2013 Insiders Guide

» ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

» SERVICES

» RETAIL

» HEALTH & WELLNESS

» TRAVEL

» EDUCATION

» LISTINGS

Arts & Entertainment

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

501 W 78th Street, Chanhassen, MN 55317 • 952-934-1525 or 800-362-3515 • ChanhassenDT.com

» What’s new: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres celebrates its 45th anniversary year in 2013! 2013 Entertainment: “Put on a Happy Face” with Bye Bye Birdie on the Main Stage through March 30, 2013. Main Stage musicals to follow include the return of Chanhassen’s No. 1 audience favorite, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat from April 5 through August 30 followed by the Broadway blockbuster, Hello, Dolly! from September 4 through January 2014. Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret is offered in the Playhouse every Friday and Saturday night. And don’t miss the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres 2013 Concert Series—including tributes to The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, The Greatest Women of Country, Gene Pitney, and The Beatles. Also Power Balladz—an 80s Sing-a-Long, When A Man Loves A Diva, and many more!

» Our greatest strengths: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres is the perfect one-stop entertainment destination with multiple theatres under one roof, complete restaurant and bar service, and complimentary parking on-site.

» Our productions are … recognized for excellence. All elements—from costumes to scenery—are Minnesota-created and developed on-site by local theatre artisans and designers.

» Our audiences have been … attending Chanhassen and celebrating special occasions since 1968! During that time, Chanhassen Dinner Theatre has entertained over 10 million guests.

» Other highlights: Chanhassen Dinner Theatres is a terrific, unique place to hold weddings, receptions, and business events with facilities to accommodate up to 300 guests for private receptions. Also check out the new Brindisi’s Pub for lunch, dinner, happy hours and Sunday brunch. It’s one of the Twin Cities’ best-kept secrets!
 

Minnesota Opera

Ticket Office – Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. • 612-333-6669 • mnopera.org

» Who we are: Minnesota Opera combines a culture of creativity and fiscal responsibility to produce opera and opera education programs that expand the art form, nurture artists, enrich audiences and contribute to the vitality of the community.

» Our audiences are … a cross-section of the community. We see high school students dressing up and going on dates, young professionals gathering on Tempo opening nights (our group for opera-goers age 21-39), young parents who have hired a sitter so they can have a night out, middle-aged empty nesters, and older adults enjoying their retirement.

» We take pride in … creating new operas. In 1963, a world premiere sparked the creation of a small opera company spotlighting the rare and avant-garde. In the following five decades, nurtured by the supportive and adventurous culture of the Twin Cities, Minnesota Opera created and produced new operas. These efforts began to define the company’s artistic identity as an incubator for new work. Following the overwhelming success of its commission of The Grapes of Wrath in 2007, Minnesota Opera launched the New Works Initiative (NWI), a landmark commitment to invigorate the operatic repertoire. The program’s first commission, Silent Night, earned its composer the 2012 Pulitzer Prize. The second commission, Doubt, with music by Douglas J. Cuomo and libretto by John Patrick Shanley, makes its world premiere in January 2013.

The NWI has also produced the American premiere of Jonathan Dove’s The Adventures of Pinocchio and revivals of Dominick Argento’s Casanova’s Homecoming and Bernard Herrmann’s Wuthering Heights. The Dream of Valentino, newly revised by Dominick Argento, is slated for March 2014, and The Manchurian Candidate, composed by Kevin Puts with libretto by Mark Campbell, will make its world premiere in the 2014–2015 season.

» You might not realize: Though some people think opera is elitist and hard to comprehend, opera’s origins were populist. It was the Broadway of its time, written for the purpose of entertaining and delighting both kings and commoners. Today, with translations projected above the stage, audiences won’t miss a word. And although opera is an expensive art form to produce, Minnesota Opera tickets start at just $20.

» Other highlights: Visit the Opera on Facebook (facebook.com/MinnesotaOpera), Twitter (@mnopera), YouTube (youtube.com/minnesotaopera), Pinterest (pinterest.com/mnopera) and Instagram (mnopera). Minnesota Opera also has a fantastic blog (blog.mnopera.org).

