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September 2017 - Fairmont Area Chamber Newsletter

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<strong>September</strong> <strong>2017</strong><br />

Community Connections<br />

“Powering up business throughout Martin County”<br />

Ambassadors award scholarship<br />

Inside<br />

This Issue<br />

Page 2 - <strong>Chamber</strong> Dues and<br />

Don'ts<br />

Page 2 - Register for Local<br />

Option Sales Tax<br />

Page 3 - Update on Junior<br />

Achievement<br />

Page 3 - Fluorescent Bulb<br />

Recycling<br />

Pages 4 & 5 - Business Briefs<br />

Page 6 - Legislative News<br />

Page 6 - Revamping the<br />

Retail Committee<br />

Page 7 - Blue Ribbon Pork<br />

Cook-Off Awards<br />

The Ambassador Committee<br />

of the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> of<br />

Commerce awarded a $1,000 Scholarship<br />

to Sarah Bartz. Sarah is the<br />

daughter of Kevin and Kathy Bartz<br />

of Truman, MN. She is a student at<br />

the University of Wisconsin in River<br />

Falls, WI. The Ambassador Scholarship<br />

is awarded annually to one<br />

Martin County student in a business<br />

related field who is entering their junior<br />

or senior year in a four-year college<br />

or their final year in a technical<br />

college. Candidates must be able to<br />

confirm achievement of at least a 3.0<br />

GPA on a 4.0 scale. Congratulations<br />

Sarah and best of luck in your future<br />

endeavors!<br />

ABOVE: <strong>Chamber</strong> President Margaret Dillard and Ambassador Committee<br />

Chair Nancy Stauffer award the Ambassador Scholarship to Sarah Bartz.<br />

Sharing our "<strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Life"<br />

People often lament a “brain<br />

drain” in rural Minnesota as 18 to<br />

25-year-olds leave their small home<br />

towns to pursue careers and higher<br />

education. But there is also an inmigration<br />

to these towns of 30 to<br />

49-year-old adults and their young<br />

families. Often, those moving into<br />

rural communities offset, or surpass,<br />

the number of those moving away.<br />

But the trend must be sustained.<br />

The <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Life project<br />

is based on the works of U of M<br />

Research Fellow, Benjamin Winchester,<br />

whose “Brain Gain” concept<br />

points out professionals from 30-49<br />

look for quality of life when considering<br />

where they want to live. We<br />

seek to highlight our quality of educational<br />

options, affordable housing,<br />

available health care, and recreational<br />

amenities in a safe, friendly<br />

community as a compelling case to<br />

attract these professionals and their<br />

families to relocate to our area.<br />

The project is a cooperative<br />

effort between the city of <strong>Fairmont</strong>,<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> and local<br />

stakeholders, funded by a grant from<br />

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation.<br />

Visit www.<strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Area</strong>Life.<br />

com to find out more about the project,<br />

what we’ve accomplished, and<br />

how you can get involved.<br />

323 East Blue Earth Avenue • <strong>Fairmont</strong>, MN 56031 • 507-235-5547 • www.<strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Chamber</strong>.org • <strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Chamber</strong>


Mission Statement: The <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> of Commerce exists to promote a healthy business cli<br />

Board of Directors Officers:<br />

Chair<br />

Kerry Nagel Allen<br />

MRCI-WorkSource<br />

Vice Chair<br />

Les Anderson<br />

Martin County<br />

Farm Bureau<br />

Board of Directors:<br />

Deb Barnes<br />

Lakeview Methodist<br />

Health Care Center<br />

Stephanie Busiahn<br />

Visit <strong>Fairmont</strong><br />

Chris Carstensen<br />

Carstensen<br />

Cabinetry and<br />

Woodworking<br />

Zephanie Cole<br />

Align Chiropractic &<br />

Acupuncture, PLC<br />

Staff:<br />

Past Chair<br />

Ron Kopischke<br />

Profinium, Inc.<br />

Treasurer<br />

Sara Pierce<br />

Pierce Accounting<br />

and Tax Services<br />

Dave Cone<br />

Kahler Automation<br />

Corporation<br />

Brandon<br />

Edmundson<br />

Krahmer, Shaffer<br />

& Edmundson, Ltd<br />

Mandi Kosbab<br />

Edward Jones<br />

Ann Terfehr<br />

Dan’s Appliance<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> dues and don'ts<br />

