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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’S BUSINESSES’ DECISION MAKERS MAGAZINE

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MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA Faribault Woolen Mill Co.

Nearly 150-year-old story

AREA CHAMBERS

Northfield Chamber Businesses commit to clean energy

BIZ NEWS

Revol Greens Announces new line of lettuce

Steve Kath &Retrofit is at the forefront A PRODUCT OF:

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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’S BUSINESSES’ DECISION MAKERS MAGAZINE

APRIL 2021

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

11 12 18

Statewide small business program offers many benefits

Faribault Woolen Mill Co. weaves new designs, stores into nearly 150-year-old story

SMALL BUSINESS TOOLBOX

15 16 17

COVER STORY

Bushel Boy’s new CEO committed to growth, innovation

Two issues to address before starting a business with another person Strategic planning in the face of a pandemic Federated includes century-old mission of serving people

From Railroads to recycling: Steve Kath and Retrofit keeps the environment in mind

Faribault Harley-Davidson Loon Liquors in Northfield Townsquare media names Kreutzian as market president

Federated Insurance Top Edian Realty Northfield realtors receice Circle awards

Free business coaching available for BIPOC-owned businesses

Edina Realty Faribault Realtors receive Master’s Circle recognition

Northfield businesses are committed to clean energy Faribault Area Chamber continues promotional work, looks ahead Even during pandemic, Owatonna keeps growing

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

AREA CHAMBERS

20 21 22

Many new oportunities in new Chamber program Michelle Krell receives Outstanding Central Office Leader award Edina Realty Faribault Realtors receive Leadership Circle recognition Coldwell Banker South Metro joins Coldwell Banker River Valley Realtors

President’s Circle honors go to 7 Edina Realty Faribault Realtors

BIZ NEWS

30 31

Revol Greens announces new line of certified organic greenhouse lettuce Sheldahl recognizes the work of frontline workers during COVID-19

SUZANNE ROOK Regional Editor suzy.rook@apgsomn.com

TOM KELLING Regional Advertising Director Media Consultants tom.kelling@apgsomn.com

SAM WILMES Editor sam.wilmes@apgsomn.com

CHAD HJELLMING Regional Circulation/ KATE TOWNSEND-NOET General Manager Design Layout chad.hjellming@apgsomn.com

Southern Minn BIZ (PERMIT #5) is published monthly by APG Southern Minn. Periodicals postage paid at Owatonna, MN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Southern Minn BIZ, 115 5th St. W, Northfield, MN 55057. Submitted articles and columns reflect the views of the writers and not necessarily those of Southern Minn BIZ. Copyright, Southern Minn BIZ, 2021. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited.

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 3

WELCOME O

STEVE FISHER

steve.fisher@apgsomn.com Steve Fisher is regional president of APG Media of Southern Minnesota. Reach him at steve.fisher@ apgsomn.com.

MAY ISSUE DEADLINES APRIL 16

Theme is: Millennials Starting Businesses Contact one of our Multimedia Marketing Specialists on page 14 to advertise.

4 | APRIL 2021 | Southern MINN biz

ne of my early goals since taking my role as regional president and publisher for APG Media of Southern Minnesota was starting a regional business magazine. “Southern Minn Biz” has been a long time coming, but it’s finally arrived. Over the past few years, I have found a few books that have helped me shape my approach to business. Those are: “The Start Up Way,” “Start With Why” and “Atomic Habits.” The driving principle of “The Start Up Way” by Eric Ries is to learn how to make entrepreneurship a fundamental discipline of every enterprise. The key word in that statement is “discipline.” Businesspeople need to maintain a sense of discipline and stick to the recipe. In Ries’ previous book, “The Lean Startup,” he uses the term MVP or “Minimal Viable Product”. Reis describes a minimum viable product as a version of a product with just enough features to be usable by early customers who can then provide feedback for future product development. Some of you know that our company and previous ownership entered this publishing space before and failed. Here is why we can be more successful this time: 1. Mailing costs - the 2nd Class request postage method is significantly more cost effective. 2. Material costs - unlike the very expensive glossy printing that we utilized in the past, we will print this on higher quality newsprint and it will look a little more like the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. 3. 12 times per year vs. less. Contrary to what you might think, a monthly publishing cycle helps develop a cadence with readers and subscribers. That cadence helps build the brand. 4. Opt-in subscribers -- Instead of something showing up in the mail unannounced; Southern Minn Biz will have subscribers actually sign up to receive the publication. In other words, we’re coming out of the blocks with a Minimal Viable Product, and we plan to improve each “Southern Minn Biz” issue. Our team will continue to take the business model of gathering news and content and other resources and some cultural baggage that comes from being an established company, and transform ourselves into a content company that delivers news and information in multiple channels In the book, “Start With Why,” Simon

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Sinek writes about how instructions have desired results. As you might guess from the title, the idea that everyone understands why we want the desired result leads to longerterm success and collaboration. I’m sharing with you that our desired results are that we want “Southern Minn Biz” to be the go-to resource for Southern Minnesota leaders, rising stars, entrepreneurs and anyone with a vested interest in the success of the regional business community. “Southern Minn Biz” magazine will deliver quality business news to our subscribers. Our readers will expect that “Southern Minn Biz” will explain important issues, highlight interesting businesses and provide advice from trusted experts. We will connect with business professionals unlike any other media in the market. Our magazine, website — SouthernMinnBiz.com — and daily e-newsletter provide businesses several opportunities to interact with local business decision makers. All of this will come to you with a “start up” approach. Unlike the newspaper, this publication will be delivered to businesses. Our Southern Minnesota newspapers have a paid circulation. “Southern Minn Biz” will have subscription requester circulation. That means subscribers must sign up to get the magazine and they will get it free. At this point, we are not interested in charging for subscription, and we’re only targeting subscribers at work. Here is a link to sign up: www.SouthernMinn.com/SignMeUp. Feel free to share the link with any of your professional contacts. My favorite quote from “Atomic Habits” is “you do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” Day by day, we’re transforming our company … from a “newspaper” into a “content company.” As you might suspect, the most expensive thing that we do in the newspaper industry is create content. And, that content is often used only once. As we transform our systems and build an entirely new culture, our systems will enable us to deliver a sustainable business magazine with a sustainable business plan. I’m very excited about this publication and I look forward to your feedback regarding this initiative. I believe that this publication will become a valuable asset to the Southern Minnesota business community.

MEET THE EDITOR Looking forward to working with local businesses

SAM WILMES

sam.wilmes@apgsomn.com Reach Editor Sam Wilmes at 507-645-1115.

am Wilmes is a southern Minnesotan through and through. He grew up in the Dodge County town of West Concord and got his bachelor’s in mass media from Minnesota State University, Mankato. After working for 14 months at a South Dakota newspaper, he headed back to southern Minn. For 3½ years in Albert Lea he covered crime, courts and government. These days he’s Northfield News’ associate editor —and now editor

of Southern Minn biz, a monthly publication specifically designed to keep readers up-to-date with the region’s latest business news: the issues, trends and people. “I view being the editor of this publication as a great way to promote local businesses and the region as a whole,” said Wilmes. Have a business story idea or news you want to share? Email him at samuel.wilmes@apgsomn.com or call him 507-645-1115.

FOR OUR NEIGHBORS

We believe this community is home to wonderful people from all walks of life. Visit federatedinsurance.com/ WeLoveOwatonna to see all the reasons why Owatonna has our heart.

