Lake Minnetonka - July 2023

The

BEST of 2023

ORONO SCHOOLS

Stunning 5 bedroom, 4 bath two-story walkout home set on a gorgeous half-acre lot adorned with 110 ft of shoreline on Lake Minnetonka featuring impressive high-end finish & detail throughout, spectacular panoramic lake views, refreshing pool, easy trail access and steps from Lafayette Club.

The Hermann Group | 952-475-4912

WAYZATA SCHOOLS

Remarkable, all-brick 5 bed, 6 bath estate set on 2.5 acres along the Wayzata Country Club. Surrounded by privacy yet only a few minutes from DT Wayzata, this home was thoughtfully designed and finished with high-end materials. Sure to Impress!

The Hermann Group | 952-475-4912 Phil Rustad | 612-309-8245

MINNETONKA SCHOOLS

Thoughtfully designed, custom 5 bed, 6 bath home offering everyday workspace, relaxing escapes for everyone in the family, as well great entertaining areas. Prime location nestled between DT Excelsior & Chanhassen and only a block from Carver Beach/ Playground and Lotus Lake.

The Hermann Group | 952-475-4912

SUMMERTIME POOL FUN!

Estate setting with 1.42 pristine acres in Minnetonka Beach and an inground swimming pool. Crisp, clean aesthetics creates a sophisticated style and comfort within this light filled 5B/6B home. Lake Minnetonka dock available thru city! Orono Schools.

Janet Boschwitz | 612-804-8720

STUNNING MINNETONKA BEACH!

Located in the heart of Minnetonka Beach, this stunning 5B/5B home is sited on a gorgeous 0.85 acre lot just steps to Lake Minnetonka. Newly remodeled with luxury finishes and amenities that will impress! Lake Minnetonka dock available thru city! Orono Schools.

Janet Boschwitz | 612-804-8720

65 FEET OF LEVEL LAKESHORE!

Enjoy lake living in Minnetonka Beach with 65 feet of flat, level lakeshore. Panoramic views of overlooking Lake Minnetonka’s Smith Bay. Recently updated home with open main level featuring walls of windows, lakeside primary suite with balcony, large deck and fire pit. Orono Schools.

Janet Boschwitz | 612-804-8720

MINNETONKA SCHOOLS

Filled with character, this twostory 4 bed, 3 bath home has been meticulously cared for, and is nestled on a private ¾ acre homesite only a few blocks from Howards Point Marina on Lake Minnetonka.

The Hermann Group | 952-475-4912

MINNETONKA SCHOOLS

Welcoming 5 bedroom, 4 bath twostory set on a 0.49 acre, cul-de-sac homesite with serene nature views, generous gathering areas, and located only a few minutes from all the great amenities in Excelsior.

The Hermann Group | 952-475-4912

MINNETONKA SCHOOLS

This exquisite custom two-story home boasts 5 beds, 5 baths and impeccable high-end finishes. Ideal for entertaining, it offers ample gathering spaces and is situated on nearly an acre, conveniently located near parks, trails, and Minnewashta Elementary.

The Hermann Group | 952-475-4912

More urgent care ready to go.

Ready with more doctors. Set with more specialty services and orthopedic urgent care locations open 8 — 8 daily.

Go for more of what you need to keep your body moving. No referral or appointment necessary. TCOmn.com

MOZZARELLA made fresh

KOWALSKI’S FRESH HAND-PULLED MOZZARELLA

This semi-soft cow’s milk cheese is a summer staple and a customer favorite! We hand-pull it in-house using 100% natural fresh Wisconsin curd, making it the freshest mozzarella around. The curd contains no additives, trans fats or gluten, and the milk used to make the curd is produced without growth hormones (rBST or rBGH). Each mozzarella ball is hand-shaped and sold by weight, so they’re available in a variety of size options.

• MADE IN-HOUSE

• 100% NATURAL

• ADDITIVE FREE

READ MORE ABOUT OUR HAND-PULLED MOZZARELLA:

“My smile has always been my biggest insecurity and now I can’t stop smiling. I’m a whole new confident me. Thank you for creating a beautiful smile while keeping me looking like myself!”

Photo: Chris Emeott

“A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm.” —Henrik Ibsen, playwright

PAGE 40

Acrylic paintings by Ellen Richman.

Top left to bottom right: Red/Orange ; Yellow; Blue/ Green/Yellow ; Yellow/Green ; Yellow/Orange ; and Red

DEPARTMENTS

28 — Going Green

Guide highlights ways to help families discover the magic of the Lake Minnetonka area.

32 — Serving the Community

“The need has never been greater.”

—Michelle Bottenfield, director of the Westonka Food Shelf

36 — If These Walls Could Talk

Minnetonka couple develops a home history website, which aims to tell the story of every house in America.

40 — Creative Connection

Roxanne Heaton strives to take art center’s programs “to the widest possible audience.”

FEATURES

44 — Best of Lake Minnetonka

Our cup runneth over with top-tier businesses and services.

50 — Editor’s Picks

Bank on intentional ways to spend time around Lake Minnetonka.

TASTEMAKERS

69 — Plucky Partners

Best friends dip into new ways to showcase pickles.

Photo: Chris Emeott

FROM THE EDITOR

New Location, Same Great Care!

Anticipation . Carly Simon wrote and sang about it. A food company sold ketchup to it. Some people enjoy its spirit of expectation. Others are too impatient to embrace it. Anticipation arrives through many avenues— including during January’s monthlong voting process for our annual Best of Lake Minnetonka readers’ poll.

The anticipation bug and a dose of curiosity hit me hard over the voting month. How many votes are in? Which categories are getting the most votes? How are the new categories fairing this round? Once the month ends and voting closes, it’s difficult for me to wait for the results, and I ping our digital editor with even more questions until all the votes are tabulated.

Patience can be its own reward, and finalists were posted online in March, so we all had a look-see into the top three or four vote-getters in each category. Now, we are happy to present on page 44 the final list winners and runners up. We’re especially pleased to include new additions to our regular categories, more local leisure activities and the introduction of the Best of the West Metro and Discover Minnesota segments.

NOW OPEN!

10150 Niagara Lane N, Suite 100 Maple Grove, MN 55369

As the Twin Cities’ largest and most experienced cancer treatment provider, we know that treating cancer calls for more than compassion. It means giving our patients access to more than 100 cancer care experts, evidence-based treatment paths, close-to-home locations and comprehensive services to support the whole person.

Our compassionate team works tirelessly towards one common goal –fighting cancer.

In that same article, you’ll notice that I share my byline with our readers and voters, who, with such enthusiasm and pride, supported our local and area businesses and services by casting their votes in the thousands for their top choices. It was their voices and choices that “wrote” the article.

While giving a nod to some of the area favorites is certainly an important element to the annual contest, the results often serve as a guide for residents and visitors, who are interested in learning about popular dining venues, retail spots, respected service providers and more around the lake and broader areas. Count me among those who refer back to the results when looking for new businesses or service providers.

Let’s not wait a moment longer—we are proud to bring you the Best of Lake Minnetonka 2023.

Until next month,

Photo: Chris Emeott

RENÉE STEWART-HESTER — RENEE@LOCALMEDIA.CO

publisher Susan Isay editor Renée Stewart-Hester president Pete Burgeson

CREO Arts & Dance Conservatory encourages dances with all aspirations.

The arts of dance and performance are celebrated at CREO Arts & Dance Conservatory, where students receive excellent technical training. “We train our artists to be dance composers,” says Christa Anderson-Hill, owner “Our positive, wholesome environment encourages artists to create inspirational, hopeful work, which influences the overall development of the child.”

Founded in 2010 by Anderson-Hill, CREO began in her Wayzata home studio before popularity and growth necessitated a move in 2018 to its current location in Minnetonka. The conservatory offers acro, classical ballet/pointe, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, modern and tap dance, along with Progressing Ballet Technique®.

Programs range from Progressive (recreational) Accelerated (advanced) to Conservatory (pre-professional). Students range in age from 18 months to high school seniors. Fitness classes for adults are also offered.

