Local event planner shares dazzling designs for New Year’s Eve
All That
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“Do you remember the 25th night of December? Love was changin’ the minds of pretenders. While chasin’ the clouds away. Our hearts were ringin’ in the key that our souls were singin’ as we danced in the night, remember? How the stars stole the night away, oh yeah.” —Earth, Wind & Fire, December
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December 2023/January 2024
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Shop. Donate. Volunteer. D E PA RT M E N TS
10 Let There Be Lights! Plymouth family flips a switch on its annual Christmas display.
12 The Family That Plays Together … Think out of the (gift) box when planning holiday experiences.
The Resale Select store is a neighborhood gem. Every item in our two unique shopping areas is carefully curated and handselected with care. You’ll find quality new and gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, furniture, home décor, and more — all at very reasonable prices. There’s something for everyone!
OPEN TO ALL
14 Spin Doctor DJ brings the party and the passion.
F E AT U R E S
18 Can Do Canines Nonprofit closes in on providing 900 assistance dogs for those in need.
22 All That Glitters Local event planner shares dazzling designs for New Year’s Eve.
TAST E M A K E R S
1605 County Road 101 N, Plymouth www.iocp.org/resale | 763-489-7549 For complete hours, event info and more, go to bit.ly/storecalendar or scan
30 Good Grain How to get the most out of your granola.
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Open Monday through Saturday
Editor’s Letter Noteworthy On the Town Last Glance
the QR code.
Breakfast with Tiffany’s Shop in-store on
Thursday, Dec. 7 8:30-10 a.m.
Photo: Tim Miller
More info at iocp.org/tiffany
Do Good. Look Good. Feel Good. Items sold at Resale Select come from our generous donors. Proceeds support IOCP programs and services to help our neighbors meet basic needs and achieve ongoing stability. 3
FROM THE EDITOR
New Location,
Ma deline Kopiecki — m a deline@loca lm edia .co
Same Great Care!
NOW OPEN! 10150 Niagara Lane N, Suite 100 Maple Grove, MN 55369
Welcome to December, Plymouth Magazine readers! In celebration of the season, you’ll find stories that center around entertaining, philanthropy and wellness throughout these pages. Our first winter issue straddles the line between 2023 and 2024, with all the holidays that surround it. We spoke with two local entertainment experts to help get the party started, from an events planner with a few pretty creative ideas up her sleeve (page 22) to a DJ who knows how to keep the festivities going through crowd-pleasing tunes (page 14). But something that always delights me is families who go out of their way to spread joy during the holiday season. The Fischers are one such family, who create a dazzling Christmas display on their lawn every year for the enjoyment of neighbors and strangers alike (page 10). Even if you’re not planning your own holiday parties this year, winter break is also a time when adult children return to the nest. Whether your home is hosting returning children or out-of-town relatives, now is a great time to reconnect with loved ones. Explore our seasonal guide of West Metro activities that you and your adult children can enjoy (page 12). Now, without further ado, welcome to our December/January issue. Sincerely,
As the Twin Cities’ largest and most experienced cancer treatment provider, we know that treating cancer calls for more than compassion. It means giving our patients access to more than 100 cancer care experts, evidence-based treatment paths, close-to-home locations and comprehensive services to support the whole person. Our compassionate team works tirelessly towards
On the Cover All That Glitters, photo by Chris Emeott, page 22 See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town! Plymouth Magazine @plymouth_mag @plymouthmag
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December 2023/January 2024
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one common goal – fighting cancer.
VOL. 19 NO. 3 plymouthmag.com
publisher Susan Isay
editor Madeline Kopiecki
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 Emily Maxson Christian Nesheim Nikki Steele Amy Sundet Katie Timcho
editorial interns Macy Berendsen Elaina Mankowski Emma Mehl Morgan McFadden Lily Schlobohm
editorial advisory board Kelley Giancola, Interfaith Outreach Meghan Milovich, blogger and fundraiser for Children’s Hospitals Zach Nelson, Wayzata School District Mark Poppendeck, Beez ‘N Treez Foundation Brian Rosemeyer, City of Plymouth LuAnn Svendsen, Plymouth Reads chair and community volunteer
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
a division of president Pete Burgeson
To subscribe to Plymouth Magazine, please visit: localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2023. All rights reserved.
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lo c al tip s, tidb its & insi ght s
N OT E WO RT H Y
READ
STOCKING STUFFERS FOR BOOKWORMS
BEST o f 2023
The season of giving is upon us, so let us help you find something for all of the readers in your life.
General Fiction » The Celebrants by Steven Rowley » Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro » Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum » The Vibrant Years by Sonali Dev » Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson
Historical Fiction » What the Wind Knows
VOTE
YOU’RE INVITED …
by Amy Harmon » Did You Hear About Kitty Karr? by Crystal Smith Paul » Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb » The Spectacular by Fiona Davis
… to a collective celebration for the Plymouth community, its 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 Plymouth 2024. Our contest is live throughout January at plymouthmag.com, where you can vote for your “best of the best” in a number of curated categories. While some of your favorite categories return for another year, we also feature a special West Metro segment, which includes a broader selection of area businesses and services, which are frequented and appreciated by our readership area. Want to view the categories? Go online—and vote!