By: Margaret Dillard - <strong>Chamber</strong> President<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> dues and<br />

sponsorships: Do these contributions<br />

really make a difference?<br />

This month marks my 3rd anniversary<br />

as President of <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong><br />

<strong>Chamber</strong>. The conclusion of each 12<br />

month period prompts me to look<br />

upon what we have accomplished<br />

and to ask what our business community<br />

needs next. My steps are guided by chamber<br />

members because they financially<br />

support our work and the<br />

“Since we don’t rely on<br />

government dollars,<br />

memberships and<br />

sponsorships fund our<br />

work. Businesses and<br />

residents alike are invited<br />

to join this local <strong>Chamber</strong><br />

of Commerce.”<br />

dozen plus business leaders who<br />

make up an excellent board of directors.<br />

Their directives are carried<br />

out by three staff and myself.<br />

When we all win, we<br />

all win. We are able to be effective<br />

because we work well with<br />

government, schools and other<br />

organizations to achieve common<br />

goals and objectives and because<br />

a foundation of work was<br />

achieved by prior boards and<br />

staff. A few things make us rather<br />

unique:<br />

• One might think that collaboration<br />

is common but more often than not, there<br />

are barriers.<br />

• When we think of creating a healthy business<br />

environment, we consider all of our community and<br />

when we think about all of our community, we consider<br />

all of Martin County.<br />

• We consider all ages and cultures. (You’ll read<br />

how later in this article.)<br />

When communicating the value of investment<br />

in chamber programs and projects, it’s somewhat<br />

difficult to narrow it down. There is not room here<br />

to list our scope of work, (If you want to see the list,<br />

visit us online or call us. We’re always happy to<br />

talk about what we do!) but I’ll attempt to encourage<br />

individual and business participation<br />

by featuring some <strong>Chamber</strong> programs<br />

and projects.<br />

“What keeps you up at<br />

night?” It’s a question that I have<br />

been asking business people in<br />

Martin County for three years.<br />

Lack of skilled labor, workforce<br />

housing, healthcare, childcare,<br />

government regulation and business<br />

taxes are resounding concerns.<br />

Shop local awareness and<br />

programs that address declining<br />

populations also are part of<br />

the conversation. Among them,<br />

lack of qualified workforce is<br />

the chief universal leader across<br />

industries no matter how many<br />

the businesses employ, size of facility or how much<br />

revenue they generate. <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Life (www.<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Area</strong>Life.com), a local program that encourages<br />

professionals to call the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> home is<br />

a comprehensive effort that<br />

2<br />

(Continued on page 5)<br />

Register for local option sales tax<br />

Margaret Dillard<br />

President<br />

Kandi Menne<br />

Office Manager/<br />

Director of<br />

Communications<br />

Curt Foster<br />

Director of Finance<br />

and Operations<br />

Benjamin<br />

Landsteiner<br />

Marketing & Social<br />

Media Coordinator<br />

Beginning on October 1, <strong>2017</strong>, the city of <strong>Fairmont</strong><br />

will have a 0.5 percent voter-approved sales<br />

and use tax. The sales tax will apply to all retail sales<br />

made within the city of <strong>Fairmont</strong>. The use tax will<br />

apply to all taxable items used in the city where local<br />

sales tax was not paid. All retailers who are doing<br />

business in <strong>Fairmont</strong> and are registered for Minnesota<br />

sales tax must also register for the local option<br />

sales tax. The Minnesota Department of Revenue will<br />

administer this tax. Visit the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong><br />

website at www.<strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Chamber</strong>.org and click on<br />

the link titled “Local Sales Tax” for a reference sheet<br />

providing additional details on how to register for,<br />

collect and report this tax.


mate through leadership, communication and education for its members in the greater <strong>Fairmont</strong> area.<br />

