Waconia, MN June 2023

The Gentlemen's Issue

The Gentlemen's Issue

Fatherhood is a complex and multifaceted experience that has undergone significant changes over time. Men and fathers today face new challenges and opportunities in their roles as parents, partners, and influential leaders. As we reflect this month, we explore the evolving roles of men and fathers in society, the impact of fatherhood on young men’s lives, and the challenges that men face as they balance their personal and professional lives with their responsibilities as fathers and husbands.

My father impacted my life in more ways than he realized. When I lost him unexpectedly in my late 20s, I reflected deeply on the times he was a shoulder to cry on, offered a word of encouragement, or got me belly laughing to help keep me moving forward; I didn’t tell him how much it affected me. My dad owned his own business, and I knew how hard he worked to support our family. In his few spare moments after a hard long day, he would always take time to be present with me. These small moments are what I would give anything to have again.

So take some time this month to think more about the men in your life, be it a friend, husband, father, or son, and the gifts of quality time and life-giving words they bestow upon you.

Let the June issue shine a light on the important and influential role men play in our lives. Gentlemen, know you are valuable to the people who know you and need you, as well as the community around you. Happy Father’s Day!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Emily McKeever | emily.mckeever@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Natalie Finazzo Fox | natalie@nataliefinazzofox.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Jesse Bergstrom

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maria Claire Photography, Buffalo Media Group, Common Hope

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

AMY JANZEN, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: The air was chilly but the wine kept everyone warm at the Waconia Wine Hop. 2: Waconians showed up big for this egg-cellent event hosted by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce. 3: These bunnies hopped all around town for wine tastings, food, and great company. 4: Attendees of all ages enjoyed surprise-filled eggs from the Easter bunny and participating local businesses. 5: The Barn Cats, a Twin Cities based instrumental jazz band, entertained at Parley Lake Winery. 6: A little snow didn’t stop these guests from enjoying wine on Sovereign’s beautiful grounds. 7: Each winery (st)hop consisted of 4 tastings, food, and special deals on wine.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @WaconiaCityLifestyle

SCHRAM VINEYARDS

EMILY MCKEEVER

EMILY MCKEEVER

PARLEY LAKE WINERY

TERRI SAVARYN

TERRI SAVARYN

SCHRAM VINEYARDS

Lymphatic Drainage: Pre + Post-Op Head + Neck Trauma

Detox + Drainage Protocols: Parasites, Mold, Lyme, Heavy Metals Frequency Healing: Naturally Balance your Emotions

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Crown College Releases Name of New Residence Hall

Exciting news from Crown College! Because Crown believes that where students live on campus significantly affects their college experience, this fall they’re opening a new residence hall for their female students. This suite-style hall named SPBI, short for Saint Paul Bible Institute, their name before it became Crown College, will be comprised of 3 floors each of which will have its own large community space, full kitchen, study rooms, and 8 individual suites. Congratulations!

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Ridgeview's Golf & Taste

Join Ridgeview Foundation at their annual Golf & Taste Celebration on Monday, June 26th! In honor of Ridgeview’s 60th anniversary, this year’s Golf & Taste includes morning and afternoon golf along with a new evening format. The evening festivities will include food and beverages from local establishments, opportunities to bid on silent auction items, and entertainment from The Johnny Holm Band. Get your tickets today! https://www.ridgeviewmedical.org/foundation/events/golf-taste-celebration/

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Gina Holman Elected President of the American Craft Spirits Association

Cheers to one of the founding partners of J. Carver Distillery, Gina Holman, who was recently elected President of the American Craft Spirit Association. The mission of the ACSA is to elevate and advocate for the community of craft spirits producers. Waconia, along with many other communities across the country, knows Gina as someone who works hard to promote micro-distilleries and craft spirits producers with her energetic spirit, and wealth of knowledge. Congratulations!

