Mn valley mag sept2015

Also in this issue• Hawk Alarm Systems of Mapleton

• Sarah Nelson of Taco John’s

• SCORE serving Mankato region

Shelly Bartlett of Indigo Organics. Photo by Pat Christman

The Free PressMEDIA

Natural health & lifestyles in the mainstream

No longer ‘alternative’

MNVB September p01.indd 1 8/21/2015 11:56:17 AM

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BOOK DETAILS: The “Skol! Vikings 50” book chronicles the fi ve decades the Minnesota Vikings have been holding training camp in Mankato. This is the longest training camp-city relationship in NFL history. From the day Minnesota State University, Mankato Athletic Director Bill Nelson sealed the deal with Vikings owner Max Winter, the team and the town have never turned back. Order your commemorative book now at $39.95 (plus tax/shipping) while supplies last. Pick up your copy at The Free Press or order online today!

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GRAB YOUR COPIES WHILE YOU CAN!

LIMITED SUPPLY LEFT

BOOK DETAILS: The “Skol! Vikings 50” book chronicles the fi ve decades the Minnesota Vikings have been holding training camp in Mankato. This is the longest training camp-city relationship in NFL history. From the day Minnesota State University, Mankato Athletic Director Bill Nelson sealed the deal with Vikings owner Max Winter, the team and the town have never turned back. Order your commemorative book now at $39.95 (plus tax/shipping) while supplies last. Pick up your copy at The Free Press or order online today!

presented by

sponsored by

• Hardcover, 144 pages, archival quality

• Hundreds of stunning historic images

• Available for pick up or online now

UNIQUE • TIMELESS

Pick up your copies at

The Free Press418 S. 2nd Street, Mankato

Have your books shipped by ordering online at

Vikings50.PictorialBook.comFree shipping available for online orders of two or more copies

Hurry, this book is in limited supply! Order one of two ways:

Pre-orders for pick up are available now


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RTJ747JoeTaylorAD_CNHImags.indd 1 3/28/14 12:17 PM



F E A T U R E SSeptember 2015 • Volume 7, Issue 12

Sarah Nelson knows that having fun at work can lead to success and the

owner/manager of Taco John’s in River Hills Mall has the trophy

to prove it.

24SCORE and its army of experienced business mentors has been around

for years, now Southern Minnesota’s SCORE is increasing its presence in

the Mankato region.

20Patrick and Ellen Larson’s Hawk Alarm Systems of Mapleton gives

business and home owners peace of mind with a wide variety of alarms

and warning systems.

28

Whether it’s acupuncture, chiropractic care, natural foods,

supplements, therapeutic massage, or organic foods, local consumer

demand continues to grow.

14

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6 • september 2015 • MN Valley Business

PUBLISHER

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

COVER PHOTO

PAGE DESIGNER

ADVERTISINGMANAGER

ADVERTISING SALES

ADVERTISINGASSISTANT

ADVERTISINGDESIGNERS

CIRCULATIONDIRECTOR

John Elchert

Joe Spear

Tim Krohn

Tim KrohnKent ThiesseMike LagerquistDean SwansonHeidi Sampson

Pat ChristmanJohn Cross

John Cross

Christina Sankey

Ginny Bergerson

Jen WanderscheidTheresa Haefner

Barb Wass

Sue HammarChristina Sankey

Denise Zernechel

september 2015 • VOLUme 7, IssUe 12

MN Valley Business is published by The Free Press Media monthly at

418 South 2nd Street., Mankato MN 56001.

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

For advertising,call 344-6336, or e-mail

[email protected].

Entrepreneurs gaining ground

The take away from this month’s cover story: Entrepreneurialism is alive and well in the Mankato

region.The second takeaway: There

remains great risk of failure.Our focus on organic products and

homeopathic medicine isn’t about competition with traditional businesses in those areas, it’s more about innovation and entrepreneurialism.

It also suggests the Mankato area business community pays very close attention to national trends. And maybe national trends pay attention to Mankato as well. We all know we’ve been put on the map for a number of businesses since our designation a few years ago as a metropolitan statistical area.

That U.S. government census designation means the government collects a lot more demographic information about the region, from income and age and purchasing habits to the rate of inflation.

What’s striking about these “natural health” entrepreneurs is their real belief in what they’re doing, what they’re selling. Health care, of course, will be a huge national business for some time with the aging of the Baby Boom generation. But more and more people are looking to alternative remedies and nutritional remedies when the traditional does not seem to be helping.

It’s also interesting to hear these natural health entrepreneurs not discount the need for traditional medicine by any means.

But it’s clear there are many risk taking entrepreneurs out there willing to give these new businesses a try. It’s never easy and not always fun. Some of these entrepreneurs tell us how tough it is to make and wonder if they will.

Their stories are well worth reading.Restaurant scene heats upDifferentiating your business is also

taking hold in a more traditional business: eating and drinking establishments. The number of such places has ballooned in Mankato the last few years. The Free Press has

featured stories on new restaurants coming to town it seems like every couple of months. That’s a much greater pace than a few years ago.

And our readership studies show us there’s always tremendous interest in these stories.

Restaurants, of course, are one of the most volatile businesses. Business rises and falls with the consumer economy. If your town has a plant with 1,000 workers and it shuts down, you can bet there will be a couple a restaurants that shut down with it.

The Mankato restaurant business benefits from the regional nature of our economy. Weekend shopping brings in people from Iowa to Albert Lea. They shop, they buy, they eat at restaurants. So our restaurant business may be somewhat insulated from the ups and downs of the local economy.

All of this seems to have lured at least one fairly new restaurant business in the New Bohemia Wurst and Bier Haus. With only two other locations, both in the Twin Cities, the business saw Mankato as the best outstate city for its business.

Jeff Bornmann, co-owner of New Bohemia, told The Free Press he opted to locate the store in Mankato because it was the “fastest growing town in the whole state.” It’s a place where things are “happening” and that makes a difference as well.

The fact the Minnesota State University is here also helps because their demographic leans younger.

But Bornmann is quick to point out that they aim to differentiate their business in the market with 18 kinds of sausage, french fries and craft beer. That’s it. Nothing elaborate or fancy, but definitely different then fare at current downtown Mankato restaurants.

My impression is they won’t be selling MGD or Bud Light, and they’re going to be fine with that. MV

Joe Spear is executive editor of Minnesota Valley Business. Contact him at [email protected] or 344-6382. Follow him on Twitter @jfspear.

■ Local business memos/ Company news ...............................7

■ business and Industry trends ..... 10

■ minnesota business updates ...... 11

■ business Commentary ................ 12

■ Construction, real estate trends . 33

■ Agriculture Outlook ..................... 34

■ Agribusiness trends. ................... 35

■ Job trends .................................... 36

■ retail trends ................................ 37

■ Greater mankato Growth ............. 38

■ Greater mankato Growth member Activities ...................... 40

■ From the editorBy Joe Spear

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Farrish lawyers named Super LawyersScott Kelly, William Partridge and Steven Fink, of

Farrish Johnson Law Office, have been named “Super Lawyers” for 2015.

The award recognizes them as among the top 5 percent of all lawyers in the state.

Kelly and Partridge are trial lawyers practicing in personal injury litigation, business dispute, construction law and other litigation.

Fink practices in estate planning, real estate law and business law.

Attorney Daniel Bellig recently received a “Rising Star” designation.

■ ■ ■

Beadell receives honorQuentin Beadell of Community Bank

Mankato received the Legacy of Community Banking Award from the Independent Community Bankers Association of Minnesota for 58 years of service to the industry.

Beadell started his banking career in 1956 and purchased his first bank in 1973. Beadell currently serves as owner and President of Community Bank with four locations in Mankato, Amboy and Vernon Center.

Community Bank Mankato was also named as a top-producing lender by Independent Community Bankers of America, rated 43rd in the nation out of over 5,500 banks, as an overall industry loan producer with less than $500 million in assets.

■ ■ ■

Titus named director at PathstoneMarti Titus is the new director of

Adult Day Services at Pathstone Day Living. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from MSU and has been working in the healthcare field since 2007. In 2012, she joined the Ecumen Pathstone Day Living team as a recreation specialist.

■ ■ ■

AmericInn recognized for customer serviceAmericInn Hotel & Suites Mankato Conference Center

was recognized by Hotels.com for having excellent costumer reviews.

Hotels.com said they selected AmericInn because their costumers highlight the hotel for consistently delivering outstanding service and offering a memorable guest experience.

Hotels.com, owned by Expedia Inc., is a website for booking hotel rooms. They are a worldwide company that lists over 325,000 hotels in about 19,000 locations.

Utah firm to join Eide BaillyJames & Co., business advisors/CPAs, of Ogden, Utah,

will become part of Eide Bailly.Dan James, president, and his 10 staff members will join

Eide Bailly’s Ogden office.Eide Bailly’s Utah practice – which also includes Salt

Lake City and Lehi – now has 21 partners and 114 staff.

■ ■ ■

Mankato clinic marketer honoredHTK Marketing Communications and its clients,

including Mankato Clinic, received several awards at this year’s Hospital Marketing National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

Work that was awarded included digital campaigns, television campaigns, online elements and print campaigns. One of the campaigns awarded was Mankato Clinic’s “Together We Thrive” comprehensive rebranding campaign.

■ ■ ■

Roark joins New Ulm Medical CenterDr. Abrea Roark, an OB/GYN, joined

the New Ulm Medical Center. She joins OB/GYN Drs. Victor Khayat and Marc Burkhart.

Roark was born in Parkston, South Dakota and completed her medical degree from Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota and her residency at the University of Missouri - Kansas City

■ ■ ■

Thriveon earns credential Thriveon, a family owned company that helps businesses

with anywhere from 5 to 500 computers by providing an IT department for a flat monthly fee, announced it has received the CompTIA Managed Services Trustmark credential.

“We are honored to receive this certification. It is another testament to the commitment our team has to serving our clients and being the most helpful information technology firm” said Sam Bloedow, CEO.

■ ■ ■

Jacob Reitan joins firmJacob Reitan has joined Reitan Law office, joining his

father Philip and brother Benjamin.He graduated from Mankato West and graduated Magna

Cum Laude from the University of Minnesota School of Law.

Prior to that he obtained his Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School.

Prior to becoming a lawyer he worked extensively in the GLBT rights movement

■ Local Business People/Company News

Dr. Abrea roark

marti titus

Quentin beadell

■ ■ ■

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Call - [email protected]

Take Control of Your Work Comp Costs With A Complete Mod Analysis

See Agent, Kris Bauer, for your possible savings!

Consolidated Communications honoredLutheran Social Service’s Meals on Wheels program of

Mankato hosted a volunteer appreciation event for local Consolidated Communications (formerly Enventis) employees.

Since November 2014, 10 employees have delivered meals to homebound and disabled individuals in the Mankato area during their workday. Consolidated Communications was the first company to provide volunteers to the LSS Meals on Wheels area program, and as an organization provides the most support.

Consolidated Communications has volunteered 101 hours of service since January 2015, and served over 1,000 meals to community residents.

