Gather your spooky squad and make your way to Wayzata for the thrilling annual Boo Bash Dash and Boo Blast on October 28th, running from 9 am to 3 pm. Hosted by the Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce and Wayzata Sailing, this event invites you to strut, sprint, or stroll in your Halloween attire during the Boo Bash Dash races.
The morning kicks off with a series of certified races, featuring a 10k, 5k, and a competitive Lake Street Mile. For the fastest male and female runners in the Lake Street Mile, there’s a chance to score a $250 cash prize. Make it a family affair and join the Family Fun Run, a delightful mile along Lake Street, offering stunning views of Lake Minnetonka.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Get your creative juices flowing by crafting your very own pumpkin racer for the Pumpkin Derby, or test your pie-eating skills in a thrilling contest. And don’t forget to flaunt your most impressive costume for a chance to win an amazing prize in the costume contest. It’s a faBOOlous opportunity!
The fun keeps rolling with a delightful session of trick-or-treating at various businesses and retail shops in town during Wayzata’s Boo Blast, happening from 11 am to 2 pm. Dress up your little ones, and make stops wherever you please. For additional Halloween fun, don’t miss Lunds & Byerlys Wayzata’s Halloween activities from 12 pm to 3 pm, which promise a great time for the whole family. For all the details, visit boobashdash.com.
Ski Hut / Sun & Slope proprietors have been part of the retail community for over 50 years
Jim & Robin McWethy (and Stella) stand in front of the Sun & Slope storefront on Lake Street in Wayzata. Submitted photo.
After an illustrious journey spanning more than five decades, the dynamic duo of Jim and Robin McWethy, proprietors of the iconic Sun & Slope store, have announced their well-deserved retirement. This milestone will mark the closure of their retail operations that have been a cornerstone of the Lake Minnetonka area since 1972.
The McWethys have dedicated their lives to fostering a vibrant community centered around outdoor recreation and have played pivotal roles in advocating for the preservation and enhancement of lake-area parks and trails. From their humble beginnings at Ski Hut in 1972 to the exhilarating Sports Hut era that ended with the sale of the shop in 2005, Jim and Robin have witnessed and contributed to the burgeoning enthusiasm for an active outdoor lifestyle, which has transformed the Wayzata community.
As they prepare to bid adieu to their current and beloved storefront Sun & Slope, Jim and Robin expressed their profound gratitude to the supportive Wayzata community that has been with them every step of the way. Over the years, patrons have seamlessly transitioned into friends, and friends into an extended family, rendering the past five decades an extraordinary journey filled with cherished memories.
In March 2024, Jim and Robin McWethy will embark on a well-deserved retirement, but not before sharing one last exhilarating winter season with their dedicated patrons.
When asked what they plan to do after the store closes, Jim stated via a telephone interview, “We plan to move up to Ely, we have a little cabin that we have had for about 15 years up there and we will spend a good portion of the year up there, and then spend our winters in Wayzata.”
McWethy also indicated they hope to spend more time with loved ones after closing the store, “We have family in Denver and Montana, and we hope to do more visiting with loved ones that we just haven’t had a chance to do over the years.”
According to McQwethy, the original Le Ski Hut was located on Barry Avenue, right behind Ted’s Drug Store. “Tom Anderson was the owner, and the store was already in existence, and because Anderson was an avid skier, he wanted to move to the Rocky Mountains. So my friend Bill Lund and I decided to purchase it.”
For Jim buying the store was a lifestyle choice, as he had received a degree in electrical engineering at the University of Minnesota.
The Hut initially operated exclusively during the winter months, “I had skied since I was about 4 years old, and didn’t know anything about retail. My friend Bill left after about 6 years togeteher operating the store. Another friend who was very supportive was Bob McNamara, (not the football player) he lived in Wayzata, had kids in the hockey program and got us into the hockey game.”
Over the years, Jim & Robin said one of the best and most exciting things about operating the store was watching new sports develop. “Windsurfing, snow boarding, rollerblading, none of those things existed in 1972,” stated Jim. “We gave windsurfing lessons at Baker Park as an example. Nobody was doing that at the time.”
