Discover Blooming Prairie 2015

2015

DISCOVER Blooming Prairie Ellendale • Hope • Geneva

Your Guide To Blooming Prairie & The Surrounding Communities

BPLeader.com

Get Professional Results in Your Own Backyard.

HUSQVARNA 555 • Cylinder displacement: 59.8 cc • Power output: 4.3 hp • X-Torq® engine cuts emission and fuel consumption

HUSQVARNA PZ 60 • Engine manufacturer: Kawasak • Engine name: FX Series • No turning radius by individua

Price: $ 639.95

Price: $ 10,499.95

HUSQVARNA MZ 5225 • Engine manufacturer: Kohler • Engine name: Courage Pro V-Twin • No turning radius by individual wheel-drive

HUSQVARNA R 220T • Engine manufacturer: Briggs & • Net power at preset rpm: 12.6 • Min. clearance circle by articu

Price: $ 4,699.95

Price: $ 3,899.95

www.husqvarna.com

Copyright © 2013 Husqvarna AB (publ). All rights reserved.

MINER'S OUTDOOR & REC 507-583-2712 Hwy 218 Blooming Prairie, MN www.minersoutdoor.com

507-583-2712 Hwy 218 | Blooming Prairie, MN www.minersoutdoor.com Page 2

Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00am-5:30pm Saturday: 8:00am-Noon Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

DISCOVER Ag Power............................................................... 38 A.J. Lysne Contrating Corporation .................... 42 Al-Corn .................................................................. 6 B to Z Hardware .................................................... 5 Blooming Prairie Chamber of Commerce ........ 30 Blooming Prairie Country Club ........................... 9 Blooming Prairie Dairy Queen............................. 21 Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club .................. 11 Blooming Prairie Veterinary Clinic ...................... 9 Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie ................. 16 Budget Blinds ........................................................ 34 Bunkies Grille and Lanes ...................................... 35 Cash Wise Foods .................................................. 20 Central Valley Cooperative ............................... 31 Collision Specialists, Inc ....................................... 46 Culligan ................................................................. 29 Darrick’s Preferred Auto ...................................... 11 Dean’s Smokeshack ............................................ 52 Deml Heating & Air Conditioning ....................... 41 Eagle Prairie Insurance ........................................ 22 Ellendale Muni ...................................................... 49 Express Pressure Washers, Inc ............................. 19 Extreme Powder Coating .................................... 28 Farmers & Merchants State Bank ....................... 32 Floor Tech .............................................................. 17 Frontier Communications .................................... 55 Geneva Bar & Grill ............................................... 52 George’s of Geneva ........................................... 51 Glenn’s Motorcoach Tours.................................. 12 Holiday Inn & Suites .............................................. 27 Holman Agency, Inc............................................ 21 Home Sellers of Minnesota .................................. 18 Hometown Pizza & Barbecue ............................. 47 Hubbell House ...................................................... 34 Jensen Heating, A/C, & Plumbing ..................... 51 Jesse’s Boot Store ................................................. 7

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Blooming Prairie Ellendale • Hope • Geneva

J&H Liquors ............................................................ 25 Joe’s Repair Service, Inc ..................................... 15 Johnson and Doerhoefer P.A. ............................ 4 Kappy’s Collision Center ..................................... 33 KIK Graphics & Printing ........................................ 9 Koster’s Car Korner............................................... 17 Krejci Ford, Inc ...................................................... 10 Lembke Masonry .................................................. 30 Lerberg’s Foods .................................................... 47 Looks Unlimited ..................................................... 50 Mayo Clinic Health System ................................. 45 Main Street Dental Clinics ................................... 33 Metal Services of Blooming Prairie, Inc .............. Back Cover Mike’s Repair ....................................................... 25 Miner’s Outdoor & Rec ........................................ 2 Misgen Auto Parts ................................................ 35 MJ Hydrostatics, Inc ............................................. 14 New York Life ........................................................ 18 Oak View Nursery ................................................. 49 Owatonna Granite & Monument ...................... 31 Priarie Family & Sports Chiropractic ................... 24 Prairie Plumbing & Heating ................................. 15 R&R Insurance ...................................................... 5 Realife Cooperative ............................................ 40 Salinas Auto Repair .............................................. 13 Sette Sports Center, Inc. ...................................... 37 Sportstitch, Inc ...................................................... 10 Steele County Landfill .......................................... 13 Steele County Public Health ............................... 39 Sunopta Grains and Foods, Inc .......................... 54 The Leader ............................................................ 53 Torge’s Sports Pub & Grill ..................................... 43 TT Motorcycles ...................................................... 19 Vandal’s ................................................................ 7 Whispering Oak Assisted Living Community ..... 48 Worlein Funeral Homes ........................................ 24, 32

Page 3

DISCOVER Blooming Prairie Ellendale • Hope • Geneva

Blooming Prairie at a Glance ............................. 6 History .................................................................... 11 Schools .................................................................. 13 Awesome Blossoms .............................................. 17 Blooming Prairie Public Library ............................ 18 Parks....................................................................... 19 City Map ............................................................... 23 Old-Fashioned Fourth of July .............................. 26 Where we Play ..................................................... 30 Boys & Girls Club................................................... 34 Celebrations ......................................................... 37 Photos of Blooming Prairie .................................. 42 Churches ............................................................... 46 Ellendale................................................................ 48 Geneva ................................................................. 51 Hope ...................................................................... 54

A special project of The Blooming Prairie-Ellendale Leader 135 W. Pearl St., Owatonna, MN 55060 Publisher Ron Ensley Advertising Director Debbie Ensley Managing Editor Jeffery Jackson Media Consultants Alisha Davidson, Per Kvalsten, Jay Petsche, Jennifer Sorensen, Lori Wagner Cover Design Keeley Krebsbach Page Design & Layout Naomi Kissling, Keeley Krebsbach Advertising Design Lauren Barber, Nikkie Gilmore, Keeley Krebsbach, Jenine Kubista, Kelly Kubista

Johnson & Doerhoefer P.A. “ Committed to our clients, providing consistent, efficient, and prompt service.”

Individual and Corporate Income Tax Preparation | Nonprofit Accounting and Tax Preparation Partnership Tax Preparation | Bookkeeping | Estate and Tax Planning | Payroll Services Federal and State Reporting Forms | FAFSA Reports | New Business Entity Choice and Set-Up

HOURS OF OPERATION January-April: M-F, 9-5, April 16-December: M-F, 9-3 Evening and Saturday appointments available

507-583-7528 314 East Main Street Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Page 4

www.johndoercpa.com Discover Blooming Prairie 2015

welcome to

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, opens its doors and invites you to experience visiting, working, going to school and living where integrity and quality are present and a part of our normal life.

The Blooming Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce encourages you to come, walk a bit, talk a bit and experience the home of the legendary Awesome Blossoms.

The greatest assets in Blooming Prairie are its residents — people of all shape, color, ethnic background and description who continually and willingly put aside personal agendas and ideologies for a common greater good. These folks have a strong work ethic, are faithbased, value a high quality of family life, and recognize the importance of education.

The result of this strong foundation is a community that invests in each other, is willing to learn new things and embrace change while standing firmly on who we are — a quiet and trusting community ideally located at the apex of four counties with quick access to Interstate 35 and Interstate 90. The community is surrounded by a strong agricultural base and its residents are very thankful

Get the job done right.

to the families that farm.

Blooming Prairie has created a climate where business can succeed, attested by its cluster of area manufacturers and active business community. Leadership and sacrifice in the Blooming Prairie school system has created an environment that focuses on a well-rounded and fully equipped student. The city itself has progressive and innovative thinkers who have positioned the city with infrastructure for growth. Its citizens feel safe because of its police force and its volunteer ambulance and fire departments. And Blooming Prairie’s military veterans provide activities and education to the entire community, and residents of all ages feel supported, valued and needed.

Blooming Prairie graciously invites everyone to come and enjoy the community whether it is to join its residents for their famous Old-Fashioned 4th of July, their numerous charitable events or Chamber of Commerce social activities. Blooming Prairie is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, and the citizens of Blooming Prairie are very proud to show it off.

R&R

Insurance Agency B to Z Hardware carries a complete line of paints and sundries; and we'll mix colors to match your painting projects.

• Electrical and Plumbing supplies for maintenance and repairs • A full line of Lawn and garden tools, fertilizers and seeds • Automotive and Tool Sections

We also rent equipment for all types of projects!

Contractor • Homeowner • Industrial • Party

Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm Saturday 8:00am - 4:00pm

to BZ

HARDWARE

Discover

323 East Main St. Blooming Prairie, MN

-Health -Home -Auto -Crop Carl R. Peterson, CIC Certified Insurance Counselor (507) 583-7971 236 Main St E, Blooming Prairie

(507) 583-4469

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 5

at a glance

BLOOMING PRAIRIE THE BASICS

Location: 1.41 square miles in southeast Steele County County: Steele, Dodge Distance from the Twin Cities: Blooming Prairie is south of the Twin Cities From Minneapolis About 78 miles (85 miles by car) or 1 hour and 24 minutes by car From St. Paul About 75 miles (89 miles by car) or 1 hour and 25 minutes by car Elevation 1,293 feet Area code 507 Zip code 55917

Page 6

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

at a glance BLOOMING PRAIRIE

Population 1,968 (2013 Census Bureau estimate) 1,996 (2015 Census Bureau estimate) Median age 40.5 Median family income (2013) $51,477 Housing (2013) Estimated median house value $109,939

GOVERNMENT Mayor Harold Peterson City Council Brad Clark Tara Gimbel Mary Kittleson Bill Newman

The city council meets at 7 p.m. every second Monday of the month.

