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The Thankful Issue N OV E M B E R 2 02 3

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Giving Thanks

November 2023 PUBLISHER

Dave Robertson | dave.robertson@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Lauren Beaubaire | lauren.beaubaire@citylifestyle.com

In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is spending time with those that you love and encourages giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition, and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride, and appreciating those around us who have helped us along in our journey can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be. Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness, and giving back to our community. In our main feature, we spotlight a few remarkable local businesses making an impact in no small way with their unwavering commitment to making our community better, one act of kindness at a time. We also look at how Excel Builders goes beyond the blueprint to transform a house into a home with their latest beautiful remodeling project in Mound. We’re also excited to introduce our newest section, What’s New in Waconia, which we kick off by looking at great ways to workout for a cause. While we highlight numerous businesses and organizations giving back in this issue, we also share ways of how you can get involved and give back in our Local Experiences. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season, as we prepare to gather with our loved ones and in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings. Blessings to you and your family,

MAR KET SUPPORT MANAGER

Amy Janzen | amy.janzen@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Lynlee Critz | lynlee.critz@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Emily McKeever, Lutie Ronglien, and Amanda Wagner CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Maria Claire Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

DAVE ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER @WACONIACIT YLIFEST YLE

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

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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

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

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Creating Connection and Building Trust, One Project at a Time

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Home Update HO ME + DES I GN

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Inspired By PR O FES S I O NA L S E RV IC E S

Local Limelight LO CA L S ERV IC E S

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Events

How Excel Builders goes beyond the blueprint to transform a house into a home

18 What’s New in Waconia Working Out for a Cause

22 Small Businesses, Big Heart We spotlight great local businesses that give back

28 Spreading Love Through Carver County How Love INC. is a hidden hero, meeting unseen needs in our community

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Maria Claire Photography See how Excel Builders transformed the Holden family house into a home with our story “Creating Connection and Building Trust, One Project at a Time.”

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

WACONIA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2 WACONIA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WACONIA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1: After being shut down for nearly the entire summer due to construction, Main Street reopened with a street celebration. 2: Bars, restaurants, and a boutique came together, offering food and drinks to celebrate Main Street reopening. 3: Medallion Hunt winners at Nickle Dickle Day. 4: Grabbing drinks before the performance begins at the Nickle Dickle Eve Street Dance. 5: People enjoyed games and live music during the Main Street celebration. 6: The Waconia Lakettes Dance Team performed at this year’s Nickle Dickle Day. 7: The Good, The Bad, and The Funky performed at this year’s Nickle Dickle Eve Street Dance.

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

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

Schram Vineyards' Locally Crafted Sip & Shop is back! The two-day Schram Vineyards’ Locally Crafted Sip & Shop is returning for another exciting year! On November 1st and 2nd from 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm get a head start on holiday shopping (and a little something for yourself) at this vendor market which will host a variety of local artists, designers, and more! Grab a few wine samples and exciting deals as well. Tickets sell out fast so grab yours now! https://www.schram vineyards.com/events Photography: Schram Vineyards

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Try Out Crown College With An Overnight Visit Do you want to get a taste of the Crown College experience? You’re in luck!

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Register today for an overnight visit on November 10th or 17th. During your visit, you’ll get a tour, listen to a student panel, meet the Dean, take some time to peruse the campus store and coffee shop, and spend some time with a professor. Say “hello” to your new home at Crown College! For more information, visit https://www.crown.edu/ admissions/visit-campus/#events. Photography: Crown College

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MN's Premier Gun Club Is Redefining The Firearms Training Experience!

Personal Defense Course

Ridgeview Foundation's 13th Annual Under the Harvest Moon Gala Join the Ridgeview Foundation for their 13th annual Under the Harvest Moon Gala on Saturday, November 18th at Bavaria Downs in Chaska! The theme is '60s attire (in honor of Ridgeview’s 60th anniversary!) and the goal is to raise funds for a mental health service line at Ridgeview, which will fill an important need. Gather your friends and open your bi-fold wallet or mod clutch for this ‘Cause for the Community.’ For tickets, visit https://www.ridgeview medic al.org /foundat ion/event s/ under-the-harvest-moon/.

