Lake Minnetonka, MN February 2026

Loving Where We Live

February is often associated with love, with Valentine's Day as its centerpiece, but here in our Lake Minnetonka community, love extends far beyond a single day. After all, at its heart, love is about connection — and that’s something our community does beautifully! It’s found in the small businesses we support, the care and admiration we have for our friends and neighbors, and the little everyday acts of kindness that add up to something truly remarkable. In this Love Local issue, we’re highlighting some of the ways our community embodies that spirit.

Our issue's stories feature love in many ways, from gifts to giving back. We share gifts that are memorable from Gunderson's Jewelers and handcrafted heirlooms from Fern+Fable. We share stories of those in need at Miracle League and the gift of early reading from Imagination Library. We even featured a new dental practice that made their love for patients and care the centerpiece of their practice. And Rebecca recommends that now might be the best time to receive the unconditional love that our furry friends offer.

All these stories reflect the warm community we call home. Something we need in a Minnesota winter! So, curl up by the fireplace with a cup of hot chocolate or your favorite coffee and enjoy reading about the people, places, and passions that make our community so special.

Here’s to loving where we live — and everyone who makes it feel like home.

See you around the Lake,

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @LAKEMINNETONKALIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kate Munson | kate.munson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Annie Doran, Jen Fortner, Kendra Johnson, Graham Johnson, Sarah Knieff, Rebecca Hahn, Sara Hoeman, Lauren Beaubaire

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Emily John Photography, Lydia Venjohn of Venlo Studio, Peter Lee, Rebecca Hahn

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Day Worth Remembering

The

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-7: Christmas in Excelsior! The community came out to celebrate the season with an entire month of holiday festivities.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Fromage Co. Opens New Storefront in Excelsior

Cheese lovers, this one is for you, because Fromage Co. celebrated their grand opening in Excelsior! Starting out as a mobile gourmet charcuterie cart, Fromage Co. now has a brick-and-mortar storefront, serving up an incredible, refined selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and exceptional accompaniments. Their curated charcuterie boards are as beautiful as they are delicious, and you can head to their shop for ready-to-serve offerings or work with the team to host your grand celebration or intimate gathering.

Family Hearing Solutions Ribbon Cutting

Congratulations to Family Hearing Solutions on their ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening in Minnetonka! We're excited to welcome them to the community. Their mission is to provide you with personalized, high-quality hearing care and are dedicated to improving and maintaining your health through preventative care and treating hearing challenges using the latest technologies. They never use a one-size-fits-all approach to your hearing health and are ready to help. Give them a call at 612-255-1178 to schedule a consultation!

Congrats to Sean Wenham of Green Wealth Management Group on becoming the Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber's 250th member! It's an incredible milestone for both. Reaching 250 is a testament to the amazing people, businesses, and organizations that make our community so vibrant. Sean Wenham is a Senior Wealth Advisor with Green Wealth Management, bringing decades of experience in investment and wealth management, including trust and estate guidance, business transition planning, and alternative investment strategies. greenwmg.com/sean-wenham

ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF

A Valentine’s Day Worth Remembering

Inside Gunderson’s curated guide to romantic gifts – from modern diamond jewelry to watches with legendary legacy.

Valentine’s Day is about more than a single moment – it’s about celebrating a relationship that continues to grow. At Gunderson’s Jewelers, that philosophy is at the heart of everything they do. As a third-generation, family-owned business, Gunderson’s has built its reputation on helping customers mark life’s milestones with meaning, craftsmanship, and care. Whether you’re shopping for your first Valentine’s Day together or adding to a tradition years in the making, Gunderson’s offers thoughtful gifts designed to be cherished long after February 14.

To help narrow the search, Sam Bergmann, store manager of Gunderson’s in Wayzata, Minnesota, highlights four standout brands that capture romance, style, and longevity –perfect for Valentine’s Day gifting.

MESSIKA: DIAMONDS IN MOTION

One of Bergmann’s favorite designers for Valentine’s Day is Messika, a modern jewelry line known for its signature sense of movement. Crafted in 18-karat yellow or white gold, Messika pieces feature diamonds that glide freely within their settings, creating a mesmerizing play of light with every movement.

“It’s got some magical movement to it,” Bergmann explains. “The diamonds move back and forth, so you get a lot of brilliance and sparkle.”

Messika offers a wide range of options, from minimalist designs featuring a

single diamond to more elaborate pieces showcasing three diamonds or more. Necklaces, rings, and earrings make it easy to curate a coordinated set, which is part of what makes Messika such a strong Valentine’s Day choice.

