Chamber Update - September 2022

September 2022
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
Community Connections
Blue Ribbon Pork Cook- Off Results
Inside
This Issue
Pages 2 & 3 - Chamber
message
Pages 4 & 5 Business
Briefs
Page 5 - Bureau 14, ACE
Website
Page 6 - Candidate Forums
and Teachers Banquet
Page 7 -Pork-Off Photos
Page 8 - Community
Education Recreation
(CER) - Junior Achievement
Congratulations to our Cook-Off winners! Pictured left to right:
The Marina Lodge (2nd Place), Green Mill (1st Place), and Hy-Vee (3rd Place).
The 24th Annual Blue Ribbon Pork Cook Off was
held on Wednesday, August 17 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00
p.m. at the Martin County Fairgrounds. Proceeds
from this event support two local $4,200 Agri-Business
Scholarships each year.
For the first time in awhile or maybe
never before, both the Connoisseurs’
judges & the Peoples’ Choice picked the
same winners. They were Green Mill (1st
Place), The Marina Lodge (2nd Place), and
Hy-Vee (3rd Place). Congratulations to our
2022 cook-off winners and contestants.
Thank you to our many volunteers who have
helped to make this event a success over the course
of it’s 24 year history.
A big thank you goes out to our generous event
sponsors, the Agri-Business Committee of the Fairmont
Area Chamber, Agriculture Future of America,
Bank Midwest, CFS, Compeer Financial, Devenish,
First Farmers Merchants Bank, Fairmont Vet Clinic/
Preferred Capital Management, Kahler Automation,
Martin County Pork Producers, Profinium Financial
Valero Renewables and Wyffels Hybirds - Matt
Moeller for helping to make these scholarships possible.
We would also like to thank all our
contestants: Green Mill Restaurant, The
Marina Lodge, Rose Lake Golf Club Hy-Vee
and The Cup n Saucer for the time and
talent they contributed to this competition.
Each of the contestants, produced
creative, mouth-watering pork inspired dishes, and
presenting a formidable challenge for both judges
and participants alike in selecting this year’s winning
entries.
The Blue Ribbon Pork Cook-Off is held annually
on Wednesday of the Martin County Fair!
323 East Blue Earth Avenue • Fairmont, MN 56031 • 507-235-5547 • www.FairmontChamber.org • FairmontChamber

Board of Directors Officers:
Chair
Keith Hoye
KSUM and KFMC
Radio
Vice Chair
Joe Evans
Mayo Clinic Health
Systems
Board of Directors:
Rick Ash
United Hospital
District
John Christ
Kahler Automation
Mike Christians
Green Mill
Sara Cyphers
D & S Trophies
Wendy Emler
Century 21
Northland Realty
Staff:
Mission Statement: The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for promoting a healthy business clim
Past Chair
DeAnn Eversman
Dee’s Floral & Designs
Treasurer
Aaron Speltz
Hy-Vee
Marcus Eytcheson
Fairmont Roofing
Nicole Johnston
Visit Fairmont
Blake Potthoff
Fairmont Opera
House, Inc.
Jeff Rouse
Destination Small
Town
Ned Koppen
President
president@fairmontchamber.org
Kandi Menne
Office Manager/Director of
Communications
info@fairmontchamber.org
Rachel Manwarren
Finance Director
finance@fairmontchamber.org
Contact Information:
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
323 East Blue Earth Avenue
P.O. Box 826
Fairmont, MN 56031
Phone: (507) 235-5547
www.FairmontChamber.org
Chamber Message
Greetings from the Fairmont
Area Chamber of Commerce!
With September now here, fall
events and programs will be the
Chamber’s focus moving forward,
but while we plan for our busy
fall schedule, I can’t help looking
back at the great summer the
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce just finished
up. Some of the highlights of our summer
include the Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing,
the Pork Masters Golf Outing, the Martin County
Fair and the Blue Ribbon Pork Cook-Off at the
Fair.
The Fairmont Area Chamber Golf Outing
was as bigger than ever this year. We had
increases in golfers attending and sponsor participation
coupled with great weather which
resulted with a very fun day and a great event
helping support our education programs like
Junior Achievement, Area Career Education &
our ACE website. Thanks to all of our Chamber
members who helped by golfing or sponsoring
this important event.