■ ■ ■

Duffey joins Visit MankatoDanielle Duffey is Visit Mankato’s

new Convention Sales Director.Duffey is a lifetime resident of

Mankato. She was most recently an account

manager with Capstone and has experience in the hotel and meetings industry.

■ ■ ■

ISG named Hot FirmISG was named to the 2015 Zweig Group Hot Firm List

that recognizes the fastest-growing architecture, engineering, planning, and environmental consulting firms in the United States and Canada.

The Hot Firm List is comprised of firms that have outperformed the economy and competitors.

The industry is comprised of more than 100,000 firms.ISG earned the 17th spot in this year’s list, moving up

14 spots from 2014. Rankings are based on a survey of industry firms conducted by the Zweig Group, the publisher of The Zweig Letter.

■ ■ ■

Al Davis has new officeAl Davis, a financial advisor with

Davis, Thoen, Kramer & Associates a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services in Lake Crystal has opened a new office location at 1930 Premier Drive in Mankato.

Along with the additional office location Davis added practice manager Sandra Abild to his staff. Davis will continue to run his practice out of Lake Crystal.

He has been in the financial industry for 20 years.

■ ■ ■

Coldwell Fisher Group honoredColdwell Banker Commercial Fisher Group has been

selected for the 2015 Mankato Award in the commercial real estate agency category by the Mankato Award Program.

The award identifies companies that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their business category. Various sources of information are used to analyze businesses and quality, not quantity are measured.

■ ■ ■

Julee’s Jewelry earns certificatesJulee Johnson, of Julee’s Jewelry,

attended a national jewelry industry conference, earning two certificates, including one for computerized custom designing.

She also visited a DeBeers sight holder for some of the best in individually-picked diamond selections.

Julee’s Jewelry is at 120 S Minnesota Ave., St. Peter (in the Historic Nicollet Hotel).

■ ■ ■

Fee joins Coldwell FisherColdwell Banker Commercial Fisher

Group has named Scott Fee as Community Partnership Consultant, a new role designed to expand and deepen the real estate company’s commitment to stewardship of the built environment.

“It means we approach our work in real estate as if we are stewards, not owners,” Fee said.

Fee’s role will involve fostering existing relationships, and creating new

ones, to provide access to commercial property for underrepresented entrepreneurs and strengthen connections between the private sector and partners in higher education, nonprofit organizations and other businesses in the community.

Fee has been a MSU faculty member since 1997.

■ ■ ■

MRCI programs accreditedMRCI WorkSource, a leader in adult rehabilitation,

announced that their employment and training programs have been awarded a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

Since 1971, MRCI employment programs for people with disabilities have been CARF accredited. The latest accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization.

Surveyors visited MRCI locations in Mankato, Fairmont, Kasota New Ulm, Chaska,Shakopee, and Rosemount.

MRCI’s CEO is Brian Benshoof.

Danielle Duffey

Al Davis

Julee Johnson

scott Fee



Call - [email protected]

Take Control of Your Work Comp Costs With A Complete Mod Analysis

See Agent, Kris Bauer, for your possible savings!

To submit your company or employee news.

e-mail to

[email protected]

Put “Business memo” in the subject line.

Call or e-mail Associate Editor

Tim Krohn at [email protected]

or 344-6383 for questions.

Wernsing earns surgeon designationOpen Door Health Center’s chief

medical officer Dr. Kimberly Wernsing received her Civil Surgeon designation from the office of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. To obtain the designation, physicians must meet professional criteria and submit a specialized application for approval.

With this designation Wernsing is qualified to conduct medical exams for immigrants and refugees who are in the process of applying to become

permanent residents. The medical examination consists of a physical examination; a tuberculosis evaluation; and a

blood test for s p e c i f i c c o m m u n i c a b l e d i s e a s e s , q u a r a n t i n a b l e diseases, and any other diseases of i n t e r n a t i o n a l concern. The Civil Surgeon must also verify that s t a n d a r d i z e d v a c c i n a t i o n requirements for immigration have been met or are in the process of being met.

■ ■ ■

AgStar, DuPont give grants AgStar Financial Services and

DuPont Pioneer made a joint $52,000 investment in a new grant program that will assist agricultural education teachers in Minnesota and Wisconsin to participate in the Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education program.

The grant program will pay up to $2,600 in tuition cost for 20 selected teachers to attend CASE institutes and become CASE-certified teachers.

Those interested in applying for a grant should go to agstar.com. The application deadline is Oct. 31.Mitzel joins Profinium

Profinium has hired Mark Mitzel as vice president of business banking. He has more than 12 years of experience in the financial services industry.

He is working out of the Mankato Office on Warren Street. Mitzel is a graduate of MSU with degrees in finance, insurance, and real estate.

Profinium has four locations in southern Minnesota (Fairmont, Truman, Owatonna and Mankato), and has more than $435 million in assets under management.

Dr. Kimberly Wernsing mark mitzel



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EconomyGDP to slowly climb

The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that real GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.3 percent in the second quarter of 2015. The growth of real GDP was broad-based and reflected positive contributions from consumption, exports, state and local government spending, and residential fixed investment.

The estimate of growth in the first quarter of 2015 was also revised up to 0.6 percent; the previous estimate was -0.2 percent.

Forecast real GDP growth reaches 2.2 percent in 2015 and rises to 3 percent in 2016.

Disposable income growsReal disposable income grows by 3.5 percent in 2015,

the same as in the July forecast, and by 2.9 percent in 2016. Total industrial production grows at 1.8 percent in 2015 and 3.3 percent in 2016.

Projected growth in nonfarm employment averages 2.1 percent in 2015 and 1.5 percent in 2016.

Investment growth upForecast private real fixed investment growth averages

4.7 percent and 7.3 percent in 2015 and 2016, respectively, led by equipment in 2015 and 2016 and by equipment and structures in 2016. Real consumption expenditures grow faster than real GDP in 2015, at 3 percent, and the same as real GDP in 2016 at 3 percent.

Durable goods expenditures drive consumption spending in both years. Export growth is 2.2 percent and 4.6 percent over the same two years, while import growth is 6 percent in 2015 and 2016. Total government expenditures rise by 0.9 percent in 2015 and by 0.8 percent in 2016.

EnergyCrude keeps falling

North Sea Brent crude oil prices averaged $57/barrel in July, a $5 decrease from June. Brent crude oil spot prices fell further in early August, settling at $48 per barrel.

The recent price declines reflect concerns about lower economic growth in emerging markets, expectations of higher oil exports from Iran, and continuing actual and expected growth in global inventories.

The federal Energy Information Administration forecasts that Brent crude oil prices will average $54 in 2015 and $59 in 2016, $6 and $8 lower than predicted in the previous month’s estimates.

In July the P5+1 (the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Germany) and Iran announced an agreement that could result in relief from United States and European Union nuclear-related sanctions (which include some oil-related sanctions). If the agreement is implemented and sanctions relief occurs, it will put additional Iranian oil supplies on a global market that has already seen oil inventories rise significantly over the past year.

■ Business and Industry TrendsNatural gas inventory high

Natural gas working inventories were 2,912 billion cubic feet (Bcf) on July 31, which was 23 percent higher than a year earlier. EIA projects inventories will close the injection season at the end of October at 3,867 Bcf, which would be the second-highest end-of-October level on record.

Electric use upU.S. population-weighted cooling degree days through the

end of July were 14 percent more than in the same period last year. The hotter temperatures contribute to an EIA estimate that the typical residential electricity customer will use 3,134 kilowatthours in the months of June, July, and August this year, which is 4 percent more than during the same period in 2014.

Refinery outage ups gas priceOn Aug. 8, the BP refinery in Whiting, Indiana, the largest

petroleum refinery in the Midwest, experienced an unplanned outage and was forced to reduce production. The BP Whiting refinery has a crude oil distillation unit capacity of 413,500 barrels per day and it is an important source of gasoline and distillate fuel oil supply to the region.

Press reports indicate that the largest of three crude oil distillation units at the refinery was shut down because of leaking pipes, cutting the refinery’s total operable CDU capacity by roughly 50 percent.

The loss of gasoline production from that unit to be between 120,000 barrels per day and 140,000 barrels. Initial estimates are that it may take BP a month to fix the problem.

On news of the outage, the wholesale spot price for gasoline in Chicago, Illinois increased 60¢ per gallon on Aug. 11.

Electric renewables downTotal renewables used in the electric power sector will

decrease by 2.6 percent in 2015. Conventional hydropower generation is forecast to decrease by 9.9 percent, and nonhydropower renewable power generation is forecast to increase by 4.5 percent.

The 2015 decrease in hydropower generation reflects the effects of the California drought, which are only partially offset by growth in hydropower use elsewhere. Generation from hydropower in the electric power sector is expected to increase by 12.3 percent in 2016.

Ethanol production steadyEthanol production, which averaged 935,000 barrels per

day in 2014, is forecast to remain near current levels in 2015 and 2016. Ethanol consumption, which averaged 878,000 barrels per day in 2014, is forecast to average about 900,000 barrels in both 2015 and 2016, resulting in an average 9.9 percent ethanol share of the total gasoline pool those years.

EIA does not expect significant increases in E15 or E85 consumption over the forecast period. Imports of Brazilian sugarcane ethanol, which were 3,000 barrels oer day in 2014, are expected to increase. Because of the expected increase in ethanol gross imports, net exports of ethanol are forecast to fall from 51,000 barrels per day in 2014 to 43,000 in 2015, and to 37,000 b/d in 2016.



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■ ADM posts earningsArcher Daniels Midland Co. reported second-quarter

profit of $386 million.The Chicago-based company said it had profit of 62

cents per share. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring gains, came to 60 cents per share.

The results missed Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of five analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for earnings of 65 cents per share.

The agribusiness giant posted revenue of $17.19 billion in the period, which also missed Street forecasts.

Three analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $19.29 billion.

ADM shares have fallen slightly more than 8 percent since the beginning of the year, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 index has risen roughly 2 percent. The stock has risen slightly more than 2 percent in the last 12 months.

■ Johnson reports higher salesJohnson Outdoors, a global outdoor recreation

equipment company, reported increased sales and profits in the company’s 2015 fiscal third quarter ended July 3.

“A solid new product line-up is fueling positive marketplace momentum as we head into the final months of the warm-weather outdoor recreational season,” said Helen Johnson-Leipold, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

She said the Ulterra fishing motor and the Talon 12’ shallow water anchor are powering growth for Minn Kota, the company’s $100 million flagship fishing brand.

In Watercraft, the Old Town Predator series has done well and the new MiniMo cooking system has driven growth in the camping sector.

Total cmpany net sales were $140.9 million during the third quarter, a 3 percent gain versus net sales of $137.1 million in the prior year third quarter.

Marine electronics revenue grew 8 percent.There was a 1 percent dip in outdoor gear revenue.Watercraft revenue held steady with the prior year

quarter.Total Company operating profit during the quarter was

$16.4 million compared to $9.3 million in the prior fiscal year third quarter.

