Country Club Neighborhood April 2017

Country Club neighborhood April 2017

Cover Photo by Carter Blochwitz Photography December 2016 Parkwood Knolls Life

Cover Photo by Carter Blochwitz, Journalism Intern May 2017 Parkwood Knolls Life

Cover Photo by Carter Blochwitz Photography February 2017 Parkwood Knolls Life

Cover photo by Carter Blochwitz, Photography Intern Country Club neighborhood July 2017

Happy Independence Day!

Cover photo by Andrew Rufng, Photography Intern meet your neighbors Edited by Tara Myers Photos by Carter Blochwitz Photography

the

Palestrinifamily Kris and Erin love living in their ing in NYC to invest in Minnesota Industrial Bat- freedom of biking to Wooddale Park Country Club neighborhood home tery, a company Erin's father started in 1982. “To and to their friends’ houses. We all with their two kids, Lola (10) and Fio- see my dad's life's work become his retirement and love being able to walk to 50th and na (8), and their rescue pup, Poppy, a our family's future is pretty cool,” comments Erin. France to eat, shop, or get cofee.” 3-year-old Pomapeekapoo. This family’s favorite family restau- “We just moved from Connecticut in mid-August,” rant nearby is Pizzeria Lola. “Being Kris, who was born and raised in says Erin, “While we were house hunting, as soon that we have a New Yorker named NYC, was actually the one who had as we drove through the Country Club District, Lola, who is a pizza aficionado, it's to convince Erin to move back to we were sold.” Erin is a lover of historic archi- a no brainer...it's delicious and a fun Minnesota. “Every time we visited, tecture and all things vintage and Kris grew up in place to eat!” says Erin. The girls he was struck by how down to earth Brooklyn, so he loved the neighborhood feel with love the photo booth there, too. and friendly everyone was, and just sidewalks and kids always out on bikes, and the loved the vibe of the way of life here,” walkability factor to town or the country club. When they have spare time, the Pal- Erin shares, “We wanted our girls the “We just fell in love with the vibe of the neighbor- estrinis make time for their favorites experience a piece of the ‘sweet life’ hood, and Drexel Avenue, in particular, struck us hobbies. Kris loves crossfit, running, the Midwest has to ofer.” as the perfect family street,” adds Kris. and photography. Erin enjoys reading, yoga, and meditation. Lola, like her The Palestrini family’s move to “We enjoy admiring the beauty of all the diferent dad, is into crossfit, as well as la- These New Yorkers frst visit to the MN State Fair. Bacon on a stick was a Our adorable but crazy rescue pomapekapoo, Poppy Minnesota within the last year was homes every day as we walk our dog around the crosse, tennis, piano, and cello. Fiona Erin is a die hard Vikings fan, having huge hit. Photo submitted by Erin Palestrini, resident. Palestrini, always fercely guarding 4602 Drexel. Photo submitted by Erin Palestrini, resident. actually prompted by the opportunity neighborhood; it never gets old,” explains Erin is the artist of the family and enjoys grown up in White Bear Lake. She to take over a 35-year-old family busi- of why her family loves living in Country Club writing stories, singing, songwriting, comments, “It must be in the blood, since birth as well, even living on the East Coast.” Kris loves the NY Giants, ness. Kris left his career in advertis- neighborhood. She continues, “Our kids love the and playing her ukulele. because the girls rooted for them but Erin has heard him say “SKOL” a few times now, and he was even the first

16 Country Club Neighborhood Life t April 2017 April 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 17 SMILE OFTEN, LAUGH A LOT, LIVE LONG

the annual parkwood knolls

Written by Samantha Yang, Journalism Intern; Fall FestivalPhotos by Carter Blochwitz, Journalism Intern

A little rain never stops anybody and later hit one of the two piñatas from doing what they want, and on filled with candy. As time went by, it Saturday, October 15th, residents got darker outside, and it was time for STEVEN J. VEKER, DDS proved that their fun wouldn’t be the outdoor movie to start. Residents stopped at the annual Fall Festival. gathered around and got to watch AND Children came in costumes, and short animated films together. parents brought snacks and food to CARL E. SCHNEIDER, DDS share with the community. For those A very special thanks goes out to BE A DIFFERENCE MAKER. who didn’t come in a costume, face Dario and Jeanne Anselmo for donat- WOULD BE HONORED TO BE painting allowed them to transform ing their power to run the bounce YOUR DENTAL CARE PROVIDER into anything they wanted to be. house and the outdoor movie; Mike Some children painted their face like LaChance for running the outdoor zombies, whereas some painted theirs movie; Terry Benson for lending her like animals, like a cheetah. kids yard games; Debra Kerr Wes- sels, Linda Tell, Cathy Lee, and Peggy recognized by Treats, face paintings, and mini games Smith who donated their time and were just some of the fun activities items; n2 Publishing (your neighbor- INC MAGAZINE that residents were able to enjoy. hood newsletter) for promotion and FORTUNE Children also played games such as set up; and, of course, the members ENTREPRENEUR oversized Jenga, stomp rockets, and of the PKA for all of their hard work 44TH STREET DENTAL OUTSIDE MAGAZINE hopscotch. Just a couple feet away organizing this wonderful event for 3925 W. 44TH ST. EDINA they enjoyed watching Jack Levy, who all Parkwood Knolls residents. This is an alumnus from the Jugheads, event couldn’t have been possible if 952.922.2159 showcase his awesome juggling not for the wonderful volunteers and WWW.44THSTDENTAL.COM knowledge and skills. They also ran the residents who came out to have JUST WEST OF FRANCE ON 44TH around the inflatable obstacle course some fun that night!