Workforce efforts begin with youth<br />

The <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> of Commerce<br />

is proud to coordinate the Junior<br />

Achievement (JA) program in our schools<br />

each year through the generous support of<br />

our area businesses, local grants and individuals<br />

in our community. The mission of Junior<br />

Achievement is “To inspire and prepare young<br />

people to succeed in a global economy.” Junior<br />

Achievement teaches principles of marketbased<br />

economics and entrepreneurship in age<br />

appropriate increments, creating a stronger<br />

understanding of how the world around them<br />

works and how they fit into the greater economic<br />

picture.<br />

Our local Junior Achievement program<br />

relies on over 40 volunteer teachers and<br />

reaches an average of 57 classrooms totaling<br />

1154 students in grades K-6th and 8th grade.<br />

Our annual cost is $12,840 for the classroom<br />

kits alone.<br />

Our ability to continue offering the<br />

Junior Achievement program and to build toward<br />

a brighter future for students in area<br />

public and private schools depends largely on<br />

the generosity of the people in our community.<br />

If you would like to help support the Junior<br />

Achievement program in our area by making<br />

a donation or becoming a volunteer teacher,<br />

please contact the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong><br />

of Commerce at 507-235-5547. Find out how<br />

your life can be enriched by volunteering or<br />

sponsoring a classroom!<br />

Fluorescent bulb recycling<br />

ABOVE: Volunteer teacher Char Kahler and her<br />

Junior Achievement class celebrate together after<br />

completing their JA curriculum.<br />

3<br />

Fluorescent<br />

lamps<br />

contain mercury<br />

and are<br />

considered<br />

a hazardous<br />

waste<br />

product. It is<br />

against the<br />

law to dispose of fluorescent bulbs and ballasts<br />

with your regular garbage. Fluorescent bulb recycling<br />

will be held in the former Kmart parking lot<br />

Fisher Group<br />

JEFF GREISCHAR CCIM<br />

Sales & Leasing Agent<br />

1961 Premier Drive<br />

Suite 404<br />

Mankato, MN 56001<br />

(507) 236-4980<br />

jeff.greischar@cbcfishergroup.com<br />

www.cbcfishergroup.com<br />

on Thursday, October 5th, from 9 am-1 pm. This<br />

recycling event serves the residents and businesses<br />

of Martin and Faribault Counties. When transporting<br />

the lamps, be careful not to break them.<br />

There will be a charge at the time of disposal.<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Public Utilities Customers are<br />

eligible for total reimbursement for bulb recycling<br />

costs. When dropping bulbs off for recycling, ask<br />

for a rebate coupon, keep your receipt, and turn<br />

both in to <strong>Fairmont</strong> Public Utilities for reimbursement<br />

of recycling costs. Contact the <strong>Chamber</strong> with<br />

any questions at (507) 235-5547.<br />

Tri-County Implement<br />

St. James<br />

Martin County Implement<br />

Truman<br />

Tri-County Implement<br />

Jackson<br />

www.deerequipment.com<br />

DID YOU KNOW?<br />

A growing body of economic research<br />

shows that in an increasingly<br />

homogenized world, entrepreneurs<br />

and skilled workers are more likely<br />

to invest and settle in communities<br />

that preserve their one-of-a-kind<br />

businesses and distinctive character.


<strong>Chamber</strong> member business briefs<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Opera House, Inc.<br />

(507) 238-4900<br />

Season packages and individual tickets for the<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Opera House’s <strong>2017</strong>-2018 season are<br />

on sale and the annual membership drive is<br />

underway. Immerse in the fabulous 50’s with “Rave On! – The Buddy Holly<br />

Experience” on Saturday, <strong>September</strong> 16, and experience Chris Rupp’s amazing<br />

new cover band, “7th Avenue,” on Saturday, <strong>September</strong> 23. View the full<br />

lineup of events at www.fairmontoperahouse.org. Reserve seats online, by<br />

calling 507-238-4900, or in person at 45 Downtown Plaza. <strong>Chamber</strong> members<br />

get 10% off Subscription Series tickets. Discounts for groups of 10 or<br />

more. Get your groove on – and we’ll see you at the show!<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Kinship<br />

(507) 238-4440<br />

Kinship is a non-profit seeking to better the lives<br />

of children throughout Martin County by developing<br />

meaningful mentoring relationships. This is accomplished by matching<br />

children with caring adult mentors who share similar interests, activities,<br />

and hobbies. Mentoring empowers and encourages children who need<br />

a little more support in their lives. Kinship has a great need for new mentors<br />

as there are currently 18 wonderful children on the waiting list. Our mentors<br />

represent a wide array of people with a huge range of ages, work experiences,<br />

and family lives. YOU can be a mentor! Kinship is funded by grants and<br />

donations from local businesses, organizations, and individuals.<br />

Peterson-Anthony Insurance Agency, Inc<br />

(507)-238-2008 or 800-336-6037<br />

<strong>September</strong> 13, <strong>2017</strong> from 11 am – 2pm, Peterson‐Anthony<br />

