The Wayzata Fire Department trains at Wayzata Public Works.
The Wayzata American Legion Post 118 is hosting a special benefit dinner for the Wayzata Fire Department on Friday, Oct. 11, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event will take place at the Legion, located at 949 Wayzata Blvd E.
The benefit will feature an all-you-can-eat Broasted Chicken dinner, complete with baked potatoes, coleslaw, and dinner rolls. Both dine-in and takeout options are available.
All proceeds from the dinner will go to the Wayzata Fire Department to help support its services and operations. Please note that the regular menu will not be available during the event.
This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal at this local restaurant while supporting your local firefighters. For additional details, contact the Wayzata American Legion at (952) 473-7678.
Correction: This article has been updated to reflect the correct day of the week.
Lauren Lindelof speaks to the Wayzata City Council. Image courtesy City of Wayzata.
The City of Wayzata’s Energy and Environment Committee delivered an update at the September 17, 2024, City Council meeting, outlining ongoing projects and future initiatives aimed at sustainability and environmental stewardship.
$50,000 Grant Award from MPCA
Committee Chair Lauren Lindelof highlighted a number of developments including the approval of a $50,000 local climate action planning grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), which has been approved but is still being finalized.
The grant may be used for data analysis on various topics, including an electric vehicle study, utility infrastructure, emergency preparedness, water and waste data, conducting a vulnerability assessment, or creating a city operations implementation plan.
“It’s not been finalized yet, but we have been notified our grant application was approved. The draft agreement with the MPCA will come before the council, for your review, before any work is started,” stated Lindelof.
Dark Skies Initiative
The committee is also exploring ways to advance its Dark Skies initiative. Dark Skies is an initiative aimed at reducing light pollution to preserve natural night environments, improve human health, protect wildlife, and enhance energy efficiency by promoting responsible outdoor lighting practices.
Lindlof explained that the committee’s Dark Skies objectives include developing a new lighting ordinance for future developments, creating educational materials for the public, and revising city-owned lighting, such as on Lake Street and at the beach, to ensure a comprehensive policy.
Solar Array Tour at the Muni
Wayzata RestaurantsIn addition, the public is invited to tour solar arrays at the Wayzata Bar & Grill, the restaurant owned by the City as part of the National and Minnesota Sustainability Tour on Sunday, October 6, from 3-5 p.m. The event will showcase the city’s commitment to renewable energy.
Pollinator Friendly Gardens
Efforts to enhance Wayzata’s natural environment were also discussed. Energy and Environment Committee member and Wayzata High School student Ava McNanley is helping maintain a bee-friendly garden at the high school, which complements the city’s native garden initiative. Additionally, native plantings have been installed at the Wayzata Library.
Nominees for Sustainability Award Sought
The committee continues to seek nominees for its annual Sustainability Award. The award recognizes organizations or businesses that have made strides in reducing waste, lowering energy use, utilizing renewable energy, adopting native landscaping, or conserving water.
Finally, Lindlof reported on the successful LED lighting retrofit projects at the Wayzata Fire Department and Klapprich Park, further showcasing the city’s ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency.
On Sunday morning, September 15, 2024, the Wayzata Fire Station was buzzing with activity as the community gathered for the 8th annual Pancake Breakfast, hosted by the Wayzata Fire Department. Families, friends, and neighbors came out to enjoy the delicious breakfast, with stacks of fluffy pancakes, sizzling sausage, and plenty of syrup to go around.
Photos submitted by Kevin Klapprich.
The event, which has become a beloved tradition in Wayzata, was not just about food — it was about community spirit and supporting the city’s dedicated first responders. Attendees had the opportunity to meet and chat with local firefighters, explore the station, and learn more about the work the Wayzata Fire Department does to keep the community safe.
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Funds raised during the breakfast will go toward the Wayzata Fire Relief Association, which supports the firefighters and their equipment needs.
With smiles all around and full plates, this year’s pancake breakfast once again proved why it’s a can’t-miss event on Wayzata’s calendar.
P.A. Announcer will be remembered for his artificial attendance reports, imitations of officials’ penalty calls, and his faith
After more than three decades as the unmistakable voice of Wayzata High School athletics, Joe Komarek stepped away from the microphone earlier this year, bringing an end to his 33-year tenure as the public address announcer for the Trojans. Known for his rich voice, keen sense of timing, and the occasional lighthearted quip, Komarek became a beloved figure in Wayzatasports.
