Lake Minnetonka - July 2026

Best of 2026

LAKE MINNETONKACASCO POINT

Janet Boschwitz

612-804-8720

Enjoy 60 feet of west-facing lakeshore on Lake Minnetonka, offering stunning sunsets and effortless lake living. Custom built by Gordan James in 2018, this thoughtfully designed home features 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage with exceptional craftsmanship throughout. A charming boathouse at the water’s edge completes the lake experience, making every day feel like a getaway.

PRIVATE

OASIS ON LAKE MINNETONKA

Janet Boschwitz

612-804-8720

A thoughtfully renovated and updated property in a demand neighborhood featuring 128 ft of south-facing shoreline, a sparkling swimming pool, lush landscaping, and sweeping lake views. Inside, you’ll find a large open entertaining spaces, main floor primary suite and office, 6-car garage, workshop, and the comfort of geothermal in-floor heating and cooling.

4 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | 5,987 Finished Sq. ft.

LAKESIDE LIVING IN MINNETONKA BEACH

Janet Boschwitz

612-804-8720

Discover lakeside living at its finest in this sought after lake community! This timeless Nantucketstyle home on 82 ft of Crystal Bay lakeshore will delight you with the bright, open spaces filled with natural light and panoramic lake views. Close to Dakota trail, Lafayette Club and more. 3 Ensuite

| 4

LAKE MINNETONKA 5155 WEEKS ROAD | GREENWOOD

6 BED | 7 BATH | 8,416 SF | $6,449,000

Introducing 5155 Weeks Road in beautiful Greenwood, Minnesota. This breathtaking Lake Minnetonka estate is nestled on 1.17 private acres with 163 feet of rip-rap shoreline and A-grade water quality on Saint Albans Bay. This East Coast-inspired home offers a bright, open layout with floor-to-ceiling windows and south-facing lake views. This property is within minutes of the LRT Regional Trail, all of your favorite shops and restaurants in Downtown Excelsior, and in award-winning Minnetonka School District.

Editor’s Picks, page 34

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22

Minnetonka

49

Charted in History Minnetonka Yacht Club hosts the annual Inland Lake Yachting Association Championship.

FROM THE EDITOR

I love it when worlds collide, especially within the pages of Lake Minnetonka Magazine.

As you can tell by the stunning cover, this is our annual Best of Lake Minnetonka issue where we celebrate the results of our readers’ choice poll. Our devoted readers and followers—along with business owners!— have been following along since voting ran in February and finalists were announced online in March. (If you skip ahead to page 26 to view the final results, be sure to skip back here to learn more about this issue!)

Additionally, this month’s articles showcase resilience in the dining space, a commitment to personal and community-wide creativity, and the dedication to the history and love of sailing. I hope readers find the articles to be another avenue that underscores the depth in which businesses and community members alike are dedicated to this area in their individual ways.

As I do each year in this issue, I’ve included my Editor’s Picks, which gives an appreciative nod to a particular food presentation that typically has its “Super Bowl” next month—the Minnesota State Fair. Curious? Visit page 34 for my recommendations.

And here is where worlds collide. As we close out one contest, another has launched. On page 72, readers will find information about another annual feature in our magazine—the Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest, which runs July and August at lakeminnetonkamag.com. While our readers’ choice poll provides a fun dose of anticipation (I am just as curious as the next person about what businesses garner the most votes.), I also look forward to the photo contest as it provides such a wonderful opportunity for our readers to showcase their talents and provide us with a glimpse into their lives around the lake area. Our team thoroughly enjoys viewing the entries, and we are eager to see what and where this year’s entries showcase!

In gratitude for the best readers, followers and advertisers a magazine could hope for—until next month,

Renée Stewart-Hester renee@localmedia.co

On the Cover: Best of Lake Minnetonka , page 26

by:

Chris Emeott

Find us online: Lake Minnetonka Magazine @lakeminnetonkamag @lmtkmag

The Cedar Roof Man

STRAIGHT TALK FROM STEVE KUHL

Let’s face it. Cedar roofs look great but owning one is a little scary. “Has it been damaged by hail?” “Will it blow off in a storm?” “I hear something chewing up there!” But despite what you may hear, your cedar roof is still one of the most beautiful and long-lasting products on the market. The only catch is you have take care of it.

That’s where I come in. My free, written estimate includes a thorough analysis of your roof. Bringing over 25 years of experience to the table, I will evaluate its’ condition to determine whether or not maintenance, repairs or replacement is the best option for you. Worst case scenario you get a free inspection from a true expert. Best case, we work our magic on your roof and add years to its lifespan.

In fact, Kuhl’s Contracting is looked to for the evaluation and restoration of cedar roofs by more insurance companies, home inspectors, realtors and architects than any other company in Minnesota. Not to brag, but we are pretty awesome. Don’t take my word for it. Check out our talents at www.kuhlscontracting.com. Or ask around. We have probably done work for someone you know.

I started this company in 1987. Since that time we have worked on thousands of homes around the Twin Cities. My approach to business has never wavered. Be honest, be reliable and do great work. As a result our list of happy clients grows daily.

VOL. 21 NO. 3

July 2026

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

Kassondra Burtis, Ashley Cardona, Findlay Drabant, Emily Gedde, Maura Keller and Alexandra Tostrud

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Andrew Akhaphong, Hollie Blanchard, Emily Carriveau, Stephanie Herrick, Jessica Hilde, Lynette Kalsnes, Emily Maxson, Spencer Olson, Rima Parikh, Molly Rivard, Raela Schoenherr, Lisa Stevens, Katie Tomsche and Mariah Wise

DIGITAL INTERN

Danielle Gallus

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Abigail Larson and Kate Thompson

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Mary Cornelius, Minnetonka Schools ; David Decker, House Novel ; Sue Gartner, Crown Warehouse & Delivery Service ; Kelly Olsen, Olsen Global ; Michele Phillips, blogger, writer and photographer ; Anna Skemp, Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce ; 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 and Sara Johnson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Rochita Chatterjee and Gina Neumann

PRESIDENT

Pete Burgeson

To subscribe to Lake Minnetonka Magazine , please visit localmedia.co. For customer service inquiries, please contact hello@localmedia.co, or call 612.208.6248. ©Local LLC 2026. All rights reserved.

Tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a rare Lake Minnetonka peninsula, this recently built Craftsman masterpiece creates an immediate sense of sanctuary and respite. Surrounded by water, buffered from whence you came by acres of protected woods and wetlands, this property invites you to leave the distractions of busyness behind. After arriving, you realize the rhythm of the water laughing at the shoreline has calmed both your perspective and your heart rate. The masterful architectural design invites the reflected sunlight and moonlight off thousands of acres of water to dance through the interior of this home. Five bedrooms and six bathrooms are blended into refined craftsmanship, revealing relaxed and welcoming livability featuring a main-level owner’s suite, elevator, chef’s kitchen with Thermador appliances, butler’s pantry, Pella windows, a backup generator, and an oversized 3+ car garage. Seamless indoor-outdoor living flows to a lakeside terrace and a screened porch with a fireplace. A boathouse and terrace at water’s edge add timeless character to this “Lake Place”... where life slows down... the beer is colder... and you wanna Come Home To Vacation...

