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Care for the whole you, in Waconia

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.

The Holiday & Giving Issue

The holidays are here, and as the spirit of the season is upon us, we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child, whether it is the smells, the sounds, the lights, the holiday activities, or a combination of it all that reflects that best.

I reminisce about family gatherings with all the generations there smiling, laughing, storytelling, and sharing with one another. Traditions that start for some reason and continue, and each family has some quirky little uniqueness that makes it memorable. My family started placing the bows on heads after each gift was opened, making for some unique and colorful photographic moments to be viewed years later. My wife introduced the white elephant exchange to our extended family, and creativity always seems to be what adds to the fun and joy each year.

This month, we wanted to highlight the magic of the season and what our Waconia/Victoria area has to offer that helps spread holiday cheer. We’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier that also supports our local businesses. We also wanted to share what our area has to offer this holiday season for entertainment and ways to give back. While this season can be beautiful for some, it can be difficult for others, especially those who have recently lost a loved one. In the true spirit of the season, let’s take care of those in our community who need assistance or who are alone. My hope for you this season is that you feel love and peace and that we all remember to take care of each other, extending grace, empathy, and love.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily McKeever, Angela Broockerd, David Scheller, Erica Bibb, Jen Fortner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones @uncommon.jane

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1—7: The creativity for this year’s 17th Annual Waconia Scarecrow Tour was incredible! The Grand Prize for this year went to New Perspective Waconia with their nostalgic “Back to the 50s” scarecrow. Contenders for People’s Choice went to Philp Family Dentistry’s “Riley Goes to the Dentist,” Hoxie Homes & Remodeling’s “At Home in the Barnyard,” Waconia Veterinary Clinic’s “Life on the Farm,” and Title Mark, LLC’s “Minions.” Honorable mention for artistic appeal went to Nice Shirt Co. and Healing Ink & Art with their “Let’s Make Shroom for Everybody.”

Photography by @destinationwaconia

Want to be seen in the magazine?

NOV. 27

DEC. 10 thru

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT

Each Christmas season, City Lifestyle gifts a significant amount to those who could use a little extra support. But we need your help to find them. Do you know someone facing tough times? Your nomination could make all the difference.

Scan below to nominate.

business monthly

Raise Money For Your Cause at Nice Shirt Co.

Are you looking to partner with a local business for your school, charity, or community fundraiser? One that has a charitable mission and sells fun, locally sourced printed apparel and curated goods? Nice Shirt Co. is that business! Plan your event with them, and 15% of the total purchases during your event will be donated back to your organization. Make an impact with style!

Scan to read more

Choose Crimson Copper Plumbing for All Your Plumbing Needs

Hopefully, you’re busy ticking off that house winterizing checklist by now, and we’re pretty confident that preventing pipes from freezing is high on it. Given Minnesota’s frigid temps this time of year, frozen pipes can be a real problem for homeowners. If you’re one of the unlucky ones, keep your cool and call Crimson Copper Plumbing! This highly skilled team offers quality, full-service residential plumbing that you can trust.

Hitting a High Mark of Success and Inspiration

Excitement abounds at Highmark Custom Homes & Remodeling! Ashley Mock, Interior Designer at Ruby + Suede Design Studio, was recognized as the National Kitchen + Bath Association’s Thirty Under 30! This program honors exceptional young professionals in the kitchen and bath industry – congratulations, Ashley! Also, this fall, Highmark hosted an open house where over 150 customers and vendors enjoyed food, drinks, music, and a tour of their newly remodeled offices, training facility, and Experience Studio.

Photography by Nice Shirt Co.

Photography by Crimson Copper Plumbing

Photography by Highmark Builders

OBGYN West

COMPASSIONATE HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN OF EVERY SIZE

ARTICLE BY DAVID SCHELLER

Dr. Jennifer L. Smolinski

Dr. Matthew T. Bigos

Judgment. Patronization. Knowing that their very real symptoms might be dismissed entirely. Concerns like these deter countless clinically obese women from seeing the doctor. It’s one of many reasons why they are at higher risk of abnormal bleeding, infertility, incontinence, liver disease, sleep apnea, and a host of other medical conditions.

