Annual Meeting
The Waconia Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau Annual Meeting in January is a chance for membership to hear the State of the Chamber, celebrate the past year, hear what’s to come, and celebrate the recipients of the Business Excellence Awards and Ambassador of the Year.
Business excellence Awards
The Business Excellence Awards celebrate outstanding individuals and businesses that demonstrated exceptional commitment, innovation, and service in the Waconia Community. These award categories replicate past chamber awards, originating in 1987 and running through 2003 before taking a hiatus. The Business Excellence Awards are nominated by the Waconia Chamber members and the community.
Community Service Impact Award
The Community Service Impact honor is awarded for creating a significant and positive impact on the community through acts of social responsibility and community service.
Tim "Jonesy" Hukriede
Pours his heart (and pints) into the community, actively helping Waconia’s non-profits and business organizations through dedicated involvement and volunteerism.
Devotes countless hours to initiatives with groups like the Waconia Lions Club, American Legion (Sons of American Legion), the Waconia Baseball Association, and the Waconia Chamber of Commerce.
Significantly contributed to community events such as Nickle Dickle Day, the Lion’s Wild Game dinner, anything that’s needed at the American Legion, and the construction of the Waconia Lions Field and hosting the Minnesota State Amateur Baseball Tournament in Waconia.
Nominees: Angela Cruzen (Gather and Grow Food Shelf & Connection Center), Laura Martinek (Pangea Café), Tim “Jonesy” Hukriede (Waconia Lions Club), Kim Mackenthun (Mackenthun’s Fine Foods)
Golden Apple Award
The Golden Apple is awarded for exceptional efforts in promoting and building business and educational partnerships.
Modern Design Cabinetry
- Dedicated supporters of Waconia High School’s Industrial Technology programs, offering students resources, apprenticeships, and career opportunities.
- Founding members of the Manufacturing and Trades Advisory Board; collaborate with teachers to bridge education and the trades.
- Impact extending beyond Waconia, supporting students at Central High School in NYA and demonstrating their commitment to workforce opportunities for students.
Nominees: Dr. Khuzana DeVaan (Southview Elementary), Mackenthun’s Fine Foods, Modern Design Cabinetry
Business of the Year
Business of the Year is awarded for leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in the business community.
Mackenthun's Fine Foods
- A family-run business deeply rooted in the Waconia community embodying social responsibility, and making everyone feel like family.
- Donated over 23,000 pounds of food donated in 2024 alone, while hosting impactful events like their annual golf tournament to support the food shelf.
- Owners Kim, Jaime, and Jessa and the Mackenthun team’s dedicated leadership and behind-the-scenes contributions continue to promote Waconia and support local organizations.
Nominees: Kamruz Darabi (Darabi Dermatology), Gina Holman (J. Carver Distillery), HomeTown Bank, Mackenthun’s Fine Foods, Vishav Rai (Amerivu Inn and Suites – Waconia), Tracy Rheineck (Lakeview Clinic)
Award winner videos
Ambassador of the Year
The Ambassador of the Year is nominated by the Waconia Chamber Ambassadors. It is based on overall commitment to the Chamber and the Ambassador program, including attendance at events, volunteer opportunities, and general positive impact on the Chamber and its member businesses.
Cathy Nielsen, CD Products
- Incredible 2+ decade commitment to the Ambassador program.
- A valued volunteer and always asking “How can I help?”
- A champion for the Waconia community.
Nominees: Andy Mohn (Andy Mohn State Farm), Cathy Nielsen (CD Products), Danielle Hedlof (HomeTown Bank), Cindy Jamison (HomeFront Realty), Steven Jensen (Waconia Public Schools), Brie Piller (Triple Crown Home Team), Shannon Toftely (Brush Dental Studio)
Volunteer Appreciation Award
The Volunteer Appreciation honor is awarded by the Waconia Chamber of Commerce for exceptional service and commitment to community.