10 Parkwood Knolls Life t December 2016 December 2016 t Parkwood Knolls Life 11 Give the Gift of a Math Education. No Apps, No Batteries! At Mathnasium, we believe every child has the ability to be successful in math—it’s a matter of teaching the way that makes sense to them. When math makes sense, kids excel—whether they’re far behind or eager to get ahead. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!

Individualized Flexible Math Specialist Safe, Fun Instruction Scheduling Instructors Successful! (763) 269–6969 $0 #*$(%$+ $ #) $( *#%#(, $ )%* ('! $0 -"( %'"+ #) $( *#%#("& $ .$$ *'()0 .$"+ $$&%" ( #) $( *#%#".$$ *'()

12 Parkwood Knolls Life t December 2016 December 2016 t Parkwood Knolls Life 13 meet your neighbors Jan worked with the General Mills Foundation for 16 years as the Coordinator of Financial and Administrative Services. Written by Lauren Boritzke, Journalism Intern Photos by Carter Blochwitz, Photography Intern She wrote the big-buck checks on behalf of General Mills to nonproﬁts, educational institutions, and arts and cultural areas. Her favorite part about working there was how much she learned about nonproﬁts.

Browder worked the majority of his years as the owner and operator of his own business: the Browder Stone Company. Launched around 1975, the Browder Stone Company focused on ad specialty and product promotions. Browder is also coming up on 20 years with the Edina Police Reserve, serving as Captain for 12 of those years. When they were new to the neighborhood, cops would stop over for a cup of cofee or just to chat. The neighbors wondered about these frequent visits. “We had some explaining to do,” Browder jokes.

They have small traditions that make their family unique: they throw barbeques and garage sales in the summer, and eat out every Friday night. Mancini’s, a steakhouse in St. Paul, is one of their favorite restaurants. They serve as election judges for the city of Edina and Jan loves to play the organ-– a Lowrey Jan & Browder Virtual Orchestra organ, that is, with 286 built-in rhythms and all kinds of sounds. She sometimes plays 2-3 hours a day. “The instrument has sounds from trumpet, piano, harps, ban- jos, and bagpipes; there’s even a dog barking, a cat meowing, STONE and a chicken clucking,” Jan laughs. Alongside taking group classes, she’s been known to put on concerts in her home.

Traveling is something the Stones love to do together. From visiting family across the states, to England or Europe, they’ve seen a lot. Hawaii seems to be a favorite (they’ve been there six times), but Jan loves Las Vegas for “the glitz and the glamour.” Their first cruise – ever – was with their daughter and her husband’s family to the Panama Canal and all through the Caribbe- an. For the better part of ten days, Jan felt seasick and Browder pointed out elusive flying fish. “It was too long,” Jan says. Fifteen years ago, Jan Stone sat on her laptop tirelessly hunting let’s not forget about their three cats: Cali the Calico, Barney the They’re looking forward to taking some kind of trip in 2017. for the perfect new home for her husband, Browder, and herself. large orange one, and his gray litter mate, Max. Jan and Browder After clicking and scrolling past numerous houses (and attending became the traditional hosts of Christmas cheer, and the Stone Parkwood Knolls has been the perfect home for Jan and many showings with smelly and overpriced prospects), Jan dis- household does not take that lightly. “It takes two additional Browder. Each year, they get to know more neighbors, new covered their current home, just down Malibu Drive in Parkwood people the entire day after Thanksgiving to set everything up in and old. They love the wildlife that wanders through their Knolls. After visiting the house herself first, she brought Browder every room,” Browder says. Their large downstairs family room yard from the wooded area behind their porch: raccoons, deer, back the next day. “When I stepped into this house,” Browder is stocked with presents, two Christmas trees fill the house with fox, and wild turkeys. says, laughing, “I knew 15 minutes in that if I didn’t sign the form, lights, and Jan’s ceramic tree collection is spread throughout the my toothbrush was going to be out on the front steps.” house. “It’s like a fairy land,” Jan adds. Next time you’re on Malibu Drive, look out for the monster- sized Little Free Library in Jan and Browder’s front yard. Their move-in day at Parkwood Knolls was actually more of a Jan was born and raised in St. Paul, while Browder is originally Stocked with books of all kinds, they’re free to take and 3-month period. Their Southwest Minneapolis home went on the from Nashville. Browder’s family made the move to Minnesota replace. One of Jan’s favorite views is from their three-sea- market the day before 9/11, in 2001. Though it took them six or for his dad’s job and luckily so. Jan and Browder met in their high son porch. “You can look all down the backyards and see the seven months to sell, Jan was determined to not have two houses school English class. “We started passing notes to each other for beautiful lawns,” she says. “It’s like a park, almost.” It sounds at Christmas, so all the furniture was moved over to the new home. some unknown reason,” Jan laughs. Now married for 57 years, like the name of the neighborhood is just right! they are high school sweethearts through and through. The day That first Christmas, they hosted the family: their two daugh- after their wedding was Jan’s birthday. She turned to Browder and If you are interested in being featured, or would like to ters, Carole Payne and Beth Savik and their husbands, and three said, “Where’s my gift?” Cheekily, Browder responded, “It’s me!” recommend a family from the neighborhood to feature, grandchildren (Christopher, Joel, and Kristine). In later years, please contact [email protected]. 14 Parkwood Knolls Life t May 2017 May 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 15 meet your neighbors