Having sold the Hut in 2005, Robin & Jim felt called to get back into retail in 2011, focusing mainly on providing outdoor clothing to their loyal customers from over the years.
Asked why this is the time, Jim stated, “Our lease is up next year, and its time to move on now that I’m 82.”
As per usual, the Sun & Slope store is gearing up for this final season with a fresh inventory of fall and winter arrivals, ensuring that customers are well-equipped for the 2023-24 winter season.
It’s an opportunity for the community to join the McWethys in celebrating their remarkable contribution to Lake Minnetonka’s outdoor culture.
The retirement of Jim and Robin McWethy marks the end of an era, but their enduring legacy as champions of outdoor recreation and community development will continue to resonate in the hearts of the Wayzata community for generations to come.
Don’t miss the chance to be a part of their farewell season as they embark on this new chapter in their lives, stop and see them!
Mark your calendars for an evening of camaraderie, safety, and community spirit as the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, Wayzata Police, Fire Department, City staff, elected officials, and the beloved McGruff, Crime Coalition Mascot, gear up for the highly anticipated National Night Out event in Wayzata.
A Wayzata Police officer gives a prize to a young Wayzata resident. Submitted photo.
On August 1st, from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m., this annual event promises to bring neighborhoods in Wayzata and Long Lake together in a show of unity and crime prevention.
During the event, police cars and fire trucks will embark on a journey, visiting neighborhood parties throughout the area. This heartwarming tradition allows residents to interact with local heroes, including police officers, firefighters, and city staff.
The presence of elected officials will also provide an excellent opportunity for citizens to engage in open dialogue and have their questions answered on various community matters.
One of the highlights of National Night Out is the crime prevention message shared at each stop. Demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding the community, authorities will impart essential tips and strategies to help residents remain vigilant against potential threats.
The occasion also offers residents a chance to step out of their homes, meet new neighbors, and reconnect with familiar faces. Building strong ties within the community is vital to promoting a sense of security and encouraging the proactive reporting of suspicious activities.
The event has been highly anticipated by both residents and public servants, reflecting the shared commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all. As a symbol of unity, National Night Out emphasizes the significance of community cooperation in deterring crime and bolstering public safety efforts.
Neighbors and families are encouraged to participate in the festivities, reaffirming their dedication to building a safer, more closely-knit community. Together, they can make a positive impact, contributing to the overall well-being and security of Wayzata and Long Lake.
For more information and details about National Night Out, interested parties can visit the official website of the Wayzata City or contact the Wayzata Police Department directly. Let us come together and celebrate the spirit of togetherness, making our neighborhoods safer, one step at a time.
Annual Safety Luncheon at Wayzata Country Club
The Wayzata Area Chamber is extending an open invitation to the community for a noteworthy luncheon event, spotlighting critical issues of public safety and crime prevention. Scheduled to take place at [venue name] on [date], this event promises to be an enlightening and informative gathering for all attendees.
Heading the discussions will be Wayzata’s esteemed Police Chief, Marc Schultz, who will expertly moderate a panel discussion featuring distinguished guests from the realm of law enforcement.
Among them, Drew Evans, Superintendent at the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, will bring his extensive experience to the table. Joining him will be Tony Ofstead, the Director/Chief Law Enforcement Officer at the Minnesota Commerce Fraud Bureau, renowned for his expertise in combating fraud-related offenses.
Lastly, the event will host Rose Lee, the accomplished Financial Crimes Team Manager, known for her successful efforts in tackling financial crimes within the region.The panelists are expected to delve into pressing matters concerning public safety and share valuable insights into effective crime prevention strategies.
Attendees will have the rare opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from these prominent figures in law enforcement, fostering a better understanding of the challenges faced in maintaining safety and security in the Wayzata area.Adding to the significance of the luncheon, the program will also feature a special segment dedicated to honoring the recipient of the Jim Fish Citizen Crime Prevention Award.
The Wayzata Area Chamber urges all concerned citizens, community leaders, and local businesses to participate actively in this remarkable event. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the luncheon aims to strengthen the collective resolve to combat crime and maintain the well-being of the community.