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Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Waconia

The Winery at Sovereign Estate Christian Music Series

The Spirit of the Vine Music Festival is a new event for Sovereign Estate taking place on July 2nd. Set in the vineyard overlooking Lake Waconia, this is an all-day contemporary Christian music festival with world-touring bands. We Are Messengers, Jason Gray and hometown favorite Jenn Bostic will perform along with local music ministries playing in between concerts. Concession food with service bars will be open from 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm. For tickets visit SovereignEstateWine.com

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Speed Networking Event

Start perfecting your 60-second commercial now! Who are you, what problem does your business solve, and what are the best connections to grow that business? At this interactive Speed Networking Event, held at Stock & Barrel Gun Club, you will meet everyone in the room and learn how to turn networking into cash. Join Waconia City Lifestyle on June 20th from 3:00 pm -5:00 pm, then come back for Ladies’ Night from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm.

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local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab your guys and plan a relaxed or adrenaline-induced day, weekend, or guys night out with any one of these local experiences made for the males.

Our Picks for The Man Clan

THE BURROW: Grab your cargo pants and flannel and meet your crew at the Victoria Burrow for some good old-fashioned axe throwing. May the best lumberjack win. 7999 Victoria Drive Victoria, MN

WACONIA LIONS FIELD: Dust off your baseball hat and pack your sunflower seeds because there’s a bleacher, and a bucket of beers, awaiting you at Lion's Field. 927 Wildcat Way Waconia, MN

ISLAND VIEW GOLF CLUB: Drive, putt, and chip at Island View Golf Club then enjoy a perfect cocktail and delicious fare on the deck, overlooking beautiful Lake Waconia. 7795 Laketown Pkwy Waconia, MN

SHRED WITH SHANNON: Grow mentally and physically stronger at Jui-Jitsu instructor and weight-lifting enthusiast, Matt Turek’s full body workout, MEN’s Shredcamp, at The Hive’s Apiary Aerial Studio. 29 East Main Street Waconia , MN

ENKI BREWING COMPANY: Learn about ENKI Brewing’s history, its in-house milling operation, and how each body-filled brew came to be. Then head upstairs to the taproom! 1495 Stieger Lake Ln Victoria, MN

MEET THIS MONTH’S CURATOR Emily

McKeever

You and your crew don’t have to go far to have a bromance-filled date. Maybe you’re looking for a quiet sunny day on the green, an action-packed all-out paintball war, or great music and drinks with your favorite wingmen. No matter the venue, it’s the company that counts. Brah, broski, brother, or friend… choose your favorites, then choose your fun from this list of activities made for a guy’s day or night out.

The Burrow

Review potential benefits of IRA contribution.

The best way to help maximize the tax benefits that come with an IRA can be to contribute as much as you’re able—up to the maximum amount allowed each year.

I can help you examine your assets, and if your current IRA does not meet your needs, we’ll determine the amount that’s right for you. Let’s connect to compare options.

Martin L Cole, CFP®, ChFC®, FIC Wealth Advisor Freedom Financial Group

129 W. Main St. Waconia, MN 55387 952-999-7686

Connect with me:

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP ® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP ® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. Thrivent and its financial professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.

Bourbon and Brisket

Raise the bar on Father’s Day with this perfect pairing

Warm weather brings out a lot of motivation for many a winter survivor. Tune-ups for motorcycle season, triceps dips for tank top season, and pedicures for flip flop season. Then there’s the food… a fresh bag of marshmallows for s’mores nights, a tank full of gas for road trips, and a finger-licking good piece of meat for your grillathon. Barbecuing, cooking out, smoking; pick your delicious savory poison. If you don’t dust that baby off when the thermometer hits 40 degrees, can you even call yourself a recovering vitamin D-deficient Minnesotan? And don’t forget about Title XII Section 5 of the Grilling Act of Summer 2023 which states, “When a pair of tongs is placed in one hand in front of an outdoor heating source the other hand must be holding a glass of smooth bourbon dressed in a lowball.”