Soon after that, we had the
Pork Masters Golf Outing which is
always one of the biggest golf days
of the summer and this year was no
different. With over 250 golfers and
dozens of sponsors for this event,
the Pork Masters outing lived up to its billing and
celebrated our local pork producers, the local
pork industry and the huge impact they have on
our local economy.
Finally, the Chamber, like many others just
finished up at the Martin County Fair. Thanks
to everyone who stopped by our booth and said
“Hi”. The Chamber and the Agri-Business Committee
also hosted the 24th annual Blue Ribbon
Pork Cook-Off. There were five restaurants and
caterers who competed to provide the best pork
based dish to everyone who bought a ticket to
the event. Each year we sell 400 tickets to this
event and it sells out every year! The food was
great and everyone had a great time. Make sure
you don’t miss next year’s event.
By: Chamber President Ned Koppen
Each year the Fairmont Area Chamber
of Commerce and the Chamber Agri-Business
Committee gives away 2 - $4,200.00 ag scholarships
and the Chamber Ambassadors give away a
$1,000.00 business scholarship to Martin County
students and this year was no different. Our
summer events go a long way towards making
those 3 scholarships possible and that wouldn’t
happen without the hard work that comes from
both of those Chamber groups. Congratulations
to Lauren Borchardt and Tanner Sinn, who were
awarded our 2 ag scholarships and Garret Myren
who was awarded our business scholarship.
Now that we are transitioning from summer
to fall we look forward to kicking off our Bureau
14 and Agri-Business meeting schedules.
Bureau 14 will start back up in September with
Agri-Business following in November. Junior
Achievement will be starting up in our schools
again this fall. The Fairmont Area Chamber of
Commerce fund raises and coordinates this educational
program in our schools. With the help
of local sponsors, we are able to serve students
in grades K-6 & 8th grades. It is also an election
year and the Chamber is already in
the process of working to bring you
our candidate forums. The forums
give our community the chance to
hear local, state and federal office
candidates respond to questions
from our community members and gives the
candidate a chance to tell the community about
their plans and goals if they should be elected to
office. The exact dates for the forums have not
been set yet. Watch for them later in September
or into October.
The New Teachers Banquet is an event
that the Chamber organizes with our schools
to welcome to educators who are new to our
schools and community. That will happen later
in October. We have a busy, fun and exciting
schedule of events and programs on our calendar
and the Chamber staff will be working hard to
make sure we are ready!
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
works for our membership in four specific areas.
2

ate by facilitating access to leaders, communication and education through programs and services for its members.
Message
These are Engagement, Education, Workforce and Advocacy. Advocacy
is something that is key to your Chamber’s efforts and just as
important to Chamber membership. The Fairmont Area Chamber of
Commerce concentrates its efforts on “Economic Advocacy”. Searching
out and knowing our membership’s problems and challenges is
step one in this process. The second part is being knowledgeable
and educated on those problems, so we can articulate to others
what solutions to our members problems need to be. The last part
of this equation is reaching our to legislators and others who have
the power to affect changes on these issues through their actions
in local, state or federal government. Phone calls, emails, letters
and group action efforts all contribute to this. The Chamber follows
these foundational rules in our advocacy: We won’t favor political
(continued from page 2)
personalities, We will talk to anyone who influences the policies that
affect our members and We will allow any policy maker to agree
with or contradict our position on economic policies. After we allow
for those three things, we determine what is in the best interest
of an individual member or members and communicate to those in
power what will make a positive impact for our membership. Individually
or as a whole. It is our job to stay up to date on issues and
in touch with our leaders. We take that seriously and work hard to
make sure we do it diligently, intelligently and persistently.
Have a great fall and if you have questions about the Fairmont
Area Chamber of Commerce or would like to learn more about
becoming involved, email me at president@fairmontchamber.org or
call (507) 235-5547.
