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Waconia, MN October 2022

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THE

Foodie ISSUE

O C TO B E R 2 022


October 2022 PUBLISHER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Fall is here...the season of food and foliage!

Emily McKeever | emily.mckeever@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Natalie Finazzo Fox | natalie@nataliefinazzofox.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Welcome Fall! With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some amazing dishes and beverages available around Waconia and Victoria. We had the pleasure of sitting down with local brewer Dru, at Waconia Brewing Company and Marc Huebner, owner of Noble Lion to learn what their fall menu will be boasting—so get your tastebuds ready, you’re in for a treat. We also included a few tips and recipes for you to try at home to keep your immunity strong. These ideas are fabulous whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests. My dad grew up on a farm in Iowa, he was a meat and potatoes kind of guy. I grew up with the type of foods you would revel in on cold fall and winter evenings because of that. Things like homemade pizza and pot roast would have me and my three sisters drooling over what is about to be devoured. As my palate has changed over time, I have come to enjoy more seafood dishes, sushi, and Mediterranean style foods as well. Don’t get me wrong, I totally make a killer white chicken chili and cannot wait to make it for friends, but food with new vibrant flavor is tantalizing. There is an art to creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies our taste buds but evokes memories. The aroma of certain spices and foods can bring us right back to our childhood kitchen table, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. Food brings us all together, and whether we are sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying food is invaluable. As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town! And be sure to join us on October 11th as we partner with Lola’s Lakehouse for a fantastic night of food and drink at the 1st Annual Taste of Lola’s. Go station to station tasting all the delicious food and drinks arriving on their menu this fall. See you there! AMY JANZEN, PUBLISHER @WACONIACIT YLIFEST YLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/ WACONIA |

Emily McKeever, Jesse Bergstrom, Jamie Simmons CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Natalie Finazzo Fox, Graham Miller

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Waconia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Waconia area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Waconia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.


YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN MIND.

INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN LET US HELP PROTECT YOUR DREAMS. MIND.

INSURANCE DESIGNED INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH WITH LET US HELP PROTECT YOUR DREAMS. Dawson & Associates LLC

Dawson & Associates LLC Jill Dawson, Agent (952) 835-7500 mydawsonassociates.com 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia

INSURANCE DESIGNED WITHAND YOU AND YOURWITH DREAMS INSURANCE DESIGNED INSURANCE INSURANCE WITH DESIGNED DESIGNED WITHIN YOU YOUR DREAMS IN INSURANCE DESIGNED WITH Dawson & Associates LLC DREAMS INAND MIND. MIND. YOU YOU AND YOUR DREAMS IN YOUAND ANDYOUR YOUR YOU DREAMS YOU AND YOUR INYOUR DREAMS DREAMS INAgent IN Jill Dawson, (952) 835-7500 MIND.MIND. MIND. MIND. MIND. mydawsonassociates.com Jill Dawson, Agent Dawson & Associates LLC (952) 835-7500 Jill Dawson, Agent 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia (952) 835-7500 mydawsonassociates.com 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia mydawsonassociates.com

20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia

24-HOUR CLAIMS REPORTING & CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-800-MYAMFAM (692-6326)

Dawson &LLC Associates LLC DawsonAMFAM.COM & Associates Dawson, Agent Jill Dawson, Jill Agent | AUTO | LIFE | BUSINESS | FARM & RANCH AMFAM.COM &HOMEAssociates LLC Dawson Dawson & Associates LLC (952) 835-7500 (952) 835-7500 Jill Dawson, Agent Jill Dawson, Agent mydawsonassociates.com Dawson & Associates LLC DawsonDawson &American Associates & Associates LLC LLC mydawsonassociates.com (952) 835-7500 Family Mutual Insurance Company, (952) 835-7500 & its Operating 20Companies, WMadison, Main St Ste 300, Waconia 20JillWS.I.6000 Main StParkway, Ste 300, Waconia Jill Dawson, Agent Dawson, Dawson, Agent AmericanJill WI 53783 Agent mydawsonassociates.com mydawsonassociates.com ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 835-7500 (952) 835-7500 (952) 835-7500 20StWSte Main Ste 300,(952) Waconia 20 W Main 300,St Waconia

