Southern Minn BIZ_May 2021

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INSIDE

10,000 Drops

Bringing locally distilled alcohol to the region

Homegrown Trystar

Looks forward to bright future

Area Chambers

Faribault Chamber

Young adults create own path in historic downtown

Think Globally.

Shop Locally.

Elizabeth Spaulding builds a bridge to the world through clothing with a cause MAY 2021

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VOLUME 1 / ISSUE 2

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Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 1

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MAY 2021 vOLUMe 1, iSSUE 2

Made in Southern Minnesota

10 14 23

10,000 Drops bringing locally distilled alcohol to the region

Chairman: Federated stepped up for clients, community during pandemic

SMALL BUSINESS TOOLBOX

18 19

Boutique owner Elizabeth Spaulding builds bridge to the world through clothing with a cause PG

Downtown Faribault remains attractive place for millennial business owners

Northfield retailers capitalize on pandemic market trend changes Young adults create own path in historic downtown Faribault

6

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Minimizer facility in 24 New Owatonna up and running Michael Johnston named new president of Owatonna, District One hospitals

Answering your questions on LASIK surgery

Area Chambers

20 21 22

COVER STORY

Homegrown company Trystar looks forward to bright future

reappointed to Public 25 Tuma Utilities Commission 15 downtown Northfield businesses support Chamber welcomes 26 Faribault new business Brandon Wayne recognized at Ameriprise Financial Banker South 27 Coldwell Metro joins Coldwell Banker

Conformity needed on federal COVID dollars as restrictions continue

River Valley Realtors

Merchants Bank Equipment FInance recognized for 30 years of membership

Corn commits 28 Minnesota $1 million to ethanol

infrastructure grant program Edina Realty’s foundation celebrates 25 years serving the homeless

Ambassadors 29 Chamber welcome Baker Tech Services

2021 Faribault Business Awards finalists, winners announced Scheffler replace 30 Dan longtime Frandsen Bank & Trust Dundas president

BridgeWater at Owatonna a new chamber member Contracting 31 Mohs celebrates 15th anniversary

CONTACT US Steve Fisher Regional President/Publisher steve.fisher@apgsomn.com

Chad HJELLMING Regional Circulation/General Manager chad.hjellming@apgsomn.com

SAM WILMES Editor sam.wilmes@apgsomn.com

Tom Kelling Regional Advertising Director Media Consultants tom.kelling@apgsomn.com

Suzanne Rook Regional Editor suzy.rook@apgsomn.com

Kate Townsend-Noet Design Layout

Southern Minn Biz (USPS # XXX-XXX), is published monthly

by APG Media of Southern Minnesota LLC, 135 W. Pearl St, Owatonna MN 55060-2316. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending 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 | MAY 2021 | 3

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR Southern Minnesota’s millennial influence

W

elcome to the magazine for southern Minnesota businesses and business

SAM WILMES

sam.wilmes@apgsomn.com

Reach Editor Sam Wilmes at 507-645-1115.

people!

Our 32-page May edition highlights the ingenuity and drive of the region’s younger business owners.

And though they may not have decades of experience, their stories show that there’s plenty of talented young entrepreneurs in our midst.

This month’s interview features Elizabeth Spaulding, owner of downtown Northfield’s MN Soulstice Boutique. Spaulding wants to build a bridge to the world through clothing with a cause by selling women’s and men’s clothing, jackets, purses and other items.

Custom Framing For Diplomas, Licenses, Certificates & Awards

The work of 10,000 Drops Craft Distillers’ co-owners and childhood friends Jake Hvistendahl, Pat Jacobs and Rob Kruchoski is our monthly Made in Southern Minnesota story.

That business, in the Faribault’s historic downtown, currently produces five types of spirits, but plans to expand that number significantly.

We’ve also got pieces on Faribaultbased Trystar, a business that recently relocated into a larger space on the north end of the city, and on Federated Insurance’s annual meeting. This month’s columnists include Faribault ophthalmologist Michael Richie and Fleur De Lis Gallery owner Jessica Prill.

This month’s People on the Move includes a new Minimizer facility in Owatonna; the new president of Owatonna and District One hospitals; 15 downtown Northfield businesses receiving support; and other pertinent and interesting information.

It is an honor to help produce this publication every month and serve you! We hope you enjoy our work.

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COVER STORY

Shop global, by shopp 6 | MAY 2021 | Southern Minn biz

Northfield boutique owner builds bridge to the world through clothing with a cause

By ANNIE GRANLUND annie.granlund@apgsomn.com

I

n the span of a few months, Elizabeth Spaulding went from backpacking in Thailand to opening a boutique in the heart of Northfield at 26 years

old.

Prior to that, she had been traveling on and off for years since graduating from Gustavus Adolphus College with a double major in studio art and philosophy. In between time abroad, including farming in New Zealand and traveling with her husband around Europe, she came back to her hometown of Northfield to work and save money while helping care for her grandmother.

Now, the 29-year-old says those years of exploration have helped her in her latest endeavor – learning the ins and outs of running her own successful retail business, MN Soulstice Boutique.

“When you’re traveling by yourself, if you don’t book that next hotel or train ticket, you’re stuck,” Spaulding said. “You get to know yourself and your strengths, because you’re constantly problemsolving. When someone else is there, it’s easy to ask, ‘What do you think we should do?’”

After returning home in 2018, Spaulding was discussing next steps with her mother, Joan, who owns The HideAway Coffeehouse and Winebar in downtown Northfield. During her travels, Spaulding had become inspired by fair-trade companies – their ability to empower artisans while connecting shoppers to a larger cause. It seemed like the perfect way to give back, and to create a bridge between Northfield and the places she fell in love with abroad.

Eventually, an idea took root – what about Spaulding’s own store, where she could bring in global companies with a cause? She and her mother

pping local

stopped into a vacant space, and later that week Spaulding had signed a lease. Two months later, she opened for business just ahead of the holiday rush.

‘People have choices all the time:’ Connection makes the difference Although Spaulding had limited retail experience before opening MN Soulstice Boutique, she’d often helped out around her parents’ coffee shop. Now she and her younger sister Sarah both run their own businesses in town – with Sarah in charge of The HideAway Vault, attached to Heritage Bank.

“To have all three of us come out on the other side of the pandemic – that was our goal, and I couldn’t be prouder of the two girls,” Joan said. “They are amazing and they both do such a good job with the customers.

“People have choices all the time – they can go to a mall.

They can go up - ELIZABETH SPAULDING to the Twin Cities. We have to make that connection, in order to have people come back,” she added.

“For me the best feeling is when they go out and actually love what they bought. People will come in going to a wedding and they have nothing to wear so we put on some Shania Twain and pick some things out – they try them on, and we talk honestly. I say, ‘If you don’t love it in the store you’re not going to live in when you get it home.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 7

Along with different styles of women’s clothing, Soulstice Boutique offers baby and children’s clothes and men’s clothing. Pictured, owner Elizabeth Spaulding shows a patterned men’s shirt to a customer. (Michelle Vlasak/southernminn.com)

At MN Soulstice Boutique, Spaulding says her priority is making sure customers leave with something they truly love – whether that’s a new dress, a necklace, or a gift for a new niece or nephew. Both her eye as an artist and her passion for the brands she carries helps translate into meaningful interactions with customers.

