Cities South - August 2026

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Four students shine in their respective fields, but they’re known for kindness

FROM THE EDITOR

Each year, our August/September issue highlights a few outstanding high school seniors (page 14), and I am unfailingly impressed with their accomplishments. As a panel reviewed the applications for this year’s group, I was not only inspired by their intelligence, community engagement and athletic talent, I noticed that one characteristic kept coming up for each student: kindness. These are young people who shine bright not only because they are smart and talented, but also because they are known for being caring. As a community, I think we can all be proud to be producing future leaders who are kind, as well as accomplished.

And I know they are not alone. We asked local school administrators to nominate the students for this feature, and it was incredibly hard to narrow down the field. I hope you enjoy getting to know these students as much as I did.

As I gear up my kids for another school year, I’m inspired for my own fall refresh. I always pick up a few fresh pens and notebooks when we’re out school supply shopping, but after chatting with Denise McBride, a clothing stylist and tailor from Prior Lake, I’m definitely inspired to add a few new pieces to my wardrobe (page 20). Thanks to the great advice from opticians at McDonald Eye Care Associates (page 10), it might be time for a new pair of glasses too!

But before my mornings get filled with a seemingly endless parade of school drop-offs, I’m determined to make the most of summer. I’m looking forward to at least one more day at the beach, a lazy afternoon on the boat and a last-minute dinner panic because I was so engrossed in gardening that I forgot to meal prep. On those nights, Pau Hana Restaurant and Bar (page 26) is one of my favorite dinner solutions. I am never disappointed with the Asian Slaw Salad with Furikake Tofu.

Whether or not the season brings a new school routine for you, I hope you’re able to make the most of our fleeting summer!

Liz Potasek liz@localmedia.co

On the Cover: Kiah Blalark, page 14

by: Chris Emeott

VOL. 4 NO. 4

August/September 2026

PUBLISHER

Susan Isay

EDITOR

Liz Potasek

MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Stewart-Hester

MANAGING EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

DIGITAL EDITOR

Madeline Kopiecki

COPY EDITORS

Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt

STAFF WRITERS

Kassondra Burtis, Ashley Cardona, Findlay Drabant, Emily Gedde, Maura Keller and Alexandra Tostrud

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Christopherson, Kathy Dawson, Judy Diller, Scarlett Larson, Angie Lueschen and Katie Tomsche

DIGITAL INTERN

Danielle Gallus

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Abigail Larson and Kate Thompson

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Kati Bachmayer, City of Lakeville ; Jeffrey DeMars, City of Prior Lake ; Jeanne Hutter, Lakeville Chamber of Commerce ; and Jenny Nagy, Prior Lake Savage Area Schools

SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR

Sarah Dovolos

ART DIRECTOR

Allison Nolden

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Jamie Klang

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yaz Lo

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Emeott

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Brittni Dye

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Lisa Stone

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Mimi Coz

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre and Sara Johnson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann

PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson

To subscribe to Cities South Magazines , please visit localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co, or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2026. All rights reserved.

TESTING FOR MENOPAUSE

An expert shares insights on the role of lab results when dealing with menopause symptoms.

Written by Elizabeth Millard

Numerous health conditions can be diagnosed through lab tests, including diabetes, high cholesterol, infections, and thyroid disorders, among many others. When it comes to assessing where a patient is in the menopause transition—and whether symptoms are related to that change—there isn’t a definitive test that can provide meaningful answers.

“Many women would love to have a test that tells them how close they are to menopause,” says Cari Erickson, C.N.M., N.P.-W.H., a certified nurse midwife with the OB/GYN department at HealthPartners Park Nicollet Women’s Clinic in Burnsville. “They may be experiencing classic symptoms like hot flashes, which are related to estrogen deficiency, but testing can’t tell you whether you’re in perimenopause or not.”

Here’s a look at why focusing on symptoms, rather than lab test numbers, is more effective when addressing menopause-related issues.

Estrogen fluctuates daily.

During perimenopause (the time leading up to menopause), ovaries make less estrogen and progesterone, hormones related to the menstrual cycle, which can impact bone, brain and heart health. If the body made a steady amount throughout life and there was a sudden plummet near menopause, testing those levels would make sense. But that’s not how it works, Erickson says.

