ONE OF A KIND CRAFTSMANSHIP
A Father's Impact
Have you ever wondered, “Do fathers matter? What differences do I make in my home as a dad?” Let’s start with the simple answer — the importance of a father is tremendous! Fathers make countless differences in their home and family. However, how much impact you decide to make as a dad is entirely up to you!
A father’s gifts of quality time, life-giving words, and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on his children.
As I reflect on fatherhood this month, here are just a few of the ways dads can build up their home:
• A father’s strength can be powerful
• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational
• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting
• A dad’s smile can instill joy and confidence
• Time with a dad can be fun and productive
• A dad’s physicality can be challenging
• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational
• A father’s correction can be life-saving and life-giving
• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable
Let your father or a father figure in your life (a coach, teacher, pastor, or family friend) know how much he matters to you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you, as well as the community around you. As a salute to the fathers and men in our Lake Minnetonka Community, this issue is for you because we wrote it with you in mind.
See you around the Lake, and Happy Father’s Day!
ROBERTSON,
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Graham Johnson, Kendra Johnson, Sara Hoeman, Rebecca Hahn, David Scheller, Katie Bobrow, Anthony Adams, Jen Fortner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Emily John Photography, Anna Ko Photography, Rebecca A. Hahn, Atomic Pink Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Guests arrived in style at the annual Black Gown Gala. Local celebrities walked the stage in outfits from Chamber Member businesses, showcasing our community’s creative talent. Along with a night of fashion, guests enjoyed live music, dance performances, a silent auction, and tasty bites.
Hammer & NER Reach for Ralph Fundraiser
Support a great cause at Hammer & NER's annual Reach for Ralph Fundraiser on Thursday, June 26, from 5-9pm at The Metropolitan Ballroom in Golden Valley. This fantastic event helps make a difference and celebrates the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Come enjoy a great evening with dinner, auctions, and games. You'll be able to meet some of the people Hammer & NER supports and hear their Journeys of Courage. Learn more and get your tickets: https://hammer. org/2025-reach-for-ralph/
Upgrade Your Garage with Permanent Coating Solutions
Spring cleaning isn’t complete until your garage gets some love, too! Let Permanent Coating Solutions help you reclaim that space with custom-designed storage and durable, high-performance floor coatings. From sleek, scratch-resistant finishes to chemical-resistant options perfect for busy garages or basements, they’ll help create a space that’s as functional as it is polished. They offer free professional evaluations and quotes to get you started. Ready to upgrade? Your dream garage is just a call away! 612-508-3151
Get Your Summer Cut and Confidence at 18|8 Fine Men's Salon
Get your summer cut and look your best at Eighteen Eight in Wayzata. Their stylists are specialists trained and experienced in the art of men’s haircuts and styling, straight-razor shaves, and grooming services. The full range of services includes customized facial treatments, grey blending and hair coloring, scalp treatments for hair loss, straight shaves, complete hand and nail treatments, and waxing services. With comfortable semi-private stations, you'll have a truly authentic and innovative experience that you'll actually enjoy!
Photography by Hammer & NER
How Destiny Homes designs next-level customized man caves for every hobby
ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON
A SPACE THAT
LANGUAGE SPEAKS HIS
From home theaters to gaming dens to golf simulators, Destiny Homes has seen it all when it comes to designing man caves. Be it a place to play poker, a shrine to his favorite football team, or simply a bar stocked with whiskey, “The first step is listening to the customer,” says Richard Harsdorf, president and owner of Destiny Homes.
Some aspects of man caves remain consistent: dark, moody color palettes set the stage for billiard or poker tables, and a bar or mini kitchen is almost always part of the plan. Richard often hears customers reference sleek, cinematic-style armories or display walls from the John Wick movies as inspiration.
“It’s all about how the customer is going to use the space,” Richard explains. From the start, Destiny’s designers collaborate closely with homeowners to explore possibilities and how each idea fits into the space.
MOOD BOARD 1:
Mood boards are a valuable tool in this stage of design. They help visualize the vibe early on, followed by concept drawings that show what the finished space could look like. Cabinetry and selections come next, all tailored to the intended use of the room.
Finalizing the design can take time, but the focus is always on moving “as fast as they want to,” whether or not that means taking time to review other options, adjusting the budget, or simply completing the project as quickly as possible.
“Budgeting is a major part of this,” says Richard. Destiny Homes works within the customer’s parameters to prioritize key features and ensure every dollar goes toward what matters most.