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112

HOME | AUTO | LIFE | BUSINESS | FARM & RANCH

24-HOUR CLAIMS REPORTING & CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-800-MYAMFAM (692-6326) American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company,

American Family Life Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 010996 – Rev. 7/17 ©2015 – 16382954

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, American Family Life Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 010996 – Rev. 7/17 ©2015 – 16382954

mydawsonassociates.com mydawsonassociates.com mydawsonassociates.com 20 W Main St Ste 300, Waconia 20 W Main 20 St W Ste Main 300, St Ste Waconia 300, Waconia

Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family American Mutual Insurance Company, S.I.Companies, & its Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 ©2015 006441©2015 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112

Mutual Insurance Company, American Family MutualAmerican InsuranceFamily Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 –006441 16383112

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American FamilyAmerican Mutual Insurance Family Mutual Company, Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, S.I. & its Operating S.I. & Companies, its Operating Companies, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 537836000 American6000 Parkway, American Madison, Parkway, WI 53783 Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 006441 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112 ©2015 006441 ©2015 – Rev.006441 2/20 – 16383112 – Rev. 2/20 – 16383112

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O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Food & Drink Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Food As Medicine

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Local Experiences

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Healthy Lifestyle

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Inspired By

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Locally Sourced

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Giving Back

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Events

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Party Planning

Eating to live well

18 Fall Book Round-Up Wrap yourself up in these cozy reads

24 The Craft Experience

Savor the season with these local next-level cocktails, pints and pairings

30 Gathering Growth and Feeding Families

Waconia’s food shelf; feeding families for 20 years and getting ready for 20 more

O N T H E C OV E R

A warm pumpkin and cranberry salad will help you build a strong fall immunity with nutrient dense ingredients

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FO O D + B E V E R AG E

LI FE + C U LT U R E FO O D + B E V E R AG E

LO CA L S ERV IC E S

FO O D + B E V E R AG E


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O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

SARAH NORTON

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6

4

ELLEN SCHAUMBERG

2 SCHRAM VINEYARDS WINERY & BREWERY

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NATALIE FINAZZO FOX

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ELLEN SCHAUMBERG

SCHRAM VINEYARDS WINERY & BREWERY

SCHRAM VINEYARDS WINERY & BREWERY

1: We love fair food! Can you really ever have too many mini donuts? 2: The rides are definitely a fair-goer's favorite. 3: These friends are having an 'udderly' good time at the fair. 4: Rain or shine, the Carver County Fair is arguably the best five days of summer! 5: The weather was perfect to explore all three of Waconia's beautiful wineries. 6: It can't get much better than wine, food, and good company. 7: Another successful year for Waconia Wine Festival!

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @waconiacitylifestyle

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C I T Y SC E N E


Sign up for a course:

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EXPERIENCED SHOOTER? WE’LL MAKE YOU BETTER TOO. Introducing the new Stock & Barrel Training Academy. Scan the QR code below to learn how we are redefining the firearms training experience.

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O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Ridgeview recognized as 2022 five-star hospital, nursing home by CMS The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently recognized Ridgeview as a five-star hospital. These ratings are given to hospitals nationwide and are gauged based on over one hundred measures across five categories: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience, and timely and effective care. Further, Ridgeview's Nursing and Rehab Center in Le Sueur was recognized as a five-star nursing home based on three categories: health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. Congratulations Ridgeview!