Title: Relaxed Water

Equipment: Sony a7

Location: Lake Minnetonka

Liliana Perovich-Westby’s Relaxed Water, which received appreciative nods from readers and the Lens on Lake Minnetonka’s judges panel, came by way of a fortuitous shopping expedition when she and her friend Noelle Laikind went thrift shopping and bought an old prom dress. The weather was cooperative that day, so the duo did a photo shoot outside Perovich-Westby’s home. Perovich-Westby points to the water droplets as a standout element in the photograph. “The water droplets created a cool and unique reflection of the colors of her dress and the water,” she says. —Renée Stewart-Hester

Category: Readers’ Choice; Abstract Place: First; Honorable Mention (Lady of the Lake, taken during the same photo shoot, received an honorable mention in the People category.)

View other Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest winners at lakeminnetonkamag.com. Learn more about this year’s contents on page 72.

Best of FAQs

While voting is complete, there might be questions when it comes to how our annual readers’ choice poll operates. This year, we transformed the experience with a new, interactive ballot. Here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions.

How are the categories chosen?

Annually, our teams evaluate the categories to ensure our poll is reflective of our local businesses and is in tune with our readership’s interests and suggestions.

How did voting work?

From February 1–28, readers voted for their favorite local businesses and service providers by clicking on the business they wanted to vote for or writing in entrants; write-in votes were processed and appeared on the ballot once approved.

Does advertising influence the results?

The poll is managed by our editorial department and is completely independent from our sales department.

Can a winner or finalist be located outside of the magazine’s coverage area?

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

As a winner, how do I purchase a framed cover?

Winners can request a complimentary digital copy of the Best of Lake Minnetonka cover design, indicating the winning category and the business’s or organization’s name. Winners can purchase a 14x17-inch black, wood framed award certificate. The cost is $195 per item, including shipping and handling, and can be ordered at localmedia.co/bestofwinner. Note: The Local team does not sell awards, plaques or trophies associated with the Best of Lake Minnetonka. —Editorial Staff

A Small-Town Fourth

Growing up in Delano, I looked forward all year to the town’s Fourth of July celebration. You could feel the excitement building as June came to an end. By July 1, anticipation turned into something you could see and hear. Carnival rides rolled into town on oversized trailers, parked in neat rows at Central Park, waiting to be assembled.

My parents would drive me by the park almost daily, so I could catch a glimpse of which rides had arrived. Blankets would appear along the parade route days in advance, duct taped to sidewalks as families “claimed” their spots. In the days before social media, plans were made over landline phones—moms coordinating schedules, kids mapping out wristband night strategies and everyone counting down to the town’s biggest celebration.

My mom carefully planned my kiddie parade outfits—Annie Oakley or Elton John, complete with a cardboard piano my dad built by hand. Other years, we teamed up with friends to create group costumes from The Wizard of Oz or The Apple Dumpling Gang

Wristband night was practically a town-wide holiday. Kids ran from ride to ride, including the Tilt-A-Whirl with its familiar rattle, visited rows of carnival games that felt slightly impossible to win and took in the aroma of corn dogs and cheese curds.

And then came the parade. As a child, I arrived ready to collect candy tossed from floats and polished vintage cars rolling down Main Street. As I got older, I traded my spot on the curb for a place in the parade—first dancing with the Delano Tigerettes and, eventually, as a Delano Princess.

What makes the Fourth of July so meaningful to me is that the magic doesn’t live in old photo albums; it continues. Years later, I brought my children to that same curb. I sat beside them as we waited for candy to be tossed our way. Then, in what feels like the blink of an eye, I watched them step into the very parade I once danced through. Even the carnival feels frozen in time. The Tilt-A-Whirl still hums with the same unsteady rhythm. The cheeseburgers taste exactly the same. The cotton candy is just as sweet. Delano’s celebration shaped so much of my childhood, and I feel incredibly lucky to watch my children experience that same small-town magic. Some traditions aren’t just celebrated; they’re carried forward. And in a small town, that’s what makes them timeless.

See page 69 for information, and visit delano4th.com for additional details.

Find Emily Carriveau on Instagram and Facebook at Small Town Me or on TikTok at @emilycarriveau.

A Full-Circle Voyage

Al & Alma’s marks its 70th anniversary as a local dining and celebration mainstay.

By Maura Keller

For Jamie and Nate Geyen, Al & Alma’s Supper Club and Charter Cruises isn’t just a business—it’s part of their life story. The couple recently became co-owners of the longtime Lake Minnetonka dining and cruise destination, stepping into leadership of a company that has been a fixture on the lake for 70 years.

For Nate, the connection runs especially deep. He is the son of former owners Daryl and Merritt Geyen, who owned Al & Alma’s for 36 years before selling the business to Jay Soule in 2019. Following Soule’s passing in November 2024, ownership returned to the Geyens in accordance with the wishes of Soule and his family.

Growing up around the boats, docks and dining rooms, Nate spent more than a decade working in nearly every part of the operation before eventually returning as an owner. “Al & Alma’s has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Nate says. “To now help lead the next chapter of a Lake Minnetonka tradition that has meant so much to our community is incredibly special.”

His early years working in the business helped shape that perspective. Nate served in a variety of roles, including captain, operations and management positions, experiences that gave him a firsthand understanding of the business. “Working on the boats and interacting with guests gave me a deep appreciation for the traditions and the people that make Al & Alma’s special,” he says.

Jamie brings equally deep experience to the business. She has been involved with Al & Alma’s for more than 25 years, focusing largely on operations and guest experiences. Over the years, she has helped oversee events, cruises and the daily coordination required to keep the busy operation running smoothly.

Left: Over the decades, Al & Alma's Supper Club and Charter Cruises has hosted countless anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events and weddings. “For many of our guests, Al & Alma’s is where they celebrate life’s biggest moments and being part of those traditions is what makes this place so special,” says Jamie Geyen of Al & Alma’s.

Bottom: Jamie and Nate Geyen, co-owners of Al & Alma’s, set the popular business’s new course.

The couple has seen the business from nearly every angle, and stepping into ownership has been especially meaningful. “It really does feel like family,” Nate says. “Many of our employees have been here for years, and we have guests who return generation after generation. Taking ownership after being part of the business for so long feels like a full-circle moment.”

Today, the couple focuses on balancing tradition with thoughtful evolution. “It’s about respecting the past while continuing to build for the future,” Nate says. “That includes refining our menus, expanding events and continuing to create unique experiences both at the supper club and on the water. We recently completed a full update to the interior of Avanti, our 70-foot Express Yacht.”

The Geyens are incredibly grateful to the community and to all the employees and guests who have supported Al & Alma’s over the years. “It’s a special place because of the people who have been part of its story,” Nate says. “We feel very fortunate to carry that story forward.”

That sense of continuity has helped make Al & Alma’s a beloved destination for locals and Twin Cities residents alike. The combination of dining, cruising and and taking in lake views offers something unique. “I think a big part of it is the experience,” Nate says. “There are not many places where you can enjoy a great meal while cruising on Lake Minnetonka or celebrating a special occasion right on the water.”

Over the decades, the venue has hosted countless anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events and weddings. “For many of our guests, Al & Alma’s is where they celebrate life’s biggest moments and being part of those traditions is what makes this place so special,” Jamie says.

Al & Alma’s Supper Club and Charter Cruises al-almas.com

Al & Alma’s Supper Club & Charter Cruises on Lake Minnetonka

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The Write Stuff

A local mentorship program helps emerging creativestake flight.

