Waconia, MN May 2024

The Ladies Issue

The Ladies Issue

Welcome to our Ladies issue!

First and foremost, I want to thank all the women who contribute to our magazine every day: my amazing editor, Lauren Beaubaire; columnist Jen Fortner; writers Emily McKeever, Amanda Wagner, Alison Lee, Lutie Ronglien; and photographers Maria Claire and Jamie Joos.

All these creative and amazing women tell the stories of our community month in and month out. The majority of our partners in the magazine are women-owned businesses, and in this issue, we wanted to feature them and tell their stories. Am I excited to see our pages celebrating some of the great women in our community? You bet! But where do I start?

Overall, I’ve been incredibly impressed with the support women and women-owned businesses receive from our community. When we recently asked our Instagram followers to help us celebrate their favorite women-owned businesses, our comments were flooded with responses. While we are always huge proponents of shopping locally, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by the women of our community. This led us to some of the people who comprise this issue. But let’s put business aside for a minute.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, all eyes are, for good reason, on moms. But it’s not just the biological mothers that need to be celebrated. It’s the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends, and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable. In this issue we celebrate them, and we highlight their stories. I could continue to highlight all the incredible women featured in these pages, but I will let you discover it for yourself. They all imparted their wisdom and shared their stories and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did when we were putting this issue together.

So, let’s make the women in our lives who have made a difference feel special. Send a card or a text, make a call, and go see some of those amazing people. Tell them how you feel and give them a thank you because…. They deserve it. CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/WACONIA

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Lynlee Critz | lynlee.critz@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Lutie Ronglien, Angela Broockerd, and Jen Fortner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maria Claire Photography, Graham Payne Miller, and Janie Jones

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER

@WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Departments

Lessons from Leaders

Gain insight into the words of wisdom these local trailblazers would give to their younger selves

Gifts from the Heart

A guide to heartfelt Mother’s Day gifts for every mom

She Means Business

local women entrepreneurs cultivate a landscape of leadership together

Hitting Like a Girl

city scene

1-7: The Grater Good and Karma Stacks came together to host a special wine, cheese, and crystal pairing event. Attendees enjoyed a personalized cheese class led by Christine from The Grater Good, featuring cheeses paired with six different wines. Jeanna from Karma Stacks then chose a special crystal to go with each wine, and guests took home a set of mini crystals.

Photography by The Grater Good

20th Annual

May 11 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

100 SWAG BAG GIVEAWAY details & participating businesses at

DestinationWaconia.org

Mother's Day Gifts are Blooming at Main St. Floral

It’s May which means flower season has begun, but more importantly, it’s the month where we celebrate the mom figures in our lives. Consider stopping into Main St. Floral for your Mother’s Day gift this year! They have blooming and green plants, fresh-cut flowers and they put together gorgeous custom orders. Mom will love what’s delivered (or you can pick up!) so much that you’ll be named Favorite Child of the Year. https://mainstfloral.com/

Cheers to Mom's Special Day at Bode Gray's

Mom deserves something special for Mother’s Day, and a meal at Bode Gray’s and drinks at The Brass Hat are definitely special. Nothing says love like an artisan pizza followed by a handcrafted cocktail downstairs. Or how about Roasted Squash Risotto and a glass of wine? Or better yet, a hearty salad and a beer! We could keep on going, but you get the idea. It’s time to celebrate Mom (and a really amazing meal!)

Step into Springtime Splendor and Create Your Outdoor Oasis

Enhance your curb appeal this spring with Waconia Landscaping! From designing to executing, this team of professionals is ready to make your yard dreams come true. Do you have a vision and need a designer’s touch to complete it? Do you know that you want something new but just not what? How about a touch-up to your existing space? Give them a call to see what they can do for you; hint: it’s a lot!

Photography by Main St. Floral

Photography by Bode Gray’s

Photography by Waconia Landscaping Co.

SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PLANS

In my experience, traveling with children isn’t relaxing. If you have very young children now and cling to the hope that it will be so much better in

five years when you don’t have to remember sippy cups, packets of squeezable applesauce, and extra clothes to tote around…you are lying to yourself. Those items get replaced with trendy water bottles, a giant tumbleweed of charging cords, and extra clothes to tote around. I’ve been carrying a ‘just in case’ sweatshirt for other people for 20 years.

