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...

Food + Beverage

What’s New in Waconia

Mocha Monkey Brews Up Fresh Flavors with Chief Roaster John Pennucci Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Maria Claire Media There’s always something beautifully bold brewing at Mocha Monkey, but lately, you’ll notice a new depth in every cup of joe. As you take a seat at your favorite coffee shop, you might notice a new face and the unmistakable aroma of coffee being roasted just steps away. That would be Chief Roaster, John Pennucci, and their vintage San Franciscan roaster, a piece of...

Food + Beverage

More Than a Meal

How Winchester & Rye brings friends, flavor, and community together Article by Emily McKeever When Kim and Kevin Heenie first welcomed guests into Winchester & Rye, an elegant yet relaxing restaurant in the charming town of Victoria, they opened the doors to more than refined cuisine and service to match; they introduced the community to a rich history and the warmest of hospitality. From the very beginning, Kim and Kevin aimed to create a culinary destination that was a hub for the community...

Education

Hometown Highlights

The best of Waconia this season Article by Emily McKeever We’ve made it through the first month of the new school year, and while quadratic equations and research papers might be fun for some, we’re ready to talk real fun. Like the “This is what I’m doing Friday night” kind of fun. When the homework is finished and the errands are done, in Waconia, there’s always an extensive rotating list full of gametime excitement, action-packed tournaments, and talented ensembles lighting up the stage...

Life + Culture

Flannels, Fun, and Fundraising for a Cause

Waconia Dandylions in action: spreading cheer across the community Article by Emily McKeever If you see a circle of women out in the community, collecting gently used clothing or happily selling raffle tickets at local events, likely it’s the powerful Waconia Dandylions. This nonprofit organization serves the health and wellness of families in our community. This group, which is the women’s chapter of the Lions Club International, started in 2020 and has since grown to 80 members. Maybe you’ve...

Sports + Recreation

Hometown Highlights

A Look at Waconia’s Team, Town, and Time-Honored Homecoming Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Trevor Jager If you’ve ever attended a football game in Waconia, you know it’s sort of a thing around here. With pom poms in hand and game day outfits on full display, if hometown pride had a look, it would be the Wildcats huddled under the electric stadium lights as the packed crowd roars from the bleachers. And if you really want to see the community come alive, walk through the gates on...

Style + Beauty

What’s New in Waconia

Rah rah rah! Celebrate Homecoming with Nice Shirt Co.’s Wildcat wear Article by Emily McKeever As the community lines the streets and fills the stands the week of September 22nd for Homecoming festivities, the sea of purple and gold will be nothing short of electric. Before you catch that parade candy and witness a Wildcats win, you’ll need some spirit wear, because showing up in anything less is such a rookie move. If you want quality and charm, not to mention oh-so-soft materials, then lace...