City Administrator Michael Jones Deputy City Clerk Terri Zwiener Administrative Assistant Laura Larson Blooming Prairie City Hall 138 Highway Avenue S. P.O. Box 68 Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 (507) 583-7573 The city hall is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Emergency services Blooming Prairie Police Department Chief Greg Skillestad 138 Highway Avenue S. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917

Work hard,

Play Harder.

Local grocers providing fresh meat, produce, and a variety of local products!

Hours: 7:30 AM - 8:30 PM 507-583-6671 237 Highway Ave S, Blooming Prairie Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

BP COMPANY New & Used Gun Sales

JESSE'S BOOT Store

112 Hwy 218 S, Blooming Prairie • 507-583-9900

Hours: Thurs. & Fri. 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM • Sat. 9:30 AM - Noon Page 7

at a glance

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

Non-Emergency (507) 583-7885 Emergency 911 Blooming Prairie Fire Department Chief Dean Naatz 138 Highway Avenue S. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Non-Emergency (507) 583-2088 Emergency 911 Blooming Prairie Ambulance Service Director Jeremy Halverson 333 2nd Ave. N.E. P.O. Box 363 Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Non-Emergency (507) 583-7573 Emergency 911 E-mail: bloomingprairieambser@frontiernet.net

The 9 hole course at the Blooming Prairie Country Club features 3,026 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par 36. The course rating is 34.8 and has a slope of 12.

Food and Beverages available in the Clubhouse!

FALL 2015 MEGA GOLF Golf all day Tue, Wed, and Thurs with a cart for $23.00!

Includes a burger basket!

(507) 583-2887 PO Box 788 Blooming Prairie www.bpcountryclub.com

Page 8

Blooming Prairie Emergency Management Coordinator Jacob Peterson 138 Highway Avenue S. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Phone: (507) 583-7573

MUNICIPAL SERVICES

Blooming Prairie Wastewater Treatment Plant WWTP Supervisor Sue Penkava Plant Operator Sue Penkava Assistant Plant Operator Pat Wehner After Hours Emergencies call: (507) 475-0996 Blooming Prairie Street Department Street Superintendent Tony Motl Head of Maintenance David Johnson After Hours Emergencies call: (507) 475-0996

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

VETERINARY CLINIC

Dr. Suzzi Strunk • Dr. Vern Krebs BOARDING • GROOMING • SUPPLIES Blooming Prairie Vet Clinic is located in Blooming Prairie, MN and services the surrounding areas.

We have two veterinarians on staff that treat both, large and small animals, along with our veterinarian technicians and groomer.

(507) 583-6618 155 MN-30, Blooming Prairie Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 9

at a glance

BLOOMING PRAIRIE Blooming Prairie Public Utilities Utilities Manager Rick Kittelson P.O. Box 55 146 3rd Ave. S.E. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 (507) 583-6683 After Hours Emergencies: (507) 475-2819 E-mail: rdkbppu@frontiernet.net Website: SMMPA

Blooming Prairie High School Superintendent-Principal Barry Olson 202 4th Ave. N.W. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Phone: (507) 583-4426 Fax: (507) 583-7952

SCHOOLS

Blooming Prairie Elementary School Principal Chris Staloch 123 2nd St. N.W. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Phone: (507) 583-6615 Fax: (507) 583-4415

KREJCI FORD INC Your Service Minded Dealer

Celebrating 25 years!

341 East Main Street Blooming Prairie, 55917 341 East Main MN Street Blooming Prairie, MN 55917

“Yourone one stop stop logo “Your logoshop” shop” “Your one stop screen logo shop” Custom Embroidery | Screen Printing custom embroidery printing Promotional Products |screen Tuxedo Rentals custom embroidery printing promotional products tuxedo rentals Awesome Blossom Merchandise promotional products tuxedo rentals

507-583-7001 507-583-7001 “No Order is too Big or too Small” as our versatile equipment can handle any size order. Whether you are a business, school, non-profit

14 Time President’s Award Winner

218 Hwy N, Blooming Prairie 507-583-2046 | www.krejciford.com Page 10

organization, sports team, or a budding entrepreneur the need to communicate your brand is critical to your success.

www.sportstitch.net Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

History

BLOOMING PRAIRIE Blooming Prairie can thank the railroad for its name and for its existence.

But it didn’t start with the railroad, not completely at least.

Back in 1856, John Blythe built a log cabin on 160 acres of government land, then known as the Oak Glen Township, which was at the time part of Dodge County. That same year, the township was annexed by Steele County.

Settlers — many of them men working on the railroad for the Minnesota Central Railroad — continued to arrive in 1856 and 1857. What they found was a vast prairie covered with tall grass and, of course, flowers.

The sight was enough that the wife of one railroad official called the place “Blooming Prairie.” And the new name stuck not only for the settlement of wooden shacks, but for the entire township.

The land was also perfect for the farmers who settled in the area to grow wheat. And with wheat being the big crop for the area for decades, a flour mill was soon built.

It wasn’t the only building erected or business begun in that era. Indeed, after the first rail station was completed in the 1860s, others — those not connected with the railroad — came to town, including merchants who came to the village to set up shop. The business provided all kinds of goods and service.

Main Street

Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club Make Reservations for Your:

"Fix it fast, fix it RIGHT, and get it to you at a fair price."

FREE

FREE SERVICES

Wedding Reception | Business Meeting Organization Meeting | Graduation Party Family Reuinion | Bridal or Baby Shower Tea or Birthday Party | Anniversary Celebration For Current Schedule of Activities, See Channel 12

(With service work)

• Loaner Cars LOANER CAR • Nitrogen with Tires With Service • Alignment Checks Work!

• Tire Rotation • Battery Charging & Checks • Pickup & Delivery within 15 miles • Service Light Code Checks • Free Towing for the Year

The Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club is an excellent facility for seating up to 350 people, with ample parking available. There is a stage with wing entrance doors, a dance floor, and very good lighting and acoustics. The Servicemen’s Club also has excellent food service, and an alcohol and non-alcohol beverage service available.

507-583-7884

210 4th Street, NE • P.O. Box 2011 Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 11

History

BLOOMING PRAIRIE There was a blacksmith and a general store that stocked food products. The village had a hotel and even a post office.

By 1867, Blooming Prairie had established itself as a city. But it wasn’t until 1873-1874 that the Minnesota State Legislature passed the act that officially incorporated Blooming Prairie as an individual village and the first city council was elected.

The incorporation brought a flurry of improvements to the village. Streets were graded. Hitching posts for horses were built along Main Street.

Sidewalks were leveled. Trees were planted in vacant lots. And the city built its first city hall, complete with city council chambers, a jail and a fire station.

Glenn’s Motorcoach Tours, Inc Rochester,Mn

Departing from: Owatonna, Austin, Rochester

CALL TODAY FORTours, A DETAILED Glenn’s Motorcoach Inc • BROCHURE! Rochester, MN

Departing from: Owatonna, Austin, Rochester • CALL TODAY FOR A DETAILED BROCHURE! AUTUMN IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS CHRISTMAS BRANSON

OCTOBER 20 - 25, 2015 NOVEMBER 6 - 9, 2015

$899 $579

CHRISTMAS BRANSON

NOVEMBER 13 - 16, 2015

$579

A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS IN NASHVILLE, TN HAWAII - COMPLETE PKG W/ AIR DEEP SOUTH TEXAS SPRING MYSTERY TOUR - ALL NEW 7 DAY TOUR! MYRTLE BEACH & CHARLESTON, SC NEW ORLEANS & LAFAYETTE, LA HOLLAND, MI TULIP FESTIVAL NIAGARA FALLS & TORONTO, ONT NW CIRCLE & YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK CALGARY STAMPEDE & CANADIAN ROCKIES GRANDPARENTS, GRANDKIDS & FAMILIES TO KANSAS CITY ALASKA - LAND & CRUISE - COMPLETE PKG W / AIR CODY, WY & YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

DECEMBER 1 - 6, 2015 JANUARY 16 - 24, 2016 MARCH 5 - 18, 2016 APRL 11 - 17, 2016 APRIL 23 - MAY 1, 2016 MAY 6 - 16, 2016 MAY 13 - 15, 2016 JUNE 6 - 11, 2016 JULY 7 - 22, 2016 JULY 9 - 17, 2016 JULY 14 - 17, 2016 JULY 27 - AUG 7, 2016 AUGUST 14 - 20, 2016

Pam Tillis & Lorrie Morgan, A Tribute to Patsy Cline, Presley’s Country Jubilee, A Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

The Osmond Brothers & The Lennon Sisters, The Famous Herman’s Hermits, A Tribute to Marty Robbins, Legends in Concert Tribute Show

$1199 $3649 $2149 $999 $1349 $1699 $459 $899 $2349 $1559 Adults $449 Kids $299 starting at $5199 $1029

1-800-795-8516 or 507-288-1329

ALL PRICES BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY • ONLY A FEW SEATS LEFT ON SOME TOURS! All of our Tours are Fully Escorted in Deluxe Motorcoaches & Luggage Handling is included For More Information or to Book A Tour, Call Today!

Check us out on the web - www.glennsmotorcoachtours.com • Email: glenn@glennsmotorcoachtours.com ALL PRICES BASED ON “Traveling With TheDOUBLE Professionals” OCCUPANCY

1-800-795-8516 or 507-288-1329

Page 12

ONLY A FEW SEATS LEFT ON SOMEDiscover TOURS! Blooming Prairie 2015

Schools

BLOOMING PRAIRIE From its earliest days, even years before it was officially incorporated as a village, the Blooming Prairie community has had a school.

In the early years — 1868 — the school, like the community itself, was small. Built at a cost of $700, the school house was a one-story building with just one teacher, J.K. Bucklin.

As the community grew, so did the need for a larger building to educate the children who live in and around the village. So in 1873, a mere five years after that first school building was built, it was sold and the building converted into a meat market.

In its place, a new two-story school house was built, carrying a price tag of $3,000.