“For me, the best feeling is when they go out and actually love what they bought,” Spaulding said. “People will come in going to a wedding and they have nothing to wear, so we put on some Shania Twain and pick some things out – they try them on, and we talk honestly. I say, ‘If you don’t love it in the store, you’re not going to love it when you get it home.’”

When Spaulding goes to markets to find new companies and order inventory, Joan and Sarah often come along – meaning three sets of eyes and three unique styles to get a wide range of clothing into the store. Sharing in her daughter’s new endeavor, Joan says she is incredibly proud as a mother and a fellow business owner – especially when it comes to Spaulding’s customer service philosophy.

“When I hire people at the coffee shop, I always say, ‘We can teach tasks and we can teach hard skills, but we can’t teach customer service as much,’” said Joan. “Both as a family and as a business, we’ve always taught our kids the importance of living by the golden rule. I think that’s why all three of us have very good repeat customers.”

8 | MAY 2021 | Southern Minn biz

‘My soul gets fed, even when I can’t travel’

Like her daughter, Joan started The HideAway Coffeehouse and Winebar without any previous experience running a coffee shop. She recalls being a young child and watching instructional videos with her family on how to make lattes.

While Joan said there was a steep learning curve, the two things she relied on to build a strong business were a great product, and great customer service. As with customer service, Joan feels the products at MN Soulstice Boutique fill a new and important niche in the Northfield community – for the causes that they’re associated with, and for the global connection they bring to southern Minnesota.

“The majority of her inventory is clothing with a purpose, it’s giving back to a cause. One line of clothing helps raise awareness around sex trafficking, another takes leather out of landfills and uses it for a new purpose,” said Joan.

Spaulding was able to learn from her family, and other business owners in town, when opening the boutique – which was part of the reason she chose to have the business in Northfield. After her grand opening in 2018, a number of local business owners came by to welcome her. During the pandemic, she said the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism has frequently reached out to see

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

Bee Attitudes is a women-owned apparel and accessories line that strives to support like-minded organizations that empower women, like Thistle Farms, a Nashville nonprofit that provides a safe environment for women to heal from lives of sex trafficking and addiction. Owner Elizabeth Spaulding has numerous selections from this apparel line in her boutique. (Michelle Vlasak/southernminn.com)

how the organization can help support local businesses.

“Northfield was a very strong community before the pandemic – people want to keep their downtown thriving, and that was even more prominent when COVID-19 hit.

People would tell us they were trying not to order things online, they were making an effort to support the little guys,” she said.

“Even just one sale is so much better than seeing that big zero at the end of the day.”

A number of grants also helped MN Soulstice Boutique weather the storm.

Although Spaulding had to relocate to a smaller space during COVID-19, she said the silver lining is that she now gets more foot traffic. As communities start to see a light at the end of the tunnel, both her and Joan hope people will be more eager than ever to shop in person and share those communal experiences that so many have been missing this past year.

For her part, Spaulding plans to stay downtown and eventually further combine her love of travel with her passion for the boutique.

“I would love to personally go abroad and meet some of these makers. There’s a brand I carry from Chiang Mai in Thailand, and I’ve been there – to have that connection is so special,” she said. “It would be the best of both worlds to bring that passion and those new products back to the Midwest.”

For now, though, being able to connect through clothing has been a boon during the pandemic – for Spaulding, customers and the fair-trade companies she carries, as well.

“We strive to bring high-quality products, but ones that have a story to them,” she added. “I get very passionate about the different companies that I have in my store.

My soul gets fed, even when I can’t travel.”

While Spaulding sources products from across the globe, she is often able to test them out and purchase her inventory at markets in the U.S. Before the pandemic, she would travel to over a half dozen markets every year – looking for products that were fair-trade and companies that gave back to their communities. During the pandemic, she’s searched online databases to get connected with mission-driven companies abroad.

“As far as finding the products during COVID-19, I already had good relationships with most of the companies. I also looked at online wholesale outlets for retailers, searching by terms like ‘fair-trade’ or ‘women-owned,’” Spaulding said. “I spent a lot of time going through different companies, reading their statements. But I’m always more of a fan of touching and seeing things in person, so I was really excited when we could start going back to markets.”

Since the pandemic, Spaulding has been to several shows in the Twin Cities. Different from before, attendees now have a time slot when they can make rounds and pick out products they’d like to carry in their own stores. After the pandemic, Spaulding hopes to once again go abroad and meet some of her vendors – or source new ones on her travels.

Kranz is a freelance writer for SouthernMinn biz.

Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 9

MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

10,000 Dr o bringing locally distilled alcohol to the region

10,000 DROPS Business: 10,000 Drops Distillery What they make: Spirits including Silver Rum, Spiced Rum, Naked Whiskey, American Gin and American Gin - Barrel Reserve.

Ownership: Childhood friends Jake Hvistendahl, Pat Jacobs and Rob Kruchoski.

Address: 28 Fourth St. NE, Faribault, MN, 55021 Number of employees: Six, including two part- and four full-time workers.

Annual sales: Approximately $300,000 in 2019, the only full year the business has been open since its founding in June 2018.

10 | MAY 2021 | Southern MINN biz

Drops bring alcohol to th

r ops

ringing locally distilled to the region

ABOVE: 10,000 Drops co-owner Jake Hvistendahl is partnering with Pat Jacobs and Rob Kruchoski to deliver locally made spirits to the area. (Sam Wilmes/southernminn.com)

By SAM WILMES samuel.wilmes@apgsomn.com

E

ven while 10,000 Drops Craft Distillers in Faribault navigates business restrictions caused by COVID-19, it plans to offer a wider selection of its locally made spirits in the years ahead.

The distillery, located in a portion of the former Peterson Art Furniture Co. factory in the heart of the city’s downtown, now sells a variety of liquors, including silver rum, spiced rum, naked whiskey, American gin and American gin-barrel reserve. It expects to offer 13 varieties by the

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 INSET PHOTO: Kenyon-based Crosswinds Farm supplies the grain 10,000 drops uses to distill their products. (Sam Wilmes/southernminnbiz.com) LEFT: Alcohol-storing stills are kept in the upstairs portion of 10,000 Drops. Hvistendahl noted his establishment is expected to offer 13 varieties of alcohol by the end of 2022. (Sam Wilmes/ southernminnbiz.com)

Southern MINN biz | MAY 2021 | 11

Though 10,000 Drops was forced to cut its hours last winter during a surge in COVID-19 cases, co-owner Jake Hvistendahl anticipates foot traffic will only increase as more Minnesotans get vaccinated and the weather warms. (Michelle Vlas

Hvistendahl noted grain, used from Kenyonbased Crosswinds Farm, is fermented in a barrel for four years. He said that is longer than most breweries and ensures a high-quality product. (Sam Wilmes/southernminnbiz.com)

12 | MAY 2021 | Southern Minn biz

end of 2022. 10,000 Drops has a well-appointed cocktail lounge that features oversize leather chairs and reclaimed architectural elements in the renovated 1886 building, as well as a patio, making it able to host events from birthday gatherings to corporate meetings and reunions.