“It’s a really good thing to start Valentine’s Day with,” Bergmann says, “because then you can build on it throughout the year.” A necklace in February can turn into matching earrings for an anniversary or a ring for a milestone moment—making Messika both a romantic and practical investment.

HULCHI BELLUNI: BOLD, PLAYFUL, AND STACKABLE

Another designer Bergmann adores is Hulchi Belluni, a brand celebrated for its bold gold designs, dynamic elements, and versatility for both men and women. A standout within the collection is Hulchi’s line of stretch bracelets, which slide effortlessly on and off – no clasp, no assistance, no fuss. It’s an easy, everyday luxury: slip on your stack and go.

Many Hulchi Belluni pieces also feature playful sliders – stars, words, or symbolic shapes that move along the jewelry – adding personality and charm. The brand incorporates diamonds and colorful gemstones into strong yellow or white gold designs, while men’s styles often include black rhodium finishes for a sleek, modern, and masculine edge.

“It’s got

some magical movement to

it.

The diamonds move back and forth, so you get a lot of brilliance and sparkle.”

Like Messika, Hulchi Belluni shines as a Valentine’s Day starting point. “It’s a really great piece to start with because you can add on and get their stack going throughout the year,” Bergmann notes. Birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays naturally become opportunities to build a meaningful collection that tells a story.

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN: SOPHISTICATED TIMEPIECES WITH PRESENCE

For those considering a watch as a Valentine’s Day gift, Bergmann points to IWC as a standout choice. Known for exceptional craftsmanship and bold design, IWC offers timepieces that balance classic style with innovative materials.

From iconic pilot watches to models crafted in stainless steel or colored ceramics, IWC delivers visual impact alongside durability. Bergmann especially praises the brand’s striking blue and green dials, which add a refined pop of color.

While IWC is often geared toward men, thanks to larger case sizes like 43 millimeters, the brand also offers more petite styles that look stunning on women. Every IWC watch comes with an eight-year warranty, making it a gift that feels as reliable as it is luxurious.

OMEGA: A LEGACY WRITTEN IN TIME

Few watch brands carry the history and prestige of Omega. Famous for being the first watch on the moon, Omega combines legendary precision with timeless design—making it an ideal Valentine’s Day gift for someone who values both heritage and style.

“Omega definitely has more timepieces for the ladies as well,” Bergmann says, making it a perfect option for matching his-and-hers watches. While the brand has remained true to its iconic aesthetic over the years, Omega continues to refine and improve its technology, ensuring each piece feels both classic and contemporary.

THE GUNDERSON’S DIFFERENCE

Beyond the brands, what truly sets Gunderson’s apart is its commitment to relationships. “We really strive to treat everyone who walks in the door like they’re family,” Bergmann says. Whether it’s a simple pendant, a watch battery replacement, or planning an engagement, Gunderson’s is there for every chapter. This Valentine’s Day, Gunderson’s isn’t just helping you find a gift—they’re helping you create a memory that lasts a lifetime.

300 Superior Blvd., Wayzata | 612-338-5950 | gundersons.com

18|8 The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes 12063 Elm Creek Blvd. N Maple Grove, MN 55369 763-400-9124

18|8 The Promenade of Wayzata 340 Engel St Wayzata, MN 55391 952-693-4024

ARTICLE BY SARA HOEMAN

THE STORY Starts Here

HOW THE SOUTHWEST METRO AREA IMAGINATION

LIBRARY CHAPTER IS INSPIRING A LOVE OF READING

Dolly Parton’s famous Imagination Library has been gifting children all over the world with free books for over 30 years. Spreading a love and appreciation of reading, improving literacy rates, and inspiring future writers and readers is the cornerstone of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Since the library began, over 275 million books have been distributed around the world to children under the age of five. Dolly began the library in memory of her father, and he told her, “It was the most important thing she had ever done.” The award-winning songwriter, singer, and cultural icon simply wanted to make a difference. “Inspiring kids to love to read became my mission. In the beginning, my hope was simply to inspire the children in my home county, but here we are today with a worldwide program that gives a book a month to well over 3 million children,” said Dolly’s letter on her website.

Enrolled children will receive a free, ageappropriate book every month until they turn five, helping to inspire a life-long love of reading.

The Imagination Library is providing real change, and 20 years of research have proved the lasting effects. Supportive research has indicated that families who participate in the program, and teachers who observe students in the program, have overwhelmingly positive reactions, including improved literacy rates. Every child should have access to books regardless of income, and Dolly is determined to make that happen.

