WAYZATA — The City of Wayzata has rescheduled the official opening celebration for Klapprich Park to Saturday, January 17, shifting the event one week later than originally planned to allow for improved weather and ice conditions.
The community open house will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the park’s newly completed warming house and skating area. While the rink and warming house are already open to the public, city leaders say the January 17 gathering is intended as a welcoming, informal celebration that formally invites residents to experience the park’s updated winter amenities.
The event will begin with brief remarks from Andrew Mullin from 1 to 1:10 p.m., followed by open skating and hockey from 1:10 to 3 p.m. The remainder of the afternoon will feature complimentary hot cocoa and snacks, music, and free skate rentals, creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
According to Wayzata Parks & Trails Board Chair Tory Schalkle, the date change was made to ensure the ice and overall conditions are at their best for the community celebration. He noted that although the warming house and skating facilities are already in use, the event is meant to serve as an official welcome and gathering point for residents to enjoy the improvements together.
City officials also indicated that a separate celebration for the rest of Klapprich Park is planned for the spring, in partnership with Wayzata Community Education, once seasonal park features are fully open.
Residents are encouraged to stop by at any point during the afternoon—whether to catch the mayor’s remarks, take to the ice, or simply enjoy a winter afternoon with neighbors at one of Wayzata’s most beloved parks.
Barbers Inn has relocated from the Promenade of Wayzata to the Wells Fargo Advisors Building at 950 Wayzata Boulevard East, keeping the business in Wayzata while improving access and parking for its early-morning clientele.
The move marks the latest chapter for a shop that has been part of Wayzata for more than 50 years. Barbers Inn was founded in 1972 by Bob Nash, and over the decades operated at several downtown locations, including the Wayzata Bay Center, Lake Street, and later the Promenade—all within a tight radius of its original home. (Pictured left at the Wayzata Bay Center circa 2001).
Nash retired at the start of the pandemic and passed away in 2022, but the shop he built continues to operate much as it always has—defined by early hours, familiar faces, and long-standing relationships.
That continuity is carried forward by Dave Dufner, who remains behind the chair today.
Dufner said he began cutting hair in 1977 and will mark 50 years in the profession next August. Speaking about his time at Barbers Inn, he said, “I started with Bob in ’02,” and added that he worked alongside Nash for “20 plus years.”
That two-decade stretch represents a significant portion of Dufner’s career and spanned multiple Barbers Inn locations as Wayzata continued to evolve around the shop.
Over the years, Dufner said his work followed the rhythms of Minnesota’s corporate life, noting, “All the corporate buildings—General Mills, Cargill—those are my three main barbering places over my career.” The early-start routine that came with those jobs continues at the shop’s new Wayzata Boulevard location.
The current Barbers Inn team includes Jason Raisch and Frank Weiland, whom Dufner noted has “been with us for years,” reinforcing the familiarity longtime customers expect, even in a new space. The shop maintains traditional hours: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
While the address has changed, the essence of the shop has not. Online reviews frequently reference decades-long customer loyalty, a reflection of the relationships built over time rather than any single location.
As Barbers Inn settles into its new home at 950 Wayzata Boulevard East, the message to the community is straightforward: the shop has moved, but it remains very much part of Wayzata’s daily rhythm.
If You Go
Barbers Inn 📍 950 Wayzata Boulevard East Wells Fargo Advisors Building, Wayzata
WAYZATA — Administrators at Wayzata High School sent a message to students and families Thursday evening outlining expectations and safety procedures in anticipation of a possible student walkout on Friday connected to recent events in Minneapolis.
The message followed online discussions and social media posts encouraging students to leave class during the school day. While no walkout has been formally announced by school officials, families and students have shared anecdotal reports suggesting a potential walkout time around 11:30 a.m. Friday.
School leaders emphasized that regular schedules and policies would remain in effect.
In the message, Principal Scott Gengler stressed that student safety is the school’s top priority.
“First and foremost, student safety is our top priority,” Gengler wrote, noting that administrative staff, school resource officers, and student support teams would be present throughout the day to ensure a safe and orderly environment.