Komarek, a graduate of Armstrong High School in Plymouth, is an avid golfer and a proud member of the Golden Valley Country Club. His love for golf has been a lifelong passion, offering him a way to relax and stay active when he’s not behind the microphone or involved in community service.
A 33 Year Legacy as the Voice of the Trojans
Throughout his time, Komarek handled public address duties for a wide array of varsity sports, including football, soccer, wrestling, volleyball, and basketball. Komarek began announcing girls’ basketball in 1991-92 with then new head coach Larry Larson. His first football game followed in the fall of 1994.
His contributions extended beyond announcing; Komarek also DJed pre-game and in-game music, introduced starting lineups, and handled timeouts with flair. When needed, he took on scoreboard operations and official scoring duties, embodying his belief that being involved in local sports is a way to serve the community while enjoying the thrill of high school competition.
Simply the Best
In 2008, the Star Tribune recognized Komarek’s unique style, awarding him “Best Football Announcer” for his ability to blend humor into the job. The award noted his playful artificial attendance reports and spot-on imitations of officials’ penalty calls—small touches that made every game an experience. The largest “unofficial” crowd sizes announced were 52,871 for a football game, and 14,871 for a basketball game. Komarek also humorously announced “Train” in a deadpan style when a locomotive and cars would roll past the football field.
Joe Komarek holds an award from the Wayzata Athletic department as the “Best Football Announcer”, as recognized by the Star Tribune. Image copyright Wayzata.com. Reuse prohibited without written consent.
Beth Ulrich and Joe Komarek have emceed the James J. Hill Days Parade for many years.
“It was 33 years of announcing overall, 30 years of announcing football when I officially dropped the mic. My last day was March 12th, when Wayzata beat Hopkins in Section 6AAAA basketball and the Trojans went on to the state tournament, the lord put it right on my heart that I was going to be done,” Komarek stated in a recent interview.
“It’s been a privilege to be a part of the Wayzata athletic family for so long,” Komarek said, reflecting on his time behind the mic. “The positive impact sports have on student-athletes is something I’ve been lucky to witness firsthand.”
Joe Komarek and Dan Gustafson attend the Wayzata Baseball State Championship Game in 2016. Komarek coached the varsity Baseball team in the 1990’s.
Teacher and Coach
Komarek’s service to Wayzata didn’t stop at the announcer’s booth. Between 1991 and 1998, he was a full-time mathematics teacher in Wayzata Public Schools, where he developed a character-based math curriculum to help remedial students succeed on the Minnesota Standardized Math Test. In addition to teaching, he coached girls’ soccer, junior high girls’ basketball, and varsity baseball, leaving a lasting impact on countless students.
A Man of Faith, Leading Others
Beyond the classroom and the field, Komarek is a man of deep faith, which has guided much of his life. In 1998 he started what would be called a faith group called “Wayzata Bay Fellowship,” providing a space for spiritual growth to people in the community. The group migrated back and forth between the Wayzata Bay Center, Sunsets, and other spaces in downtown Wayzata.
In his professional life outside of education, Komarek has worked with organizations such as the Navigators, FaithSearch International, and E210 Ventures. These roles allowed him to serve as a nonprofit representative, providing life and marriage coaching services, supporting church ministries, and offering Biblical history and inspirational teaching tours.
E210 Ventures, a nonprofit, aims to create lasting positive impacts on communities, an initiative that aligns with Komarek’s passion for helping others live meaningful lives of purpose and faith.
Komarek also served as the on-call chaplain for the Wayzata Fire Department, providing spiritual support during life-threatening emergencies—a role that underscored his commitment to serving the community in times of greatest need.
Jeo Komarek meets with members of the Wayzata Bay Fellowship on September 12, 2024. Image copyright Wayzata.com. Reuse prohibited without written consent.
Fond Farewell & New Beginnings
On Thursday, September 12, friends, family, and community members gathered for a farewell reunion at Nine Twenty Five, a restaurant inside the Hotel Landing, to bid him and his wife, Jennifer, a fond goodbye.
Relocation to Florida
Now, Komarek and his wife have relocated to northeast Florida, south of Jacksonville where he will continue his passion for sports as the public address announcer at Tocoi Creek High School. As the new voice of the “Toros,” Komarek will call football, basketball, and wrestling. True to form, he will also continue his ministry work, serving his new community with the same dedication and faith that defined his years in Wayzata.
