WAYZATA • The Promenade
The Explore Issue
We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. I admit I fall into the trap sometimes, too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort, and investment it will cost me—the things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty.
But the truth is—that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life. As I get older, the less technology I use, the better it is for me. It's the memories I make, the experiences I have, and the loved ones I share them with that matter more.
On a recent trip, my wife and I went spelunking in Mexico. Cave exploration and some swimming in underground rivers was a new one for me. And though I don't quite cut the same dashing figure in a wet suit that I once did, I am richer for the adventure of it all. It's worth noting that "adventures" and "exploration" don't even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, walking a new trail, or going out to find a fun cookie place you've never tried before in a different part of town.
In this issue, we explore the best parts of summer in Lake Minnetonka. We head to the coolest car show in the state at Cars & Caves, and we show you how to have that yay-I'm-a-boat-owner feeling without the ugh-I-have-to-maintain-and-storethis-thing vibe with Your Boat Club. (Plus, they share the best gems to cruise to on the Lake!) And speaking of lake gems, we celebrate CōV's 10-year anniversary of dining excellence on the Bay. We check out the latest invention from TouchStone Accent Lighting and how they're innovating dock light design. Plus, we head out in nature with Jen's latest Life Minded column and hit the trails with Gear West Ski & Bike, who answers all your questions about e-bikes.
My hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration and to prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. Lose yourself on a trail or in a book. Take that trip you've been thinking about, and make time for the things that matter most to you.
See you around the Lake!
ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kristin Schuette | kristin.schuette@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Kendra Johnson, Sara Hoeman, Lauren Beaubaire, Hannah Harms, and Jen Fortner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Emily John Photography, Anna Kostochko, Maria Claire Photography, Taylor O’Brien
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Style
Show Experience
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: J.H. & Sons Clothier celebrated the grand opening of their newest location at The Galleria in Edina. Guests shopped the latest spring and summer collections while enjoying refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, and the soothing sounds of Robert Mosci, resident pianist and singer of the famed Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle Hotel in New York City.
business monthly
Announcing Santa Claus Lane - A Magical Christmas Experience Coming to Excelsior!
Santa Claus Lane is a magical destination that brings the spirit of the North Pole closer to home. Make memories that will last a lifetime through interactive experiences, heartwarming activities, and festive shopping amidst a Winter Wonderland. Whether you want to visit Santa, walk a Llama, be awed by their Magician, experience a Fire Show, or learn a new skill in Santa’s Workshop, they hope to bring smiles to believers young and old. This event focuses on bringing our community together, practicing kindness, and gives back to Children’s MN. Use the code “COOKIES” to get 15% off the cost of your tickets during the month of July & visit www.santaclaus-lane.com to learn more!
Harmoni Wellness MN's New Space in Plymouth
Congratulations to Harmoni Wellness MN on their new space and ribbon-cutting ceremony! Plymouth Mayor Jeff Wosje joined in on the celebration. Their beautiful new space provides a warm and welcoming environment. Co-owners Ivy and Andrea wanted to create a space dedicated to filling the gaps in women’s health, shine a light on the symptoms women experience, and normalize conversations about women’s health. Learn more about the services they offer and set up a free consultation at: https://harmoni-wellness.com/
Get Ready for Summer at Vively Body Science
Your skincare should not take a break in the summer. If anything, now's the time to make sure your skin is protected from sun exposure and UV rays. Vively Body Science is ensuring your skin is ready for summer by offering complimentary full-sized medical-grade sunscreen now through August when you enjoy one of their treatments like their HydraFacial, CoolPeel, Microneedling, OxiLight Facials, ClearSilk, or Sofwave. Learn more: https://livevively.com/
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Photography by Wayzata Chamber
535 Bushaway Road,
555 Bushaway Road,
- List Price $9,750,000
- List Price $8,250,000
Two of the finest estate sites on Lake Minnetonka. 535 Bushaway Road with 3.62 acres encompassing 300 feet of prime west facing lakeshore and 555 Bushaway Road with 2.72 acres encompassing 240 feet of level west facing lakeshore on prestigious Wayzata Bay. Together a total of 6.34 acres with 540 feet of shoreline. Stunning panoramic sunset views. Excellent gradual sloping hard sand shoreline. Beautiful mature trees. Ideal close-in location with walking paths to downtown Wayzata. Incredible opportunity to build your dream home. Open to all builders. Enjoy Lake Minnetonka lifestyle at its finest.