During this month, when we celebrate the father figures in our lives with a little extra love, gift yours with a little coaching from genuine pitmasters. Joe and Jennifer Cox have been trusted neighborhood staples

for 20 years as owners of Buddy Boy Fine Barbecue. In May they opened a new location in Minnetrista, next door to the original, which means it’s quite possible that if the breeze is blowing just right, you can catch a whiff of their flavorful, drool-worthy fare from your deck. Get a crash course in bourbon and brisket so you can spread the delicious love at home or, if motivation is low and your stomach is empty, head into Buddy Boy’s to be treated like the king (or queen) you are.

There’s always exciting newness that comes with change and in this case, it comes in the form of delicious: coal burgers, wood-fired sandwiches, and whole roasted fish. Also new is a sophisticated private event space and a full bar delivering seasonal drinks with the freshest and most carefully crafted ingredients. But what you’ll consistently get every time you walk in the door is a welcoming atmosphere and the rich sweet aroma that tells you without a doubt that Buddy Boy’s is a destination for authentic wood-fired barbecue.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

“But what you’ll consistently get every time you walk in the door is a welcoming atmosphere and the rich sweet aroma that tells you without a doubt that Buddy Boy’s is a destination for authentic wood-fired barbecue.”

RECIPE FOR SHOWCASING YOUR BARBECUING SKILLS AT HOME:

• Meat cut – Prime brisket.

• 12 – 18 hours at 200 degrees on a slow-burning red oak fire.

• NO SAUCE NEEDED – but if you must, they suggest their nice tangy southern Buddy Boy sauce.

BOURBON OLD FASHIONED (HINT: IF YOU WANT AN EXTRA SPECIAL TWIST ON THIS POPULAR COCKTAIL, CHECK OUT BUDDY BOY’S SMOKIN’ OLD FASHIONED):

• 1 teaspoon of sugar

• 3 dashes of Angostura bitters

• 1 teaspoon of water

• 2 ounces bourbon (or rye whiskey, if preferred)

• Garnish: orange twist

STEPS

1. Add the sugar and bitters into a mixing glass, then add the water and stir until the sugar is nearly dissolved.

2. Fill the mixing glass with ice, add the bourbon, and stir until well-chilled.

3. Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube.

4. Express the oil of an orange twist over the glass, then drop into the glass to garnish.

Or simply one lowball of Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon – the sweet, complex oak and rye spice flavors with savory brisket is a match made in caveman meets middle-aged man heaven.

Whether you decide to smoke the good stuff on your own or belly up at Buddy Boy’s; it’s the whole package that’s most delicious. It’s the tools and ingredients you use, the setting, and the guidance you receive wrapped up handsomely with the overall feeling of the experience and the people who surround you.

BEYOND BUSINESS

GET TO KNOW A FEW INFLUENTIAL MEN OF WACONIA

You hire them to make your home beautiful, they’re at your door when something breaks, and you put your trust in them to handle some of your most private matters. But how well do you know the man behind the business that makes your lawn the talk of the neighborhood? Their positive and lasting effect on the business community can’t be overlooked but what outside passions help these men hit the reset button so they can continue to serve their communities and families so generously? What fuels their fire? If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting these five VIPs, in this case Very Interesting and Important People, now is your chance.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

Pictured left to right: Pat Fabish, Mike Wickenhauser, Ryan Pederson, Justin Goche, and Bryan Haasken

PAT FABISH

SAGE FLOORING AND SAGE EQUIPMENT RENTAL

Pat Fabish started Sage Flooring, a company that provides high-quality commercial and residential services in 2006, but flooring has been in his family for 3 generations. His father, who still works with Pat, along with his grandfather, taught him a lot about the business, specifically the installation process. Pat and his wife Heather live in Waconia with their three kids and two four-legged kids. He puts his heart and soul into his work but owning two businesses, he also owns Sage Equipment Rental, requires a lot of energy and sometimes long hours. When he isn’t helping his customers decide which machine they need for their project or laying gorgeous flooring in someone’s home he loves to spend time outdoors, especially on his white Harley Davidson. Last summer he and Heather, along with some friends, grabbed their bandanas and gear and headed out to the annual Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota complete with outdoor music and lots of people watching. Name any outdoor activity and Pat is probably up for it. He’s a snowmobiler, novice golfer and loves hitting the open road in the family’s RV for some quality memory-making. You’ll also find him cheering on the Vikings in the fall and the Minnesota Twins when spring arrives. And when Eric Church is in town, you bet he’s getting tickets. If you see Pat around town, take the opportunity to stop and say hello and maybe get a little inspiration for your next hobby.

