The Investment Issue
From the frozen tundra of winter, do we dare believe it’s spring? It’s hard to believe that the first quarter of the year has already come and gone! Hopefully, it lasts more than a few weeks!!!
April is our “Investment” issue, or, as I like to call it, our “invest in” issue. Investment isn’t just about stocks and savings—it’s about the choices we make every day to build a better future. In this issue, we explore what it means to invest in what truly matters, from your business and financial security to your personal growth and confidence.
Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy, or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things, such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health, with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools, and local organizations. Investing financially can help meet long-term financial goals, whether it be for retirement or a level of security. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and friends and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people who mean the most to us.
For this issue, we look at this theme broadly:
• We invest in art with a well-established artist and gallery owner, Keith Wilcock.
• Susan Stiles shares her investing expertise.
• If the investment in a roofing project is on the list, we wanted to introduce you to Kaufman Roofing and their family legacy here in the Twin Cities that started in 1930.
• With J.H. & Sons we learn the value of investing in a wardrobe that wears well.
• Bay to Bay Boat Club encourages us to invest in water this year and truly enjoy the gift in our own backyard by exploring Lake Minnetonka.
And there’s much more….
While investing in ourselves, relationships, the community, and finances can look very different from person to person, we hope the stories in this issue help you invest in your own growth, passions, and the people and places that matter most to you.
Here’s to investing in you, Lake Minnetonka. I’ll see you around the Lake!
DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @LAKEMINNETONKALIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kendra Johnson, Graham Johnson, Sarah Knieff, Jen Fortner, Kristy Belley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Emily John Photography, Anna Ko Photography, Maria Claire Photography, Kate Evans Photography, Lucy Hawthorne
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Golfers braved the cold to come out for the 38th Annual Orono Lions Snowball Open! 2: The crowds were out for the 2025 Lake Minnetonka Klondike Dog Derby Cutest Puppy Contest! 3: After their tee times, Snowball Open golfers enjoyed beverages, bonfires, a DJ party, live music, and more. 4: The Cutest Puppy Contest helps raise funds for next year’s Klondike race, Can-Do Canines, Adopt a Husky Minnesota, and ICA Food Shelf. 5: Snowball Open golfers came prepared to tee off on 18 snow-covered holes on Long Lake! 6: Hosted at Back Channel Brewing, Cutest Puppy contestants and owners enjoyed great beer and food trucks Russell’s Traveling Kitchen & Burger Daddies. 7: Westonka Animal Hospital came out in support of the event with the cutest pug keeping toasty warm in flannel!
Excelsior Paint & Design Delivers the Showroom to You!
Working on that next spring home project? Shop from the comfort of your home and build your own sample flooring box with up to six samples! For just $12, they'll ship your box to your door. Compare and contrast - feel the quality, see the fit. A designer will contact you to see how your journey is going. If you're looking for other types of samples such as wallpaper, paint, tiles, countertops, and more, come see them in-store! Order your sample box: https://www. excelsiorpaintanddesigncarpetone. com/about/samples
Welcome Two New Educators to Crown College
Crown College has grown by two amazing educators! Both are new additions to the Media Arts program, Amanda Quist as an Associate Professor of Digital Arts and Chris Fletcher as an Associate Professor of Video Production. Amanda joins the faculty team with 10 years of teaching design and motion graphics (among other rich experiences), and Chris joins with a varied background in directing and filmmaking, and he owns his own production company. Congratulations to all!
PickleX Opens in Plymouth
Congratulations to PickleX on their grand opening! They're the first premier indoor pickleball experience in Plymouth. Whether you've played before or it's your first time, they're ready to welcome you to experience the energy, excitement, and community firsthand. PickleX offers 6 indoor courts, 3 event rooms, coaching for all skill levels, equipment rentals, and wellness classes. Great for team building, a birthday bash, or just a friendly game of pickleball! Reserve a court or learn to play at: https://www.picklexmn.com/
Photography by Excelsior Paint & Design
Photography by Crown College
Photography by PickleX
ARTICLE BY JEN FORTNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA KO PHOTOGRAPHY
A LIFETIME ON THE LAKE
Bay to Bay Boat Club owner Tom Jacob celebrates 25 years of creating unforgettable experiences on Lake Minnetonka
When Tom Jacob started Bay to Bay Boat Club twenty-five years ago, it was the start of a business but nowhere near the beginning of his love of lake life. Tom’s grandfather owned a resort in northern Minnesota for over 30 years. “I grew up being a lake rat,” he says. Attending college in Montana, Tom continued to pursue his outdoor interests with a Fisheries and Biology degree and then started a business with a friend renting out boats and jet skis. He then worked at a marina manufacturing company before starting Bay to Bay on Lake Minnetonka. Lake life is in his DNA.