That second school house would be used for more than 25 years until the growing population demanded yet a larger facility. An eight-room brick building was erected in 1899 — a building that served the community for many years before being demolished.

Steele County

Landfill

Blooming Prairie’s Newest

Used Car Dealer!

Helping make a difference in Steele County since 1974.

507-583-7766 9420 S.E. 64th Ave, Blooming Prairie Monday - Friday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Discover

Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Blooming Prairie 2015

Brakes • Oil Changes• Cosmetic Repair Tire Repair • Batteries • Electrical Air Conditioning/Heating (507) 583-6620 656 3rd St NE, Blooming Prairie Page 13

Schools

BLOOMING PRAIRIE Today, Independent School District 756 has two school buildings — the elementary school, which serves grades kindergarten through sixth, and the Blooming Prairie High School, which serves seventh through 12th grades.

The high school is renown for the strong athletic teams it fields, including the 2013 state champion girls softball team. But the school is also recognized for its strong programs in the arts, as well as excellent academics.

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Blooming Prairie Schools is to provide challenging opportunities for lifelong learning in a safe and caring environment.

1. The school will provide opportunities for all to increase achievement.

2. The school will provide an atmosphere conducive to learning.

3. The school will provide quality facilities.

4. The school will operate effectively and efficiently.

When you want quality instead of cheap & dirty, try MJ Hydro!

Serving MN, IA, WI, ND, SD MJ Hydrostatics services Eaton, Sundstrand, Sauer, Vickers, Poclain and Rexroth hydraulic pumps and motors and many more.

Designs New Hydros • Rebuilds • Repairs • Cylinder Repair

Specializing in Combines • Crop Sprayers • Cylinders • Manure Trucks Rogators • Large Dairy Trucks • Feeder Trucks • Skidloaders Give us a call & let it be your last! We service and supply Hydraulic Hose.

We can have you up and running FAST! How much is your downtime costing you?

Toll Free 877-451-2010 or 507-451-2010 3031 County Rd. 45 South • Owatonna, MN 55060 Email: mjhydrostatics@hotmail.com • www.mjhydrostatics.com Page 14

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Schools

BLOOMING PRAIRIE BLOOMING PRAIRIE SCHOOLS

Blooming Prairie Elementary School Principal Chris Staloch 123 2nd St. N.W. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Phone: 507-583-6615 Fax: 507-583-4415 Blooming Prairie High School Superintendent-Principal Barry Olson 202 4th Ave. N.W. Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Phone: 507-583-4426 Fax: 507-583-7952

PRAIRIE

PLUMBING & HEATING INC. Larry Christianson, Owner

Automotive and Commercial Truck Repair & Service Brake Repair | Tire Changing Equipment

- Covering a 45 mile radius of Blooming Prairie • Air Conditioning • Plumbing • Furnaces Fixtures • Boilers & Supplies An Independent

(507) 583-7994 163 5th St NW Blooming Prairie, MN

dealer

438 Highway Ave. South 507.583.7266 Blooming Prairie, MN License PM061705 Discover Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 15

Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie is a place for all kids ages six to 18. Join us for fun and friendship weekdays after school and during the summer!

Healthy meals are served in our newly renovated, commercial-quality kitchen! Thank you to the Blooming Prairie community and the congregation of First Lutheran Church of Blooming Prairie for your generous support of our kitchen renovation!

CALL US AT 507-583-6699 TO JOIN!

Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie Open School Year: Monday - Friday 3pm to 6pm, open Summer: Monday - Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm

Our mission is to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring community members.

Volunteers are always welcome, from helping at events to supporting kids with homework or games! If you’d like to learn more about volunteer opportunities at our Blooming Prairie Club, please contact us at 507-583-6699.

Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie | 401 SE 4th Street | Blooming Prairie MN 55917 | 507-583-6699 | www.bgclubroch.org

Page 16

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Awesome Blossoms

BLOOMING PRAIRIE What’s in a name? To paraphrase Shakespeare, a Blossom by any other name would be just as Awesome.

But the Blooming Prairie’s Awesome Blossoms — the nickname for the high school teams — are not about to change that name. And there have been attempts to change it in the past.

Back in the 1950s and ’60s, there were votes taken to replace “Blossoms,” as they were then called, with a more “ferocious” nickname. When the Blooming Prairie boys basketball team qualified for the state tournament, a campaign began to change the name to a tougher sounding moniker. But, just like all the votes that proceeded it, the update was voted down.

And how exactly did that name come about?

Blooming Prairie historians say that the nickname was first used by a newspaper in Austin more than 100 years ago. When Austin sports teams played

students from Blooming Prairie, the paper wrote that Austin played the “Blossoms” team. Eventually the name stuck.

And when did those Blossoms become Awesome?

The current mascot was created by Tom Ressler in 1979. The “fighting flower” was supposed to look more ferocious than the previous one, but when people saw it, they instead said it looked “Awesome.”

The Blooming Prairie Blossoms became the Awesome Blossoms.

The nickname has also won the school and the community national recognition, and routinely the “Awesome Blossom” nickname lands Blooming Prairie on a list of most unusual names, including those of USA Today, Sports Illustrated and TotalProSports.com. And the name is not only unusual, it’s unique. According to one study, Blooming Prairie High School is one of just 80 schools in the United States with a one-of-a-kind nickname. That really is Awesome.

Floor Tech Your source for all your flooring needs Laminate and hardwood flooring • Cork flooring Flooring installation • Carpet and tile flooring Stain resistant carpet • Commercial carpet Granite tiling • Porcelain • Vinyl • Ceramic Environmentally Responsible Flooring

Call us now for a consultation!

507-583-2276 322 E. Main Street Blooming Prairie 507-552-1637 2201 E. Main Street Albert Lea

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Rod and Tess Koster will give you their

“hometown” personal touch.

For great deals on used vehicles in Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa, drop by Koster's Car Korner of Blooming Prairie.

We specialize in a wide variety of newer, used vehicles including cars, trucks, SUVs, crossovers, imports and domestics.

SALES • SERVICE • AUTO BODY GLASS REPLACEMENT Hours: Mon - Fri: 8 AM - 5:30 PM Sat: 9 AM - 2 PM And evenings by appointment A family business for 25 years

On “The Point” along Highway 218 in Blooming Prairie

www.kosterscarkorner.com

Page 17

Public Library

BLOOMING PRAIRIE The Blooming Prairie Public Library is a branch of the Owatonna Public and a member of the SELCO (Southeast Libraries Cooperating) Regional Library system.

As a branch of the Owatonna Public Library, the Blooming Prairie Public Library shares the same mission — “to provide for the informational, recreational, educational and cultural needs of the residents of Owatonna, Blooming Prairie and rural Steele County through organized collections of various media and access through technology to other resources” — and — “to provide better library service for everyone.”

Located in the City Center building at 138 Highway Avenue South in downtown Blooming Prairie, the library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday; and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

The library is closed on Sunday.

Preschool storytime is held at 10:30 a.m.

Tuesdays and features reading, rhymes and songs for all preschoolers and their families.

For more information, call the Blooming Prairie Public Library at 507-583-7750.

STEVE & LISA VAITH, REALTORS® Brokers/Owners, GRI, e-PRO®, ASP®

423 E. Main St. • BlooMing PrairiE

Check us out at our new branch office!

203 n. ElM • owatonna

Sue Zwiener

Office: (507) 583-7233 Lisa’s Cell: (507) 456-3741 Steve’s Cell: (507) 456-1545

• Mutual Funds* • Life Insurance • Long Term Care • Investment Annuities* • Retirement Income Insurance aSP®

www.HomeSellersMN.com Page 18

Jeremy Wangen

(507) 583-2200 308 E Main St, Blooming Prairie NYLife Securities, LLC Member FINRA/SIPC

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Parks

BLOOMING PRAIRIE CENTRAL PARK

Located at the heart of Blooming Prairie, at the corner of Main Street and Center Avenue, Central Park boasts both a pavilion and a gazebo, both of

which can be reserved by calling city hall. The park is also the location for most of the Fourth of July celebration’s activities.

Express Pressure Washers, Inc. 15880 SE 74th Ave Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 507-583-2703 High Pressure Washers Cabinet Washers Recycle Systems Steam Cleaners Radiant Heaters Air Coolers Parts & Accessories Service & Repairs Chemicals Supplies Rental Programs Celebrating over 30 years of business in 2015!

Open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 5:00 and Saturday 8:30 to 12:00 / Fax: 507-583-2060 Email: service@expresspressurewashers.com Website: www.expresspressurewashers.com Join us on Facebook!

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

DOMINATOR 800 800cc V-Twin Motor 60 Horsepower Fully Automatic 12” Aluminum Wheels 6 Gallon Tank

Southern Minnesota’s Leading Aftermarket Harley-Davidson®Parts, Sales & Service Dealer • All Service Repairs • Tires • Oil Changes • Accessory Installation

• Genuine Original Replacement Parts • Insurance Repairs • Custom Building & Fabrication • High Performance Motor Building

507.583.6604 www.tt-motorcycles.com 402 East Main St. Blooming Prairie

4093711 TT motorcycle blooming guide 9-26 kmk Page 19

Parks

BLOOMING PRAIRIE EAST SIDE PARK

Located at the intersection of 5th Avenue and 2nd Street NE — in the middle of a residential area, thus giving easy access for children — East Side

We buy by the truckload.

You save by the cartload.

We’ve locked down prices on hundreds of items.

Every week, a free item with your $30 purchase.

National brand quality at a low price.

Park has both a basketball court and playground equipment.

Bulk Foods buy only the amount you need.

Weekly advertised specials all over the store.

Keeping prices Prices dropped extra low to save low and money in our you money. community.