Edited by Tara Myers | Photos by Lindsay Cisewski and Carter Blochwitz, Photography Intern

MEMBERSH I P FORM ( S E P T. 2016- S E P T.2017)

Parkwood How To Join: Please complete this form and submit with a check for $35 ($20 after 2/28, payable to the Parkwood Knolls Association) to:

Linda Tell Knolls 5501 Londonderry Road ASSOCIATION Edina, MN 55436

Who We Are: Our mission is simple – Adult Name(s): “Making a Great Neighborhood Even Better.” Child(ren) Name(s), Age(s), School(s) as of Fall 2016: But We Can’t Do It Without Your Help!!!

We sponsor opportunities for neighbors in Park- Address: wood Knolls to get to know one another through a variety of events: Phone: · Fall Festival (costumes, games, treats etc.) Cell: · Oktoberfest with a German Band, E-mail: a Chili Cook-of, Kentucky Derby Party · Monthly book club Help Plan or host: · Cookie exchange Ladies Kick Of______Fall Festival____ Ladies Cookie Exchange______· Street Dancing Chili Cook-Of______Kentucky Derby Party_____ Summer Block Party_____ · Summer Block Party Pink Flamingo Nights______Walnut Ridge Park Clean Up______· Pink Flamingo Summer Nights Cisewski · Walnut Ridge Park Clean Up Service Project Suggestions for Neighborhood groups or events: the Annual dues are $35 per family and are used to fund Interested in Gourmet Dinners, Walking groups, Canastas, Mahjong, Poker? – family PKA events. Let us Know!

10 Parkwood Knolls Life t February 2017 February 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 11 throw some really fun Halloween bashes. Lindsay adds, “We also love to do outdoor activities as a family; during the summer we are all about splash pads, pools, and lakes. Fall is one of the best times of the year in MN, and we frequent apple orchards and some of the state parks. We love hockey and skiing, and want to see how our son likes skates and skis this winter!”

Sometimes the Cisewskis “hop on a bike trail” to grub at a local eatery, such as Pizza Luce. “Honestly, we all love a great pizza night,” confesses Lindsay, “I can also make a good cauliﬂower pizza crust that even the husband can get behind.” Wally and Lindsay never miss the Minnesota State Fair and start planning their route as soon as the new food list is debuted.

Sports are always fun for Wally, who cheers on all Minnesota teams. He also plays pond hockey in the winter. Surprisingly enough, Walter George is the only one in the house that's even broken a bone (his arm)! Lind- eet the Cisewski family! Wally say is on the board of the American IV and Lindsay met during their Liver foundation, but would like to Freshman year at St. Olaf on the get her family more involved in the ﬁrst day, and Lindsay remembers, community and set a great example M“I knew the minute I saw him that I'd end up marry- for Walter George by giving back and ing him!” They now have a wonderful two-year-old helping others. son. Wally IV insisted on keeping the family name, so he and Lindsay named him Wally V (although Whether it’s a staycation or actual he’s ofcially called Walter George). Joining their vacation, Wally and Lindsay love crew are their two long-haired chihuahuas, Rico (12 to travel. “For a staycation or day years) and Leena (7 years). trip, Lake Pepin or Wabasha is both beautiful and a ton of fun!” comments The Cisewski family has lived in Parkwood Knolls Lindsay, “Nicaragua was absolutely for four years. They moved from southwest Minne- amazing! Last year we were in St. apolis and wanted “more space and a good place to Thomas and St. John, which were raise a family,” which Parkwood Knolls ofers. “We outstanding with the little guy in love the nature-- we constantly see deer and turkey tow.” Wally and Lindsay aspire to in our backyard,” explains Lindsay, “We also love the continue to travel and “experience the convenience to excellent shopping and dining with world” with their son. 50th and France being so close. We take full advan- tage of all the parks and lakes in the area as well.”

