Minnesota Valley Business

Meet this year’s class of leaders

Justin Ek, Bellissimo Paint, one of this year’s “20 Under 40” leaders.

Photo by Pat Christman

presented by

F E A T U R E S

Twenty under Forty

Meet this year’s inaugural class of leaders under age 40.

MAGAZINE EDITOR Tim Krohn

DESIGNER Christina Sankey

COPY EDITOR Kathy Vos

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tim Krohn Kent Thiesse Harvey Mackay

PHOTOGRAPHER Pat Christman

COVER PHOTO Pat Christman

ADVERTISING Sales Danny Creel Jennifer Flowers Jordan Greer-Friesz Josh Zimmerman Theresa Haefner Tim Keech

ADVERTISING ASSISTANT Barb Wass

ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Christina Sankey

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Justin Niles

PUBLISHER Steve Jameson EXECUTIVE EDITOR Joe Spear

For editorial inquiries, call Tim Krohn at 507-344-6383.

For advertising, call 344-6364, or e-mail advertising@mankatofreepress.com.

MN Valley Business is published by The Free Press Media monthly at 418 South 2nd Street Mankato MN 56001.

■ From the editor

By Joe Spear

New feature highlights future business leaders

This month Minnesota Valley Business unveils our first 20 under 40 feature highlighting 20 community and business leaders under the age of 40.

It’s not a new idea. Many business magazines have done this feature, and we thought it was a good time for us to do it given the significant growth in the Mankato business and nonprofit community.

Our featured young professionals were nominated by their colleagues or bosses or someone who is well aware of their work. While the group is eclectic, with industries from finance to manufacturing and careers from marketing to quality control, there’s a surprising amount of similarity in their outlook on business and careers.

Each filled out a questionnaire that asked about their background, advice they might give to other young professionals and who made a difference in their professional life. They were also asked general interest questions like what they like to do to unwind to give readers a sense of their unique personalities.

There were some common themes among the group. Many had connections to Minnesota State University, where they got their degrees or otherwise attended. Many are not from Mankato, but when they got here they stayed here after going to MSU. That says a lot about one of the key drivers to the Mankato economy.

At one time, there was worry among community leaders and even concerted efforts about the brain drain from Mankato. Students would get good educations at MSU and then leave the area. That doesn’t seem to be happening as much anymore.

Newly inaugurated MSU President Edward Inch noted as much in a recent interview with The Free Press. Inch said he was impressed how much the community is connected to MSU. There’s an effort for community partnerships that is deliberate and successful. MSU, businesses and local high schools have worked together on mentorship programs where young people can get a taste of different professions.

The young professionals featured in this issue also usually mentioned their parents, teachers or supervisors who helped them get where they are and gave them support along the way. Many reflect on the work ethic exemplified by their parents, and the way they supported them whatever their journey. There’s a solid family support system present for many of our young leaders.

And when asked about what advice they could give other young people starting their careers, a couple of themes emerged. Some suggested young professionals take advantage of opportunities no matter how scary a change might be. They advised that even young workers new to a workplace should speak up and offer their ideas.

When asked what they would have done differently in their young career, many simply said they would more likely embrace change and figure out ways to help their companies succeed in an ever changing world.

All in all, the young professionals profiled this month offer a fresh point of view to business life and are impressive as a group. The future is in good hands.

Joe Spear is executive editor of Minnesota Valley Business. Contact him at jspear@mankatofreepress.com or 344-6382. Follow on Twitter @jfspear.

■ Local Business People/Company News

Rice Cos. honored Rice Companies, with a location in Mankato, has been named Outstanding Builder of the Year by Butler Manufacturing for the Central region. Butler provides design-build construction solutions to the nonresidential market. The designation is awarded to one Butler Builder that excels in the sale of Butle building and roof systems as well as demonstrates

Founded in 1953, Rice Companies has 91 employees and has been an authorized Butler Builder for over 65 years.

Blackhawk an authorized dealer

Blackhawk Equipment, making the Lake Crystal location an authorized dealer of Hyundai compact excavators, attachments, parts and service.

Tyler Deike is president of Blackhawk Equipment.

■ ■ ■

Pioneer Bank named Top Workplace

The Star Tribune has named Pioneer Bank one of its Top Workplaces.

The results of the Star Tribune Top Workplaces are based on survey information collected by Energage, an independent company specializing in employee engagement and retention.

“We’re proud of this designation. Providing an engaging and professional environment for our entire team is a priority,” David Krause, Pioneer Bank CEO said in a statement.

To qualify for the Star Tribune Top Workplaces, a company must have more than 50 employees in Minnesota. Over 4,000 companies were invited to participate. Rankings were composite scores calculated purely on the basis

Brunton adds safety leader

Brunton Architects and Engineers hired retired Fire Chief and Emergency Manager Jerry Streich. He will focus business development in the public safety division helping local government officials through the process of designing new facilities.

Streich retired in January of 2020 after serving in the fire service for 32-years. Since that time, he has been working with communities across the United States as a consultant, advisor, trainer. He has assisted two communities in starting their own fire department and helped others consolidate and redesign. He is currently assisting with the implementation of a statewide recruitment program funded by FEMA.

Streich has managed both fulltime on-call personnel in combination departments within the Minneapolis/ Saint Paul area and is the founder and director of the largest fire academy Minnesota.

■ ■ ■

Hyundai Construction Equipment Americas has expanded its North

■ ■ ■

IT’S TIME TO

Now

■ Business Commentary

By Harvey Mackay

Education is so much more than just training

Afather

said to his son, “I’m worried about your being at the bottom of the class.”

The son responded, “Don’t worry, dad, they teach the same stuff at both ends.”

A wise sage once told me, “Education is what you have left over after you have forgotten everything you’ve learned.”

My good friend Nido Qubein, a fellow member of the National Speakers Association and president of High Point University, explained the difference in education vs. training, as he views it: “Training is imitative; education is creative. The difference between a trained person and an educated person is the difference between a parrot and an orator.”

His point was that once you learn a training procedure, you keep repeating it for as long as the task is useful. Training has a beginning and an end. Education, on the other hand, teaches you to develop your own procedures, solve your own problems and move on to other challenges. Education is a process that has a beginning, but no end.

Nido added: “In today’s business world, a welleducated person is far more valuable than a welltrained person. Employees who are well-trained but not well-educated may perform their tasks with skill, but they aren’t motivated to look beyond the specific task.”

Researchers at the Pew Charitable Trust found that a four-year college degree helped protect young people from low-skilled jobs with lesser wages and unemployment. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that a college graduate earns nearly $1 million more over a career than a high-school graduate.

Nido insists that education is more than a paycheck. He said: “When you get educated, you can become your best self in every possible way. Educated employees become partners. They see themselves as part of the organization. They share its goals, buy into its vision and exult in its success.”

I will go one further than Nido Qubein. That is that school ends, but education doesn’t. You are not in school once for a lifetime. You should be in school all your life. Education is the movement from darkness to light. The person who knows how to read, yet doesn’t read, is no different from the person who can’t read.

As you can tell, I’m a big believer in lifelong learning.

There is a famous story about Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., one of America’s most distinguished Supreme Court Justices. Holmes was in the hospital

when he was more than 90 years old, and President Theodore Roosevelt came to visit him. As the President was ushered into the hospital room, there was Justice Holmes reading a book of Greek grammar.

President Roosevelt asked, “Why are you reading about Greek grammar, Mr. Holmes?”

And Holmes replied, “To improve my mind, Mr. President.” Ninety and still trying to learn something new!

Why not make continuing education a new priority?

Education is an investment and never an expense. Consider education a capital improvement. Don’t be ashamed to borrow, particularly to replenish your professional inventory. In fact, self-improvement is the one area in which you should really increase your spending, not decrease it.

Please don’t misinterpret these words as pertaining only to a college education. Any education – in the trades, self-guided or purely for a change of pace – is a critical part of our ongoing development. Studies have shown that we use a very small part of our brains, so there is plenty of room for more learning. Don’t cheat yourself out of any opportunity.

Take courses, either in a classroom or online. Go to seminars. Listen to educational and selfimprovement podcasts. Network at trade group meetings. Upgrade your skills. You cannot ever afford to rest on what you learned in high school or college. Enhance what you already know and pick up new material. Computers. Language. Public speaking. Writing. Continue your education.

Think about it – once you have learned something, it’s yours to keep forever – and use however you wish. You have the capacity to adapt knowledge to various situations, to apply what you have learned and improve an outcome. Your education can pay for itself over and over.

It truly is a gift, perhaps one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Be generous with yourself!

An anxious mother was questioning Princeton University President Woodrow Wilson, who later became President of the United States, about what Princeton could do for her son.

“Madam,” the exasperated Wilson replied, “We guarantee satisfaction, or you will get your child back.”

Harvey Mackay is a Minnesota businessman, author and syndicated columnist. He has authored seven New York Times bestselling books

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Accounting

• Master of Accounting (MAcc online)

• Graduate Certificate in Taxation

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting

• Minor in Accounting

AgriBusiness

• Bachelor of Science in AgriBusiness & Food Innovation

• Minor in AgriBusiness & Food Innovation

Analytics

• Certificate in Business Analytics

Business Administration

• Master of Business Administration (MBA online)

• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA online)

• Minor in Business Administration

Business Law

• Minor in Business Law

Finance

• Bachelor of Science in Finance

» Emphasis in Financial Planning

» Emphasis in General Finance

» Emphasis in Analytical Finance

• Certificate in Business Analytics

• Minor in Financial Planning

• Minor in Actuarial Science (housed in Math Dept.)

