Issuu

Local women open their dream clothing boutique with curated styles

It Adds Up

ORONO, WATERFRONT, $2,450,000 Just completed gorgeous new construction with 90 ft of waterfront. Unending upgrades and superb attention to the finest details. 4000 Sq Ft finished, Main floor living with a fully finished walkout lower level. 4+ bdrm.

Tim Berg 612-250-2255

ABSOLUTELY EXTRAORDINARY A simply idyllic 2.5 acre private homesite surrounds this impressive 5 bedroom, 6 bath walkout rambler with four beds on the main, expansive gathering areas throughout and located only a few minutes to downtown Wayzata!

The Hermann Group | 612-460-1220 Stephanie Adams | 651-398-7215

Marie Marie Suchy Suchy Licensed Realtor Licensed Realtor Minnesota Minnesotaand and Florida Florida

White Bear Lake Office | Hwy. 61 & 4th St. | 651.426.7172

612-599-9661 612-599-9661 www.mariesuchyhomes.com www.mariesuchyhomes.com mariesuchy@edinarealty.com mariesuchy@edinarealty.com 1000 Superior 200 MN 55391 1000 Superior Blvd., Ste.Blvd., 200,Ste. Wayzata, Wayzata, MN 55391

CUSTOM BUILT VILLA Stunning villa showcasing beautiful finishes throughout. Features include tall ceilings, sun-filled open floor plan, gorgeous built-ins, inviting sun room, walkout lower level and oversized, heated 3-stall garage.

The Hermann Group 612-460-1220

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D E S I G N B U I L D R E N O VAT E

FEBRUARY 2024 Author Charmaine J. Forde once noted, “Though February is short, it is filled with lots of love and sweet surprises.” Readers, we hope you find many examples of the same throughout our February issue!

Photo: Chris Emeott

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G G

GRIEGER GROUP WHEN SUCCESS MATTERS

D E PA RT M E NTS

16 A Fine Line Excelsior restaurant aims to surprise and delight.

18 Get Ready What’s on your travel planning to do list?

20 Slope Savvy Eric Iberg shares his love for skiing through films and on the hills.

F E AT U R E S

SOLD

minnetonka beach

Minnetonka

OFFERED AT $4,895,000 5 BED, 4 BATH, APPROX. 5,857 FSF

OFFERED AT $789,000 4 BED, 3 BATH, APPROX. 3,258 FSF

This chic oasis sits in a quiet neighborhood in coveted Minnetonka Beach on approximately 1.2 acres with approximately 150 feet of lakeshore. Close to parks and trails the landmark property oozes with character and features worldclass landscaping. Renovated and updated throughout with the perfect contemporary touches, the home is classic, yet stylish and hip.

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

SOLD

minnetonka

deephaven

OFFERED AT $1,199,000 5 BED, 4 BATH, APPROX. 4,344 FSF

OFFERED AT $1,295,000 4 BED, 4 BATH, APPROX. 3,524 FSF

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

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

24 Travel for Two Personal guides, private tours and pure relaxation can enhance honeymoon experiences.

26 It Adds Up Local women open their dream clothing boutique with curated styles.

32 You’ve Got Mail Grace Berbig shepherds a global club, spreading love and support through letters.

TAST E M A K E RS

38 Cheers for Charity A local vodka brand, focused on lake life, gives back to families affected by cancer—a cause close to the founders’ hearts.

IN E V E RY ISS U E

6 11 45 48

Editor’s Letter Noteworthy On the Town Last Glance

G G

TRUSTED REAL ESTATE EXPERT 612.382.4952 M A R KG R I E G E R @ C B R E A LT Y. C O M G R I E G E R G R O U P. C O M

FROM THE EDITOR Re n é e Stewart- Hester — renee@loca lm edia .co

Photo: Chris Emeott

There are spaces in our home that hold treasured notes and letters from my children, husband and parents. When I happen to come across them, I pause. Reread. Remember. And carry on with a renewed dose of sweet memories. My father, in particular, was gifted when it came to offering important toasts, giving heartfelt speeches at family gatherings and penning newsy letters. While he was a man of few words, he was a talented wordsmith when the time or occasion called for him to express himself. His words held weight. I am fortunate to have some of his letters he wrote to me and one he wrote to his mother-in-law on the occasion of my maternal grandfather’s death in the 1970s. My dad poignantly expressed his admiration for his father-in-law and wrote about the process of grief and healing over time. So lovely and timeless are his words that I read that same letter during my eulogy for my father. In a time when so much emphasis is being placed on editing down our spaces of “joyless” and less frequently used items, I am resolute when it comes to saving letters and cards that beautifully capture a moment in time. I will forever treasure the large-print “Mom” on cards from our children, their words of appreciation expressed in letters they wrote as they got older, and the moving words a daughter-in-law wrote as she expressed how she felt about our son and their impending marriage. In a world when too much is transitory and quickly changing, holding tight to remnants of one’s tangible history is so valuable. Grace Berbig also appreciates the value of handwritten cards. Read on page 32 about Letters of Love, which the Long Lake resident created as an homage to her late mother, who was prolific in penning loving notes to her family. This Valentine’s Day, consider writing (with a pen, rather than a keyboard!) a note to a loved one or friend. Give them the gift of your words, which can last longer than a flower’s bloom or the sweet taste of chocolate. Get writing!

On the Cover Jill Zafke and Brionne Johnson, photo by Chris Emeott, page 26 See what we’re doing behind the scenes and around town! Lake Minnetonka Magazine @lakeminnetonkamag @lmtkmag

February 2024

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VOL. 18 NO. 10 lakeminnetonkamag.com

PUBLISHER Susan Isay EDITOR Renée Stewart-Hester MANAGING CREATIVE DIRECTOR Renée Stewart-Hester

New Location, Same Great Care!