“I was always going to do something related to water,” he says.
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Bay to Bay has the unique and impressive designation of being the longest independently owned boat club in the country. For a seasonal business that is at the mercy of both a fluctuating economy and fickle Minnesota weather, Tom has not just persevered. He has flourished. “The further along I go, the more committed I am to helping people appreciate Lake Minnetonka. It’s a great natural gift and should not be taken for granted. We all want to enjoy the lake, but we also need to be part of taking care of it.”
Boat club membership at Bay to Bay is full service. Think private country club atmosphere but with boats. Membership is offered at
two tiers. Either a twelve-use package or an unlimited package. This includes the use of a variety of boats depending on need. Deck boats for date night. Pontoons for large family gatherings. Bags, coolers, and everything under the sun receive valet service on and off the boat. Members are educated during a 3-hour behind-the-wheel training, ensuring not only their familiarity and comfort driving but, most importantly, their safety when out on the water. Bay to Bay boasts a perfect safety record, and Tom intends to keep it that way.
“Safety is as important to me as customer service. Boats can be replaced. People can’t,” Tom says.
Owner Tom Jacob and his Bay to Bay Boat Club crew
Tom Jacob, owner of Bay to Bay Boat Club
“I have loved being able to provide fun for people in this atmosphere. I love to visit with customers. I’ve met some amazingly interesting people. Have gotten to know their families. Watched their families grow up. Boating is the perfect way to make family memories.”
People are central to what Tom loves most about his business. He says the best part of his career is being able to welcome everyone each season. “I have loved being able to provide fun for people in this atmosphere. I love to visit with customers. I’ve met some amazingly interesting people. Have gotten to know their families. Watched their families grow up. Boating is the perfect way to make family memories. You have a captive audience!”
Loyalty between Tom and his customers goes both ways. Dave and Susan Roberts have been members since day one. They began taking their three young daughters out, and now their boating brood has grown to include their adult daughters, spouses, and grandchildren.
Dave says, “Bay to Bay has become the definition of our Minnesota summer with family.”
From family outings to cocktail cruises with friends to book club meetings on the water, it has provided hours of lake time for the Roberts. Susan says, “We didn’t grow up as boaters, but it has been a gift to just go out and enjoy the lake all these years with minimal effort.”
While Bay to Bay is a deliberately small business, the contributions to the local community live large. Tom gives back through supporting Fourth of July fireworks, sponsoring local community events, and supporting youth sports and high school teams. He is particularly involved in Minnetonka Public Schools, where many of his summer employees attend. Hiring and training these young people has brought him a lot of joy.
“I’ve always wanted to be a good role model and be able to mentor kids. The students I hire are not just working a job but training for adult life. They show up at fifteen or sixteen years old, and to watch them mature and grow, it really makes my heart so happy.”
“I am also very thankful for my wife Barb. She has been incredibly supportive since we do not get to spend a lot of time together during the summer months.”
Even though Bay to Bay celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, the sun is not setting on this story. It’s yet another milestone to build upon because Tom’s investment in the lake and fans of the lake continues to thrive.
“I’m still having fun. And I’m not nearly done looking forward to welcoming and catching up with my customers. They aren’t just customers. They are friends.”
https://baytobayboatclub.com/
Collector’s THE CANVAS
Artist Keith Wilcock on passion, beauty, and what makes art truly valuable
ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY
What makes art valuable? It depends who you ask.
To some, it may be the artist who created it. To others, it may be the materials and colors used. But for most, art acquires value by the feeling it invokes. And to artist Keith Wilcock, creating something beautiful is just as important as admiring it.
As an artist and co-owner of Wilcock Gallery, Keith found his passion for art at a very young age when a severe fever led to months of bed rest and missed school. To pass the time, Keith’s parents gave him paper and pencils. Soon, his imagination took over, and he was creating drawing after drawing.
