Waconia, MN July 2023

Wild and Free Summer

HOME + DESIGN CRAFTING DREAMS

FOOD & BEVERAGE

SUN-KISSED VINES

SPORTS + RECREATION

LAKE LIFE MADE EASY

ENTERTAINMENT

SIZZLING SUMMER MUSIC

JULY 2023

Wild and Free Summer

There is a sense of freedom that only comes with summer. It’s wild and pure and allows layers to be shed in both a literal and figurative sense. It allows us the time to find joy in the little things. Kids laughing, birds singing, and boats humming along fill the air and our hearts. There’s just something about this season that brings excitement and wild adventure.

In a sense, days slow down. We savor the long days and warm nights with the intention of rejuvenation. Whether spending time with friends, neighbors or family, the options for what to do are abundant and limitless. It's a feeling like nothing else.

As we embark on the one year anniversary of Waconia City Lifestyle hitting your doorsteps and the journey of creating stories to Live Inspired and Love Local, our team hopes this issue will get you feeling all the feels about summer, what it provides, and how to make the most of the season.

And even if summer doesn't mean three months "off" anymore (because we're, you know, adults) we can still look forward to a wild adventure by crossing things off our ultimate summer bucket list or simply curling up with a new favorite beach read. (P.S. shout out to all our teachers, you deserve this break!)

Summer to our family encompasses so many experiences but especially sunsets from the deck, camping in the yard, kickball in the cul-de-sac, and neighborhood bonfires. It really is the simple things that bring us the most joy, gratitude and sense of freedom. And in line with gratitude for summer and our one year anniversary, I want to honor and acknowledge the Waconia City Lifestyle team and our business partners who have supported us from day one, and new partners just joining our mission. You help lift this community up and elevate the experience of inspiring our readers with authentic stories and dedication to a growing community. You are all amazing! Thank you.

Just like this season has a way of bringing people together, we hope the pages inside this month’s issue do the same, enriching and enlivening your Wild and Free Summer! AMY

July 2023

PUBLISHER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATO

Emily McKeever | emily.mckeever@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Natalie Finazzo Fox | natalie@nataliefinazzofox.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Amanda Wagner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maria Claire Photography, Natalie Finazzo Fox

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

Photography

& Photo Booth Rental

Photography: Natalie Finazzo Fox

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: The 19th Annual Sister Saturday was held on May 13th in downtown Waconia. 2: You can’t beat the deals and contagious energy present at this favorite local event. 3: Red Fox Bakehouse set up shop with their family recipe inspired artisan breads and treats. 4: Thanks to the Waconia Chamber of Commerce for another fun and successful Sister Saturday! 5: Glowing smiles (and lots of pink!) welcomed visitors to all the participating businesses. 6: This trio was pretty in pink as they shopped and enjoyed all things Sister Saturday. 7: The rainy weather was no match for smiles, sunglasses, and shopping!

Photography by Natalie Finazzo Fox

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Take

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.

27716A R6-22

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Brush Dental Studio sets up shop in Saint Bonifacius

Join us in welcoming Brush Dental Studio to the neighborhood! They’re now open and taking appointments so be sure to schedule one for you and your family with Dr. Jesse Toftely at 8800 Partridge Road in Saint Bonifacius. From cleanings to crowns to cosmetic dentistry, the team at Brush Dental Studio has you and your smile covered.

Buddy Boy Fine Barbecue's new location is now open!

The new location of Buddy Boy Fine Barbecue on Highway 7 in Minnetrista is NOW OPEN! What can you look forward to as you plan your first or 50th visit? An atmospheric back patio for outdoor dining, drinking, music, and always the best BBQ. Inside you’ll find fresh modern décor with a theme of ‘bringing the outside in’ brightening the space as well as your experience there. Congratulations to our friends at Buddy Boy Fine Barbecue!

The Waconia Wine Festival Weekend is back

It’s July and you know what that means, Waconia Wine Festival Weekend time! Your hosts for this summertime ‘must do’ are Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery, Parley Lake Winery, and The Winery at Sovereign Estate. Buy a $50.00 ticket for July 29th or July 30th (or both!) Each ticket will get you 9 total tastings, a visit to 3 unique wineries, a safe ride, and a souvenir glass. Start the experience here https:// waconiawinecountry.com/.

Want to be featured?