MANAGING EDITOR Hailey Almsted DIGITAL EDITOR Madeline Kopiecki COPY EDITORS Kellie Doherty, Sherri Hildebrandt STAFF WRITERS Jody Carey, Mollee Francisco, Emily Gedde, Meredith Heneghan, Daniel Huss, Jennifer Pitterle, Rachel Schuehle, Josie Smith, Kristie Smith CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Hollie Blanchard, Laurel Famigletti, Alison Feik, Tracy Hvezda-Lehtola, Sarah Jackson, Dan Keegan, Spencer Olson, Kirsten Pardoe, Rachael Perron, Aaron Person, Raela Schoenherr, Lisa Stevens, Katie Tomsche, Liz Vandam EDITORIAL INTERNS Morgan McFadden, Emma Mehl EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Laura Bray, board member, Friends of the Excelsior Library; Brooke Beyer, director of community events and marketing, Wayzata Area Chamber; Mary Cornelius, Communications Specialist, Minnetonka Public Schools; David Decker, House Novel; Kelly Olsen, Olsen Global; Michele Phillips, blogger, writer, photographer; Amanda Zielike, House Novel

NOW OPEN! 10150 Niagara Lane N, Suite 100 Maple Grove, MN 55369 As the Twin Cities’ largest and most experienced cancer treatment provider, we know that treating cancer calls for more than compassion. It means giving our patients access to more than 100 cancer care experts, evidence-based treatment paths, close-to-home locations and comprehensive services to support the whole person. Our compassionate team works tirelessly towards

one common goal – fighting cancer.

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 Cynthia Hamre, Mary-Catherine Hartel, Sara Johnson, Abbie Kinn, Kathie Smith

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 2024. All rights reserved.

mnoncology.com 8

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CUSTOM HOMES OPEN THE DOOR TO LAKE MINNETONKA LIVING JEFF MARTINEAU | COLDWELL BANKER REALTY | JMARTINEAU@CBBURNET.COM | 952.210.2626

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We build character.

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2024

ca n c e l l e d While there’s no sled dog race this February, the Klondike Dog Derby continues... In following our mission for education, we will continue our presentations at area elementary schools. Each year, we share with thousands of area children the incredible athleticism of the dogs, the history of the sport, and the passion of all of the people involved in sled dog racing. To request a visit, please contact education@klondikedogderby.com

cutest puppy contest Saturday FEB 3, 2024 from 1:00 PM

' til 5:00 PM

excelsior brewing co.

for details!

Be sure to visit klondikedogderby.com and follow us on social for information on our ’24-’25 brewery fundraiser tour and the 2025 race weekend! 10

N OT E WO RT H Y

lo c al tip s, tidb its & insi ght s

TA S T E

EASY AND CLASSIC This super easy (and low sugar) mousse can be enjoyed immediately, unlike other mousses that require setting time. EASY CHOCOLATE MOUSSE » 3.5 oz dark chocolate, 85 percent » 2–3 drops chocolate extract, optional » 8.8 oz. heavy cream » 2 Tbsp. Swerve confectioners’ sweetener Optional Decorations » 4.2 oz heavy cream » ½ Tbsp. Swerve confectioners’ sweetener » additional dark chocolate, grated Break up the chocolate in a nonstick pan, and place it on a low heat until it completely melts. Add a few drops of chocolate extract (if using); set aside to cool. In a clean bowl, whip the cream and sweetener to semi-soft peaks using a hand mixer. Once the chocolate has cooled, fold it into the whipped cream until incorporated. The mixture will stiffen quickly, so spoon or pipe it immediately into your serving glasses or bowls. If you choose to make decorations, whip together the cream and sweetener to stiff peaks, and spoon or pipe them over the chocolate mousse. Grate over any chocolate you may have left to finish. Note: These can be made ahead of time and kept covered in the fridge, but I suggest that you to remove them

iStock.com/Anna_Shepulova

from the fridge about 30 minutes before eating.

Kate Doubler is a nurse and online health influencer. Taste more at realfoodrn.com.

February 2024

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N OT E WO RT H Y

VIEW

Simple Solitude

The joy I felt was immediate when I saw this portrait of a

Title: Lady Brenda’s Yellow Cup

woman, who embodied strength while basking in simple soli-

Medium: Acrylic on Canvas

tude. Beverly Hammond says, “My husband, Drew, captured my

Scale: 20x20

mother’s heart, her grace and her beauty alongside her favorite

Artist: Andrew Hammond

beverage. My mother raised me by myself from the age of 2. She worked hard as a nurse anesthetist and gave me the world by sending me to Paris at 16. She wanted the very best for me, and I loved to sneak a teaspoon of her coffee. I still have several of her stoneware yellow cups that keep her spirit alive, knowing my superhero is with me.”

Hollie Blanchard is a founder and art concierge with The Art Girls. View more at artgirlsmpls.com. Art Girls Minneapolis @artgirls_mpls

February 2024

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l o ca l t i p s , t i d bits & in sig h ts

READ

Extraordinary Novel In honor of both Black History Month and Valentine’s Day, this month’s recommendation is a historical spy romance about a formerly enslaved Black woman, serving as a spy for the Union during the Civil War. An Extraordinary Union by Alyssa Cole is the first book in The Loyal League series and centers on Elle, a woman with a photographic memory, who teams up with Malcolm, a Pinkerton spy, to help put an end to a Confederate plot to win the war. Cole has said she never thought she’d want to write a story set during the Civil War, but this series’ strong and brave heroines, who risk their lives for a cause and find love in the midst of a dark time, has garnered much praise, including from Entertainment Weekly, Vulture, Oprah Daily, Buzzfeed and more. This action-packed and romantic read is fast-paced and ultimately uplifting, keeping the pages turning until the very end.

Raela Schoenherr works in marketing at a publishing company and is a lifelong lover of books and reading.