December 2023/January 2024
» Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
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 much-anticipated Best of Plymouth 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.
plymouthmag.com
by Lisa See
Romance » The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren » Happy Place by Emily Henry » Love Buzz by Neely Tubati Alexander » The Boyfriend Candidate by Ashley Winstead » Hello Stranger by Katherine Center
Thriller & Suspense » The Only One Left by Riley Sager » None of This is True by Lisa Jewell » All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers » The Whispers by Ashley Audrain » All the Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby
Amy Sundet and Katie Timcho are local book reviewers. @overbookedmoms
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N OT E WO RT H Y
TA S T E
When I’m entertaining, I like having
» 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
parchment paper. Spread the cashew
something ready for guests to nibble
» 2 Tbsp. rosemary, chopped
mixture on the sheet pan, and return to
on when they arrive. These rosemary
» 1 1/2 tsp. sea salt
the oven. Roast for five minutes; stir the
cashews are easy to throw together and
» 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
cashews. Roast for an additional five
are guaranteed to elevate a cocktail
minutes; stir the cashews again. Continue
hour or afternoon snack. They are sweet
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.
to roast for an additional five minutes or
and salty with a subtle kick of heat.
Spread the cashews on a dry sheet pan.
until browned. Remove from the oven,
Packaged in a cute container, they also
Roast the cashews in the oven for 10
and allow to cool, breaking apart clusters
make a thoughtful hostess or holiday
minutes. In a saucepan, combine the
as needed. Once cooled, store in an air-
gift. There are many flavored nuts avail-
maple syrup, coconut oil, rosemary, sea
tight container at room temperature.
able for purchase, but making your own
salt and cayenne pepper. Warm over
is healthier and less expensive.
medium heat, and stir until well combined. Add the cashews to the maple
8
Rosemary Cashews
syrup mixture, and cook over medium-
» 2 cups of whole, raw cashews
high heat for three minutes, stirring
» 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
continuously. Line the sheet pan with
Emily Maxson is a Plymouth food blogger and author of Emily’s Fresh Kitchen Cookbook. For more recipes, visit emilysfreshkitchen.com. @emilysfreshkitchen.
December 2023/January 2024
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Photo: Belén Fleming of Belu Photography
An Easy Recipe To Go Nuts Over
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FIVE TIPS FOR DEALING WITH HOLIDAY STRESS
Healing comes in many forms, which is why we’re pleased to introduce a new voice in this column. Douglas Broman, founder of Broman Chiropractic & Wellness Center, shares some tips on how to mitigate stress during the holiday season. Social events, the busyness of preparing to entertain, purchasing gifts and the expectations of family all can contribute to stress during the holidays. The following are five points to consider: 1. Knowledge is power. Be aware of the things in life that stress you out most. Take time for self-reflection, and manage your expectations. Be realistic.
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your neck with a high-quality pillow. 3. Drink plenty of water. Water plays a key role in maintaining healthy muscles, joints, nerve transmission, waste removal and many bodily functions. Supply your body with enough pure water throughout the day. 4. Continue your regular exercise program. During the holidays, we often neglect
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self care and regular exercise. Exercise is critical for stress reduction and wellbeing. Just 20 minutes of brisk walking every other day can help. Exercise stimulates healthy neurotransmitters and
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5. Improve your nutrition. During the holidays, there are many opportunities to eat sweets and desserts high in sugar. Keep up with regular consumption of lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables. You can’t behave all the time, but you can be good most of the time.
Douglas Broman is the founder Broman Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Find more at bromanchiro.com.
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SCENERY
Let There Be Lights! Plymouth family flips a switch on its annual Christmas display. By Mollee Francisco
FOR MORE THAN TWO DECADES,
Tim and Cathy Fischer have been celebrating the reason for the season by sharing their love of Christmas and Christmas lights with the Plymouth community. Each December, the Fischers fire up some 40,000 lights to the delight of both newcomers as well as families who have made a tradition out of visiting their display. “It’s never been about the size or the spectacle,” Cathy says. “We want to get the Christmas message out.” The Fischers have been putting
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up their display since 1999, but Tim’s love for Christmas lights dates back much further than that. “I always loved Christmas lights,” he says. “I took the opportunity to decorate whatever space was available—my bedroom as a child, my dorm room, etc.” In 1996, a big opportunity came when Tim bought his first home. “That was my first chance to do a display,” he says. Each year since, the display has grown, with more lights and new elements added. Year two, Tim tripled the lights he put up. Year four, he added a
computer-controlled Merry Christmas sign. He also added Cathy. The couple married in 1999 and constructed their first display together that Christmas. “It wasn’t particularly big, but we had some unique displays,” Tim says. They continued to add to their seasonal setup for the next few years until they moved to their current Plymouth home on 33rd Avenue in 2002. “We had a much bigger outdoor canvas there,” Cathy says. A new canvas meant a new design, including what would become one of the hallmark features of their display, a Peanuts nativity scene. “It’s plywood cutouts,” Cathy says. “We built it ourselves.” While the nativity scene was a relatively low-tech addition, the Fischers upped the ante by adding an FM radio broadcast configured to deliver an audio dose of Christmas cheer to accompany the lights. The very next year, the couple discovered computerized control and were able to create a show with music and lights in sync with one another.