By Emily Gedde

Jon Savitt enjoys making people laugh, and it’s a feeling that fuels the award-winning comedy writer and screenwriter to pursue a creative career. “When you say something funny and someone reacts to it in a positive way, there’s no better feeling than that,” says the Minnetonka resident. While feeding his creative pursuits, he hopes to inspire others. Wanting to live in an area with access to local lakes, family and full of community spirit, Savitt and his wife, Maggie Pendleton, returned in

December to Minnesota from Denver. With him, Savitt brought a healthy dose of writing experience. His work has been featured on online comedy and entertainment brands CollegeHumor, Funny or Die and Vulture; as well as news outlets, such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time and more.

The writer graduated from St. Louis Park High School in 2010 and grew up a few doors down from where filmmakers Joel and Ethan Coen once lived. He jokes that just breathing

the same air the Coens once did helped spark his interest in comedy. “From a young age, I was hit in the face with these pioneers of Minnesota art and creativity,” Savitt says. “Minnesota is very much steeped into who I am as a person and a writer.”

And that connection is quite possibly why he’s returned to launch The Flyover Writers’ Room, a free mentorship program to help emerging Minnesota screenwriters and comedy writers. “It’s the kind of thing

COMING ATTRACTIONS

Jon Savitt is busy prepping for a film coming out in October. Creep it Real is a genre-blending thriller produced by Barbed Wire Films and features actress Adrienne King, known for her role in Friday the 13th. The project will be available on streaming platforms.

In addition, Savitt sold another feature script, a quirky horror-comedy called The Overnight, which is set to go into production soon. He is also in development stages with a heartwarming comedy that will be shot in Minnesota, standing behind his message that geography shouldn’t keep anyone out of the spotlight.

I wish I had growing up,” Savitt says. “I didn’t have anyone to ask for pointers and didn’t know any working screenwriters, so it felt very abstract and distant.”

“I’m trying to break down barriers that make it seem impossible to make a career of being a writer and a filmmaker if you don’t live in New York or Los Angeles,” he says. “As I coach and mentor people, I want to encourage people to look at all paths.”

The Flyover Writers’ Room aims to be accessible and flexible. Savitt says some participants join group calls to share ideas while others work independently with Savitt to share their scripts, learn how to pitch themselves, build a website or simply find out what the next steps are in the industry.

Savitt wants to shorten the learning curve for those pursuing the path he once navigated. He wants to show people that geography isn’t the barrier to breaking into the industry, hesitation is. “We often negotiate ourselves out of something before we even try it,” he says. “Let’s talk about Plan A and explore it before we talk ourselves out of it. Just go for it, and do the best you can.”

As Savitt settles into life back in Minnesota, he says inspiration is all around him, including the quirky Facebook Marketplace interactions that keep feeding him material. “I can’t go anywhere without getting a new idea,” he says. And now, he hopes that will be the case for the next generation of Minnesota comedy writers.

Jon Savitt

jonsavittwrites.com

@savitt_jon

BEST OF LAKE MINNETONKA

The power of community is at its best when people come together to celebrate what makes an area ideal for living, playing and working. And here we are—after months of voting, tallying and announcing the finalists online in March, the time is now to present the first, second and third places from our annual readers’ choice poll, which stretched across more than 70 categories.

With a wide breadth of options to vote on, this issue is definitely a keeper. It (and our website!) provides one of the best resources for readers in need of fresh dining or retail options; educational, family or home assistance; health and self-care options; and even for photographers, planners or venues for those special moments in life. And speaking of special moments, check out our new wedding section for vendors who help make nuptials personalized and curated.

Welcome to your Best of Lake Minnetonka 2026. —Renée

Stewart-Hester

Dedicated voters turned out in record numbers to name their favorites.

