Woodbury - August 2026

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Meet standout students from the Class of 2027

Built for

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Monday–Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Saturday–Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Scan the QR code to learn more.

$1+ Billion Sold 27 Years of

Luxury real estate is not simply sold—it is strategically positioned, expertly marketed, and thoughtfully negotiated. As a

Unique solutions for living.

Honored to be named Woodbury’s Best Remodeler for the 15th time. Thank you to our clients and community for your trust.

KEY FACTS ABOUT CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION LABS

A top interventional cardiologist provides insights on what these specialized units provide.

Written by Elizabeth Millard

Despite its name, a cardiac catheterization (cath) lab isn’t a standard laboratory where research is done—instead, this specialized hospital unit provides crucial services for those with cardiovascular issues, says Stephen George, M.D., an interventional cardiologist practicing at Regions Hospital in St. Paul and HealthPartners Heart Care at Lakeview Hospital in Stillwater. Here, he discusses key facts about what’s involved.

Catheterization labs provide diagnosis.

A cardiac catheterization—also called a heart cath—is a minimally invasive procedure that involves a thin, flexible tube (called a catheter) guided from a blood vessel in the arm or leg, back to the heart. Usually done by an interventional cardiologist, a heart cath is used to evaluate issues like chest pain or or shortness of breath and helps to diagnose cardiac issues coming from coronary disease, electrical problems or heart valve problems, Dr. George says.

Because the catheterization can utilize a special contrast dye, it allows the doctor to see blood flow clearly, which can spot blockages or narrowed arteries. That provides different information than other tests like an echocardiogram. It can also measure blood pressure and oxygen in different chambers of the heart and take a small biopsy for testing heart tissue.

Treatments are provided as well.

Using catheterization allows a cardiologist to perform therapeutic procedures, Dr. George says. This might happen at the same time as getting a diagnosis. For example, there may be a small stent placed in a narrowed artery, a faulty heart valve can be replaced or repaired or a pacemaker can be placed. “There are many procedures that can be done in the cath lab, which is what makes it so valuable to patients,” he says. “These provide very effective options that don’t involve more major, openheart surgery.”

There are two locations and one dedicated team.

About three years ago, the Lakeview Hospital cardiac cath lab in Stillwater was opened as a way to give patients in eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin more options, and having care closer to home is a major advantage. “With heart issues, timing matters,” Dr. George says. “Having a cath lab in Stillwater allows us to treat someone with no delay in care; it’s tremendously beneficial. If there are very complex blockages or a need for open heart surgery, we have the ability to transfer to Regions Hospital, but it’s the same team that rotates to both locations. That allows us to have continuity of care, and to make sure our patients get what they need.”

Lakeview Hospital, 927 Churchill St. W., Stillwater Regions Hospital, 640 Jackson St., St. Paul healthpartners.com/regions-lakeview-heart

FROM THE EDITOR

Did you know that it takes 1,000 books to classify as a private library?

Although that number is an informal consensus agreed upon by book lovers, I’m taking it as a personal goal to reach that in my own collection. My husband has even promised me that one day—most likely far in the future—we will have a full library in our home. For now, I’m happy with my 381 books. (At least, that’s how many I have at the time of writing this. I’m confident that number is probably closer to 400 now that we’re in August!)

Also hovering around that number is the number of books written by Thomas Kingsley Troupe. The Woodbury resident has penned over 400 children’s books since 2008. Patrick’s Super Socks marked his first book release, which still holds a special place in his heart. “When I first held Patrick’s Super Socks, I was getting teary-eyed looking at the alligator on the cover,” Kingsley Troupe says. Learn more about his journey to publication on page 26.

This month marks our annual education issue, which includes our beloved Senior Spotlight article. Meet three students from the Class of 2027 who are leaving an imprint on their school communities, including East Ridge, Stillwater and Woodbury high schools. Hear from each student in their own words on page 20. Also, New Life Academy is celebrating big this 2026–27 school year, commemorating its golden anniversary with special festivities. Take a look back at the last 50 years, hear from local alumni and discover what’s yet to come on page 18.

Readers, don’t forget to submit your photos to the annual Focus on Woodbury photo contest, which is open now through 5 p.m. August 31. I always look forward to seeing photos from your perspective, whether it’s a favorite spot around town or furry friends. Visit woodburymag.com to learn more and submit your photos.

