The Kids & Pets Issue
SPORTS + RECREATION
THE DEDICATION BEHIND THE DUGOUT: INSIDE THE WACONIA BASEBALL ASSOCIATION
To Parenthood & Paw Prints
This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future—they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them, and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us—they bring joy, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives.
We also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.
Our household, like others, was very busy with three kids participating in virtually everything under the sun – running from practice to practice, game to game was our life. We were definitely not “dog people,” so it seemed ludicrous to add even more chaos to our lives. Then, during a weak moment, our daughter convinced us to get a dog. “What are we doing?” I thought.
Well, Wrigley earned a place in our hearts immediately. The unwavering loyalty and constant companionship she displayed were unreal. When Wrigley passed, we quickly found our new obsession - Harlow - and with our kids out of the house, she has become my constant shadow, showing the same level of loyalty and companionship our first dog did. We simply don’t know what we’d do without her.
At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth—they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love.
I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.
Here’s to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better. Cheers!
MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Matt Shaeffer matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire
lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Amanda Wagner, Sarah Knieff, Jen Fortner, Sara Hoeman
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Lexi Renae Studios, Trevor Jager
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HYDRATION AT YOUR DOORSTEP
MOBILE IV THERAPY WITH DYNAMIC DRIPS
ONE OF OUR EXPERIENCED NURSES WILL COME TO YOUR HOME OR LOCATION OF YOUR CHOICE, AND ADMINISTER YOUR INFUSION AFTER TAKING A FULL SET OF VITALS AND DOING A FULL ASSESSMENT. WE BRING WELLNESS AND RECOVERY TO YOU
Sota
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Crowds gathered for this year’s Lake Waconia Band Festival, which celebrated its 26th season! It’s one of Minnesota’s largest bands-only festivals, featuring up to 15 high school marching bands from around the state. The LWBF is coordinated by parent volunteers in partnership with the Waconia Band Boosters, ISD110, the City of Waconia, the Carver County Fairgrounds, Music Mart, and many other community partners.
Photography by TJ Johnson, Matt Lukens, Jill Stineman, and Jenny Moran. Drone Photography by Justin Lee - MN Drone Pilot.
Pictured: Bryan Haasken
business monthly
Coming Together for a Great Cause
The 2025 Carver County Relay for Life will take place on September 20th at Highland Park in Watertown, and it’s a day of support, community, and hope. Looking for ways to get involved? You can create a team and join the relay, dedicate a luminaria, become a sponsor, or make a donation, which will help the American Cancer Society fund cancer research. For more information, visit https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?pg=entry&fr_id=110393
Congratulations to Waconia Public Schools!
Waconia Public Schools is one of eight districts selected for Minnesota’s 20252027 Comprehensive Arts Planning Program (CAPP). This legislatively funded program provides financial and technical support as well as strategic guidance through workshops, site visits, leadership development, and resource materials to create a 3-year strategic arts plan. This collaborative work will culminate in a thoughtfully connected art program that will have a positive impact on students and the community for years to come.
Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness is Moving to Victoria
Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness is excited to announce a move to Victoria! Starting in August, you’ll find Quincee MacGibbon, Board Certified Nurse Practitioner, highlighting beauty the natural way with an extensive list of services that will have every client glowing. From SkinPen microneedling and dermal fillers to help with hair restoration and hormone support, you can practice some soulful self-care at Awaken Aesthetics and Wellness. Quincee’s new location: 7924 Victoria Drive #201 in Victoria.
Photography by Carver County Relay for Life
Photography by Lexi Renae Studios
FROMWACONI A, WITHSHINE
SOTA SHINE PAIRS HOMETOWN PRIDE WITH PERSONAL TOUCHES AND A WHOLE LOT OF LOCAL LOVE IN EVERY WASH
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
“Our main goal is to make our customers happy.”