In the second grade, he won a prize for painting a pirate ship with purple sails. “I remember my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Chase, teasing me about purple sails, but I felt, you know, if I’m an artist, I can use whatever colors I wish,” Keith recalled.
As Keith continued his schooling, he realized that not many of the artists he knew were making money, and, being a practical man, he decided to major in psychology. But he never lost his ardor for art.
“For most of my adult years, I’ve had two career paths: one in the art world and one in the world of industrial psychology,” Keith says.
His art, which was showcased and sold by various galleries during his working years, mostly features watercolors, oils, and pastels, with watercolor being his preferred medium.
Pulling inspiration from artists like John Singer Sargent, Maynard Dixon, Maxfield Parrish, and John Burkey, Keith’s intent with his art is to create and leave behind something worth being admired.
“What I wanted to do is really leave something behind that was beautiful, so I try to make landscapes and florals and figures… I think if we had more beauty in the world, we’d all be better off,” he says.
When it came time for Keith to retire from his psychology career, it created an opportunity for him to open his own gallery. Partnering with his son — also an artist — they opened the Wilcock Gallery, where they experienced immense success for over 20 years on Water Street in Excelsior.
In 2015, Keith and his son made the decision to close their physical storefront. Over time, they had accumulated hundreds of original works of art, many from artists Keith has personally known and painted with. The fatherson duo, in turn, opened an online version of the Wilcock Gallery where they continue to sell artists’ work, from sculptures to watercolor and oil paintings — two of which were created by John Berkey, and all of which now sit in Keith’s home.
“My house is just filled with art now because we still had all those paintings left over when we closed the gallery. I’ve got closets full of them, and all my walls are covered,” he says.
When it comes to giving advice to budding artists and art investors, Keith has mixed feelings. On the one hand, creating and buying art can be expensive and time-consuming.
“There are just thousands of artists out there now scrambling for attention and wanting to be recognized,
and very few of them make enough money to send their kids to college or buy a nice house,” Keith shares. “A few of the very top ones do well.”
In that same vein, Keith says acquiring a sure investment means buying art — often from an auction — that is already appreciated, which can get very expensive. It’s not uncommon to find art at an auction that sells for over $100,000.
On the other hand, Keith is not one to criticize the emotional connection to a work of art.
“I have always thought a good painting is one which gives you a little smile inside when you walk by and look at it, and you grow attached to it even though it may or may not be worth a lot of money,” he says. “But I think the more valid reason to buy art, really, is that somebody really loves the art, the sentiment that’s in it.”
Discover your next favorite masterpiece and explore the incredible artists and artwork available online at Wilcock Gallery: https://wilcockgallery.com/
I recently read a story about a painting that sold in Minnesota for $50 at a garage sale. It is reputed to be a longlost Van Gogh. There is debate in the art world over whether or not it is an authentic Van Gogh because if so, it would be worth $15 million. A garage
HIDDEN TREASURES
sale find for the history books. I can’t say I’ve ever seen anything that compelling at a garage sale. Plus, had I been there, I doubt I would have plucked out the painting of a bearded fisherman smoking a pipe and thought — I have just the spot for this.
As a rule, I do not enjoy garage sales, and I have no eye for hidden gems. They usually remind me of the items I most need to get rid of at
Life Minded
my own house. Also, often people are selling very bizarre items. Do I want to closely examine their used set of used crutches selling for $15? No. I think anything that falls under the umbrella term medical or personal care should be banned from the resale market. I have even seen used hairbrushes at a garage sale. I’m nauseous just thinking about it again. But sometimes, I appreciate the walk down memory lane past items that remind me of my childhood home. Brass swing arm lamp? We had one. Giant ceramic frog? We had one. Copper Jello mold? We had one. Campaign style dressers? We had three. But the value people place on these used items from yesteryear is typically overly optimistic.
The unfortunate truth is almost everything I own right now will be at a weird little tag sale in the future, hoping to find a second life. The dishes. The furniture. The art. I’ll make sure I toss the hairbrushes before I depart. A handful of things will be passed down,
but after a generation or two, things lose their sentimental meaning, and all that is left is aesthetic or monetary value. Alas, there are no Van Goghs tucked away in my garage. Perhaps I can entice someone into buying some harshly abused sports equipment?