If you are ready to be featured, or Wally works in ﬁnance while Lindsay is a pro- would like to nominate a family from fessional in sales, but in their free time, they do the neighborhood to feature, please love a good theme party and have been known to contact [email protected].

12 Parkwood Knolls Life t February 2017 February 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 13 home of the month JOHN EVERETT CONTINUES TO SELL COUNTRY CLUB! Written by Sean Hanson, Journalism Intern 4306 Photos by Carter Blochwitz Photography PENDING Sunnyside Road

4617 CASCO AVENUE

PENDING

Nestled almost at the northernmost point of the Country Club district is 4306 Sunnyside Road, a beautiful home owned by Doug and Hilory Seaton. The home was built in 1926 as one of Samuel Thorpe’s original model homes for the district, who remains on its abstract as the original owner. Doug and Hilory moved into the house in 1986 after living in Minneapolis, becoming the fourth owners after realizing its unique promise and snatching it off the market before a “For Sale” sign was even put in the front yard.

Today 4306 retains its original footprint, having a white portico and window frames. The windows gone through only restoration and period-consis- themselves are solid with full storm windows, orig- tent remodeling and faring well over time. When inal to the house’s inception, and with the shutters the Seatons first moved into 4306, its natural oak keep the house quiet and comfortably insulated. In flooring was covered in carpet, and the walls in fact, there is not much about the house that is not 4505 ARDEN AVENUE a garish tulip-centric wallpaper --likely prod- original or restored to original, from its built-in ucts of the Seventies. Nowadays these features cabinets to the decorative molding and conserva- are restored to their prior glory, with exposed tively remodeled kitchen. hardwood floors and a blue and white motif all throughout the house’s paintwork. The Seatons The Seatons’ work on the house has been me- are particularly fond of these colors as they catch ticulous in maintaining this old, essential spirit. 952.221.5464| www.JohnEverett.com the last of the day’s light as it filters in through The furniture, though mostly not of the original Exceptional Homes Specialist with 29 years of unparalleled service. the westside windows. furnishings, has been selected to maintain the Real Estate advisor to over 100 neighborhood sales. home’s British-American Georgian aesthetic. The Offering a unique insight to the valued lifestyle that The house was built in the Colonial Revival style, exterior walls have remained unchanged except the Country Club Neighborhood Offers adhering to the red-brick aesthetic common of Co- for minor brickwork. The aspects of the house lonial homes with its brick face, green shutters, and which have been most changed under the Seatons’

24 Country Club Neighborhood Life t July 2017 July 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 25 care are its air-conditioning system, which they had installed, the sepa- rate garage, which they had built in order to convert the original garage into a spacious family room. and a new sunroom, replacing the old screen porch.

Family has been intertwined with the home’s identity for the better part of its lifetime. Doug and Hilory raised both of their daughters within its walls, and commend the home’s ability to facilitate that aspect of life. As they look to the future, the Seatons hope that 4306 Sunnyside will continue to nurture families long after their tenure, and remain a digniﬁed, beautiful home that marks the Country Club neighborhood as uniquely rich with history.

26 Country Club Neighborhood Life t July 2017 July 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 27 Historic AnWalkingnual tour

neighborhood event Written by Sean Hanson, Journalism Intern Photos by Carter Blochwitz Photography

he day was sunny and cloudless when Country Club resi- Homeowners in the Country Club District follow a Plan of Treat- Tdents gathered in Wooddale Park for cofee, donuts, and min- ment with the objective of preserving the neighborhood’s historic WHERE CHILDREN gling–the kickof to the Third Annual facades and streetscapes. The Plan SPREAD THEIR Historic Neighborhood Walking Tour. was originally implemented in 2003 Six original Country Club homes were to prevent the demolition of historic CREATIVE WINGS featured on the tour, three on Wooddale homes. Homes built between 1924 Avenue and three on Edina Boulevard. and 1944 are considered heritage The homes were a number of Revival preservation resources because that styles, including Mediterranean, Tudor, was the period when Thorpe enforced and Colonial. rigid architectural standards. The lev- el of preservation of historic facades Edina’s Country Club District was de- was found to be outstanding by a re- veloped by Samuel Thorpe of the Thor- survey of the District in 2007, thanks pe Brothers Realty Company. Thorpe to homeowners’ fastidious care. purchased the land in 1922 and spent over half a million dollars developing Country Club Neighbors for Pres- the 500-plus home sites between 1922 ervation is a volunteer committee and 1924. The district is notable for the comprised of several Country Club integration of landscape architecture residents, including Rich Thorpe, 83 SUMMER into its planning and design. Samuel Samuel Thorpe’s great-grandson. Are Thorpe hired the ﬁrm of Anthony you interested in joining this group? ART CAMPS! Morell and Arthur Nichols to design Do you have a house (perhaps your for ages 5-14 arrangement of streets and lots, as well as oversee construction own) to nominate for the 2018 Walking Tour? Do you have some plans. The operating principle behind the neighborhood’s design Country Club neighborhood history to share? If so, contact Jane was to combine the area’s “natural advantages” with “intelligent Lonnquist at [email protected]. www.EdinaArtCenter.com planning” to create a beautiful neighborhood. Thorpe’s vision Are you planning an exciting event within the neighborhood and would introduced many of the principles of modern suburban planning like your neighbors to join in on the fun? Please email us at ccnews@ 952-903-5780 that inﬂuenced development of the regions. n2pub.com to see how! 12 Country Club Neighborhood Life t August 2017 August 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 13 14 Country Club Neighborhood Life t August 2017 August 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 15 home of the month Written by Sean Hanson, Journalism Intern Photo by Carter Blochwitz Photography