If you blog or tweet, email dzillmann@mnopera.org or contact Minnesota Opera via Twitter @mnopera for an invitation to a social media preview night, held at the final dress rehearsal of each production.
 

Shooting Star Casino

777 Casino Rd. Mahnomen, MN 56557 • 1-800-453-7827 (STAR) • Tickets: 800-313-7469 • starcasino.com

» We are: a casino, hotel, and event center offering Las Vegas-style gaming in a relaxed, casual atmosphere.  We are located in the gentle, rolling prairies of “wild rice country” of Mahnomen, 240 miles from the Twin Cities (35 miles north of Detroit Lakes on Highway 59). We are proudly owned and operated by the White Earth Nation.

» Shooting Star Casino: In our casino there is a poker room, 1,100 state-of-the-art slot machines, 12 blackjack tables, and four high-stakes tables with two and six deck shoes, and limits up to $1,000.

» Shooting Star Event Center: Catch a national act like country star Sara Evans in the 15,000-square-foot Event Center.

» Restaurants: Shooting Star’s four restaurants cater to your appetite, from casual at Whispering Winds to fine dining at 2 ONE 8 Restaurant.

» Shooting Star Hotel: Stay in one of our 386 well-appointed deluxe rooms or 24 suites—including an Executive Suite and the Stardust King suites complete with a jet tub. Best of all, you’ll be a short distance from the casino, restaurants, event center, and a glass-enclosed heated indoor pool and hot tub.

» Sereniitee Spa: Located in the Stardust hotel wing, the Sereniitee Spa features signature services like hot river stones used to help penetrate heat deep into the muscles.

» Mustang Lounge: Enjoy regional entertainment on an elevated stage next to the casino floor, providing a fun, lively ambiance to enjoy happy hour drink specials and live music while you play. 

» You might not realize: We have been voted the top Native American casino in Minnesota in several categories each year, beating out the larger metro-area casinos in service and facility-related areas. We have also been voted “Best Cash-Back” for a Players’ Club. We are able to offer a superior experience on a more personal level with our guests—focusing on individual service, big gaming options, and big entertainment.
 

Services

CenturyLink

763-795-8082 • centurylink.com

» We are … the company keeping you connected at home, at work and on the go.

» Our customers are … families, schools, small businesses and some of Minnesota’s most well-known Fortune 500 companies.

» We are proud of … our many local community programs including CenturyLink Teachers and Technology which provides funds to transform technology in schools and impact student achievement statewide.

» You might not realize… CenturyLink is the official communications services provider behind the state-of-the-art fan experience at Target Field®.  

» Other highlights:
  • CenturyLink offers fast Internet connection speeds up to 40 Mbps  – the speed you need for downloading HD movies, watching streaming videos  and playing games at superfast speeds!
  • CenturyLink High-Speed Internet includes 24×7 technical customer support and a suite of online backup and anti-virus protection with internet security options.
  • CenturyLink offers a special low-cost Internet service for low-income Minnesotans called Internet Basics – for qualifications and to learn more go to centurylink.com/internetbasics
  • CenturyLink has more than 3,000 local employees in Minnesota.
 

Voice Control (VOCO) by Navvo

myvoco.com

» We believe … there is a better, simpler way to access and enjoy music and video. We believe in providing people the freedom to find what they’re looking for using voice or touch, Apple or Android, and Mac or PC.  Using the power of voice, smart devices, and the digital revolution,  we are changing the way people enjoy media in their homes through a voice-controlled wireless media streaming system.

» Our customers … are from all walks of life and love finding new and easier ways to use technology; they tend to be in front of trends when it comes to making technology work for them.

» We take pride in the fact that … in today’s content/media environment, we are able to bring all of your music or videos together on one interface, so you can easily control how you enjoy your media.  

» You might not realize: VOCO is just answering the peoples’ request—22.5 million homes were networked in 2005, 63.8 million homes are networked today, and 90 million networked homes are expected by 2016.