Keeping the design pointed toward the specifics of what the man cave will be used for is a guiding light for the design team. Finding the right comfortable couches to game on, the proper lighting and frames for hung jerseys or displayed helmets, or the right old-timey popcorn machine for the home theater is key to building a space. The details from heated floors to open cabinetry designed to better display bottles matter — “That tailoring is important,” says Richard.
While the most common type of man cave is a venue to watch sports, complete with team paraphernalia, a bar, and plenty of places to sit, spaces built specifically for
MOOD BOARD 2:
gaming are quickly “catching up,” says Richard. While these types of man caves are both centered around a big TV, the details, from the type of speakers to the type of couches, can change a lot.
Other examples of man caves range from the classic, like poker and billiards tables, to home theaters, golf simulators, board game dens, and even private bowling alleys.
“Every customer is different,” says Richard. Especially when it comes to man caves. However, getting to the heart of the space usually isn’t an issue. “Guys are more than happy to talk about what they’re into.”
That “very, very customer-focused” approach can be seen in many of the final touches for projects. One example Richard shares is the technology rack for home theaters. While that rack can be hidden within cabinets or concealed in the room, some homeowners “want
golf simulators, can provide invaluable insight into the design. Specifically for those golfing simulators, a 10-foot ceiling is a must. Customers often ask Richard if they can get away with 8-foot ceilings, thinking those two extra feet don’t make a difference. They do.
“You’re gonna wack your ceiling,” is Richard’s usual response. Experience with these types of amenities can avoid a lot of issues down the line.
For Destiny Homes, building a man cave isn’t just about the walls and finishes. It’s about creating a personalized retreat — whether that means watching the game, playing retro video games, or sinking putts on a virtual green. The result is a space that reflects his passion and feels like home.
Ready to turn your man cave fantasy into real floor plans? Learn more at https://destiny-homes.com/
ARTICLE BY SARA HOEMAN
Father’s Day Gift Guide
Self-Care
Let Dad pamper himself with a gift card to 18|8 Fine Men’s Salons in Wayzata. Services range from haircuts, facial treatments, shaves, and much more. E-gift cards are available for purchase from their website. eighteeneight.com
Classic Timepiece
You can never go wrong with a beautiful watch. Gunderson’s Jewelers in Wayzata has a wide selection—from Rolex to ORIS—the staff at Gunderson’s will help you find the most memorable gift. gundersons.com
Silk Tie
Nothing screams summer more than a colorful silk tie from J.McLaughlin. With a stunning array of colors and patterns, you are sure to find the one that speaks the most to his personality. Jmclaughlin.com
For the dad who can’t get enough of trivia night, this one from Lake Effect is catered to all things dad-related. From pop culture to sports, Dad is sure to be the king of game night. shoplakeeffect.com
Dine With Dad
With an impressive menu of pasta, pizza, and meat dishes, Dad will love a meal at Josefina. The outdoor patio area is the place to be in the summer—even better with a cocktail (or two!) Josefinawayzata.com
Dad Trivia
Boat Cruise
Grab Dad, the siblings, and a couple of friends and cruise around Lake Minnetonka with Paradise Charter Cruises! They have both private and public cruises, including a Father’s Day Brunch cruise on June 15 with delicious food and bar available. twincitiescruises.com
Keepsake Journal
Brewery Outing
Treat Dad to local brews at Excelsior Brewing Company. With a wide selection on tap and fun events, day drinking will be a hit. You can even gift some awesome merchandise and beer from the taproom store. excelsiorbrew.com
The sweetest gift from the kiddos, this journal from the General Store of Minnetonka with question prompts is a great way for dads to share their life stories with the kids. Spark meaningful conversations, all in a beautiful keepsake journal. generalstoreofminnetonka.com
Best Gift for the History Buff
For the history buff, this year marks the 250th anniversary of the beginning of the Revolutionary War, and the new, highly acclaimed book Shots Heard Round the World , available at Excelsior Bay Books, is a must-have. excelsiorbaybooks.net
Perfect for chilly summer nights around the lake or bonfire, Dad is sure to appreciate a lightweight, layering sweatshirt from Northern Drift that looks nice enough for dinner or a sunset cruise. northerndriftco.com
Summer Hoodie
HOW FINELINE LAKESHORE SERVICE MAKES LAKE LIFE EASY WITH QUALITY SHORELINE AND DOCK SERVICE
I think most people would agree that summers in Minnesota are best spent on or near the lake. And whether you love to fish, swim, paddleboard, or kayak, it’s no secret that a well-designed and durable dock is the best way to access the water.