This home was built in 1925 in the Mediterranean-Spanish Eclec- tic style. When driving into Country Club on Wooddale from 50th Street, its charm is distinct, with its second-story Romeo and Juliet balcony and great architectural details. In 2003, after gain- ing approval, the owners removed the detached garage and built the lovely addition as we see it today.

Famed sportscaster Michele Tafoya, and her husband Mark Vandersall, bought the house in 1996 just as Michele made his- 4625 tory as the ﬁrst woman to call television play-by-play of an NCAA tournament game. She is now a sideline reporter for NBC Sunday Night Football and has been ranked among the most likeable TV Wodale Avenue sports personalities.

Do you have a beautiful home? Have you recently renovated? Email [email protected] to learn how your house could be the next featured Home of the Month!

24 Country Club Neighborhood Life t August 2017 August 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 25 home of the month Written by Sean Hanson, Journalism Intern Photo by Carter Blochwitz Photography

This home was featured in this year's Annual Historic Neighbor- hood Walking Tour and was built in 1928 in the Tudor Eclectic style. It was originally a ﬂat-roofed design in a Pueblo style—the only representation of this eclectic style in Country Club District. In 1990, a development ﬁrm purchased it and remodeled it into a Tudor style home with a pitched roof, 1,100 square feet of more living space, and a two-car attached garage. This home was featured in the Star Tribune as a successful remodel while keeping “the look of the 20s” and preserving the feel of the neighborhood. 4621 Notable banjoist and singer Abigail Washburn lived here in the 1990s when she was in high school. She has recorded nine Wodale Avenue albums, including two that ranked #1 on the Bluegrass Music charts. Her 2016 album with her banjo-playing husband, Bela Fleck, won a Grammy for Best Folk Album.

Do you have a beautiful home? Have you recently renovated? Email [email protected] to learn how your house could be the next featured Home of the Month!

30 Country Club Neighborhood Life t September 2017 September 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 31 Family Skating Night

neighborhood event Wine Tours - an adventure you'll never forget! Written by: Brooke Wohlrabe | Photos by Carter Blochwitz, Photography Intern VISIT AWARD WINNING WINERIES WHILE ENJOYING BREATHTAKING SCENERY OF MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN On a Sunday evening in January, residents of Parkwood Knolls met at Walnut Ridge Park for a night of ice skating, followed by pizza. Luckily, the temperature hovered around 20, which was much preferred to the below 0 temps that we'd been having.

Nonetheless, about 75 neighbors, both young and old, came bundled up head to toe for this family event. The kids had a blast skating around; many were wearing their own skates while a few of the little ones used folding chairs to help them get around. A lot of people were out on the ice with sticks either hitting a puck in a game or just hitting around a piece of ice. There were others who opted to hang out in the warming house with their small children and catch up with their neighbors. Although, once the pizza was delivered, everyone else congregated in the warming house to enjoy a few slices.

A big thanks goes to the PKA for putting on this very fun ReneesRoyalValet.com family event!

763.551.1919 If you are interested in being featured, or would like to [email protected] recommend a family from the neighborhood to feature, please contact [email protected]. 12 Parkwood Knolls Life t April 2017 April 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 13 neighborhood event Written by Brooke Wohlrabe. Photos by Carter Blochwitz Photography.

CHILIAnnual P COOKarkwod Knolls-OFF The third annual Chili Cook-Of took place this February in Parkwood Knolls! Residents Jef and Debra Kerr Wessels kindly hosted the event at their home, and its open kitchen made it a great place for everyone present to catch up, drink wine, and, of course, sample the chili. This year’s line-up included a tasty gluten-free version, a turkey chili, and even a vegetarian chili! Everyone had such a great time wining, dining, and chatting with their neighbors that there was no need to vote for a winner, which made this year’s gathering a bit less intense than previous years, but no less delicious.

Thank you to everyone who attended, and big thanks to the Kerr- Wessels for opening up their home. With recipes and camarade- rie like this, next year’s cook-of is bound to be a treat!

Know of an event happening in the neighborhood? We want to hear about it! Email us at [email protected].

10 Parkwood Knolls Life t June 2017 June 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 11 home of the month Article and photos by Carter Blochwitz, photography intern

Harold Roitenberg, an incredibly successful Minneapolis busi- nessman. The house famously hosted a fund-raiser for 1984 presidential candi- date Walter Mondale and has had photos of A-list celebrities, such as Sundance Film Fest founder, Robert Redford, taken in the mirror-lined, neon-accented “disco room” of the basement.