Instructors have trained at prestigious schools and university dance programs, such as The Ailey School at Fordham University, University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, University of Minnesota’s Bachelor of Fine Arts program, St. Olaf College’s Dance Department and Gustavus Adolphus College’s Department of Theatre and Dance, to name a few. Additionally, CREO instructors are Acrobatic Arts® and Progressing Ballet Technique® Certified.

CREO encourages dance performance rather than dance

competition, and dancers are offered two to four concert dance opportunities throughout the year. Examples include The Nutcracker, The Nativity and The Tales & Tails of Folks & Fairies. While emphasizing the Golden Rule, dancers develop an external awareness in both classroom conduct and purpose in performance.

“Our program builds strong, physical and creative artists,” Anderson-Hill says. “We emphasize excellence not perfection and performance rather than competition. Whether a child desires to dance for fun or train for a career in dance, our program encourages dancers of all aspirations,” she says.

“If you are looking for a place which focuses on inner beauty, CREO is the place to be” says Becky, a program parent.

15102 Minnetonka Industrial Road, Minnetonka 612.636.6893 • www.creodance.com

What you should know about our annual readers’ poll.

BEST OF FAQS

Each year, our Best of Lake Minnetonka poll brings together our readers and social media followers, who look forward to supporting local businesses and service providers with their votes.

If you’re new to the Best of Lake Minnetonka readers’ poll or just curious about the process, read along to discover the ins and outs, so you’re ready to vote next year!

VOTING RAN ONLINE DURING JANUARY WITH THREE SIMPLE RULES*:

3. Voters needed to vote in at least five categories to ensure their ballots were counted.

*Any rule not adhered to may have resulted in entire surveys being discarded, and all results were subject to editorial discretion.

FAQS:

How do you choose the categories?

Each year, our editorial and management teams evaluate survey categories to include topics our readers find most relevant. Readers provide feedback, which we appreciate receiving, about categories they’d like to see added or eliminated. You’ll notice several new categories this year!

How does voting work?

We feature an all write-in ballot, so our voters can easily make their top choices. Once voting closed, tabulators determined which businesses were the top vote-getters.

What’s a finalist vs. a winner?

The top vote-getters in each category become finalists and were announced in the spring on our website. (Once votes are tabulated, our editorial team fact-checks the address and contact information for each finalist. If a finalist is no longer a valid selection due to a closed business, etc., the next highest vote-getter(s) moves up to become a finalist.) The top vote-getter is the winner and is announced in July on our website and in our magazine.

Can a business or organization be a finalist if it’s located outside of the magazine’s coverage area?

In order to qualify as a finalist in the survey, each business or organization must be located in the community and/or provide services to local residents.

How can business owners get on next year’s ballot?

We recommend encouraging clients or customers to vote for your business in our next readers’ poll, which goes live on our website in January 2024. (Remind them of the rules, so their ballots are valid.)

I’m a winner! How do I purchase a framed cover?

Winners can request a free digital copy of the Best of 2023 magazine cover design, which also indicates the winning category and the business’s or organization’s name. Winners can also purchase a framed award certificate, which is 14x17 inches and features a black, wood frame. The cost is $110 per item, including shipping and handling, and can be ordered at localmedia.co/awardcertificate. —Editorial Staff

1. One entry was allowed per person; each ballot needed to include an email address.

Erne Your Spot

If you haven’t jumped on the pickleball bandwagon, now is the time. This sport is increasing in popularity among players ages 18–60 years old.

The game is accessible to anyone due to the simple rules, small court size and minimal equipment. And, most importantly, it is a fun way to be active with friends. The health benefits of being a “pickler” include placing low stress on joints, improving balance and strength, decreasing blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as enhancing mental health due to the social nature.

What are you waiting for? Grab a friend, and head to one of the many courts in the area. (There are more than 42 public pickleball courts in Minnetonka alone.)

Laurel Famigletti is an area resident and owner of EndorP.H.I.T, where she provides virtual group fitness classes, in-home personal training and virtual nutrition coaching.

Photo: Lunds & Byerlys

MOVE

Street, Excelsior, MN 55331

Winner, Winner, Chicken … Salad

“This sweet and crunchy pasta salad is one of our most popular deli items, and now you can make it yourself at home,” says Katie Tomsche of Lunds & Byerlys.

Cherry Chicken Pasta Salad (6 to 8 servings)

• 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil for frying

• 2 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 16 oz. dry gnocchi or shell pasta

• ¾ cup celery, thinly sliced

• ¾ cup red onion, chopped

• 5 oz. dried cherries

• 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise

• 1 ¼ cups poppy seed dressing

• 1 ½ tsp. salt

• ¼ tsp. black pepper

• 1 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted

• lettuce or spinach, for serving

Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a nonstick skillet. Brown the chicken breasts on all sides until the juices run clear, about 15 minutes. Drain and discard the juices. Remove the chicken from the pan, cool and cut it into cubes. (For quicker prep, use the Lunds & Byerlys ready-to-heat pulled chicken in the deli.) Cook the pasta in boiling, salted water, according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, pasta, celery, onions and cherries. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, dressing, salt and pepper. Fold 1 ¾ cups dressing mixture into the salad, cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight. (The remaining dressing mixture should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.) To serve, fold in the walnuts, add additional dressing if desired and serve over a bed of greens.

Katie Tomsche is the content manager for Lunds & Byerlys. Taste more at lundsandbyerlys.com

4 Bedroom / 4 Bath

3623 Finished Sq. Feet

$2,499,000.00

Outstanding home in the heart of Excelsior Thoughtfully constructed for today’s lifestyle o ering a wonderful blend of textures and a modern, coastal feel. Enjoy gorgeous west facing views of Lake Minnetonka and the conveniences that charming downtown Excelsior has to o er. This 2-story Stonewood built home, designed by Kathy Alexander from Alexander Design Group, o ers top of the line fit & finish throughout.

• Awarded top producer and established expert in the Lake Minnetonka community

• In-depth understanding of today’s market and trends

• Experience and creativity for all real estate needs

• Unmatched service and results

GROW AR at the Arb

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum isn’t just a living wonderland of trees, plants and flowers. It’s also a destination for art lovers, thanks to indoor exhibits and outdoor sculptures, including more than two dozen contemporary pieces in the Harrison Sculpture Garden.

The sculpture garden features works of art near walkways leading up to a peaceful grove of trees that encircle the highest point at the arboretum. It’s also the starting point of a new, ongoing augmented reality exhibit by Dakota artist Marlena Myles, honoring the Indigenous people, who first called this land home.

Twin Cities–based, nationally known artist Myles launched the first stop in the exhibit, Dakota Sacred Hoop Walk, in 2022 and recently debuted the rest of the exhibit, which visits five significant sites. At each stop, visitors can use their phones to launch the Revelo AR app by Pixel Farm, which allows art and audio by Myles to be accessed.

Visitors can learn about numerous sacred Dakota concepts, including the Four Winds and the ways in which Grandmother Earth and all her plants, animals and living beings are related through the Sacred Hoop. They’ll also meet Wohpe, the Dakota spirit of harmony and peace.

Sarah Jackson is a media specialist at the arboretum. She lives and gardens in Minnetonka. Learn more at arb.umn.edu.

Photos: Marlena Myles

Adam Fonda

612.308.5008

Adam.Fonda@SothebysRealty.com

AdamFonda.com

Favorite Reads

Books that have become my favorites over the years tend to be the ones that were recommended to me by fellow readers. There’s something powerful in the enthusiasm behind a word-ofmouth recommendation.

That is true of my most recent favorite: Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. A botanist, poet and member of the Potawatomi Nation, Kimmerer weaves together a beautifully lyrical book that is part memoir, part science and part love letter to the natural world.

Kimmerer shares Indigenous knowledge about the reciprocal relationship between humans and plants, animals, rocks and rivers, etc. and how the reciprocity of giving and taking with gratitude can help us ensure that this Earth will be habitable for future generations.

I recommend listening to the audiobook version to hear Potawatomi words sprinkled throughout the narration in the author’s own pleasantly soothing voice.

Photos: Chris Emeott; Westonka Historical Society

Tracy Hvezda-Lehtola is a patron experience supervisor for the Hennepin County Library–Excelsior. Read more at hclib.org.

The real estate expertise you need, the service you deserve.