» Other highlights: The VOCO V-Spot all-in-one media system was nominated as a 2013 “Innovations Honoree” at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.  We are locally owned and operated out of Minnetonka, founded in 2004 by former Best Buy executive Wade Fenn.

For any inquiries, please contact Matthew Juaire at matthew@navvo.com.
 

Retail

Schneiderman’s Furniture

Five locations in Lakeville, Plymouth, Roseville, Woodbury and Duluth • schneidermans.com

» Who we are: Schneiderman’s’ Furniture is a retailer of high-quality furniture brands with a particular focus on helping customers find the perfect piece for any room in their home, be it a custom-designed selection or one from our vast showroom of décor styles. We pride ourselves on offering the furniture you didn’t know you could afford.

» Our customers are … style-conscious and value-minded lovers of home decorating who insist on lasting quality, courteous interactions, and a wide-ranging selection.

» We take pride in … our website, Schneidermans.com, featuring exclusive photographs of every furniture item in our showroom. This highly unique benefit—along with a refined layout and navigation—provides customers with the best online shopping experience possible.

» You might not realize: Inside every Schneiderman’s Furniture, customers will find the Schneiderman’s Sleep Zone, offering exceptional mattresses in all the latest support technologies, including memory foam, gel, innerspring and latex, all backed by a 365 night comfort trial to ensure the best night’s rest possible.

» Other highlights: Schneiderman’s Furniture is constantly shopping industry shows to bring our discriminating customers the latest styles, fabrics, brands, design innovations, and comfort technology. Shopping a Schneiderman’s showroom is shopping the best in furniture.
 

Designer Marketplace

Minneapolis • DesignerMarketPlaceMn.com

» Who we are: Designer Marketplace is a high-end designer furniture showroom that offers quality designer furniture at discount prices.

» Our customers are … hip, fashion-forward homeowners looking for items to tell the stories about who they are and how they live. We offer traditional and transitional selections to fit a wide genre of urban tastes, including deco.

» We take pride in … the unique pieces we purchase from around the world. We’re also proud of the ability to deliver quickly.

» You might not realize: We carry a wide variety of home accessories including oversized mirrors, paintings, and lighting, along with rugs from around the world. We’re open seven days a week with easy parking—located a short distance from Target Field on Glenwood. We also offer layaway and in-home consultations.
 

Health & Wellness

Ivy Fitness Club

201 11th St. So., Minneapolis, MN 55403 • 612-343-3131 • ivyfitnessclub.com

» Who we are: a friendly, clean fitness center located within Ivy Spa Club. Our memberships are as low as $79/month.

» What we offer: High-quality equipment, fun and energizing classes, and spa amenities including towel service and a whirlpool!

» Our members appreciate: our small class sizes and no waiting lines or limits on equipment. Plus, icy washcloths!

» You might not realize: You can avoid rush hour! We’re here for anyone working or living downtown. Join now and find out how you can get 300 Ivy dollars to spend on spa, salon, and personal services.
 

Travel

Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center

2100 Arrowwood Lane NW, Alexandria, MN • 320-762-1124 • arrowwoodresort.com

» About us: Rendezvous with a group of friends or bring your family for a getaway to Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center, just two hours west of the Twin Cities on the shores of Lake Darling in Alexandria. The 38,000-square-foot Big Splash Indoor Waterpark is a hit with the kids, the Darling Reflections Spa is a hit with the adults, and everyone loves the on-site restaurants (try the Sunday brunch). Tennis enthusiasts can play a game or two in the huge indoor tennis facility, and those who embrace the snow can rent a snowmobile (mini snowmobiles are available for kids ages 6-11), cross-country skis, or ice skates, go ice fishing, or play broomball or hockey on the Lake Darling rink. Nearby Andes Tower Hill has great winter skiing, boarding, and snowtubing (and affordable package deals), Carlos Creek Winery is open year-round for wine tasting and tours, and you’ll find unexpected treasures when boutique or antique shopping in Alexandria’s historic downtown. Our courteous and accommodating staff go above and beyond to make sure your stay exceeds expectations.