Insurance Agency is hosting an open house celebrating our new<br />

offices in <strong>Fairmont</strong>. Join us for a tour of our new space, meet our team and<br />

enjoy some light refreshments. We will also be launching Quote for Kids;<br />

come in for a quote, choose an organization that supports area kids and we<br />

will donate $25. There is no obligation to buy insurance and the donation is<br />

not tied to purchasing insurance. Quotes for Kids will launch 09/13/17 and<br />

run through the end of <strong>2017</strong>. This is a great time to come in, review your insurance,<br />

get a quote and support our kids.<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Ford<br />

(507) 235-6681<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Ford is excited to announce, we have a new member<br />

on our sales team! Kyle is originally from Trimont MN,<br />

and graduated from MCW in 2012. More recently, he graduated<br />

from South Dakota State this past December and is happy<br />

to be back in the area. Kyle is looking forward to helping you<br />

buy or lease new and pre-owned vehicles, as well as heading up our rental<br />

department. Stop in and see Kyle for all your auto needs or reach him by<br />

email at Kyle@fairmontford.com!<br />

Vision Statement: The <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> of Commerce will b<br />

Martin County Youth Foundation<br />

(507) 235-5547<br />

NEW APPLICATION NOW AVAILABLE! The Martin<br />

County Youth Foundation is currently accepting applications<br />

for our Fall grant cycle. The application deadline<br />

is <strong>September</strong> 15. Applicants must complete the NEW application which<br />

can be found on our website at www.MartinCountyYouthFoundation.org.<br />

Projects eligible for the Fall Grant cycle will take place AFTER November 15th.<br />

For more information or questions, visit our website or call 507-235-5547.<br />

MRCI WorkSource<br />

(507) 238-4388<br />

MRCI <strong>Fairmont</strong> was recently featured on KEYC News 12! The story highlights<br />

MRCI’s efforts to provide innovative and genuine opportunities for its clients’<br />

community participation. One emphasis for the nonprofit organization<br />

is training, job coaching and assistance in finding community employment.<br />

KEYC News 12 featured one of those success stories, Tara Eisenmenger, who<br />

is employed by Walmart in <strong>Fairmont</strong>. Please find out more about MRCI and<br />

Tara’s story by visiting our website at mrciworksource.org.<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Concert Association<br />

(507) 235-9276 or (507) 238-2892<br />

Concert Association's <strong>2017</strong>-2018 Fall Membership Drive: August 25th through<br />

Sept. 8th. The concerts this year are: Grand Magic Show Sun., Sept. 24th at 7<br />

p.m. The Great Northern Union Chorus Fri., Nov. 17th at 7:30 p,m, J. Mark McVey<br />

Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 7 p.m. The Glenn Miller Orchestra Sun., April 15th,<br />

2018 at 7 p.m. and Derik Nelson & family, Tues., May 1, 2018 at 7 p.m. You are<br />

also able to attend 5 additional concerts in Blue Earth with your concert ticket<br />

at no additional cost. Contact Pat at 235-9276 or Jennifer at 238-2892.<br />

Edward Jones Investments - Mandi Kosbab<br />

(507) 235-8524 - Member SIPC<br />

On Sept. 22, we celebrate American Business<br />

Women's Day. If you're a woman planning to go into business for yourself,<br />

keep these five tips in mind: First, balance your business goals with your<br />

personal ones. It can be challenging to expand your business while still saving<br />

for retirement. Second, choose an appropriate retirement plan, such as<br />

an owner-only 401(k) or a SEP-IRA. These plans offer tax-deferred growth<br />

potential and possible deductible contributions. Third, arrange for backup.<br />

If you have extensive family responsibilities, you'll need a trusted person to<br />

fill in for you on occasion. Fourth, work with your legal and tax advisors to<br />

create a succession plan if you want to keep the business in the family. And,<br />

finally, build an emergency fund containing a few months worth of business<br />

expenses. Keep this fund in a liquid, low-risk account. Running your own<br />

business can be rewarding, but its never going to be an easy road. However,<br />

with perseverance and careful planning, you can smooth out some of the<br />

bumps along the way and give yourself reason to celebrate American Business<br />

Womens Day.<br />

4


e recognized as the leader in assisting area businesses to prosper.<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> member business briefs<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Schools<br />