Seats are limited, and those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their spot early. The event promises to be a remarkable convergence of expertise and shared commitment to enhancing public safety.For registration and further details, please visit the Wayzata Area Chamber website at WayzataChamber.com or contact them directly at 952-473-9595.
Everybody Get Lakeside! Don’t miss Wayzata’s premier summer festival – The Wayzata Art Experience is back and happening on the shores of Lake Minnetonka June 23, 24 & 25.
The festival is expanding in every way with over 150 juried artists from across the country, floral art, 15 food trucks, a food artisan market, an activity zone for art lovers of all ages, a beer + wine garden, free sailboat rides, and live music all weekend long.
The excitement continues with “WaamFest”, a brand-new music festival, as well as a first ever Boat Light Parade added to the Wayzata Art Experience weekend.
Here are the top 10 highlights to look forward to:
Shop and buy art from over 150 Juried Artists, many that travel from across the country showcasing an array of art in the following categories: ceramics, drawing/printmaking, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, painting, photography, recycled/green, sculpture and wood. Plan your visit ahead of time by visiting the online artist gallery at WayzataArtExperience.com. Show hours are Saturday, June 24 from 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday, June 25 from 10 am – 4 pm.
Grow. Bloom. Start. Be. Don’t miss this year’s Featured Artist, Petals for Purpose. Floral art is the up and coming trend and you won’t want to miss the beautiful creations sprinkled along Lake Street. Whether it’s a front porch refresh, weAREables, or a stunning floral backdrop, Dawn Schelle (owner) does it all. Watch nature takeover and marvel at several big scale floral art installations as they come to life at this year’s event.
NEW! WaamFest (Wayzata Art And Music Festival) is bringing big name concerts to Wayzata Beach on June 23 & 24, featuring Steve Aoki and Gryffin. This is sure to be a high-energy energy weekend of fun, electrifying beats and infectious rhythms. Tickets for sale at waamfest.com.
Enjoy delicious eats from 15 of the Twin Cities best food trucks – everything from fried funnel dipped Oreos to classic gourmet pizzas and burgers! You won’t want to miss this line-up.
Shop a wide variety of specialty food items from our local artisans. Items include gourmet sea salts, award-winning chocolate, premium olive oils, handcrafted nut butters, non-alcoholic fresh squeezed citrus-based cocktail mixers, gourmet sauces, cakes and more.
Hit the Beer + Wine Garden! Craft beer, wine, cider, and seltzers will be served throughout the weekend. Shop and stroll with a refreshing beverage in hand.
Experience the Island of Live Music – WAE will host talented local artists on Saturday and Sunday. On saturday enjoy Monica Livorsi from 10am – 1pm, Tom Hunter from 1-4 pm, and Sam Grabert from 4-6 pm. On Sunday check out Taylor Robert from 10am – 1pm and Zachara Scot Johnson from 1pm – 4pm.
Art on the Water! The NEW Boat Light Parade by the Wayzata Yacht Club will take place on Wayzata Bay, Saturday June 24 from 9:15-10 pm. Spectators will be able to view the lakefront parade from Panoway on Wayzata Bay or Depot Park. The fun on the water doesn’t stop there. Returning this year, Free Sailboat Rides from Wayzata Sailing at 11 am – 2 pm both Saturday and Sunday.
Get ready to experience performing art! Partake in Hip Hop & Breakdancing with Esteem Dance on Saturday. Classes will be geared towards children but all ages are welcome to dance with Esteem. And don’t miss the SOUL Ballroom Lessons and Performance on Sunday. The ballroom professionals will offer group lessons, mini 1-1 sessions, and performances.
Wind up or wind down with Wayzata’s ARTY parties all around town! Enjoy happy hours with food and drink specials, hosted by local restaurants throughout the weekend.
“The quality of this year’s talent is unparalleled with over 150 artists in 13 different mediums. The Wayzata community offers more than just beautiful art. Fun activities are available for individuals and families throughout the weekend. And the food! So many delicious options, so little time. This year, we are proud to welcome WaamFest (Wayzata Art and Music Festival). Featuring Steve Aoki and Gryffin, WaamFest is sure to be a high-energy energy weekend of fun, electrifying beats and infectious rhythms on Wayzata Beach. Come for the art, stay for the fun!” – Brian Larson, Chair of the Wayzata Art Experience Committee
There’s plenty of shopping at lakeside boutiques and some of the best food in the Twin Cities with award-winning restaurants.