International Business

• Bachelor of Science in International Business

• Minor in International Business

Management & Entrepreneurship

• Bachelor of Science in Management

» Emphasis in Human Resources

» Emphasis in Business Management

• Minor in Human Resources

• Minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation

• Certificate in Integrated Business Experience

Marketing

• Bachelor of Science in Marketing

• Minor in Marketing

The clear business school choice for real-world learning

REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCES

Recognized Student Organizations

• More than 15 to choose from

United Prairie Bank Integrated Business Experience

Big Ideas Challenge

Study Abroad and Away Opportunities

• New York Study Tour

• Belize Fair Trade Study Abroad

• The European Experience

Maverick Student Investment Fund

Various Business Competitions

Richard and Mary Schmitz Food Entrepreneur Lecture Series

Daryl and Karyl Henze Student Ag Innovators Leadership Program

Stangler Internship Initiative

Wall Street Journal Program

Meet the Firms Event

Global Entrepreneurship Week

COB Learning Communities Student Engagement Fair

MBA Executive Seminar (for MBA students)

Networking and Mock-Interview events

Melting Together in Partnership

Sheri Bruns shares her smile at Culvers for 7 years

Longevity. Reliability. For some employers, that is hard to find in the workforce these days. But those two things are what employers have come to expect from individuals referred to them from MRCI. Sheri Bruns is the latest example. Sheri just hit her 7-year anniversary at the Culver’s in upper North Mankato. Her supervisor, Dani, couldn’t stop saying great things about her. “Sheri is so fun to be around. She always has a great attitude, and she is always smiling. Sheri is very reliable, works hard every day and is always willing to help her co-workers. We love having Sheri on our team.”

As she celebrates her first seven years, Sheri also looks forward to the next seven and beyond.

Sheri says, “I love my job at Culvers, I don’t want to do anything else!”

MRCI offers a variety of personcentered programs to assist individuals in finding and keeping a job in their community. At the core of these services is the desire to provide individualized services that meet the specific needs and wishes of the individual. At the same time making sure employers needs are met.

Rather than move people through “programs” we build a plan for each person and provide an array of specific service options. We make sure they are equipped to get the job done right and to thrive in the workforce.

If you need reliable workers, contact us at 507-386-5600 or visit mymrci.org to learn more.

About MRCI

MRCI provides genuine opportunities for people with disabilities and disadvantages at home, at work and in the community. To become an employment partner, or for more information, please call 507-386-5600.

Workplace Wellness:

Hearing protection is a must in farming and industry

Avoiding noise exposure is the best way to protect our hearing, but that’s not always realistic.

Farmers are at a particularly increased risk for hearing loss due to exposure to loud equipment and machinery for extended periods of time. The risk of hearing damage from noise exposure increases based on the time spent in the environment, making farmers especially vulnerable to hearing loss.

In addition to farming, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders recommends hearing protection in these settings.

• Industrial, warehouse, landscape, military, construction and other loud (or potentially loud) workplace settings.

• Auto races, sporting events and concerts

• Motorcycle, dirt bike and snowmobile riding, and when operating an ATV or tractor

• Band or orchestra rehearsals and performances.

• Shooting sports and hunting

Although it may be seen as a nuisance to put hearing protection on while using loud machinery, it is a relatively simple way to prevent hearing loss and ideally prevent the need for hearing aids later in life.

As an audiologist, I think of hearing protection as being similar to sunscreen. A few precautionary measures in the present can go a long way to prevent some difficult complications in the future.

Hearing loss and tinnitus are two of these major complications. Tinnitus is often described as a ringing in the ears. Although we have hearing aids to help individuals manage their hearing loss, there is no true cure for hearing loss or tinnitus.

Hearing aids do help individuals hear better; however, they cannot fix the damage noise exposure has done to the ears. Individuals fit with the best possible hearing aids will still likely experience difficulty hearing in noisy situations, and although tinnitus management strategies help individuals to better cope with their tinnitus, there is nothing out there that will permanently eliminate the tinnitus.

A good rule of thumb is that if the environment you are in is loud enough that you have to raise your voice for others to hear you or if they have to raise their voice for you to hear them, you are at risk for hearing damage from noise exposure and hearing protection should be used.

Choose from a variety of hearing protectors.

• Formable foam earplugs: Made of soft foam, these earplugs expand to snugly fill the ear canal. They are disposable but can be reused if they are clean and still fully expand to their like new shape. Wash with soap and water. Let dry. Watch this video from National Institutes of Health on how to properly insert foam earplugs at www.nidcd.nih.gov/news/multimedia/ hearing-protection-how-use-formable-

By Julia Omtvedt

Au.D, CCC-A

MANKATO CLINIC HEARING CARE CENTER

earplugs-video.

• Pre-molded earplugs: Often referred to as reusable, they are made from silicone, plastic or rubber and come in one-size-fits-most as well as small, medium or large. These earplugs are ideal for movies or concerts as they have the same effect as turning down the volume.

• Canal caps: A stiff band provides gentle force to seal the earplugs into your ear canal.

• Protective Earmuffs: Earmuffs look like headphones with soft ear cushions to cover the outer ear. They are joined by an adjustable headband.

• Custom ear protection is available at local hearing care centers.

Protect your hearing today!

To learn more about hearing services at the Mankato Clinic, visit mankatoclinic. com/hearing-care-center.

Under 40

By Tim Krohn | Photos by Pat Christman and John Cross

MNValley Business kicks off the inaugural “20 Under 40” recognition of leaders under age 40.

The 20 nominees on the following pages come from a variety of different businesses and nonprofits. MV

Celeste Voss

Bolton & Menk

Age 38

Job title/responsibilities:

Senior Talent Management Generalist.

An HR professional who began my career in 2006. I’m a Society of Human Resources certified professional and lead talent acquisition and onboarding activities for the firm. I also support leaders and employees with talent management activities including employee relations and engagement, job description development and supporting leaders.

Give us a brief biography:

I attended Mankato East High School and graduated from the University of Minnesota. Following an HR internship at Ceridian in my senior year, I have stayed within human resources or community education, spending time at Volt Services Group and Rasmussen College before starting at Bolton & Menk in 2015.

Family:

Husband: Brent Voss; Children: Keaton (10), Camden (8), Vera (4); Dog: Andre (12 – Papillon)

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

At home I usually like to unwind with a nice glass of red wine by the firepit with some good tunes in the background or curled up watching a documentary on Netflix.

Hobbies, music/movies you like:

If you look at my XM favorites in my car, you will get an eclectic mix: The Blend, 70’s, hip hop, country and today’s top hits. I am a big fan of documentaries and murder mysteries, but most recently got into Ted Lasso. What a great show with some great life lessons!

My hobbies right now are kid related and I love it! The Voss boys are busy with football, basketball and baseball and Vera will be added to the calendar soon. I also enjoy group classes at JP Fitness. This is a great way to really push myself, and it brings back some inner competitiveness that I had back in the day!

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

When COVID hit, I was home with two boys homeschooling and working remotely. I felt like I lost “me time.” Fitness group classes in November 2020. This has been a great and physically. I was able to feel accomplished by 7 a.m. but something for me.

GMG Young Professionals. It was a great way to network, successful others have been over the years. I also feel getting helped me as well — Junior Achievement and now Eagle another outlet to work with others and give back to the

give to a young person just starting out in their career? Things are going to happen in your career where you don’t moment. For every struggle or obstacle, there is a lesson to understand your path may be leading in a different direction

meet great people along the way who will become lifelong have a sense of pride knowing you made a difference in

you would have known early on in your career that you?

speak up. Your ideas matter no matter what point in your are in. Be confident in sharing your perspective in a professional manner.

all to: to my parents, John & Julie Hawker. They instilled a hard and strong Christian faith. They always allowed me to dreams and were always there to cheer me on when I the most.

think back on coaches who really made a positive impact on my am not sure I have ever formally told them. So, thank you Olson, Joe Madson, Amy Hoehn and Pat Michaud. Forever for everything you taught on and off the court or ball field. fact about you: huge game show fanatic — someday I’ll get the courage to audition for Wheel of Fortune. At 6:30 p.m. most nights, that is what the Voss crew is watching.

Dalton Asplin

Bailly

title/responsibilities:

senior audit associate at Eide Bailly. I work with our financial construction, and manufacturing industry clients. My work mostly of performing client audits, reviewing financial statements, accounting research, and helping clients with their accounting/finance issues and challenges. I work closely with our business clients and oversee and mentor staff.

us a brief biography: grew up right outside the small town of Dassel and attended DasselCokato High School. Growing up with all brothers, we were all very into sports and were highly competitive with each other and on our respective teams. My parents did an amazing job raising all of us and I couldn’t be more proud to be an Asplin. I graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2019 with a bachelor of science in accounting. I interned with Eide Bailly while I was still in college and haven’t looked back since.