(507) 235-3141<br />

The Region Nine Development Commission<br />

in partnership with the YWCA-Mankato and Greater Mankato Diversity<br />

Council will be holding a free public event titled “It’s Time to Talk: Forums<br />

on Race” with funding from the Blandin Foundation and BCBS of Minnesota<br />

Foundation. This is a YWCA trademarked racial dialogue facilitation process<br />

utilizing trained facilitators to lead small table discussions on race. Participants<br />

exchange ideas during the introductory conversation in a non-threatening<br />

environment. The event will take place at the <strong>Fairmont</strong> Elementary<br />

School, Budd Room 1017 on Wednesday, October 11 from 10:00 am – 12:00<br />

pm. Please call <strong>Fairmont</strong> CER to register at 507-235-3141 by Monday, October<br />

2.<br />

Presentation College<br />

(507) 235-4658<br />

Presentation College is pleased to announce that<br />

beginning in the spring semester of 2018, the college<br />

will offer Master of Science Degrees in Nursing (MSN). “We are very excited<br />

by this opportunity,” said Dr. Margaret Huber, College President. “Offering<br />

graduate level education is a huge step for the college, and we hope<br />

to take a leadership role in the healthcare industry throughout the region.”<br />

Presentation will offer two nursing tracks for incoming students to choose<br />

from, including a family nurse practitioner (FNP) track, and a nurse educator<br />

(NE) track. The Institutional Actions Council of the Higher Learning Commission<br />

approved Presentation College’s request to offer the Master of Science<br />

in Nursing degree August 1, <strong>2017</strong>.<br />

“Business Briefs” is a complimentary service provided by the <strong>Chamber</strong> for chamber members. Please limit your information to one paragraph of about<br />

100 words. Example: expansion, new employees, awards, monumental anniversary, etc… A photo or logo can be included. NO Direct Advertising.<br />

5<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> dues and don'ts (Continued from page 2)<br />

is recognized throughout the state and has received<br />

funding from Southern Minnesota Initiative<br />

Foundation and recognition from University<br />

of Minnesota Extension.<br />

Communication. Yet, I get weekly correspondence<br />

from community members that we<br />

don’t have quality jobs locally. It’s a frustrating<br />

paradigm! So, making sure that we communicate<br />

our message is important, as well. That’s why we<br />

take the time to publish this newsletter, distribute<br />

e-blasts and launch social media campaigns.<br />

Teaching the next generation of business<br />

people. That a small business organization<br />

like ours is able to begin to address the workforce<br />

challenge by collaborating with public<br />

and private schools to teach business concepts<br />

to children in kindergarten through 8th grade<br />

is truly extraordinary! Each year we must raise<br />

more than $12,000 and work with more than 35<br />

volunteers and 50+ educators to facilitate that<br />

program.<br />

Encouraging youth to choose to stay or<br />

come back. One day each April, approximately<br />

80 businesses and organizations, showcase local<br />

career opportunities to 650 10th graders from<br />

twelve southern Minnesota and northern Iowa<br />

high schools. They set up interactive displays that<br />

show what skills are needed for their industry in<br />

the <strong>Fairmont</strong> High School gym, while a dozen or<br />

so young professionals pose questions to student<br />

representatives from each school upstairs in the<br />

Performing Arts Center. This game show demonstrates<br />

that millennials have chosen to call our<br />

area home! We voice to students that hundreds<br />

of people choose to participate because they care<br />

about them and their futures. <strong>Area</strong> Career Exploration<br />

– <strong>Fairmont</strong> is known throughout the state<br />

as being highly organized and effective.<br />

Welcoming Educators. Joe Brown, Superintendent<br />

of <strong>Fairmont</strong> Schools speaks of recruiting<br />

80 among the 120 total staff in the past<br />

8 years. Many are new to our community so each<br />

October, chamber staff facilitates a banquet to<br />

welcome them to our community. Businesses<br />

sponsor dinner for themselves and a new teacher,<br />

then are paired at the event. New teachers<br />

also receive a bag of goodies from businesses and<br />

information about our area.<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> staff stays busy AND focused!<br />