Tour the Scarecrows of Waconia The Waconia Chamber of Commerce presents Tour the Scarecrows of Waconia, October 13th - 23rd. You'll be spooked, charmed, and amazed by the creativity of over forty scarecrows built and displayed by local businesses. Print your ballot, pick your favorite, and then vote! For more information and to learn about last year’s winner, visit destinationwaconia.org/events/ chamber-hosted-community-events/ scarecrows-tour/

Flannel Fall Bar Crawl Join the Waconia Dandylions on October 8th at 6:00 pm for the Flannel Fall Bar Crawl. This FUNdraiser will assist the Dandylions with their holiday initiatives which include Gifts for Grands, the local adopt a family toy drive, and others throughout the year. A $20 wristband gets you drink specials at Waconia Brewing Company, Chumley’s Bar, Waconia Saloon, and Hopper’s Bar and Grill as well as DJ entertainment and a 50/50 raffle.

Photography @destinationwaconia

Want to be featured?

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

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY


Photography Service | Photo Booth 2344 Cypress Lane, Mound, MN (612) 723-4542 www.jamiejoosphotography.com OCTOB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

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local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Fall is here and we are ready for a foodie experience to usher in the new season. We are sharing some of the best spots around town with great atmosphere, seasonal menus, outdoor seating, and an elevated experience. Treat your taste buds this month and get out and experience what our area has to offer.

St ylish & Upscale Foodie Establishments THE NOBLE LION: Small plates and the Lion's Den bourbon bar will make you feel like you're traveling abroad. 7940 Victoria Drive Victoria, MN ST BONI BISTR O: Drive, walk, or bike to enjoy this quaint eatery. Try Heavenly Hash or the colorful Pesto Bowl. 8516 Kennedy Memorial Drive Saint Bonifacius, MN BUDDY BOY FINE BAR BEQUE: Simultaneously savor perfectly smoked meats, unique sides, drinks, and live music. 8175 Minnesota 7 Minnetrista, MN WINCHESTER & RYE RESTAURANT: Digest in the whiskey lounge for a Gin Smash after indulging in enticing menu options. 7929 Victoria Drive Victoria, MN GAR AGE BAR & BOWL: Visit this industrial-style establishment for their award-winning bloody mary bar. 16 West 1st Street Waconia, MN

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Garage Bar & Bowl

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S


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FOOD as

MEDICINE

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H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE


Eating To Live Well ARTICLE BY JAMIE SIMMONS, OWNER OF WASHED IN WELLNESS

Food is what makes us, it is what every organ in our body is made from. You are creating your body with the food that you eat. 90% of our immune system is in our gut. The way we fight illness and protect ourselves from disease depends on what we nourish our bodies with. We need to eat like our grandparents did. They ate seasonally and depended on what food was the freshest. Eating something in season, close to harvest time and close to you means that it was picked at peak ripeness with less travel time and preservation for that food, therefore making it the most nutrient-dense.

Some favorite nutrient-dense fall foods: • Squash • Pumpkin • Sweet potatoes • Kale • Root vegetables • Garlic • Cranberries • Apples CONTINUED >

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Squash, pumpkin, apples, and cranberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, and they also support gut and immune health. Sweet potatoes, kale, root vegetables and garlic are packed with fiber and B6 which is important for brain and nervous system health. To me fall is all about love and comfort, and our body craves comfort and nurturing. This is not a coincidence. It is our innate wisdom preparing us for winter, just like our ancestors did. And we can’t talk about fall without the mention of homemade broths, the OG of collagen. From generation to generation we think of chicken broth to be healing and comforting when sick. Packed with

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H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

so many nutritional benefits and gut healing properties, it is no wonder why. The best way to ensure that you are getting a properly sourced nutrient-dense broth is to make your own. Store-bought broths can be full of extra additives that do not serve you. With just a few ingredients, it’s simple and works well in a crock pot. Instead of, what should I eat, ask yourself, how can I nourish my body today? Being grateful for the way our bodies turn food on the outside to nutrients on the inside is all part of the experience. Making time to eat and having a calm mind will add to the amazing benefits of a whole food nutrient-dense diet.


