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Ambassador of the Year: Gary Fritz of HomeTown Bank and Waconia Lions Club

Christine Fenner with Outgoing Board of Directors Chair Kelly Dohm of Melchert Hubert Sjodin

Incoming Board of Directors Chair Dee DeLange of Waconia Brewing Company

Gary Fritz; Golden Apple Award: Paul Peterson of Sackett Waconia; Community Service Impact Award: Angela Cruzen of Gather and Grow, Waconia United Food Shelf; Business of the Year Award: Greg James and Jared DeWolf of Bode Gray's

Welcome 2024 Board of Directors

L to R: Todd Hann, Matt Dostal, Jaime Mackenthun, Andy Mohn, Dee DeLange, Kelly Dohm, Khuzana DeVaan, Lisa Steinbauer, Greg James, Kathryn Schroeder, Jennifer Kaeding, Aaron Parsons

Photo: Taylor Hubbard Photography

The Business Excellence Awards were presented at the Annual Meeting Luncheon. The awards celebrate outstanding individuals and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional commitment, innovation, and service in the Waconia community. The Business Excellence Awards honorees are nominated by the Waconia Chamber members and the community. 

Videography: Rassman Media Group

Welcome New Members

A Message from the Board Chair

Waconia's Growth & Prosperity



Dee DeLange, Waconia Brewing Company

Board Chair, Waconia Chamber of Commerce

I am honored to be the 2024 Board Chair for the Waconia Area Chamber of Commerce. My husband and I moved our four boys to Waconia in 1998 because we loved the downtown, the lake, and the wonderful schools. 

For the last 10 years I have run our family-owned brewery, Waconia Brewing Company. Our business joined the Chamber of Commerce immediately and instantly felt the benefits of being part of the thriving and positive business environment, elevating the overall quality of life in our beloved community. Whether it's supporting tourism initiatives, bolstering local retail establishments, or advocating for thriving businesses, our aim has always been to contribute to Waconia's growth and prosperity. continue reading...

Member Renewals

We appreciate your support!

Thank you to all our renewing members for your investment in the Waconia Chamber. We are looking forward to 2024!

A.A. Segner Insurance Agency

Abbywood Carpentry

American Legion Post #150

Ameriprise Financial, Harris Wealth Partners

Amerivu Inn & Suites 

Anderson Dahlen

Andy Mohn State Farm

AssuredPartners

Auburn Homes & Services 

Bergmann Interiors 

Cabinetworks Group

Carlson's Llovable Llamas

Carver County Community Development Agency

Carver County Fair

Carver County Historical Society

Carver County Public Health

CD Products

 CenterPoint Energy 

Choices Psychotherapy

CorTrust Bank 

Creature Works 

Crusher Fitness + Health 

Culver's of Waconia

Dahlheimer Beverage Green Isle

Danielle Alexander Design

Dave Philp-Coldwell Banker Realty

Dojo Karate 

Edward Jones Investments-Margaret Runke

Edward Jones Investments-Ryan Pederson

Elite Nutrition 

Extreme Events MN

Faith Evangelical Church 

First Years Academy

Freshwater Church 

Garage Bar & Bowl

Gather and Grow Food Shelf & Connection Center 

Gilbert Legal, PLLC 

GK2promotions 

Golden Dragon

HEI Collision Center

HomeFront Realty 

HomeTown Bank

Hoppers Bar & Grill

Hoxie Homes & Remodeling

In Towne Marina 

Iron River Construction

Iron Tap

Island View Golf Club 

J. Carver Distillery

Jeff Schulz Team-RE/MAX 

Johnson Funeral Home 

Kaeding Architecture 

Kelly, Holt & Christenson, PLLC

 Koch Bus Service

Kristin Therese Designs

Laketown Electric Corporation 

Laketown Gymnastics

Lakeview Clinic

Larkin Electric, Inc. 