N OT E WO RT H Y

C R E AT E

Bouquets on the Go Valentine’s Day is a rainmaker for the floral industry with $2.3 billion spent in the United States (2022) on flowers, according to statista.com. Not all of those bouquets or stems come with proper hydration, so how can one best preserve cut stems from the store (or garden!) to the car and to a loved-one’s arms or table? John Benzick had an idea in 2021 as he impulsively purchased flowers for his wife, Megan. “It was then that I thought that it would be great if there was some sort of reusable flower water pouch that could be purchased along with the flowers to help with transportation, to avoid damaging flowers and to hydrate the flowers,” says the Excelsior resident. Within a few hours of his initial thought, Benzick created a mockup of a product and promised himself that he’d visit 10 florists within two days to get their feedback. (The prototype came later.) With a majority giving positive input, Benzick moved to develop GoGo Flower, a reusable floral pouch, which is prefilled with water and flower food ($3.99–$4.99). Find GoGo Flower at Kowalski’s Markets, select Coborn’s, Cub and Hy-Vee locations. The product is also in supermarket chains in Chicago, Missouri and Oklahoma and in floral shops in the Twin Cities and around the country (Flower Bar, Flowerama, Main St. Floral, North Country Floral, Lilia Flower Boutique, Your Enchanted Florist, etc.). Purchase the flowers (or even pick them from your garden), open the pouch and place the flowers inside. If driving, the pouch can be secured to a headrest to avoid tipping. —Renée Stewart-Hester

To read more about Benzick’s business journey, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com, and learn more about his business at gogoflower.co. GoGo Flower, LLC @gogo.flower.brand

Roses are Red, Violettes are Blue Martini

A Poetic Toast

• 2 oz. Far North Spirits’ Sölveig Anna’s Garden gin • a splash, Rothman & Winter’s crème de violette • a splash, Egbert’s cocktail cherry juice • a squeeze, fresh lemon Mix ingredients in a shaker (or stir if preferred), and pour into a martini or coup glass. Garnish with an Egbert’s cherry—or a rose!

Dan Keegan owns Glenlake Wine and Spirits in Minnetonka. Sip more at glenlakews.com.

February 2024

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Photo: GoGo Flower

SIP

l o ca l t i p s , t i d bits & in sig h ts

We hope you will join us for

GALA 2 0 2 4

DISCOVER

Remembering the Corset

Promoting and protecting the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Saturday, March 2, 2024

The first example of a corset

6:00 pm Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel • The Depot

appeared in statues made by the Minoan people, who lived on the island of Crete around 1000 B.C. The statues depicted goddesses wearing a garment that made the waist appear tiny in comparison

The evening will include a cocktail reception, dinner and program, live auction, Fund-a-Need, delectable desserts and dancing.

with the rest of the body. It wasn’t until the 1500s and 1600s that corsets became a popular fashion statement. Women wore them under and over garments to emphasize the fullness of the bust and to flatten the stomach. After a brief time in the early 1800s when the “empire waist” style was popular, corsets again became a mainstay of women’s fashion. The purpose, again, was to shrink the appearance of the waist. Unfortunately, they could cause bodily damage, such as lung and internal organ compression. After World War I and as more women entered the workforce, corsets evolved into separate bras and girdles. Today, one might say they’ve influenced current shapewear.

Jan Cook serves as president of the City of Minnetonka Historical Society. Discover more at minnetonka-history.org.

For more information about sponsorships or to

purchase tickets, please visit: arcminnesota.org/gala2024

THE MENU

A Fine Line Excelsior restaurant aims to surprise and delight. By Mollee Francisco

IN THE WORLD OF sailboat racing, a layline is an imaginary line to follow to get the boat from Point A to Point B to clear the mark on the correct side. In the world of fine dining, Layline in Excelsior may be the perfect place to take that special someone and clear the mark on the correct side this Valentine’s Day. Layline opened last July at 301 Water St. in the former Gary’s First Class Car Care, bringing its elevated dining experience to downtown Excelsior. “We felt it was in need of something sophisticated,” says Aaron Switz, founder and CEO of Innerbloom Hospitality. (Layline is Innerbloom Hospitality’s fifth restaurant in the Lake Minnetonka area.) Layline features an eclectic menu of curated, contemporary American fare. “The beauty of this one is we’re not a certain genre,” Switz says. “It’s balanced,

approachable. This menu reflects what we think we’re really good at.” Innerbloom Hospitality teamed up with Argentinian chef Daniel Del Prado on Layline as he continues to lend his influence on restaurants around the Twin Cities. Layline represents the group’s and the chef’s third partnership following previous collaborations on Macanda and Josefina in Wayzata. “He’s really, really talented,” says Switz of Del Prado. “He brings great perspective.” Switz says the restaurant is a strong representation of what each of them do well. Seafood has a large presence on Layline’s menu with options for everything from oysters, mussels and scallops to calamari, salmon and sea bass. The menu also has a selection of salads, pastas and sandwiches. Switz says the plan is to revise the menu four to five times a

year to showcase seasonal products. Layline’s menu also brings a modern twist to both familiar dishes and drinks. “We’re pretty unique on the food and beverage side,” Switz says. The calamari and rock shrimp appetizer comes with a Thai dipping sauce to give it an Asian flare. The carbonara features smoked spaghetti, and the ribeye includes a salsa verde. Drinks skew to the feminine side, Switz says, but they, too, play with expectations. The Gimlet is flavored with dill and white chocolate. The Cosmojito is cranberry-rhubarb. And Layline’s signature martini—dubbed the Forest Floor Martini—has spruce tips and rosemary with a mushroom vermouth. The uniqueness of the food and drink is matched by the restaurant’s interior. Switz says the eclectic tropical design

February 2024

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2166 Shadywood Road, Orono, MN 55391 Layline, 301 Water St., Excelsior; 952.856.8003; laylinerestaurant.com Layline

@laylinerestaurant

4 Bedroom / 4 Bath 4,877 Finished Sq. Feet $2,995,000.00

Spectacular lakeshore retreat offering prime Crystal Bay east-facing shoreline. Gourmet kitchen with granite and SS appliances, grand master suite with conservatory and incredible third story guest quarters. 2nd L Amusement room, ideal when entertaining!

Photos: Layline

with its bold palm wallpaper gives him White Lotus vibes. “We wanted it to be unexpected,” he says. “The space has got to be beautiful. You’ve got to feel good when you enter.” The only remnants of the historic Gary’s First Class Car Care are the garage doors, which allow Layline to add to its 80 interior seats with another 50 or so on the patio during warmer weather. The relatively intimate space helps staff create a memorable experience for diners. Switz says they pride themselves on good hospitality and good execution. “We take a lot of time when we open,” he says. “We want to get things just right.” Due to seasonal menu changes, call Layline, or visit the restaurant’s website for up-to-date dining and beverage options.

