A successful remodel comes down to leadership. Clear direction, strong coordination and accountability at every step. At Struction Contracting, each project is personally overseen from planning through completion, ensuring a structured process and a well-executed result. We collaborate closely with homeowners and designers to align every detail before construction begins, reducing surprises and keeping the process clear and efficient. By accepting a limited number of projects each year, we maintain the level of focus and involvement required to deliver thoughtful, lasting results.
LAKE, SPICER
One of the most spectacular sites on upper lake with arguably the most iconic Boathouse on Lake Minnetonka featuring 1.98 acres and 267ft of west facing lakeshore overlooking Smithtown Bay and Wawatasso Island. Call for pricing
Completely remodeled in 2024, this one story walkout home sits on 2 acres with breathtaking vistas over French Lake. Come enjoy an open concept floor plan with stylish finishes. Amazing entertaining spaces both inside & out. 4 bed, 5 bath, 5,800 sq ft, 3 car, & pool house. Just steps to Lake Minnetonka.
Your Lake Minnetonka Area
SOLD PRE-MLS. Main level living perfection in the heart of Orono. 2018 built 3 bed, 4 bath with 3,560 sq ft. Open concept floor plan with 10 ft ceilings. Amazing outdoor living spaces including a porch with fireplace & phantom screens as well as a full paver patio with bar undreneath. Breathtaking westerly views!
Specialists Since 1987!
-TOP 100 Realtor in The State of MN for 2024 & 2025
-Sun Sailor’s Readers Choice for “Best Realtors” in 2024.
-Over 150 Homes SOLD on Lake Minnetonka.
-Over 1,100 Home SOLD in the West Metro.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. Let us put our unmatched hyper local experience and deep network to work for you!
1000 Old Crystal Bay Rd S - Orono
485 Sandhill Drive - Orono
SUMMER STARTS AT ERICKSON MARINE WITH HIGHFIELD BOATS!
Family days on Lake Minnetonka just got easier with Highfield Boats at Erickson Marine. Built for simple handling, smooth performance, and easy access around the lake, Highfield models are perfect for everything from cruising the bays to pulling up at your favorite dockside spot. Spend more time enjoying the water and making the most of every summer day with family and friends.
What It Means to Be a Man
June has arrived, and with it comes that unmistakable energy of summer on the water. This month also brings us back to our annual Gentleman’s Issue, a tradition I look forward to every year.
I’ll admit, I wrestled a bit this month while writing my letter, thinking about what it truly means to be a man today and holding up your part in your work, your family, and your community. It feels especially meaningful to reflect on the role fathers and father figures play in shaping our character. Whether through quiet consistency, hard-earned wisdom, or simply leading by example, their influence often becomes the foundation for how we navigate the world ourselves. These values are first learned through the men who guide us early on.
In these pages, we share stories that men can relate to, written with an eye toward what our Lake Minnetonka community might enjoy reading and learning about. There is a shared understanding here: that hard work matters and that providing for your family means something. We believe that the small luxuries—a good meal, a great glass of wine, or quality time with the people you care about—are earned and appreciated.
It is not about excess; it is about intention. In a world that moves quickly and often feels increasingly disconnected, there is something grounding about a commitment to authenticity. It is about doing things the right way, even when it is not the easy way. That is what defines this place we call home, and it is what defines the men in it.
At their center, these stories present a picture of men as friends, fathers, and husbands. They highlight small facets of what men can be: health-centered, adventurous, home-centered, and, of course, durable. To all my fellow guys, enjoy the summer, and we will see you around the Lake!
DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @LAKEMINNETONKALIFESTYLE
Kendra Johnson, Jen Fortner, Graham Johnson, Lauren Beaubaire, Haley Asanovich, Pauli Reep
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Emily John Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: It was an incredible night at this year’s Spring Soirée! Celebrating the style and spirit of the Excelsior–Lake Minnetonka community, the evening featured a runway show, live performances, a curated cocktail hour, and the Bloom Bar, an interactive floral experience where guests built and took home their own fresh bouquet. Photography by Amore & Fede
Hoop Habits Opens Its New Minnetonka Home Court
Congratulations to Hoop Habits’ new home court! They opened their second location in Minnetonka this spring, celebrating their grand opening with a ribbon-cutting and a full week of fun events. Founded by Minnetonka High School graduate Anthony Tucker, Hoop Habits helps develop skills and teaches athletes how to apply training techniques and concepts to live game situations. Come check out their four full basketball courts, and explore their dedicated areas for performance training, recovery, and athlete education.