The giant suds-filled facility overlooking Waconia's main drag on Highway 5 is where serious magic happens. And when we say 'magic,' we mean it in an amazing customer service, sparkling clean car, and local and loving it sort of way. At Sota Shine, you’ll find all the equipment and supplies needed to get your vehicle glossed up and glowing (and your dog–we’ll get to that later). But you’ll also discover a locally owned business, rooted in the community, with employees who take great care to offer customers an elevated, personalized experience, full of local charm that keeps cars driving back for more.
“Our main goal is to make our customers happy,” Nick Netley, owner of Sota Shine, says. “We take feedback to heart, and truly care about the community we live in.” Nick describes his staff as “crazy good” and says that they work in sync to ensure that a roll through Sota Shine is a unique experience that delivers outstanding results. Since
they’re a small business, Sota Shine can implement changes and updates rather quickly, which is just one thing on the long list that sets them apart from the competition. And they also go the extra mile–pun intended–in everything they do.
“We could get more cars through the wash every day, but we’re committed to taking our time and doing it right.”
What does a visit to Sota Shine look like?
“The car wash model has moved into the gym membership model,” Nick explains. “You can buy one wash at a time, but if you visit twice a month or more, the membership is the way to go.” There are four levels of membership to choose from, each with a name reflecting Minnesota’s landscape and welcoming culture, and each with its own special benefits: Superior Shine, North Star Deluxe, Boundary Waters, and Minnesota Nice. Along with a tire shine or spot-free rinse, you’ll also get the warm feeling knowing you’re doing your part
in protecting the environment, because Sota Shine embraces green technologies in a big way. “We use recycled water for our final prepping and underbody, and our Maple Grove location has rooftop solar panels.” Going forward, every Sota Shine location will be fitted with solar panels to continue the mission of providing the area with top-quality car washes you can trust and feel good about.
At Sota Shine, it’s not just about driving away in a car that turns heads; what about how your fourlegged friend looks and feels? Along with eco-friendly solar panels and an innovative car wash, Sota Shine Maple Grove houses a Minnesota gem, the Sota Pup Self-Serve Dog Wash. In Nick’s past life, he owned a boarding and daycare business, so he knows the power of a dog. “They’re family!” Sota Pup is likened to a high-end hair salon with shampoo, conditioner, ear cleaner, towels, drying rooms, and more. You’re welcome to buy a single dog wash based on your dog’s size, but they come free with a Superior Shine car wash membership. Think of it this way: with the purchase of a membership, both of your babies can stay clean and content, anytime.
“We use recycled water for our final prepping and underbody, and our Maple Grove location has rooftop solar panels.”
Rendering of new, upcoming Sota Shine in the Champlin, Brooklyn Park area
Sota Pup dog wash
And there’s more scrubbing to set your sights on! This fall, construction begins on another Sota Shine, and this one is a doozy. Nick will be opening the world’s longest indoor car wash in the Champlin, Brooklyn Park area. “To compare, Waconia is 6,000 square feet, and Sota Shine One Six Nine will be 35,000 square feet. It'll all be indoors, complete with 33 indoor vacuums and more. At 305 feet long, it’ll be like driving your car through a football field-sized car wash.” But beyond this impressive new feat, the new location represents so much more. Through all the excitement, smart technology, and energy-efficient practices, we can be confident that no matter where a new Sota Shine pops up in Minnesota, it’ll be home to amazing employees, local pride, and a superior clean. https://sotashine.com/
Pageantry with Purpose
HOW VICTORIA TEEN, ZARINA ZERR, IS USING HER CROWN TO EMPOWER, INSPIRE, AND GIVE BACK
ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER
Zarina Zerr is a performer at heart. A teen from Victoria, Minnesota, she has never shied away from the spotlight. A love of acting, modeling, and cheerleading ultimately led to a new interest — it was in the world of pageantry where she truly found her place. This summer, she’s taking the next step on her journey to the national stage as Miss Great Lakes Ambassador, ready to compete for the national title in Branson, Missouri.
