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<\/p>\nBROOKLYN PARK, MN (April 17, 2026)
\nSkaalvenn Distillery in Brooklyn Park is hosting a Cambodian New Year celebration this week while marking the return of co-owner Tyson Schnitker following a double lung transplant performed in 2025.<\/p>\n
The three-day cultural event, held April 16 through April 18, coincides with Schnitker\u2019s ongoing recovery and a broader effort by the distillery to raise awareness for organ donation.<\/p>\n
Cambodian New Year Programming<\/p>\n
The distillery\u2019s cocktail room, located at 8601 73rd Ave N, Suite 14, has been adapted to reflect Cambodian cultural themes in recognition of co-owner Mary Schnitker\u2019s heritage as the daughter of Cambodian refugees.<\/p>\n
Programming includes a specialty food and beverage menu developed by bar manager Luke Young, who previously lived in Cambodia for an extended period.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Menu offerings include:<\/p>\n
Cambodian-style egg rolls
\nPapaya salad
\nKhmer-inspired fusion items, including specialty hot dog variations<\/p>\n
A featured cocktail, \u201cKra-op,\u201d is built around aromatic botanicals associated with Southeast Asian flavors.<\/p>\n
The space is also decorated with Cambodian cultural elements, including national imagery, as part of the event\u2019s presentation.<\/p>\n
Event Details
Venue: Skaalvenn Distillery
Address: 8601 73rd Ave N, Suite 14, Brooklyn Park, MN
Dates: April 16\u201318, 2026
Cost: No cover charge; standard menu pricing applies<\/p>\n
Co-Owner Recovery Following Transplant<\/p>\n
The event takes place less than a year after Tyson Schnitker underwent a double lung transplant in June 2025 following a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.<\/p>\n
According to published reports, the procedure lasted approximately seven hours and was performed shortly after a donor match became available.<\/p>\n
Schnitker has since returned to the distillery in a limited capacity. Due to post-transplant medical requirements, including ongoing anti-rejection treatment, he is no longer able to consume alcohol.<\/p>\n
Public statements from Schnitker indicate that his focus remains on long-term recovery and family life following the procedure.<\/p>\n
Organ Donation Awareness Effort<\/p>\n
In connection with National Donate Life Month, the distillery is offering a 10 percent discount throughout April to customers who are registered organ donors.<\/p>\n
The initiative is intended to recognize organ donation and encourage broader public participation in donor registration programs.<\/p>\n
Business and Community Context<\/p>\n
Skaalvenn Distillery operates a cocktail room in Brooklyn Park and is known for rotating menus and themed programming.<\/p>\n
The Cambodian New Year event reflects a broader approach among local hospitality businesses to incorporate cultural programming into regular operations, while also serving as a point of engagement for community members.<\/p>\n
Context<\/p>\n
Cambodian New Year, also known as Choul Chnam Thmey, is a three-day celebration marking the traditional solar new year in Cambodia. Observances typically include food, cultural displays, and community gatherings.<\/p>\n
In Minnesota, home to a significant Southeast Asian population, local celebrations are often integrated into community and business spaces.<\/p>\n