Estrogen, in particular, fluctuates every day, and can

sometimes even double within a 24-hour period. That means doing a lab test of estrogen at one point in time doesn’t offer much insight into whether a patient is dealing with perimenopause.

Periods can be affected by several conditions. While it’s true that changes in menstrual cycles are a hallmark of perimenopause, irregular periods can happen for other reasons as well. Those can include endometriosis, polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, thyroid disorders, uterine fibroids and even nutritional deficiencies. “Fortunately, there are tests that can help us pinpoint if one of these issues is happening,” Erickson says. “These are the kind of possibilities we would rule out when trying to determine if your symptoms are related to perimenopause.”

Hot flashes aren’t always about menopause. Similar to irregular periods, hot flashes and night sweats are common in perimenopause, but may be caused by other factors, such as thyroid disorders or side effects from medications like blood pressure drugs or antidepressants.

The bottom line? It’s not possible to test to see “where you’re at” in terms of menopausal transition, but Erickson says lab tests can help determine if other health challenges are in play and mimicking perimenopause symptoms.

HealthPartners Park Nicollet Women’s Clinic 14101 Fairview Drive, Burnsville healthpartners.com/obgyn

Seasons Reading

This time of year marks a shift from summer to fall, and when that happens, you might need one of two things: a book to help you deny that summer is ending or a book that ushers you straight into fall.

The Shippers by Katherine Center Set sail with Jojo, who has always been bad at love but is now determined to win over the neighborhood boy who was her first crush during her sister’s destination wedding cruise. To do that, she’ll enlist her childhood best friend’s help in fake dating to make the first crush jealous. Foolproof, right? Jojo’s hijinks will help readers unwind from life and live a little longer in the warm breezes of summer.

Vigil by George Saunders Vigil’s main character is the ghost of a woman who died and now serves to guide dying people out of life on Earth. As she attempts to do her work, memories from her life surface along with griefs and longings about moments she missed or never got to live, all while she attempts to help the dying reconcile their lives and legacies. This is a perfect book to lead into fall.

Ashley Christopherson is the owner of Niche Books in Lakeville. Read more at nichebooksmn.com.

Fall Blooms

Late-season color doesn’t have to fade with summer. These 10 standout plants bring bold beauty while keeping pollinators buzzing well into autumn:

1. Asters: Cheerful, long-lasting daisy-like blooms that thrive in sun

2. Coneflower: Reliable favorite that adds structure and provides seeds for winter birds

3. Helenium: Rich, autumn-toned petals, thrives in full sun and benefits from deadheading

4. Heuchera: Vibrant foliage; great choice for shady spots

5. Japanese Anemone: Graceful, late-blooming flowers that shine in part shade

6. Mums: Classic fall color with full, bushy impact. Look for hardy varieties to enjoy again next year

7. Rudbeckia: Bright and abundant blooms with minimal care required

8. Russian Sage: Airy purple blooms with silvery foliage; aromatic and deer-resistant

9. Sedum: Tough, drought-tolerant and low-maintenance with seed heads that add winter interest

10. Turtlehead: Turtle-shaped flowers on tall stems; thrives in moist soil

Angie Lueschen is a plant-loving enthusiast and member of the Lakeville Area Garden Club.

A loom, a handful of colorful fibers and no rules: This is where Chiaki O’Brien found her artistic voice. While living in Japan in 1996, she discovered SAORI weaving, a philosophydriven approach that celebrates individuality over perfection. Though she knew little about weaving at the time, the experience immediately resonated, and now she introduces weaving to students through her classes at the Lakeville Area Arts Center.

O’Brien’s passion centers on the belief that everyone carries an “inherited creative sense.” She encourages weavers to trust their instincts rather than copy patterns, emphasizing that art doesn’t require formal training or technical knowledge to be meaningful. The result is a welcoming environment where participants can fully be themselves and experiment with curiosity “like we are 5 years old again.”

Scarlett Larson is the recreation program coordinator for the Lakeville Area Arts Center. Explore more art at lakevilleareaartscenter.com.

A Look That Lasts

Combine fit, function and fashion to define personal style with prescription glasses.

By Kassondra Burtis

A pair of prescription glasses makes it possible to see the world. They also influence how the world sees the wearer, so it’s important to find the right style that mixes current trends with staying power.