For over three decades, Joe Komarek was not just the voice of the Trojans, but a pillar of the Wayzata community. While his presence in the press box will be missed, his legacy of service, humor, and faith will be felt for years to come.
The Wayzata Fire Department will host its 8th Annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, September 15, from 8 a.m. to noon at 600 Rice Street East.
The community event will feature pancakes, French toast, sausage, coffee, juice, a raffle, and more, with all proceeds benefiting the Wayzata Fire Relief Association.
The tradition began in 2015, though the department missed two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year, the breakfast expects to serve between 700 and 900 people, continuing the strong support from the community.
The Wayzata Fire Relief Association plans to use the funds to purchase essential equipment for the department.
The Association relies on the generosity of the community to help purchase vital equipment that keeps our firefighters safe and effective, according to Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich.
Every dollar raised makes a direct impact, whether it’s for new gear or updated tools, and Klapprich is grateful for the support received as the organization looks to raise, “as much as we can.”
The event is open to the public, with donations accepted at will.
For more than four decades, the neighborhoods of Wayzata have come together to celebrate Night to Unite, an event that strengthens community ties and promotes safety.
Hosted annually by the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, this year’s celebration, held from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday August 6th, promises to be as engaging and impactful as ever.
Throughout the evening, Wayzata Police, Fire, City staff, elected officials, and McGruff the Crime Dog will visit neighborhood parties across Wayzata and Long Lake.
Residents will have the opportunity to interact with these public servants, who will arrive in police cars and fire trucks, bringing along trinkets for children and delivering important crime prevention messages.
Night to Unite is not only a chance for community members to ask questions and voice their concerns to elected officials, police officers, firefighters, and city staff, but it also serves as a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with neighbors.
This tradition fosters a sense of unity and mutual support, which is essential for maintaining a safe and welcoming community.
So, whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, make sure to step outside and join your neighbors in celebrating this cherished community event.
Night to Unite is more than just a gathering—it’s a testament to the strength and spirit of Wayzata.
Wayzata Lion President Tim Anderson presents a check to Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich, City Manager Jeff Dahl, and Council Member Molly MacDonald.
The Wayzata Lions Club has demonstrated its commitment to community welfare by once again donating proceeds from lawful gambling operations to the Wayzata Fire Department.
Tim Anderson, a representative of the Lions Club, is seen here presenting A check for $20,000 to Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich, City Manager Jeff Dahl, and Councilwoman Molly MacDonald.
Total grants to the Fire Department are estimated to be over $60,000 in calendar year 2023.
The donations underscore the Wayzata Lions Club’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the well-being and educational opportunities within the community.
Since its inception in 1988, the partnership with the City has resulted in nearly $3,000,000 in proceeds being donated to worthy causes.
Wayzata Lions Club: Serving Locally and Globally
Founded in 1917, the Wayzata Lions Club is dedicated to serving communities worldwide and is part of Lions International.
Renowned for fighting blindness, the organization also tackles various local projects, including environmental care and aiding those in need.
Their vision care efforts include screenings, collecting used eyeglasses, and providing equipment to medical facilities, aiming to eliminate blindness.
They also support youth through scholarships and mentorship, with over 144,000 youths engaged globally.
With grants exceeding $700 million since 1968, the Lions Clubs International Foundation aids humanitarian projects worldwide.
During disasters, they provide immediate relief and aid in long-term recovery efforts.
The Wayzata Lions Club lives by their motto, “We Serve,” actively engaging in global service to improve lives and foster community resilience.
For more information on the Wayzata Lions including how to be involved, visit their website.
A correction was made to the amount donated since 1988.
Firefighter Rich Holm is retiring after 37 years of service to the Wayzata Fire Department. Image courtesy City of Wayzata.
After an illustrious career spanning 37 years, firefighter Rich Holm has bid farewell to the Wayzata Fire Department, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service.
Holm, who joined the department in 1985, has been a steadfast pillar of the firefighting community in Wayzata and was recognized at the Wayzata City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
Throughout his tenure, he has played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents.
