January/February 2026

Jason Hallonquist & Cathy Julifs

Rice Companies brings design, engineering, construction, and service together to keep your project moving forward. Since 1953, the team at Rice has been supporting your business needs with a dedication to the people, partnerships, and communities we proudly serve.

PARTNER WITH US RICECOMPANIES.COM

CONTENTS E X P LO R I N G C E N T R A L M I N N ES OTA’ S B US I N ESS ES

GROW | NETWORK |

PROFIT

PROFIT

J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 : 27 N e t w o r k C e n t ra l / 3 4 Ec o n o m y Ce n t ra l

19 2026 CENTRAL MINNESOTA FARM SHOW Embracing Land, Life, & Legacy: Growing the Future of Agriculture Together

SPECIAL FOCUS 44 IT STARTS FROM WITHIN Supporting employees with invisible disabilities means supporting all employees.

Cover Story

Frank Ringsmuth has led The Camera Shop through industry upheaval by

NETWORK

evolving i ts services, embracing technology and focusing on what matters most.

6 UPFRONT Valuable information designed to guide and educate

28 BUSINESS TOOLS Useful tips and intelligence on how to continue to grow your business

50 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Tai Oguntade, DNP, owner of Better Days Psychiatry

GROW

38 DEVELOP. ADJUST. REPEAT. ONLYONLINE BUSINESSCENTRAL MAGAZINE.COM

• Meeting Hangovers • Political Putdowns • Give Your Work Meaning • From SEO to GEO

President: Julie Lunning, 320-656-3804 Director of Finance and Operations:

Main Phone: 320-251-2940 Automated Reservation Line: 320-656-3826

Kristi O'Connor, 320-656-3806

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU STAFF ____________________________

Director of Programs & Events:

Executive Director: Rachel Thompson, 320-202-6728

Laura Wagner, 320-656-3831

Director of Sales: Nikki Gustafson, 320-202-6712

Director of Marketing & Communications:

Sales Manager: Olivia Way, 320-202-6713

Emily Bertram, 320-656-3809

Sports Director: Craig Besco, 320-202-6711

info@StCloudAreaChamber.com

Director of Membership: Bradley Hoelscher, 320-656-3824

StCloudAreaChamber.com

Administrative Assistant: Shelly Imdieke, 320-656-3800

Marketing & Services Coordinator: Melissa Ludwig, 320-202-6770 Information Specialist: Maddy Lindholm, 320-251-4170

EDITOR’S NOTE

Frank Ringsmuth with Editor Emily Ber tram at the Camera Shop in downtown St. Cloud –––––––

Remember When…

I

have 43,705 photos and videos in my iPhone library as ice cream cones, and scenic views of Munsinger of November 17th, 2025 (and that’s before the holidays!).

Gardens and Quarry Park.

Yes, I am fully aware that that is beyond ridiculous and yes, The rest of my camera roll is made up of family and I do pay extra for iCloud storage. But when it comes to my friends, pretty scenery, recipe screenshots, and plenty photos and videos, I have a hard time parting with them of videos. I spend a lot of time looking back at them for many different reasons. all and remembering the moments they’ve captured.

At a glance, a good two-thirds of my photos are of my kids Frank Ringsmuth, owner of The Camera Shop, is in the in some way. My two daughters are five and eight, and they memory business. He’s worked for over fifty years to help are well-trained when Central Minnesotans preserve it comes to posing for the memories of their lives, no As any parent will tell you, photos — they even love matter what the industry has childhood is fleeting, and while I try not to to suggest cute spots thrown at him. You can read more be on my phone around them too much, I can’t help but try to capture as many of when we are out on about his tale of adaptation and those little moments as possible adventures. As any parent diversification on page 38. while they let me. will tell you, childhood is While I know I should take fleeting, and while I try the time to go back through my not to be on my phone around them too much, I can’t help phone and delete the duplicates (or quadruplicates…), but try to capture as many of those little moments as possible there’s also another part of me that holds on to them, just while they let me. in case. Maybe someday I’ll need that candid shot of my The next subject you’ll see repeatedly in my camera roll girls jumping off the dock, or that close-up of my delicious is my dog, Lucky. Not only is he the cutest grey-faced golden brunch at a local restaurant. Or maybe I won’t. But there’s retriever around, but we also tend to visit some really pretty something reassuring about knowing those moments are places together — whether it’s a hike at a park or a swim at waiting for me — tiny reminders of a life that’s moving fast, a beach. Similar to my kids, I try to freeze as many scenes as but filled with things worth remembering.

possible with my old man.

Of course, I use my phone to take photos for work quite Until next time, often, so a large portion of my camera roll features folks networking at Business After Hours, snapshots of crowds at Chamber Connection, and the occasional selfie with a member. Many photos are from my previous role at Visit Greater St. Cloud, too, so you’ll find your fair share Emily Bertram, Editor of Summertime by George crowds, hands holding

CORRECTION In the November/December 2025 issue, the Voice in Government article incorrectly stated the amount of a bonus deduction for filers 65 and older.

The correct amount of the deduction is $6,000 per person.

4

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

1411 West St. Germain Street, Suite 101, St. Cloud, MN 56301 / Phone: (320) 251-2940 / Fax: (320) 251-0081 BusinessCentralMagazine.com Publisher Julie Lunning Editor Emily Bertram Founding Editor Gail Ivers CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Emily Bertram, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher/Sales Melinda Vonderahe, Marketing Consultant Ad Traffic & Circulation Yola Hartmann, Hazel Tree Media

ST. CLOUD AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2025-26 BOARD MEMBERS ____________________________ Nick Bischoff, Design Electric Doug Cook, Headwaters Strategic Succession Consulting LLC

Stearns History Museum

Design & Production Yola Hartmann, Hazel Tree Media

Muhammad Hashir Khan,

Joe Hellie, CentraCare, Past Board Chair

Cover Story Photography

Ray Herrington, Pioneer Place on Fifth

Ann Marie Johnson,

St. Cloud State University Lynn MacDonald,

ART

Switchboard

St. Cloud State University

———————

Jeanine Nistler, freelance writer

Editorial suggestions can be made in

Beth Richardson, Consul General of Canada Taylor Sellnow, Moxie Creative Jami Trenam, Great River Regional Library Erin E. Weightman, Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A.

Hudda Ibrahim, OneCommunity Alliance, Vice Chair of the Board Dave Kleis, Central Minnesota Driving Academy

writing to: Editor, Business Central, 1411 West

Matt Laubach, West Bank

St. Germain Street, Suite 101, St. Cloud, MN 56301

Laurie Putnam, St. Cloud School District 742

or emailed to ebertram@stcloudareachamber.com.

Paul Radeke, Creative Planning, Board Chair

Submission of materials does not guarantee publication.

Alex Schoephoester, Spencer Fane Brenda Sickler, Theisen Dental

———————

Amy Sip, ASip Consulting

For advertising information, contact

Melinda Tamm, Ms. Melinda’s Dance Studio

Melinda Vonderahe (320) 656-3808

Melody Vachal, Arise Cares

© Copyright 2026 Business Central LLC. Business Central is published six times a year by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of

Donella Westphal, Jules’ Bistro

Commerce, 1411 West St. Germain Street, Suite 101, St. Cloud, MN 56301. Phone (320) 251-2940 / Subscription rate: $18 for 1 year.

Dr. Jason Woods, St. Cloud State University

URGENT INJURY CARE BY For urgent injury care immediately following an injury, call 320-257-STAT or walk in to see one of our orthopedic specialists.

With no appointment or referral needed, we get straight to work assessing and treating your musculoskeletal injury. So, skip the ER — get same-day Urgent Injury Care, right here at St. Cloud Orthopedics.

ST. CLOUD & SARTELL

StCloudOrthopedics.com/UIC J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

5

UPFRONT GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT

N E WS & P EO P L E T H AT M A K E U P T H E C H A M B E R N E T W O R K

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : Do it Now! / Digging History / Your Voice in Government / The Trouble with Business BOOK REVIEW

NEWS REEL

Slow & Steady Wins the Race

SYSPRO acquires riteSOFT

A blueprint for doing less, better — and finding meaning in the work that matters most.

provides mobile warehouse,

By Jami Trenam

software for small to mid-sized

T

St. Cloud-based riteSOFT, which time tracking, and scheduling manufacturers and distributors,

he new year is a perfect time to reflect and set new goals. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with pressure to achieve more, have you considered how slowing down might actually help you accomplish more? That’s the central argument Cal Newport presents in his 2024 book, Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout.

Newport, an MIT graduate and professor of computer science at Georgetown University, is best known for his books Deep Work and Digital Minimalism. Through his writing and popular podcast, he explores how we can reclaim focus and meaning in an increasingly distracted world.

Newport defines slow productivity as a “philosophy for organizing knowledge work efforts in a sustainable and meaningful manner.” The book is divided into two sections, one titled Foundations and the other Principles, each with short, digestible chapters. The final three chapters introduce the core tenets of the philosophy

and offer practical strategies to apply them.

Avoid pseudo-productivity.

Newport asserts that busywork, like the endless churn of emails and meetings, has become a false stand-in for true productivity.

We feel busier than ever, yet accomplish less. The question he poses: How do we step off the hamster wheel to pursue meaningful work?

Search for a slower alternative. Drawing inspiration from the slow food movement, Newport applies its culture of quality, craftsmanship, and care to knowledge work.

Do fewer things. Focus your energy on fewer priorities.

Newport suggests limiting daily goals, automating routine tasks, and adopting a “bounded intake strategy” to accept new work only when capacity allows.

Work at a natural pace.

Productivity should ebb and flow. Newport recommends embracing seasonality by balancing periods of intensity with deliberate rest.

Obsess over quality. By raising our standards, Newport argues, we produce work that lasts. By giving ourselves a narrow focus and plenty of time, we can do our best work.

Throughout, Newport weaves in stories of great creators, from Benjamin Franklin to Georgia O’Keeffe to The Beatles, illustrating that remarkable work often comes from patience and depth, not haste.

For professionals and business owners alike, Slow Productivity offers a refreshing antidote to the “hustle harder” mindset. It’s not about doing less — it’s about doing what matters most, better. As we step into a new year, Newport’s message feels clear: sometimes the fastest way forward is to slow down.

has been acquired by SYSPRO.

Jami Trenam is the associate director

award to leaders of CentraCare –

of collection development at Great River Regional Library.

As a global software provider for the manufacturing and distribution industries, SYSPRO’s acquisition will help riteSOFT increase innovation, enhance integration, and deliver greater value, without added complexity.

CentraCare welcomes staff, receives recognition Cassie Dike, DNP, RN, joined CentraCare as chief nursing executive. She previously served as executive vice president and chief nursing officer at Children’s Health in Dallas, Texas.

The American Hospital Association (AHA) presented the AHA 100-year milestone St. Cloud Hospital and the AHA 75-year milestone for CentraCare – Sauk Centre Hospital. These awards recognize an enduring legacy of leadership, innovation

CHECK IT OUT! The book and eAudiobook are available for checkout at the public library. Reserve your copy at griver.org

and compassionate care.

Case joins SCFCU LeAnn Case has been named chief strategy officer at St. Cloud Financial Credit Union (SCFCU).

In her role, she’ll oversee the credit union’s investment and

Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout; C al New po r t, 2 02 4 , Po r tfo lio/Penguin, New York; I S B N: 97 805 935 4 4 85 3

multicultural services, chair the TriUnity Foundation board, and guide communications strategy for its stake in DaLand CUSO.

6

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

POINT OF VIEW

Business Central asked:

How do you help others at work, or in a professional setting, feel welcome and included?

Carmen Hernandez, Advantage Chiropractic

Jodi Keehr, Compeer Financial

–––––– I try to be inclusive by looking for new people and unfamiliar faces and being extra friendly to them.

Maia Darnall, Evemore Co.

––––––

––––––

I try to initiate a conversation and learn more about them.

I try to find a way to relate to them and make a real connection.

Nikki Gustafson, St. Cloud Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

–––––– Greeting people with a smile is important.

Also, be willing to start a conversation so they feel comfortable and less nervous.

Betsy Mauer, OnBrand Promo

–––––– I ask them questions about themselves and greet them with a smile.

Less eggnog, more nest egg.

320.253.6607 | STEARNSBANK.COM MEMBER FDIC | EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

7

NETWORK

UPFRONT

NEWS REEL Reisinger joins Gate City Bank Eric Reisinger is now senior

DO IT NOW!

Treat Yourself When used thoughtfully, little treats can be a powerful motivational and self-care tool.

vice president, commercial banking leader– Central Minnesota at Gate City Bank. Reisinger has 25 years of experience in finance and business management. He currently serves as board chair for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota.

Deerwood Bank welcomes Kedrowski Jay Kedrowski joined Deerwood Bank as real estate lender at its Sartell location.

Kedrowski, who is originally from St. Cloud, has a background in finance and spent several years in the mortgage industry.

ATS makes acquisition ATS Logistics Services acquired Trailer Bridge Logistics, the domestic freight brokerage and rail services division of Trailer Bridge, Inc. The move includes assuming Trailer Bridge’s logistics offices in four major cities. Trailer Bridge will continue operating its core ocean shipping and international divisions, while ATS welcomes Vice President of Regional Management Eric Masotti to lead the newly integrated regional teams.

O’Shea joins Coborn’s Carol O’Shea is the new executive vice president and chief financial officer at Coborn’s. With over 20 years of experience in finance, retail, and technology, including serving as CFO of a private investment firm, O’Shea has a proven track record of driving growth, fostering collaboration, and leading highperforming teams.

