Whether it’s a custom countertop in a home or signage in businesses across the nation, Creative Surfaces work is all over. The family business has grown tremendously since its inception in 1988, and vice president of operations Justin Pins gives us a look into his life when he’s not helping run a successful manufacturing company.
Good Earth State Park is right by our home (with my wife, Andrea, and daughter, Everly), so we frequently head over there for some fresh air. The landscape changes so much with each season, it’s a beautiful place to be active.
When the Falls Park Farmers’ Market is open, we’ll head down as a family to stock up on fresh produce for the week. Although I’m not much of a coffee drinker, we’ll inevitably stop at Queen City Baker [1] on our way so my wife can enjoy a latte and a slice or two (or four) of the Brooklyn Blackout Cake.
I’m frequently with employees on the Creative Surfaces shop floor helping out or just admiring the craftsmanship. Casino signage is an art form, and our staff is incredibly talented. It’s fun to see them take designs from concept to final product.
This past summer, I’ve taken up golf again, and am looking forward to the warmer weather so I can get back out on the green at Minnehaha Country Club [2]. I need to work on my swing so I can keep my buddies’ egos in check.
As the Cambria distributor for the region, we have the opportunity to support the local concert and events scene at the Denny Sanford Premier Center through a shared sponsorship with Cambria. I frequently like to catch a show there in Club Cambria [3] with family, coworkers, friends, or clients.
In the fall, I enjoy pheasant hunting, especially with my dad and grandfather when I can. In the off season, I head to Hunter’s Pointe for outdoor target practice. They have a great variety of courses and ranges to keep it interesting.
You can sometimes find me at Stogeez Cigar Lounge [4] with friends while enjoying a cigar from Eastwold Smoke Shop. It’s my one vice, but a relaxing way to kick off the weekend.
Okay, so maybe I have two vices. But let’s be honest – how can good bourbon be a bad thing? I love catching up with Tom Slattery at JJ’s Wine, Spirits & Cigars [5] to get the scoop on what’s good and how to best drink it (with one ice cube and a splash of water). I’m excited to be relocating our retail store, The Stone Center, next door to his new place off 57th Street.
My wife and I love good food that challenges us to try new things. Parker’s Bistro [6] is our go-to spot for something more than your standard meat and potatoes, and the intimate atmosphere is perfect for date nights.
For more information on Creative Surfaces, visit creativesurfaces.com.
RANDOM FACTS:
Although I’m a terrible basketball player, I have one National Championship and four Big 12 Championship rings from my time working as equipment manager for KU Men’s Basketball. I wear them all at the same time on the same hand, every Sunday. Just kidding.
If I have the time, I love walking up and down every aisle of the grocery store. I find it weirdly relaxing.
I hate sweets. No interest in cakes, cookies, ice cream – none of that stuff. Give me chips and dip any day of the week instead.
I love taking trips to hike National Parks, and it’s a goal to visit them all. I have 14 down, 44 to go!
I’ve lived in South Dakota my entire life, but I’ve never been to the Corn Palace. Please don’t kick me out.