Family: have three brothers, two older and one younger, all of which still live in Minnesota including my parents. I live in Mankato with my girlfriend Paige and our dog Halo.

What’s your favorite place to unwind? home. Seems like we’re always busy so it’s nice when we have some to be homebodies.

Hobbies, music/movies you like: running/hiking, traveling, playing with our dog, and spending time family and friends. I love the Witcher TV series, Lord of the Rings and Dark Knight trilogy. Game of Thrones is also a favorite but with an because of the last season. local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself developing your career?

Mankato Young Professionals group and events representing Eide such as fundraiser golf outings and socials, have been a great way to get people in the community and grow connections. advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their afraid to fail and make mistakes and don’t be too hard on yourself do.

you wish you would have known early on in your career that have helped you? would’ve known how much of an advantage it is to be strong and savvy We use Excel every day and the advanced tools are very useful and efficiency. to: school business teacher, Bryan Clemen. He helped spark my interest accounting and finance and does great work pushing financial literacy to students. about you: left-handed for everything except Disc Golf.

Ashley Folden-Ecker

Dotson Iron Castings

Age 36

Job title/responsibilities:

Process control manager at Dotson Iron Give us a brief biography:

I grew up nearby in Faribault and moved attend college at Minnesota State University. completing my undergrad coursework in microbiology, I took a part time job in the After graduation, I went to work full time have held various positions in the lab, supervising production, managing quality systems and process control. I am currently working to finish my master’s degree in engineering management at MSU.

Family:

My husband Dane and I have four children, ages 7, 10, 15 and 18.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

At home with my family, or maybe relaxing beach someplace warm!

Hobbies, music/movies you like: I love to read and learn new things, spend my family and travel.

What local resource has helped you the improving yourself and developing your I completed the Mankato YWCA’s Elizabeth Women’s Leadership class in 2020. The course me define my values, leadership style, prioritize goals, and exposed me to so many strong models in our community.

What advice would you give to a young just starting out in their career?

Don’t be afraid to step up and have your don’t have to wait until you’re “in charge”

You have the power to influence and motivate through your words, attitude and actions. What do you wish you would have known on in your career that would have helped you?

It’s OK to not have all the answers, embrace what you don’t know and take every opportunity to learn and grow. Be confident enough to move forward with uncertainty humble enough to ask for help when you it.

I owe it all to:

Everyone who has supported, encouraged, inspired, and pushed me to pursue my goals.

Justin Ek

Bellissimo Paint and Coatings Age 32

Job title/responsibilities:

Coatings. I paint houses and project manage estimation, social media, community engagement, lot of other fun stuff. My favorite part of hands on.

in Mankato at Loyola Catholic School and business management. I worked in home health many years while contemplating an education entrepreneurship and creativity were a louder

and our newest baby daughter. We have a painting business with my folks that my sisterown a retail store, 108 Alchemy, with my family of artists and entrepreneurs place to unwind? art/painting studio. Everyone should carve a

you like: forms is rewarding. Music is a strong part of constant flow of classical music along with around the world pique my interest, with my Otyken helped you the most in improving your career?

paint stores. Both Diamond Vogel and have supported both our work since the company and support our community well.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their career?

To a young person starting on their career path, I would tell them to consider the trade industry and being your own boss but to also look at the possibility of being in business with family. Being surrounded by people who love and trust each other is a strong business model.

What do you wish you would have known on in your career that would have you?

will be waiting for you in the morning. I youth hyper focused on unrealistic work I was completely enforcing on myself. both necessary for business owners but counterproductive. to:

ancestors and my family’s Mayan tenacity. about you: nerd and I love fantasy, ancient history, gaming, science you name it and I could conversation with you.

Jenna Odegard

Bumbelou; Hazelkin & Co.

Age 35

Job title/responsibilities:

I am the owner and CEO of Bumbelou: Baby & Children’s Hazelkin & Co: A Gift and Lifestyle Boutique. I build boutique with online and in-person customer experiences!

Give us a brief biography?

I grew up in New Ulm and moved to Mankato in 2006 started my first business in online retail. In 2015 Bumbelou founded as a handmade and online retail business which as a brick and mortar store in 2018 at 405 N. Riverfront in Old Town Mankato. Fall of 2019 I opened the New Ulm Bumbelou location followed by opening Hazelkin & Co 2021 located just steps away from the Mankato Bumbelou shop. We view ourselves as an energetic and growing company, passionate about quality and impactful retail.

Family:

I have been married for 12 years to Reverend John Odegard, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church. Together have 2 girls as well as a loved but naughty dog and spirited cat.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

The world and worries melt away when I’m looking into the trees from my porch at home. It’s my quiet and safe space to unwind and reset so I can bring positive energy to my stores and team when I return to work.

Hobbies, music/movies you like:

I am a passionate at-home chef. I love planning a meal using “the good stuff,” turning on some music and taking my time to create a meal for my loved ones. What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

Working with our local banker, Bob Beadell at Community Bank, who took the time to understand our businesses and vision.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their career?

Know what your goals are so that you never lose sight There will always be road blocks and unexpected circumstances both your personal and professional life. When you keep focus and consider every detour a lesson to grow from, stop you.

What do you wish you would have known early on that would have helped you?

That most things seem impossible only because people too soon.

I owe it all to:

My husband who has unwaveringly believed in me for and continues to dream big impossible dreams with me.

Fun fact:

I have chased a bear.

Arianne Holicky

Bank

title/responsibilities: overseeing the financial management of the bank electronic processing operations. As part of the contribute to the strategic business goals that First Minnesota sets, while working to support our staff and

biography: and still reside in Le Center. I grew up on the attended Le Center schools. I graduated high and attended college at Minnesota State University bachelor of science in finance and accounting. I held part-time jobs including working at the local state bank high school and college tenure. I began working at Bank Minnesota before my college graduation in

married for 15 years to my husband Joe, who is a firefighter, head of maintenance and helps during fall the family farm. Our daughter Camryn is 12 years keeps us busy with tennis, dance and softball. Our almost 10. He loves football, baseball and the

your favorite place to unwind? family, our favorite place to unwind is in the outdoors. camp and fish. music/movies you like: camping and fishing, we spend our spare time on our kids at their sporting events. advice would you give to a young person just out in their career? afraid to ask questions. It’s an opportunity to learn

to: husband and family for always supporting me. Also, my cowho have helped me grow into the leader I am today.

Gretchen Osdoba

Oz Family Dentistry

Age 31

Job title/responsibilities:

I am a dentist and a co-owner of Oz Family Dentistry in Mankato. Give us a brief biography:

I was born and raised in Mankato and graduated from East High School in 2009. I then received my bachelor’s degree at the College of St. Benedict. In May 2019 I graduated from dental school at the University Minnesota and joined Oz Family Dentistry that summer as a third generation dentist, following in my father’s and grandfather’s footsteps.

Family:

My husband and I were married last year. We have a miniature Goldendoodle named Ernie.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

I like to unwind in the kitchen, cooking or baking. I turn a movie on and pour a glass of wine as I cook! Hobbies, music/movies you like:

I enjoy traveling, reading, crafting, and spending time outdoors golfing, gardening, and hiking. You can also find me watching the top rated TV shows and movies on various streaming services!

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

The South Central Dental Study Club is a group of dental professionals that meet once a month in the fall and winter for continuing education. The group has been great not only to build on my industry knowledge, but also to foster relationships with other professionals and encourage collaboration instead of competition.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their career?

Be proud of what you’ve already accomplished. I am frequently trying to overcome Imposter Syndrome but I remind myself that I got to where I am through hard work.

What do you wish you would have known early on in your career that would have helped you?

I still feel like I am new in my career and I am learning new things day!

I owe it all to:

I owe it all to my parents and my husband. My parents have both always supported and encouraged me in everything I’ve done, and my dad been a great role model as a dentist and business owner. My husband, who is also a dentist, has been a great peer and sounding board to bounce ideas around with and helped me navigate the trials and tribulations of dental school!

Fun fact about you:

I once worked as a magician’s assistant and dancer in a magic show!

Ethan Germscheid

TOV Chiropractic

Job title/responsibilities:

Owner and chiropractor. I’m responsible for leading families towards a higher quality of life full of vitality instead of just “surviving.”

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up outside Dassel, Minnesota on a little lake called Lake Jennie. I went to Dassel-Cokato High School where I was a three sport athlete. It was through my sports “career” that I sustained multiple injuries that chiropractic was able to get me through. This was the beginning of my love for the human body and the healing that it is capable of. From there I came down to Mankato where I attended Minnesota State University. I absolutely loved my time as a Maverick where I pursued a degree in exercise science with an emphasis on prechiropractic. Continuing my journey led me up to Bloomington where I attended Northwestern Health Sciences University to obtain my doctorate in chiropractic. My wife Hannah and I loved our time in Mankato so much that we wanted to open our office here and that is where we established TOV Chiropractic.

Family:

I have been happily married to my high school sweetheart Hannah Germscheid for over 8 years now. We have the sweetest baby girl who just turned 2 in July, and she brings so much joy to our lives.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

Our family loves to go to Spring Lake pool! Otherwise I love to gather around our fire pit on our patio at home! The more family and friends the better!

