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Expo Volunteers Needed!
- Thursday, April 9 - Setup
- Friday, April 10 - Greeter, assist in Chamber booth
- Saturday, April 11 - Greeter, assist in Chamber booth, teardown and cleanup
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Participate in the Expo - Early bird price ends 3/6!
Career Exploration Fair | Friday, April 10
Waconia Community Expo | Saturday, April 11
Waconia High School
The Career Exploration Fair on April 10 brings together local businesses and Waconia High School students, connecting students with real-world career paths. On Saturday, the Waconia Community Expo is open to the public and highlights the businesses that make Waconia thrive. Registration is now open - reserve your booth today!
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We appreciate your support!
Thank you to all our members who renewed last month. We are looking forward to 2026!
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Amerivu Inn & Suites - Waconia
Bode Gray's
Bongards
Custom Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home
Darabi Dermatology
Epic Event Rental
HomeFront Realty
Lakeside Loft
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Legacy Health Insurance
Main St. Floral
Mathews Vasek Construction
Minnesota Valley Electric Coop New Perspective Senior Living
Paws Inn Pet Essentials
River Valley Behavioral Health and Wellness Center, PLLC
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Special Olympics Minnesota
The Uptown Apartments
Waconia City Lifestyle
Waconia Dance Company
Waconia Roll-Off Service
Waconia Veterinary Clinic
Warwick Plumbing & Heating
Welcome Neighbor
| | A Message from the Board Chair | | |
Rooted in Waconia: A Vision for the Year Ahead
I am truly honored to step into the role of your new Board Chair for the Waconia Area Chamber of Commerce. As a lifelong resident, Waconia has always been the place I call home—a place where my wife, Bethany, and I are now privileged to raise our two children, Madelyn and Dylan. My deep roots here are intertwined with my family’s legacy at Mackenthun's Fine Foods, which began as a butcher shop in downtown Waconia in 1917, and I am proud to be part of the 5th generation involved.
The vitality of Waconia is driven by its many small businesses, which are the essential strength of our local economy and a core part of what makes this community so great. This historical and personal connection gives me a firsthand appreciation for the commitment and collaboration needed to keep Waconia a welcoming place.
I am excited for 2026, and my priority as Board Chair is to actively partner with our members and community leaders. We will focus on initiatives that boost local commerce, advocate for our businesses, and ensure Waconia continues to thrive.
Regards,
Jaime Mackenthun, Mackenthun's Fine Foods
2026 Waconia Chamber Board Chair
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Eggs & Issues Recap
We welcomed the President and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, Doug Loon, for our Eggs and Issues gathering. Not only were delicious breakfast sandwiches from Bakery on Main on the menu, but so were insights on legislative priorities ahead, economic trends, and policies impacting Minnesota’s business community.
Also joining the conversation were Senator Julia Coleman and Representative Jim Nash. It was a great morning of connecting, collaborating, and talking all things small business with our Chamber community.
Thank you to Bakery on Main and Carver County Parks for adding to the welcoming atmosphere and overall experience of the morning.
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Waconia Polar Plunge
We braved the cold and jumped into frozen Lake Waconia on February 14 as part of the Waconia Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Minnesota!
It was such a fun and meaningful way for us to get involved and give back alongside other community members. Thank you to everyone who supported, donated and cheered us on!
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Minnesota Chamber Session Priorities
We kicked off the 2026 legislative session at the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Session Priorities event on February 17. Great to see our members connecting with legislators and representing business across Minnesota!
| | Business leaders alongside elected officials: Senator Julia Coleman, Waconia City Councilman Jacob Coleman. | | Chamber President Christine Fenner with MN House Representative Jim Nash. | | |
MCCE Annual Meeting Conference
We attended the MCCE Annual Meeting in St. Paul on February 18–19, connecting with chamber leaders from across Minnesota and bringing back fresh ideas for our community.
| | Chamber leaders from around the state. | | The week included visiting the Capitol at the start of Session. | | Waconia Chamber team with local musician Kat Perkins. | | |
Waconia Young Professionals
Waconia Young Professionals had an engaging, high-energy gathering yesterday. Thanks to The Basement for hosting and to everyone who came out for great conversations and a little arcade fun!
Mark your calendars for the next Waconia Young Professionals event - Tuesday, March 31. Interested in getting on the WYP email list? Email Joe at jadams8@amfam.com.
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Women's Connect
Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah) is a Danish concept that focuses on warmth, comfort, and contentment for a healthy well-being. We welcomed an inspiring panel of women leaders for an empowering Women’s Connect on February 9: Jennifer Leagjeld (Main St. Floral), Rachel Licursi (Snap Fitness), Jennifer Kaeding (Kaeding Architecture), and Dr. Alicia Marfio (Neubauer Chiropractic). As a group we shared ideas on how to better balance our lives, make small intentional changes to promote positive long-term health, and how to bring that same sense of warmth and intention into our workplaces.