In 1999, I took my Grandma’s oak clawfoot table to be refinished. It was the table my dad ate at for every childhood breakfast. It was the table I sat at when my Grandma taught me to paint. It’s the table where we play cards now. When I took it to the refinisher, he was very excited about it. He said, “I’ll give you $1500 for this table right now.” I called my Grandma and asked her if she wanted to sell. She declined and said, “Wow. I can’t believe he’d offer that for that old thing, but I’d rather it be nice for you. I like thinking it will be in your house.” She then added that I should not tell my cousins I would be the future owner. It’s still in my house, and I’m so glad she kept it for me. Too bad, so sad, cousins.
But I am wary of collecting things nobody will want. Growing up, I knew a family that collected Precious Moments figurines. Another who had Hummels. So many Hummels. Another who collected Department 56 Christmas village pieces complete with the mirrored skating rink. There seemed to be a thought that these collections would be “worth something” someday. I guess occasionally, this proves to be true. More often, it seems there are stories of people who throw away the *one* Beanie Baby that would have financed a family trip to Fiji. The factory-sealed Batman comic gets jam on it. The rarest coin gets lost in the junk drawer. Using our things to create memories seems the best-guaranteed investment.
I hope someday my kids fight over who gets the clawfoot table. Maybe none of them will want it. Or maybe I’ll give it to my most nostalgic grandchild and simply have them lie to all of their cousins.
Minded
FORTNER
Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in Shorewood with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.
COLUMN BY JEN
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAUFMAN ROOFING
Kaufman Roofing family.
The History and Innovations of Kaufman Roofing
Kaufman Roofing, a family-owned business with a rich heritage, has been a trusted name in the roofing industry since its establishment in 1930 by Christine Deutsch’s great-grandfather. Over the decades, the company has evolved, maintaining its dedication to high-quality craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service.
Today, Christine, the CEO, leads the firm alongside her brother, Tom Kaufman, the COO. This family dynamic continues as their children represent the fifth generation to contribute to the company’s legacy, reinforcing a commitment to excellence that spans nearly a century.
As the industry navigates changes in insurance policies, Kaufman Roofing stands at the forefront of educating homeowners about the implications these alterations may have on their roofing needs.
“Gone are the days when storm damage would trigger a full roof replacement,” Christine says. "Not only are insurance companies tightening their requirements, but we’re also seeing a shift from full replacement policies to Actual Cash Value replacements."
Tony Deutsch, Kaufman’s CTO and Christine’s husband, emphasizes the importance for homeowners to thoroughly review their policies, stating, “These updates
might not affect every homeowner’s insurance policy, but it’s something people need to be aware of.” He draws a parallel to car insurance, explaining that just as insurers won’t pay for replacing an older vehicle with a new one, they are beginning to apply similar logic to roofing claims, prompting many to turn to Kaufman Roofing for advice and assistance.
With increasing inquiries for complete roof replacements due to said changes, Kaufman has positioned itself as a reliable partner. The company's dedication to quality craftsmanship is underscored by its esteemed certifications, including GAF Master Elite President's Club and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred. These accolades not only highlight the company’s long-standing reputation but also offer customers peace of mind through superior workmanship warranties and manufacturer backing.
Kaufman’s commitment to quality extends beyond certifications. The company also understands that each home presents unique challenges, and they offer custom solutions through their in-house metal fabrication shop. This capability allows them to create tailored roofing components, addressing specific needs such as diverse roof pitches and complex angles without relying on external manufacturers. This not only ensures a quicker turnaround time but also helps in reducing costs by cutting out the middleman.
Another quality that sets Kaufman Roofing apart is their approach to customer service. Rather than employing aggressive sales tactics, the company focuses on building trust. They emphasize integrity by educating homeowners about their roofing needs, often advising clients that they can postpone replacement or that their roofs are still in good condition. Kaufman believes in honest assessments, knowing that a satisfied customer is their best advertisement.
Furthermore, understanding the financial burden that roof replacements can impose, Kaufman Roofing has partnered with Synchrony to offer multiple financing options, including their Plan 924, which includes no monthly interest if paid in full within 18 months. This strategic move ensures that homeowners can manage the costs of necessary roofing work without added stress.