Belle & Grey Restaurant Opens at The Hotel Landing
This spring, NineTwentyFive at The Hotel Landing transformed into Belle & Grey. Named after the owner's grandchildren, this beautiful lakeside gathering spot offers a whole new experience, serving chef-driven classics for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. From steak au poivre and pan-roasted halibut to spring risotto, oysters casino, and the signature Belle & Grey burger, each dish is designed to feel timeless. Same love of the lake. A new way to gather. belleandgrey.com
Valerie Ruha Receives Top Industry Honor
Congratulations to Valerie Ruha, owner of Very Organized by Valerie, on being named Organizer of the Year by the National Association of Productivity and Organizing (NAPO), and on being elected the incoming President of the NAPO Minnesota Chapter! Valerie shares, “To be recognized by my peers is incredibly meaningful. I’m deeply grateful to my clients who trust me in their homes and their stories, and to my NAPO colleagues who continue to inspire and elevate this profession."
Photography by Belle and Grey
ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON
“Crafted to be a generational vehicle for those who like to work hard and play hard.”
Built Like They Used To
The INEOS Grenadier is bringing back rugged simplicity
Is it too early to be nostalgic about turning a key in the ignition?
Between touchscreens, built-in subscription models, and push-to-start buttons, the tech craze that has colonized cars in recent years has left some looking back to what cars once were, nostalgic for physical dials, buttons, and the simple pleasure of a key in the ignition.
Among them is Jim Ratcliffe, CEO of INEOS, a British chemical conglomerate turned car manufacturer. Jim loved the Land Rover Defenders of the 90s but grew increasingly disappointed in them in recent years.
Defender’s once-rugged design was now seemingly more tailored towards mall hopping than off-roading as it entered the twenty-first century.
Jim initially sought the rights to the original Land Rover, intent on reclaiming the brand’s rugged glory. When Land Rover refused, he pivoted, creating INEOS Automotive, a brand-new car manufacturer created as the “spiritual successor” to the original Land Rover Defenders.
Thus, the INEOS Grenadier — a star was born.
The 4x4 SUV was envisioned as a return to an off-road-centered, stripped-down
design built to last for decades. The model was named for the pub in which it was first conceived, The Grenadier in Belgravia, London. The pub still holds the £5 note where Jim sketched the initial design for the 4x4 SUV — a reminder that this vehicle didn’t start in a boardroom.
The first Grenadier was created in 2020, with a design so close to the original Defender that, in fact, Land Rover sued INEOS for copyright infringement. And lost. By 2023, the SUV was mass-produced, and a year later, in 2024, it hit the United States market.
In Minnesota, Luther Automotive Group is the only dealer in the five-state area to sell the Grenadier, a point of pride for Joseph (Joe) Ruhland, General Manager at the Luther INEOS Grenadier dealership in St. Louis Park.
“This SUV was built on purpose,” says Joe. Designed to be a generational vehicle with a can-do attitude and focused on substance over style, the initial design had three non-negotiables:
1. Functional Design
2. Serious Durability
3. Extreme Off-road Capability
Indicative of these goals is the Grenadier’s lack of new-fangled technology.
The SUV design intentionally leaves out tech like heated steering wheels and ignition buttons, embracing designs of a bygone era and the specific goal of functionality, durability, and longevity.
“It’s a little old-school,” remarks Joe.
Grenadiers feature about a third of the electronic control modules (ECMs) of many modern cars. Fewer ECMs means fewer electronic chips for controls on heating, cooling, and other dashboard features. Fewer chips mean fewer points of failure in the decades to come. It also means that the Grenadier’s dashboard sports dials, buttons, and knobs.
“Little things like that are special,” says Joe.
Beyond the user experience, the SUV is “built like a brick house,” laughs Joe. “British-inspired. German engineering. An unstoppable machine.”
Grenadiers are built ladder-on-frame, meaning the body is welded directly onto a frame or chassis, making both highly durable over many smaller parts built together.