Quiet Comfort

On July 4, 1876, Chapman House opened its hotel with a grand ball and dining for guests. Built by brothers Seymour and Sumner Chapman, the three-story hotel overlooked Cooks Bay in the Upper Lake with its 7 acres sloping gently to the shoreline.

With room for 80 guests by 1877, the dining room could serve 200 visitors at a sitting. Chapman House advertised its quiet comfort; seclusion; spacious, airy rooms; broad verandas and sweeping lawns. Tourists could reach the hotel by boat and later by train and automobile.

The area was even given notice in the June 1899 issue of the National Health Journal, which noted: “… no section of our country can lay claim to an ideal health resort like Minnetonka. Here nature has spread a dreamy maze of beauty … waters reflect the blue of the summer skies and pure, health-giving air is cooled by grateful winds … inspiration for the poet, subjects for the artist.”

Liz Vandam serves on the boards of the Westonka Historical Society and the Museum of Lake Minnetonka. Discover more at westonkahistoricalsociety.org and steamboatminnehaha.org.

ACTIVE LIVING

Going Green

By Emily Gedde

LOOKING FOR A WAY to become closer with your family and the environment? A Minnetonka author has some great suggestions on how to achieve just that. The Gift of Green Time™: 50 Ways for Families to Disconnect (and Reconnect) Outdoors (Lake Minnetonka edition) by Beverly Gillen highlights ways to help families get outdoors and discover the magic of Lake Minnetonka and surrounding areas.

“Life is so busy … without intentional effort, it’s easy for families to be consumed with work and school and all kinds of activities and not really spending much quality time together,” says Gillen, a licensed parent educator.

The book, which covers all four seasons, includes fun facts, suggestions for other reads related to the highlighted activities and more than 170 ideas on how to carry out different suggestions listed in the book. The activities aren’t geared toward a specific generation but instead aim to include everyone looking to spend time outdoors. “I tried to be really intentional about the audience,” Gillen says. “It features grandparents, pet parents, people with babies … all different age groups.”

Gillen says she has done many of the activities featured in the book with her family. “I’ve always been told to write what you know,” she says. “I started by

Beverly Gillen

HOW TO USE THE GIFT OF GREEN TIME™

• Document family memories by writing comments and dates in the margins.

• Let the kids take turns choosing one activity for the whole family.

• Close your eyes, and pick an activity at random.

• Use the Field Notes page to sketch something you saw on your adventure.

• Share a photo of your adventure on social media, using #giftofgreentime.

• Plan out a bucket list of 12 activities to try over the next year.

• Do the book’s challenge by completing all 50 activities in one year.

NEXT UP

Gillen also authored The Gift of Green Time™: 50 Ways for Families to Disconnect (and Reconnect) Outdoors (Door County edition), featuring the easternmost county in Wisconsin. She plans to write another guide book but hasn’t narrowed down a location. “I spent a lot of time in Lake Geneva [Wisconsin] growing up, so I might do something with that area or head north to Duluth,” she says.

brainstorming … and we’d take very fun field trips.” On those local excursions, Gillen says she discovered new places, including Carlson’s Loveable Llamas in Waconia. “It was fun to find and experience new places,” she says. “Literally, every week for a year before the book came out, we would drive around taking pictures … It was a labor of love and family experience to put this together.”

Gillen also collaborated with local photographers to help bring the experiences to life. “It was so much fun meeting with different people,” she says.

As a parent educator and environmental advocate, Gillen says she’s not anti-technology but frequently notices people with their noses in their devices, missing what’s going on around them. She’s hopeful the book will inspire readers to get outdoors and take a break from technology. “We’re privileged to live in this beautiful area,” she says. “It’s a joy to experience it.” In addition, she suggests using the book as a family memory album. “Write in it, and put the date of when you did the activities,” she says. “You can also write fun memories or quotes from the experience … look back on it, and share those memories of being together with your family.”

Gillen says she’s hopeful that when people read the book, they use her advice to carve out time in their busy schedules to enjoy nature. “Each day we have on Earth is precious, and we don’t know how much time we have together, so make the most of it,” she says. “Enjoy simply being together and making memories outdoors—it’s the gift of green time.”

Learn more about Gillen, and order her books at bevgillen.com.

Serving the Community

“The need has never been greater.” —Michelle Bottenfield, director of the Westonka Food Shelf

By Jamie Tjorenhoj

Michelle Bottenfield

“IT’S AN AMAZING THING what our community is doing out here,” says Michelle Bottenfield, director of the Westonka Food Shelf, where one doesn’t find highly processed items but instead is greeted by hundreds of fresh fruits and vegetables plus more traditional options.

Westonka Food Shelf began serving the west Metro area 54 years ago. Today, it serves communities, including Independence, Minnetonka Beach, Minnetrista, Mound, Navarre, parts of Orono, Spring Park, St. Bonifacius and Tonka Bay.

As one of its two employees at Westonka, Bottenfield of Mound works from dawn to dusk, wearing multiple hats on behalf of the nonprofit, which is 99 percent volunteer run and requires over 700 annual volunteers to cover outreach efforts. Her passion for keeping the food shelf’s doors open has led her to champion many new fundraising initiatives and develop local grocer partnerships.

Volunteer Joann Hall Swenson describes Bottenfield as “vibrant” and says, “She is continually thinking about making people’s lives better and serving with respect.” Bottenfield became director four years ago but has been serving the food shelf for a decade. She believes that the food shelf should be a welcoming place for everyone. “We have worked really hard to remove the barriers to food access,” she says.

The food shelf is open Mondays through Saturdays. It is a certified SuperShelf, meaning it strives to provide fresh and nourishing items. “The need has never been greater,” Bottenfield says. In 2022, it distributed over a million pounds of food to nearly 3,000 families.

In terms of giving opportunities, note that $1 donated translates to $9 worth of groceries. According to the website, the buying power is enhanced due to relationships with local food banks.

Photo: Chris Emeott

Westonka Food Shelf is supported by a strong volunteer force.

Offering a variety of fresh food is a priority.

CELEBRATE GIVING

The Westonka Food Shelf will host its second benefit concert from noon–10 p.m. August 26 at Back Channel Brewing Co., 4787 Shoreline Drive in Spring Park. The event will feature, among others, Lamont Cranston as the headliner, the Back Water Drifters will be the warmup band and other bands will perform throughout the day. Attendees can expect three food trucks to add to the festivities.

GRIEGER GROUP

Volunteers pick up produce weekly from 15 local grocer partners. “I once had a patron say, ‘I have never been able to eat like this,’” Bottenfield says. The food shelf’s Health Equity Initiative focuses on distributing larger quantities of fresh produce in a community outreach effort. This is supported through its summer farmers markets, garden plots and donations from local farms.

Bottenfield explains that the goal is to raise enough money to purchase a box truck that will allow the food shelf to refrigerate produce for extended periods, allowing for additional local grocer partnerships and more events.

To learn more, visit the website, or call for volunteer inquiries, financial or food donations and other information.

Westonka Food Shelf, 2385 Commerce Blvd., 952.472.5599; westonkafoodshelf.wixsite.com

Minnetonka

OFFERED AT $789,000

4 BED, 3 BATH, APPROX. 3,258 FSF

Located in the coveted Highgate/Sparrow Road neighborhood, this charming ranchstyle home has three main floor bedrooms and sits on .61 acres. Convenience and tranquility coexist in this location which is private, but close to the elementary, middle, and highschool, shopping, and downtown Excelsior and Wayzata.

deephaven

OFFERED AT $1,295,000

4 BED, 4 BATH, APPROX. 3,524 FSF

Set 2 blocks from Lake Minnetonka and 2 blocks to Deephaven’s flagship Thorpe Park this handsome home was designed, crafted, and lovely cared for by the current owners. Huge windows flood the space with natural light; a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and natural beauty. Just a short distance to downtown Excelsior and Wayzata!

orono

OFFERED AT $2,799,000

4 BED, 6 BATH, APPROX. 5,790 FSF

This exquisite home, skillfully constructed by Hendel, exudes a captivating charm and presents breathtaking easterly vistas of lush woods, serene wetlands, and abundant wildlife. Every aspect of this residence showcases meticulous craftsmanship, from the gleaming hardwood floors to the impeccably painted millwork and bespoke cabinetry.