Aside from the disco room, unique features such as the gold-tiled bathroom and numerous pristine displays of small statues and A BEAUTIFUL ROOM STARTS WITH figurines make the house unforgettable. A CALL TO HANSEN HOMETECH 5608 “Our living area is definitely our favorite part of the house,” Parkwood Ln. Vaishali said. “You don’t feel enclosed or claustrophobic.” Gautam and Vaishali Jha have lived with their two daughters, Anoushka (age 9) and Aditi (age 7), in a beautifully renovated and And that is certainly the case: The serene white walls and ceil- spacious home at 5608 Parkwood Ln. since August of last year. ing open up an enormous space immediately upon entering the Gautam, hematologist and medical oncologist for the University of home. Within this area alone, the grand entrance, dining room, Minnesota Physicians, and Vaishali, a pediatric emergency medicine and living room all feed into one another with various ofshoots physician at the Children’s Hospital, had previously spent seven to hallways, stairs, and the kitchen. Accenting the area are sleek, years living in Eagan before settling on their home in Parkwood. mahogany hardwood floors, a mix of modern and older-style furniture, as well as a stainless steel wall surrounding the fireplace, Their primary motivation behind making the move to a larger making it an understandable hot spot for the family. home was to accommodate family that regularly visits from India several months out of the year. Upon finding this house listed in “I’d say we spend most of our time here instead of in our rooms, the neighborhood, the family decided to check it out: it’s a great place for the family,” Gautam says. Just beyond six large windows, troves of trees and a gorgeous view of the Nine “We fell in love as soon as we entered through the grand Mile Creek surround the home and adjoining pool. doors,” Vaishali beams. “No sooner we set our foot in, we were www.hansenhometech.com taken with awe.” Gautam and Vaishali’s latest home projects have involved 952.934.0854 remodeling the kitchen and installing a temple in their home. [email protected] After touring it once, the family decided to close on the house in Moving forward, the family plans to undertake projects such as mid-June 2016, only waiting until it was renovated and updated landscaping, remodeling their basement, and making the home BC001261 to a smart and efcient home before moving in. further energy efcient.

If you or someone you know would like to feature your The house was originally built in 1978 by the grandfather of Feel free to stop by and welcome the Jhas to home, please contact [email protected]. Carl M. Hansen, founder of Parkwood Knolls neighborhood, for Parkwood Knolls neighborhood! 18 Parkwood Knolls Life t June 2017 June 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 19 sponsor spotlight Article and photos by Carter Blochwitz, Journalism Intern

Todd Shuman and Dan Krieter made the decision to purchase dealer in Minneapolis -- supplying and installing top-of-the-line through several remodels, which can make it difcult and costly Midland Heating & Cooling only a year ago, taking over a business heating and cooling products from the company in Eden Prairie, to install an efcient heating and cooling system.” This is an area that had a legacy stretching back to 1950 of providing solutions Edina and Bloomington. where Midland’s team of 14 staf members has become experts, MIDLAND for residential heating and cooling needs. In acquiring the installing and maintaining custom air systems for innumerable business, Todd and Dan sought to not only maintain the quality In addition to co-owning Midland, Todd and Dan have lived right homes in southern Minneapolis and surrounding areas. of service Midland had provided for more than half a century, on Casco Avenue in Country Club neighborhood for nearly two HEATING but also provide a dedicated, compassionate, local alternative to decades. Reﬂecting on his time there, Todd exclaimed: “I love it! With chilly winter weather in full swing, Todd encourages Coun- heating and cooling providers based thousands of miles from the The backyards are small, but it forces you to engage with your try Club residents to change their appliances’ ﬁlters and have southern Minneapolis areas that Midland services. neighbors and with the community.” Engaging themselves, both regular maintenance performed on their heating and air condi- & COOLING Todd and Dan have been actively involved in Edina’s hockey asso- tioning units to ensure both are running at maximum efciency Friends of more than 17 years, Todd and Dan had each worked on ciation and youth hockey leagues, and have made a great deal of and providing the best air possible. diferent sides of the business world before becoming co-owners close friends living right in the neighborhood. “I can’t imagine a of Midland. Todd served as administrator of sales teams for Hon- better place to raise kids than there,” Todd laughed, talking about Midland Heating and Cooling can be contacted at 612-869-3213 eywell while Dan owned a general contracting company. When his experiences raising his two now-high-school-aged kids. “All for any of your home or small commercial needs. they came to consensus on the purchase of Midland, both brought the parks and businesses are wonderful.” a broad variety of skills and experiences that made their co-own- ership of the company an integral part of its success. Under their “One of the challenges of living in Country Club -- all the houses management, Midland has become the longest-tenured Lennox were built in the 1920s,” Todd surmised, “Many have been

34 Country Club Neighborhood Life t January 2017 January 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 35 Written by Samantha Yang, Journalism Intern sponsor spotlight Photos by Carter Blochwitz, Journalism Intern

BOBBY SHARES THESE FOND STORIES ABOUT SOME OF HIS STUDENTS:

One seventh grade student was only at a third grade math proﬁciency when he started at Mathnasium. Two years later, he ﬁnished ninth grade at the head of his class and was accepted into University of Minnesota’s Talented Youth Mathematics (UMTYMP) program.