Just two years ago, Zarina was invited to compete in the National American Miss (NAM) pageant. What caught her attention was the less traditional focus of this pageant. NAM emphasized self-confidence and women’s empowerment over beauty alone. It was this refreshing take that captured Zarina’s attention and sparked her interest. “I decided to give it a try, and I was hooked,” she shares. “It’s not just about the crown—it’s about growing the person you are and the person you want to become.”
Her first pageant was a whirlwind. Competing in NAM, Zarina found herself surrounded by 26 other girls, all vying for the same title. She loved the energy of the event and the new friendships that came from her first pageant. “I made so many friends, learned new skills, and felt proud of what I was able to accomplish. I ended up tying for 6th place, which felt like a big accomplishment for my first pageant.” That was only the beginning. Her passion for pageantry only grew, ultimately leading her to the Princess of America competition, where she was crowned Miss Great Lakes Ambassador.
Zarina Zerr crowned Miss Great Lakes Ambassador in the Princess of America competition.
For Zarina, hearing her name called on stage was a moment of pure magic. “It felt like time stopped,” she recalls. “I was overjoyed and genuinely proud of myself. I knew all my hard work had finally paid off.” That hard work involved months of preparation with her pageant coach, Cheri Kennedy, who helped Zarina perfect everything from her walk to her speeches. “We practiced all the details,” Zarina explains. “Practice really does make perfect.”
One of the most challenging aspects of pageantry, according to Zarina, is the walk. Transitioning from a modeling walk to the more graceful, formal walk required for pageantry wasn’t easy. But with practice and guidance, Zarina mastered it. “In the end, I was able to figure it out,” she says. “It’s all about staying patient, trusting the process, and a willingness to do the hard work.”
As Miss Great Lakes Ambassador, Zarina has been deeply involved in community service, a core element of the pageant. From packing food for kids in Columbia with Feed My Starving Children to walking in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Zarina has embraced every opportunity to give back. A project that meant a lot was collecting over 550 pounds of food for the Gather and Grow food shelf in Waconia. “Even the smallest actions can leave a lasting impact,” Zarina reflects. “Helping others makes me feel like I’m truly making a difference.”
As she prepares for the National competition, Zarina is focused on refining her skills even further. “I’m most excited about the
optional competitions,” she says, particularly the “Triple Threat” event, which includes a runway walk, a commercial, and a test shoot. “They look fun, and I can’t wait to see how I do.”
Her preparation is more intense than ever, with new techniques being incorporated into her routine. But winning the title isn’t her only goal. “Pageants are about so much more than just winning a crown,” Zarina explains. “It’s about growing, learning, and continuing to use my platform to help others.”
After Nationals, Zarina plans to continue her community service efforts through her platform, Heart of Service, and inspire others, especially young girls, to believe in themselves. “I want people to know that pageant girls aren’t just pretty faces,” she says. “We’re here because we want to make a difference, and that difference starts with the example we set for others.”
Zarina’s journey is a reminder that pageantry is more than just a competition—it’s a platform for personal growth, leadership, and service. As she heads to Branson, she’s not only competing for a crown but for the chance to make an even bigger impact on her community and beyond.
For those considering pageantry, Zarina offers this advice: “Give it a shot! If you’re not sure where to start, ask for help and find a pageant that suits you. It will be a rewarding experience. I can guarantee you that!”
Zarina’s journey is far from over, but one thing is certain: her crown is only a small part of the bigger impact she’s destined to make.
Zarina Zerr walking in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
DR. JESSICA RADTKE MALTEZ
Owner of Victoria Veterinary Hospital and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine | victoriavet.net
Victoria Veterinary Hospital to the Rescue!
Helpful tips for calming your furry friend before a vet visit
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICTORIA VETERINARY HOSPITAL
White coat syndrome doesn't just affect people; our pets can feel uneasy when they climb onto the exam table, too. We asked Dr. Jessica at Victoria Veterinary Hospital how pet owners can help alleviate this trepidation and reward their brave pet for a job well done.