■ 3M declares dividend3M declared a quarterly dividend in which investors will

be paid a dividend of $1.025 per share. This represents a $4.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.71 percent.

■ Boulder divorces from XcelBoulder, Colorado officials on Tuesday took a major

step in their years-long effort to create a new city-owned utility by formally asking the Colorado Public Utilities Commission to approve the transfer to the city equipment and assets owned byXcel Energy.

The city’s 333-page request sought to avoid one area of

contention by pointedly noting that the city only wants assets and equipment needed to serve Boulder customers.

Some equipment Boulder previously indicated it wanted was controversial because Xcel uses it to serve customers inside and outside the city limits.

Boulder said it wants Xcel’s equipment in order to establish a new city-owned utility that would provide “a cleaner power supply” to the city’s residents.

Boulder voters in 2011 approved the creation of a new utility as long as several conditions were met, including that the new utility could meet or beat Xcel’s service in terms of reliability and rates. In November 2013, Boulder voters also set a cap of $214 million in debt that the city could take on to pay for Xcel’s equipment needed to serve the new utility.

Both the PUC and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission must sign off on the transfer of Xcel’s assets, with an eye toward ensuring that Xcel can continue to serve its customers outside the city without the equipment that Boulder says it needs for its own utility.

■ Marijuana business faces hurdlesWas the Minnesota’s medical marijuana program gets

underway there are hurdles for consumers seeking it as too few growers exist and businesses growing and processing it face reluctance from many doctors in prescribing it.

The industry’s first hurdles have quickly become clear. Some would-be patients have reported trouble finding doctors to give them the OK for treatment, and others say prices are just too high, according to Minnesota Public Radio.

Doctors must be registered and authorized before they can certify patients. So far, fewer than 300 practitioners have received such authorization. No list of those doctors’ names is publicly available.

There are anecdotal reports about other patients who are finding it difficult and expensive to get approval for medical marijuana despite last year’s law making it legal.

■ CHS gets stake in CF IndustriesCHS Inc. said it will invest $2.8 billion in fertilizer

maker CF Industries and cancel plans to build its own fertilizer plant in North Dakota.

CHS, the nation’s biggest farm cooperative and largest wholesaler of fertilizer, says it will buy up to 1.7 million tons of nitrogen fertilizer a year at market prices from CF, according to the Star Tribune.

The investment is the largest CHS has ever made in another company.

CHS, which is headquartered in Inver Grove Heights, will also be entitled to semiannual profit distributions from CF, which is based in Deerfield, Ill.

Recently CF agreed to buy the fertilizer production assets of the Dutch firm OCI NV for about $5.4 billion. That deal made CF the world’s largest publicly-traded maker of nitrogen fertilizer.

With the CF deal, CHS will abandon plans to build a $3 billion nitrogen fertilizer plant in Spiritwood, N.D., that was due for completion in 2018. It will write off $85 million in costs for the project.

■ Minnesota Business Updates



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I am still thinking about one of my most recent mentoring clients. This CEO and the staff were devastated because they lost their biggest client in

whom they had “hung their future.” Now they were frustrated because their major potential income stream was gone… in the blink of an eye. I had cautioned them to not get into the situation of tying their income stream to one or a few big customers. But, they did.

So, now what to do? That situation provides the opportunity to step back, take a deep breath, and do some careful analysis and strategic planning. You may think your business will never recover when a big client leaves, but the right moves can turn the loss into a win.

Nobody likes to talk about being fired by a customer or client, but it happens every once in a while to just about everyone in business. Because, the fact is, at some point, someone you’re working with may decide they no longer need your services, and they’ll cut you loose, possibly in an abrupt, angry or awkward way. So what can you do when a client fires your business?

I remember reading an article several months ago by Geoff Williams, a freelance journalist who said, “As an entrepreneur, you have to know that bad stuff sometimes happens and all you can do is respond to it and address what you can.” I share a few thoughts and insights.

Ask for a referralThis may sound crazy at first, but as Mark Faust, a

growth and turnaround consultant and speaker, points out, “Being fired doesn’t (always) mean you failed or they didn’t like your work. If you can, get testimonials and spin-off work.”

Faust published a book, “Growth Or Bust: Proven Turnaround Strategies To Grow Your Business”, in which he says “Before you do that, however, ask what went wrong and if there’s a way you can regain your client’s business. It’s possible to recover after being fired by a client, but only if you know what went wrong.

Of course, if you know that your client just wasn’t pleased with your work — or you — then don’t ask for a referral. Instead, Faust suggests another approach.

Go to their competitors“There’s nothing unethical about going to the

competition and using the work you did with the client as a reference,” says Faust, who is quick to add that he isn’t suggesting you do anything unethical, like sharing proprietary information. He also isn’t suggesting you pretend that the executive who canned you would be happy to vouch for you. In other words, don’t do anything that calls your integrity into question.

But the work you did for the company that fired you is

part of your work history and experience, and if you feel your business is fully qualified to work with an ex-client’s competitor, you could be shooting yourself in the foot if you don’t seek out that opportunity.

“I think a lot of companies and consultants avoid going to the most obvious of places,” Faust says, “the closest competitors of their former clients.”

Conduct a post-game analysisNow what if a referral isn’t forthcoming and

competitors aren’t looking to hire you, at the very least, it’s time for some Monday morning quarterbacking. If you don’t figure out why you were fired, it could happen again.

For example, Nick Niehaus, president of Connect Home Solutions LLC, a direct marketing startup, had some major clients drop him. Each time a client fired him, Niehaus says his company, which has eight employees, lost 30 percent of its revenue. “That meant less hours for my employees, who work on a fully commission system, and it was a big hit in my income,” Niehaus says. “For a small business, losing any client is usually a big deal, but very early in the formation of a business, it can be deadly.”

Niehaus says he was too stubborn to simply give up and move on; instead, he did a post-mortem each time to figure out what happened. He realized his company’s pricing structure didn’t work. “We were focusing on charging too much for each lead,” he says. “Our clients pay two separate fees for flyer delivery and leads, and our lead price is much lower.”

Accept the loss“Losing a customer always feels like a vote of no

confidence either in me or in my business. As the only one in charge, that’s hard to take,” Niehaus says. “I think, as an entrepreneur, you have to know that bad stuff sometimes happens and all you can do is respond to it and address what you can.”

The faster you accept the loss and aggressively try to replace the client, the better off your business will be. Besides, it’s almost inevitable that whether you’re fired due to a lack of funding, an inability to give the customer what they really want or just because your client doesn’t like you, you’re going to lose clients — that’s just the nature of the beast. But if you’ve planned ahead, you’ll also gain new clients, too. MV

Dean L. Swanson is past chair of the Southeast Minnesota. The South Central Minnesota SCORE chapter, located in Owatonna and serving the Mankato region, is at southcentralminnesota.score.org

What to do when your biggest customer drops you

■ Business CommentaryBy Dean Swanson

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The natural

wayOrganic food, natural services grow with demand

By Tim Krohn | Photos by John Cross and Pat Christman

Shelly Bartlett’s Indigo Organic business continues to grow and expand.



The chasm between traditional health care and alternative care and natural lifestyles is today largely nonexistent.

Whether it’s acupuncture, chiropractic care, natural foods, supplements, therapeutic massage, organic foods, yoga or chemical-free hair salons, there is a broad belief that homeopathy has a large role in a healthy life.

“This is my 20th year and without a doubt it’s more accepted now,” said chiropractor Carol Walters. “I see so many more referrals from medical doctors.”

Shelly Bartlett, owner of Indigo Organic, said customers want to maintain a healthy lifestyle or are looking for help in recovery.

“Everyone is looking for better ways to heal themselves. You see the doctors coming in and the cancer patients,” Bartlett said.

Jeff Evenson, owner of Natural Pathways on Belgrade Avenue in North Mankato, said traditional medicine is indispensable but said the interest in alternatives keeps growing.

“I think people are truly interested in pursuing the alternatives to traditional health care,” he said

While customers come from all age groups, the baby boom generation is fueling demand.

“I think there is a strong trend for preventive health. Baby boomers want to enjoy their retirement. People soak up all the information you can give and want to take part

in a lifestyle that keeps them healthy and happy,” Walters said.

Indigo OrganicBartlett, in her fourth year in business on Madison

Avenue, is passionate about natural and organic products and services.

“Every day someone comes in and tells us how something is healing them. It’s so exciting. I look for everything that people can heal themselves with.”

Since it opened, the shop has featured a “clean air” hair salon that uses non-chemical products, organic food items and products and therapeutic massage.

Now, Bartlett has added an organic deli to the mix.

“We have all USDA organic food in the deli – soups, salads, sandwiches, raw organic juicing,” Bartlett said.

Food can be eaten in or picked up at a drive-through. “I have a customer who said you can’t get anything good for you at a drive-through. Well you can get an organic green veggie salad and get it in the drive-through,” she said.

“We even have organic coffee and organic milk and almond and coconut milk to go with it.”

Cover Story

“We have all USDA organic food in the deli – soups, salads, sandwiches, raw organic juicing,”

Bartlett said.

s

s

Stylist Jordann Boerboom of Indigo Organic.



During the growing season, many of the organic vegetables come from Living Land Farm outside St. Peter.

Bartlett added seating for 16 outside and 12 inside when remodeling for the deli.

“We may enclose part of the building and expand it next year.” She at first leased the building but now owns it.

Bartlett was for decades a stylist who used traditional hair and skin products until visiting the Intelligent Nutrient headquarters in 2011 to check out their natural products.

She also spent time at a place that served all organic food and soon became immersed in incorporating natural and organic products into her life and business.

“What we put in and on our bodies has to be safe and nutritious. Hair styling is one of the most toxic businesses. That spray is going into the stylists, too.”

Since starting, the salon has accounted for about 50 percent of Indigo Organic’s business. “We have people come from Des Moines, Rochester, the Twin Cities. People are Googling looking for this kind of salon. A lot of people in Mankato don’t even know we’re here.”

Bartlett eventually weaned herself off statins and baby aspirin, leaning heavily on green organic juices. “My doctor was skeptical but followed up with tests. My blood pressure is 110/70 and my cholesterol dropped 80 points.”

Bartlett sings the praises of a wide variety of food and nutrients to replace table salt, help with hyperactivity, improve other ailments and increase overall health.

“People love seeing the ‘USDA organic’ label. Four years ago almost no one knew what it was and it wasn’t sold much. Now Hy-Vee and Sam’s Club and Aldi and others have organic things,” Bartlett said.

“I’m not trying to compete with them. I’m just glad they offer it.”

She said the growth in organic offerings has brought prices down. “If you eat continuous organic and natural, it

will cost 30 percent more. But you pay now or you pay later,” she said.

Bartlett said the organic food movement is as old as dirt.

“It’s going back to what our grandparents did. You could pull something out of the dirt and you didn’t have to wash it — there was nothing on it to have to wash off.”