Commercial Insurance Property & Casualty | Life & Disability Income | Workers Compensation Personal Lines Insurance (MN only) Homeowners, Condominiums, & Renters | Auto | Personal Umbrella Federated Mutual Insurance Company and its subsidiaries* federatedinsurance.com | Ward’s 50®Top Performer | A.M. Best®A+ (Superior) Rating 21.10 Ed. 3/21 *Not licensed in all states. © 2020 Federated Mutual Insurance Company

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 5

COVER STORY

FROM RAILROADS TO RECYCLING:

Steve Kath andRetrofit keeps the environment 6 | APRIL 2021 | Southern MINN biz

aving spent the first 16 years of his adult life driving railroad spikes, Steve Kath never imagined he would one day own a business. “A friend I was playing fast-pitch softball with was telling me about this new company he had in Owatonna that worked in energy-efficient lighting,” Kath said. “He told me I could have a potential future in lighting, so I traded in my work boots and gloves for suits and worked for him for six years.” Fast-forward to today and Kath is now a well-known name and face in southern Minnesota as his business, The Retrofit Companies, Inc., continues to provide energyefficient lighting, design and recycling for businesses throughout Minnesota, the Midwest and around the nation. Retired since 2017, Kath still owns 49% of the company that at one point in his life had never even been an idea, let alone an end goal. It was back in 1980 when Kath joined the team at International Power Technologies, first bringing him to Owatonna despite his humble beginnings in Meriden. At the time, Kath said 3M had come out with a silver film that worked like a mirror that was placed on fixtures that pushed out more light and consumed less energy. Kath laughed as he described the scrutiny they received as being a “smoke and mirrors” show, but within a matter of time that silver film not only became a basic standard

in lighting for businesses and manufacturing facilities, but it quickly became outdated. “The technology just continued to change,” Kath said. “Eventually you had the electric ballast come out and of course now LED has taken over.” Thought he had come a long way from the railroad tracks, Kath said he recognized this opportunity in energyefficient lighting as a game changer and was determined to be successful at it. In 1986, Kath embarked on the adventure of business ownership alongside partner Mike Noble, whom he continued

“Back then, a few forefathers of Owatonna had wanted to start providing an entrepreneurial opportunity in the form of a space for business to grow. That is how we ended up on the top floor of the Owatonna Business Incubator back when it was located in West Hills.” - STEVE KATH working alongside for four years. “Back then, a few forefathers of Owatonna had wanted to start providing an entrepreneurial opportunity in the form of a space for businesses to grow,” Kath explained. “That is how we ended up on the top floor of the Owatonna Business Incubator back when it was located in West Hills.” In 1992, when Kath ventured out on CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

In this April 2008 file photo, Steve Kath, the then-president of Owatonna-based The Retrofit Companies, Inc. stands in the company’s warehouse on the west side of town. (Southernminn. com file photo)

in mind

By ANNIE GRANLUND annie.granlund@apgsomn.com

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 7

There isn’t much Retrofit cannot recycle, which is proven year after year during the community recycling events. (Southernminn.com file photo)

his own and Noble went off to eventually found Noble RV with his brother, Kath recognized his company had outgrown the Incubator. Now fully incorporated as Lighting Retrofit, Kath moved his business to the west side of town where they remained headquartered for 11 years. In 2012, he purchased the former Walmart building and has been stationed there ever since. The journey continued to be an interesting one over the years, however, as technology and government regulations continued to change and push both Kath and his customers into various directions to be more environmentally responsible. In 1994, Minnesota state law began restricting how lamps that contained mercury were disposed of, no longer allowing them to be put in

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landfills. “Here we are as a business that goes in and changes hundreds of thousands of lamps and we can’t get rid of them now, so what do we do?” Kath said. When the law first changed, Kath said the only facility that was able to process these lamps appropriately was out in California. Luckily, before Kath could decide what to do with the rapidly filling warehouse of bad lamps, three similar facilities opened in Minnesota. “We toured them all and actually ended up partnering with the most expensive one,” Kath said. “But they had the best technology and drastically reduced any liability that could fall on us or our customers. So we got this little truck and hired my retired dad to drive up these lights to the facility to be

processed.” More laws and more restrictions continued to come out of St. Paul and the federal government, which continued to push Kath into finding the most appropriate ways to process and recycle a variety of materials. Retrofit began expanding well beyond lighting, assisting in chemical clean outs, paint disposal, computer and electronic recycling, and everything in between. “On the environmental side, we started doing a lot of work such as when a building is being torn down and they need someone to go in there and remove the things that can’t go into a landfill,” Kath said. “This includes thermostats, emptying out the elevator oil, removing door closures, taking lighting a part. A lot goes into it that I don’t

think many people really now much about.” In August 2007, Kath received a call he could have never anticipated when the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis had a catastrophic failure during an evening rush hour. Retrofit Lighting & Design, a division of The Retrofit Companies, The failure killed 13 people, injured 145 and Inc., differentiates itself from the competition with their LC, sending more than 100 vehicles into the MisCLMC, CLEP, and CLCP certified team of experts. Retrofit Lighting sissippi River. & Design is a proud long-standing member of NALMCO, is vendor “I had been working a lot with [the neutral, boasts design and implementation teams with 26+ years Department of Transportation] at the time of experience, and prides themselves on their reputation of nondoing various things, and we got the call that disruptive installs and superior customer service. As a licensed they needed someone to schedule divers and electrical contractor serving Minnesota, the Upper Midwest and go into the river to remove the gas and other nationally through their partner network, Retrofit Lighting & contaminants,” Kath said. “That’s one of so Design provides customized solutions to meet all lighting needs, many things I never thought I would do including energy savings, rebates and financing options. when I was on the railroad.” Though Kath did not start this journey with an immense passion for saving and protecting the environment, he has thorair conditioners, monitors, TVs and other oughly enjoyed seeing what items could be electronic devices. Events were typically held transformed into when they are kept out of in the spring and the fall and could take in up the landfill and processed in a way that they to 100,000 pounds of recyclables at a time. can be fully recycled and reused into other “We would sometimes have three to four commodities. collections sites happening on the same “If you look at fluorescent light bulbs, the day throughout the state,” Kath said. “We process they go through is amazing,” Kath said, explaining that before the bulbs are fed CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 into the machine that crushes them they must first have the phosphorus taken off the glass, the mercury removed out of the light, aluminum fixtures taken off the ends. “The aluminum is reused in other metal commodities, the glass is recycled to be used as fiber glass, and this gray powder you are left with after the bulb is crushed can be used in furnaces. Even the old phosphorus is reusable in things such as asphalt. Something like 99.7% of that light bulb gets reused in some manner — who even thinks about this stuff?” With an emphasis on recycling, Retrofit began offering community recycling programs that proved to be much needed and very popular. Every event, community members lined up outside the building in Owatonna to properly dispose of their fluoVarious civic groups have volunteered over the ears during the community recycling collection days at The rescent lamps, batteries, Retrofit Companies. During these events, up to 100,000 pounds of recyclables would be dropped off to be ballasts, appliances, window appropriately recycled. (Southernminn.com file photo)

RETROFIT LIGHTING AND DESIGN

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The Retrofit Companies of Owatonna came from humble beginnings, starting at the former location of the Owatonna Business Incubator on the West Hills campus for the first four years in business. The company now owns warehouses on the west side of the city and is headquartered in the former Walmart building on Hoffman Drive. In 2001, the company also acquired a business located in Little Canada. (Southernminn.com file photo)

never had enough enough employees for that, so we like partnering with local student councils or 4-H groups who would help people unload their materials during the drive-thru. It helped us, it helped the community, and it helped some civic group in town.” While making sure his customers were getting the best return on their

or three years or 30 years to go by and we find out that we didn’t dispose of something properly,” Kath said. “For some of our customers it is about what made the most economic sense, for others it is because they prioritize the environment, either way we wanted to make sure we did it right for them.” When Kath decided he wanted to retire, he sold 51% of the company to his daughter, Wendy Fry, making Retrofit a Woman-Owned Small Business and allowing himself more time to spend with his wife and grand- STEVE KATH children. To this day, however, the influence of years spent in the recycling industry continues to reflect on his every day life. “I won’t even throw a postage stamp away if I don’t have to,” Kath laughed. “I want to see that garbage can empty and the recycling bin full all the time.”

“I won’t even throw a postage stamp away if I don’t have to. I want to see that garbage can empty and the recycling bin full all the time.” investment, despite sometimes having to upgrade the same facility within years of the last upgrade, Kath said it was always important to him that his customers knew they were getting the best — both in terms of new technology and the disposal of the outdated pieces. “Everything with the environment needed to be done properly every single time, we did not want three months

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RETROFIT ENVIRONMENTAL Retrofit Environmental, a division of The Retrofit Companies, Inc., develops customized recycling and disposal solutions for organizations across the United States and Internationally. Their flexibility and customer service provides value to their clients, both public and private, in over 20 states and multiple countries.

