BEHIND THE BOOM: WE GO BEHIND THE SCENES OF WACONIA’S SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS SHOW.
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We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit, I fall into the trap sometimes, too. The trap of believing the only things worth doing are those for which I can make an exact calculation of the time, effort, and investment it will cost me. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty.
But the truth is that's really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life. We must leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, and even for getting lost. It’s those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built.
Our family has been fortunate to enjoy several trips, destinations like Hawaii, Scottsdale, and Naples at the very top of our list. But ironically, the most memorable and enjoyable trip for me was a road trip across the Midwest to watch Major League Baseball. We enjoy sports, but by no means are big-time Major League fans. But something about getting in the car and driving to St. Louis, Chicago, Milwaukee, and back to Minneapolis was truly special. Being together on a road trip with no interruptions connected our family on a different level.
In the last few months, I’ve been analyzing my relationship with my kids, how our family operates as a unit, and what we love spending our time doing. I first focused on the things I don’t love spending time on. For our family, it’s yard work. For yours, it may be too many busy weeknights away from home or not enough dinners around the table together. But I’ve noticed that “adventures” and “exploration” don’t even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing yard games in the backyard, walking or biking a new trail, or going out to find a fun new restaurant in a different part of town.
Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar. Maybe even a road trip across the Midwest…
MATT SHAEFFER, PUBLISHER @WACONIACITYLIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Matt Shaeffer | matt.shaeffer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily McKeever, Jen Fortner, Lauren Beaubaire
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Maria Claire Media, Dana with Forever Young Photography, Social Construct Media & Design, Colin McDougall
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
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1—3: The lanes were on fire at Ridgeview Foundation’s Pins for a Purpose event. Over 230+ bowlers and supporters turned out for this fun-filled night at Bowlero in Eden Prairie, raising over $47,000 to support Ridgeview’s Pediatric Program. Photography by Dana with Forever Young
Photography 4—7: Guests came dressed to impress at this year’s Derby Day event at Schram Vineyards! With the Kentucky Derby playing on the jumbotron, guests enjoyed Race for the Rosés-themed drinks, cigar bar, fashion contest, and live music by Sonic Dream Jazz Band.
Photography by Maria Claire Media
The Iron Tap is celebrating its 10th anniversary–and that’s reason to celebrate! The fun begins on Friday, July 18th, with a party on Main Street with live music from Jason Paulson. Good times continue on Saturday with featured brewery Surly Brewing and more live music, then roll into Sunday with signature brews from Back Channel Brewery to enjoy. In addition, there will be exciting specials and giveaways you won’t want to miss. Congratulations, Iron Tap!
In June, Magnolia North Boutique celebrated two years in Waconia! They honored the occasion with a special day filled with community, gratitude, and, of course, amazing shopping. Cheers to year three in Waconia—we’re excited to see what’s ahead. Magnolia North Boutique offers unique gifts, accessories, and clothing, but above all, they offer a stylish experience and a welcoming atmosphere. Plan a day and gather your friends for a shopping day to remember.
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May marked an exciting milestone for Lakehouse Candle Co.— The opening of their first storefront! Visit creative duo Adriana and Hannah at 250 W. 1st St. in Waconia for gorgeous (and amazing-smelling) hand-poured 100% soy wax candles with crackling wooden wicks, home décor, plants, greeting cards, and so much more! With a style inspired by Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes, we’re sure this new addition to Waconia’s downtown area will be a town favorite. Congratulations!
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOCIAL CONSTRUCT MEDIA & DESIGN
Explore the magic of summer at Lola’s Lakehouse — a breath of fresh air in more ways than one
What’s even better than devouring a light, summery meal alongside a crisp, cool cocktail? Enjoying it lakeside, where boats drift in and out, and the breathtaking view rolls on for miles. If your summer-loving self craves the flawless combination of delectable cuisine and picture-perfect ambiance, pull into Lola’s Lakehouse — boats, cars, and everything in between is welcome. Ryan Sathre, General Manager of Lola’s Lakehouse, emphasizes that what sets this dockside retreat apart goes far beyond the stunning view. “Our goal is to provide a total experience that melds unbelievable food and drinks with excellent service, and of course, sitting lakeside with the sun on your shoulders doesn’t hurt.”
“OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A TOTAL EXPERIENCE THAT MELDS UNBELIEVABLE FOOD AND DRINKS WITH EXCELLENT SERVICE, AND OF COURSE, SITTING LAKESIDE WITH THE SUN ON YOUR SHOULDERS DOESN’T HURT. IT’S A MEETING PLACE IN THE COMMUNITY, AND WE JUST ALL LOVE BEING A PART OF IT.”
The ways this one-of-a-kind destination stands out from the rest are endless, but what Ryan finds especially meaningful is that most of the team is made up of locals who live in Waconia. “Many of them have worked here for years. I think that’s really unique for a restaurant of our size.” He also says that the relaxed lakeside vibe keeps the team in a great mood. “It’s a meeting place in the community, and we just all love being a part of it.”
And it’s true, the moment you step inside, you know you’re not in Kansas anymore. From the New England boat house vibe to the professional, welcoming staff, you’ll have to fight the urge to exhale “aaaahhh” out loud. “We want guests to leave feeling they got to unwind with great service, food, and drinks!” Check, check, and check.
If you’re visiting on a Wednesday or a Sunday this summer, you can look forward to musicians performing live from the barge floating on Lake Waconia, and on Fridays, they have a resident DJ spinning tunes until sunset. “We’re situated right on the lake and manage the marina, so boaters can tie up their boats right off the patio!” There are also many exclusive seasonal events, such as Oyster Fest, a Crab Boil, and a Herradura Tequila Dinner, that you’ll find filling their events calendar, so you, in turn, can fill yours.
They have the entertainment covered, you say, but what about the food? Well, how long do you have? Ryan shares that the must-try dishes for the summer are the Pan Seared Sea Scallops and the Tagliatelle Frutti di Mare (gulf shrimp, scallops, mussels, fresh fish, local tomato, and prosecco,
yes, please). “You just can’t beat fresh seafood lakeside!” Most locals have their favorites, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find something from this seafood-inspired menu with traditional American fare that you don’t fall in love with. At the bar, you’ll find talented mixologists who can shake up and serve just about anything, but if summer had a taste, it would be their Spicy Watermelon Palomas or Kiwi Vodka-Tinis.
If you frequent Lola’s Lakehouse, you know what to do. Gather your crew, sunglasses ready, with a Portside Margarita and Greek Chicken salad ordered to your favorite table. If it’s the first time you’re stepping into this relaxing oasis, be prepared to be completely swept away by its charm and effortless elegance, with those can’t-miss Pan-Seared Sea Scallops sealing the deal.
https://lolaslakehouse.com/
ARTICLE BY LAUREN BEAUBAIRE
How Crown College’s Destination Serve trips challenge students to live their faith, build cross-cultural relationships, and leave comfort zones behind
Around 60 students packed their bags, double-checked their passports, and boarded planes heading to Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Japan, Senegal, Atlanta, and Los Angeles this past May — something Crown College students have been doing for decades.
“We’ve been sending students on Destination Serve (DS) trips since around the 1960s,” says Martha Swift, Vice President of Student Development at Crown College. “Each year, we typically do four or six trips, with around 10 students per group.
This year, we have two domestic trips to Atlanta and Los Angeles and four international trips to Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Japan, and Senegal.”
“It’s one of the best things we do at Crown,” says Pastor Max Moser, Director of Spiritual Formation and Campus Pastor. “DS trips allow our students to have a ‘faith in action’ opportunity, serve in a cross-cultural context, and practice one of our core values at Crown — kingdom diversity – exercising hospitality in a global perspective.”
“There’s a true paradigm shift for students,” continues Pastor Max. “They’re challenged and pushed out of their comfort zone. Many students go into it with certain expectations, thinking they’ll just complete a specific task, like building a house, but it’s much more than that. Students often find the trips are more about communication, learning, and building relationships. It’s a tremendous gift.”