*BUYER REPRESENTATION

minnetonka

OFFERED AT $1,199,000

5 BED, 4 BATH, APPROX. 4,344 FSF

This handsome home is immaculate, and pride of ownership is everywhere. Deephaven Elementary. Ideal location close to elementary, middle, and high schools, Lake Minnetonka, Carson Bay boat launch, swimming beaches, Lake Minnetonka Regional Trail, shopping, restaurants, and more!

Photos: Chris Emeott

If These Walls Could Talk

By Mollee Francisco and Renée Stewart-Hester

Amanda Zielike and David Decker

BILTMORE, FALLINGWATER, GRACELAND AND HEARST CASTLE—

some of the most famous houses in the United States are home to stories of their own, but they are far from the only ones. Every house has a story, and Minnetonka’s husband-and-wife duo David Decker and Amanda Zielike are intent on sharing those stories with the world. The couple founded HouseNovel, a website collecting user-generated content to build a database of home histories—one property at a time.

“We joke that HouseNovel is what you would get if ancestry.com and Zillow had a baby,” says Zielike, who grew up in Edina fascinated by the historic homes surrounding her.

The duo came up with the idea for HouseNovel after listening to Decker’s mother talk about the parties she used to throw at her old farmhouse before it was lost to foreclosure and torn down. Zielike and Decker, who both have backgrounds in commercial real estate, hated the thought of those stories being lost, so they built HouseNovel as a platform to preserve home histories.

For three years, they developed the platform and aggregated home data from public websites, focusing their initial efforts on the Twin Cities; they officially launched HouseNovel February 2022. By the end of the year, they had amassed over 20,000 home profiles across the nation, and 10,000 in the Twin Cities alone.

“The goal is to get a piece of history for every house in America,” Zielike says. The company is off to a good start. Users have begun to share fascinating nuggets of information about their homes, making the site a treasure trove for architects, buyers and sellers, history buff and real estate agents. “It’s really for anyone passionate about home history,” Decker says.

“The real magic happens when people add their own stories,” Zielike says, noting that they encourage everything from homeowner biographies to remodeling information to those funny quirks that

Photo: HouseNovel

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VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE

To understand how the website works and learn more about some of these notable local homes, visit the listed sites. Who knows? It might jog a memory or inspire you to contribute historic information to the site.

• housenovel.com/singleproperty/3900-walden-road-wayzata-mn-usa-home-history

• housenovel.com/singleproperty/250-bushaway-roadwayzata-mn-usa-home-history

• housenovel.com/singleproperty/738-lake-street-eastwayzata-mn-usa-home-history

• housenovel.com/singleproperty/601-bushaway-roadwayzata-mn-usa-home-history

• housenovel.com/single-property/ charles-h-burwell-house-13209-emcginty-road-east-minnetonka-mn-usa-home-history (Visit lakeminnetonkamag.com to review an article about the Burwell House that ran in last month’s issue.)

250 Bushaway Road, Wayzata

3900 Walden Road, Wayzata

make a house a unique home.

How are those stories vetted? Zielike and Decker have a multilayer security strategy that includes the flagging of inappropriate information and including a report feature the public can use to trigger a review. Their team can also see everything being added to the site on the back end, so they can keep an eye out for questionable content.

With their model off and running, Zielike and Decker now have their sights set on expansion. For their next big push, they have identified 10 primary target markets, including Boston; Charleston, South Carolina; Chicago; and Savannah, Georgia. They also hope to partner with local historical organizations. “In addition to our Edina historic preservation efforts, we’re also working with Peter Hitch, executive director of Wayzata Conservancy,” Zielike says. “Our goal is to help the Wayzata Conservancy highlight the historic Wayzata Section Foreman House’s [738 Lake St.] history and restoration project. We’re also collaborating on event opportunities that inspire the local community, especially long-term residents, to share their old family photos and memories at a physical drop-off, so we can digitally preserve and showcase them.” There are also discussions with the Wayzata Rotary Club.

“With so many great events that take place around Lake Minnetonka, we’re hoping to create opportunities that help seniors share their amazing stories and get their children and grandchildren involved in our mission to bridge any technology gaps that seniors face to get a glimpse into the past and experience all of the incredible history that’s happened right in our backyard,” Zielike says.

HouseNovel; housenovel.com

@HouseNovel

Twitter: @HouseNovel

Lake Minnetonka 4th of July

July 4th, All-Day!

The Commons Park, Excelsior | Fireworks at Dusk

Every year, the spectacular Excelsior Firework show is hosted by the Excelsior- Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce. We can’t host this event without donors like YOU! We are grateful for donations from the cities, sponsors and Excelsior Rotary, but still need to community donations to make this event a success.

Crazy Days

July 20th - 23rd

Water Street, Downtown Excelsior

Come join us for the best sidewalk tent sales of the summer. Water Street will be filled with shopping deals, both inside stores and out, as well as delicious specials in our restaurants. We can’t wait to see you this weekend!

ELMCC Golf Outing

August 14, 1 PM Burl Oaks Golf Club

Join the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce for a Golf Outing at Burl Oaks Golf Club. $175 per golfer or $660 per foursome.

Apply Days

September 15th - 17th

Water Street, Downtown Excelsior

Excelsior Apple Days is a coveted lakeside festival celebrating community, art, locally produced food, and a good old-fashioned street dance. Since 1935, beloved fans of Apple Days have been enjoying a day full of events!

To learn more or register for all upcoming events, please visit elmcc.org.

Photos: HouseNovel

Creative Connection

Roxanne Heaton strives to take art center’s programs “to the widest possible audience.”

By Jody Carey

Roxanne Heaton

A BELOVED COMMUNITY organization since 1952, Minnetonka Center for the Arts has inspired community artists of all ages and abilities. Roxanne Heaton became its executive director in 1999 with an enthusiastic approach to connecting more people to the arts.

Heaton started her career in the forprofit sector, working for Honeywell when she and her husband left Minnesota and relocated with their young family to the East Coast. She then transferred her corporate experience to the nonprofit sector, working for eight years (later becoming the assistant program director) for a local arboretum.

When it was time to relocate back to Minnesota, Heaton started looking for jobs in the nonprofit sector. “I was particularly interested in the arts,” says Heaton, mentioning the potter wheel she once had in her basement. “I’ve studied a lot of art and taken a lot of art history classes.”

When she saw the job advertised for the Minnetonka Center for the Arts, Heaton knew it was a good fit. With extensive experience in fundraising, she was ready for the challenge of a significant capital campaign in 1999. The center’s current location is the result. Heaton loves going to work in the architecturally designed center that has supported community art for over two decades.

With a building fit for future growth, Heaton set out to fill every room and beyond by connecting more people to the arts through outreach programs.

She says her steadfast commitment to “taking our program to the widest possible audience” will be her legacy. From the beginning, she was committed to doing “whatever we could in the realm of community outreach to get our programs and services out into the world,” she says, regardless of people’s ability to pay or their geography.

The center has received over a half a million dollars to fund programs specifically for underserved audiences over the

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years. At its peak, more participants were off campus taking art classes in one form or another. The center collaborates with organizations and schools across the state.

Before COVID-19, a significant program included a partnership with the City of Minnetonka and the Dementia Friendly City initiative. With funding from the Minnesota State Art Board, the center delivered programs to people living with dementia, their families and caregivers. Outreach programs stopped during the pandemic but are starting to come back. “We’re focused on incrementally reestablishing everything we did before the pandemic,” Heaton says. “We hope we can continue to grow and develop the outreach programming,” including reestablishing funding streams.

Heaton’s favorite day at the center is the Northwest Suburban High School Arts Conference involving 13–15 area high schools. “We design a different menu of programs each year,” says Heaton, impressed by the students’ talent and excited about how they see the world differently.

Classes and camps are in full swing, and the center always has something new. “We have an amazing cadre of instructors who are constantly changing things up,” she says, which adds to the richness of the programming offered.