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce Helps You Connect
Chamber Members are invited to Attend One of These Chamber Groups
to Meet People and Learn More About Your Community
Bureau 14 – Meets Every 2nd Wednesday of the Month September
through May. Enjoy Dinner, Speakers, Community Updates and Socializing
at our Signature Networking Event
Agri-Business – Meets Every 3rd Tuesday of the Month November
through May. Enjoy Dinner, Speakers, Community Updates and Socializing
– Provides the inside scoop on Agriculture in Martin County
Business Consultant
The Fairmont Area Chamber of
Commerce is a Business Consultant for
the South Central Regional Center of the Small
Business Development Center.
Chamber President Ned Koppen is your connection
in Martin County to the SBDC.
The SBDC has a team of consultants offering assistance
and expertise in many areas of business
Young Professionals – Meets Every 3rd Thursday Year Round
Enjoy an Opportunity to meet Other Young People in Our Community
and share like Experiences
Young Professionals Enjoy Socializing, Connecting and Making
New Friends
Contact the Chamber for More Information Regarding Any of These
Groups – (507) 235-5547 or info@fairmontchamber.org
development from start-up to succession planning
Contact Ned at (507).235.5547 or email him
president@fairmontchamber.org
The Chamber of Commerce is open
Mon. - Thurs. 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fridays 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
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www.deerequipment.com
PAUL KLOECKNER
Product Specialist
■ Sales & Leasing Expert
■ Customer Focused Service
■ Competitive Pricing
“Your Friendly Ford Dealer Since 1909”
FAIRMONT
FORD
www.fairmontford.com
700 E. Blue Earth Ave.
507-235-6681
email: Paul@fairmontford.com
Mon 8-8; Tues through Fri 8-5:30;
Sat 8-3

Chamber Member Business briefs
Sweet Financial
Services
507-235-5587
Myah Lytle recently attended the Ed Slott Instant IRA Success
2-day workshop in Nashville, TN. She really enjoyed the
information provided about upcoming tax laws and staying
informed of the expected changes to come.
Minuteman Press Fairmont
507-399- 0300
Betsy & Dustin Tino, won the
Top Customer Service Award at
Minuteman Press International World Expo held in Dallas, Texas
July 2022. “We are so proud and happy to be this year’s winners
of the Customer Service Award. It means a tremendous amount
to us. We take a lot of pride in helping our customers promote their business and
clubs “, said owner Betsy Tino. “Thank you to our clients, family, friends and
Minuteman Press International for all of the help, support and guidance over our
last 5 years in business. It was so great to be with our fellow Minuteman Press
Owners from around the globe as well as our Corporate Partners this week at the
World Expo. We learned about a lot of new ideas and products that we can share
with our clients.”
Fairmont Rotary
is excited to host the 2022 Brews & BBQ event
downtown at Citizens park on Saturday September
24th, 4-8PM! Brews will be provided by
our own Fairmont Brewing Company and returning this year is The Dale
Engquist Band and Harmony Spirits with their signature cocktails. Each
ticket will include a meal provided by Scotty Biggs BBQ and 2 drinks
of your choice. Additional drink tickets will be available for purchase.
For an extra fun snack, Gran D's popcorn will be there as well! Proceeds
from the event will support a local park project. Tickets are available
at Fairmont Liquor Store, Profinium, Pierce Accounting & Tax Service,
Fairmont Brewery, Fairmont Chamber and all Fairmont Rotarians
Mayo Clinic Health System
507-223.8100
Rita Williams, a Mayo Clinic
Health System in Fairmont
nurse of 44 years, received her surprise DAISY Award at her
retirement party Aug. 17. The DAISY Award is a prestigious
recognition program used by more than 5,000 health care
facilities and schools worldwide to recognize registered and
licensed practical nurses who demonstrate extraordinary
service and compassion.
Vision Statement: The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce will b
Fairmont Municipal Liquor Store
1755 Center Creek Drive
The Fairmont Liquor Store welcomes Guillermo
Diaz Lopez as the new assistant store manager.
Guillermo will be a familiar face to many of our
customers and brings with him retail and management
skills. We are open Monday - Thursday 9:00
am -9:00 pm Friday and Saturday 9:00 am -10:00pm and Sundays 11:00 am - 3:00
pm. Stop in soon and say hi.