I hope you enjoy the last days of summer! Cheers,

Hailey Almsted hailey@localmedia.co

On the Cover: Mannat Kamal, page 20

VOL. 22 NO. 1

August 2026

PUBLISHER

Susan Isay

EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Renée Stewart-Hester

MANAGING EDITOR

Hailey Almsted

DIGITAL EDITOR

Madeline Kopiecki

COPY EDITORS

Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt

STAFF WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angie Hong, Mark Lange, Rachael Perron and Katie Tomsche

DIGITAL INTERN

Danielle Gallus

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Abigail Larson and Kate Thompson

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Shawn Hogendorf, South Washington County Schools ; Michele Magistad, Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce ; Sue McKeown, Resident ; and Shelly Schafer, City of Woodbury

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

At Saint Therese of Woodbury, every detail is designed to help residents feel comfortable, connected and at home. From welcoming gathering spaces to enriching amenities and supportive services, our community offers opportunities to enjoy each day with confidence and ease.

Residents enjoy a variety of amenities, including:

• A warm saltwater pool and fitness center

• On-site bistro, library and Club Room

• Chapel and spiritual support

• Salon, barber shop and boutique

• Serene gardens and a therapeutic labyrinth

With maintenance-free living and a full continuum of care, you can enjoy today while planning confidently for tomorrow.

See why families have trusted Saint Therese of Woodbury for the past 10 years.

Caught in Motion

Hobbyist photographer Kent Nye came to Woodbury Days ready to capture motion with a technique called panning. “With panning, you can keep the subject sharp and the background moving,” he says. Nye was inspired by the speed of the ride and the festivities of the fair. “I like creating images that show how fun the event is,” he says. —Kate Thompson

Kent

Woodbury Leadership Academy Grows With its Students

Woodbury Leadership Academy (WLA; wlamn.org) is enhancing opportunities and expanding its programming for upper grades, offering the chance for K–12 students to grow through the same learning environment.

This new expansion, which includes the addition of new facilities, means families will not have to select a different school as their

student ages. And the new upper grade building is slated to be completed this fall. According to Jonas Beugen, WLA’s superintendent, eliminating this transition “creates a more tailored experience because we already know each student and what their needs are,” he says.

As the school grows, the aim is to maintain “a small-school feel with big-school

opportunities,” says Lizz Sable Stauning of WLA. Beugen also emphasized expanding upon its extracurriculars and creating stronger support for programs, such as PSEO. He says, “We want to make sure our students feel supported.” Moving forward, Beugen says, “I’m most excited to see the first students who’ve completed the program.” —Kate Thompson

Nordic Dill-light

This August, celebrate the end of summer with this Minnesota State Fair-inspired cocktail. This briny twist on a Tom Collins will remind you of deep fried pickles, pickles on-a-stick, delicious pickle pizza or any of your favorite pickle-based fair bites. It incorporates Minnesotan roots with the Scandinavian spirit aquavit, which is a neutral grain or potato-based spirit that is redistilled with herbs and botanicals, most popularly caraway or dill—sometimes both!

» 1 ½ oz. dill aquavit (like Gamle Ode)

» ½ oz. simple syrup

» ½ oz. lemon juice, freshly squeezed

» ¾ oz. pickle juice or brine

» 1 dash orange bitters

» club soda, to top (approximately 2.5 oz.)

» dill pickle, to garnish

» lemon wheel, to garnish

In a tall glass (12 oz.) with ice, combine ingredients. Gently stir. Garnish with dill pickle and lemon wheel. Enjoy!

Mark Lange of Woodbury is the owner of the Minnesota School of Bartending. Sip more at mnschoolofbartending.com.

Taking Education Outdoors

It’s a sunny fall day, and a throng of exuberant sixth graders is spread out along the St. Croix shoreline, gathering water samples, searching for aquatic macroinvertebrates and filling the air with a loud and joyous sound.

Since 2021, Carpenter Nature Center and the South Washington Watershed District have collaborated to provide watershed education for students at South Washington County Schools. Through this program, the kids participate in five hands-on lessons at school and then enjoy a capstone visit to the nature center, where they put their learning into practice.

Research shows that nature-based education promotes creativity and problem solving, improves academic performance, reduces ADHD symptoms, encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and improves social

relations and self-discipline. Carpenter Nature Center is one of several local nature centers that offer school and public programming.

Looking for fun, family-friendly nature experiences this fall? Check out one of these nearby destinations:

» Belwin Conservancy, Afton

» Carpenter Nature Center, Hastings and Hudson, Wisconsin

» Dodge Nature Center and Shepard Farm, Cottage Grove

» Sally Manzara Nature Center, Lake Elmo

» Tamarack Nature Center, White Bear Lake

Angie Hong coordinates the East Metro Water Education Program. Find her on social media @mnnature_awesomeness.

The Sound of Music

Woodbury Middle School students share the stage with a professional musician.