Martha recalls, “When I accompanied a previous DS trip to Japan, many of our students were initially more reserved. But everything changed when they met the Japanese college students they’d be helping with English. The local students were so eager to connect. One of the most memorable moments was seeing them all go to karaoke together, bonding over American pop music. Back home, most of these students wouldn’t dream of doing that, but they absolutely loved it. I saw such a transformation in our students. They built true friendships that carried on well after the trip was over.”
Crown partners with Students International and nonprofit Envision, a part of the Christian and Missionary Alliance, to make these trips possible. They collaborate with on-site coordinators to identify the greatest needs at each location and determine what the students will do when they arrive.
Pastor Max explains, “For our Senegal trip, students will be building wells. In Japan, our students will teach English to college students. In Guatemala, students live with families and can participate in a few opportunities, like working at a clinic or helping tutor at a day camp. In the Dominican Republic, we’ll be doing a volleyball camp, and for our domestic trips, we help serve the local community, from working with the elderly to local football camps.”
But the work for the students starts well before they head for the airport. “We have a pretty extensive selection process,” says
Martha. “Each student needs to apply, submit a letter of reference, and interview with faculty. Once students are selected, then they need to fundraise. All of our trips for the last three years were 100% fundraised. This year, the students raised $112,000 in five months to fund their trips.”
“We’re so thankful for all the support we have,” says Pastor Max. “From our graduate intern of outreach ministries, Jaylyn Gardner, who put in hundreds of hours of logistical work, inputting data and tracking passports to our administration and billing office, professors, and fundraisers — they make these trips happen each year.”
After students return, many head back on another DS trip the following year in a leadership role or return to do their internships abroad at one of the site locations.
“We’d love to get up to eight trips a year and to do a spring break trip for our students,” Martha says. “We want our students to leave Crown with that kingdom diversity value and as people who seek out others who are different from them — respecting each other’s cultures and wanting to build those meaningful friendships and relationships.”
https://www.crown.edu/
Boom! Crackle! Whizz! Pop!
It’s July, and while hot dogs on the grill and gooey s’mores by the fire are pure bliss, the July 4th Fireworks over Lake Waconia, hosted by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, are the real crowd-pleaser. As you ooh and aah over the sparkling, colorful bursts lighting up the night sky, you might find yourself wondering how this magical show comes to life each year. A lot of hard work and dedication happen behind the scenes all year so that when July 4th rolls around, you and the rest of the community can enjoy front-row seats to the best show in town.
“The fireworks are entirely funded by local businesses, organizations, and community members,” Christine Fenner, president of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, shares. “Fundraising efforts happen continuously throughout the year to raise the $36,000 plus needed to purchase fireworks.” In recent years, the Waconia Lions Club has been integral in the fundraising efforts by
Learn what fuels Waconia’s spectacular July 4th fireworks show
ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
selling raffle tickets for big items like an ice house and an ATV, donated by the Waconia Fire Relief Association and Waconia Lions, with all proceeds benefiting the fireworks.
“We also have a dedicated group of trained, volunteer pyrotechnicians who spend their 4th of July setting up the fireworks and putting on the show for the community every year.” This group of generous and skilled individuals works closely with the Waconia Fire Department, Carver County Sheriff’s Office, and Carver County Parks to ensure a safe event.
“The July 4th Fireworks bring residents and visitors together for a shared experience celebrating Independence Day.” And if you’ve never been, you’re missing out. “People watch from their boats, Lake Waconia Regional Park, and even businesses on and around the lake become gathering places for people to enjoy the show and share in the patriotism of the day.” At dusk, the entire town seems to go silent, except for the sky, confirming that this event truly is something the whole community shows up for.
While the town continually shows strong support, Christine says that fundraising becomes more and more difficult every year as prices increase across the board. If the July 4th fireworks in Waconia are the highlight of your summer, and you’d love to help make them happen, you can find more details and ways to support them at DestinationWaconia.org/fireworks
“A warm summer evening with a lakeside view, or from a boat on Lake Waconia, families and friends gather and wait for dusk to watch the sky light up – it makes for an unforgettable 4th of July experience!”