Hobbies, music/movies you like: Being a small business owner, a husband and father my free time is fairly limited. However, I do love the Christian and country music. most in improving yourself and developing your interactions with the business resources here in town it’s enjoyed networking groups like Business Brews, Cups, along with meetings with other local business job in welcoming newer businesses. a young person just starting out in their as much information from them as possible. reinvent the wheel, to take ideas that others have your position. Most skills can be taught if you are up. would have known early on in your career that valuable than people give them credit for. Hard make your job or your life really difficult to see respond in those situations is what will set you There is a lack of grit in today’s society. There is a lot of pride that comes from overcoming working hard through adversity. owe it all to:

God and my wife. I would not be where I am today without my relationship with Christ and the support of my wife. Through all the difficulties that small business over the last few years God has presence and sovereignty over everything we have and experienced. In retrospect there have been that have worked out only by His grace. My huge reason behind where we are today. She has and motivator working alongside me in the to where we are today. about you: tacos. They are my favorite food and I could eat them every day!

Dana Sikkila

The 410 Project Age 36

Job title/responsibilities:

I juggle several jobs; each one correlates with one my jobs as just jobs, but they are a part of my whole use art to educate, grow, and sustain the importance state as well us as individuals:

n Adjunct art professor at Minnesota State University, n Director of the 410 Project Community Art Space

n Visual artist, creating and facilitating murals, creative projects, and community engagement.

n Artist consultant and workshop facilitator for Springboard Arts.

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in Litchfield, Minnesota, and always struggled young person, trying to find my path as a creative individual. high school we were never taught about creative working Barely graduating high school, I then moved to Mankato 2004 to attend MSU. At that time my view on education not very healthy. But once I was surrounded by creative mentors and able to take more hands-on classes I excelled in my education and my passion for art. Having this experience of transformation has really driven what today.

What’s your favorite place to unwind? My favorite place to unwind is at home in my studio, working on a painting or drawing. This time allows to focus and calm down.

Hobbies:

When I’m not working you can find me hanging out my two dogs, mountain biking, or out on a hike. If stuck inside, I like to draw and watch Halloween movies, even in December.

What local resource has helped you the most improving yourself and developing your career?

The Minnesota art community has been a HUGE resource of knowledge and support for me throughout my career. What advice would you give to a young person starting out in their career?

Never box yourself in, and don’t feel like you need a “normal” path. Be true to yourself, and own who are as a professional.

I owe it all to:

My ups and downs. In my 20’s I had some really hard rock bottom moments. But from those I was able to build myself back up and take ownership in creative goals. From that I built my creative career to where I’m at today.

Dustin Sauter

Wealth Management

title/responsibilities: adviser. I partner with clients to help them achieve their financial goals comprehensive financial planning and personalized investment management. This involves meeting and communicating directly with our clients, as well as working with our team to craft, refine and continuously monitor those plans and portfolios. We focus on providing a high level of customized service and tightly integrating our clients’ investments with their overall plans. In my role, I serve as a guide to ensure our clients understand and are confident about their future and the financial decisions they make. I also assist employers with their retirement plan offerings and act as a resource for plan participants.

Give us a brief biography: grew up in Morris, Minnesota and attended college at the University of Minnesota-Morris. I started my career in banking prior to moving into personal finance. My wife grew up in New Ulm, and we moved to the area in 2015.

Family: Lovely wife (Sarah) and two energetic children with one more on the way! What’s your favorite place to unwind? Back yard with family and friends. We are grateful to have wonderful neighbors. Hobbies, music/movies you like: Grilling and exercising. As a family we enjoy playing at parks, visiting museums and spending time at the library. What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself developing your career? the opportunity to participate in the Greater Mankato Leadership Institute in 2021-2022. The program was geared towards practicing and building leadership skills, in addition to learning about the community and its members. It is a great offering in the community that promotes growth and advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their meaningful work, surround yourself with good people, live within your you wish you would have known early on in your career that helped you? having a good mentor to: within my network. I’m blessed to have supportive family, friends, and of whom play an integral role in my life. about you: school spelling bee champion

Kallie Smith

Minnesota Elevator Inc.

Age 27

Job title/responsibilities:

My job title is Field Operations Coordinator – WI/MEI Service. I’m responsible for booking repairs and ordering parts for our Wisconsin division as well booking all our company service contracts.

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in Springfield. Through college, I worked as a bank teller during the summer. I attended the University of South Dakota where I received Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and minored in finance.

My three-month college internship was in Des Moines at the Federal Home Loan Bank. Currently, I am working at MEI. This is my first job out of college, and I have been here for 5 years.

Family:

I have two amazing parents, Rod and Julie, and my role-model older brother Alex.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

In a good story. Being pulled away from the worries of everyday life is a great way to unwind and relax. Hobbies, music/movies you like:

I enjoy completing 1,000-piece puzzles, baking, painting, reading, embroidery, fishing, and watching anime. My favorite movies are anything from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

This company. MEI has given me many opportunities to grow in my career and as a person, and I am very grateful for it.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their career?

There are going to be times where something unexpected is thrown at you. When that happens, take a breath, think it through and continue forward.

What do you wish you would have known early on in your career would have helped you?

Change brings opportunity and growth. Whether it’s a position change, technological upgrade, or simply new ideas, you never know what’s going happen until you try it.

I owe it all to:

My parents and older brother. Growing up, I watched my parents give 100% complete every task in front of them. As for my older brother, he is my rolemodel and continues to give me advice and push me to do better.

Fun fact:

I’ve watched so much anime that I’m able to understand and translate some words/phrases from Japanese to English and vice versa.

Sharon Toland

The Free Press Age 36

Job title/responsibilities: Assistant Business Manager/Human Resources. I do the day-to-day books, entering invoices for multiple

was two years old we moved to Ohio. graduated from the New Ulm Public Central College in Mankato and got an spent 12 years working at the Hygas station and then moving into the in 2016.

are now retired from the the family plot that has been in our brother works for a farmer in a police officer in Sioux Falls. Both of Guard and did a tour in Iraq. to unwind? is going down to the family farm or friends.

you like: lot of different kinds of music, mood is at the time. has helped you the most in and developing your career? wanted to do after high school. I took an school that I really liked and thought I teacher Mr. Nelson really helped me as an accountant. The Free Press is really took a chance on me and helped me become as an accountant. you give to a young person just their career?

Even if you don’t qualify for the position apply. Because you never know until Don’t be scared to try new things. you wish you would have known in your career that would have you?

would have taken more chances or risks was younger. all to: all to my family. If it wasn’t for them supporting me in my life, I don’t know what I doing right now. Also, my teacher Nelson for giving me the idea of being an accountant and providing the tools that I to continue my education.

Jesse Wajer

Graybar Age 35

Job title/responsibilities:

Branch supervisor – Building new and strengthening existing customer relationships by promoting Graybar Electric’s products and services.

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in Slayton. I graduated high school from Murray County Central and attended college at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall where I earned my bachelor’s degree in marketing. I became a department manager at Menards before coming to Graybar looking for a new challenge and to advance my career locally.

Family:

Wife Megan, children Eleanor (4) and Brooks (1). And a chocolate lab named Murphy.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

Anywhere I can spend time with family. It is the laughs and people around me more than a location to unwind. We recently purchased a boat and have been enjoying time on the local lakes.

Hobbies, music/movies you like:

Outside of work I like to spend time on the boat, riding motorcycle and my ‘84 Chevrolet Monte Carlo out for a drive. I have started golfing more last couple years and enjoy when I am able to get out with friends and

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself developing your career?

I have improved and developed my career working alongside fellow coworkers and leaders that have guided me.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out career?

Best advice I can give is to be a “sponge.” Learn from people that have experience and learn multiple roles to have a broad understanding. Work and be willing to learn by pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. What do you wish you would have known early on in your career would have helped you?

Learn the work backgrounds of your coworkers. Learning the experience others can guide you in situations you are unfamiliar with.

I owe it all to:

My family taught me to work hard at a young age. My wife and children me to be successful, and the great leaders I work with at Graybar Electric provide me with that opportunity to grow and succeed.

Fun fact about you:

One of my favorite “go-to” foods is peanut butter and jelly with a slice of on top.

Kendra Braunger

Bolton & Menk

Age 32

Job title/responsibilities:

I work at Bolton & Menk as a marketing & communication specialist and am responsible for all internal and external communication for the firm.

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in St. Peter and graduated from St. Peter High School in 2008. I moved north to attend college at the University of Minnesota Duluth and graduated with a degree in communication and journalism. I realized I missed southern Minnesota, so I moved back here and (after some trial and error) found my place at Bolton & Menk.

Minneapolis.

one of the many rivers in the area or cold to be outside, I usually unwind friends and family while blasting some feel-

Community Theatre, both on and musicals with my best friend that have Festival. When it comes to music, eccentric collection of everything. daily for how few of them I’ve seen. the most in improving yourself

organizations in Mankato, but I owe a lot of professionally to my many years with you can grow when you put yourself an audience!

young person just starting out

There is no easier way to learn and just ask. There really is no such away! have known early on in your you?

— what people will remember is how failure. Making mistakes is a big new things and don’t be afraid to

Bolton & Menk, but especially my Anne Gode. She constantly encourages better, allows me to be creative and has valuable communication and time management skills that I’ll take with me my career.

about you: weirdly ambitious goal of running a every state in the United States. I have much time to work toward that COVID hit, so I’m currently at six states and one district!

