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 />
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Since 1954<br />
Full Service-In House Repair<br />
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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