By Emily Gedde

Young musicians at Woodbury Middle School experienced an exciting musical opportunity thanks to a grant from the St. Croix Valley Foundation, a public charity that facilitates local and regional grant programs. This past May, band students were able to learn from and perform with Amy Schendel, D.M.A. “Dr. Amy Schendel is an in-demand trumpet soloist and instructor,” says Sara O’Connor, band director. “Her skills and background will provide students with a high-quality learning experience.”

The experience is unique for middle school students, and O’Connor says she is grateful

that the St. Croix Valley Foundation found value in the opportunity to award the grant and support the partnership. “I think it means a lot to students to have this special opportunity, especially early in their musical development,” she says.

Schendel, an adjunct instructor of trumpet at University of Northwestern–St. Paul, not only mentored students in the classroom, but she also joined the group onstage for a performance of Frostfire, written by composer Nicole Piunno for young musicians working with a professional trumpet player. “It’s a lot of fun to play, and hopefully students [felt] that energy

and joy,” Schendel says of the piece.

While working with students, Schendel says she is hopeful students see the joy she personally gets from music and that they can feel that too. “It’s exciting to play for others and be able to share ways they can improve on the instrument,” she says.

O’Connor agrees. “When students have opportunities to flourish in the arts, they can then bring all of these skills to other parts of their lives,” she says. “Experiences in the arts can help them be positive, successful contributing members of their community.”

For the St. Croix Valley Foundation,

Thanks to a grant from the St. Croix Valley Foundation, band students at Woodbury Middle School learned from professional trumpet soloist Amy Schendel, D.M.A., and performed a piece alongside her during their May concert.

experiences like this are why the Musical Education Grant program was formed. “Musical education enriches students academically and creatively and helps build confidence, collaboration and a sense of belonging,” says Angie Pilgrim, the foundation’s vice president of community impact. “By providing grants and resources to schools and programs, we help ensure these opportunities reach students who might not otherwise have access.”

Schendel says these possibilities help keep music going and shows students what’s possible. “We are growing the next generation of music lovers through these opportunities,” she says.

O’Connor hopes this project, along with others, helps inspire students to continue playing their instruments and being involved in music. She says the performance is more than playing an instrument, but creating a long-lasting memory. “You never know what experience might be the spark that inspires students,” she says. “When students look back on this experience years from now, I hope they remember the sound and expertise of Dr. Schendel’s playing and how they were able to be part of a special performance with her.”

Amy Schendel amyschendel.com

St. Croix Valley Foundation scvfoundation.org

St. Croix Valley Foundation

Woodbury Middle School wms.sowashco.org

Woodbury Middle School

Building Confidence and Connection

A one-day retreat empowers girls before they enter sixth grade.

By Hailey Almsted and Ashley Cardona

Returning to school after summer break is never easy, and the transition from elementary to middle school brings even more to navigate. The You R You retreat, hosted by United Way Washington County-East (UWWCE) at Hidden Pines Ranch in Stillwater, is designed to catch girls at this crossroads.

“We landed on sixth grade because it’s a year of transition, and that can be really tough,” says Kristin Kroll, executive director of UWWCE. The organization is a member of the Woodbury Area Chamber of Commerce, and serves all of Washington County, including Woodbury. It saw a clear pattern emerging in county-wide student surveys and area healthcare reporting: Young girls are struggling. “We wanted to go upstream,” Kroll says. “How can we get ahead of the anxiety and social pressures? How can we make a difference before a crisis hits?” The answer emerged in the form of a targeted one-day retreat.

The event features expert-led sessions on topics relevant to this age group, along with classic summer camp activities, like friendship bracelet making and yoga. “From the beginning, we knew it would be important to bring in professionally trained partners,” Kroll says. Representatives from area nonprofits, including FamilyMeans and Tubman, cover three core areas: body positivity, healthy relationships and overcoming challenges.

The commitment to high-quality programming means the girls in attendance leave with practical tools that are immediately useful. At the inaugural You R You retreat in August 2024, a Tubman session on healthy relationships, with “red flag” and “green flag” exercises, offered specific examples of what is healthy and what isn’t—an important framework for navigating the new complexities of middle school social circles.

In a session about coping with anxiety, a mental health specialist from FamilyMeans encouraged girls to try sucking on a piece of sour candy to help reduce anxiety. “I never knew that,” Kroll says. “They’re learning all these tools that hopefully help them feel more confident and empowered as they head back to school.”