Jon Jamieson

JP Fitness

Age 31

Job title/responsibilities:

I am 31 years old. I own and operate JP Fitness in Mankato, and have been doing so since I was 25. Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in Pemberton where my parents owned Jamie’s Pub. I attended high school in St. Clair and upon graduating, attended Minnesota State University University of Minnesota — Twin Cities. I completed at the U of M while working as a personal trainer their recreation center on campus. From there I master’s degree and worked as personal training recreation center on campus. I enjoyed my time Minneapolis and worked at Lifetime Fitness in Maple back to Mankato and starting JP Fitness!

Family:

I have been married to my lovely wife, Kelly Jamieson, have 3 kids. We have a son, Jaxon (14), daughter, (3).

What’s your favorite place to unwind? I enjoy golfing in my spare time. I always joke that on the LIV golf tour. Hobbies, music/movies you like:

Other than golfing, I am a big fan of the marvel them with my son, Jaxon. I really can listen to any grown on me more lately. Also any type of yard game that you can play with friends and family, I enjoy doing as well!

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

I started working with the Small Business Center when I began my company. Since then, Greater been a big help with doing a Before Business Hours Young Professionals in 2019. Since then, I have learned and friends in the area that have built successful themselves.

What advice would you give to a young person their career?

Be sure you enjoy seeing people in the setting you look at my business as a place where I get to meet improve their health and create lifestyle habits that What do you wish you would have known early would have helped you?

Being able to do everything for the business isn’t the business. Finding the couple things you really processes will drive you much further than wearing I owe it all to:

I owe it all to the support of my family. My mother beginning and showed me (as I grew up) what kind your small business. My sisters were there to help my business by promoting it to their coworkers expansions, having our trainers and staff believe the best fitness experience around the area. Last and is right by my side through the highs and the thank her enough for helping me on this path. Fun fact about you:

I have what is called ‘mixed-handedness.’ I’m sure and don’t realize it, but what is unique about me cornhole, darts, bocce ball, etc. with my right or pick before we start.

Sara Steiger

Family Dentistry

title/responsibilities: Dental Hygienist at Vose Family Dentistry. My job is to clean your teeth the dentist does the exam. I enjoy educating my patients on their oral and seeing their improvement at future appointments.

a brief biography: up in North Mankato and graduated from West High School in 2004. I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and completed my dental hygiene degree at Argosy University in the Twin Cities. have been at Vose Family Dentistry for 12 years as a Registered Dental Hygienist.

Family: have been married to my wonderfully patient husband, Sam, for 8 years. We have 5-year-old twins, a boy and a girl, who started Kindergarten this fall.

What’s your favorite place to unwind? favorite place to unwind is my backyard, whether it be playing with my enjoying a cold beverage on the deck, or tinkering in the garden, all are de-stressing to me.

Hobbies; music/movies you like: playing sand volleyball in the adult summer league. Dr. Vose sponsors team! My husband and I enjoy being creative together like wood projects or refinishing furniture.

local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

advice to a young person just starting out in their career would be to show confidence. No one will know it’s your first day, your first week, or your first if you act confident and show you earned that position. Be open to new things and continually educating yourself. advice would you give to a young person just starting out in their

would have known that while figuring out your passion is stressful, it will out in the end, and that I would love to go to work every day. all to: all to Dr. Vose. He took a chance on hiring a new graduate with no experience. Getting that first experience is tough, and he was willing to take a on me being native to Mankato and potentially knowing current patients office. I continually tell family, friends, and patients how lucky I am to be in such a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. about me: student again. I am getting my master’s degree in Community Health Education at Minnesota State University. I want to pursue my passion for and set myself up to be able to teach dental hygiene students in the

Meghan Strait

Jaraff Industries

Age 38

Job title/responsibilities:

Director of Operations at Jarraff Industries, LLC. Responsible operations, quality, supply chain, parts and service.

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in Eden Prairie. Attended Iowa State University Cyclones! — where I got my degree in industrial engineering. graduation, I moved to Missouri and started my career at Industries, Inc. I held positions there in manufacturing engineering, design for manufacturability and commodity management. In 2011, I completed my MBA from Northwest Missouri State University. In 2015, I took a position as commodity manager for The Toro Company which brought me back to Minnesota. In 2016, I joined the Jarraff team as a manufacturing engineer and was promoted to director of operations in 2017.

Family:

I have two daughters, Lachlyn (4) and Sloane (2), and a stepson, Quintin (16). They keep me and my husband Vincent very busy.

What’s your favorite place to unwind? The lake.

Hobbies; music/movies you like:

I love fishing, reading, and spending time with my family and friends. Motown and ‘90s Country fan.

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

I love philanthropy — The Women’s Giving Circle has given the opportunity to network with women in our community, improving the lives of women and children throughout the Mankato area.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting their career?

It is critical that you choose to work for an employer that values employees. A positive work environment fosters individual development, productivity and growth. Set attainable goals and surround yourself with people who believe in, uplift, and you. Continue to invest in yourself and never stop learning.

What do you wish you would have known early on in that would have helped you?

There will always be a lot of noise — keep your focus, be humble confident.

I owe it all to:

My mom and dad for teaching me the importance of work supporting my interests and curiosity in STEM from a very Additionally, from the very beginning of my career, I have in working for managers and mentors who challenged me the opportunity to grow. I am a result of my experiences and be where I am today without each one of them.

Fun fact about me:

I am a BINGO fanatic.

Heather Natterstad

title/responsibilities:

includes working with financial institutions, providing compliance services. Additionally, I also assist financial multitude of services including day-to-day bookkeeping succession planning, required regulatory filings, and regulatory applications and accompanying forecasted

biography: Estherville, Iowa. In 2014, I moved to Mankato to attend Minnesota State University, where I received my bachelor’s degrees in accounting. During college, I worked part-time clerk at Hilltop Hy-Vee. In December 2016, I began a tax Eide Bailly LLP and have been with the firm since.

sisters, Samantha and Kirsten. favorite place to unwind? place to unwind is anywhere outdoors (when the weather especially relaxing on the patio with my two miniature Elliot and Oakley, and riding my bike on the Sakatah

music/movies you like: a few of my hobbies include running, biking, puzzles, time with my friends and family. I enjoy listening to a especially pop and classic rock. resource has helped you the most in improving developing your career?

Mankato Young Professionals has helped me the most in and developing my career through a wide variety of development and networking opportunities. would you give to a young person just starting out career?

always give young professionals starting out in their never be afraid to ask questions and always seek out you might be surprised what you will learn and the capable of. you wish you would have known early on in your would have helped you? takes time, patience and persistence. When I first started career, I would often get frustrated with how much I did and would feel defeated when projects would not go Your college education and experiences cannot possibly everything you need to know to be successful from day they will give you a solid foundation of fundamental and skills that you can build on throughout your career. to:

about you: college, I had the opportunity to spend a summer studying Oslo, Norway for six weeks.

Sarah Mitchell

Federated Insurance Age 26

Job title/responsibilities:

Property & Casualty Support Services supervisor in Marketing Customer Service at Federated Insurance. I get to lead and develop a team of customer service coordinators who work directly with our marketing representatives. I am lucky to work with many areas of the company to participate in department initiatives to improve the lives of our marketers, clients and employees!

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in Waseca, attended college at Minnesota State University and graduated in 2018 with a mass media degree. After graduating, I accepted a position at Federated Insurance in Owatonna as a client contact center representative and transitioned to a service assistant in the Mankato office about a year later. I have worked in the same department since then and was a team lead before becoming a supervisor.

Family:

My fiancé (husband as of Oct. 1), Cody, is also from Waseca and works plumbing and HVAC supply sales after studying and playing baseball at both MSU and Bethany Lutheran College. I have one older brother, John, and my parents, Mark and Cathy, are both from Mankato.

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

On the lake with a good book.

Hobbies, music/movies you like:

I’m always looking for new music to listen to. My all-time favorite band The Avett Brothers.

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself and developing your career?

Throughout college I took advantage of the career center at MSU, but have been really fortunate to have resources available to me internally Federated throughout my career.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out their career?

Take every opportunity you get to learn and take in the wisdom from leaders around you and use that to build your own confidence and knowledge.

What do you wish you would have known early on in your career that would have helped you?

Meet people where they’re at, not where you think they should be.

I owe it all to:

My mentors and leaders at Federated — I have had the best guidance throughout my career.

Fun fact about you:

I sang and played piano for a full Grandstand in the Minnesota State Fair talent competition finals when I was 17 years old.

Tony Rotchadl

Bolton & Menk

Age 39

Job title/responsibilities:

I’m a principal transportation engineer at Bolton & Menk, Inc. I help variety of infrastructure design projects, from local street projects interchanges and regional corridor improvements. I’m lucky to work talented professionals! We have designed numerous large projects region, utilizing local, state, and federal funds to ensure that the transportation network is set up to foster sustainable growth for the regional economy.

Give us a brief biography:

I grew up in and around Mankato, where I went to Loyola High School. After high school, I spent a brief time at the U.S. Air Force Academy before obtaining my civil engineering degree from Minnesota State University. My first job was as a paperboy for The Free Press! Some of those early mornings were awfully cold!

