Welcome to the Best of White Bear Lake issue. As you read this, I hope you’re enjoying the best of these long summer days we spend seven months looking forward to—perched on a porch swing with a glass of iced tea, lounging on the beach with your toes in the sand or settled in your backyard taking in the sunset. My favorite reading spot is a shaded bench in my garden, munching on herbs and drinking lemonade with my chickens clucking away nearby.
Wherever you choose to read and relax, quiet moments like these go by fast, so let me give you a quick preview into the stories within these pages. First, skip on over to our Readers’ Choice Poll results. After you’re done, visit my favorite things about the White Bear Lake area—from bites and books to sights and some seriously cool humans!
We’re headed outdoors in this issue, starting with a hike alongside some Mahtomedi residents who’ve found a community and calling with the St. Paul Hiking Club. Writer Jamie Tjornehoj spent an afternoon with Brock and Sandy Herlick and the rest of the club. Then, read about Hugo nonprofit Dream of Wild Health. Writer Ava Diaz connected with current staff and former students to discuss their mission to help Indigenous youth learn about their heritage and regain food sovereignty.
Speaking of food, check out our Tastemakers for a collection of community recipes just in time for patio season, curated by yours truly.
… And there’s so much more! We all have our favorite things to do and see. Just remember to get out into your community and try something new. I hope you find some ideas within these pages.
Until next time,
-Zoe Deal