Wayzata
Wayzata
Rumor has it there are families who enjoy all the same activities. Together. They are a ski family. That family golfs. Her family loves Broadway shows. Those people go to the cabin to mountain bike. His family are all sailors. We are none
SUMMER IS FOR THE BIRDS
of these. We are a grab-bag family with varied interests and very strong opinions. What we do all enjoy aside from verbal sparring is animal sightings. This theory has been tested and proven multiple times when we travel. After unnecessary arguing over travel routes, car speeds, where to have dinner, music, politics, who sits where, and air temperature, if
Life Minded
someone spots a groundhog out a car window, peace is restored.
We watched a herd of elk in Colorado. We followed a raft of otters in Alaska. We saw bears in Wyoming and tiny lizards in Utah. But there is plenty to witness here at home. I’ve spent hours this spring and summer watching a family of foxes, turtles, muskrats, deer, beavers, and a variety of birds in the yard. I have become something of a birdwatcher. We have songbirds and woodpeckers who are trying to move into our chimney, eagles and red-tailed hawks, and hummingbirds. My favorite in the cast of characters is the Great Blue Heron. There are two of them this year, and we must have the best frogs in town because they are out there nearly every day feasting like they have been intermittent fasting.
When anyone else here spots the heron, they scream for me, and I run to the window. We try to creep outside without startling them. We watch
them together. We are an animal family. Our family text thread is composed nearly entirely of animal photos and trying to coordinate dinner times.
We’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by wildlife and enjoy animal entertainment over the years. We even had a moose in our yard once. A woman who lived a few blocks away happened to be walking on our street when we were all excitedly discussing the moose. We told her about it, and she patted my hand and said, “I’m pretty sure what you saw was a deer, sweetie. They are big like that. With antlers. Not a moose.” Woman. It was moose. Months later, there was a news article about the moose who had taken up residence on the Medina golf course. They speculated he had an altercation over a female with another male and left the pack. He had been seen in a number of local neighborhoods. This moose had a whole interesting backstory.
I really wanted to find that neighbor and give her a framed photo of
the article. But I didn’t. I probably shouldn’t fight with the elderly over moose sightings. There is enough conflict in the world. I saw it with my own eyes, and my family did too, and this is the rich reward for looking around outside.
A friend suggested perhaps we were “a certain age” now that we spent time watching birds. I beg to differ. I think, just brainstorming here, the people I live with haven’t allowed me to sit still much in twenty years. But they are older and busier now, so I’ve grown into my full amateur birder self. Watching and waiting and witnessing takes time, whether at a youth soccer game or out in the woods.
Summer is a good season for our family. We can be outside or inside, and there is plenty of content to watch. It’s better than Hulu, and we all like the same show. I’m taking a page from the bird playbook and will enjoy spending summer outside cruising around, exploring close to home.
Minded
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 FORTNER
Why Nimbus?
Swedish
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
“Your Boat Club gives you that yay-I’m-aboat-owner feeling without the ugh-Ihave-to-maintain-andstore-this-thing vibe.”
Cruising in Comfort and Style
Explore the waters of Your Boat Club for your summer adventures
You’ve been waiting all year for this. A cooler full of treats prepared, sunscreen on that delicate Minnesota winter skin, your hair whipping in the wind as you wave to the other boaters and mouth in unison, “This is amazing!” It’s officially boating season. Your favorite crewmates are on deck: Captain Dad, First Mate (most helpful child in the family), Navigator (newly licensed teen son), Chef (snack aficionado teen daughter), and Steward… that’s you! You feel relaxed, comfortable, and, above all, content. This day couldn’t be more blissful if you scripted it yourself. But wait, you did! Guided by Your Boat Club – the experts in top-quality boat rentals that get the splash seeker in you on the water with style and ease. Ready to plan your unforgettable summer voyage on the lake? Before you send an SOS, unsure of where to begin, come aboard with Trevor Gibson, Location Manager for Your Boat Club, as he steers us through Your Boat Club’s offerings and elevated hassle-free experience.
“Your Boat Club offers a wide range of services. In addition to unlimited boating for our members, we offer half-day, fullday, and even week- or month-long rentals for anyone who would like to spend time on the water without the commitment to join the club,” Trevor shares. You can rent pontoons and fishing boats, so no matter your nautical adventure, YBC gives you that yay-I’m-a-boat-owner feeling
without the ugh-I-have-to-maintain-andstore-this-thing vibe. And regardless of the watercraft you choose, rest assured it will be in tip-top shape.