The SUV uses a 3.0L B58 gasoline engine that’s been specifically detuned for longevity with the SUV’s 4-wheel drive and up to three locking differentials delivering on the goal of ‘extreme off-road capability.’
The lifespan of the SUV is estimated at 20-25 years, “crafted to be a generational vehicle for those who like to work hard and play hard,” says Joe.
On a winter night drive home in the Grenadier, Joe found himself caught in a snowstorm. “I have never felt safer during a blizzard,” he recalls. “The Grenadier’s smart design and engineering mightily handled the ruts and snowdrifts of the unplowed, snow-filled highway.”
Customizability is another point of pride for the brand, with Joe comparing the SUV to a massive Lego in its ability to build out accessories.
At Luther, Joe’s experienced and knowledgeable sales team hands buyers a binder full of options ranging from roof racks to side runners, cross bars, rock sliders, and more. The possibilities are vast, and the team at the dealership enjoys exploring new ways to assist the guest in making the SUV their own.
With the Luther franchise open for less than one year, INEOS Grenadiers in Minnesota are relatively new. “Our customers love being the only ones in the neighborhood driving one,” says Joe. That is expected to quickly change as more people discover the INEOS Grenadier. In addition, the market will open even further as used INEOS Grenadiers become available, offering a lower price point.
While some might be skeptical of a chemical company’s first foray into car manufacturing, “They walk the talk and are really in it for the long haul,” says Joe.
Despite projecting increased numbers, Joe estimates that the Grenadier “will always be a niche product.” He also predicts the vehicle will develop a devoted following here in the North.
So, for those who struggle against bloated car touchscreens, feature creep, and long for the simple pleasure of the click-click-click of analog dials, you are not alone. There is another way.
lutherineosgrenadier.com
DAD’S DAY OUT
Your guide to Father’s Day around Lake Minnetonka, where the best plans are ones spent together
Father’s Day tends to arrive without much direction. While Mother’s Day often comes with a plan already in place, flowers, brunch reservations, something wrapped and ready, Father’s Day feels simpler. Ask most dads what they want, and you’ll likely hear the same answer. “I don’t need anything.”
And more often than not, they mean it.
What they are really asking for is time. Time spent outside, time with their kids, time doing something that
feels shared and worth reminiscing over. Around Lake Minnetonka, that kind of experience is never far off.
As summer settles in and the lake comes back to life, there are plenty of ways to organize a Father’s Day outing that feels thoughtful without being overthought. Whether your dad feels most at home on the water, around a table, or participating in some friendly competition, these local spots offer a natural way to spend it together.
ARTICLE BY HALEY ASANOVICH
“At its core, Father’s Day does not need much. Around Lake Minnetonka, it is less about planning something elaborate and more about choosing a few places that invite you to spend time together.”
FOR THE DAD WHO FEELS MOST AT HOME OUTDOORS
Early summer on Lake Minnetonka invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
Start the morning at Lake Minnetonka Regional Park, where the beach and walking paths ease you into the day.
From there, the Dakota Rail Trail offers a scenic 18-mile ride from Wayzata to Lester Prairie, with stretches that open up to the water and make you want to keep going.
A classic lake day is what many dads look forward to all winter. Renting a boat through Bay to Bay Boat Club offers a seamless way to get out there, with luxury tritoon boats available in Tonka Bay and Spring Park.
For something with a bit more character, the Steamboat Minnehaha in Wayzata offers a slower ride across the lake, giving you time to take it all in.
FOR THE DAD WHO PLANS AROUND A GOOD MEAL
A good meal has a way of gathering everyone around the table.
Father’s Day brunch at 6Smith in Wayzata has become a local favorite, with lake views and a menu that feels elevated without being overdone. It is an easy place to settle in and sip slowly.
For something more relaxed, Duke’s on 7 offers a laid-back patio where the whole family can assemble, dogs included. If your dad prefers a more classic setting, Redstone American Grill in Minnetonka delivers a consistently refined experience.
After a walk along the Wayzata lakefront, where boats drift in and out of the marina, a stop at Ben and Jerry’s for a cone is hard to pass up.
For something a bit more low-key, grab sandwiches from Grocer’s Table and bring them down to the docks or a nearby park. It turns into a picnic without much effort.