At the end of 2024, the Twin Cities officially opened the SouthWest Metro Area chapter of the Imagination Library, thanks in part to a generous effort by the Chanhassen Rotary, which is now an official program affiliate for the Imagination Library. The chapter hopes to provide the same joy of reading, serving families in Chanhassen, Chaska, Carver, Victoria, Excelsior, and Waconia, and is continually exploring ways to serve more communities. Enrolled children will receive a free, age-appropriate book every month until they turn five, helping to inspire a life-long love of reading.

The Chanhassen Rotary Club works with sponsors and relies on donations to keep the program running and keep books in the hands of young children. Donations go a long way, and the goal is to continue to expand in the metro area. In Minnesota, there are roughly 50 chapters of the Imagination Library, and over 37,000 participants throughout the state.

With each monthly delivery, the SouthWest Metro Area chapter is turning a love of reading into a lasting gift for families across our community. Sometimes the smallest gifts — like a book — can make the biggest difference.

To learn more about The Imagination Library and the impact the program has had globally, visit imaginationlibrary.com

To get involved or support the SouthWest Metro Area chapter, visit chanhassenrotary.org

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Birds of a Different Feather

These birds have flown across the country, perched on mosaic bases, and been decorated with vines and leaves and meticulously painted.

The stylized birds have become a calling card of mixed media artist Patty Carmody Smith.

The idea for the bird sculptures came originally from a 2009 trip to Yellowstone, where Patty was inspired by the ravens in the park and the bird-themed art in nearby Jackson, Wyoming.

“You could tell how smart they were,” says Patty about the ravens. At that time, Patty was mostly working in figurative sculpting and was looking for a change.

“I decided to give it a try,” says Patty.

Patty had become a full-time artist only three years before, despite having worked on projects for far longer.

According to Patty, it took four to five months to come up with the design that is now standard: a mosaic base upon which the bird perches. “The first ones were really bad,” laughs Patty.

In the following 16 years, Patty estimates that she’s sold over 700 and still enjoys making them, even though “I have to pace myself a little bit more” than when she started in 2009.

One of those birds has recently flown into the Arts North International exhibit, which opened January 10th at the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

The exhibit features 157 artworks selected from over 1,000 submissions that were sent from across the globe.

ARTICLE BY GRAHAM JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTY CARMODY SMITH AND PETER LEE

While Patty has been submitting art to the exhibition for a number of years, and even had art featured before, it is never a sure thing.

“It’s very competitive,” says Patty.

For Patty, materials have always been a key source of inspiration for her work.

“That love of materials has always informed my art,” says Patty.

Patty began working in fiber art in the 1970s, working with teachers from Eden Prairie High School while she was there, as well as with professors at the University of Wisconsin at River Falls.

“I always had to have my hands in something,” says Patty. Since then, Patty has expanded her use of materials to air-drying clay, glass, wood, and more.

Her recent exhibit, also at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, showcased that deep appreciation for art across mediums and materials.

Craftopia: A Fine Craft Invitation opened December 4th, 2025. The exhibit featured 12 artists ranging from jewelers to furniture makers to quilters to rugmakers.

“The name Craftopia came first,” says Patty about the exhibit, which was meant to showcase the artistry in crafts that aren’t always viewed as such from working artists.

The year-long project had Patty finding artists willing to participate in the gallery, ranging from attending woodworkers’ guild exhibits and looking for new connections to enlisting the work of her sister, who is a practicing silversmith.

Then, once the exhibit was accepted, the “hard work” began filling out the gallery.

Gallery settings are not ones where viewers often expect to see side tables, quilts, rugs, or even jewelry.

Patty highlighted the work of Richard Helgeson, a furniture maker included in the exhibit, as it was “clear it was art” from the outset.

The varied crafts within the exhibit showed the depth of crafts and how they can be elevated.

These days, due to the popularity of the bird sculptures, especially when featured in catalogues like Artful Home, Patty has to work to prepare a number of them beforehand, which can make for long days.

Despite that, Patty has no intention of stopping: “I’m going to do it as long as I can.”

Because after all this time, despite the change in materials, “I still have to do something with my hands.”

See more of Patty’s work at the Hopkins Center for the Arts and on her website at carmodyart.com

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There was a national article filling my social media recently about how high school students no longer read. As in, one or two books a year in school. I can confirm this. Last year, my son (a Sophomore) asked for editing help for his final paper on The Great Gatsby. As

FEBRUARY IS FOR (BOOK) LOVERS

I prepared myself to correct 400 grammar errors without permanently damaging our relationship, I come to find out, he never read the book. The class didn’t read the book. They watched the film.  I really wanted to scream, but had nowhere to direct the anger. He was doing exactly what was asked, ticking off the boxes of the grading rubric. His paper felt like a

Life Minded

film analysis, which I loudly lamented would best be saved for a film class, but nobody cares what I think. I had little to nothing to add to his paper. Nothing against Leo, but DiCaprio’s portrayal of Gatsby fell short of how I pictured it. Because I read the book. More than once.