Turkey Sweet Potato Enchilada Skillet From fitfoodiefinds.com Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 20 minutes Total: 30 minutes Serves 4-6 Turkey Sweet Potato Enchilada Skillet @fitfoodiefinds

INGREDIENTS • 1/2 pound ground turkey (chicken works, too) • 1.5 tablespoons olive oil • 1 tablespoon minced garlic • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced (~1 cup diced) • 1/2 medium red onion, minced • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed • 1/2 cup white northern beans, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen) • 1.5 cups enchilada sauce • Salt, to taste • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more, to taste) • 2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro • 1 large avocado, sliced (for topping)

INSTRUCTIONS 1. First, preheat the oven to high broil. Then, brown 1/2 pound of ground turkey in a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or oven safe skillet). Drain fat and set meat aside. 2. Next, heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium/high heat in the same cast iron skillet. Add in minced garlic, diced sweet potato, and red onion and sauté for 7-10 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are almost cooked all the way through. 3. Add in black beans, white beans, sweet corn, enchilada sauce, and the cooked meat and bring to a slight boil. Take off heat and sprinkle on shredded cheese. 4. Place cast iron skillet in the oven for 1 minute in order to melt the cheese. Remove and top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. 5. Serve with tortilla chips.

Homemade Chicken Broth From Tasteofhome.com Prep: 10 minutes Cook: 3-1/4 hours + chilling Makes about 6 cups INGREDIENTS • 2-1/2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (legs, wings, necks or back bones) • 2 celery ribs with leaves, cut into chunks • 2 medium carrots, cut into chunks • 2 medium onions, quartered

• 2 bay leaves • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme • 8 to 10 whole peppercorns • 2 quarts cold water

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Place all ingredients in a soup kettle or Dutch oven. Slowly bring to a boil; reduce heat until mixture is just at a simmer. Simmer, uncovered, for 3-4 hours, skimming foam as necessary. 2. Set chicken aside until cool enough to handle. Remove meat from bones. Discard bones; save meat for another use. Strain broth, discarding vegetables and seasonings. Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Skim fat from the surface.

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Fall Book

Round-Up

Whether you meet regularly with a group of book lovers, or the name of your book club is Me and My Dog Reading on the Couch, there’s this feeling of connection (or is it the surge of progesterone?) when we share an experience of being serenely transported to a new world by a book. Or what about one that we got lost in but halfway through we’re desperately looking for that bread crumb trail to get back home? It’s like the book lover’s version of gossip. So join our clique and let us dish on some of our fall favorites.

Wrap yourself up in these cozy reads ARTICLE BY E M ILY MCKE E VE R

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I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE


M YSTE RY

Verity by Colleen Hoover Lowen Ashleigh’s life is falling apart so when best-selling author Verity Crawford is injured and can no longer write, her husband asks Lowen to ghost-write the end of Verity’s popular book series. It was an offer she couldn’t refuse. The moment she arrives at the Crawford home to study Verity’s writing, strange things begin to happen. Are her eyes playing tricks on her? Why is Verity standing at the top of the stairs when she’s supposed to be bedridden? While feelings begin to grow between Lowen and Verity’s husband, Lowen begins to unearth what really happened the day Verity was injured and all of the sordid details surrounding this mysterious family.

TLDR: OMG! This suspenseful read will keep you guessing until the very end. Photography tbrview.blogspot.com

The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music by Dave Grohl Music lover or not, you will be entertained and surprised as you’re taken on a journey of the life and career of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl. From his humble beginnings in Springfield, Virginia to drumming with Tom Petty and befriending Kurt Cobain, the dedication he had to his music at such a young age and the sacrifices he made along the way were awe-inspiring and quite shocking at times. It’s a witty, honest, and sometimes emotional compilation of a life well lived. He’s personable, funny, and keeps it classy throughout. And yes, Dave Grohl does drive a minivan. All the stars!

TLDR: If you are not already a fan, you definitely will be on Team Grohl after reading this book.