FOR THE DAD WHO ENJOYS A LITTLE COMPETITION
For dads who like to stay active, a bit of competition can stimulate the afternoon.
Bunker Indoor Golf in Shorewood offers a simulator experience that feels polished but approachable, whether your dad plays often or not. Out in Minnetrista, Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden brings a playful energy, with roaming animals and just enough novelty to keep everyone engaged.
If you would rather stay in the sun, Lone Lake Community Park offers public pickleball, tennis, and basketball courts alongside a grilling and picnic area. Sometimes the best moments come from keeping things classic.
FOR THE DAD WHO STAYS FOR THE MUSIC
As the afternoon leans into evening, nightlife on the lake comes in full swing. Patios fill, music carries, and people settle in for a few more hours.
Excelsior Brewing Company and Unmapped Brewing Co. both offer live music over the weekend, designed for an easygoing atmosphere to end the day.
In Excelsior, Concerts in the Commons brings the community together with lawn chairs, blankets, and a familiar summer rhythm.
For something more structured, the Hopkins Center for the Arts hosts an array of performances, offering a thoughtful way to close out the evening.
At its core, Father’s Day does not need much. Around Lake Minnetonka, it is less about planning something elaborate and more about choosing a few places that invite you to spend time together.
Because for most dads, the best gift is not something they can unwrap. It is time spent with the people they love, in a place that already feels like home.
Ask Susan
Susan:
The biggest financial mistake many men make is overconfidence—especially thinking they can do it all themselves, without outside input.
That Do-It-Yourself (DIY) mindset can lead to missed planning, unnecessary risk, and costly blind spots. The solution is straightforward: have a plan, revisit it regularly, and work with qualified professionals. It’s not about doing it alone—it’s about having the support and guidance to help navigate your financial future.
Snap the QR code below for my full video with important tips on taking control of your financial future, with clarity and confidence. Tips I’ve learned over 25 years as the Founder and CEO of my financial advisory firm, Stiles Financial Services.
Susan Stiles is the Founder / CEO of Stiles Financial Services; an independent, fee-based, private wealth management financial advisory firm, specializing in families that have complex portfolio, wealth management and estate planning needs. We also advise companies on their retirement benefit plans and corporate cash management. Send “AskSusan” questions to: AskSusan@stilesfinancial.com.
ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY
Why Men Put Off Skin Care—and Why They Shouldn’t
HOW ECKER DERMATOLOGY IS MAKING MEN’S SKINCARE LESS INTIMIDATING
Many men delay seeing a dermatologist, often until a partner or family member pushes them to get a spot checked. That delay can matter, especially when it comes to detecting skin cancer early.
While skin cancer is one of the most serious concerns, it’s far from the only reason men should seek care. According to Dr. Phil Ecker, it isn’t uncommon. It’s also not uncommon for patients, particularly men, to hold off on seeking dermatological care until pushed by a loved one to get checked out.
In 2024, Dr. Ecker began working with the Minnesota Twins.
Over more than 20 years in dermatology, I’ve had the privilege of working with some truly exceptional people, and I’ve intentionally brought together the very best.
“The most common triggers that bring men in are a changing spot, persistent redness, hair thinning, a rash that won’t go away, or cumulative sun damage that suddenly feels more visible,” Dr. Ecker says.
Some of the biggest reasons for these changes include skin cancer and precancerous spots, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, acne, fungal infections, hair loss, and chronic scalp conditions. “The good news is that many of these issues are highly treatable, and earlier evaluation almost always gives us more options,” Dr. Ecker emphasizes.
Early evaluation and a family-oriented practice are two of the reasons Dr. Ecker founded Wayzata-based Ecker Dermatology. The clinic strives to create a space that makes patients feel comfortable talking about anything from a tiny new mole to a recurring rash.
The clinic offers comprehensive care, from medical dermatology, skin cancer screenings, complex rash evaluation, to advanced procedures like Mohs surgery and superficial radiation therapy, along with cosmetic services such as Botox, fillers, Sculptra, IPL, Fraxel laser, and SkinPen microneedling.
Combining high-level dermatology with warmth and trust has helped Dr. Ecker and his team connect with patients in a personable way.