JUSTIN GOCHE

WACONIA LANDSCAPING CO.

Justin Goche is a man of service who’s used to creating beauty. He and his team at Waconia Landscaping Co. leave a mark on the community through the talents they share and three important principles: quality of service, standard of excellence, and strong faith values. Not only is he busy taking care of his loyal clients, but in 2022 Justin retired from the military after spending 20 years in the Minnesota National Guard. Life at home with his wife Olesya and their two boys is busy and fulfilling as well. They love to travel, especially to warm-weather destinations. This year they spent spring break in Hawaii where they experienced it all; swimming with turtles, hiking Diamond Head, and visiting Pearl Harbor. You name it, they did it. Justin’s a football fan (SKOL!) and enjoys hunting with his boys, and bonfires in their sprawling backyard. He’s always loved wooden boats, specifically the mechanics of the way they glide through the water, so he recently had a local company in St. Bonifacius restore a ’42 Chris-Craft; now one of his favorite summer pastimes. Whether it’s working closely with a client to transform their space into a breathtaking landscape or putting the finishing touches on his new summer toy, Justin approaches it all with a service mentality in hopes of leaving things more beautiful than he found them.

MIKE WICKENHAUSER

CRIMSON COPPER PLUMBING

“Going to work feels good when you do something you enjoy for people you like.” This is the overall sentiment Mike Wickenhauser, owner of Crimson Copper Plumbing has about the path he chose, and he’s carried this gratitude and enthusiasm all along his professional journey. “Plumbing and trades are great, there are a lot of good people in trades and we’re so lucky to have great customers.” Mike began his career working for a company that served clients all over the metro area. Crimson Copper Plumbing was born when Mike realized he wanted to work primarily in the west metro to get to know his customers better and in turn, serve them with even more of a personal touch. One day you’ll find his team outside installing pipes, rain, shine, or Minnesota humidity, and the next they’re repairing a water heater. “It’s always something new and different.” This excitement and delight in new experiences and projects spill over into Mike’s personal life as well. He and his wife Kayla love spending time outdoors, especially their walks around town, and they really enjoy cooking together. They have a small garden and also subscribe to a farmer’s market co-op where they get to try whatever is ripe from the farm that week. Mike is a bit of a thrill seeker and gets his fix flying down Monarch Trail in Victoria, one of his favorite pseudo mountains in Minnesota, on his mountain bike. He also satisfies his need for speed while skiing in the winter and was recently in Colorado soaking in the slopes and breathtaking views. With relationships and adventure at the forefront of everything he does, it’s no surprise Crimson Copper Plumbing has a loyal following. Along with quality plumbing, the personal connection you receive from Mike is sure to make a lasting impression.

Mike Wickenhauser skiing in Colorado. “That feeling of speed and flow can’t be beat.”

BRYAN HAASKEN

CHESTNUT REALTY

If you ask Bryan Haasken about his role at Chestnut Realty, he’ll tell you that it’s not a job, it’s a lifestyle, and he absolutely loves it. Chestnut Realty is a family-owned business that was founded by Bryan’s uncle Cal in 1973. Bryan’s Dad joined in 1982 and later, after initially wanting to establish himself separately from the family business, in 2016 Bryan became part of the team. “After working outside of the family business, I built the confidence to carry myself independently which gave me the opportunity and push I needed to get into real estate sales. It’s an incredibly life-changing and rewarding industry.” Frequently after working together for months, Bryan and his clients develop friendships, many long-lasting. Part of the fun they sometimes have together consists of him showing them more houses. On a regular basis, he tries to sneak in quick weekend trips to Duluth or Brainerd and when the sun is shining, he laces up his hiking boots, packs a lunch, and hits a favorite hiking trail with his fiancée Tata and their 1-year-old son, Xander. Not everyone can say they love what they do but Bryan does, and it shows. Just ask anyone who has worked with him; odds are they’re friends now.