The 2018 opening at 28 Fourth St. NE, however, came after nearly two years of hard work turning the historic building into a distillery. For months, co-owners Rob Kruchoski, and St. Olaf graduates Pat Jacobs and Jake Hvistendahl worked to transform the downtown Faribault building into their craft distillery. From removing walls to thousands of nails from the old

TOP RIGHT: The building that houses 10,000 Drops was built in 1917 and was remodeled a century later. The distillery opened in June 2018. (Sam Wilmes/southernminnbiz.com) LOWER RIGHT: Though Hvistendahl noted business levels have dropped since the pandemic, he expects that to improve as summer nears and more people become vaccinated. (Sam Wilmes/southernminnbiz.com)

building, the trio worked tirelessly to bring their business to fruition.

Today, 10,000 Drops receives its grain from Kenyonbased Crosswinds Farm. The grain is barrel fermented for four years, a process Hvistendahl said is longer than most distilleries and ensures a high-quality product.

The business employs six workers: two part- and four fulltime employees.

In 2019, 10,000 Drops made approximately $300,000

in revenue during the only full year the distillery has been completely operational. Though Hvistendahl noted 10,000 Drops was forced to cut back its hours last winter during a surge in COVID-19 cases, he anticipates foot traffic will only increase as more Minnesotans get vaccinated and the weather warms.

Reach Associate Editor Sam Wilmes at 507-645-1115. © Copyright 2021 APG Media of Southern Minnesota. All rights reserved.

Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 13

MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Homegrown company Trystar has enjoyed years of solid growth, and recently moved into a new space on the north end of Faribault that should help it to grow further. (Andrew Deziel/southernminn.com)

Homegrown company

looks for ward to bright future

By ANDREW DEZIEL andrew.deziel@apgsomn.com

W

ith support from the city and county, a rapidly growing Faribault business is settling into new office space as it looks forward to a bright future — and plays a crucial role in the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trystar’s new office space, completed by hometown firm Met-Con Construction, includes a “collaboration space” with a coffee bar.

(Andrew Deziel/southernminn.com)

14 | MAY 2021 | Southern Minn biz

Since 1992, Trystar has manufactured temporary electrical power units for commercial and emergency services purposes in Faribault. Trystar’s products have traditionally been in demand when natural disasters hit, with hurricane season its strongest time of the year.

Even before the pandemic, Trystar had seen robust demand and growth for years. With a reputation for quality and an ability to get its products to customers in a timely fashion, it won devoted customers all over the world. Since the pandemic, Trystar’s units have provided power for testing stations and other emergency uses. Those needs have continued as authorities try to figure out how to store and distribute vaccines that need to be kept at extremely cold temperatures.

Trystar CEO A.J. Smith expects to see his company’s growth continue as businesses recover from COVID-19.

Smith said that the first quarter of 2021 was stronger than expected and quarter two looks even more promising.

Despite that momentum, Smith noted that many larger events are still being canceled or postponed. As a result, the side of Trystar’s business traditionally focused on large gatherings and festivals may not recover until the second half of the year.

Trystar’s employees will be able to meet those needs from larger and significantly upgraded facilities. After years of

juggling between five separate buildings in Faribault’s industrial park, the company moved into one 100,000-square foot building last summer.

After the move, Trystar’s office workers were forced to work in makeshift stations on the factory floor while a 20,000-foot expansion with a sizable break room, clean, quiet workspaces for office staff and a “collaboration space” with couches and a coffee bar were being completed.

Though all of Trystar’s former facilities were relatively near one another, the company had long wanted to bring its operations under one roof. It sought a solution as far back as 2012, but a proposed 170,000 square-foot facility in Shakopee never came to fruition.

Efforts to address Trystar’s space situation kicked into high gear again in 2018, when founder Rick Dahl sold the company to Goldner Hawn Johnson & Morrison, a Twin Cities-based equity firm which brought in Smith, a former Honeywell executive, to run the ship.

One of Smith’s first moves as CEO was to open a new office in Burnsville. He’s said the new location has proven to be a recruiting tool for Twin Cities-based workers and is convenient for customers, thanks to its proximity to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Smith then turned his attention to Trystar’s space needs. Despite the company’s investment in Burnsville, the company wanted to keep its main location in Faribault to maintain existing partnerships and avoid uprooting its workforce.

Initially, Trystar explored the option of expanding one

of the company’s existing Faribault locations. However, it discovered that under the current building code, none of those sites could be expanded sufficiently to meet the company’s needs.

While it was not the company’s preference, Trystar expanded its search to include potential sites in Burnsville and Lakeville. There, it found several sites that could accommodate current needs and future growth for an affordable price.

Trystar inquired about the warehouse on the north end of Faribault, but it was projected to cost $550,000 more than options in the south metro. About $400,000 of this was due to higher rent over a period of time and $150,000 to accommodate needed building modifications.

Because the project wouldn’t be tied to a new company or new jobs, getting funding from economic development agencies was a challenge. Wanting to keep Trystar in town, the city, county and Faribault Economic Development Authority cut a deal to close the funding gap.

The EDA provided a $100,000 loan, forgivable after five years, with the remainder covered by tax abatement.

The city’s portion of the abatement was $260,040, with the county covering $189,960, both over a 10-year period.

Reach Reporter Andrew Deziel at 507-333-3129 or follow him on Twitter @FDNandrew. © Copyright 2021 APG Media of Southern Minnesota.

All rights reserved.

FOR OUR NEIGHBORS

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Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 15

SMALL BUSINESS TOOLBOX

Answering your questions on LASIK surgery

C MICHAEL RICHIE

Guest columnist

Richie is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Richie Eye Clinic with a special interest in laser vision correction.

OVID-19 numbers are down, the vaccine is here, and spring is right around the corner — let’s talk about something other than the pandemic, shall we?

How about LASIK? I know …”LASIK isn’t new,” you’re thinking, “What could you possibly tell us that we don’t already know?”

Good thought, so let’s go through some of the usual stuff rapid fire: LASIK reshapes your cornea to reduce/ eliminate your need for glasses or contacts.

LASIK works.

LASIK doesn’t wear off.

LASIK corrects distance vision.

Only 1-3% need a second treatment.

Most prescriptions can be treated.

You must have a normal, healthy cornea to qualify for LASIK. LASIK will temporarily damage the nerves in the cornea.

As a result, everyone will have dry eye and glare at night for the first two-four weeks.

The damaged nerves may take three-six months to heal. Be patient.

OK, now for some not so usual stuff, but common enough that we can still go rapid fire: If you have a corneal issue, don’t have LASIK. Just isn’t worth it.

If you see clearly at distance but have trouble reading, you are probably over 40 and have lost “accommodation,” the eye’s ability to adjust its focus from distance to near.

LASIK cannot fix loss of accommodation.