“Over more than 20 years in dermatology, I’ve had the privilege of working with some truly exceptional people, and I’ve intentionally brought together the very best of those professionals into one practice,” Dr. Ecker says. CONTINUED
The most common triggers that bring men in are a changing spot, persistent redness, hair thinning, a rash that won’t go away, or cumulative sun damage that suddenly feels more visible.
The Ecker Dermatology “Dream Team” consists of Sheri Mealman, PA-C; Sandy Holm, RN; Alyssa Martin, advanced practice esthetician; pre-professional gap-year medical assistants; and the long-term team members: Shannon, Taylor, Sarah, Nicole, and Jamie.
Together, they create a consistent, team-based approach that “allows us to deliver care that feels seamless, personal, and highly attentive,” Dr. Ecker says.
That expert and attentive care is what has helped Ecker Dermatology break down the stigma about men’s skincare. According to Dr. Ecker, skin concerns are health concerns, and therefore, there shouldn’t be any judgment attached to them.
In fact, most men are relieved to learn how common their skin concerns actually are. Many of those conditions arise from normal outdoor activities in Minnesota. For many men, that may be golfing, boating, skiing, hunting, and various sports.
The good news is that the Ecker Dermatology team has seen it all and is equipped and experienced in evaluating skin conditions on all areas of the body, including those patients may hesitate to bring up.
“I wanted to create a practice where people never feel rushed, where they know the faces taking care of them.”
And for men, taking care of your skin can begin at home. Prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple routine of daily sunscreen, a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and periodic skin checks goes a long way. Consistency, not complexity, is the key.
Dr. Ecker completed his training at Stanford University School of Medicine and Mayo Clinic, bringing both academic and practical depth to his work. In 2024, he was also asked to work with the Minnesota Twins, an experience that reinforced how closely skin health is tied to performance, comfort, and confidence.
“Working with elite athletes reinforces how much skin health affects confidence, comfort, and performance. It highlights how practical men’s skincare really is. It’s not about vanity. It’s about sun protection, skin cancer prevention, irritation from sweat and equipment, and feeling comfortable in your own skin,” Dr. Ecker says.
The Ecker Dermatology team has translated that same mindset to everyday patients.
“I wanted to create a practice where people never feel rushed, where they know the faces taking care of them, and where almost any skin concern can be handled in one familiar place. That trust leads to better outcomes and better long-term skin health.”
eckerderm.com
Dr. Phil Ecker and Sheri Mealman, PA-C
I am a terrible packer. If I have improved over the last thirty years, it is by inches, not miles. I often create a packing list, pack my suitcase, fly to my destination, only to open my bag and be surprised and disappointed at what I have and do not have available.
LEADER OF THE PACK
Like, who packed this stuff, and where did she think she was going?
I’ve had to buy t-shirts in places too warm, sweatshirts for nights too cool, socks in multiple destinations, and my accidental souvenir baseball cap collection is extensive. I often forget to pack a hat, even though HAT is clearly on my list. I suffer from a complete inability to imagine my life in a different location. I want to have my
Life Minded
favorites along, even if my favorites make no sense where I am going. I am not a minimalist nor a maximalist. I’m just random, and random is not a good quality for packing.
This past March, we took a quick trip to Florida. It was our family of five and a guest. In deference to our special guest, we allowed her to check a suitcase. Bags do not typically get checked in this family. You only bring what you can carry, like the early settlers. So bag checking is a rare luxury, and once we found out someone was allowed to check a bag, two others followed. Opportunity to bring more things I don’t need — yes, please.
There are some strong stereotypes when it comes to packing, and in this house, we yield to all of them. The three women checked suitcases, and the three men carried one backpack each. All black. All moderately sized. Everything they needed for five days fit in a backpack?
There is an argument that men can wear the same clothes in multiple settings more easily than women. Or maybe we just enjoy choices. Multiple swimsuits.
Outfits for day and night. Options for shoes. Coastal beach vibes. The men, bless them, had only what they needed. No more, no less. One traveler did forget their toothbrush, but I will not be mentioning names (a man). We bought another. But other than that, they won. We had way too many “just in case” items.
This affinity for packing extends beyond travel. My daughter recently moved from one apartment to another. Let me rephrase. WE recently moved my daughter from point A to point B. She was dubious when her dad insisted the largest items could be transported in one trip, even going so far as to try to get ME to intervene.