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES: • Customized Waste Disposal Plans • Hazardous Waste Collection & Transport • Chemical Clean Out • Lab Packing • Paint Disposal • Computer and Electronic Recycling • Industrial Tank Removal • Universal Waste Recycling • Mercury Device & Debris Recycling • Mercury Spill Clean Up • Industrial Tank Cleaning • Waste Identification & Profiling

MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Statewide small business program offers many benefits

L SAM WILMES

sam.wilmes@apgsomn.com Reach Editor Sam Wilmes at 507-645-1115.

FIND AN SBDC According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, it administers the Small Business Development Centers Program to provide management assistance to prospective and current small business owners. SBDCs are considered a onestop shop for individuals and small businesses and are a cooperative effort between the educational community, private sector, and federal, state and local governments. The Small Business Development Center in Minneapolis can be reached at (651) 962-4500. 32,900: The annual number of Minnesota SBDC professional consulting hours. 5,835: The number of Minnesota entrepreneurs SBDCs assisted last year. 115: The number of new businesses the SBDC helped create in 2020.

ocal businesses have a litany of resources at their disposal thanks to Small Business Development Centers throughout the state. The centers offer free access to capital, loan packaging, financial analysis and assessments, accounting systems and literacy, marketing and research, marketing plan development, feasibility analysis, startup assistance and business plan development. The centers, offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration, operates a state office and more than 15 satellite centers. Regional offices in Minnesota are in Bemidji, Brainerd, Duluth, Mankato, Marshall, Minneapolis, Moorhead, Rochester and St. Cloud. SBDC State Director Bruce Strong said the organization is aware of the importance that a business plan have on smaller organizations. He compared Small Business Development Centers to a typical brick-and-mortar business.

Beneficiaries: SBDC loans vital in startup process During a virtual March 17 Department of Employment and Economic Development roundtable, Susan TenEyck-Stafki, executive director for the nonprofit child care center Children’s Corner in Fergus Falls and Perham, said she appreciates the help the SBDC provided in the formation of her organization. The roundtable was convened by Min- STEVE GROVE nesota Department of Employment and Economic Development Commissioner Steve Grove and Strong. They were joined by members from the SBDC Advisory Board, and small businesses owners from across the state who

have received SBDC assistance. Nathalie Nkashama, owner of Worthington-based ethnic grocery store World Mart, noted the SBDC helped the establishment become a mobile operation following the onset of the pandemic. World Mart’s client base included Worthington’s East African community, many who were with minimal other local options following the onset of the pandemic. Nkashama credits the SBDC for connecting her with the right resources and described the organization as being “like a dictionary” for businesses. Co-owner of Detroit Lakes-based stainless steel conveyance company InLine Motion, Lucas Hoffman noted his business shifted its operation into making thousands of clear plastic face shields for frontline workers once COVID-19 hit, including exclusively supplying for one of the Veterans Affairs hospitals in the Midwest. Leaders from other Minnesota businesses and nonprofits talked about the assistance with organization, securing finances and continue growing that they received, The COVID-19 pandemic made 2020 a difficult year for Minnesota businesses. Approximately 416,000 jobs were initially lost statewide, but nearly half have returned. That loss was particularly acute in small businesses, mostly due to mandated closures and capacity reductions. During the roundtable, DEED Commissioner Steve Grove said that toll the pandemic has taken on businesses is one reason why Gov. Tim Walz has greenlighted funding for incubator technical assistance and rescue grants. Also, Launch Minnesota is helping startup companies expand. Grove said he intended to focus “on the importance of small businesses for Minnesota’s economic recovery.” The event came on the same day Walz proclaimed Minnesota Small Business Development Centers Day.

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MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Bushel Boy’s new CEO committed to growth, innovation

12 | APRIL 2021 | Southern MINN biz

By ANDREW DEZIEL andrew.deziel@apgsomn.com

fter more than two decades of experience at General Mills and Pillsbury, Chuck Tryon has been brought in to help Owatonna-based Bushel Boy Farms increase its presence on local grocery store shelves. Since joining the company five months ago, Tryon has overseen a successful period of expansion. Most notably, the company’s new 16.5-acre greenhouse in Mason City CHUCK TRYON has enabled Bushel Boy to add strawberries and several new tomato varieties to its product line. So far, Tryon said that new product rollouts have been highly successful. While only currently available at a limited number of stores, Bushel Boy is planning to scale up its production of new greenhousegrown fruits and vegetables quickly. “We’re really pleased with the success we’ve seen, in terms of our team’s ability to grow a new crop,” he said. Tryon says he is committed to not only growth but innovation, while maintaining the highest quality standards. That means experimenting with new lighting techniques and other unique growing methods in its now expanded greenhouse space. To stay on track, Tryon is drawing on his extensive industry experience. In particular, he touted his tenure at Green Giant as particularly applicable to navigating an increasingly complex and competitive industry. “(Being at Green Giant) really gave me a sense of how to operate a premium branded business in the world of vegetables,” he said. The son of a successful grocer, Tryon studied international relations

in college with a focus on agricultural trade and international commerce and has worked on everything from business strategy to market expansion to sustainable agriculture. The company’s investment in Mason City has been particularly significant, with a facility that could easily be expanded to three times its size. According to Tryon, that will play an invaluable role in expanding the company’s reach across the Upper Midwest. “This will allow us to reach as far south as St. Louis and as far west as Omaha,” he said. “But our core market area remains Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Dakotas.” Tryon insisted that the investment in Mason City doesn’t mean that Bushel Boy is turning its focus away from Owatonna. Indeed, the company is doubling down on Minnesota, rolling out its new product lines to select Twin Cities grocery stores. In Owatonna specifically, Bushel Boy is continuing to invest in revitalizing the downtown district and creating opportunities for young people. Its partnerships with Owatonna High School and the Steele County Works program have only gotten stronger in recent months. Through those partnerships, students are given the opportunity to see what a career in a company such as Bushel Boy might look like for them. Such programs have become particularly crucial in recent years amid a particularly tight labor market. “It’s really welcome for us to have a business that wants to drive improvements in the community and attract talent,” said Owatonna Chamber of Commerce and Tourism President Brad Meier. Reach Reporter Andrew Deziel at 507-3333129 or follow him on Twitter @FDNandrew. © Copyright 2021 APG Media of Southern Minnesota. All rights reserved.

Tomato plants grow at the Owatonna facility of Bushel Boy. Under the leadership of Chuck Tryon, Bushel Boy is expanding its reach and introducing new product lines while remaining committed to its Owatonna roots. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 13

Meet the

Multimedia Marketing Specialists

JORDAN ANDREAS Multimedia Account Executive jordan.andreas@apgsomn.com 507-645-1134

AMBER CASTERTON Multimedia Account Executive amber.casterton@apgsomn.com 507-444-2388

KATHLEEN DAVIES Multimedia Account Executive kathleen.davies@apgsomn.com 507-931-8564

VICTORIA DAVIS Multimedia Account Executive victoria.davis@apgsomn.com 507-333-3110

JENNIFER FLOWERS Multimedia Account Executive jennifer.flowers@apgsomn.com 507-837-5450

CRYSTAL HOBART Multimedia Account Executive crystal.hobart@apgsomn.com 507-444-2385

BRITNEY MARR Multimedia Account Executive britney.marr@apgsomn.com 507-931-8577

TIM MART Regional Digital Director tim.mart@apgsomn.com 763-486-5019

MARK NELSON Multimedia Account Executive mark.nelson@apgsomn.com 507-333-3109

TONI SCHMIDT Multimedia Account Executive toni.schmidt@apgsomn.com 507-333-3146

DEANNA WALTERS Multimedia Account Executive deanna.walters@apgsomn.com 507-333-3117

TOM KELLING Regional Advertising Director tom.kelling@apgsomn.com 507-444-2390

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SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’S BUSINESSES’ DECISION MAKERS MAGAZINE

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Talk with one of our Multi Media Specialists to discuss your advertising opportunities

MAY ISSUE DEADLINES APRIL 16 Theme is: Millennials Starting Businesses

SMALL BUSINESS TOOLBOX

Two issues to address before starting a business with another person

Y DAVID JACOBSEN

Guest columnist

Jacobsen is a lawyer with Northfield-based law firm Jacobsen Law Firm P.A.