by Chris Emeott

DINING

Best Bakery

1. Red Bench Bakery

2. yum! Kitchen and Bakery

3. Rustica

Best Breakfast or Brunch

1. Hazelwood Food + Drink

2. The Grocer’s Table

3. Tie: Benedict’s Morning Heroes; The Original Pancake House

Best Brewery or Distillery

1. Back Channel Brewing Co.

2. Excelsior Brewing Company

3. Unmapped Brewing Co.

Best Burger

1. Red Cow

2. Parlour

3. Gold Nugget Tavern & Grille

Best Dessert

1. Adele’s Frozen Custard

2. Licks Unlimited

3. 6Smith

Best International Cuisine

1. Yumi’s Sushi Bar

2. Sakana Sushi & Asian Bistro

3. Sushi Fix

Best Locally Owned Coffee or Tea Shop

1. The Grocer’s Table

2. Blackwater Coffee & Café

3. Mocha Monkey

Best Outdoor Dining Space

1. CōV

2. Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge

3. 6Smith

Best Pizza

1. Punch

2. Olive’s Fresh Pizza Bar

3. Joey Nova’s Pizzeria Delicatessen

Best Plant-Based or Vegan Menu

1. Crisp & Green

2. DelSur Empanadas

Best Restaurant

1. Gianni’s Steakhouse & Seafood

2. 6Smith

3. CōV

Best Winery

1. Schram Vineyards

2. Sovereign Estate Winery

3. Everly Farms Winery

ABODE

Best Blinds or Window Treatments

1. Excelsior Paint & Design

Carpet One Floor & Home

2. Little Blind Spot

3. The Shade Store

Best Carpet or Flooring Store

1. Excelsior Paint & Design

Carpet One Floor & Home

2. Carpet Resources

3. Innovative Flooring Design

Best Custom Home Builder

1. Boyer Building Corporation

2. John Kraemer & Sons Inc.

3. Tie: Lake Country Builders; Landschute

Best Garden Center

1. Otten Bros. Garden Center & Landscaping

2. Tonkadale

3. Bachman’s

Best Home Décor or Furniture Store

1. The Sitting Room

2. General Store of Minnetonka

Best Interior Design Firm

1. Carriage House Studio

2. The Sitting Room

3. Embellishments Design Studio

Best Landscape Design

1. Yardscapes

2. Outdoor Excapes

3. Pleasant View Gardens

Best Remodeler

1. MDS Remodeling LLC

2. Lake Country Builders

3. Boyer Building Corporation

Best Senior Living Residence

1. The Waters of Excelsior

2. Folkestone

3. Lake Minnetonka Shores

SERVICES

Best Electrical Services

1. JZ Electric

2. Milow Electric

3. Randy’s Electric & Plumbing

Best Family or Senior Portrait Photographer

1. Memories in Time Photography

2. Emily John Photography

3. Lisa Buck Photography

Best Financial Services

1. Edward Jones

2. Stifel

3. Manifest Wealth Management

Best Heating and Cooling Services

1. BWS Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

2. High Road Heating & Cooling Co.

3. Bonfe

Best Home Cleaning

1. Bundl Home

2. Anchor Cleaning Company

3. Systems Family Concierge

Best Law Practice

1. AND Law Offices PLLC

2. Sanford, Pierson, Thone & Strean

3. Tie: Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota; Morrison Sund PLLC

Best Lawn Care or Snow Removal

1. David’s Lawn Service

2. BP Outdoor Services

3. AJ’s Property Maintenance Inc.

Best Plumbing Services

1. Bonfe

2. Bedrock Plumbing & Drain Cleaning

3. Hero Home Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical

Best Roofing Services

1. Allstar Construction

2. Tonka Roofing

3. Les Jones Roofing

Best Senior Home Care Service

1. C&C Home Care

2. Presbyterian Homes & Services

3. Joyful Companions Home Care

SELF CARE

Best Barbershop or Salon With Men’s Services

1. Barbers Inn

2. 18|8

3. Tony’s Barber Shop

Best Boutique Fitness or Yoga Studio

1. The Barre

2. Spirit of the Lake Yoga and Wellness Center

3. YogaSix

Best Hair Salon

1. JUUT Salonspa

2. Sakada Studios

3. Sanctuary Salonspa

Best Manicure or Pedicure

1. Fusion LifeSpa

2. G Nails

3. Lakeside Nails & Spa

Best Med Spa

1. InnerBeauty Med Spa & Laser

2. SkinSpirit

3. Skin Rehab Aesthetics

Best Spa

1. Fusion LifeSpa

2. InnerBeauty Med Spa & Laser

3. Sanctuary Salonspa

WELLNESS

Best Audiology Practice

1. Starkey

2. HearingLife

3. Costco

Best Chiropractic or Holistic Wellness Practice

1. The Brost Clinic

2. Align Health & Wellness

3. Vaida Wellness Center

Best Dental Practice

1. Orono Dental Care

2. Holger Dental Group

3. West Lakes Dentistry

Best Dermatology Practice

1. Lakes Dermatology

2. Mittal Dermatology

3. Ecker Dermatology

Best Family Medicine Practice

1. North Memorial Health Clinic

2. Park Nicollet

3. Ridgeview

Best Massage

1. The Brost Clinic

2. Fusion LifeSpa

3. JUUT Salonspa

Best Mental Health Services Provider

1. Cara Winter, MA, VIBE Integrated Health

2. Reuss Therapeutic Services

3. The Jonas Center

Best OB-GYN Practice

1. OBGYN West Premier Women’s Health of Minnesota

2. Western OB/GYN (Ridgeview)

3. Oakdale OBGYN Premier Women’s Health of Minnesota

Best Orthodontic Practice

1. Lake Minnetonka Orthodontics

2. Kottemann Orthodontics

3. Anchored Orthodontics

Best Physical Therapy Practice

1. Twin Cities Orthopedics

2. OSR Physical Therapy

3. Engage Physical Therapy and Wellness LLC

Best Vision Care Practice

1. OVO LASIK + LENS

2. Excelsior Eye Care

3. Southwest Eye Care

LEARNING

Best College Prep or Tutoring Center

1. Kay Tutoring

2. Bartel Tutoring & College Advising

3. Sylvan Learning

Best Dance Studio

1. Creo Arts & Dance Conservatory

2. Esteem Fit

3. Summit Dance Shoppe

Best Driver’s Education

1. Safeway Driving School

2. Westonka Driving School

Best Language Immersion Program or School

1. Minnewashta Elementary

2. Deephaven Elementary

3. Groveland Elementary

Best Music Lessons or School

1. MacPhail Center for Music

2. The Music Coop

3. Mount Calvary Academy of Music

Best Preschool Program

1. Notre Dame Academy Discovery Center

2. The Goddard School of Minnetonka

3. St. Therese Early Learning Center

Best Private School

1. Breck School

2. The Blake School

3. Benilde-St. Margaret’s

LEISURE

Best Beach, Open Space or Park

1. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

2. Excelsior Commons

3. Wayzata Beach

Best Golf Courses

1. Hazeltine National Golf Club

2. Baker National Golf

3. Wayzata Country Club

Best Place for Family Activities

1. Lake Minnetonka

2. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

3. Excelsior Commons

Best Place for Kids’ Birthday Party

1. Creo Arts & Dance Conservatory

2. The Burrow

3. Country Club Lanes

PET CARE

Best Pet Boarding or Daycare Service

1. Top Dog Country Club

2. Woofington

3. Fusion Pet Retreat

Best Pet Grooming Service

1. Tie: Amber Paws Pet Grooming; Woofington

2. Shampooch Grooming Salon

Best Veterinarian Practice

1. Westonka Animal Hospital

2. Long Lake Veterinary Clinic

3. Minnetonka Animal Hospital

SHOPS

Best Florist

1. LILIA Flower Boutique

2. Bachman’s

3. Westdale Floral

Best Gift Shop

1. General Store of Minnetonka

2. Ooh La La Boutique

3. 5 Swans

Best Jewelry Store

1. Wayzata Jewelers

2. Graham Jewelers

3. Gunderson’s

Best Men’s or Women’s Apparel Boutique

1. Ooh La La Boutique

2. General Store of Minnetonka

3. EVEREVE

Best Specialty Food or Kitchen Store

1. Kowalski’s Markets

2. Lakewinds Food Co-op

3. General Store of Minnetonka

WEDDING VENDORS

Best Alterations or Tailoring Service

1. Pin Tailors

2. Anna Alterations Tailoring

3. Tara’s Sewing & Alterations

Best Bridal or Formal Wear Store

1. Annika Bridal

2. The White Room

3. The Visionary Bridal Atelier

Best Catering Service

1. Al & Alma’s Supper Club and Charter Cruises

2. Bad Rooster Food Truck

3. L & L catering

Best Wedding Photographer or Videographer

1. Memories in Time Photography

2. Rachel Lahlum Photography

3. Tie: Liz Banfield; Shane Long Photography

Best Wedding Planner or Coordinator

1. Rustic Elegance

2. Keyed Up Events

3. Kismet Event Group

Best Wedding Venue

1. Lafayette Club

2. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

3. Bavaria Downs

The Best of Lake Minnetonka floral design is courtesy of LILIA Flower Boutique, known for its exceptional arrangements, beautiful bouquets, design workshops and curated gifts. We extend our sincere appreciation for the stunning florals that grace our cover and pages.

LILIA Flower Boutique liliaflower.com @lilia.designfloral

Written by Renée Stewart-Hester

EDITOR’S PICKS

Let’s dive into Lake Minnetonka on a stick.

It goes without saying, many Minnesotans appreciate the finer things in foodie life—even if they’re posted up on a stick. With the scent of next month’s Minnesota State Fair circulating and this being our Best of Lake Minnetonka issue, I figured now is a great time to highlight some of my local favorites that come “on a stick”—metal, wooden or otherwise.

A: I’m a dessert person. B: An ice cream bar would not be my first choice … until now. I saw. I considered. I ordered. And I fell in après dinner love. It’s no secret that Tommy’s Tonka Trolley, open seasonally at the threshold of The Commons in Excelsior, offers Sebastian Joe’s ice cream, but I had never indulged in the handmade Joe-Bar. Let’s talk about the first bite. It’s like biting into a milky chocolate truffle—dense yet light. The generous-size bar is now one of my crave-worthy summertime treats. Pair it with a stroll down Water Street or along Excelsior Bay, and it’s a double dose of lake life goodness. tonkatrolley.com

When a fudgy concoction serves as a sweet jacket over creamy ice cream, why not indulge?