MEMOIR

Photography readinglist.click

CONTINUED >

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I N S PI R E

Untamed by Glennon Doyle Get your dog ear fingers and highlighters ready for this raw and thought-provoking read. Through her honest revelations, Doyle suggests trusting yourself just a little bit more, challenging norms, and unlearning what society has been trying to teach you about gender roles since you were young. It's a little bit love story and a whole lot of powerful. Cheetahs unite! If the message of this book is truly heard, it can be transformative.

TLDR: Tackling this one with an open heart and mind is its own kind of therapy. Photography healerswanted.com

Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life From Dear Sugar by Cheryl Strayed Remember Cheryl Strayed, the one who bravely hiked 1,000 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail alone and was portrayed by Reese Witherspoon in the movie, Wild? Well, she also happens to be the guiding voice behind the advice column, Dear Sugar. Everything from the death of loved ones, to all sorts of relationship dynamics and exposed deep dark secrets, you name it, it’s covered in this addictive collection of essays. Along the way you just might recognize your own voice saying, "Dear Sugar..."

TLDR: You will laugh, learn and cry through this, then obsess over when Strayed’s next book is coming out. Photography things-uterish.com W E LLN E SS

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I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE


COO KI N G

From Crook to Cook: Platinum Recipes from Tha Boss Dogg's Kitchen by Snoop Dogg Add this to the list of people you never thought would write a cookbook. In From Crook to Cook: Platinum Recipes from Tha Boss Dogg’s Kitchen, Snoop D.O.-Double G was inspired by the lack of good food on the road throughout his 30+ year career. With recipes like Bow Wow Brownies and Go Shorty, It’s Your Birthday, you will be thoroughly entertained while you cook these comfort foods. Just try to resist pulling out your very first CD player, circa 1992, while you fry, stir, and fold to “Drop it Like it’s Hot.” As Snoop would say, “don’t cheat yourself, treat yourself” and add this cookbook to your shelf.

TLDR: This cookbook has personality fo’ shizzle. Photography alwaysfits.com

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I F YO U A R E READING THIS... S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OU T OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

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A R T I C L E B Y E M I LY M C K E E V E R P H OTO G R A P H Y BY N ATA L I E F I N A Z Z O F OX , GRAHAM MILLER

THE CRAFT EXPERIENCE Savor the season with these local next-level cocktails, pints and pairings

B E E R : Winnie the Brew

BREWERY: Enki Brewing

FLAVO RS: Balanced and smooth with a touch of sweetness AR O MA: Mild

STY LE: Honey Blonde Ale

OVE R ALL I MP RESSI ON : Easy and refreshing option for any time of year

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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | FOOD + BE VE RAGE


R E C O M M E N D E D PA I R I N G S

BEHIND THE LABEL

Pizza

Drinking culture has changed and evolved in the years upon years it’s existed. In the 1600s drinking establishments became places Beer Cheese Soup

where important meetings were held, during the Industrial Revolution drinking was a cherished social activity, and Prohibition turned out Speakeasies that made drinking almost fashionable.

Chicken Pot Pie

Cheese Dip

These days when we invite friends over for the big game, we fill up the kegerator or set out a bloody mary bar. A girl’s night on the deck turns into an at-home wine tasting, and snagging a sitter finds you ponying up at your favorite bar. But never has drinking been so elevated with creative flair, such panache. Perfecting and muddling, pairing and tasting, garnishing and shaking, our favorite cocktails don’t just taste great, they’re pretty too. We use adjectives like smokey or buttery when describing our beer and we’re learning how to achieve the perfect harmony between our favorite drink and an amazing dish. The culture has evolved again, this time into an experience that involves taste and style, and we’re here for it. As temperatures fall and leaves turn, we button our flannels and stoke the bonfires. When the sun goes down at 4:30 on a Minnesota October eve, it won’t be hard to find the perfect brew to warm your insides and flush your cheeks at Waconia Brewing Company. Brewer, Dru DeLange, shares that although their six tried and trues are always an option on the colorful chalkboard hanging in the taproom, they’re always looking to expand their craft offerings. “Late fall into early winter we’ll have a Chocolate Oatmeal Stout and we’re bringing back the Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter, Milk Stout, and Cookies and Cream.” Grab a gooey curbside pizza and spend time in the cozy taproom with one of these or opt for a growler of 90K IPA to serve with something spicy at home. Dru even goes so far as making beer cheese soup and chicken pot pie at home with their 255 Main Amber and notes that anything rich is a delicious pairing to it. The WBC is always looking to push boundaries, so it’s no surprise this holiday season they’re experimenting with a mulled wine. Set the scene with Christmas music and sip away with sweet cut-out cookies or a warm festive cheese dip. CONTINUED > OCTOB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