The retreat is a collaborative effort with UWWCE’s Women United, and around 50 volunteers of all ages come to support 80–100 attendees. Anne Bunkers, owner of Mainstream Boutique in Woodbury, has been involved with the retreat as a volunteer since its inception; her husband, Michael Wilhelmi, also serves on the UWWCE board. “I think we can all remember going into middle school and how scared and out of place we may have felt,” Bunkers says. “This camp provides a safe and encouraging space, where these young women can connect with mentors, form positive friendships and learn skills related to leadership, wellness, self-esteem, mental health and personal growth.”

Connecting older girls with the younger girls creates an immediate bridge. The high schoolers can share stories—not knowing where the band room was or forgetting their locker combination—which validates the younger girls’ feelings and reminds them they aren’t alone. “It also gives them

the opportunity to foster new relationships with the others who are there facing similar situations,” Bunkers says. “UWWCE and You R You provide a safe place for these young women to come together for a day to do this.”

The mentorship benefits the older girls too. “It reinforces the value of being part of something larger than themselves,” Kroll says. “Supporting [the attendees’] mental health, their confidence and their ability to say, ‘Yes, it’s new. Yes, it’s different, but I can do it,’ is a really special thing.”

United Way Washington County-East uwwce.org

United Way Washington County-East

Golden Jubilee

Take a look at the beginning, growth and future plans of New Life Academy.

Written by Findlay Drabant

In January 1977, a small group of preschoolers gathered inside a borrowed church in South St. Paul as part of a pilot program for a school that didn’t yet exist.

There was no campus, no guarantee it would last—just two teachers, Patti Wiens and Sherry Strong, 10 children ages 3 and 4, and a question for their parents: Are you going to be behind us in this school adventure? “They said, ‘Absolutely—we’re behind you,’” Patti recalls. That fall, New Life Academy opened its doors for the first time.

Now, half a century later, the private Christian school in Woodbury is preparing to celebrate a major milestone while looking ahead to what comes next. The school, which serves over 820 students from pre-K to grade 12, is a ministry of New Life Church, which

held its first service in October 1976.

“Fifty years is a long time … There’s a lot of excitement, and there’s a lot of hope for the future,” says Brett Lilly, executive director of the ministry and lead pastor. To commemorate the anniversary, the school will host a public celebration from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. on October 3; an anniversary church service at 10:30 a.m. November 1; and a Legacy Dinner slated for 5–8 p.m. January 16, 2027 (registration required). “We’re working really hard to honor the past and appreciate those that laid the foundation and really worked hard to build this place,” Lilly says.

In 1976, after New Life’s first service, Patti’s husband, Dick Wiens, began his search for a place to establish both a church and a school. On his days off, he drove in every direction,

looking for the right community. That search eventually led him to Woodbury.

After visiting farms throughout the area, Dick approached a property owner along Bailey Road about purchasing his land. The owner initially declined but called back the next day. Patti recalls how the owners said they hadn’t slept all night and believed they were called to sell Dick the land. That 30-acre property included a house, a barn and a pond—and would later become the site of New Life Academy.

Today, the school is planning to expand its campus by purchasing an additional 30 acres adjacent to its current property. With waitlists already in place for multiple grades, Lilly says the expansion will accommodate growing enrollment.

The plans also include additional green space and a year-round sports facility designed to serve both students and the broader community. Lilly says the school hopes to host tournaments and other events that could bring visitors and additional revenue to Woodbury. An auditorium is also in the works to support expanded arts programming.

Lilly says New Life’s focus goes beyond just academics. “It’s not just moving from one grade to the next,” he says. “It’s being part of something bigger than yourself.”

John Horner is an alumnus who has remained involved with New Life since graduating in 2014 and met his wife, Sydney Horner, a 2015 graduate, at the school. “We are high school sweethearts,” he says. Now, the couple has two daughters at the school—a 7-year-old in first grade and a 5-year-old in pre-K—and John coaches the varsity baseball team. “I think what really drives the school is the staff … their dedication and their love for the students,” John says. “When you walk into the school, it feels like your second home.”

Woodbury Leadership Academy (WLA) continues to grow and offer more opportunities, yet keep class sizes small. This is what creates the community we are known for. A place where students are loved, known, and challenged. Learn how WLA can be a good fit for your family.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Meet standout students from the Class of 2027.

Written by Hailey Almsted — Photos by Chris Emeott

Back to school season carries its own special energy—one of fresh starts, renewed routines and excitement for what’s ahead. It’s also a time to reflect on the students who shape the spirit of their schools and community in lasting ways. As we do each year, Woodbury Magazine shines a spotlight on a remarkable group of young people who are doing just that: leaving their mark well beyond the classroom

Earlier this year, we connected with area administrators, teachers and school staff who sent in nominations for graduating seniors (Class of 2027) who live in Woodbury and exemplify the best of their school communities. A panel carefully reviewed every nomination, which provided insight into each student—but we wanted to go a step further. Now, we invite you to meet these standout students: Mannat Kamal, Oluwaseyi “Daniel” Ogungbe and Riddhi Singhvi.

