Deephaven abode offers unique spaces with a historical twist
L E GACY L I VING
Custom contemporary with stunning views of Crystal Bay through floor to ceiling windows. Seamless transition between indoor and outdoor splendor. Truly a rare find on Lake Minnetonka!
LAKE MINNETONKA ACTIVE LUXURY LIVING
Lezlie and Les Bork 612-396-3887 SOLD!
LAKE MINNETONKA BEAUTY
Stunning 5BR, 4BA home in a quiet cove off Gideons Bay. 100’ of level lakeshore includes lakeside firepit, stamped concrete patio and stationary dock. A huge plus is the 3-car garage on the streetside and identical space on the lakeside below for all your lake toys. The home has lots of entertainment space. Huge kitchen with center island and lower-level wet bar with family room and theater room! Minnetonka Schools.
Cheryl Brellenthin 612-865-6413
LAKE MINNETONKA LUXURY LIVING SOLD!
Stonewood custom-built west-facing level lakeshore home on Fagerness Point. Ideal for entertaining and a year-round active lifestyle.
Lezlie and Les Bork 612-396-3887
CAPE COD CHARMER
Welcome to 4501 Eastwood Rd, where every detail of this stunning home has been thoughtfully updated. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and a 2-stall garage, this property offers peaceful wooded views and a connection to nature. Nestled on a private 1.19-acre lot, this is an exceptional opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Kathryn Peters 952-393-2236
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At Santa Claus Lane, the magic’s alive, Starting November 29, as families arrive. Meet Santa and llamas, take photos galore, Explore the fun with surprises in store. From sensory spaces to shows that delight, Join us for joy, laughter, and magical sights! www.santaclaus-lane.com
- 12/22/24
“I
am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.”
—Henry David Thoreau,
author of Walden and American naturalist, philospher and poet
20
An Unlikely Friendship Wayzata illustrator draws the boundary between fact and fiction. 22
Serving Those Who Served Nonprofit helps veterans connect to programs.
What’s the Buzz?
Home away from home offers holiday visitors a room (and more) of their own.
Housewarming Heat up this frosty season with toasty beverages.
Legacy Living Deephaven abode offers unique spaces with a historical twist.
Photo: Chris Emeott
Grilled Shawarma Spiced Chicken, page 46
Photo: Chris Emeott
from the EDITOR
Oh, hi, November. You snuck up on me this year. I guess I was too busy last month transforming my backyard playhouse turned “she shed” turned satellite work office into holiday pop-up bar and bonfire HQ. You read it correctly. Inspired by a now-closed local spot, we decided to create our own cheeky, over-the-top backyard destination for family, friends and neighbors, who have already stopped by to see what we’re up to in “the little house.”
Last December 26 and in the days that followed, holiday sales found me filling shopping carts with décor that likely wouldn’t make it into my regular rotation. For this, I wanted camp—and camp I went. Think Dr. Suess meets Dr. Suess. Turquoise. Lime green. Cornflower blue. Yellow on yellow. And light strands that look straight out of a Lite-Brite set.
The decorating is now complete; we’re ready to open the door for sips and marshmallowy treats. The stockings are hung all over with care; and the ceiling is covered with bobbles, not bare. The holiday lights are strung and lit; there’s even a few comfy places to sit. Let’s swing open the Dutch door for cocktails and s’mores; we’re ready for this holiday season once more!
As we prepare for more backyard shenanigans, I’m especially interested in our feature on page 26 that offers up recipes for warm libations, which are ideal for serving our guests, especially around a roaring fire. Toasty meets toasty. I love a theme.
Changing up how (and where) we entertain can inject a new way of handling all that prepping for guests entails. Sometimes, that can mean no longer performing backflips and removing all signs of normal family life to get a home ready for guests. I especially appreciate the perspective Sue Gartner shares on page 32 in regard to her philosophy for entertaining.
As we enter the entertaining high season and many of you gather for Thanksgiving, our entire staff extends its thankfulness to you, Readers, here, there and everywhere.
Until next month,
On the Cover
Legacy Living, Photo by Chris Emeott, page 32
Renée Stewart-Hester renee@localmedia.co
See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town!
Lake Minnetonka Magazine @lakeminnetonkamag @lmtkmag
Photo: Chris Emeott
Re-imagining your NEXT ...
VOL. 19 NO. 7 lakeminnetonkamag.com
PUBLISHER
Susan Isay
EDITOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Renée Stewart-Hester
MANAGING EDITOR
Hailey Almsted
DIGITAL EDITOR
Madeline Kopiecki
COPY EDITORS
Kellie Doherty and Sherri Hildebrandt
STAFF WRITERS
Kelly Cochrane, Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle and Rachel Schuehle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Hollie Blanchard, Jan Cook, Laurel Famigletti, Alison Feik, Tracy Hvezda-Lehtola, Sarah Jackson, Dan Keegan, Spencer Olson, Raela Schoenherr, Lisa Stevens and Katie Tomasche
DIGITAL INTERN
Alexandra Tostrud
EDITORIAL INTERNS
Tia Benson and Findlay Drabant
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Brooke Beyer, Wayzata Area Chamber ; Laura Bray, Friends of the Excelsior Library ; Mary Cornelius, Minnetonka Schools ; David Decker, House Novel ; Kelly Olsen, Olsen Global ; Michele Phillips, blogger, writer, photographer ; and Amanda Zielike, House Novel
SENIOR MANAGING ART DIRECTOR
Sarah Dovolos
ART DIRECTOR
Allison Nolden
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR
Jamie Klang
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yaz Lo
LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Emeott
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Brittni Dye
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Lisa Stone
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Mimi Coz
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Laura Bjorgo, Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel, Sara Johnson and Lauren Warner
PRESIDENT Pete Burgeson
Reflections Dental Studio: A luxurious dental studio in Medina
Consider being treated— to aromatherapy, a cooled cucumber eye mask, a heated neck wrap, noise reducing headphones, sparkling water and don’t forget the weighted blanket. This has all the makings of a luxurious day at the spa, but Reflections Dental Studio offers this and more—all in the name of making patients feel welcome, relaxed and ready to receive expert dental care.
“In today’s fast-paced world, visiting the dentist can often be a source of anxiety,” says Hetal Gatecha, clinic director. “We combine the essential aspects of oral health care with the calming and restorative environment of a spa—all while emphasizing the highest standards of care.”
By allaying patients’ fears, patient-provider communication is enhanced. “We want patients to share their expectations without any fear or anxiety,” Gatecha says. “The spa amenities encourage patients to relax and share any concerns with us.”
Reflections Dental Studio is backed by solid health care and the inclusion of leading-edge techniques, such as Cone Beam X-ray, intra-oral scanners, AI-powered software for diagnostic X-rays and more. “We cover a wide range of services, addressing cosmetic, endodontic, preventative, orthodontic and restorative issues and are a one-stop resource for all your dental care needs,” Gatecha says. “[The]
Reflections Dental Studio team is tremendously exceptional. The commitment to patient care and comfort is unparalleled,” says a patient.