Matthew T. Bigos, MD is determined to retire this terrible reality for good. The Premier Women's Health of MN - OBGYN West obstetrician-gynecologist, who sees patients at four clinics in Chaska, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka and Waconia, has not developed a weight loss program per se. Instead, Dr. Bigos has adapted a model of effective, compassionate care to the unique needs of more than onethird of women in the United States.

“I joined OBGYN West because I fully support its mission,” said Dr. Bigos. “That includes providing comprehensive care to all women, regardless of whomever they happen to be, in an open and caring environment.

“Around five years ago, I came to a realization. Too many of our patients were being referred to bariatric clinics –reputable treatment centers in their own right, but not ones that emphasize general wellness. I did not like seeing those patients distanced from the primary care physicians who already understood not just their preexisting conditions, but who they are as people.

“That’s why I developed a new approach to weight management that can be practiced alongside regular care. The program, which is fully in line with American Medical Association standards, is centered around three pillars: diet, exercise, and medication.

“...providing comprehensive care to all women, regardless of whomever they happen to be, in an open and caring environment.”

“Creating a healthy diet isn’t as simple as picking out a meal plan. It requires the physician to help their patient understand their oneof-a-kind relationship with food. Once I share those insights with my patient, we are ready to co-develop a personal dietary plan that is just as sustainable as it is practical. All of their food will still come from the grocery store.

“I don’t instruct my patient to go to the gym or follow some strict exercise regimen. All I really ask is that they exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. And I use the word ‘exercise’ loosely. Research shows that no single form of physical activity has greater health benefits than any other. It doesn’t matter if it’s yoga, pickleball, or a walk around the block. It’s great so long as you enjoy it and it gets your heart moving.

“Finally, there is the medication element of the program. I may prescribe Saxenda, Wegovy, Zepbound, or any other FDA approved medication so long as it aligns with my patient’s weight loss goal and medical history. If a patient has thyroid disease, hypertension, PCOS, or some other preexisting condition, then I make certain their prescription promises the least possible interference with their existing care.”

“Women can struggle with their weight for any number of reasons,” said Dr. Jennifer Smolinski, another OBGYN West clinician (who also happens to be Dr. Bigos’ wife). “Menopause, pregnancy, and virtually any other hormonal or metabolic changes can cause weight gain. It’s typically the symptom my patients are most concerned about, which is why I refer many of them to my husband. His program truly helps women regain their ability to lose weight through the powers of empathy, shared decision making, and shared goals.”

“This program is successful even when weight loss is moderate,” continued Dr. Bigos. “Reduction as low as five percent is almost always accompanied by improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also lessens symptoms of fatty liver, reduces diabetic dependence on insulin, and helps women with PCOS ovulate on a more regular basis. Just one of those outcomes can change any woman’s life for the better: every OBGYN West physician's ultimate goal.”

Visit premierwomenshealthmn.com/obgynwest or call (952) 249-2000 or today to schedule a virtual or in-person consultation with Dr. Bigos.

For years, I had a very gruff man from the local appliance store come to our home to fix things. He made many trips. He expertly diagnosed and repaired everything but was also quite vocal about my dumb choices. He often asked the same rhetorical question, “Tell me the last time you set this washer to wash clothes at two in the morning.

Life Minded

I’ll tell you, never.” He felt I purchased appliances with “too many bells and whistles” and, therefore, more things could go wrong. I like to think his irritation was soothed by my unyielding devotion to keeping him in business.

He thought my front-loading washing machine was unwise. True. He thought my double oven range (one a mini-oven) was a gimmick. True. I asked him what he would buy if he was in my shoes. He said, “The basic. No frills. Same model your mother probably had for thirty years.” And then he gave my sad little washer a pat and said, “This thing is built to last eight years, and you are a ‘heavy user.’” It did not survive eight years.

All this can be filed under “they don’t make them like they used to,” and it does hold true.

Often, the newest, latest, and greatest iterations are not better. In December, I’m reminded of this when I pull out the holiday baking supplies. Each December, I make hundreds of cookies. Hundreds. I start with my KitchenAid mixer. I’ve had it for thirty years, and it works like a dream. Some families pass down priceless art to their heirs. My kids will get the antique mixer. But the real holiday star is my mother’s Wear-Ever electric Super

Minded

Shooter circa 1978. I should be the spokesperson for the Super Shooter. Alas, they no longer make this marvel of engineering, so I can’t be their rep. The Super Shooter is a fully electric wonder that spouts out cookies, canapes, and candy (according to the instruction manual). I have yet to find the perfect occasion to turn out 5,000 canapes, but if you need them, I’m your girl.