8

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

I

f you or someone in your life is Gen Z, you have probably heard a variation of the term “little treats.” Also called “little treats culture,” it’s the self-care practice of rewarding oneself for completing a task, making it through a challenging day or time, meeting a goal, or other things of that nature.

The little treats range from small purchases — like a latte from a coffee shop, a snack from the gas station, or that small item you’ve had your eyes on — to activities such as a break in your workday, 30 minutes on a gaming console, a walk with your dog or other self-care activities that are considered small indulgences.

On the surface, the practice may seem frivolous.

However, when implemented with boundaries, little treats can increase dopamine,

improve mental health and provide comfort. Plus, the concept of little treats is much more than a TikTok trend — it’s rooted in psychology.

The Premack principle was developed by psychologist David Premack in the 1960s. The basic premise is that a more desirable activity is used to reinforce a less desirable one. In a 2018 study published by the American Psychological Association, it was also discovered that the real benefit of the treat lies in how quickly it is received, versus what the actual treat is. The irrelevance of the actual reward was echoed in a 2019 study published in Sage Journals that says the reward itself is not what motivates people, it’s how that reward makes them feel.

So, how can you use little treats culture to benefit you or your employees in the workplace? There are a number of ways.

Goals: One of the best reasons to earn a treat is by meeting a goal, which is why it’s very important for goals to be clear and measurable.

Work with your team to develop these on a regular basis. For example: Today I need to check off the top five things on my to-do list. If I do it before 2 p.m., I will treat myself to a 10-minute walk around the block.

Rewards: As a boss or manager, understanding what motivates your team members will help you provide meaningful treats. For example: Susan loves coffee, so keep a few $5 coffee gift cards around as treats. However, Dan does

not drink coffee — he is more of an energy drink lover, so having some of those beverages around is a more effective treat for him.

Moderation: If you start to reward yourself, or others, for every small thing, it’s going to become more of an expectation than a treat — plus, quite the expense. Use rewards intermittently to maximize their potential impact. For example: I need to get my inbox to zero every day, and I reward myself with a piece of chocolate every time I do so. The treat is no longer playing a part in my

motivation — it’s simply part of the routine.

Appropriateness:

While little treats are great motivators for many tasks, it’s also important to understand what you really need in different scenarios. For example: I had a really challenging day that upset me for a variety of reasons.

Perhaps, in this case, a talk with my therapist or loved one may prove more effective than an ice cream shake at a drive through (or maybe … both). —EB

AWARD WINNERS

RSVP director recognized AmeriCorps recognized RSVP Director Jennifer Wucherer with its Innovation Service Award. The award is presented to one program director each year for making a significant impact in their community by leveraging volunteer service.

Cusipag earns recognition St. Cloud Financial Credit Union Chief Financial Officer Franco Cusipag was named a 2025 CFO of the Year Honoree by the Minneapolis/ St. Paul Business Journal, one of just 20 financial leaders recognized across the state. Nominees were evaluated based on their contributions to their companies and the broader community.

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

9

NETWORK

UPFRONT

NEWS REEL Canter named executive director Brandi Canter is the new executive director of Great River Regional

DIGGING HISTORY

Main Street East Across the Mississippi River, East St. Germain Street is home to many historic sites.

By Ann Marie Johnson

Library. Canter has been with the library system since 2001, starting at the Royalton Public Library.

St. Cloud LIVE names editor St. Cloud journalist Kevin Allenspach has been named the new editor of news publication St. Cloud LIVE. Allenspach, a veteran reporter and editor with decades of experience at the St. Cloud Times and other regional publications, said he’s eager to return to local journalism and lead the growing newsroom.

Kennedy to lead GeoComm TJ Kennedy was named chief executive officer of GeoComm.

Kennedy has a background in public safety technology, communications, and mission-critical operations. He previously served as president of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet), held senior executive roles across technology organizations, and was a professional firefighter/ paramedic, flight paramedic, and state trooper.

Metro Bus operator receives honor Metro Bus Dial-a-Ride Bus Operator David Peacock was awarded the Minnesota Bus Operator of the Year Award by the Minnesota Public Transit Association. The award is presented to “an individual who has consistently demonstrated high levels of achievement in all aspects of their performance.”

Peacock has worked at Metro Bus for 24 years, all as a Dial-a-Ride (paratransit) Bus Operator.

10

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

W

ith all the activity that’s been taking place along East St. Germain Street in St. Cloud, it’s hard not to wonder what was there before. What remnants of the past have survived?

What’s been expanded upon to create and foster the hub of activity and communitycentered vibe?

Like other successful commercial districts, the older, smaller buildings that exist along East St. Germain Street in the Benton County portion of St. Cloud are places where local history and economy thrive. Along the stretch of the corridor extending from the Mississippi River to Highway 10 are several buildings that were identified in the historic sites surveys completed in the 1990s and early 2000s for the St. Cloud Heritage

Preservation Commission and the City of St. Cloud.

Historic sites surveys are one of the important tasks of historic preservation commissions. They provide information on a community and how it has developed over time.

The existing buildings with strong remnants of East St. Germain Street’s historic commercial activity include: The Riverside Hotel, a small hotel built in 1890 that is now home to the Somali Café.

St. Cloud State Bank, a two-story brick structure built in 1917 that is the site of Minnesota’s first known female bank president and now houses a woman-owned gym and fitness studio, Vibe Wellness.

The Mackrell Building, a two-story brick structure

Fleet of Megarry trucks in front of International Harvester Company, 1935 ———————

that was constructed in 1922. The Mackrell Building, like others along the street, has been the home of many businesses throughout its existence, including Sentinel Hardware, Liberty Café, and The Furniture Store. The structure currently serves as a residential, commercial and community space, with apartments on the second floor, a pop-up shop called Sage & Salvage on the main floor, and Respect Fight Club, a community-focused strike fitness club, in the lower level.

The International Harvester Building is now Iron Street Distillery and Harvester Square.

NOTEWORTHY

Handyman’s Hardware, still in its original location after 60 years, is a third-generation family-owned hardware store.

Val’s Rapid Serv, a fast food hamburger restaurant, with its iconic sign.

Copper Kitchen, a popular restaurant near Highway 10.

It takes something special at the very root or core of a place to give it steadfast meaning and strength over time. East St. Germain Street’s special vibe is rooted in history and preservation.

Ann Marie Johnson handles community engagement for the Stearns History Museum.

Miller receives state honor Jason Miller, broker/owner of Trust Real Estate Company in St. Cloud, was named the 2025 Minnesota Realtor® of the Year by Minnesota Realtors®. A realtor for over 20 years, Miller currently serves on nine state committees, chairing the Governmental Affairs Committee, and previously served as the association’s 2022 president. Nationally, he serves on the NAR Board of Directors, the RPAC Trustees for Federal Disbursements, and is the Minnesota-endorsed candidate for 2027 NAR Region 8 vice president.

Fundraiser supports breast cancer warriors The 5th Annual Think Pink for INDY fundraiser raised nearly $18,000 for INDY breast cancer warriors. With the help of Troy Lenarz with Regional Diagnostic Radiology, Brandon Voit with Falcon National Bank and many generous sponsors that donated prizes for the silent auction, the heart of INDY was on display.

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

11

NETWORK

UPFRONT

NEWS REEL

YOUR VOICE IN GOVERNMENT

St. Cloud Regional Airport rebrands

A Resilient Partnership

The St. Cloud Regional Airport rebranded as St. Cloud Sky Central Airport to better reflect its location and many diverse

Canada's and Central Minnesota’s cross-border collaboration remains strong despite a changing global economy.

By Beth Richardson

services for the region. The branding, including a new logo, began appearing on airport signage, letterhead and elsewhere, including its website, FlySkyCentral.com. St. Cloud Sky Central Airport averages more than 100 aircraft takeoffs and landings each day, supported by about 140 people in roles that range from TSA security to fire fighters, military and medical personnel, and many others.

Businesses support Quiet Oaks Hospice Many local businesses donated time and dollars to Quiet Oaks Hospice this fall, including a delivery of homemade cookies from North Risk Partners, outdoor cleaning and refinishing done by American Door Works, yard work done by Deerwood Bank and painting and lighting work done

by Affinity Plus Credit Union.

Lococo named vice president Frank Lococo joined CentraCare as vice president, chief marketing and communications officer.

Lococo will lead CentraCare’s marketing, communications, and brand strategy across its health system. With nearly 30 years of marketing and communications experience, Lococo most recently

A

s Canada’s Consul General based in Minneapolis, I have the privilege of representing a country that is not only Minnesota’s closest neighbor, but its most important economic partner. For businesses in Stearns County and across Central Minnesota, the Canada–U.S. relationship is more than a diplomatic connection: it’s a daily

driver of jobs, investment and shared prosperity.

In 2024, Canada remained Minnesota’s top international customer, purchasing over $7.5 billion in goods and services from companies here. That includes everything from agricultural inputs and manufactured goods to advanced technologies and clean energy components.

In fact, Canada accounts

for well over a quarter of Minnesota’s total exports to the world. Nearly 174,000 jobs in the state depend on trade and investment with Canada.

In Stearns County, the relationship is especially tangible. Companies like New Flyer, a bus manufacturer with Canadian roots and a major footprint in St. Cloud, exemplify the kind of cross-border collaboration that powers our shared economy. And the City of St. Cloud’s awardwinning Nutrient, Energy, and Water Recovery Facility uses innovative technology from Canadian firms Ostara and Lystek to convert waste streams, provide renewable energy and return clean water to the environment.

As Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has noted, the world is changing — drastically. The rise of protectionism and shifting geopolitical alliances are reshaping how countries do business. Canada is responding with a bold industrial strategy to build

served as vice president of marketing and communications for Nebraska Medicine.

Got News?

Send news releases, announcements, or anything you think is newsworthy to Emily, ebertram@ stcloudareachamber.com, and we will try to include it.

12

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Contributor ________ Beth Richardson was appointed Consul General of Canada in Minneapolis in August 2023.

As Canada's Consul General in the Upper Midwest, Ms. Richardson works with a team of 17 Consulate staff to strengthen trade and economic ties; reinforce our security alliances; enhance political, academic and cultural links; and assist Canadians visiting or living in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. To inquire with Canada’s trade commissioners about doing business in or with Canada, email MNPLSTD@international.gc.ca or call 612-333-4641.

DOING GOOD

resilience at home and competitiveness abroad.

These initiatives include: Strengthening strategic sectors like clean energy, critical minerals, and advanced manufacturing.

Launching a Major Projects Office to fast-track national interest projects like ports and energy corridors.

Reducing internal trade barriers to unlock domestic growth.

Diversifying our global partnerships.

These investments don’t just protect Canada — they reinforce Canada’s role as a stable, innovative

and reliable ally for American businesses.

After all, a strong Canada is a strong Minnesota.

Whether we are supplying potash for Minnesota farms, collaborating to produce snowmobiles, or co-investing in clean technologies, Canada is committed to building a North American economy that is resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive.

And here’s the good news: Despite recent global disruptions, the majority of Canada-U.S. trade remains tariff-free, thanks to the United States-MexicoCanada Agreement.

For business leaders in St. Cloud, while the current moment has presented challenges, it also presents opportunity.

Canada is moving forward with confidence, with investment and with an open door. Reach out to our office — we can help connect you to Canadian businesses to expand your reach and help shape the future of our shared economy. Together, we can turn disruption into opportunity — and ensure that Minnesota and Canada continue to thrive, side by side.

Stearns Electric program gives back Stearns Electric’s Operation Round Up® (ORU) Program, which allows members to round up their electric bill to the nearest dollar, contributed $66,250 to 62 area organizations in November 2025. Since ORU started in 1993, over $3.4 million has been distributed to nearly 5,900 local non-profit organizations and community service programs.

Get care from

anywhere

When leaving home for care is the last thing you feel like doing – we are here for you.

Virtual Urgent Care offers care for common illnesses and minor injuries 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from the comfort of home.

Learn more at CentraCare.com/virtualcare

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

13

NETWORK

UPFRONT

THE TROUBLE WITH BUSINESS

What’s in a Brand?

If your brand no longer represents what you do and who you’re reaching, it may be time to consider a rebrand.

By Emily Bertram

growing nature of our credit union and allow for future growth and vitality.”

What To Consider

“Your brand is the single most important investment you can make in your business.”

– Steve Forbes, Forbes Magazine

A

company’s brand is the visual and emotional representation of who it is and what it stands for. It is a mix of its identity — like logo, colors, fonts and styles — as well as vision, mission, culture and voice.

It’s a company’s values, its stories, and its promise to its customers. So when the time

14

comes to consider a rebrand, it’s not a decision to be made lightly.

Why Rebrand

“A company should consider a rebrand when one or more things happen,” Eyecon Graphics Owner Rachael Sogge said. “Has there been considerable growth in the company? Do you offer more services? Has this impacted your target markets? Has there been turnover in management or ownership?” All of these factors and others greatly influence how a business is represented and indicate that it may be time to revisit the

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

brand’s messaging and target markets.

For one company, that turning point was when its service area grew. Kirsten Green is product and brand manager for Magnifi Financial, formerly known as Central Minnesota Federal Credit Union. “We were expanding with branch locations in the Twin Cities metro area, Fargo-Moorhead area, and other locations outside of the Central Minnesota area. So, ‘Central Minnesota Credit Union’ only reflected a small part of the geography we serve,” Green said. “The time had come to change our name to reflect the

Before jumping into the rebranding process, there are many factors to consider.