One family said to Bobby, “Mathnasium is the only place we can get our family of three middle and elementary schoolers to arrive on time. They love it!”

One father shared his praises about his daughter’s learning with Bobby, “You didn’t just help her get better at math; she actually improved in all of her sub- jects! Thank you so much for helping her learn to love being a student again.”

Being able to hear from parents about the improvements that their children have made is one thing that Bobby enjoys most about working with Mathnasium. “Moms and dads have been brought to tears of joy because of the changes in their students– It doesn’t get much better than that!” Bobby shares with us. Working athnasium is an after school math learn- with Mathnasium and helping kids learn to enjoy and be great at math is “ex- ing center that helps math make sense for tremely rewarding” to Bobby, who shares Mathnasium’s belief that every student M children in grades 1-12 using a successful can be good at math if they’re taught in a way that makes sense to them. blend of individual instruction in a fun and encour- aging environment by a team of caring tutors and Bobby shares a fun fact about Mathnasium, “students who have the benefit of ad- -.ŪźɅ" 3Ʌ"0 ɅŲŲɅ&).#)(-Ʌ#(Ʌ #(( -).ŻɅ#(&/- ditional math tutoring outside of school tend to achieve proficiency equivalent to ing two in the Edina area and one in Minneapolis, more than three year’s worth of formal math instructions than those who don’t.” where they use customized learning plans devel- oped from proprietary assessments and curriculum. Last summer, Mathnasium was selected by National PTA to be the ofcial math partner in their new STEM+Families initiative. This is a wonderful opportunity The local Mathnasium centers have participated in Bobby Tarnowski, the Mathnasium franchise owner of the Edina and Minneapo- for Mathnasium through which they hope to help more students have a “life- many events in the community. They’ve gone to mul- lis locations, had a 25-year long career in engineering and management when he changing” math learning experience and be more successful with whatever tiple neighborhood festivals and events, math nights found himself wanting to help students get a better math education. “I believe they choose to pursue in life. at elementary schools, made donations to school and that [getting a better math education] is vital to ensuring a successful, free, and community fundraisers, and much more. They work independent future for all of us, especially the students,” Bobby tells us. He heard For more information, please call 763-269-6969 or with many kids in the Edina community,too! about Mathnasium and figured it would be the best way for him to help students. visit mathnasium.com.

24 Parkwood Knolls Life t March 2017 March 2017 t Parkwood Knolls Life 25 sponsor spotlight

Written by Tara Myers Photos by Carter Blochwitz Photography

precious pet

Submitted by Jessica Campbell (Arden Ave) on behalf of Mike & Susan Lewis (Casco Ave) SouthdaleSouthdale

Serving the community for over 45 years Stella is a Chocolate Labrador hailing from Cherry Grove Kennel PetPet HospitalHospital (Kenyon, MN). Of pedigreed bloodlines and impeccable train- ing, Stella seldom stops to snif other canines, reserving herself for sidewalk socialites and local celebrities. Stella’s favorite ﬁlm actor — obviously — is Marlon Brando from A Streetcar Named Desire. Her favorite recording artist is Nina Simone, and her favorite snack is Boeuf Bourguignon and Haricots Verts.

DespiteS her genetic predispositiontell and high field scores,a Stella found hunting barbarically boring, and so became a tennis ball star in her sporting days, perfecting the flea-flicker routine of bouncing the ball of her nose and then running of the dock for the dramatic water-splash reception. Check out our ePet Health. What is ePet Health? ePet Health is a web portal designed to allow our clients to Stella — now in her second decade and increasingly nostal- access their pet's records and test results from anywhere. gic about the neighborhood — is busy working on her tell-all To register for ePet Health, please ask to have your email memoir, Unleashed. address added to our database at your next appointment.

8UI4USFFUt&EJOB Whether yours or your neighbor’s pet is scaly, four-legged, or has short %S%FCPSBI"EBNTt %S1FUF.BHOVTPO hair, we don’t care! Email us to share at [email protected]. 952-926-1831 t www.southdalepethospital.com

