thousands of cookies between Thanksgiving and Christmas every year. This season marks her fourth year of selling Christmas Advent cookie calendars, offering either a decorated version of her vanilla, almond flavored cookies or a digital art version. “I love making Christmas minis,” she says. “They’re so cute.” The Advent calendars are packaged in 12-day and 24-day boxes, and each cookie is individually heat-sealed in its own packaging to preserve its taste and ensure a fresh experience. Haggstrom updates the designs every year, too, riffing on themes like snowflakes, gingerbread men, Mrs. Claus and Jolly Old Saint Nick. “You can’t have the same cookie,” she says. “So, it puts the pressure on.” A 12-day box typically costs about $50, and a 24-day box typically costs $85. Her digital art cookie Advent calendars are $40 and $70, respectively. She offers early bird pricing too, so folks can save a few dollars around the holidays.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

about five or six loaves. “If you’ve never seen it stretched or seen it done before, it’s really hard,” Haggstrom says. “It takes patience. You make a dough with water, flour, sugar, yeast. Let it rise; roll it and stretch it thin. That’s the tricky part … Putting the filling on without tearing the dough, again, is more patience. Make sure the dough is warm and the filling is cold.” Although some folks prefer to bake potica in a Bundt pan or roll it into a circle, she’s proud to still be using her grandmother’s loaf pans. Haggstrom recalls as a young girl watching her grandmother prepare the dish for her family. “We didn’t do the stretching,” she says. “We were allowed to chop nuts; we were allowed to put stuff in the pans and then get out of the way.” While it took a few years for Haggstrom to grow her customer base, she says she’s seen the biggest growth in

sales over the past five years. Then, the pandemic changed everything. “I was busy before that and then when COVID hit, cottage food producers were making bread for people,” Haggstrom says. “Then, we did the whole contactless pick up, which has been a lifesaver. It’s so much easier.” Meanwhile, she says she’s always working on new ideas for her customers and encourages folks to stop by her website often to check out her latest creations.

Cookies and More by Lisa cookiesandmorebylisa.com Cookies and More by Lisa @cookiesandmorebylisa

Since 1986 we have been serving students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. We offer a rigorous curriculum in a safe environment with no hidden agenda, building leaders with a heart to serve their community.

Family-owned and operated for over 40 years. Lakeville Dental is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality, most comfortable dental care available. We want our patients to have a healthy and beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime and are committed to making every experience as welcoming and comfortable as possible.

Christian Heritage Academy 7320 175th St. W., Lakeville 952.953.4155 chacademy.com

Lakeville Dental Associates 20171 Icenic Trail, Lakeville 952.469.3300 lakevilledental.com 31

LAST GLANCE

Embrace the Chill Once there’s enough snow on the ground, the golf course at Cleary Lake Regional Park in Prior Lake becomes a multiuse winter trail, offering an ideal place for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and even skijoring with friends and family. Snowshoe and ski rentals are available, and the visitor center is open daily for warming up after a chilly trek. Keep tabs on trail conditions at the Three Rivers Park District’s website. —Liz Potasek

Photo: Three Rivers Park District

The Cleary Lake Winter Trailhead provides a great opportunity to explore winter sports.

Cleary Lake Winter Trailhead, 18106 Texas Ave., Prior Lake; 763.694.7777; threeriversparks.org Call 763.559.6700 for ski and snowshoe rental.

December 2023/January 2024

citiessouthmags.com

Joy. Full. When you put as much food on as many tables as we do, you learn a thing or two about giving thanks. So we’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to our customers for shopping here, to our employees for working here, to our partners for growing and making great products and selling them here. Thank you. Thank you for your friendship and loyalty. It is an honor to be your grocer at this time of year and all year long. May your holiday season be full of happiness, kindness and, most of all,

the joy of good food.

11 Twin Cities Locations

KOWALSKIS.COM

Cities South - December 2023/ January 2024