Minnetonka Center for the Arts is located on beautiful property in Wayzata, where the public can take ceramics, drawing, fiber arts, jewelry, multigenerational, painting, photography and sculpture classes. It’s also a unique place for a birthday celebration, and the community can visit the free exhibits and the art shop.

2240 N. Shore Drive, Wayzata; 952.473.7361; minnetonkaarts.org

Minnetonka Center for the Arts @minnetonkaarts

Photos: Chris Emeott

Left: Viewing spaces within the art center allow visitors to pause and reflect on art displays.

Written by Renée Stewart-Hester and our Readers and Voters

Our cup runneth over with top-tier businesses and services.

BEST OF LAKE MINNETONKA

I hope this doesn’t come off as trite—but this really is the best Best of Lake Minnetonka readers’ poll that we’ve published. With tried-and-true sections, new categories that stretched beyond our regular boundaries and others that included more areas of interest, our annual readers’ poll garnered more interest and votes than ever before. Our loyal readers turned themselves into active voters with spirits of enthusiasm and celebration for our community.

January served as the starting line for the readers’ poll when it went live for the entire month on lakeminnetonkamag.com. Once votes were tabulated, the list of finalists was posted online in March—just to give everyone a sneak peek into who and what was vying for the top spots. Now, we’ve reached the finish line and are ready to present your favorite businesses and service providers that are based in the community and/or serve the Lake Minnetonka area.

The results are listed in order of placement: first, second and third and, in some cases, a tie.

Best

1. Martha O’Hara

2. The Sitting

3. Villaume-Driscoll

Best

1.

2. Marceau Interiors

3. Martha O’Hara Interiors

Best

1. Yardscapes

2. Outdoor Excapes

3. Pleasant View Gardens

1. Lawngevity Lawn & Snow

2. Rembrandt Landscapes

3. AJ’s Property Maintenance, Inc.

1. True Value - Mound

2. Gopher Ace Hardware –Long

3. Frattallone’s Hardware &

1. Tie: John Kraemer & Sons; Revision

2. Tie: Boyer Building Corporation; MDS Remodeling

1. Lake Minnetonka Shores/ Presbyterian Homes

2. Folkestone/Presbyterian Homes

3. The Waters Senior Living

SELF-CARE

Best Barbershop

1. Lavish Salon

2. The Top Shave Lounge

3. 18/8 Wayzata

Best Boutique Fitness or Yoga Studio

1. Gypset Midwest Yoga

2. Spirit of the Lake Yoga and Wellness Center

3. Lake Minnetonka Pilates Bodywork

Best Med Spa

1. InnerBeauty Med Spa & Laser

2. Skin Rehab Aesthetics

3. LivSkin Med Spa

Best Place for a Manicure and Pedicure

1. Tie: Fabulous Nails; Lakeside Nails & Spa

2. Tie: Mérite House Beauty; Pro Nails

Best Salon Spa

1. Lavish Salon

2. Gardner & Co. Salon

3. Mérite House of Beauty

WELLNESS

Best Chiropractic Practice

1. The Brost Clinic

2. Excelsior Chiropractic

3. Vaida Wellness Center

Best Cosmetic Dentistry Practice

1. Orono Dental Care

2. West Lakes Dentistry

3. Holger Dental Group

Best Cosmetic Surgery Practice

1. Wayzata Cosmetic Surgery & Spa

2. Omni Cosmetic

3. Pinnacle Dermatology

Best Dental Practice

1. Orono Dental Care

2. West Lakes Dentistry

3. Holger Dental Group

Best Dermatology Practice

1. Daly Beauty

2. Lakes Dermatology

3. Pinnacle Dermatology

Best Eye Care Practice

1. Southwest Eye Care

2. Northwest Eye

3. Excelsior Eye Care

Best Family Medicine Practice

1. Park Nicollet Clinic

2. Ridgeview

3. Tie : Northwest Clinic; Wayzata Children’s Clinic

Best Holistic Wellness Practice

1. Spirit of the Lake Yoga and Wellness Center

2. The Brost Chiropractic

3. Driip IV Nutrient Therapy

Best OB-GYN Practice

1. OBGYN West

2. Western OBGYN

3. Tie: Haugen OB/GYN; Oakdale OBGYN

Best Orthodontic Practice

1. Kottemann Orthodontics

2. Lake Minnetonka Orthodontics

3. Ovation Orthodontics

Best Orthopedic Practice

1.

Best Pediatric Practice

1. Wayzata Children’s Clinic

2. South Lake Pediatrics

3. Southdale Pediatrics

LEARNING

Best Dance Studio

1. Creo Arts & Dance Conservatory

2. Velocity Dance and Theater

3. Esteem Dance, Fitness and Tumbling

Best Language Immersion Program or School

1. Minnetonka Public Schools

2. Minnewashta Elementary

3. Deephaven Elementary

Best Learning or Tutoring Center

1. Kay Tutoring

2. Tie: Bartel Tutoring and College Advising; Journey to Learning Tutoring

Best Preschool Program

1. St. Therese Catholic School

2. Orono Montessori School

3. Mount Calvary Preschool

Best Swim School or Lessons

1. Foss Swim School

2. Lafayette Club

3. Westonka Community Education

PET CARE

Best Dog-Friendly Establishment

1. Duke’s on 7

2. Back Channel Brewing Co.

3. Excelsior Brewing Company

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

Twin Cities Orthopedics

2. TRIA

Best Dog Park

1. Susan E. Lurton Park

2. Lake Minnewashta Regional Park

3. Carver Park Reserve

Best Pet Boarding or Daycare Service

Best Pet Grooming Service

SERVICES

Best Accounting

CONGRATULATIONS FROM MINNETONKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO OUR 2023 BEST OF LAKE MINNETONKA FINALISTS!