The Sisseton SkyBar at
The Marina Lodge
(507) 848-6673
Fairmont's Newest Rental and Event
Venue For business meetings of
all sorts, company parties, wedding
showers, birthday and anniversary parties, class reunions, holiday parties, and
a variety of social gatherings are just a few of the perfect uses for this facility.
This is a great place to showcase your community to your family, friends, and
co-workers. Located high above Lake Sisseton in Fairmont, this facility has full
food and beverage service. It is perfect for groups of up to 50+. There is also
an outdoor deck. You can pick from the large Marina Lodge menu or pick your
own menu ahead of time served in a buffet. This facility is handicap accessible
with elevator up. Call the Manager Jessica Inglett at 507-848-6673 to make all
your arrangements. And as always the Marina Lodge Bar and Restaurant on the
first floor, including patio, are open seven days a week for your use.
Mayo Clinic Health System
507-223.8100
Mayo Clinic Health System has
named Kendra Kamlitz, M.D., a
general surgeon, as the next medical director for Mayo Clinic
Health System in Fairmont and St. James. Dr. Kamlitz succeeds
Marie Morris, M.D., who will retire in September after 22 years
of service. She and Dr. Morris will begin working together immediately to
ensure a smooth transition in September. Dr. Kamlitz received her undergraduate
degree in electrical engineering and her Doctor of Medicine from
the University of North Dakota. In addition, she completed a general surgery
residency at the University of Kansas. Dr. Kamlitz is an instructor in Surgery
at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science and is certified by the
American Board of Surgery and American Heart Association. "I’m excited
to take on the challenge of partnering with our administrator Amy Long in
leadership of the Fairmont and St. James campuses," says Dr. Kamlitz. "Dr.
Morris will be greatly missed. I look forward to doing my best to carry on her
great work."
4

e recognized as the leader in assisting area businesses to prosper.
Kahler Automation Corp.
507-235-6648
Please join us for a Co WELCOME to two new employees
at Kahler Automation: Administrative Finance
Specialist Sue Wittmus and Testing Technician
Darin Wiederhoeft. We’re happy to have you on board! And CONGRATULA-
TIONS to Territory Sales Manager Max Haake and Phone Support Manager Lyle
Sathoff for taking on new roles at Kahler. We’re excited to see you tackling these
new challenges! Finally, THANK YOU to all 138 customers from bulk material
handling facilities across 17 states who came to Fairmont throughout August to
attend our Enhanced Automation Software Training -- it was great to resume
hosting in-person training after two years of remote learning!
Fluorescent Bulb and Ballast Recycling
Fluorescent bulb recycling will be held in the Tractor Supply
parking lot on Thursday October 6, 2022 - 9:00 - 1:00 p.m.. Fluorescent
lamps contain mercury and are considered a hazardous waste
product. It is against the law to dispose of fluorescent bulbs and
ballasts with your regular garbage. This recycling event serves the
residents and businesses of Martin and Faribault Counties. When
transporting the lamps, be careful not to break them. There will be
a charge at the time of disposal. Straight fluorescent Lamps 4' and
Business Briefs are one of the many
benefits of being a Chamber member. Deadline for
the September Community Connections insert is
August 22. Please limit to 100 words or less. Lengthy
Visit the NEW Career Website
5
STEP, Inc.
507-238-4341
After a delay of 2 years due to the pandemic, STEP, Inc.
is celebrating its 60 plus years of working to provide
support, training and employment for individuals with
disabilities. Organized formally in 1960, STEP started
out as a parent driven service for individuals who had few other options for learning
and growing. Today it provides a variety of services to over 100 individuals
in Martin, Faribault and Watonwan Counties. In recognition of Direct Support
Professional week September 11 – 17, STEP is also celebrating its committed staff
who everyday make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities and in our
communities.
under $ .50 - Over 4' $ .90 High Intensity
Discharge Lamps (HID) $5.00. Fairmont
Public Utilities Customers are eligible for
total reimbursement for bulb recycling
costs. Ask for a rebate coupon, keep your
receipt, and turn both in to Fairmont Public Utilities for reimbursement
of recycling costs. For specific price information call Retrofit Recycling,
Inc. at (800) 274-1309.
submitted briefs may be included, but on a space available only. A photo or
business logo can also be included. No pricing allowed. Examples are: open
houses, expansion, new managers/employees, new product, Milestone anniversaries,
events, awards, etc.