I have a thing for fried chicken. Ask me about national fast food chicken chains, and I’ll rank them for you. What about the long standing Up North grocery store on Highway 371? Get there early for the fried chicken, which is ideal for noshing around a picnic table, during a boat toodle or in front of a fireplace on a rainy day at the cabin. But what about around this neck of the woods? This time, let’s chat about diving into a bucket of fried chicken from Spring Park’s Minnetonka Drive-In. (“Wait,” you might exclaim. “Chicken doesn’t come on a stick.” It surely does if you count the handle end of a drumstick!) There really is something comforting and nostalgic about rolling up, ordering up and gobbling up warm, crispy chicken with enough crunch and flavor goodness to make all the taste buds happy. minnetonkadrivein.com

Let the debates begin: Are corn dogs just for the younger dining set? I think not! Diners of all ages can appreciate a hotdog cloaked in a warm jacket of cornmeal breading. But there’s another debate adrift. Mustard or ketchup? I know the trend to “flavor up” food has hit the corn dog crowd, and while I appreciate a hit of honey, I contend—keep it somewhat simple. Don’t dress it up too much. For me,

How about a corn dog glow-up—with honey? Add proper squiggles of ketchup or mustard (or both), and release the flavors and memories of summers passed.

honey and mustard are the perfect additions at The Corn Dog Co.’s food truck. (Feeling adventurous? The Korean corn dog is rolled in panko breadcrumbs, dusted with sugar and drizzled with honey, dipped in a sweet chili sauce. Hmm. I might have to rethink my order.) If you didn’t get a chance to visit the food truck last month at Minnetonka’s Summer Fest, check out upcoming locations at thecorndogco.com .

STICK TO LEARNING

If any member of the younger set in your household has a hankering for making food-on-a-stick recipes at home, Minnetonka Community Education (MCE) is the place to go. Since 2021, MCE has offered cooking classes for kids in grades 1–5 at Minnetonka Middle School West that happily lean into state fair fare. This year is no different with Chef’s Academy: Foods on a Stick from 12:30–2:30 p.m. July 20–23. Recipes could include: Fourth of July Fruit Kabobs, Monkey Bread Kabobs, Pizza on a Stick and S’mores on a Stick. Additionally, On a Stick: State Fair Foods will be offered from 1–2 p.m. August 14. Recipes could include Fudge Toffee Delight Brownie Pops and Loaded Tater Tot Kabobs. Talk about Blue Ribbon winners! minnetonka.ce.eleyo.com

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YUM FOR FUN

Lunds & Byerlys (lundsandbyerlys. com) shares more ways to make state fair-inspired eats at home or the cabin—thanks to recipes with easy twists on classic summertime treats. My family leans in hard to bonfire cuisine either at home or the lake, so these recipes will surely make the trip to the backyard or Up North.

BANANA SPLIT ON A STICK

» bamboo skewers

» ¼ lb. bananas, peeled and sliced into chunks

» 1 ¼ lbs. fresh pineapple, sliced into chunks

» 16 oz. strawberries, hulled

» 10 ½ oz. brownie bites

» chocolate sauce, optional

» dry roasted peanuts, chopped, optional

Alternate bananas, pineapples, strawberries and brownie bites on a skewer. If desired, drizzle chocolate over the skewers, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts. Serve. (Tips: For a summer twist, toast over the grill or bonfire. Be sure to soak the bamboo skewers in cold water for 20–30 minutes before grilling or placing over the bonfire.)

BROWNIES ON A STICK

» bamboo skewers

» 10 ½ oz. brownie bites

» 12 oz. marshmallows, large

» 16 oz. strawberries, hulled

Thread brownies onto skewers, along with marshmallows and strawberries. Lightly brown the marshmallows with a cooking torch or a gas stove burner.

(Tips: Kick up your bonfire vibes by toasting the marshmallows over an outdoor fire before placing them on the skewer. Be sure to soak the bamboo skewers in cold water for 20–30 minutes before placing over the bonfire).

Written by Elizabeth Millard

SIGHT SELECTION

Explore a vision correction option that may have you ditching reading glasses for good.

While grocery shopping, Kathleen Forrester was about to read a nutrition label when she sighed and put the can back on the shelf—her reading glasses were in the car, she remembered. But that frustration suddenly turned into elation. “It was just a few days after my surgery, so I didn’t expect big results, but I went back and grabbed that can again,” she recalls. “I could read everything perfectly. It was an incredible change.”

The procedure Forrester had is called Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), done at OVO LASIK + LENS in St. Louis Park by Mark Lobanoff, M.D., founder and medical director. Dr. Lobanoff built OVO LASIK + LENS to be one of the most advanced centers in the country with cutting-edge technology and has been named a Top Doctor in ophthalmology.

A perfect example of that is RLE, which is considered a groundbreaking outpatient vision correction procedure that replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one—called an intraocular lens—and it can treat astigmatism, farsightedness, nearsightedness and presbyopia, conditions which are usually addressed with contacts or glasses. Here are some key facts about this innovative procedure.

RLE IS DESIGNED FOR LONG-TERM VISION CORRECTION.

Because RLE permanently replaces the dysfunctional lens in the eye, it’s meant to be a lifelong correction, and may even prevent the need for cataract surgery later in life, says Troy Loomis, O.D., optometrist and optometric director at OVO LASIK + LENS, who has had the procedure himself. “Because I had RLE a few years ago, I know what it’s like to say I’m done with glasses, I know the relief that comes with better vision,” he says.

Due to its similarity to cataract surgery—one of the most commonly performed procedures in the world—RLE is a highly established and trusted procedure that requires experience and precision. That’s exactly what Dr. Lobanoff provides, Forrester says. “When you’re thinking about a procedure affecting your eyes, it’s natural to be a little uneasy,” she says. “That’s why I went with Dr. Lobanoff, who came highly recommended, and he earns his reputation for being thorough, patient-centered and accomplished.”

OVO LASIK + LENS offers Minnesota’s only office-based surgical setting designed to make vision correction feel more personal, comfortable and convenient. Unlike a traditional hospital or surgery center environment, OVO’s office-based operating room allows patients to remain in a familiar, specialized setting with the same trusted care team guiding them through the experience.

“Vision is one of the most precious things that we have, and you must have a lot of trust in your surgeon.”

Dr. Lobanoff

RLE is more than a procedure, it’s a personalized vision solution. Dr. Lobanoff combines advanced diagnostics, modern surgical technology, and years of refractive expertise to help patients achieve clearer vision with reduced dependence on readers or glasses.

RLE IS AN OPTION FOR WHEN VISION QUALITY CHANGES WITH AGE.

In terms of who tends to be the best RLE candidate, it’s usually those between their late 40s and early 60s—the timeframe when vision quality fluctuates, especially with close distances. This normal change in focusing ability, called presbyopia, usually progresses gradually, leading to the need for stronger contacts or glasses. “If you’ve tried bifocals, multifocal contacts and readers, and you’re experiencing that progression, you may be a good candidate for RLE,” Dr. Loomis says.

However, the procedure isn’t just for those with gradually deteriorating eyesight. David Schmit, 55, opted for the procedure after three relatives had RLE at OVO LASIK + LENS with Dr. Lobanoff and were very happy with the results.

Schmit had been wearing glasses since he was 10 months old, before switching to contacts at age 15. That means he literally didn’t know what it was like to see clearly without assistance. Even a month after the procedure, he still reaches for his glasses on the nightstand in the morning—only to realize he doesn’t need them anymore. “It’s like night and day,” he says. “When I did the eye test for the first time after the procedure, I couldn’t believe how clear my vision was, and then it just kept getting better. I have to admit I was a little nervous going into this, but I’m very happy I took this step. It’s life changing.”

RECOVERY WITH RLE IS USUALLY FAST.