ou are out with your friend or at a family gathering talking with a friend or family member about how each despises their respective employment, and the ball starts rolling. “I have a great idea for a business” she says. You have been unhappy with your current situation, you want to work for yourself, and frankly it’s a great idea for a business. Going into business with a friend or family member can be enjoyable and successful. However, there are many issues when operating a business that might arise between the two of you that, if not addressed at the outset, can destroy the business and the relationship. Here are two key issues that many business partners do not adequately address before starting a business. Capitalization (re-capitalization) Agreements. Many small business ventures are initially funded with capital contributed by the business partners. Once the business is off and running there often is almost always a need for additional capital to provide for continued success. Funding can be available by taking out a small business loan which the business (and often times the owners, too) is obligated to repay. However, funding can also be accomplished by owners providing additional capital to the business. This can be extremely problematic as with most business entities ownership is based pro rata on capital contributed by stakeholders. If your aunt, for example, contributes additional capital this can change the control and ownership interest in the business giving her more financial and governing rights over you. A capitalization agreement provides for what happens if one stakeholder does not put in his or her share of such necessary additional capital as may be agreed upon or if (as is often

the case) one stakeholder loans proportionally more money to the business that does another holder of interest in the business. Drafting a capitalization agreement will provide for what happens if one stakeholder does not put in his or her share of such necessary additional capital as may be agreed upon, or if (as is often the case) one stakeholder loans proportionally more money to the business than does another holder of interest in the business.

Buy-sell agreements Think of a business relationship like a marriage. At some point it is going to end. Business partners retire, move, become disabled, and die. A well-drafted buysell agreement provides for the smooth transition of ownership succession for the business. A typical buy-sell agreement works in three stages: 1. It specifies trigger mechanisms which give the business or some stakeholder the right (and perhaps the obligation) to buy out the interest of another stakeholder. Common triggering events include an offer to purchase business interest, dissolution of marriage, insolvency, retirement, death, dismissal of owner from employment as an officer, or a deadlock between stakeholders. 2. It provides a price or method for determining the valuation at which stock or membership units may be purchased. 3. It specifies the terms applicable to such a purchase and perhaps its funding source such as disability or life insurance. As a wise business lawyer once said, “The existence of clear code of rules for corporate governance and ownership succession cuts way down on the possibility of a knife fight.”

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 15

SMALL BUSINESS TOOLBOX

Strategic planning in the face of a pandemic

DAVE NEUGER

Guest columnist Dave Neuger is the president and chief executive officer of Northfield-based marketing firm Neuger Communications.

trategic Planning? Really? Strategic Planning?!? During the COVID-19 pandemic some organizations are simply trying to survive. But for many, many organizations there will be life after COVID-19 and with what appears to be significant light at the end of the proverbial tunnel, it is time to look to the future. There are five strategic considerations that companies should be addressing today so they are not caught flat-footed when the world returns to some sort of normalcy. The fact of the matter is that some organizations are already behind the eight ball. As the economy picks back up and demand for products and services increase, some have managed their supply chain poorly. Some have not rehired furloughed employees quickly enough. And some have left their teams unequipped emotionally to handle a rapid ramping up after a trying year-and-a-half of uncertainty. Here are five strategic considerations companies need to begin addressing today.

1. Provide a focus on vision For the past year, most companies have had to focus on one thing: How to survive in a pandemic world. It is time to get back to your vision and to remind your team, your stakeholders, the world what that vision is. This is a good time to review guiding documents such as mission and values. Often these aspirational guideposts become even more meaningful in times of challenge and tumult. It’s time for CEOs to be inspirational about the future.

2. Revisit the organizational brand Corporate executives should ask themselves if their brands are still strong in a post-pandemic world. Does it need to be tweaked? Should it be overhauled? Get to the answers quickly, make the necessary adjustments and start reinvigorating the organizational brand today.

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3. Research the marketplace Life as it was recognized pre-pandemic is going to be different than what will be experienced post-pandemic. As a company lays its strategic foundation for the future, it’s critical to understand your target audiences and what may have changed for them. What are their needs, wants and perceptions as it relates to specific products and services? What better way to learn how to reach a company’s key audiences, than to ask!

4. Reengineer the Operations and Supply Chain No matter if an organization is in manufacturing, a service industry or the nonprofit world, now is the ideal time to review operations. It’s time to forecast the future. It’s time to be prepared to react to or lead a robust economic rebound. Managers need to proactively analyze where they are today and where they need to be tomorrow.

5. Market. Market. Market. There is a great story in history about two companies that held equal market share leading into the Great Depression. One of the companies cut back and was slow to rebound in virtually all facets of their business as the Depression ended. The other doubled down and invested significantly more in their marketing at that time. When the country was coming out of these turbulent times, the company that invested significantly more in their marketing skyrocketed in market share while the competing company fell flat. If a company wants to succeed and it has sound fundamentals, it should market, market and then market some more. Savvy CEOs are currently setting their companies up for success. They are proactively looking to the future now. Executive leaders should plan now so their companies don’t get left behind. The phrase of the day should be “Don’t delay.”

Federated includes century-old mission of serving people

JULIE RETHEMEIER Guest columnist

Julie Rethemeier is the vice president — director of public affairs and advertising at Federated Insurance.

or more than 100 years, Federated way, connected to more than 500 state, Insurance has made its business regional, and national associations and about people. buying group recommendations. In 1904, Federated Insurance was • Direct distribution model: That founded in Minnesota by an association of means marketing representatives are business owners seeking more affordable located across the country, serving as the property insurance, tailored to meet the direct point of contact to their clients. needs of their industry. In the following Federated also has a company culture years, we continued to grow and diversify rooted in honoring commitments. our portfolio of business, becoming Despite the challenges of 2020, we among the nation’s first multi-line continued to seamlessly support our insurance companies with our expansion more than 40,000 clients and association into liability coverage. And by the end partners by providing them with missionof the 20th century, Federated was driven, pandemic-related resources. among the largest mutual insurance — a Additionally, Federated generously structure that allows companies to base aided community organizations like decisions on what’s best for clients, not the Owatonna Foundation, Community stockholder returns and investments — Pathways of Steele County, Junior companies in the nation. Achievement, Jumpstart Owatonna, Federated specializes in business and the United Way through corporate insurance and risk management contributions, volunteer time and more. services for select industries. And while But perhaps our most well-known our national headquarters remains in philanthropic effort is the annual Owatonna, not all of the more than 2,700 Federated employees call Owatonna home. Federated offers property, liability, surety, auto, workers compensation, umbrella and life and disability income insurance. Additionally, we have service offices In early October 2020, Federated hosted its fourth annual Pizza in the Park event in Owatonna. All proceeds went to the United Way of Steele County. (Photo couracross the tesy of Federated Insurance) country.

But perhaps what sets us apart from other insurance companies is our: • 110-year partnership with associations and buying groups: The majority of our premiums are, in some

Federated Challenge. In our first-ever virtual event — in July 2020 — Federated Insurance raised a record-breaking $3.08 million. Every dollar was donated to Minnesota’s three Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 17

MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Faribault Woolen Mill Co.

WEAVES NEW DESIGNS, STORES INTO NEARLY 150-YEAR-OLD STORY

By MICHELLE VLASAK michelle.vlasak@apgsomn.com

perating since 1865, the Faribault Woolen Mill Co. continues to weave new products and stores into a nearly 150-year-old story. A historic mill nestled along the Cannon River in Faribault, Faribault Woolen Mill Co. website states the mill is home to a fifth generation of craftspeople who take raw

The number of employees Faribault Woolen Mill Co. has.

wool and create blankets, throws, scarves and accessories of high quality and comfort. As the oldest standing manufacturer in Minnesota, Ross Widmoyer, the company’s president and chief operating officer, finds the history of the mill a unique part of its story. Other qualities that Widmoyer says

1892

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The year the mill was built.

makes the company unique are its great and timeless products, as well as its team members. Customers, he says, often talk about how they passed blankets down from generation to generation. “Craftspeople of third and fourth generations are here,” said Widmoyer. “There’s a particular energy and passion present that

1865

The year the company was formed.

The number of steps in the manufacturing process.

makes it more than just another factory. People love this mill. That type of passion you can see reflected in the quality of our products. We are also committed to USA manufacturing.”