Decide what you’re trying to accomplish. Are you just looking for an identity refresh (updated colors, fonts, logo, etc.) or are you looking to overhaul who you are and who you serve? “A rebrand and an identity upgrade often go hand in hand,” Sogge said.

“Does the current logo accurately represent what we are trying to tell people from a visual standpoint?” Sometimes, a simple refresh will suffice over a total rebrand. “Often, a logo can be updated instead of redesigned all together, keeping the integrity of the business or organization while giving a slight nod to growth and change.”

Identify your time and budget. “The business should also consider the time it takes to complete a rebrand,” Green said. “From data research to brainstorming, back-and-forth brand iterations, and prepping for launch, the full timeline can take a year or longer.” Consider every aspect that a rebrand will affect, down to the company’s website address, ads, signs, stationary, and even working with a legal firm to handle

trademark filings to ensure the new name does not infringe on existing trademarks. “The ROI for those costs may be hard to calculate, but it’s important to know if the expense can be taken on and if it will benefit the future growth of the business,” according to Green.

Determine who needs to be part of the process. Aside from a marketing firm, involve internal stakeholders, from leadership to marketing to the frontline employees. “First, our leadership team and board aligned on the goals and initiated the project,” Green said. “Then, we vetted several

agencies that would help us with data gathering, surveys, and research. It was an organization-wide effort in the end.”

Hire help. Both Sogge and Green strongly recommend partnering with an agency to execute a rebrand. “Whether you have a minimal budget or a full plan, there are people who are willing to help you and meet you where you are in your business journey,” Sogge said.

“Interview different agencies and make sure they match your personality and the goals of the business moving forward.”

Understand your target audience. Has it changed? How will they react? “Are we talking to more men than women?”

Sogge asked. “Are we talking to young adults or seasoned adults?

This could greatly impact what colors we want or fonts we use.”

Magnifi’s Green said they tested new name options with both new and existing customers to ensure they understood and connected with the new name.

Have honest conversations.

“Be prepared to pull back the curtains and share,” Sogge said.

“Dive deep into how you started, where you are now, and where you want to go.” These are all

B U SIN E S S P ROF I L E: JACQUELYN BISTODEAU

factors in developing a strong brand presence.

A brand and identity change is just one part of the everevolving process of marketing.

“The rebrand project is not over the day that the new brand goes live,” Green said. “In some cases, such as ours, we continue to communicate that Magnifi Financial is still the same credit union that members know and love, that we simply changed our name and brand style.”

Emily Bertram is the director of marketing and communications at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and editor of Business Central Magazine.

SPONSORED PROFILE

LEADERSHIP ELEVATED FORWARD

Jacquelyn Bistodeau, a leader whose guidance and growth mindset now advance her to Partner

J

acquelyn (Jacque) Bistodeau joined Froehling Anderson in 2023, with a strength, dedication, and leadership that has thrived across our firm. Her promotion to Partner is a clear testament of these qualities, and the growth she’s contributed to our culture and clients.

With determination guiding her every step, Jacque has significantly supported the flourishing of our St. Cloud office. In just two years, she has mentored and taught multiple interns, guided new full-time employees through their first career in public accounting, and expanded the firm’s client base. This

steady momentum is a powerful reflection of collaboration and commitment in action.

Jacque is passionate about providing accounting and tax solutions and turning the complexities of the tax code into a strategic plan to help businesses and individuals succeed, while also developing the next generation of professionals.

Froehling Anderson is proud to celebrate Jacque’s promotion to Partner and the expansion of the expertise, dedication, and collaborative spirit that define our firm to the Central Minnesota Area. •

Froehling Anderson, Accountants & Advisors 1010 West St. Germain Street, Suite 201, St. Cloud, MN, 56301 • 320-200-2211 • fa-cpa.com _______ CPA and business advisory services tailored to your needs. Froehling Anderson has built a long-standing reputation for delivering strategic, results-driven advice since 1946.

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

15

TOPHATS GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT

B U S I N E S S E S A R O U N D T H E ST. C LO U D A R E A

S T. C L O U D A R E A H A P P E N I N G S : W e l c o m i n g n e w m e m b e r s , c e l e b ra t i n g n e w l o c a t i o n s , n e w o w n e r s h i p a n d m a j o r a n n i v e r s a r i e s TO P H ATS : N E W M E M B E R S

Nurture To Play, indoor play space for children, 1001 2nd Street S, Ste. 200, Sartell. Pictured: Mike Brower, Alexis Demuth, Jordan Reinke, Kelly Doss.

Yenko Inc., daily airport service, 3123 Roosevelt Road, Ste. 202, St. Cloud. Pictured: Mike Brower, Charles Owusu, Ibrahim Soumare, Tauna Quimby.

The Rock and Art Shop, rock and lapidary shop, 1700 W St. Germain Street, St. Cloud.

Pictured: Tauna Quimby, Sara Christensen, Mark Christensen, Brenda Eisenschenk.

Lifewave Lindberg Team, wearable wellness technology, no physical location. Pictured: Rachel Layton, Judy Lindberg, Andrew Lindberg, Brian Jarl.

Multiple Material Arts PLLC, engineer and design firm, 915 2nd Street N, St. Cloud.

Pictured: Rachel Layton, Mikayla Asfeld, Mike Brower.

Moments Hospice, hospice services, 2229 Roosevelt Road, Ste. 1, St. Cloud. Pictured: Chris Jacques, Rachael Wenner, Megan Kleffman, Leslie Grimsley, Hailey Schmeling, Travis Weber, Crystal Opatz, Jennifer Miller, Adam Sohre, Maggie Paris, Jenna Binsfeld.

1 Better LLC, full motion on-screen advertising, 919 W St. Germain Street, Ste. 2000, St. Cloud.

Pictured: Rachael Sogge, John Engel, Carol Engel, Rory Cruser.

919 Studio, video production and voice services, 919 W St. Germain Street, Ste. 2000, St. Cloud. Pictured: Rachael Sogge, Ned Domm, John Engel, Carol Engel, Bethany Domm, Rory Cruser.

Permanent Choice Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis Center, laser hair removal services, 3700 W Division Street, Ste. 100, St. Cloud. Pictured: Michelle Henderson, Tracy Greer, Kristin Hannon.

Shepherd’s Watch Security LLC, commercial and residential security systems, no physical location. Pictured: Chris Jacques, Bruce Merrell, Tauna Quimby.

TO P H ATS : M I L ESTO N ES

16

60 YEARS IN BUSINESS:

40 YEARS IN BUSINESS:

20 YEARS IN BUSINESS:

115 YEARS IN BUSINESS:

70 YEARS IN BUSINESS:

Handyman’s Inc., supplier of hardware and maintenance products, 604 E St. Germain Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Kristin Hannon, Natalie Ross, Carol Severson, Doug Severson, Ashley Severson, Mark Held.

Bravo Burrito, restaurant, 68 33rd Ave. S, St. Cloud.

Pictured: Tauna Quimby, Sam Hemven, Mike Lardy, Rachel Layton.

Audio Video Extremes, home theatre and audio, 718 19th Ave. NE, St. Joseph. Pictured: Rachel Layton, Rich Erkens, Jodi Erkens, Tauna Quimby.

Central Minnesota Council - Scouting America, youth organization, 1191 Scout Drive, Sartell. Pictured: Tauna Quimby, Wade Bastian, Sarah Dean, Rachel Layton.

Anderson Trucking Service Inc., 725 Opportunity Drive, St. Cloud. Pictured: Rachael Sogge, Brent Anderson, Rollie Anderson.

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

TO P H ATS : N E W M E M B E R S

Key Title & Closing Services, title company, 80 37th Ave. S, Ste. 200, St. Cloud. Pictured: Rachael Sogge, Matt Imdieke, Molly Sobania, Donna Roerick.

Central MN Realty, real estate, 80 37th Ave. S, Ste. 200, St. Cloud. Donna Roerick, Matt Imdieke, Rachael Sogge.

Texas Roadhouse, restaurant, 345 2nd Street S, Waite Park.

Pictured: Donna Roerick, Daisy Murray, Nathan Anderson.

HuHot Mongolian Grill, restaurant, 3701 W Division Street, Ste. 103, St. Cloud.

Pictured: Jenna Binsfeld, George Kupinewicz.

Nuts and Bolts Marketing, marketing services, no physical location. Pictured: Brady DeGagne, Lisa Stoffel, Chad Groetsch, Patrick Hollermann.

AMAX Manufacturing Inc., plastic injection and 3D printing, 136 Broadway Ave. N, Foley. Pictured: Candice Kantor, Chase Larson, Adam Kantor.

Hoelscher Team, real estate, 2680 W St. Germain Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Lloyd Hoelscher, Sharon Hoelscher, Rachael Sogge.

Granite City Gutter & Renovation/Granite City Exteriors, contracting services, no physical location.

Pictured: Mike Brower, Jacob Champa, Debbie Clausen.

Blueprint Design Co., custom home plans and remodels, no physical location. Pictured: Debbie Clausen, Mariah Klaers, Mike Brower.

Spice of Life Tea Shop, tea and more, 820 W St. Germain Street, St. Cloud. Pictured: Jenna Binsfeld, Alana Emmerich, Terri Emmerich, Debbie Clausen.

Many Faces.

One Mission.

Whether in business or community, every team, every role, every company shares the same goal: putting people first and making a difference in the lives we touch.

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

17

BUSINESS PROFILE: ST. CLOUD LIVE

SPONSORED PROFILE

PLAN IT. PLACE IT. PROVE IT. Achieve more with your marketing.

W

ant to take your marketing to the next level? You need a partner who can get your brand in front of a large audience of interested buyers, when and where they need to see it.

The secret? St. Cloud Live. We’re part of the largest media organization in the Upper Midwest, connecting with more than 5 million people each month. And it doesn’t stop there.

We can reach any audience, on any channel with a professional image and message crafted to achieve your goals.

The best part? Our powerhouse digital

advertising comes with a real expert you can call for answers and insights.

From media planning and buying across DSPs to custom creative, content marketing and video production, we move the needle.

We offer high-impact local ad units you can’t buy programmatically and precision targeting built on first-party data from real audience engagement.

Did we mention transparent reporting, expert optimization, and measurable ROI? Whatever your marketing need, we can plan it, place it, and prove it. •

• Media Planning & Buying • Copywriting & Creative Design • Video Production

St. Cloud Live, 113 5th Ave. S., St. Cloud, MN 56301 stcloudlive.news/advertise • 833-773-8591 _______ Part of Forum Communications, a family-owned media company helping businesses win since 1878.

Digital expertise. Local partner.

Real results.

Get data-driven advertising with advanced targeting, transparent reporting and customized strategies from local experts who know your market and answer your call.

Let’s talk about your goals.

Ross Priest

Advertising Sales Director stcloudlive.news/advertise rpriest@stcloudlive.com 320-250-6076

18

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

2026 C E N T R A L M I N N E S O TA

FARM SHOW Presented by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

F E B R U A R Y 2 4 - 2 5, 2 0 2 6 R I V E R ’S E D G E C O N V E N T I O N C E N T E R

2026 CENTRAL MINNESOTA

FARM SHOW

Welcome to the 2026 Central Minnesota Farm Show!

Embracing Land, Life & Legacy: Growing the Future of Agriculture Together TRAVIS THEIS Dick’s Nuisance Animal Control of St. Cloud (320) 252-5259 Co-Chair, Central Minnesota Farm Show Committee

ALLEN BRINKMAN Forever Young Two Wellness and Skincare (763) 272-1500 Co-Chair, Central Minnesota Farm Show Committee

LAURA WAGNER St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce (320) 656-3831 2026 Farm Show Coordinator

THANK YOU CHAMPION SPONSORS:

T

he Central Minnesota Farm Show, hosted by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, continues its tradition as the region’s largest indoor agricultural event. You might wonder why a growing metropolitan area hosts such a show. The answer is simple: agriculture remains a driving force in our local economy. In fact, the St. Cloud Metropolitan Statistical Area has 1.5 times more people working in agriculture than comparable regions.

For more than five decades, the Farm Show has brought together everyone from hobby growers to large-scale producers. Whether you’re here to explore the latest innovations, connect with industry experts, or spark new ideas, there’s something for every level of agricultural interest. Inside this program, you’ll find a full vendor list and event map to help guide your visit.

The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to champion area farmers by hosting this annual event and investing in the future of agriculture. A portion of each year’s proceeds supports scholarships for local students pursuing agricultural careers — a commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders in ag.

This show wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated volunteers who help make it both meaningful and enjoyable. We hope you have a great experience, and if you have questions or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely, Travis Theis, Allen Brinkman and Laura Wagner

frontierprecision.com/ag

SMART SOLUTIONS. REAL SUPPORT.

Frontier Precision Agriculture is transforming modern farming — from ag drones to grain storage — with industry-leading technology. Get the flexibility and precision modern farming demands.

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION

VISIT OUR AG EXPERTS AT THE CENTRAL MN FARM SHOW

20

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

The Next Generation

Where the future of agriculture takes root.

A

griculture careers are often misunderstood — the industry is so much more than raising animals or harvesting fields.

It’s a fast-advancing, innovation-driven world shaped by technology, research, and problem-solving. Right now, we’re helping cultivate the leaders who will guide its future.

A student curious about technology might become a programmer building GPS-driven precision farming tools.

Someone with an engineering mindset could focus on equipment efficiency, sustainability, or new power systems. Students passionate about the biological sciences can immerse themselves in plant health, invasive species, genetics, or entomology — all critical to protecting crops and livestock. The opportunities span far and wide.