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ABOUT THE BREWERY

“You know the saying, eat, drink and be merry, so raise a next-level cocktail or autumnal pint and cheers to capturing all the flavors and feels that come with this genre of innovation and sensory appeal.” Crawl out from under your blanket and go for warm and boozy at The Noble Lion. It took Bar Manager, Zac Fisher, eight years to perfect their Signature Old Fashioned, making it a sip-worthy favorite. This aromatic cocktail pairs beautifully with hearty meats like the flavorful Steak Au Poivre, their seared-aged ribeye with green peppercorn sauce, served with to-die-for Belgian Frites. Be sure to ask for the curry ketchup for dipping! Or, if you’re one of the lucky few, feast your eyes and palate on the Mushroom Toast appetizer. From start to finish, Executive Chef Patrick Donelan is involved in this creation. Each year he goes from Chef to Forager and returns with 100 pounds of a variety of fresh mushrooms. This unforgettable delicacy is executed through a demi reduction of butter, wine, and a “secret” and sells out immediately. May the odds be ever in your favor! Beyond the Great Pumpkin, apples and honey are also delicious fall classics. The fall-inspired Apple Brandy “Turtleneck” hot toddy from J. Carver Distillery will give you that comfort food feeling. Assemble a charcuterie board at home filled with cheese and chocolates, then shake and strain 1 ounce of J. Carver Apple Brandy, 1 ounce of Sevilla Liqueur, 5 ounces of hot apple cider and garnish with an orange peel and cranberries. Victoria’s Enki Brewing Taproom and Eatery even brought back the summer and fall favorite, Winnie the Brew Honey Blonde Ale which strikes a delectable balance with their tasty Fig and Prosciutto flatbread. Enki’s full-body Oktoberfest is also back, and nothing is more German than getting your hands on their Aki Bread Haus soft pretzel served with warm beer cheese. You know the saying, eat, drink and be merry, so raise a next-level cocktail or autumnal pint and cheers to capturing all the flavors and feels that come with this genre of innovation and sensory appeal.

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LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

A B OV E : Brewers Dru DeLange and Derek Urtel O P P O S I T E TO P - L E F T: Noble Lion's Signature Old Fashioned O P P O S I T E TO P - R I G H T: Waconia Brewing Company O P P O S I T E B O T TO M : J. Carver Distillery


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Volunteer, donate or just "show up and shop"

Gathering Growth and Feeding Families ARTICLE BY JESSE BERGSTROM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAHAM MILLER

Waconia’s food shelf; feeding families for 20 years and getting ready for 20 more

Gather and Grow creates a welcoming atmosphere for their customers

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G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S