Handgun Skills Course AR Skills Course

Women's Silver Course

Situational Safety Course Classes available for all skill levels!

Photography: Ridgeview Foundation

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Want to be featured?

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

@stockandbarreleagan @stockandbarrelgunclub

@stock.barrel

18832 Lake Dr E, Chanhassen, MN 55317

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

Being thankful for what we have, and giving back to those in need is important all-year round, and particularly during the holidays. We love our community and want to support our people and organizations in as many ways as we can, so join us in paying it forward with these local opportunities.

Our Picks to Pay it Forward GATHER AND GR OW, WACONIA UNITED FOOD SHELF: Show gratitude by

giving the gift of your time. There are numerous opportunities to volunteer at Gather and Grow Waconia United Food Shelf. 11 South Elm Street Waconia, MN WACONIA FIR E STATION FOOD DR IVE: On November 25th, at the Waconia Fire Station, get a photo with Santa and bring a canned or dry food item for the food shelf. 26 S Maple St, Waconia, MN HUMANITY ALLIANCE: Help feed the community by volunteering to prepare meals, or deliver them, through Humanity Alliance in Victoria, MN. 7600 Victoria Dr, Victoria, MN AUBUR N MANOR FESTIVAL OF TR EES GALA: The Festival of Trees Gala will be held on November 16th with all proceeds from live and silent auctions going to the Moravian Care Foundation. 407 N Oak St Chaska, MN APPLEHOUSE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE: In November and December, the AppleHouse at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum becomes a Holiday Boutique that dedicates proceeds to support their research and general operations. 3675 Arboretum Dr Chaska, MN

Waconia Fire Station Food Drive

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H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY AMANDA WAGNER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY & SPACECRAFTING

CREATING CONNECTION AND

Building Trust, ONE PROJECT

at a Time In the picturesque lakeside community of Mound, where time seems to slow down to match the serene rhythm of Lake Minnetonka, Christine Niven, the co-owner of Excel Builders, has been hard at work, remodeling Kate and Nick Holden’s home. Her mission: to transform existing spaces into dream homes. “You have to trust who you hire and their process,” Christine says. Christine prioritizes personal connection and client collaboration to create truly custom homes that meet families’ needs and tell the family’s story. She wants to meet every member of the family, including the pets. “You can learn a lot about people when you come over, and they comment on what they did and didn’t do to prepare the house,” Christine notes. “I don’t expect perfection. In fact, it helps to understand their reality and the unique needs of each family member.” Transforming Kate and Nick Holden’s home was a remodeling project two years in the making. “When we moved in, we immediately knew we wanted to have work done in the home, and working with Christine was amazing from the beginning,” shares Kate. CONTINUED >

HOW EXCEL BUILDERS GOES BEYOND THE BLUEPRINT TO TRANSFORM A HOUSE INTO A HOME NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

“I want my clients to know who I am, how I work, and that I design for them.” Kate and her husband Nick instantly fell in love with Christine’s designs and aesthetic. “Christine has this incredible vision,” says Nick. “I trusted her completely. She made the process really smooth and easy.” Kate adds, “Christine made a genuine connection with everyone in the family, making each of our spaces uniquely our own. It felt like it was my friend and I redoing the house.” During each remodel, Christine strives to keep her clients engaged in the process. She provides multiple options for them to consider and doesn’t hesitate to push them outside their comfort zone if the situation calls for it. She wants her clients excited during their remodel and creates opportunities to keep them engaged throughout the construction process. For this particular remodel, there was an opportunity to make a huge impact with color. A blue-gray paint color showcases the kitchen and accents other areas of the home. Christine started with white, but it wasn’t the right aesthetic for this client’s home. The rich blue shade allowed her to refresh existing features in the home, like woodwork by the front door, for a cohesive design. Refinishing the existing hardwood floors, a warm birch wood in a neutral finish balances the rich cabinetry color choice. The wood flooring is also seamlessly tied in the existing upper-level railings. What once felt dated and uninspired was now a warm and grounding feature of the design. The fireplace was another feature that needed attention. While grand in its design now and a true focal point in the home, its previous scale and style didn’t fit the home’s aesthetic. Instead of removing it completely, Christine changed the structure and wrapped it from floor to ceiling in stone, and the effect speaks for itself. Finally, in the main living area, Christine wanted to balance the scale of the larger fireplace and