Once upon a time, in what felt like a Netflix depiction of a military operation, I was attempting

Life Minded

to move eight people through blistering heat at Disney World. I was pushing a double stroller 20,000 steps, checking Fast Passes, slathering sunblock on unwilling humans, and eating a life-giving $15 Dole Whip when my husband (who dislikes heat, crowds, and chaos) asked, “How do you know for sure you are at Disney with kids?”

And I said, “Someone is always crying?”

Yes. That is the answer. Every fifteen minutes, we saw a child sobbing. But also every fifteen minutes, we saw a sweaty parent balancing a light saber, mouse ears, two stuffed animals, a beloved heirloom baby blanket, a diaper bag, and their sanity like a circus act. Meanwhile, they were quiet-yelling through clenched teeth at a crying child to CALM DOWN and HAVE FUN wearing a Happiest Place on Earth tank top. And that is why I consider all of these adventures ‘trips’ and not vacations.

The term vacation indicates respite. Tranquility. Paring down from all of the doings and things of daily life. And this is how traveling with friends is an entirely different story than a trip with kids. Nobody cries unless they are laughing, and there is plenty of that. And the mental burden of remembering everything for everyone else is eliminated. Because each person is only responsible for remembering about 25% of the things. My friends are so prepared. For anything. For everything. There is no outcome they have not considered. I find it relaxing that it isn’t all up to me.

Minded

I once jumped in a lake in northern Minnesota on a weekend trip with my shoes on. To be fun. I thought the shoes were waterproof. They weren’t. They were some type of hiking shoes that doubled as ugly sponges. My friend ended up loaning me some running shoes, and I wore those for the rest of the weekend. She had an extra pair in my size AND in a cute color.

For my birthday a few years ago, eight of us went to Savannah, Georgia. During hurricane season. Did I research every hotel, restaurant, and tourist attraction before we went? Yes. Was I aware that hurricane season lasts six months there? No. Let’s say we experienced everything the city had to offer with the exception of sunshine. And yet, nobody complained. Nobody even flinched. We marched on, and my friends pulled out their layers, and we traversed the city like drowned rats. One person secured tickets to an indoor tour while another grabbed two tables in an Irish Pub while another found a store that sold umbrellas. We bought eight umbrellas.

We have photos from the trip taken in historic Forsyth Park. When I show people, they say, “It almost looks like you had the whole park to yourselves!” We did. Because not everyone is willing to walk around that park in torrential rain like eight women from Minnesota who just roll. with. it.

A couple of us went to a weekend music festival once. We camped. People around us ate trail mix and freeze-dried food.

COLUMN BY JEN FORTNER

We had a charcuterie board and hand-crafted buttermilk biscuits. Because YOLO.

Venturing out anywhere as a group, we boast multiple pairs of sunglasses, hand sanitizer, pens, extra books, wet wipes, scarves, cash, apps to find anything on earth, blankets, and a bevy of beverages that range from still spring water to caffeine-surging coffees to prebiotic/probiotic offerings in exotic flavors. It’s leisurely to move through life with these ladies.

Recently, we have been in discussions about what local field trips we could take. Educational. Artsy. Fitness related. Pastry themed. A spreadsheet was sent to drill down on interest and new ideas. Yes. A spreadsheet. Because these women prepare. On the thread is a high school English teacher, a social worker, a psychologist, a physical therapist, a nurse, an elementary school teacher, a physician’s assistant, and a marketing guru. Aside from planning an outing, we could likely open up our own social service agency.

This spring, grab a friend and head out on a field trip if you can’t go on a fullfledged vacation. Leave everyone else behind. If you go with three friends, you don’t even have to pack your own things. Someone else has already thought of what you’ll need. And should you ever find yourself stranded in the woods, look for a group of women. They have directions. And they have a wedge of artisanal cheese with a gluten-free cracker for sustenance until you find your way back.

Jen Fortner is a freelance writer who enjoys asking friends and strangers far too many questions. She spends her spare time sitting in inclement weather watching youth sports, traveling, cooking, and searching for the very best baked goods. She lives in the Southwest Metro with her husband, three children and the most spoiled dog.