The services extend beyond the dental practice with a strong commitment to patient education. “We are known for our ethical dentistry, so when it comes to patient education, it is very crucial,” Gatecha says. “Educated patients are more likely to adopt healthier habits, such as regular check-ups, which contribute to long-term oral health and overall wellbeing.” The use of digital materials, interactive technology and visual aids help simplify what can often be complex information.
Supporting patients and the community is pivotal. The team has supported Give Kids a Smile Day, Mission of Mercy and Project Homeless Connect, along with volunteering countless hours to brighten the smiles of many community members.
872 Highway 55, #100, Medina 763.363.1006 • reflectionsdentalstudio.com
@reflectionsdentalstudio
SWEET TASTE OF SUCCESS
WHEN IT COMES to serving guests dinner in your home, leaving a positive, lasting impression is key. Enter: Dessert. There’s a balance between conventional (tried and true) and debut (a first timer); and complementary (makes sense with the entrée) or innovative (a counter balance of flavor).
For ideas, we turned to Editorial Advisory Board members Michele Phillips, food blogger, writer and photographer, and Mary Cornelius, communications specialist with Minnetonka Public Schools. They offered recipes for a successful exclamation point to any fall or holiday meal. (Visit lakeminnetonkamag.com for complete recipes.)
When the three Cs of the pantry set—cardamon, chocolate and cinnamon—are on the shopping list, the results are anything but average. “This recipe for Double Chocolate Apple Cardamom Cake is single-handedly responsible for my love of all things cardamom, and I never get tired of its wonderful layers of flavors,” Phillips says. “My favorite thing about this cake is the expressions on peoples’ faces after taking their first cardamom-scented bite. The chocolate, spices
and applesauce are absolutely wonderful together.”
This 3 Ingredient Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Cake saves a bit of time in the kitchen with winning the trifecta of cake mix, a can of pumpkin and chocolate chips. “If you’re looking for something light and airy, this cake probably isn’t for you,” Phillips says. “If you’re into rich, decadent, dense, flourless-like chocolate cakes like I am, then you’re in for a treat! By the way, this cake just happens to pair deliciously with a good pinot noir.”
When a recipe is a winner on the taste buds and serves double duty, we’re all in. “One of my very favorite Thanksgiving recipes is this Cranberry Pie With Thick Pecan Crumble from Smitten Kitchen,” Cornelius says. “I made it one Thanksgiving—the very first one I hosted in my new house. The tart/sour flavors paired perfectly with ice cream after a delicious turkey dinner, and it worked as a delicious breakfast for the rest of the weekend when I needed a break from cooking and baking, as well!” Can we add “genius thinking” to the recipe notes? —Renée Stewart-Hester
Photo: Michele Phillips
Double Chocolate Apple Cardamom Cake
Volume Up for Positivity
From time to time, it’s fun to refresh one’s podcast lineup. If you’re interested in finding local hosts, consider Hyperbole: The Best Podcast Ever.
Minnetonka’s Amy Zaroff and Edina’s Danielle Arlowe started Hyperbole in 2018, and episodes serve as a nod to the best and worst the week has had to offer, and they touch on hashtags, news, pop culture and serve up some fun interviews.
“We do it to add light and laughter in an otherwise stressful and trying world,” Arlowe says. With over 125 episodes, the duo is going strong. “We love being together and belly laughing (even virtually),” she says.
—Kelly Cochrane
Try out their podcast at hyper bole.fun or on Spotify and anywhere you subscribe to podcasts. GROW
Show Me the Way
It’s difficult to become an expert on a place as big and beautiful as the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, but thanks to a new 50-page guidebook, your chances have improved dramatically.
Penned by University of Minnesota professor emeritus Mary Meyer—the horticulturist who established the arboretum’s Ornamental Grass Collection and who once served as the arboretum’s interim director. Meyer was inspired by the guidebooks often found at public gardens abroad, especially in Europe, and decided the arboretum, with its many gardens, collections and natural spaces, certainly merited a helpful tome.
It contains seven tours, each with its own map and key to important and notable sites with plenty of surprises. Tours include a Showcase Gardens Tour, capturing the magnificence of the gardens near the Oswald Visitor Center; a Family Tour, covering kid-friendly places; a Gardener’s Tour,
spotlighting special spots for horticulture aficionados; two Nature Lover’s tours, detailing the less-traveled wildlife paths; and two Art Lover’s Tours, creating an educational scavenger hunt of masterpieces both well-known and off the beaten paths. The back of the book includes a bit of arboretum history and further reading for home gardeners, too.
The stunning photography was provided exclusively by Jason Boudreau-Landis, a longtime arboretum volunteer and member of the Arboretum Photographers Society.
The guidebook is available in the Arboretum Gift and Garden Store and AppleHouse for $12.99 and would make a great gift for anyone who plans to visit as well as longtime fans.
Sarah Jackson is a media specialist at the arboretum. She lives and gardens in Minnetonka. Grow more at arb.umn.edu.
Photos: Danielle Arlowe; Dennis Kwan; Lily Smith
Amy Zaroff
Danielle Arlowe
VIEW
Gathering Beauty
Martha Rehkamp loves to gather floral and fauna from her garden to showcase in her work. As you gather with friends and family, take in the beauty they offer and give thanks for the wisdom in our years. “Aging is not to be feared, yet exemplifies grace and resilience,” she says.
Title: Garden Still Life IX
Medium: Hand-built porcelain and paper clay with natural elements. Glazed and painted.
Scale: 20”H x 24”W x 14”
Artist: Martha Rehkamp
Hollie Blanchard is a founder and art concierge with The Art Girls. View more at artgirlsmpls.com. Art Girls Minneapolis @artgirls_mpls
READ
Celebrate Romance
A Holly Jolly Diwali by Sonya Lalli introduces readers to the practical and levelheaded 29-year-old Niki Randhawa who typically does what is expected of her. When it comes to impulsive decisions and serial dating, that is the domain of her sister, Jasmine. No one is more surprised than Niki when, after getting laid off from her job at a Seattle tech start-up company, she decides to throw caution to the wind and fly to Mumbai, India, to attend her best friend’s glamorous Indian wedding.
A few days prior to the wedding, the friends meet up with the rest of the wedding party to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Amid the bright lights, fireworks and swirling colors of the dance floor, Niki meets Sameer, a handsome bass guitarist. Their attraction is immediate, but rational Niki knows that a fling is not something she should do, especially since her Punjabi relatives are waiting for her visit to Amritsar, India, before she travels back home.
Lalli gives readers a sparkling holiday rom-com, seasoned with cultural traditions, taking chances and self-discovery.
Tracy Hvezda-Lehtola is a patron experience supervisor at Hennepin County Library–Excelsior. Read more at hclib.org, and visit the library this month for its Diwali-related book display.
PORTRAIT
An Unlikely Friendship
Wayzata illustrator draws the boundary between fact and fiction.