Thank you to our panelists, everyone who joined us, and to Parkside Church for their welcoming hospitality.
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February Chamber Luncheon - Strategic Networking
We came, we connected, we left inspired! Our Strategic Networking Luncheon last week was a great success! Thanks to all who joined us–your discussions sparked new connections and exciting opportunities.
A big shout-out to Island View Golf Club for hosting and Green Fox Grille for catering our delicious lunch.
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Primary contact: Kelsey Schuette
612-600-8039
brutravel.com
info@brutravel.com
bru Travel helps take the stress out of vacation planning. Their team handles the research and details so clients can focus on enjoying the experience. With a simple, personalized planning process, they work to find the best vacation to fit each traveler’s needs.
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Primary contact: Taylor Schuette
952-556-4862
101 West 3rd Street, Chaska
ajg.com
taylor_schuette@ajg.com
Founded in 1927, Gallagher (formerly Assured Partners) is a leading global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting firm. With a strong commitment to service and integrity, Gallagher helps businesses and communities face the future with confidence through trusted guidance and tailored solutions.
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Primary contact: Josh Kirkpatrick
952-442-9228
9342 Oak Ave, Suite A, Waconia
waconiabarbers.com
waconiabarbers@gmail.com
Waconia Barbers provides quality haircuts, traditional shaves and expert beard trims in a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. Offering services for both men and kids, they deliver a classic barbershop experience with professional care.
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March Fullness Campaign for Gather and Grow Food Shelf
March is an especially important month for Gather and Grow Food Shelf as we participate in the annual March Fullness Campaign. All food and financial contributions are eligible for a percentage match through MN FoodShare, increasing the impact of every gift.
The need continues to rise:
- Averaged 575 shopping visits per month last year – a 14% increase over 2024.
- Estimate providing more than 490,000 meals this year – a 34% increase year-over-year.
- Anticipate welcoming 425 new shoppers who have never accessed our services before.
Our local business community remains one of our greatest strengths. Chamber members are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful difference during this campaign. We invite you to consider engaging in one of the following ways:
· Organize a company food drive.
· Offer an employee donation match.
· Make a corporate gift.
· Encourage team volunteer participation.
Additional ways to get involved can be found on our website: Home – Gather & Grow Food Shelf
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Knights of Columbus Fish Fry
Fridays through March 27 | 4-7:00PM
St. Joseph Catholic STEM School
41 E 1st St, Waconia
Every Friday during Lent, the Knights of Columbus will be serving an All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry from 4:00-7:00 pm in St. Joseph School! Adults $17; Kids (6-12) $7; Under 6 free. Takeout available.
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Friday Night Fun
Friday, March 6 | 6:00-8:00PM
Parkside Church
9560 Paradise Lane, Waconia
Everyone's invited to Parkside Church for some Friday Night Fun! We've got hot dogs, chips, and fruit for dinner, then board games and a hands-on team challenge! There will be childcare for children ages 0-4 years. Come out for a fun evening of food, friendly competition, and good company!
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Retail Committee Meeting
Friday, March 12 | 9:00-10:00AM
Waconia Chamber Office
201 S Vine Street, Waconia
The Chamber's retail and hospitality shop owners, managers and representatives are invited to gather to engage and share thoughts, trends, concerns and strategies. Collaboration is encouraged!
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Grand Opening of Upstairs Expansion!
March 12-14 | Times Vary
Paws Inn Pet Essentials
201 West First St. Downtown, Waconia
Celebrate the Grand Opening of the Upstairs Expansion in downtown Waconia (above Paws Inn Pet Essentials). Each day will feature a special theme: Self-Wash Spotlight & Backyard Birds (Thursday), Wellness & Training Day (Friday), and Feathers & Family Festival (Saturday).
Stop by to explore the expanded space, enjoy special activities throughout the weekend and join the celebration for pets, families and the community.
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Youth Spring Sessions Starting in March!
Youth Spring Sessions start March 17th! Crusher Youth Programs are ideal for any young athlete looking to get the edge over the competition in their chosen sport. We aim to create an all-around athlete who will excel in any sport, or physical task life throws their way and help avoid overuse injuries common when children only participate in sport-specific training.
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Business Education Network
Tuesday, March 17 | 7:00-8:00AM
Waconia High School
1650 Community Drive, Waconia
WHS teachers and admins with manufacturing and trades businesses developing partnerships and building future workforce connections through program development, skills, and real-world, hands-on learning experience. RSVP to cfenner@destinationwaconia.org.