Best Language Immersion Program or School

• Minnetonka Public Schools

• Deephaven Elementary School

• Minnewashta Elementary School

Best

Best

Best

English,

Best Mortgage Company

1. Lake West Mortgage

2. Wells Fargo

3. Bell Bank

SHOPS

Best Apparel Boutique

1. Ooh La La Boutique

2. General Store of Minnetonka

3. Evereve

Best Florist

1. Bayside Just Because … Floral & Gifts

2. Candlelight Florist, Gifts & Flower Delivery

3. Lilia

Best Gift Shop

1. General Store of Minnetonka

2. Tie: Five Swans; Ooh La La Boutique

Best Jewelry Store

1. Graham Jewelers

2. Timeless Jewelry & Clocks

3. Wayzata Jewelers

Best Specialty Kitchen or Foods Store

1. The Abundant Kitchen

2. The Grocer’s Table

3. Tie: Five Swans; General Store of Minnetonka

LEISURE

Best Park, Open Space or Beach

1. Excelsior Commons

2. Surfside Park

3. Tie: Baker Park Reserve; Deephaven Beach

Best Place for a Date Night

1. 6Smith

2. Vann

3. Gianni’s Steakhouse & Seafood

Best Place for Family Activities

1. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

2. Victoria Burrows

3. Gale Woods Farm

Best Place for an Outdoor Adventure

1. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

2. Lake Minnetonka

3. Carver County Parks

Best Place to Watch Fourth of July Fireworks

1. Excelsior

2. Lake Minnetonka

3. Delano

BEST OF THE WEST METRO

Best Golf Course

1. Baker National Golf Course

2. Tie: Burl Oaks Golf Club; Chaska Town Course

Best Music School

1. The Music Coop

2. MacPhail Center for Music

3. Farmhouse Music Studio

Best Outdoor Skating or Hockey Rink

1. Klapperich Park & Field

2. Thorpe Park

3. Shirley Hills Primary School

Best Private School

1. The Blake School

2. Providence Academy

3. Tie: Benilde-St. Margaret’s; Breck School

Best Specialty Athletic Store

1. The Lakes Running Co.

2. Gear West

3. Scheels

Best Staycation Hotel

1. The Hotel Landing

2. Hotel Excelsior

3. The Guest House

Best Summer Camp

1. Camp Christmas Tree

2. Lake Minnetonka Sailing School

3. Camp Fire Minnesota

Best Theater Program

1. Velocity Dance and Theater

2. Tie: Stages Theatre Company; Westonka Community Theatre

Best Winery

1. Schram Vineyards

2. The Winery at Sovereign Estate

3. Parley Lake Winery

DISCOVER MINNESOTA

Best Campground

1. Baker Park Reserve

2. Bear Head Lake State Park

3. Tie: Eagle Bluff; Gooseberry Falls State Park; Lake Auburn Campground

Best Hiking or Biking Trail

1. Dakota Rail Regional Trail

2. Luce Line Trail

3. Superior Hiking Trail

Best Live Theater

1. Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

2. Old Log Theatre

3. Guthrie Theater

Best Museum

1. Minneapolis Institute of Art

2. Science Museum of Minnesota

3. Minnesota History Museum

Best Music Venue

1. The Armory

2. Tie: First Avenue; The Narrows Saloon

Best Nordic Ski Trail or Alpine Hill

1. Hyland Hills Ski Area

2. Welch Village Ski & Snowboard Area

3. Baker Park Reserve

Best Resort or Lodge

1. Grand View Lodge

2. Lutsen Mountains

3. Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts

Best Wedding Photographer or Videographer

1. Memories in Time Photography

2. Lahzeh Photography

3. Tie: Flow Event Group; Tiffany Kokal Photography

Best Wedding Venue

1. Lafayette Club

2. Bavaria Downs

3. Tie: Al & Alma’s Supper Club; Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

Never miss an issue of Lake Minnetonka Magazine with free, anytime access to our digital editions. Full screen viewing on your digital device allows easy cover-to-cover reading. Share your favorite Lake Minnetonka Magazine articles with friends and family.

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BANK ON INTENTIONAL WAYS TO SPEND TIME AROUND LAKE MINNETONKA.

Being more intentional in the way in which I spend free time is important to me. Making plans. Organizing outings. It’s all part of constructing a life with experiences—large and small—that are meaningful, engaging and fun! This isn’t to say that there isn’t room for a healthy serving of spontaneity, but it’s all part of infusing a breath of the unknown and unplanned into life’s lineup.

As I gathered my thoughts about what to share with you this year as my Editor’s Picks in our Best of Lake Minnetonka issue, I decided to highlight some local spots that can add an exclamation point to an experience. What qualifies as “best” for me? Honestly, that all depends. But I do hope you’ll find some nuggets of joy for yourself in my suggestions. At the end of the day, we all have so much to celebrate and enjoy in our lives around the lake!

Written by Renée Stewart-Hester

BEST WAY TO SPEND A (MATINÉE) DAY

While those of us in these parts love to celebrate (brag about) the extensive and expansive outdoor activities that living here provides, there are times—let’s be really honest here—that we all need to duck inside to cool our heels or toast our toes. Might I suggest having some extra fun while doing so? The Old Log Theatre opens its doors for 1 p.m. Thursday matinee productions that offer audience members the opportunity to enjoy live local theater without the hassle of a drive “downtown” or the fuss that entails. And the curtain drops well before the kids are finished with their school day or evening activities kick into gear.

5185 Meadville St., Excelsior; 952.474.5951; oldlog.com

The Play That Goes Wrong is about The Cornley Drama Society group, which is attempting to put on a 1920s murder mystery: The Murder at Haversham Manor, while everything that can go wrong does. The accident-prone thespians battle on against all odds to get to their final curtain call.

Photo: Old Log Theatre

Hobbiests and sportsmen will find nods to their crafts and adventures at Look in Antiques.

There’s almost nothing you can’t find at Leipold’s Gifts & Antiques.

Photos: Chris Emeott

BEST WAY TO SPEND AN ANTIQUING DAY

Call me an antiquer. Call me a hunter and gatherer. Regardless, I love poking around antique shops to add to my collections (yes, plural) or tapping into memories by seeing old favorites on the shelves and cases. I particularly enjoy visiting haunts while traveling, but we don’t have to pack our bags to go antiquing when we have three specialty shops in Excelsior. Regardless of what you’re looking for or in need of to complete your collection or series, I’m betting that you’ll utter, “Well, will you look at that!” at all of these locations— treasures in and of themselves.

Country Look in Antiques, 240 Water St., Excelsior; 952.474.0050

Leipold’s Gifts & Antiques, 239 Water St., Excelsior; 952.474.5880

The Vintage Loft, 434 Second St., Excelsior; 612.296.0413

Shoppers can find a number of treasures at The Vintage Loft.

BEST WAY TO SPEND $13

There’s plenty of contenders here, but when it comes to what is becoming a must-order breakfast item, the promise of a breakfast burrito from Hash House (formerly Buddy Boy Fine Barbeque) goes a long way to get me up and at ’em. The first order of business is choosing the meat (or go veggie). Options include Buddy original sausage, Ferndale turkey, house smoked bacon, green chili pork, hot link jalapeño cheddar, pork belly, prime brisket or red chili brisket. The burrito is rounded out with scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, queso (I think that’s the secret to the goodness.), cilantro and lime all snuggled up in a warm flour tortilla.

8175 Highway 7, Minnetrista; hashhousemn.com; Take note: Buddy Boy Fine Barbeque is now located next door at 8201 Highway 7, Minnetrista, where lunch and dinner are served, including a full bar and extended menu.

Photos: Chris Emeott; Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, David Minor

Bust into flavor-filled burritos for your next breakfast nosh.

BEST WAY TO SPEND A TIME WITH A 700 YEAR OLD

If you’ve ever been to the Wood-Rill Scientific and Nature Area, you know what it means to stand in the presence of natural history. It is thought that the big woods forest is about 700 years old. With the Luce Line Trail running to its south and hiking space within, the area is a welcome spot for those craving unencumbered time outdoors. (Biking is not allowed in the scientific/nature area.) Visit the Sugar Maple Forest (big woods), Black Ash–Alder Swamp, Tamarack Swamp, Sedge Meadow, Forest Restoration and more. Be sure to check the Department of Natural Resource’s website for a list of what is/isn’t allowed in the area and specific details about the site. It’s important to note that scientific/ nature areas are not equipped like other nature sites. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of other nature areas—who needs them when Mother Nature already invited the best guests?

917 Old Long Lake Road, Wayzata; 651.259.5800; dnr.state.mn.us

Spring wildflowers begin to emerge in the Big Woods forest at Wood-Rill Scientific and Natural Area.

Harvest Home, while eclectic in its inventory, celebrates a cohesive style for in home or outside living.

BEST WAY TO SPEND MOMENTS BROWSING

I can usually determine if I’m going to enjoy a retail experience once I’m just a couple steps past the store’s threshold. It didn’t take that long at Harvest Home. The witchy weather vane perched atop the floral and gift boutique in Wayzata had me at its east- and west-only indicators. Get it? (Hints: One was the original wearer of the Ruby Slippers (east), and Margaret Hamilton played the other in the 1939 film version (west).)

Once in the store, the vibe is decidedly European with weathered plant and flower vessels, rustic accoutrements galore and antique architectural elements. And don’t we all feel better surrounded by greenery—large and small? The space in chock-full of them, and the seasonal space holds its own bounty of plants. While I appreciate shopping for décor items of all sorts, I love taking extra time while choosing greeting cards. (I adore sending and receiving greetings brought by way of the U.S. Postal Service.) Harvest Home features an extensive inventory of Shannon Martin cards suitable for many occasions served with a side of giggles. The store’s layout affords shoppers the chance to wander while they ponder their next purchase. You can special order floral and plant elements for your next event. Regardless which way the wind blows, I’ll be back.

320 Wayzata Blvd., Wayzata; 952.476.7603; havesthomewayzata.com

Photos: Chris Emeott

BEST WAY TO SPEND MONEY FOR A GOOD CAUSE

If you drop into Wayzata’s Hope Chest Resale Shop, odds are you’ll leave with something in hand. From new, higher-end clothing (Check out the selection of jeans!) to used, upscale furniture and décor items, there’s plenty to pluck through during your visit. Some of the furniture pieces are unique and ideal for anchoring a room in individuality, and don’t forget your vacation home. Fill any abode with personality and décor that reads culled, not cookie cutter. Since 2000, the shop has raised funds support the Hope Chest for Cancer Foundation, which helps local breast cancer patients, who are in urgent need of financial assistance.