» Our accommodations … range from lodge rooms and suites with lakefront views to luxurious four bedroom townhomes. All of the large, clean, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms at the resort were recently renovated. In addition, 8 new cottages were built in June.
 

Visit Bemidji

877-250-5959 • visitbemidji.com

» We are:  The First City on the Mississippi River, a small town with big city amenities.

» Our visitors are: outdoor enthusiasts. Often visitors swap their bikes for skis and boats for snowmobiles as the seasons change. We’re home to Buena Vista Ski Area, ice fishing and hockey tournaments, Logging Days (celebrating the timber industry), and the Finlandia Ski Marathon, one of American’s premier cross-country skiing events. Bemidji also appeals to those who have an appreciation for arts and culture, with an active visual and performing arts community. Check our online calendar for performance dates.  

» We take pride in the fact that … no other area is as central to the state’s 14,000 miles of trails than Bemidji. As the crossroads city for two of the major Minnesota Interconnecting Trail system routes, MITS-71 and MITS-2, superb trails that run across or up and down the state run right through Bemidji. Groomed and well-marked, these trails will lead to forests harboring tall red and white pines more than 3,000 years old, Indian reservations, and the headwaters of the Mississippi.

» Other highlights: Our lodging options span from full-service hotels to cozy lakeside cabins, with a variety of dining options nearby. A new lakeside DoubleTree hotel is under construction and set to open in June 2013.  A Country Inn & Suites, connected to the The Sanford Center, is scheduled to open in late 2013.
 

Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts: Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior, Surfside on Lake Superior, Temperance Landing

bluefinbay.com • 1-800-BLUEFIN (258-3346)

» We are: Minnesota’s most incredible lakeside resort and the North Shore’s best opportunity to get closer–to Lake Superior and to each other. Our three properties—Bluefin Bay, Surfside and Temperance Landing—offer an incredible spectrum of comfort from upscale to high-end luxury, with friendly hospitality around every corner. Experience the North Shore through our complimentary cross-country ski and snowshoe equipment, guided tours, ice skating rink, shuttles to/from trailheads and Lutsen Mountains, evening campfires, and more.

» Our visitors are: Families, friends, and couples. Some are looking for relaxation and romance, and can unwind at our full-service Waves of Superior Spa. Others want high-adrenaline adventure, and can find that on miles of trails perfect for cross country skiing, or downhill skiing or boarding at Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, just a short shuttle away. Yet others just want to unplug and reconnect. Our lodging options offer the perfect setting to slow down, talk, get comfortable, and reenergize those special relationships in a romantic setting close to Lake Superior.

» Other highlights: We offer Ski and Stay packages (featuring discounted lift tickets), Honeymoon, Romantic Retreat, and Couples Spa Packages, and live acoustic music Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday nights.
 

Cook County

visitcookcounty.com • Lutsen-Tofte, Grand Marais, Gunflint Trail, and Grand Portage

» We are: The longest downhill ski runs, the greatest freshwater lake, the largest groomed cross-country network in North America, 120 inches of annual snowfall perfect for snowmobiling, dogsledding, sleigh rides and more.

» Our visitors are: ready to ignite some adventure and fall in love with winter all over again.

» Other highlights: Visit during Winter Tracks, a 10-day family-friendly festival from February 1-10 featuring the Lutsen Mountains Family Fun Fest, Ridge Riders Snowmobile Fun Run and Easter Seals Snowarama along with a Plein Air Painting Competition, snow sculptures, luminary lit ski trails, guided snowshoe tours, dog sled or horse-drawn sleigh rides, live music and more.
 

Lutsen Mountains     

lutsen.com • 1-218-663-7281

» We are … the “Vail of the Midwest,” with the most ski acreage in the state—92 sweeping runs and 1,000 feet of vertical drop. Our downhill terrain is not typical of the Midwest, with beginner’s terrain on Ullr Mountain and more challenging terrain on Eagle Mountain.