By Kelly Cochrane
IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL SUMMER evening Up North at their family cabin. Wayzata’s Anne Johnson and her dear friend and aunt, Stacy Snyder, were sitting outside, gazing across the water, reminiscing and cherishing their familial friendship, which has grown deeper throughout the years.
That summer was special for other reasons. Snyder had rescued a miniature horse, Sugar, who formed a unique friendship with Charger, a mastiff-boxer mix that Snyder also rescued. Together, these beautiful animals spent time in Sugar’s paddock in southern California,
walking on a double leash through town and Charger grabbing hold of Sugar’s lead, walking her around the yard.
As Snyder and Johnson spent time at the lake together that year, an idea began to germinate. The women pondered: Wouldn’t it be fun to write a book based on friendship, trust, honesty, caring, loyalty and adventure? As it turned out, Snyder, who has a degree in special education, already had a story developing in her mind, and all she needed was an illustrator. Enter Johnson, who has a master’s degree in medical illustration, with a decidedly
Right: The best of pals, Sugar, a miniature horse, and Charger, a mastiff-boxer mix, enjoy some outdoor time.
Left: Anne Johnson of Wayzata presents some of the fruits of her artistic efforts.
Photos: Anne Johnson
“[ My Name is Sugar ] is beautifully written and beautifully illustrated! It’s a simple story of love and acceptance. Best of all, it’s based on true events!”
Nancy W. (online reviewer)
creative side and a love for animals. “The storyline was based on what I was seeing with these beautiful animals,” Snyder says, noting she knew it would be an ideal project for the duo.
Those ideas grew, and The Sugar Books: A Trilogy of Tails was born in 2016. As Johnson embarked upon illustrating the first book in the series, it became even more obvious that there is a significant difference between illustrating medical content and children’s books. “Medical illustration is more of a challenge because it involves sticking to a budget, pleasing the client and being knowledgeable about the subject matter with the books,” she says. “The Sugar books [were] more about getting lost in the creativity, not being limited to working a certain number of hours or having to study the subject matter. Creative artwork has no time limit. You just have a feeling when it's done, no matter how long it takes.”
The first book in the series, My Name is Sugar, was published in 2018 and was followed by The Sugar Shack and Sugar’s Journey Home. And there might be more to come. Johnson and Snyder are planning additional books with familiar characters making comebacks and a newcomer—a dog, named Charlie, making his debut on the pages and, hopefully, in the hearts of young readers.
Find the series at amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. Additional information is available by emailing anne.wagdesign@gmail.com.
The Sugar Books: A Trilogy of Tails @tailof2rescues
4 Bedroom / 4 Bath
5 Car Garage / 5,826 Finished Sq. Feet
$3,300,000
Nestled on a picturesque 1.25-acre lot with 100 feet of Carman Bay’s pristine lakeshore, this exquisite property showcases the unparalleled craftsmanship of Steiner & Koppleman, renowned for their solid construction and meticulous attention to detail. Ample parking and storage are provided with five spacious garage stalls, complemented by a separate workshop and a versatile flex room perfect for storage, exercise, or creative projects. Designed for convenience, the main level features two luxurious bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, o ering comfort and privacy. The vaulted living room is the heart of the home, featuring a stunning floorto-ceiling stone fireplace and a wall of windows that frame breathtaking southerly views of the lake. The well-appointed kitchen includes a walk-in pantry, ensuring ample storage space for all your culinary needs. Whether you’re relaxing indoors by the fire, enjoying the scenic views from the porch, or taking advantage of the expansive outdoor spaces, this property o ers an unparalleled lakefront living experience.
• 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
PHILANTHROPY
Serving Those Who Served
Nonprofit helps veterans connect to programs.
By Daniel Huss
“I THINK IT’S THE PERFECT NAME , and I wished I would have thought of it,” says Paul Davis, executive director of Project Got Your Back. “It’s descriptive and matches what we do.” The nonprofit, based in Bloomington, connects veterans with services with the mission of “connecting the unconnected.” As Davis says, “Resources are available, but not everyone knows what’s available.”
What are our Minnesota veterans looking for when it comes to resources? Employment opportunities top the list. Davis notes the topics of mental and physical health concerns are real, as are needs for legal services. Questions regarding navigating the Veterans Administration are commonplace. “We don’t have all the answers, but we’re really good at directing and navigating,” he says.
Project Got Your Back is a rebranding of the Veteran Small Business Foundation, an organization founded in 2013. “It started as an organization that helped veterans start their own businesses,” Davis says. Veterans seeking other types of help altered that focus. “We had to do more and rebranded in 2020–21, just before the pandemic,” he says.
Austin Timm, a former U.S. Army engineer officer, connected with Project Got Your Back through a military network. “My relationship with Paul was pivotal in my hiring at Boston Scientific,” Timm says. He, in turn, began giving back to the program— first as a navigator (volunteer) since 2021 and then serving as board member since 2023.
The Project Got Your Back model works by pairing navigators, like Timm, with clients (veterans), including some in the Lake Minnetonka area. This professional relationship lasts for a year. To date, over 50 navigators have served nearly 150 clients. “Connecting isn’t tough when you find
your organization,” Timm says. “What’s tough is finding your organization.”
Funding has to come from somewhere to keep the nonprofit on its feet. Programming is funded by sponsors and fundraisers. “We’re self-supporting and don’t charge for services,” Davis says. Last year, Project Got Your Back’s primary fundraiser resulted in a Guinness World Record for the number of individuals simultaneously floating on pool noodles. The memorable event, proceeded by a boat parade, was held on Lake Minnetonka’s Browns Bay in front of a contributor’s home.
“We smashed the old record,” Davis says. “We needed 235 [floaters] and finished with 330. It was so much fun … We’re incredibly grateful to the Lake Minnetonka community for rallying together to break a Guinness World Record …”
This year’s main event, which happened in September, was billed as R&R on the Ramp. Held in south St. Paul, the day’s activities featured teams of four to six Project Got Your Back supporters, hand-pulling a B-25 bomber down a runway. This is not an easy feat—empty B-25 bombers weigh 21,100 pounds.
There are multiple donors from the lake area, and Davis is grateful for their contributions. “Support from the local community is the single most critical component in being able to provide our life-changing services to local veterans and their families for absolute zero cost,” he says. “We truly appreciate their participation and support.”
To learn more about receiving services, volunteering or donating, visit projectgotyourback.org.
Project Got Your Back, 5123 W. 98th St., Bloomington; info@pgyb.org Project Got Your Back
What’s the Buzz?
Home away from home offers holiday visitors a room (and more) of their own.
Written By Renée Stewart-Hester
Photos by Ali Prieve
Here come the holidays, and with that—here come family and other outof-towners. Not every home (or host) has the space or bandwidth to accommodate extra people over the holidays. While hotels are wonderful options, consider a local Airbnb for guests, so they feel a little more “at home,” and hosts feel a little more relaxed!