OPEN 24 HOURS FIND FINDUSUSONLINE ONLINEATATWWW.CASHWISEDELIVERS.COM WWW.CASHWISE.COM 495 496 West North Street, Owatonna • 507-451-7220 507-451-8440 Page 20

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Parks

BLOOMING PRAIRIE FIRE DEPARTMENT PARK Just off U.S. Highway 218, next to the Servicemen’s Club, is Fire Department Park, which plays host to annual corn and brat feed of the Blooming Prai-

rie Fire Department. The park’s pavilion may be reserved by calling city hall.

HOLMAN AGENCY INC. Bringing all lines of Insurance to the Blooming Prairie & Surrounding Areas since 1985

Home • Auto • Farm

Life • Long-term Care • Medicare Supplements

Call 507•583•7294 For a Free Quote!

P.O. Box 248 Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Keith Holman | Carol Holman

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Stop in and get yours today!

317 HWY Ave S Blooming Prairie

507-583-2296 Page 21

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

park photos

ONE ON ONE

INSURANCE GUIDANCE FROM ONE FARMER TO ANOTHER

Homes, hogs, shops, sheep, combines, cattle, and EVERYTHING ELSE ON YOUR FARM. EAGLE PRAIRIE INSURANCE offers farm insurance with built-in coverages for rental reimbursement, GPS equipment, foreign objects coverage for combines (don’t let that pesky rock ruin your harvest!) and a $0 DEDUCTIBLE cab glass replacement.

SOAR LIKE AN EAGLE WITH

JAY KLEMMENSEN OWNER/AGENT

CELL: 507-456-1247 OFFICE: 507-540-0550 EaglePrairieIns@gmail.com 150 5th St. NE, Blooming Prairie I PO Box 57

Page 22

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 23

Parks BLOOMING PRAIRIE GREEN GARDENS PARK A “small but relaxing park that is hard to miss.”

That’s how the city describes Green Gardens Park, which is located on a lot downtown where a building used to sit, just off U.S. Highway 218 and Main Street E. The buildings that surround it have been painted to help the park, the city’s smallest, blend into the buildings.

BLOOMING PRAIRIE FUNERAL HOME

Where caring extends beyond the funeral At Worlein Blooming Prairie Funeral Home we care for you beyond the funeral. Before, during, and after your time of need we are committed to helping families understand and cope with their loss. Our continuing care services include personal home visits, information and assistance, a grief and loss resource lending library including our video “Embracing Grief” and a 24 hour help line.

www.drchad.org Page 24

507-583-7561 418 Highway Ave. S Blooming Prairie www.worlein.com Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Parks

BLOOMING PRAIRIE VICTORY FIELD PARK Across from Blooming Prairie High School, off Main Street W is Victory Field Park — a park that not only has a pavilion and playground equipment, but also,

for the sports-minded, has two softball fields, a tennis court and an ice rink. The park is also used Fourth of July activities, including the fireworks.

Mike’s REPAIR Ag & Truck Tire Sales & Repair Featuring:

Michelin B.F. Goodrich Firestone Ag & Truck Tires

870 32 Avenue NW, Owatonna, MN 455-0388 nd

Emergency or on the Farm Repair 507-455-0388 (After Hours 507-455-0483)

J & H Liquors

Mark your Calendar!

Bar Bingo: Mondays @ 6:30 PM Wine & Women Wednesdays: 6-10 PM Meat Raffles: Fridays @ 5:30 PM Bloomin’ Grapevine Wine Club: Sept. - May Holiday Dazzle Wine & Beer Tasting: Nov. 5 Holiday Dazzle Downtown Festivities: Dec. 4 Harvey’s Holiday Cheer: Dec. 12 New Year’s Eve Munchies & Champagne

2016 Events:

Customer Appreciation Day: April 9, (30 Years of Business) Bean Bag League: May.-Aug. Cruise for Cancer Ride: June 25 Street Dance: July 2 July 4th: Open 10 AM - Close B.O.B Ride: “Toys For Tots“: July 23

All event details are available at J & H Harvey & Nancy Farr, Owners

340 E Main Street • Blooming Prairie • 507-583-7557

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 25

Fourth of July!

BLOOMING PRAIRIE For nearly 40 years now, Blooming Prairie has been the scene of one of the largest — if not the largest — Fourth of July celebrations in southern Minnesota.

Dubbed “Old-Fashioned Fourth of July,” the event stretches over two days and draws an estimated 35,000 or more visitors to the streets of Blooming Prairie and is the largest city-wide celebration of the year in the community.

True to its name, the Fourth of July celebration truly is “old-fashioned,” boasting bean-bag tosses, horseshoe tournaments, tractor pulls (including antique tractors), and classic car shows.

The celebration stays current, though, by adding new

Page 26

and exciting attractions each year.

Two attractions, however, that remain central to the Old-Fashioned Fourth of July celebration are the fireworks display — held at 10 p.m. at Victory Field — and, of course, the Fourth of July parade, which routinely brings in 125 units to participate.

The Blooming Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce is responsible for putting together the celebration, including the vendors, entertainment and parade participants.

For more information, call the chamber at 507-583-4472.

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Fourth of July!

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

2.00 OFF

$

Per waterpark

wristband for groups over 10!

Experience

theAdventure!

Let us help you plan the perfect family get-away!

• Pizza Package • Serengeti Water Park • Holiday Inn Kids Eat Free Program

• Many nearby Attractions • Awesome Family environment • Romance Package

• Plenty of smiles!

• Meetings & Receptions up to 300 • Family Fun Package

2365 43rd Street • Owatonna, MN • 507-446-8900 • Exit 45, next to Cabela’s • www.holidayinn.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 27

Fourth of July!

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

SANDBLASTING CUSTOM COLORS CERAMIC EXHAUST COATING INDUSTRIAL COATINGS AND CUSTOM COATINGS Usem Chevrolet wants to make your car shopping simple and stress free. We have been a family owned business in Austin, Minnesota since 1923.

(507) 396-4716 • 703 17th Ave NW Austin www.useminc.com Page 28

Looks like PAINT, acts like ARMOR www.extremepowdercoating.net 507-583-7448•Blooming Prairie Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

WHY CHOOSE

CULLIGAN? Home Improvement Store W ak Wa We W rranty No Installation No set-up or Salt

1 Ye 10 Y ar Profe f ssional Wa fe W rranty Profe f ssional Installation fe Set-up and Salt Opportunity to upgrade services Conv n enient home salt delivery nv a ailable at competitive prices av 75+ years of specialty water treatment experience

Actua Size

The benefits of using Culligan water in your home: ®

• • • •

FREE WA W TER TESTS TS AND T ESTIMA TIM TES TIMA

W service most brands.

We Great choices for equipment purchases or low monthly rental rates.

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

•

Reduce water heating costs up to 29% Extend life of appliances and plumbing Enjoy brighter and whiter laundry laund Spend up to 70% less on soap and cleaning products Enjoy crisper, crispe cleaner water

CULLIGAN OF OWA WATONNA WA ATONNA 121 N Walnut W A Ave Owatonna MN 55060 507-451-1010 CulliganWaterMinnesota.com W WaterMinnesota.com

UP TO $200 OFF A CULLIGA G N® HE GA WAT WA ATER SOFTENER

$9.

9.9 9. .95 RENTA T L FOR TA THE FIRST 4 MONTHS

Dealer participation may vary. Limited time offer. See dealer for details. Not valid with other offers. Not redeemable for cash. ©2015 Culligan International Company.

Dealer participation may vary. Limited time offer. See dealer for details. Not valid with other offers. Not redeemable for cash. ©2015 Culligan International Company.

Page 29

Where we play

BLOOMING PRAIRIE VICTORY FIELD ICE RINK

Located in Victory Field Park, the Victory Field Ice Rink was truly a community effort meant to help Blooming Prairie residents enjoy great Minnesota winter outdoor recreation in their own hometown.

The community saw the need to replace the old rink that was really nothing more than water that was put down on the grass of Central Park and left to freeze.

The old rink had neither boards around the rink nor a proper warming house.

Not so with the Victory Field Ice Rink, which boasts not only a new warming house, big enough to facilitate the number of people at the rink, but also permanent boards that remain all year long. There are also restrooms, an equipment rental office with snacks, and a lounge. The rink itself is regulation size and has lighting for night activities.

The rink, 100 4th Ave. SW, was the result of the city’s efforts to secure grants to assist with the cost and the generosity of individuals and businesses that also donated funds to pay the extra costs.

Blooming Prairie Area

Chamber of Commerce

MISSION STATEMENT To provide a framework for community growth and development by encouraging financial investment, coordinating business activities, promoting commerce and fostering a sense of community pride.

P.O. Box 805 138 Highway Ave. South, Blooming Prairie

(507) 583-4472

Page 30

• Stamped Concrete • Flatwork • Pit Run Gravel • Excavating MASONRY • Block Work Blooming Prairie, MN • Crushed Maurice Lembke Concrete & Lance Lembke • Crushed Asphault 507-583-7701 450 Memorial Dr. PO BOX 775, • Screened Sand Blooming Prairie Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

where we play

BLOOMING PRAIRIE Warming house hours are 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday during the winter months. If inclement weather forces the closing of Blooming Prairie schools, the ice rink will be closed as well.

For more information, call 507-583-2315.

PINE SPRINGS POOL If you’re looking for a concrete swimming pool to cool during the hot summer months, Pine Springs Pool is not the place.

It’s better.

The man-made pool — sometimes called the “swimming pond” — has a sand bottom and is fed from the natural spring located beneath the city block on which it sits.

Those natural spring waters are treated with chlorine to make certain that algae and bacteria do not grow and to ensure that the pool is safe for swimming.

A picnic area with a gazebo have also been added to make the pool more welcoming.

Located on the corner of 1st Avenue and 1st Street NW, Pine Springs is one of the largest swimming pools in the area. The pool has three sections. The first is four feet deep, the second five and a half feet deep, and the third 11 feet deep. The first section has a platform for children to jump off of and swim around.