The Super Shooter is perfection because it works exactly as advertised. And no new machine has come along to rival it. I can kick out dozens of spritz cookies in a variety of shapes in a matter of minutes. Shapes include trees and bells but also dogs. Why anyone would want a dog-shaped holiday cookie is a mystery, but it’s nice to have the option. The Super Shooter has something for everyone.

About five years ago, one of the essential plastic tube pieces cracked. I nearly had a panic attack. I combed listings on eBay until I found the factory-sealed replacement part. This search morphed into a long online chat with the seller. The seller, a cheerful woman from Wisconsin, believed in the power of the Super Shooter as much as I do. She owned two. She wanted to know if I had ever used it for deviled eggs. I

had not. This machine knows no limits. When they were first introduced, Super Shooters would set you back less than $20. They are now listed under ‘vintage finds’ and are priced at $100 or more and worth every penny.

Evidently, there are other methods to make these delectable, buttery, melt-inyour-mouth holiday cookies. The highend kitchen stores sell shiny hand-crank models with a photo of three cookies on a platter on the box. I’m offended. Amateur hour. I’m sure those are just fine for making a dozen cookies. I’m making twelve dozen…for round one. Sequels rarely eclipse the quality of the original. Yes, I know Godfather II was critically acclaimed and won the Oscar. And I do prefer Stevie Wonder’s cover of the Beatles’ “We Can Work It Out.” Frasier as a spinoff of Cheers is flawless. There are exceptions. But the holidays are about tradition. Recapturing the wonder of childhood each year and trying to pour that magic out for the next generation. The Super Shooter will always be part of the charm for me. Thus, I may or may not have gathered up a few extra replacement parts — just in case.

Happiest of holidays to all. Wishing everyone gifts that last far beyond their expected lifespan.

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.

WHAT’S NEW IN WACONIA

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER | PHOTOGRAPHY

BY WACONIA CITY GOVERNMENT & WACONIA FIRE RELIEF ASSOCIATION

As you drive down 10th Street these days, you might notice a significant something new. A space that once occupied an open field and an old farmhouse is now home to the new Waconia Fire Station, a grand (29,000 square feet to be exact), state-of-the-art, fittingly fire-engine-red headquarters for those we hold in high esteem and endless gratitude for their selfless commitment to the safety of our community.

The new Waconia Fire Station is open for service

“It is an investment in the community and its people by ensuring the firefighters have such an exceptional facility.”

At first glance, this is a building that imaginative kids’ dreams are made of… And coincidentally, it’s a dream come true for the thoughtful and hard-working people who have brought it to life.

In early 2021, the city launched a study to assess the fire department’s needs and began searching for potential locations for a new station. In October of that year, those findings were presented to the City Council, and the decision was made to proceed with the project. The design process promptly began, groundbreaking took place in September of 2023, and the department officially moved in on July 8th. “The community has been extremely supportive of the project from start to finish, and everyone who has had the chance to visit or tour has been very impressed,” Fire Chief Justin Sorenson shares.

“It is an investment in the community and its people by ensuring the firefighters have such an exceptional facility.”

And exceptional it is.

The station is outfitted with technology and current best practices in fire station facilities such as:

• A large training room that can seat 80 people, and if the need arises, it can also serve as an emergency operations center. Previously, the city didn’t have any dedicated space for this function.

• An expanded office space with a conference room to accommodate current and future administrative staffing.

• A kitchen, dining, and dayroom with an attached outdoor patio for crews to share meals, rest, and recover from big calls–or to wait for their next one.

Top: There were fire truck rides, spray house, bounce house, face painting, and more at the Waconia Fire Department open house event to showcase the new station.

Bottom: The community was invited out to tour the new station

• Six bunk rooms with personal locker space to accommodate future overnight staffing models. Currently, these are being used by some overnight duty officers.

• A personnel decontamination area with steam showers to reduce firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens, as well as a separate laundry to wash contaminated uniforms.

• Drive-through apparatus bays with a vehicle exhaust system and storage for equipment, making it easily deployable for faster response.

• A turnout gear storage room with isolated ventilation to limit exposure to vehicle exhaust and sunlight, improving its longevity.