“Dad thinks the entertainment center will fit and the nightstand. Dad also thinks the whole bed is going on top of his car. The frame and everything. Dad thinks it will only take one trip. We should say something.”
WE? Uh, no thank you. I simply said, “Let Dad be Dad. He is magic when it comes to packing.” And he is. He does a 45-second visual assessment while my daughter and I chew our nails nervously. Items got
turned and shifted and stacked like the world’s worst three-dimensional puzzle. Then it was done. In one trip. In fact, while she and I went to bring up end tables and a lamp, he had already reassembled her bed.
In 1968, my parents found themselves packing haphazardly for the long drive to Augusta, Georgia, for Army training. They stayed at a series of questionable hotels along the way, none of which would make any travel guide. It was wartime, but normal things persist even in precarious times, and my mom needed her hair dryer out of the car’s top carrier.
She remembers watching my dad from the hotel window as he rifled through their jumbled belongings to locate it. He was happy to oblige. However, he did pack up everything quite ‘differently’ on the way home. I swear it’s innate.
May we appreciate the men in our lives. Let us make space for them and their mysterious packing ways. We celebrate those who make mattresses fit on tiny cars and throw case goods into impossible trunks. They free up so much room for those who need it.
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.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
BUILT ON TRUST
HOW BRAD BOLLMANN, OWNER OF STRUCTION CONTRACTING, BRINGS A HANDS-ON, RELATIONSHIP-DRIVEN APPROACH TO EVERY REMODEL
Remodeling your home starts with one simple item, and that is trusting the person you hand the keys to. So, for Brad Bollmann, owner of Struction Contracting, creating that trust is his number one priority.
“I’m always the one you’re working with on every project,” says Brad. “I’m with you throughout the entire remodel. You’re not passed off to a different job lead halfway through. To me, it’s so important to be the one by your side. Creating those relationships and that trust is the foundation of how I built my company.”
As the son of a general contractor, Brad has been in the remodeling and building world for the majority of his life. “I always wanted to do something with my hands and started out in carpentry for high-level builders. However, I knew I wanted to work for myself, and 20 years ago, I struck out on my own and created my own company where we focus on main level remodels, kitchens, and bathrooms,” says Brad. “We bring in that next level of care, quality grade design, and extra touches that make each remodel customized and fully tailored to fit each client’s vision and lifestyle. With every project, we create designs and quality work that we know will last a lifetime.”
But before any walls are knocked down or cabinets removed, Brad starts with a conversation. “I always want to build that rapport with the client early, and learn their communication style, so they feel immediately comfortable bringing everything to the table from their complete vision to voicing all their concerns,” emphasizes Brad. “I want to make things as easy and worry-free as possible.”
Brad knows that remodeling your home can be an overwhelming process. And to help ensure everything runs smoothly, he is always there and the one to answer your questions.
“Homeowners have direct access to me. I will always answer your calls, texts, and emails. Being available to my clients is a priority on every project. That and keeping the project moving along, so something is being worked on every day. I keep my clients updated with weekly meetings on what will be worked on each day, so there are no surprises, and we can manage their expectations on the timeline. For instance, once cabinets are installed, homeowners get pretty excited because their vision starts to pop, but that’s usually when the most work begins, so we make sure to manage their expectations on when things will be completed.”
“I UNDERSTAND THAT HOMEOWNERS ARE GIVING ME THE KEYS TO DRIVE, OPENING UP ONE OF THEIR MOST VALUABLE AND IMPORTANT POSSESSIONS — THEIR HOME.”
The trust built through this collaborative process is apparent, as by the end of most projects, Brad’s clients are usually referring to him as Uncle Brad. “It’s true,” laughs Brad. “I do become Uncle Brad for so many of my clients. Once a project is complete, not only do I usually become that client’s contractor for any additional projects they have down the road, but I’ve also come back many times to actually watch clients’ dogs and pets when they go on vacation.”
Brad continues, “They trust me with their most important assets, and I don’t take that for granted. I understand that homeowners are giving me the keys to drive, opening up one of their most valuable and important possessions — their home. It is the homeowner’s project, not mine, and before we hand the keys back, we make sure all items are finished, the homeowner’s expectations and vision are met, and they’re completely happy and satisfied.”