As Kaufman Roofing moves into the future, Christine and her team remain dedicated to its mission of providing reliable, trustworthy roofing solutions, ensuring that families can enjoy safety and protection under roofs crafted by a legacy of expertise. 14330 Ewing Ave. S, Burnsville | 612-722-0965
A CLIENT-FIRST APPROACH TO WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Stiles Financial Services
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY HAWTHORNE
Susan Stiles
What sets Stiles apart in a crowded field is its unwavering commitment to a client-first approach, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood while receiving the highest level of financial expertise.
In the heart of Edina, Stiles Financial Services stands out as a beacon of personalized financial advice. Founded in 2000 by Susan Stiles, this independent consulting firm has firmly established itself as a leader in private wealth management, 401(k) consulting, and portfolio management. What sets Stiles apart in a crowded field is its unwavering commitment to a client-first approach, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood while receiving the highest level of financial expertise.
At the core of Stiles is a dynamic team of 11 seasoned professionals, each bringing unique areas of expertise to the table. Unlike traditional firms that often outsource portfolio management, Stiles prides itself on in-house operations, with the entire team working collaboratively to serve clients. This holistic approach means that whether it’s a seasoned investor or someone just starting to think about their financial future, a client can rest assured that they will receive consistent, personalized attention. As Susan emphasizes, “The clients here are the clients of the whole firm, not just a single team member. Everyone knows who they are, and we’re committed to mutual success.”
Every portfolio managed by Stiles is custom-built to reflect the specific goals and risk profiles of individual clients. This level of personalization is reassuring in an industry often characterized by one-size-fits-all solutions. By employing a discretionary management model, the firm not only acts on behalf of its clients but does so with the keen insights and adjustments necessary to adapt to changing market conditions. This approach combines a dedication to rigorous portfolio management with the nuanced understanding of each client’s unique financial landscape.
Stiles Financial Services excels in 401(k) consulting and advisory services to retirement and pension plans.
The firm’s dedication to fiduciary oversight, investment monitoring, and providing participant financial education is not just about documenting a fiduciary oversight process; it’s about enhancing the financial health of the communities and businesses they serve. Susan and her team’s extensive involvement with industry organizations—such as the Rotary International, Women in Pensions, Financial Planning Association of MN, National Association of Plan Advisors and Edina Chamber of Commerce—demonstrates her commitment to elevating industry standards and advocating for financial literacy.
The firm’s emphasis on education extends beyond the professional realm. Susan recognizes the importance of financial literacy as a means to empower individuals to improve their lives. This dedication is exemplified by the creation of the Stiles Financial Community Service Fund, which aims to narrow the achievement gap for underserved populations. Her belief that a robust financial education can change lives is a driving force behind her and her team’s efforts in the community.
The office environment at Stiles defies the stereotype of a traditional financial firm. With vibrant artwork lining the walls and a spacious kitchen that serves as a hub for collaboration, the atmosphere encourages creativity and teamwork. Meetings are often accompanied by home-cooked meals, an effort Susan champions to foster a nurturing workplace culture. Her hospitality also extends beyond the team; clients are welcomed not just as customers, but as part of the Stiles family. From personalized birthday cards to gifts from Susan’s cherished wine collection, every gesture is calculated to build lasting relationships.
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The clients here are the clients of the whole firm, not just a single team member. Everyone knows who they are, and we’re committed to mutual success. “ ”
Moreover, Stiles champions a strategic collaboration model, meaning that advisors frequently include portfolio managers in client meetings. This ensures that clients receive comprehensive insights that combine wealth management strategies with the latest market insights. The result is a more informed decision-making process and a stronger, more resilient investment strategy.
Ultimately, Susan Stiles’s vision has cultivated a firm that redefines wealth management in the 21st century.
Her journey—from a single mother who pursued higher education to an influential financial advisor—fuels her passion for empowering clients and communities alike. Susan and her team are excited to celebrate the firm’s 25th anniversary this year and are honored to have been recognized by Newsweek as a top advisory firm in the country.
7505 Metro Blvd. | 952-988-0452 | stilesfinancial.com
Selina Martire Ins Agcy Inc
Selina Martire, Agent www.selinamartire.com selina@selinamartire.com Bus: 651-776-8328
Refresh your skin from face to back with our limited-time Brightening Blossom Facial and Back Scrub. Packed with the brightening power of vitamin C and cactus pear, these treatments deliver smooth, radiant, and nourished skin — just in time for spring! Don't wait to glow — these seasonal treatments won't last long. Schedule your treatment today!