Of their fleet of over 400, not one boat is over 18 months old, and each is clean, gassed up, and ready for you at the marina on Your Boat Day. Trevor explains, “Our boats come out of the water every month or so and go through a complete servicing regimen. Our on-site technicians complete the repairs and maintenance and then personally test them in the water to ensure proper and safe operating conditions.” They are also cleaned thoroughly after every use, living up to one of their catchy taglines, “Our boats, your fun!”
So, how does membership work? There are 3 different types to suit every water buff’s needs and desires, and each level offers different access to boats, days and times available, and how many reservations are allowed simultaneously. You simply show up in your new swimsuit with matching flip-flops, grab the keys from a member of their experienced dock staff, and you’re off! The same goes for when you’re sunkissed and a little weary, with a memory bank full of indelible moments… just drop the keys and head home. No cleaning or gassing – only reflecting on all the day’s fun.
When planning your version of an ideal summer day or evening excursion, “If you’re heading out to snag some fish, then
a fishing boat is perfect for you, but you can fish off any boat!” Trevor says that pontoons are very popular for people who might want to do a wide range of activities. “You can lay back and soak up some sun, cruise around the water and check out the scenery, have a picnic, or simply drop anchor and go swimming.”
Most boats available through Your Boat Club accommodate approximately 8-12 passengers, and Trevor says you don’t need any experience to become captain of one of their ships — just a willing spirit and a sense of adventure. Included with membership is a free, thorough, in-person, on-the-water orientation that can be done as many times as you’d like. For their daily rentals, they provide a modified on-the-dock training class to help guide people a little less familiar with boats and how they operate. They will also go over any hazardous areas on the lakes and how to ensure an enjoyable, relaxed time on the water.
One of Your Boat Club’s missions is to provide its clients with the most memorable experiences in boating while ensuring a safe environment without the complexities of being a boat owner. “The YBC team is like family. We care about each other, help each other day in and day out, and we hope that this mutual respect shines
through to our customers, who become like family to us as well.”
This devoted team has hosted countless birthday, graduation, and anniversary parties, but Trevor recalls an extra special affair when their crew assisted with a marriage proposal. “She said yes!”
Now that the ‘where to rent the boat’ question is answered, how about some exciting ideas to enhance the occasion? On Lake Minnetonka, the obvious places - Lord Fletcher’s and Back Channel Brewing Co. - are essential destinations when making a pit stop. However, a favorite respite area of Trevor’s is Carson Bay, a quiet inlet where you’ll find Minnetonka Yacht Club. At the mouth of this peaceful harbor, you’ll find Lighthouse Island. “I wish I could live on that island!”
Another signature line that Your Boat Club often uses is “Life is Better on the Water.” And it’s true – the tranquility and warmth you feel when you’re with your people on one of nature’s shimmering jewels is nothing short of magical. But what takes it to the next level is the outstanding service and ease that setting sail with Your Boat Club offers. They make navigating those summer waters with the ones you love a refreshing lake breeze.
Learn more: https://yourboatclub.com/
THE BEST CAR SHOW EXPERIENCE IN MINNESOTA
ARTICLE BY HANNAH HARMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA KOSTOCHKO
EXPLORE AROUND 400 VEHICLES AND UNIQUE GARAGES AT THE CARS AND CAVES EVENT AT CHANHASSEN AUTOPLEX
Cars and Caves, a one-of-a-kind outdoor auto event, is back for the 2024 season. Showcasing a stunning array of antiques, classics, collectors, exotics, and muscle cars, this event is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. On the last Saturday of the month, from 9am to 1pm, you can head to Chanhassen AutoPlex and be a part of the best car show experience in the state. The Chanhassen AutoPlex will also host two Wednesday Summer Nights on July 17th and August 21st from 5pm to 8pm to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
Nearly 400 vehicles will roll in to be on display at the Chanhassen Autoplex campus each month. Gates open at 9am. Any show car owners are encouraged to attend and display their vehicles. Plenty of parking is available for spectators and the event is free for everyone, thanks to the support of their generous sponsors.
Steve Olson, garage owner at the Chanhassen AutoPlex
At Cars and Caves, it’s not just about the cars. There are more than 130 personalized garages, or caves, for attendees to explore. Each cave has its own unique theme, with some featuring iconic TV and movie cars and others boasting wine cellars and golf simulators. “It truly is a country club for car enthusiasts,” says Steve Olson, a garage owner at the Chanhassen AutoPlex. “We definitely encourage spectators and families to come. The garages themselves are a huge attraction, like the cars,” says Steve. “Our shows have attracted thousands of spectators.”