Fineline Lakeshore Service, founded in 1990 by Joe Bridge and Jeff Voorhees, is a quality dock services company providing dock sales, installation and removal, riprap, and barge services for Lake Minnetonka and surrounding areas.
ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON
With over two decades of experience, Fineline Lakeshore Services co-owner Jesse Johnson is on a mission to help people enjoy their time on the water by simplifying dock installation/removal and shoreline maintenance.
“Dock installation can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, as the lake bottom and water depth vary greatly throughout Lake Minnetonka,” Jesse says. “Fineline knows the lake and many different shoreline variations better than any other dock company.”
While lake life is in full swing by now and you may have your dock installed already, there’s still plenty that Fineline can do to maintain your dock and shoreline well into the future.
With their dock installation and removal services, Fineline ensures a quick and efficient service, all while protecting your equipment and shoreline. With over 75 years of combined experience between the owners of Fineline, they are equipped to handle everything from seasonal dock transitions to permanent installations in any water condition.
“FINELINE KNOWS THE LAKE AND MANY DIFFERENT SHORELINE VARIATIONS BETTER THAN ANY OTHER DOCK COMPANY.”
Jesse’s older brother, Dan Johnson, is another partner at Fineline, helping to provide clients with the highest-quality dock systems on Lake Minnetonka. “It’s so nice to work with my brother,” says Jesse. “And I couldn’t do it without the support of my stay-at-home wife, Jackie, my 16-year-old son Sydney, and my 6-year-old daughter Isla. They are the highlight of my life.”
So, come this fall when you’re getting ready to remove your dock or next spring when you want to install it again, the team at Fineline can simplify the process.
In addition to your dock installation or removal, Fineline’s riprap service provides essential shoreline protection. “Shoreline riprap not only beautifies your lakeshore investment but controls erosion as it keeps your land from washing into the lake,” Jesse explains.
A testament to Fineline’s expertise and reliability can be seen at various apartment buildings, condos, and neighborhood associations where the company has serviced large commercial docking systems.
Some of Fineline’s commercial clients include Woodend Shores Association, Locust Hills of Grays Bay, Lafayette Ridge, Bayshore, Lakewinds Condos, and Bayview Apartments.
In addition to the services Fineline offers, the company sells docks, boat houses, boat lifts, and accessories.
Built with stability, durability, and longevity in mind, Fineline’s dock selections include TonkaDock (cedar), PolyDock (polyethylene), ThruFlowDock (polypropylene), and PilingDock (green-treated materials).
Each dock type is designed to withstand the elements and years of use, and every component of the dock is built to exceed expectations, delivering reliability, functionality, and a touch of class to your lakeside experience.
Like the docks, Fineline’s boat houses and lifts are high-quality, reliable additions to your dock or lakeshore. The boat houses are customizable, with the width, height, and canvas colors tailored to your needs and preferences.
The boat lifts come in a variety of lift styles and weight capacities to ensure your watercraft remains secure and allows for convenient access whenever you decide to take your next trip on the water.
Whether you’re looking to invest in a new dock or have one installed/removed, Jesse and the team at Fineline are always willing to help. While the installation techniques have evolved over the years, the final product has remained the same: secure, reliable, and top-notch shoreline services.
Learn more: https://www.finelinedocks.com/
I love teenagers. I really do. Give me a teenager over a newborn any day of the week. I know babies are magical, and they are darling when sleeping, but I find them to be well… a bit boring. Show me an experience, any experience, with a teenager that could be characterized
PARTY OF FOUR
as boring? Impossible. Terrifying. Mystifying. Trying. Thrilling. Dizzying. I still prefer that drama compared to infant drama.
So, due to my love of teenagers and my penchant for harebrained road trip plans, I found myself on a 1550-mile road trip with my 16-year-old son and two of his friends for “spring break.” Before we left, a few people told me I must be crazy to take this on.
Life Minded
But I paid no attention to the naysayers because this isn’t even close to the worst idea I’ve had.
Spring break in Minnesota is a time when many people leave the state to refamiliarize themselves with the giant warm orb in the sky others in the US take for granted. Sure, traveling to Florida or Mexico or California makes perfect sense to break up a long Minnesota winter. But where did we go? America’s best-kept secret spring break destination: Louisville, Kentucky.