RYAN PEDERSON

EDWARD JONES

If you lived in Waconia from 2012-2014 it’s likely that Ryan Pederson knocked on your door, probably more than once. After 7 years of 60–70-hour work weeks with 50 weeks of travel a year in his previous career as a business consultant, a feeling also started knocking. This time it wasn’t the excited feeling as he went door to door working to build his Edward Jones practice, this time it was a nagging realization that he didn’t want work to consume his life; he had just gotten married, and it was time for something new.“This industry is very competitive, and starting a new business in a town where I didn’t know anyone was challenging,” but he decided to take a leap of faith. He was thankful to have been mentored by veteran advisor Chuck Schmidt who at the time ran the only Edward Jones branch in Waconia. “Without his guidance and help, I would not be where I am today.”  Building a business the old-fashioned way, knocking on every door in Waconia, and meeting people face-to-face to help them reach their financial goals has paid off.

In 2020 the Pedersons built a cabin on Clearwater Lake so he and his wife Jamie, and their two kids could disconnect and enjoy time together as a family. Some of Ryan’s best childhood memories are fishing with his grandpa, dad, and brother. He also spent endless hours at the local lake fishing for crappies, bass, and northerners so it makes sense he loves the slow pace of cabin life. It brings him so much joy watching his kids fish off their dock, and the nostalgia it elicits is priceless. The early years of the transition were scary, but Ryan is thankful he took the leap from a career working out of state building short-term relationships to working and living locally, building and maintaining long-term relationships while balancing it all with his family.

Ryan Pederson loves fishing in his free time, “Fishing allows me to slow down and truly just enjoy the moment.”

Photography

& Photo Booth Rental

REEL IN THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME

ARTICLE BY AMY JANZEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BUFFALO MEDIA GROUP

When you think about a gentlemen’s trip, also known as a ‘mancation,’ it’s hard not to think about fishing. Fishing trips are often seen as a classic way for men to bond. With over 12,000 lakes in Minnesota and one right in our backyard, Lake Waconia, there is an absorbent amount of options. And although a walk to our serene lake, with tackle box and rod in hand on a sunny Saturday, is always a good time, there is nothing quite like taking a journey to unknown regions of the country for something new to bond a group of gentlemen together. One of those unforgettable journeys is a luxury Alaska fishing experience.

The ultimate Alaska fishing expedition

There are vast landscapes as far as the eye can see.

You don’t have to be a skilled angler to partake in the fishing excursions.

Delicious food and drinks add to the enjoyment of your stay at Alaska Rainbow Lodge.

Just one of the glistening bodies of water you’ll see.

The rugged landscape of Alaska embodies promises of untouched beauty, peace and yes, world class fishing. This year Alaska Rainbow Lodge is celebrating its 40th year of providing travelers with the ultimate experience. Accessible by a private charter from Anchorage, and then by float plane to the lodge, the voyage to get there is filled with adrenaline and stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness.

Chip Ferguson, owner of Alaska Rainbow Lodge, says, “The crystal clear waters and unscathed wilderness of Bristol Bay establish a different sense of solitude. The abundance of trout and salmon produced in this prime habitat lends itself to some of the best fishing in Alaska, if not the world.”

If your dreams include early-season fly fishing for rainbow trout on dry flies or mouse patterns, casting for aggressive silver salmon, trolling for a monster King, or drifting beads for 30-inch trout on the Kvichak Flats, you’ve come to the right place. They cater to anglers of all skill levels and offer week-long fly-out fishing experiences that include flying out to different remote rivers and streams every day in their fleet of private float planes.