I have been a book lover from day one. One of my favorite books as a child was The Pink Motel by Carol Ryrie Brink. It’s about a family from Minnesota who inherits a pink motel from a mysterious uncle. It is my first memory learning about the possibility of a Minnesota kid going on a mind-boggling exotic adventure. Albeit this one was to Florida.

In third grade, I had a playground accident that meant staying home to heal for two weeks. My mom brought me a bag filled with 13 books from B.Dalton. I won’t lie, it was the best two weeks of third grade. No school. No visitors. No problem. I had thirteen brand new books to keep me company while I convalesced. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing was in that stack, which was a delightful read even while wearing an ice pack on my face.

Minded

In middle school, I often read when I was not supposed to be reading. I had a middle school teacher who caught me reading during class and made me stand on top of my chair and read aloud from my Sweet Valley High book. It was humiliating. I don’t know if I ever made eye contact or spoke another word to that teacher.

Years later, I heard he was unceremoniously fired. I was not sad. I still have one hundred Sweet Valley High books at my disposal. And if I could go back, I’d suffer the public shaming all over again. The lessons in Sweet Valley had a much bigger impact on me than the teacher.

The first week of college, I sat in an intimidating freshman seminar. I am not being self-deprecating when I say I was the dumbest person in the room. We were asked to tell our class of ten people and a terrifying professor what we read over the summer. A lighthearted yet anxiety-provoking ice breaker. A word of advice — if you are not the smartest in the room, go first. I did not go first. After learning one girl read Kierkegaard (FOR FUN) and another guy re-read his “favorites” on Calvinist Theology,

and yet another casually mentioned he enjoyed Hawking’s A Brief History of Time , I panicked. I was seventeen years old. During that summer, I had read nine Danielle Steel novels and one memoir.

So I told the class the most recent book I read was Dancing on My Grave by Gelsey Kirkland. This was the truth. It is a memoir about a professional ballet dancer with personal struggles. If I did not impress anyone at the table, I definitely scared them.

It seems many students today do not enjoy long-format anything. A book is too long. A movie is too long.  A one-hour show is too long. Sign of the times. Our collective attention spans are poor. But many good things get lost if we only experience things in excerpt. I hate to think we could abandon a simple pleasure so pure and joy-filled as curling up with a great book. Immersive escapes from a worrisome world. February is a love-themed month. The perfect time to reignite the fire for reading. Whatever you like. No need to compare to anyone else. Just read what you love.

We never forget our first loves.

COLUMN

BY JEN FORTNER

Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in Shorewood with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.

A Spa Approach to Dentistry

Reflections Dental Studio provides ethical, transparent care designed around your comfort.

For many people, visiting the dentist feels like something to endure rather than something to look forward to. The atmosphere of a typical office, the pressure of tight appointment windows, and the constant question of what insurance will approve can make the experience feel rushed, cold, or confusing. Reflections Dental Studio is introducing a completely different vision to our community. Their belief is simple. Dental care should support the whole person and create a sense of calm rather than anxiety.

Dr. Gatecha and his wife, Hetal, built Reflections Dental Studio around that idea. The moment you walk inside, it becomes clear that this is a space created with intention. Soft lighting, warm textures, and thoughtful artwork set a peaceful tone. The reception area feels more like a wellness lounge than a traditional clinic. It invites patients to decompress and settle in before their visit begins.

The sense of comfort continues in the treatment rooms where patients can enjoy blankets, heated wraps, warm towels, and noise-canceling headphones. The goal is

to help people relax fully. When the body feels calm, the entire visit changes. Tension fades, and patients feel safe and cared for rather than braced for discomfort. “We wanted to create an environment where people breathe easier the moment they sit down,” says Hetal. “Comfort is not an extra for us. It is part of how we help people heal.”

Beneath the calming, spa-like atmosphere lies a much deeper purpose. Reflections Dental Studio was founded on the belief that true patient care should be guided by the patient and the provider, not by insurance companies. After serving the Twin Cities for over two decades, Dr. Gatecha has seen firsthand how heavily insurance dictates treatment decisions. Coverage limitations often determine the type and timing of care a patient receives. As a result, essential treatment can be delayed, altered, or reduced simply because it doesn’t fit within a coverage code.

Dr. Gatecha believes that this system works against patient wellness. “I want my patients to know that my recommendations come from what is best for them, not from what an insurance company prefers,” he says.