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

optimize the view. This meant reworking the window trim and framing to maximize natural light and make the most of those stunning lake views. “Before, the layout didn’t fit us at all. Nothing had a flow,” reflects Kate. “After Christine’s remodel, everything just felt right; it felt like we were finally home.” Christine prides herself on her ability to read people quickly, allowing her to establish a deep connection right from the start. “I want my clients to know who I am, how I work, and that I design for them.” Designing for families is at the core of Christine’s philosophy. She even brought along a 13-year-old family member shopping to ensure that the home reflected everyone’s needs and desires. “If I stay true to what I know, my instincts – things work out very well,” she explains with a smile. Christine Niven stands out for her steadfast commitment to remodeling more than just houses. She creates homes that are an extension of the families that live in them, forging connections that last long after the final nail is hammered in. Christine’s work spans the lakeside communities near Mound, including Excelsior and Shorewood, and with her next project on Lotus Lake in Chanhassen. Her business partner holds a general contractor’s license, allowing her to lead projects fully and effectively alongside her incredible team. “The people I contract and work with, who bring my ideas to life, are amazing. Honestly, I couldn’t do any of it without them,” says Christine. With her patient and personal approach, she has earned the trust of every client she has had the privilege to work with. No matter the project, Christine knows her unique approach, which centers around connecting with each family, is what sets her apart in the world of home remodeling. For her, it’s not about impressing people; it’s about creating spaces where families can enjoy their lives to the fullest, one custom home or remodel at a time. www.excelbuildersmn.com

Nick, Evie (13), Kate, Piper (3), and Will (11)

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Crusher Fitness + Health

WHAT’S NEW IN WACONIA

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

WORKING OUT FOR A CAUSE

In a world of instant gratification and perpetual multi-tasking, we don’t have to work too hard to burn ourselves out. We make hands-free calls while driving the kids, check emails when eating lunch, and schedule appointments as we make the grocery list. The CDC states that being physically active can improve brain health, help manage weight, and reduce the risk of heart disease. But we already know this. We don’t skip workouts because we’re unaware of the benefits; it’s because finding the time to ‘fit it all in’ is just. Hard. If you’ve decided this is your month to start a new routine or want to shake up your sweat fest regimen, put those multi-tasking skills to work and toughen up your ticker while making a positive impact. Exercise with a mission, sweat for a purpose, train for a cause…you get the idea.

CRUSHER FITNESS + HEALTH In 2022, Crusher Fitness + Health in Waconia launched its Youth Scholarship Program, providing local youth, who otherwise may not have the opportunity, access to their services. Since then, they’ve been fortunate enough to grant two of these scholarships. But the giving spirit

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

of a group of goal-oriented fitness enthusiasts who sweat together in a garage-style studio doesn’t stop there. Geo Villavicencio, general manager, is confident this vital support will always continue simply because it’s a part of who they are. “Our business model stems from truly wanting to help people, and we do that through passion, compassion, expert coaching, and a proven training program.” Last year, they donated over 500 pounds of food to the Gather and Grow Waconia United Food Shelf through a drive they hosted. This year they hosted the Memorial Day Murph Challenge, an annual workout and fundraiser to honor LT. Michael P. Murphy, raising over $4,000 for The Step Up Foundation. Crusher turns 10 in December and has exciting plans to expand and grow its business. It’s safe to say that their hearts will expand right along with it.