The opportunity for men to spend time together in a relaxed and peaceful environment, away from the stress and pressures of everyday life can create a sense of camaraderie and bonding through shared experiences. Oftentimes, fathers bring sons, multi-generations of men accompany one another, or fishing buddies make the trip to reconnect. Men come with their wives or girlfriends too. Whatever the relationship, this adventure, taken together, lends itself to building meaningful memories.

Travelers feel like kings with the degree of attention to detail they’ll encounter at Alaska Rainbow

Lodge. As an all-inclusive lodge everything is taken care of, guests need only be prepared for an awe-inspiring adventure. During the stay, chefs prepare daily meals while guests are out relishing in some of the best fishing in Alaska. They return to indulge in mouth-watering, freshly prepared meals after a long day of fishing and exploration. In the evening, guests relax in the comfortable lounge area, sharing stories of their day’s adventures over drinks and hor d’oeuvres. It’s a perfect way to unwind.

Not only is this region of Alaska known for its fishing, it’s also recognized for its vast and abundant wildlife. The Southwest Alaska region includes over 40,000 square miles of beautiful landscape made up of wetlands, untamed stretches of land, streams, and rivers that flow into Bristol Bay. The Alaska wildlife that surrounds the lodge is healthily populated with its proximity to the stunning Katmai National Park and Preserve.

While salmon is the lifeblood of the local economy, there is a large variety of different kinds of marine life and animals that call the Bristol Bay region home. Guests and visitors have the potential to share a peaceful morning on the rivers or lakes near Alaska Rainbow Lodge with the company of moose, foxes, wolves, porcupines, caribou, and brown bears.

Experiencing Alaska’s vast and remote wilderness and fishing can provide an opportunity for men to connect with nature and the outdoors, offering the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, along with a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply looking for an unforgettable wilderness retreat, this type of trip promises to be an experience of a lifetime.

To learn more about Alaska Rainbow Lodge go to https://alaskarainbowlodge.com/

“The abundance of trout and salmon produced in this prime habitat lends itself to some of the best fishing in Alaska, if not the world.”

Relaxing

All of your fishing dreams will come true!

There is a fleet of boats and float planes at the ready to get you on your way.

Catch glimpses of wildlife you’ve never dreamed of seeing.

Every day you’ll get to try a new dish!

You will never forget the awe-inspiring sights and the sound of calm you’ll experience.

Connect, unplug, and relax with your fellow anglers

You’ll fill your camera with images like this.

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2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

The Greatest Adventure

FIGHTING POVERTY WITH DIPLOMAS

ARTICLE BY JESSE BERGSTROM PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMMON HOPE

Adventures aren’t always easy but they can be extremely rewarding. For some, travel to another country is an adventure, and for others graduating from high school is the most epic adventure of their lives. But one thing that makes them easier is when adventurers can walk their paths together. Last October, fifteen intrepid adventurers left Waconia traveling to Guatemala to walk beside kids in Antigua working on the grandest adventures of their young lives.

In partnership with St. Paul-based non-profit Common Hope, Faith Lutheran Church sent a vision team of members and non-members alike, to Antigua, Guatemala, to learn from, work alongside, and build relationships with the people there. Common Hope’s mission is simple; they fight generational poverty with diplomas. They are fighting all the barriers that poverty places in front of the families of kids trying to graduate; costs, medical needs, housing, and technology gaps.

Three of the intrepid travelers, the Bergstrom brothers, were leaving the United States for the first time. Matthias, a junior at Waconia High School, Abram, a freshman, and Hezekiah, a 7th grader at Waconia Middle School, were all a bit unsure about traveling to a country where they could not speak the language. But having seen pictures and heard stories from their parents’ earlier trips, they insisted they would not be left behind.

Another experience the Bergstroms shared with the people of Antigua was constructing colorful kites to be flown on All Saints Day, November 1st.

The brothers learned to travel, work and navigate this new experience alongside their fellow adventurers. They spent time visiting with Guatemalan students they sponsor. They helped a family build a new home. They learned from locals about how to make chocolate from bean to truffle. They worked alongside Guatemalans towards the same goal, breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

Building a house in Antigua was an eye-opening experience for everyone involved. Matthias learned how to mix cement by hand, as cement trucks and heavy equipment cannot easily get to where the houses are being built. Abram and Hezekiah learned that a roof need not be very thick; it just needs to keep the rain out. They also learned that there is no need for heat, air conditioning, or bug screens, as there are very few mosquitos. Very different from how we build in Minnesota!