We asked the opticians at McDonald Eye Care Associates, a family-owned practice that’s served Lakeville for more than 40 years, how to pick the perfect pair with an eye on what’s trending. “There’s nothing more trendy than a perfect-fitting pair of glasses,” says optician Jordan McDonough. “A better-fitting pair of glasses is always going to look better than a trend that might not be made for your face shape.”

After working with an optician to find the perfect frame, there are some popular styles to consider for fall:

Classic Pattern

One style that has staying power and leaves room for color preferences is the tortoise shell. Optician Ben Wick is seeing a lot of this style right now. “Tortoise shells are the most neutral way of doing something interesting, and there are a million different tortoises, so there is something for everyone,” Wick says.

1990s Revival

Wick notes that often what is happening in the overall fashion world is reflected in eyeglasses. With 1990s and 2000s trends reemerging in fashion, glasses are following suit. Fellow optician Laney Warren notes this specifically with sunglasses. “We’re seeing a lot more of the sunglasses being smaller, which was a very ’90s look, becoming way more popular,” Warren says. “On the opposite end, the very big ’80s look, like with aviators, is popular too.”

Always in Style

Just like a little black dress, it’s never a bad idea to have a clean, simple, classic pair of eyeglasses that can go with anything. “The Kempers, from the Erkers brand, are our bread-and-butter frame,” Wick says. “It’s a frame that can complement anyone very easily. They have really nice details and are very well-made.”

Almost Weightless

Sometimes, it’s all about comfort. The barely noticeable, “I don’t even feel like I’m wearing glasses” feel can be the tipping point for some individuals, especially those with heavier prescriptions. The metal and acetate combination creates a durable, yet lightweight feel.

Extra Local Options

There are several Minnesota-based eyeglasses manufacturers, six of which McDonald Eye Care Associates carries in-store. Wick notes that the Minnesota brand options are wellconstructed and offer a more identifiable style than a national brand.

Dental care just down the street.

Spot On

A national service offers local dog owners extended outing options.

By Liz Potasek & Renée Stewart-Hester

Keeping dogs entertained can expand beyond running zoomies around the kitchen table or taking leashed loops around the neighborhood. Sniffspot is to dogs what Airbnb is to people—but for playtime, not sleep time.

Similar to other online marketplaces, connecting property owners with guests in search of long- or short-term stays, Sniffspot links hosts with dog owners who are searching for spaces for playing and running; trails suited for hiking; private lakes, ponds or pools ideal for swimming; and indoor venues

for agility or general exercise. “Our SniffSpot has been the location of doggie [birthday] parties, doggie weddings, and meet and greets for foster dogs and their prospective adopters,” says Jody Grack, who opened Crazy Acres Sniffspot in Lakeville in 2023.

Sniffspot, founded by David Adams in 2018 while he was living in Seattle, was inspired by his dogs Soba (black labrador and pit bull mix) and Toshii (basenji, husky, Pomeranian and Rhodesian ridgeback mix). “It was really difficult to get my dogs the

exercise they needed,” says Adams, who was living in a high-rise at the time.

Other dog owners can sympathize; it’s not always easy to get dogs the exercise and sensory experiences they require. Sniffspot, available via its website and a mobile app, allows dog owners to search for and reserve

GUEST GUIDE

One should always be a good guest even when paying for the experience through a rental. Sniffspot’s founder and CEO David Adams reminds pet owners:

» Always review and abide by the property owner’s rules.

» Arrive and depart within the agreed-upon booking time.

» Be sure the area is clear of people or other domestic animals before entering.

» Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting a rental space.

» Pick up after the dog at the end of the stay.

» Unless specified, restrooms won’t be available on site.

desired sites. Interested parties on either end of the arrangement should note that prices are set by the hosts. “Our SniffSpot is unique because it isn’t our backyard,” Grack says of Crazy Acres. “It is a private mini-dog park with its own parking area. It allows it to be contactless, which is the goal of Sniffpot.”

Today, Sniffspot has marked its territory in every state in the nation, Australia, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and South Africa. At the time this article was written, of the 30,000 host spots, 665 are in Minnesota, including Lakeville, Prior Lake and the Metro. As the business grows, Adams is resolute in maintaining Sniffspot’s original mission: make the world a more dog-friendly place. “Having hounds of my own that are people-shy and people-fearful, I can appreciate the desire to give those dogs an opportunity to ‘dog’ without worrying about them being triggered by humans,” Grack says.