» Our visitors … came from 30 states last year (including Texas, Florida, and New York), but the majority of the 100,000 annual skiers are from the Twin Cities area.

» We take pride in the fact that … the snow is reliable, the runs are up to a mile long, and there are some beautiful, breathtaking views of Lake Superior from the top of the mountains. We’re also proud to offer an incredible value. Purchase lift tickets online (up to 72 hours in advance of arrival) and save both time and money. Lutsen partners with the region’s best lodging facilities to offer the lowest prices on ski and stay packages.

» Other highlights: Not only is there excellent skiing and boarding, Lutsen offers on-mountain dining and entertainment—providing an aprés-ski experience—along with groomed, tracked trails for Nordic skiing, dog sledding, backcountry snowshoeing, and sleigh rides.
 

Hudson, Wisconsin

experiencehudson.com • hudsonwi.org

» We are: A vibrant riverside community! Find the perfect blend of unique restaurants, boutiques, lodging, history and a scenic river just 30 minutes east of the Twin Cities.  Set on the banks of the St. Croix River, Hudson invites you to enjoy the beauty and amenities of a quaint river town built on rich history.  

» Our visitors are: Energized by the opportunities to have FUN in Hudson. Historic downtown Hudson provides visitors with several blocks of one-of-a-kind shopping and exceptional restaurants. For those who love spending time in the great outdoors, we offer scenic beauty for biking, golfing, boating, birding, and hiking. We also have a vibrant arts community and memorable historic sites. Walk along the Historic Toll Bridge Road and experience a bit of history.  This was the original river crossing from Wisconsin into Minnesota before the interstate bridge was built. Hudson is also the Gateway entrance to the Yellowstone Trail, the first east-west highway from Plymouth Rock to Puget Sound.  Drive the trail and experience a piece of Americana!

» We take pride in the fact that … we are surrounded by natural beauty and offer an unforgettable vacation experience.

» Next winter event: Visit during the Hudson Hot Air Affair hot air balloon festival Feb. 1-3 for an evening parade, hot air balloon launches, geocaching, shopping, smooshboarding, arts and crafts, a hot air balloon moon glow, and great food. Check out other stay and play itineraries at hudsonwi.org.
 

Visit Winona 

visitwinona.com

» About us: With the Mississippi River on one side of town and majestic limestone bluffs on the other, a more beautiful place than Winona is hard to find. This charming city—located in southeastern Minnesota—is home to historically significant buildings, a variety of dining, shopping, and lodging options, and numerous recreational opportunities. Winona has also earned a reputation as an arts and cultural mecca, with four museums, a vineyard, and interesting festivals taking place throughout the year.

» We take pride in the fact that … we are home to unique attractions.  Visit the Minnesota Marine Art Museum which houses impressionist and Hudson River School artists such as Monet, Pissaro, Cole and Bierstadt; Watkins Museum and Store; Polish Museum; Winona County History Center; and the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.   We also have Garvin Heights Vineyard which is part of the Great River Road Wine Trail, and Sugar Loaf Antiques and Crafts, which houses about 50 vendors in its building.

» Other highlights: There’s always a fun festival or event happening in Winona. Visit from Jan. 23-27, 2013 for the Frozen River Film Festival, offering documentary films and programs that engage, educate, and activate our community to become involved in the world. February 6-10, 2013 is Rockwell Kent in Winona: Centennial Celebration, with exhibitions of his work, an original play, a film, a book study, and a symposium.
 

Education

North Dakota State University

ndsu.edu • Fargo, North Dakota

» Tuition: Academic year, Minnesota resident basic – $6,708.  

» Type of institution: Public Doctoral Research University

» Our mission: North Dakota State University is a student-focused, land-grant, research university—an economic engine that educates students, conducts primary research, creates new knowledge, and advances technology. The university provides affordable access to an excellent education at a top-ranked research institution that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment, educating future leaders who will create solutions to national and global challenges in an effort to shape a better world.

» Distinctions/awards: Recognized as one of the nation’s top public and private universities by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education.