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

Photography: Schram Vineyards

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Don’t let the summer season get away from you before school and cooler temperatures return. Grab your crew and tackle our bucket list recommendations to check off before one of our favorite seasons comes to an end.

Our Picks for Your Summer Bucket List

SCHRAM VINEYARDS WINERY & BREWERY: Food trucks, music, and wine at Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery. You can’t go wrong with a glass of wine paired with awesome outdoor music. 8785 Airport Road Waconia, MN

NEVER BORED ADVENTURES: Kayaking gets you outdoors and exploring new places; two things I love to do. Reitz Lake is one of my family’s favorites for this activity. Cedar Point Park Waconia, MN

WACONIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: The 4th of July over Lake Waconia is a must-see every year and the wading view from Legacy Village water is our favorite spot! 209 South Vine Street Waconia, MN

YOUR BOAT CLUB WACONIA: Savor Lake Waconia. We’re fortunate my parents graciously share their pontoon with us, but if you’d like to rent one, check out Your Boat Club. 318 E Lake St Waconia, MN

JOLLY GREEN GIANT: Visit Minnesota’s biggest sculptures... think Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth County or Pelican Pete in Pelican Rapids. I’ve seen over 50 (and counting)! 1126 Green Giant Ln Blue Earth, MN

Holly Wortz grew up in Waconia and jokes that when she graduated, “there was only one stoplight in town” (the one by Walgreens!) As a kid, she played softball, basketball, and volleyball and is still involved in these sports only this time as a coach. Holly has worked for Kids’ Company, summer recreation, she’s umpired softball, and officiated basketball but her longest stint yet has been as Youth and Adult Program Coordinator for Waconia Community Education and Recreation… for nearly 18 years! She’s a friendly face and a pillar of our community that we’re so fortunate to have here. In her free time, Holly enjoys coaching, traveling, camping, and supporting her girls in their many activities.

Your Boat Club Waconia

ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

Crafting Dreams

HOW VIVID HOMES IS BUILDING A BUSINESS OF DREAM HOMES FROM THE GROUND UP

Jim Winkels has grown up around the trades. Much of his family was self-employed and he was always touring new homes as a kid. As a result, he developed an interest in all things new home construction, from the floor plans and layouts, to how a job site is run. After gaining varied construction experience, in new home sales, remodeling, roofing, and exteriors, it was time to put it all together. Now the owner of Vivid Homes, a custom home builder in Waconia and the west metro, he gets to make the dreams of his clients a reality while doing something he loves.

For many, a custom home can feel out of reach but Jim aims to make the experience more affordable for his clients. He believes there are certain features that should be standard on any home, to accommodate how families live today. They are no longer the nice-to-haves, but the need-to-haves.

“In my custom homes, dramatic-looking high ceilings, steep roofs, and large windows are just some of the essential features that add to the experience of the home itself. We are always thinking about how a client will use the space to ensure their custom home exceeds their expectations.”

Building a custom home gives you the opportunity to design for how you live, and Jim Winkels at Vivid Homes is ready to guide you through the process.

“Vivid Homes can build on any lot and will adjust plans accordingly to ensure the right custom home for the space, within a specific budget.”

Situated in the stunning Carver Bluffs, the Brookview development is Vivid Homes’ newest neighborhood.

“In my custom homes, dramatic-looking high ceilings, steep roofs, and large windows are just some of the essential features that add to the experience of the home itself. We are always thinking about how a client will use the space to ensure their custom home exceeds their expectations.”

The average square footage of a home has decreased as interest rates have increased. This has prioritized the need to use square footage well. At Vivid Homes, Jim and his team have various plans that a client can select from, but they will also tailor a custom home design to meet the client’s specific needs. It’s as simple as asking for what you want and how best to make it work on your lot.

One way Vivid Homes makes the home-building process easier is its list of essentials that a client doesn’t even need to ask for. They say the kitchen is the heart of the home so each kitchen is designed to be large and functional for everyday life. This means lots of counter space, ample storage, and an oversized walk-in pantry. The garage is always insulated and finished because it’s an extension of the home. It also includes an electric car charger. Vivid Homes prefer a 10’ ceiling height, which makes the home feel larger, lets more light in, and is not significantly more expensive when building. Finally, larger and more extensive windows are always a priority because natural light adds to the experience of a home and amplifies that airy, open feeling.