Sustainable fibers Some of what the company has focused on this past year, Widmoyer says, have lead to its renaissance and led to record sales in 2020, the highest since the mill reopened in 2011. Widmoyer says the company has been aggressive with the introduction of over 100 products, which led to much of the company’s success. From throws, bed blankets, men’s and women’s apparel, different accessories and gift items, a focus was put new product development. Another goal was to take products directly to consumers. Last year it opened a shop in Minneapolis and the first out of state store on Chicago’s Michigan Avenue. A new cataloging strategy was also put in play, sending them out to possible new customers. This month, a new store opened in downtown Excelsior. Widmoyer also hopes to open stores in Duluth and Rochester sometime this year. The strategy, Widmoyer said, is to develop passion products and do as much as it can for its home state and hometown as has been done for the Woolen Mill Co. Following the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody, a justice blanket was created with a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “The time is always right to do what’s right.” For every blanket sold, $100 was donated to the Twin Cities United Way Fund to rebuild businesses destroyed during the ensuing civil unrest.

Resurgence and growth New products have led to resurgence and growth, making the product development team an important part of the equation. The whole process, Widmoyer says, is truly a team effort.

An array of the mill’s unique products include maps of lakes and cities across the country, along with an artistic collection of throws from various artists. (Michelle Vlasak/southernminn.com)

The mill has partnered with several renowned Minnesota artists to create designs, including iconic Minnesota scenes and a guided wolf throw. Other unique products recently developed are map and flag throws, which speak to people’s specific passions. While the company has had an e-commerce site for several years, it invested heavily in its look, feel and content. In the last year, the company’s e-commerce has more than doubled. Due to a contract with the U.S. military, the mill was deemed an essential manufacturer by the U.S. Department of Defense. Because it makes blankets for the U.S. Army and Navy, every United States Academy West Point cadet and specifically for soldiers serving in Afghanistan, so production continued throughout the pandemic. For many, the mill in Faribault is a destination spot, drawing in visitors to tour the historic mill on the Cannon. Tours recently restarted, but are limited to 10 people and are available only at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Reservations are encouraged by calling 507-412-5534. Reach reporter Michelle Vlasak at 507-333-3128 or follow her on Twitter @apgmichelle. ©Copyright 2021 APG Media of Southern Minnesota. All rights reserved.

BENEFITS OF WOOL According the Faribault Woolen Mill Co the Year-round comfort — Wool is active, following are benefits of wool: reacting to changes in body temperature to keep you warm when you’re cold but Natural and renewable — Every year releasing heat and moisture when you’re sheep grow a new fleece, making wool a renewable resource. Woolgrowers actively hot. Looser weaves create true summer weight woolens. work to preserve natural resources for generations to

Recyclable and biodegradable — Scrap and even used wool can be recycled to create new blankets and throws. And unlike synthetics, wool is biodegradable.

100

Faribault Woolen Mill has more than 100 products.

Easy care — Wool fibers have a natural protective layer to resist stains. Recent innovations mean that most of our woolens can be machine washed and even dried.

2020

The memory mill The Faribault Woolen Mill Co. website states a Faribault blanket or throw is made to last for generations. The Memory Mill is a unique digital platform that allows you to record and preserve a personal message for the next person who will receive your blanket or throw, whether it’s a gift a few days from now or a blanket you want to pass on to a loved one decades in the future. An engraved metal card with a unique serial number allows you to register your memory and, later, unlock it at MemoryMill.FaribaultMill.com.

Faribault Woolen Mill experienced record sales last year despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

300

The number of tours Faribault Woolen Mill sometimes hosts in a single year.

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 19

AREA CHAMBERS

Northfield Northfield businesses are committed to clean energy

I LISA PETERSON Guest columnist Lisa Peterson is the president of the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.

think it is safe to say that 2020 is one for the record books. We all know the lingo — pause, pivot, social distance, sanitize. We have learned more about what goes into manufacturing and distributing a new vaccine than most of us have ever needed to, and companies like Pfizer and Moderna have become part of our normal and everyday conversations. Much has changed over the past year, but what has not changed is the continuous effort put forth by Northfield’s businesses to become more energy efficient. Just Food Co-Op has just completed a full remodel of their 11,000-square-foot space in downtown Northfield. Environmental stewardship is always top of mind, and it certainly shows. In 2020, Just Food began promoting the use of reusable bags and saved 71,000 bags from use by not giving out plastic bags with purchases. The co-op also continues to recycle and compost as much as 91% of all their waste — which is extraordinary for a grocery store. With their expansion they have been able to replace all their lighting with new LED, mercury-free lights that use 80% less energy. They have created new heating, ventilation and air conditioning “zones” to better heat and cool the store according to their floorplan, time of day and refrigeration units located in the zone. New double paned glass windows reduce those heating costs by an additional 25%. Loon Liquors has always been energy conscious since day one of operations. According to Mark Schiller, co-owner of Loon Liquors, changing all lighting to LED bulbs can create

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nearly immediate savings. He estimates that they been able to save over $1,000/year for the last seven years — and they have not had to change a bulb in all that time. Loon Liquors utilizes mostly locally source grains for all their spirits. The business buys directly from B&T Farms in Faribault, who in turn, take the spent grains for use on their farm to feed hogs and compost for fertilizer. It comes full circle. Post Consumer Brands has also converted most of the Northfield plant to LED lights. The approximately 1,600 lights are Bluetooth capable and have adjustable light intensity settings. Since implementation, they have seen an approximate 9% reduction in electrical KWH usage. They are implementing projects to increase boiler efficiency, which will result in a reduction of natural gas and water usage. Future projects include reducing compressed air usage which will result in yet a further reduction of electrical KWH usage. There are many other savings that business owners can take advantage of that are easy and inexpensive to implement. Changing heating, ventilation and air conditioning filters and cleaning coils on heating and cooling systems can lead to big savings. Just look at your security camera at night and see what is left on. Shutting off monitors, televisions, appliances, and other electronics that do not need to be running when no one is around can turn into big savings. Xcel Energy has great resources for business owners interested in reducing energy costs.

Faribault Area Chamber continues promotional work, looks ahead

T NORT JOHNSON Guest columnist

Nort Johnson is the president of the Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

he Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce works to maintain and improve the economic opportunities for business and individuals in our trade area. Advocacy, promotion, counseling, and networking are routine strategies for our work. We also work on initiatives designed to have long-term impact on the business climate here. To organize these efforts our Vision Task Force (VTF) built a set of priorities from the Community Vision 2040 results. The process included Chamber Board input and several sessions of deliberation as to which topics would have the most impact. First on the list, Excellence in Education. VTF and Chamber staff took a leadership role on that priority and established strategies around school safety, facility upgrades and paths to success for all students. The pathways have become a rallying call for the Chamber, industry, public schools and South Central College. Representatives from all the partners listed above led the effort to create a career guidance position in the district and most importantly, to implement a seventh period, allowing capacity for pathways and career exploration. The efforts have resulted in the newly implemented program H2C (High School to College Careers). The first pathways, in health care are live, with industrial/manufacturing pathways next. This is a seamless program for students to acquire the academic, technical, and workplace skills that employers need. Importantly, they are committed to ensuring students from all backgrounds are intentionally engaged with culturally and intellectually appropriate resources. Through their efforts, students can earn a high school diploma, an industry-recognized associate degree, and gain relevant work experience in a growing field. The biggest upside — lifting Faribault families from poverty through focused education and industry par-

ticipation. Here’s how it works. H2C Pathway (as outlined by Faribault Public Schools and South Central College) Year one — foundational courses, students will explore health care careers and what it is like to be a health care professional. Summer after year one — health care exploration with CPR — this course is in development as a collaboration between FPS instructors and SCC faculty and will result in the student earning a CPR certificate. Year two — general education courses, what students learn in year two courses is transferable and then can be applied to many health sciences programs as well as other SCC programs. Summer after year two — students choosing the nursing or medical assisting pathway will complete the application process for their program of choice. Each program offers a required orientation. Those in the nursing pathway will take the nursing assistant course which will prepare them to take the exam to earn their certified nursing assistant certification. Year three — students take programmatic CORE courses during year three and, if not pursuing nursing or medical assisting, they will decide which health sciences pathway to pursue (trained medication aide (TMA), health unit coordinator, phlebotomy) Post high school graduation — students who attend SCC full time will have one additional semester needed to graduate with a practical nursing diploma, and medical assisting students need one additional year of classes to earn their AAS degree. In fall 2017, The Faribault Chamber of Commerce Board approved the formation of a committee to advance key priorities from the CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Faribault Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 21