Advanced ChiropracticWalters said she knew she

wanted to be a chiropractor when she was 17 after one of her best friend’s brothers went to chiropractor school. “He

talked about it and I found it very interesting.”After working in clinics in Worthington and Austin, she

opened Advanced Chiropractic in North Mankato in 2002. Two other chiropractors — Nicolaas Dubbelde and Bradley Schaff — are also in the practice.

Carol Walters opened Advanced Chiropractic in North Mankato in 2002.

“The thing I hear the most is people come in and say they have tried

everything the doctors told them to do, and it’s just

not working,”-Jeff Evenson

s

s



Walters said the most common visits are for neck and back pain, headaches and spinal problems.

“But with the marathon here, with people upping their training for that and other things, we see a lot of repetitive stresses to the body.”

Walters also does acupuncture, which she said tends to treat many things not usually dealt with by chiropractic. “Ringing in the ear, infertility, bowel problems — things that are completely different than the chiropractic side.”

Walters said a fair amount of fads come through the natural health industry. “Some have merit and some don’t. The hottest thing now is essential oils, and I think they have some merit. They’ve been around for thousands of years.”

Other fads, particularly surrounding nutrition and diets, she’s often skeptical of. “There’s always some exotic South American fruit that supposed to cure all. I just urge people to be healthy in their lifestyle and diet.”

She said she promotes some vitamins and supplements. “It’s tough to gauge (their effectiveness) because you take it and you don’t feel awesome immediately. We don’t do a ton of it but we use multivitamins, calcium, glucosamine for arthritis, magnesium for muscle depletion — the basics.”

Walters said she knows her industry had a perception of keeping patients coming back for too long.

Bartlett tells and industry joke: “How many chiropractors does it take to change a light bulb? One but it’ll take you nine visits.”

But she said the industry has changed. “We’ve gone to more performance and progress care, rather than maintenance.

“We have to have treatment goals and get you better as soon as possible. That’s being driven by patients and by the insurance industry.”

She said outcomes for her patients vary widely depending on the ailment. “There’s such a varying degree of things that walk in the door. There are things where you’re wildly successful. But if there’s an 88-year-old with arthritis, you’re not going to reverse that, but you can improve it.”

Natural PathwaysNatural Pathways opened in 2012 with a concept of

being a holistic wellness center where various practitioners could rent space.

Evenson, a retired Navy man who worked for several years at Midwest Wireless/Verizon, has a focus on nutrition while other practitioners do massage and acupuncture.

“The thing I hear the most is people come in and say they have tried everything the doctors told them to do, and it’s just not working,” he said. “I can help them get back to the basics of human health, weed out the things that created the situation they are in.”

He works with people to reconnect with nutritious food. “Food is really their medicine.”

Evenson is anything but anti-traditional medicine, however. Recently he found himself in the hospital for four days with double pneumonia. “There was nothing holistic I was going to do to deal with that. I’m so glad I had conventional medicine to intervene because I needed that.”

He said the goal is to create the right balance between conventional medicine and natural health. “I help people

Hannah Baumann holds daughter Liza as chiropractor Carol Walters administers an acupuncture treatment to another daughter, Olivia, who had contracted Bell’s Palsy.



recover their health with natural methods so they can take care of themselves and not be reactive.”

While Evenson thinks interest remains strong, he admits he is struggling mightily to keep his business model afloat.

“We started out strong and it is quite slow now.”He said the practitioners in the building are busy the

days they are working but said some practitioners moved on, and he’s had vacant spaces for more than a year.

“I don’t know that I’d do anything different. We had a great model and plan, but it’s a matter of keeping in tune with the economy and market,” said Evenson, who is contemplating leasing or selling his building.

“At some point I can’t continue to carry the overhead.”He said economic pressures on his customers and a lack

of insurance coverage for many natural care services have hurt.

“Last week one of my patients came in and said ‘I’m going to have to let you go.’ ” She said it’s not because you’re doing anything wrong, but the fact is they are out of money and in most instances insurance doesn’t cover that kind of stuff.”

Beyond the economic worries, Evenson is undaunted about the value of what he does and the interest in it.

“The answers are there — whether it’s nutrition, acupuncture, massage, energy healers — if people are truly ready to make changes and work to turn their health around.”

But, he said, changes don’t happen instantly.“We have to remind people they didn’t usually get to

where they’re at overnight and it will take time to turn it around.” MV

Top: Jeff Evenson of Natural Pathways in North Mankato. Bottom: Natural Pathways offers a variety of nutrition help.

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The first startling fact Warren Simons, chapter chair of Southern Minnesota’s SCORE and R.K. Peter Johnson, a counselor for SCORE produce regarding

new possibilities for retired individuals, is that those between the ages of 55 and 64 represent 23 percent of the entrepreneurs who launched businesses in 2013.

This fact, provided by the Ewing Marian Kauffman

Foundation, provides a stark contrast to the preconceived ideas many carry surrounding the words pre-retirement and retirement: don’t rock the boat, stay in one’s current

position at all costs, or at the very least pick up a low wage job to occupy the open hours retirement brings with it.

For many, such ideas offer a bleak outlook for those hoping to expand and develop their life before or during

Profile

By Heidi Sampson | Photos by John Cross

Warren Simons, left, and Peter Johnson of the South Central Minnesota SCORE chapter.

Mentor to small businesses

SCORE expanding locally



retirement. Warren and Peter believe retirement doesn’t have to be the end of the road. In fact, there may be no better time for individuals to consider starting their own business.

“A myth for start-up businesses,” Johnson said, “is that the majority of startup businesses fail. When in fact, according to the data, 67 percent of new businesses are successful after four years. Only 32 percent fail to develop into a solid business.”

SCORE is a non-profit organization fully supported by the Small Business Association to provide no-cost, confidential mentoring to new and existing small businesses by using volunteers with experience in the client’s particular area of business.

Fifty-one years ago, SCORE developed through a group of retired Minnesota businessmen who, having been successful in their own careers, decided to offer their expertise to those looking to start a business or who had an existing business of their own and needed guidance.

Hearing of the group’s tremendous success rate, the SBA began to offer their support to the organization. Today, SCORE has more than 11,000 working and retired business professionals available to those seeking assistance with business start-up or business guidance, with more than 300 Chapters throughout the nation.

“The South Central Minnesota Chapter of SCORE is the newest chapter,” said Simons. “We serve the seven county area of Nicollet, Blue Earth, Faribault, Freeborn, Steele, Waseca, and Rice counties. Within the Southern Minnesota SCORE Chapter 710, there are 32 volunteers and 110 active clients.”

No-cost mentoring

SCORE offers confidential, no-cost, face-to-face mentoring, no-cost or low-cost workshops, roundtables, business planning templates, literature and webinars to their clients. However, their top tool for sustained success is the face-to-face mentoring program.

“People with a mentor are five times more likely to start their own business,” said Johnson. “Even with the advent of the Internet and digital services, we find that people still want to talk face-to-face.”

SCORE typically conducts its work with two varying levels of clients. The first level is the pure start up business or true entrepreneur, whose passion is to bring something of interest to market. The second level client is someone who already has an established business and is maybe looking to improve some feature of his or her existing business.

SCORE’s mentoring program provides real life experience within many different areas of business such as, accounting, law, plant engineering, and international sales, to name a few. Once the initial call or email notification for help is placed with SCORE, they try to set up an initial face-to-face meeting within 48 hours. The initial meeting is where the SCORE member asks a number of questions to obtain the nature of the proposed business, or business problem that may need to be addressed.

“We believe we are helping our clients by offering advice for the prevention of mistakes,” said Simons. “However, the client is the one who makes the final decision regarding the solutions the mentor has proposed. The role between the mentor and client can exist for the life of the business if the client wants. If all a client wants to do is bounce some ideas off of a mentor and get feedback, we assist with that as well.”

Once the initial meeting is held, the client is encouraged

to go out and do their own research, as it is up to the clients to develop a concrete business plan if they are looking at starting-up a business of their own. The business plan is the document that lenders want to see, almost before they meet the client. On SCORE’s website, clients will find under the term “tools and templates,” a

The SCORE board meets recently at its office housed at Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation in Owatonna.



29-page generic business plan, as well as many other kinds of business plans for their perusal and consideration.

“That business plan is the way SCORE develops potential business owners,” said Simons. “Hopefully by the time a business plan is written up, the client has talked with a mentor and researched their business to the point of being able to write that plan. The more in-depth the plan, the more questions the proposed business owner will be able to answer should questions arise while working with a lender.

SCORE does not write the business plan. They will edit, validate and make sure that client’s researched everything in the business plan.

According to Simons and Johnson, volunteers find real pleasure and gratitude in sharing their experiences with others by donating their time and intellectual property with the clients. Of those willing to volunteer, not all volunteers are retired. Some have already established a solid business and have chosen to give back before

retirement.In fact, SCORE’s biggest growth in volunteer mentors

has been among pre-retired individuals, which according to Simons has also been the trend on the national level. All volunteers must take a course and sign a code of ethics each year.

“Those who come to SCORE for assistance,” said Johnson, “will find the scope of mentors’ experiences to be broad enough that they can assist many different kinds of business people. If the mentors available are not quit what the client had in mind, with 11,000 mentors nation-wide, we can find a mentor who has the experience the client needs to solve the problem they are facing,” he said.

“We are here for clients to bounce ideas off of, as well as to get direction from. We never want our clients lose heart because starting a business can be overwhelming. But, if we take the process one step at a time, it becomes more than doable.” MV

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Greg and Sarah Nelson owners/managers of Taco John’s franchises in Mankato.

Sarah Nelson knows that having fun at work can lead to success. She has the trophy to prove it.

In June, Nelson won the national “Have Fun Award” for the teamwork video produced by employees at the River Hills Mall Taco John’s restaurant owned and operated by her and her husband, Greg.

The competition was open to everyone in the nearly 400-restaurant national chain. The Nelsons also operate the Madison Avenue

store in Mankato.“Sarah has really gone

above and beyond to make sure that it is fun

for her crew to come to work every day,” said Jeff Linville, CEO for Taco John’s, in a news release. “Managers like Sarah and the other

Spotlight

By Mike LagerquistPhotos by Trevor Cokley

A whole lotta funTaco John’s manager inspires employees



winners play a critical role in the ongoing success of Taco John’s.”

After winning at the regional level, the Mankato video moved on to nationals. Although there was only supposed to be one overall winner in the competition among managers, judges determined that two submissions were worthy of recognition.

“They showed the video to everyone and then they announced that we had won an award,” Sarah said. One girl told her the effort it represented brought tears to her eyes, and there is talk of using it as a training tool.

During her 19 years with Taco John’s, Sarah said she has learned it’s the manager’s role to create a positive environment to help guarantee that store employees feel they have an important role in day-to-day sales and customer service. She took the same role in presenting this contest to her employees, giving them favorite quotes about teamwork and letting them choose how to express it.

Behind the camera was Ricky Hernandez, a dedicated

long-time employee who is now off at school; providing the music was Sam Martin.