•

Awarded top producer and established expert in the Lake Minnetonka community

•

In-depth understanding of today’s market and trends

•

Experience and creativity for all real estate needs

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Unmatched service and results

KR I S T I W E I N S TO CK REALTOR® C. 612.309.8332 kdweinstock@cbburnet.com weinstockgroup.com 19400 Highway 7 Excelsior, MN 55331

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. 2125C5-DC_MN_12/21

D E S T I N AT I O N S

Get Ready What’s on your travel planning to do list? By Renée Stewart-Hester

A WELL-EXECUTED TRIP rests in the details. While booking transportation and hotel accommodations take center stage, there are a host of other items that can make or break your well-deserved visit to your preferred destinations. We’ve gathered some (certainly not all!) items to place on your before-yougo list:

Medical Insurance: Contact your provider to get a clear picture about what is and isn’t covered while you’re out of town, state or country. Medications: Confirm with the locations that you will travel to and through about what over-the-counter and prescription medications are allowed. Weather Forecast: Check (and recheck) what the weather has in mind during your visit. Remember that temperatures along coastlines or near bodies of water tend to “feel” colder than indicated.

Social and Political Climate: Do your research before you arrive. Apprise yourself of any current or potential unrest, including worker strikes, which could affect your personal safety, access to transportation or access to special destinations. (Some museums, for example, will close for strikes or if demonstrations are on or near the site.) Visit travel.state.gov to begin your research.

Previews: There never seems to be enough time to read all the information at a tour stop or museum. Do a bit of preparation by researching some of the artifacts, artwork, locations or moments (and people) of history that you’ll be viewing on your visit. Doing so can provide informational context and save time during your trip.

Phone Plans: Dial up your provider to confirm out-of-the-area phone and text rates. (Check into WhatsApp for photo sharing with family and friends at home.) Prebook Museum Tickets: Save time (and your patience) by prebooking museum or other touring destinations. Be sure to understand how and if you can cancel or rebook your visit or tour. Keep that information with you, so you don’t have to work around language barriers or internet service if you need to make a change.

February 2024

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W AY Z AT A J E W E L E R S Custom Design|Manufacture|Repair|Diamonds|Gemstones

1250 Wayzata Blvd E | 952.473.2131 wayzatajewelers.com

Religious or Sacred Venues: While packing, review the clothing and headwear protocols in place for these locations.

Illustrations: Jamie Klang

Walking/Hiking Shoes: While some like to have brand spanking new kicks for their trip, at the very least, break your shoes in at home a few weeks ahead of departure. Your arches and blister points will thank you. Traveling with Kids? Pack snacks that double as “activities.” For example, snack-size, chocolatecovered candies can be sorted by color, counted and organized into a graph before eating. (This works with animal crackers, too!) Bring comfortable headphones that can be used on the airplane. (The complimentary earbuds available on some flights don’t always work for petite ears.) If the in-air video entertainment suffers a performance glitch, or you prefer other types of entertainment, slip some old-school activities into your carry-on: activity sheets, books, flashcards (that focus on a part of your trip), playing cards, travel games, etc. For information about traveling with personal electronics, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com, and read our February 2023 article— Safety First: How to Smart Travel.

PORTRAIT

Slope Savvy Eric Iberg shares his love for skiing through film and on the hills. By Emily Gedde

MINNESOTA AND WINTER go hand

in hand. While known for its seasonal changes, all things winter likely come to mind when thinking about this northern state. Embracing winter helps make what can seem like a neverending season full of low temperatures

and high snow piles more bearable— Excelsior’s Eric Iberg is a prime example of this tenet. The Edina native loves skiing— always has. Iberg refers to local ski hills as his babysitters while growing up. Going from school to the slopes

was a winter routine and something he looked forward to doing. Eventually, skiing is what he made his career out of, and he strives to inspire others to get involved in the sport. Iberg is co-founder of Armada Skis, a company with a mission “to support the

February 2024

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Eric Iberg of Excelsior is shown at Mount Hood in Oregon in 2002 while filming his second movie, Stereotype.

To Advertise

sara johnson

Photo: Philippe Larose

952.250.1859 | sara@localmedia.co

pioneering athletes and build the products that would redefine skiing,” according to its website. He is also a co-founder of Inspired brands, which include music and video production, and is working to organize Midwest ski events for youth. “I’m working with the governing body that oversees youth development for freestyle skiing,” he says. “My goal is to bring the best in the skiing industry to come meet these kids.” Iberg knows firsthand the possibilities that exist in the professional world of skiing. Growing up, he loved the sport but ultimately saw a future in baseball. He left Minnesota to play baseball at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, choosing a college near mountains so he could ski in his free time. The baseball dream was cut short just about a month into college due to an arm injury. Around the same time, skiers were performing some incredibly challenging tricks on skis, which always interested Iberg. Iberg started viewing ski movies in his spare time. “I always loved ski movies, and only a few people make them in the whole world,” he says. It didn’t take long for the college freshman to quit school and buy a camera to commence filming his own movies. Iberg admits making movies was more challenging than he originally anticipated. Back in Minnesota, the aspiring filmmaker made connections and organized a ski jump event at Buck Hill in Burnsville in 1999 that attracted about 150 people from around the Midwest. “It was awesome,” he says of the event that turned out to be the first of many he would help organize. At 21, Iberg made his first ski movie, Royalty, and positive feedback spurred him to explore starting a ski company.

PLAN ON IT B Dog Off the Leash is set to be at Wild Mountain in Taylor Falls on March 2. Iberg is B Dog’s (aka professional skier Phil Casabon) personal manager. Follow @casablunt and @inspiredmediatv on Instagram for updated information.

WHAT ARE TWIN-TIP SKIS? Twin-tip skies are modified versions of their alpine counterparts and are designed to enable a skier to take off and land backward while jumping and to ski backwards (switch) down a slope with curved tips and tails. The name

Top left: In 1996, Eric Iberg takes to the air at Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington.

Top right: Eric Iberg with the original Armada Skis team during the summer of 2003 on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.

Bottom: Skier Phil Larose from Quebec hits the rails in front of the Minnesota state capitol while filming Eric Iberg’s movie Royalty in 2000.