I admit I had to look up how far it was to Louisville, Kentucky. It’s 10 and a half hours. Longer with boys who need snacks every ninety minutes. And why on earth would one travel to Kentucky in March? College lacrosse games, of course. I had a car full of high school lacrosse players who wanted to see college games. Because the only thing better than lacrosse for these three is more lacrosse interspersed with fast food and doughnut stops. And oddly, I kind of feel the same. I have grown to truly love the game.
We stopped in Madison, Wisconsin, and stayed overnight. We went to the closest burger place to our hotel, and
the stars somehow aligned because they had food but also pool tables. The boys played pool alongside college kids and even invited me to play. I’m terrible, and my son was legitimately surprised by how badly I play as if I had been hiding my pool shark skills from him his whole life. When we paid, the cheerful bartender told me that they were the most polite and respectful teenagers he had ever served. I beamed. He followed it up with what an awful teenager he had been. We agreed, adolescence is tough on everyone involved.
In Kentucky, we watched the University of Utah beat Bellarmine University in a close game on a stunning campus. I was cheering for both teams, which is pretty unpopular in the stands. It was a balmy 81 degrees, and I burned my left arm. That made it feel very spring breaky. We followed it up with a game in Iowa where we watched Iowa State versus Purdue in 34 degrees and rain. I lost sensation in my feet. That made it feel like we were on our way home.
Car conversations ran from Clash Royale to lacrosse stats to snack preferences, and in the background, an
impressive music playlist blared that included John Denver, Coldplay, the Bee Gees, and a gentleman named BigXthaPlug, whom I was not familiar with. I can really comfortably recommend not including BigXthaPlug during a family car ride.
When we rolled into the driveway, I was fried. Speaking of fried, I really was looking forward to eating a salad. I couldn’t wait to get out of the car, AND I’m the shortest passenger by five inches. I could only imagine how they felt. One of the boys let out a long sigh and said, “Well, where do you think we should go next year?”
And so perhaps I am crazy, but this stage lasts for a blink. Half a blink. The boys, these young men, will soon be fully fledged men all too soon. They’ll have careers and relationships and responsibilities and wins and losses. Adulthood comes for us all far too quickly. If you get a chance to hang out with the young men in your life, jump at the chance. Meet them where they are and go where they want to go. Somewhere on the open road. It will remind you when so much was ahead and it was all possibilities.
Minded
COLUMN BY JEN 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.
Family
Wildlife
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CLEAR Shores
ARTICLE BY DAVID SCHELLER
The lake. Your lake. That flat, placid sapphire all life revolves around. What a blessing it is, to live by it.
But you’re not the only one who wants to be near the water. Your lakefront is under constant invasion by an untiring menace: botanical interlopers, which would reduce any private beach to virgin wilderness in a matter of months.
And it only gets worse, because the foliaged vandals aren’t all terrestrial. I’m referring, of course, to lake weeds, which look gross, and which are no good for boat docks, and which are about as fun to swim through as it is to be sneezed on by sick pigs.
Don’t let those chlorophyllous rapscallions cost you an ounce of happiness this summer. If you own lakefront property in the Twin Cities, Clear Shores will keep it a paradise.
“THERE’S NO BETTER SOLUTION TO lake weed removal THAN Clear Shores’ divers . WE’LL MAKE SURE no weeds ARE LEFT BEHIND TO decay into sludge , ATTRACT ZEBRA MUSCLES to your dock , OR GET SUCKED INTO YOUR BOAT MOTOR.”
“It’s a whole different world down there,” said Clear Shores co-founder Zack Navratil. “Even at 4 feet deep, it feels like you’re hover-gliding through an endless forest. There’s just no sense of scale. Sometimes it’s awe-inspiring. Sometimes it’s terrifying, such as when a carp slaps you in the face out of nowhere.
“I’m sure plenty of people are content to work in offices. But as a born-and-raised Minnetonka kid, there’s nowhere I’d rather be than scuba diving in Minnesota’s beautiful lakes.”
Zack doesn’t scuba for sport. His air tank and wetsuit may only give him a fraction of the manatee’s power, although he achieves the same end as the behemoth vegetarian.
“There’s no better way to deal with lake weeds than by confronting them face to face,” said Zack. “This may come as no surprise, but I am an environmentalist. I hate the idea of pouring herbicide, which kills plants and who knows what else indiscriminately, into the same water my 2-year-old son swims in. And all those dead weeds it leaves behind? It’s only a matter of time until they decay into muck.