December 2023/January 2024
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Photo: Tim Fischer
Christmas lights twinkle and shine at the Fischer family’s 2022 display.
VIEWING ETIQUETTE
CHANGE BEAUTY FOREVER
When visiting the Fischer’s Christmas lights display, please keep the Fischer family and their neighbors in mind. Although the Fischer house becomes brilliantly bedazzled, this is still a residential street.
Getting safer products into the hands of everyone.
• The display runs daily December 1–31
cleanbeautymatters.com
with the exception of December 24. • Weekdays are the best time to visit. Tim says the weekday show can
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include up to 20 songs whereas the weekend show may only have one song on a loop. • Do not block the street or any driveways. Traffic should queue up on the
Enriching your life together
south side of the road opposite of the house. • Do not use driveways to turn around. Stay on the public road. • Keep litter in your car. • Stay inside the vehicle. If you leave your vehicle, stay off of private property and do not enter the display perimeter. • Do not honk car horns and keep the stereo at a reasonable volume. • Learn more about the Fischer light display and the meaning behind it at plymouthlights.com.
“I think we were the first to do that in the Twin Cities,” Tim says. Being a young couple without kids then, the duo had plenty of time and energy to devote to the preparation and setup of the Christmas display. “I called it our year-round hobby,” Tim says. “It sat on the back burner of my brain.” As they had kids, the Fischers had less time to devote to the display but more manpower to help with all the weekends devoted to the setup and tear down. These days, the kids are getting older, and the display canvas is full. Add in the headaches associated with crowd control on busy Christmas weekends and the Fischers say things can feel overwhelming at times. “I don’t know how [much] longer we’ll keep doing it,” Tim says. “But we have no exit plan ...” “As long as we enjoy it,” Cathy says. Christmas at the Fischer’s Place, 16700 33rd Ave. N.;
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D E S T I N AT I O N S
The Family that Plays Together … Think out of the (gift) box when planning holiday experiences. By Renée Stewart-Hester
WHEN VISITORS COME TO TOWN
hill and Nordic skiing, tubing and more thanks to incredible programming
at the Three Rivers Park District, locations vary; 763.559.9000; three riversparks.org. Tip: Be sure to check trail and hill accessibility and conditions and equipment rental. If you’re hungry for a new culinary challenge, cooking classes can satisfy
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December 2023/January 2024
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Illustration: Jamie Klang
over the holidays, hosts can be hardpressed 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 excitement and 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 a few places to go and things to do that can put a whole lot of merry and happy in your holiday season. Exercising a bit of creativity is good for everyone’s soul. Visit the easily accessible art exhibits at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, 2240 N. Shore Drive, Wayzata; 952.473.7361; minnetonkaarts.org Check out the public open skating schedule at the Plymouth Ice Center in preparation to carve ice with fellow skaters. 3650 Plymouth Blvd.; 763.509.5260; plymouthmn.gov 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; 763.337.4433; brewparkplymouth.com Embrace the Bold North with down-
Subscribe to your community’s magazine or purchase additional copies at MORE TO THE STORY One might assume that family bond-
localmedia.co
ing happens early in a child’s life, and no more effort is required after a certain point. All relationships, including those between child and parent, need continued engagement. “Relationships require ongoing work, maintenance and nurturing,” says Tai J. Mendenhall, Ph.D., LMFT. “… 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. We begin to take each other for granted.” In some households, family members stop engaging beyond routine interactions, which can include the ubiquitous queries of: How was your day? When will you be home? And the like. 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.” Visit plymouthmag.com to continue reading Mendenhall’s insights and advice about how to nurture family bonding over the holidays.
your hankering. Visit The Abundant Kitchen, 223 Water St., Excelsior; 952.401.3682; abundantkitchen.shop. 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 on trail accessibility and equipment rental.
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PORTRAIT
Spin Doctor DJ brings the party and the passion. By Mollee Francisco
14
FOR NICHOLAS DIRCZ, there is perhaps no more powerful force on Earth than music. It can bring people together, evoke feelings of nostalgia and even help win basketball games. To prove that point, Dircz is the proud owner of four Minnesota Lynx championship rings, despite never shooting a ball or even setting foot on the court during a game. The Plymouth resident may not play point guard or forward, but he does play music as the official DJ for the Lynx. This year marks Dircz’s 16th season as the official DJ for both the Lynx and the Minnesota Timberwolves. “I’m
shocked,” Dircz says as he counts the seasons on his fingers. “That’s crazy.” Dircz, who is better known as DJ Mad Mardigan, is just as amazed by the number of years as he is by the fact that he has carved a wildly successful career out of what he once considered a fruitless hobby. Hip Hop Hooray
Dircz was a freshman at Winona State University when he had saved up enough money to buy his first set of turntables. “No one knew what a DJ really was then,” he says.
December 2023/January 2024
plymouthmag.com
Photos: Garrett Super; GenerationNOW Entertainment
Timberwolves fans look on as DJ Mad Mardigan takes over the court for a halftime show.