Lessons from Leaders

Heather Reichenberger

GAIN INSIGHT INTO THE WORDS OF WISDOM THESE LOCAL TRAILBLAZERS WOULD GIVE TO THEIR YOUNGER SELVES

If you’re looking for a bit of inspirational wisdom this season by way of advice from exceptional leading women who empower, impact, and elevate, you don’t have to look very far. If you call Waconia home, you’re well aware, but if you’re new here, welcome and allow us to introduce you to just a sampling of the fuel that propels our community. Some might say ‘girl power,’ but here we say, driving force. And in celebration of their influence, we also say thank you.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

“Embrace opportunities and make the most out of every moment. Be open to change, explore the world, and experience different things. They can lead to huge personal growth, independence, and a richer life.  Don’t be afraid to say yes, making mistakes is normal, pick yourself up and move forward.”

"Embrace opportunities and make the most out of every moment. Be open to change, explore the world, and experience different things. They can lead to huge personal growth, independence, and a richer life. Enjoy all the things in life, don’t be afraid to say yes, making mistakes is normal, pick yourself up and move forward. Don’t focus on the negative or worry about what others think of you. Do what’s important to you!" —Heather Reichenberger: RE/MAX Results Realtor

"Nothing comes easy. It’s up to you to find the good in all situations and to learn from mistakes. Listen, truly listen, not just with your ears but your whole self to really hear what is being said. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and take those chances as new doors open. Never forget to love deep and true."

— Christy Haasken Schuler: Realtor at Chestnut Realty

"Everything will be okay. The worries are not worth losing sleep over. Remember to find joy in the moment and trust there is an incredible plan for you." —Ashley Schram: Owner, Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery and Schram Haus Brewery

Ashley Schram

Christy Haasken Schuler

"Be kind to yourself, and find something to be passionate about. Then, do one small thing each day to make your dream come true."

Eleece Pink: Owner, The Stash of Waconia

"Don’t worry, and don’t rush love, marriage, etc. Date yourself first, love yourself first, and get to know yourself. Once you can have fun with yourself and feel confident in what you like and don’t like, you are ready to share all your fabulousness with another. In the meantime, make great friends, go on adventures (maybe even travel solo), trust your gut, and listen to your heart.

Do your best, be on time (early if possible), and build your network. Keep in touch with past co-workers, keep in touch with professors, teachers, and classmates. Those in your network can be your biggest asset and best cheerleaders! Almost every job I have had was because of someone I knew, who knew someone else, who made a referral and became a connection for me. That old saying, ‘It’s not always what you know, but who you know,’ will always apply."

—Dana Dziuk: Owner, Lee Lyn Construction

Eleece Pink

Dana Dziuk

GIFTS FROM THE HEART

A guide to heartfelt Mother’s Day gifts for every mom

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

They say it’s the thought that counts, and that’s true… for the most part. Gifts that acknowledge what truly moves a person go a long way as well.

This year, put extra thought into Mom for Mother’s Day, you know, like she’s done for you for a million years, by buying her a gift that aligns with her passions and interests. Not all moms are created equal, so why would your gift be? There’s the outdoorsy mom, the fashionista, the yogi, and countless more! Think: When mom isn’t driving you around, taking the kids for the weekend, or still making you a chocolate cake on your birthday even though you’re 40  cough cough years old, what does she love to do? What fills her cup? Then, channel your inner mom and make a plan that ensures one of your favorite people in the world will feel loved and known (with a really, really awesome gift) on their special day.

For the Sarah Jessica Parker in your life, plan a visit to Willa June. There, you’ll find women’s apparel and accessories to please any stylish mom. They have you covered with transitional spring sweaters, jackets, dresses, and beyond; plus, their friendly and knowledgeable staff is always available if you can’t decide between the lightweight sweater or the woven bag (pssst… get them both!) The Stash of Waconia is also a smart stop for pretty spring colors and current trends, and you can always count on them to have a sparkly wall of the most gorgeous jewelry to choose from.

If your mom savors the sun and fresh air, she’ll be thanking you all summer long for her membership with Your Boat Club. This organization caters to the boat lover who isn’t ready to own a boat quite yet and has packages to fit every lifestyle. And with their focus on the highest level of customer service, they take all the hassle out of boating. You simply “pick, click, and go boating” so mom doesn’t have

to lift a finger! Give the gift of outdoor adventure with no planning on her end required, then watch her relax and enjoy.