You know I’m always here with Good Neighbor service. But I’m also here with surprisingly great rates for everyone. Call me for a quote to see how much you can save. You might be surprised.
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®
INVESTING IN STYLE
J.H. & Sons shares which key pieces every man should own and how to build a wardrobe to last
ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON
Photography by Maria Claire Photography
“It is more about how you feel when wearing the pieces you have invested in. If you are confident in the quality, look, feel, and fit of your clothing, you are going to feel great wearing them.”
When considering investment, one thinks of stocks, bonds, and commodities. While an investment in style might not top the list for your portfolio, adding quality, well-fitting clothes to your wardrobe can be an important long-term investment.
For Kevin Luedke of J.H. & Sons, investing in clothing is about more than the quality and long-term durability of a piece, but rather “it is more about how you feel when wearing the pieces you have invested in. If you are confident in the quality, look, feel, and fit of your clothing, you are going to feel great wearing them.”
So, what type of clothing is worth investing in? What styles will stand the test of time? And how can you elevate your wardrobe?
For Kevin, the short answer is a navy blazer. “I believe it is always important for a man to have a great navy blazer. In our world today, this can mean a number of different things — from a knit-jersey stretch travel blazer from Canali to a more sartorial, tailored jacket from Brioni. The navy blazer is a crucial piece of clothing our clients can use for any occasion.”
While styles come and go, a stalwart navy blazer can not only be a versatile piece of any man’s wardrobe but a piece that stays with a man for years, if not decades. Kevin recommends pairing it with a white and blue ETON shirt that will always “put you in the right direction.”
For those who wear suits regularly, having a navy, charcoal and black suit in addition to a great navy blazer is highly recommended.
The process of buying a suit, especially as an investment, can be an intimidating one. However, it’s a challenge J.H. & Sons is well prepared for. That process begins with working with a seasoned style advisor. “Our team takes the time to understand a client’s needs and works with them to determine the best option for their long-term investment,” says Kevin. This process involves establishing a relationship, finding the right fit, and exploring fabric options if made-tomeasure is the best option to fit the need.
Paired with that suit, of course, are shoes. When it comes to investing in footwear, it’s “of course, all about the fit,” says Kevin. J.H. & Sons works with the Spanish brand Magnanni, and Italian-made Santoni, which are both showcased as sound investments. “Both collections offer remarkable quality and style. Magnanni focuses on Bologna construction, providing a high level of flexibility and comfort, while Santoni defines craftsmanship with their Goodyear welted shoes,” explains Kevin.
Increasingly, quality clothing and brands have expanded beyond formalwear. Finding elevated casualwear is yet another place where men can find quality, well-fitting clothing that will stand the test of time. Kevin recommends the collections of Eleventy, Gran Sasso, and Fedeli elevated casualwear. These brands stand out because of their “focus on superior quality, exclusive fabrics, and craftsmanship,” says Kevin.
For both suits and elevated casualwear, finding pieces that will stand up to the test of time is all about the “makeup of your clothing choices,” says Kevin. In a world where fast fashion dominates, “it is important to understand how the suit was made and the quality of fabric used. The same can be said for our great selection of elevated casual collections,” says Kevin.
So be it a great navy suit, a new pair of Spanish shoes, or simply casualwear that will stand up to Minnesota winters, J.H. & Sons can help men find the right pieces for their lifestyle.
https://www.jhandsons.com/
Photography by Maria Claire Photography
“I believe it is always important for a man to have a great navy blazer. In our world today, this can mean a number of different things — from a knit-jersey stretch travel blazer from Canali to a more sartorial, tailored jacket from Brioni.”
Photography by Maria Claire Photography
BUYERS LOVE MY SELLERS’ HOMES
Looking for a home that offers quintessential Excelsior living? Perhaps a property ideally situated just steps from the historic district and the many shops and restaurants of Water Street while abutting the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail? Give me a call! I may have just the home for you!