Every month, Cars and Caves highlights a different local, non-profit organization for the season. In July, Special Olympics Minnesota will receive donations from guests who attend and generously provide donations. This Minnesota charity celebrates its 51st year of providing physical education and community programs to individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The car shows will also feature different car clubs and monthly themes such as classics, American, Italian, British, and German. If any guest’s vehicle matches the theme, they are welcome to show it off on the given show date.
The car shows will also host local Chanhassen favorites Dandy Lion Coffee and Dog Park Gourmet Hot Dogs to provide a variety of drinks and food spectators can enjoy while at the show. “We enjoy keeping our vendors local and supporting small businesses — and these two businesses are everyone’s favorites,” says Steve.
If you’re interested in attending a Cars and Caves show, visit https://chanhassenautoplex. com/ for more details, or check out the show dates, charities, and themes below.
2024 CARS AND CAVES SCHEDULE
July 27th:
Charity: Special Olympics Minnesota
Theme: American (Ford, GM, Pontiac, Mopar, etc.)
August 31st:
Charity: Cars Against Crime
Theme: British (MG, MINI, Jaguar, McLaren, etc.)
September 28th:
Charity: Chanhassen Fire Department
Theme: German (Audi, Porsche, VW, BMW)
STUDENT PACKAGE
*July 1-August 31, 2024. Promotion includes basic plastic single vision lenses. Upgrades available for additional fees.
School-age children or students with valid school ID are eligible. Discount cannot be combined with insurance or other promotions.
Free lenses with the purchase of a frame Request an appointment today!
A DECADE OF DINING EXCELLENCE ON THE BAY
ARTICLE BY JEN FORTNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY
How CōV Restaurant became a beloved fixture in the neighborhood
From newest place on the block to waterfront favorite, CōV Restaurant of Wayzata turns 10 years old this July and is well on the way to achieving neighborhood fixture status. Co-owners Dean Vhlahos and Steve Anderson had a very specific objective for this lake spot from day one. Dean says, “From the beginning, we wanted to create a place on the lake that everyone wanted to be at.” Even during the lunch hour on a weekday, patrons fill the indoor and outdoor spaces. Clearly, their original vision has been realized. Inspired by a trip to Nantucket, the interior of CōV evokes a relaxed and refined East Coast vibe. CōV has an atmosphere that draws people in and makes them want to linger. Warm woods and crisp whites with touches of blue blend seamlessly with the real décor showstopper — it’s all set against the backdrop of Wayzata Bay.
As one would expect, summer is peak season to visit CōV and sit inside or outside on their ample patio. Providing the idyllic patio experience does have its challenges, but CōV staff has it all covered — except the actual patio. To fully enjoy the lake views and keep it light and bright inside, the patio is uncovered. Guests can enjoy a beautiful meal with a beautiful vista on either side of a wall of windows.
CōV has struck the delicate menu balance of fan favorites and new offerings. Head Chef Chris Dmochowski changes about 13-18 items seasonally. Summer items include seasonal gems like sweet peas, fresh corn, and the exquisite Minnesota tomato. “I often like to keep the heart of a dish and change it just a bit based on the time of year. Customers look forward to seasonal ingredients.”
Akin to not choosing a favorite child, Chef Chris said he couldn’t pick a favorite on his menu. He stands by all of the items. Dean confirms his go-to is the Prime Rib Sandwich. One of CōV’s strengths is the size of the menu, providing dishes for a wide variety of palates and preferences. Chef Chris says he constantly aims to “offer something for everyone.”
Like a Minnesota tomato, the peak of summer energy is short-lived and precious. CōV capitalizes on this with seasonal décor touches as well. It adds to the ambiance and keeps the visual interest of the restaurant fresh. From the Instagramworthy lobby to the outdoor pergola flanked by overflowing flower boxes, the ever-changing atmosphere makes every visit feel new.
Dean says, “When you think it’s enough. I want more.” The more is purposeful and memorable. He says it isn’t ever only about the food. “A restaurant has to touch all the senses for people. We aren’t just a culinary experience. It’s the food but also the location. The music. Lighting. Temperature control. Good people to make everyone feel important. We create an atmosphere so people want to return.”