The Wayzata Chamber of Commercecelebrated Jon Reyerson as the 2022 Person of the Year on October 13, 2022 at the Wayzata Country Club. Hundreds of Jon’s friends from the Wayzata Chamber and Wayzata Rotary were in attendance.
Anna Skemp, Becky Pierson, Jon Reyerson, Brooke Beyer, and Judy Johnson pose for a photo at the Wayzata Country Club to celebrate POTY 2022. Alex Bellus Photography.
The annual award is given to a Chamber member who goes above and beyond to serve the community and the Chamber in it’s mission to “elevate the experience of the Wayzata area, a charming destination embracing Lake Minnetonka, where our businesses and community thrive together.”
“Jon has been an active member of the chamber for over a decade, and throughout all of that time, has exhibited remarkable skills to directly benefit the Chamber and all of its activities. Jon shows up before the events begin, and is usually the last one standing – to ensure that no detail has been overlooked,” stated Wayzata Chamber president Becky Pierson in a release.
2021 Person of the year Peter Hitch indicated the Jon is “The ultimate Chamber Member, a promoter, a sponsor hound, a worker and an idea guy.”
Reyerson has a long standing reputation for working Chamber events including Wayzata Art Experience, James J. Hill Days, the Chilly Open, and much more. Congrats!
On behalf of the greater Wayzata Community, Elisha and I would like to welcome you to the 47th Annual James J. Hill Days event!
Hosted annually by our great friends at the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce (and sponsor Sandvold Financial Group), this three day weekend celebrates the best of what Wayzata has to offer the region.
Whether you and your family and friends enjoy Lake Minnetonka, fireworks, live music, food and beverage, dogs, llamas, history, carnivals, or parades, you are sure to find something for everyone.
If you are thinking about buying or selling in the area, please plan to stop at 126 Benton Ave. in Wayzata from 1-5 on Saturday and 11-3 on Sunday to visit with myself and Elisha.
This will be a fantastic opportunity for you to view our next (to be built) new construction project with Custom One Homes & David Charlez Design. We would also be interested to discuss any real estate plans you may have.
Look for our printed schedules and maps (images below) all over Wayzata all weekend!
Tuesday evening marks the 40th annual crime prevention event in Wayzata
On Tuesday, August 2nd 2022 the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coaltion, the City of Wayzata, the Wayzata Police Department and the Wayzata Fire Department will join together with Wayzata residents to celebrate Night to Unite.
Night to Unite Luncheon
Per usual custom, the festivities will kick off at the Wayzata Country Club as the Wayzata Chamber hosts the annual Night to Unite luncheon in conjunction with the Wayzata Rotary Club.
Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz will provide an inside look at the department and highlight some of the most significant and bizzarre cases investigated within the past two years during a presentation that will follow lunch.
Block parties from 5:15 – 8:30
Later in the day, Wayzata Police, Wayzata Fire, City staff, elected officials and McGruff the Crime Dog will visit two dozen neighborhood parties throughout Wayzata and Long Lake via public safety vehicles including squad cars and fire trucks.
A Night to Unite party. File photo.
Public safety officials and typically a Wayzata City Council member will make a brief crime prevention speech at each stop.
Each block captain and host has his or her favorite ways to provide food and beverage. This can include a potluck, bring your own, or neighbors collect money to purchase food and beverage.
Children will receive S.W.A.G from Wayzata Police and Fire officials, and will be able to investigate fire trucks and squad cars.
The present Night to Unite concept replaced National Night Out in 2008. The concept was similar to National Night Out, however Night to Unite is endorsed locally by the Minnesota Crime Prevention Association.
Fore more information, call the Wayzata Police Department at 952-404-5340.
Former Republican U.S. Representative Jim Ramstad died Thursday.
He was 74.
Jim Ramstad
Ramstad represented Wayzatans in the Third Congressional District beginning in 1991. He retired in 2009.