The St. Cloud Area Chamber is committed to showing students just how many paths agriculture offers. Each year, part of the Central Minnesota Farm Show’s proceeds supports student scholarships. Since 1998, we’ve invested $110,000 in more than 150 students — helping grow the next generation of agriculture professionals.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS! In 2025, we awarded six $1,000 scholarships.

The recipients were: High School Recipients Grace Bayerl, Howard Lake-WaverlyWinstead High School Dan Frericks, Melrose High School Madelyn Johnson, Willmar High School Heidi Zimmerman, Staples-Motley High School College Recipients Katie Orth, South Dakota State University Ava Molitor, Ridgewater College

Scholarships Available

Again this year there will be scholarships awarded to both high school and college students. Businesses that are interested in supporting our agricultural scholarship program are encouraged to donate to the fund. The Chamber of Commerce is committed to offering the Central MN Farm Show Agriculture Scholarships to support students who explore fields of study and careers in agri-industry. For more information, or to apply for a scholarship, visit CentralMNFarmShow.com.

–––– APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 1, 2026.

Everything under one barn roof.

MANAGE YOUR FARM’S FINANCES HOWEVER AND WHEREVER YOU PREFER. From checking and savings to basic or unique loans, Magnifi Financial is ready to help you manage your farm’s finances with ease. Meet with a dedicated Ag Banking Officer today!

mymagnifi.org/ag

INSURED BY NCUA

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

21

2026 CENTRAL MINNESOTA

2026 Booth Floor Map

RECC Curtain

Bleacher Seating

Exit

12' Aisle

124 122

123

222

120

121

220

118

119

218

#12 O.H. Door

844

12' Aisle

12' Aisle

Exit

Exit 12' Aisle

12' Aisle

12' Aisle

322

323

422

423

522

523

622

221

320

321

420

421

520

521

620

621

720

219

318

319

418

419

518

519

618

619

718

223

623

840

723

117

216

217

316

317

416

417

516

517

616

617

716

114

115

214

215

314

315

414

415

514

515

614

615

714

719 717

832

715

830

112

113

212

213

312

313

412

413

512

513

612

613

712

713

828

210

211

310

311

410

411

510

511

610

611

710

711

826

111

108

109

208

209

308

309

408

409

508

509

608

609

708

709

824

106

107

206

207

306

307

406

407

506

507

606

607

706

707

822

104

105

204

205

304

305

404

405

504

505

604

605

704

102

103

202

203

302

303

402

403

502

503

602

603

702

Entrance

004

Mens

005

006 INFO

007 Entrance

Entrance

008

009

Event Room

010

011

012

940

941 1036

936

835

934

935

1034

833

932

933

1032

831

930

931

1030

8'

1033 1031

829

928

929

1028

827

926

927

1026

825

924

925 1024

823

922

923 1022

1029 1027

1025

MEN

818 819

918

919

1017

817

1016

1019

816

014

916

917

815

914

915

1014

813

912

913

1012

811

910

911

1010

1011

808

809

908

909

1008

1009

806

807

906

907

1006

1007

804

805

904

905

1004

1005

903 1002

1003

814

Wall Storage

812

WF

EXIT

Exit

837

1021

013 Entrance

Womens

WF

839

943

15' Aisle

015 003

942

1023

9' Aisle

002

944

841

834

110

001

946

843

722

116

100

845

EXIT

Exit

#11 O.H. Door

OVERHEAD DOOR

842

Concessions

Exit

#19

EXIT

EXIT

#9 #6

#18

Cenaiko Storage

FARM SHOW

1015 WOMEN

1013

CONCESSIONS

Exit

Exit

Exit

Exit

Central MN Farm Show

802

February 25-26, 2025

803

902

10' Aisle

800 EXIT

WOMEN

MEN

10' Aisle EXIT

Prepared By Cenaiko Expo North Exit

FA R M N OT E S LOBBY

EXIT

EXIT

Forward-Looking Exit

Minnesota’s agriculture sector powers ahead with innovation and resilience in 2026.

M

innesota is recognized nationally for its diverse crop production, resilient industry, and innovative adaptation to change. In 2026, the agriculture sector in Minnesota remains pivotal, driven by heritage, culture, and relentless improvement in farming practices and technology.

ECONOMY: Minnesota agriculture contributes over $88 billion annually and supports more than 400,000 jobs statewide.

RESILIENCE & ADAPTATION: Minnesota’s agricultural community demonstrates unmatched resilience and sustainability, even as it navigates weather, climate, and market pressures.

INNOVATION: Precision agriculture tools, satellite technology, AI, and data-driven models are revolutionizing productivity and reshaping how farms operate and thrive.

22

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Source: Farmonaut.com

DIVERSITY: The state ranks among the top U.S. producers of corn, soybeans, wheat, sugar beets, potatoes, and livestock.

2026 CENTRAL MINNESOTA

FARM SHOW

2026 Keynote Speakers

This year’s speakers are presented in partnership with the Sustainable Farming Association.

PROFITS FROM A SMALL DIVERSIFIED FARM JOEL BARR Abraham’s Table Farm

Joel Barr operates Abraham’s Table Farm in Sandstone, Minn., where he grows organic produce on one acre using biointensive methods and raises eggs, chicken, and beef on 40 acres of rotationally grazed pasture. With efficient systems, direct-to-consumer sales, and a strong management approach, his farm consistently supports a small team and turns a profit. Barr will share the strategies that allow his operation to thrive at a remarkably small scale, including production, management, sales, and risk mitigation.

BIO: Joel Barr started farming after college and launched his own operation five years later. By staying small, focusing on efficient systems, and prioritizing regenerative practices and direct marketing, he grew Abraham’s Table Farm into a stable, profitable business.

Barr farms in Sandstone, Minn. with his wife and five daughters.

RECLAIMING THE BACK FORTY: One Farmer’s Story of Winning the Battle Against Buckthorn

WE REMOVE SILOS

BRYAN SIMON Lakeside Prairie Farm

Thirteen years into running Lakeside Prairie Farm, Bryan Simon found his biggest challenge — and opportunity— in the buckthorn-infested oak woodlot on his property. What began as an overwhelming manual battle turned into a successful goat-grazing business and a restored oak savanna. Simon will share his journey, the economic and wildlife benefits of buckthorn control, and practical considerations for improving your own “back forty.”

BIO: Bryan Simon has spent much of his career fighting invasive species, with experience leading conservation crews in Texas and Hawaii. A former land manager for The Nature Conservancy and a graduate of SDSU with a master’s in ecology, he now custom grazes cattle, operates a goat-grazing service, and consults on silvopasture and grazing systems. Simon farms near Barrett, Minn.

ESTATE PLANNING AND HOW TO EFFECTIVELY IMPLEMENT IT

Planning for the future is critical for farmers looking to preserve their legacy and protect their assets. This session, led by a financial planner, attorney, and CPA, offers best practices for safeguarding your farm, minimizing taxes, and ensuring a smooth transition of ownership to the next generation.

Take Down & Cleanup of Silos in Congested Areas Mobile Concrete Crushing • Fully Insured

(507) 236-9446 • topdownsilo.com SERVING ALL OF THE UPPER MIDWEST J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

23

2026 CENTRAL MINNESOTA

FARM SHOW

2026 Exhibitor List by Name A

D

Minnesota Implement Inc.

A.M. Maus and Son & Legacy Upfitters

Dairyland Supply

Momentum Truck Group

Direct Pivot Parts

Mustang Seed

E

N

ADM

Edward Jones

Northland Buildings

Ag Tech Drainage, LLC

F

P

Agri Partners

Farm Bureau Financial Services- Gerdes & Associates

Peterson Farms Seed

Adam Tabberson- Farm Bureau Financial Services

Agroecopower LLC Ameribuilt Buildings, Inc. American Door Works American Family Insurance- Ehlinger & Associates, Inc. American Family Insurance- Peichel Agency American Pressure, Inc. American Waterworks AMPI

Farm-Rite Equipment Finken Companies Frontier Precision Agriculture G Gilman Co-Op Creamery Growers Mineral Solutions

Arnold’s of St. Cloud

H

Arnzen Construction Inc.

Hanson Companies

ASH Supplies, LLC

Heartland Painting

Auto Value

Hotsy Minnesota

Avon Ag Lime

Hurley & Associates

Aztech Ag

I

B

Intellifarms Northern Division

Base Camp Leasing

J

Batteries Plus Bee on the Beach

Johnson Seed and Ag Services / Precision Planting

Benco Equipment

K

Benton County American Dairy Association

KASM- AM & KDDG- FM Radio

BigIron Bongards’ Creameries Boomerang Marine & Sports Boss Supply of Janesville, Inc. Brandon Communications C Central Counties Cooperative Central MN Pressure Washers Channel Seed Commercial Driving 101 Compeer Financial Complete Grain Systems Country Acres/Benton Ag Cutco

24

Farm Bureau Financial Services- Bradley Jansen

RDO Equipment Co.

Champion Sponsors:

Advocate Sponsor:

Real-Tuff, Inc Renewal by Andersen Revive Mobile Detailing Royal Renovations Royalton Lumber, Inc.

Partner Sponsors: Bongards’ Creameries

S

CentraCare

Shawn Fletcher Trucking, Inc.

Compeer Financial

Spraytec Fertilizers

Tractor Supply

Stearns Conservation District and Benton Soil and Water Conservation District

Specialty Sponsors:

Steffes Group Sustainable Farming Association T Terra Clear

Thunder Seed

LG Seeds

Top Down Silo, LLC

Lifestyle Lumber

Tractor Supply Co

Ludwig Aero Ag and Vision

Tri County Broadcasting/ WVAL Tri-County Insulation, Concrete Lifting & Painting

Magnifi Financial

W

Midwest Land Group

Woller Equipment, Inc.

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Farm Show:

R

The Land Magazine

Minnesota Agricultural Fabrication

Central Minnesota

Purple Wave Auction

Legend Seeds, Inc.

Mies Outland

supporting the 2026

Prudential Advisors

LeafFilter Gutter Protection

Midwest Machinery Co.

following sponsors for

PowerLift Doors by French Manufacturing, Inc.

The Boot Shack

M

Many thanks to the

Pleasureland RV Center

L

Lumber One Avon & Cold Spring

Thank You Sponsors

Arnzen Construction Benton Sherburne Corn Growers Finken Companies First National Bank of Milaca

2026 CENTRAL MINNESOTA

FARM SHOW

2026 Keynote Speakers

Protect your farm equipment with a quality Northland building, featuring a 50 year snowload warranty!

BUILDING ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR DAIRY HEIFER GRAZING SARAH LLOYD Wormfarm Institute, board president

Dairy heifer grazing can strengthen farm profitability while enhancing soil health and water quality. Sarah Lloyd, Ph.D., will share insights from regional efforts to expand custom heifer grazing, including enterprise economics, animal performance, ecological outcomes, and best practices for agreements between sending farms and custom graziers.

BIO: Sarah Lloyd farms with her husband in Wisconsin Dells and works with UW–Madison’s Grassland 2.0 and the University of Minnesota’s Forever Green Initiative. She also supports development at the Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative.

Lloyd has a doctorate in rural sociology and is active in the Wisconsin Farmers Union and the Wormfarm Institute, where she serves as board president.

BUILDING ALTERNATIVE FORAGES INTO YOUR CROP ROTATION KENT SOLBERG Pasture-based livestock farm

Looking to boost financial and weather resilience in your livestock or dairy operation? This session explores how integrating alternative forages and diversifying crop rotations can help buffer weather extremes, reduce pest and disease pressure, and cut input costs.

BIO: Kent Solberg and his wife Linda operate an award-winning pasture-based livestock farm in Central Minnesota. With over 25 years of experience in regenerative agriculture, soil health, adaptive grazing, and integrated crop-livestock systems, Solberg has consulted with farmers across the country and taught courses on soil health, forages, and livestock management.

INSULATION, CONCRETE LIFTING & PAINTING SPECIALISTS

320-852-7050 Experience makes the difference!

Over 100 Years of

Combined Experience Serving Minnesota, North Dakota & South Dakota

tricountyfoam.com ALEXANDRIA, MN

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

25

26

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

NETWORKCENTRAL GROW | NETWORK | PROFIT

E V E N T S A R O U N D T H E ST. C LO U D A R E A

M O R E O N E V E N T S : Fo r i n f o r m a t i o n o n t h e s e o r o t h e r b u s i n e s s e v e n t s , c a l l 3 2 0 -2 51 -2 9 4 0 o r v i s i t S t C l o u d A r e a C h a m b e r. c o m a n d c l i c k o n “ C a l e n d a r.”

Network!

In October, we came together for the Annual Chamber Celebration, a night to honor Chamber volunteer leaders and reflect on another year.