“The message was mainly Sarah’s idea,” Sam said. “It was our job to incorporate that message into the video. “

The primary quote provided was “Teamwork makes the dream work,” and it comes to life in the nearly 5-minute video.

With a backdrop of Sam’s music, the video mixes photographs and video showing just how the employees come together to make the store succeed, both behind the counter and out from behind it.

Yes, the message of the video is serious, but like an average day at Taco John’s there is some fun mixed in. “The only bad taco is the one you didn’t eat” is one of the less serious quotes featured,

along with a Facebook-style meme that reads, “I just wanted to let you know I’ve been thinking of you. And tacos. But mostly you.” Then there is Michael Jordan’s quote: “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence

Donald Frasher and Sarah Nelson in the Taco John’s kitchen.

I became a store manager, loved it and the rest is history.”-Sarah Nelson

s

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”


win championships.”“It’s a great way to see how we have fun in the store and

the philosophies we have and like to have our employees

work by,” said Greg Nelson, a 29-year Taco John’s owner.

Originally from Iowa, he attended Minnesota State University, Mankato, left for a time but returned to put his Resource Management degree to use in retail. He and Sarah married 5 years ago.

Sarah earned a degree in Child Development and Business from Rasmussen College. She loves working with children, she said, but when she was offered a management position at Taco John’s her life turned toward the red and gold. “I became a store manager, loved it and the rest is history.”

Taco John’s dates back to 1968 when a small taco stand opened in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Two local businessmen, Harold Holmes and James Woodson, purchased the franchise rights in 1969 and named the restaurant after the man who opened the first store – John.

Today Taco John’s operates and franchises more than 400 quick-service restaurants in 25 states.

The winning Mankato video can be found by visiting YouTube and searching for “Taco Johns Teamwork.” MVDonald Frasher serves up an order at the River Hills Taco John’s.

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Designing to build brand and customer loyalty.Inspiring the consumer and heightening their shopping experience, all while strengthening the clients’ bottom line drives our ISG team to provide responsive solutions that support our clients’ merchandising and sales goals as well as their ongoing building needs. From national retail chains, to retail malls and Main Street shops, we work closely with investors, owners and management to craft spaces that draw people in, embrace brand loyalty, value purchasing patterns and maximize dollars per square foot.

18930 Jasmine Road, Mankato MLS #7005460 $995,000

22 Newcastle Court, N. Mankato MLS #7008700 $819,000

501 Diamond Creek Road, Mankato MLS #7007729 $799,900

117 Wedgewood Court, Mankato MLS #7008498 $849,000

MLS #7007851 $649,900 155 Summerfield Trail, Mankato

56273 185th Lane, Good Thunder MLS #7008050 $980,000

Office: 385-1313—www.jbealhomes.com—3 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato



507-625-4606100 Warren St. Suite 708Mankato, MN 56001

Woodhill Luxury Patio HomesMankato, MN

ARCHITECTURE + ENGINEERING + ENVIRONMENTAL + PLANNING www.is-grp.com

Designing to build brand and customer loyalty.Inspiring the consumer and heightening their shopping experience, all while strengthening the clients’ bottom line drives our ISG team to provide responsive solutions that support our clients’ merchandising and sales goals as well as their ongoing building needs. From national retail chains, to retail malls and Main Street shops, we work closely with investors, owners and management to craft spaces that draw people in, embrace brand loyalty, value purchasing patterns and maximize dollars per square foot.

AMAZED

Call [email protected]

18930 Jasmine Road, Mankato MLS #7005460 $995,000

22 Newcastle Court, N. Mankato MLS #7008700 $819,000

501 Diamond Creek Road, Mankato MLS #7007729 $799,900

117 Wedgewood Court, Mankato MLS #7008498 $849,000

MLS #7007851 $649,900 155 Summerfield Trail, Mankato

56273 185th Lane, Good Thunder MLS #7008050 $980,000

Office: 385-1313—www.jbealhomes.com—3 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato

MNVB September p01.indd 27 8/21/2015 12:04:58 PM

28 • SEptEmbEr 2015 • MN Valley Business

Patrick and Ellen Larson own Hawk Alarm Systems of Mapleton.

Patrick and Ellen Larson purchased the ‘Hawk’ side of Ellen’s family’s business in 2007, creating Hawk Alarm Systems

of Mapleton.Initially they

continued operations out of their home outside of Mapleton. However, rapid growth quickly required more office space and employees. Since the couple had strong ties to the Mapleton area, having grown up there themselves, it became the perfect place to cultivate and further develop their business.

In seven years they and their staff have grown Hawk Alarm to the point that they have tripled their business with clients in 14 states stretching from Ohio, across the Midwest, to Texas and California. Hawk Alarm provides service to three markets: commercial, environmental and residential.

“We are a full service alarm company,” said

Patrick. “We specialize in environmental alarms, burglar alarms, fire alarm systems, access control systems and camera systems.

Probably 60 percent of our business is environmental alarm systems for agricultural

farms. Our biggest assets are our staff and that we have a balance of demand between the three markets,” he said.

“Our technicians are highly skilled and willing to go wherever needed to support our team,” he said. With regard to market demand, the environmental accounts require bio-security down time between sites. The commercial and residential accounts help to balance that down time. “So we are able to send technicians where they need to go.”

Stand-alone to complexFor a typical residential client, Hawk

By Heidi SampsonPhotos by Pat Christman

All bases coveredHawk Alarm provides total security coverage

Feature


MN Valley Business • SEptEmbEr 2015 • 29

Alarms Systems conducts an initial detailed interview to determine specific needs. From that interview they will provide their customer with recommendations for a system that best fits their needs and budget.

The range of options for a residential alarm system includes temperature control, fire, smoke, burglary and driveway sensors, closed caption television video, water and carbon monoxide detection. Once the installation is completed, Hawk Alarm provides the customer with instructions on how to properly operate their newly purchased system. They are available for questions and support twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

“We offer increased control of home or business through systems integration,” said Patrick. “As technology increases, costs come down and systems become available to more people. Also, home automation that provides access to one’s home from a computer, smart phone or tablet, helps individuals use the system more frequently.”

He said clients can allow an appliance repairman access to their home from a remote location. Viewing an Ethernet camera they can watch the repairman enter to do his work and then relock the door when service is complete. They can open garage doors, adjust lights, raise and lower household temperatures, all while away from their home.

“If you can think of it chances are it can be done.”In terms of commercial systems, Hawk Alarm offers

basic stand-alone options or complex complete systems integration. This can include security, fire systems, elevator monitoring, access control, environmental and camera systems, as well as many other options.

When it comes to environmental systems, Hawk’s central station monitoring reduces liability and vulnerability, as they provide their clients 24-hour central

station monitoring services, rather than voice dialer systems. Some insurance underwriters offer a discount to those that have a professionally installed and monitored alarm system watching over their business.

“Our technicians can be scheduled to comply with the 48- to 72-hour or more downtime requirements before arriving at an environmental facility,” said Patrick. “So our schedules are pretty varied as we adjust to meet the needs of the service work required or the customer’s schedules.”

With the Hawk Smart Screen system and a web-enabled laptop, tablet or smartphone, clients can monitor all of their sensors in real-time from anywhere. Hawk Alarm Systems, Inc. provides power sensors, temperature sensors, water pressure sensors, monitoring of ventilation controls, fire detection devices, unauthorized entry sensors, and communicates via phone line, cellular and/or through Ethernet communications.

They employ eight full-time and some part-time people.“The success we have experienced,” said Patrick “is

because of the staff we have. They are very responsible, trustworthy and knowledgeable individuals. I also love that I can work with my wife,” he said.

“From day one we have wanted this to be a family orientated company,” said Ellen. “We love taking care of our customers, helping them to have peace of mind knowing their business, production facility, house or loved one is safe. We also enjoy seeing our staff’s families blessed by our business through their hard work. We love their children who sometimes run in the office to say ‘hi.’ That’s something we never want to lose, that small family business feel.” MV

Hawk Alarms sells, installs and maintains a wide variety of alarm systems for homes and businesses.



KASASA CASH: *APY=Annual Percentage Yield. APYs accurate as of 02/12/2015. Rates may change after account is opened. Minimum to open is $1. If qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle: (1) Domestic ATM fees incurred during qualification cycle will be reimbursed up to $25 ($4.99 per single transaction) and credited to account on the last day of monthly statement cycle; (2) balances up to $10,000 receive APY of 2.51%; and (3) balances over $10,000 earn 0.25% interest rate on portion of balance over $10,000, resulting in 2.51% - 0.25% APY depending on the balance. If qualifications are not met, all balances earn 0.05% APY. If qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle the interest rate tiers are as follows: 2.48% interest rate applies to balances of $0.01 - $10,000 and .25% interest rate applies to balances over $10,000. If qualifications are not met each monthly qualification cycle a 0.05% interest rate applies to all balances. Qualifying transactions must post to and settle account during monthly qualification cycle. Transactions may take one or more banking days from the date transaction was made to post to and settle an account. ATM-processed transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Transfers between multiple accounts do not count as qualifying transactions. Debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by the bank as ATM transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Only debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by the bank as POS transactions count towards qualifying debit card transactions. “Monthly Qualification Cycle” means a period beginning one day prior to the first day of the current statement cycle through one day prior to the close of the current statement cycle. Direct deposit required to have this account. Limit one account per SSN. ATM receipt must be presented for reimbursement of an individual ATM fee of $5.00 or higher.

Lewisville • Madelia • Mankato • Mapleton • North Mankato • St. James • Lake Crystal Loan Production Office507-625-3268

MarieKRAUSE

MindyANNIS

Pioneer BankYour personal bankers in Greater Mankato

Exceeding Expectationswww.bankwithpioneer.com

World-class & local:

EXPERIENCE MARRIOTT’S TOP SPAS WITHOUT LEAVING ALABAMA

FLORENCE · HOOVER · MONTGOMERY · MOBILE · POINT CLEAR

The Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail · rtjresorts.com/spacard

From relaxing massages to invigorating facials and body treatments,

Marriott is known globally for having great spas. In North America, five of

the top Marriott and Renaissance spas are found in Alabama. For guest

satisfaction, the Spa at the Marriott Shoals in Florence remains the top

ranked Marriott spa in North America. The Spa at the Grand Hotel in Pt.

Clear also is in Marriott’s Top 10. For Renaissance Hotels, both the Spa at

Montgomery and the Spa at Ross Bridge are in the Top 7, followed closely

by the Battle House in Mobile. All five of these spas are part of the RTJ

Resort Collection and feature innovative treatments inspired by Southern

Hospitality. Clearly great golf and spas work well together in Alabama.

Come experience them for yourself.*Renaissance and Marriott spa guest

satisfaction rankings in North America, as of Oct. 1, 2014.