Dircz had been deeply inspired by the 1992 movie Juice, which featured Omar Epps as an aspiring DJ, who dreamed of using the turntable as a musical instrument and competing in a DJ battle. After seeing the movie, Dircz co-opted that dream for himself. “I loved hip hop and scratching,” he says. Once Dircz had his own turntables, he trekked over to the university’s radio station, KQAL, and asked if he could have some of its records. “They had a whole collection they weren’t using anymore and said, ‘Take whatever you want,’” Dircz says. He loaded up and started practicing. “I just wanted to battle,” he says. Eventually, he did square off against other DJs in battle performances and, though he never won, Dircz says he never lost his passion for it, even when college ended and the real world came calling. “I had to get a real job like everyone else,” he says.
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Abbie Kinn 763.355.4955 | abbie@localmedia.co
Record Scratch
After school, Dircz ended up taking a job selling insurance for his stepfather, much to the chagrin of his younger brother, Elliot. “He was my biggest supporter,” Dircz says. “He thought I was crazy to give up music.” But when Elliot was killed in a car accident in December 2004, Dircz began to rethink his life and wondered if his brother was right to question his decision to quit DJing. “I moved back home to be with my mom,” he says. With fewer expenses at home, Dircz booked
DJ Mad Mardigan spinning tracks during a Corporate Holiday Party at ARIA in downtown Minneapolis.
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a biweekly gig DJing at Tiffany Sports Lounge in St. Paul and quickly began to see the possibilities for a career. Dircz quit his insurance job and, a few months later, landed a much-coveted residency at The Imperial Room in Minneapolis. It was during one of Dircz’s sets at The Imperial Room that he caught the attention of the game presentation manager for the Minnesota Timberwolves/Minnesota Lynx. Teams around both basketball leagues were starting to employ official DJs at the time, and the Timberwolves/Lynx wanted Dircz to originate the role for
GET THE PARTY STARTED Dircz loves the motto: “No music, no party,” coined by GenerationNOW DJ Dudley D. Dircz, who considers good music, like good food, to be a crucial component to any holiday soirée. “Music fills those gaps, helps guide conversation and is full of nostalgia,” he says. Dircz’s top advice for any party host is to understand who your guests are. “A DJ reads the crowd,” he says. “That’s the number one job.” He rec-
DJ Mad Mardigan and Daniel The Violinist performing at the 2022 Timberwolves and Lynx Holiday Party at The Four Seasons in Minneapolis.
ommends considering your guest list and creating a playlist ahead of time that reflects the attendees. “Don’t exclude anyone,” he says. Dircz loves an open format playlist with a solid mix of music from different genres and eras. For those planning a holiday party, he suggests looking for festive holiday remixes to add flavor. “There are so many holiday remixes,” he says. “I love a good holiday remix.”
DJ MAD MARDIGAN’S PERFECT PARTY PLAYLIST SUGGESTIONS: • December by Earth, Wind & Fire • Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson • 1999 by Prince • Don’t Start Now by Dua Lipa • Hip Hop Hooray by Naughty
The Timberwolves’ halftime show gets an infusion of fun with DJ Mad Mardigan and Minnesota artist J. Plaza during the 2021–22 Timberwolves season.
by Nature
16
December 2023/January 2024
plymouthmag.com
them. Sixteen years later, and Dircz is still spinning for both teams. Dircz’s crowd-pleasing performances aren’t limited to the basketball court. He has become a staple at professional games around the Twin Cities, providing musical entertainment for the Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Twins, Minnesota United FC, Minnesota Golden Gophers and Minnesota Wild in addition to performing at major events like Super Bowl LII, the 2019 NCAA Final Four, the 2016 Ryder Cup and the 2014 MLB All-Star Weekend.
Photos: GenerationNOW Entertainment; Garrett Super
The Next Generation
For Dircz, the key to his success is one part good music and one part good show. “It’s a performance,” he says. “I approach it like a peak wedding set.” It’s a formula he’s used to expand his reach and offer his brand of performance art to a wider audience with GenerationNOW Entertainment, a crew of more than 40 team members, primarily DJs, ready to bring the party to any event. “We take real DJs that mix and scratch and put them in weddings,” Dircz says. “We changed the industry.” Dircz and his business partners have amassed a crew of 30 DJs, all with a minimum of three years professional experience, hand picked and trained by Dircz and his leadership team. “We’re keeping dance floors packed from start to finish,” he says. “We’re not giving them a chance to leave.” Headquartered at the Parkers Lake Business Center in Plymouth, GenerationNOW not only provides DJs and cutting-edge equipment for a range of events, but it also offers private and group lessons for those looking to learn how to DJ. “We want to spread the love and passion of DJing,” Dircz says. For Dircz, having the opportunity to show a new generation of music lovers that you can make a career out of DJing means everything. It’s also a chance for him to honor his brother’s life. GenerationNOW’s logo pays homage to his brother’s wisdom with the circle representing the circle of life. “He knew better than I did,” Dircz says.
The returns on certain investments are incalculable. Being able to have a positive impact on kids’ lives is what making the possible, possible is all about. It’s why you’ll find us helping pack meals for Every Meal, a local volunteer organization dedicated to filling food gaps for school-age kids. To find out how you can get involved visit everymeal.org.
DJ Mad Mardigan; djmadmardigan.com @IamDJMadMardigan @DJMadMardigan DJMadMardigan djmadmardigan
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CAN DO CANINES Nonprofit closes in on providing 900 assistance dogs for those in need.
