Shopping

Something for Everyone

Thoughtful gifts from local businesses for every vibe on your list Article by Emily McKeever Cabin Fever Sporting Goods If you have a hunter, fisherman, or archer in your circle, you’ve found their holy grail. From bait to ladder stands, you’ll find all the gear to make their holiday bright.  cabinfevermn.com   Carver Junk Company For someone whose skin is often exposed to the elements, their natural soaps are gentle, nourishing, and smell amazing.  carverjunkcompany.com Launchpad...

Sports + Recreation

Game On in Waconia

A look at boys’ and girls’ basketball and the passion and spirit that fuels every game Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Trevor Jager Things are heating up this winter as the boys and girls basketball teams ignite the court. When you join the crowd, you’ll not only witness fast breaks, slick passes, and quick steals, but you’ll also feel the tight camaraderie and fierce drive that only Waconia High School and Southwest Christian High School teams embody. Learn a little more about...

Life + Culture

Santa Claus and The Grinch are Coming to Town!

Holiday magic and a little mischief await at your favorite local spots Article by Emily McKeever Before Santa drops down your chimney, or The Grinch replaces all of your candy canes with vegetables, pay a visit to one of the local businesses spreading cheer this season. These two iconic personalities will be popping up in town to fill your holidays with wonder and laughter… or if The Grinch has his way, a few tangled lights and playful pranks. 1. Waconia’s Famous Santa Claus will be parking...

Life + Culture

Making Spirits Bright

7 ways to donate your time, talents, and treasures Article by Alison Lee There are numerous ways to give back to your community and serve those in need, but here are 7 meaningful and local opportunities that will hopefully fill your calendar (and your heart) this holiday season.  1. Bountiful Basket Food Shelf This local food shelf has a mission to nourish neighbors, inspire hope, and support families. As a volunteer, you can sort and organize donations, help pack mobile orders, or be a...

Health + Wellness

Flu Season, We’re Coming For You

Dynamic Drips’ IV infusions are here to help beat the winter blues from the inside out Article by Emily McKeever Short days and nasty illnesses call for relaxation, a comfortable ambiance, and a team of trained individuals who care deeply about well-being and what ails you. The services Dynamic Drips offer blend strong core values with vitamin-rich boosts that’ll renew your spirits and nourish you from within. Imagine therapy, hydration, and happiness —rolled into one visit —and leave knowing...

Life + Culture

Get Your Jingle On

Visit holiday pop-up bars decking the halls — and the cocktail menus Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Courtesy of Lola’s Lakehouse, Photography by Social Construct Media & Design Some over-the-top ambiance here, and a sip of something merry there–now there’s even more to love this season, with beloved establishments shifting into full holiday mode. Add them to your calendar, and start celebrating like the North Pole VIP we all know you are. Brass Hat Christmas Movie Bar   Tucked...

Food + Beverage

Bringing Thanksgiving Home with Local Touches

Support local businesses while setting a table your guests will love Article by Emily McKeever It’s that time of year again when   your spirit of thankfulness coincides with craving your father-in-law’s stuffing. Among the blessings on your gratitude list–family, friends, health, and so much more–you can also add a community full of small businesses that make creating a memorable Thanksgiving gathering delicious and beautiful. The best part? You don’t even need to leave town.  Appetizers   ...

Food + Beverage

From Groceries to Growth

How the Prosper Program at Gather and Grow Food Shelf and Connection Center is helping the community learn, grow, and thrive Article by Emily McKeever Nestled in the heart of two great communities, Waconia and Watertown, you’ll find Gather and Grow Food Shelf and Connection Center. Whether you’re a volunteer, contributor, supporter, or client, we’ve all been touched in some way by the way this organization fills plates and sparks inspiration. The Prosper Program, a holistic approach to...

Education

Hockey Season Heats Up

The Waconia boys’ and girls’ hockey teams are ready to hit the ice and chase success this year Article by Emily McKeever You know old man winter is on his way when the smooth “shhhhhhh” of blades and sharp “crack” of sticks can be heard from the Waconia Ice Arena. This season is shaping up to be an exciting one for the boys’ and girls' hockey teams as they lace up and skate into action.  Boys varsity team captain, senior, Devon Stifter, says that this year’s team is strong in skill and...

Life + Culture

Bonfire and Barrel

A warm new chapter at Schram Vineyards as they unveil their latest expansion Article by Lutie Ronglien | Photography by Maria Claire Media Since opening its doors in 2013, Schram Vineyards has become a cherished destination in the Waconia area, offering award-winning wines and stunning views in a rustic-chic setting. Over the years, the original building has served as a jack-of-all-trades: tasting room, kitchen, production facility, and event space. But as the vineyard’s popularity soared, so...