February 2024

lakeminnetonkamag.com

Photos: Eric Iberg; Matt Levinthal

comes from the dual shape of the ski.

“I was working with a lot of people who weren’t being listened to by their ski companies,” he says. “Looking back, all these kids left these big budget salaries and joined forces with a lot of people who started our ski company.” Now, 20 years later, after traveling the world, taking part in more than 20 ski films and working with some of the best in the business, Iberg and his family are back in Minnesota. His next career goal is presenting opportunities in the ski industry to youth—whether it’s participating in skiing, filming it, judging it or more. “There aren’t a lot of opportunities in Minnesota to take twin-tip skiing to the next level,” he says. “I want to help change that … I want kids to be able to go somewhere like Duluth or Brainerd to see what’s out there. They need direction and need to be nurtured to take it to the next level.” Iberg says skiing adds value away from the sport of it. “Skiing is what has brought me my best friends from all different parts of the globe … Skiing has introduced me to different cultures and allowed me to bring different cultures together,” he says.

Shop with us ! In-Store or Online

14401 Highway 7 in Minnetonka www.generalstoreofminnetonka.com

polovitzgroup.com 612.743.6801

Visit lakeminnetonkamag.com to read more about Iberg. inspiredmvmt.com @inspiredmediatv armadaskis.com Armada Skis

@armadaskis

WRI T T EN BY J O DY CA REY

Personal guides, private tours and pure relaxation can enhance honeymoon experiences.

travel for two ’Tis the season—for love and honeymoon planning. With couples taking advantage of the December holidays and Valentine’s Day this month to ding ceremony and reception. Once the date for the vow exchange and celebration is set, it’s time to put thought into planning the honeymoon.

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

pop the question, there’s more on the planning docket than just the wed-

TOP HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS If you’re fresh out of travel ideas, Yokiel says there are some favorite honeymoon locations to consider:

Minnesota Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior, Tofte Grandview Lodge on Gull Lake, Nisswa

United States Napa Valley, California Hawaiian Islands

Oh, how we love honeymoons—that cherished time to relax and spend together after the wedding buzz and before the flurry of penning thank you notes. While the tradition continues, how couples spend their honeymoon is changing. A growing number of newlyweds are adding customized memory-filled experiences for an enhanced getaway. Jennifer Yokiel, a travel agent at Minnetonka Travel, helps couples plan their perfect honeymoon—whether it’s sightseeing in Europe, soaking up the sun on a Caribbean island or visiting closer-to-home hideaways. “[For many couples], it’s their first time planning an itinerary trip … so it’s a little overwhelming,” Yokiel says. Many couples are looking for more than a flight and hotel. They want a personalized venture. “Couples are looking for more privacy with smaller groups. It’s a trend that enhances the honeymoon experience,” Yokiel says. Consider utilizing private drivers, who are at the ready to take the newlyweds wherever they want to venture while suggesting local hotspots away from the touristy or clichéd areas. “The memories you walk away from, rather than going as a group with a tour guide, is such a different experience,” Yokiel says. (There certainly is a place for group adventure if that is what the couple is interested in for their trip.) LET’S GET STARTED Yokiel recommends planning early, and if using a travel agent, start the conversation at least six months before the wedding. If traveling outside the country, she says that if one or both newlyweds are changing their last name(s), don’t feel the rush to make the switch prior to travel. The original names should be listed on the passports for the honeymoon. “If you’re traveling right after your wedding, you want to wait to change your passport because you can’t change it until you have your marriage certificate, and you just don’t have enough time,” Yokiel says. (This might not be the case if the trip is planned several months after the wedding. Just be sure to consider the timing.) Travel post-COVID-19 is back to normal—kind of.

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The Americas Banff, Alberta, Canada St. Lucia, Eastern Caribbean Riviera Maya, Mexico

Europe Italy Spain Switzerland

While COVID vaccines are no longer required (Check with a travel clinic about other vaccines.), there are some elements of travel that haven’t reverted back to pre-pandemic times. For example, Yokiel says lines are longer at popular destinations. “Since COVID, almost everything has gone to reservations. You can’t really show up any more … it’s capacity controlled now,” she says. Yokiel says to avoid overscheduling. “There’s so much joy in walking a destination and having that freedom to just take in downtime,” she says, recommending hiring a local guide for a personal walking tour. It’s an ideal way to experience the flavor of a neighborhood and discover the uniqueness of the area. To immerse in local cultures, Yokiel suggests having an agent arrange for an in-home experience, where locals prepare a meal for the couple, allowing them to truly delve into the local cuisine and culture. LET’S GET REGISTERED To fund these once-in-a-lifetime experiences, some couples add their honeymoon to their gift registry, which can be a wonderful way to provide friends and family an opportunity to contribute toward a postwedding getaway. If doing so, Yokiel advises that couples, “Put down portions … $100 or $50 toward airfare [for example], where people can add so many [portions] to the cart,” she says. Cash gifts work, too, but family and friends appreciate being part of a specific honeymoon memory. Many wedding guests enjoy chipping in for specific experiences. Think: monetary gifts toward for a scooter ride through the stunning vistas of Tuscany, breakfast in Paris boulangerie, a snorkeling excursion in the blue waters of Jamaica or a catamaran day trip to view the beauty of St. Lucia. Wherever the honeymoon leads, follow your heart. Minnetonka Travel, 319 Barry Ave. S. #205, Wayzata; 952.475.3500; minnetonkatravel.com Minnetonka Travel

It Adds Up

In math, six is considered a perfect number. The same could be said for in fashion. Take, for example, the origin story of an upscale Excelsior boutique. Every so often, two people meet and make an instant connection. Jill Zafke and Brionne Johnson experienced just that. From starting an e-commerce fashion business to now running a successful women’s boutique in Excelsior, these two women are truly a perfect match. “This was always a dream of mine,” Zafke says. “I knew I wanted a boutique since walking into one in Edina. I just kept thinking, ‘What am I waiting for? I want to do what I love!’ It’s a game changer for our family and our happiness.” Johnson grew up in a family business and was familiar with the grind, making it absolutely critical to find the perfect person

Local women open their dream clothing boutique with curated styles. Written by Rachel Schuehle — Photos by Chris Emeott

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Jill Zafke and Brionne Johnson