A cataract is the normal clear lens in the eye turned yellow. This can blur vision.

We can achieve a “LASIK-like” result with cataract surgery.

If you have a cataract, have cataract surgery, not LASIK. It’s a twofer.

That wasn’t too bad, right? But rumor has it a new LASIK center is opening soon in Faribault, so let’s dive into some of the more advanced stuff to assure you ask all the right questions.

Original laser technology from back in the

16 | MAY 2021 | Southern Minn biz

1990’s was impressive, cutting-edge science.

But, just like your cellphone and laptop, things advance quickly. “Wavefront” soon became the norm and, in one fashion or another, is what you should demand if you are shopping for LASIK. With standard laser technology we treat your glasses prescription, not your eye. Anyone with glasses similar to yours will get the same treatment as you. “So what,” you say. Well, that’s what we thought 25 years ago, too. Until we looked further.

Wavefront technology is individualized to your eye with more advanced measurements and even a topographical map of your cornea.

Greater precision means less glare, better night vision and enhanced contrast sensitivity.

Some analogies can be helpful: You hire a cabinet maker to build you a dresser. The corners all fit nicely, everything is level and the drawers work beautifully … but she didn’t sand the wood before painting.

Wavefront leaves the surface of the eye as smooth as possible.

You must replace your car windshield. The new glass fits snug all around with no leaks but the glass has some imperfections, smudges, and irregularities. Driving into the sun, the glare is terrible and headlights at night sparkle. Wavefront is like choosing the highest quality glass for your windshield.

Best Buy is having a sale you can’t resist.

You opt for the 65-incher that fits perfectly in your family room. Do you get standard or HD? There you have it in a nutshell. Standard LASIK works but has notable limitations that could negatively impact your vision. Do you need wavefront? Well, do you need the furniture smooth, the windshield pristine and HD in four rooms in the house? Be wary of bargain basement deals.

Still have questions? Stop in to Richie Eye Clinic and LASIK Center. We have answers, and LASIK evaluations are on us.

Downtown Faribault remains attractive place for millennial business owners

M JESSICA PRILL

Guest columnist

Prill is the owner of Faribault-based Fleur De Lis Gallery and a partner in Good Day Coffee.

y name is Jessica Prill, and I am the owner of a couple of small, brickand-mortar businesses in downtown Faribault. I have Fleur de lis Gallery, an art boutique focused on all handmade items by Minnesota artists, and am a partner in Good Day Coffee. I opened the gallery in 2016 and the coffee shop this past December.

Being a small business owner was something I always wanted to do. As a kid I had a very different idea about what that meant of course. No boss, no limits, do whatever I want and watch the money fall from the sky…I had much to learn….

I owned my first business in 2007, right before the biggest economic downturn of my generation. I had taken over a high-end boutique that sold all the super unnecessary frivolities of the time. I enjoyed one good year and then learned many hard lessons until I had had enough in 2011.

When I decided to jump back into the ring and open the gallery, I used what I had learned from my defeats with the boutique. I am happy to say that as hard as that was to fail at my first try, I would never have the success I do today without it. I started the gallery as a pop-up with 10 fellow artist friends and today am open all year and hosting over 70 Minnesota creatives!

What I love most about being a business owner in Faribault is the positive connection and impact I am able to have on the community, its residents and visitors. I have met so many amazing people during my time here. It is a beautifully diverse community, and I am told regularly by my customers how

appreciative they are of the businesses that I have brought to the town.

When we opened the coffee shop I was introduced to a whole new side of the community. I suddenly had a steady stream of people from the deaf community coming in for their daily latte. I was fortunate to have hired on a girl who was able to sign, and she showed me the basics of signing. It feels really good to be able to communicate with this group and make their day with a great cup of coffee. The learning never stops, and that’s another thing that I love.

Navigating a pandemic has also been a huge learning experience. While a large portion of the world was now needing to stay home and businesses were shuttering all around me, I had to figure out how to continue doing business. My gallery is fed mostly by day trippers which were all but deleted from my customer base. At the same time the cupcake business across the hall and the restaurant on the other side of me closed for good. That pretty much left me on an island of isolation. So I did the thing you have to do as an entrepreneur and took hold of the opened opportunity and started Good Day Coffee with a friend and fellow business owner.

Being a self-employed person is seven days a week, with countless bosses (my customers) and no end of mental gymnastics to stay ahead of everything. I’m still waiting for the money to fall from the sky like my girlish dreams predicted ... but I am enjoying every minute of this journey just the same.

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Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 17

Looking for qualified candidates right now?

Look no further than our upcoming Virtual Career Fair. Using just your computer or smart device, you will connect with local job seekers. Chat live (text and video), collect resumes, build candidate database, and hire now.

May 18th 10am-2pm | May 19th 3pm-6pm

www.megaminn.careerfair.live/ Contact:

Britney Marr | britney.marr@apgsomn.com | 507.931.8577 Toni Schmidt | toni.schmidt@apgsomn.com | 507.333.3146

The| Mega Minn Virtual 18 | MAY 2021 Southern Minn biz

Job Fair covers all of Southern and East Central Minnesota

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

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Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 19

AREA CHAMBERS

Northfield Northfield retailers capitalize on pandemic market trend changes

S

LISA PETERSON Guest columnist

Lisa Peterson is the president of the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.

hoptimism is a term being used to describe purchases made from home during the pandemic. You are stuck at home and suddenly begin to see every flaw, paint chip and cluttered closet. So, you buy things to fix the situation — or you buy things to make you feel better about it.

When consumers buy things they don’t need, such as luxury items, in the middle of a public health crisis, it’s called “shoptimism.”

This term was coined by Lee Eisenberg in his 2009 book of the same title.

Why do we buy things?

According to Eisenberg, people buy things to provide emotional relief from the anxiety of living in a pandemic and economically uncertain times. He describes two kinds of buyers. The classic buyer compares prices, deliberates on whether they need a product and then makes a purchase. The romantic buyer shops emotionally, purchasing trendy or “cool” items that boost their emotional state.

In general, the romantic buyer cares about the emotional satisfaction of the purchase rather than the utility of the product.

E-commerce and m-commerce Consumers are used to the convenience of online shopping (e-commerce), especially via their mobile devices (m-commerce). The click-and-collect culture isn’t going anywhere soon. Not only is it safer but the convenience and faster delivery times make it easier than shopping in stores. Generous return policies sealed the deal.

The rise of curbside pickup makes it easy to order online and drive up for contactless service. This frictionless experience has risen due to the global pandemic, but consumers are likely to demand it for long afterwards.

Northfield has increased the short-term street parking downtown to help with a quick turnaround for curbside services, which many of the local shops offer.

Northfield’s retailers continue to capitalize on this into 2021. Even shoppers who do visit traditionally now pre-research products and services online. Many of the smaller retailers took advantage of the Northfield EDA’s

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E-Commerce grant money last summer to help build online shopping capabilities which has helped their sales during the past year.

Contactless shopping Contactless shopping and payment provide a safe way for consumers to purchase online and pick up at participating stores. Consumers can also use the technology to shop or pay for items at brick-and-mortar retail stores.

