Community Connections March 2024

March 2024
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
Community Connections
2023 Business of the Year Awarded
Inside
This Issue
2023 Large Business of the Year Winner
Sterling Pharmacy
2023 New Business of the Year
Janzen's Greenhouse
Page 2: Presidents
Message
Page 3: New Board
Members, Area Career
Exploration
Pages 4 : Business Briefs
Page 5: Welcome Brooke,
Business of the Year
Page 6: Drama Free Work
Seminar
Page 7: Ambassador Visits
Page 8 : Community
Education Recreation
(CER)
2023 Small Business of the Year
Bowlmor Lanes
Each year, at our annual meeting banquet, the
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce honors four
Chamber member businesses and organizations who
are recognized as setting a standard of excellence and
innovation in their business practices and community
involvement. Fifteen area businesses were nominated
by their peers, representing various means of staying
positive in an unprecendented journey.
2023 Non Profit Business of the Year
Martin County Toys for Tots
This years banquet was held Friday, March 8th.
The Annual Banquet began with social hour, followed
by dinner, a brief meeting, introduction of Chamber
Board and Staff. Comedy Magician Jerry Frasier entertained
us through the night. the night ended with the
announcement of the winners in the following catagories;
Large Business, Small Business, New Business,
and Non Profit. Congratulations to all nominees and
winners. Thank you to our Banquet Sponsors.
323 East Blue Earth Avenue • Fairmont, MN 56031 • 507-235-5547 • www.FairmontChamber.org • FairmontChamber

Mission Statement: The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce is an advocate for promoting a healthy business clim
Board of Directors Officers:
Chair
Aaron Speltz
Hy-Vee
Vice Chair
Vonnie Cone
ReMax Total
Realty
Board of Directors:
Rick Ash
United Hospital
District
Kermit Brown
Kinship of Martin
County
John Christ
Kahler Automation
Mike Christians
Green Mill
Brooke Wohlrabe
Sentinel
Staff:
Past Chair
Joe Evans
Mayo Clinic Health
Systems
Treasurer
Joe Loughmiller
Phileo by Lesaffre
Zak Clemetson
Mayo Clinic Health
Systems
Jeff Militello
Militello Motors
Miranda Tulowetzke
Sweet Financial
Partners
Brittany Hartman
Visit Fairmont
Kandi Menne
President
president@fairmontchamber.org
Kandi Menne
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce President
Chamber News
Last week we held the Chamber’s
annual banquet. It was an honor
to spend the evening with so many
of our Chamber members and their guests. The
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce past and
present board of directors were recognized, as
were Sydney and Rachel the “Chamber girls” that
keep things on track daily.
There were fifteen Business of the
Year nominees. We thank each of them for
the continued investment and high standards
of business practice! Congratulations to the
recipients of 2023 Business of the Year: Large
Business of the Year Winner Sterling Pharmacy,
Small Business of the Year Bowlmor Lanes,
New Business of the Year, Janzen's Greenhouse,
Non-Profit Business of the Year Martin County
Toys for Tots.
Encouragement: Mid-February I attended the
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Executive
(MCCE) Annual meeting in Hastings. We were
fortunate Bob Harris, who is well known
and highly respected by Chamber executives
everywhere spoke to us on building a great
Board, strategic planning and organizational
excellence. Representatives from the Minnesota
Chamber presented on what to expect at the
2024 Legislative Session in an election year
this was such an important and informative
session I invited a representative of the
Minnesota Chamber to speak at our April Bureau
14 meeting. We will learn more about the
importance of the business votes! There were
numerous breakout sessions always leaving me
enthusiastic and energized! I again left feeling
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Rachel Manwarren
Finance Director
finance@fairmontchamber.org
Sydney Andrews
Office Manager
info@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
2023-2024 Martin County Leadership - Quality of Life Day at the Martin County Historical Society
The Martin County Leadership group
meets one day a month September thru May. Each
month provides a different learning experience.
They've toured the water treatment plant, held
a mock city council meeting in Council Chambers,
toured the high school, visited the county jail,
library and Lakeview Methodist for Healthcare
Day. April is Ag Day and they will be visiting a
variety of different Ag related venues a panel of
experts. This is a great learning experience for
new or long-term members of our community.
Give us a call or email if you would like to get
on the list for the 2025/2026 Martin County
Leadership Program.