One of the most impactful takeaways was how working together elevates us all. The team did not go to serve the people of Antiqua but to serve with them as they worked to educate their children. The experience of working alongside a family building their new home and the joy shared when it was finished is something the team and the family treasured together.

Due to its spring-like weather all year round and the suggestion that it possibly has one of the healthiest climates, Guatemala has been given the name, The Land of Eternal Spring. This name is also appropriate for the steps in the journey the brothers took. New relationships, new discoveries, and new lessons learned sprung from their time there, things they took home with them and put into practice in their daily lives.

Interested in adventuring alongside those breaking down poverty? Go to http://www.commonhope. org or contact Mike Rinke at rinkeom@gmail.com about Faith’s next vision trip (non-members welcome!) Vision teams have included members ages 13 to 75, so don’t count yourself out, regardless of your skill level or age. We can overcome even the most difficult obstacles when we adventure side by side.

“The team did not go to serve the people of Antiqua but to serve with them as they worked to educate their children.”

The Bergstrom family with the child they sponsor and family.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Mayer Market & More!

PARKING LOT OF MAYER LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

On the first and third Wednesday of the month from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, running June-August, stop by the parking lot of Mayer Lutheran High School for the Mayer Market & More! This inaugural family-friendly event will host numerous food trucks and vendors and wouldn’t be complete without llamas roaming for photo ops and fun. Learn more at https://minnesotagrown.com/

JUNE 3RD

Lola's Lake Waconia 10 mile / 5k / Kids Run

CITY SQUARE PARK | 7:20/7:45/10:00 AM

On June 3rd the scene will be set and the excitement palpable, so get those running shoes ready and your playlist packed for the Lola’s Lake Waconia 10 mile/5k/Kids Run. Adrenaline will be pumping, and the crowd will be cheering as you cross the finish line. Then take the fun with you to Lola’s Lakehouse for the official post-race party. Register at https://www.lakewaconiahalfmarathon.com/

JUNE 10TH

National Rosé Day

SCHRAM VINEYARDS WINERY & BREWERY | 12:00 PM

Did you know National Rosé Day is June 10th? There’s no better way to cool off than with a glass of Rosé in hand looking out on Schram’s vineyard as you celebrate your new favorite day and the season we’ve been waiting for. With its fruity flavor and color, no wonder its nickname is ‘Summer Water’. Learn more at https://www.schramvineyards.com/events

JUNE 17TH

Lake Waconia Band Festival

DOWNTOWN WACONIA

The Big Black will finish up their season with the Lake Waconia Band Festival on June 17th. This ‘bands only’ parade puts a huge spotlight on the many talented bands in central Minnesota. Grab your picnic blanket and reserve your spot on 1st Street for the event that’s the cherry on top of Waconia’s summer sundae. For more info: https://waconiabands.com/calendar/

JUNE 21ST

Down on the Farm Camp

CARVER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY | 12:00 PM

School’s out but that doesn’t mean the kids have to stop learning! Send them to Down on the Farm Camp where they’ll learn what life was like on a farm in the 1800s. They’ll make a yarn doll, play pioneer games, and learn how kids helped the homestead. Maybe they’ll realize taking out the trash isn’t so bad? For more information visit https://www.carvercountyhistoricalsociety.org/

JUNE 22ND

Firefly Viewing Nights

MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE ARBORETUM | 8:30 PM

Begin this 2-hour adventure in the Sensory Garden where you’ll learn about lightning bugs from local experts and Master Naturalists. You’ll then choose from 4 hiking routes to take in this enchanting show put on by the night sky. Each week they’ll also pick an additional nighttime creature to highlight. For additional nights and to register, visit https://arb.umn.edu/FireflyNights

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Waconia