Kristen Love (L), St. Cloud Fire Chief Matt Love, Bernie Perryman, Batteries Plus

Brad Carroll and Eugenia Kalahar, Holiday Inn & Suites

Brent Opitz (L); Jason Lake and Jason Fischer, Yale Mechanical

St. Cloud Area Chamber President Julie Lunning; Jeremy Salzbrun, H & S Heating, A/C & Electrical; Joe Hellie, CentraCare

Back - Kelly Doss, Doss for Congress (L); Charles Harrison, American Family Insurance; Dan Schepers, Finken Water Treatment, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling; Dr. Tai Oguntade, Better Days Psychiatry; Front – Amanda Bzdok, Hands On Healing Massage Therapy and Alex Stay, Stay Clean Detailing

Greg Gack (L), YMCA; Jodi Gertken, CentraCare and Chad Gertken

Annual Chamber Celebration Planning Committee – Guy Magno, Switchboard (L); Brittany Liberty, Central Minnesota Mental Health Center; Jenna Binsfeld, St. Cloud Orthopedics; Julio Garcia, Palmer Printing; Alexis Demuth, Nurture to Play; Tina Mrozek, Blacklight Adventures; Bethany Ehresmann, Legacy Upfitters; Laura Holzheimer, CentraCare; Christian Kirmeier, Wits Realty

Chue Yang (L) and Mike Franklin, NextEra Energy Resources

Lizzy Deutscher, Bookkeeping Barista and Mike Forsberg, Forsberg Investments & Insurance

Dakota Johnson, Blacklight Adventures received the 2025 Shining Star Award

Daisy Murray, Texas Roadhouse (L) and Jordan Reinke, Nurture to Play J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

27

BUSINESSTOOLS GROW

| NETWORK

|

PROFIT

R ES O U RC ES T H AT H E L P YO U R B US I N ESS G RO W

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : Management Toolkit / Entreprenuerism / Tech Strategies / Economy Central by Falcon Bank

MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT

Compliance with Care Effectively navigating disability disclosure laws builds trust between employers and employees.

By Erin E. Weightman

E

mployers can establish an inclusive and trustworthy workplace by understanding how to handle disability disclosure, in addition to adhering to legal requirements. Whether you manage a small business or a large organization, knowing what

Contributor ________ Erin Weightman is an associate attorney at Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A.

28

you can and cannot ask, how to handle medical information, and when confidentiality applies, not only keeps your business legally compliant, but also creates a workplace built on trust.

post-employment offer, or during the course of employment.

Generally, individuals with the disability retain discretion as to whether or when they disclose information relating to their disability. For that reason, employers are limited in what they can ask related to disability.

In the pre-employment stage, employers cannot ask non-voluntary disability-related questions on job applications.

After extending a job offer, employers may ask disabilityrelated questions to determine if the employee can perform the essential functions of the job; however, the employer may only ask these questions if they ask the same questions to all new employees entering the same position.

During employment, employers can only ask disabilityrelated questions if they are job-related and consistent with business necessity, such as determining or implementing an appropriate accommodation.

Question Carefully

Seldom Share

Establishing trust between employers and employees is facilitated by an awareness of, and adherence to, certain legal limitations. Disability disclosure may happen at any time, whether it be pre-employment,

All medical information pertaining to disabilities must be kept private. When an employee shares medical and disability information with an employer to request an accommodation, the employee needs to feel they can

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

trust their employer. To establish this trust relationship, any employee’s medical information should only be shared with managers and supervisors on a need-to-know basis.

Typically, managers and supervisors do not need to know the employee’s medical information to provide accommodation. Any information relating to disability should be kept private and should only be shared with those who help in providing the accommodation.

Build Trust Together

Disclosing a disability to an employer may be challenging, and employers should listen and thank the employee for choosing to disclose their disability.

The best way an employer can respond when an employee chooses to disclose a disability is to start by determining if the disability is impacting job performance. If not, then it is not an issue. If job performance is impacted, then employers start a discussion by asking “What do you need to succeed at your job?” This simple question opens the door to an accessible and interactive accommodation process.

Avoid jumping to conclusions about limitations or abilities.

Instead, focus on collaboration

LOOKING FORWARD TO SERVING OUR COMMUNITY IN THE COMING YEAR

and setting the employee up for success. Working with the employee to find a solution strengthens trust and makes employees feel safe in their decision to disclose their disability.

Properly adhering to disability disclosure guidelines and maintaining confidentiality allows employers to comply with the laws and build a foundation of trust with their employees.

Employers who respect the law, uphold confidentiality, and collaborate with workers to find the best accommodations foster an environment where both the business and the employees can succeed.

www.DESIGNELECT.com CONTACT US FOR ALL YOUR COMMERCIAL WIRING NEEDS STILL GREAT REBATES ON LED LIGHTING UPGRADES CONTACT OUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TEAM

COMMERCIAL

PH-320.252.1658

TECH NEWS

The Power of Prompts

G

enerative AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming impossible to ignore, offering plenty of practical uses. Here are some ideas for ways to use the tool:

INDUSTRIAL

TRANSPORTATION

24-Hour Emergency Service

vv

Proud to be a partner in Central Minnesota’s continued growth.

1.Ask it for beauty and style advice based on your desired look.

2 Input ingredients and diet preferences for meal planning.

3 Get tips on home redecorating based on your color pallet and desired vibes.

Waite Park Public Safety Renovation & Expansion

4 Simplify your job search by getting resume and cover letter advice.

5 Troubleshoot technology problems by inputting your issues.

6 Research travel destinations, including flights, hotels, tips and more.

Remember, stay curious, experiment responsibly, and double-check all answers.

Source: CNet

Concept to Completion Design-Build Services Construction Management Excelling in Educational, Municipal, & Private Construction Projects bradburystamm.com 320.253.2411

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

29

GROW

BUSINESSTOOLS

ENTREPRENEURISM

Power in Numbers Understanding financial statements can help you make smarter business decisions.

By Emily Bertram

its equity. “Think of it as what you own, what you owe, and what’s left over,” Radeke said.

This report can tell you if a business is financially strong.

F

inancial statements are a necessary, yet often under-analyzed part of business ownership.

While these tools may seem operational at face-value, they can be used to inform smart business decisions, help with growth and investments and guide cash flow and profitability to avoid future financial trouble. During a St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Lunchtime Learning session, Creative Planning Business Advisor Paul Radeke shared more.

STATEMENTS

“Financial statements are not just compliance documents

30

that you file away for taxes,” Radeke said. “They are decision making tools.”

Radeke recommends focusing on three core statements: 1 An income statement shows a company’s profitability over time. Key metrics to monitor include gross margin, operating margin and net margin. Radeke recommends watching for trends in sales growth, cost control and seasonality.

2 A balance sheet shows a snapshot of a company’s financial position at any given time. It accounts for a company’s assets by combining its liabilities and

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

3 A cash flow statement illustrates movement of cash flow in and out of the business.

This statement serves as a reminder that profit does not equal cash. “It tells us how money is generated, how it is spent, and whether there’s enough liquidity to keep the business running smoothly,” Radeke said.

“Each of these serves a different purpose, but it’s how you use these together to create the bigger picture,” Radeke said. One change in a business can affect all three.

For example, when buying a piece of equipment with debt, the income statement will show a depreciation expense, the balance sheet will record the amount and the new asset, and the cash flow statement will reflect the financing.

“When you understand how the three statements connect, that helps you to predict more accurately to make better decisions,” Radeke said.

RATIOS

Calculating various ratios can help make informed decisions when it comes to business operations.

Liquidity ratios measure the ability of a company to

meet short term obligations.

One example is the current ratio, which can be calculated by taking current assets divided by current liabilities.

A current ratio above one can indicate that a company is in a good position for growth or expansion.

Profitability ratios show us how effectively we are turning revenue into profit.

This can be crucial, because even small gains in efficiency can have big impacts on margins. An example of a profitability ratio is net income divided by revenue to get the net profit margin.

Efficiency ratios measure how you are using assets to generate sales. One example is the inventory turnover ratio, which takes the cost of goods sold divided by the average inventory. A high inventory turnover ratio (based on the industry) indicates efficient inventory management.

These ratios can help when adjusting pricing strategy, controlling expenses, negotiating vendor pricing, tax planning, and evaluating investments and employee benefits.

ACTION

“Once you understand your financial statements and ratios, now it’s time to determine what action to take,” Radeke said. He

recommends using tools like QuickBooks or Xero to benchmark your financials against your industry, with a dashboard to monitor three to five key performance indicators monthly. “The key to this is letting the numbers guide your strategy, instead of just trusting your gut,” Radeke said. He also recommends consulting with a professional advisor to help you get started.

Whether it’s adjusting your pricing strategy or negotiating better terms with your vendors,

this analysis can help you make smart financial decisions.

Monitoring consistently throughout the year can help you spot trends and red flags sooner. Radeke equates it to looking through the windshield of a vehicle. “It’s really hard to know where you’re going if you’re only looking in the rearview mirror,” he said.

Emily Bertram is director of marketing and communications at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and editor of Business Central Magazine.

TECH NEWS

Special Delivery Deliverer

Transform Your Business with Expert Marketing Strategies

M

ore than three dozen autonomous delivery robots in Shenzhen, China, recently completed a test run using the city’s subway system to deliver goods to 7-Eleven stores. The 41 four-wheeled robots, developed by a Vanke subsidiary partly owned by Shenzhen Metro, boarded and exited active subway trains during off-peak hours. Guided by AI and panoramic lidar (similar to driverless cars), the robots navigated stations, elevators, and streets to reach storefronts, where workers retrieved the packages. The demonstration is part of a broader effort to integrate delivery robots into public spaces and improve logistics for metro-based retailers in congested areas.

L

ithium-ion batteries power many devices but can ignite due to flammable components. Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences developed a prototype with flame-retardant polymers in the cathode. When overheating, the polymers release radicals that suppress flammable gases. In extreme-heat tests, standard batteries exploded, but the prototype remained intact, suggesting a safer “smart gas management” design for future batteries.

Sources: Popular Science

Our personalized marketing strategies are designed to meet your unique needs Reach out today and let’s achieve success together CT-SPAD0430113844

Don’t Get Fired Up

Shawna Hanson, Marketing Expert shanson@localiq.com | 320-309-3609

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

31

GROW

BUSINESSTOOLS

T EC H ST R AT EG I ES

The Human Element LinkedIn is for more than just career updates — it’s a valuable marketing tool for your brand and employees.

By Taylor Sellnow

and I continue to gain followers who are curious about what I do and who I do it with.

That’s the magic of LinkedIn. It’s personal storytelling with professional impact. By showing up as myself, I’ve built relationships while simultaneously shining a light on my agency and the work we’re doing. Without

Authenticity wins. Active users want a human point of view, not a company’s. Employee advocacy is an underrated piece of the marketing pie. When your team shares your company’s story in their own words, it hits differently because it’s coming from them, not the brand.

––––––––

By showing up as myself, I’ve built relationships while simultaneously shining a light on my agency and the work we’re doing.

––––––––

even realizing it, I became an advocate for my company.

Encourage all conversations.

A

lmost two years ago, in a postpartum working mom haze, I made a post on LinkedIn. It was raw, relatable, and 100 percent me. Much to my surprise, it went “viral” with nearly 33,000 views in users’ feeds (impressions). From that point on, I was hooked. I hopped on the LinkedIn train, and here I am, two years later, still riding it out.

That post had nothing to do with sales, marketing, or my company, marketing agency Moxie Creative. It was just me sharing a glimpse into my life as a default parent, but it opened doors I didn’t even know existed. People connected with my writing, and in turn, they connected with me. For two years, I have kept the conversation going,

Contributor ________ Taylor Sellnow is an account manager at Moxie Creative, a St. Cloud-based marketing agency.

32

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

Gone are the days when LinkedIn was just for job hunting or career announcements. It’s become a cross between Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter).

So much so, that there’s a corner of LinkedIn where people post 160-character updates about Hamburger Helper. Today, it’s a melting pot of professional and personal anecdotes, a place where the working world can connect and feel less alone.

Grow personal pages.

As a marketing professional, I still recommend a business page for authority and brand equity, but with today’s algorithm, your business page alone won’t cut it. You can post there, but don’t rely on it. Why?

Empower employee advocacy.

Some examples of LinkedIn posts that employees could share include: Celebrating the end of a big project Sharing a great experience with a client Posting a behind-the-scenes photo from their day Sharing a photo from a community or industry event they’re attending Asking a question to start a conversation with followers This content is not always polished, but it is always human.

Roughly one percent of LinkedIn users actually create content, which means your employees have a real shot at standing out. When you encourage them to post, you’re giving them permission to share their experiences, build connections, and put a genuine spotlight on your business.

TECH NEWS

The ripple effect is huge.

Your employees grow their professional networks, your company gains visibility and trust, and suddenly, your brand feels a little more personal and a lot more relatable.

There’s a real opportunity on LinkedIn, and it starts with your people. Encourage your team to step out from the shadows, because when your employees share who they are and what they love about where they work, your brand becomes more than a logo — it becomes human.

Robots to the Rescue

R

esearchers at ETH Zurich, a public university in Zurich, Switzerland, have developed tiny, magnetically guided “microrobots” — actually gelatinous beads loaded with stroke-medication and a radioactive tracer — that can be steered through blood vessels using external magnets. These microrobots navigate the arteries, traveling as fast as several centimeters per second. In lab tests, the drug was delivered to the right location in about 95 percent of cases. This technology could reduce the risks associated with conventional stroke treatments, which often require high systemic doses of clot-dissolving drugs. Source: Popular Science

Your next step matters, Magnifi it.

CHECKING ACCOUNTS. CASH MANAGEMENT TOOLS. PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

TO OL S YOU COU L D B E USI N G TODAY: Business Checking Accounts: Easy access, multiple options, and low to no monthly fees Digital Essentials: eStatements, ACH, wires, and eAlerts Advanced Digital Tools: Fraud protection, remote deposit, and card payment solutions Elite & Ultimate Packages: Tailored bundles that simplify operations and save money

magnifi.creditunion

Insured by NCUA

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

33

GROW

BUSINESSTOOLS

Economy Central presented by

ECONOMY CENTRAL

Forecasting with Facts Let real economic signals guide smarter business choices.

By Muhammad Hashir Khan and Lynn MacDonald

L

ately, it seems like we are inundated with negative news stories on the economy, from falling consumer confidence to rising inflation.