Remodeling is, at its heart, a personal process. It’s about opening your home, your routines, and your vision to someone else and trusting them to bring it all together. For Brad, or rather Uncle Brad, that responsibility never fades and means showing up, staying involved, and treating every home with the same level of care as if it were his own.
structioncontracting.com
Whether you fish, cruise, or entertain, Erickson Marine breaks down how to choose the right boat for you
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
What Kind of Boat Guy Are You?
Ask around Lake Minnetonka, and you’ll quickly learn no two boaters are alike. You’ll find the early-morning angler, the weekender docking at Maynards for dinner, the speed-seeker towing a wakeboarder, and the one packing up the whole family for an afternoon cruise. Each sees the water a little differently, and that’s why when you’re ready to get out on the lake yourself, it’s a good idea to chat with the experts. So, we sat down with Luke Erickson at Erickson Marine to help break down which boat is best for you.
FOR THE ANGLER
“I would recommend a Lund boat,” advises Luke. “Not only are they the most well-known fishing boats in the state, but they are also manufactured in Minnesota. So whether you’re a walleye or bass angler, fish in shallow water, or are a tournament fisherman who needs to race across the lake quickly to get to your spot, you have so many model options with Lund boats.” “It all depends on what you’re looking for in a fishing boat. Do you want more room in the bow or more space in the stern because you’re trolling for walleye? The one thing you can’t change about a fisherman is how they like to fish,” laughs Luke. “So what we do is help them figure out which boat is best for how they love to chase their next catch.”
FOR THE FAMILY MAN
“I always steer them towards a pontoon,” Luke says. “It’s a great, family-friendly boat and the most turnkey operation you can have on the water. Super easy to drive and super easy to maintain, pontoons have tons of storage with space for water tubes and paddleboards.”
CONTINUED >
“We absolutely love talking boats. We have a lot of fun with the process, and our goal is simple — to help you find the boat that fits your lifestyle best.”
“Pontoons have so much flexibility. It’s the perfect boat whether you’re going to the beach, Big Island, heading to Fletcher’s, or pulling into a slip in Wayzata to enjoy an afternoon out around town.”
FOR THE ENTERTAINER
For the guy who loves a little luxury, Luke recommends brands like Tiara and Nimbus. “These bigger boats offer spacious cabins down below with heating and air conditioning, along with bathroom options, a kitchen, or lounging space with a television. Upper luxury pontoons can also offer a similar experience for those who love to cruise and entertain.”
FOR THE GUY WITH A NEED FOR SPEED
“While there is a 40-mile-an-hour speed limit on the lake, for those who want to drive a high-performance boat, Formula models are a great choice,” says Luke. “It’s like you’re driving a Porsche or Lamborghini, with streamlined design, high-end performance, luxury interiors, upgraded sound systems, and large tablet-like screens on the dash.”
FOR THE MAN WHO WANTS IT ALL
“A pontoon makes the most sense if you want an all-around boat. We have fishing-pontoon crossovers with two captain
seats and large couches for the family to come along and cruise, plus these pontoons can get up to speeds in the mid-40s, making it perfect for tubing, wakeboarding, and water skiing,” says Luke. “You can do pretty much everything with a pontoon.”
No matter which kind of boat you gravitate towards, according to Luke, the biggest thing is the memories you create when out on the water. “For so many people, the itch to get out on the water comes from a fond experience they had with friends on a cocktail cruise, pulling into a restaurant, or their grandparents had a boat and took them out on the lake.” Luke emphasizes, “It’s the time on the water spent with loved ones that makes what we do so meaningful.”
Erickson Marine’s show dock in Tonka Bay houses a wide variety of brands and boat models for you to not only peruse but also actually test-drive. “One of the best parts is that we can get you out on the water right away,” says Luke. “Even if there’s a boat on our showroom floor that you’d like to demo, just give us a half hour, and we’ll have you out on the water for a test drive.”
“We absolutely love talking boats. We have a lot of fun with the process, and our goal is simple — to help you find the boat that fits your lifestyle best and how you want to enjoy your time out on the water.”
ericksonmarine.com
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PICKLE-BRINED CHICKEN WINGS SOAR TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH ALABAMA WHITE SAUCE.