And it all begins with the lot. Vivid Homes can build on any lot and will adjust plans accordingly to ensure the right custom home for the space, within a specific budget. To better support realtors and buyers, Vivid Homes is launching a To-Be-Built program, making it easier for realtors to showcase what is possible for the lot with a pre-priced home design, including a “starting from price” to help the buyer visualize and plan.

To learn more, visit www.vividhomes.com

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Sizzling Summer Music

THE CARVER COUNTY FAIR TURNS UP THE HEAT WITH THEIR NEW OUTDOOR MUSIC LINEUP

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Just when you thought the energy and entertainment were at maximum capacity during Waconia’s best 5 days of summer, the creative minds behind the Carver County Fair raise it. Ask any Waconia resident who’s treated to concerts in the park, in the vine, and in the parking lot ‘on the reg’, there’s no such thing as too much music here. As denial sets in that summer is winding down (even though it feels like the snow just melted), get a blast of summer with the sights and sounds of this fun lineup of live music. New this year is the Tuesday night kick-off to the fair at the Carver County Fair Grandstand, the Songs of Today Stars of Tomorrow tour, featuring Chad Brock, Ashley Barron, and Jarrod Turner. There’s a certain allure to having a front-row seat to summer breezes, packed seats, and body-rocking tunes and it will all be yours at this open-air venue. You’ll get a little bit of everything with these entertainers; contemporary country music with a dash of powerful, relatable lyrics finished off with a new country vibe sprinkled with a little ‘90s. So, break your plans and mark your calendar because the groupie potential at the fair this year is going to be epic.

CHAD BROCK

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8TH, 7:00 PM

CARVER COUNTY GRANDSTAND

If contemporary country music speaks to your soul, Chad Brock will win your heart. His single, “Ordinary Life” was a breakout hit in 1998 (we dare you to listen without crying) and he’s been a powerhouse ever since. Brock has a cool story that started with a position in the school chorus and ended with him turning down a college athletic scholarship to follow his true passion, country music.

ASHLEY BARRON

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8TH, 7:00 PM CARVER COUNTY GRANDSTAND

Passion-filled Ashley Barron has made a name for herself in the country music industry with relatable, speak-from-the-heart lyrics. Influenced by the music of Johnny Cash and Miranda Lambert, Barron’s music has an attractive catchiness that sticks with you. After pushing through some really hard times, she picked an arrow as her logo, which is a reminder for her, and she hopes for others as well, to never give up.

JARROD TURNER

TUESDAY, AUGUST 8TH, 7:00 PM CARVER COUNTY GRANDSTAND

Jarrod Turner is an up-and-coming singer and songwriter bursting with personality and ready to bring the energy! When asked to define his music style, he described it as “a shot of Crown Royal and a four-chord love song.” Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a night watching Turner rock the stage. He started signing autographs back in the second grade, so you know he’s legit.

THE JOHNNY HOLM BAND

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9TH, 8:30 PM

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER MAIN STAGE

Come and see what all the rightful fuss is about and learn why Johnny is called the “Facilitator of Fun” for concertgoers. You’ll have a tough time finding someone who hasn’t experienced the contagious enthusiasm and dynamic interaction this group has with the crowd. The Johnny Holm Band is a little bit rock, a little bit pop, a little bit country, and a whole lot of PARTY!

RAGTOWN

THURSDAY, AUGUST 10TH, 8:00 PM

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER MAIN STAGE

Ragtown entertains its loyal following with a unique take on songs we all know and love. Among this talented acoustic-based band there are years of music education and experience that shines through like the stars they are as you watch them completely own the stage. They have a big devoted fan base here in Waconia but there’s always room for more in their lyric-knowing, head-bobbing fan club.

JACUZZI PUMA

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11TH, 8:30 PM

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER MAIN STAGE

These cool cats, in their signature puma fur-like vests, will keep you on your feet with songs from musicians like Elton John and bands like The Rolling Stones. They’ll keep you guessing with their set list and maybe even a little with their choice of band name. This quirky gang’s tagline is, “We play songs you didn’t know you loved.” After Jacuzzi Puma performs them, you’ll definitely know you do.

ELI ALGER AND THE FASTER HORSES

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12TH, 8:30 PM

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER MAIN STAGE

The fiddle, guitar, keyboard, lead singer, and group of ‘horses’ with killer intensity and harmonious voices make up this country AND western band. The numerous reviews of Eli Alger and the Faster Horses tell a tale of the “real deal” with great stage presence and personality that electrifies the audience and their surroundings. With songs like Blue Bell Bottoms and Rednexico, you’ll be two-stepping the night away.