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Photo: xxxxxxxxx

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Traveling soon? The owners’ top items for travel are wrinkle-free Commando neoprene pants, irresistibly soft shirts, timeless cashmere sweaters and flattering travel separates.

to be her business partner. When reflecting on her connection with Zafke, she says, “We had similar friends, went to the same gym … Life kept happening, and we kept running into each other.” With their friendship in bloom and their goals aligned, they started on the journey of opening their own business. First up, a name: The women chose to focus on six core styles to elevate any wardrobe, including athleisure wear, denim, outerwear, sneakers, tanks and T-shirts. The number six comes into play again as Zafke and Johnson both have three children, who inspire them to incorporate their home lives into their business. (On occasion the kids can be found in the store after school, helping bag, fold and hang clothing or even playing DJ.) Add this all together, and you get SIX MN, their curated women’s boutique. Next up, location: Starting as an e-commerce business allowed them to cast a wide net in terms of where to land and when to open a brick and mortar store. But with kids in the school district, family

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and friends nearby, it was a no brainer. “We knew we wanted to be downtown Excelsior, but trying to find a spot is virtually impossible. So, first it was about getting our name out there, and less than a year later, we have a permanent spot [in March 2023],” Zafke says. Lastly, the inventory: While the six core styles guide decisions on stock, this team is very intentional about what it brings into the store. Johnson and Zafke travel a few times a year to market in Chicago, Los Angeles and New York City to build relationships with brands. They personally trial run items to test how the pieces feel, wear and wash. They’re always on the hunt for effortless, chic, elevated and comfortable looks. Favorite lines include: MKYNZĒ, LNA, Boyish Denim, Commando, Frame Denim. The team strives to bring in brands unique to the area and beyond.

For shoppers unsure about what to add to their existing wardrobe, SIX MN offers personalized styling to ensure the needs of each customer are met. “A lot of great clients want and need the [one-on-one] experience,” co-owner Brionne Johnson says. 30

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SIX MN, 432 SECOND ST., EXCELSIOR; 612.460.5960; SIXMN.COM SIX BOUTIQUE @SIXMN

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Grace Berbig shepherds a global club, spreading love and support

Photo: Chris Emeott

through letters.

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WRITTEN BY MOLLEE FRANCISCO

Photo: Grace Berbig

You’ve Got Mail When Grace Berbig thinks of her mother, Amanda Berbig, she feels the sensation of warmth and sunshine. She sees a young woman donning poofy dresses with flowers in her hair and a smile that radiated from the inside out. She recalls her mother’s laughter as they climbed apple trees in the backyard of their Maple Grove home. And she remembers the love notes that graced their lunch boxes each day. “She really was the best mom,” says Berbig, now of Long Lake. So, when her mother passed away from leukemia in 2013 at just 31 years old, Berbig’s world came crashing down. “It broke my heart,” she says. “The most severe pain I’ve ever felt in my life.” Berbig and her sisters, Bella and Sophie, credit their dad as a “catalyst for coping” following their mother’s death. “He told us losing our mom could ruin our lives,” she says. “Our job was to let our mother’s joy live through us.” Berbig became determined to honor her mother’s life. “I didn’t want her to be forgotten.” Today, Berbig is the founder and president of Letters of Love, a nonprofit organization that distributes handmade letters, cards and pictures to children in hospitals around the world. In the five years since its inception, Letters of Love has tallied more than 180 clubs in 31 states and 18 countries. Thus far, its members have created 200,000 cards and counting.

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Amanda Berbig

SPREADING HAPPINESS

Berbig was just a fifth grader when she lost her mother. And though no one would have blamed her for staying in her sorrow, Berbig chose otherwise. “I believe happiness is a choice we have to make every day,” she says. Not only did Berbig choose to be happy, but she also chose to be helpful. “I wanted to help people in similar situations [to my mother’s],” she says. “I felt it

was my responsibility.” In junior high, Berbig (then 16) got involved raising money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, but that felt like it wasn’t enough. She kept looking for opportunities to be helpful, but it wasn’t until the family moved from Maple Grove to Orono, and Berbig started at Orono High School (OHS), that she had her lightbulb moment. “I remembered the cards,” she says.

Letters of Love started as a passion project and turned into a global nonprofit with the goal of changing the world with kindness—one card at a time.

When her mother was in the hospital, all three Berbig sisters kept themselves busy drawing cards and pictures for her after school. “She would go through every one,” Berbig says. “In every hospital room, she would plaster all of these drawings all over her room.” Berbig knew how much those drawings meant to her mom, and she wanted to share that feeling with others in the hospital. So, she took to Instagram to invite friends to join her in the school art room to make cards for ill children after school. “I bought something like 15 donuts,” she says. “But we had 100 kids pile into the art room. It was completely packed. We made so many cards that day.” School staff recognized that the idea was a hit and encouraged Berbig to

continue. “They said, ‘Grace, you have to keep this going,’” she says. By the end of the year, Letters of Love was the biggest club at OHS. Berbig started fielding calls from students at other schools interested in starting their own Letters of Love clubs, and she soon realized that the club could be bigger than her and bigger than OHS. She decided to make it a 501(c)(3) nonprofit a year later in 2019. “It was such a huge accomplishment,” she says. GROWING CLUBS

Five years after it was founded, the original Letters of Love club at OHS is going strong with anywhere from 75–100 students in grades nine through 12 attending monthly meetings. “Making cards with encouraging words for children,

who are struggling with illness, is really a simple idea, but the impact benefits everyone involved,” says Kristin Frey, who served as the school’s club advisor for Letters of Love last year. These days, Berbig says they are constantly adding new clubs to the organization. Several high schools in the Twin Cities area have started their own clubs, including Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Prior Lake and White Bear Lake. Maple Grove Senior High launched its 20-member Letters of Love club in February 2023. “The main reason that we started this club was because we want to make a child smile in a very dark time in their lives,” says Payton Lund, student liaison for the club. “I wanted these children to know that they have people that are here for them.”