For Forrester, recovery felt effortless, she says. Her eyes felt a little scratchy for about 48 hours, but antibiotic eye drops soothed them quickly. While Schmit experienced some light sensitivity and blurriness for a couple days, by day three, those were gone. Dr. Loomis had RLE at 5 p.m. one day and came into work at 8 a.m. the next day with no problems. “There’s no pain, and you’re on eye drops for a month that reduce inflammation and provide more lubrication,” he says. Even the procedure itself is quick, he adds—usually only about 25 minutes—and completed on an outpatient basis.

As with any vision correction procedure, learning as much as possible about RLE can help patients feel more comfortable understanding whether it may be the right fit. Forrester had three consultations at OVO LASIK + LENS with Dr. Lobanoff before deciding she wanted to go ahead with the procedure. “They were phenomenal about educating me around the potential risks and rewards, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life,” she says. “It’s mind blowing to be able to see everything so clearly, it’s truly been a fantastic experience from start to finish.”

OVO LASIK + LENS, 6099 Wayzata Blvd Suite 120, St. Louis Park; 877.686.3937 ovoeye.com @ovolasiklens

CHARTED IN HISTORY

Minnetonka Yacht Club hosts the annual Inland Lake Yachting Association Championship.

Written by Renée Stewart-Hester — Photos by Rachel Bartel

Not all championships take place on a field or court, and some competitions hail from much earlier days, including the Inland Lake Yachting Association (ILYA) Championship, which has been setting racecourses on lakes in the United States since the late 1800s. This year, the 2026 ILYA Annual Championship is hosted by the Minnetonka Yacht Club (MYC) and presented by EntreBank of Bloomington.

“We are extremely excited to go to [Lake] Minnetonka,” says Dave Berg, ILYA executive director. “The sailing area is perfect for what we do.” He underscores the “rich history of great sailors on the lake.” (See Winning Winds on page 56 for ILYA-award winners.) “The ILYA annual championship is one of the most unique sailing events in the country,” says Mike Hanson, MYC manager. “Some of the top sailors in the world come out of these inland lakes, and this regatta is a homecoming for them.”

“This is a great honor to host the ILYA championship, our opportunity to roll out the red carpet for visiting teams and show what the community is all about,” says Sam Rogers, event chair, lifelong MYC member and former professional sailor. “It also takes a lot of work from a core of [over 100] volunteers to pull it off at [MYC].”

The origins of the scow-type sailboats raced at these events were developed in Lake Minnetonka’s Carsons Bay in the 1890s by charter members of Minnetonka Yacht Club (MYC).

“[MYC] has a very rich sailing history,” says Sam Rogers, event chair, lifelong MYC club member and former professional sailor. “Longstanding famous Minnesota families, like the Pillsburys, have been racing scows since the late 1800s. Minnesota sailors are responsible for developing and implementing hull designs that have impacted yacht design and racing through today.”

“We live in a time of immense change, but there’s comfort knowing certain traditions remain intact,” says Mike Hanson, MYC manager. “The [Inland Lake Yachting Association] has been gathering every summer since 1898, enduring market crashes, world wars, pandemics, as well as economic upswings, population booms and technological advancements that have transformed nearly every part of life.”

A NEW COURSE

After serving as homebase for the Minnetonka Yacht Club (MYC) and the Lake Minnetonka Sailing School (LMSS), the clubhouse and area on Lake Minnetonka’s Lighthouse Island is set to undergo major reconstruction. “[MYC] has called Lighthouse Island home since 1882, making it one of the oldest yacht clubs in the country,” says Mark Sigel, LMSS board president and MYC member.

“The island’s current facilities were built in 1944, and while they’ve served us well, they simply no longer meet the needs of a growing, thriving sailing community,” Sigel says. LMSS’s enrollment is more than 1,800 students, and MYC membership is over 500. “The aging infrastructure is holding us back from reaching our full potential … The best piece of real estate on Lake Minnetonka deserves a facility that matches it,” he says.

The Lighthouse Island Redevelopment Project aims to transform the facilities shared by MYC and LMSS. The project includes a new 7,500-square-foot clubhouse and reimagined dock and waterfront infrastructure.

“The total fundraising goal for the project is $12 million, which includes an endowment to ensure long-term sustainability and ongoing maintenance of the fleet and new facility,” Sigel says.

The project is in the fundraising phase with a goal of completing the capital campaign by August. “Construction timing will be confirmed once fundraising is complete,” Sigel says. “We’re focused right now on building the financial foundation that will make this project a reality.”

For additional information, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.

The Inland Lakes Yachting Association (ILYA) Championship is routinely hosted at marquee lakes across the Midwest. The Minnetonka Yacht Club last hosted in 2018.

For over 125 years, the ILYA, a nonprofit organization, has acted as the organizer and advocate of amateur yacht racing on the Midwest’s inland lakes, providing competition for sailors of all ages. The ILYA focuses on sailing education, safety, top caliber racing and “great family fun on the water,” according to its website.

“Most of these families have known each other since they were youth sailors,” says Mike Hanson, Minnetonka Yacht Club manager. “They raced as children, and now their children race as well. And despite the friendly rivalries that inevitably develop over decades of competition, there’s immense respect reserved for sailors who have spent a lifetime sharing memories on the water.”

Between four fleets, organizers are expecting close to 200 boats with anywhere from one to seven crew members on board, depending on the size of the craft. Any standing member of the ILYA can participate in the annual championship. There are 48 ILYA member lakes throughout the U.S. Racers typically are from Clear Lake and Lake Okoboji, Iowa; Lake Beulah, Lake Geneva and Pewaukee Lake, Wisconsin; California; Florida; Michigan; New Jersey; and Upstate New York. Lake Minnetonka teams will be well represented, including 25–30 boats. “The fleets are stacked with national and world champions, Olympians and even a fresh crop of America’s Cup sailors,” Hanson says. “Other squads have been racing together for years, and family teams are the norm. This intergenerational camaraderie, combined with the raw power of scow-type boats, makes the competition unlike any other in sailboat racing.”

Spectators can view the race from their own watercraft or from the Cottagewood/ Deephaven shoreline. Organizers intend to work with local charter boat companies to provide on-water spectating opportunities and will release a spectator guide for boaters to safely watch the races without interfering with the competition.

What should spectators know? “The best way to sum up sailboat racing is probably similar to a [Formula One] or high-end ski racing,” says Rogers, who is also competing in this year’s race. “There are technical components of making the sailboat go as fast as possible around the racecourse through sail shape, technique of sailing the boat and crew work. Then, of course, there are the variables that Mother Nature throws at the sailors, including navigating the wind, waves and the occasional bolt of lightning. Sailors are given a start time and a course to sail around set buoys.”

“It’s spectacular to watch,” Berg says. “We’d love to have people out there watching, and there’s certainly enough lake area out there to support it.” Come as you are

Winning Winds

When Dave Berg, Inland Lake Yachting Association’s (ILYA) executive director, speaks of Lake Minnetonka’s history of great sailors, the proof is in the hardware. A healthy list of locals are among those who have been bestowed the ILYA’s Edmund Pillsbury Memorial Cup, which is awarded annually to the outstanding skipper at the annual regatta, according to information provided by Berg.

Local recipients include:

» 1960 and 1961 Chuck Gorgen

» 1964 Stuart Wells III

» 1966 Gordy and Tom Bowers

» 1970 Russ Bennet

» 1972 John Pillsbury III

» 1975 Robert Nuffort Jr.

» 1980 Edmund Chute

» 1981 Mark Christensen

» 1987 Rob Evans

» 1993 Bill Allen

» 1994 Tom Burton

» 1999 David Strothman

» 2000 Rob Evans

» 2002 John Dennis

» 2005 Chris Jewett

» 2024 Tom Burton

The ILYA Hall of Fame was organized in 2002 and also includes notable local names among 30 honorees.