• Take your pet for car rides on normal days, not just for trips to the vet.
• Acclimate your pet to a crate at home since they’ll be kenneled before and after surgical procedures in the clinic.
• Use a well-fitting collar or harness that they can’t slip out of, if they get scared.
• Visit the waiting room on a non-appointment day to see the scale and have a treat!
• Feliway Calming Spray for cats or Adaptil for dogs can be sprayed on collars, kennels, or bedding. Some pets may need anti-anxiety medication.
• Speak to your pet confidently using less baby talk. This helps them sense your confidence, know they’re safe, and that the vet clinic is a good place to be.
• If you have other services scheduled, your vet technician may be able to do things like the nail trim or ear cleaning during your wait time.
• Check in at reception and ask to wait in your car, or outside with your pet, until it’s your turn.
• Reward pets with verbal encouragement and treats during the visit. Praise in the moment helps to reinforce desired behavior.
• Our staff is filled with loving, pet-oriented people who choose to spend their day working hard to understand each pet’s personality, and they always show lots of love!
There is a wide range of opinions on when a child is a child no longer. Some say eighteen years old. Some think twenty-one. Minnesota has selected twenty-six for insurance purposes. But I’ve watched mothers in their eighties with sons in their sixties
Life Minded
fussing over if they are getting enough to eat and enough rest. So it’s hard to say when full adulthood sets in.
My eldest just moved out for real this past spring. She is an adult on paper but yet still not adult enough to rent a car. Who makes up these crazy rules? She was ready and had prepared for a very long time and I wasn’t ready and had prepared for a very long time. She didn’t move far away. She can support herself. She has a job and is in graduate school and knows more about how her car works than I ever hope to know.
And I thought I was perfectly fine until I passed her empty room a week after the move. It looked like the scene in the original Grinch cartoon of the Who house after he steals everything. Everything was stripped bare. Just a few random thumbtacks on the wall and an old blue stain on the carpeting from the wax melter. Dings in the wall I hadn’t noticed. A curtain rod left behind. In the closet, the detritus of childhood. Things that don’t hold any special meaning for her but are the record of everything for me. Our dog walks in there three times a day and looks at me like, “Where IS she?”
Cue the sobbing. I did recover in a few days after seeing her new place and making up her new bed. And it helped that she has come home many times. Came home for our standard Sunday night Chinese takeout. Came to see her brother’s lacrosse game. Came over to get her favorite sweatshirt she left in the laundry room. She came home, and we walked the dog, and she even cleaned my vacuum cleaner one day because I don’t know how to take it apart. My mom gave her five extra avocadoes she had, and my daughter reacted as if it were a bag of gemstones. Her appreciation for everything has grown already.
Being a young adult in this era is hard. Harder than it was for my generation I think. Maybe everyone romanticizes their own era. The world is different now and their expectations as young adults are much different. But they are walking the tightrope of adult responsibility just the same. And while I miss her and the past and her exuberant energy and being privy to everything, adult children are pretty amazing.
She texts me more now. Asks for photos of her dog. I send them. We have tried to Facetime with the dog.
He is having none of it. He wants the real deal or nothing.
One of my favorite recent text messages from her was along the lines of “Uh…couches are really expensive.” The actual message contained a well-placed and strong expletive, but you get the gist. And it’s true, couches are expensive. And avocadoes. And everything.
There is no protecting them from adult life. We eventually all have to take our turn waiting at the DMV. But getting the messages from adult children that being an adult is not always fun feels like an exciting, weird rite of passage for both of us.
So, I guess they are grown up when they feel done growing up. And anyone who is delighted over a free avocado is definitely an adult. I talk to my own mother nearly every day. She knows things that I don’t know yet, and it reminds me how very far my own children have to go in figuring it all out.