28 Country Club Neighborhood Life t July 2017 July 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 29 Pets have always been vital members in love with the Twin Cities and feels calls for tricky patients and sensitive keeping them happy and healthy is pretty remark- of many Edina families. Doctors Deb blessed to be in such a beautiful set- situations like euthanasia. able.” Dr. Pete believes he has the greatest job on and Pete and the staf at Southdale Pet ting to work, live, and play. the planet! He explains, “I enjoy forming relation- Hospital strive to make the health and Southdale Pet Hospital is unique in ships with our clients and to see the joy a big guy happiness of their clients' pets a top Both Doctors Deb and Pete gradu- that you instantly get a sense of fam- has for the little dog in his arms; just ﬁlls me with priority. In fact, Southdale Pet Hospi- ated from the University Of Minne- ily when you walk in; it is deﬁnitely a sense of pride.” tal has been an integral part of many of sota College Of Veterinary Medicine the opposite of corporate America. these pets’ lives for over 40 years. in 1997 where they shared a lot of “We really want to get to know our Giving back is important to the owners of South- laughs. They have been great friends clients and their pets,” says Dr. Pete. dale Pet Hospital. The clinic works with Safe Hands Dr. Deb currently lives in Edina ever since. Dr. Pete joined his good “We love to recognize them walking Rescue in providing veterinary care to dogs in need. Pwith her four kids and several pets, friend, Dr. Deb, at Southdale Pet around the community.” As soon as Dr. Deb also volunteers on occasion at the Crisis including a Guinea Pig named Mr. Hospital and in 2013, they bought you walk in the door, you’ll be able Nursery in Minneapolis while Dr. Pete delivers Chubbs. She enjoys being outdoors Southdale Pet Hospital. “We take to meet Punky, the 11 year old black Meals on Wheels every Thursday. He often brings and spending time with her friends pride in having a super friendly staf kitty. She was willed to Doctors Deb his dogs along on deliveries, too! and family. Running, biking, cross and providing warm and compas- and Pete after a long-term client country skiing, and dancing are some sionate service,” comments Dr. Deb. passed away, but not before telling Both Dr. Deb and Dr. Pete have goals for their busi- of her favorite activities. Dr. Pete As a family-oriented company, the them that she wanted Punky to live ness. “I want to keep doing the best job I can and began his veterinary career in north- staf maintains an emphasis on being at Southdale Pet Hospital when she continue to serve our clients while keeping their west Wisconsin where he owned as kind, available, and open to the was gone! pets happy and healthy,” explains Dr. Deb. Dr. Pete three mixed animal vet hospitals. Dr. community as possible. Doctors Deb adds, “I would love to improve the facility and con- Pete is an avid outdoorsman and he and Pete take pleasure in being able “I love what I do because I get to see tinue to grow our clientele as well.” loves all things Gophers and Twins. to say that often times they give their what pets mean to their owners and Pete is fortunate to have a close fam- personal numbers out to clients in the unconditional love they have for If you are in need of any pet-related services, please ily with lots of kids around. Although order to answer after-hours ques- them,” comments Dr. Deb. “What call Dr. Deb and Dr. Pete at 952-926-1831 or visit he is a small town guy, he has fallen tions. They will also make house humans gain from having pets and their website: southdalepethospital.com.

30 Country Club Neighborhood Life t July 2017 July 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 31 sponsor spotlight REHKAMP LARSON ARCHITECTS Written by Carter Blochwitz, Journalism Intern Photos submitted by Rehkamp Larson Architects Country Club residents, Mark Larson and Jean Rehkamp Larson, met in architecture school at the University of Minnesota. A love for design was a shared interest from the start. After working in diferent ofces around town for 10 years, they decided to take the leap together and opened Rehkamp Larson Architects in 2000. Since then, their work designing houses and cabins has been widely recognized in local and national publications and has won many design awards.

“We are dynamic listeners and critical thinkers,” says Jean, With their appreciation of architecture, Mark and Jean were ing tours with Country Club Neighbors for Preservation. “It is a work of designing yourself a home,” Jean jokes, stressing that the explaining how the firm’s success stems from its client-focused drawn to the Country Club neighborhood’s old houses, walkabil- privilege and a joy to work on projects in the neighborhood. We design details of a home add up to the whole. approach. “From start to finish, we guide homeowners through ity, and proximity to downtown Edina. are delighted to have worked with many of our immediate neigh- the seemingly endless decisions so that the process is enjoyable, bors and on many of the old houses in the district.” “Design is a way of life. It awakens you to the possibilities of shap- productive, and results in a refined project.” “It’s a gem of a neighborhood — we have a strong community, ing your surroundings, your perspective, and the world for the bet- engaged homeowners, tree-lined boulevards, and an inventory When asked for advice to give to the residents of the Country ter. Making things at any scale, small or big, is deeply satisfying.” “Going through the design process changes the way people see of historic houses that together create a sense of place,” Jean Club neighborhood, Mark urges them to engage in collaboration things,” Mark says, “It’s a true pleasure to design spaces that fit explains. She was a member of the Historic Preservation Board with an architect and experienced builder for any major home Call Rehkamp Larson Architects at 612-285-7275 and visit their our clients’ values.” for six years and now helps lead Historic Neighborhood walk- projects. “Don’t try this at home! Well, okay … at least the full website at rehkamplarson.com for additional info.

34 Country Club Neighborhood Life t March 2017 March 2017 t Country Club Neighborhood Life 35