MN Valley Business

September 2012 • Volume 5, Issue 1

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Special Focus: Information technology

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Swedish Kontour’s 50th year

Anders Björling and his late wife, Janet, met at Gustavus and later returned to St. Peter. It’s there they began Swedish Kontour Imports inside part of their home. Today the store still thrives offering a variety of Scandinavian goods.

The public-private economy

Whether it’s a $20 million construction project at MSU, a military contract for a Mankato manufacturer, vendor contracts from the city of Mankato, or a wastewater treatment plant design contract, public spending aids private business.

The Internet is an extremely hostile place with hundreds of thousands of viruses and malware lurking. Even with what can be costly threats, most businesses are typically more reactive than proactive in defending their systems.

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Wendy Schmidt, Creekside Boutique

Wendy Schmidt started a small shop in a space in Kasota, gaining experience, confidence and customers. Today she operates Creekside Boutique on Mankato’s northeast hilltop, offering unique and trendy clothing, shoes and accessories.

MN Valley Business • september 2012 • 3

Features

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