Family:

My wife, Briana, is the glue that keeps our household thriving. We 8-year old twins (boy/girl), a 4-year old daughter, and an energetic named Bodhi. I am the oldest of five children (four boys and our little sister).

What’s your favorite place to unwind?

Anyplace without technology! The lakes, swamps, and woods in the help me get away, spend time with friends/family and recharge my Hobbies, music/movies you like:

I enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends. I try to stay as involved possible in our kid’s extra-curricular activities. Challenging the kids, context of having fun, seems to provide them opportunities to grow classmates. I have a soft spot for BAD action movies. I owe my musical my mom, she helps lead a local church choir. Imagine a LONG road Barry Manilow’s greatest hits cassette playing on repeat! Fun times! classic rock the best (assuming Barry is not in that genre).

What local resource has helped you the most in improving yourself developing your career?

The people and culture at Bolton & Menk have really helped me understand what it means to be a professional and provided challenging opportunities helped me grow.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting career?

There is no road map for a fulfilling career. Take opportunities as they presented, even if they put you outside of your comfort zone. What do you wish you would have known early on in your career would have helped you?

That failure is almost never final, oftentimes it’s a precursor to success. I owe it all to:

My beautiful wife, followed closely by my immediate family. Fun fact about you:

I’m partially color-blind, which can present unique challenges in the engineering field. My coworkers get a kick out of it, my kids think well!

MN Valley Business is running some of the

“Best of 2022”

The Free Press

businesses and people featured in Mankato Magazine.

The winners of the annual awards are chosen by Free Press Media readers. The complete list of winners was in the July issue of Mankato Magazine.

BEST SENIOR LIVING/RETIREMENT FACILITY BEST ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY THE PILLARS

Pillars a ‘beautiful community’

The Pillars first welcomed residents in March 2019 and since then has become a community that offers “aging in place” for older residents.

It’s a senior housing community that includes independent living, assisted living and memory care, said Stacy Wihlm, the facility’s executive director.

“We have a beautiful community, with a continuum of independence, allowing residents to add personal and health care services as needed. We offer extensive programming and encourage socialization. Our activities include fitness classes, arts, crafts, weekly musical entertainment, happy hours and so much more,” she said.

“We encourage our residents to remain active within the Mankato community. We have a bus and we take residents to plays, concerts and exploring.”

The facility receives support from The Pillars Fund and the Ebenezer Foundation, which both provide grant money to the community to use for lifelong learning activities and memory care engagement activities such as music therapy.

Located at 3125 Prairie Rose Drive, The Pillars serves residents

36 • SEPTEMBER 2022 • MN Valley Business The Pillars of Mankato.

who are 55 years old and older with 118 apartments. A unique offering there is Parker, the community golden retriever, who “brings smiles every day to our residents, staff and visitors,” Wihlm said.

The Pillars also has a dimensions manager who facilitates the activities and care

in their Memory Care neighborhood. They offer abilityappropriate activities and innovative activity stations in their Memory Care neighborhood, she said.

ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE FOOD & DRINK PEOPLE

PERSONAL CARE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES BEST SHOPPING

From mandalas to line work, Bunde gets it right

Kelly

Bunde had the humblest of reactions when she found out she’d been voted best tattoo artist in the 2022 Best of Mankato contest.

“I said ‘No way,’” she recalled. “I thought Meghan (Hoogland) would get it because like, you know, everybody knows Meghan. She’s the best.”

Indeed, Hoogland is very good. And was Bunde’s mentor when Bunde entered the tattoo profession. But this year, it was Bunde that pulled in the most votes in the annual contest.

Bunde has been at it for about 12 years, all of which have been at Hoogland’s Mecca Tattoo. She says at first she relied on the shop to direct clients to her.

Eventually, though, Bunde’s name became synonymous with high quality.

She specializes in mandalas, geometric configurations of symbols that usually take on a circular shape. She also does a lot of “line” work, where details, depth and emotion are conveyed with lines instead of shading or color.

Bunde says she’s thrilled with the recognition, but her real aim is to make sure her customers are happy.

“It’s pretty cool that so many

people voted. And I’m glad we finally have a category in this Best of Mankato thing because we didn’t have one forever,” Bunde said. “But I’m not going to let it go to my head or anything. But it’s nice to hear.”

Bunde says it’s a team effort at Mecca.

“Everybody’s putting in a lot of work to make it a really good shop,” she said. “And Megan makes sure there’s top-quality artists there. She’s a smart lady.”

Inspiring looks, rapid growth

Tell Me a Hairy Tale is the first-place winner in the Hair Salon category. Owner Brooklyn Wiltscheck opened the salon June 1, 2021, just under a year after she graduated from Nova Academy of Cosmetology in Mankato.

“I kind of dove into it without even thinking,” Wiltscheck said. “Once I got everything in motion, it was pretty easy.”

Wiltscheck not only cuts hair, but she creates a lot of blonding and fashion colors for clients.

“I pair everybody’s hair with an inspiration picture that looks like the colors in their hair.”

She used social media to get

her business out to the public. It didn’t take long for people to take notice once satisfied clients shared images of their completed creations. Wiltscheck sees about 20 clients a week and is booked two months out with a cancellation list.

“It has grown very very rapidly. I have entirely run out of space.”

In addition to her colorful styles, her salon touts a very minimalist and modern vibe akin to the designs of Lisa Frank. From neon lights to a spotted cow leopard wall, Wiltscheck said it’s unlike any salon you have seen.

“It’s like a popping rainbow,

Brooklyn Wiltscheck of Tell Me a Hairy Tale. very colorful atmosphere.”

If you are looking for a new hairstyle, Wiltscheck recommends you come in with an open mind and an inspiration picture.

Kelly Bundy of Mecca Tattoo.

CONGRATULATIONS!

■ Business and Industry Trends

Energy

CO2 auction hitsprice record high

The 56th Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative quarterly auction, held recently, resulted in a recordhigh clearing price of $13.90 per ton for CO2 emissions allowances, surpassing the previous quarter’s clearing price ($13.50 per ton) by 3% and the June 2021 clearing price ($7.97 per ton) by 74%. Allowance prices set in the RGGI auctions have been increasing since the June 2017 auction, which cleared at $2.53 per ton.

RGGI is a cooperative agreement among 11 U.S. states to reduce CO2 emissions from power plants; it was the first program in the country to place a cap on power sector CO2 emissions. In RGGI states, regulated power plants are required to purchase one RGGI CO2 allowance for every short ton of CO2 they emit. Emissions allowance prices are influenced by several factors, such as the predefined limit on allowable emissions, the number of participants in the market, and energy prices.

RGGI is implemented through CO2 Budget Trading Programs specific to each member state. The RGGI-wide CO2 cap is a regional budget for CO2 emissions from the power sector and is an aggregation of the individual state program targets. As states join or withdraw from RGGI, the aggregated cap is modified to reflect those changes.

The original RGGI member states were Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. New Jersey withdrew from RGGI in 2012 but

Bolton-Menk.com

Kendra Braunger Marketing & Communication Specialist

KUPER, PE, Engineer

Congratulations to Kendra Braunger, Tony Rotchadl, and Celeste Voss on being recognized in the MN Valley Business 20 Under 40 list!

Celeste Voss Senior Talent Management Generalist

Tony Rotchadl Principal Transportation Engineer

rejoined in January 2020. Starting in January 2021, Virginia became a full participant in the RGGI CO2 emission allowance market. Pennsylvania was set to join RGGI as its 12th member; however, in July 2022, the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court entered a preliminary injunction that temporarily prevents the state from implementing its CO2 Budget Trading Program.

Crude prices to fall

The Brent crude oil spot price is forecast to average $98 per barrel in the fourth quarter of 2022 and $97/b in 2023. The possibility of petroleum supply disruptions and slower-than-expected crude oil production growth continues to create the potential for higher oil prices, while the possibility of slower-than-forecast economic growth creates the potential for lower prices.

Crude production up

U.S. crude oil production is forecast to average 11.8 million barrels per day in 2022 and 12.6 million b/d in 2023, which would set a record for the most U.S. crude oil production during a year. The current record is 12.3 million b/d, set in 2019.

Gas prices to stay steady

We expect retail gasoline prices will average $3.60 per gallon in the fourth quarter and $3.61/gal in 2023. Retail diesel prices in our forecast average $4.90/gal in 4Q22 and $4.28/gal in 2023.

Natural gas price to fall

In August, the Henry Hub spot price averaged $8.80 per million British thermal units, up from $7.28/ MMBtu in July. Natural gas prices rose in August because of continued strong demand for natural gas in the electric power sector, which has kept natural gas inventories below their five-year (2017–2021) average. We expect the Henry Hub price to average about $9/ MMBtu in 4Q22 and then fall to an average of about $6/MMBtu in 2023 as U.S. natural gas production rises.

CO2 to fall in ‘23

We expect energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the United States to increase by 1.7% in 2022 and then to decrease 1.8% back to around 2021 levels in 2023.