Area Career Exploration (ACE) is pleased to present the Area Career Exploration Program, online!
The mission is to make you aware of career opportunities available right here, in this area.
and offers the opportunity for career exploration at your fingertips. On the Career website you will find insightful, effective and
valuable career information from businesses, organizations, companies and individuals representing a range of careers. Please take the
time to carefully review all that the online Area Career Explorer has to offer. The content, features and flexibility of the online Career
Explorer makes it more engaging and informative than ever! The web address is areacareerexploration.org.
Bureau 14 will start meeting monthly again this
month! It is one of our monthly networking opportunities for our
Chamber member businesses and their employees.
Bureau 14 meets on the secondWednesday of the
month September thru May. The meetings are held at different
chamber member locations. The meetings start off with a social
hour, dinner is ordered and updates are given from: The City of
Fairmont, Martin County, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce,
Visit Fairmont and the Fairmont School District.
Each meeting features a guest speaker. Guest speaker topics
vary each month. Social hour hosts are an important aspect of Bureau
14. As a host you have the opportunity to give a brief business
update and hand out literature to attendees. If you are interested in
hosting a month contact the Chamber now to learn about all the
benefits of being a Bureau 14 host. 507.235.5547 or email
Kandi @ info@fairmontchamber.org

Core Values: We value for our members, employees and community: integrity in all we do, collaboration with all our stakeholders, growth and develop
Chamber Events Candidate Forum Will be Held
6
September 5
Closed for Labor Day
September 14
Bureau 14
September 21
Ambassadors Meeting - Ribbon Cuttings
September 22
Young Professionals
JOIN THE
CHAMBER
TODAY Call
235.5547
or find the
APPLICATION
on our website
Fine Jewelry
Sovell Jewelry
Your Professional Jeweler
Since 1954
Full Service-In House Repair
Jessica & Steve Sovell
Gemologist • Goldsmith
The Governmental Affairs Committee
of the Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
will again host a "meet the candidates" forum.
We are in the initial stages of planning and
will announce the October 2022 dates and times
on our Facebook page as soon as we have them.
During this forum candidates will answer questions
from the planning
committee and
questions from the audience
can be presented.
Banquet for New Teachers
Each year the Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
plans a banquet to welcome new teachers and teachers celebrating 25
years with their school. Teachers and principals of the Fairmont public
and private schools, Martin Luther, and Arise Academy/ Southern Plains
are in attendance.We are looking for business or individuals to sponsor a
new teachers dinner at the banquet. They are then seated with them for
dinner and program. This provides someone that is new to our area the
opportunity to meet a business person which often results in a continuing mentorship or friendship.
Each new teacher is also given a "welcome bag" filled with information about Fairmont and Martin
County. Area businesses may contribute a promotional item or a store coupon to the welcome bags.
If you are interested in being a sponsor or contributing to the welcome bags please call Kandi at the
Chamber - 507.235.5547.
We are always looking for new Ambassadors.
• Are an owner or employee of a Chamber member
• Acts as the goodwill arm of the Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
• Meet the third Wednesday of every month @ 3:00
• Will attend the majority of all Ambassador functions.
If you know of a business the Ambassadors should visit due to relocation, change of ownership,
major remodeling, etc., please call the Chamber office 507.235.5547. The business does not have to be
a Chamber member to receive a visit from the Ambassadors.
Professional Window Cleaning
Insured
Residential &
Commercial
Cleaning
Wouldn’t it be nice to have the windows
of your home sparkling clean!
Please allow us to give you a free estimate.
You will be pleasantly surprised!
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.
Pork Cook-Off Photos
7
Chamber Bucks make a great gift
And, they promote shopping local. They may be spent in Martin County at most businesses. If you have that hard to
buy for person - consider Chamber Bucks. The Chamber of Commerce is located at 323 E. Blue Earth Ave in Fairmont.
We are open Monday - Friday - 8-5
Medicare can be complicated.