At a certain age, people start asking what your retirement plans are going to look like. I’m at that age. The chattering is starting even though I still have a son in high school. It doesn’t seem fair that I’m negotiating curfews and at the same time fielding retirement inquiries.
It feels much like when well-intentioned but irritating strangers ask what your post-high school plans are going to look like. Or when you’ll get married. Or where you will live. Or if you’ll have a baby. My answer to all of the above was/is — I don’t know.
Literally, no clue on the retirement question. And I’m not talking about the economics of it. Everyone has all sorts of different circumstances. I’m talking about how and where to spend the span of time. How will we spend the time? I’m talking about what will the days look like without kids, sports, insane schedules, yard work, house projects, pleading with anyone to walk this dog, and all of these fixed patterns we have lived in for so very long. It’s hard to remember the before. And I like routines.
I feel a bit of pressure to come up with the correct answer, but I’m not sure what the correct answer is. Maybe it’s time to get back to work on what is next. If I take my cues from generations before me, it offers options (some quite dismal) but no insights on what to do in preparation.
For example, my paternal grandmother was widowed at fifty-five and retired at age sixty-five from her secretarial job. She told me she deeply
regretted retiring so early, but that was expected at that time. She enjoyed her job and coworkers but, more importantly, ended up living thirty-three more years. A very long stretch to live alone and fill the days. My dad didn’t live long enough to officially retire at all. Not a great option either. Therein lies the problem, nobody can see around the corner.
When some of my friend’s parents retired, they immediately fled south, spending their winters in warmth. Many eventually adopted a no-snowblower lifestyle permanently. As an outside observer, that doesn’t appeal to me. There is no universe where my husband and I will find ourselves in a planned community, wearing athleisure, alternating playing golf and pickleball with neighbors, and having a Martini each day at 4pm. It’s just not “us.” But what is “us” when we have been doing the same thing for decades?
But as I’m mulling this over, I heard an interview on the radio with a psychologist who specializes in ‘psychological richness.’ Their research demonstrates how novel experiences and pushing ourselves to do and eat and see and attempt new things improve life satisfaction and
happiness. And unique experiences can contribute to longevity. He was talking to me. I am known to order the same thing at my favorite places, not wanting to risk it. I don’t even want to take a chance on an unfamiliar chicken sandwich.
Yet I have spent years giving pep talks to my kids about exploring the world. Trying something new. Learn something new. Exploring their options. I need to start giving myself the pep talk.
Could we do something crazy? Do we still have it in us to entertain wild ideas that might make no sense to anyone else? We have always cut our own path. I really feel a surge of energy when I think about it. It’s a sign. Maybe we move overseas and volunteer in a school? Maybe we go live near a national park and hike every day? Learn cribbage? We could spend Thanksgiving in the Maldives? Spend a summer living in a remote cabin in Alaska? Play pickleball like everyone in America?
Maybe the secret is just to keep making the plans. I can start small now to prepare.
I will try the unique chicken sandwich. And I could be talked into buying a tennis dress.
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.
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ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER
We’re fortunate that Waconia is considered a wine lover’s destination just about any day of the week, but when July rolls around and the Waconia Wine Festival weekend is upon us, the fun truly begins. On July 26th and 27th, experience Waconia Wine Country at its finest as you visit three award-winning wineries in one weekend: Parley Lake Winery, Schram Vineyards, and The Winery at Sovereign Estate.
Why reserve your spot for this celebratory festival?
Sip, savor, and celebrate at the Waconia Wine Festival
At each stop, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase an event tasting of three wines, along with additional wine specials and bottles for sale! And no need to worry about transportation because your ticket includes shuttle service from one vineyard to the next, so you can show up safely and in style. This taste of vineyard life proves that you don’t have to travel to Sonoma or Tuscany to experience inviting wines set against backdrops of lush vineyards and joyful wine lovers; you need only spend a weekend sipping your way through Waconia.