KASASA CASH: *APY=Annual Percentage Yield. APYs accurate as of 02/12/2015. Rates may change after account is opened. Minimum to open is $1. If qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle: (1) Domestic ATM fees incurred during qualification cycle will be reimbursed up to $25 ($4.99 per single transaction) and credited to account on the last day of monthly statement cycle; (2) balances up to $10,000 receive APY of 2.51%; and (3) balances over $10,000 earn 0.25% interest rate on portion of balance over $10,000, resulting in 2.51% - 0.25% APY depending on the balance. If qualifications are not met, all balances earn 0.05% APY. If qualifications are met each monthly qualification cycle the interest rate tiers are as follows: 2.48% interest rate applies to balances of $0.01 - $10,000 and .25% interest rate applies to balances over $10,000. If qualifications are not met each monthly qualification cycle a 0.05% interest rate applies to all balances. Qualifying transactions must post to and settle account during monthly qualification cycle. Transactions may take one or more banking days from the date transaction was made to post to and settle an account. ATM-processed transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Transfers between multiple accounts do not count as qualifying transactions. Debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by the bank as ATM transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Only debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by the bank as POS transactions count towards qualifying debit card transactions. “Monthly Qualification Cycle” means a period beginning one day prior to the first day of the current statement cycle through one day prior to the close of the current statement cycle. Direct deposit required to have this account. Limit one account per SSN. ATM receipt must be presented for reimbursement of an individual ATM fee of $5.00 or higher.

Lewisville • Madelia • Mankato • Mapleton • North Mankato • St. James • Lake Crystal Loan Production Office507-625-3268

MarieKRAUSE

MindyANNIS

Pioneer BankYour personal bankers in Greater Mankato

Exceeding Expectationswww.bankwithpioneer.com

www.thomastreeandlandscape.com

19922 State Hwy 223 miles south on

Highway 22, Mankato

World-class & local:

EXPERIENCE MARRIOTT’S TOP SPAS WITHOUT LEAVING ALABAMA

FLORENCE · HOOVER · MONTGOMERY · MOBILE · POINT CLEAR

The Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail · rtjresorts.com/spacard

From relaxing massages to invigorating facials and body treatments,

Marriott is known globally for having great spas. In North America, five of

the top Marriott and Renaissance spas are found in Alabama. For guest

satisfaction, the Spa at the Marriott Shoals in Florence remains the top

ranked Marriott spa in North America. The Spa at the Grand Hotel in Pt.

Clear also is in Marriott’s Top 10. For Renaissance Hotels, both the Spa at

Montgomery and the Spa at Ross Bridge are in the Top 7, followed closely

by the Battle House in Mobile. All five of these spas are part of the RTJ

Resort Collection and feature innovative treatments inspired by Southern

Hospitality. Clearly great golf and spas work well together in Alabama.

Come experience them for yourself.*Renaissance and Marriott spa guest

satisfaction rankings in North America, as of Oct. 1, 2014.



BlethenLaw.com

Mankato, Minnesota

L I T I G AT I O N • B U S I N E S S • F A R M • P E R S O N A L

T E A M W O R K

Blethen, Gage & Krause is pleased to welcome Kimberly Literovich to the Blethen legal team.

Kimberly’s experience lies in real estate, estate planning, probate, and small business. A large segment of Kim’s practice is devoted to drafting individually-tailored estate plans which benefit her clients and their families for years to come.

Contact Kimberly or any of the Blethen team by calling 507-345-1166 or by visiting BlethenLaw.com today.

Audio, Video,Automation SystemsControl your:• TVs• Movies• HVAC• Locks• Shades

• Music• Lighting• Security• Garage Doors• More

Call us and let usshow you how it works

Mention code MVB2015 for 10% Discount

by smartphone or tablet

388-3271YOUR WIRING PROS

www.ecsmankato.com

What factors are affectingyour property’s marketability?Request an appraisal today. •Agricultural

•Commercial

•ResidentialGiveusacallat507-359-2004orvisitwww.ummc.cotolearnmore.

www.ummc.coNew Ulm •Olivia •New Hope •Faribault

BOOK DETAILS: Since 1975, Free Press photographer John Cross has photographed how Mankato came of age. From high school sports to disasters, from booming developments to economic struggles. He chronicles the proud moments and somber events that tell the story of the Mankato region and her people. Pre-order your commemorative book now and save $15.00 off the $44.95 retail price.

• Hardcover, 144 pages, archival quality.

• Hundreds of stunning images.

• Limited edition, collector’s item.

• Ships late Nov., in time for Christmas.

Announcing a hardcover book!

COMING OF AGE:The story of the Mankato region

and its people for twogenerations through the eye of a

newspaper photographer

Please note: photos that appear in this ad may not appear in fi nal book.

JohnCross.PictorialBook.comPURCHASE ONLINE AT:Coming o� Age

The story of the Mankato region and its people for two generations through the eye of a newspaper photographer[ ]COVER NOT FI

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Construction/Real Estate

C. Sankey

3.0

3.5

4.0

4.5

5.0

5.5

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

01000020000300004000050000600007000080000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ 0

1000

2000

3000

4000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

55

110

165

220

275

DNOSAJJMAMFJ 0

10

20

30

40

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

1000

2000

3000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ0

3750

7500

11250

15000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

Source: City of Mankato

Residential building permits Mankato (in thousands)

- 2014 - 2015

Source: City of North Mankato

Residential building permits North Mankato(in thousands)- 2014 - 2015

Source: Realtors Association of Southern Minnesota

Existing home sales: Mankato regionInformation based on Multiple Listing Service and may not refl ect all sales- 2014 - 2015

Source: Cities of Mankato/North Mankato

Housing starts: Mankato/North Mankato- 2014 - 2015


Commercial building permits Mankato (in thousands)

- 2014 - 2015

Source: City of North Mankato

Commercial building permits North Mankato(in thousands)- 2014 - 2015

Source: Freddie Mac

Interest Rates: 30-year fi xed-rate mortgage— 2014 — 2015

Includes single family homes attached and detached, and town homes and condos

Source: Minnesota Foreclosure Partners Council

Foreclosures: 2014 Year End

1011927702543393624

72212147282422277

-29%+11%-22%-33%+12%-44%-44%-25%-71%

Blue EarthBrownFaribaultLe SueurMartinNicolletSibleyWasecaWatonwan

County 2013 2014 Percent change

$3,522

$3,297

$253

$241

253241

1413

$10,939$6,050

$273$1074

3.9%

4.1%

BlethenLaw.com

Mankato, Minnesota

L I T I G AT I O N • B U S I N E S S • F A R M • P E R S O N A L

T E A M W O R K

Blethen, Gage & Krause is pleased to welcome Kimberly Literovich to the Blethen legal team.

Kimberly’s experience lies in real estate, estate planning, probate, and small business. A large segment of Kim’s practice is devoted to drafting individually-tailored estate plans which benefit her clients and their families for years to come.

Contact Kimberly or any of the Blethen team by calling 507-345-1166 or by visiting BlethenLaw.com today.

Audio, Video,Automation SystemsControl your:• TVs• Movies• HVAC• Locks• Shades

• Music• Lighting• Security• Garage Doors• More

Call us and let usshow you how it works

Mention code MVB2015 for 10% Discount

by smartphone or tablet

388-3271YOUR WIRING PROS

www.ecsmankato.com

What factors are affectingyour property’s marketability?Request an appraisal today. •Agricultural

•Commercial

•ResidentialGiveusacallat507-359-2004orvisitwww.ummc.cotolearnmore.

www.ummc.coNew Ulm •Olivia •New Hope •Faribault



Talk to any farm operator and they probably have an opinion on USDA crop reports, and the monthly supply and demand reports. Many times, these

reports can be big market movers, such as the major downward movement in the corn and soybean markets, following the release of the last set of USDA reports on Aug. 12.

However, producers sometimes forget the times when the USDA reports caused major upward movements in the summer grain markets, such as in the drought year of 2012. These large swings in grain markets following the USDA reports make it very difficult for farm operators to develop a grain marketing plan.

There was a lot of anticipation leading into the August report due to the very favorable crop conditions that existed in Upper Midwest in states such as Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota.

This was offset by the very poor growing conditions that have persisted during the growing season in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Missouri, which were severely impacted by very late planting and record rainfall amounts in June. This lead to a significant amount of prevented planted and drowned out crop acres in certain areas, which is likely to impact final 2015 corn and soybean yield results.

The August report estimated the 2015 total U.S. corn production to be just under 13.7 billion bushels, which would be third highest in history. The 2015 projected corn production would be down about 4 percent from the record 2014 production level of 14.2 billion bushels, and compares to 13.9 billion bushels in 2013, 10.8 billion bushels in 2012, and 12.3 billion bushels in 2011.

Based on Aug. 1 conditions, USDA is estimating total harvested corn acreage in the U.S. for 2014 at 81.1 million acres, which is unchanged from June USDA estimates, but is down from the 2014 level of 83.1 million harvested corn acres. Some experts feel that the total number of harvested corn acres in 2015 may decline due to the large amount of damaged corn acres in States such as Indiana, Ohio, and Missouri.

In the August report USDA projected a national average corn yield of 168.8 bushels per acre in 2015, which is down from the record national corn yield of 171.0 bushels per acre in 2014, but would still be the second largest U.S. corn yield in history. Previous national average corn yields were 158.8 in 2013, 123.4 bushels per acre in the drought-year of 2012, and 147.2 bushels per acre in 2011. The USDA projected national average corn yield was approximately 4 bushels per acre higher than average national yield estimates of grain marketing professionals.

USDA is projecting Minnesota’s 2015 average corn yield at the record level of 184 bushels per acre, which compares to 158 bushels per acre in 2014, 160 bushels per acre in 2013, 165 bushels per acre in 2012, and 156 bushels per acre in 2011. The previous record average corn yield in

Minnesota was 177 bushels per acre in 2010.USDA is now projecting Iowa’s 2014 average corn yield

at 183 bushels per acre, which compares to 178 bushels per acre in 2014, 165 bushels per acre in 2013, the drought-reduced yield of 137 bushels per acre in 2012, and 172 bushels per acre in 2011.

The corn yield estimates for the other major corn producing states are Illinois at 172 bushels per acre, compared to 200 bushels per acre in 2014; Indiana at 158 bushels per acre, compared to 188 bushels per acre in 2014; Ohio at 168 bushels per acre, compared to 176 bushels per acre; Nebraska at 187 bushels per acre, compared to 179 bushels per acre in 2014, and South Dakota at 160 bushels per acre, compared to 148 bushels per acre in 2014.

The estimated total 2015 soybean production is at 3.92 billion bushels, which would be the second largest in history. The projected 2015 soybean production is approximately 1 percent below the record 2014 total production level of 3.97 billion bushels. USDA is now estimating total 2015 harvested soybean acreage at 83.5 million acres, which compares to 83.1 million acres in 2014. Some experts again feel this number could be lowered in future months, due to the poor growing conditions that have existed in the southern and eastern Corn Belt.

The average soybean yield for 2015 is estimated at 46.9 bushels per acre, which would be the second highest U.S. soybean yield in history. The 2015 yield is slightly below the record U.S. average soybean yield of 47.8 bushels per acre in 2014. Minnesota’s 2015 average soybean yield is estimated at the record level of 48 bushels per acre, compared to 42 bushels per acre in 2014. The current record State soybean yield was 45 bushels per acre in 2010.