A tremendous amount of hard work goes into starting and maintaining any successful venture. CōV will be celebrating ten years with more hard work. Dean says, “The future of CōV would be to keep doing what we are doing right and always try to improve.” Plans also include actively pursuing additional locations.
Explore CōV at either of their two current locations to soak up a summer evening getaway without even leaving town. https://www. covrestaurants.com/locations
NAVIGATING THE WATERS OF HEALTH INSURANCE
M/Y SHORELINE celebrates 10 years of helping people navigate the everchanging waters of health insurance
ARTICLE BY SARA HOEMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY
Allison DeWitt started M/Y SHORELINE 10 years ago, bringing with her over 20 years of experience in the health insurance industry. The crew at M/Y SHORELINE demystifies health insurance—helping people with Medicare, those who are self-employed or retired, or those looking for other
The M/Y SHORELINE Crew.
From left to right: Jen Senescall, Allison DeWitt, Ashley Lehr, and Molly Propes.
“Health insurance is a foreign language. We help lift the fog on something that is foreign and turn it into plain English.”
options in the private health insurance market understand what will work best for them and their families. “Health insurance is a foreign language,” says Allison. “We help lift the fog on something that is foreign and turn it into plain English.”
M/Y SHORELINE really works as a liaison between major health insurance companies and their clients by reviewing plans front to back and asking questions on behalf of their clients to find the health plan that fits their clients’ needs best. The best part? M/Y SHORELINE is paid by the insurance carriers, so there aren’t additional fees for their services. “If you don’t know the right questions to ask or understand the language of health insurance, you could end up with the wrong plan,” says Allison. Ultimately, if you don’t read the fine print, the chances are high that you could end up in a plan that doesn’t offer the services or medications you need or include your doctors in-network.
This can cost thousands of dollars over the course of the year. “We take the guesswork out of finding the right health plan and help people save money.”
Currently, M/Y SHORELINE serves over 5,000 households, and most of their clients fall within the Medicare category. Allison and her crew of young, all-female advisors make the process simple and streamlined for their clients. They aim to deliver 5-star service like what you would expect upon a luxury mega-yacht (get it…M/Y SHORELINE!) Starting with gathering information about their clients’ current and anticipated health needs, including doctor preferences & medications, M/Y SHORELINE will send tailored plan recommendations that fit their clients’ needs best. After discussing the plans and answering any looming questions clients have about their options, the crew will help tie up loose ends so clients can sit back and relax, knowing they have the right coverage.
Allison DeWitt with M/Y SHORELINE’S top dog, Juno.
Once the clients are set up with the right health plan, the help doesn’t stop there. Since health insurance is ever-changing, M/Y SHORELINE is here for the long haul and will review plans annually for their clients. “Every year, there are changes to health insurance,” says Allison. “We have a pulse on what is happening because this is all we do, and that’s another reason we are unique in this industry.”
Another key aspect of M/Y SHORELINE that sets them apart is their commitment to their clients and embodying what it means to be part of a crew. “We aim to be a ray of sunshine,” she says. Allison and her crew are also focused on helping their clients find ways to live healthier and happier lives. “I am a big advocate for being proactive with your health and striving to be the best version of you. It’s fun to help people not just find the right health insurance coverage but also have conversations to help them become the best versions of themselves. Without your health, are you truly living?” says Allison.
While M/Y SHORELINE is celebrating its 10th anniversary this July, what is on the horizon for the next 10 years at M/Y SHORELINE? Even though Allison and the crew have no plans to do anything but provide a remarkably different health insurance and Medicare experience for their clients, they are looking at expanding their services to warmer climates. “M/Y SHORELINE just launched in Florida this year, and we have Arizona in our sights,” says Allison. “We have many snowbird clients, so this makes sense for us.”
For more information about M/Y SHORELINE and the insurance companies they work with, visit m-yshoreline.com
Selina Martire Ins Agcy Inc Selina Martire, Agent www.selinamartire.com selina@selinamartire.com Bus: 651-776-8328
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.®
Innovation on the Shoreline
One of the best parts about the 4th of July is watching fireworks from a boat on the lake, and up until now, the only downfall was getting from the boat to shore in the dark — well, not anymore. TouchStone Accent Lighting has just changed the game with their new SunTino Waterfront Lighting series.
TouchStone founder and president Mark Hanson has been designing light fixtures since 1986. A waterfront light fixture had, up until recently, been one of the few products that he struggled to perfect. But several models later and with a lot of feedback, Mark has significantly upped his game with this new lighting series.
ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON
“This isn’t the first type of dock light I’ve tried. When looking at the downfalls we had with some of the previous styles, this answers a lot of the questions we received,” Mark added, “I know without a doubt this is the best dock light design that I’ve ever come up with.”
The SunTino Waterfront lighting series provides indirect lighting for docks, boat lifts, and shoreline paths and is great in both residential and commercial settings. The lights themselves are safe to use near the water and provide peace of mind while loading your boat up and walking to shore in the dark. But best of all, the Waterfront series offers a sustainable lighting solution and minimizes the environmental impact — a win-win on all accounts.
The new series features three new light fixtures:
• The Solar Dock Light easily mounts to the side of any style of dock — temporary or permanent.
• The Solar Boat Lift Light features an aluminum housing that mounts to the side of any type of boat lift.
• The new Solar Shore Light provides safety and security with a heavy-duty stake and removable cap for seasonal use.
Some of the features that set the SunTino Waterfront lighting series apart from others are the patented solar panels, wireless mounts, replaceable lithium-ion batteries, and preset on and off timers.
If you’re familiar with TouchStone’s revolutionary SunTino solar lights, you’ll be happy to know that those same solar modules are used in the Waterfront series. The patented, professional-grade solar lights are designed for various applications and, according to Mark, fill a hole in the solar market.
“Solar lights, in my opinion, are predominately not very good quality. They don’t last very long and don’t give off a lot of light. What I’ve created with the SunTino line is powerful, bright, and high-quality lights, and in my opinion, that doesn’t exist out there right now, and that’s the hole we’re trying to fill.”
In addition to the patented solar lights, the wireless mounts and lithium-ion batteries really add a layer of reliability and ease to the Waterfront series. With no wires connected to the mounts, they can be freely placed along the entirety of a dock or shoreline and easily removed when needed. And the replaceable batteries offer little maintenance to keep the lights running.
Last but not least, the auto-on and preset-off timers are a real game changer for the Waterfront series. The lights turn on automatically at dusk for ease of use, but an optional timer will turn them off after four, six, or eight hours to preserve energy.
The Waterfront series, with all of its perks, is a prime example of how Mark and TouchStone continue to innovate and explore new lighting designs for their customer base.
“TouchStone has been around since 1986, and the SunTino product line — I started that about six years ago — and I’ve been expanding it a little here and a little there every year, and this year we got into this new Waterfront series.”
In addition to the Waterfront series, TouchStone offers a variety of lighting fixtures intended to accent your home’s architecture, landscapes, and outdoor living spaces.
So whether you invest in the Waterfront series or a different TouchStone light series, you’ll be sure to receive “reliable, good-quality, high-performance fixtures” that will last for years to come.
Learn more: SunTinoSolarLights.com
ERYTHINGYOUNEED TO KNOWABOUTE
E-bikes have been around for a while, but if you’ve never been on one, for many, they can at first seem a little intimidating. So, we sat down with Curt Skeie from Gear West Ski & Bike to explore the world of e-bikes and answer all your questions, demystify misconceptions, and learn why people love them.
CURT, TO START, WHAT IS AN E-BIKE (ELECTRIC BIKE), AND HOW DO THEY DIFFER FROM TRADITIONAL BIKES?
An e-bike is a pedal-assist bike that enhances the power you put to the pedal. You pedal to move, but what an e-bike allows you to do is go further and faster with less power. Just like standard bikes, e-bikes come in all styles—path bike, trail bike, mountain bike, and gravel bike. The path bike style is the most popular and is the one you’d ride on the road or, in my case, ride around the Luce Line or Dakota Trail!
Curt Skeie from Gear West Ski & Bike answers every question you have about e-bikes
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
B I K E S
The other main difference is that they’re heavy. They typically can weigh 40 to 50 pounds. If you plan to load up your e-bike and take it on the road, you’ll need a special rack that is e-bike rated for your vehicle.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING AN E-BIKE?
The biggest benefit people see after getting an e-bike is the boost to their mental and physical health. E-bikes allow you to ride longer into life. As you age and may have hip or knee problems, or if you have an injury, an e-bike takes the stress off of pedaling. You don’t have to stop riding, and you can keep up with your kids. E-bikes even the field so people at different levels can ride together.