I could go on about how staff provides<br />

services for various foundations/organizations,<br />

how many calls we field about community events<br />

and resources, that our office is the ticket agent<br />

for Jefferson Bus Lines, that we send baskets of<br />

snacks and local information to career candidates’<br />

hotel rooms and how we counsel businesses<br />

to improve their online presence. The<br />

point is, we do a lot of work here and, I believe it<br />

is work that strengthens the very fabric of Martin<br />

County.<br />

Consider joining us! Since we don’t<br />

rely on government dollars, memberships and<br />

sponsorships fund our work. Businesses and<br />

residents alike are invited to join this local <strong>Chamber</strong><br />

of Commerce. Individual membership is just<br />

$99 and basic business members (complete with<br />

online support, networking opportunities, advocacy<br />

efforts, social media and online visibility<br />

and more.) start at $326 annually. If you are prepared<br />

to join soon, you will be able to begin receiving<br />

benefits in October and your investment<br />

will cover the rest of <strong>2017</strong> and all of 2018! Consider<br />

joining the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>. If you would<br />

like more information, I would be honored to sit<br />

down to talk!


Core Values: We value for our members, employees and community: integrity in all we do, collaboration with all our stakeholders, growth and develop<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> Events<br />

Monday, <strong>September</strong> 4th<br />

Labor Day (Offices Closed)<br />

Wednesday, <strong>September</strong> 13th - 7:00 a.m.<br />

AM Espresso<br />

Wednesday, <strong>September</strong> 13th - 3:00 p.m.<br />

Ambassadors Meeting / Ribbon Cuttings<br />

Wednesday, <strong>September</strong> 13th - 6:00 p.m.<br />

Bureau 14 Meeting<br />

Tuesday, <strong>September</strong> 19th - 7:30 a.m.<br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> Board Meeting<br />

POSTPONED<br />

Social Media Breakfast<br />

REVAMP RETAIL<br />

The Retail Committee of the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong><br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> is seeking committee members<br />

to join us as we work to make a positive<br />

impact in our local retail environment.<br />

Call (507) 235-5547<br />

APPLY ONLINE FOR<br />

MEMBERSHIP!<br />

Fill out your application at<br />

www.<strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Chamber</strong>.org<br />

Legislative News<br />

REP. BOB GUNTHER 23A<br />

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE<br />

MINNESOTA REPUBLICAN REFORMS REVERSE<br />

OBAMACARE'S DOUBLE-DIGIT PREMIUM HIKES<br />

Recently, the Minnesota Department of<br />

Commerce released preliminary rates for the<br />

2018 individual insurance market, revealing<br />

that Republican-led reforms could end the four<br />

year trend of double-digit premium increases<br />

since the implementation of Obamacare and<br />

MNsure in Minnesota. The individual market<br />

serves Minnesotans who do not receive health<br />

insurance through their employer or the government.<br />

If approved by the federal government,<br />

the Minnesota Premium Security Plan<br />

will result in premium decreases for tens of<br />

thousands of Minnesotans. In contrast, average<br />

rates increased by double digits every year<br />

from the desk of<br />

Rep. Bob Gunther<br />

since 2014, including nearly 60 percent for<br />

<strong>2017</strong>. As a result of the reinsurance program,<br />

all current insurers will continue serving the<br />

individual market next year. In addition to the<br />

reinsurance program, Republicans successfully<br />

pushed for consumer protections that will provide<br />

access to better networks of hospitals and<br />

doctors.<br />

These reforms were supported by just<br />

one Democrat in the Minnesota House. Governor<br />

Dayton refused to sign the measure, opting<br />

to let it become law without his signature.<br />

"Unlike Congress, Minnesota Republicans<br />

have tackled our health insurance crisis<br />

head-on," said State Representative Bob Gunther<br />

(R-<strong>Fairmont</strong>). "Unfortunately the Democrats<br />

refused to join us, but that's their loss<br />

as Republican reforms helped preserve choice<br />

and access, and it looks like we may have put a<br />

stop to double digit premium increases."<br />

According to the Minnesota Department<br />

of Commerce, rates would have risen by 25<br />

percent or more without Republican reforms.<br />

Final rates for the 2018 individual market are<br />

expected to be released in October <strong>2017</strong>.<br />

CONTACT INFORMATION<br />

563 State Office Building<br />

100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.<br />

Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155<br />

651-296-3240 or 800-684-4598<br />

E-mail: rep.bob.gunther@house.mn<br />

6<br />

Energy rebates<br />

for your business.<br />

The smart move for your bottom line.<br />

minnesotaenergyresources.com 866-872-0052<br />

Fine Jewelry<br />

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Your Professional Jeweler<br />