SHRED WITH SHANNON When Shannon Turek and her husband Matt first married, they struggled financially, as many young couples do. They promised themselves that when they had more money, they would do two things: eat better quality food and donate. “I’ve always had a knee-jerk reaction to helping those less fortunate than myself, especially in my community,” Shannon, owner of Shred With Shannon, shares. Now that she and Matt each operate their own businesses, they’re giving back in a big way. On November 11th, Shred With Shannon and Jackie Boyer, certified Shine Dance Fitness instructor, is hosting “Shred and Share.” Come to a Barre class, SHINE Dance Fitness class, or both. Fee to enter? A food item that will be donated to the Gather and Grow Waconia United Food Shelf. Shannon is also hosting “Shred for Smiles” in November,

Trinity Turkey Trot

Trinity Turkey Trot Shred With Shannon

where she’ll donate one dollar to Adopt A Family for every workout selfie post she receives on her Facebook or Instagram feed.

TURKEY TROT If running or walking in a turkey-themed costume while feeling silly and offering a helping hand is more your cup of antioxidant-filled tea, then join Trinity Waconia for their third annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. There will be a half-mile “Drumstick” run, a 5K family fun run or walk, and awards for finishers and the best-dressed runner or family. There will be snacks, coloring sheets, a showing of A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, and ample camaraderie during this community-favorite event. All the fun culminates in their worship service, where all sweaty and tired are welcome. Proceeds go to Love INC Carver County, which serves physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in Carver County. People work out for many reasons: to feel good, to lose weight, because they know they should, but this month, add one more reason to your list: to do good. Not only will your heart be stronger and more resilient, but it’ll be fuller of empathy and joy that no number of squats could ever achieve.

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SMALL BUSINESSES, BIG HEART WE SPOTLIGHT GREAT LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT GIVE BACK Nice Shirt Co.

A unique sensation washes over us when we witness an act of goodwill. Is that a warm fuzzy feeling taking hold of your otherwise lukewarm disposition? Is the ol’ heartstring getting a little tug? Regardless of how your body reacts to these gestures, it’s likely to be at its utmost when you’re here, in the heart of Carver County. If this giving bunch isn’t planning or attending a benefit, we’re busy making meals. And the businesses that give our town character also give of themselves: fundraisers, charitable missions, and much more. During this month of heightened gratitude, we highlight a sampling of businesses who give wholeheartedly. Oh, and that feeling? It’s your heart melting.

ARTICLE BY EMILY MCKEEVER

I NSP IR E D BY | PR OFESSI ONAL S E RVI CE S

NICE SHIRT CO. When you walk into Nice Shirt Co. on 1st Street in Waconia, you’ll find more than locally designed spirit wear and a charming, curated selection of items, many made by local artists; you’ll find a lot of heart. When Brooke Struck started attending her three boys’ soccer games, she couldn’t find any cute and comfy attire to wear while cheering from the sidelines. She decided to use her background as a graphic designer and combine it with her love of choosing colors and fabrics and creating unique designs, and opened her own small business. After all, it had always been a dream of hers. Nice Shirt Co. earned its first dollar in the comfort of Brooke’s home, then went online and to Waconia’s popular town festival, and finally, she found the perfect spot, nestled in the first level of a charming house in downtown Waconia. Celebrating its one-year anniversary this month, Nice Shirt Co. wants its customers to join them in being a part of something bigger. “It takes a village,” Brooke believes. Gather and Grow Waconia Food Shelf is one place that they hold in high esteem because they know that food insecurity isn’t just an issue somewhere else. “I hope our customers feel proud knowing that part of the money they spend goes towards supporting our amazing community.” Pride is just one reason why customers walk through the inviting doors of Nice Shirt Co. time and time again. Follow Nice Shirt Co. on Instagram for details on upcoming pop-ups and holiday events @niceshirtco. CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

TRENDING UPWARD “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 28:40). This passage emphasizing the importance of compassion and help for those who are struggling is the driving force behind Trending Upward Thrift Shoppe, a ministry of Promise Church and a now 2-level nonprofit thrift store in downtown Waconia. Trending Upward provides a quality shopping experience to their customers along with affordable, gently used clothing, home goods, shoes, and accessories. And all of this is done alongside their devotion to a giving spirit. A portion of their proceeds is given back to those in need in the form of gift cards through their Corners of Our Field program which allows donors to choose a local church or charity to benefit when they donate. “We are incredibly blessed by the generosity of the Waconia community, and it is because of shoppers, donors, and volunteers that we can be here and bless those who are in need,” says general manager Brianna Roth. And the generosity is spreading! They recently opened another shop in Chanhassen, which will house all their usual offerings with the addition of furniture. Pay them a visit, and you’ll learn that shopping ’til you drop never felt so good. Follow them along on their journey on Instagram@trendingupward.