Monarch Gift Shop offers customers, who may still be feeling apprehensive of in-person shopping, the option of a virtual personal shopper. Customers can use programs like FaceTime and a clerk will help guide the experience.

One customer wrote: “I was looking for a new wall clock for my newly remodeled kitchen. I was able to show Amy my kitchen and she made suggestions for different styles that would look good. We chose a beautiful clock. I paid over the phone and she even delivered it to my home that afternoon. It was seamless and really nice.”

Younger generations are exhibiting shoptimism Generation Z has been hit hard by the pandemic employment situation. The youngest generation in the workforce is often the first let go in a downturn and those graduating from college may have a harder time finding employment in their field.

Research from Smart Company, an Australian publication, showed a rise in purchases among Gen Z shoppers from shopping platforms offering payment plans.

These shoppers appreciated the safety, anonymity, and speed of online transactions.

Perhaps that’s why usage of e-commerce and m-commerce is increasingly popular among demographically younger shoppers.

Shoptimism goes beyond the recent tendency of homebound consumers to make frivolous purchases online. New technology and changing consumer expectations make it imperative that businesses take their brands to the internet if they want to attract consumers away from competitors.

Young adults create their own path in historic downtown Faribault

F KELLY NYGAARD Guest columnist

Kelly Nygaard is the tourism director, marketing manager and Main Street coordinator for the Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.

rom hair salons, towing services, and hot sauce, to boutiques, phone providers, bakeries, coffee companies, real estate to wedding venues, there are over a dozen businesses owned by young professionals in downtown Faribault.

Entering the workforce during the recession, this generation was forced to adapt to an ever-changing job market.

“I think we’ve all held way more jobs in way more industries that our older compatriots. I think this helps keep us flexible and we’re really quick to pivot directions if the need arises.” Said Jake Hvistendahl, co-owner 10,000 Drops Craft Distillery For some, the economic fluctuations may have played a role in why they went into business on their own, and for others, it’s about location, and timing.

Steve Bock, of Glenn’s Towing, observes that while there are inherent risks of entrepreneurship, an undeniable perk is “Being your own boss.” He came to Faribault because of family, and because “opportunity arose.”

When Jeremy Chavis was ready to launch his career, he joined the family business, Faribault Vacuum store, and later became owner in 2012. Jeremy was a set of fresh eyes and has renovated, added new product offerings, and tweaked product demonstrations which all helped to grow the store since he took the helm. But the real impact was digital.

“We’re the biggest Amazon store in the Midwest for vacuums and sewing machines.” said Chavis.

Consumers are online, so businesses need to be too.

“The ability to navigate social media to a degree helps too,” Noted Pat Jacobs, co-owner 10,000 Drops Craft Distillery. The distillery is active online on both Facebook and Instagram, and has a website that is reflective of their brand and space.

Even more traditional service-based and established brands are now online.

Bock said, “It’s the new wave of advertising.

Young professional or not, that’s the way business is going.” They utilize search engine optimization, online ads, and Facebook to reach a digitally savvy consumer.

A combination of COVID-19 and a desire to reach a broader audience pushed Jessica Prill of Fleur De Lis Gallery and Co-Owner of Good Day Coffee to create an e-commerce presence.

“I have always paid attention to my experiences in other businesses and thought about what I liked and what didn’t seem like it was working. I pay attention to customer feedback as it’s my best guide for what customers want in my business,” Prill said.

“The downtown Faribault decision had a lot to do with the potential of the historic building. Our place looks a lot different than most distilleries in the cities, where they’re all mostly in modern commercial spaces,” Hvistendahl said.

These business owners are smart and impressive, being jacks of all trades and navigating all facets of their business from bookkeeping to customer service, exactly the type of person you want in the mix downtown.

Faribault Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 21

AREA CHAMBERS

Owatonna Conformity needed on federal COVID dollars as restrictions continue

A BRAD MEIER

Guest columnist

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

s many small businesses continue to be weighed down by occupancy restrictions and revenue losses from closures, the state of Minnesota continues to tax Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) relief dollars.

An issue that seemed like it would be resolved when the recent state budget forecast a $1.6 billion surplus-PPP conformity would “cost” the state approximately $438 million.

This policy hits hundreds of businesses right here in the greater Owatonna area.

Recently, Steele County tallied the applications for their most recent economic relief grants (state money) in which 164 businesses and nonprofits applied requesting $5.3 million in funds lost due to COVID-19 closures.

The county has $714,000 in grant money to provide to these businesses a $4.6 million shortfall. Tally that impact over 87 counties in Minnesota and numbers get big real fast.

As COVID-19 closed businesses, the federal government jumped in with the PPP program which for hundreds of businesses in Steele County and over $100,000 statewide was vital in surviving the economic impacts of COVID-19. The program was a key lifeline for business, allowing them to keep people employed and pay some important bills like mortgage/ rent and utilities.

According to the Tax Foundation (www. taxfoundation.org), ordinarily, a forgiven loan qualifies as income. However, Congress chose to exempt forgiven PPP loans from federal income taxation. Many states, however, remain on track to tax them by either treating forgiven loans as taxable income, denying the

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deduction for expenses paid for using forgiven loans, or both. States that use rolling conformity automatically adopt federal tax changes as they occur, which is the simplest approach and provides the most certainty to taxpayers. States that use static conformity, like Minnesota, link to the federal tax code as it stood on a certain date and must proactively adopt legislation to accept more recent changes.

To date, Minnesota has not conformed to the federal tax code regarding PPP income.

This delay is causing real uncertainty for businesses as they prepare to file their tax returns.

State representatives John Petersburg and Senator John Jasinski are supportive of the tax conformity now, but caution it probably wouldn’t happen until late May if it happens at all (as they see the legislative process taking place).

Keeping businesses and their employees in this uncertain economic peril goes against the rhetoric that we are ‘all in this together.’

Are we? For those seeing their life’s work get crushed economically, through no fault of their own, it’s hard to believe this tax change hasn’t been made yet.

Businesses have both directly (through shutdowns) and indirectly (through slower business) sacrificed their economic future for the safety and security of the greater community. PPP tax conformity is a straightforward way to support businesses who have demonstrated they need it the most through their granting of PPP funds in the first place.

Timing is important and businesses need this relief now.

M

MADE IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Federated Insurance Co. in downtown Owatonna. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Chairman: Federated stepped up for clients, community during pandemic F

By LISA KACZKE lisa.kaczke@apgsomn.com

Jeffrey E. Fetters, chairman of the Federated Insurance Cos., speaks during the annual policyholders meeting, which was held Tuesday with only the board of directors who are also clients in attendance due to the pandemic.

(Photo courtesy Federated Insurance)

ederated Insurance employees stepped up during the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Chairman Jeff Fetters said.

Fetters opened Federated’s annual policyholders meeting, which was held with only the board of directors who are also clients due to the pandemic, by thanking the more than 40,000 policyholders who allowed Federated to protect their

businesses.