In keeping with this philosophy, Reflections Dental Studio chooses to work outside the limitations that insurance companies often place on treatment. This gives the Reflections Dental Studio team freedom to focus entirely on what is best for each patient, without waiting for approvals or adjusting care to fit a coverage code. Patients are welcome to use their out-of-network benefits but the pace and quality of their care are guided by their needs and their wellness, not by insurance restrictions. This thoughtful approach extends to every service the studio provides. Whether someone needs preventative care, restorative treatment, cosmetic enhancements, or orthodontic solutions, the focus remains on complete patient wellness. Appointments are structured to allow time for conversation and care. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and share concerns. The result is dentistry that feels personal and deeply respectful. It honors the science of oral health while recognizing the emotional experience that comes with each visit.

“We wanted to create an environment where people breathe easier the moment they sit down. It is part of how we help people heal.”

Reflections Dental Studio represents more than a new business. It marks a shift in how dental care can feel. It offers a place where comfort meets clinical excellence and where ethical care guides every decision. It invites people into an experience that values their well-being at every step.

“We want people to leave feeling lighter than when they walked in,” says Hetal. “If we can change how someone feels about going to the dentist, then we have done something meaningful.”

Reflections Dental Studio is here to bring that meaning into every smile they care for.

www.reflectionsdentalstudio.com | 763.363.1006

BUILT TO LAST

ARTICLE BY KENDRA JOHNSON

HOW FERN+FABLE’S CUSTOM, LOCALLY HANDCRAFTED FURNITURE IS DESIGNED TO LAST A LIFETIME

“We wanted to bring back heirloomquality pieces.”

Have you ever pined after an old family heirloom? Maybe it’s your grandmother’s wedding ring or your great-grandfather’s pocket watch. For me, it was my grandparents’ dining room table. Once a month, we would eat dinner at that table and talk and laugh for hours. I remember feeling devastated when I found out they sold it. To me, that piece of furniture symbolized all the lovely memories I had at my grandparents’ house, baking cookies, playing board games, and so much more.

I was hoping to have that table passed down to me because it can be difficult to find furniture — or anything for that matter — built at the quality it was during our grandparents’ time. However, a small artisan woodworking company based in St. Paul is trying to change that.

Fern+Fable is bringing back the idea that furniture should be beautifully made and crafted with intention.

“In a world where everything is mass-produced, we kind of wanted to bring back heirloom-quality pieces. We wanted to bring back pieces that were just a little bit more wholesome and custom and not just your average piece,” says Ashley Chapman, co-founder of Fern+Fable.

Ashley, who also owns Moda Salon, and her friend Brandon founded Fern+Fable after realizing there was a need in the Minneapolis area for custom-made, affordable furniture. Brandon had previously made all of Ashley’s salon furniture and decided to turn a hobby into a full-time endeavor.

The custom furniture Ashley and Brandon design and create is crafted to last a lifetime. Part of what makes them unique, outside of the quality craftsmanship, is their use of natural and reclaimed wood. Their wood is sourced mostly from Minnesota and Canada, and they always have a variety of options available.

Using reclaimed wood — salvaged from its original use and repurposed for something else — and natural wood like white oak, black walnut, or beachwood, means no two pieces of furniture are alike.

“When you’re working with reclaimed pieces, it’s important to understand that it’s going to be more organic and lived in because the wood is not perfect, and understanding that the imperfections are part of what makes it beautiful,” Ashley says.

Whether you would be interested in reclaimed wood or other natural wood options, calling Ashley and Brandon is the first step. After booking a custom consultation, the duo will come to your home, measure the space the custom furniture is intended for, and discuss your inspiration and style.

One of Fern+Fable’s stand-out services is creating furniture for oddly-shaped spaces in your home or business. Sometimes, particularly in older homes, there’s an alcove that normal furniture just doesn’t seem to fit. That’s exactly what happened with a client of Ashley and Brandon’s. They visited her home, measured the space, and created a custom piece to fit perfectly in her alcove.

Fern+Fable has also made custom tables, coffee tables, dressers, and more for special events like weddings, for businesses, and of course, as gifts. Some memorable pieces include a custom-made desk ordered by a father whose son had just graduated from law school and a custom dining table a father ordered as a wedding gift for his daughter.

“When you have something that’s handbuilt and crafted from intention and skill and thoughtfulness, I just think those are the types of furniture that almost carry a certain kind of energy. I have a piece that Brandon built in my home, and everybody’s like ‘where did you get that,’ and there’s just an energy that it gives off when something is hand-built that I just don’t think you can achieve with anything else,” Ashley says.

When it comes to choosing furniture for your home, considering how it looks shouldn’t be the only factor in what you choose. How it’s made, how long it may last, and who is making it are all important considerations.