AREA CHAMBERS

Owatonna Even during pandemic, Owatonna keeps growing

E BRAD MEIER

Guest columnist Meier is the president/CEO of the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism.

conomic development fortunes, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, have been remarkable for the Owatonna area in 2020. A record $104 million in new building far exceeds any prior year in our community. That’s great news, but can it be done again? Will 2021 propel us forward? First, let’s recap where we’re at after the year that was 2020, courtesy of the Owatonna Partners for Economic Development: -Costco Depot opens in October, hiring close to 150 people and moving leadership from across the country to Owatonna. -Rise Modular opens its new business, customizing the former Chart building into a modern modular construction site for apartments and hotels. -Minimizer turns dirt on a new 80,000-square-foot industrial site consolidating multiple buildings to one in Owatonna. -Revol Greens announces expansion locations and triples their greenhouse acreage in Owatonna. -Daikin Applied builds a 150,000-squarefoot warehouse and distribution center. -Bushel Boy starts growing strawberries in a new 80,000-square-foot greenhouse. Those were the ‘headline’ projects. Somewhat quietly, commercial businesses expanded. Apartments went up and new houses were built. Amidst these positives, COVID-19 shutdowns dramatically impacted small, independently owned businesses. Losses mounted, government programs were enacted. A second round of closures late in the year hit hospitality businesses again —even harder. Despite these challenges, there is good reason to believe Owatonna will be chasing down economic successes again in 2021.

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Here’s 3 top reasons for strong optimism: 1. Restoration of the core: transformation will take place downtown this summer as a new Marriott Courtyard and apartment complex come out of the ground. Three blocks of North Cedar will also be reconstructed and a new streetscape will emerge thanks to the Owatonna City Council. 2. The new Owatonna High School. This more than $120 million project (More than $22 million in private donations) starts construction this year. This project signals Owatonna’s commitment to education and future workforce training. 3. Bosch Distribution center: This 265,000-square-foot building is one of multiple projects planned for completion in the industrial park. In a recent interview with John Thelan, Costco Senior VP of depots and traffic, he said that if things follow the pattern of development around other distribution centers, Owatonna should see additional new businesses locating in the industrial park soon. This optimism is tempered by the need for talent growth. Right now, people want to move to our community and can’t find housing because there are so few on the market. Companies can’t find enough workers to fill all their openings in the midst of new and expanding businesses. Training and development opportunities need improvement. There is work to do. Owatonna has appeal: Greater Minnesota space, Metro area amenities, small town quality of life, big city opportunities, commutes that take minutes, not hours. Well- placed, wellpaced. These are the messages that will be important to growth in 2021 and beyond. Everyone can help. Share Owatonna’s story and keep working to keep the momentum of growth.

*Postal.io - The Offline Revolution, B2B Direct Mail

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*Postal.io - The Offline Revolution, B2B Direct Mail

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Loon Liquors in Northfield Loon Liquors in Northfield reopened its cocktail room patio in mid-February, hired a full-time position to help operate the room, and is seeking to hire two or three more part-time roles. Loon Liquors has installed a wood stove to keep patrons warm. Loon Liquors opened last fall with a small amount of indoor service but closed from mid-December to February as COVID-19 spiked throughout the Midwest.

Faribault Harley-Davidson Amber Kast started as FHD’s events coordinator and rider services manager in August 2020. She is from Faribault, went to college at Morningside College, and graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh with a master’s degree in public history. Her hobbies include crocheting, watching movies, and playing “Magic the Gathering” with her boyfriend. If you need a rental or have any questions about Riding Academy, stop in and talk to her! Matt Cake is Faribault Harley-Davidson’s newest employee and holds the title of porter. He helps the Service Department with multiple tasks and delivers/drops off bikes. Matt is an avid outdoorsman who loves fishing and hunting, is passionate about cooking and enjoys spending time with his wife (FHD’s own BethAnne Cake) and their two kids. He’s a great addition to our team — stop in and say hi! Bryan Cantu is our newest salesman, and is a native Texan who is fortunate enough to be fluent in both English and Spanish. He learned how to ride a motorcycle before driving a vehicle, and enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with his two daughters. His current ride is a 2020 Iron 1200. Come on down and buy a bike from Bryan!

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Visit southernminn.com and click on Submit a press release to send us your information and photo.

Townsquare media names Kreutzian as market president Townsquare Media has hired Tom Kreutzian as market president for its Faribault/Owatonna market. The four-station cluster had been under Townsquare’s Rochester leadership structure since 2012. The two markets are about an hour apart. Prior to joining Townsquare, Kreutzian spent the last 20 years with Spectrum Reach (formerly Charter Communications) overseeing sales for several markets throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. The Townsquare Faribault/Owatonna market includes KRFO-AM, KRFO-FM, KQCLFM, and KDHL-AM, and Kreutzian will report to Townsquare Regional Vice President Kelly

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Quinn. “There is an immense opportunity to partner with local businesses in this area stretching far south of the Twin Cities, which composes a large population base,” Quinn said. “We are already super-serving some of these areas with outstanding community involvement. And now, under Tom’s leadership and with his digital acumen, we will be able to not only better leverage our recently upgraded radio signals, but also better prescribe our incredible digital solutions, providing our business partners a fantastic path to growth.” “I am so excited to be a part of

Townsquare Media,” Kreutzian said. “Their dedication to the local communities they serve is outstanding, and I can’t wait to be a part of that local focus in Faribault and Owatonna.” Townsquare Chief Operating Officer – Local Media Erik Hellum added, “We made the strategic decision that the Faribault/ Owatonna market needed a dedicated local market president in order to best serve our local team, our community and our clients, and with Tom’s local roots and extensive media experience, he is absolutely the right person for that job. We are so glad to have Tom on our team.”

Federated Insurance In a significant step forward in planned efforts to develop and install the next generation of strong executive leadership at Federated Insurance, Chairman and CEO Jeff Fetters has announced that Michael G. Kerr has been appointed the organization’s president and chief executive officer, and Nicholas R. Lower its executive vice president, chief operating officer. These leadership changes were effective Jan. 1, at which time Fetters voluntarily relinquished his role as CEO while retaining his duties and responsibilities as chairman of the Federated Mutual Insurance Co. Fetters’ duties include active management of the business of the company and working with the CEO and Board to develop long-term strategy and vision for the company. He will also continue overseeing Federated’s Investment and Legal Departments, and remain a steadfast proponent of Federated’s four cornerstones and core principles and values. Additionally, Fetters and his wife Marty continue their active support of the Owatonna community and remain co-chairs of the Federated Challenge for Big Brothers Big Sisters. “As president and CEO, Mike Kerr will continue to champion Federated’s culture and core principles and values,” Fetters said. “He is uniquely qualified to guide our organization forward, having achieved great success in every leadership role he’s been assigned throughout the company during his 39-year career. Mike is blessed with a natural ability to move hearts and inspire those around him to reach their highest potential. He cares deeply for the well-being of Federated clients, employees, and his community.” Kerr hails from northern Michigan and is a Central Michigan University graduate.