“Representative Ramstad was a remarkable man,” said Wayzata Mayor Ken Willcox. “He was a distinguished public servant, who was unique in his ability to work so effectively with people of all stripes. He was a gracious gentleman, always eager to help anyone needing it.”
We lost a friend &hero—former MN Republican congressman Jim Ramstad. He worked w/Paul Wellstone on mental health & carried the torch to pass the bill after Paul died. By being bravely honest about his own personal struggles he gave many courage to take on their own addictions 🙏
Ramstad was open about his battle with alcoholism. He gave up drinking in early 1980s.
He made the battle against addiction and mental health awareness a top priority while in Congress.
He helped pass the Mental Health Parity Bill.
Ramstad also helped others battling addiction.
He served as Rhode Island Rep. Patrick Kennedy’s Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor.
“As a person who lived in long-term recovery, Jim’s empathy and understanding of the brain disease of addiction and those who suffer from it touched many lives,” said Kennedy. “Not only through the policies he advanced in Congress, but also through the compassion he showed to others, including me.”
Ramstad put a spotlight on the idea that mental illness and substance abuse disorders often go hand-in-hand.
Remembering one of the most impactful recovery advocates in modern history – our friend and a great leader. R.I.P. Congressman Jim Ramstad https://t.co/053Nj8lvTq
“Our thoughts are with Jim’s family, especially his wife, Kathryn. May you take comfort in the legacy this great man leaves behind,” said Kennedy.
Ramstad was born in North Dakota and later moved to Minnesota. He attended the University of Minnesota and served in the Minnesota state legislature from 1981 to 1991.
Ramstad not only represented Wayzata in Washington, he was also very involved in the community.
“Jim was also a great friend of Wayzata,” said Willcox. “A few years ago the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce honored him as its Person of the Year. We will sorely miss Jim Ramstad and his decency and his fellowship.”
The Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Peter Hitch as the 2019 Person of the Year. Considerations for the award include a member who is an active participant and supporter of Chamber activities, a long-standing contributor to the economic, civic, commercial, and educational interests of the greater Wayzata area and someone who makes a difference to the community. 2019 marks the 53rd Person of the Year celebration.
Peter has brought nothing but passion to his 40-plus year business career in corporate law, intermodal transportation, sports technology, food, computer businesses and property management. Peter is the 14-year owner and president of Data Doctors in Wayzata. His interest in IT became the basis for assisting small businesses and individuals with the whole range of computer, networking and technology issues. With a motto of “there’s plenty of time between midnight and 6:00 am,” it’s been his volunteering that has brought him the biggest rewards. Sports with his wife, Wendy, and two athletic daughters turned into youth sports coaching: skiing, soccer, golf and platform tennis. Somehow there was time for more.
Believing in “learning by doing,” Peter joined the team that launched the Minnesota Children’s Museum in 1978, helping it grow into ever-evolving educational experience and a national institution. In the 1980s and ‘90s, Peter helped the YMCA Camp Warren Board bring its mission of building integrity, self-reliance, and leadership for boys to separate single gender camping for girls, too. “Warren is simply life-changing,” he says
A member of the Greater Wayzata Chamber of Commerce for the past 15 years (Board Chair in 2014 and 2015), he helped develop the Chamber’s current Vision Statement and Five Year Strategic Plan for 2015-2020.
Peter has worked with the chamber staff and a creative, inspirational committee to build Wayzata’s biggest festival, James J. Hill Days. His goal was to bring fun to volunteering building on the success of dachshund races, car shows and street markets, developing significant sponsors and instituting “enhancements” like music concerts, fireworks, carnival, log rolling, an outdoor movie, a night market, and “water wow” spectacles such as water ski shows, voyageur canoe races, wake surfing and flyboarding demonstrations.
A long-standing community member, Jeff Dayton, said it best. “Peter is a tireless promoter and friend of Wayzata and deeply deserves this honor!”
The Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce will hold The Person of the Year Luncheon in Peter’s honor on Thursday October 24th at the Wayzata Country Club from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The cost is $25. Register online at wayzatchamber.com.
The Greater Wayzata Area Chamber of Commerce is a vibrant membership organization serving businesses and individuals in the greater Wayzata area. The mission of the Chamber is to advocate and promote the interest of its’ retail, professional and community members.
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