Christina (Preiss) Mara, lives in Seattle, Washington, with her husband, Brian, and son, Benjamin, 5. While she grew up in Minnetonka (Minnetonka High School Class of 2000), she has familial roots in Excelsior. (Her mother grew up there, and her grandfather owned Howard Wendt Minnetonka Cleaners—now The Lobby Coffee & Leisure—on Water Street.) “The western suburbs and Minnesota are very special to our family, and the magic of the town of Excelsior is indisputable,” she says. “We tend to travel back for Thanksgiving to be with family, but my parents downsized years ago, and we needed more space, and were so thankful to find The Apiary [Airbnb] as our true headquarters for the week.”
“The highest praise I consistently receive from my amazing guests is that they instantly feel at home, and all they would need is their clothes and a toothbrush,” says Sheila Holleran, owner of The Apiary, located in the heart of Excelsior’s historical district at 321 Third St.
The rental features a large bedroom with a king-size bed and a wood-beam ceiling; a full bathroom with a double vanity; a private work area; a comfortable seating area and a fully-equipped (understatement?) kitchen, complete with a dishwasher and enough cookware and spices to make a holiday feast right there; an off-street (driveway) parking space along with one free parking pass that can be used
'ā-pē,er-ē, plural apiaries: a place where bees are kept, especially a collection of hives of bees kept for their honey
anywhere in Excelsior during a stay.
The exterior provides additional spots to dine and relax. “Guests have said they truly enjoy having access to all the outdoor spaces: a private patio, a secondary grill patio that is nestled in the trees, as well as the fire pit,” Holleran says. (That fire pit will undoubtably inch to the top of the favorite list during this time of year.)
What’s a home without something to stave off the hungries? Holleran assures that guests are availed an array of healthy beverages (tea and coffee station), snacks, fresh fruit and more. “My son also loved the stocked microwave popcorn for a family movie night on the couch,” Mara says.
The design aesthetic is modern, softened by live greenery, planter baskets, pottery, woven rugs and wall hangings. It reads clean and cozy all at once.
Holleran is mindful of providing timely décor elements, as well. “I enjoy creating holiday offerings as well as layering on seasonal décor for both the interior and exterior of the unit,” she says.
Upon booking, guests receive a guide book that Holleran created, and it features recommendations for local activities, eateries and shopping. Mara says they dined at Layline and Maynards (Franny’s Chicken Salad) and visited The Lobby Coffee & Leisure most mornings. For shopping, they tucked into Golden Rule, Gray Home + Lifestyle, Kowalski’s Markets, Ooh La La Boutique, pip & pal and Something Safari.
Mara calls The Apiary, “extremely well maintained, recently updated [and] decorated with guests in mind, and Sheila was super easy to work with on bookings/questions. We loved having a home away from home literally steps from downtown Excelsior.”
Holleran enjoys providing homeaway-from-home stays for guests.
GOOD BONES
The Apiary is not particularly new to Excelsior; it opened in 2023. It’s building is also not new—not by a longshot. It was built in 1857 but was moved to its current location in 1883, according to Sheila Holleran, owner.
The structure’s first incarnation was as Sheldon Hall, the town’s first schoolhouse. In 1891, Holleran shares, a basement was added along with a two-story structure, which later was home to a 23-room dorm for Northwestern Christian College. Another renovation occurred in 1926 with the transformation into apartments units.
As the years progressed, so did the building. With all the comings and goings of many and varied occupants over the years, the building came to be known as it is today: The Beehive. It’s current incarnation finds it divided into four units, one unit is The Apiary, and a second could be turned into another short-term rental space in a year or two.
“You might say the hospitality/service industry is in my blood,” she says. “I was actually raised in what was, at the time, the Intercontinental Hotel on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. My stepfather was the general manager there. I eventually worked my way through most departments, learning as I went, but mainly,
I worked alongside my mother in the restaurant she conceived, opened and operated. Attention to detail and ensuring our guests had the best possible experience every time became ingrained from a very early age.”
airbnb.com @thebeehivemn
HO U SEW A RMI N G
Spiced Apple Cider With Irish Whiskey Mug: Ceramika Artystyczna Polish Pottery Bubble Mug, handmade in Poland; The Abundant Kitchen, Excelsior
Heat up this frosty season with toasty beverages.
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester
There’s nothing quite like a warm cuppa. Engaging its chameleon-like properties, it’s the beverage leader of all that ails—whether it’s to stave off a seasonal bug or to hold close at hand when spilling what’s in our hearts over conversation. And, on occasion, that warm mug puts on its welcoming clothes when guests come knocking, and it even has outfits ideal for capping off an evening.
In this frostier season of hosting, consider some recipes that can leave your guests with a touch of hospitality and holiday warmth. Oh, and please don’t be offended traditional coffee, hot chocolate and tea lovers—those sips will forever be at the fore of mug offerings, and they often serve as the tried-and-true base for many other warm cuppas!
We reached out to regular Noteworthy contributors Katie Tomsche of Lunds & Byerlys and Spencer Olson of thewoodenspoonschefs.com and
Becki Melvie, owner of The Abundant Kitchen in Excelsior, for what to heat, pour and serve. For complete recipes, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.
BOOZY EGGNOG LATTE
This cocktail hits all the spots. It’s boozy, warming, creamy and sweet. The mix of rum and cognac gives it a rich caramel flavor with hints of spice, and our espresso roast coffee adds depth and complexity. For maximum enjoyment, drink it in front of a fireplace on a blustery winter day. —Katie Tomsche
CHAI TEA
A very spicy, fall-flavored tea (or even coffee!), let this mixture sit overnight in the refrigerator to meld and marry before using. If you want an extra spicy mixture, heap the spices. Keeps well.
Becki Melvie
Boozy Eggnog Latte
Ginger-Lemon Hot Toddy
English Hot Toddy
Irish Coffee Mug: Le Creuset Seattle Mug in color Flame; The Abundant Kitchen, Excelsior
ENGLISH HOT TODDY
A traditional Hot Toddy is a mix of water, honey, spirits and spices, and it’s served hot to help fight off a cough or sore throat or to fortify against cold weather. It’s soothing and medicinal— a balm for Minnesota winters if ever there was one. When we were putting together our English Hot Toddy, our mantra was: “Why mess with a classic?” It’s timeless, and it checks all the boxes for a cold-weather cocktail: warm, comforting and boozy enough to buffet against plunging wind chills. We stuck to the Hot Toddy formula and used slightly peppery black tea, a hint of bright lemon, a touch of honey and a fiery cinnamon stick. The Bulleit bourbon rounds it out with its smooth, rich flavor and texture. It makes an excellent post-sledding tonic or a perfect nightcap. —Katie Tomsche
GINGER-LEMON HOT TODDY (NONALCOHOLIC)
For our twist on this classic drink, we wanted to turn up the heat, so we added freshly grated ginger and a pinch of cayenne pepper. We left the whiskey out of the mix, but you get all the warmth of the strong stuff from the ginger and cayenne. We’re huge fans of the end result. It’s fresh, punchy and spicy—and without any spirits, it’s perfect for warming up the whole family after a day of sledding or trekking through the snow. (Make a large batch on the weekend, and save it to reheat throughout the week.) —Katie Tomsche
IRISH COFFEE
It’s said that the first Irish Coffee was created by Joe Sheridan, the chef in the airport at Foynes, County Limerick. One very stormy night in 1942, a pilot, who had just left Irish land, had to turn back because of bad weather. Sheridan had to feed the exhausted and, understandably, quite shaken travelers—hence the strong and soothing concoction of coffee, cream, sugar and Irish whiskey. In the original recipe, he calls for “cream rich as an Irish brogue, coffee strong as a friendly hand, sugar sweet as the tongue of a rogue and whiskey smooth as the wit of the land.”—Becki Melvie
deephaven
OFFERED AT $3,795,000
6 BED, 6 BATH, APPROX. 5,953 FSF
Welcome to upscale casual living in the heart of Cottagewood USA! This custom farmhouse was thoughtfully designed by Ben Nelson and crafted by Konen Homes. No detail is left out, with high-end Marvin Ultimate Line windows, shiplap walls, vintage-stained oak flooring, rolling barn doors, ceiling millwork, and more. Blocks from one of five Deephaven city beaches, this residence offers unmatched convenience to the LRT trail, tennis, pickleball, parks, and boating!
