Local Services

Open Arms

A Legacy of Compassion and Nourishment Article by Sarah Knieff | Photography by Amy Anderson, Erik Westra and Rob Thompson Since 1986, Open Arms has been a beacon of hope and support for individuals facing life-threatening illnesses. Founded by Bill Rowe during the AIDS pandemic, Open Arms emerged from a profound sense of compassion and a call to action. As a teacher, Bill witnessed firsthand the isolation and suffering of his friends and students who were grappling with AIDS. Eager to provide...

Life + Culture

A State of Giving

How One Insurance Agent is Making a Difference in His Community Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Lucy Hawthorne When Sam Sand was teaching and coaching high school wrestling, he watched many of his family and friends go into the insurance industry, and when he was ready to change careers, he followed them. “I feel like there are a lot of parallels with education and coaching in this job,” he says. “I have a large team so I do a lot of training with them, and then I’m also educating my...

Life + Culture

Cheers!

Local Business Owners Celebrate The Holiday Season Article by Sarah Knieff | Photography by Erin Johnson, Lucy Hawthorne and provided. This holiday season local business owners are celebrating everything they are grateful for. Whether it’s watching Die Hard (the ever debated Christmas movie), helping pups stay with their families or enjoying traditions with loved ones, these four owners are excited for it all. As they reminisce on the new and old, raise a toast for everything there is to be...

Finance + Legal Services

Financial Flash Report #212

Stiles Financial - Office Administrator, Janet salutes all Veterans, including her own family members, for the dedication and patriotism that provides the freedoms we all get to enjoy as Americans. She also highlights many of the programs put in place to support our Veterans during and after their service has concluded. Programs like the GI Bill which provides benefits and reimbursements for education. In fact, Janet lists 13 different programs created just for Veterans. Give it a listen and...

Shopping

‘Tis the Season of Gifting

This 2024 Holiday Gift Guide has Something for Everyone, Even the Pets! Article by Sarah Knieff It’s that time of year again: the season of gifting. Don’t be caught without a present. Explore our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide to find the perfect little something for everyone on your list. CozyChic Adult Robe: Named one of Oprah's Favorite Things, nothing compares to the soft and luxurious feeling of Barefoot Dream’s legendary robe designed for women and men. It's irresistibly cozy and the perfect...

Health + Wellness

A Modern, Clean and Caring Practice

Experience the Latest and Greatest in Orthodontic Treatments Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Andrew Vick When Dr. Rosemary Lelich, a native of Minnesota, took over ownership of Family Orthodontics in 2020, she wanted to ensure that the practice continued to flourish. Not only did it do just that, but over the last four years, the number of patients has increased significantly. In response, she has expanded and renovated the space to provide a fresh and comfortable environment for both...

Home + Design

Building Quality Spaces for 50 Years

Leadership, Longevity and Knowledge are its Foundations for Success Article by Sue Baldani In business for almost 50 years, Ron Clark Construction & Design continues to prosper in the Twin Cities and beyond. With its reputation for building high-quality single family homes and townhomes, and with experienced and knowledgeable employees, that’s no surprise.   “About 50% of our employees have been with Ron Clark for over 20 years and many of us have been in the construction industry for pretty...

Life + Culture

Canoes, Time-Honored Traditions and a Seedling

Northland Visions’ Owner Shares the Story of Hand-Harvested Wild Rice Article by Sarah Knieff At Northland Visions, owner Greg Bellanger proudly offers hand-harvested wild rice sourced exclusively from the lakes and rivers of northern Minnesota. Northland’s wild rice is not just any rice; it is a connection to Greg’s roots, a reflection of the natural world, and a commitment to preserving the traditions of his ancestors. Unlike cultivated varieties, this wild rice is picked with care, ensuring...

Food + Beverage

Switch Things Up

Check Out These Four Incredible Restaurants for Delicious Bites, Cocktails and Desserts Article by Sarah Knieff Let’s face it, humans are creatures of habit. If we find something we like, we’re going to stick with it. But this fall, the Minneapolis Lakes Lifestyle team challenges you to switch up your weekly restaurant choice and check out one of the following four incredible options (if you haven’t already). These restaurants are sure to delight everyone from the kids to the grandparents. ...

Food + Beverage

The Boardroom

Office Golf: Much More Than Golf Article by David Scheller I’m in Bloomington, just off 494, watching deer taking turns sipping from Nine Mile Creek. They look discontent on this dour, drizzly autumn evening. I’m sure it would comfort them to know how cozy The Boardroom is keeping me.   You seldom associate warmth with the phrase “30,000 square foot facility,” yet The Boardroom glows in its own hospitality. It is Office Golf’s full-service restaurant, which serves elevated American fare and...