Adams notes that acting as a Sniffspot host offers passive income. (Some make as much as $3,000 a month.) Hosts have some basic obligations to prepare the venue, but it’s a decidedly light lift. Earning income is certainly an incentive, but Adams is most impressed by another motivation of many of the hosts: They are simply “dog lovers helping other dog lovers.”

Sniffspot sniffspot.com

@sniffspots

TUESDAY

L&B PREMIUM DELI SLICING MEATS

THURSDAY

L&B SHAKEABLE SALADS

WEDNESDAY

HISSHO SUSHI ROLLS

FRIDAY

L&B ROTISSERIE CHICKEN

Written by By Liz Potasek — Photos by Chris Emeott

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Four students shine in their respective fields, but they’re each known for kindness.

As they return to school for their senior year, we’re celebrating the Class of 2027 by highlighting four students who were nominated by their schools for excelling in academics, arts or athletics. Meet Kiah Blalark of Lakeville North High School, a track star who balances academic excellence with a part-time job; downhill ski champ Brenna Peltz of Lakeville South High School, who is working toward a private pilot license; Justin Borg of Prior Lake High School, who has spent the past few years honing his communication and leadership skills; and Kaelyn Bjorklund of Lakeville South High School, who shines on the volleyball court and in the classroom.

Kiah Blalark

Lakeville North High School

Kiah Blalark moves fast. She’s not only the school record holder in the 100M, 200M and 4x100M relay, she’s also at the top of her class academically, holds down a part-time job at Gary’s Supper Club, serves on the student council, volunteers and serves as a faith leader both in school and at Hosanna Church in Lakeville.

And her exceptional speed doesn’t come at the expense of kindness or humility. “Kiah is a phenomenal student, athlete and person,” says Spanish teacher Sarah LaBelle. “She stands out for her strong work ethic, her positive attitude, her intelligence and her kindness towards everyone.”

Kiah says she juggles school, extracurricular activities, work and home life by setting priorities on her to-do list. “At the end of the day, I mentally review what I need to do and what I’ve already done,” she says. “I do my best to complete one task at a time and focus on what’s in front of me.”

This focus is very evident to those around her. “Without question, she is dedicated to delivering her best as an individual,” says head track coach Matt Sullivan. “This dedication to excel is rooted in her school, community and its people. Kiah isn’t dedicated only to her team and teammates; she is dedicated to making our community a better place.”

Which teacher or staff member had the biggest impact on you and why? From back in the fourth grade, the teacher that had the biggest impact on my life was Mrs. Donohue. She’s from the Prior Lake School District and recently retired after teaching at Glendale Elementary School. She had the biggest heart out of anyone I’ve known, and I knew when I walked into that classroom, I was safe. Safe to be myself, safe to learn [and] safe to grow.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? I’m really interested in astronomy. Looking at the stars is one of my favorite summertime activities, and I love learning about what’s outside of our atmosphere. Did you know that there’s more stars in the galaxy than there are grains of sand? That’s so fascinating to me and makes me even more grateful for the beautiful Creator that meticulously designed it all.

Describe yourself in three adjectives. Ambitious, sociable and faithful.

Brenna Peltz

Lakeville South High School

Considering her success in alpine skiing, it’s no surprise that Brenna Peltz’s happy place is Buck Hill. Brenna competed in the Minnesota State High School League State Championships four times, serves as captain of both Lakeville South Alpine Ski Team and Team Minnesota Alpine Ski Team, and is a member of the Buck Hill Ski Racing team.

In addition to her experience on the slopes, Brenna also stays busy with DECA, Faith Club, Link Crew, tennis and serves as a faith mentor to middle school students.

“She’s one of those rare students whose kindness makes others feel seen, whose

faith gives her strength and whose work ethic shines just as much in the classroom as it does on the ski slopes,” says Rachael Norton, school counselor.

Brenna credits her friends and family for helping her succeed. “Having such an amazing support system around me has truly set me up for as much success as possible,” she says, adding that she’s also discovered the importance of rest. “I’ve found that burnout can occur so quickly when I don’t take time to rest. By first finding rest through my faith, I am able to balance everything else that is going on around me.”