“While 2020 wasn’t what we hoped for or expected, it reaffirmed what makes Federated an extraordinary organization,” Fetters said. “It also allowed us to do what we do best — be a source of comfort and knowledge during times of uncertainty.”

Federated’s marketing executives continued to build relationships with CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 23

P

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

The new 85,000-square foot facility on 13 acres in Owatonna’s industrial park brings Minimizer under one roof. (Photo courtesy of Minimizer) Minimizer is nearing the end of a long road, and 18 months after breaking ground in Owatonna, the heavy-duty trucking company is operational and just about fully moved into its new facility.

(Photo courtesy of Minimizer)

New Minimizer facility in Owatonna up and running Minimizer is nearing the end of a long road, and 18 months after breaking ground in Owatonna, the heavy-duty trucking company is operational and just about fully moved into its new facility.

“The entire team effort involved with making this a success is impressive and could not have happened without the commitment from everyone in all departments,” said Jim Richards, vice president of operations for parent company High Bar Brands.

Two molding machines and one robot are all that remain at the company’s old facility in Blooming Prairie. Richards says those last few pieces should be in place in Owatonna by mid-May. “I think the most impressive thing about the whole move is that we set sales and shipping records throughout the course of it,” Richards said. “That’s amazing, and it’s a testament to the team we have in place, from sales, to operations, to administration, to customer service.”

The new 85,000-square foot facility on 13 acres in Owatonna’s industrial park brings Minimizer under one roof. Previously, the Tested & Tortured™ brand was spread across three campuses in Blooming Prairie.

“Having everyone in one facility really benefits efficiency of product flow,” Richards said. “This new setup drastically reduces the time and space that product travels from raw material to order shipped.”

Richards also believes the move will considerably improve company communication.

“Communication flow in all areas – from daily work distribution to company vision communication – is significantly impacted in a positive way,” Richards said. “Employees now have better access to their supervisor, HR and other departments.”

Michael Johnston named new president of Owatonna, District One hospitals Michael Johnston, a hospital leader in Michigan, has been named the new president of the Owatonna and Faribault hospitals.

Allina Health announced Wednesday that Johnston will take over May 10 as its new South Market president, which includes the operational responsibility for District One Hospital in Faribault and Owatonna Hospital as well as “future growth opportunities” along the I-35 corridor.

JOHNSTON Johnston said in a statement that he and his wife Sarah are “extremely excited and humbled” to be joining Allina Health.

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“We are very happy to be coming back to the area. I very much look forward to working with the people and communities we serve to continue to deliver world-class health care and population health that Allina Health is known for to our patients,” Johnston said in a statement.

Johnston currently serves as president and CEO of the McLaren Thumb Region in Michigan, where he oversaw hospitals in Bad Axe and Caro, Michigan. He has previously served in executive operations roles at Atrium Health-Charlotte, North Carolina and Trinity Health-Mason City, Iowa, according to Allina Health.

Johnston holds a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, a Master in Business Administration from Thomas More College and a Doctorate of Management from the University of Phoenix. The Johnstons have three children: Kirsten, who is a nurse in Orlando, Florida,;Thomas, a computer engineer in Tampa, Florida, and Evie, a junior at Michigan State University.

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Tuma reappointed to Public Utilities Commission Northfield resident John Tuma has been appointed to a second consecutive term on the state’s Public Utilities Commission. The term is effective March 29 and expires Jan. 4, 2027.

Tuma was appointed by Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.

He’s served on the commission since 2015. His areas of focus have included cyber security, telecommunications and siting of renewable facilities.

“The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission plays the essential role of ensuring that utilities like electricity, heat, and phone lines — services that Minnesotans rely on every single day — are reliable,” said Walz. “I am grateful to TUMA Commissioner Tuma for continuing his service to Minnesota.”

Said Flanagan: “For years, Commissioner Tuma has been devoted to ensuring that Minnesota’s lights stay on and our power remains reliable. We are grateful for his leadership and look forward to his continued service on the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.”

Tuma, a Republican who served in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1995 to 2002 represented parts of Rice, Le Sueur, Scott and Dakota counties. During his time in the House, he chaired the Crime Prevention Committee.

Prior to his service on the commission, which regulates the state’s electricity, natural gas, and telephone services industries, Tuma worked for decades on energy and conservation policy issues for nongovernmental organizations. His experience includes working with Conservation Minnesota to lead efforts to pass key energy legislation, including Minnesota’s Renewable Energy Standard – which garnered broad bipartisan support.

“I am deeply honored by the governor and lieutenant governor confidence in allowing me to continue to serve the people of Minnesota” said Tuma. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves to do the hard work necessary as we transform the energy industry to provide customers with clean, cost-effective and reliable service 24/7. It is a privilege to work alongside and support the dedicated fellow Minnesotans that are committed to providing these critical services from the line worker who answers the call on a bone chilling Minnesota morning to the planners making sure that service is always there keeping our families safe and warm.”

Tuma has practiced law in Northfield where he lives with his wife Wendy. They have two adult children Cal and Molly.

15 downtown Northfield businesses receive business support Thanks to a generous donation from Wings Financial Credit Union, the Northfield Downtown Development Corp. is happy to announce the recipients of the latest round of business support funds. Downtown businesses were eligible to apply for up to $1,000 for projects and investments that will enhance their operations during and coming out of the current pandemic.

After a review of 27 strong applications, 15 were approved for partial support to maximize the reach of the ultimately limited funds. The businesses listed below demonstrated their creativity and the potential impact of the proposed projects SIEMS for their business and downtown community: • 502 Studio and Gallery – interior flooring improvements • Café Shawn – signage and marketing • CakeWalk – online ordering system updates • Clothes Closet (CAC) – signage and marketing • Division Street Dance – interior wood floor refinishing • Downtown Bicycles – plumbing for bike wash station • Goodbye Blue Monday – new outdoor awning • HealthFinders Collaborative – marketing • Heath Creek Cycles – website and exterior improvements • Imminent Brewing – new bar project • Northfield Arts Guild – staffing shop for additional day during summer • Paisley Gardens – new point-of-sale system for garage area • Prema Studio – signage and marketing • The Contented Cow Co. – repairs/updates to outdoor stage • The Sketchy Artist – interior fixture and display upgrades Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the NDDC has distributed over $14,000 to help 28 downtown businesses strengthen their operations and upgrade their physical spaces.

As the number of applications for this round attests, there is still a great need to support our downtown businesses as they adapt to this ‘new normal.’ The NDDC will continue to seek additional grants and donations to fund additional rounds of applications in the future.

If you are interested in sponsoring or donating to a future round of support funds, please reach out to NDDC Executive Director Greg Siems (greg@nddc.org).

The post Announcing the 2021 business support fund recipients appeared first on Northfield Downtown Development Corporation.

Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 25

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Faribault Chamber welcomes new business

Daryl Bauer Home Resource Group RE/MAX Advantage Plus recently celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting alongside the Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. Daryl Bauer Home Resource Group RE/MAX Advantage Plus covers real estate in southern Minnesota and beyond. They are located at 1645 Lyndale Ave. S Suite 103 in Faribault, MN 55021 and can also be reached by phone at (952) 240-5773. (Photo courtesy of Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism)

Brandon Wayne recognized at Ameriprise Financial Brandon Wayne, a private wealth advisor with Dufresne, Wayne and Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. in Owatonna, has qualified for the company’s Circle of Success annual recognition program and will be honored for this achievement.