Compared to a traditional bike, where you might get five miles out and back, an e-bike allows you to go 20 miles out and 20 miles back on the same amount of energy. They’re a lot of fun. They encourage you to get outside and explore more, and many who come in and purchase an e-bike at Gear West use it for weekend transportation. They’ll ride into Wayzata and go to dinner without sweating up a storm. An e-bike is what you make of it. You can use it for down-and-dirty fitness or dress up and ride to dinner without breaking a sweat.
WHAT KIND OF MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED FOR AN E-BIKE?
An e-bike is, first and foremost, a bike. Like a standard bike, bring your e-bike in once a year for a tune-up. Check the tire pressure, clean and lubricate the chain on a regular basis, and check the brakes. As for the e-portion, that includes the battery, motor, and the display on the handlebar. There’s not a whole lot of maintenance to it. When you bring it in, we’ll check for any firmware updates for the display.
CONTINUED >
With the e-bike battery, I always tell people to treat it like their cell phone. Don’t leave it in cold or hot places, and your battery will last longer. In the winter, you can wheel the bike inside or remove the battery and bring it in. Typically, your battery will last you around 60,000 miles.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A FIRST-TIME RIDER?
Come in and do a test ride! The biggest misconception and one of the main concerns is that you stomp on the pedal, and the bike will lurch out and take off. In reality, e-bikes are designed so when you step on that pedal, it’s smooth and feels natural. When you take off, you won’t feel that lurch forward.
The other element is learning the control panel. E-bikes have standard bike gears and an extra display piece. You work the gears like normal, and as you come to a hill, you can up that pedal assist level. Don’t worry,
your body will let you know when you should use the control panel to add power to your legs!
IS AN E-BIKE WORTH THE INVESTMENT?
E-bikes run around $2400 and are absolutely worth the investment. A lot of studies have shown that people who purchase an e-bike over a standard bike actually get out more and go further. It gets you moving, you get more vitamin D, and it allows you to ride with anybody at any ability level. I have some e-bikes in the garage myself. My wife has never been a bicycle enthusiast until I brought home an e-bike. The first time out, we went 30 miles, and now we go out regularly. It’s been a big positive in our household.
Ready to ride? Head into Gear West to test out an e-bike and learn more on their website: https://www.gearwest.com
WE STEP INTO THE LUXURY DESIGN WORLD WITH INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM HAUS OF ROWE
Designing Exceptional Spaces
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR O’BRIEN
Haus of Rowe co-owners Marcelle Timonen and Kate Adamcsek
“Our clients get to know us and know that we’re truly here to create a beautiful space for them to call home.”
High-end design and Haus of Rowe go hand in hand. Haus of Rowe co-owners Marcelle Timonen and Kate Adamcsek started the interior design firm three years ago and, in that time, have grown tremendously. You might have seen one of their design projects on the 2023 Midwest Home Luxury Tour, where they took home the award for Best in Overall Excellence. “It was such an honor to work on this project,” shares Marcelle. “It is a Modern Tudor inspired home. Our clients placed their wholehearted trust in us, so the end result truly reflects the essence of Haus of Rowe. We’ve been extremely fortunate to work with so many wonderful people.”
Since teaming up and starting Haus of Rowe amid the pandemic, Kate reflects, “It has been quite the learning experience. It’s just the two of us — we wear all the hats. It’s been a lot of fun, and we have grown so much. Marcelle and I have different strengths and, when combined, work well together to give our clients exactly what they want.”
Whether a new build or remodel, Haus of Rowe offers everything. “When meeting a new client, we begin by delving into their lifestyle, their personal style, and their wants and needs,” explains Marcelle. “From there, we pull the design together, including any floor planning, finishes, materials, furnishings, and fabric and window treatments. As the final step, we also curate art and accessories.”
“We’re often brought in at the beginning of the project during the planning stage when the architect is still planning and drawing so we can offer input and direction there for our clients,” says Kate.
Marcelle adds, “Kate has a great eye for space planning and architecture. She is extremely gifted, and people feel fully confident about bringing us into projects at the planning stage.”
“I do enjoy floor planning the most,” says Kate. “It changes the whole function of a space and has a huge impact on how a client can use that space to enhance their daily life. Marcelle has a really great eye for color, and when she suggests something, clients have complete trust that’s the direction they should go.”
The two make a great team, and their clients know they’ll love the finished project after Marcelle and Kate work their magic. “We are fully transparent with our clients about the process and cost, so there are no surprises at the end. Our clients get to know us and know that we’re truly here to create a beautiful space for them to call home,” says Kate.