Since 1954<br />

Full Service-In House Repair<br />

Jessica & Steve Sovell<br />

Gemologist • Goldsmith<br />

Professional Window Cleaning<br />

Insured<br />

Residential &<br />

Commercial<br />

Cleaning<br />

Wouldn’t it be nice to have the windows<br />

of your home sparkling clean!<br />

Please allow us to give you a free estimate.<br />

You will be pleasantly surprised!<br />

Call Now! Matt Petrowiak at (507) 236-5207


ment for our members, recognition of accomplishments, effective communication, and doing all things efficiently and in a fiscally responsible manner.<br />

Blue Ribbon Pork Cook-Off Awards<br />

7<br />

The 20th Annual Blue Ribbon Pork Cook<br />

Off was held Wednesday, August 16th from<br />

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Martin County Fairgrounds.<br />

Proceeds from this event help support<br />

two $4,200 Agri-Business Scholarships. All six<br />

contestants gave an outstanding effort, with<br />

imaginative and flavorful pork creations that<br />

ticket-holders agreed made selecting this year’s<br />

favorites especially difficult.<br />

Thank you to all of our sponsors: The<br />

Agri-Business Committee of the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong><br />

<strong>Chamber</strong> of Commerce, Bank Midwest, Cargill<br />

Inc., Compeer Financial, Dutch Creek Farms,<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Veterinary Clinic, Kahler Automation,<br />

Martin County Corn and Soybean Growers, Martin<br />

County Pork Producers, Preferred Capital<br />

Management, Profinium Financial, Valero Renewables,<br />

CFS, and Zoetis.<br />

We would also like to thank this year's<br />

contestants: Ambiance on Albion Taphouse &<br />

Grill in <strong>Fairmont</strong>, Cup ‘N Saucer Restaurant in<br />

Photo Credit:<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> Photo Press<br />

ABOVE: Seth and Elizabeth Lintelman, owners of<br />

Sherburn's Cup N' Saucer, receive 1st place awards<br />

for both Peoples' and Connoisseurs' Choice at the<br />

20th Annual Blue Ribbon Pork Cook-Off<br />

Sherburn, <strong>Fairmont</strong> Butcher Block in <strong>Fairmont</strong>,<br />

Green Mill Restaurant in <strong>Fairmont</strong>, Marina<br />

Lodge in <strong>Fairmont</strong> and The Blazer Bar & Grill<br />

in <strong>Fairmont</strong>. Congratulations to this year's winners!<br />

20TH ANNUAL BLUE RIBBON<br />

PORK COOK-OFF WINNERS<br />

Peoples’ Choice Awards<br />

1st Place - Cup N’ Saucer<br />

2nd Place – <strong>Fairmont</strong> Butcher Block<br />

3rd Place – Marina Lodge<br />

Connoisseurs’ Choice Awards<br />

1st Place - Cup N’ Saucer<br />

2nd Place – Blazer Bar & Grill<br />

3rd Place – Green Mill Restaurant<br />

AS Mobile<br />

Apple/Android<br />

THERE'S AN APP FOR THAT?<br />

The <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Community Events Calendar has a Mobile App!<br />

You can access information for all the great events going on in Martin County directly from your iOS or Android-based mobile device<br />

using the free mobile app "AS Mobile" published by rSchoolToday! Of course, you can still view upcoming community events on your<br />

desktop or laptop computer by visiting the community calendar website at www.fairmontareacalendar.com. If you have any questions<br />

or concerns about updating your events to the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Community Calendar, please email the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong><br />

of Commerce at info@fairmontchamber.org.<br />

Calendar Funding Partners: <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> of Commerce, <strong>Fairmont</strong> Convention and Visitors Bureau, City of <strong>Fairmont</strong>,<br />

<strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong> Schools, and Blandin Community Broadband Grant. Other Partners: <strong>Fairmont</strong> Community Education<br />

and Recreation.<br />

Over a decade of<br />

helping my customers<br />

make good choices.<br />

507.235.5547<br />

info@fairmontchamber.org<br />

Troy Sunken<br />

1304 Blue Earth Ave., <strong>Fairmont</strong>, MN<br />

507-238-4786<br />

(507) 238-4949


<strong>September</strong> programs at CER<br />

8<br />

What an amazing community we live in! The commitment to youth<br />

and families is evident in the support demonstrated by parents, grandparents,<br />

volunteers, schools, city, business, chamber of commerce, and area organizations<br />

and agencies. Those entities who have been especially supportive<br />

through sponsorships and funding collaborative activities with CER this<br />

summer include City of <strong>Fairmont</strong> (Free Park Playground Program, Makerspace<br />