AT $2,595,000
5 BED, 7 BATH, APPROX. 6,677 FSF
Your chance to own one of the crown jewels in the Minnetonka Country Club Neighborhood! This handsome home is set on a premium half-acre lot within a cul-de-sac and was crafted by Gonyea Custom Homes. Custom touches are everywhere you turn, including the kitchen and dining areas with a dramatic cathedral ceiling featuring a Juliet balcony, the great room with an oversized wood-burning fireplace, arched entryways, and high-end cabinetry; the list goes on and on.
OFFERED AT $4,895,000
5 BED, 4 BATH, APPROX. 5,857 FSF
This striking home on approximately 1.1 acres with roughly 150 feet of lakeshore is perfect for refined entertaining, family lakeside fun, and everything in between. Thoughtfully designed featuring a cross gable roof with exposed rafter tails and strategic metal accents. This is a rare opportunity to own one of the largest lakeside lots in treasured Minnetonka Beach.
This chic oasis rests within the highly coveted Minnetonka Beach neighborhood on 1.2 acres with approximately 150 feet of lakeshore. Close to parks and trails, the landmark property oozes with character and features worldclass landscaping. Renovated and updated throughout with the perfect contemporary touches, this home is classic, yet stylish and hip.
SLOW COOKER MULLED WINE
This is the perfect cocktail to serve party guests on a cold, blustery day, made easy in a slow cooker.
—Katie Tomsche
SPICED APPLE CIDER WITH IRISH WHISKEY
Nothing says fall like a warm glass of Apple Cider, but why not improve upon this beloved drink? With a growing apple industry in Ireland, it’s only fitting that Irish whiskey and warm cider go hand in hand. With warm spices, hints of citrus and cinnamon tea, a spiked cider is perfect for a crisp fall (or winter!) day. —Spencer Olson
SWEDISH GLÖGG PUNCH
Minnesota winters are better with a cup of Swedish Glögg in hand. Brimming with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom and cloves, and served hot, glögg obliterates the chill in your bones and tops off the love in your heart. It pairs well with dark chocolate and feel-good movies. As it simmers on the stove, it makes the house smell dreamy. Boil a batch as you make dinner, or settle in for a game night when you want the evening to feel extra cozy.
—Katie Tomsche
Visit Lunds & Byerlys at lundsandbyerlys.com.
Lunds & Byerlys @lundsandbyerlys
Lunds & Byerlys
More of Spencer Olson’s recipes are available at thewoodenspoonchefs.com.
The Wooden Spoon Chefs @the_wooden_spoon_chefs
The Wooden Spoon Chefs
Shop ingredients and mugs at The Abundant Kitchen, 223 Water St., Excelsior; 952.474.0190; abundantkitchen.shop
The Abundant Kitchen @theabundantkitchen @BeckiMelvie
Chai Tea
DEEPHAVEN ABODE OFFERS UNIQUE SPACES WITH A HISTORICAL TWIST.
LEGACY LIVING
Written by Renée Stewart-Hester
Photos by Chris Emeott
When an address includes Walden, the home practically has a responsibility to embrace the property’s natural surroundings, providing owners a place to seek refuge from the more complicated notions of life.
Sue and Dave Gartner discovered their own slice of nirvana, along the shores of Lake Minnetonka on Carsons Bay. The now 4,500-square-foot home, built in the early 1890s, is unique with personality—tucked into unexpected spaces.
Every homeowner has a favorite room or space, and this home offers up several contenders for the top spot. For Sue, her perch of choice makes sense—remember: Walden. “This seems weird, but I love to sit on the steps—leading out to the yard, facing the lake. I watch the birds and boats and just truly love being there. There are many other prettier places in my house, but this one is the most Zen to me!”
The couple began their search for a plot of tranquility on Lake Minnetonka in the mid-1990s. “We were looking for a home on the lake that we could fix up,” Sue says. “Financially, we thought this might be the best way to secure a property on the lake.”
The home’s original configuration was 2,000 square feet, two stories and no basement. At some point, a basement, a twocar garage and a family room were added. “When we purchased the house in 1996, we gutted the interior, replaced the electrical, mechanical and plumbing, but we saved and reused much of the unique paneling and trim pieces in the renovation,” Dave says “We converted the family room into a third garage stall, added a second story over the garage, which became two bedrooms, a family room and laundry room. The exterior is,
The Gartners’ home was originally designed in 1892 by Harry Wild Jones for William Peet who chose not to build the cottage. Shortly after, fellow Minnetonka Yacht Club member William Rolph of Minneapolis had it built. According to a 1949 Minneapolis Tribune article (written about the family when it lived in the cottage), Rolph’s sons, “… docked their scows across the bay at the cupola-peaked yacht club, which was also designed by Jones.” Notably, the home was close to the Hotel St. Louis, which was dismantled in 1907, according to Elizabeth Vandam, author of a Jones biography.
for the most part, original as it appeared in 1915.” In 2009, they finished the basement, adding a family/theater room, a workout room, a bathroom and a wine cellar.
While developing their renovation plan, the Gartners were intent on keeping as much of the original design and feeling as possible. “It was a cottage/cabin originally for people living in Minneapolis, wanting to head to Lake Minnetonka for the weekend,” Sue says. “It’s all wood walls inside, very cottage looking. We wanted to keep the vibe of the original house.” (Interesting to note: Back in the early days of summering along Lake Minnetonka, the cottages were also called “eight-month houses,” since many were only heated by a fireplace, and the owners also had primary urban residences.)
What has also remained is some of the handiwork of original architect Harry Wild Jones (see sidebar on page 37). “He was known for incorporating all sorts of shapes together,” Sue says. “We have windows that have square grids in them and others that have ovals. That was his thing.”
Jones’ style earned the house an unusual monicker: The House With the Hole in It.
