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...

Sports + Recreation

Homecoming at Crown College

Celebrating school spirit, community, and a day full of unforgettable moments Article by Emily McKeever | Photography by Crown College, ©2024 As leaves fall and the pumpkin-spiced lattes flow, schools across the country kick off festivities that honor a tradition more than 100 years old – Homecoming. Crown College hosts a vibrant day filled with spirited traditions and playful activities that radiate Polar pride and display the heart of its lifelong authentic community. We spoke with Dr...

Style + Beauty

Fringe, Florals, and Furs

What you can expect to see in fashion this fall Article by Alison Lee We’ve gone straight to the fashionable source to see this season’s styles and learn which looks have made their way from runway to retail. Eleece Pink, owner of The Stash of Waconia, has loved fashion since she was a little girl. And now that she can curate the inventory in her own boutique, she’s passing along her expertise and love of fashion to help women of all ages walk out with something they love. She shares with us...

Home Services

Concrete Style

Boll Custom Concrete brings expert craftsmanship and a hometown touch to create beautiful, lasting spaces around your home Article by Emily McKeever A stylish living room or bathroom is so last year – or maybe it’s just time to spread the flair beyond the usual areas in your home. In Minnesota, when it comes to family get-togethers or lounging at home, if it’s over 50 degrees, we’re taking the party outside. When we’re storing our beloved tools or finally setting up that dreamy man cave, we’re...

Life + Culture

Where Waconia Comes to Play

How a humble sidewalk sale became the town’s most beloved celebration. Nickle Dickle Day is here! Article by Lauren Beaubaire Get ready for Waconia’s most anticipated event of the year—Nickle Dickle Day! Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 13, as downtown Waconia transforms into a bustling hub of festivities, community spirit, family fun, and, of course, great local deals.  It’s the festival's 64th year, and boy, has Nickle Dickle Day evolved from its humble origins. This event has a...