What is something that your peers might not know about you? Something that my peers may not know about me is that I am working on getting my private pilot license. My dad is passionate about aviation and

works as a pilot for Delta. Growing up, I have fond memories of flying back and forth from Lakeville to Iowa with him to visit our farm.

Aviation and learning more about planes has always interested me, and I am excited to learn more about flying from him.

What is your favorite day of the year?

My favorite day of the year is my birthday, December 24th!

What fictional character or celebrity do you identify with? A professional skier that I look up to is Paula Moltzan.

What skill or talent have you always wanted to learn? How to whistle.

What is the best class you took in high school? AP European History.

Justin Borg

Prior Lake High School

Justin Borg’s accomplishments aren’t limited to the halls of Prior Lake High School. After his sophomore year, Justin spent a week during the summer representing Minnesota as a state delegate to the National Student Council Vision Conference in Oklahoma City. “Serving as a Minnesota Association of Student Councils state delegate, Justin is now one of the most recognized and distinguished young leaders throughout the state of Minnesota,” says Nick Ingles, student council advisor and English teacher. “Most students would not be willing to sacrifice a week of their summer vacation for leadership training, but Justin jumped at the opportunity to broaden his life experience, collaborate with delegates from around the country, and overall become a stronger leader.”

That’s not to say Justin isn’t making an impact within his high school. “Justin possesses unmatched school spirit, which he demonstrated with gusto this fall hosting our Homecoming pepfest,” Ingles says.

Justin also co-founded the high school’s American Red Cross Club and Current Events Club, serves as the vice president of the State National Honor Society and he’s a member of the Animal Welfare Club, choir, leadership board for the Laker Leaders Group, National Honor Society, Student Advisory Group and Student Council. He aspires to become a lawyer and is a captain of the Mock Trial Team. “As a captain in Mock Trial, he excels in developing bonds with teammates and welcomes all with unmatched enthusiasm,” says Takuma Padilla, Mock Trial head coach.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? One thing many of my peers and all of my teachers may not know about me is that I have dyslexia. I was diagnosed in third grade, and I have never let it define me. Instead of viewing it as a limitation, I see it as a challenge that has made me more determined and resilient.

Describe yourself in three adjectives. Charismatic, witty and social.

What is your dream job? I want to be a lawyer and potentially go into politics.

Kaelyn Bjorklund

Lakeville South High School

Kaelyn Bjorklund is a force to be reckoned with on the volleyball court. She plays for both Lakeville South High School and the Northern Lights Volleyball club, and her accomplishments are vast: Amateur Athletic Union Volleyball All-American, 2025 Minnesota Gatorade Player of the Year and two-time Minnesota State High School League Volleyball State Champion, to name a few.

But it’s not necessarily her performance on the court that comes to mind when describing her. “Kaelyn has been a strong student-leader in our school from the time she came here as a ninth grader,” says Stephen Uphus, school counselor. “A driven, focused student, Kaelyn’s proclivity for athletic and academic excellence is only surpassed by her inclusive spirit and kindness demonstrated towards others.”

That balance of academics, athletics and connecting with others is definitely intentional. Kaelyn, who is also a part of Faith Club, says she manages all of her obligations by keeping a consistent schedule every day. “I write my assignments for the school week in a notability doc, so that I can check them off as I finish,” she says. “I make sure to find a balance in my sports, friends and school time.”

What is something that your peers might not know about you? My peers might not know that I have broken both wrists and one of my arms. Through these injuries, I learned gymnastics and ice skating are not the best sports for me.

What is your favorite day of the year? Any day in the summer.

What fictional character or celebrity do you identify with? I think I am like Pippi Longstocking because she was always true to herself, lived carefree and loved life, finding joy in everything around her.

Where is your happy place in the community? My happy place in the community is River Valley Church in Lakeville and Apple Valley.

What is your dream job? My dream job is to be a D1 volleyball coach at a high level program.

FASHION MATH

Five quality pieces equal a winning wardrobe.

If there’s one thing that Denise McBride learned after 44 years custom-tailoring clothes, it’s that there’s no substitute for fit and quality. As the owner of Styled By Denise in Prior Lake, McBride helps clients build their wardrobes for work and special occasions by helping them identify the pieces they need, picking the right fabrics and custom-fitting each piece.

Investing in high-quality clothing is not just a good look, McBride says, noting that it’s also better for the environment, as it creates less waste, and it makes it easier to get dressed each morning.