“To see quality pieces in somebody’s home, I just think it’s a super special thing. And whether it’s us or anybody else, just make sure you’re supporting local artisans because I think it’s going to be lost if we don’t start doing that a little bit more,” says Ashley.

fernand-fable.com

A Dog-Gone Great Idea this Valentine’s Day

HOW THESE LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS ARE HELPING PEOPLE AND PETS FIND THEIR PERFECT MATCH

Google defines the word “friend” as someone who has a connection or relationship with you and is not a member of your family. When I was 16, my mother told me that if I could count on one hand five true friends over my lifetime, that I had been a lucky girl. Hopefully, I have a bit more time to find number five, unless I can count my dog?

Our world today has many challenges that can affect our outlook and current disposition. To list them all could turn this upbeat story into a “Dr. Phil special!” Let’s instead shine the light on some of the very best relationships you and I have ever had! Each year, as February 14th rolls around, many are faced with the “Ugh, Valentine’s Day” blues. If only there was someone “special,” it might not be such a downer.

So rather than think about what we don’t have, let’s talk about what you just might have “right under your very nose.” I’m talking about Fido, man’s best friend. Whoa, wait a minute, it’s true, let me explain. A best friend finds time to listen to your problems and knows how to keep a secret. Check! They don’t lie or cheat, and when they see you walk into the room, they’re happy. Check!

A best friend is available at a moment’s notice to hang out with you and “catch whatever you throw at them,” and then sit next to you just because they love you. Check! True, they require food, treats, bathroom breaks, and affection, but they often give much more than they receive. Did I mention they’re also available to look at you with loving eyes 365 days a year, not just one?

Seems clear that everyone, except for those who are chronic travelers, could benefit by adopting a four-legged best friend. But why don’t they? There are thousands of animals in approximately 347 shelters and welfare organizations right here, right now in Minnesota.

So, if the quantity of available pets isn’t the problem, could it be the high cost of adoption, reaching as high as $650, or perhaps it’s a person’s age (60 and up) that is stopping them from taking on a possible 10–15-year commitment? Studies show that people live longer with a pet in their home! Well, I decided to investigate this and have come across truly inspiring information to let you in on.

There’s a place in Minnetonka called The Bond Between (TBB), formerly Secondhand Hounds, founded by Rachel Mairose in 2009. Her mission initially was to rescue dogs, and now is to help prospective owners afford and maintain the relationships with their pets. Rachel says, “Our animal welfare organization not only saves lives through rescue but also helps families stay with their pets through our social service programs.”

She continues, “Let’s say that an owner incurs an unwanted medical situation like a heart attack, stroke, or something else, and cannot temporarily care for his/her pet. TBB will step up and in to pick up the pet and place it in a temporary foster home for up to 90 days and then return the pet to the owner.” This is only one of many ways this organization helps the public.

Another is that they are willing to help people financially afford a pet. By working with Social Services on behalf of the adopters, the fee can be manageable. If you’re not struggling financially, maybe you and your sweetheart might consider going online to pick out a pet from TBB without taking it home? That’s right, you will experience the joy of helping a pet by receiving regular updates and find out when this pet finds their forever home.

“Our animal welfare organization not only saves lives through rescue but also helps families stay with their pets through our social service programs.”

In addition, if a pet needs to be rehomed due to the passing of the owner, or the inability to care for a pet due to the owner’s age or decline in health, TBB will pick up your pet without charging a fee to either foster or rehome your pet. I would be negligent if I didn’t mention that in cases of domestic abuse, TBB will remove the pet as a safety precaution and return the pet once it’s safe to do so. Learn more about the many other extraordinary programs offered by TBB at TheBondBetween.org

I have also recently learned about some wonderful new programs by the Top Dog Foundation in New Germany, including their “Dogs and Angels,” “Elder Pups,” “Bentley’s Place,” and “Hoover Taxi.” I personally love the idea of this unique program that provides short-term safe housing for your pet if you happen to be ill or laid up for some reason. The “Hoover Taxi” program picks up your pet, drives them to you for a visit, and then returns your pet to its temporary home. Owner, Jean Stelten-Beuning, is on a mission to celebrate the lives of both senior citizens and elder pups. Her goal, like Rachel’s, is to keep all pets with their human families. Learn more at topdogfoundation.org.

This Valentine’s Day, why not adopt a pet you can take home or simply sponsor? Taking one home just might enable you to meet that “special person” who’s out walking their dog when you are walking yours?  If so, wouldn’t that be a “Sweetheart of an idea!” Oh, and one more thing, I do NOT recommend adopting a puppy if you are a senior citizen, unless you plan to redecorate. Check!