Student rights and participation
The guidance acknowledged that students generally have the right to respectfully and peacefully express their views. At the same time, administrators emphasized that participation in any walkout is voluntary.
Students who choose not to participate should feel comfortable remaining in class, and no student should pressure, coerce, or attempt to influence another student’s decision, the message stated.
Attendance and accountability
Administrators made clear that standard attendance and academic expectations would apply if a walkout occurs.
Students who leave class will be held accountable for attendance and for any coursework missed as a result. Daily schedules, including lunch periods, will not be altered to accommodate participation.
Students who disrupt learning, misuse technology, or violate school policies may face consequences under existing disciplinary procedures. Students who leave the building will only be permitted to reenter through secured and staffed entry points.
Students who do not participate will remain under normal classroom supervision.
Supervision and campus access
If students assemble, administrators and staff will be present to supervise and ensure safety. Staff members will not participate in or endorse any demonstration.
The school also stated that outside individuals — including parents or community members — will not be allowed on campus to support, confront, or participate in any student activity during the school day.
“Our role is not to endorse or oppose any message, but to minimize disruption and maintain a safe, respectful environment,” the message stated.
Support for students
Recognizing that current events may raise strong emotions, the school encouraged students seeking support to connect with counselors, social workers, deans, achievement specialists, members of the Student Support Team, or another trusted adult.
Parents were encouraged to speak with their students about expectations regarding participation in school-day activities.
The message concluded by thanking families for their partnership and reaffirming the school’s commitment to honoring student voice while protecting learning, safety, and respect for all members of the school community.
Context: What Prompted Student Organizing Across the Metro
The anticipated student activity follows a series of events earlier this week in Minneapolis that drew widespread attention and prompted discussion and organizing among students at schools throughout the Twin Cities area.
Fatal shooting during federal operation
On Wednesday, January 7, a woman was fatally shot in south Minneapolis during a federal law-enforcement operation involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Authorities have confirmed that a federal agent fired the shot. The incident remains under investigation, and officials have released limited information while the review continues.
The shooting led to protests and heightened tensions in parts of the city, particularly related to immigration enforcement activity and the presence of federal agents.
Incident outside Roosevelt High School
Later that same day, a separate incident occurred outside Roosevelt High School during student dismissal.
It is confirmed that federal law-enforcement agents were present in the area near the school. Minneapolis Public Schools stated that no enforcement action occurred inside the building. However, the proximity of the activity to students during dismissal raised immediate safety concerns.
Video circulating online shows a tense scene involving students, staff, and community members. There have been reports — not yet fully detailed in official statements — of crowd control measures and a school staff member being briefly detained. Specific operational details surrounding that incident have not been fully confirmed by authorities.
Minneapolis District response
Following the Roosevelt High School incident and the broader unrest connected to the shooting, Minneapolis Public Schools canceled classes for multiple days, citing safety concerns for students and staff.
School districts across the metro, including Wayzata, responded by issuing guidance to families clarifying expectations, safety procedures, and student rights should demonstrations occur during the school day.
Administrators emphasized that such communications are intended to ensure safety and continuity of learning, rather than to take positions on the underlying events.
Editor’s Note: Events related to these stories are unfolding rapidly, and information continues to emerge from multiple sources. While Wayzata.com strives to verify details through official statements and reliable reporting, some aspects of these events remain under review or clarification. We are committed to providing accurate, fair, and timely information and will update our coverage as additional confirmed facts become available.
“The Wayzata boys basketball team won big in its Lake Conference opener Tuesday, routing previously unbeaten Buffalo 91-60. Christian Wiggins scored 28 points to pace the Trojans with Nolen Anderson adding 18 for the top-ranked team in Class AAAA. Tommy Shunmugavelu added 13 points and Max Beeninga 12 for Wayzata (11-1). Eli Hegle scored 18 for the seventh-ranked Bison (9-1) who suffered their first loss of the season.” via CCX Media.
WAYZATA — After cruising to a dominant performance at the Minnesota State Meet, most high school cross country teams were closing the book on their seasons. For the Wayzata Trojans, the journey was just beginning.