Nothing says “I know you, foodie mom” more than a basket full of locally made goodies from Mackenthun’s Fine Foods. A dessert-themed basket filled with bags of robust Cameron’s Coffee, chocolates, and cookies or a savory haul of Bongards cheeses, nuts, and pretzels will delight the tastebuds of any culinary-loving mom. And while you’re there, follow your nose to the floral department and pick up a vibrant bouquet to complement your basket.

Is mom’s love language a night on the town dressed to the nines? Plan just that at Bode Gray’s and The Brass Hat. A 5-star mom deserves 5-star food and service and at this cozy gem in Waconia, that’s what she’ll get! She can choose from delicious artisan pizzas, fresh salads, and other delectable dishes, then take her downstairs to The Brass Hat speakeasy for an intimate atmosphere and classy cocktails.

Studio Maretta offers class passes and monthly memberships for the yogini mom who lives life one Om at a time. What makes Studio Maretta so unique and perfect for a busy mom is that they pride themselves on being a yoga community. Classes are small, the studio is quaint, and they truly want you to connect with others and yourself when you’re guided through this peaceful practice.

To learn more about these featured businesses, visit Willa June - https://shopwillajune.com/ The Stash of Waconia - https://www.thestashstyle.com/ Your Boat Club - https://yourboatclub.com/ Mackenthun’s Fine Foods - https://mackenthuns.com/ Bode Gray’s and The Brass Hat - https://bodegrays.com/ Studio Maretta - https://www.studiomaretta.com/

She Means BUSINESS

HOW LOCAL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS CULTIVATE A LANDSCAPE OF LEADERSHIP TOGETHER

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

We live in a vibrant community of promising youth, hard-working families, and strong local business owners; all of whom contribute to elevating our little corner of the world to its full potential. This successful combination of elements makes Waconia just that, successful. They also make it strong and mutually supportive, creating ample space for all who contribute. One of those spaces that’s growing in stature and strength is the one in which innovative local women entrepreneurs reside.

“These women have talents in other areas, not just in their industry, and they bring a different perspective to the table. ”

Gone are the days of leading women simply being desirable for social progress and community well-being, and present are the days when they’re crucial to the heartbeat of this place we call home.

Christine Fenner, president of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, says that she is seeing a significant increase in the presence of women-owned businesses in Waconia and attributes it in part to the notable characteristics these women possess. “They’re creative, engaging, have a high emotional intelligence, and are very resilient.” And they’re working in and supported by an area where smalltown mom-and-pop Main Street businesses can exist and thrive. Sara Hood, co-founder and CEO at Senior Living Insights, adds, “I’m not sure that everyone notices just how many of our retail shops within the city are owned and operated by women, but as I go about my daily life and frequent their establishments it makes my heart happy to see that their businesses are thriving.” And with support from all corners, their momentum is only going to get stronger.

Opposite top: Christine Fenner presenting plaque to outgoing Board of Director Chair, Kelly Dohm of MHS Law, for outstanding leadership

Opposite middle: Women in Leadership at Nickle Dickle Day

Opposite bottom: Inspiring message from female entrepreneur

“These women have talents in other areas, not just in their industry, and they bring a different perspective to the table,” Christine explains. Now, there’s a new opportunity to share and showcase these proficiencies with one another through a budding networking group called Women’s Connect.

The idea of Women’s Connect, a group designed to uplift and support women entrepreneurs in Waconia, stemmed from Sara’s excitement and interest in the landscape of women leaders in Waconia. “When I joined the Chamber three years ago, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of female business owners and corporate executives that were a part of it. Many of these ladies were tenured in their businesses, and some, like me, were just starting on their journey of entrepreneurship. Based on that, I thought that it would be beneficial for us to come together to share our experiences, thoughts, and challenges. Being able to engage with other women who have “walked the walk” and who are willing to share their stories, experiences, and resources is a unique situation to have in a community.”

The Chamber hosted a survey and there was an overwhelming response, confirming that this is a group that wants support, accountability, professional development resources, and to have those deeper conversations.

Fortunately, the radiant futures of these trailblazers aren’t solely due to Women’s Connect, there are numerous other opportunities in the community for these empowering visionaries to connect and collaborate.