To earn this achievement, Wayne established himself as one of the company’s top advisors.

Only a select number of high-performing advisors earn this distinction.

He has 20 years of experience with Ameriprise Financial.

As a private wealth advisor, Wayne provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and is delivered in one-on-one relationships with his clients.

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Wayne

Coldwell Banker South Metro joins Coldwell Banker River Valley Realtors

Merchants Bank Equipment Finance recognized for 30 years of membership

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.

It now has eight offices in 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.

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 “We have considered this transition for a couple years now,” Johnson said. “We went through a very deliberate decisionmaking 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.

Based in Onalaska, Wisconsin, Coldwell Banker River Valley, Realtors, has grown steadily since its inception 14 years ago, ranked in the top 44% of Coldwell Banker sffiliates 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 community-oriented 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 served residential and commercial real estate buyers and sellers since 2007.

The Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA) has recognized Merchants Bank Equipment Finance (MBEF) for 30 years of membership in the organization. ELFA represents companies in the nearly $1 trillion equipment finance sector.

“We are proud to be recognized for our 30 years of membership in ELFA, said Rick Barry, president of Merchants Bank Equipment Finance in a press release. “As a division of a regional community bank, we are committed to delivering equipment financing solutions tailored to the needs of our clients across the country and that has been strengthened by our active involvement in ELFA. From Barry serving on committees to being involved in shaping legislation, we work together as an advocate for clients and the industry. We take pride in helping grow “Main Street,” and ELFA has been a tremendous resource.”

As a member of ELFA, Merchants Bank Equipment Finance reportedly joins other leading companies in the equipment finance sector.

“ELFA members are the driving force behind the growth in the commercial equipment finance market and contribute to capital formation across the U.S.,” the release states. “The association’s 575 members include independent and captive leasing and finance companies, banks, financial services corporations, broker/packagers and investment banks, as well as manufacturers and service providers. ELFA exists to provide member companies a platform to promote and advocate for the industry, including attracting and developing new and diverse talent; a forum for professional development and training; and a resource that develops information about, and for, the industry.”

In the release, ELFA President and CEO Ralph Petta congratulated Merchants Bank Equipment Finance on achieving 30 years of membership and thanked the company.

“Since its founding in 1961, ELFA has united the equipment finance industry under one umbrella: to learn, do business and advocate for equipment finance and its important role in the U.S. economy,” Petta said in the release. “Over the years, member companies have evolved and innovated to meet changing customer needs. This speaks to the strength and resilience of our industry as it equips American businesses to succeed and prosper. We congratulate all the companies celebrating milestone membership anniversaries in 2021, which also happens to be ELFA’s 60th anniversary.”

Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 27

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Minnesota Corn commits $1 million to ethanol infrastructure grant program The Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council and Minnesota Corn Growers Association announced a commitment of $1 million to a future state biofuels infrastructure grant program. The program, to be administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, would expand access to higher blends of ethanol in the state.

“Minnesota has long been a leader in the adoption and use of cleaner-burning ethanol,” said Jim O’Connor, a farmer in Blooming Prairie and chairman of the MCR&PC. “We’re pleased to make an early commitment to this future public-private infrastructure partnership that will benefit, not only farmers and rural communities, but all Minnesotans.”

Higher blends of ethanol in transportation fuel reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46%, deliver higher octane at a lower cost and provide significant economic benefits across the state.

Gov. Tim Walz has recommended $2 million per year for a state biofuel infrastructure grant program. Both the Min-

nesota House and Senate Agriculture committees have included funding for biofuels infrastructure in their budget bills.

“Expanding access and use of higher ethanol blends is a top priority for MCGA,” said Tim Waibel, a Courtland farmer and MCGA president. “MCGA is proud to be a part of the solution in helping to lower greenhouse gas emissions O’Connor through the use of higher blends of ethanol, while providing drivers with a higher octane and lower priced fuel.”

MCR&PC and MCGA have a history of providing grants to retailers to replace or upgrade fuel infrastructure for higher blends of blends of ethanol. Since 2008, they have invested nearly $28 million in ethanol infrastructure, research and education.

“As we continue to see incredible growth

Waibel in sales of higher blends of ethanol like E15, it’s clear that Minnesotans want an option at the pump that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality,” said O’Connor. “Investing in infrastructure will make it easier than ever for drivers to find ethanol blends that will help us reach our environmental goals all while supporting rural communities and Minnesota’s farm families.”

Edina Realty’s foundation celebrates 25 years serving the homeless In 2021, Edina Realty Foundation celebrates its 25th anniversary as an organization that offers financial support to nonprofit organizations serving homeless individuals, children and families and/or homelessness prevention in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Founded in 1996, the foundation was created to invest in the local communities Edina Realty serves to give everyone a better place to call home.

“Over the years, the Faribault Edina Realty office has donated more than $81,000 to support local nonprofits. Edina Realty’s Northfield office has donated an additional $66,000, said Office Manager Jenifer Dvorak.

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“Our team strongly believes in the importance of giving back to the community, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to support those in need,” she said.

To ensure financial support is distributed in the communities Edina Realty serves, every year the staff of each of Edina Realty’s 70 offices decides how to disperse the money raised in their local market, allowing the Foundation to impact communities throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

Recent donations from both Edina Realty offices have been made to • Society of St. Vincent de Paul • Faribault Area Food Shelf • Community Cafe • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota • Ruth’s House of Hope

• Community Action Center of Northfield • Northfield Union of Youth Over 25 years, the Edina Realty Foundation overall has raised more than $10 million with 4,725 grants to support nonprofits serving homeless individuals or organizations working to prevent homelessness.

“I’m incredibly proud of the impact the Edina Realty Foundation has had over the past 25 years, chiefly due to the generosity of our agents and staff,” said Greg Mason, president and CEO of Edina Realty Home Services. “Our work is rooted in local communities every day and tackling issues like homelessness and hunger are an important way that Edina Realty can do its part to make the communities we serve vital and thriving.”

Chamber Ambassadors welcome Baker Tech Services

Ambassadors from the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism visit with Baker Tech Services, 209 West Bridge St., Owatonna, to welcome it as a new member. Nolan Baker is the owner. Baker Tech Services can help with business and residential technology needs including computers, Wi-Fi, security cameras, phone systems, data recovery and more. (Photo courtesy of Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism)

2021 Faribault Business Awards finalists, winners announced

The Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism announced the 2021 Business of the Year finalists along with Legacy, Excellence in Education and Customer Service Award Winners. The chamber honors the winners and reveals the Business of the Year at the Annual Celebration of Business brunch May 20.

“The 36-year tradition of honoring outstanding businesses follow a relatively new format which celebrates the top three finalists then announces the Business of the Year at the celebration. The winning businesses’ identity is known only to the committee and will not be revealed until the luncheon,” said Chamber President and CEO Nort Johnson.