“Ask yourself why you own waterfront property. It’s not because you enjoy wading through muck.
“You get the same problem with rollers and rakes. They’re nontoxic, but also unable to collect dead weeds, and they’re
Clear Shores Divers
only effective over a limited area to boot. Really, there’s no better solution to lake weed removal than Clear Shores’ divers. We’ll make sure no weeds are left behind to decay into sludge, attract zebra muscles to your dock, or get sucked into your boat motor and jam it. (Though we do take care to conserve good habitat for the fish. Gotta keep the sunnies happy.)
“Lake weed removal has been Clear Shores’ focus since our foundation four years ago. We’ve earned clients on pretty much every shoreline in the southwest metro so far. We also serve municipalities. If you’ve been to Excelsior Commons or North Oaks’ Pleasant Lake Beach, then you’ve already witnessed our results firsthand.
“But we’re not just underwater weeders. We’re here to make every facet of lakefront property ownership easier. Has any part of your shoreline been taken over by trees? We’ll restore it to picture-perfect in no time. Is your dock’s decking being colonized by algae? That’s nothing our power washer can’t handle. Has your dock outlasted its useful lifespan? Well, I’m not so much a ‘dock salesman’ as I am a lifelong dock enthusiast who knows everything about docks and loves nothing more than installing the ideal dock for each of our clients’ unique dock needs. Tonka Built. Galv-A-Dock. MN Dock & Lift. I make the best work of multiple local dock manufacturers available to anyone who wants it.
“Dock insertion, removal, and general maintenance. Zebra mussel removal. Even retrieval for wedding bands and other lost items. We do it all because we truly are lake kids for hire. We’ll do whatever it takes to turn your thin sliver of shoreline into a perfect piece of paradise.”
In addition to hundreds of homeowners, Clear Shores has served multiple commercial and multi-family clients, including The Caribbean Marina, The Mist on Lake Minnetonka, Maynard’s, and Shores of Lake Waconia. And Clear Shores isn’t just for lakefront property owners, either! If you would like high-touch landscaping or snow removal at your landlocked lot, then you need only call (952) 843-3751 or visit ClearShoresMN.com
Before Clear Shores Weed Removal
After Clear Shores Weed Removal
Cars Against Crime
MEET THE LOCAL NONPROFIT BRINGING ICONIC CRIME-FIGHTING VEHICLES TO LIFE— ALL TO SUPPORT OUR LOCAL HEROES
ARTICLE BY REBECCA HAHN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA HAHN AND ATOMIC PINK PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography by Atomic Pink Photography
Photography by Rebecca Hahn
Photography by Atomic Pink Photography
Have you ever daydreamed about how you would spend your winnings if you won the lottery? Although I rarely buy a ticket, deciding how I would disperse the money is always my favorite part. For at least one day, it’s fun to think about how I could help members of my family or an organization or two.
As most of us “bob and weave” financially through good times and bad, it’s not always possible to make donations to organizations that we feel passionate about supporting. But, a group of car enthusiasts found a unique way to give back to the community and support everyday local heroes. A little over three years ago, Beverly Karch suggested to her husband Mike, “Since people love your cars, why not find a way to use them in a positive manner?” Mike gave it some thought, and soon he and nine others formed a Board of Directors, became IRS-approved, and started the nonprofit Cars Against Crime Foundation.
Rather than only putting classic cars on display, they found a niche market that others had not thought of. By restoring and showing many of the vehicles used by crime fighters from comics, movies, and popular television shows, they found the public was very receptive to dropping a donation into a bucket for their charity. The public eagerly embraced the opportunity to bring their families to see these iconic cars and take a picture next to a 6-foot action hero. Donations began to roll in, which were then divided and donated to the local police, fire, and first responder organizations.
Although Cars Against Crime Foundation only began in 2022, they are the official charity of the Minnesota Auto Dealers Association. This past April, the guys brought 18 cars to the Minneapolis Convention Center for the Twin Cities Auto Show. With their own exclusive room to showcase their cars and superheroes, spectators walking through their doors were transported back in time.