We asked McBride to highlight the five basic pieces that elevate any woman’s wardrobe, taking her from a day in the office to a weekend running errands:

Written By Liz Potasek — Photos by Chris Emeott

Like A Boss (page 21): Dress like a VIP in this suit from Midnight Oil. Stylist Denise McBride is wearing the Glam Stripe Denim Blazer ($750); Glam Stripe Flare Trouser ($380); J. Hilburn’s White Diamond Jet Operato Texture button-down shirt ($194); and a belt from her own collection. Make-up by Faye Onasanya, @fayecesbyfaye

Weekend Style (left): Run a few errands without worrying about who sees you while you’re out and about. Denise McBride’s gold knit crewneck, which came without tags from a consignment store, is paired with a necklace from Fallon Art Advisory ( @fallon.art.advisory) and Neems bespoke dark denim straight leg stretch high rise jeans ($229). The white button-down from J. Hilburn continues to prove its worth.

Blazer and Trousers

A well-fitted suit can be the foundation of any wardrobe, especially if you pick a color and material neutral enough to work through multiple seasons. But that function doesn’t need to come at the cost of personality. Midnight Oil’s Glam Stripe Denim blazer and trousers are dark blue with subtle gold stripes. The pieces can be worn together or separately, and the classic color and pattern easily work in all four seasons.

Knit Crew

If there’s no time to find a beautiful knit sweater, like the one McBride is wearing from a consignment shop, McBride suggests one from J. Hilburn. It might look like a basic T-shirt, but J. Hilburn’s Wool Cashmere Jersey Knit is the epitome of quiet luxury. The fabric and drape of the shirt elevate any outfit and plays well as a base layer or all by itself.

Nice, but Not Too Formal: When Denise McBride wants to command a room without looking too serious, this knee-length De Nimes Duster Coat from Midnight Oil ($795) does the trick. McBride pairs it with the same custom Neems jeans from her Weekend Style look on page 22 and the hardest-working white buttondown around from J. Hilburn; the belt is an accessory from her own closet.

Estate, Guardianship and Fiduciary Professionals

Jeans

In a world filled with leggings and joggers, there are occasions that just call for a pair of jeans, and custom-made jeans can be a life changer. McBride works with Neems, a company that specializes in jeans that fit clients’ figures. Customers pick the style, wash, rise, fabric and length, and Neems sends a link to its body scanner. Neems will also clone a shopper’s favorite pair of jeans.

White ButtonDown Shirt

This shirt is a must when it comes to playing with layers. It fits under a sweater or blazer in the winter and over a tank top or camisole. It also looks great by itself. McBride is wearing a White Diamond Jet Operato Texture button-down from J. Hilburn.

Styled By Denise denisestyled.me @denisestyled.me

Taste of Hawaii

PAU HANA RESTAURANT AND BAR BRINGS VACATION VIBES YEAR ROUND.

Written by Emily Gedde

No matter the Minnesota season, the vibe of Pau Hana Restaurant and Bar removes whatever weather is happening outside and makes you feel like you’re on a mini vacation. Inside Pau Hana, the look of the South Metro fades away, and suddenly, you feel like you’re in the islands. The lights are bright, the colors are vibrant and the air feels almost tropical. “People don’t necessarily expect to find this here,” says Ben Felton, the now former Pau Hana director of operations.

Pau Hana means “after work,” a term Hawaiians use to relax, gather and unwind. Felton says it’s like a happy hour but more intentional. “It shapes everything we do here,” he says. “We want to take people to the islands. It’s meant to be very relaxing.”

Since August 2021, the Savage location has been bringing the vibes of Hawaii to the suburbs. Owner and culinary director Chris Ikeda spent several years in Hawaii, learning to cook traditional Hawaiian Regional Cuisine (HRC), which was developed on Kona, Hawaii’s Big Island, in the early 1990s. This type of cuisine was influenced by flavors brought by people who immigrated to Hawaii and brought culinary techniques from China, Japan, Korea, the Pacific Islands, Philippines, Portugal and Puerto Rico. At Pau Hana, all of those flavors can be found on the menu.