Legacy Health Insurance

Lola’s Lakehouse

Lynn Laumann Photography

Mackenthun's Fine Foods 

Main Street Exchange 

Mainstream Boutique 

Mathews Vasek Construction 

McDonalds of Waconia 

Melchert Hubert Sjodin, PLLP 

Midwest Expanded Metal  

Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative

Mocha Monkey 

Modern Design Cabinetry

Mondi Minneapolis 

Mutts on Main 

Nagel Assisted Living & Memory Care 

NAPA Auto & Truck Parts

Nate Matousek State Farm Agency

New Perspective Senior Living

O2B Kids

Oakwood Community Church 

OBGYN West

Old National Bank

Ovation Orthodontics

Paws Inn Pet Essentials

Peterson Company Ltd. 

Precision Eye Care 

Rebound Orthotics & Prosthetics

Rebound Orthotics & Prosthetics

Ridgeview

Sackett-Waconia

Scheff Insurance Agency

Scholla Insurance

Security Bank & Trust Co. 

Shred With Shannon SLS 

Sota Shine

Southern Valley Alliance 

SouthPoint Financial Credit Union

St. Joseph Catholic Community

Subway

Sunny Days Therapy

Taylor Hubbard Photography

The Community Foundation for Carver County 

The Saloon-Waconia

The Winery at Sovereign Estate 

Thrivent Financial 

Title Mark 

TMC Industries Inc.

Town & Country Glass

Transport Security, Inc. 

Travel Easy Inc. 

Trinity Waconia

Twin Cities Orthopedics 

Waconia Barbers

Waconia Baseball Association 

Waconia Brewing Company

Waconia Comfort

Waconia Dodge Chrysler Jeep

Waconia Free Masons

Waconia Hockey Association

Waconia Landscaping Company 

Waconia Lions Club

Waconia Moravian Church 

Waconia Music Studios 

Waconia Patriot

Waconia Public Library

Waconia Public Schools 

Waconia Roll-Off Service 

Waconia Tobacco & Vape 

Waconia Veterinary Clinic

Waconia West Carver Rotary

Waconia Women's Health

Xcel Energy

Yetzer Home Store

Chamber Updates

Opening Doors to Opportunity at Experience the Trades

Waconia has undoubtedly changed throughout the years; schools have been built, new families have moved in, and businesses now fill the space where grass once grew, but one thing that’s remained the same is Waconia’s unwavering commitment to, and support of, the community, especially its youth. We see it in the fundraisers, in the championing of quality education and it’s readily apparent in the multitude of local gatherings that aim to bring people together and cultivate a sense of belonging. So, four years ago when the opportunity presented itself to connect curious young people with successful local industry partners, and Waconia rose to the occasion… well… nobody was surprised. continue reading..

Ambassador Visits

Member News & Happenings

Scooter's Coffee Waconia

Monday, February 5 | 6-10AM

Scooter's Coffee

660 Marketplace Dr, Waconia

Do you love Scooot Energy Infusions? Are you looking for a non-coffee option for an afternoon pick-me-up? Scooter's will have a Limited Time Offer XOXO Scooot launching on Monday, a delightful blend of peach, dark cherry, and pomegranate topped with sweet cold foam and hearts. Also, swing through February 9th from 6-10am for a 1/2 price muffin with drink purchase.

NEW! Women's Connect Kickoff Meeting



Monday, February 5 | 12:00-1:30PM

Chamber Office | Oak Conference Room

209 S Vine St, Waconia

Join us for the kickoff meeting of our new networking group, Women's Connect. Women's Connect is a focused network designed to encourage, support, and create resources for professional women entrepreneurs and leaders.

Please RSVP to cfenner@destinationwaconia.org

Fireworks Fundraiser in February

Friday, February 9 | 3:30-5:30PM

Hoppers Bar and Grill

119 S Olive St, Waconia

Join the Waconia DandyLions as they support the Waconia Fireworks! 50% given to back support the Waconia Chamber Fireworks! Eat in or take out…just get to Hoppers and let’s make sure we have another amazing show this 4th of July! Wear your USA, Red, White & Blue. 50/50 Cash Raffle will also be held!