It can be hard to know what to do with this information — and hard to make even-keeled decisions that are good for business while constantly hearing negative stories about economic indicators. A clear understanding of inflation and consumer confidence can make these negative headlines feel more manageable.

Indicators like inflation and consumer confidence affect

business conditions and shortand long-term planning. Ignoring trends in economic indicators could result in higher costs and slower growth.

Inflation

Inflation refers to a continuous rise in the average level of prices. When inflation is present, products become more expensive, which means we can buy less with a dollar. This indicates the value of our money is falling. Even when inflation slows, it does not mean that prices will come back down.

For example, if inflation slows

and hits the Federal Reserve Bank’s two percent target, it doesn’t mean that prices will come back down to what they were two years ago, or even last year.

When we talk about inflation, we often think about how inflation impacts consumers, but high inflation strains both consumers and businesses. When inflation is high, businesses can face higher input costs, higher wage costs, and higher transportation costs. Higher input costs put pressure on margins, and it might not always seem like there are good options to manage that pressure. Passing inflationary costs on to consumers might not be a viable option for businesses.

For example, firms may try to avoid changing prices in an attempt to stay competitive, even as input and labor costs continue to rise. To manage inflation, businesses might consider reassessing contract terms and making more efficient use of inventory.

Consumer Confidence

Inflation and its effect on consumers’ pocketbooks often influence consumer confidence.

“Consumer confidence is a catchall phrase for the opinions and attitudes of consumers about the current and future strength of the economy,” according to research done in 2003 by University of Oregon Economics Professor Jeremy Piger. Two groups regularly

Contributors ________ Muhammad Hashir Khan is a finance and international relations double major at St. Cloud State University. Lynn MacDonald, Ph.D., is associate professor of economics at St. Cloud State University and co-director of the SCSU Center for Economic Education.

34

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

measure U.S. consumer confidence: the University of Michigan and the nonpartisan, non-profit Conference Board. They both measure consumer sentiment by giving a five-question survey to a random selection of people.

These questions try to determine respondents’ feelings on current and future economic conditions.

All the responses are then compiled into an “index” number — a measure that is reflective of all the sentiments heard by the survey respondents. These two index measures help businesses understand a bit about how consumers are feeling. This is one of many measures that can be used to better understand the economy.

Importantly, consumers are often more pessimistic in their survey responses than in their actual spending behavior.

Leaders of the Federal Reserve Bank often caution that while this measure is informative, paying attention to what consumers are actually doing with their money is also important. If consumers say they are concerned about the economy, but they are simultaneously spending freely, then behavior and sentiment aren’t well-aligned.

Companies that track inflation and consumer sentiment understand the economy and can subsequently plan more accurately, reduce waste, and improve their ability to avoid making poorly timed decisions. Understanding the larger economy and its impact on local business offers a competitive edge.

October

6 COMMUNITIES — ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH

Economy Central presented by September

ECO N O M I C I N D I C ATO R S & T R E N D S

December

November

203

205 $39,723,287

126 $13,404,703

80 $6,064,699

600

156 $10,600,795

2023

50 $4,861,426.56

0

300

600

Food and Beverage ST. CLOUD - NET RECEIPTS

B U I L D I N G P E R M I T S BY C O M M U N I T Y - C O M M E R C I A L September 2023

2024 #/$

St. Cloud

August 357

615 2025 $96,038,255

337 $162,685,835

Sartell

July 320 December

465 $43,155,871

317 $26,689,058

#/$

$67,461,058 $9,859,316

June

Sauk Rapids November 38 $15,098,018

34 Food $9,362,178and Beverage

$19,051,616

178 $61,780,414

$36,768,236

19 $11,185,035

10 2023 $134,391

St. Joseph

Feb July Jan June

2000

$2000000

$200M $250M TOTAL: $231,405,464

TOTAL: 182*

Mar August

TOTAL: 1868

TOTAL: $147,517,537 TOTAL: $244,555,043

Apr September

TOTAL: 1823

St. Augusta

2025 #/$

39 2024 $9,508,967

May Waite Park October193

1500

TOTAL: $1,287,691

TOTAL: $1,604,677

$1500000

Home Sales Closed in St. Cloud Area

March $23,519,991

October

TOTAL: $231,405,464

$150M

October

16 $221,125

2024

November

1000

Data not released at time of print

$1000000 $100M

43 $1,868,911

January

500

$500000 2024

$50M

192 $10,489,449

December

6 COMMUNITIES — ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH

$0M

262 $11,443,421

February

$120M

Commercial Building Permits

2025

421 May $11,929,607 41

182

6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH

$100M

September

St. Joseph

$80M

August

St. Augusta

6 COMMUNITIES — ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH

2023

0$9,399,500300

2021

TOTAL: $106,453,097

TOTAL: $244,555,043

2024

320 $16,142,200

April $1,147,663

Commercial Building Permits

2025

752

2020

$60M

July

Sauk Rapids

1309 $34,828,278

2025

January$13,925,277 June

2019

$40M

June

Sartell

2025 #/$

1279 2023 $31,680,076

977

$42,525,857 February July

0

$20M

May

St. Cloud

$100M $120M TOTAL: $106,922,594

Food and Beverage Tax Collection

ST. CLOUD

$0 $0M

Home Sales Closed ST. CLOUD

2024 #/$

August

Waite Park

2023

April

$80M

March

2023 March #/$

2021

2020

2019

2024

$60M

2024

September

2025 $40M

May October

BUILDING P E R M I T S BY C O M M U N I T Y - R E S I D E N T I A L April

TOTAL: $70,400,574

$20M

June November

February

January

December

November

October

September

August

July

June

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

TOTAL: $106,922,594

6 COMMUNITIES — ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH TOTAL: $106,453,097

$0M

ST. CLOUD

July 2025 Jan Feb December Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2025 Totals represent data reported as of 12/1/2025

2023

Home Sales Closed

COLOR KEY:August

TOTAL: $70,400,574

Compiled by Shelly Imdieke, St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

Residential Building Permits

E PARK,

November

16,523*

$200M

Residential Building Permits

2024

621,465

885,721

$80M

E PARK,

1,424*

32,948

24,272

December

ST. CLOUD - NET RECEIPTS 140 7 $164,454

2025

81 $24,862,496

67 $20,787,565

53

$8,885,282 $0 $500k

2024

May and St. Joseph Sources: Building departments for the following cities: St. Cloud, Sauk Rapids, Sartell, Waite Park, St. Augusta, Apr

Unemployment Rates 2024-2025

2023

2024-2025 -% CHANGE

Source: positivelyminnesota.com

December

November

October

1.0%

4%

September

August

July

June

M

Jan

May

F

April

1.5%

March

$250M

December

$200M November

October

September

$150M

August

July

June

May

April

March

February

January

$100M

February

2.0%

$50M

Source: positivelyminnesota.com $0 $500k

Feb

January

5%

$0M

2023

Non-Farm Mar Jobs

TOTAL: $147,517,537

0.5% 0.0% -0.5%

3%

-1.0% -1.5% 2%

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

St. Cloud Minneapolis/St. Paul Minnesota United States

-2.0%

J

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

St. Cloud, MN (MSA) Minnesota United States

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

35

GROW

600

E PARK,

300

16,523*

0

621,465

January

885,721

$200M

$80M

$120M

E PARK,

$100M

1,424*

$80M

32,948

24,272

$60M

900

1200

1500

BUSINESSTOOLS December

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

E C O N O M I C I N D I C A T O R S & T R E N DDecember S

September

April 2023 seigniorage (profit made byMarch a government from issuing currency) February loss from pennies:

3

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

December

16

November

22

October

Benton Co.

September

48

August

2025

41

13.8 cents

July

2024

59

3.69 cents

June

2023

Stearns Co.

Cost to mint a nickel:

May

Residential

Cost to produce a penny: April

SHERIFFS' FORECLOSURE AUCTIONS

100

Over 3 billion

January

March

80

Number of pennies minted last year:

$85.3 million

February

60

$2M

The U.S.August Treasury Department placed its final order for penny July blanks in May 2025, with production expected to end once supplies run out in early 2026. The decision June follows years of mounting losses from producing the May coin. one-cent

January

December

November

October

September

August

July

June

May

April

March

February

January

TOTAL: 81

December

October

2000

$2000000

$2M TOTAL: 51

November

A penny nickel for your thoughts?

Home Sales Closed in St. Cloud Area

TOTAL: $1,738,973

2023

36

October

$2M

$1.5M

40

December

TOTAL: 182*

$1.5M

6 COMMUNITIES - ST. CLOUD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK, ST. AUGUSTA, ST. JOSEPH

TOTAL: $1,708,738

TOTAL: 57

20

September

TOTAL: $1,397,800

2025

0

$1.5M

November

Sheriffs’ Foreclosure Auctions

2024

$1M

BY THE NUMBERS TOTAL: $1,310,789

TOTAL: $1,788,876

STEARNS AND BENTON COUNTIES $0 $500k $1M

January $500k

Source: Tax Collections — City of St. Cloud

Jan

Source: Tax Collections — City of St. Cloud

$0

TOTAL: 1868

$1M

August

1500

2021

Feb 1200

TOTAL: $1,738,973

February

TOTAL: 1823

$500k

July

2023

Mar

1500

2024$0

TOTAL: $1,287,691

$1500000

TOTAL: $1,604,677

2025

June

March

1000

Data not released at time of print

$1000000

2024

May

April

TOTAL: 1274

Food and Beverage Tax Collection TOTAL: $1,569,840 ST. CLOUD - NET RECEIPTS

2020

ST. CLOUD

2025

2023

2024

500

$500000

Lodging Tax Dollars

TOTAL: $1,788,876

May

0

900

Food and Beverage Tax Collection

600

St. Cloud Area$250M Association of Realtors, $150MSource:$200M http://stcloudrealtors.com/pages/statistics.

2023

June

Apr

ST. CLOUD

300

July

2025

2019

2021

0

TOTAL: $1,397,800

August

TOTAL: 1341

May

TOTAL: $147,517,537

April

ST. CLOUD - NET RECEIPTS September

June

2020

2019

$0

2023

March

October

August

TOTAL: $231,405,464

February

Food and Beverage Tax Collection

July

2024

October

November

SeptemberTOTAL: 987

TOTAL: $244,555,043

2025

January

UD, SAUK RAPIDS, SARTELL, WAITE PARK,

December

November

October

September

August

July

June

May

Apr

Mar

Feb

Jan

Home Sales Closed ing Permits ST. CLOUD

November

A Federal Reserve analysis suggests that eliminating the penny will lead businesses to round cash purchases to the nearest nickel — a shift that would cost U.S. consumers about $6 million annually, based on current payment patterns. The study found that cash totals are slightly more likely to end in amounts that round up, creating a modest net “rounding tax.”

Electronic payments such as credit and debit card transactions, however, will remain unaffected and continue to be processed at exact amounts.

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

New Year.

Fresh Start.

Even for Your Finances.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to re-evaluate the things that matter most your priorities, your goals, your relationships… and yes, your banking relationship too.

If your current bank feels less personal, less responsive, or less in tune with your business and community, it might be time to take another look.

At Falcon National Bank, banking isn’t just about numbers. It’s about relationships, responsiveness, and doing business with people who know your name and your goals.

Top 5 Signs It’s Time to Re-Evaluate Your Bank 1. Your bank has been bought or merged.

2. You feel like a number, not a person.

3. Fees, products, or digital tools aren’t keeping up.

4. Local focus and community connection are fading.

5. Your bank no longer reflects your values or priorities.

Scan the QR code to read the full article and start your year with confidence.

Let’s make 2026 the year you bank better - together.

St. Cloud | Richmond | Foley | Isanti | Ham Lake | Maple Grove

Developing Legacy Nick Ringsmuth, Frank Ringsmuth and lifelong employee Ginny Olmscheid.

–––––––

Old-School Craft Frank Ringsmuth works with old film negatives — a skill that remains a core foundation of the business.

––––

38

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

C OV E R STO R Y

DEVELOP. ADJUST. REPEAT.

Frank Ringsmuth has led The Camera Shop through industry upheaval by evolving i ts services, embracing technology and focusing o n what matters most.

S T O R Y B Y E M I LY B E R T R A M • P H O T O S B Y S W I T C H B O A R D

S

ome of the most successful brands in history are still thriving because they were adept at diversifying and adapting to changing trends in their industries. E-commerce giant Amazon started as an online bookseller. Tech behemoth Apple began primarily with personal computers. Netflix used to mail DVDs to subscribers before launching its streaming service.

The Camera Shop began as a small film-processing business.

Over the course of 78 years, its leaders have continuously adapted to an ever-changing photography industry, ensuring the shop remains a trusted place to capture, preserve, and celebrate life’s memories.

Focal Point

Family Collaboration Nick Ringsmuth and his dad, Frank Ringsmuth, pictured outside their current location.

–––––––

Originally opened by Russell Roe in 1947, The Camera Shop was located at 15 7th Ave. S in downtown St. Cloud. Roe operated the store until 1967, when his son-in-law Harry Stanius took over.

Around that same time, Frank Ringsmuth was attending Cathedral High School when his friend Peter said he was going home to “make some enlargements.” Ringsmuth recalls being intrigued and went with Peter to his home darkroom, where they processed some prints. Soon after, Ringsmuth and Peter started Cathedral’s first Camera Club on campus. “We got a couple of enlargers, a bunch of trays and we started developing our own film, and printing pictures on the enlarger,” Ringsmuth said. He had found his career.