Mike Karch, founder of Cars Against Crime Foundation. Photography by Rebecca Hahn
One look at the Batmobile and a 6 ft. Batman could immediately conjure up visuals like ‘WHACK,” “BLAP,” “BONK,” and other combustible words that were a big part of the Batman Magazine and comics back in the early ’40s. “Dick Tracy’s yellow Packard was legendary, the Green Hornet’s 1965 Imperial, ‘Black Beauty,’ was cool, and Scooby-Doo’s Mystery Machine, which was a 1969 Dodge A-100 Van with a wild green, orange, and blue paint job, remains one of the most requested vehicles,” says Mike.
These days, it’s not unusual to attend a grand opening for a business somewhere in the metro area and see one of these infamous crime-fighting cars drawing a large crowd. Proceeds donated by the public at these events are given to the police, fire, and first responders via the Cars Against Crime Foundation. “It’s not uncommon to see kids wearing Batman
jammies, or even crime-fighting costumes worn by adults to our events. We are also open the last Saturday of the month from 9am-1pm, now through September, at the Chanhassen Auto Plex, which is free to attend,” says Mike.
So, if you’re looking for something to do this summer with a little extra “SOK,” “BLAP,” or “POW!” which also benefits many of our local heroes, hop in your classic car, or SUV and travel back in time with the great guys that are helping in their own, unique ways to fight local crime.
Don’t forget to brush up on Robin’s (Batman’s sidekick) crime-fighting lingo, “Holy Toledo, Batman!” or “Holy Graf Zeppelin!” You just might use it when you see these amazing cars!
Learn more: https://www.carsagainstcrime.org/
Photography by Atomic Pink Photography
SUMMER GRILL RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER
The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!
INGREDIENTS:
• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*
• 2 Tablespoons lime*
• 2 Tablespoons finely, chopped cilantro
• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag
2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.
4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.
6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).
7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.
*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.
CHIMICHURRI
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped
• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.
ROASTED CORN SALSA
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 Ears sweet corn
• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ Cup lime juice
• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ Cup white onion, chopped
• 2 Cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.
2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.
3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.
4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.
From playing catch in the backyard to cheering from the stands, he has always been your greatest supporter. This Father’s Day, honor his unwavering support with a Spavia gift card a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, offering him relaxation,
Our Favorite Bourbons
The “Best Bourbon” Is Truly Up To The Individual and Occasion
ARTICLE
BY ANTHONY ADAMS
We were recently asked to suggest the Best Bourbon that was affordable and as I reflected on my list of favorites, providing a single answer wasn’t as straightforward as it appeared. Think of it like this. If we asked 100 people in our community what their favorite restaurant is—the answers would be varied based on the individual’s personal palate or even the moment you asked them in!
Here is our list of favorites that will have you covered at any price point and occasion.
BLANTON’S SINGLE BARREL BOURBON
Blanton’s is recognizable on sight due to the round bottle with a brass horse and jockey for a stopper. Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H. The taste profile is sweet, with notes of citrus and oak. The creamy vanilla nose is teased with caramel and butterscotch, all underscored by familiar baking spices such as clove, nutmeg, or cinnamon.
— BlantonsBourbon.com
BASIL HAYDEN’S RYE BOURBON –AGED 10 YEARS
In a sea of cask-strength offerings, Basil Hayden’s stays true to its 80 proof roots. The high rye content of its mash bill charges the nose and palate with notes of caraway and spice, while 10 years in the barrel have added leather and an attractive nuttiness. If you aren’t looking for high proof, this is a remarkable bourbon.
— BasilHaydens.com
PINHOOK ‘BOURBON WAR’ VERTICAL SERIES 5 YEARS
Pinhook pulls 150 barrels from a special lot to create this straight bourbon whiskey with a lively nose of butterscotch,
cinnamon stick, licorice, and vanilla. These aromas set the stage for a robust palate of cherry, chocolate, toasted brown sugar, and chicory. With the additional 5th year of age, what was tropical fruit transitions to darker fruit flavors and what was brighter candy is now rich and caramelized; hints of smoke now start to appear for the first time.
— PinhookBourbon.com
EAGLE RARE 10 YEAR
Eagle Rare 10 Year lives somewhat in the shadow of its 17-yearold elder sibling, but don’t let that shy you away. This is a sweet and mellow bourbon with definite signs of maturity and its orange peel and toffee aromas are a little shy, but the palate serves sturdy sweet and spice notes and a toasty finish.
— EagleRare.com
OLD FORESTER 86 PROOF
While others in Old Forester’s impressive lineup claim the hearts of bourbon geeks (such as the 1920 Prohibition Style), this bottle stands head and shoulders above everything at this proof and price point. It oozes aromatic charm and follows with a palate that is lithe but in no way lacking flavor.