» 2004 John Pillsbury Jr.

» 2006 Edmund Pillsbury and Nat Robbins

» 2008 Gordon Bowers Jr.

» 2009 John Hunt

» 2016 Bill Allen

» 2021 Jack Strothman

» 2023 Jim Gluek

» 2025 Tom Burton

Lake Yachting Association ilya.org @sailtheinland

IN FULL SWING

Golfers at all stages of the game make their mark on the green.

Written by Kassondra Burtis and Zoe Yates

Minnesota’s golf scene continues its upward swing. Last year, the Minnesota Golf Association marked an increase in golf rounds for the sixth time in the last seven years—participation was up nearly 2 percent to over 2.8 million recorded rounds played around the state.

One well-known name hitting the local golf scene is Wayzata’s Katie Bakken, LPGA and PGA golf professional. As professional athletes can attest, they had to start somewhere with inspiration arriving at different points in the journey. Though Bakken’s parents operated a driving range when she was young, she didn’t develop an interest in golf until her teenage years—a situation which could have been different had Team Minnesota (see Supporting Success on page 64) been around during her younger days. “Not many girls golfed when I was growing up,” Bakken says. “I did play in some R3 leagues, but I would always be the only girl, so I would play with the boys.”

conditions for

many tournaments she’s

Bakken’s interest in golf came after she saw women golfing at the professional level. “I caddied an LPGA event at my home course, Edinburgh Golf Course in Brooklyn Park,” Bakken says. “After seeing those ladies play on tour, that became my dream.”

Despite having a self-described slow start to her career, Bakken played in the number one spot for Champlin Park High School’s golf team. After one year at the University of California, Berkeley, she transferred to the University of Minnesota. Her time spent playing in number one position for the Gophers and leading the golf team as a captain prepared Bakken for a professional career. Additionally, personal instruction and heart-to-hearts with coaches boosted Bakken’s confidence in her abilities and potential. “They really helped me, because when you hear [encouragement] from someone, you start to believe it,” she says.

The summer after college, Bakken won the Minnesota Women’s State Open, giving her an additional confidence boost. Her first two seasons out of college, she played the LPGA’s mini tour and Ladies Asian Golf Tour, traveling around the country and Asia. During her third year, she was on the Ladies European Tour, taking her to Dubai, Europe and India.

One of Bakken’s proudest accomplishments is a full-circle moment. “I am proud that I won the Minnesota Women’s State Open during my last months as an amateur and then again in the last month of my professional career,” Bakken says. “So I felt I ended my amateur career nicely and then my pro career nicely too.”

After her professional career, Bakken lived in California for 20 years. In January 2025, she moved back to the area and is now a golf instructor. She enjoys seeing the game grow. “I’m just overwhelmed by the amount of female golfers,” Bakken says. “It just makes me so excited because my biggest passion is to help women get comfortable playing golf— whether it’s to play with their husbands or for business or just with friends.”

In addition to instructing, Bakken is working to revamp Brookview Golf Academy in Golden Valley; she’s increased women’s classes from two to this year’s nearly 100, offered late April to September.

While she helps golfers improve their game, Bakken also looks forward to seeing how Team Minnesota and the United States National Development Program will change the country’s golf landscape. “Other countries have all had national teams for years and years,” Bakken says. “I think this will raise the level of play and competition. For the few that do go pro, it will help.”

Katie Bakken

katiebakken.com

@katiebakkengolf

SUPPORTING SUCCESS

Aspiring golfers in the state have a new opportunity for training and competition. As part of the United States National Development Program (USNDP), Team Minnesota is the state’s first elite junior golf team, created to identify and provide critical development to elite high school golfers between ages 13–18.

“The goal of the state team program is to expand and diversify the pipeline for elite local junior golfers by creating critical development, competitive and talent identification opportunities and strengthen junior golf programs across the country,” says Holly Noble, Team Minnesota captain and Minnesota Golf Association’s women’s golf manager.

Players earn their spot on the team every year by competing in specific tournaments and earning points based on their performance, and being part of a team of similarly focused players has its benefits. “It can be a really solitary game, especially when you’re an elite player. Bringing elite athletes together to spend time together … to share in their successes and to have somebody to turn to when things are challenging, is huge,” Noble says.

Noble utilizes a mix of monthly team training as well as resources the golfers incorporate into their individual training programs. Earlier this year, the team went through teambuilding activities, media training and individual development around their future goals.

“I think this is a huge opportunity, and I’m

really excited about what this will do for junior development within our state,” Noble says. “We have a huge opportunity to build bigger pipelines and provide more resources to more players, specifically from the USNDP. So, I’m hoping in the future, we’ll see that trickle-down effect and really start to expand these resources beyond just the 24 Team Minnesota athletes.”

Meet the local Team Minnesota athletes, who are also part of Minnetonka High School’s 2025 championship golf team.

“I’m honored to be a part of such an amazing program and for it to be its very first year makes it even cooler,” says Elizabeth Fong, 16. She points to her favorite part of being on a team to the “community it builds and all the people I’ve gotten to know better throughout this experience.”

“It means everything … especially to be on the first team and being a role model to the younger girls in Minnesota,” says Kieley Hanson, 17, about being on Team Minnesota. She points to the way players challenge each other to work hard. “Also, just representing the U.S.A. and Minnesota is so special to me because it’s so rare for golf to have a team like this,” she says.

“I personally feel like Minnesota is very underrepresented as far as golf goes, yet we have lots of talent in this sport,” says Ruby Reding, 18, who graduated this year. “To be a representation for the entire state means a lot.” She highlights how teammates improve each

other’s games. “It’s very important to surround yourself with people that are better than you … I can’t wait to continue to build off my teammates to get better,” she says. (Look for Reding on the University of St. Thomas’ golf team.)

“It has been so awesome to see this team come together after playing with and against each other for so long. It offers an amazing place for junior golf in Minnesota to shine,” says Mila Sloan, 17. Shared experiences through being part of a team stand out to Mila. “We all go through really similar things on and off the course, and it’s been amazing to be able to have a support system of really like-minded people. I also love the aspect of playing for something more than yourself, which just adds a whole new layer of meaning to the game,” she says.

“It is a great honor that acknowledges my consistent high-level performance throughout all of last year, and I am grateful for this opportunity to learn and improve alongside the state’s best players,” says Selena Wu, 18, who graduated this year. “I personally enjoy the connectedness of playing on a team because it adds an additional layer of resources and support that you can rely on beyond just yourself.”

Minnesota Golf Association mngolf.org @mngolfassn

Bundl Home

Our homes are a major investment—financially and emotionally—so keeping them in prime condition is essential. As our schedules brim with family, career and social commitments, finding time to properly care for our homes can be challenging. There is a local solution!

Veteran-owned Bundl Home has been proudly serving the community for over two decades. What started as a small, local cleaning business has expanded to better meet the growing need for reliable, high-quality home cleaning services. While they are known for weekly, biweekly and monthly residential cleaning, the service menu also includes one-time deep cleaning and specialty cleaning for windows, hard-to-reach areas, gutters, power washing and more. “Our clients count on us for a consistently high standard of cleaning,” says owner Jay Sachetti. “We take pride in providing a professional, seamless experience for homeowners who expect the best.”