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Photos: Chris Emeott; Grace Berbig

Grace Berbig

HEALING ART

Berbig vets every card the nonprofit receives before sending them on to partner hospitals. She loves to see the variety of art—from little kids’ scribbles and “I love yous” to the sweet side of college football players. There are connect-thedots cards, jokes and even homemade word games. “It’s so beautiful to see the art of the human letter,” she says. “As a math teacher, it always

“Me and Mama” 35

Top and Middle: Orono High School students showcase letters they crafted to brighten the spirits of ailing children. Bottom: Orono High School board members of the school’s Letters of Love help lead the club.

impresses me how creative and artistic students are,” Frey says. “That is something I don’t always see on homework!” She knows the students are making a difference with their creations and recalls a story of speaking about the club with one of her neighbors, who is a nurse at a local hospital. “She has seen our cards in the rooms of children at the hospital and shared the impact that they make,” Frey says. “Children were excited to read them and see them on their walls.” Although Letters of Love has exceeded Berbig’s expectations, she continues to set new goals for the organization, including establishing a club in every state, sending the first letter from space (“We call NASA every week,” she says.) and securing more corporate sponsors to help offset costs. Berbig remains determined to keep the clubs free for participants, including materials, but says that comes at a cost of roughly $200 a month per club. “I’d love to partner with Hallmark on Letters of Love greeting cards,” Berbig says. “And Crayola on supplies.” In addition, Berbig wants to make Letters of Love her full-time job. “I feel so lucky to have found my passion so early in life.” She says working with the nonprofit definitely makes her feel closer to her late mom. “I think she would be really happy about it,” she says, adding, “The whole organization is built on her happiness, her love.”

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Photos: Grace Berbig

SETTING GOALS

CREATING CONNECTION Siena Tompkins was a recipient of Letters of Love, and she never forgot how that mail made her feel. “Receiving a card from Letters of Love gave me a connection to the outside world when I was confined to the four walls of my hospital room,” she says. “It really struck me, in that moment, that somewhere out there a stranger had decided to put [colored] pencil to paper with the sole intention of bringing a smile to someone else’s face even though they wouldn’t be there to see it. To me, it meant that I was seen by a community outside of my own, who didn’t even need to meet me to support me.” Tompkins still remembers how beautiful the cards were that she received. “Every single one felt genuine,” she says. “I could tell that the people who made those cards cared for and were excited about what they were doing. The simplicity of writing a card is what I find so beautiful about the mission of Letters of Love.” So touched by the experience, Tompkins volunteered with the nonprofit. “Volunteering with Letters of Love makes you part of something so much bigger than any one individual, and that higher sense of purpose is an inspiring feeling,” she says. “[Berbig’s] confidence and enthusiasm when receiving me into the [Letters of Love] family was what I needed to remind myself that, to the right people, you will always be whole, always be good enough,” Tompkins says. “She is the human embodiment of a ray of sunshine. There is no one better suited for this mission than her.”

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Minnetonka

Chaska

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

Todd Epley and Chad Moe

February 2024

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TA S T E M A K E R S

CHEERS FOR CHARITY A local vodka brand, focused on lake life, gives back to families affected by cancer—a cause close to the founders’ hearts.

Photo: xxxxxxxxx

Written by Jennifer Pitterle — Photos by Chris Emeott

Long Lake’s Todd Epley and his business partner, Chad Moe, aren’t just partners—they’re brothers-inlaw. And bringing a sense of family and community to their business ventures is what they do best. “We really are all about the good life and good, positive energy,” Epley says. Launching Tonka Vodka, their locally produced vodka brand (complete with an image of Lake Minnetonka on the label), gave them yet another way to spend quality time together and give back to a cause that’s close to their family. Epley and Moe donate 10 percent of all Tonka Vodka profits to

cancer-related nonprofits and foundations. “We were initially giving to any nonprofits who asked,” Moe says. “And then my wife, Anne— Todd’s sister—was diagnosed with cancer” in 2022. “We decided to focus our giving on cancer. It was something that we could really get behind, and it gives us motivation for building the brand—not only to make profits, but to put them to good use and hopefully help a lot of people.” They give to organizations, including the Angel Foundation, Relay for Life, Corbin’s Benefit, Rhino’s Foundation and many others. Even before Anne’s diagnosis, the

family had been touched by cancer. Moe’s great-grandmother and grandmother passed away from ovarian cancer; his grandfather had melanoma; his mother had breast cancer and melanoma; and his aunts have also faced breast cancer. “It’s really affected my family a ton,” he says and is part of why he’s inspired to live life to its fullest and to give back wherever he can. “We were not well off when I was a kid,” Moe says. “My dad made $8 an hour with three kids— and my parents still tithed 10 percent every week, no matter what. That’s something I always try to live by.” Epley’s family story echoes those notes. He grew up on a farm in Austin, Minnesota. “It’s all about that hard work ethic we learned from our parents, which kind of set us up for being entrepreneurs and giving back,” he says. Epley’s dad was part of the Hormel meatpacking labor strike in the mid-1980s, and their family was on the receiving end of charitable giving. “We got so much support from

SWEET VALENTINE Moe and Epley share two of their favorite Tonka Vodka cocktail recipes—including one pink punch that’s a perfect complement to a Valentine’s Day meal. Paradise Punch In a glass, combine 1.5 oz. of Tonka Vodka with 1 oz. each of cranberry juice, orange juice and lemonlime pop. Mix, and garnish with a pineapple slice, mint and a cherry. Cucumber Refresher Place a cucumber slice in a glass. Add 1.5 oz. of Tonka Vodka and 1 oz. of simple syrup. Add 2 mint leaves. Fill the glass with lemonlime pop. Shake, and garnish with a cucumber slice.

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Paradise Punch

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"IT’S ALL ABOUT THAT HARD WORK ETHIC WE LEARNED FROM OUR PARENTS, WHICH KIND OF SET US UP FOR BEING ENTREPRENEURS AND GIVING BACK.” - Todd Epley -

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. Visit aacr.org, cancer.net or cancerhealth.com for additional information.