“I thought it would be beneficial for us to come together to share our experiences, thoughts, and challenges.”

Sister Saturday

There are social entrepreneurship groups such as Women of Waconia and the DandyLions. Also, the Chamber hosts experiences throughout the year like Sister Saturday and D.E.A.R that promote sisterhood in the way of a great excuse to gather your friends, support local businesses, and just have fun together. “The reason the Chamber exists is to support the business community and enhance the quality of life in the community. We create the space for women to connect,” Christine adds. And after the magic happens in these spaces, the hope is that other informal support structures, such as business collaborations, cross-promoting, and mentorships, will take shape.

As these women continue to thrive and make their mark, it's evident that their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Sara emphasizes Waconia's belief in the dedication of these female business owners to the community, evident in the way the town supports and embraces their endeavors. "They bring people who live outside of Waconia to shop, eat, and play. This is a win-win for everyone who lives or works within this wonderful community."

“I’m not sure that everyone notices just how many of our retail shops within the city are owned and operated by women.”

You’ve saved for retirement. And now that retirement is drawing closer, it’s important to turn your savings into a steady stream of income that lasts. Together, we can explore solutions that provide income guarantees and growth opportunities to help ensure your savings work hard for you—long after you stop working. Let’s put your plans into action.

L Cole, CFP®, ChFC®, FIC, Wealth Advisor

Walker, Associate

Carin Mather Bobka, Financial Advisor

representatives only. Thrivent.com/disclosures. Insurance

HITTING LIKE A GIRL

Why Dr. Jessica Radtke Maltez decided to step into the ring

“You run like a girl.”

“You hit like a girl.”

Remember when that was said as an insult? Today, Dr. Jessica Radtke Maltez would say, “Thank you.”

She’s been running and hitting for years, and she’s proud of it.

Jessica, owner of Victoria Veterinary Hospital, is a multifaceted woman. She is not only a busy veterinarian, business owner, mother, and wife but also spends some of her free time boxing and running.

Competing in track and field as a child got Jessica interested in what has become a lifelong passion for running. When she was in college, she visited a boxing gym with her brother, and it opened her eyes to the sport.

Even with a hectic schedule as a veterinarian, Jessica runs several times per week. Running helps with stamina and endurance, which impacts Jessica’s boxing skills and agility.

“I enjoy pushing myself and getting in a good workout,” Jessica says. “The reward of putting in the effort makes me happy, and seeing myself improve in something keeps me moving forward.”

Jessica never thought she’d like to run marathons because she figured it would make running less enjoyable. Then she discovered that not every run needs to be fast, which has made running much more gratifying.

“I began adding miles and enjoying longer runs more,” Jessica says. “That’s how marathons became a goal.”

ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAHAM PAYNE MILLER

Jessica and her family

For those of us who have a hard time getting off the couch but would like to start a fitness program, Jessica may inspire you.

“Running is just a part of what I do on a weekly basis, she says. “It helps me relax, focus, and be calm. It gives me peace. It’s a routine part of what I do for myself. It’s my self-care.”

Jessica boxed competitively before she had children. She took a break for a while but never felt she was done with the sport.

“Boxing is a passion for me,” she says. “It’s been a great way to make friends and gives me something fun to do. It’s helped me work through feelings, like how to feel joy at success and how to move forward and rebound after failure.”

Jessica has several role models who have inspired her passion for boxing, including champion boxers Ana Maria Torres and Claressa Shields. These women make ‘hitting like a girl’ look pretty impressive.

“Ana Maria Torres is such a dominant fighter,” Jessica says. “I admire her for her hard work and guts. She was one of the first female boxers I watched.”

Women’s boxing started to gain some popularity in the 1990s but picked up steam in the United States after becoming an official Olympic sport at the 2012 London Games.

For those who doubt that women boxers aren’t as good as men, Jessica disagrees. She says there’s a stereotype that boxing is just “brawling and punching.”

“Because it’s strategy and thinking, women can box as well as men,” she says. “Women are improving with their style and defense.”

Boxing helps Jessica deal with stress, much like running.

“It’s not so much punching out frustrations,” she says. “It’s a stylistic movement, working on specific techniques.”