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Written by Rachel Schuehle — Photos by Chris Emeott
They say a dog is man’s best friend, but for Abby Peterson, having a dog is lifesaving. When the Plymouth resident was first diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2013, she managed with routine finger pricks to check her blood sugar and insulin injections. However, over time, Peterson developed hypoglycemic unawareness, meaning she couldn’t sense the symptoms that often accompany high and low blood sugar levels. In January 2022, Peterson experienced a seizure due to her blood sugar getting dangerously low. That was the moment she knew something had to change in regard to her diabetes management. Peterson first heard of Can Do Canines from a coworker, who volunteers with the New Hope nonprofit. The organization’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities through partnerships with specially trained dogs. Over
the past 35 years, it has trained and placed over 850 assistance dogs, each specializing in one of the five areas of assistance training: mobility, autism, hearing, diabetes or seizure.
CREATING A CAN-DO ATTITUDE
Part of what makes the organization so successful is its focus on meticulous breeding and diligent training. The majority of the dogs in the program are either labradors or golden retrievers, as their friendly demeanors and motivation to please makes them exceptional service animals. After the litters are whelped (born), the pups start their training as early as day two when they start wearing infant onesies, desensitizing them to the sensation of wearing a service vest. For the next two years, the dogs experience various environments of training and socializing, preparing them for their future partner. At a few weeks old, the puppies go to
correctional facilities. Can Do Canines’ partnerships with seven local correctional facilities provide a mutually beneficial program for both inmates and puppies. Executive director Jeff Johnson says, “Dogs are magic that way, especially in men, who may have had a tough life and might be prone to a reaction of anger and violence … The dogs change everything.” Two of the facilities focus on weaning (slowly separating the puppies from their mother) plus crate and potty training. After five weeks in the facilities, the puppies move in with Puppy Program volunteers, who teach manners, obedience and general socialization. Around the age of 2, the dogs return to the main Can Do Canines facility for final training, where they will zero in on a specific assistance type. This phase of the process depends on a few factors individual to the dog’s personality and skill set. For example, if the dog is
Left: Abby Peterson. Right: Assistance dog Sonora wearing her Can Do Canines vest.
December 2023/January 2024
plymouthmag.com
19
A rope makes it easier to open the refrigerator when Sonora needs to fetch some juice.
extremely driven to work, sniffs endlessly and stays nearby, he/she might be best paired with someone needing diabetes or seizure assistance. Whereas a dog that is friendly, calm and patient could be perfect as an autism assistance dog. The trainers take all of these factors into account (along with the needs of those waiting for a service animal) and begin refining the dogs’ training. Once dog and owner are matched, Can Do Canines continues training to ensure the pair is compatible and confident together prior to graduating the program. “It’s phenomenal how well Can Do Canines trains the person,” Peterson says. “They’re in sync with the dog and
CAN DO CANINES 9440 Science Center Drive, New Hope; 763.331.3000; candocanines.org Can Do Canines @candocanines @CanDoCanines
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the client, even receptive to the needs of each person, adapting the training as needed. They make it so easy to pick up on and bond with your dog.”
THE PERFECT PAIR
Peterson and her assistance dog Sonora were matched within six months, but Peterson remembers vividly the day they first met. “I will never forget it. I came into the facility to meet her and start training together, and they said, ‘OK, we’re going to bring Sonora in now,’ and as soon as she saw me, she bolted over. They said they’ve never seen a dog run that fast toward a complete stranger, and they knew it was a perfect match,” she says. Sonora moved in with Peterson in June 2022, and the two have become best friends. But when it comes to working, Sonora is on the clock 24/7. “I go low (on my blood sugar) a lot, like maybe five times a week,” Peterson says. “The first way [Sonora] alerts me when I’m low is she’ll stare. It’s the funniest thing. She’ll look at me like, ‘Uh-oh, this is not good,’ and put a paw on me. If I don’t
acknowledge that, then she’ll boop me with her nose, and that I acknowledge. That’s her formal signal, so then I say, ‘Let’s check,’ do my finger prick and reward her. If I am low, I’ll have her go to the fridge and bring me a juice. She’ll take off to the fridge in a full sprint. She loves doing her job.” What might be even more impressive are the skills that Sonora has learned in the one short year of residing with Peterson. “She’s only trained to detect lows, but she’s picked up on highs and is alerting on them,” Peterson says. “She was never trained how to do that. She’s so smart.”