Learn more about these talented students at woodburymag.com.

“Mannat is a natural leader—kind, openminded, assertive (when necessary), thoughtful, intelligent, driven, empathetic. In National Honor Society (NHS), she has jumped at leadership opportunities from Mock Election to Coffeehouse auditions chair. Mannat thrives on being involved and on helping make WHS a meaningful place for students.” —Rachel Nicholas, NHS advisor

“Student Council is often an unseen spotlight, where meaningful work happens behind the scenes to serve the student body. Mannat is no stranger to the stage and its bright lights, yet she also shines within Student Council—earning the respect of her peers as she leads and serves with quiet confidence and steady strength.” —Hollie Meixner, Student Council advisor

How do you balance academic demands, extracurricular activities and personal responsibilities outside of high school?

Maintaining a good academic standing, along with extracurricular leadership and personal life, requires organization, commitment and leaves no room for procrastination, but what really set me up for success was learning to truly enjoy the things I dedicate my time to. When my mindset around responsibilities

begins to focus instead on opportunity, work starts to feel less like work. Anytime I feel overwhelmed with my workload, I just remember how privileged I am to be able to be stressed over school, clubs and friends. It also helps that I have such a great support system at home to take some of the pressure off!

What is something that your peers might not know about you?

I love to travel. I’ve been to 30 different states, and I’m passionate about seeing more of the world. I love seeing different cultures, trying new foods and going on adventures … It’s super important to be a well-traveled person, and one of my dreams is to go backpacking through Europe one day.

Self-description:

Ambitious, driven and genuine

Dream job: Business management, but being a wedding planner always sounded fun to me!

Favorite class: Criminology

Favorite day of the year: The Fourth of July because I love the summertime, fireworks and the atmosphere.

Oluwaseyi “Daniel” Ogungbe

Saint Thomas Academy

“As the son of Nigerian immigrants, Daniel’s family and life experiences have cultivated a maturity not often seen in teen boys … Daniel has had a profound impact on the academy’s culture through his even-handed co-leadership of the United Culture Club—a club civilly building awareness, knowledge and understanding around divisive issues … He and his co-leader also reliably spearhead the school’s cultural celebrations, such as Chinese New Year, Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month, planning educational, social and philanthropic activities and enthusiastically marketing them to students. Daniel’s father has taught his sons to value education and the vast opportunities available to them … This is evident in the way Daniel applies himself to every pursuit and relates to those around him.” —Rick Stevson, associate dean and moderator of the United Culture Club

How do you balance academic demands, extracurricular activities and personal responsibilities outside of high school? Setting my priorities. I learned how [to] do homework for harder classes first, and set aside more time for studying … [and] committing myself to activities that I know that I can handle rather than overwhelming myself.

Which staff member had the biggest impact on you? Mr. Stevson, the head track coach. He taught me the value of honoring commitments and the importance of following through with my word … It is a lesson that goes beyond simply big things but relates to day-to-day life. Being able to dedicate yourself to something and follow through shows someone’s character.

Self-description:

Relatable, genuine and charismatic

Dream job: Financial manager

Favorite day of the year: Easter is my favorite day of the year … One of my favorite things to do on Easter is to enjoy a variety of different foods.

Favorite quote: “I trained four years to run 9 seconds.” —Usain Bolt

“In 2023, SAHS lost our Business Professionals of America (BPA) advisor who took a position with a different school. In order to ensure that the BPA club would continue, Riddhi recruited students to join the club … In addition to being an outstanding academic student, Riddhi is also a four-time Volunteering Gold award winner, a threetime National qualifier in the Minnesota Aspirations in Computing and is competing for the second year in SAHS’ HOSA Club. She is a unique member of our student body and a future leader [and] a worthy recipient of this recognition.” —Robert Bach, principal

Which teacher had the biggest impact on you? Ms. Krajewski, my anatomy and physiology teacher and previous HOSA advisor. Her passion for science helped me discover my love for creating solutions to real-world problems, and her hands-on teaching style, from dissections to interactive labs, showed me how much I enjoy experiential learning. Overall, every counselor, teacher and staff member has had an imperative role in shaping me into the student I am today, and among them, Ms. Krajewski’s class and guidance have had the greatest impact on my growth and learning.