Retail/Consumer

Sales tax collections

Lodging tax collections

Mankato food and beverage tax

C. Sankey

■ Agricultural Outlook

By Kent Thiesse

Rural support in the Inflation Reduction Act

Inlate August, President Biden signed the “Inflation Reduction Act of 2022” into law. The IRA was previously passed by the U.S. Senate by a slim margin and later approved by the U.S. House of Representatives. In both Houses of Congress, the IRA Bill passed along party lines with support from Democratic members of Congress and opposition from Republican members of Congress. The opposition was largely due to the rather large cost of the legislation and questions as to whether the legislation could accomplish all the goals and objectives that were set forth in promoting the Bill.

The IRA legislation is a $740 billion tax, climate and health care reconciliation package, including over $370 billion targeted toward climate-smart projects and renewable energy spending over the next ten years (2022-2031). Based on early analysis, there would be nearly $44 billion in the IRA legislation to fund agricultural conservation, rural development and forestry programs. The IRA legislation calls for “greenhouse-gas” emissions to be reduced to 44 percent below 2005 levels by 2030, which was enhanced from a 35 percent reduction under previous federal policy.

The IRA legislation includes several provisions to enhance the production and promote the use of electric vehicles (EV’s), including the use of EV tax credits. There were also several agriculture-related rural energy and biofuel provisions in the IRA legislation, including the following:

• Allocates approximately $3 billion for USDA’s “Rural Energy for America Program” (REAP) to fund programs that improve the technology and efficiency of producing, storing and delivering electrical energy resources in rural areas.

• Provides $9.7 billion specifically targeted toward rural cooperatives for assistance with rural electric systems to purchase renewable energy, to upgrade renewable energy and zero emissions systems, to improve storage systems, and to enhance carbon capture, as well as other initiatives.

• $500 million in new funding to add blender pumps and other biofuels infrastructure.

• Extends the $1.00 per gallon blenders tax credit for biomass-based diesel fuel through 2024, and would then replace that tax credit

with a new tax credit that is based on the biofuel’s carbon rating.

• Creates a temporary $1.25 per gallon tax credit for the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to serve as a bridge until the new clean fuels tax credit is in place in 2025, which will be an incentive for SAF production through 2027.

• The IRA legislation also included $10 million for new grants to support advanced biofuels and $5 million for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to complete data collection on greenhouse gas emissions through the Renewable Fuels Standards program.

Approximately $19.7 billion, or about 45 percent of the total IRA funding that is allocated toward agriculture and rural development programs, is targeted toward existing conservation programs on working farmland. All of these conservation programs are currently included under the Conservation Title (Title II) of the Farm Bill. The current Farm Bill is set to expire in 2023, so it is not known how this new conservation funding will dovetail into the existing conservation funding when the next Farm Bill is written. It should be noted that the IRA legislation did not provide any additional funding related to the popular Conservation Reserve Program.

Conservation funding and provisions in the IRA legislation:

• $8.45 billion over ten years for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

• $3.25 billion for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).

• $4.95 billion for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCCP).

• $1.4 billion for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP).

The IRA legislation extends through the 2031 federal fiscal year; however, most of the expenditures for the conservation-related initiatives are scheduled to occur from 2023 to 2026. So, any additional funding for these conservation programs beyond 2026 may need to come through the Farm Bill or other legislation. Other Provisions in the IRA Bill that could impact residents in Rural America:

• $5 billion for wildfire prevention and climate resiliency projects on public and private lands.

Agriculture/ Agribusiness

Corn prices — southern Minnesota

(dollars per bushel) 2021 2022

2

0

Source: USDA

8

6

4

There is considerable disagreement on whether the IRA legislation will actually meet the goal of reducing the Federal deficit and control inflation; however, analysts do project that the IRA will generate approximately $700 billion in new revenue over the next ten years (2022-2031). The revenue enhancement will come via a 15 percent minimum corporate tax for large corporations, a 1 percent excise tax on the value of stock buy backs and increased Internal Revenue Service (IRS) enforcement efforts. The 15 percent minimum tax would be on the income that large corporations (over $1 billion in profits) report to their shareholders. It is estimated that this change will only affect about 150 corporations in the U.S. The IRS will receive $80 million through the IRA legislation to boost tax audit capacity by adding up to 87,000 IRS employees, which is projected to generate over $200 billion in added income taxes that are legally owed.

0

10

150

125

(dollars per bushel) 2021

8

100

6

4

75

2

50

0

150

125

100

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has been quite controversial and politically divisive, due to some of the provisions contained in the legislation and the rather large price tag of the legislation. We are in the very early stages of the implementation of the IRA legislation; however, it does appear that there will be funding for climate related energy and conservation projects and programs, as well as health care initiatives, that could impact farm operators and rural residents. It may take some time for USDA and the other Federal agencies to roll out the full implementation of these programs, some of which will be an expansion to existing programs and others may be new programs. On the surface, it does not appear that there will be a large tax impact on most rural residents; however, we do not know what effect that the increased IRS audits and potential future taxes may have on farmers and other small businesses in rural areas.

75

50

25

Kent Thiesse is farm management analyst and senior vice president, MinnStar Bank, Lake Crystal. 507-381-7960); kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com

4 6 8 10 JFMAMJJASOND 2

12

100

75

2

50

0

0

25

JFMAMJJASOND

Source: USDA

Iowa-Minnesota hog prices

30

16

125

26

12

100

22

8

75

carcass, negotiated price,

20 JFMAMJJASOND • $5.3 billion in farm debt relief to “distressed” borrowers that hold direct or guaranteed Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans, including $2.2 billion targeted toward farmers that had experienced discrimination when applying for or during the administration of USDA farm loan programs. These payments would be capped at $500,000 per producer. Some of these program provisions were previously passed under the American Rescue Plan in 2021, which has been held up in court proceedings.

2022

$108.74

125 150 JFMAMJJASOND 10 14 18 22 26 30 J 0 4 8 12 16 20 J $5.05 $7.61 25

4

18

50

JFMAMJJASOND JFMAMJJASOND 10

class 1 milk Dollars per 2021hundredweight 2022 • IRA allows Medicare to negotiate the costs for some prescription drugs with the manufacturers and would cap the out-of-pocket drug costs for some seniors enrolled in Medicare.

4 6 8 10 JFMAMJJASOND 0

14

25

Source: USDA

150 JFMAMJJASOND 10 14 18 22 26 30 J 0 4 8 12 16 20 J Milk prices

26

JFMAMJJASOND 10

185 pound Source: USDA. Based on federal milk orders.

Milk 18

weighted 2021average Minimum prices,

JFMAMJJASOND

$26.91

$70.11 $16.89

30 JFMAMJJASOND Soybean prices — southern Minnesota

Corn and soybean prices are for rail delivery points in Southern Minnesota.

C. 22

prices are for Upper Midwest points.

Sankey

MN Valley Business • SEPTEMBER 2022 • 41 14

$82.76 269.06 $76.38

$76.17

$66.25 $147.41 $166.13 $47.39 $2.29 $73.80

+5.5% +2.7% -4.3% -12.0% +5.3% -15.8% -3.3% +0.1% -4.1% -12.8% -18.1% +2.8% -3.1% -18.3% +4.2%

Minnesota Business

■ Vets sue to stop 3M split

Two U.S. military veterans sued 3M Co to block its planned spinoff of its healthcare business, which they called an illegal attempt to avoid compensating veterans for hearing damage caused by the company’s military-issue earplugs.

The veterans said in a lawsuit in federal court in Pensacola, Florida, that the spinoff was “little more than a formalism” intended to “wall off” assets, violating a Florida law barring debtors from fraudulently transferring assets in order to shield them from creditors.

The case is expected to go before U.S. District Judge M. Casey Rodgers, who is already overseeing more than 220,000 lawsuits over the earplugs and has been harshly critical of the company’s legal strategy.

“Fortunately, the law does not allow companies to gift their assets to shareholders when doing so leaves them unable to pay their debts,” Ashley Keller, a lawyer for the veterans, said in a statement.

The veterans’ lawsuits, which allege that the earplugs failed to protect their hearing in combat or training, make up the largest mass tort litigation in U.S. history.

■ Consolidated all in on fiber

Consolidated Communications Holdings has been struggling with continued erosion in its voice and video services across all of its customer segments. The only category posting growth is broadband internet. Following its last major acquisition, net sales have fallen by about 13% since 2018.

CNSL also disclosed that their subsidy funding was materially reduced this year, which negatively impacts revenue and EBITDA by $10.5 million per quarter or $42 million annualized.

The company had some asset diversification with its Verizon partnerships, but sold them for $490 million, or after-tax proceeds of $470 million. These lucrative assets produced solid recurring earnings, but now cash flow will be reduced by $40 million here as well. Their decision was based on the strategy of reinvesting organically to accelerate the buildout of their fiber network.

Fiber is the core business, both from a growth and cash flow perspective. Management is taking a lot of action by monetizing assets and reinvesting in this area. Why is fiber, in general, doing so well? Compared to incumbent cable internet, fiber has very fast upload and download speeds, whereas cable upload speeds can be slower.

The company said that it is making good progress with upgrades and is targeting its one million fiber passings milestone by December 2022. It plans to reach two million by 2025.