“It’s all wood walls inside, very cottage looking. We wanted to keep the vibe of the original house,” says Sue Gartner of their intentions while remodeling their lakeside home.
SUE GARTNER
The nickname is in reference to the main entryway, which is circular and open through the upper levels. While entries traditionally serve as the welcome or departure point for visitors, the Gartners turned the space’s original intent on its head. “This entry vestibule doubles as our dining room, which is a little odd, but it works out really well,” Dave says.
It also works well with Sue’s penchant for cooking and entertaining. Years of hosting gatherings have seasoned her relaxed approach to entertaining. “Something I have learned in my 59 years of life is—people just want to be invited [or] included,” she says. “You don’t need to powerwash your house to have people over. They appreciate the invite and honestly don’t notice if the silver is not
Top: Built-in features are tucked in and around the Gartner home, and the kitchen area hosts some unique spaces, which serve to elevate the charm factor.
Bottom Left: The entryway doubles as the Gartners’ dining space, which offers views of Lake Minnetonka and punctuates the home’s character.
Bottom Right: Windows are dressed in square and oval grilles, adding to the home’s uniqueness.
A LIFE OF DESIGN
Harry Wild Jones (1859–1935) was the architect responsible for several Lake Minnetonka lake homes and the 1890 design of the original Minnetonka Yacht Club, which was located at the entrance to Carsons Bay and destroyed by fire in 1943.
Jones, born in Michigan, settled in Minneapolis, according to a biography summary penned by Al Lathrop, founding curator of the Northwest Architectural Archives in the Elmer L. Anderson Library at the University of Minnesota (U of M). Elizabeth Vandam notes that he also summered on Lake Minnetonka, which is fitting given his design work around the lake and his fondness for the lakeside lifestyle.
He designed many apartments and homes, banks, churches and temples, hospitals, hotels and more throughout the country. (Beginning in fall 1907, Jones took a five-month world cruise to recuperate from an accident, according to Vandam, which resulted in building designs in China and Burma, now Myanmar.)
According to Lakewood Cemetery’s website, Jones designed for some of Minnesota’s elite, including lumber baron T. B. Walker; Cream of Wheat co-founder Emery Mapes; and Marion Savage, owner of prized racehorse and Minnesota State Fair icon Dan Patch. The site notes that he also designed notable local structures, including the Butler Brothers Warehouse (now Butler Square) and the Washburn Park Water Tower.
Jones served for six years on the Minneapolis Park Board and was a past president of the Minnesota Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He organized the Department of Architecture at the U of M, where he served as its first professor, in the 1890s.
Jones died in 1935 and is buried in Minneapolis’ Lakewood Cemetery for which he designed its Memorial Chapel. (Additional information is available at lakewoodcemetary.org and lib.umn.edu.)
For more information, local history enthusiast Elizabeth Vandam authored Harry Wild Jones, American Architect, which is available at lakeminnetonkahistory.org and amazon.com.
polished … I want to always make my space approachable to all.”
Dave echoes her sentiment. “We are casual people when it comes to entertaining,” he says. “There is no white carpeting. ... the main level floor is distressed pine, and the wine cellar floor is brick pavers … The lake lends itself to entertaining as there is a nice view of it from the great room/kitchen. In the summer and fall, we entertain on the patio, overlooking the lake and take people out for an occasional boat ride.”
And when not entertaining near or on the water, one might find gatherings in the Gartners’ wine cellar. “Jon Monson from Landschute [of Excelsior] designed it. He calls it, Rathskeller [German, typically meaning a basement tavern or restaurant].” The space has three barrel-shaped ceiling features with the lowest part of the ceiling at 6 feet, 6 inches. “It was the exact opposite of my original thought of trying to raise the ceiling height,” Dave says. “Jon is very talented and has exceptional vision and creativity. We love how it turned out, and we love entertaining there.”
At the end of the day, when a spirit of calm and respite coexists with a desire to welcome others into a home, this might just be the true definition of lake life living.
The wine cellar offers another unique setting, featuring a harvest table, which is ideal for sipping and dining, and accommodates up to eight guests. The ceiling and floor are brick, and mahogany offers visual warmth to the racking and cabinetry.
ROYAL BUSINESS
The high point of many HGTV home shows is the grand reveal. The mess and stress of remodeling are resolved, the music swells and homeowners are welcomed back to a new, well-appointed space, bringing design dreams to life.
“I tell clients, ‘Delivery day from Crown is the only day that is anything like HGTV,’” says Brandi Hagen, owner and principal designer of Eminent Interior Design. “Delivery day is super important to us, and that’s what Crown does. They make delivery day happen.”
Owned by Sue Gartner, Crown Warehouse & Delivery Services features a 48,000-square-foot warehouse in Plymouth that receives and delivers furniture for interior designers across Minnesota. “It is a specialty that, unless you’re in the industry, you maybe didn’t know existed,” Hagen says. “But a good receiving warehouse, a white glove receiving warehouse for an interior design firm is mandatory.”
Crown has been operating for the past 20 years, with Gartner taking over in 2020. Her background as an interior designer provides her with an insider’s look into the needs of the designers.
“We receive furniture in every day, and then we open it, inspect it, tag it and receive it into our warehousing program,” Gartner says. “Then we store it until the home is ready for it.”
“When I design something, and I present it to a homeowner, I’m buying things from all over the world,” Hagen says. A single room could feature 20 different vendors. “I’m not going to, for my client’s sake, have everything show up one thing at a time,” she says.
While avoiding a piecemeal approach for projects, the team intercepts imperfections at the jump. “[Crown will] send me photos if there’s any damage that we can have touched up … or reject it if it’s not right,” Hagen says.
When it’s time, the Crown team loads deliveries onto trucks and alerts the design team that they’re on the way. “Sometimes, if it’s a small delivery, I’ll send a sketch of where it goes,” Hagen says. “I trust the Crown guys to go into the home and to do it—a white glove delivery.” —
Madeline Kopiecki
Crown Warehouse & Delivery Services, 1000 Berkshire Lane N. # 11, Plymouth; crownwds.com
Crown Warehouse & Delivery Service, Inc. @crown_warehouse_and_delivery
Lauren Warner Senior Account Executive
Q: What’s the best part of your job?
A: Getting involved in the community, building real relationships
and impacting local businesses through smart strategy.
Q: How do you like to unwind?
A: Spending time with my family, friends, trying new restaurants, playing golf and traveling.
Q: What’s currently sparking your interest?
A: I am always interested in books and podcasts that talk about achieving a healthy balance between my family, career and personal interests!
HolidayGift Guide
FARIBAULT MILL
LAKE MINNETONKA MAP THROW
Iconic Lake Minnetonka woven into a timeless, cozy wool throw. $199–$245. Use Promo Code “HolidayGuide10” for a 10 percent discount.
Faribault Mill, 1500 Second Ave. NW, Faribault; 507.412.5534; faribaultmill.com Faribault Mill @faribaultmill
WAYZATA JEWELERS
1. PLATINUM DIAMOND RING AND ETERNITY BAND
Exquisite diamond ring and eternity band made by Wayzata Jewelers.