— OldForester.com
MCAFEE’S BENCHMARK OLD NO. 8
Sometimes you find a $20 laying around or just need a good mixing bourbon. Benchmark Old No. 8 is made at the same distillery as Blanton’s and the ever-coveted Pappy Van Winkle! The nose bears caramel notes with a delicate stone-fruit backdrop. A robust and sturdy palate with some fine leather notes mingling with dry tobacco, a touch of oak, and a hint of dried cherries. The finish is smooth and calming.
— BuffaloTraceDistillery.com
ELEVATED LIVING
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 5TH
Exclusive Free Juliska Gifts at Five Swans Summer Event
Five Swans | 10:00 AM
Five Swans is partnering with Juliska, known for their stunning, artisanal tableware and home decor, for a special event from June 5 to June 22. When you spend $150 at Five Swans, you’ll receive a Blue Puro Vase for FREE! If you spend $350, you’ll receive four FREE Villa Seville salad plates. (Only one gift per customer). If you spend over $600, you’ll receive both gifts!
JUNE 12TH
The Sunset Series Free Concerts in the Park
Hopkins Downtown Park | 7:00 PM
The Sunset Series kicks off on June 12, beginning their free summer concerts on Thursday evenings in Hopkins Downtown Park. The music starts at 7pm. Bring a chair or blanket and some friends! Enjoy performances by local favorites and emerging new talent. The first show features Katy Tessman and the Turnbuckles. On June 26, guitarist Zacc Harris will take the stage. https:// www.hopkinsartscenter.com/263/ The-Sunset-Series-Outdoor-Concerts
JUNE 14TH
Spring Lawn Sale
Cottagewood General Store | 9:30 AM
Time to declutter and donate! Don't miss this fun community event hosted by the Cottagewood General Store. Drop off any donations from 8am-9:30am before the Spring Lawn Sale opens at 9:30am through 2:30pm. Shop the sale and discover new treasures you'd like to take home! The sale will take place at Children's Park just outside the store, with all proceeds benefiting the Cottagewood Community Foundation.
Ask Susan
Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.
Dear Susan: My heart wants a cabin and boat. My head wants a college fund for 3 kids. Can you break the tie?
Susan:
No one is saying you can’t have both, but big purchases must start with a clear budget. Trust your head with your kid’s future and consistently put money into a tax-advantaged 529 plan for their college fund. Once that’s on track, evaluate what’s left for discretionary spending. Consider whether a boat or cabin enhances your family’s life enough to justify the cost. You might rent first to test the impact before committing. Remember, life enjoyment matters too—if the purchase strengthens family bonds and provides lasting memories, that’s also a return on investment. Just avoid compromising future needs. A balance of smart saving and meaningful spending is the key to a happy head and heart. For a deeper conversation on this topic click the QR code below.
CONTINUED
JUNE 14TH
Excelsior Art on the Lake Water Street, Downtown Excelsior 10:00 AM
On Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15, Water Street in Downtown Excelsior will close down to welcome over 120 talented artists for the Excelsior Art on the Lake event! Come peruse the variety of artwork and meet the artists themselves while enjoying live music and great local food and beverages. Best of all, it's open to everyone, and admission is free! https://www. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber. com/art-on-the-lake/
JUNE 21ST
Wayzata Art Experiene
Lake Street, Wayzata | 10:00 AM
Come for the art and stay for the fun at the Wayzata Art Experience! Saturday, June 22, 10am – 6pm and Sunday, June 23, 10am – 4pm, shop over 150 fine art exhibits, enjoy food trucks, Beer + Wine tent, family Activity Zone, live music, and more with a Boat Light Parade at 9:30pm on June 21 and FREE sailboat rides starting at 10am on June 22! https://artexperience. wayzatawestmetrochamber.com/
JUNE 28TH
Minnetonka Summer Fest
Minnetonka Civic Center Park | 4:00 PM
Start your summer off right with Minnetonka Summer Fest on June 28 from 4pm—10:30pm. Free to attend, the event kicks off with a Tot Trot for kids ages 2-8, followed by more fun with inflatables, a climbing wall, water wars, pickleball tournament, live music, and a fireworks show at the end of the night. Food trucks and beer and wine will be available. https:// www.minnetonkamn.gov/our-city/ community-events/summer-fest events
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