If your first stop is at Parley Lake Winery, expect a charming introduction to Waconia wine country, nestled among scenic views and lush vines. You’ll know you’re in the right place because catchy music will fill the air, floating from the outdoor stage nearby. Come hungry as the Soup du Joor food truck will be parked both days, ready to serve delicious wraps, fresh salads, and, of course, mouthwatering soup–and the wine specials will be just as delectable.
Curious what else awaits you at this charming spot?
“Parley Lake Winery is where art and wine entwine!” shares Debbie Donovan, Tasting Room Manager. “We offer a unique setting with our historical barn tasting room, where you can enjoy our wines–exclusively handcrafted using cold-climate grapes and honored with over 200 medals in national and international competitions–alongside an art gallery and art sculptures scattered throughout the property.”
On any given day at Parley Lake Winery, you’ll find a variety of red and white wines, some of which are only produced in small batches and available exclusively to their wine club members, which is open to anyone and is a great way to explore all of their wines. “We love the opportunity to participate in the Waconia Wine Festival along with Schram Vineyards and The Winery at Sovereign Estate to highlight our wines and each winery’s unique personality.”
It doesn’t hurt that the staff at Parley Lake loves what they do, and this festival gives them the perfect opportunity to show off their expertise to both longtime friends and new visitors who are discovering it for the first time. “We love helping people find their new favorites and direct them to the local eateries and shops to make their day truly an adventure!” Debbie says that at Parley Lake, the perfect summer wine moment includes grabbing a glass of your favorite wine and strolling through the vineyard, taking in the view. Then, find a seat on the deck or on the Parley Lake Winery grounds with good friends as you listen to music and just soak it all in. “You know you have something special when it’s not unusual to find one of your employees on their day off enjoying an afternoon at the winery!” https://www.parleylakewinery.com/
As the shuttle pulls into the property at Schram Vineyards, the first thing you’ll notice is the vibrant energy in the air. It brims with beauty, warm hospitality, passion… and did we mention beauty? Ashley Schram, co-owner of Schram Vineyards, shares that their approach to winemaking is centered around elevating Minnesota-grown grapes and showcasing them in the best possible expression. “Winemaking in Minnesota has come a long way, and we’re proud that our wines have received national recognition, standing shoulder to shoulder with wines from more established regions like California and New York.” And there’s no better occasion to highlight this well-earned spotlight than at the Waconia Wine Festival.
“At Schram, guests can expect a tasting experience that spans the winery property. You’ll have the opportunity to taste different styles of wines at different tasting bars throughout the outdoor pavilion, our unique tree bars, and our barrel room.” And all of this takes place while looking out over their breathtaking vineyards. Schram will have live music in the tasting room, specials on wine bottles to take home, and showcase unique wine-friendly vendors with some tasty products as well.
One standout wine to look forward to is their Estate Rosé Sparkling, made entirely from grapes grown exclusively at their Waconia vineyard. “The Waconia Wine Festival is such a fun and meaningful tradition. What I love most is how it brings people together to celebrate local wine and highlights what makes Waconia so special.”
Ashley goes on to say that having three great wineries in such proximity is unique, and the festival really helps position Waconia as a true Minnesota wine destination. “We’ve always believed we’re stronger together, and this event is a great example of how collaboration can elevate Minnesota wine as a whole.”
At Schram Vineyards, and for Ashley, the perfect summer wine moment is when everything just clicks—tasting something new, finding a spot on the patio with a glass of wine or a cold beer, sharing a brick-oven pizza, and enjoying good conversation with friends. It’s relaxed, it’s local, and it’s what makes summer feel so memorable around here. https://www.schramvineyards.com/
Your sensory journey continues at The Winery at Sovereign Estate. Isaac Savaryn, Viticulturist, shares that they often hear their guests say that Sovereign is their little piece of paradise. “We offer a relaxing atmosphere with great wine and the best view in Minnesota. It’s an escape from the busyness of life and an area where people can truly unwind and unplug.” And that’s just what guests can expect at the Waconia Wine Festival.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming guests who have been here many times before but also introducing
ourselves to our new visitors.” Isaac and the team at The Winery at Sovereign Estate agree that this festival is a way to bring more attention to the fantastic wines produced in Waconia and, in turn, expand their reach into the greater Twin Cities area. “Waconia offers so much for those who live here, but also for anyone making a day trip from the cities.”