A Farm Bureau agent makes it easy.
Call me to find a Medicare
supplement plan that’s right
for you.
507.235.5547
info@fairmontchamber.org
Jeff Schlomann
201 Downtown Plaza | Fairmont | (507) 238-4218
jeffreyschlomann.fbfsagents.com
Authorized independent agents for Blue Cross ® and Blue Shield ® of Minnesota and Blue Plus ® , nonprofit
independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
W-5018029 10/17
(507) 238-4949

What's Happening at CER in September?
Fairmont Community Education
and Recreation
“Lifelong Learning and Leisure Opportunities for All Ages”
Watch your mailboxes for our Fall Catalog to arrive this month! Registration
is now open on our webstore: www.fairmont.k12.mn.us/o/cer or call CER to
register! Check out our new offerings of Health and Wellness classes starting
in September. Class offerings and descriptions can be found on the webstore, in
our Fall Catalog or by calling the CER office. New Adult Basic Education classes
offered Monday - Thursday as well as Distance Learning options. Learn English,
Prepare for Your GED, Improve Reading-Math-Writing Skills, and much more.
Classes start September 12. Please call the CER office at 507-235-3141 for more
information! Are you 55+? The MN Highway Safety and Research Center will
be holding an in-person refresher and first timer at the Southern MN Educational
Campus (115 S Park Street). You must PRE-REGISTER as space is limited!
To register call 1-888-234-1294 or visit: www.mnsafetycenter.org
A Sampling of Upcoming Activities
Microsoft Word-Basic Sept 10
GED Classes Start Sept 12
Microsoft Excel- Basic Sept 12
Key Quest- Search for the Golden Key Sept 12
Safe Routes to School Starts Sept 13
Junior Achievement Volunteers are Needed
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
is proud to coordinate the Junior Achievement
(JA) program in our schools each year
through the generous support of our area
businesses, local grants and individuals in our
community. The mission of Junior Achievement
is “To inspire and prepare young people
to succeed in a global economy.” JA teaches
principles of market-based economics and entrepreneurship in age appropriate
Adult English Learner Classes Start Sept 13
Meditation Class Sept 13
Youth Bowling Preps Sept 23
55 Defensive Driving- First Timers Sept 26
ECFE Classes Begin Sept 26
Hips, Thighs & Otherwise Virtual Class Sept 27
Women’s Heart Health Virtual Class Sept 28
The Art of De-Aging Virtual Class Sept 29
Acupressure & Other Tools for Women Over 35 Oct 3
55 Defensive Driving- Refresher Oct 3
Learn How to Bowl Oct 4
Dog Obedience Oct 4
Sip N Paint Oct 6
Upholstery/Caned Chair Restoration Oct 6
Overcome Your Carbohydrate Cravings Oct 10
Scuba Diving Oct 11
Special Olympics- SOfit Program Oct 11
For an up-to date list of activities, see the CER Web Store located
www.fairmont.k12.mn.us/o/cer (Register online with your MCard/Visa.)
For more information contact the CER Office located at
115 South Park Street, Room 131, Fairmont.
Call 507-235-3141 or Email sbusiahn@fairmont.k12.mn.us
increments, creating a stronger understanding of how the world around them
works and how they fit into the greater economic picture. Our local Junior
Achievement program relies on over 40 volunteer teachers and reaches an average
of 57 classrooms totaling 1154 students in grades K-6th and 8th grade. Our
annual cost is $12,850 for the classroom kits alone.
If you would like to help support the Junior Achievement program in our area by
making a donation or becoming a volunteer teacher, please contact the Fairmont
Area Chamber of Commerce at 507-235-5547. Find out how your life can be
enriched by volunteering or sponsoring a classroom!
8
www.fairmontarealife.com
Call your
Sentinel advertising
representative
to place your ad here each
month!
James Busche, O.D.
The Best
Optometry
In Sight.
1307 ALBION AVENUE, SUITE 102
FAIRMONT, MN
PH: (507) 238-4228
Most Insurance
Plans Welcome
Spencer Seibert, O.D.
111 EAST 6TH STREET
BLUE EARTH, MN
PH: (507) 526-2020