What stands out about the restaurant is its highquality ingredients, Felton says, adding that this is how Pau Hana really took shape—by blending HRC with total freshness. Every week, fresh fish are flown in from the Honolulu Fish Auction, with offerings and specials changing frequently based on availability and seasonality. “Tuna and mahi mahi, all the fresh fish,” says executive chef Curtis Dettman. “We get a menu board sent to us, and the fish are flown in. I think that’s one of the biggest things we offer: fresh, good food.”

One of the most popular items on the menu is the Loco Moco that Pau Hana elevates with Japanese golden curry. Felton says that dish is one of the first that comes to most people’s minds when they think of Hawaiian cuisine. “Ours is delicious,” he says.

Dettman says the menu accommodates specific dietary needs, offering protein options for diners who don’t eat meat as well as items for glutensensitive diners.

“It’s a good mix, and people trust us and end up really liking something they might not have expected to like.”

CURTIS DETTMAN, EXECUTIVE CHEF

For anyone in a hurry, Pau Hana Express offers a grab-and-go mixed plate option, another popular island life element. The plates mix rice, salad and a choice of protein for a quick lunch option. “That’s very popular with our guests,” Felton says.

Balancing the traditional flavors of Hawaii with Minnesota palates is another strength of Pau Hana. Dettman, who grew up on a farm, understands that the not-so-adventurous restaurant goers might be a little leery. “I grew up on ham, cheese and goulash,” he says with a laugh. “I take what people are familiar with here in Minnesota and elevate it with the Hawaiian vibe. It’s a good mix, and people trust us and end up really liking something they might not have expected to like.”

The cocktail menu also deserves some attention. Felton says the Mai Tai, made with fresh juice, is a fan favorite. The entire drink menu aims to complement the food. “That’s the intention with it,” he says. “It’s more elevated and balanced.”

That taste of the tropics permeates the entire restaurant. “You walk in and everyone is smiling,” Dettman says. “There’s great energy, and you feel like you’ve walked into vacation.”

Pau Hana Restaurant and Bar pauhanamn.com @pauhanamn

First Responder Face Off

Police and firefighters play hockey to raise money for a public safety foundation.

What started as an attempt to bring families and friends of first responders together has grown into a highly anticipated summer get-together.

The Lakeville Police and Lakeville Fire departments are combining their shared commitment to service by teaming up to host their first-ever First Responders Hockey Game on August 1.

Starting at 1 p.m. outside Hasse Arena, the police and fire departments have planned activities for the community, including face painting, first

responder vehicles, grilling, a K-9 demonstration, a ladder truck, a state patrol helicopter, yard games and more.

The main attraction is the hockey game between the fire and police departments at 5 p.m. In addition to the main game, mini games will be played by peewee or mite-level teams during intermissions.

Although attendance is free, there are opportunities to support the community, including purchasing food for sale and tickets for raffle prizes. Proceeds from these efforts will go toward the Lakeville

Public Safety Foundation, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting first responders in the community.

“We don’t want this to be a one-time game,” says firefighter Cory Blanchard, who helped organize the event with officer Mitchell Nelson and firefighter Cory Koscielski. “We want it to be something where we can continue to grow, continue to raise money and provide another vehicle for us to connect with the community a bit more.”

—Abigail Larson

What’s truly rewarding is watching how leadership, vision, and smart decision-making, help make the possible, possible for Crown Bank clients. Earning the C-Level & Le adership Award from Finance and Commerce is just a bonus. Congratulations, Je . What can we make possible for your business?

Cotton Candy Sky

After an evening summer rainshower in June, Lakeville resident Luann Mindeman looked outside her window into her backyard and saw a beautiful swirl of vibrant pink and purple in the sky. She walked outside to one of the five ponds in the Avonlea neighborhood and captured this serene moment of a post-rain-shower glow reflecting off the water. —Abigail Larson

FOCUS ON CITIES SOUTH

Photographer: Luann Mindeman Title: After the Rain Equipment: iPhone X

Location: Lakeville Category: Places Award: First Place

To view other Focus on Cities South photo contest winners, visit citiessouthmags.com.

THE BEST IN THE FIELD. FOCUSED ON YOU.

At Summit Orthopedics, we’re proud to be Minnesota’s only top-ranked orthopedic and spine outpatient surgery center as recognized by U.S. News & World Report. And while our expertise sets us apart, it’s how we care for people that defines us. Even after thousands of procedures, we treat each patient like the only one.