He shares that the community has truly come to embrace the local wine scene, which is such a positive reflection of growth for the town. And if the number of people who drive up the winding road to this refined yet relaxed winery with a picture-perfect view of Lake Waconia is any indication, it’s clear the local wine scene is here to stay. In addition to the annual Waconia Wine Festival being one of their marquee events, the list of unique happenings at this picturesque retreat keeps on growing.
“We’re focusing on expanding our guests’ options when it comes to unique experiences. We’ve introduced a new private dining option in our cabanas so guests can have a more personalized experience. While expanding our dining options, we have also added
“The Waconia Wine Festival is such a fun and meaningful tradition… it brings people together to celebrate local wine and highlights what makes Waconia so special.”
more wine-tasting experiences that include seated tastings, walk-in tastings, and our “vine to wine” tours.”
Stepping off the shuttle at Sovereign for the festival, you’ll be treated to elegance and a sip of luxury. “Our wines are incredibly expressive in their aromatics and bright on the palate,” Isaac shares. “We make wines that are very well balanced and exemplify the terroir where they are grown. We have such a large selection, around 20-25 different styles, so we’re confident any wine lover will find one (probably more) that they will enjoy!”
And if you wonder the best way to savor their expertise, Isaac says it’s by pulling up a chair overlooking Sovereign’s vineyard and Lake Waconia as live music plays and a cold glass of white or rosé in hand. https://www.sovereignestatewine.com/
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A CONVERSATION WITH STEVEN JENSEN, DIRECTOR OF WACONIA COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND RECREATION, ON EXPLORING YOUR PASSIONS
If you have a family, you know the excitement that fills the house when the purple and gold catalog, covered with smiling faces and good times, lands in your mailbox. Before it even makes it to the kitchen counter, everyone (including you) is armed with a highlighter and eager anticipation, ready to pick out a favorite activity, sport, or class (or two!) to fill the calendar.
Waconia Community Education and Recreation Director, Steven Jensen, says the program’s goal is just that, “Waconia Community Education is here to provide families with opportunities to explore what they love! It touches all members of the community in some way.” In Waconia public schools, the motto is: Explore Your Passions. Create Your Success. And with all the possibilities available to you through this community-focused resource, that’s exactly what you’ll do.
Waconia Community Education serves the community needs of all ages, from birth to 5 years of age, through multiple programs including Early Childhood Family Education, Wildcat Preschool, and child care. As children enter grade school, they offer child care before and after school and during the summer for families needing daytime care.
“Our enrichment and recreation program serves students from Pre-K through high school, allowing us to provide a wide range of activities and opportunities that students might desire to try and excel in,” Steven shares. “We also provide many opportunities for our adults in the community, such as martial arts, art classes, exploratory classes, trips, and more.”
While Community Education might be where your kids sign up for their yearly flag football team, it can also be a perfect chance to start something new. “Many times, we’ve seen community members bring an idea to Community Education–and watch it flourish into a small business!”
This impactful resource partners with other communities to ensure they’re providing a diverse selection of options. Currently, they’re part of a consortium with neighboring communities offering the program, Magnifying Abilities, where adults with cognitive and physical disabilities can participate in social and recreational activities. They also partner to offer Adult Basic Education courses, providing adults of all ages with opportunities to gain essential life skills and certifications, which you can check out here: www.swmetro288.org/288-programs/adult-education.
“Most of our classes are based on history and what’s worked well for the community,” Steven explains, “and we’re often approached to create new programs.” He adds that oftentimes they’re able to take on an opportunity that once operated under the schools, and continue it through Community Education. It’s also exciting to know this program is part of a larger network, where departments across the state come together in many aspects—sharing what’s working in their communities and exploring if those ideas could positively impact ours.