I NSP IR E D BY | PR OFESSI ONAL S E RVI CE S

LAKESIDE FARM AND FLOWERS Flowers symbolize a wide range of sentiments and emotions. They’re often given during a hardship, celebration, or simply ‘just because.’ The message? To express comfort, convey thoughtfulness, and simply say you care. When Kacy and Cody Honl opened Lakeside Farm and Flowers in 2022, little did they know that their thoughtful giving of a beautiful new experience in the community would someday be reciprocated tenfold through loving support. “We always knew we wanted to bridge city life and country life,” Kacy shares. “We’d had to hold our daughter back from picking flowers in other people’s yards, and the question arose, why can’t there be a place where people CAN pick their own flowers?” When you visit their blossoming field of flowers and pumpkins, you’re in for quite the experience. From July until the first hard frost, you’ll find an array of special cut flowers that you get to cut along with a vibrant pumpkin patch that would make Charlie Brown jealous. Kacy and Cody both grew up in rural Minnesota with the importance of helping thy neighbor firmly planted in their being. This principle of extending a hand to others to keep the community strong is one of the reasons they place such a strong emphasis on giving back, regularly donating to the Lions Club, and various benefits in the community. This past summer, they found themselves on the receiving end of support when their son was diagnosed with cancer. Terrified initially, their fear was short-lived though, due to the community who wrapped their loving arms around them. The Honls have gone on to give to the “Shine Bright For Kids Fundraiser” because so many of the ‘extras’ that play a vital role in a patient’s treatment aren’t always covered by insurance. Like flowers that flourish due to sun and water, so will the circle of generosity that has been planted in a field in Cologne, Minnesota. Keep up with all that’s happening at Lakeside Farm and Flowers on their Facebook page @lakesidefarmandflowers. CONTINUED >

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KARMA STACKS “Spread good karma and do it often.” This is the foundation on which Karma Stacks founder Jeanna Simonson built her jewelry business. In 2016, when she was diagnosed with advanced-stage colon cancer, she knew there was a long road in front of her, and she wanted a therapeutic travel companion. What began as a way to bring a little peace to her during a difficult time by giving good karma in the way of making beautiful bracelets for family and friends has turned into a successful full-time jewelry boutique gig in Victoria. “I started out making bracelets of every size, then I added necklaces, and now I’m working on earrings. I’m a creative, so I’m always launching new products.” Each piece she creates incorporates gemstones that bring peace, love, courage, and so much more to whoever adorns it. Jeanna knows firsthand how paramount it is to support families who are going through cancer. A portion of all her sales goes to local charities, one very near and dear to her being the Pinky Swear Foundation, a children’s cancer charity. “I think it’s incredibly important to raise awareness about cancer and do whatever we can to help those that are fighting and those that have families who are going through it.” What’s on the horizon for Karma Stacks? Well, first, Jeanna was released from oncology in June of this year. She’s healthy now and ready to expand her business and continue her mission. Beautiful jewelry with good energy and an inspiring story and mission behind it? Now that’s good karma. To shop and learn more, go to: https://www.karmastacks.com/