For women interested in boxing, but don’t know where to begin, Jessica recommends starting with finding a boxing gym. She trains at WURK gym in Minnetonka, which offers classes and training for all levels, along with Peekaboo Boxing in River Falls, Wisconsin who works in her corner at all her fights.

“Being a shy person, it was easy for me to take a class and see how I felt at first,” Jessica says. “A woman can start at any age. She may never want to fight, but can still learn techniques for fitness or fun.”

She says discipline is the biggest attribute of a good boxer.

“Keep showing up and keep working,” she says. “Being a hard worker makes a good boxer. Also, be a good listener. Listen to your coach and do what they tell you. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone.”

Jessica’s husband and family are fully supportive of her passion for running and the ring. She tries to plan her workouts to not interrupt family time, her son goes to the gym with her, and her parents help by watching her children when she fights.

“Boxing and running are key parts of my everyday routine and life,” she says. “I look forward to creating new goals in both, and I want to keep good lifelong health.”

https://victoriavet.net/

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Sniffles THE SEASON OF

LET WACONIA WOMEN’S HEALTH HELP YOU ‘SPRING’ FROM THE DISCOMFORTS OF SEASONAL ALLERGIES

Many things scream spring in Minnesota - “Play ball!” “The landscaper’s here.” “Have you seen my rain boots?” but for several of us, “Ah-Ah-Ah-Choo!” is the loudest. Itchy, watery eyes, scratchy throat, and sneezing can take the buzz out of this beautiful season. What if we told you certain foods can ease the frustrating symptoms of seasonal allergies or that treating your gut could kick that pesky runny nose to the flower-lined curb for good? We talked with Stephanie Braunwarth, founder and owner of Waconia Women’s Health, regarding strategies to set yourself up for springtime success so you can spend less time sniffling and more time cheering for your favorite first baseman.

“A large portion, about 80%, of our immune system is in our gut, and a major source of histamine production takes place there as well. Gut health cannot be overlooked when focusing on reducing seasonal allergies.”

What are the typical allergens you see people commonly encounter during the spring season?

The most common spring outdoor allergen is pollen. Everything is starting to bloom… trees, grass, and weeds. Dust allergies can also creep in this time of year due to spring cleaning. Common seasonal allergy symptoms include itchy, watery eyes, a scratchy throat, a runny nose, sinus pressure, and headaches. This can oftentimes lead to more fatigue as well. These symptoms are generally worse after spending time outdoors.

What preventative measures can we take to reduce exposure and minimize symptoms?

Focusing on the root cause of allergies is the best way to help prevent and reduce allergy symptoms. Allergies are the immune system’s response to a substance you have been exposed to. This causes the release of a substance in the body called histamine, which then results in the symptoms detailed above. A large portion, about 80%, of our immune system is in our gut, and a major source of histamine production takes place there as well. Gut health cannot be overlooked when focusing on reducing seasonal allergies. Working with a provider on healing the gut is key, as is reducing food triggers and foods that increase bodily inflammation. This includes refined sugar, processed wheat products, and conventional dairy products (dairy can often increase mucus production in the body). Highquality dairy should only be consumed.

What remedies would you recommend, and what services do you provide at Waconia Women’s Health to alleviate seasonal allergies?

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are a wholebody system’s form of medicine that treats the entire person. According to Chinese medicine, by improving function in the body systems being affected, symptoms decrease, the body heals, and balance is established. At our office, we use a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, supplements, and dietary guidance to reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. We like to see patients before allergy season starts to begin establishing better function before the difficult season begins. The sooner we can begin working on improving the overall health of the body, the better!

Stephanie Braunwarth, founder and owner of Waconia Women's Health, uses acupuncture on a patient.

How do you see allergies affect people’s well-being?

Severe seasonal allergies can absolutely affect a person’s quality of life. We have worked with patients who don’t want to go outdoors or even open their windows on a nice day because they fear their symptoms will get worse.

Are there lifestyle adjustments or practices that can make us feel more energized this time of year?