Every life’s story deserves to be told.

- Full line of granite and bronze memorials - Custom laser etchings - Designing personalized memorials since 1987

Serving Southern Minnesota with Agronomy, Precision Agriculture, Fuel, Propane, Heating and Cooling sales and service.

President

Give

us a call at:

800-270-2339 or 507-583-6661

centralvalleycoop.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

John Heerema

Office Manager Barbara Heerema

Sales

Ed Cunningham

1180 Frontage Rd. E

507-455-9551 | owatonnagranite.com Page 31

where we play

BLOOMING PRAIRIE PINE SPRINGS POOL There is a diving board platform at the third section.

There are also sandboxes near the first section for children to play in.

Pool hours during the summer are from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 1 p.m. to 7:20 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Memberships are available for individuals and families, as are coupon books.

Swimming lessons — both morning and evening sessions — are available for a nominal fee.

For more detailed information about Pine Spring Pool, including swimming lessons, contact the pool during normal business hours at 507-583-7401 or contact City Hall.

Pine Springs Pool was built and dedicated to public use in 1961, a gift to the city by local attorney Glenn S. Thorson, who was known to people in the community as “Mr. Blooming Prairie.”

Thorson (1891-1973) was honored by Blooming Prairie, Steele County and the state of Minnesota as the Outstanding Senior Citizen of 1972.

Farmers & Merchants State Bank Est. 1904

DIscOvER PREPLANNING DIscOvER PEAcE OF MIND

The Farmers and Merchants State Bank is a family owned, independent bank.

We are very proud of our 100 years of service to the community. In our institution, our customers know us and we know them, most on a first name basis and that is the way we like it! We pride ourselves on fast, friendly, superior customer service.

Planning in advance makes good financial sense and helps you prepare and protect the people you care about the most.

Online Banking Many Accounts to Choose From Club Discounts • Loans

507-583-6688 245 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie www.fmbankmn.com Fax: 507-583-7214 Email: fmbank@citlink.net Page 32

call Mary Kittelson, NFDA

Certified Preplanning Consultant specializing in personalized prearrangement & prefunding plans

PLANS

BLOOMING PRAIRIE FUNERAL HOME

507-583-7561

418 Highway Ave. S Blooming Prairie, MN www.worlein.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

where we play

BLOOMING PRAIRIE BLOOMING PRAIRIE COUNTRY CLUB Considered one of the finest nine-hole golf courses in southern Minnesota, the 36-par course of the semiprivate Blooming Prairie Country Club features 3,026 yards of golf from the longest tees. The club, which opened in 1936, has a course rating of 34.8 and has a slope rating of 127.

The fun, well-kept USGA course is open to the public, but also offers memberships.

The club house features a pro shop with everything a golfer may need for a day on the links.

There is also a snack bar with a full menu of food choices, snacks, beer and soda.

And, the Blooming Prairie Country Club offers accommodations for banquets and receptions, with space that can accommodate up to 100 guests comfortably.

The meal can be catered by the club or can be catered from the outside. For more information about the Blooming Prairie Country Club, call 507-583-2887.

Less Than Excited About A Trip To The Dentist?

Relax. It’s Main Street Dental.

Our “Gentle-Care” Dentistry makes going to the dentist a pleasure. Well, sort of.

But we will do whatever we can to make you comfortable. That’s a promise.

BLOOMING PRAIRIE • (507) 583-2141

405 East Main St, Blooming Prairie, MN 55917

OWATONNA • (507) 455-1000

1170 E. Frontage Road, Owatonna, MN 55060

ROCHESTER • (507) 536-7700

3110 Wellner Drive NE, Rochester, MN 55906

NEW RICHLAND • (507) 463-0502

132 North Broadway, New Richland, MN 56072

MANKATO • (507) 720-0250

287 St. Andrews Drive, Mankato, MN 56001

www.mainstreetdentalclinics.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Stay Happy.

See Kappy!

Auto restoration and collision repair can be a pain. Let Kappy's Auto Restoration & Collision in Owatonna take 287 St. Andrews Drive the pain away while Mankato • 507-720-0250 taking care of all your auto body repair needs.

We work with all insurance companies and all makes and models!

2490 SW 24th Ave • 507-451-8989

www.kappysauto.com • kappysauto@gmail.com Page 33

Boys & Girls Club

BLOOMING PRAIRIE If ever there were an organization that the whole of Blooming Prairie gets behind and supports, it’s the Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie.

The club, which calls itself a “facility-based youth development organization,” serves more than 130 area children between the ages of 6 and 18 years of age with programming both after school and all day during the summer months.

The stated purpose of the Boys & Girls Club of Blooming is “to offer relevant, life-enhancing activities that help youth succeed in life.” Its mission is “to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring community members.”

To fulfill that mission, the Boys & Girls Club utilizes a comprehensive youth development strategy, which it describes as “a structured method that instills in youth positive self-esteem and competencies key to their development.” The strategy aims to foster in every youth a sense of belonging, a sense of usefulness, a sense of influences and a sense of competence.

CELEBRATING over 160

YEARS

Love is Blinds

Superb Cuisine since 1854

The Hubbell House was first operated as an inn.

Paul Pappas laid his eyes on the old limestone structure in 1946 and knew he had found the location of his dream restaurant.

Although times have changed, Early-American hospitality is still available in Mantorville.

Minnesota Restaurant Association’s 2012 Restaurant of the Year

502 North Main Street, Mantorville, MN | 507.635.2331 (25 Miles East on HWY 14, to Kasson Exit, then 2 miles North on HWY 57)

Reservations Recommended | www.hubbellhouserestaurant.com Page 34

FREE Consultation

of Southern Minnesota

Call us today, toll free:

877.373.8535

and Installation!

Residential & Commercial

budgetblinds.com sales@coolwindowshades.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Boys & Girls Club

BLOOMING PRAIRIE Its programs are designed and delivered with those key youth development objectives in mind, with each of the club’s activities falling in one of five core programs: Education and Career Development; Character and Leadership; Health and Life Skills; the Arts; and Sports, Fitness and Recreation.

Though the club’s permanent site is at 401 4th Street SE in Blooming Prairie, the club is currently — and temporarily — meeting at the Blooming Prairie Elementary while the site is undergoing a renovation.

Programming will be held at the school until the club no longer needs it.

The Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie is a branch of the Boys & Girls Club of Rochester.

Though it falls under the umbrella of the Rochester club, the Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie does not receive any financial help from Rochester. Instead, the club is self-sustaining, meaning that it has to find the funds to run its own program.

s y r r e ’ T

at

Now Open for Breakfast & Lunch Stop in and check out our Daily Specials!

M-F: 7am-3pm • Weekends: 9am-3pm

ARessler Golf Academy

76 Courses!

Try our Golf Simulator!

Call for reservations! • 507-583-2321 311 E Main St., Blooming Prairie Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 35

Boys & Girls Club

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

That’s where the Blooming Prairie community steps in.

In the summer of 2014, local churches in Blooming Prairie banded together and made renovation of the Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie’s site part of the churches’ mission projects. The churches included First Baptist Church, First Lutheran Church, Red Oak Grove Lutheran Church, St. Columbanus Catholic Church and Trinity Lutheran Church.

Also, Karing 4 R Kids, a subcommittee at First Lutheran Church, undertook a project to help the club by selling more than 2,000 pieces of a custom-made puzzle to raise money to upgrade the kitchen and fix the roof of the Boys & Girls Club. When the final pieces of the puzzle were laid, more than $10,000 had been donated toward the renovation.

In 2013, proceeds from the annual Gobble Wobble — an annual run/walk that takes place on Thanksgiving Day in downtown Blooming Prairie — went toward the Boys & Girls Club. More than 100 people participated in one of the six events that collectively make up the

Page 36

Gobble Wobble.

The annual Ribfest, which in 2014 was held for the first time in conjunction with the Blooming Prairie OldFashioned Fourth of July Celebration, benefited the Boys & Girls Club.

And every year for the past nine years, the Boys & Girls Club hosts an annual gala at the Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club, with proceeds from the event going toward children’s programming at the club. In addition to the banquet that is served and to the auctions — both live and silent — some of boys and girls in the club perform and annual awards are presented to community members.

The Blooming Prairie Boys & Girls Club unit director is Mary Sherman-Ahrens.

Membership to the club is $20 per month or $10 per month for children receiving free or reduced lunch at school.

The phone number for the Boys & Girls Club of Blooming Prairie is 507-583-6699.

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Celebrations

BLOOMING PRAIRIE PAINT THE TOWN PINK

Even as it has raised awareness about cancer, the Blooming Prairie Cancer Group has worked hard to raise money to fight the dreaded disease through its annual Paint the Town Pink event — an event that has businesses and individuals, schools and families alike participating in the event.

The event culminates in a two-day auction in September to raise money for the Eagles Cancer Telethon, support a community fund to give gas cards, restaurant coupons and lodging assitance to individuals and their families as they go through cancer treatment.

But the activities begin long before the September auction. The cancer group starts selling pink flags for its annual Field of Flags in April. The flags, which honor and remember those who have had cancer or are battling it, are displayed in a field east of Highway 218 from Main Street.

Leading up to the auction are numerous other displays of pink — in schools, businesses, residences and even on the roadways. The high school football and volleyball teams even don the color to show solidarity in fighting cancer.

New in 2013 was a Memorial Walk — a two-mile walk that took participants along a path through Blooming Prairie marked with pink ribbons and decorations.

I CE AC RV CES E S & SORIES , CLOTHING, PARTS

!