After high school, Ringsmuth attended St. Cloud State University where he earned a degree in photographic engineering technology. In 1973 he stopped at The Camera Shop to inquire about a job. Stanius wasn’t initially interested, but after noticing that Ringsmuth had completed an internship at

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

39

FRANK'S BUSINESS ADVICE

“Do lots of research, ask lots of questions, and be prepared to work very hard."

The Starting Point Russel Roe, The Camera Shop’s original owner, outside the store at 15 7th Ave. S.

40

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 5

Pako Photo in the Twin Cities, Stanius called back, offering Ringsmuth a position.

1975 proved to be a big year, as Ringsmuth graduated from St. Cloud State, The Camera Shop moved to 22 7th Ave. S and Ringsmuth was promoted to plant manager. “I was his plant manager from 1975 to 2012, when he wanted to retire and we worked out a deal where I could buy him out and take over,” Ringsmuth said.

He bought the business in 2012.

PERSONAL PROFILE

Frank Ringsmuth Family: Wife Laura and children Angela, Erik, Christina, Ember, Nick and Maggie

One-Hour Processing was open for 32 years, closing in July of 2020 to consolidate efforts in one place. Olmscheid still works at the store’s downtown location.

Going the Distance

As new photo and film technologies were released, The Camera Shop invested in the latest Hometown: equipment to meet the processing needs. Since Waite Park, Minn. many of the one-hour photo shops around town Education: did not have the latest equipment, Ringsmuth St. Cloud State University Shutter Speed worked out deals with them, and with photo labs Fun Fact: “This industry has changed tremendously over around the Midwest, to process the new film Worked at the very first the years,” Ringsmuth said. “I graduated in ‘75 types the other shops took in. It was extremely McDonald’s in town when and in about 1980, the first one-hour photo successful. they opened in 1970. equipment became available.” Soon there were “At one time we were so busy that we started Hobbies: one-hour photo stores popping up everywhere. a night crew,” Ringsmuth said. They partnered I’ve been a unicyclist since “So now we had new competitors in town with Spee-Dee Delivery to pick up the film daily I was 15 and trained about who could do in one hour what we did in six all over the Midwest and bring it to The Camera 120 kids over the years hours,” Ringsmuth said. He understood that Shop. The night crew would process and print through the Ringsmuth to compete, they had to be able to match that it overnight, and then ship it out via Spee-Dee Riders Unicycle Club. I enjoy playing volleyball service, so they bought their first one-hour photo the next morning. “Spee-Dee allowed us to be an and tennis. I’ve also been equipment around 1982. It saved hours of time, extension of these one-hour mini labs because a deacon in the St. Cloud and eventually they got rid of all the outdated, they didn’t have the resources to buy new Diocese for 14 years. conventional equipment. equipment,” he said.

It was also around that time that business This diversification in photo processing on the west end of town was increasing with the technology paid off immensely over the years, as growth of Crossroads Center. In 1986, Ringsmuth the introduction of cameras in cell phones and proposed opening a second location. “I told the rise of social media became a moving force in Harry [Stanius], ‘We should have a location out there. You could do it the industry. “The reasons we’ve been able to stay in business and thrive yourself, or we could do it as a partnership,’ ” Ringsmuth said. Harry is because of all the many other things we do,” Ringsmuth said. They agreed to the partnership, and on October 17, 1987, they opened Camera develop obscure old film that others can’t. They offer poster and decor Shop One-Hour Processing across from Target at Crossroads Center. creation, video tape conversions, photo reconstruction and more — and “It was an interesting arrangement that just worked out marvelously,” it’s the ancillary services that have helped them thrive despite the digital Ringsmuth said. “Harry had a great deal of trust in me — I worked revolution. That, and the addition of a whole new service line. harder for him than I worked for myself.”

Longtime employee Ginny Olmscheid primarily ran the new Action Shots location. “We wouldn’t be in business without Ginny Olmscheid,” “The Camera Shop has been not only a photo finishing shop for Ringsmuth said. Olmscheid has been with The Camera Shop for 78 years, but in the mid-80s we got into youth sports photography,” 54 years — two years longer than Ringsmuth. Camera Shop Ringsmuth said. They began by photographing several local sports

TIMELINE 1947

1968

1975

Russel Roe opens The Camera Shop at 15 7th Ave. S, downtown St. Cloud

Color film processing and printing equipment are installed; “six-hour service” begins

1967

1973

The Camera Shop moves across the street; Ringsmuth is promoted to production manager

Harry and Susan (Roe) Stanius take over the family business as Russell retires

Frank Ringsmuth starts working part-time at The Camera Shop

1983 The Camera Shop invests more than $100,000 to install

one-hour photo processing equipment

1987 Stanius and Ringsmuth partner, opening a location in west St. Cloud across the street from Crossroads Center

1995 The Camera Shop moves to their current location in downtown St. Cloud

2000 The company installs St. Cloud’s first digital photofinishing printer

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

41

leagues, a local school and several pre-schools.

Before taking over the business in 2012, he needed to know what the future would look like. “I needed a growth area, so I started going to national conventions to learn the school photography business model. We started growing that business a lot more in about 2000,” he said.

By 2015, they launched a new name for this division of their company called Picture Day Pro. “As we grew further out from St. Cloud, we wanted a new name and a new image,” Ringsmuth said. They currently service schools within about 80 miles of St. Cloud. This growth allowed Ringsmuth to expand his staff. “I also have an office in Brainerd with a key employee who does a lot of work in our out-of-St. Cloud area,” Ringsmuth said.

Digital Developments

BUSINESS PROFILE

chemicals — essentially a buying group that secures lower rates. The Camera Shop had been a member since 1995. The number of independent photo labs in the U.S. have gone from around 30,000 to around 5,000 in 30 years. To address the diminishing numbers, IPI created a licensed business opportunity to help the remaining labs stay modern and relevant. It’s called The Print Refinery.

“The Print Refinery is a licensed business model,” Ringsmuth said, similar to a franchise.

“There are sixteen Print Refineries like us around the U.S.” Through this collaboration, The Camera Shop gets a new physical store design that looks refreshed and inviting, help and guidance with marketing — including an updated website template — and individual business coaching, among other things. The program opened the door for the next phase of The Camera Shop — and the next generation.

The Camera Shop & The Print Refinery 25 7th Ave. S Suite 200, St. Cloud, MN 56301 (320) 251-2622 thecamerashop.com Owner: Frank Ringsmuth Business Description: Full-service photo lab and digital printer offering film processing, video transfers, and portrait services.

Number of employees: 10 full-time, 8 part-time Opened in 1947 Member of the Chamber since 1971 –––––

Managing this new service line along with all their other products is a large undertaking from a digital A New Lens aspect. “Our website —TheCameraShop.com — was Nick Ringsmuth is Frank’s son and vice president (800) 793-0112 picturedaypro.com created in 2006,” Ringsmuth said. It worked of operations for The Camera Shop and Picture fine, but became out of date as time went on. In Day Pro. He is a computer programmer with a Business Description: need of clear direction for updating the website, degree in computer science, so when Ringsmuth School and sports photography service Ringsmuth began his research. “I believed I was was figuring out the next steps for their website, offering professional going to have to spend $15,000 — maybe a lot he presented The Print Refinery partnership to photographers, efficient more — to make a website that could do what we Nick for his advice. “This is actually what got Nick online ordering, and needed to do to flourish online,” he said. onboard with my company,” Ringsmuth said. in-house production of “So I dragged my feet on what to do.”

Despite his father’s long career at The Camera portraits and print products.

At the same time, Picture Day Pro was Shop, Nick had never planned on joining it himself. growing. “To do school and sports photography “This was an opportunity totally outside my realm requires some specialized software that manages to learn something different,” Nick said. He has not only images, but data,” Ringsmuth said. Every been able to help customize and program both The picture has to be associated with a child’s name, their teacher or coach’s Camera Shop and the Picture Day Pro websites in-house. In collaboration name, their school and their parent’s contact information. with The Print Refinery’s marketing suite, the new website was launched The Camera Shop found help from Independent Photo Imagers in 2024 and features improved design to showcase all products and (IPI). IPI negotiates agreements with suppliers of photo paper, film, services and an enhanced online ordering system for customers.

Picture Day Pro

TIMELINE 2008 The “third generation” photofinishing printer is installed

2012 Ringsmuth purchases Stanius’ remaining shares in the business, relocating the retail store from its ground-

42

level store front to the second floor of the same building and installing a new digital press printer for creating two-sided print products

its school and youth sports photography; The Camera Shop opens offices in Twin Cities and Brainerd

2022

2015

2020

2024

The Camera Shop One-Hour Processing west location closes.

Ringsmuth establishes the Picture Day Pro brand, expanding

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

The Camera Shop adds digital transfer equipment for 8mm and 16mm movie film The Camera Shop launches its new website, co-brands with The Print Refinery

and closes the Twin Cities office

2025 Picture Day Pro begins using Captura software for photo management

In 2025, Nick was also instrumental in the implementation of Captura, their new school and sports photography management system.

“It’s a seamless system that helps us work faster and get a lot more done in limited time,” Frank Ringsmuth said. Pictures are edited and posted within 24 hours, and orders are managed and placed online.

Nothing is confirmed yet, but there’s a very good chance that Nick will be the future of The Camera Shop. “He has been the backbone of our growth and changes, with the websites he’s built and a new email system,” Ringsmuth said.

In Focus At its core, The Camera Shop is in the memory business, whether that’s helping to restore old memories or capture new ones. They see hobbyists experimenting with film cameras bringing in their film for processing.

They have parents going online to order prints and enlargements of sports photos. They have customers from all over the U.S. reaching out because they’re the only place that still develops obscure film. “What the Camera Shop does is those two main things,” Nick said. “We take things that are digital and we make them physical and real, and then we take things that are old and not useful and we turn them into something useful.” And they do that with a staff of 18 employees — ten of them full-time.

“We have fabulous employees — I’ve got the best crew,” Ringsmuth said. “I’ve had a lot of fortunate things happen, making the right decisions, but a lot of that happened with the input and guidance of my employees.”

The Camera Shop staff rarely back down from a challenge. “We process almost every kind of film ever made that you can shoot in a still camera,” Ringsmuth said. “We got in several rolls of film from a woman in Alaska who found us online. We processed them and returned them to her, and she was so happy she said, ‘Do you know where I can get all my video tapes transferred?’ ” They were able to do that for her too, and she was so

All-Star Staff thankful to get everything she The Camera Shop’s 18 employees needed from one place, (many of whom are pictured here) Ringsmuth said. are celebrated by Frank as nothing While there are national short of “the best crew.” companies that do digitizing ––––––– services, offering a local option gives peace of mind. “If you’re worried about your old memorabilia, you don’t have to ship it out,” Nick said.

“I would say 99.9 percent of everything stays in-house.” Plus, they are always willing to work on creative solutions. “Sometimes someone comes in here and they don’t know exactly what they want, or they think they know what they want, and we talk to them and figure out what’s actually the best solution,” Nick said. It’s a work ethic for which Frank Ringsmuth credits his father.

Ringsmuth grew up in Waite Park, where his dad Al served as the mayor for 38 years. Al also worked as a welder for the Great Northern Railroad and ran a small welding business out of his garage called Al’s Repair. “He was very present to us 11 children,” Ringsmuth said.

“He would walk to work, and he was always home for lunch.” Everybody knew Al — the public library in Waite Park is even named after him.

“I think I got my work ethic from my dad, because he was always doing something.”

Located at 25 7th Ave. S since 1995, The Camera Shop has stood the test of time, unlike many of its kind. “Most of my colleagues around the country who have had their own photo labs over the years have closed up shop,” Ringsmuth said. “I get to still run a business that I enjoy, in a field that I have enjoyed since high school, and there’s a great deal of satisfaction in doing that.”

Emily Bertram is director of marketing and communications at the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and editor of Business Central Magazine

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

43

44

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

SPECIAL FOCUS

IT STARTS FROM WITHIN Supporting employees with invisible disabilities means supporting all employees.

B

By Jeanine Nistler

usiness leaders long have recognized the importance of accommodating employees with disabilities — at least those employees who use assistive devices such as wheelchairs, canes, and walkers.

But what about those who have an invisible disability, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, a behavioral health disorder like anxiety or depression, or debilitating chronic pain? Unfortunately, you may not be aware whether any of your team members live with these challenges.

Darla Hamann, who has a doctorate in human resources and industrial relations from the University of Minnesota, is a former faculty member at St. Cloud State University.

“Neurodivergent people are very common,” Hamann said, referencing statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In 2025, one in 31 eight-year-olds in the United States was on the autism spectrum. About six in 10 children had ADHD. (The CDC does not have a surveillance system for tracking adults with these disabilities, but cites a 2017 study that estimated that 2.21 percent of adults had autism spectrum disorder.)

Additionally, 57.8 million (22.8 percent of the U.S. population) have mental illness. Of those, 14.1 million adults (5.5 percent of the population) suffer from serious mental illness that severely disrupts daily functioning.

BUILDING CULTURE

Because you cannot see these disabilities, and individuals may choose not to disclose them, there may be misunderstandings, false perceptions, and judgments that negatively

impact individual employees and your business.

You do not need to know who has what to support your staff. Individuals can disclose or not disclose, based on their own comfort levels.

Educating all employees about unseen disabilities — and asking every staff member how best to help them be successful on the job — are essential to establishing and maintaining a supportive work environment, said Julie Wolke, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist on CentraCare’s behavioral health team. “It could be helpful to have a universal language to use with all employees, rather than singling people out,” Wolke said. “Differences aren’t a bad thing.”

Hamann agrees. “If you want to create a culture where all employees are valued, you need to train all employees,” she said. When collaborating with neurodiverse people, it is most important to “understand how other brains think. It’s not just hiring a diverse population.