What is something that your peers might not know about you? I attended a Chinese immersion preschool, where I learned the language along with cultural traditions and holidays. After kindergarten, since I was apparently very good at Mandarin, my parents continued my learning with a tutor who would take me with her around Minneapolis to practice real conversations. Although I’ve forgotten the language over time, I think it’s helped me when playing piano, since I’m better at distinguishing between tones.

Self-description:

Meticulous, curious and outgoing

Favorite day of the year: Diwali … It’s my favorite day of the year because I get to celebrate with my friends and family while staying connected to my heritage.

Happy place: Barnes & Noble

Skill to learn: I have always wanted to learn to play the saxophone because it just has such a distinct, beautiful sound.

Written by Hailey Almsted — Photos by Chris Emeott

Wouldn’t It Be Cool if …

A local author pens more than 400 children’s books.

Thomas Kingsley Troupe easily remembers one of the first stories he ever created. He was in second grade when his Northeast Minneapolis school hosted a writing competition. “We would go around the class, say our ideas and every one would get excited,” the Woodbury resident recalls. “There were stories about grandma [and] puppies … I created Stick Man’s First Voyage Into the Black Hole. I was convinced it would win.” Although it didn’t win—it received an award equivalent to a participation trophy— that story kickstarted a love of writing for the young Kingsley Troupe.

Patrick’s Super Socks marks Thomas Kingsley Troupe’s first children’s book. Since it was published in 2008, the Woodbury resident has gone on to write more than 400 children’s books.

Inspired by authors like Beverly Cleary, Judy Blume and Stephen King, Kingsley Troupe began honing his craft in high school, where he took writing classes, worked for the school magazine and penned horror stories—one of which was published in a five-state area literary magazine. His journey from horror to children’s tales is a story in itself.

Kingsley Troupe never stopped writing, having submitted several books to publishers. “I had a lot of rejection letters,” he says. Then, he saw an article callout for

short stories. He sent in his 300-word story, Patrick’s Super Socks; the publisher wanted to publish it on its own. “My high school version of me would say, ‘Are you serious? What a sellout,’” he says. “When I first held Patrick’s Super Socks, I was getting teary-eyed looking at the alligator on the cover.”

Nearly two decades later, Kingsley Troupe has found immense success in the written world, having penned more than 400 children’s books. He doesn’t take a single one for granted, knowing that each book he’s written has fulfilled his childhood dream. “I get super excited

and emotional all these years later,” he says. How does such a successful author get started on a new idea? “My process starts with [a sheet of paper titled] ‘Wouldn’t It Be Cool if …’” Kingsley Troupe says. “I drop everything in an idea pit, [and] I list all of the things I think I want to have happen. As I’m doing that, I can sort of imagine which characters might be a good fit for this or that.”

The entire writing process from idea pit to completion is a creative outlet for Kingsley Troupe, who works full time at HealthPartners and is also a paranormal

investigator with the Twin Cities Paranormal Society. “When I do school visits, I try not to mention that because then they don’t want to talk about books; they want to talk about ghosts,” he says, laughing.

Kingsley Troupe has managed to meld his two worlds together, having written several paranormal stories, starting with his first series, Furry and Flo, which features six books published from 2013–15. “It’s about a girl who moves into a cruddy, old apartment building in the middle of the city, and across the hall lives a third grade werewolf.

They go on adventures and get into trouble together,” he says. Now, he’s working on two separate paranormal series, one of which is based on a supposedly haunted hotel in Wabasha, Minnesota.

When young children listen to or read any of his stories, Kingsley Troupe wants them to feel a sense of encouragement. “I hope it inspires them to read more; that was a huge thing for me. My parents read to me a ton,” he says. “And I hope it inspires them to want to write [their own stories] … I hear kids say, ‘I can’t write. I’m not creative. I don’t

have good ideas’ … and that’s not true at all. Anyone can write.”

At the end of the day, Kingsley Troupe says having written hundreds of books and sharing his work at schools around North America is better than he ever imagined. “It’s a cool feeling and makes you want to do it forever,” Kingsley Troupe says. “I genuinely feel this way. I always say, ‘This is what I want to do when I grow up.’”

Thomas Kingsley Troupe thomaskingsleytroupe.com

Salem Mimi Asfaha shares her passion for cooking by offering classes.

Written

A Global Flavor of Love

Cooking classes can be intimidating—especially if they include new or different cuisine. Participants may be unsure of what to expect or worried they won’t appreciate the food. But when Salem Mimi Asfaha is at the head of the class, any nerves quickly go away.