NEW OPPORTUNITIES
While placement with an owner is the main focus, Can Do Canines continues to seek opportunities for service dogs to step in and help out. In addition to the five assistance training programs, the organization has added facility dogs. In the case of M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital, Inka—one of three assistance dogs—resides with an employee of the hospital but also comes
December 2023/January 2024
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READY, SET, BAKE! When it comes to holiday baking, we have you covered. For our favorite festive recipes, visit: LundsandByerlys.com/HolidayBaking 3 4 5 5 V I C K S B U R G L A N E , P LY M O U T H , M N 5 5 4 4 7 L U N D S A N D B Y E R LY S . C O M | 7 6 3 - 2 6 8 - 1 6 2 4
to work with her. They make their rounds, and Inka demonstrates bravery and kindness to the pediatric patients on her floor. These strategic placements mean that hundreds of lives can be touched by just one dog. Next up for Can Do Canines? Building a new whelping center to breed and deliver new pups on campus, which will support the achievement of the goal to place 70 dogs per year over the next 10 years. This year, the organization hopes to graduate 52 dogs. The greatest challenge and need for Can Do Canines are volunteers, people who can house a dog anywhere from three days up to a year and a half. “We need all of that and in between,” Johnson says. “COVID-19 made volunteering a challenge because people got out of the habit, and getting them back in is a challenge. If we want to grow and serve even more people with disabilities, we have to have additional volunteers step in.” For those interested in getting started, Johnson’s advice is straightforward. “Dip your toe in, take a dog for a few days and see how it goes. I bet you’ll love it,” he says.
Car Accident Injury Specialists for over 35 years. Back Pain • Neck Pain Headaches • Sciatica Knee Pain • Shoulder Pain
18 20
WINNER
BEST OF
’21
WINNER
BEST OF
’22
1421 East Wayzata Blvd. Wayzata, MN 55391 Shawn Sailer D.C., Caroline Brost-Sailer D.C., Ryan Elton D.C., Barbro Brost D.C., Tyler Knutson D.C., Aarti Goyal D.C.
952.473.9637 • TheBrostClinic.com 21
Cassie Hendrickson
22
December 2023/January 2024
plymouthmag.com
all that
Glitters Local event planner shares dazzling designs for New Year’s Eve. Written by Josie Smith — Photos by Chris Emeott
Cassie Hendrickson knows how to make an impression. The micro-event planner initially gained a reputation for her intricately executed balloon garlands, but the party was just getting started. Hendrickson launched Pretty Creative Events in 2021 from her Otsego home. Soon, her colorful balloon garlands filled nearly every room. That’s when she knew it was time to move her growing business elsewhere. Today, Pretty Creative Events operates from a warehouse space in Plymouth, where her two children, Delilah (3) and Dash (7), gleefully join in on the fun alongside her event planning team. “They love blowing up balloons, and Dash loves to do the tear downs with
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me,” Hendrickson says. “He’s great at holding doors.” With a focus on small events, such as birthdays and showers, Hendrickson says her usual clientele is a hostess with the mostest. “Usually, it’s people who love to throw elaborate parties but don’t have time to coordinate it themselves,” she says. Hendrickson says she works in collaboration with her clients to narrow down their list of must-haves, whether that’s balloons, a beautifully designed dessert table or artful centerpieces. “We kind of do it all: creative balloon installations, flower installations and luxury backdrops. Every client receives a very custom experience,” Hendrickson says.
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Backdrops and Ball Drops When it comes to New Year’s Eve party planning, Hendrickson is happy to dole out some do-it-yourself advice.
Time Flies When You’re Having Fun The Vibe: Vintage yet timeless The Color Palette: Black, copper, cream and gold with touches of greenery The Highlight: A balloon garland with an interactive countdown “You could do a balloon pop every hour, on the hour, and in every balloon there’s a conversation starter,” Hendrickson says.
December 2023/January 2024
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Gentle & effective care...so you can enjoy life…and live well!
WINNER
BEST OF
’23
Chiropractic, Massage Therapy, & Acupuncture We are conveniently located near 694 and Hemlock Lane. Next to Perkins, just south of Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove. 7237 Forestview Lane N. Maple Grove, MN 55369
763-420-8595 www.bromanchiro.com
Providing MEMORY CARE with a LOVING KINDNESS
that respects the dignity of each resident.
Top Left: Personalized menus or “love letters” add a personal touch to the tablescape. “We do a lot of love letters for our clients, who have dinner parties, something as simple as saying, ‘Thank you for being here.’ Things that are thoughtful and intentional,” Hendrickson says. Top Right: Don’t rush to take down that holiday tree. Instead, turn it into your centerpiece. Hendrickson suggests hunting for items such as vintage clocks and old mirrors at second-hand stores, or searching free listings on Facebook Marketplace.
Memory care that celebrates each moment.
Bottom Left: Easy-to-handle charcuterie cups using martini glasses.
December 2023/January 2024
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Minnetonka & Plymouth www.GIANNAHOMES.org
Serving individuals with memory loss including Alzheimer’s Disease, Lewy body dementia, FTD, and Traumatic Brain Injury Contact Cari at
952.443.6113
or cari@giannahomes.org
Mind. Body. Spirit. At Gianna Homes we lovingly care for them all. 25
Take Me to Funky Town The Vibe: Fun, fresh and oh-so-sparkly The Color Palette: Silver and gold The Highlight: Introduce an element of whimsy to the evening by transforming your bathtub into a bar cart.
Pretty Creative Events, 2065 E. Center Circle; prettycreativeevents.com Pretty Creative Events @prettycreative.events
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Meet the Doctor Team
at VCA Animal Wellness Center
Left: Local craft stores are great places to source packs of small party favors like disco balls.
Bringing fear free veterinary visits to you and your pets
Below: Turn the tinsel up to 10 to create an eyecatching photo moment. “It’s always nice to have one focal point, so think of a fun backdrop [or] a pretty food spread,” Hendrickson says.