ADDITIONAL ARTISTS AT THE ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

Up South

August 9th, 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Mitchell Hall and The Tennessee Trio

August 10th, 3:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Mollie B & SqueezeBox with Ted Lange

August 11th, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Country Fried Grubers

August 12th, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Bill Litzau and Open Highway

August 12th, 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Shaw Band

August 13th, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Where all the summer fun, music, and magic happens.

SUN-KISSED VINES

Sovereign Estate is a 50-acre family-owned farm located on the north shore of Lake Waconia. The property was acquired by Dr. John Savaryn, a Ukranian immigrant in 1970 who dreamed of preserving a tranquil landscape reminiscent of his European heritage with sweeping views of Lake Waconia. Fast forward 37 years when the vision became a reality as Savaryn’s son Paul ‘planted’ Sovereign Estate. Along with his wife, Teresa (Terri), and their blended family of nine children, two of whom (Ben and Isaac) are their business partners, they have passionately created an environment where guests can enjoy their distinguished wines that are further complimented by the verdant grounds.

Their award-winning wines and atmosphere are just one arc of the circle of beautiful vineyards surrounding Waconia, making it one of Minnesota’s most desirable destinations for living and recreation that people travel far and wide to experience. The view of the lake from the majestic Marquette Event Pavilion is an unparalleled perch for those seeking a retreat to relax with great wine and some light fare.

Keeping things fresh and delightful, as is typical for Sovereign, their new summer release is ready to be shared. Introducing the Regatta Rosé, made from a blend of 3 Minnesota native hybrids, it presents in a dry Provence style with a delicate peony bouquet and minerally nectarine notes. You can’t go wrong with it as your most important accessory for a day at the vineyard or on your boat (it even has a convenient screw cap for easy traveling!)

Not only are the Savaryn family imaginative with their wines, but they also know the right food to perfectly bring out the flavors of each bottle of wine they delight you with. For impressive patio dining or a luxury excursion on a pontoon soaking up the rays, Terri Savaryn suggests the light and refreshing Sovereign Brined Shrimp. Serve it as an appetizer with a cool and colorful salad or conveniently pack it into your cooler for a day on the boat.

SOVEREIGN BRINED SHRIMP

• 2 - 4 ounce wide mouth mason jars and lids

• 2-pound bag thawed, previously frozen medium cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-on)

Brine

• 1 cup Sovereign La Crescent white wine

• 2 cups chilled water

• ¼ cup white wine vinegar

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons (real sugar) powdered lemonade mix

• 1 tablespoon Janes Krazy Mixed-up Salt

• 1 tablespoon red peppercorns

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning

• 4 bay leaves broken in large sections (do not eat)

• 2 thinly sliced lemons

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE WINERY AT SOVEREIGN ESTATE

SOVEREIGN ESTATE UNVEILS THE CHARMS OF SUMMER WINE AND FOOD TO CREATE THE PERFECT PAIRING

Stunning views like these are awaiting you at Sovereign Estate.

Directions

1. Wash and dry jars and lids and set them in a tray for easy transport. Jars should be cool.

2. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients for the brine, stirring well until the salt and lemonade mix are dissolved.

3. Toss shrimp in the brine mixture. Let set for 2 minutes.

4. Arrange 5-6 shrimp in each jar packing tight, right to the top. Using a small ladle, spoon brine into the jars until full of liquid. Top with a thin slice of lemon and close the jar with lids and rings.

5. Refrigerate for 4 - 24 hours. Served chilled in jars. Consume within 3 days.

Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking sights of the lustrous lake from an Adirondack chair, glassful of choice in hand, or of their lush green vineyards with a wine-filled tumbler from the boat, know that you’re in expert hands. From the history to the inspiration to the years of experience they hold, Sovereign’s farm-to-table philosophy is the definition of ‘eat, drink and be merry’ and then some.

The Sovereign Brined Shrimp is quick and simple, and pairs well with the new

In 2007 Terri Savaryn became associated with the Minnesota Grape Growers Association where she served an 8-year journey as Executive Director of Marketing and worked to elevate the industry with wine education and vineyard best practices. Her current focus is on the growth of Sovereign Estate using her expertise to pair wines with familiar locally sourced foods as well as fine dining cuisines.