I NSP IR E D BY | PR OFESSI ONAL S E RVI CE S

WACONIA LIONS CLUB “Where there’s a need, there’s usually a Lion,” says Rick Wagener, Lions Member and past District Governor. Since 1945, the Waconia Lions Club has been serving the community through donations, community service projects, events, fundraisers, and so much more. “Our motto is: we serve,” adds Lions Club President Dale Copeman. “We’re fortunate enough to have charitable dollars that we can give to the high school sports teams, local food shelves, and really any community organization that comes to us; we can help.” The Club’s donations to the community are extensive. You’ll be scrolling for a while on their website’s donations page to see all the fantastic ways the Lions Club supports the community, donating thousands to dozens of organizations every year. Along with donations, the Lions Club puts on its annual Wild Game Feed dinner. It’s their biggest and most popular fundraising event, with over 600 people attending every year, enjoying door and raffle prizes and a great dinner with a menu that in the past has included grilled pork chop, smoked elk rolls, and walleye fingers. In the summer, Take a Kid Fishing Day is another favorite event. “Any youth in the area can join in,” says Rick. “We take the kids out fishing in pontoons and boats and then return with their haul, clean up the fish, and have lunch. The kids go home with a rod and reel and some clean fish. It’s such a fun event.” The Lions Club’s list of events is endless. Their upcoming Poinsettia Project delivers 500 poinsettias to local nursing homes, assisted living, and senior housing. Also in November is the Military Mailing project. “We pay for postage for people to send packages to military members,” says Dale. Around this time of year, the Lions Club also makes a large donation to the food shelf, allowing the food shelf to serve plenty of turkeys and hams around the holidays. “Just knowing that we’re benefiting people is everything,” says Dale. “When you see how grateful and appreciative people are, we get the sign that what we’re doing is meaningful. We want people to know that we’re here to serve.” Anybody can join the Lions Club, and to learn more about how they give back, upcoming events, and how you can get involved, visit: https://waconialionsclub.org/

Take a Kid Fishing Day

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School supply drive hosted at Trinity Lutheran in Waconia

How Love INC. is a hidden hero, meeting unseen needs in our community

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

SPREADING LOVE THROUGH CARVER COUNTY ARTICLE BY LUTIE RONGLIEN

When driving through Chaska, Victoria, and Waconia, you see an area of abundance. New neighborhoods are popping up all over, even with rising inflation and higher mortgage rates than we’ve seen in years. There are new vehicles in all the parking lots, and the Amazon trucks can barely keep up with the demand for deliveries to our doorsteps. There seems to be enough food, enough money, and enough clothing. This appears to be a place where no one goes without. It’s what you don’t readily see that gets Al Norby up in the morning. Norby is the executive director of Love INC, an organization that meets the unmet needs of people who are struggling in Carver County. They provide those things that many of us take for granted, like hygiene products, towels to dry off with after a shower, a bed to sleep in, or a nightstand to rest your book on at the end of the day. Love INC. was started in Carver County approximately 20 years ago when a group of community leaders and clergy heard of a national movement called Love INC. and what it was doing for people. They realized there’s power in numbers when it comes to helping and contributing to people in need, so they pooled together their resources.

The Carver County Love INC. affiliate was created in 2006. “Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there,” Al says. “Our phone lines ring off the hook. Our email box is full of cries for help. We see it and hear it every day. Please learn and be aware of the needs of your neighbors.” Love INC. works with local churches that focus on various ministries. For example, in Waconia, Freshwater Community Church focuses on essential household furniture, Trinity Lutheran Church focuses on basic hygiene products, and Parkside Church focuses on mattresses for beds. Several other churches also participate in all the cities in Carver County. “I do this because I believe in hope,” Al says. “34 churches and 11 denominations have agreed to get the love thing right. I can get behind that.” In 2023, Love INC. projects to serve approximately 700 households with living essentials. At the beginning of the school year, they provided school supplies to 600 children. The volunteers for Love INC. deliver living essentials directly to their clients’ doorsteps. They currently have one full-time and four part-time employees and 75 regular volunteers, but many more are needed. CONTINUED >

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Gap Ministries making custom bunk beds for kids