“My favorite part of the project is when everything comes together. Many projects can take a year or two to complete. Watching our vision come to life and experiencing our clients’ reactions brings us immense joy,” says Marcelle.
Marcelle and Kate are looking for a new space for Haus of Rowe in Excelsior. “Our goal is to expand our boutique firm, bringing on junior designers to mentor,” says Marcelle. “Once we find the perfect spot in Excelsior for Haus of Rowe to call home, our dream is for continued growth while still giving our clients a very personal design experience.”
Learn more and connect with Marcelle and Kate: https://www.hausofroweinteriors.com
JULY 4TH
Lake Minnetonka 4th of July Fireworks
Excelsior Commons Park | 7:00 AM
Don't miss Minnetonka's spectacular 4th of July fireworks show! The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce proudly hosts the only public 4th of July fireworks event on Lake Minnetonka. The day kicks off with a Firecracker Run with food and activities all day and ends with a spectacular fireworks show over the Lake. Learn more: www. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com/ lake-minnetonka-4th-of-july/
JULY 11TH
Free Summer Music Series in Hopkins
Downtown Park, Hopkins | 7:00 PM
Enjoy free live music with the 2024 Sunset Series put on by the Hopkins Center for the Arts. Every Thursday evening throughout the summer, head to Downtown Park in Hopkins to enjoy music from local favorites to emerging new talents. Bring a chair and some friends! The first performance is Salsa Del Soul on July 11, with PaviElle French on July 18 and Dan Israel on July 25.
JULY 13TH
Minnewashta Mud Run
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park 8:00 AM
All ages are welcome to join in the 3.4mile mud run course. You'll run a 1.7-mile loop twice, where you have the option to end after one loop, navigating family-friendly obstacles including the limbo, crazy maze, hay bale climbing, giant waterslide, sandcastle building… and, of course, mud! Even little ones can take part in the ¼-mile Mini Mud Run. The Chanhassen Fire Department will be there to hose you off at the finish.
JULY 17TH-21ST
Hopkins Raspberry Festival
Mainstreet, Hopkins | 9:00 AM
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Hopkins Raspberry Festival. The festival offers fun for the whole family, featuring its own royalty, a search for the Golden Raspberry, a Grande Day Parade, a 5-mile race, and a Family Day with food, music, inflatables, arts and crafts, hockey shoot-out, animals and more. The festival also features countless food vendors and a Marketplace Arts and Craft Fair with over 180 individual craft booths.
JULY 18TH-20TH
Spirit of the Lakes Festival
Surfside Park in Mound | 8:00 AM
This is one of the biggest events of the year on Lake Minnetonka. Thousands flock to Surfside Park in Mound and Cook’s Bay to see the midwest’s largest wake surfing competition and enjoy family-friendly activities, including a Grand Parade, movie in the park, live music, arts and crafts festival, medallion hunt, and food vendors all culminating in a fireworks show on Saturday. https://spiritofthelakes.com/
JULY 18TH-21ST
Crazy Days
Water Street, Downtown Excelsior 9:00 AM
Get ready for the best sidewalk tent sales of the summer. Crazy Days is a favorite Excelsior tradition. Spend all weekend shopping up and down Water Street as local businesses put up tents and offer great shopping specials. Enjoy vendors, food, live music, and the best bargains both inside stores and out, as well as delicious specials in the restaurants.
Want to be featured?
GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/LAKE MINNETONKA
BUYERS LOVE MY SELLERS’ HOMES
This stately Bavarian Tudor blends elegant craftsmanship, European charm and all the benefits of new construction. One of only a handful of homes designed by iconic Minneapolis firm Magney & Tusler, this executive property offers gated privacy while still being only 3 minutes from the Ridgedale shopping area and 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis. Many original features have been preserved while newer updates include a wine cellar, newer mechanicals, and closed cell insulation on the roof deck for ultimate energy efficiency. Only available due to relocation. Make this beautiful property yours today!
Property Highlights:
• 7,000+ square feet
• Wine tasting room
• Upper-level laundry
WORK WITH A RESULTS-DRIVEN REALTOR 2653 Plymouth Rd, Minnetonka,
• Titanium roof underlayment
• Four upper-level bedrooms, each with ensuites
CHRIS DENNIS, ASSOCIATE BROKER
Lakes Area Realty Excelsior 37 Water Street, Excelsior, 55331 (612) 229-9322
Chris@ChrisDennisGroup.com LakesAreaExcelsior.com
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