Valentine's Sale & Happy Hour

Friday, February 9 | 10AM-5PM

Ruthie's House Vintage

44 W 1st St, Waconia

Stop into Ruthie's House Vintage February 9th for a Valentine's Sale and Happy Hour. They will continue the sale Saturday, February 10th with a Mimosa Party from 10AM-2PM. For updates and more, follow along on Instagram @ruthieshousevintage

Cupid's Arrow Boutique and Valentine's Event



Friday, February 9 | 4-7PM

J. Carver Distillery

1320 Mill Lane, Waconia

J. Carver Distillery has a beautiful and inviting cocktail room for couples and shoppers to relax and enjoy a featured J. Carver cocktail while spending a fun evening shopping from local MN craft vendors and small businesses in the area. Ticket price is $5 per person which includes a complimentary charcuterie buffet, light appetizers, and plenty of free parking. *Must be 21 years old with valid ID to participate.

1 Year Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, February 10 | 10AM-11PM

Bode Gray's

125 1st St W, Waconia

Come help us celebrate our first year at Bode Grays! We will have many giveaways including FREE PIZZA for a year to one lucky person! Details to follow. We will make it a Day long celebration ending with music by Doug the piano man in the Brass hat! Drink and food specials all day long! Get a reservation at Bodegrays.com.

Be sure to check out the Lover's Lounge for Valentines inspired food and drink specialties all of all February long in the Brass Hat!

2nd Annual Spread the Love: A Sweet Soiree

Sunday, February 11 | 10AM-1PM

Safari Island

1600 Community Dr, Waconia

Join Nate's Farm for a free Valentine's Day Celebration. Create cards and candy bags for local assisted living residents, enjoy treats, actiities, and more! Free event - Safari admission waived for attendees.

WYP Happy Hour

Monday, February 12 | 5-PM

El Loro

520 Cherry Dr, Waconia

Join Waconia Young Professionals to network and connect with friends and colleagues. Drop in as your schedule allows. Purchase your own food and beverage.

Questions? Reach out to Stephanie and Kristin at waconiayoungprofessionals@gmail.com.

SW Corridor Transportation Coalition Meeting

Friday, February 16 | 7:30-9:00AM

NYA City Hall

310 Elm St W, Norwood Young America

Join in the Southwest Corridor Transportation Coalition meeting to learn about Highway 5 construction funding. Questions? Contact Darrel Sudheimer at (612)718-1894 or darreldotjoan@outlook.com

Star Power

Saturdays, February 17 | 9AM Start

Waconia High School

1650 Community Dr, Waconia

Star Power 2024 is one of the premiere high school show choir events in the Midwest. Last year’s annual competition featured performances by more than 20 choirs hailing from Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and Nebraska. All Day Adult Pass (ages 18-55) $18.00 All Day Student Pass (ages 6-18) $10.00 All Day Senior Pass (Age 55+) $15.00 Kids under 6 – Free

Sip, Shop and Sweat

Saturday, February 24 | 9:30AM-12:00PM

Shred with Shannon

37 Main St E, Waconia

Sip on a mocktail while you browse/try on Zyia Activewear. Finish your morning with a 20-minute session in our Infrared Sauna! $10 to join ($30 value). Registration is required.

❤️Lola's Lakehouse Love Shack ❤️

All February Long

Lola's Lakehouse

318 E Lake St, Waconia

February 1st through the end of the month immerse yourself in a delightful, playful, romantic escape at Lola’s bar and adjoining dining room. You’ll be surrounded by glimmering lights, neon signs, and an array of “borderline-over-the-top” Valentine’s Day decor. Themed Dessert and Bar Menus will be available all day! Themed Dinner Menu will be available in the bar and adjoining small dining room 4PM to close. Please note that we are not taking reservations for the Love Shack. Seating in the bar and adjoining the small dining room is on a first come, first seated basis.