Top Edina Realty Northfield realtors receive Circle awards

Following successful tenures as a marketing representative, district marketing manager, and regional marketing manager in Michigan and Indiana, Kerr and his wife Joanne relocated their family to Owatonna, where he has served in various leadership roles in Federated’s Home Office. He has been director of marketing, director of association for Risk Management Services, and overseen home office marketing, property and casualty claims and underwriting, field services, life operations, learning center, advertising, human resources, property and casualty services, and office and physical services. He has also chaired Federated’s Operations Team, Commercial Health Team, and Commercial Lines Team. As president and CEO, Kerr oversees Federated’s property and casualty and life insurance operations, as well as its actuarial, information services, and human resources departments. “Nick Lower will bring tremendous passion for Federated and client success to his role as COO,” Fetters said. “He is a driven individual who sets a high bar for himself and all those around him. He tackles challenges head-on, with a directness and sense of urgency that has earned the respect of his colleagues here at Federated. He is a tremendous coach and mentor, who models integrity, dedication, and a tireless work ethic.” Following graduation from Muskingum University, Lower joined Federated Insurance in 1999 as a marketing representative in Ohio. Over the years, he has taken on several leadership roles in the company’s marketing function, culminating in being named director of marketing in 2017. He has also overseen Federated’s Association Risk Management Services Department, as well as its marketing administration and incen-

tives areas. In recent years, Lower has served as chair of Federated’s Operations Team, which helps oversee the company’s overall LOWER financial results. “It is with tremendous pride and complete confidence that we announce these important leadership changes,” Fetters said. KERR “Mike Kerr and Nick Lower are proven leaders who breathe life into our organization’s mission each and every day. We have been tremendously fortunate to benefit from their contributions over the years and look forward to the future they will help shape for our company and clients.” Founded in 1904, Federated Insurance is a national insurance and risk management organization that serves the property, casualty, and life insurance needs of clients in select industries. The organization has more than 500 recommendations from state, regional, and national associations and buying groups and is rated A+ (Superior) by industry analyst A.M. Best Co.

A press release states Edina Realty, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, recently announced that the following realtors from the Northfield office are being recognized for outstanding sales performance, market knowledge and customer service as members: Leadership Circle — Darvin & Anne Laue, Linne Jensen, Jesse Steed, Mike Yerxa — top 42% of Edina Realty agents. Master’s Circle — Tim Freeland — top 14% of Edina Realty agents. President’s Circle — Becca Brinkman, Sonja & Al Freeland, Pat Johnson, Martha & Sid Kasper — top 28% of Edina Realty agents.

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 25

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Edina Realty Faribault Realtors receive Master’s Circle recognition

(Photo courtesy of SMIF)

Free business coaching available for BIPOC-owned businesses Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation is recruiting businesses for a new cohort of its Prosperity Initiative. Black, Indigenous and people of color who own or want to start a business in SMIF’s 20-county region are encouraged to apply. The Prosperity Initiative provides directed, culturally sensitive programming, while also creating a unified and coordinated resource structure, informing partners of best practices and creating opportunities for minority populations to network and access the business community. All resources are free for participating businesses. Prosperity Initiative graduates are also encouraged to apply to be part of this program again and take their business to a new level. According to the US Census Bureau, 29% of Minnesota’s population in 2040 will be people of color, an increase from only 4% in 1980. In response to this rapid growth, The Prosperity Initiative was designed to provide education and business resources to BIPOC business owners and educate resource partners

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on the barriers and opportunities these individuals encounter. Since 2016, The Prosperity Initiative program has supported 70 clients with one-on-one business coaching. SMIF hosted a business plan workshop March 30 to help individuals create a business plan for their company. “We are pleased to open applications to form our sixth Prosperity Initiative cohort,” said Pam Bishop, SMIF’s Vice President of Economic Development. “We look forward to another great year in partnership with our business coaches and program partners.” The Prosperity Initiative is a partnership between SMIF, Community Economic Development Associates, Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce, Hourglass Consulting, Region Nine Development Commission and Rochester Diversity Council. Apply online to the Prosperity Initiative 2021 cohort at smifoundation. org/prosperity by April 30. Contact Bishop at pamb@smifoundation.org or 507-214-7013 for more information.

Edina Realty recently announced that Realtors Rick and Mary Tonjum and Kathy Kalow, and Kim and Marcia Berg from the Faribault office are being recognized for outstanding sales performance, market knowledge and customer service as members of Edina Realty’s Master’s Circle. Membership in Edina Realty’s Master’s Circle places them in the top 14% of Edina Realty agents. “Agents who earn membership in Edina Realty’s Master’s Circle exemplify our core values of honesty, integrity, commitment, innovation and community. They prioritize customer relationships, understand evolving market trends and nurture connections,” said Greg Mason, Edina Realty Home Services CEO. “Edina Realty leads the market for the 21st consecutive year thanks to our hardworking and dedicated agents.”

RICK & MARY TONJUM

KIM & MARCIA BERG

KALOW

Many new opportunities in new Chamber program The Minnesota Chamber announced March 10 new opportunities for businesses to grow and receive economic development and assistance through its Grow Minnesota! program. A press release states that for more than 15 years, this program has offered one-on-one assistance to businesses who want to stay and grow throughout the state. “Minnesota has a legacy of building and growing businesses here that keep the economy strong and provide a quality of life for our communities,” said Vicki Stute, vice president of programs and business services at the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. “Every business will encounter challenges as they look to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Grow Minnesota! program and staff works with businesses, helping them make connections, delving into economic data and helping grow their opportunities for long-term success.” Grow Minnesota! has reportedly operated as a premier economic development program. “In this new operating model, they are more focused than ever on retaining and growing Minnesota businesses,” the release states. “Working with Grow Minnesota! means access to economic data and insights as the state moves toward economic recovery and access to Minnesota-based

suppliers on any number of products and services that could help your company grow. Visit mnchamber.com/growMN to connect with the Grow! program or request a visit.” They offer: • Business assistance through databases of available resources (capital, supply chains, economic development organizations), consultations with experts to help solve business challenges and connections to local resources in every region of the state. • Economic insights through data to better understand economic opportunities, participation in surveys to make your voice heard, and regional and industry analyses to provide context for local economies. · Local economic development services through local partners that understand the needs and opportunities in various regions, and partnership opportunities with benefits of technology, resources and training. According to Ingrid Christensen, president of INGCO, “It’s still a miracle that we were able to get into Canada and our ability to do so led us to our largest contract of 2020. The swift response from Grow Minnesota! was critical. Their connection with Canadian officials meant that we were able to overcome an international travel ban and successfully have our project manager

Michelle Krell receives Outstanding Central Office Leader award Michelle Krell, the director of teaching and learning at Owatonna Public Schools, has received the 2021 Outstanding Central Office Leader Award from the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. She received the award for exhibiting a willingness to risk, possessing strong communications KRELL skills, being a progressive change agent and having high expectations for herself and others, according to MASA. Krell was honored for her leadership, concern for students, and active involvement in professional and community affairs at a statewide recognition

ceremony during the MASA/MASE Spring Conference held virtually March 11-12. “Michelle is a professional educator in every sense of the word. In every step of her career she has found success through determined effort, grit and always putting people first,” Owatonna Superintendent Jeff Elstad said. “Michelle has completely transformed the teaching and learning department into a data-based, yet peoplecentered department. She focuses on learning through real listening and finding unique ways to empower staff and students to find their best way forward. She is a true problem solver.” Krell began as the director of teaching and learning in Owatonna in 2017. Prior to that, she was a middle and elementary school principal at Kasson-Mantorville Public Schools. Krell has also worked as a principal in the Waseca and Owatonna school districts. She began her career as an elementary school teacher in the Medford

enter the country in two days. Without the Chamber’s help, she would have been turned away from the border and we would not have been able to perform our contract.” The MN Supplier Match database helps businesses mend broken connections and spur Minnesota’s economy. COVID-19 disrupted supply chains around the world. But there are suppliers all over the state who can reportedly provide accessibility, short lead times, shared networks and trusted quality. The Minnesota Chamber’s Grow Minnesota! program provides a database for Minnesota businesses seeking connections to Minnesota’s robust supply chain. Visit mnchamber.com/suppliermatch to make a connection today. The Minnesota Chamber is a statewide organization representing more than 6,300 businesses of all types and sizes — and more than half a million employees — throughout Minnesota. The Chamber reportedly works tirelessly for its members; providing one-onone business services, opportunities to grow their networks and knowledge base, and cultivating an economic environment where businesses stay and grow in our state. A business climate that allows for innovation and forward-thinking leadership will help grow the strength of Minnesota’s economy for generations to come.

and Owatonna school districts. During her time in Owatonna, Krell has been working collaboratively to build and support the design of a Career Pathways program at Owatonna High School. She has facilitated the implementation of a strong literacy and math program and has supported the multi-tiered systems of support for students. Krell has also led the changes to the district’s professional development system to better align the needs of the staff with relevant and authentic opportunities to learn new skills. Krell’s additional accomplishments include taking a leadership role in the passage of a $122 million bond referendum to build a new Owatonna High School, recruiting and hiring of a top-notch team in the Teaching and Learning Department, and successfully planning and implementing “Courageous Educators: Racial Equity Training” for more than 120 district staff and administrators. Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 27

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

BAEHR

REZAC

SCHENDEL

TERRY

Edina Realty Faribault Realtors receive Leadership Circle recognition Edina Realty recently announced that Realtors Andrew Baehr, Pamela Rezac, Jenni Schendel and Suzanne Terry from the Faribault office are being recognized for outstanding sales performance, market knowledge and customer service as members of Edina Realty’s Leadership

Circle. Membership in Edina Realty’s Leadership Circle places them in the top 42% of Edina Realty agents. “Agents who earn membership in Edina Realty’s Leadership Circle exemplify our core values of honesty, integrity, commitment,

innovation and community. They prioritize customer relationships, understand evolving market trends and nurture connections,” said Greg Mason, Edina Realty Home Services CEO. “Edina Realty leads the market for the 21st consecutive year thanks to our hardworking and dedicated agents.”