A

LL

M-F 9-5:30 • Thurs ‘til 7 • Sat 9-1

2299 Austin Road & Hwy 14 East • Owatonna, MN 55060 Doing Business Since 1967 www.settesportscenter.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 37

Celebrations

BLOOMING PRAIRIE ANNUAL CHAMBER BANQUET On the third Thursday in November, the Blooming Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce as well as guests from the community come together for its annual banquet, held at the Servicemen’s Club — a banquet that gives the people of Blooming Prairie a chance to see and hear about some of the accomplishments of the chamber in the city throughout the year.

Area businesses decorate the tables with centerpieces of their own creation for the banquet and new officers for the chamber are recognized.

The highlight of the evening is the awarding of the “Citizen of the Year” by the chamber — an honor that recognizes someone who has served the community.

The banquet is open to the public.

For more information, call the Blooming Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce at 507-583-4472.

Farm & Lawn Care Equipment Grills • Chain Saws & More Your Local Stihl Dealership

www.agpowerjd.com 3555 SW 18th St. Owatonna, MN 507.451.4054 Page 38

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Celebrations

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

RIBFEST

Ribfest has been held at the Blooming Prairie Servicemen’s Club as well as at the 4th of July Celebration. Ribfest is a a fund-raiser held in June that benefits the Boys and Girls Club of Blooming Prairie.

HOLIDAY DAZZLE

If the Fourth of July celebration is a long-standing tradition in Blooming Prairie, the community’s Holiday Dazzle, held on the first Friday of December, is quickly becoming a similar tradition.

The celebration, put on annually by the Blooming Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce, is meant to provide a chance for downtown businesses to showcase their products during the holiday season. It’s also meant as an event that allows everyone — even the biggest Scrooges of them all — to have some holiday fun.

In fact, one highlight in every Holiday Dazzle celebration is the annual Scrooge contest in which four contestants vie for the honor of being named the town’s Scrooge for the year. Whichever of the four contestants raises the most money wins the honor. The funds raised go toward replacing and purchasing Christmas lights for the downtown businesses.

But there’s more, including wagon rides down Main Street, instrumentalists playing music, and, of course, a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus.

For more information, call the chamber at 507-583-4472.

Help them

REACH

their full potential.

Schedule a checkup and make sure your kids are up to date on their vaccines.

Child and Teen Checkups are available to children from birth through age 20 who are covered by Minnesota state health plans such as: • South Country Health Alliance • Blue Plus • Medical Assistance • Minnesota Care

STEELE COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH 507-444-7650

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

4094354 Steele County Public Health Dis-

Page 39

Celebrations

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

CITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE

Twice a year — in May and then again in September — Blooming Prairie residents and businesses come together to hold a city-wide garage sale. The sale is sponsored by the Blooming Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce.

Affordable Apartment Homes Available For Purchase Starting at $23,011.

Supporting independence with affordable housing for individuals 55 and over.

An Equal Housing Opportunity.

www.realifeowatonna.com 507-455-3735 235 22nd Street SE., Owatonna Page 40

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Celebrations

BLOOMING PRAIRIE CHAMBER GOLF FUN DAY

For nearly two decades, the Chamber Golf Fun Day serves as an annual fund-raiser for the chamber.

The event, which has a shotgun start, is open to the

public. Held at the Blooming Prairie Country Club, the golf tournament features a theme for which participants often dress the part.





 

info@demlheating.biz

www.demlheating.biz



 Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 41

photos of

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

d r a w A e h t d n A Goes to...

The 2014 Hormel Foods “Spirit of Excellence” was presented to the A J Lysne employees. A J Lysne has been awarded the Spirit of Excellence from Hormel Foods every year since 2004. “The Hormel Foods Spirit of Excellence Award program recognizes the suppliers that truly go above and beyond in helping us achieve our goals,” said Tyler L. Hulsebus, director of purchasing at Hormel Foods. “We’re honored to partner with these outstanding suppliers.”

This award is based on, our role in the Quality Improvement Process (QIP), mutual respect, trust, our long term relationship and confidentiality. These are all areas that we have strived for long before the Spirit of Excellence award program.

Founded in 1898, A. J. Lysne is an experienced, full-service design-build contractor with expertise in construction management, industrial plant management, historic renovation and heavy equipment moving. The A J Lysne employs a team of highly skilled professionals in southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. For more information about A J Lysne, contact Allen Lysne at al@ajlysne.com, call 507-451-7121 or visit www.ajlysne.com.

507.451.7121 Page 42

•

3249 N Co. Rd. 45, Owatonna, MN 55060 •

www.ajlysne.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Inn Appetizers Party Entertainment • January 15th 2016 • 5-11pm • Cash Bar 2nd Annual

Holiday 5-7pm Social

featuring Jesse Smith

7-9pm Main Stage Crazy Keys Dueling Pianos

$25 per person (multi ticket discount available) Call 507-433-8000 TODAY to reserve your seats

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 43

photos of BLOOMING PRAIRIE

Page 44

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

photos of

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

Appointments now available in Blooming Prairie. yourare family are important to us. Whether sick, need routine or it’s for You andYou yourand family important to us. Whether you are you sick,are need routine care or care it’s time fortime a well-child visit, a well-child visit, Dawn Ritter, certified nurse practitioner can meet yourbeen needs locally. hasHealth Dawn Ritter, certified nurse practitioner can meet your needs locally.

She has with MayoShe Clinic Mayo Health System for 15inyears and isPrairie now seeing patients in Blooming Prairie.

Systembeen for 15with years andClinic will begin seeing patients Blooming on Tuesday, Sept.

16.

Clinic Hours: Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Mayo Clinic Health System

•

405 E. Main, Blooming Prairie, MN 55917

mayoclinichealthsystem.org

To schedule an appointment, call 507-583-7225.

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 45

Churches

PLACES OF WORSHIP ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Vibrant Life Assembly of God 702 S. 3rd St. Ellendale Worship Service 10:30 a.m., Sunday

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church 104 1st Ave. NE Blooming Prairie Worship Services 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Sunday

CATHOLIC

Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Litomysl 9946 24th Ave. SE. Rural Owatonna Worship Service 9:30 a.m., Sunday

St. Aidan Catholic Church Hwy 30 and 3rd St. Ellendale Worship Service 9:30 a.m., Sunday St. Columbanus Catholic Church 114 E. Main St. Blooming Prairie Worship Services 5:15 p.m. Saturday; 8:30 a.m. Sunday St. Mary’s Catholic Church Rural Geneva Worship Service 10:45 a.m. Sunday

LUTHERAN

Community Lutheran Church (ELCA) 106 3rd St. SE Geneva Worship Service 9:30 a.m. Sunday

The only area shop certified to work on the 2015 Ford Aluminum F150

Voted Best Body Shop in Mower County!

We are investing in our future to protect your investment!

See what a difference quality trained professionals make!

1410 21st Ave NW • Austin, MN 55912 • 507.437.2837 Mon.-Thurs • 7:30AM-5:30PM • Fri by appt. only • Closed Sat-Sun Page 46

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Churches

PLACES OF WORSHIP First Lutheran Church (ELCA) 434 1st St. S.W. Blooming Prairie Worship Service 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday First Lutheran Church (AFLC) 503 Radel Court Ellendale Worship Service 9 a.m., Sunday First Lutheran Church (LCMC) Hope Worship service 9 a.m. Sunday Pontoppidan Lutheran (ELCA) Lemond, Minn.

Worship service 10 a.m. Sunday Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA) 5881 SE 118th St.

~Since 1901~

MENNONITE 13638 750th St. Blooming Prairie Worship Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday

UNITED METHODIST United Methodist Church County Road 14 Ellendale Worship Service 10:30 /a.m., Sunday

O

M E T OW

&

Our family-owned store offers a convenient one-stop shop where you can find everything you need from the everyday essentials to specialty items from around the world.

(507) 684-2472 120 5th Ave. P.O. Box 308, Ellendale, Minnesota Like us on Facebook!

www.lerbergsfoods.com

(Visit our website to sign up for our weekly ad!)

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

NOW

PIZZA OPEN BA

We are your local community connection for high quality foods, friendly service and great prices.

N

LERBERG’S FOODS

Blooming Prairie Worship Service 9 a.m., Sunday Zion Lutheran Church (ELCA) 7126 S.W. 98th St. Ellendale Worship Service 9 a.m., Sunday.

H

LUTHERAN

RBECU

E

IN ELLENDALE

Great food without all the dishes.

Pizza, BBQ, Oven Baked Sandwiches, Pasta and more!

Wednesday - Saturday: 5 PM - 10 PM 507-688-1050 • 301 5th Ave W, Ellendale Page 47

ELLENDALE

The youngest of all incorporated cities in Steele County is the city of Ellendale, a community that owes its existence and even its name to the railroad. So indebted is the town to the railroad that even to this day the city sign bears an image of a train.

As the story goes, in the year 1900, Thomas Brown, an official for the Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Northern Railroad, was looking to establish a new town along the railroad’s path north to Minneapolis. Specifically, the railroad was looking to establish that town somewhere between Albert Lea and Owatonna — a town that would benefit the farmers in the area who could ship out their produce and bring in supplies over the rails.

The farm of Elling Ellingson, halfway between those two cities, was chosen as the site for the new town.

The name of the town would be “Ellendale,” named in honor of Ellen Dale Ives, the wife of the president of the railroad and a woman known for her humanitarian endeavors.

The city of Ellendale was incorporated in 1901.

Even before the actual incorporation of the city, businesses began to spring up in Ellendale — a bank, a grocery and dry goods store, a furniture shop/mortuary, livery stables, a meat market, two elevators and a

• 29 Deluxe One and Two Bedroom Units with dishwasher, refrigerator, stove • Centrally located elevator • Garage availability • Planned social activity • Second floor beauty salon, internet lounge with fireplace • Community room, featuring a TV area • Coffee, juice & snacks Independence

lumberyard. In September 1901 — just a month after the village’s incorporation — stockyards were built south of the depot.