So, my advice to any and every family is no matter how your relationship is with your children before they leave the nest, get a dog. A cute irresistible dog. The dog will keep you company when they go. But more importantly, the kids will come home to see the dog. Because they will miss the dog most of all.
Minded
COLUMN
BY JEN FORTNER
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.
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
Creature Comforts
MEET THE BUSINESSES THAT WILL TREAT YOUR ANIMAL LIKE THEIR OWN
Paws Inn Pet Essentials
This locally owned pet supply store does so much more than feed your favorite fluffy (or scaly) friend. They train, counsel, and celebrate you and your animal companions.
Mutts on Main Grooming
Yes, it’s Where Fuzzy Butts Get Their Cuts, but it’s also where they get the royal treatment with a lot of respect, kindness, and love.
The Dog Nanny
From their quaint storefront in Victoria to their pet sitting, pet taxi, and walking services, The Dog Nanny brings Mary Poppins-level charm, practically perfect in every way.
This mobile pet spa takes the stress out of going to the groomer if your furry family member isn’t a fan. It’s also clean, safe, and convenient!
Wings & Whistles
Dog training and boarding is Wings & Whistles' specialty, and it’s easy to tell when you see their top-tier facility and meet their excellent staff.
Zoomin Groomin
GONGOLL BEEF
Now is the perfect time to stock up on local beef! With custom processing and unbeatable flavor we’ve got you covered.
1/4, 1/2 & WHOLE ANGUS AVAILABLE ALL YEAR
ARTICLE BY SARAH KNIEFF
Ready, Set, Sail
Set sail this summer with Paradise Charter Cruises and embark on an unforgettable excursion with the whole family across two of Minnesota’s most beautiful waterways: the mighty Mississippi River and the scenic Lake Minnetonka. Whether you’re chasing adventure with your little ones or kicking back with your college-age kids, these cruises offer something for everyone. Soak in the sun, enjoy the views, and simply relax together, creating those lasting memories that you and the kids will treasure for years to come.
TWO ICONIC ROUTES
Departing from Bohemian Flats Park, the Mississippi River cruises navigate the largest river system in North America right from its Minnesota origin. This route immerses passengers in breathtaking landscapes, including the southern trails of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, the U of M Campus riverfront, and iconic landmarks such as the 35W Bridge, St. Anthony Falls, and the historic Stone Arch Bridge. Travelers also enjoy stunning downtown Minneapolis skyline views as the boat journeys through the lower St. Anthony Falls Lock system.
Explore the Summer Cruise Offerings from Paradise Charter Cruises
On the other hand, departures from the Port of Excelsior lead guests onto the vast and serene waters of Lake Minnetonka. Named from the Sioux “Minne” (water) and “Tonka” (big/great), this lake offers picturesque scenery combined with engaging narration that reveals the rich history and charming stories behind the area.
Both routes provide full-service cash bars and casual snack options, enhancing the cruising experience. Note that cruise routes may adjust due to weather and water way schedules.
PUBLIC CRUISES
Paradise Charter Cruises’ summer lineup offers something for every kind of traveler eager to explore Minnesota’s finest waterways in style and comfort. Whether seeking relaxation, celebration, or adventure, the perfect cruise awaits.
AFTERNOON SIGHTSEEING
For a leisurely entry into the wonders of either the Mississippi or Minnetonka Lake, the Afternoon Sightseeing provides narrated tours at just $25 per person, with children under two admitted free. “Passengers can relax while gaining insight into local landmarks and natural beauty,” Dave Lawrance, owner of Paradise Charter Cruises, adds. Concessions such as corn dogs, chips, and drinks are available onboard. This cruise runs daily in the summer months.
SUNDAY BRUNCH
Celebrate the weekend with the Sunday Brunch Cruise at $49 per person. Guests indulge in the Captain’s curated brunch menu, featuring generous portions and full bar service. This cruise embodies a delightful way to spend a leisurely Sunday, basking in both excellent food and beautiful surroundings.