3850 Shoreline Drive, Wayzata; 952.471.8700; hopechest.com

Scour the resale shop for your next big find.

Excelsior deserves an A+ for its photo-ready spaces.

BEST WAY TO SPEND THE GOLDEN HOUR TAKING SENIOR PHOTOS

We’re four for four in this house when it comes to having kids’ senior photos taken around Excelsior and along Lake Minnetonka’s shoreline. For a walkable area, it really boasts plenty of venues, ideal for incoming high school seniors to stop and pose. Want more hardscapes and geometric elements? There are plenty of spots around Pique Travel Design that fill the bill or between the Water Street buildings. Needing a nature vibe? The entrance near Excelsior Commons and the Port of Excelsior offers plenty blooms and greenery for ideal backdrops. The lake is an obvious and perfect choice to add just the right local touch. And, for the, “I’m Looking Toward my Future” pose, there’s a quiet spot that jets out into the lake that is between the commons and the beach. Find it, and you’ll get the perfect reflective shot.

Locations vary around downtown Excelsior.

Photos: Chris Emeott; Sarah Christensen

Eco-friendly lake weed removal and shoreline restoration services for residential and commercial clients.

Certified scuba divers provide immediate and 100% chemical free results!

Call for a free estimate!

Scuba Weed Control

612.968.8764

scubaweedcontrol.com

scubaweedcontrol@gmail.com

Comfort Keepers® is here to help seniors thrive safely while living independently at home. Our empathetic caregivers are specially trained to provide uplifting care and support. We’re here to help!

Comfort Keepers 5798 Lincoln Drive 763.273.4207

comfortkeepers.com

Improve your water quality, restore water oriented activities and increase the value of your property by controlling aquatic nuisance weeds this year. Aquacide products will help manage your recreational lake or pond to make the most of your property’s potential.

Aquacide Company

Serving Minnesota Lakeshores 1.800.328.9350

killlakeweeds.com

Top Shave Lounge has got you covered. Book your appointment online or stop in for quality products.

The Top Shave Lounge 12993 Ridgedale Drive Suite 134 612.284.7227

thetopshavelounge.com

Wayzata Bay Car Wash is locally owned and operated in the heart of downtown Wayzata. We strive to lead the industry in top-of-the-line equipment and exemplary customer service.

Wayzata Bay Car Wash 143 Lake St. E. 952.473.4033

wayzatabaycarwash.com

GET FIRECRACKIN’

The City of Delano plans community-wide Fourth of July celebration.

SINCE 1857, Delano’s Fourth of July Celebration has been serving up hometown July events that bring the community together, and this year is no different.

This is a five-day deal, from June 30 to July 4 so be sure to make a game plan to hit all the highlights. To start, enjoy baseball and softball tournaments and the Central Park carnival, replete with many fair favorites—all-American food, games, rides and more.

Each day, event-goers can enjoy 18 musical

acts and plenty of live music to keep the good time rolling.

On the Fourth of July, celebrate during the community parade with floats and plenty of area participants and organizations. Don’t leave! Enjoy another day of live music until the “main event”—the fireworks display in Central Park. There are a number of other competitions and celebration events, so be sure to head over to delano4th.com for an updated list of events, times and locations. —Renée Stewart-Hester

Photo: City of Delano

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Bus: 651-776-8328

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LOCAL EVENTS

Fourth of July Flying Pancake Breakfast

07/04

Start your Fourth of July right with a flying pancake breakfast, followed by a patriotic show conducted by 7th Pennsylvania Regiment of Revolutionary actors. All ages. $9 for breakfast. Time TBD. Wayzata Depot, 402 Lake St., Wayzata; 952.473.3631; wayzatachamber.com

Excelsior Firecracker Run

07/04

Choose between a 5K, 10K or 1-mile run around the beautiful Lake Minnetonka; all participants receive a medal and a popsicle at the finish line. All ages. Free. Times vary. Excelsior Elementary School, 441 Oak St., Excelsior; 952.607.7658; excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com

Music in the Park

07/11, 07/18, 07/25

Music in the Park is a series of free

13TH ANNUAL SAILING WITH SHINO MEMORIAL FUNDRAISER

07/14

Join for a night of family, fun and sailing in remembrance of Daniel Shinozaki, a pillar of the Minnetonka sailing community; funds will go to day camp scholarships and regatta sponsorships. All ages. Free. 4 p.m. Wayzata Sailing, 456 Arlington Circle, Wayzata; 952.476.5875; wayzatasailing.org

concert events hosted by the City of Minnetonka; the July concerts consist of the Eden Prairie Community Band, 22nd Row and the Westwind Swing Band. All ages. Free. 6:30–8 p.m. Civic Center Park, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd., Minnetonka; 952.939.8200; minnetonkamn.gov

Striving for Resilience: Wings of Life Showing

07/29

One program of the Striving for Resilience climate series, this film highlights the importance of flowers, bees, hummingbirds, bats and butterflies on the world’s food supply. All ages. Free. 11 a.m–1 p.m. Ridgedale Library, 12601 Ridgedale Drive, Minnetonka; 612.543.8800; hclib.org

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It’s more than just

AREA EVENTS

Red, White and Sangria

07/01–07/02

Saint Croix Vineyards shares its favorite, locally produced reds, whites and sangrias, available in flights or by the glass. Ages 21 and older. Free entry. Noon–5 p.m. Saint Croix Vineyards, 6428 Manning Ave., Stillwater; 651.430.3310; scvwines.com

Cirque du Soleil: Corteo

07/13–07/16

Enjoy the story of a clown that highlights our humanity, told through acrobatic performances. All ages. Tickets start at $49. Times vary. Xcel Energy Center, 199 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul; cirquedusoleil.com

13th Annual Sailing with Shino Memorial Fundraiser

Shawn Sailer D.C., Caroline Brost-Sailer D.C., Ryan Elton D.C., Barbro Brost D.C., Tyler Knutson D.C., Aarti Goyal D.C.

Godspell

07/20–07/31

The popular musical Godspell brings its heart, humanity, sense of community and great music to the Twin Cities. All ages. Ticket prices vary. Times vary. Bloomington Center for the Arts, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington; 952.563.8575; artistrymn.org

3M Open

07/24–07/30

This leg of the PGA Tour brings elite golf to the Twin Cities. This event is a must-see for golf lovers and supports the 3M Open Fund, a nonprofit committed to supporting anti-racist efforts. All ages. Tickets start at $55. Times vary. TPC Twin Cities, 11444 Tournament Players Parkway, Blaine; 763.783.9000; 3mopen.com

18315 Minnetonka Boulevard Suite 130, Wayzata lmarceau@marceauinteriors.com |

iStock.com/mediaphotos

Loring Park Art Festival 07/29–07/30

This weekend includes beautiful gardens, food and music. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday. Loring Park, 1382 Willow St., Mpls.; loringparkartfestival.com

To have your event considered: email lakeminnetonkamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication.

Due to the fluidity being experienced in the current environment, please note that some events/dates and even some business operations may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

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Ourprovidersofferpersonalizedcompassionate careforallyourwomen’shealthcareneeds.This includesadolescentcare,infertility,obstetrics, gynecology,incontinenceissues,weightloss, ob/gynphysicaltherapy,andmenopause. Maintainingstrong,caringrelationshipswithour patientsisimportant.AtOBGYNWest,youwill findaproviderthatwillbewithyoueverystepof theway.

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Chaska Minnetonka

Loring Park Art Festival

Talbott,PA-C RebekahA. Roverud,PA-C JenniferL. Smolinski,MD

Lifetime Piers offers quality, year-round waterfront products.

In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, we appreciate life in and around the water and place a premium on securing access to watercraft and spending time fishing, swimming or stargazing under the summer sky—all from our docks and piers.

Since 1990, Lifetime Piers has provided high-quality waterfront products that allow lake lovers to spend less time maintaining their piers and more time enjoying the perfect day or evening on the water.

“Our products offer superior design and quality to help families customize and maximize the many ways they can enjoy the waterfront—from easy lake access to a variety of storage options, all built to be maintenance-free, giving you more time to enjoy the lake,” says Larry Chapman, CEO.