Clients value the ease, quality and reliability that the Bundl Home team provides. “… I’m so impressed by the Bundl crew and how clean they made our house—never seen it so clean,” a satisfied customer says. Another

neighbor had the team out to clean interior and exterior windows of their two-story home and raves, “I was blown away at how clear the windows and screens were. The two gentlemen were courteous and meticulous.”

With over 150 years of combined tenure on the team, Bundl Home’s professional crews specialize in servicing homes in some of the area’s most exclusive neighborhoods, including pristine properties on Lake Minnetonka, Bearpath Golf & Country Club in Eden Prairie and Edina’s Rolling Green and Sunny Slope neighborhoods, along with many more.

Bundl Home is also committed to its team, providing industry-leading benefits for over 30 technicians. “Our employees are the foundation of our success,” Sachetti says. “We invest in their training and well-being, ensuring they are motivated to deliver exceptional service for every client.”

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Bundl Home puts out the welcome mat for new customers with a $200 bonus when they sign up for recurring services.

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Bonfe Home Services

When it comes to caring for your home, Bonfe provides trusted service and high-quality, reliable products for HVAC, plumbing, electrical and sewer systems—including air conditioners, electrical panels, furnaces, softeners, water heaters and more. Founded in St. Paul in 1993 by the Bonfe family, Bonfe remains 100 percent family-owned and locally operated and proudly provides Twin Cities homeowners with exceptional service and lasting peace of mind through its industry-leading Lifetime Warranty on repairs and installations, 24/7 emergency availability and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Bonfe’s expert technicians are also knowledgeable about sustainability practices, making it easy to upgrade to high-efficiency systems, install smart thermostats and maintain equipment. (Friendly reminder: Schedule your A/C tune up!) “Our experienced technicians clean, test and evaluate

systems to prevent surprise breakdowns and keep energy bills in check,” says Jake Niebur, HVAC team lead. “We care for homes like they’re our own, delivering honest solutions and quality service.”

Homeowners agree. “My furnace, water heater and toilets are all running correctly because of the Bonfe team.” Emily says.

“Bonfe saved me. We had out-of-town guests, and our shower decided to spring a leak,” Judy says. With regular rates from 7 a.m.-10 p.m., 7 days a week, Bonfe is the trusted choice for thousands of homeowners. Its service extends outside of the home too. “We don’t just work in the Twin Cities—we’re part of it,” says owner Pete Bonfe. “Through Bonfe Cares, we partner with local organizations, supporting causes that strengthen our communities. It’s our way of staying involved and giving back to the place we call home.”

Pop Goes the Celebrations

Community-wide festivities mark special Fourth of July events.

Summer’s unofficial midpoint holiday, the Fourth of July, comes with an extra dose of celebration this year as the country marks its 250th anniversary. Several lake area communities continue to offer their annual gatherings with festivities and patriotic celebrations. From fireworks to parades, here are some local spots to celebrate the Fourth of July, the semiquincentennial and summertime fun.

Delano hosts one of the area’s largest multiday celebrations from July 1–4 in Central Park. Highlights include carnival rides and games, the Firecracker 5K, fireworks, free live music, a medallion hunt, parades and various tournaments, including axe throwing and water ball, throughout the weekend. Visit delano4th.com for schedules and updates.

The Excelsior-Lake Minnetonka Chamber of Commerce will host the 50th Firecracker Race, followed by the Kids Parade on July 4 in downtown Excelsior. There will be food trucks, live music, a petting zoo and a popsicle social. Visit excelsiorlakeminnetonka chamber.com and ci.excelsior.mn.us for schedules and updates.

Later in the month, from July 16–18, Mound’s Surfside Park is the scene for the annual Spirit of the Lakes Festival, featuring family-friendly activities, fireworks over Cooks Bay, food vendors, live music and a parade. Visit spiritofthelakes.com for schedules and updates.

Wayzata offers loads of family-friendly events on July 4. Kick off the day with a Pancake Breakfast from 8 a.m.–noon at the historic Wayzata Depot. The Kiddie Parade is set for 10 a.m.–noon on Broadway Avenue. For children 10 and younger, the Mini Olympics is planned for 12:30–2 p.m. at Wayzata West Middle School. Visit wayzata.org for additional event details.

—Abigail Larson

07.04, 07.11, 07.18 and 07.25

Farmers Market

Stop by Saturday mornings from 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at 5515 Shoreline Drive, Mound, to purchase art, coffee, locally grown produce, soaps and more. facebook.com

07.09

The 70’s Magic Sunshine Band

Take a trip back in time with The 70’s Magic Sunshine Band from 6–9 p.m at Lord Fletcher’s Old Lake Lodge in Spring Park. lordfletchers.com

07.11

Mud Run

Join this 3.4-mile loop with fun familyfriendly obstacles, including a giant waterslide, hay bale climbing and more. There is an additional Mini Mud Run for younger children. Registration opens at 8 a.m., and the run starts at 9:15 a.m. at Lake Minnewashta Regional Park. minnetonkaschools.org

07.16–07.18

Spirit of the Lakes

Experience a weekend full of art, food, live music, a parade and more, beginning at 5 p.m. and a boat-in movie at 9:30 p.m. Thursday; 3–9 p.m. Friday; and 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday at Surfside Park in Mound. spiritofthelakes.com

07.16–07.19

Crazy Days

Visit downtown Excelsior for summer sales at community shops throughout the town. Times are dependent on business operating hours. excelsiorlakeminnetonkachamber.com

07.18

The Lake Minnetonka Wakesurf Open

As part of the Spirit of the Lakes Festival, watch surfers compete on Surfside Park shores and in boats on Cooks Bay. In addition to the competition, experience booth markets, a firework show, food trucks and live music. Times are dependent on the competition schedule. tonkawakesurfopen.com

Listen to Fun in the

on a trolley ride with Ms. Debra at 5 and 6 p.m., boarding at the Excelsior Streetcar Line ticket booth. trolleyride.org

Compiled by Abigail Larson and Kate Thompson

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 may have changed since these pages went to print. Please visit affiliated websites for updates.

Into Frame

Look through your photo files. What do you see? Whether it’s a candid moment, an iconic area landmark, a brush with nature or something in between, odds are it captures a glimpse of what it’s like to call Lake Minnetonka area home. From July 1–August 31, our annual Lens on Lake Minnetonka photo contest is open to photographers of all ages and experience levels. Explore your shots from this past year, and share what the spirit of this community looks like through your lens. Categories include: Abstract, People, Pets, Places, Seasons and Wildlife.

Visit lakeminnetonkamag.com for additional rules and information.

Spinnaker’s Up by Mary McGovern was taken on Lake Minnetonka during a sailing regatta. “My friends took me out on their boat to get in the midst of the action,” says McGovern. Of this photo, she notes, “I feel that it captures the moment, and you can see the crew of six working hard to hold those sails.” —Renée Stewart-Hester

Photographer: Mary McGovern Title: Spinnaker’s Up Equipment: Sony ILCE-7 with a 70–200mm lensx

Location: Lake Minnetonka Category: Seasons Award: First Place

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

LEADERS IN CARE. EXPERTS IN MOTION.

At Summit Orthopedics, we’re proud to be Minnesota’s only top-ranked orthopedic and spine outpatient surgery center as recognized by U.S. News & World Report. And while our expertise sets us apart, it’s how we care for people that defines us. Even after thousands of procedures, we treat each patient like the only one.