Ellendale was growing. By the end of that year, the population was 200. By 1910, the population had doubled to 300.

THE BASICS

Location 0.96 square miles in southern Steele County, near the Freeborn County line and just west of the intersection of Interstate 35 and Highway 30.

County Steele Elevation 1,280 feet Area code 507 Zip code 56206 Population 686 (2013 Census Bureau estimate) 688 (2014 Census Bureau estimate)

We Have Opening s!

& Security • Secured facility • Private shower • Scheduled Transportation to For more information or to appointments schedule your personal tour, • Individually controlled heating call 507-684-3026 and air conditioning • Washer/Dryer provided per unit www.thewhisperingoak.com

Page 48

What do we have to offer?

Whispering Oak offers mature adults the independence and privacy of their own apartment, with the convenience and companionship of living in a larger, supportive community.

Laura Oldenburg, Campus Director 903 Calverly Court Ellendale, MN 56026 (northwest edge of Ellendale, just off Hwy. 30)

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

ELLENDALE Median age 33.5

EMERGENCY SERVICES

GOVERNMENT

Mayor Mark Skroch City Council Duane Goebel Scott Groth Dick Lassahn Stephanie Lageson Kibler City council meetings are held at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of the month in the meeting room adjacent to the city office in the city hall.

Ellendale City Offices 502 2nd Street P.O. Box 285 Ellendale, MN 56206 507-684-2681 The city offices are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Pumpkin Patch

Police Police protection for the city of Ellendale is contracted with Steele County.

Non-emergency: 507-451-8232 Emergency: 911 Ellendale Fire Department 705 2nd. Street Ellendale, MN. 56026 Non-emergency: 507-684-9800 Emergency: 911 Ellendale Ambulance Service 505 3rd Street P.O. Box 172 Ellendale, MN. 56026 Non-emergency: 507-688-2745 Emergency: 911

UTILITIES

Water, sewer and garbage pickup are city services.

Rates are as follows: Residential users are charged for water at a base rate

Ellendale Muni

Thanks for voting us 2014 Best Corn Maze, Haunted House and Hayride in Southern Minn!

Giant Slide • Mini Golf • Indoor Games RC Race Track • Paintball Target Range Corn Box and More!

Open Weekends Sept. 19 - Oct. 31 Sat. 10:00am-6:00pm Sun. Noon-6:00pm

Great Food! Cold Beer!

Happy Hour Specials!

Hours:

Monday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM Thursday - Saturday: 10 AM - 1 AM Sunday: 11:30 AM - 8 PM

Kitchen open @ 11 AM Daily!

7921 Cty Rd 45 S, Owatonna • 507-451-0454 www.oakviewnursery.net

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

507-684-9422 217 5th Ave West, Ellendale, MN Page 49

ELLENDALE NOW AVAILABLE AT

of $27 per month, plus $7 per 1,000 gallons of usage with a minimum usage charge of 1,000 gallons per month.

Residents are charge $12 per month for sewer and $11 per month for garbage.

Commercial water rates are the same as residential rates, though sewer rates vary and are based on water usage.

No garbage service is provided for commercial accounts Call city hall for further information, 507-684-2681.

Electrical service for the city of Ellendale is provided

by Alliant Energy, 1-800-255-4268.

Natural gas service to Ellendale is supplied by Minnesota Energy Resources, 1-800-889-4970.

Telephone service is provided by Frontier, 1-800-9218101 or Eventis, 1-855-368-3687.

Both Frontier and Eventis also provide Internet service, as does Radio Link Internet, 1-507-417-4176.

Eventis also provides cable television services, as does Midcontinent Communications, 1-800-8881300.

SCHOOLS

Ellendale is part of the New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva school district, known as NRHEG. NRHEG Elementary School (Grades K-6) 600 School Street S Ellendale, MN 56026 Phone: 507-684-3181 NRHEG High School (Grades 7-12) 306 Ash Avenue S New Richland, MN 56072 Phone: 507-465-3205

Looks Unlimited

We only use pure un-refined raw organic ingredients and 100% Pure Therapeutic Essential Oils.

• Essential Oils • Face Treatments • Goat’s Milk Soap • Mineral Makeup • Spa Treatment • Jewelry • & Much More!

Goat’s hair eye shadow & blending brushes and Mineral Powder Blush

ELLENDALE DAYS

The annual celebration, held to celebrate the city, which was founded in 1900, is a four-day event — Thursday through Sunday — that includes, among other things, a parade, various games and activities for youth and adults, street dances with live entertainment, and the ever-popular tractor pull.

ELLENDALE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

On Saturdays throughout the summer months, including September, the City of Ellendale hosts a summer concert series with various artists performing. All concerts begin at 7 p.m. Saturdays and are held at the bandstand, located east of Ellendale Café on 2nd Street and south of Main Street. Concerts are free of charge. Bring your own lawn chairs.

City website www.ellendalemn.com

Page 50

Mention this ad and receive

a one-on-one demonstration of our organic mineral makeup line!

Looks Unlimited 4031 SW 161st St. Ellendale

507-684-2088 or 507-456-2459 Give Rhonda a Call!

Mon, Tues, Thurs: 9 AM - 8 PM • Fri: 8 AM - Noon

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

GENEVA Located just over the Steele County line in neighboring Freeborn County, sits the community of Geneva.

According to the Minnesota Historical Society, the community now known as Geneva was first settled in 1855. The settlement came about when Milton Morey, a native of Vermont, moved to New York state. Once in New York, he heard about the lands in Minnesota, still a territory at that time and not yet a state.

Morey ventured to an area near Austin, Minn., where he was told about a town site near what was then called Black Walnut Lake. In 1855, Morey moved his family there, staked a claim and rechristened both the town and the lake as “Geneva,” named after a Geneva Lake, a 2,214 acre lake in New York.

By 1856, the town had its first post office. And the town was incorporated on Nov. 24, 1889.

THE BASICS

Location: Geneva is located in northeast Freeborn County, at the intersection of Highway 35 and Highway 45.

County Freeborn

Elevation 1,227 feet Area code 507 Zip code 56035 Population 550 (2013 Census Bureau estimate) 548 (2014 Census Bureau estimate) Median age 44.3

GOVERNMENT Mayor Steve Bailey City Council James Beenken Jannell Tufte Richard Weckwerth Taff Worrell

George’s of Geneva

Falling Water® faucet Timpani® Vessels sink

s u p p e r

c l u b

Specials Tues: Hot Beef Commercial Jensen Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing of Geneva, Minnesota has been bringing quality service to our customers for over 35 years. Our qualified experts provide complete Heating, Air Conditioning, and Plumbing knowledge and are committed to giving customers prompt and quality service that you can count on. Whether it's fixing an old heating system, installing radiant heat or a new geo thermal system, repairing a faucet or installing the newest design in plumbing fixtures, we can assist you in every step of the process. geothermal heating & cooling systems • tankless water heaters radiant floor heating water treatment systems • faucets & plumbing fixtures

Much, much more!

Jensen Heating, A/C & Plumbing 104 Central Ave N | Geneva | 507-256-4712 www.jensenhtgac.com

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Wed: Walleye Dinner Thur: Steak & Shrimp Steak & Lobster Fri: Slow Roasted Prime Rib or All you can eat Fish Sat: Slow Roasted Prime Rib or BBQ Ribs

116 Central St. N • Geneva

507-256-4501

www.georgesofgeneva.com Page 51

GENEVA SCHOOLS

Geneva is part of the New Richland-Hartland-EllendaleGeneva school district, known as NRHEG. NRHEG High School (Grades 7-12) 306 Ash Avenue S. New Richland, MN 56072 Phone: 507-465-3205 NRHEG Elementary School (Grades K-6) 600 School Street S. Ellendale, MN 56026 Phone: 507-684-3181

Geneva Bar & Grill 104 E. Main St.|Geneva, MN|507-256-0025 www.deanssmokeshack.com Summer Sausage • Bologna • Weiners Brats • Bacons • Hams & More!

Fresh, local flavor and variety!

We process

your Venison, Beef, and Pork.

Give us a call to schedule your order!

Daily Specials

Mon: Burger Basket Night Tue: Taco Fiesta Night Wed: Wing Night Thurs: Bar Bingo Fri: Fish Fry, BBQ Ribs, Chicken, Flat Iron Steak, Prime Rib

Sat: Prime Rib, BBQ Ribs, Shrimp, Chicken, Flat Iron Steak

101 West Main Geneva

507.256.7278

genevabarandgrill.com Page 52

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Reaching Over 6,000 Readers!

Leader The

ated after WEM remains undefe NRHEG, 9A thrilling 13-7 win over

Ellendale Prairie and g Blooming tion Servin A Free Publica

Vol. 4, September 12, 2015 •

No. 36

bpleader.com

Advocates work to reduce

suicides, 3A

MNPrairie prelim e budget shows decreas in Steele County levy contributions ART

By ASHLEY STEW om

astewart@owatonna.c

e in its likely see a decreas Steele County will County to Minnesota Prairie powers levy contribution increase in the joint Alliance despite an 2016. operating budget in a change in the organizaof result the That’s Hardwick, formula, said Jane tion’s county-share Alliance, ota Prairie County bedirector of Minnes Services joint power a three-county Human Waseca counties. and tween Steele, Dodge cost in 2016,” Hard) “It moves to full formula ustin Daily Herald over/A Schoon Saturday. (Jason wick said. powers board, which Blooming Prairie joint of the ay, west l Thursd On member Old Oak Kenne ssioners from each master trial at a bird during a consists of two commi vote to move forward with Coach retrieves 4-2 million, county, decided in a budget of about $22.4 2015. a preliminary 2016 0 increase from which is a nearly $700,00 , about $8.1 million based in GeorOf the proposed budget Dodge and Waseca Shanks, a trainer Steele, at Old Oak and fellow will be funded through is nearly $400,000 more st. Longtime friend most of the year, trains Labor Day gia Midwe which ville, status. levies, of Pardee hunting counties’ through American Kennel Cluba high achieve- trainer Alice Xander site was a great Kennel from June d in to train in the ONOVER than 2015. the a, which is outline “This is certainly because it’s too warm in the test SatBy JASON SCHO Wisconsin, agreed According to a formul s.