Other projected 2014 yields in major soybean producing States include Iowa at a record level of 52 bushels per acre, compared to 51.5 bushels per acre in 2014; Illinois at 53 bushels per acre, compared to 56 bushels per acre in 2014; Indiana at 49 bushels per acre, compared to 56 bushels per acre in 2014; Ohio at 48 bushels per acre, compared to 52.5 bushels per acre in 2014. Nebraska at 56 bushels per acre, compared to 54 bushels per acre in 2014; and South Dakota at 45 bushels per acre, which is the same yield as 2014. Some experts feel that the soybean yield estimates for some states may be a bit high, given the challenging growing conditions that have existed.

The updated USDA World Supply and Demand Estimates were also released, which included the 2015 estimated U.S. corn production of 13.69 billion bushels. The report had minor adjustments in the beginning corn stocks and expected corn usage in 2015-16, resulting in projected corn ending stocks at the end of the 2015-16 marketing year of 1.79 billion bushels, which is up 114

USDA reports heavily influence grain markets

■ Agricultural OutlookBy Kent Thiesse



50

65

80

95

110

125

140

DNOSAJJMAMFJ 15

18

21

24

27

30

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

4

8

12

16

20

DNOSAJJMAMFJ0

2

4

6

8

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

Agriculture/Agribusiness

Corn and soybean prices are for rail delivery points in Southern Minnesota. Milk prices are for Upper Midwest points. C. Sankey

Corn prices — southern Minnesota

Source: USDA

(dollars per bushel)— 2014 — 2015

Iowa-Minnesota hog prices

Source: USDA

185 pound carcass, negotiated price, weighted average— 2014 — 2015

Milk prices

Source: USDA. Based on federal milk orders.

Minimum prices, class 1 milkDollars per hundredweight

— 2014 — 2015

Soybean prices — southern Minnesota

Source: USDA

(dollars per bushel)— 2014 — 2015

$107.46

$77.10

$3.18

$3.28

$17.10

$24.82

$9.27

$11.44

million bushels from the July report.Corn ending stocks are estimated to be near 1.8 billion

at the end of the 2014-15 marketing year on August 31, 2015. By comparison, corn ending stocks were only 1.18 billion bushels at the end of the 2013-14 marketing year.

USDA is projecting an average on-farm corn price for the 2015-16 marketing year, which runs from Sept. 1, 2015, through Aug. 31, 2016, in a range of $3.35 to $3.95 per bushel, with an average expected price of $3.65 per bushel. The August estimated average 2015-16 corn price was lowered by $.10 per bushel from the July price estimates, and if achieved, would be the lowest national average corn price in several years. The 2014-15 national average corn price, which will be finalized on Sept. 30, is now estimated at $3.70 per bushel. This compares to 12-month national average prices of $4.45 per bushel for 2013-14, and $6.89 per bushel for 2012-13.

The recent world estimates are projecting a very large U.S. soybean production of 3.92 billion bushels in 2015, with only minor adjustments in expected soybean usage. If achieved, this would result in estimated 2015-16 soybean ending stocks at 470 million bushels, which is up 45 million bushels from the July estimate. USDA is estimating 2014-15 soybean ending stocks at 240 million bushels, which is considerably higher than the 2013-14 ending stocks of 140 million bushels.

USDA is now projecting an average on-farm soybean price for the 2015-16 marketing year in a range of $8.40 to $9.90 per bushel, with an average expected price of $9.15 per bushel. Similar to corn, this price estimate would be the lowest national average soybean price in several years. The 2014-15 final national average price is now estimated

at $10.05 per bushel, which compares to 12-month national average prices of $13 per bushel for 2013-14, and $14.40 per bushel for 2012-13.

The August crop reports featured 2015 national corn and soybean yields, as well as 2015 total production levels, that were well above grain industry average estimates, and even above the highest projections by experts. The result on the closing grain prices at the Chicago Board of Trade on Aug. 12 were quite dramatic. CBOT corn futures dropped by nearly $.30 per bushel for most contract months, and CBOT soybean futures dropped by about $.60 per bushel in one day.

To show the impact of this price drop, we will assume that a farm operator in Southern Minnesota has 1,000 acres of corn in 2015 with a yield potential of 200 bushels per acre, and 1,000 acres of soybeans with a yield potential of 55 bushels per acre. The one-day market drop on August 12 would represent a loss of over $90,000 in reduced income potential in 2015.

Farm operators will be watching closely when the next USDA reports are released in mid-September. MV

Kent Thiesse is farm management analyst and vice president, MinnStar Bank, Lake Crystal. 507- 381-7960; [email protected]



Employment/Unemployment

C. Sankey

0

50000

100000

150000

200000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ0

2000

4000

6000

8000

10000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

1000

2000

3000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ100000

111000

122000

133000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

*Categories don’t equal total because some categories not listed.

Services consist of administration, educational, health care and social assistance, food and other miscellaneous services.

Initial unemployment claimsNine-county Mankato region

11720651

267641

9224835

232607

-21.4%+204%-31.4%-13%-5.3%

ConstructionManufacturingRetailServicesTotal*

Major Industry

July Percent change‘14-’15‘14 ‘15

*Categories don’t equal total because some categories not listed.

Services consist of administration, educational, health care and social assistance, food and other miscellaneous services.

Minnesota initial unemployment claims

2,2892,5871,1556,225

12,256

2,0002,674939

6,11011,811

-12.6%+3.4%-11.1%-1.8%-3.6%

ConstructionManufacturingRetailServicesTotal*

Major Industry

July Percent change‘14-’15‘14 ‘15

Local non-farm jobsNine-county Mankato region

- 2014 - 2015 Minnesota Local non-farm jobs(in thousands)

- 2014 - 2015

Local number of unemployedNine-county Mankato region

- 2014 - 2015 Minnesota number of unemployed - 2014 - 2015

Mankato/North Mankato Metropolitanstatistical area

(includes all of Blue Earth and Nicollet Counties)

Unemployment rates Counties, state, nation

Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

3.6%

55,163

1,802

3.3%

56,991

1,703

Unemployment rate

Number of non-farm jobs

Number of unemployed

June 2014 2015

Blue EarthBrownFaribaultLe SueurMartinNicolletSibleyWasecaWatonwanMinneapolis/St. PaulMinnesotaU.S.

3.7%4.3%4.8%4.7%4.4%3.3%4.2%4.7%5.3%4.0%4.1%6.3%

3.4%4.4%4.8%4.2%4.9%3.1%4.0%4.4%4.6%3.8%3.8%5.6%

County/area June 2014 June 2015

126,871

127,877

2,8922,926

5,2215,600 115,958

130,497



0

100

200

300

400

500

600

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

22000

44000

66000

88000

110000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ0

10000

20000

30000

40000

50000

60000

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

1

2

3

4

5

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

0

1

2

3

4

5

DNOSAJJMAMFJ

Retail/Consumer Spending

$413$461

$47,450$26,563

1,1111,057

$26,563$47,450

$3.35

$2.69

$3.35

$2.73

(In thousands)

C. Sankey

Vehicle Sales Mankato — Number of vehicles sold

Source: Sales tax fi gures, City of Mankato

- 2014 - 2015

Lodging tax collections Mankato/North Mankato


- 2013 - 2014

Gas prices-Mankato

Source: GasBuddy.com

— 2014 — 2015

Gas prices-Minnesota — 2014 — 2015

Mankato food and beverage tax


- 2013 - 2014

Sales tax collections Mankato

Source: Sales tax fi gures, City of Mankato

- 2014 - 2015

Includes restaurants, bars, telecommunications and general merchandise store sales. Excludes most clothing, grocery store sales.

Archer Daniels

Ameriprise

Best Buy

Crown Cork & Seal

Consolidated Comm.

Fastenal

General Growth

General Mills

Hutchinson Technology

Itron

Johnson Outdoors

3M

Target

U.S. Bancorp

Wells Financial

Winland

Xcel

Stocks oflocal interest Aug. 14July 14

Percent change

-1.7%

-5.2%

-6.2%

-4.4%

+0.2%

-3.4%

+6.1%

+2.5%

+15%

+3.8%

+12.2%

-6.7%

-4.8%

+1.6%

+10.0%

+2.4%

+8.5%

$46.83

$121.35

$32.21

$51.81

$20.36

$40.19

$27.93

$58.30

$1.66

$33.07

$26.80

$146.23

$79.54

$45.57

$31.00

$1.69

$36.18

$47.63

$128.08

$34.36

$54.21

$20.32

$41.64

$26.33

$56.90

$1.44

$31.86

$23.89

$156.72

$83.59

$44.85

$28.20

$1.65

$33.34


1 • JANUARY 2013 • MN Valley Business

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While all the glitz and glory are going to careers in the computer industry, the key to our area’s resiliency is the diversity of our economy – agriculture, retail, health, education and especially manufacturing.

While manufacturing in the U.S. has been hit hard the past two decades, according to a study by the University of Minnesota, manufacturing in our region is a strength. Despite a loss of 2,006 jobs between 2003 and 2013, given industry and national trends, it should have shed even more jobs “making the region competitive in

manufacturing,” the report stated. The South Central region was expected to lose over 4,500 jobs during this time.

The area has an extensive supply chain especially in metal manufacturing, electronic manufacturing, renewable energy and printing and warehousing distribution all of which can be used to leverage the growth in the marketplace.

In 2013, Enterprise Minnesota spotlighted Mankato

Our Strong Arm of ManufacturingBy: Jim Santori, Greater Mankato Growth New Business Development Director

Photo courtsey of South Central College




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as one of five great places to be a manufacturer in Minnesota noting those communities took “additional measures to ensure the continued success of their local manufacturers and, in turn, their schools, families and economies.”

Most recently, the area’s Medical Manufacturing Partnership - which locally includes Greater Mankato Growth and South Central College (SCC) - was one of 12 communities that receive designations under the Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership.

The designation qualifies the area’s partnership to receive federal aid and support to accelerate manufacturing growth and create jobs.

“The medical technology sector is a tremendously important industry in Minnesota accounting for more than 28,000 jobs,” said Commissioner Katie Clark Sieben of DEED. “This designation will help us build on that success and ensure that Minnesota remains a leader in the industry.”

But our area is already strong in some manufacturing areas. The largest manufacturing sectors in the region include food manufacturing (5,033 jobs) and printing and related support activities (3,594 jobs), according to the U of M December 2014 report. And, the report added, the manufacturing base in the region is fairly diverse and is dispersed across counties in the region. There are 3,912 jobs in Blue Earth County; 3,892 jobs in Nicollet County; 2,872 jobs in Brown County; 2,410 jobs in Le Sueur County; and 2,082 jobs in Waseca County.

Manufacturers in our region created 35 percent of all output and 13 percent of all jobs in the region, the leading category of output. The second closest category is professional and business services at 20 percent and third is agriculture at 15 percent.