» Our reputation: NDSU uniquely combines the commitments to students, community needs, and research. Our students learn from the best.

» NDSU alumni compete successfully, nationally and globally, and are known for having a strong work ethic and working alongside top researchers in their fields.

» One more thing: NDSU combines access with affordability and an academically rigorous, demanding environment within a rich, diverse, supportive community.
 

University of Minnesota Duluth

d.umn.edu

» Tuition: $12,756

» Type of institution: Public four-year

» Our mission: Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, UMD provides nearly 11,491 students with a world-class education. Faculty and staff are dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning and to making the campus a welcoming environment. Founded in 1895, UMD provides an alternative to both large research universities and small liberal arts colleges.  Active learning through internships, honors programs, research, and community service promotes the development of skills, critical thinking, and maturity.  

» Distinctions/awards: Duluth just received a top ranking in the 2012 College Destinations Index by the American Institute for Economic Research for providing a great academic and cultural environment, a good quality of life, and excellent employment opportunities. Our academic programs, teaching tools, and technologies are continually changing to meet the demands of a global society.

» Our athletics program … is both balanced and competitive. The Bulldogs compete in seven men’s and nine women’s varsity sports as members of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. Nationally, we belong to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and compete at the Division II level, except for Division I men’s and women’s hockey.

» Our alumni … succeed. Brian Kobilka, a 1977 graduate, received the 2012 Nobel Prize in chemistry. He graduated summa cum laude with bachelor of science degrees in biology and chemistry.

» Other highlights: UMD knows about the hard work, curiosity, and innovative spirit of UMD’s students, staff, and faculty. We have a new way to say it: “Those who can, Duluth.”
 

Concordia University, St. Paul    

csp.edu

» Tuition: $19,700

» Type of institution: Four-year private

» Our mission: The mission of Concordia University, St. Paul, a university of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, is to prepare students for thoughtful and informed living, for dedicated service to God and humanity, and for enlightened care of God’s creation, all within the context of the Christian Gospel.

» Distinctions/awards: Higher Learning Commission – North Central Association, National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs, Minnesota Board of Teaching.

» Our reputation … depends on the success of our graduates in the workplace and world.

» The Concordia community … is responsive to the needs of today’s students and provides real preparation for thoughtful living and service.

» Our alumni … represent the rich cultural diversity of the Twin Cities across disciplines; find success in life, career and service; and value their Concordia education.

» Other highlights: Established in 1893, Concordia is a Christian liberal arts university. With the recent $10,000 reduction of tuition, Concordia is one of the least expensive private colleges in the Midwest and offers generous financial assistance to students with need and merit. The University is also conveniently located in the “college district” of St. Paul, providing students with easy access to transportation, internships/jobs, entertainment and shopping.
 

McNally Smith College of Music

» Tuition: Approximately $11,000 per semester

» Our mission: McNally Smith College of Music prepares students for a fulfilling future in music by providing a culture of learning that inspires intellectual, creative, and personal development and that enriches our world through their artistry and leadership.

» Unique classes: Areas of study consist of traditional music performance curriculum as well as music technology (music production, audio engineering, live sound), music business, composition and songwriting, the liberal arts and hip-hop studies.

» Our students … come from every region of the United States. Because we are located in the Upper Midwest, more than half of our enrollment consists of residents from Minnesota, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, and Iowa. You may meet students at McNally Smith from countries around the world, though: South Africa, Chile, Venezuela, and Japan (to name a few).

» One more thing: We have wonderful partnerships with local venues and musicians. We recently teamed up with First Avenue, Vita.mn, and Radio K to present New Music Machine—a showcase spotlighting all local college-going musicians, while The Emerging Artist Series showcases McNally Smith students and faculty at The Artist’s Quarter and Amsterdam Bar and Hall. Our on-campus Sound Bite Concert Series has hosted the likes of P.O.S., Chastity Brown, Solid Gold and Motion City Soundtrack, while recent artists-in-residence include Dan Wilson, Dessa and Jeremy Messersmith.
 