Known to her students at Chef Mimi, Asfaha says within minutes of taking her

class, attendees are laughing, rolling dough, chopping ingredients and learning more than just how to construct a recipe; they’re forming friendships and an appreciation for what they’re capable of when they put their mind to it. “After people take one of my classes, they almost always come back to try another one,” Asfaha says.

The chef offers classes for people of all ages through South Washington County

(SoWashCo) Community Education. Her classes include dishes from her Ethiopian roots to handmade pasta to other fan favorites like Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Chocolate Pistachio Dubai Cookies.

However, before she was Chef Mimi, Asfaha had a fascination with the kitchen. “I’ve been cooking basically my whole life,” she says, adding she turned the hobby into a profession in 2017. While it was a hobby, she

students,

classes throughout the Metro, including through South Washington County Schools Community Education in Woodbury. Hair by Kissy Braids; jewelry and décor by Habeshawi Market; and nails by Turbo Nails in Cottage Grove.

Right: In Salem Mimi Asfaha’s cooking classes, participants of all ages learn to make egg rolls and use new flavors such as berbere and cardamom.

was living in Farmington, often cooking for her friends and neighbors. Amazed by her skills, those trying her food suggested she teach community education classes. “I didn’t realize that would be good for community education,” Asfaha admits with a laugh.

Proud of growing up in Ethiopia, Asfaha incorporates food from her roots in her classes, but because her father worked for the United Nations, she and her family traveled often, which exposed her to different cuisines and cultures from around the world.

“People liked learning to cook the Ethiopian food,” Asfaha says of her first classes. Determined to add more offerings, Asfaha tapped into her Italian heritage from her great-great-grandparents and started handmade pasta classes. It worked. Word spread that Asfaha’s classes were worth the hype, and she was contacted to teach all over the Twin Cities, western Wisconsin and beyond.

“I love all the people I get to meet and watch them try new foods,” Asfaha says. “I knew this is what I was meant to do.” She laughs, because her degree is in computer science—but when the culinary world came calling, she knew the kitchen was where she belonged. “Computer science and cooking aren’t really similar, but I knew I made the right choice,” she says.

Her students would likely agree. Asfaha is in high demand beyond community education classes. She also teaches in-home cooking classes, workshops for corporate or leisure events, summer camps and more. Asfaha has also made appearances on local news programs, donning her Habesha Kemis—a traditional, hand-woven garment worn for celebrations accompanied with gold or silver jewelry—to highlight her roots along with her recipes. “I got a little nervous before being on TV, but like students who are nervous before taking my classes, I got comfortable right away,” she says. “It was a lot of fun.”

Cooking offers connections between Asfaha and her audiences, whether they’re right in front of her or on the other side of a screen. Recipes that involve making pasta by hand become especially popular, leaving students eager to learn more and try other new things. “I love when curiosity takes over for people in my classes and they want to try new things,” she says.

Asfaha’s summer camp classes for area youth help kids learn skills beyond reading a recipe. She also shows proper and safe food preparation, while introducing young taste buds to new flavors. “Especially in the summer, children might be home alone while their parents are working,” Asfaha says. “I like to teach how to make things that are

good for them and how to do that safely.”

These techniques allow children to prepare foods beyond pizza and chicken nuggets. Children learn to make egg rolls and pasta, using new flavors like berbere and cardamom. “And if they don’t like it, that is OK,” Asfaha says. “I don’t force people to eat anything, but I do love it when they try new foods. Most of the time, they are surprised [that] they like it.”

Looking ahead, Asfaha plans to create new

classes and has her sights set on a lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant, as soon as she finds the right location. “I would offer classes there too,” she says.

Asfaha is very passionate about cooking, but also the support the community has given to her to allow her to do what she loves and what she excels at. “This area has been so supportive of me,” she says. “I’ve been able to have [many opportunities] from people believing in what I do.”

And what is Asfaha’s advice for anyone thinking about taking a cooking class? Try it. “You do not have to be a good cook or even know how to cook,” she says. “Just come with an open mind.” For Asfaha and the flavors she fuels, it has a way of bringing people together both in the kitchen and beyond.

Mimi’s Cooking Class mimiscookingclass.com

Mimi’s Cooking Class

Wonderful Woodbury Days

A longtime community celebration blends classic attractions and new additions.

Immerse yourself in classic summer fun August 28–30, and choose from a plethora of activities tied directly to Woodbury’s deep rooted community. At the annual Woodbury Days (woodburydays.org) celebration, guests can enjoy bingo, carnival attractions, fireworks, live music, local cuisine, a parade, robotics and more, all centered around Ojibway Park, 2695 Ojibway Drive.