On Nov. 9, Wayzata’s girls team traveled to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to compete in the Nike Heartland Regional, one of the most competitive qualifying events in the country. Racing in single-digit temperatures with wind chills on a snow- and ice-covered course, the Trojans delivered another decisive victory, outpacing a 26-team field to secure a berth to the national championships.
Senior Maddie Gullickson led the way, winning the regional title in a personal-best time of 16:49. Gullickson was followed closely by Jazleen Malherek-Osorio, who finished in the top 10, while Miley Clark, Alissa Ledman, and Lila Golomb rounded out Wayzata’s scoring five. The Trojans totaled just 50 points, winning the meet by more than 30 points over the second-place team.
The regional victory elevated Wayzata onto the national stage. In the weeks that followed, the Trojans were ranked the No. 1 team in the country by national cross country outlets—an uncommon distinction for a Minnesota program and a reflection of the team’s depth and consistency throughout the season. Wayzata’s boys team also competed strongly at the regional meet, finishing third, but narrowly missed earning an at-large bid to nationals.
That momentum carried into the Nike Cross Nationals on Dec. 6 in Portland, Oregon, where the top 22 teams in the nation faced a soggy, muddy course under classic Pacific Northwest conditions. Despite the challenging terrain and the pressure of national competition, Wayzata once again rose to the occasion.
Gullickson finished seventh overall, anchoring the Trojans’ effort against elite programs from Colorado, New Jersey, and across the country. Malherek-Osorio, Ledman, Golomb, Addison Neitz, and Chloe Kissell each contributed to the team score, as Wayzata edged out Niwot High School of Colorado and Union Catholic of New Jersey to claim the national title. Senior Miley Clark was unable to finish after suffering a medical emergency late in the race but urged her teammates to continue as she received assistance near the finish area.
The championship capped a remarkable, undefeated season and placed the 2025 squad alongside Wayzata’s 2013 team as national champions—cementing the program’s legacy among the nation’s elite.
For Wayzata, a community that takes pride in excellence both in and out of the classroom, the victory represents more than a trophy. It is a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and a season defined by rising to every challenge—no matter the weather, the distance, or the stage.
A former treasurer of the Plymouth Wayzata Youth Softball Association has been charged in Hennepin County District Court with felony theft by swindle, following an investigation into alleged misuse of association funds spanning more than four years.
According to a criminal complaint filed Dec. 31, Kristin Allyenne Williams, 52, of Maple Grove is accused of obtaining more than $35,000 — and allegedly more than $110,000 — from the nonprofit youth sports organization between August 2020 and February 2025 through unauthorized financial transactions.
Court records state that Williams became treasurer of the Plymouth Wayzata Youth Softball Association in June 2020. The association, founded in 1989, is operated by unpaid parent volunteers. As treasurer, Williams was responsible for accounting and bookkeeping and was the sole individual with online banking access to the organization’s account, as well as possession of its debit card.
The complaint alleges that concerns arose in 2024 when the association was notified by the Internal Revenue Service that it had lost its tax-exempt status after failing to file required tax returns for three consecutive years. Board members also reported issues involving unpaid vendors and coaches.
In February 2025, the association removed Williams from her treasurer position and revoked her access to the bank account. A review of financial statements reportedly revealed numerous ATM withdrawals that had not been approved by the board, including cash withdrawals at casino locations. The complaint states that the association had no legitimate business reason to make cash withdrawals, as tournament cash needs were handled separately by another officer.
Investigators allege that Williams concealed unauthorized withdrawals by altering internal accounting reports, including reducing recorded deposit amounts or categorizing transactions as legitimate expenses such as equipment or clinic costs.
Bank records reviewed by law enforcement indicate that approximately $110,126 was allegedly taken from the association during the charged period.
Williams is charged with felony theft by swindle under Minnesota law, an offense that carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. A summons has been issued ordering her to appear in court. She is not currently in custody.
As with all criminal cases, the charge is an allegation, and Williams is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Wayzata.com will continue to follow the case as it proceeds through the judicial process.