According to the Economic Policy Institute, the manufacturing sector is a particularly important provider of jobs with good wages for workers without a college degree. This can be seen in the manufacturing wage premium—the dollar amount by which the average manufacturing worker wage exceeds the wage of an otherwise comparable worker outside the manufacturing sector.

Locally, wages were relatively strong in the industry posting a 9.5 percent increase during the 2000-2013 period after adjusting for inflation. In the South Central region, the 2013 average weekly wage in manufacturing was $863, about $150 higher than the average weekly wage across all industries. Manufacturing’s 2013 average weekly wage was highest in Waseca County at $1,008.

The lowest was in Watonwan County at $640.

According to DEED, manufacturing is one of the highest paying industries in the region. Total payroll in manufacturing was just about $1.4 billion in 2013 accounting for 22 percent of total wages in Southwest Minnesota. Average annual wages were $43,992 in 2013.

SCC has a major focus on preparing its students for manufacturing jobs. Along with South Central Workforce Council, the Mankato Workforce Center and Adult Basic Education, it offers manufacturing FastTRAC programming. It provides students with free preparation classes - including reading, math and computer skills - while allowing them to explore advanced manufacturing careers. Once the prep courses are completed, the students can begin advanced manufacturing courses at SCC.

SCC also is one of a select number of community colleges in the nation that is pioneering an apprenticeship model in mechatronics.

The importance of manufacturing is underscored this fall with the statewide Tour of Manufacturing coming October 3 to our area. The event is similar to a “Parade of Homes” with community members stopping by any participating manufacturers throughout the day to take a tour, learn more about the business and what is manufactured. It also presents to students the career opportunities that are available now and in the future. Visit tourofmanufacturing.com for more information on the event.

Jim Santori, New Business Development Director (pictured right) and John Considine III, Business Development and Resource Manager (pictured left) work as the Business Development Team at

Greater Mankato Growth. For more information on business development or site selection services they can be contacted at: [email protected] | 507.385.6655 or [email protected] | 507.385.6649.

Photo courtsey of South Central College




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The Greater Mankato Leadership Institute will kick off its 32nd year this month. Over 40 participants will take their leadership skills to new heights through curriculum provided by the premier leadership development training program in Greater Mankato. The nine month program consists of one to two full day sessions each month from September to May, starting off with a leadership challenge and high ropes course activity on the Minnesota State University, Mankato campus. “This activity is a great way for the class members to get to know each other and connect outside of what you would see in a typical networking session” said Shannon Gullickson, Talent Programs Director at Greater Mankato Growth.

The Greater Mankato Leadership Institute has provided the area’s only comprehensive leadership training program with a community focus since 1983. The program’s volunteer steering committee continues to evaluate and update the curriculum annually in order to ensure graduates are well prepared to serve as leaders in their workplace and the Greater Mankato community.

To follow the activities of the 2015-16 Greater Mankato Leadership Institute Class throughout the year or for more information visit greatermankato.com/leadership-institute or call 507.385.6640.

Taking Leadership to New Heights

Torin AkeyCrystal AndersonRichelle BallengerLindsey Bibbs-AndersonMichelle BiedscheidJames BobholzVickie BushmanNicole CarlsonPratibha DhamalaBrooke ForstnerJeff GraceCasey HardyDan HartAaron HatanpaDiron JacobsenKatie JohnsonJosh KutilElisabeth MoatShawn MorganKim MuellerRobyn NaumannJessica O’BrienAmal Osman

Darci Pratt Steve SchoenerTyler SchollJoe SmentekKelly SonnekKim SpearsTricia StenbergStephanie StewardConnie StokmanJoe ThomShelby ThorneJacob ThunanderSteven ToedterDan TomhaveWade VolkSara WillChris WillaertSteve WinklerKaren WoltersLindsey WordenKristy ZieglerThomas Zimmerman

MSU, Mankato - Residential LifeAll American Foods, Inc. Greater Mankato Growth Minnesota Valley Federal Credit UnionCapstone/Coughlan CompaniesMTU Onsite EnergyProGrowth BankConsolidated CommunicationsSmall Business Development Center Eide Bailly, LLPBlethen, Gage & KrauseBlue Earth CountyMankato Clinic Hatanpa Insurance AgencyWal-MartCity of North Mankato Kato EngineeringAmericInn Hotel & Conference CenterNorth Mankato Police DepartmentMankato Area Public SchoolsMankato Clinic MN Council of ChurchesCity of Mankato

Pratt, Kutzke & Associates, LLPLivingLInksKato EngineeringMinnesota SoybeanJack Link’s Protein SnacksCity of North MankatoGreater Mankato Area United WayMayo Clinic Health SystemAll American Foods, Inc. All American Foods, Inc. Abdo, Eick & Meyers, LLPRegion Nine Development CommissionMTU Onsite EnergyBethany Lutheran CollegeVolk TransferMankato ClinicVisit MankatoJones & MagnusMankato Area Public SchoolsJack Link’s Protein SnacksLabelworksConsolidated Communications

2015-16 Greater Mankato Leadership Institute Class

Thank you to our 2015-16 Sponsor:

Diana Gabriel, Certified Professional Coach



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Business After and Business Before Hours gives representatives from GMG member businesses at the Engaged Level or higher an opportunity to get together with one another to exchange ideas and learn about each other’s businesses. For more information on these and other member events, visit greatermankato.com/events.

July Business After Hours hosted by CambriaJuly Business Before Hours hosted by Friesen’s Family Bakery & Bistro and Vanderberg Clean

September 16 Vista Prairie at Monarch MeadowsOctober 21 South Central College November 11 Consolidated CommunicationsDecember 16 Wells Federal Bank

2015 Business After Hours Sponsored by:

2015 Business Before Hours Sponsored by:

7:30 - 9:00 am5:00 - 7:00 pm

September 1 Mayo Clinic Health System - EastridgeOctober 6 I+S GroupNovember 3 Blethen, Gage & KrauseDecember 1 Gislason & Hunter

Each year, the South Central Tour of Manufacturing Partnership is proud to host the Tour of Manufacturing as part of Minnesota Manufacturers Week. The event is similar to a “Parade of Homes” with community members able to stop by any participating manufacturer throughout the day to take a tour, learn about the business and what is manufactured, as well as the career opportunities available now and in the future. The 2015 event will take place on October 3, from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. More information can be found on our website: tourofmanufacturing.com.

CELEBRATE MINNESOTA MANUFACTURERS WEEK

Sponsored by:

Pratt, Kutzke & Associates, LLPLivingLInksKato EngineeringMinnesota SoybeanJack Link’s Protein SnacksCity of North MankatoGreater Mankato Area United WayMayo Clinic Health SystemAll American Foods, Inc. All American Foods, Inc. Abdo, Eick & Meyers, LLPRegion Nine Development CommissionMTU Onsite EnergyBethany Lutheran CollegeVolk TransferMankato ClinicVisit MankatoJones & MagnusMankato Area Public SchoolsJack Link’s Protein SnacksLabelworksConsolidated Communications

2015-16 Greater Mankato Leadership Institute Class



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Growth in Greater MankatoGROUNDBREAKING

Graif Clothing900 North Riverfront DriveMankato, MN

Cavaliers

Newest Greater Mankato Growth Members

Cavalier Calls on the

RIBBON CUTTING

Lime Valley Chiropractic1704 North Riverfront Drive, Suite 100 Mankato, MN

The History Writers 404 Moreland Avenue Mankato, MN thehistorywriters.com

Colonial Square Apartments300 Ramsey Street Mankato, MN tapestrymanagement.com/properties/9

Mankato Coffeehouse, LLC 251 Bunting Lane, Suite 101 Mankato, MN facebook.com/mankatocoffeehouse

Flying Buttress Media 1600 Hauenstein Drive New Ulm, MN flyingbuttressmedia.com

RIBBON CUTTING

Met-Con Construction, Inc. 100 Warren Street, Suite 200 Mankato, MN

GROUNDBREAKING

Met-Con Construction, Inc. 2155 Ringhoffer Dr North Mankato, MN

NEW LOCATION

NEW LOCATION

Pantheon Computers 515 North Riverfront Drive, Suite 160 Mankato, MN



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Governor Mark Dayton, along with a crew of pheasant hunters, hunting

dogs and statewide media, will gather in Mankato for the fifth annual Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener October 9-10. Since Governor Dayton announced Mankato as the host of the 2015 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener, the Mankato community has been busily preparing for the spotlight event.

The 2015 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener was initiated by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2011. The prestigious event will put a spotlight on Greater Mankato and will serve as a resume builder for the community. The event will allow the Greater Mankato community to highlight its 9,100+ acres of hunting land in addition to its excellent outdoor recreational activities including fishing, biking and kayaking.

A banquet, which is open to the public, will kick off the weekend Friday evening, October 9 from 6 – 9 pm at the Verizon Wireless Civic Center. Tickets are on sale now at the Visit Mankato office and are available individually for $35 or two for $60. The pheasant hunt will take place Saturday, October 10 starting at 8 am on public hunting land within a 20 mile radius of Mankato. A post-hunt lunch and land dedication ceremony will take place at noon at the O.A.Vee Memorial Site in Mankato.

This event will bring in statewide media, providing Mankato with

2015 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener serves as a resume builder for Greater Mankato

invaluable coverage. In addition, being the host of the Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener will set the stage for Mankato as an outdoor sportsman destination. Visit Mankato works hard to bring sports tournaments and conventions to town. This event, combined with Project ABE (Ag Business Epicenter) opens another door to sportsman, outdoor and agricultural tourism opportunities.

The 2015 Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener planning crew involves Visit Mankato, Explore Minnesota Tourism, the Department of Natural Resources, the Cities of Mankato and North Mankato, as well as Pheasants Forever, Pheasants Inc. and Nicollet County Conservation Club. They are eager to deliver a weekend full of entertainment, hunting and the great outdoors to the Governor and all attendees.

For more information on the 2015 Minnesota Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener, go to www.MNGPHO2015.com.

Sponsorship and event involvement opportunities are still available. To find out how you can become involved, contact Chris Willaert, [email protected] or 507-385-6663.

Photo above: Governor’s Pheasant Hunting Opener Land Dedication ceremony fall of 2014

By: Kathryn Reeder, Visit Mankato Brand Manager



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Business is complicated.Banking shouldn’t be.Are you looking for ways to streamline your banking? Community Bank’s Small Business Checking is free when you maintain $200 in your account. Online banking services are available for no additional charge - including our payroll processing service. This service provides a great benefit to your employees and reduces expenses for your business. Making the switch is easy. Stop by and get started today. MONEY MATTERS. WORK SMART. LET OUR TEAM HELP YOUBRING THE TWO TOGETHER.

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MANKATO - St. Andrews Dr. 507.385.4444 MANKATO - Madison Ave 507.625.1551AMBOY 507.674.3300 VERNON CENTER 507.549.3679

MikeOgaard

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EricBoelter

MikeKing

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Documents

Mn valley mag sept2015