Ensuring quality is paramount. The piers are constructed using premium HDPE decking, which is made from post-consumer plastic and has the look and traction of wood while maintaining superior durability, color and style. Customizable accessories include sun protection awnings, seating options, permanent lifts, stairs and more. The options are designed to fit securely on the pier frames. Watercraft owners will be pleased to know that Lifetime Piers offers the option to have boat or personal watercraft lifts integrated directly into the pier, so everything is contained in one place for ease and peace of mind.

“We guarantee you will be thrilled with your new pier,” Chapman says. “We manufacture zero-maintenance piers, uniquely designed for each customer, enhancing your shoreline.”

Customers value the year-round durability of the All Seasons lifetime pier. “Our All Seasons pier made it through this past winter unscathed,” a recent client says. “It was absolutely fantastic that we could sit on our pier on April 1 to enjoy the sunset with the only pier on the lake!”

“We look forward to providing a fun, safe, zero-maintenance and relaxing lakefront experience, ideal for hosting or creating the perfect day,” Chapman says.

PLUCKY PARTNERS

Best friends dip into new ways to showcase pickles.

Written by Mollee Francisco — Photos by Chris Emeott

FOR

SARA DOHERTY

AND BRITT JUNGERBERG, food has long played an important role in their friendship—from their first meeting in the Chaska High School (CHS) lunchroom back in ninth grade to now, as co-founders of Plucky Pickle Dip. Their spreadable concoction with a base of dill pickles, blended white beans and cream cheese comes in four varieties.

After graduating from CHS, the women remained close friends. Doherty now lives in Excelsior, and Jungerberg is in Edina. They developed their Plucky Pickle Dip during their entertaining phase. “We used to do these elaborate

HOW TO DIP

It may seem obvious, but Plucky Pickle Dip is perfect on burgers and hot dogs, great on veggies and crackers, and scrumptious on a bagel. The cheddar and mustard version is a great addition to deviled eggs. They also suggest trying the spicy version in Mexican street corn dip or on grilled corn.

dinner parties, and we were always trying new recipes,” Doherty says. As they got older and had children, those elaborate dinner parties evolved. Multicourse meals that consumed an entire evening became casual get-togethers over small bites with shorter preparation

periods. One of their offerings was a spreadable pickle dip. “Britt and I have always loved pickles,” Doherty says. The dip was such a hit among their guests—including the kids— that they started selling it at local farmers markets. “We launched in 2017,” Jungerberg says. “We couldn’t

believe it, but we had one of the longest lines there.” What was it about the pickle dip that brought the customers in droves? Doherty says it’s one part familiarity and one part nostalgia. “It’s the surprise and delight of a familiar ingredient in a new

Photo: Sara Doherty

“ABOVE ALL, THE FRIENDSHIP IS WHAT MATTERS MOST.” BRITT JUNGERBERG

Britt Jungerberg and Sara Doherty, co-developers.

environment,” Jungerberg says.

Initially, they named their product Darling Pickle Dip. Later, they changed it to Plucky Pickle Dip, feeling that the new name was a better fit. “Plucky is a strong representation of our personalities,” Doherty says.

That wasn’t the only change. The demand for pickle dip outgrew their ability to make the product on their own, and the dip was making its first retail appearances on the shelves at Kowalski’s Markets. “It

was too much,” Jungerberg says. “We were still working 9-to-5 jobs.” As a result, they reached out and found a manufacturing partner.

Today, Plucky Pickle Dip is proudly made of products sourced from the Midwest, including Wisconsin cream cheese. It remains one of the only pickle dips on the market, but neither Jungerberg nor Doherty is resting on her laurels. “We have two new flavors coming, maybe more,” Jungerberg says.

Through it all, their longtime

HOW TO DIP

Doherty and Jungerberg say the original or spicy flavors are excellent mixed with tuna for sandwiches. Original is a tasty topper for cured salmon on a crostini. The dip makes a fantastic base for a veggie pizza, too.

friendship has proved to be a significant part of their success. “The partnership has been crucial,” Jungerberg says. “It’s been fun. We’ve been learning as we go and learning to work with each other. We always find a way to get it done.” Doherty says, “We haven’t had much doubt. We knew we’d make it work.”

Even if the business goes away tomorrow, the duo is confident that the friendship will endure. “Above all, the friendship is what matters most,” Jungerberg says.

Photo: Sarah Doherty

100% maintenance-free Powder coated cast iron with hand painted gold highlights Woman-owned

EDITOR’S NOTE

The spicy version of Plucky Pickle Dip was the first of the brand’s four incarnations to make its way into our home. After tasting the dip, by way of a pretzel, I had regrets—why didn’t I buy all four varieties? The dip served up the perfect blend of brine from the pickles and heat from the cherry peppers and jalapeños. After several bites, the rest of the tasters at the table started tossing out ideas for other food vessels to carry the dip—avocado toast, an egg breakfast sandwich, a hot Italian sandwich, melted into pasta and on it went. What started as a taste test ended as a game of “This Would be Great with …” —Renée Stewart-Hester

PLUCKY PICKLE DIP FLAVORS WHERE TO BUY

Original: Coarse-chopped crunchy kosher dill pickles mixed with a smooth blend of cream cheese, white beans, herbs and spices

Spicy:

The original with hot cherry peppers

Cheese & Mustard:

The original with sharp Wisconsin white cheddar and whole grain mustard

Vegan: The original with vegan cream cheese (not pictured)

Plucky Pickle Dip is sold at Costco, Coborn’s, HyVee, Kowalski’s Markets, Lunds & Byerlys and Target.

pluckypickledip.com

Plucky Pickle Dip @pluckypickledip

SPICKY PICKLE BURGER

INGREDIENTS

• 4 seasoned burger patties

• 1 tub Spicy Plucky Pickle Dip

• optional: buns, lettuce, onions and sliced tomatoes

INSTRUCTIONS

After grilling your burgers, smear patties with Spicy Plucky Pickle Dip, and top with the burger accompaniments of your choice.

MEXICAN STREET CORN DIP

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup drained corn

• 3 Tbsp. Spicy Plucky Pickle Dip

• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro

• ¼ tsp. cumin

• 1/3 cup crumbled queso fresca

• corn chips for dipping

• optional: bacon bits, green onions and parsley for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix together corn, Spicy Pickle Dip, cilantro and cumin, and stir until well combined. Spoon into serving bowl and top with crumbled queso fresca. Use corn chips for dipping.

For more recipe ideas, visit pluckypickledip.com.

Lens on Lake Minnetonka

Welcome new categories to our annual photo contest.

THROUGHOUT ITS PAGES, Lake Minnetonka Magazine showcases the lake community in a multitude of ways, and one of our favorite methods is through our annual photo contest—Lens on Lake Minnetonka. Photographers of all abilities are encouraged to share their images through which they’ve captured fresh and artistic angles of our beloved community.

Previously, we’ve encouraged readers to offer their submissions during the month of August. This year, the photo contest will be open during July and August.

After the contest closes, photos are carefully reviewed and voted on by members of our editorial and art departments. (Runners-up and honorable mentions are selected as the number and quality of photos allow.) Subject matter, photo quality and reflection of the community are all taken under review.

Winners, runners-up and honorable mentions in the following NEW categories receive consideration for photo placement in an upcoming issue of Lake Minnetonka Magazine and on our website and social media pages.

Photo Contest Rules and Details

• Submissions are accepted at lakeminnetonkamag.com between July 1–August 31.

• Entrants must live, work or attend school in the Lake Minnetonka area.

• Entrants may submit up to five photos, with no more than three in any category.

• Photos should be taken in the Lake Minnetonka area.

• Generally, photos should have been taken within a year of the submission date.

• Readers are invited to vote online for their favorite photo submissions in the Readers’ Choice category between September 15–30.

Reflecting tagged as Readers’ Choice Winner

Sarah Happe took the photo of Bertie, 5, her German shorthair pointer with an iPhone 12 Pro Max near Lake Minnetonka. The Minnetonka resident says she is struck by the photo’s “… perfect reflection, the serenity [and] her intent gaze.”

To view other Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest winners, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.

1. Abstract

2. People

3. Pets

4. Places

5. Seasons

6. Wildlife

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