Coldwell Banker South Metro joins Coldwell Banker River Valley Realtors OWATONNA, MINNESOTA— As of March 2, Coldwell Banker Home Connection and Coldwell Banker South Metro joined Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors. The move further strengthens River Valley Realtors’ position as one of the region’s largest real estate companies with a regional presence in eight offices, three states, and five multiple listing services. All 27 of the real estate agents and two staff members will continue operating from their current offices in Albert Lea, Owatonna, and Northfield locations. Lynn Johnson and Julie Wesely-Smit brought Coldwell Banker Home Connection to Owatonna in July 2000, purchased the Albert Lea office in 2004, and expanded into Northfield in 2006. Johnson and Wesely-Smit are excited to simplify life and focus 100% of their energies on selling real estate and focusing on their clients. “We have considered this transition for a couple years now,” Johnson said. “We went through a very deliberate decision-making

28 | APRIL 2021 | Southern MINN biz

process when looking at our succession options and ultimately chose Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors, because it’s a company that is uniquely positioned to take these offices to the next level. We could not be more excited for this, as they are a great company with a proven track record and phenomenal leadership.” Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors, is a family-owned business established in La Crosse, Wisconsin, in 2007. Among its strengths, according to Johnson, is a vast referral network, advanced technology to streamline transactions, enhanced marketing presence, a revitalized social media strategy, and added support for the agents working on behalf of clients. Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors, has grown steadily since its inception 14 years ago. According to 2020 Real Trends 500, Coldwell Banker River Valley is ranked in the top 44% of Coldwell Banker Affiliates nationwide. “With this expansion, we now have 86 Realtors as part of our team, which makes

us better than ever when it comes to serving buyers and sellers,” he said. “This is one of those cases where bigger is better because our size allows us to employ specialists to provide more marketing, technology and support for our agents, which then enables them to provide superior service to clients.” Olson noted that the family is communityoriented and works to give back to the communities where agents and clients live and work. “We’re looking forward to supporting Albert Lea, Owatonna and Northfield in that way too,” Olson said. Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors, and Coldwell Banker Commercial River Valley have been serving residential and commercial real estate buyers and sellers since 2007. Based in Onalaska, Wisconsin, the company also has offices in Black River Falls and Tomah, Wisconsin, and in Winona, Rochester, Albert Lea, Owatonna, and Northfield. The company has more than 86 professional sales agents throughout the region.

BARR

BUHRANDT

MARK & BARB ERICKSON

LIPPERT

MJELLELI

YERINGTON

President’s Circle honors go to 7 Edina Realty Faribault Realtors Edina Realty recently announced that Realtors Nancy Barr, Sarah Buhrandt, Mark and Barb Erickson, Rebecca Lippert, Mario Mjelleli, Cindy Yerington from the Faribault office are being recognized for outstanding sales performance, market knowledge and customer service as members of Edina Realty’s President’s Circle. Membership in Edina Realty’s President’s Circle places them in the top 28% of Edina Realty agents. “ Agents who earn membership in Edina Realty’s President’s Circle exemplify our core values of honesty, integrity, commitment, innovation and community. They prioritize customer relationships, understand evolving market trends and nurture connections,” said Greg Mason, Edina Realty Home Services CEO. “Edina Realty leads the market for the 21st consecutive year thanks to our hardworking and dedicated agents.”

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 city’s Vision 2040 work. The Vision 2040 process had stalled after a large priority setting session in May 2015. The outcomes from that public meeting included over 50 projects, ideas and policies with varying degrees of public buy-in. This list was reviewed by the Chamber of Commerce Board and narrowed to 12 items valued as most important to the business community. Those 12 were reviewed, defined, debated, and ranked by the newly assigned Vision Task Force (VTF). The top 5 priorities in order of priority are: 1. Excellence in education 2. Housing – modular home development

3. Leadership collaboration around economic development 4. A fabulous downtown 5. Gateway/monument signage We’ll give updates in the next few months on each of these priorities and describe what they mean to you — our area community members and what they mean for Faribault. Thanks so much for your support. As we begin emerging from this pandemic and related restrictions, please keep in mind that we’re all a bit weary and especially now your kindness to others will go a long way in finding our best “normal.”

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 29

BIZ NEWS

Owatonna’s Revol Greens introduced a proprietary plant-based organic nutrient source that marks its next step in a nationwide organic greenhouse program. (Photo courtesy of Revol Greens)

Revol Greens

announces new line of certified organic greenhouse lettuce

watonna’s Revol Greens, the largest greenhouse lettuce grower in North America, announced an innovation earlier this year with the rollout of a proprietary plant-based organic nutrient source that marks the next step in a nationwide organic greenhouse program. A first in the lettuce industry for both field and greenhouse environments, the newly developed organic fertilizer is behind Revol’s new line of USDA certified organic lettuces. “The path to organic is a natural evolution for Revol Greens,” says Mark Schulze, CEO at Revol Greens. “Our high-technology facilities are designed to optimize Mother Nature while eliminating the need for pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides. The plant-based, natural fertilizer developed by our research and develop-

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ment team is an extension of our goal to provide the healthiest, most natural leafy greens to our customers. We’re proud of this significant innovation for our industry and our ability to expand more of our heathy leafy green products made from our Grown Clean and Green process to American tables.” Considering the risks of food-borne illnesses associated with animal byproducts, Revol landed on a new organic solution to further enhance the safety and integrity of its packaged lettuce. As with all Revol Greens products, the new plant powered nutrient source and organic line are nonGMO. “This new organic nutrient source means that our lettuce is fed by plants. We’ve devoted years of research and testing to perfect this solution,” said Marc

Vergeldt, Revol Greens’ director of research and development. “We are the first grower – indoor or outdoor – to use such a source at scale.” Unlike organic and conventional outdoor grown “triple washed” lettuce, no chemical cleaning or chlorine is used in Revol’s organic packaging process. From seed to packaging, no human hands touch Revol Greens’ baby lettuces or greens, which further mitigates the spread of contaminants. Consumer interest in plant-based foods is at an all-time high, which further inspired the choice for Revol Greens to pursue an organic nutrient source. Recent U.S. retail sales data shows plant-based foods have outpaced total food sales during the pandemic, up 90% year-over-year.

Allina Clinic event (Photo courtesy of Sheldahl)

Sheldahl celebrates

frontline workers

Sheldahl, a flex company in Northfield, recently recognized the work of first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic at Allina Clinic and Northfield Retirement Center.

Northfield Retirement Center (Photo courtesy of Sheldahl)

(Photo courtesy of Sheldahl)

Southern MINN biz | APRIL 2021 | 31

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NEW! LAKEVILLE 7560 160th St W STE 100 Lakeville, MN 55044 Phone 651-508-0936 Hours M-F 8AM-6PM SAT 9AM-12PM

www.compcareclinics.com 32 | APRIL 2021 | Southern MINN biz

NEW! ROCHESTER 5507 Chateau Rd NW Rochester, MN 55901 Phone 651-508-0936 Hours M-F 8AM-6PM SAT 9AM-12PM