Colleague and Mayor Pro Tem Alex Plechash described Holm as not just a firefighter but a leader and mentor who inspired those around him. “…we served together in the Fire Department, it’s a testament to your contributions to see how many people showed up tonight. Not just firefighters but family and police officers as well. I’m not exaggerating when I say you have been a real value to the department. I will also say that you were a real value to me. There were a few people on the Fire Department that acted as mentors to me, over the years, you were definitely one of those and I definitely appreciate that.”
Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich, speaking about Holm’s retirement, expressed gratitude for his years of service. “During Rich’s time on the fire department, he spent the 37 years as a firefighter, he spent a number of years as a pump operator, we call them FMO’s, he filled in for a period of time as Lieutenant when we were short, he spent I don’t know how many years being the Fire Department President, he spent twice that many years being the Relief Association President, and as City Manager Dahl said he has made the place a better place.”
Klapprich, continued, “He wasn’t afraid to speak up, he was always there when you needed him, and for that we have a better fire department.”
Holm expressed his gratitude in response, “I never thought this night would come, I really never thought I would leave, I’d like to say thank you to my wife and my family. I can’t say enough about the family support, you have to be there, and you have to have the family behind you.”
He continued, “To the Fire Department family past and present, I have to thank everyone, everyone here, the Police Department, I thank everybody from the bottom of my heart, it’s been quite a journey and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. If anyone is out there watching and wants to join, this organization is amazing.”
On Tuesday night, the Wayzata City Council green-lit a code change permitting two pull tab locations within the city.
This resolution stems from the request by Wayzata American Legion Post 118 to broaden the scope of their gambling license to include selling Pull Tabs at their establishment.
The existing City Code currently sanctions only one license and one location, exclusively held by the Wayzata Lions Club for operation at the Wayzata Bar & Grill.
An example of a pull tab. Wikipedia.
The Legion’s formal request, accompanied by a detailed narrative, underwent thorough discussion by city staff and the Council during a workshop held on January 9, 2024.
Responding to the Legion’s proposal, the Council instructed staff to advance a code amendment.
Additionally, they called for a comprehensive report after one year, aiming to evaluate the impact on the budget and operations for both license holders – Wayzata Lions and American Legion.
Legion Post Commander Jerry Ostrov and the Board of Directors expressed a willingness to contribute a percentage of the proceeds back to the City.
The Post envisions that the newly approved pull tab operation will generate an estimated $25,000 to $30,000 in donations to the City of Wayzata.
The Wayzata Lions, having held the exclusive pull tab license in the city since 1988, operated at the Wayzata Bar and Grill.
Over the years, the Lions have donated a substantial sum of over $1,300,000 in pull tab revenue to the City of Wayzata’s Fire Department, following a 50% revenue split.
Both the Wayzata Lions and the Wayzata Legion have a longstanding history of supporting various causes and non-profit organizations, including veterans and the Wayzata Boardwalk Senior Living facility.
After deliberation, the motion for approval received unanimous support with a 4-0 vote.
A second reading of the code change is anticipated at an upcoming council meeting.
In a ceremony held during the December 5th City Council Meeting, Wayzata Fire Department Chief Kevin Klapprich, alongside City Manager Jeff Dahl, officially swore in two new firefighters to the ranks. Chief Klapprich took the opportunity to introduce the community to these dedicated individuals who will be serving the city with commitment and valor.
Mason Meyers, a Minnetonka resident, took his oath of service with his wife Sunny and their 4-year-old daughter Eden by his side. Having grown up in Shakopee, Minnesota, Meyers brings over a decade of experience in building maintenance to the Wayzata Fire Department. Currently serving as the self-contained breathing apparatus apprentice technician at a fire equipment maintenance company, Mason finds joy in family time. His personal interests include rock climbing, triathlons, and embracing the great outdoors.
Connor Stepka, a native of New Prague, now proudly calls Wayzata home alongside his fiancée Casey. In addition to his role in the Wayzata Fire Department, Connor is also a member of the Excelsior Fire Department. Further showcasing his commitment to community well-being, he serves as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at North Memorial Ambulance, having graduated from Anoka Tech in September 2022. Connor shares a passion for warm-weather outdoor activities and cherishes spending time with family. He expressed his delight at being part of the Wayzata community.
The addition of these two accomplished individuals strengthens the firefighting force in Wayzata, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. Residents look forward to benefiting from the skills and dedication that Mason Meyers and Connor bring to the city’s Fire Department.
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