In my opinion, the two standout matches of the US Open this year were the men's final between Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev, and the second round match between Simona Halep and Taylor Townsend. The winners of each were left-handed players. I've watched a lot of tennis in my day and I can …
Recently I read that 1 out of every 3 Americans is either a stepparent, stepchild or is some form of a blended family. That is almost 100 million people. The family unit does not look like it did back in 1950, where the typical family unit consisted of mom, dad and the kids.
Rain now comes down in torrential downpours, ticks survive our milder winters, and Lake Superior is experiencing algae blooms; we see the undeniable effects of climate change all around us. As a native Minnesotan who worries about my children’s future, I was pleased to attend a presentation …
The new Scheels sporting goods store being built at Eden Prairie Center is slated to have a Ferris wheel, 16,000-gallon aquarium, and even a deli serving treats and fudge, soups and sandwiches. The company's goal is to attract families from far and wide to visit this soon-to-be flagship stor…
Last week, I wrote about tennis being a lifestyle and a lifetime sport. I received an email from a reader asking for some tips for senior players. It is true that as we get older our body does not always react as fast as in our younger days, but, I must first relate an experience that I had …
Sept. 8-15, 2019 is National Suicide Prevention Week. Each year, 47,000 Americans die by suicide. For every person who dies by suicide, 25 people attempt suicide. That’s 1,175,000 people who are in so much pain they feel they can do nothing but die to make their pain go away. With the United…
A lot of things come with a warning label these days. For example: tools and machinery, tobacco and alcohol products and toys with small parts. There is even talk of putting a warning label on soda beverages because of the high refined sugar content.
As a constituent of District 33’s Sen. Dave Osmek, R-Mound, I congratulate him for receiving the “Energy Champion” award for “encouraging all-of-the-above energy strategies in Minnesota.” We are fortunate to have his leadership in St. Paul on energy policy because he is managing a complex subject.
I am a member of the Minnetonka Climate Initiative (MCI), and am writing to encourage the Minnetonka City Council to create a Sustainability Commission and a Climate Action Plan (CAP). The need for urgent climate action cannot be overstated. Climate change cannot be denied — we are already f…
More often than not, when you see Orono Schools it is followed by “Where excellence is a tradition and a goal.”
Wayzata’s big celebration, James J. Hill Days, kicks off Friday. Since 1975, the town has celebrated the railroad mogul and his impact on Wayzata.
Two thoughts come to mind as the kids head back to school: thank God I don’t have to go to school anymore, and I wish I’d thanked Miss Peseux. Miss Marion L. Peseux (rhymes with kazoo) was my sixth-grade teacher in 1961 and she was the best teacher I ever had.
Myth: I hear that I need to pronate my arm to get more speed on my serve, but when I try it as suggested, I get pain in my forearm and I’m less consistent. I must be doing something wrong.
It’s my favorite time of the year, back to school! I’m someone who loves a schedule, routine and organization. I’m all for the spontaneity of summer, but I love the routine that back to school brings.
On July 18, Lakeshore Weekly News reported a press release from the Coalition for a Secure Energy Future touting its award to District 33 Sen. David Osmek as an “Energy Champion” for “encouraging ‘all-of-the-above’ energy strategies for Minnesota.”
I always wanted to be a knight when I grew up. In the novels I spent hours reading, knights helped the people who needed it most, shined a light in the darkness and restored justice to the world.
Doctors "over-prescribing" opioids did not cause our “opioid crisis.” Nearly half of all overdoses don’t involve opioids at all. Among remaining drug-related deaths in 2017, half involved illicit drugs — imported fentanyl and heroin. Only about 18,000 deaths involved a “prescription opioid” …
Does it seem like you are always running more and working harder than your opponent in your singles matches? Exposing this next tennis "myth" may explain why.
Last night, I watched Congressman Dean Phillips on Minnesota Public TV's "Almanac" show. It is good to hear he no longer blames all of our problems on Erik Paulsen. He now blames them on President Donald Trump. Mr. Phillips is truly a gutsy, inspiring and insightful politician. Plus he gives…
The other day I was driving to the bank, bawling my eyes out. When I got to the bank the teller asked if I was OK, to which I responded, “I’m fine, I’m just getting my tears out of the way before my daughter’s wedding.”
The degrading of this generation’s youth has become shockingly common. Between memes only ‘80s kids can relate to and Buzzfeed quizzes Gen Z’ers can’t even get 1/12 on, we’re incessantly fed the idea that us “kids these days” simply aren’t as good as the children of the good ol’ days.
Back in the day, when I was learning tennis, we had, maybe, five to six VHS (remember those?) instructional tennis programs to chose from at the local video store. Today, there are literally thousands of websites and YouTube videos on tennis instruction. So how does the average recreational …
Playing doubles in tennis is like country music or coffee, you either love it or you don't.