STEPPING UP TO THE PLATE

How the West Metro Miracle League is making baseball accessible to all abilities

ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE

“Every child should have the opportunity to play a sport, regardless of ability. It’s where we develop friendships and build confidence,” emphasizes Tonya Andruskiewicz, director of West Metro Miracle League.

And that is exactly the mission behind the West Metro Miracle League — to create the opportunity to play baseball for people

of all abilities. The Miracle League gives kids with any cognitive or physical challenges the chance to step up to the plate.

“‘Person with a disability’ is a distinction that you and I could become labeled as at any given moment,” says Tonya. “That thought, along with the fact that people with disabilities deal with additional

medical issues due to being sedentary, leading to a decline in mental health, is a terrible trifecta. Miracle League gives every person the opportunity to get outside, move their bodies, and make a friend. That is a terrific trifecta!”

Miracle League’s programs and field at Bennett Family Park in Minnetonka are specifically designed to eliminate obstacles that can be found on typical fields. Tonya explains, “Our surface is made of a rubberized material, similar to a track, that is flat, eliminating tripping hazards and making it easier for wheelchairs and walkers to maneuver around.”

The equipment is also lighter-weight and softer than typical baseball equipment, so it’s easier to swing the bat and hurts less when a player or volunteer ends up in the middle of a line drive.

Miracle League isn’t the only one calling the field home. The Minnetonka Girls’ Softball Association (MGSA) has also become part of the action. “About three years ago, due to a shortage of fields in the community, we started subletting the field for our t-ball teams,” says Kelly Wischmeier, MGSA president. “The field is a perfect size for this age group.”

MGSA also participates in the Miracle League’s “buddy” program, where Miracle League athletes are paired with an MGSA peer. “We’ve buddied up with Miracle League for about 10 years, and this past fall, we had 100% of our 12U and 14U teams volunteer,” says Kelly. “These softball players often run into their buddies at school or in the community, and they are able to say hello. It makes both Miracle League players and our softball community feel special!”

Tonya adds, “Coaches of the buddy teams often tell me that their teams say ‘buddying’ was the highlight of their season. As competitive as youth sports are these days, we often need the reminder that you don’t have to have amazing skills or even be good at a sport to enjoy playing the game. The Miracle League athletes and the buddies come away with smiles and a little more pride.”

MGSA also reached out with a helping hand in the fall of 2024. “The Miracle League has been a one-woman show with Tonya at the helm,” says Kelly. “I watched her struggle with getting help to do registration, scheduling, uniforms, pictures, and more, so I brought the idea to my board, where we would adopt the organization to lighten Tonya’s load, and she can focus her attention on the players and families.” Every MGSA board member voted yes.

“We are eternally grateful to pair up with Minnetonka Girls Softball — an organization I played for myself when I was growing up!” says Tonya.

And the timing was perfect, because the field is in dire need of repair.

The Miracle League field was built in 2009, the second field of its type in the entire state. However, its age is catching up with it.

“The field is literally coming apart at the seams,” says Tonya. “First, we replaced the fence posts as they were starting to push up the asphalt, and had created bumps and ridges in the area of play, as well as making the entrances to the field too narrow for wheelchairs to get into. In some spots, the turf had worn off, and asphalt was showing through.”

The re-surfacing project includes ripping out the old turf and asphalt and basically starting over. New asphalt, new turf, and repaired fencing are all required, totaling around $350,000.

“As of today, the removal of the old field, the new asphalt, and the removal of the existing fence have been completed, all with the combined existing funds of Miracle League and MGSA,” says Kelly. “However, we still need to raise the entire project cost.”

So far, Miracle League and MGSA have received private donations from families and friends, as well as generous donations from Sheels in Eden Prairie, LOFFLER Co., and a 2025 Twins Hennepin County Baseball and Softball grant. But, they still have a long way to go.

“We want to do whatever it takes to keep these athletes in their own district. These kids are from Minnetonka and should be able to play for Minnetonka just like their classmates and friends,” says Kelly.

Both Tonya and Kelly are hoping to bring more awareness to this incredible program.

“We have many families in MGSA with children who have disabilities and have never heard of Miracle League,” says Kelly. “We’re hoping that every child in our community has the opportunity to play the best sport on Earth!”

Learn how you can get involved at tonkasoftball.org/ homepage/miracle-league/ and learn more about the Bennett Family Park field project at: app.schoolfundr.org/ fund/miracleleaguefieldfundraiser2025

To better serve our current and new clients in a rapidly changing market, my team has made the move to Compass—enhancing the level of service, strategy, and results we deliver.