SUNDAY CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE
Every Sunday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, guests can enjoy a classic American meal on the water for $45 per person. Featuring a customizable 1/3 lb hamburger paired with garden and potato salads, chips, and full bar service with drink specials, this cruise blends culinary delight with stunning waterfront ambiance.
MARGARITA FIESTA
Mondays offer the perfect escape with the Margarita Fiesta Cruise at $45 per person. Passengers are encouraged to gather friends and savor a build-your-own burrito buffet complemented by refreshing margaritas and a full cash bar. “This festive cruise brings lively flavors and vibrant energy to either route’s serene waters,” Dave says.
TACO TUESDAY
Turn up the heat on Tuesday evenings aboard the Taco Tuesday Cruise. For $45 per person, guests enjoy an exciting “south of the border” adventure, paired with a build-your-own taco bar and drink specials. Full bar service ensures a festive atmosphere as passengers relish great food and scenic views.
WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY HAPPY HOUR PIZZA
Arguably the most popular offering, these cruises run midweek for $45 per person and feature narrated tours alongside a pizza and salad buffet. Happy hour drink specials with full bar availability
make for a relaxed yet lively experience on board, ideal for winding down during the week while enjoying spectacular waterway views.
DINNER CRUISE
Priced at $59 per person, the Dinner Cruise is perfect for special occasions or treating oneself to an elegant evening afloat. “This experience offers a romantic ambiance and gourmet dining, coupled with the captivating water sights, providing an unforgettable night,” Dave says. See Paradise Charter’s website for available dates.
PRIVATE CHARTERS
Beyond public cruises, Paradise Charter Cruises offers private charters departing from either location, customized to fit a wide range of celebrations and events. “From birthday parties, anniversaries, and retirements to wedding ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, and receptions with onboard dancing, our versatile fleet caters to groups of all sizes,” Dave says. Corporate clients can also utilize the vessels for team-building activities, client entertainment, or casual staff dinners—providing a unique setting to connect and celebrate.
For more information or to book a cruise, visit twincitiescruises.com or call 952-474-8058.
At Premier Women’s Health of Minnesota-OBGYN West, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality care for the whole you. Our team includes primary care and ObGyn, all under one roof. Discover expert care for pregnancy. Choose from a range of GYN services when you need them. Move toward healthy with services that include weight management, PT, and mammography.
WHAT’S NEW IN WACONIA
The dedication behind the dugout: Inside the Waconia Baseball Association
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TREVOR JAGER
It’s summer, which means America’s favorite pastime is back! There’s no better place to hear the crack of the bat and the spirit of fun and togetherness than Waconia, thanks to the Waconia Baseball Association. We spoke with two members, Chris Ohm, Board of Directors - Administration, and Jeff Chrest, General Manager - Advertising, to learn more about how this dedicated organization takes us out to the ballgame year after year.
WHAT IS THE WACONIA BASEBALL ASSOCIATION, AND WHAT PROGRAMS DOES IT OFFER?
We offer programming for individuals 15 and older, starting with Junior and Senior Legion, then the Waconia Lakers amateur team, and the Waconia Islanders 35 and older team.
BEYOND BASEBALL SKILLS, WHAT DO YOU HOPE THE PLAYERS TAKE AWAY?
Waconia Baseball Association wants to instill a deep sense of pride in the community. Players who go through the program will value competition while respecting everyone both on and off the field.
WHY IS BASEBALL SUCH A BELOVED SPORT IN WACONIA?
One word: community. Baseball has deep roots in Waconia, where families of all ages–baseball fans or not–often gather
to enjoy time at Lions Field. We’re a very prideful community when it comes to baseball.
WHAT KIND OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT DO YOU RECEIVE?
We receive the highest support from community members in the Waconia area. It’s rare to hear “no” to anything related to baseball, and the organization is 100% volunteer-based. People just love being part of the Waconia Baseball culture.
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE WACONIA BASEBALL ASSOCIATION?