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Hiring Event
Wednesday, March 18 | 1:00-3:00PM
CareerForce
602 East 4th Street, Chaska
Come in and met our Employers and learn more about their current employment opportunities! Employers Include: Carver County Employee Relations, MN Dept. of Public Safety, Minnesota Gutters & Mystic Lake
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Business Career Networking
March 26 | 3:30-5:30PM
Crown College
700 College View Dr, St Bonifacius
Chamber member businesses are invited to participate in a Business Career Networking Event, hosted on the Crown campus. This event connects local businesses with business students, graduates, and alumni through internship and employment opportunities, creating a strong talent pipeline for the future. Additional ways to engage include offering job shadowing or mentoring opportunities, as well as participating as guest speakers or project partners. This initiative supports the Crown School of Business mission and aligns with the launch of the new Crown Business Institutes focused on Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Digital.
Businesses interested in participating are asked to express interest by February 20 to assist with event promotion.
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Shop Hop
Saturday, March 28 | 9AM-4PM
Participating businesses all over Waconia!
Fun • Shop • Deals — All Over Town
Eggstra-special deals all over town featuring a grown up egg hunt! Participating businesses will have plastic eggs filled with deals. Hop from shop to shop and enjoy a day of fun & shopping in Waconia.
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Waconia +30 Fitness Challenge
The City of Waconia is thrilled to introduce the Waconia +30 Fitness Challenge, a new community-wide effort designed to inspire residents to add 30 minutes a day to their normal fitness routine during the month of April—or, if they are not already involved with a fitness routine, to start with just 30 minutes of activity each day.
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Apply Now: 2026 Minnesota Cup Startup Competition
Applications are now open for the 2026 Minnesota Cup, an annual competition supporting Minnesota-based startups with under $1 million in annual revenue. Participants receive mentorship, educational resources and the opportunity to compete for $400,000 in seed funding — all at no cost. Applications are open now through April 3.
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Save the Date & Registration Now Open!
Saturday, May 9 | 9:00AM-4:00PM
Specials all over town at shops, bars, and restaurants! Plan your ladies’ shopping and dining day in May (usually the same day as the Minnesota fishing opener) with all-day deals & steals at over 30 participating Waconia businesses.
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City of Waconia Stewardship Award
Nominations are being accepted for the 2026 City of Waconia Stewardship Award. This award is given annually to an individual or group who has dedicated a significant amount of their time and talent to selflessly give back to our community. These volunteers are a vital asset to the community and deserve recognition! The nominee(s) must be a resident of the City of Waconia. Fill out the nomination form below and include the details of the nominee's outstanding achievements.
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Blood Emergency - Donors Needed
Memorial Blood Centers has declared a blood emergency and is urging eligible donors to give as blood donations across the region have fallen to critically low levels. In recent weeks, donations have fallen nearly 40% below hospital needs, resulting in less than a two-day supply for more than 55 hospitals statewide.
The declaration comes at a time when many Minnesotans are seeking meaningful ways to support their communities. Blood donation remains a direct, tangible way for individuals to help ensure hospitals have the resources they need to care for patients every day.
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Ridgeview's Spine & Pain practice designated as a Blue Distinction Center+
Ridgeview’s Spine & Pain practice has been designated a Blue Distinction® Center+ for Spine Surgery by Blue Cross Blue Shield. This national recognition highlights the team’s expertise in delivering high-quality, safe and cost-effective care for patients with acute and chronic pain conditions.
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Waconia Events Calendar
Mark your calendars for these fun events happening in Waconia this year! For more events and details, visit DestinationWaconia.org.
If you have an upcoming event, add it to the Community Calendar. Click for instructions to add your event.
SAVE THE DATE!
20th Annual Waconia Open
Monday, July 13 | 11:00AM shotgun
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March Chamber Luncheon
-State of the City of Waconia-
Thursday, March 26 | 11:30AM-1PM
Waconia Fire Department
10451 W 10th St, Waconia
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Speakers:
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Shane Fineran, City Administrator
- Lane Braaten, Community Dev. Director
- Jon Haukaas, Public Services Director
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Topics include:
- City of Waconia Strategic Plan
- Highway 5 updates
- Development and land use
- Construction and infrastructure
- Water treatment & more
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Cost: $35 | Register by Monday, March 23
Lunch by: Sweet Wink's
| | Chamber Calendar - March 2026 | | |
MARCH 12 Retail Committee Meeting, 9:00-10:00AM @Chamber Office
MARCH 17 B.E.N.- Manufacturing & Trades, 7:00-8:00AM @Waconia High School
MARCH 19 Ambassadors, 8:45AM @Chamber Office
MARCH 26 Chamber Luncheon, 11:30AM-1:00PM @Waconia Fire Station
MARCH 28 Shop Hop, 9:00-4:00 @Downtown Waconia
MARCH 31 Waconia Young Professionals, 3:30-5:00PM @TBD
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STAY CONNECTED
@DestinationWaconia
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Friday Facts is a publication of the Waconia Chamber of Commerce
952-442-5812
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