It’s teaching them to work together. Don’t assume you know what to do. You may need to ask them what they need.”

Janet Tilstra suggests “Manual of Me,” a tool that asks exactly that. Tilstra, Ph.D., is a professor of communication sciences and disorders, and director of SCSU’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. In using the manual, employees and their supervisors write responses to prompts such as “I describe myself as … .” “I do my very best work when … .” “When receiving feedback, it’s important that … .” Using an existing “Manual of Me” format, (available online) or developing your own, can “create a warm environment,” Tilstra said. “This is how we understand each other.”

Tilstra noted that “supporting people with a wide range of needs means the whole workplace

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

45

SPECIAL FOCUS

needs to embrace ways of thinking about that.

We all have a wide range of human needs and human capacity. Everybody is going to have something.”

Although the much-used Myers-Briggs assessment is flawed, Hamann said, it can be valuable because “it facilitates a conversation.”

Playing to employees’ strengths is a great way to increase productivity, innovation, satisfaction, and retention. Putting two

people with extremely different ways of thinking together on a project can produce exceptional results, she said.

“Neurodivergent individuals bring unique strengths to the workplace,” United Kingdom HR pro Katie Rees wrote in an article on thehrdirector.com. “People with dyslexia are often highly creative and excel at thinking in three dimensions. Those with autism might have an exceptional ability to focus on fine details for extended periods.”

Employers should strive to “create a culture within the workplace that doesn’t make people afraid to disclose (a disability),” according to Tammison Smith, Ph.D., associate director of career development and outreach in SCSU’s Career Center. With strong one-on-one relationships between employer and employee, Smith said, trust is built that can create a positive culture of disclosure and accommodation.

OFFERING SUPPORT

“There are many times that we hear employers say, ‘We are here for you and will support you in any way possible,’ but then when the employee reaches out, they don’t get the support that they need,” according to Tiffany Stang, vocational rehabilitation specialist with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Cloud.

Stang and other local experts acknowledge that the type of support needed can be quite varied. Hamann says the term “flexible work environment” has more meanings than allowing people to work from home. “It also means flexible within your circumstances,” such as providing padded mats for workers who must stand to perform their duties, or stools for those who cannot stand for long periods. People with ADHD or autism may need seating that accommodates Story continued on page 48.

ARE YOU SEEKING TO DIVERSIFY YOUR WORKFORCE? Career Solutions is a local workforce development provider, known by many employers to be a trusted employment & Training agency serving businesses and job seekers in Stearns and Benton Counties. We connect employers with diverse, skilled candidates and provide resources to ensure success!

All services are provided at no cost!

CONTACT US AT 320-308-5320 OR INFO@CSJOBS.ORG VISIT CAREERSOLUTIONSJOBS.ORG TO LEARN MORE!

46

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

IN THE KNOW

Definitions and Resources Invisible disability: A physical, mental, or neurological condition that is not visible from the outside, yet can limit or challenge a person’s movements, senses, or activities.

Manual of Me: A framework to help individuals discover and communicate their working preferences, motivations, and needs.

Neurodivergent: Having or relating to a disorder or condition (such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, or obsessivecompulsive disorder) that impacts the way the brain processes information: exhibiting or characteristic of variations in typical neurological development.

Behavioral health: A state of mental, emotional, and social well-being or behaviors and actions that affect wellness. Behavioral health is a key component of overall health. The term is used to describe the support systems that promote well-being, prevent mental distress, and provide access to treatments and services for mental health conditions.

Invisible Disabilities Association: A charitable nonprofit dedicated to increasing understanding of invisible illnesses, pain, and disabilities by encouraging, educating, and connecting people and organizations

Reviewing and upgrading your practices: Several of the experts quoted in this story are open to speaking with local business people about embracing and accommodating employees with invisible

so that those affected are believed, supported, and no longer overlooked.

disabilities. You may start by contacting Janet Tilstra, jstilstra@stcloudstate.edu, 320-308-3029, who can speak with you or connect you with the others.

For even more information, visit BusinessCentralMagazine.com.

MEASURABLE RESULTS Let us help you grow your business!

Strategic. Creative. Effective.

WhiteBoxMarketing.com Hello@WhiteBoxMarketing.com 320.270.0722 J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

47

SPECIAL FOCUS

“I think it would be great if it was more recognized that mental health days are good for our mental well-being and are a great coping skill at times.”

—TIFFANY STANG, VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SPECIALIST, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS IN ST. CLOUD

moving frequently or rhythmically, and for some, fidget toys may be helpful, Hamann said.

Setting clear expectations regarding what you want employees to accomplish is important for all, but especially for those who may have unseen disabilities, experts say. So is allowing employees time for personal appointments, as they may require specific therapies at specific times.

Sometimes workers may just need a day away from the routine. “I think it would be great if it was more recognized that mental health days are good for our mental well-being and are a great coping skill at times,” the VA’s Stang said.

Whatever policies and procedures you develop, be sure they are written, clear, and transparent — and are kept where employees can easily find them. “Be open to creating an

48

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

environment where you tell employees if there is anything that makes you comfortable, bring it in to work,” Hamann said. The key is ensuring those comforts support, rather than disrupt, safe and effective work.

Some experts suggest that employers make quiet spaces and the use of noisecancelling headphones available to all. They also recommend providing dual screens and speech-to-text programs. Because symptoms of some disabilities are intermittent, you may have employee who aren’t able to show up at 8 a.m. Monday. Smith noted that some may do their best work outside the traditional workday.

“I think we learned during the pandemic that that is not when some significant and important work gets done,” she said.

University of Minnesota research on flexible work environments has shown that employees do better when they are evaluated on the results of their work, not when and where the work is performed, Hamann said.

“Supporting neurodivergent employees is a crucial step toward fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and respected,” HR pro Katie Rees wrote.

Tilsta agrees. “There are lots of different paths to do good work.”

Jeanine Nistler (jeaninenistler@outlook.com) is a St. Cloud-based freelance writer whose career has included daily newspaper reporting and editing, as well as communications work in health care, higher education, and state government settings.

J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6 // BusinessCentralMagazine.com

49

PROFIT

BUSINESSSPOTLIGHT

Beyond the Diagnosis Taiwo (Tai) Oguntade, DNP, owner of Better Days Psychiatry, feels he was called to be a caregiver.

By Emily Bertram

What drew you to healthcare?

I had to take care of my mom and my grandma at the end of their lives. People were telling me “You’re a caregiver.” It led me to being a nurse and helping people.

Why focus on mental health?

I found my passion for mental health because I’ve had family members who have struggled with mental health and addiction.

I did a clinical rotation in Jamestown, North Dakota in the psychiatry unit in 2015 and I was assigned to a very tough patient with a violent past who was court-ordered to get treatment. Nobody else wanted to work with this patient, so I took the role. I soon learned that he liked to play basketball, so we started playing together and I was able to get him to talk to me. I learned that it’s not really about diagnosis, it’s more so just about interacting.

How did you decide to open your own practice?

I have a business background. When I was in Africa, I worked in marketing, but I

started from scratch when I moved to the U.S. After discovering nursing, I worked in several clinics while furthering my education. In 2024, the company I was working for unexpectedly closed. I opened Better Days Psychiatry in December of 2024.

What hurdles have you faced?

Early on somebody told me that I didn’t have a good business model. They wanted to see me have a lot of patients in a short period of time, but this person does not know my struggles or strengths. I was driven to prove that person wrong. In this field, if you’re not there for the patients — if money is what’s most important — you’re in the wrong business.

What do you see for your future?

My short-term goal is to have a full caseload so I can support the community in terms of mental health. Long-term, I would like to open another clinic. I have been in St. Cloud for 20 years, and this is home for me. I love giving back to my community through my mental health services.

Tai Oguntade, DNP –––––– Age: 54 • Family: Wife Lola and children Abibat, Abdulhamid, Jabar, Sabina, and Rayan • Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria Education: St. Cloud Technical and Community College, St. Cloud; Presentation College in Aberdeen, South Dakota; Walden University, Minneapolis Hobbies: Riding bikes and spending quality time with family, reading, sightseeing, watching soccer, playing tennis, and enjoying good food

Better Days Psychiatry –––––– Owner: Tai Oguntade, DNP betterdayspsychiatrymhs.com • 320-281-3154 • Opened December 2024 toguntade@better-days-psychiatry.com • Joined the Chamber: 2025 Business Description: Better Days Psychiatry provides comprehensive evaluations, therapy, and medication management services to support mental well-being in a safe and understanding environment.

50

BusinessCentral Magazine.com // J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6

TIMELINE 2006 Moved to the U.S. from Lagos, Nigeria 2007 Took nursing general education at North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minn.

2009 Transferred credits to St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC) after admission into the part-time LPN program 2009 Moved to St. Cloud, Minn.

2011 Graduated from SCTCC with an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Practical Nursing 2012 Earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences from SCTCC

2015 Did a mental health clinical rotation in Jamestown, North Dakota 2016 Graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing Degree from Presentation College in Aberdeen, South Dakota 2022 Began working for a mental health clinic in Morris, Minn.

2022 Earned a Master of Science Degree in Nursing from Walden University, specializing as a psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner 2024 Opened Better Days Psychiatry after previous employer closed 2025 Earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from Walden University

GROWING COMPANIES ENHANCING COMMUNITIES Granite Partners is a private investment and long-term holding company founded in 2002 in St. Cloud, Minnesota, with a mission to grow companies and create value for all stakeholders. We advance a culture of trust, innovation, and excellence as essential to 100-year sustainability, and we aspire to world-class wellbeing for everyone in the Granite community.

Granite.com

POWER OF HUMAN COLLABORATION CONFERENCE

&

WINTER CAREER FAIR FEBRUARY 6, 2026

720 FOURTH AVENUE SOUTH | ST. CLOUD, MN 56301

St. Cloud State University’s Multicultural Student Services presents their 17th annual student leadership conference: “Power of Human Collaboration.” Reflecting a renewed commitment to collaboration and progress and welcoming all students, the conference will explore how artificial intelligence can amplify human potential in leadership, education, and career development. SCSU’s Career Center is also hosting the Winter Career Fair, an excellent networking opportunity for students and employers across Minnesota to explore potential internships, part-time positions, and full-time employment.

Business Business BusinessCash Cash CashManagement Management Management Business Cash Management made made madesimple simple simple made simple

I I I I II I I

Saving Saving Saving time, time, time, saves saves saves costs. costs. costs.

Saving time, saves costs.

Simplify Simplify Simplify your your your finances. finances. finances.

Simplify your finances.

MANAGE MANAGE MANAGE YOUR YOUR YOUR BUSINESS BUSINESS BUSINESS ANYTIME, ANYTIME, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE ANYWHERE ANYWHERE MANAGE YOUR BUSINESS ANYTIME, ANYWHERE ACH ACH ACH - Pay - -Pay -Pay Pay your your your vendors vendors vendors and and and employees employees employees electronically. electronically. electronically.

ACH your vendors and employees electronically.

Wires Wires Wires - Pay - -Pay -Pay Pay businesses businesses businesses oror individuals or individuals individuals the the the same same same day. day. day.

Wires businesses or individuals the same day.

Positive Positive Positive Pay Pay Pay - Protect - -Protect -Protect Protect your your your account account account from from from check check check fraud. fraud. fraud.

Positive Pay your account from check fraud.

Remote Remote Remote Deposit Deposit Deposit - Remotely - -Remotely -Remotely Remotely scan scan scan and and and deposit deposit deposit checks. checks. checks.

Remote Deposit scan and deposit checks.

Enhanced Enhanced Enhanced Security Security Security - Delegate - -Delegate -Delegate Delegate multi-factor multi-factor multi-factor access. access. access.

Enhanced Security multi-factor access.

Employer Employer Employer Services Services Services - HR - -HR -HR support HR support support forfor payroll for payroll payroll direct direct direct Employer Services support for payroll direct

II I II I

deposits, deposits, deposits, health health health savings savings savings accounts accounts accounts and and and retirement retirement retirement plans. plans. plans. deposits, health savings accounts and retirement plans.

Kinsey Kinsey Kinsey Binnie Binnie Binnie Kinsey Binnie

Jenny Jenny Jenny Massmann Massmann Massmann Jenny Massmann

Lindsay Lindsay Lindsay Frieler Frieler Frieler

KinseyB@LogBank.com KinseyB@LogBank.com KinseyB@LogBank.com KinseyB@LogBank.com

JennyM@LogBank.com JennyM@LogBank.com JennyM@LogBank.com JennyM@LogBank.com

LindsayF@LogBank.com LindsayF@LogBank.com LindsayF@LogBank.com

Contact Contact Contact us us for us more for more more information, information, information, including including including terms terms terms and and conditions. and conditions. conditions.

Software Software Software and and hardware and hardware hardware requirements requirements requirements apply. apply. apply.

Features Features Features and/or and/or and/or limits limits limits may be may subject be subject subject toto to approval. approval. to approval.

Contact usfor for more information, including terms and conditions.

Software and hardware requirements apply. may be subject approval.

STST CLOUD ST CLOUD CLOUD WEST WEST WESTSTST CLOUD ST CLOUD CLOUD EAST EAST EASTCLEARWATER CLEARWATER CLEARWATERWAYZATA WAYZATA WAYZATAAVON AVON AVONLONG LONG LONG PRAIRIE PRAIRIE PRAIRIEBROWERVILLE BROWERVILLE BROWERVILLE ST CLOUD WEST ST CLOUD EAST CLEARWATER WAYZATA AVON LONG