• An equipment decontamination room that allows for the cleaning of equipment and washing and drying of turnout gear, helping to minimize firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens from contamination during fires.

• A training mezzanine with window and door openings that can be filled with training smoke to simulate and practice skills.

• A three-story training tower with a training standpipe that enables firefighters to practice ladders and hose evolutions.

• A large parking area for training evolutions and apparatus operator training.

There’s not a shortage of reasons to be proud of this community, and as our heroic fire department settles into its new home, we embrace the joy and fulfillment that comes with it. These selfless individuals work tirelessly to protect us, so it’s only appropriate that they have an innovative facility that ensures their safety and honors their unwavering dedication.

There will still be field trips and pancake breakfasts, and this holiday season, Santa Claus will visit the station, making it the perfect time for you to come and see the new station for yourself!

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

Your 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

PERFECT PICKS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

Do away with all of the holiday, “I wonder if she’ll like it,” “Do you think it’ll fit,” and “I hope he doesn’t have one of these already!” These uncertainties will be obsolete when you put our local 2024 Gift Guide to use. Has the main man in your life been naughty or nice? He’ll be made well aware of his status when you choose one of these unique options. And that standing, if it’s not obvious by now? Santa’s numero uno.

1. Teeth Whitening Treatment at Brush Dental Studio | brushdentalstudio.com | 2. Snow Removal Services from Clean-Cut Lawn Care | cleancutmn.com | 3. Cheesy Grab Bag from The Grater Good | thegratergoodmn.com/products/cheesy-grab-bag 4. Brickyard Straight Bourbon from J. Carver Distillery | jcarverdistillery.com/bourbons | 5. New York, New York Medium Roast from Mocha Monkey | themochamonkey.com/product/new-york-new-york-medium-roast | 6. Stocking Hat from Waconia Brewery waconiabrewing.com | 7. 2024 Harley-Davidson HD Adventure Touring RA1250S Pan America Special at Wild Prairie Harley Davidson of Eden Prairie | wildprairiehd.com | 8. Bottle of Bonfire from Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery | schram-vineyards. obtainwine.com/product/bonfire | 9. Promaster Watch from Infinity Diamond Jewelers | infinitydiamondjewelers.com/watches CONTINUED >

Are you familiar with the phrase, “Don’t be a hero?” Whoever said that doesn’t know how amazing it feels to win the holidays. And make no mistake–you will win when you select a creative pick for your best gal.

For Her

1. Complete Interior Package from A2Z Detailing | a2zdetailing.com/services.php | 2. Receptra Relax Body Oil from Jes Naturals CBD Wellness | jesnaturals.com/shop/cbd-topicals/40 | 3. Seasonal Arrangement from Main St. Floral | mainstfloral.com/ shop/seasonal | 4. Solar Speed Spray from Salon SPAtoria | spatoria.store/collections/nail-care/products/solarspeed-spray 5. Aveda Hand Relief and Foot Relief from Salon Trende | salontrende.com | 6. Everlasting Candle from The Stash | thestashstyle. com/s/shop | 7. BioMat Session at Waconia Women’s Health | waconiawomenshealth.com/all-service/biomat | 8. Able Mare Handle Clutch from Willa June | shopwillajune.com/collections/bags-wallets-wristlets/products/able-mare-handle-clutch 9. Earrings at Magnolia North Boutique | facebook.com/p/Magnolia-North-Boutique-100092971751597/ CONTINUED >

Skip the feeling of overwhelm with a little gift guidance for the best kids ever (your kids, we’re talking about your kids). Wonder if the car care plan includes removing mystery items from your teenager’s backseat? Asking for a friend.

For the Kids

Holiday Food Hacks

MAKE HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING EASY WITH THESE STYLING FOOD HACKS THAT LOOK IMPRESSIVE BUT ARE SIMPLE TO CREATE

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JANIE JONES @UNCOMMON.JANE

Holiday Charcuterie Board

Why not create a unique holiday charcuterie board in the shape of a Christmas tree or snowman? It looks impressive and is a quick assembly. For this look, a few trimmed evergreen clippings from the backyard served as a great edging for the board. With a variety of cheeses, berries, nuts, and olives, this tasty display makes the perfect statement board. For an added touch, use a cookie cutter to add a cheese star to the top.