“Love INC. needs more people power,” Al says. They’re currently hiring another part-time employee to help keep up with the demand of services needed. They also need more funding to keep up with the growth of the community and its needs. They need people with compassionate hearts to volunteer to answer calls from those in need. Their helpline is open year-round, three days per week. “It takes a patient and caring voice to care for our callers,” Al says. “In a time of need, it’s not about the items needed. It’s about needing to feel cared for and loved through hardship. Ask anyone about their transformation experience, and they will tell you what preceded it. Compassion. Compassion first, then transformation.” Al says most charity organizations struggle in the first and second quarters of the year because people do a good portion of giving during the holiday season. He suggests setting up an automatic withdrawal to an organization you want to give to so you can feel good about giving year-round. “We rely on the generosity of others to serve those in need,” Al says. Furniture is currently needed, such as nightstands, dressers, and other household essentials. You can bring your items to their partner thrift stores in Waconia (Furniture Depot) or Chanhassen (FurniShare). They also need volunteers to work at these locations. For an easy giving option, set up an automatic withdrawal to give to Love INC. directly so they can provide help for more people in need. If you belong to a church, see if they run a special ministry through Love INC. where you can volunteer or give. If you or someone you know is in need of help with living essentials, call the Love INC. helpline at 952-448-3261 or email Help@LoveInccc.org. Learn more about Love INC. and how you can get involved: LoveINCcc.org

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BUILD A CAMPFIRE READY S'MORES DESSERT BOARD WITH THIS HOW-TO GUIDE

S’MORES DESSERT BOA RD ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS

It’s campfire season! You know what that means? S’MORES! These sweet treats are staples during the fall and winter! I have many childhood memories of sitting by the campfire with my family telling stories, gazing at the stars, and roasting marshmallows. This year, take your s’mores to a whole new level with this S’mores Dessert Board! They are so easy and fun to make! Similar to a Charcuterie Board, a S’mores Dessert Board is beautifully decorated and full of everything you need to make the perfect s’mores! Some of my favorite things to include in a s’mores are either peanut butter or a mint chocolate candy!

W H AT YOU W ILL NEED: Board: A beautiful wood board or metal tray will look great! Marshmallows: Choose between regular, jumbo, or flavored marshmallows. Chocolate: There are so many options for chocolate when it comes to s’mores! There’s milk chocolate, peanut butter chocolates, white chocolate, caramel chocolates, and much more! Graham Crackers: Use graham crackers or a variety of cookies for your s’mores. Fresh Fruit: Include fresh fruits as toppings for your s’mores. Skewers: Don’t forget to bring skewers to roast your marshmallows on! NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / WAC O N I A

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. NOVE M BE R 4 T H

D.E.A.R. Days

WACON IA | 9:00 AM Start your holiday shopping on November 4th from 9:00 – 4:00 pm at D.E.A.R. Days! While some enjoy the hunting opener, ‘divas and dudes will be enjoying awesome retail’ at participating businesses. Wear orange, target the best deals, and participate in the scavenger hunt (look for D-E-A-R in windows!) for the chance to win a ‘Basket of Waconia.’ https://www.destinationwaconia.org/events/chamber-hosted-community-events/ dear-divas-enjoying-awesome-retail/ NOV E M BE R 1 1 T H

Hot Cocoa Crawl

LITTLE ROO'S - THE CHAS KA C O MMO NS | 1 1 :0 0 A M Warm up with a hot cup of cocoa at the Hot Cocoa Crawl Saturday, November 11. Enjoy delicious hot chocolate from participating retailers and restaurants at the Chaska Commons who will put their own spin on tasty hot cocoa recipes. Kick off your experience with a complimentary cup from Little Roos, then explore pop-up vendors, browse shops, or stop for a bite at local restaurants. NOVE M BE R 1 8T H

5th Annual Holiday Boutique

CHAS KA COMMUN ITY CEN TER | 9 :0 0 A M The 5th Annual Holiday Boutique sponsored by the Chaska Figure Skating Club is Saturday, November 18 from 9am—3pm at the Chaska Community Center. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to do some holiday shopping from a number of local businesses, artists, and crafty vendors. You'll be sure to find the perfect holiday gifts for everyone on your list! NOV EMBE R 2 4 T H

Tree Lighting in the Park

CITY S QUARE PARK | 6:00 PM The Waconia Chamber of Commerce will make your spirits bright with the annual Tree Lighting in the Park on November 24th at 6:00 pm. Women of Waconia will be supplying and serving hot cocoa and collecting toys for the Waconia Toy Drive. There will be holiday carols and characters, bonfires, llamas, and a Santa visit! Don’t miss it! https://www.destinationwaconia.org/events/chamber-hosted-community-events/tree-lighting-in-the-park/.

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