2. PREMIUM DIAMONDS AND GEMSTONES
3. DIAMOND BRACELETS
Extensive array of stones for your ideal jewelry piece.
Single or stacked will light up her smile and sparkle. Call for pricing.
Wayzata Jewelers, 1250 Wayzata Blvd. E., Wayzata; 952.473.2131; wayzatajewelers.com Wayzata Jewelers @wayzatajewelers
SWEET IVY
1. IVORY FOX FAUX FUR VEST by Fabulous-Furs. Over 20 styles available.
2. EARMUFFS by Emu Australia sold in three colors.
3. MODERN CASHMERE SWEATERS by Pure Amici.
4. SPARTINA 449 TRAVEL ORGANIZER AND JEWELRY CASE
5. SPARTINA 449 COIN PURSE. A fabulous complement to any gift card.
6. NO TARNISH GOLD-FILLED JEWELRY by Enewton and Winifred design.
7. BAREFOOT DREAMS APRÈS SKI SWEATERS for the family. Full line of Barefoot Dreams for infant through adult.
1. WINTER APPAREL abounds for all your littles.
2. BAREFOOT DREAMS INFANT – TODDLER JOGGER SET.
3. EMU AUSTRALIA WINTER BOOTIES for infant and toddler.
4. MAILEG TOYS made in Denmark are shared, cherished and played with by children of all ages.
Galleria, 3510 W. 69th St., Edina
Galleria, 3510 W. 69th St., Edina
1. ENEWTON BRACELETS
Create your own stack! Designed for everyday wear. Starting at $36.
General Store of Minnetonka, 14401 Highway 7, Minnetonka; generalstoreofminnetonka.com
2. SPALON MONTAGE GIFT CARD
Receive a $25 promo gift card complimentary with the purchase of a $175 gift card. Available for a limited time.
Spalon Montage, 600 Market St. Suite 270, Chanhassen; 952.915.2900; spalon.com
3. TRACKSUIT
Saltie Rose; saltierose.com
Elevated look for pickleball and casual outings (also in pink). $198.
4. WINTER VILLAGE GIFT CARDS
Available in any amount to be used toward events at The Westin Edina Galleria during Winter Village.
The Westin Edina Galleria, 3201 Galleria, Edina; edinaweekendwonders.com
5. ISOLA REED DIFFUSER
Bestselling Isola brings Hawaii home with gardenia, tuberose and fig. Starts at $67.
Alora Ambiance; hello@aloraambiance.com; aloraambiance.com
6. SILICONE DRINKWARE
Unbreakable, portable FDA approved silicone drinkware for indoor/outdoor events and entertaining! $27–$48.
Serge + Jane, 4532 France Ave. S., Edina; sergeandjane.com
SIDE SIDE
Eloise aims to offer intimate, welcoming dining experience.
TASTEMAKERS Written by Emily Gedde — Photos by Chris Emeott
DOES THE MENU for your dining plans include an intimate dinner with wonderful food, innovative cocktails and an intriguing atmosphere? Eloise, which is slated to open this fall in Wayzata, may be relatively new on the scene, but its owner, Lindsay Pohlad, is no stranger to the restaurant business.
Pohlad opened The Grocer’s Table—a market, cafe and wine bar—four years ago, and it has seen success ever since. When the space next door became available, a new opportunity was born. “I didn’t want to expand The Grocer’s Table. I just felt like what was going on in those four walls was really special,” Pohlad says. “I decided I wanted to try my hand at something different, which was more of an elevated dining concept. Eloise is like the darker, moodier and sexier counterpart to The Grocer’s Table.”
Grilled Shawarma Spiced Chicken
“Eloise is like the darker, moodier and sexier counterpart to The Grocer’s Table.”
Lindsay Pohlad, owner of both Wayzata restaurants
Exclusively serving dinner, Eloise is designed to make guests feel as if they are gathered in a friend’s dining room. It’s comfortable and welcoming. The restaurant is a place where guests are encouraged to settle in, order cocktails and enjoy dinner and dessert—an experience as much as a meal. “We want it to have the same warm, inviting vibe that The Grocer’s Table has but with more of a full-service, elevated dining experience,” Pohlad says.
The new restaurant holds a special place in Pohlad’s heart—for a couple of reasons. It’s named after her husband, Tom Pohlad’s, grandmother Eloise Pohlad, and as a mother of three sons, the name was always reserved if Pohlad had a daughter. “I always call my work my fourth child, so I guess this is my metaphorical fourth child,” she says.
To pay additional tribute to her grandmother-in-law, the menu features one or two nods to Eloise’s era—the 1950s. “There will be some throwback dishes Eloise loved that were true to that time,” Pohlad says.
Speaking of the menu, Pohlad enthusiastically explains that meals come by way of its scratch kitchen and offer a seasonal flare. Diners can expect a relatively traditional set up with some small bites to shareable plates that allow guests to experience different flavor points—from seafood to salad to entrées.
“There are influences from all over,” She says of menu options. “There is a bit of a Mediterranean feel with bright, bold dishes and delicious sauces and grilled proteins. There is also a Midwest sense and influences from both coasts. The one true thread that keeps it together is that seasonality.”
Pohlad speaks highly of the behindthe-scenes team, which anchors her restaurant ventures, giving an appreciative nod to her executive chef Craig Johnson, who has been with Pohlad
Top: Lindsay Pohlad
Bottom: Wagyu Meatloaf Wellington
Top: Craig Johnson and Tsu-Hung (Bam) Liu work to bring the Eloise menu from concept to plate.
Bottom Left: Diners can indulge in Parker House Rolls with butter dressed in fine herbs, Aleppo honey, smoky olives and sea salt.
Bottom Right: Eloise’s take on a Margarita.
since she opened The Grocer’s Table. “He’s a huge part of our team,” she says. Tsu-Hung (Bam) Liu, a newer addition, will work alongside Johnson at Eloise as the chef de cuisine
Pohlad also takes pride in being a hands-on owner, which fortifies her reputation in the industry. “I’m an extremely involved owner,” she says. “I’m there every day, all day. I think that helps to instill a great work ethic among my team, and I do everything I can to support them in their roles. I’m involved in menu development, systems, service, hiring—all of it. When you walk into a space where an owner is that involved, you feel a sense that someone cares.”
Pohlad says with Eloise, she’ll con tinue to proudly represent her brand, concept and food. She wants the din ing experience to be memorable and one that will bring diners back again and again. “One of the main focal points of the space is the bar itself,” she says. “The bar feels very ample in terms of where you can eat and [includes] the comfort of the 16 seats. It’s not designed for people to have a drink and get up because the seats are uncomfortable. That’s a place where I want people, who didn’t get a reserva tion, to know they can walk in our door, find a seat and be taken care of.”
Pain
ELOI SE
326 Broadway Ave., Wayzata; eloisemn.com Eloise @eloise.wayzata
TONKA BREW FEST
Rotary’s annual event brings community together for a worthy cause.