Regatta Rosé.

MEET TERRI

"THEIR AWARD-WINNING WINES AND ATMOSPHERE ARE JUST ONE ARC OF THE CIRCLE OF BEAUTIFUL VINEYARDS SURROUNDING WACONIA, MAKING IT ONE OF MINNESOTA’S MOST DESIRABLE DESTINATIONS FOR LIVING AND RECREATION THAT PEOPLE TRAVEL FAR AND WIDE TO EXPERIENCE."

TIPS FOR A STRESS-FREE AND FUN DAY ON THE LAKE

LAKE LIFE MADE EASY

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FINAZZO FOX

How’s your summer going? If you’re like most sunscreen-wearing, kid-toting Minnesotans you’re loving it but you’re tired. Summer is the season of never-ending bucket lists and a continuous parade of long sunny days (not that we’re complaining). It goes so fast that attempting to slow down and breathe feels a little like giving it a go down a steep hill in Fred Flintstone’s car. On ice. Along with a heart full of memories to reminisce about, at the end of the summer, there’s always that little pang of guilt that wedges its way in. Did they have enough fun? Did we get it all in? Will they have heard my sweet patient voice over the one yelling, “Stop fighting”?  The good news is the season isn’t over yet and what better way to keep the fun at a high and the guilt list at a low than to spend a day on the lake! And not a ‘lame bottle of water and a steamy novel’ day on the lake, we’re talking a ‘rent a fun boat with fun toys while treating yourself to yummy, easy snacks washed down by crisp cool drinks that’ll keep everyone happy on board’ day on the lake.

What’s even better than a sun-filled day on a beautiful body of water with the people you love, you ask? All the above with minimal preparation on your end. After a quick and flawless click-ofa-button reservation process, Your Boat Club will deliver your meticulously maintained dream boat of choice right to the water, so scratch ‘pick up boat’ off your to-do list. They offer pontoons, runabouts, and fishing boats for daily or multidaily use, and some are even pet-friendly, so tell Fido to pack his life jacket and collapsible water dish. With Your Boat Club you won’t lift a finger; call them your high-class Captain Concierge because the only things you’ll be lifting as you board are your pasty white legs and a life-jacketed kid or two. Or better yet, become a member! They have a membership level for every boat lover’s desire and they’re available at 40 beautiful locations across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida, so when you’re spring breaking in Punta Gorda next year, voila! And no need to worry about the kids’ enjoyment on any of these watercrafts because tubes and ropes are available to rent for a nominal fee which will get the rugrats pumped-ish to slap on the sunscreen and leave their phones at home... or at least turn them off for a while because… “pics or it didn’t happen” and all that.

Of course, we all know that a boat is only at its most awesome when loaded with snacks and drinks. Pontoon picnics, runabout refreshments, tubing treats, whatever you want to call them, snacks are the heart and soul of a successful day of pretty much anything. In the same vein as that brown bag field trip lunch your mom packed you on the last day of school every year, the element of the “what’s in there?” surprise

Your Boat Club takes care of all the hard stuff so you can focus on the fun.

for the kids is just about as exciting as their first tube ride; water and wind in their hair. Blow their minds with a ’snackle box’; that’s an inexpensive tackle box turned ‘best thing ever’. Pack goldfish and pre-cut cheese cubes, grab-n-go mini beef sticks, nuts, fruit, and veggies, and dip. Maybe kick in snack-size potato chip bags to your stash and lift your one-bag-a-day ordinance because hey, it’s a special day. And don’t forget to sneak in a fruit roll-up or two because who doesn’t love a fruit roll-up (we’re looking at you, kids of the 80s). With another click of a button treat yourself to a cooler upgrade with the mother of them all, the BrüMate BrüTank Rolling Cooler; you can thank us later. Not only does this vessel extraordinaire have all-terrain wheels, but it also has compartments galore, killer accessories, and 7-day ice retention. So, once you become a Your Boat Club member, say goodbye to changing out your ice… all cabin trip long! In this rolling wingman, you’ll also have ample room for those begged-for popsicles that must consist of gold flecks based on the price and numerous refreshments of the juice box variety. And for the 21+ crowd, there’s a removable drink tank with a built-in tap and bottle opener…just sayin’.