Visit tonkavodka.com for a full list of where to find the brand. Tonka Vodka @tonka_vodka

local charities to make sure our family was taken care of during the strike,” he says. “I have a warm feeling when I’m able to give back to families in need.” The idea for a lake life-focused vodka came easily to the brothers-in-law. They’d been searching for a whiskey that they could brand and distribute, especially since Moe is a self-described “whiskey guy.” The duo has the bona fides to sniff out good spirits; for several years, they co-owned a group of

liquor stores and are also partners in Balsam Lake Lodge, a resort and restaurant in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin. But Moe couldn’t find a whiskey he loved. “Then I tried this vodka, and I just loved it. It was the best vodka I’d ever tasted,” he says. “At our initial tasting, we looked at each other—we couldn’t even believe there was vodka in the drink,” Epley says. “It was so smooth. We decided to distill it a few more times to see if we

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH A’BULAE, ST. PAUL

could make it even better.” The vodka is distilled nine times and is made from Midwest-grown corn. It’s also carbonfiltered at the end of the process, making it as “clean” as possible, Moe says, adding, “It has a great palate and is less harmful on your body than some less filtered brands.” Now, that vodka is spreading positivity twofold: as a reminder to enjoy the energy of lake life and as a way to give back to an important cause.

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lo c al things to se e an d do

O N T H E TOW N

SWING FOR A CAUSE

Photo: The Lions Club

Lions Club charts a course for charitable giving. B AC K FO R I TS 37 TH YE AR O U T O N TH E ICE , the Orono Lions Club’s Snowball Open is set for tee off on February 3 on Lake Minnetonka. Hosted off the docks of Birch’s on the Lake from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., attendees are invited to head out onto the ice for 18 holes of fun—all in the name of supporting the community. Organizers are carefully monitoring ice conditions. If needed, the event will be moved to Nelson Lakeside Beach Park. The time and date will remain the same. Golfers of all abilities are encouraged to join in on the frozen fun. Each hole is sponsored by a local business or organization and will feature competitions, food, drinks and prizes. The Lions Club focuses its support toward local organizations with all of its events, and the Snowball Open is no different. The group’s president Bradley

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Hansen says, “We like to keep it local—keep it in the area.” This year, recipients include the Orono School District, the Pioneer Museum, the Westonka Food Shelf and the Long Lake Fire Department, along with other various community causes that support service animals, park restorations and cancer research. The fun doesn’t end with the last tee time, enjoy live music from 3–5 p.m. by Traveled Ground. And the giving doesn’t end either; with every beer purchased, Birch’s donates a $1 back to the club’s cause. —Morgan McFadden Tickets will be available before the event at oronolions.org, as well as day-of the event. Ages 18 and older. $25 presale, $35 day-of.; 10 a.m.–2 p.m. February 3 at Birch’s on the Lake, 1310 Wayzata Blvd., Long Lake; oronolions.org

lo c al things to se e an d do

O N T H E TOW N

Compiled by Morgan McFadden, Emma Mehl and Hailey Almsted

LOCAL EVENTS

Foundation Dream Makers 02/03 Get ready for a casual fundraiser night out with live music, dancing, silent auction and more in support of Minnetonka Public Schools. Ages 18 and older. $125+.

5:30–10:30 p.m. Equestria West at Bavaria Downs, 3913 Bavaria Road, Chaska; 952.401.5040; minnetonkaschools.org

Chilly Open 02/10 Head out onto the frozen waters to enjoy a day of golf through four different carved out courses. $50+. 10 a.m.–

4 p.m., Wayzata; 952.473.9595; chillyopen.wayzatachamber.com

National Margarita Day 02/22 Celebrate National Margarita Day at Baja Haus, and have fun chatting with fellow restaurant-goers. Ages 21 and older. $9+. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. 830 Lake St. E., Wayzata; 952.476.0816; bajahaus.com

AREA EVENT

Luminary Loppet 02/03 Traverse the frozen Lake of the Isles, accompanied by candlelit walkways and cross-country ski trails in support of the Loppet Foundation. After your journey across the ice, join in for the luminary party back at the start. All ages. Prices vary. 6–10 p.m. Locations vary around Lake of the Isles, Mpls.; 612.604.5330; loppet.org

SNOWKITE RACES

To have your event considered: email lakeminnetonkamag@localmedia.co by the 10th of the month three months prior to publication. Please note that some events/dates and even some business

Associated with the Wayzata Chilly Open events, all are welcome to join in for a morning

operations may have changed since these

of gliding across the lake with sport kites. All ages. Free admission (equipment not provided).

pages went to print. Please visit affiliated

11 a.m.–3 p.m. Wayzata Yacht Club, 1100 Eastman Lane, Wayzata; 952.470.1468; wyc.org

websites for updates.

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iStock.com/Wirestock

FEBRUARY 10

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LMSS offers excellent sailing instruction for sailors of all ages and abilities with recreational sailing programs, Learn to Race classes, Advanced Race Teams, and Middle/High School sailing.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or an amazing grooming experience, The Top Shave Lounge has got you covered. Book your appointment online or stop in for quality products.

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

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Wayzata Bay Car Wash 143 Lake St. E. 952.473.4033 wayzatabaycarwash.com

LAST GLANCE

Lens on Lake Minnetonka Art and athletics collide to create this winning entry.

Photographer: Lucas Brama Title: A Hockey Game

Equipment: Canon EOS Rebel T7 with the EF75–300mm telephoto lens. Settings: ISO 3200, 90 mm, f4.5, 1/1600s Location: The Pagel Center at Minnetonka High School Category: People Award: First Place

“I love how photography gives me the opportunity to connect with my friends and make new ones, too,” says Lucas Brama, who took this winning image. “I think, for me, it’s the rough texture of the ice that draws my eye to this photo,” he says. “It’s really a contrast from the usual pristine, smooth ice that we’re accustomed to seeing from the stands.” The Minnetonka resident recommends that those interested in photography, “… find the beauty in the mundane. Anything can become a great photograph. It’s all a matter of perspective, so look for that unique viewpoint that nobody has ever seen before. That is sure to produce a true work of art.” —Renée Stewart-Hester To view other Lens on Lake Minnetonka contest winners, visit lakeminnetonkamag.com.

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S AV E

TH E

DATE

FOR

THE

SPRING

PARADE

HO M E S

March 8 - April 7 P L A N

Y O U R

T O U R

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P A R A D E O F H O M E S . O R G

Lake Minnetonka - February 2024