According to a recent article in the Washington Post, only 22% of mass shooters are mentally ill. How is that possible? How can a person who is NOT mentally ill murder anyone (let alone perpetrate a mass shooting)? They certainly are not mentally healthy and so, by default, wouldn’t they be …
It’s a good thing I’m not claustrophobic. I actually prefer small enclosed spaces to big open spaces. One of my favorite places I lived was in an apartment with one window. I like to feel cozy and know all windows and exits are secure.
Looking back, my life was changed by the Minnesota State Fair. It opened my eyes, emptied my billfold, warmed my heart, put college on my radar, and brought the importance of education and people into my focus.
A good question from a reader — “Coach Brian, I enjoy your articles… With all of the new changes in smaller courts, rackets and the new foam tennis balls for kids, can you write more about parental involvement in getting more youth to try tennis?” -Barney, of Plymouth.
Five words from the oft-quoted challenge to the nation by President Kennedy in his inaugural address is the title of this column. These words inspired me to pose a question for all who drive on our Minnesota roads. More about that quote and my question a bit later.
Much has changed through the years at the corner of Lake Street and Barry Avenue in Wayzata — particularly the businesses that occupied that part of Wayzata.
Healthcare is a central piece in the puzzling journey of a happy and healthy life. We all require quality medical care for everything from stitches to chronic disease, and each life stage brings new issues that require unique forms of care.
Minnetrista’s Current Mayor Lisa Whalen, current Minnetrista Council person Pam Mortenson and current Minnetrista Council person John Tschumperlin were recently all found to be in violation of accepting political campaign contributions far in excess of Minnesota State Campaign Laws and were …
My house feels like a palatial mansion at the moment. It definitely is not one. My perspective on space has changed after spending a week in a Sprinter Van from RVThereYet.com on an epic road trip.
How I would sum up Wimbledon 2019 in a sentence for those who might want the super condensed versions: It was the best, saved for last or the “slice” stole the show or will we see the same rematches in the 2020 Wimbledon final? or those pesty tie-breaks!
About two years ago, I researched some interesting facts about tennis and wrote an article for this newspaper. ("A look at the sport of tennis," March 6, 2017). I was pleasantly surprised to learn that, worldwide, tennis is the fastest-growing individual sport.
In our neighborhood, people walk their dogs, kids play in the streets and everyone greets each other as they pass. We haven’t lived here very long so I don’t know everyone. While walking tonight, I approached an unfamiliar couple and we started chatting. Before long, the inevitable question …
Thank you for your article about the Big Woods at Minnetonka’s Lone Lake Park (Lakeshore Weekly News, June 27). When walking there I’d always felt there was something special about those huge trees. Now, thanks to your informative article, when I go again, I will really appreciate the fact t…
Where the heck did I put that file? Don’t I own any tape? OMG why do I have so much tape? These are just a few examples of the things I struggle with in my home office. I love that I primarily work from home. For me, I can’t imagine it any other way. Personally, I feel I’m more productive wi…
June 15th marked World Elder Abuse Awareness Day as designated by the United Nations. And while this is a day to be especially mindful of the reality of this abuse, millions of older adults are forced to endure it daily.
We are often so destination driven that we forget to enjoy the journey. I spent years driving to Mankato when my girls were in college. Each time I made the picturesque drive, I wanted to stop and check out an antique store or historic site. I never did. I was too focused on getting to my de…
Now that summer is in full swing you may be preparing to make property improvements.
Recreation by the waters of Lake Minnetonka had modest beginnings.
Now that summer is in full swing you may be preparing to make property improvements. If you live near a lake, stream or wetland, it’s important to do a little research before you get started. Doing so will save you time and money and help protect the water that you live on or near.
Your parents said, “We think you are ready for big boy underwear instead of diapers.” Now you pay attention to Depend ads on TV and hear your doctor ask the question “Any trouble with urine drips?”
I love the smell of fresh-cut grass in the morning, but I hate seeing my favorite professional tennis players slipping and falling-down on the grass courts at Wimbledon.
Let me preface this by saying that I am condemning neither Superintendent Dennis Peterson nor the Minnetonka School District. I believe Dr. Peterson always has the district's best interest at heart. I am also staunchly proud of the district that both my children attended and would not hesita…
The science is clear: Carbon emissions sent into the atmosphere from a variety of human sources threaten to upend our economy, our health, our national security and our very way of life.
Last week we went to grab an ice cream cone in Mound. I got to thinking about a piece the Mound mayor published in the newsletter last month about the possible development in the area east of the ice cream shop. It was nice to have a public space easily accessible to enjoy our cones and see …
The No. 1-ranked U.S. women’s national team is in France as you read this, crashing through every other World Cup team in their path. Through the first three games they have scored an almost absurd 18 points while allowing their opponents nil.
Many tennis fans expected to see some of the younger professional players break through and win one of the major tournaments this year.
One in three seniors die with Alzheimer’s disease, it is the only leading cause of death in the U.S. that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed, it is so important that we have elected officials who are working to make Alzheimer’s a national priority.