Shop Hop

Saturday, March 23, 2024

9AM-4PM

Store hours may vary

A grown-up egg hunt! Participating businesses will have plastic eggs filled with special deals for their business and others. Hop from shop to shop and enjoy a day of fun and shopping in Waconia. Email Jodi at Paws Inn Pet Essentials for more details on your retail shop participating in Shop Hop.

Deadline to participate: February 15

100 Easter eggs with deals due to Paws Inn Pet Essentials: March 8

Rebranded Name

Children of Tomorrow is now O2B Kids! New name, same mission. We are committed to maintaining the high standards of education and care that Children of Tomorrow is known for, while also introducing new and exciting educational initiatives. Since 1998, O2B Kids has been shaping the path for quality early childhood education and its importance for families and the communities and we serve.

Now Hiring

Koch Bus Service

KBS is hiring more drivers at all our west metro locations. 

Now is a good time for you or anyone you know that’s looking for an additional income stream!

Perfect for those that work from home, single parents, retirees or anyone that would like some 

extra income but with mid-days, nights, weekends, holidays and summers off.

All details including the $1,500.00 referral and sign-on bonuses at: kochbus.com/careers

Sota Shine

Sota Shine is looking to add a few smiling faces to their team. Starting Pay: $15+an hour (based on experience). Guaranteed Commissions on every payday. Availability: Looking to fill mid shift (9am-5pm). Both week day and weekend shifts available. Full time or part time opportunities available.

If you or someone you know might be interested in working in a fast paced work environment, head over to Sota Shine's website and fill out an application!

Mackenthun's Fine Foods

Mackenthun's would love to see you at one of their upcoming job fairs. Visit them and see if the Mack's Fam is a great fit for you! Reserve your interview slot: https://MacksCommunity.as.me/InterviewTimes. Click button below for current openings.

DHA CPAs

DHA CPAs is hiring multiple positions including a Senior Accountant. Click the button below for current openings and more information pertaining to each position.

Trinity Waconia Church & School

Trinity Lutheran School is seeking dynamic and dedicated professionals to fill elementary school teaching positions for the 2024-2025 school year. The positions are full-time and would involve teaching multiple subjects at the elementary level. Click the button below to learn more.

RAM Buildings

RAM Buildings specializes in post-frame construction and we are looking for a detail-orientated individual to add to our project order processing team. The Post Frame Order Processor/Draftsman position has a blend of responsibilities which include material takeoffs, drafting, ordering, supporting field personnel while working both independently and collaborating with a team. Click the button below to learn more.

Chamber Luncheon

February Luncheon: State of the City and County

Thursday, February 22 | 11:30AM-1:00PM

Paradise Commons

Lake Waconia Regional Park

8170 Paradise Lane, Waconia

State of the City of Waconia Shane Fineran, City Administrator

State of Carver County

Commissioner Tim Lynch

Carver County Parks

Sam Pertz, Parks & Trails Supervisor

Cost: $30/member, $40/not yet member

Deadline to register: Monday, February 19th

Come and check out the new Carver County Parks Paradise Commons facility and learn about all it has to offer!

Chamber Calendar - February 2024

FEBRUARY 5 Women's Connect, 12:00-1:30PM @Chamber Office

FEBRUARY 6 Business Education Network 7:00-8:00AM @Waconia High School

FEBRUARY 8 Retail Committee Meeting, 8:00-9:00AM @Chamber Office

FEBRUARY 12 Young Professionals, 5:00-7:00PM @El Loro

FEBRUARY 13 Tourism Committee Meeting, 8:45-10:30AM @TBD

FEBRUARY 14 Board Meeting, 11:30AM-1:00PM @MHS

FEBRUARY 15 Ambassadors, 8:45AM @Chamber Office

FEBRUARY 22 Chamber Luncheon, 11:30AM-1:00PM @Lake Waconia Regional Park

STAY CONNECTED

@DestinationWaconia