Businesses are nominated by any Chamber member and chosen based on the impact they have on the local economy, the community and their employees. The selection committee is made of current board members. Chamber members are invited join in honoring the nominees at the 2021 Celebration of Business at The Faribault Golf & Country Club. Tickets are available through the chamber online or by calling 334-4381.

The 2021 honorees are: Business of the Year Finalists: Fitness in Motion, Trystar and Reliance Bank.

Legacy Award winners are Chappuis Jewelers and The Rice County Historical Society Excellence in Education Award: H2C Partners: South Central College, Faribault Public Schools, Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, Allina Health Faribault District One and Owatonna Hospitals, Mayo Clinic Health System-Owatonna and Faribault Other honorees include the Customer Service Award Winners; Compcare Urgent Care, Wieber Physical Therapy, Burkhartzmeyer Shoes, DuFours Cleaners and Gran Plaza.

Scott Ozmun is the Chamber Volunteer of the Year for his work with the Downtown Car Cruises.

Southern Minn biz | MAY 2021 | 29

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE Dan Scheffler replaces longtime Frandsen Bank & Trust Dundas president Rich Hoban, vice chairman of Frandsen Bank & Trust, announced the recent promotion of Dan Scheffler to president of the Dundas office of Frandsen Bank & Trust. Scheffler is replacing long-time Dundas president Rick Risberg, who was named president of Frandsen’s Hayward office.

“This is a well-deserved promotion for Dan, and it’s a logical next step in his banking career. He has been an excellent team member since joining SCHEFFLER Frandsen Bank & Trust in 2013.

Dan’s nearly 25 years of banking experience make him a valuable resource to all the customers

and employees of the Dundas office, as well as the Dundas and Northfield communities,” Risberg said in the release.

In addition to working with his current customers, Scheffler will lead the Dundas staff as they work to develop new relationships with businesses and consumers in the Dundas and Northfield area.

Scheffler said, “It continues to be a privilege to work with my Frandsen Bank teammates and to serve my customers.”

Scheffler began his banking career in 1995 with M&I Bank, and has served in a variety of positions, including private banker, wealth advisor, and business banker.

In addition to banking, Scheffler is considered to be active in the Dundas/Northfield communities. He is the state treasurer for Minnesota Ducks Unlimited, sits on the board of Northfield Youth Baseball Association, and coaches a variety of youth sports.

This article has been corrected to properly spell the name Dan Scheffler.

BridgeWater at Owatonna a new chamber member Ambassadors from the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism welcome new Chamber members, BridgeWater at Owatonna; 125 E. Heather and Brad Bass are the owners and Amy Liffrig is the executive director. BridgeWater at Owatonna offers independent living and assisted living care, providing elders a real home with quality care. (Photo courtesy of Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism)

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Mohs Contracting celebrates 15th anniversary Mohs Contracting is celebrating 15 years in business.

President Scott Mohs started Mohs Construction in Owatonna. It later became Mohs Contracting, a full-service general contracting group supported by a highly experienced team who puts their expertise and skills to work, completing projects across the region and beyond.

“We are so proud to serve not only the Owatonna community but communities in this region and beyond with quality construction,” said Mohs. “I am proud of our entire team and the growth we have experienced in our company over these last 15 years.”

In 2006, Scott Mohs started Mohs Construction Co.,

specializing in roofing and siding. As the company grew into wood-framing commercial construction, Mohs built a reputation for well-managed projects and high-quality construction. True to his entrepreneurial traits, Mohs wanted to do more with his experience and saw an opportunity to expand into general contracting and construction management.

In 2013, he created Mohs Contracting, which has grown into a full-service general contracting group.

In addition, Mohs started Mohs Homes for the residential market with services including quality new construction, renovations and additions.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 their clients through severe weather and devastating, but preventable, car crashes last year, he said.

Federated employees also made an extra effort to help those affected by the pandemic. Federated donated meals to health care workers and called nonprofit organizations in Minnesota in March 2020 to inquire about volunteer needs that Federated could help meet. Federated supported more than 250 nonprofit organizations across the country, according to Federated.

The Federated Challenge raised a record-breaking $3.087 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters’ three Minnesota agencies and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Federated employees raised nearly $300,000, coupled with a $100,000 corporate gift, for United Way during a record-breaking year. More than 500 employees participated in Federated’s 2020 employee gift matching program, the highest participation ever, and raised $175,000 to be donated to a qualifying nonprofit or higher education of the employee’s choice, according to Federated.

“We promoted volunteering opportunities among our employees, and I am tremendously proud of how they rose to the challenges 2020 presented,” Fetters said. “It warmed my heart to see everyone working together to fulfill our mission despite unprecedented circumstances.

We love Owatonna and are proud of our 1,600 employees who selflessly served this community during the past year, donating to worthy causes, volunteering and

lending their time and talents to help their neighbors in need.”

Delivering value was a recurring theme during the policyholders meeting.

“Our No. 1 value to clients is risk management,” Fetters said. “Sound risk management practices help save lives, prevent injuries and protect business.

And our ability to deliver this No. 1 value is made possible through financial strength.”

Year-end highlights include: Record-setting total assets, $9.6 billion; invested assets, $8.6 billion; policyholder surplus, $4.01 billion; total property and casualty and life premium, $2.04 billion; property and casualty net premium, new property and casualty premiums, total accounts, total life applications, and in-force life insurance.

Federated Life Company saw $233 million in premium (including annuities), $2.26 billion in assets, and $506 million in capital and surplus.

Federated Insurance offered the COVID-19 Client Relief Credit — investing $23 million in premium relief to help qualifying clients. Federated also provided 1,200 qualifying clients billing flexibility, including extended due dates and grace periods, opportunities to develop payment plans, and moving payment amounts to future months when on installment.

Reach Associate Editor Lisa Kaczke at 507-4442371. ©Copyright 2021 APG Media of Southern Minnesota. All rights reserved.

NEW LEADERSHIP TAKES THE HELM Federated Insurance’s annual policyholders meeting Tuesday was the first since new leadership took the helm.

Chairman Jeff Fetters said he was proud of “the significant steps our organization took to develop and install the next generation of leadership at Federated in 2020.”

Fetters voluntarily relinquished his role as chief executive officer of Federated on Jan. 1, while retaining his duties and responsibilities as chairman of Federated Mutual Insurance Companies.

Michael G. Kerr was announced in November as Federated’s president and CEO and Nicholas R. Lower was announced as executive vice presidentchief operating officer.

The policyholders meeting Tuesday included board of director term renewals for David P. Frame, Kerr and Maj. Gen. Jim Lipscomb III. Lipscomb was recognized for his remarkable 25 years of service as a Federated board director. He is only the sixth director in Federated’s history who was not a chairman or employee to serve more than 25 years.

“The past year reaffirmed our commitment to our culture,” Fetters said. “We are proud to be an organization that builds relationships with its clients, associations and employees face-to-face, eye-to-eye. We truly are better together.

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