Operations Coordinator Ashley Urbaniak and Executive Director Angie Cruzen

If you ask Angie Cruzen about Gather and Grow, Waconia United Food Shelf, be prepared for incredible stories of how food and hunger change lives in Carver County. As executive director, her excitement for creating an approachable place where shoppers, volunteers, and community advocates can gather and grow together is palpable, and it rubs off. For two years, Cruzen has helped the community expand Gather and Grow’s service offerings. In addition to food support, the community of volunteers offers employment strategies, finances and budgeting, and nutrition basics classes as well as peer support specialists, mental health support groups, and even life coaching to community members needing support. “These were all grassroots and organically happened,” Cruzen explains, “it was just beautiful.” Cruzen loves sharing success stories. For example, “There was a woman who … came to shop with us. She was recently going through a divorce … [and] her girlfriends said, ‘You need to go shop at Gather and Grow. It’s okay, they will treat you great.’ She loved the experience and how she was treated, and she saw our signage about the employment strategies class. She hadn’t needed to renew her resume or seek a job because, in her marriage, she didn’t need to work. She went through our class and had an awesome resume and an awesome experience. [She] felt so much better about where she was in her stage of life because she had those additional resources. That’s exactly the person [we are here to serve].” But even with the many success stories, Cruzen is cautious about the future for many of Waconia’s residents.

Gather and Grow is reaching out to almost 350 families a month, and it looks like that number will continue to grow. She explains that during the pandemic, “there was a lot of help out there, so families didn’t need to rely on us as much.” Now “all of these programs are ending,” and we are facing “a hunger crisis.” Unfortunately, the timing is very poor for food shelves as getting food is becoming harder. Cruzen points out, “The supply chain is drastically impacted for everyone that walks into any grocery store. So there is less available for us to order. We are spending double or triple to order food.” She describes the uniqueness of the situation, “We’ve never lived in this.” Still, Cruzen is hopeful. The pandemic strengthened Gather and Grow by forcing the organization to build a better network with executive directors of other non-profits. She is now leveraging those connections to help ensure they have everything their shoppers need. Cruzen loves our town, “The community of Waconia is crazy about having servant’s hearts. When you put a need out there, you will get a response ten times what you thought.” And even though “Waconia is an affluent community, there is need out there. We have people that are struggling in our community.” But together, we can help. If Cruzen’s excitement for our community has rubbed off on you, she invites everyone to come and see what Gather and Grow is all about. You can volunteer, host a food drive (she will provide easy-to-use kits), or if you are struggling, just “show up and shop.” Learn more by simply going to WaconiaFoodShelf.org.

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O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. O CTO BE R 1 ST

Shimmy 'n Shake 'em For Breast Cancer

T HE HIVE | 9:30 AM Throw on your pink spandex and leg warmers and join SHINE fitness instructor, Jackie Boyer and Shred With Shannon at the Hive on October 1st from 9:30 am - 10:30 am. This hour of shimmyin' and shakin' is free but donations are accepted and 100% collected will go to breast cancer research. Registration required. tinyurl.com/2p8jzpzm

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You-Pick Apples at Providence Orchard and Farm

PROVIDEN CE OR CHAR D AN D FA R M | 2:0 0 P M Providence Orchard and Farm in New Germany offers a seasonal favorite event, apple picking! From 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm enjoy Honeycrisps, Firesides, and more! These apples are not sprayed with chemicals and are $10 per half peck. There will be a pizza truck as well, so come for the gorgeous scenery and stay for the delicious apples and pizza!

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Authentic Latin Cooking Class

WACON IA MOR AVIAN CHUR CH | 6 :30 P M Learn how to make three dishes from local Latin cooks in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm. A portion of your $15 ticket goes towards future events and also includes samples and printed recipes. Hosted by ROAR Waconia area and Waconia Moravian Church Racial Justice Leadership Council. Space is limited. Get tickets at tinyurl.com/mpd4vp2d

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Annual Harvest Bonfire

SC HRAM VIN EYAR DS W IN ERY & B R E WE RY | 4 :0 0 P M A bonfire lit at dusk, your coziest blanket, good music, a glass of wine... the recipe for a perfect fall evening. This community favorite, set against the backdrop of Schram's gorgeous vineyard, runs from 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm. For ticket and event information go to schramvineyards.com/events