“Community Education is extremely important to all communities in Minnesota because it provides a centralized place for families to find the resources they need,” Steven notes. Schools play a
“I take great joy in seeing community members enjoy what they love. I love seeing the smiles on all participants’ faces as they explore, compete, and excel.
I’ve dedicated my professional life to serving communities, and Community Education provides the avenue to do this.”
big role in why people live where they live, he says, and Community Education, as a branch of the school district, helps keep community members connected to where they live, no matter their age.
Steven highlights that they’ve secured funds through the state of Minnesota for early childhood programming, offering scholarships to anyone who qualifies, including free preschool to families. They also partner with programs like Backyard Wishes to offer scholarships for youth programming. “Meeting the needs of the community is extremely important to us, and that’s why we work to find ways to keep costs down while putting out a high-quality experience.”
“I take great joy in seeing community members enjoy what they love. I love seeing the smiles on all participants’ faces as they explore, compete, and excel. I’ve dedicated my professional life to serving communities, and Community Education provides the avenue to do this.” Steven boasts that the department is staffed by an exceptional team who are passionate about what they do and truly care about the people they reach and connect with. “The Waconia Community Education department wouldn’t be where it is without the dedication and love our staff has for the people here. I’d like to thank all of the Community Education staff for their hard work serving the needs of our community.”
The hope and goal of Community Education is to continue to grow and evolve with the community, while meeting the needs of all. “Waconia is a unique community that truly values the out-ofschool time programs, and we are happy to be of service to all. This community is growing, and it’s important that we grow with it.”
Learn more: /isd110.org/community-education/ community-education
JULY 4TH
Lake Waconia Fireworks Festival
Over Lake Waconia | 9:00 PM
Get ready for a spectacular fireworks show over Lake Waconia! Led by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce, the fireworks are launched from Lake Waconia Regional Park at dusk. Great spots to watch the show: • Island View Golf Club • Lake Waconia Regional Park • Lola’s Lakehouse • The Winery at Sovereign Estate • Hill near Target and Twin Cities Orthopedics • From a boat on Lake Waconia
JULY 12TH
Mayer City Hall | 9:00 AM
Don’t miss the 16th annual Mayer Rising Community Festival on Saturday, July 12th from 9am-2pm! This free event is fun for the whole family with a car and tractor show, craft and vendor show, and great kids activities, including bounce houses, face painting, balloon ani mals, kids pedal pull, Twins Youth Baseball Clinic, great food, and more! Get more info: https://www.mayercarshow.com/
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JULY 12TH
Art Stock: Art, Wine, & Music Festival
Parley Lake Winery | 11:00 AM
The Arts Consortium of Carver County puts on this exciting two-day art and music festival. Hosted at Parley Lake Winery from 11am-5pm on Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13, come enjoy wine, music, and exciting new artists, as well as old favorites, showcasing diverse media such as photography, sculpture, wearable arts, glass, fibers, painting, and more! artsofcarvercounty.org/art-stock/
JULY 14TH
19th Annual Chamber Golf Scramble
Island View Golf | 11:00 AM
Put on your cowboy boots and biggest belt buckle for this year's Wild Westthemed annual Chamber Golf Scramble! Registration opens at 9:30am with a shotgun start at 11am, kicking off a fun afternoon of games and event activities, food and drinks, drawings, prizes, and a best-dressed contest. After you play the 18 holes, stick around for a 19th hole BBQ!
JULY 17TH
Truck Rodeo
Victoria Recreation Center | 6:00 PM
The kids and grandkids will love this free event. Get up close to big trucks and meet the hardworking people behind the wheel! Climb into the 1929 Chevrolet Fire Truck (Victoria's very first fire truck!), a Carver County Sheriff's deputy car, street sweeper, tractor, skid loader, excavator, wheel loader, snow plow, dump truck, Zamboni, ambulance, helicopter, and more!
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