Each season in Chinese medicine, a new organ system becomes extra important to support. In the spring, it’s the liver. Foods to support this season include sour foods like lemons, leafy green vegetables, asparagus, leeks, garlic, onions, mint, and turmeric. The color associated with spring in Chinese medicine is green. Any whole green food is great, and typically, the foods listed above are in season in early-late spring, making them easier to find and more cost-effective! As mentioned above, removing foods that can increase bodily inflammation is recommended. Getting regular acupuncture to support gut and immune health is crucial this time of the year. If you choose to do a “detox” under the care of a trusted provider, spring is an excellent time to do it.

What roles do mindfulness, stress reduc- tion practices, breathwork, yoga, holistic approaches, etc., play in promoting vitality this time of year?

It’s always a great idea to focus on these things. Spring-time included. A body that is more resilient to stress and well taken care of is stronger and able to heal much more easily.

To learn more and to start a wellness plan for your spring allergy journey, go to waconiawomenshealth.com/

Waconia Women's Health

Fundraiser for the Waconia Boys & Girls HS Lacrosse Teams

Garage Bar & Bowl | 3:30 PM

The Garage Bar & Bowl is hosting this great fundraising event to support Waconia's Lacrosse athletes. When you dine at Garage Bar & Bowl between 3:30pm-5:30pm on Friday, May 3rd, a portion of sales will be given to the teams. Funds raised will help ensure this rapidly growing sport can thrive this season and beyond. It's a great way to support a local business and a great cause simultaneously!

MAY 11TH

Sister Saturday Shopping Day

Downtown Waconia | 9:00 AM

Sister Saturday Shopping Day is here! And it's a special year, celebrating the 20th anniversary of this fantastic Waconia tradition. Ladies enjoy a day of shopping and dining on May 11 with all-day deals and steals at over 30 participating Waconia businesses. Be sure to wear pink for extra deals and fun! Free Swag Bags to the first 50 people at Mackenthun's Fine Foods and Mystic Fortress Games.

MAY 12TH

Mother's Day Sparkling "Schrampagne" Tasting

Schram Vineyards | 11:00 AM

Treat Mom to a unique, interactive sparkling wine tasting! In this tasting experience, you'll explore Minnesota sparkling wines made by Schram Vineyards and AxeBridge Wine Co. including their gold medal winner, Sparkling Frontenac Blanc. Each ticket includes a personal assortment of mini pastries and desserts to go with your Mother's Day bubbles! $35 per ticket with two times available: 11am & 1pm.

MAY 12TH

Mother's Day at the Winery!

The Winery at Sovereign Estate | 12:00 PM

The Winery at Sovereign Estate is having a fun-filled day dedicated to Mom! With Mama Mimosas, a special Mother’s Day Bistro Menu, and live music, Mom will be feeling like a queen! The Patio Bistro is open from 12pm-6pm for guests to enjoy a bite and beverage, and from 1pm-5pm, Rob Meany will perform on the Patio Stage.

MAY 18TH

Walk on Waconia

St. Joseph Catholic School | 8:00 AM

Lace-up your running shoes for Walk on Waconia! Join in a 10K and 10 mile run against hunger, with all proceeds going to Gather and Grow Food Shelf. On race day, participants receive a WOW (Walk on Waconia) shirt and complimentary coffee. Friday night before the race, carbo-load with a pasta dinner at Sovereign Estates ($15), check in early, and enjoy free live music by Jennifer Grimm. Register here: https://www.runreg.com/walk-on-waconia

MAY 18TH

Trista Day

The City Campus in Minnetrista | 11:00 AM

At its heart, Trista Day has always been a safety education event. An added bonus is that it's been a ton of fun. This year, kids will enjoy not only safety education demonstrations but also a petting zoo, pony rides, kid's activities, and much more! Free water and popcorn will be provided, along with food trucks with items for purchase.

These late-model, meticulously maintained fishing boats, ski boats, and pontoons have served our members well. Most of our boats have been in service for only three years and are regularly detailed and refurbished. It is simply time to replace them with brand-new models and find them a new home!

The average age of our fleet is 1.5 years old- meaning our members- and you- get to experience the newest boats in the market. Because our boats are in service, they are cared for better than the average boat.

Especially after the initial depreciation, boats tend to hold their value extremely well. If you are considering buying a boat, why not eliminate the risk of overpaying and save all of that expense?

When it comes to your family’s next great adventure, you can trust Your Boat Club. With decades of experience and an unmatched love for boating, you can rely on us. We are boating! Find out