Learn more about fear free happy homes for your pet. Heidi Cohen Medical Director DVM
Justine Boschee DVM
Patrick Harlan DVM
Kira Hulsing DVM
7000 E. Fish Lake Rd. Maple Grove, MN 763.420.7958 • vcamaplegrove.com
Magazine(s) Ad will run: Plymouth Magazine, December 2023 Ad Size: 1/3rd square 4.625”x4.875” This proof does not reflect the image quality of the final printed piece. Photos or images may appear fuzzy due to the low-res format of this file. Please review CRITICAL information such as address, phone, and website.
We turn your house into the home of your dreams!
J Brothers Design l Build l Remodel 763.732.8731 • JBrothersRemodel.com • MN LIC #BC326186 December 2023/January 2024
plymouthmag.com
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O N T H E TOW N
HIT THE ICE The Plymouth Ice Center offers ways to skate and spectate year-round.
hub for skaters of all skill levels. “There are many things I enjoy about the ice center, but the most is the community that uses the facility,” says the PIC’s manager, Erik Halverson. “People are passionate about skating and playing hockey, and our building is one of the busiest in the state.” The three indoor ice sheets are home to the Providence Academy and Wayzata High School hockey teams, but that’s only the start. “We also host various youth games and tournaments throughout the winter months,” Halverson says. After the final buzzer, the rinks accommodate various open skate schedules and learn to skate classes. “These classes fill up quickly, so please register on the day registration opens to ensure your spot,” Halverson says. Before You Go Whether you’re planning to skate or spectate, be sure to dress yourself for temperatures between 40 to 60 degrees F. “If you are attending an open skate, the cost is $5 per person, and rental skates are $5 per pair,” Halverson says. “The cost for open hockey is $6 per person, and you must wear a helmet, hockey gloves and lower body protective equipment, i.e. shin pads.” —Madeline Kopiecki
Open Skate Schedule Tuesdays, noon–1:30 p.m. Fridays, 6:45–8:15 p.m. Sundays, 1:45–3:15 p.m. Adults Open Hockey Schedule Tuesdays, September–May 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Womens Open Hockey Schedule Wednesdays, September– May 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Youth Open Hockey Schedule June–July, times vary Schedules vary depending on high school games and tournaments. Stay up-to-date by visiting the
Plymouth Ice Center, 3650 Plymouth Blvd.; 763.509.5250; plymouthmn.gov
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PIC’s calendar at plymouthmn.gov.
December 2023/January 2024
plymouthmag.com
Photo: Plymouth Ice Center
BUI LT IN 1 9 97 , the Plymouth Ice Center—or to those in the know, “the PIC”—is a
l o ca l t h i n g s to se e a n d d o
Compiled by Elaina Mankowsi, Morgan Mcfadden and Emma Mehl
PILATES CLASSES LOCAL EVENTS
PRIVATE TRAINING PHYSICAL THERAPY
Holiday Lights at the Hilde 12/02 Bring your friends and family to walk around and see the winter and holiday
STRENGTH TRAINING MASSAGE AND MORE!
lights this season. All ages. Free. 3–6 p.m.
Hilde Performance Center, 3500 Plymouth Blvd.; 763.509.5000; plymouthmn.gov
Bach’s Concertos 12/08 The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra musicians and soloists perform five of Johann Sebastian Bach’s concertos. All
ages. $5–$28. 7 p.m. St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church, 17205 County Road 6; 651.291.1144; content.thespco.org
Acoustic Music Series 12/28 Enjoy a drink and join Christine Passig
$99 FIRST MONTH SPECIAL ALL THE CLASSES YOU CAN TAKE STARTING WITH PILATES PRINCIPLES.
2355 Polaris Ln N, Plymouth, MN 55447 952.476.0304 | contactpilatesmn@gmail.com
as she performs for the Acoustic Music Series. Ages 21 and older. Free. 6 p.m.
Luce Line Brewing, 12901 16th Ave. N.; 763.324.8114; lucelinebrewing.com
Karaoke at Inn Kahoots 01/04, 01/11, 01/18 and 01/25 Head to Inn Kahoots on Thursdays this January to stay warm and sing some karaoke. Ages 21 and older. Free.
7:30 p.m. Inn Kahoots Bar, 45 Hamel Road; 763.478.6070; innkahootsbar.com
Rescue Network 01/07 Come see dogs and cats coming to Plymouth to be adopted. Look on their event page to see which animals will be in attendance. All ages. Free. Noon.
PetSmart Plymouth, 4190 Vinewood Lane N.; 763.551.8999; facebook.com/plymouthpetsmart
To have your event considered: email plymouthmag@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.