For 48 years, the festivities of Woodbury Days have delighted the community. “For many years, it was just a community picnic, and then it evolved into something much bigger,” says Woodbury Days president Paul Huffman. He states that planning a large event like this is now a multiyear process.

Volunteers and community members often return, making Woodbury Days a highly anticipated event, according to Huffman.

This year, local artists will fill the three-day event and serenade attendees at Ojibway Park with a variety of genres. Moreover, the Taste of Woodbury (“Our signature event,” Huffman says. “It really ties back to our origins as a community picnic, being together and sharing food.”) will include food tents/booths and food trucks, a new addition to the festivities this year. Attendees will also enjoy an expanded bingo tent due to the popularity of the event. Overall, Huffman says the Woodbury Days Council hopes to foster belonging and community. “If we achieve that [and] bring all of the community together and everyone feels included and welcome, then we’ve been successful,” he says. —Kate Thompson

“Angela brought a wealth of experience and a great team to the process of selling our house. Prior to listing, she helped us identify and coordinate necessary repairs and gave us access to her extensive rolodex of experienced professionals to do the work. After listing, Angela was quick to resolve any issues that arose and was very responsive to our questions. Her game plan for selling our house was flawless and reflected her knowledge of the local market. Thanks to her supporting team, closing was quick and easy. I would definitely trust Angela again to sell my house.”

-Greg & Ellen

FOSTERS NEEDED

08.02

Performance in the Park

From 2–3 p.m. on the patio at Central Park, the Inver Hills Community Band will serenade the audience with a free concert. woodburymn.gov

08.03–08.06

Water Week

This kids camp focuses on all things water! Children ages 6–11 will enjoy various water games and activities from 1–4 p.m. at Colby Lake Park. woodburymn.gov

08.05

Twin Cities PBS at Your Library

From 10 a.m.–noon, join Twin Cities PBS at the R.H. Stafford Library for handson educational activities and the chance to meet characters from Skillsville and Hero Elementary washcolib.org

08.06

Starlight Cinema

Enjoy The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

on a two story inflatable screen with stadium speakers. The film will start at dusk with movie themed activities starting at 7 p.m. at Ojibway Park. woodburymn.gov

08.08

Live Brave 5K and 1 Mile

The sixth annual Live Brave run strives to bring the community together to raise awareness and funds for eating

disorder awareness. The 5K starts at 8:30 a.m., and the 1 mile run begins at 10 a.m. at Colby Lake Park. runsignup.com

08.12

EMML Social Club

The East Metro Miracle Club (EMML), which aims to increase community engagement, foster the development of social and coping skills, and practice flexibility, will offer a nature hike through Tamarack Nature Preserve from 10 a.m.–noon. woodburymn.gov

08.19

Neighborhood No Cook Night

This block party will offer the chance to connect with neighbors and try some delicious food from the Caffeinated Rooster food truck from 4:30–7:30 p.m. Location TBD. caffeinated-rooster.com

Compiled by

Abigail Larson and Kate Thompson

To have your event considered: email woodburymag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

With each math concept depending on the last, today’s small confusions can snowball into tomorrow’s poor test scores. Invest now in math skills that will carry your child through the entire year with confidence and competence.

With each math concept depending on the last, today’s small confusions can snowball into tomorrow’s poor test scores. Invest now in math skills that will carry your child through the entire year with confidence and competence.

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Mathnasium of Location Name (000) 000-MATH (6284) • mathnasium.com/location #### Street Name, City

each math concept depending on the last, today’s small confusions can snowball into tomorrow’s poor test scores. Invest now in math skills that will carry your child through the entire year with confidence and competence. Experience the Mathnasium difference:

Mathnasium of Location Name (000) 000-MATH (6284) • mathnasium.com/location #### Street Name, City

Mathnasium of Woodbury (651)-409-6284 • mathnasium.com/woodbury 1125 Woodbury Dr, Suite 600, Woodbury, MN 55129

• Ex pert instructors that teach for comprehension

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Rocket Ship

Greig Metzger was taking in the sights at the Woodbury Days 3M Car Show when he snapped this award-winning shot. “It was a gorgeous day, and I was trying to capture the design elements of the antique cars in a way such that the elements became something else when photographed,” Metzger says. “With the sky in the background, it gave a sense of flight to the hood ornament.” —Hailey Almsted

FOCUS ON WOODBURY

Photographer: Greig Metzger Title: Rocket Ship Equipment: OM 1 Mark ii, 12–100mm zoom

Location: Woodbury Days 3M Car Show Category: Abstract Place: First

To view other Focus on Woodbury photo contest winners, visit woodburymag.com.

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