We’ve added the grandstand, state-of-the-art lighting, and want to continue making the playing surface the best it can be. We’re looking to expand the perimeter of the park to add green space, and we’d also like to upgrade our batting cages.
WHAT’S ONE THING SOMEONE NEW TO TOWN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BASEBALL IN WACONIA?
We want Lions Field to be a destination for everyone. Summer baseball is free to the public except Lakers games, which cost $5 to enter. We also offer a full menu and beverages for most games.
For schedules, events, and more, go to www.waconiabaseball.com
A Paw Above the Rest
Top Dog Country Club sets the gold standard in world-class boarding and customized training, ensuring your dog is living their best life
Located in Carver County, Top Dog Country Club was founded 25 years ago, creating the first-ever vacation club for dogs and forever changing an industry. Built on the idea of extending top-tier hospitality to both dogs and their owners, Top Dog’s ‘club med’ style vacation ensures your pets receive the best of the best, helping you rest easy when you travel, knowing your best friend is in the best of hands and enjoying their own five-star all-inclusive vacation with a heated swimming pool, “Yappy Hour” with fresh-baked biscuits, bedtime stories, and so much more.
“Top Dog Country Club stands out because we provide excellence in every service offered. We take a custom approach to our care for each dog,” says Jean Stelten Beuning, owner of Top Dog Country Club. “We have the staffing levels (one staff for every 8-12 dogs), and an all-adult staff to offer what no other facility can. Dogs not only enjoy 5-6 hours of adult-supervised group play daily, but they also receive 5-6 hours of social training as we work with them, actively teaching them good social skills. We provide dog owners peace of
mind when they travel, knowing their dogs are safe, happy, and having the vacation of their lives.”
Top Dog is once again offering professional training services alongside their doggy daycare, boarding, transportation, and spa services. Top Dog has received international recognition, but the best praise for their training program is from pet owners and their dogs. “A well-trained dog is happier and more confident, which leads to happy owners,” says Jean. “Training helps the dog to learn what is expected and teaches the owner to provide consistent expectations, leading to a happy home.”
Top Dog’s professional trainer, Kayla, has over 15 years of hands-on experience working in dog training. “The approach is a customized plan, clear communication, patience, and positive reinforcement in building lasting relationships,” says Jean. It’s the customized approach that helps Top Dog stay above.
The professional training programs offered are unique to each pet owner and their situation, and include:
ARTICLE BY SARA
HOEMAN
• Stay, Play, & Train (Daycare and Training): Combines daycare and training in one.
• Board and Train (Overnight Boarding and Training): A Top Dog Vacation while addressing behavioral needs. A tailored training plan builds strong foundational obedience, addressing behavioral concerns.
• In-Home Assessment & Training: Addressing your dog’s needs within your home. Behavior is observed to identify specific challenges and goals.
• Puppy Training & Socialization: A foundational program focusing on teaching puppies essential skills that will help them grow into a well-behaved adult dog.
• “Pack Walks” in Public Places: A fun and structured way for dogs to learn the fundamentals of obedience while also building important social skills.
• Troubleshooting/Behavior Modification Training: A customized plan to address a wide range of behavioral issues that can interfere with your dog’s quality of life and your relationship with them.
• E-Collar Training: A humane and effective way to reinforce recall and address behavioral issues—responding consistently to commands, and providing a safe/controlled way to improve recall and safety.
Whether you’re planning your next vacation and want the best boarding care, or if you and your dog are starting your training journey, Top Dog is ready to welcome you! To schedule a tour, request more information, or sign up for services, visit topdogcountryclub.com.
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Conquer THE COURSE
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Now providing outpatient care
Ridgeview has partnered with Allina Health to provide outpatient mental health care close to home. Located at Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska, the outpatient care teams provide support for:
+ Anxiety
+ Depression
+ Grief and loss
+ Stress management
+ Marital, family and relationship issues
+ Trauma
+ And more