Gourmet Hot Chocolate

If serving a warm beverage for guests to enjoy, consider hot chocolate with burnt sugar-rimmed mugs. You can also create a hot chocolate bar for more fun and provide whipped cream and marshmallow toppings as well as added flavorings such as caramel and peppermint, or make it a boozy hot chocolate with whiskey, Bailey’s, or Peppermint Schnapps.

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

CRAFTING CHEER:

DIY WINTER CRAFTS

ARTICLE BY ERICA BIBB PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

ORNAMENT CLUSTERS

SUPPLIES

• 22 gauge wire

• Ornaments of at least 3 varying shades and sizes

• Wire snips

STEP 1

Cut desired length of wire for a cluster, about 24”

STEP 2

Add an ornament about 4” from one end of the wire and twist the wire around the top of the ornament to provide a base for your cluster. Twist about 5 times. You should still have about 4” of wire at the end; you will need it to tie onto your garland, tree, or wreath.

STEP 3

Continue adding ornaments to the wire, alternating sizes and colors until you have 4-6” of wire remaining.

STEP 4

Twist the remaining wire around the top of your final ornament 5 times to secure all of your ornaments in place. Making sure to leave at least 4” of wire in place at the end in order to tie onto garland, tree, or wreath.

STEP 5

Use the ends of the wire to attach to your holiday item of choice!!

Pro tip: Keep your clusters to the 24” length to keep from getting too heavy and/or having ornaments pop off. Ornaments will pop off at times, but they will still look gorgeous and you can always glue the ornament back onto to the top. Simple, gorgeous, and impactful!

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST

A Very Vineyard Christmas

Schram Vineyards | 11:00 AM

Christmas has always been a very special time at the winery, and this year, they plan to take it up a notch! Festive decor, ambient lighting, and themed menu items will make gathering at the vineyard this holiday season one to remember. From December 15-18, local Jenn Bostic will also be returning for a Nashville Christmas, along with singer-songwriters Sarah Darling and Emily Shakleton.

DECEMBER 5TH

2nd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting in Minnetrista

Minnetrista City Hall | 5:00 PM

Get ready for a festive night of fun with Minnetrista’s 2nd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting from 5pm-7:15pm. New highlights include a fireworks show, wine and beer tent sponsored by the Northwest Tonka Lion’s Club, apple cider and hot cocoa sponsored by Everly Farms, Toys for Tots, decorated Fire Department trucks, food truck from Mackenthun’s Minnetrista, sweet treats from Cathy’s Mackenthun’s and a visit from Santa Claus.

DECEMBER 5TH

Light Up Victoria

Bayfront Park in Victoria | 5:30 PM

Get in on the holiday cheer at Light Up Victoria! Start the night by joining in with carolers on Bayfront Plaza and move down to the bandstand for the official lighting of Bayfront Park. Enjoy dance performances and free winter activities like meeting Santa, visiting llamas, hay rides, and holiday crafts, along with hot apple cider, holiday treats, and all the lights around downtown Victoria!

DECEMBER 5TH

Waconia Choirs Annual Yuletide Festival

Waconia High School | 7:00 PM

This two-night event is on December 5th and 6th, featuring nearly 500 students from Waconia High School's bands and choirs. This treasured annual performance is not one to miss! The festival is open to the public, and admission is free. Before each night’s performance, carolers will be singing holiday songs in the lobby, and the Jazz band will perform on stage while guests find their seats.

DECEMBER 14TH

Victoria Holiday Craft & Gift Show

Victoria Recreation Center | 10:00 AM

Finish checking off that holiday shopping list at the Victoria Holiday Craft & Gift Show from 10am-4pm on Saturday, December 14, in the gymnasium at the Victoria Recreation Center. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts, crafts, and treasures from the best local artisans, where you're sure to find something special for that special someone (or yourself!).

DECEMBER 31ST

New Year's Eve

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum | 5:00 PM

Celebrate the end of 2024 with a magical walk through the Arboretum’s Winter Lights display, and enjoy family-friendly games and live music from Traveled Ground. Take your picture in a photo booth, add your hopes and dreams to the New Year Wish Tree, and make a craft to bring home. Countdown celebrations are on the hour at 5, 6 and 7pm and again at 8, 9 and 10pm.

Your Boat Club:

We boating! are

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 more at www.YourBoatClub.com/buy-a-boat today!