He had 22 dogs agreement, Steele Counment,” Shanks said.

Austin Daily Herald and senior test groundplace is gorgeous, wonder- South. is currently training 32 total MNPrairie’s joint powers about 44 percent of the “This Dogs first earn junior also held urday and paying s’ test was ty is responsible for a retrieval with her dogs.

IE — Coach and Waseca countie BLOOMING PRAIR gunshots status, and a senior 16 dogs.The tests ful,” she said after amount while Dodge , trainers came levy Shanks three about with as y with each.

Along Sunday watched intentl and Texds set by dog Lille. typically has trial events share is about 28 percents’ contributions included away as Louisiana e birds shot in quick are pass fail based on standar Old Oak sin. able to from as far sounded to simulat In 2015, the countie s levies and anything and July, but it was be- as, along with a few from Wisconwife, locations. But he the AKC rulebook.

Service by the each May Human his year on succession in three 2014 and this put initial ico their an until were event , ber tests using Ray Shanks Though McCon Saturday’s t was divided and Re- add a SeptemDay weekend fell late in they let the stood by his trainer, beyond that amoun , which was based on three , own the grounds, rn Minnesota Hunter Labor to retrieve the first sin trial was Andrea given the command into the grass, Southe Association and Old Oak Ken- cause the grounds on fund balance formula value and d month and a Wiscon opened up retriever club train on estimated market triever ido, a profes- the bird. Then he bounde ays. which factors: population, Tuesdays and Thursd held last weekend, commands before nel owner Rick McCon Old Oak following Shanks’ an equal share.

County Administrator weekend.

The McConicos opened The busiShanks with a bird sional dog trainer.

3 to 7 for the But for 2016, Steele having the best this s. bounding back to about nine years ago. month, Dogs average ages “We are known for ” McConico Kennel that formula change percent said ments. st, Laura Elvebak age require in his mouth. s 25 dogs every states 50 test bet there’s no 89 dogs to run hunt test in the Midwe powers agreement retrievals, ness averageall types of training, injoint of The based series Coach was one of a t for tests include s’ levied amount is test at Old Oak said. test is well or- The ng land and water tests, along brough simple obedience, hunting, of the member countiethe remaining 50 percent is in a retriever master ing Prairie on McConico said their birds, includi g titles and cluding competition and more. The on its population and market value.

Kennel west of Bloom trainers like ganized, efficient and use fresh a blind tests. Gainin es a dog’s dogs, gun with ed the dog’ after on estimat s ional its on sought improv based stay depend Saturday. For profess makes it a much meeting standards s and improves length of the dogs’ r trainers alike, the which s.

2A on amateu receive ET it . and training trainers BUDG Shanks for See type of training skills through a chance to show event contributed to to be in our test,” e and value. judged tests offered earn titles and Jenae Hackensmith “Everybody wants the animal’s pedigre animal to get to and off their dogs’ skills “It takes talented Shanks said. this report. he said. his trainin g es. ” McCon ico called facilities in this level, that’s for sure, standards for pedigre ting the masBy successfully comple the highest grounds one of the elite earned ter trials, the dogs

END A L ABRADOR WEEK

fall look Update your mes fra w with ne

ur Mind ss: Restore Yo Emotional Wellne

10.03.20tonn15 a, MN

ond Rd, Owa Club • 1991 Lem 12:30 p.m.

Owatonna Country ram: 8:45 a.m. to g: 7:45 a.m. • Prog ppin Sho & tion Registra a ic Health d by Mayo Clin Event sponsore

tonn System in Owa

Serving Blooming Prairie, Ellendale, Geneva, and Hope m:

s fro al Presentation to EducationShowcase Listen nual Eyewear dicine

Me to 6 p.m.

An Wallner, Family8 a.m . from Dr. Diane Friday, Oct.,9RD, CDE, LD Ashleigh Noble lud , inc mo:tivational s, ing nds nce Fra all rbra off Kay Ellass 30% ake Spe c Ecko ing •stre Mar nag uette Key Note on•ma Silhoge • ssa Coaachme • re Bansha • Ray t will deoris hum Kate Spa or. hum ugh thro

News • Sports • Advertising Optical Shop 60Space is limited.

550n.

MNsio na,mis atonAd et NW, Ow$5 ic 2200 26th Stre 26th Street Clin

sk or Information De atonna. chase at the ilable for pur required.

Kinley Street, Ow s ava TicketCur rent prescription cation, 122 East Mc Community Edu

system.org

In Print and Online mayoclinichealth

bpleader.com 507-451-2840 135 West Pearl, Owatonna Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Page 53

HOPE At one time, Steele County was king when it came to dairy products.

In 1883, the county boasted four cheese factories that made more cheese — 150,000 pounds of it — than any other county in the state.

By 1884, the county was known for its butter. That year, Steele County had at least 24 creameries, some say more, — an average of two creameries for every township — and Steele Countians produced 375,000 pounds of butter, meaning that it produced more butter per capita than any other county in Minnesota.

Alas, those days are no more. Though there are still large dairy farms in the county, the cheese factories are gone. And of the 24 creameries that existed here, all are gone.

All except one. The Hope Creamery.

Unlike many other butter manufacturers, Hope Creamery — one of the only independently owned creameries in the state — churns out butter the old-fashioned way, in small batches. It is the way the butter is made as well as the ingredients — fresh, local cream — that makes this butter prized by chefs, bakers and consumers.

The creamery is located in Hope, Minnesota, a small, unincorporated community between Owatonna and Ellendale.

THE BASICS

Location Between Owatonna and Ellendale in Steele County.

Elevation 1,201 feet Zip code 56046 Area code 507

Grains and Foods Inc.

Contact us for all your crop planning, crop programs, and grain marketing needs!

- IP, Non-GMO & Organic Soybeans - IP and Organic Sunflower - IP and Organic Corn - Organic Feed Inputs

- Non-GMO feed inputs - Waxy Corn - Full line of agronomy - Corn & Soybean seed

SunOpta SunOpta PO Box 128, Hope, MN 56046 4111 30th Ave. S, 507-451-4724 • 800-342-6976 Moorehead, MN 56560 218-287-5510 Sunopta.com Page 54

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

Get the ultimate entertainment bundle.

Frontier High-Speed Internet

29

99 + per month with qualifying Auto-Pay option and one-year agreement on new Internet service

FREE Two-Day Shipping

No Home Phone Commitment 2-Year Price Guarantee on Internet FREE Wi-Fi modem Fast, reliable Internet

Unlimited streaming of tens of thousands of movies and TV episodes.

Over a million songs. More than one thousand playlists.

Access to over 800,000 ebooks.

Get one year of Amazon Prime:* a $99 value

1.888.770.6869 | Frontier.com/Offer/SimplyInternet For immediate service in Southeast MN, visit or call our retail store.

507.583.2551 | 420 First Street SE - Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 Great deals on Internet, DISH TV, & home electronics! *With one-year agreement and a maximum $100 early termination fee on new Internet service.

Limited-time offer for new Internet customers. Must subscribe to High-Speed Internet service with speeds up to 6Mbps and enroll in qualifying Auto-Pay Electronic Bill payment to receive $5 monthly credit. Customer must enroll in Auto-Pay at www.Frontier.com/BillPay upon receiving first bill. Actual Internet speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. Service subject to availability. Installation fees apply; discounted Internet install fee waived for self-install. Internet price guaranteed for 24 months. Shipping/handling charge applies. A $9.99 broadband processing fee upon disconnection of service applies. A one-year agreement with a maximum $100 early termination fee applies to Internet service with Amazon Prime offer. Taxes, governmental and other Frontier-imposed surcharges apply. Frontier reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Other restrictions apply. Amazon Prime: You must redeem your promo code and agree to the Amazon Prime Terms & Conditions to qualify for Prime membership. Your Amazon Prime membership automatically renews for the membership fee in effect at the time of renewal plus applicable taxes. You may cancel at any time by visiting Your Account and adjusting your membership settings. Valid credit card required at time of registration if Amazon does not have one on file. Promo code cannot be transferred or resold. For more information about Amazon Prime, visit amazon.com/prime. Š2015 Frontier Communications Corporation.

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015

AP_8.15_29.99SBB_FLYR

Page 55

605 5th Street NE, Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 1 17 507.583.2144 ◆ Fax 507.583.2020 ◆ metal-services.com

Agricultural & Commercial Repair

Laser & Plasma Cutting

Plasma Cutting Capacity

Aluminum Up To 2 in. x 8 ft. x 20 ft.

Stainless Steel Up To 2 in. x 8 ft. x 20 ft.

Carbon Steel Up To 2 1/2 in. x 8 ft. x 20 ft.

Laser Cutting Capacity

Aluminum Up To 3/8 in. x 6 ft. x 12 ft.

Stainless Steel Up To 5/8 in. x 6 ft. x 12 ft.

Carbon Steel Up To 3/4 in. x 6 ft. x 12 ft.

Metal Fabrication & Welding

Our Welding Repair shop is very experienced in all areas of welding. From big jobs to small, we’ve seen it all. Equipment repairs include agricultural, commercial, livestock, industrial and construction.

Metal Services’ portable repair trucks can bring this service right to your door. We specialize in piping and maintenance projects at your location.

Page 56

Our metal fabrication shop has the experience and capability to perform sands of times, we’ll produce quality parts for you on time, all the time.

Discover

Blooming Prairie 2015