Many have a love/hate relationship with summer. It’s planning, it’s driving, it’s kids home, it’s loud, it’s chaotic but man, is it fun. It’s a break in the monotony, warm sun on our faces, sleeping in (just the kids, obvs), and simply extra time with those we hold dear. Turns out DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince were right when they proclaimed, “Summer, summer, summertime, time to sit back and unwind.” It just hits differently when you’re an adult, doesn’t it? If the idea of an easy breezy day on a crystal blue lake, the sun shining, snacks in hand, and drinking out of the Brad Pitt of coolers with your best people, is your idea of summer madness then this day is for you. If you’re up for a stretch break from your pristine pontoon to visit the infamous Coney Island or are more into laying back and getting some color on those legs while the kids take turns on the “the swing” (you know the one) reach out to Your Boat Club today. Their tagline suitably expressed, “Our Boats, Your Fun” is a catchy and generous one. Maybe as you take in the lake air with echoing laughter in your ear, you might think of your own mantra. How about lake life is the best life, and I deserve it.

DIY Your Way To a Bug-Free Summer

Adult-and Kid-Friendly Natural Bug Repellents from A Beautiful Mess

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY A BEAUTIFUL MESS

Adult Blend Kids Blend

(age 15 and over)

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 8 drops lavender essential oil

• 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water

(minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 4 drops lavender essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water

(minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

*The grain alcohol is used as a preservative as well as a carrier for the oils, but you can also use a product like this instead of grain alcohol at a 1:4 ratio (1 drop essential oil to 4 drops Solubol) if you’d rather and then just fill the rest with water to fill the 2-ounce spray bottle.

While there can be concern about citrus oils on the skin when exposed to sunlight, lemongrass isn’t a photosensitive oil, and if lemon essential oil is steam-distilled rather than cold-pressed (Oui Fresh essential oils are cold-pressed) it can be used on the skin. So just make sure to note which one your lemon oil is and only spray on clothes if you don’t have a skin-safe lemon oil (which is an application method a lot of people prefer anyway if they are more sensitive to oils).

Find more DIYs at ABeautifulMess.com.

JULY JULY 2023

events

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

July 4th Fireworks

LAKE WACONIA REGIONAL BEACH

One of the summer’s most anticipated events is back! Watch the night sky light up as you “ooohh” and “aaahh,” in your best red, white, and blue. Thanks to the community, local businesses, and organizations who fully funded this celebration, and to the Waconia Chamber of Commerce for hosting. Grab bug spray, and a blanket, and prepare to be dazzled.

JULY 8TH-9TH JULY 17TH JULY 24TH JULY 27TH JULY 27TH-30TH

2023 ArtStock Art, Wine & Music Festival

PARLEY LAKE WINERY

What’s in store for you at this popular event? The name says it all; the 2023 ArtStock Art, Wine & Music Festival. During this two-day event at Parley Lake Winery the Arts Consortium of Carver County will introduce you to new artists and bring back favorites. Enjoy it all while sipping your favorite wine with a food truck treat. July 8th - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, July 9th - 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

17th Annual Waconia Golf Scramble

ISLAND VIEW GOLF CLUB | 10:30 AM

The 17th Annual Golf Scramble is here and it’s time to 'tear it up!' Partake in games, drawings, a 19th-hole BBQ, and more! Turn your team into the best Theme Team and win Best Dressed! This year’s theme is ‘Tearin’ it up since 1962’ so get to work and join the Waconia Chamber of Commerce for this crowd-pleasing day.

Bill the Juggler

CHARLSON THUN COMMUNITY BANDSTAND IN VICTORIA | 11:30 AM

Be mesmerized, awe-struck, and entertained by Bill the Juggler’s comedy and tricks at the beautiful Charlson Thun Community Bandstand in Victoria. The fun starts at 11:30 am so get there a little beforehand to pick your patch of grass. Psssst… he usually asks for volunteers so sit up close! For more details and many other library-hosted activities, visit https://www.carverlib.org/.

Movie in the Park - Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile!

CITY SQUARE PARK | 8:45 PM

Bring a blanket and popcorn from home for a free night of Movie in the Park beginning at 8:45 pm at City Square Park. Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, rated PG, is based on the book about a singing crocodile who befriends a boy when he needs it most. On your next zoo visit, you might look at crocodiles a little differently.

Cologne Glad Days

DOWNTOWN COLOGNE

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