Pickle In A
I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wing flavor, never quite satisfied, until I heard a podcast suggestion: brining chicken wings in pickle juice. It sounded strange at first, but it yields incredibly tender and flavorful wings! Since then, I save pickle juice from every jar I buy just to recreate these beloved wings. If I run out of pickle juice, olive juice works too. I air fry mine, but if you don’t have an air fryer, cook them as you normally would. Don’t forget to toss them in a buttery dill sauce and try the Alabama white BBQ sauce for an extra layer of goodness!
Pickle Juice Brined Wings
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drummettes)
• Pickle juice - enough to cover wings
• 1 – 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 6 tablespoons butter
• A few dashes of hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place chicken wings in a non-reactive container and pour pickle juice over chicken wings until completely covered.
2. Place it in the fridge and let it marinate, covered, for at least 8 hours.
3. Drain wings, discard pickle juice, and completely pat wings dry.
4. Put dried wings in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. Mix well.
5. Place wings in an air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd. Cook at 400 degrees for 28 minutes, turning every 8 minutes until crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in the oven for 35 - 40 minutes at 400 degrees, flipping halfway through.
6. Melt the butter and add a few splashes of hot sauce of your choice and mix in a bowl. Add wings and completely cover with butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh dill and toss a few times, and serve with my white barbeque sauce.
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pepper, coarsely ground
• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk all ingredients together until blended. Dip your pickle juice-brined wings in this sauce and taste the joy! Store in the refrigerator for 1 - 2 weeks.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 2ND
Yoga in the Park
Excelsior Commons | 8:30 AM
Donation Yoga is back for their 9th summer, inviting you to practice every Tuesday, Thursday, and select Saturdays. The hour-long classes begin at 8:30am. Bring a mat/beach towel, sunglasses, and water. You may also donate $15, which goes to C4C, the nonprofit park conservancy improving the Commons. To date, they've raised over $41,000 for the park. Everyone is welcome regardless of ability to pay. communityforthecommons.org/yoga-in-the-park.html
JUNE 13TH-14TH
Excelsior Art on the Lake Water Street, Excelsior | 10:00 AM
On Saturday, June 13, and Sunday, June 14, Water Street in Downtown Excelsior will close down to welcome over 150 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 19TH
Green Wealth Management Understanding Wealth Series
Green Wealth Management Office, 701 Lake St. E, Suite 200, Wayzata | 8:00 AM
Sean Wenham, Senior Wealth Advisor with Green Wealth Management Group, is back this month with the next seminar in Green Wealth's year-long "Understanding Wealth" educational series. The series is designed to help you make thoughtful decisions with greater confidence and provide practical education around the financial topics that matter most. This month's topic is: Business Exit / Succession / Transition Planning. Register at greenwmg.com/understanding-wealth
JUNE 26TH
Women on Water Class: Surf Boat Edition
MarineMax Excelsior | 9:00 AM
Ladies, this one's for you! Gain your confidence on the water with MarineMax’s exclusive Women on Water (WOW) courses. Designed to get women behind the helm, these small group seminars, for women only, are designed to build confidence, presenting information in an active, fun, and supportive environment. Each participant will take the wheel and have one-on-one driving time with the captain. Sign up: marinemax.com/events/classes/women-on-water
JUNE 27TH
Minnetonka Summer Fest 2026
Minnetonka Civic Center Park | 4:00 PM
Start your summer off right with Minnetonka Summer Fest on June 27 from 4pm—10:30pm. Free to attend, enjoy a whole day of family fun with inflatables, live music, and kid-friendly activities, all wrapping up with a spectacular fireworks show at the end of the night. Food trucks and beer and wine will also be available. Get more details at minnetonkamn.gov/our-city/community-events/summer-fest
JULY 25TH
Lakeside Car Show
Nelson Park on Long Lake | 11:00 AM
The Orono Lions’ 2nd annual Lakeside Car Show is back again by popular demand. Join in the festivities on Saturday, July 25th, in Nelson Park on the shores of Long Lake. This year will be bigger and better than ever. In conjunction with Buckhorn Days, come check out cars from all generations and enjoy food, beverages, kids’ activities, live music, and more.
LOVE PARKS? UNPARK THAT DONOR ADVISED FUND.
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