Local non-farm

Minnesota Local non-farm jobs (in thousands)

Prepare your money and mind for a breakup

By Laura McMullen | NerdWallet

Breaking up sucks even if it’s necessary and you’re better off without them. Emotions loom large and life changes. Your to-do list fills up with loaded logistics, like figuring out who gets the cat or how the heck you’ll afford to live alone.

If you’re not married, here’s guidance for detangling your finances.

Acknowledge emotions

Breakups are often emotional. Those feelings can influence behaviors and decisions, says Alex Melkumian, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of the Financial Psychology Center in Los Angeles.

For example, if you’re furious at your partner, you may do whatever it takes to quickly leave the relationship. That may mean conceding the cat and rent-controlled apartment. Or if you’re worried you’ll be financially insecure on your own, you may stay in an unhappy relationship.

Manage those feelings

If you feel that emotions are clouding your judgment, first acknowledge your inner critic. That voice “can be really discouraging, judgmental and shameful,” Melkumian says.

Perhaps your inner critic berates you for choosing the wrong person or for buying a car with them, for example.

Your inner critic also “over-exaggerates the importance of every small decision,” he adds. The voice may insist that if you don’t get something just right, your life will be ruined.

Melkumian has some of his clients speak these critiques aloud. Try it, and ideally you’ll hear how mean and unfair that voice is. Or, he suggests asking: “Would you let someone else talk to you or a friend like that?”

Also, beware of sacrificing too much in this breakup in an effort to “keep the peace,” says Kaylin Dillon, a Lawrence, Kansas-based certified financial planner focused on couples and families.

Take inventory of your money

Getting organized can help you determine next steps Dillon says. So log into your financial accounts, and note the following: Recurring expenses. Distinguish those you share and those you or your partner pay solo, Dillon says. Assets. These are things you own that have monetary value, such as a house, car, stocks or bank

accounts. Note which assets are in your name, which are in your partner’s name and which (if any) are shared, says Sally Boyle, a Hanover, New Hampshire-based CFP and certified divorce financial analyst.

Net worth. This is your assets minus liabilities, or money you owe, such as debts and loan balances. Log this number, too, Boyle says.

If you and your partner feel you can tackle this exercise together, do so. Schedule time for it, so you can feel mentally and emotionally prepared.

“Your first mediation is at the dining room table,” says Boyle, who’s also the founder of The Better Half divorce planning service. If you’re up for it, address disparities in net worth, she says, and how to handle other tricky situations, like shared assets.

Consult professionals

Perhaps this discussion will help you determine next steps. That likelihood depends on several factors, including how tangled your finances are and the circumstances of your breakup.

Shared subscriptions are simpler to split than real estate, for example. And it’s easier to collaborate with someone who calmly agrees to the breakup, rather than someone who clings to the relationship — or who you can’t bear to look at.

Professionals may help straighten out finances and emotions. They can also fill knowledge gaps, where one partner understands much more about money than the other. Dillon sees these gaps often and says whoever knows less is at a disadvantage.

So who can help? If that first step of assessing cash flow is overwhelming, Dillon says a financial planner or budget coach can help you understand your money.

If emotions slow you down, Boyle suggests a financial therapist. Mediators also help facilitate conversations in a neutral way, Boyle says, adding that her divorce clients often try mediation.

An attorney can be helpful if you two share major assets, like a house, Dillon says. They may also be worth contacting if there’s a significant disparity in your incomes and net worths, and if one partner financially relies on the other.

Things to know about working after you turn 65

By Kate Ashford | NerdWallet

Continuing

to work past the traditional retirement age gives many the opportunity to add more money to their nest egg — and delay Social Security, which will bump up their eventual benefits check.

It’s important to know how working affects your Medicare benefits, Social Security and tax situation. Here are some things to understand about staying in the workforce later in life.

You may delay Medicare

If you’re still working at 65 and have access to health benefits through your employer — or your spouse’s employer — you may be able to delay enrolling in Medicare. If your company has fewer than 20 employees, you should sign up for Medicare, but if it has 20-plus employees , you may be able to put it off.

If you have the choice, compare what you would pay for group benefits with what you’d pay for Medicare, including any supplemental coverage and prescription drug benefits. “If the group coverage is less, then it may make sense to not get Part B and wait until you retire,” says Julie Hall , a certified financial planner in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Contact your benefits department before delaying to make sure your employer doesn’t require you to enroll in Medicare.

HSA and Medicare don’t mix

If you have a high-deductible health plan along with a health savings account, or HSA, be aware that you can’t save to an HSA once you’ve enrolled in Medicare. An HSA can be a valuable retirement savings tool, so it’s worth weighing your options if you have access to employer benefits that

allow you to delay Medicare.

“I see (an HSA) as a triple tax benefit,” says Diane Pearson, a CFP in Wexford, Pennsylvania, about the fact that money can be saved pretax, grow tax-free and be withdrawn pretax to pay for eligible medical expenses.

If you’re collecting Social Security, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when you turn 65; if you want to save to an HSA, you’ll have to delay Social Security benefits.

Earnings affect Social Security

If you claim Social Security during the last few years of your working life, your income can affect your benefits.

For instance, in 2022, your Social Security benefits will be reduced $1 for every $2 you earn over $19,560. In the year you hit your full retirement age, the calculations are different.

Additionally, your Social Security benefits may be taxed.

In 2022, people filing an individual tax return with a combined income of more than $25,000 or

filing jointly with a combined income of more than $32,000 will pay taxes on up to 85% of their Social Security benefits. (Social Security defines “combined income” as the total of your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Security benefits.)

“It doesn’t take a whole lot of income to get people to the point where they pay tax on a portion of their Social Security,” says Barbara O’Neill, a CFP in Ocala, Florida.

Your income affects Medicare

Medicare Part B and Part D are subject to the income-related monthly adjustment amount, or IRMAA. The more you earn, the higher your premiums will be.

In 2022, you’ll pay more for Part B and Part D if your modified adjusted gross income from two years ago was more than $91,000 as a single tax filer or more than $182,000 if you filed jointly. The extra costs can add up, and experts recommend factoring this into your work plans.

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what no one business can do alone. Whether

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of a large firm, or part of a start-up company,

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October 14 - 15

October brings not only beautiful fall colors but the annual Mankato Marathon! Runners from Minnesota and 25 different states will come to enjoy the races, as well as to see what our area has to offer, including parks, restaurants, shopping, and more. We expect more than 3,200 runners and their families over the Mankato Marathon weekend.

JOIN GREATER MANKATO

Besides the scenic courses, Mankato Marathon offers various volunteer opportunities for groups and individuals. To learn more and to sign up, please reach out to Joy Leaflbad: jleafblad@vistimankatomn.com

LEARNING

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NETWORKING

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It’s not know, it’s who knows YOU Networking IS Powerful.

The Mankato Marathon, presented by Mayo Clinic Health System, is the boldest race in the Midwest, showcasing dynamic courses and determined runners. This year, the Marathon will feature new courses for the Full and Half Marathon, as well as many new runner experiences along the courses: Mile 22 Dance Party, mini celebrations at each exchange zone for relay runners, and Maverick Mile, which will include the Maverick Marching Band.

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Greater Mankato Growth serves as a non-partisan information intermediary between candidates and the voters on issues impacting not only business, but the overall vitality of the region at large. As part of this effort, Greater Mankato Growth provides information about upcoming elections, hosts and provides information about candidate forums and events throughout the election season and invites candidates to complete online profiles.

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To check out candidate profiles and the 2022 candidate forums schedule, please visit our website:

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Each year, the South Central Tour of Manufacturing Partnership invites all manufacturing businesses from across South Central Minnesota to participate in the Tour of Manufacturing.

The event is similar to a “Parade of Homes” and FREE to students, job seekers, and the general public.

The Tour of Manufacturing is an opportunity for the public to learn what is made in their own backyards. This year, the tour will take place on October 6 and 9, and will feature more than twenty employers.

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2022 presenting sponsor

The 2022 Minnesota Senior Games, held in Mankato from August 11 to 14, attracted 530 participants from 24 different states to our area. These athletes, 50 years and older, competed in 20 different sports in 11 different venues. Between competitions, participants visited many area restaurants, state parks, and enjoyed the City Center Sculpture Walking Tour. The event had estimated economic impact of $357,000. Minnesota Senior Games heads to St. Cloud in 2023.

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Join us for Business Awards and Hall of Fame, a premier business event where Greater Mankato Growth, Visit Mankato, City Center Partnership, and GreenSeam honor outstanding businesses, individuals, and organizations who have made an impact in the Greater Mankato business community.

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great meetings.

» GREAT GOLF, great meetings.

GOLF DIGEST EXECUTIVES KNOW GREAT GOLF and have named Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa and Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel at Grand National two of their newest Editors' Choice Winners, along with Pebble Beach, The Greenbrier, Pinehurst and 65 other North American locations. When you need to step away from the office for a great golf getaway or an off-site meeting, plan your visit to Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The best part about the Trail is you don’t have to break the bank to play world-class golf. »»

»» Play where the champions play on Alabama's Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. To book your next outing, call 800.949.4444 today and visit rtjgolf.com to learn more.

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Congratulations to Heather Natterstad and Dalton Asplin for receiving the 20 under 40 award from MN Valley Business Magazine.

We are proud to have such talented people on the Eide Bailly team.