Minnetonka High School        

minnetonka.k12.mn.us/mhs

» Tuition: Free

» Type of institution: College-prep public high school

» Distinctions/awards: Recognized among the Top High Schools in America, by Newsweek, U.S. News and World Report, and the Washington Post. Minnetonka was also named to the 2012 AP Honor Roll by the College Board for increasing AP enrollment and performance.

» Our reputation … depends on academic excellence, inspiring in students a passion to excel.

» The District 276 community … values excellence in education: academics, athletics, activities and the arts. The community is very supportive of its public schools.

» Our graduates … are the visible measure of our success, with an average ACT score of 25.3, 93% are college-bound.

» Other highlights: All freshmen and sophomore students are issued an iPad as their primary instructional tool, replacing many textbooks, novels, notebooks, and paper assignments.

Minnetonka’s specialty programs include the International Studies Program, Fine Arts and Theatre, Project Lead the Way (pre-engineering), International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, Advanced Placement and new in 2013: Tonka Vantage – providing future business majors a competitive advantage.
 

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Locations in Minneapolis, Winona, Rochester, Apple Valley, Oakdale, Minnetonka, Wisconsin, and Greater Minnesota • smumn.edu • 612-728-5100

» Tuition: Undergraduate (2011-2012):
Tuition and Fees: $26,750
Room and Board: $7,150

Degree completion and graduate programs vary credit cost by program.

» Type of institution: Four-year private liberal arts plus graduate and bachelor completion programs.  

» Distinctions/awards: U.S. News & World Report “America’s Best Colleges – 2011,” Forbes.com (America’s Best Colleges 2011).

» Our reputation depends on … high-quality programming and value, in addition to the belief that everyone should have access to education.

» The Saint Mary’s community is … engaged, community-oriented and dedicated to students and alumni alike.

» Our alumni … are connected, involved in their communities, and constantly giving back with time and energy.
 

University of St. Thomas

St. Paul and Minneapolis • stthomas.edu

» Tuition: 2012-2013, undergraduate: $33,040; graduate tuition varies by program.

» Type of institution: Catholic, private four-year university awarding undergraduate and graduate degrees.

» Our mission: Inspired by Catholic intellectual tradition, the University of St. Thomas educates students to be morally responsible leaders who think critically, act wisely and work skillfully to advance the common good.

» Distinctions/awards: Nationally-ranked graduate programs, Gold Leed-certified Anderson Student Center, 2012 NCAA Volleyball Champions.

» Our reputation depends on … our ability to keep our promise of offering an educational experience with outstanding career preparation; our unfailing recognition of the importance of faith and values, and our continued emphasis on service to the community.

» Our alumni … are responsible leaders who stay connected through networking, give back as volunteers to the St. Thomas community and engage students through mentoring, career preparation and educational programs.

» Other highlights: One of the distinguishing features of the undergraduate experience at St. Thomas is the degree to which students are encouraged to carry out innovative research and pursue creative projects in partnership with faculty members through the Undergraduate Research and Collaborative Scholarship Program.
 

Breck School                                

breckschool.org

» Tuition: Including lunch and fees: range from $14,560-$24,995

» Type of institution: P-12 college-prep, coeducational, Episcopal day school

» Distinctions/awards: Second grand prize and fourth grand prize at the 2012 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, mock trial team finished third in the nation in 2012 after three consecutive years as Minnesota state champions, American Visions Award (Best in Show) from the national Scholastic Art and Writing competition in 2012, national competitors in FIRST Robotics and winner of Minnesota state chairman’s award in 2012, 2012 state championships in girls hockey and boys tennis; state qualifiers in 10 other sports.

» Our reputation depends on … the way our graduates are making our world a better place

» The Breck community is … warm, welcoming, and inclusive.

» Our alumni … were well prepared for college and life beyond.

» Other highlights: Breck has the largest financial aid budget of any school in the state: more than $5 million supports over 23 percent of the student body; we are currently building a brand-new Upper School facility, a project that will be completed by the start of the 2013-14 school year.
 

Listings