GALE WOODS FARM in Minnetrista, 7210 County Road 110 W., Minnetrista, will host MoundWestonka Rotary Club’s 11th annual Tonka Brew Fest from 3–6 p.m. November 2—a community event for a worthy cause.
For $50 a ticket, attendees will be offered unlimited beer samples, a collector’s tasting glass, a tasting sheet, a freshly grilled bratwurst with chips and entry into a door prize drawing, featuring items contributed by all of the more than 15 Minnesota-based breweries in attendance, including local favorites Back Channel Brewing
Co., Birch’s on the Lake (brewhouse), Excelsior Brewing Company and Unmapped Brewing Co.
Additionally, attendees can enjoy a variety of offerings from traditional brews to gluten-free beer, cider and seltzers. Live music will be provided by The Abiders.
Funds raised at this event go to the MoundWestonka Rotary Club, benefitting local and international communities. In the event’s first 10 years, Tonka Brew Fest raised $120,000 for the Rotary. For additional details, visit tonkabrewfest.com.
—Findlay Drabant
Photos: John Botkin
Tonka Brew Fest 2023
Compiled by Tia Benson and Findlay Drabant
LOCAL EVENTS
Volunteer at Woodgate Park 11/02
This holiday season, give back to your community by helping to manage the buckthorn population at Woodgate Park. All ages. Free. 9 a.m.–noon. Woodgate Park, 5090 Highland Road, Minnetonka; 952.939.8203; minnetonkamn.gov
EmpowHER Women’s Network 11/12
Join the Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce for an afternoon of networking and female empowerment, complete with a buffet-style luncheon and roundtable discussions. All ages. $23. 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Atria Corporate Center, 3033 Campus Drive, Plymouth; jjohnson@wayzatachamber.com; wayzatachamber.com
Giving Tuesday
11/26
This global movement kicks off the holiday season with a focus on supporting charitable causes. On this day, people and businesses from around the world are encouraged to support charitable causes through making donations, offering time or serving as an advocate. For local details, visit excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com.
Cookies for Santa 11/29
The holidays are just around the corner, so bring your little ones along to decorate cookies for Mr. Claus. All ages. Prices vary. 3 p.m. Camp Fire Minnesota, 3300 Tanadoona Drive, Excelsior; 612.382.7889; santaclaus-lane.com
AREA EVENTS
First Fridays Art Crawl 11/01
On the first Friday of every month,
Banking You Can Count
Top Shave Lounge has got you covered. Book your appointment online or stop in for quality products.
A restorative pain and orthopedic clinic taking a modern approach to pain treatment. Applying the latest nonsurgical treatments for arthritis, migraines, tendonitis, sciatica, fibromyalgia and any pain you are living with. Focus on yourself and Let Pain Care be Self Care.
Moderni Spine 3454 County Road 101 651.440.0939 ModerniSpine.com
We pride ourselves on our exceptional services; a pre-power wash, a soft-touch tunnel and a manual towel dry. Become Unlimited starting at just $28 per month.
tour the galleries, studios and artist lofts that make up St. Paul’s historic Lowertown. All ages. Free. 5–9 p.m. Calendula Gallery, 275 E. Fourth St., St. Paul; 612.849.8083; calendulagallery.com
Havoc at the Pavek 11/02
The Pavek Museum of Electronic
Communication hosts a spooky, monsterfilled escape room with STEM activities for everybody. All ages. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Pavek Museum, 3517 Raleigh Ave., St. Louis Park; 952.926.8198; pavekmuseum.org
Sun Dogs: Filmmaker and Composer Pairings With Alarm Will Sound 11/21
Enjoy showings of various short films accompanied by music from a live orchestra. All ages. $30–$50. 7 p.m. Northrop Auditorium, 84 Church St. SE, Mpls.; 612.624.2345; northrop.umn.edu
The Top Shave Lounge 12993 Ridgedale Drive Suite 134 612.284.7227 thetopshavelounge.com
Wayzata Bay Car Wash 143 Lake St. E. 952.473.4033 wayzatabaycarwash.com
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live! Glow Party 11/23–11/24
Gather around and have a truckin’ good time at this monster truck party and show. All ages. Prices vary. 12:30–5 p.m. Target Center, 600 N. First Ave., Mpls.; targetcenter.com
Turkey Day 5K 11/28
Race through the streets of downtown Minneapolis at this festive fun run. All ages. $54–$60. 8 a.m. Fourth St. and Hennepin Ave., Mpls.; 651.289.7700; tcmevents.org
To have your event considered: email lakeminnetonkamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. 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.
HIGH-END FINISHES
Discover an unmatched sanctuary of luxury, privacy, and tranquility in the prestigious Wayzata BRIAN SCATES
612-877-2100 school district. Set on a 5-acre lot near Lake Minnetonka, this estate was built by renowned builder Keith Waters. Chef’s kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinetry, and granite countertops.
Lens on Lake Minnetonka
Sarah Happe found a willing subject in the depth of winter. “She was diving into the snow, smelling little critters under the snow and then her head would pop up,” the Minnetonka resident says of her playful subject.
“I loved the expression on her face and her snow-covered head every time she popped up.”
She also appreciates the photograph’s sense of motion as the dog’s ear lifts in the air. How can one capture a similar photo? Happe says, “Patience!”
—Renée Stewart-Hester
To view other Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest winners, visit lakemag.com.
Photographer: Sarah Happe
Title: Snow Cone
Equipment: iPhone 12 Pro Max
Location: Jidana Park, Minnetonka
Category: Pets
Award: First Place
Huntington Point Road West, Minnetonka Beach
6 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, 8,050 sq ft $9,995,000
Essentially new and stunning residence on Huntington Point. Meticulously designed home combines modern timelessness, natural materials, ultra high-end construction and finishes, and subtle geometries. Single floor living, with opportunities for separation and privacy among distinct formal, informal and recreational areas. Floor-to-ceiling glass showcase lake views and dramatic sunsets. Clerestory and skylights yield extensive natural light. Uncommon conveniences include three in-home offices, sport court, exercise, massage, and gear rooms, three-bay attached garage, detached bedroom suite and two garage bays, and Creston home automation system. Solar arrays meaningfully reduce carbon footprint. Outdoor spaces include sunrise and lake side patios with fountains, BBQ patio with lake view, and upper-level deck. Extensive landscaping creates privacy and illuminated beauty. Perfectly flat lakeside yard amidst native bluff plants leads to 147’ of southwest facing lakeshore on A-rated Lafayette Bay, charming boathouse with retractable windows and phantom screens, boulder rip rap, and large dock complex.
life. at your summit.
At the core of our care lies the profound understanding that you are on a journey to reach your full potential, to realize your goals and dreams, to reach your summit——no matter what that summit may be. It is this understanding that drives us to provide the highest standard of excellence through every injury or aching joint and muscle that may stand in your way.
IMMEDIATE CARE AT OUR ORTHOPEDIC URGENT CARE LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE METRO