Buyers gain access to Compass Private Exclusives and pre-MLS opportunities, helping them get ahead of the market and other buyers.

Sellers benefi t from cutting-edge marketing, data-driven pricing, and expanded exposure to maximize visibility and demand.

This move allows us to combine trusted local expertise with an elevated, nationwide brokerage that helps our clients move anywhere with confi dence.

Chris Dennis

FEBRUARY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

FEBRUARY 1ST

Minnetonka Kids' Fest

Minnetonka Community Center 11:00 AM

Cabin fever setting in? Minnetonka Kids' Fest offers an afternoon of free, family fun with outdoor winter activities, including everything from dog sled rides, kicksleds, horse-drawn trolley rides, and ice carving demonstrations to bonfire and s'mores, a Kidsdance DJ, face painting, tattoos, and caricatures. There will also be plenty of indoor activities, arts, crafts, games, and more! minnetonkamn. gov/Home/Components/Calendar/ Event/3730/1224?curm=2&cury=2026

FEBRUARY 1ST

Full Snow Moon Hike

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum 6:00 PM

Snowshoe under the Full Snow Moon during this special after-hours event. February’s full moon is known as the Snow Moon due to the typically heavy snowfall that occurs in February. Snowshoes are available to rent so visitors can explore winter trails and find the best moon-viewing spots before warming up around a bonfire and roasting marshmallows. Beverages will be available for purchase.

FEBRUARY 7TH

Wayzata Chilly Open

Wayzata Bay | 10:00 AM

Picture four nine-hole courses carved into frozen Lake Minnetonka, where more than 2,000 golfers swap clubs for hockey sticks and putt tennis balls in costume-filled fun. Now celebrating its 41st year, come enjoy golf, free food, prizes, a chili cook-off, Snowga, snowkiting, the 19th Hole tent, and more. This year's theme brings  Saturday Night Live to the lake with: Live from Wayzata... It's the Chilly Open!

Ask Susan

Susan Stiles CFP, CHFC, AIF, CPFA, MBA Founder / CEO Stiles Financial Services, Inc.

Dear Susan: Does having a‘Blended Family’mean that our finances should be blended as well?

Susan:

There is no one right answer to this question. But blending a family and blending finances are two very different activities that require conscious and thoughtful discussion with your partner in how you will handle both as a new family unit. Both partners will likely bring different money and parenting habits to the new household. Often there may be an imbalance with the number of children, time spent in the new household and different levels of income, assets and debt. In many situations, keeping certain accounts separate can actually provide clarity and protection for everyone involved. Establishing a joint household budget would be prudent and determining what the contribution from each party should be and what would be considered fair. For more, join me in a thorough discussion on this topic by snapping the QR code below.

Susan Stiles is the Founder / CEO of Stiles Financial Services; an independent, fee-based, private wealth management financial advisory firm, specializing in families that have complex portfolio, wealth management and estate planning needs. We also advise companies on their retirement benefit plans and corporate cash management. Send “AskSusan” questions to: AskSusan@stilesfinancial.com.

CONTINUED

FEBRUARY 13TH-14TH

2026

Klondike Dog Derby

Downtown Excelsior | 9:00 AM

Don't miss the most exciting race of the year. The Klondike Dog Derby will kick off on Friday, February 13 with pre-race events, including a chance to meet the mushers and their Huskies along with sled dog races for the kids. Race day is on Saturday, February 14th and will begin with the opening ceremony at 9:30am and end with a Klondike Wrap Party.

FEBRUARY 13TH

Family Night Out at Goldfish Swim School

Minnetonka Goldfish Swim School 5:00 PM

Goldfish Swim School will open their pool for a free swim. Dive for rings, take a ride in a canoe, airplane, or car, swim with fins on, or just hang out in their 90-degree pool. They will have lifeguards on duty for safety and life jackets available. Bubbles, their Goldfish mascot, will also be there along with Valentine’s Crafts, face-painting, and more. Register at goldfishswimschool. com/minnetonka/events/detail/?id=11

FEBRUARY 21ST

Hot Cocoa Shop & Stroll

Downtown Excelsior | 9:00 AM

Participating businesses will provide hot chocolate, cookies, or treats while you shop. The Hot Cocoa Stroll is not just a day of shopping, it's an opportunity to turn a slow sales season into a thriving one, with the community rallying around our local businesses. Submit a photo of your receipt and get entered into a drawing for a community cash e-gift card! Learn more details and how to submit your receipt at business.excelsiorlakeminnetonka chamber.com/event-calendar/Details/ hot-cocoa-stroll-2026-1335993?source TypeId=Website