Mondays), School (Summer Reads VISTA), 3M (Camp Invention, Makerspace<br />

Mondays), Martin County Youth Foundation (Youth Activity Scholarships,<br />

Science Day Camps), Youth T-ball & Girls Softball Instructional Leagues<br />

Sponsors (The Visual Identity Vault, Perkins Restaurant, United Hospital District<br />

Clinic, GHEC/RM Driving School, Schmidt Installation, Larson and Olsen<br />

Dental, Education Minnesota <strong>Fairmont</strong>), 39th Annual <strong>Fairmont</strong> Summer Run<br />

sponsors (Mayo Clinic Health System <strong>Fairmont</strong>, <strong>Fairmont</strong> Chiropractic and<br />

Acupuncture, Center for Specialty Care, <strong>Fairmont</strong> Family Dentistry, Carlson<br />

Dental, J. Hokanson Print, Burtis Chiropractic Clinic.)<br />

These and the many other programs that are working for youth and<br />

families in varied capacities are what make a difference to each and every one<br />

who lives or works here – be proud of what you have done to make our community<br />

a great place to live, raise families and grow. Thank you for caring!<br />

A SAMPLING OF UPCOMING ACTIVITIES<br />

Microsoft Word Basic <strong>September</strong> 9<br />

ABE - Free GED/Math/Reading <strong>September</strong> 11<br />

Safe Routes to Schools Tuesdays <strong>September</strong> 12<br />

Learn English <strong>September</strong> 12 & 13<br />

Mini-Cardinal Volleyball Camp (K-3) <strong>September</strong> 13<br />

Volleyball Open Gym for Adults <strong>September</strong> 13<br />

Martin Co. Early Childhood Dental Network <strong>September</strong> 18<br />

Farmers Market Kids Cooking I <strong>September</strong> 19 & 21<br />

Over 55 Defensive Driving (First Timers) <strong>September</strong> 20<br />

CER Fall/Winter Catalog Mailout <strong>September</strong> 22<br />

Farmers Market Kids Cooking II <strong>September</strong> 26 & 28<br />

Woodcarvers Club <strong>September</strong> 26<br />

Lights On For Kids Afterschool Begins (Gr 2-6) October 2<br />

Co-Ed Volleyball Fall League Begins October 5<br />

Region 9 Diversity Forum in <strong>Fairmont</strong> October 11<br />

…and much more!<br />

Advertise in the 2018 Visitor Guide!<br />

Reserve your ad in the ultimate, all-inclusive Martin County Visitor<br />

and Relocation Guide today! Twelve thousand copies are printed<br />

and distributed each year within Martin County and throughout the tristate<br />

area. Hundreds of copies are mailed directly to requestors who<br />

have expressed interest in visiting or relocating to Martin County. The<br />

digital version is viewed online by thousands at <strong>Fairmont</strong><strong>Chamber</strong>.org,<br />

Visit<strong>Fairmont</strong>MN.com and <strong>Fairmont</strong>.org. This guide is a valued resource<br />

for residents and visitors alike! Be sure your business, service or event<br />

is included.<br />

Take advantage of our early<br />

bird ad special or enjoy an exclusive<br />

10% discount on your ad if your business<br />

is a member of the <strong>Fairmont</strong> <strong>Area</strong><br />

<strong>Chamber</strong>. Visit our website for additional<br />

details, rates and deadlines or<br />

contact Kandi by phone at 507-235-<br />

4457 or by emailing her at<br />

info@fairmontchamber.org.<br />

VISION CARE<br />

CONTACT LENS<br />

COMMITMENT.<br />

COMPASSION.<br />

COMPETITIVE.<br />

www.fairmontarealife.com<br />

410 Downtown Plaza | <strong>Fairmont</strong>, MN 56031<br />

800.795.1215 | www.techbuildersinc.com<br />

Paul Seibert, O.D.<br />

1307 ALBION AVE., SUITE 102<br />

FAIRMONT, MN<br />

PH: (507) 238-4228<br />

James Busche, O.D.<br />

Spencer Seibert, O.D.<br />

111 E. 6TH ST.<br />

BLUE EARTH, MN<br />

PH: (507) 526-2020

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