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TA S T E M A K E R S
Good Grain How to get the most out of your granola. Written by Mollee Francisco
Minneøats; minneoats.com MINNEØATS @minneoats
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a word associated with health food, but what are the actual health benefits of granola, and how can you maximize them to start your day off right? Maria Sharperson and Allie Spadaro started selling bags of their Minneøats granola in 2020 when the pandemic forced them to push pause on their oatmeal catering business. Even after lockdowns ended and their catering came back, the duo continued to make granola. “We never thought we’d be a granola company,” Sharperson says. “It was purely a COVID-19 pivot.” Up until that point, granola had served solely as a topping for their Instagramworthy oatmeal bowls, but today, they bake around 300 pounds of crunchy granola clusters each week at MSP Kitchenry in Plymouth. “Now, we ship nationwide and are available at 15 local retailers,” says Sharperson. Distribution didn’t stop at 15, and Minneøats granola is continually accepting applications from new retailers in the Twin Cities and beyond. Developed in the mid-1800s to moderate acclaim, granola gained a foothold in the 1960s and 1970s as it became associated with the back-to-nature movement. It’s been a staple of the cereal aisle since. According to Hy-Vee registered dietitian Alea Lester Fite, traditional granola is a combination of rolled oats, nuts and a sweetener like sugar or honey. “Beyond these traditional ingredients, you can find varieties that include everything from seeds to dried fruit and a wide range of different spices and flavors,” Lester Fite says. Minneøats specializes in a Maple Almond Granola, containing oldfashioned oats and almonds. It is lightly sweetened with coconut flakes, sugar and pure maple syrup with hints of cinnamon
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Photo: Minneøats
G R A N O L A H AS LO N G B E E N
and Himalayan sea salt. “It’s the perfect sweet and salty taste,” Sharperson says. It’s sold in packages as small as 2 ounces and as large as 10 pounds. Sharperson likes that the Minneøats granola comes as small clusters instead of a bag of grains. “It’s perfect for breakfast or a snack-sized treat,” she says. It’s also a snack you can generally feel good about with the combination of good fats, fiber and heart-healthy oats. “The rolled oats in granola are a great source of fiber, protein, magnesium, iron and more,” Lester Fite says. “The nuts included provide another source of protein, as well as healthy fats. All this combined makes for a nutritious addition to your diet.” To maximize the nutrition value, both Sharperson and Lester Fite recommend pairing it with Greek yogurt. “You get added protein and calcium,” Sharperson says. Lester Fite recommends topping that with fresh fruit for additional fiber and nutrients.
Sharperson says the granola also makes a delicious addition to chia seed pudding for an Omega-3 boost, as well as smoothies. For a more decadent treat, Sharperson says it is equally delicious sprinkled on ice cream, topping apple crisp or drizzled with dark chocolate. When it comes to choosing a healthy granola among the myriad of options out there, Lester Fite says consumers should check labels. “Not all granolas are created equal, so it is always a good idea to check the nutrition label and read the list of ingredients” she says. “The main thing that health-conscious shoppers should look at when selecting a granola is the sugar content,” Lester Fite says. “Some granola options can be really high in added sugars.” Lester Fite recommends choosing a variety with 10 grams or less of added sugar per half cup serving. Sharperson says they are mindful and intentional about their ingredients, adding that they are proud of how clean their ingredient deck is.
Photo: xxxxxxxxx
New Location - New Look We love flooring! We also specialize in area rugs, counters, backsplash, custom railings and interior design. Check us out online or visit us at our new studio. Let’s start something new! Floors of Distinction 3555 Holly Lane N. Suite 60 763.553.1800 floorsofdistinction.com
Get the Most out of Your Granola Apple Nachos • 2 apples of your choice • 1/3 cup of natural nut butter • 1/4–1/3 cup of Minneøats Maple Almond Granola Wash the apples and cut the apples into 1/4-inch slices. Lay the apples on a plate with the apple slices facing up. Heat the nut butter either on the stove top or in the microwave until warm and slightly runny. Drizzle the nut butter on the apples. Top with Minneøats Maple Almond Granola. Visit plymouthmag.com for a Vegan Chia Seed Pudding recipe, made with maple-almond granola, natural nut butter, chia seeds and more.
Family owned and operated with a selection of 2,000+ frames and sunglasses. Six doctors are in office 7 days a week! We Know Eyes at Maple Grove Pearle Vision. Maple Grove Pearle Vision 13195 Weaver Lake Road 763.420.5112 maplegroveeye.vision 31
LAST GLANCE
Picture Plymouth Photographer’s curiosity reveals an aerial Etch A Sketch.
“I was curious what the fish houses looked like from the air. The sun was setting, and it was about 5 [degrees] F outside, so I figured I’d just take a few pictures and get back to the warm car. But when I saw all the random tracks in the snow and long winter shadows, I thought it looked really interesting. I think the long shadows and random lines through the snow make it look like a real life Etch A Sketch. I wasn’t sure if pointing into the sun was a good idea, but when I downloaded the photos that night, I was pleasantly surprised.” —Scott Anderson
Photographer: Scott Anderson
Title: Sunset Fishing (Medicine Lake) Equipment: DJI Mavic Air drone
Location: West Medicine Lake Park Category: Activities & Events Award: First
To view other Picture Plymouth photo contest winners, visit plymouthmag.com.
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ORTHOPEDIC URGENT CARE When your rec league rebel sustains a painful sprain or a DIY mistake causes a break, there is no time to waste. With TRIA’s “save my spot” feature for orthopedic urgent care, you can compare wait times and get in line before you’re out the door, helping you get seen faster. When that happens, it feels like we all win. It’s why you’re treated and how you’re treated by TRIA. tria.com/savemyspot
WALK-IN CARE | SAVE YOUR SPOT | OPEN 8 A.M. – 8 P.M. DAILY