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Fall Color Trail Run/Hike

MIN N ES OTA LAN DS CAPE AR B O R E T UM | 8 :0 0 A M Soak in one of the prettiest times of the year at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Choose between 1K, 5K, or 10K. Trails will be marked so you can participate at your leisure any time between 8:00 am - 3:30 pm. Registration is required and costs $35 for members and $50 for non-members. Kids are $15. Register at arb.umn.edu/falltrailrun

Llama Rama

CA RVER COUN TY FAIR G R OUN DS | 1 0 :0 0 A M - 6 :0 0 P M We love our llamas in Waconia and there's a new way to get our fix! From 10:00 am - 6:00 pm shop, walk a llama, enjoy Prince's former DJ, eat, drink, and more! Tickets are $20 for ages 18+, $17 for 3-17, and free for 2 and under. A portion of the proceeds benefits Launch Ministry. llamaramamn.com

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The Taste of Lola's

LOLA'S LAKEHOUS E | 4:00 P M Lola's Lakehouse and Waconia City Lifestyle present The Taste of Lola's, a tasting event in celebration of Lola's Lakehouse fall menu. Tuesday, October 11th from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm experience tastings from the dock, farm, field, garden, and bar. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased in person or by calling Lola's Lakehouse: 952-442-4954.

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Waconia High School Presents Mamma Mia!

WACON IA PERFORMIN G ARTS C E NT E R | 7 :30 P M You'll definitely be 'diggin' the dancin' queen' as Waconia High School entertains and delights you with Mamma Mia! Join the fun on October 13th and 14th at 7:30 pm and October 15th at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm at the Waconia Performing Arts Center. Visit gofan.co/app/school/MN19678 for more information and to buy tickets.

Mayer Fall Boutique

MAY ER COMMUN ITY CEN TE R | 9 :0 0 A M The 6th annual Mayer Fall Boutique is being held on October 29th from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at the Mayer Community Center. Shop from more than 35 local crafters and vendors, eat lunch prepared by 4-H, and participate in the Great Pumpkin Hunt for a chance to win a door prize! Free entry. For more information visit facebook.com/events/455344536435325?active_tab=about

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ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER, LAUREN LANE CULINARIAN AND LEANN PARKER OF SILVERTOOTH HOME PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

HOST YOU R OW N FOOTBA LL TA ILGATE PA RT Y It’s officially fall, football and tailgating season, and you can feel the excitement in the air. Kick off your party by inviting your favorite fans over, then entertain in effortless Americana style with the latest styling tips hosted by experts Lauren Lane Culinarian and LeAnn Parker of Silvertooth Home. You’ll earn hearty cheers for your hosting skills with these charming tailgating DIY tutorials plus original recipes upstyled for a modern spin on stadium comfort food. It’s the ultimate outdoor game-day experience you can enjoy in your own backyard or anywhere you love to gather your team for the season.

Praline Pecan Crunch Snack Mix Ingredients • 8 cups brown sugar or cinnamon cereal squares • 1 cup pecan halves • 1/3 cup light corn syrup • 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar • 3 tablespoons butter • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 2 cups white chocolate-covered pretzels • 1 cup salted peanuts • 2 packages of large waffle cones or paper bags

Want to see more? Scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/TailgateLifestyle for more recipes and DIY instructions.

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PA RT Y P LA N N IN G | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Truck: Sweet Streams Lavender Co. @sweetstreamslavender Recipes: Lauren Lane @lauren_lane_culinarian Stylist: LeAnn Parker @silvertoothhome Photography: @uncommon.jane

Instructions 1. Heat oven to 250°F. Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. Combine cereal and pecans in pan and set aside. 2. In a 4-cup microwaveable bowl, combine corn syrup, brown sugar and butter spread. Microwave on HIGH 1 minute 30 seconds. Stir. Microwave 30 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds or until boiling. 3. Stir vanilla and baking soda into mixture. Pour over cereal mixture; stir to coat evenly. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes. Spread on baking sheet and cool completely; break into pieces. When cooled, add peanuts and pretzels. Makes about 10-11 cups. Store tightly covered.


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