WAYZATA — Lake West Development LLC has filed an appeal to the Minnesota Court of Appeals, adding to a slate of active legal matters involving the City of Wayzata that the City Council is scheduled to review during a closed session this evening.
Court records show Lake West Development appealed a district court order entered October 30, 2025, and a judgment entered December 30, 2025, in a case stemming from a land-use dispute with the city. The appeal was filed on December 31, 2025.
According to the City Council agenda, the council is scheduled to convene a closed special meeting prior to its regular meeting to confer with legal counsel regarding several pending lawsuits. The closed session is authorized under Minnesota’s Open Meeting Law, which permits councils to meet privately with attorneys to discuss litigation protected by attorney-client privilege.
Agenda materials list five active legal matters involving the City of Wayzata that are scheduled for discussion:
Lake West Development, LLC; 200 Lake Street East LLC; and Curt Fretham v. City of Wayzata, a land-use and development dispute that is now on appeal.
Municipal governance observers note that while litigation levels can fluctuate based on development activity and regulatory complexity, the number of cases currently involving Wayzata represents an unusually high level of active litigation for a city of its size. Smaller cities typically experience legal disputes intermittently rather than several proceeding at the same time, particularly when multiple cases involve land-use or property-related issues.
The City Council’s regular meeting is scheduled to follow the closed session and will be open to the public, with opportunities for public comment during designated portions of the agenda.
The Klapprich Park Opening Celebration will take place Saturday, January 10, from 1 to 3 p.m., at the park’s view facility at 340 Park Street East. The event marks the completion of recent park improvements and welcomes the community back to one of Wayzata’s most cherished year-round gathering places.
The afternoon is designed to be free and family-friendly, with open skating, hot chocolate, snacks, and music creating a classic Minnesota winter scene. Skaters of all ages are invited to take to the ice, while spectators can enjoy the lively atmosphere from the surrounding park space.
City officials say the project reflects Wayzata’s continued investment in parks that serve multiple generations, offering both recreation and a shared sense of place. Klapprich Park has long been a cornerstone of neighborhood life—hosting everything from youth sports to quiet winter afternoons—and its reopening is intended as a celebration of that tradition.
Residents with questions about the event may contact the city at 952-404-5313.
The event is open to the public, and no registration is required.
WAYZATA — Residents are invited to gather at City Hall on Thursday, Feb. 26, for the City of Wayzata’s annual State of the City address, an evening focused on civic priorities, community progress, and the opportunities ahead.
The event will be hosted by Andrew Mullin, who will deliver his second annual address in the City Hall Community Room. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for coffee and cookies, with the program beginning at 7 p.m.
The State of the City has become a key moment on Wayzata’s civic calendar, offering residents a comprehensive look at how the city is performing and where it is headed. Last year’s address emphasized Wayzata’s small-town identity, strong municipal fundamentals, thoughtful planning, and the importance of community trust and engagement.
This year’s program is expected to build on that foundation, highlighting current initiatives, upcoming projects, and long-range goals that balance Wayzata’s historic character with its evolving role as a vibrant lakeside city. Topics traditionally covered include city services, infrastructure, public safety, financial stewardship, and quality-of-life investments.
The address is open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend, listen, and take part in the shared civic conversation. No registration is required.
Event details
Date: Thursday, Feb. 26
Location: Wayzata City Hall, Community Room
Time: 6:30 p.m. coffee and cookies; 7 p.m. program
The State of the City provides an opportunity for residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to reflect on the past year while looking ahead to what’s next for Wayzata.
“Four players scored in double figures as the Wayzata girls basketball team scored its first victory of the calendar year with a 65-38 win over Prior Lake. Kate Amelotte scored 16 points to lead the Trojans with Annika Kieser adding 14, Mallory McBeth 11 and Maren Day 10. Toni Fisher scored 20 points to lead Prior Lake. Wayzata is now 8-3 this season and hosts Como Park Wednesday before playing their first Lake Conference game of the season Friday against Edina.” via CCX Media.
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