CHRIS DENNIS, ASSOCIATE BROKER
Lakes Area Realty Excelsior 37 Water Street, Excelsior, 55331
(612) 229-9322
Chris@ChrisDennisGroup.com LakesAreaExcelsior.com
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 5TH & 12TH
Destiny Homes at the Eagan Home Show and Victoria Home Show
Eagan Community Center and Victoria Recreation Center | 10:00 AM
Visit Destiny Homes at the Eagan Home Show on April 5 (booth #104) and at the Victoria Home Show on April 12 (booth #105.) Destiny Homes specializes in helping clients invest wisely in their remodeling projects to maximize their budgets. By carefully assessing your needs, offering expert design guidance, and sourcing quality materials, they ensure your project delivers both value and satisfaction. Stop by and say hi!
APRIL 11TH
Black Gown Gala
Camp Fire Minnesota | 6:00 PM
Enjoy an enchanting evening at the Black Gown Gala, a celebration of elegance and local community spirit. Witness local celebrities gracing the stage in unique outfits from Chamber Member businesses, highlighting our neighborhood's creative talent and the charm of shopping locally. Come for a fun night of style, unity, and fashion. Learn more details and get your tickets: https://www. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber. com/black-gown-gala/
APRIL 12TH
Putting
Challenge
Water Street, Excelsior | 9:00 AM
Coinciding with one of golf's biggest events, the Masters, a number of Excelsior businesses on Water Street will host a putting challenge! Pick up a score card from a participating business and get a stamp on your card. Visit multiple locations and turn in your score card to be entered in a prize drawing. Get into the golfing spirit because it will be a par-tee on Water Street!
APRIL 12TH
Runway for Hope
The Westin Edina Galleria, Main Ballroom | 11:30 AM
The Hope Chest for Breast Cancer Foundation invites you to Runway for Hope, a fantastic fashion-forward show! From 11:30am-2:30pm, come mix and mingle, enjoy refreshments, peruse vendors, bid on a silent and live auction, and enter a raffle while raising funds for Minnesota breast cancer patients. Special guest patients walk the runway and share their stories. For more info: https://hopechest. com/event/runway-for-hope-2025/
APRIL 26TH
Memories Made Outdoors 7th Annual Crappie Tournament
Lord Fletcher's Old Lake Lodge 8:00 AM
Anglers mark your calendars for the Memories Made Outdoors 7th Annual Crappie Tournament! Hosted at Lord Fletcher's on Lake Minnetonka, it's Memories Made Outdoors' annual fundraiser and kick off to the open water season. The Tourney fundraiser supports veteran-based non-profits. So bring your best bait as you'll have six hours from 8am2pm to reel in the big one. Register and get more info: https://memoriesmade outdoors.org/crappie-tournament
APRIL 26TH
Cars and Caves Auto Show Opening Day
Chanhassen AutoPlex | 9:00 AM
You're invited to the most unique car show anywhere in Minnesota, at the season opening of Cars and Caves auto show! The Chanhassen AutoPlex is known around the world for their amazing car condos. From 9am1pm, come peruse beautiful classics, collectors, muscle, antiques, street rods, exotic vehicles, and vintage motorcycles. The event is free! Coffee, beverages, and food available for purchase. Learn more: https:// chanhassenautoplex.com/event/ cars-and-caves-april-2025/
Ask Susan
Dear Susan: As I approach retirement, is there a rule-ofthumb I should follow to adjust my portfolio?
Susan:
In general, as you near retirement, you should adopt a more conservative investment approach. The goal is to protect your savings from volatility and reduce the risk of significant losses as you may rely on these funds for income. Historically the rule of thumb is the “110 minus your age” rule, which suggests the percentage of your investments you should have in stocks with the rest in bonds. For example, if you are 65 years old, you might consider having 45% of your portfolio in stocks and 55% in bonds or cash equivalents. Ultimately, your specific asset allocation should consider your financial situation, risk tolerance, income needs, and investment horizon. To continue, snap the QR code for my video and a deeper discussion on this topic.
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
Your fund has already given you all the tax advantages it can and now is ready to be spent. Education, environment, housing, kids, health care, economic opportunity— your cause is waiting.
How to find the right cause?
Well, you probably got advice to earn that money, now get some to give it away. That’s the ADVISED part of Donor Advised Funds— and it happens to be exactly what we do.
So bring that fund to us and let’s get crackin’. Your community needs you.
E S C A P E