ate by facilitating access to leaders, communication and education through programs and services for its members.
refreshed and inspired with ideas of what
we can do for and with our Chamber
members.
Membership: We are confident that
changing our membership dues structure
in 2024 to Tiered dues has proven to be a
good decision. Past members have rejoined,
we have new businesses joining, we are
retaining members, creating value and
gaining momentum! As our membership
grows, we are able to offer more services
and programs which in turn strengthen our
business community!
If there is a topic you would like
to know more about at our Agri Business,
Bureau 14, or Young Professionals groups
meetings, reach out to me. We are always
willing to find an expert for a guest speaker.
Future Workforce: All businesses
are invited to be part of Area Career
Exploration (ACE) for sophomores held at
the Fairmont High School in April. They
are our future work force and it is critical
we educate them on the opportunities right
here in Martin County! Businesses also
have the opportunity to stay for the Job
Fair. Fairmont Jrs. and Srs. come thru the
business area as a refresher and learn about
jobs, internships, apprentice opportunities.
If you are looking for summer employees
You need to be at ACE! Contact us today.
Remember to open your Monday
morning Chamber Enews e-mail, this has
the most Recent events, dates and locations
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listed. We also send out dedicated emails
for our events. For our Chamber members
we have ad space available in enews and
also send out eblasts - call Sydney for all the
details
When you are a member, you are
investing in the future of our community!
We look forward to helping you and your
business achieve even greater success
in 2024 and the years to come!
As your Chamber President, I am
honored to work alongside all who share
the vision of business growth and a healthy
community environment. Stop in and see
us @ 323 E. Blue Earth Ave, you may reach
me at 507.235.5547 or 507.525.4324 or by
e-mail president@fairmontchamber.org.
More 2024 New & Renewing Members
Partner Member's
Hy- Vee Foods
Investor Member's
Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.
Goldfinch Estates
Green Plains Fairmont LLC
US Bank
Walmart
Believer Member's
Day Plumbing Heating and Cooling Inc.
Fairmont Roofing
Minnesota Energy Resources Corporation
Sentinel
Promoter Member's
Bowlmor Lanes
Erpelding, Voigt and Co. L.L.P
Fairmont Housing and Redevelopment
Lund Chiropractic
Northern Lines Insurance
Safety Solutions Inc.
Southern Minnesota Skin Solutions
Thate's Tree Service
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

Business Briefs
Martin County Veterans Memorial
The Martin County Veterans Memorial Committee is
planning a Pork Chop feed, Dedication Ceremony,
and fund raiser on Saturday, May 25 (just prior to
Memorial Day) to thank everyone for their support
in helping us complete this project. Free meal tickets
have been sent to all the previous donors. All the statues are now in
place and they are labeled to show which War/Conflict each represents.
The Cobra helicopter actually served our country in Viet Nam and is a
featured attraction. We will have speakers, music and food. In addition,
we have pictures and postcards for sale. The public is invited, program
starts at 11:00 a.m.
Vision Statement: The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce will b
Fairmont Opera House
(507)238-4900
Fairmont Opera House and Arts Midwest Worldfest
presents: LADAMA!!! Join us for a jubilant
celebration of the rhythms and melodies of the rich cultures of Brazil,
Colombia, and Venezuela, woven together by the enchanting melodies of
LADAMA. Their enchanting performances, woven through the threads
of our local schools, nursing homes, and businesses, will culminate in a
GRAND FINALE on March 16th at 7pm hosted at the Red Rock Center
for the Arts and presented by the Fairmont Opera House. Tickets only
available through Fairmont Opera House - online or in person at our offices
at 112 E Blue Earth Ave Tuesday-Friday 9am-4pm
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Red Rock Center for Arts
(507)235-9262
This husband and wife duo from Blue Earth will take
you on a breathtaking journey for a night to remember.
Paul and Kristin live in Blue Earth with their twin son
and daughter. They enjoy sharing their gift of music. Paul is the choir
conductor/teacher for grades 6-12 and Kristin is the general music teacher
for grades K-5 at Blue Earth Area Schools. Advance tickets are available
through March 21. Make it a VIP night. A VIP Ticket includes the
concert and reception with special VIP seating. Join Paul and Kristin
before the show from 5:45-6:45. Enjoy light hor d’ouvres with a glass of
wine or beer, a special pre show, and VIP concert seating. Advance VIP
ticket is required.
Goldfinch Estates
(507)235-9405
Judy Wolner, a caregiver at
Vista Prairie Goldfinch Estates, is the recipient of the
LeadingAge Minnesota’s Caregiver of the Year award.
As the Community Care Coordinator for Vista Prairie at Goldfinch Estates
in Fairmont, MN, Judy’s exceptional dedication and compassionate
care have made a profound impact on the lives of memory care residents
and their families. The Caregiver of the Year Award honors individuals in
older adult services who demonstrate exceptional commitment to older
adults and enrich the quality of life of those in their care. Wolner was selected
for the prestigious award out of a field of more than 60,000 professional
caregivers in LeadingAge Minnesota’s membership. Wolner sets
herself apart through her authentic, dependable, and honest approach
to caregiving. Her empathetic demeanor not only calms the stigma of
memory care but also brings joy to residents and their family members.
MCSAP Coalition
(507) 236-4118
With funding from the Schmeeckle Foundation,
MCSAP Coalition will be introducing the Botvin
Life Skills curriculum into third through fifth
grades in area schools. This is an age-appropriate
and evidence-based substance misuse and violence prevention program.
It looks at multiple facets of a person and covers topics like
self-esteem, dealing with stress, and decision-making. Similar to
the Junior Achievement program, this program relies on community
volunteers willing to go into the classrooms for 45-minute sessions.
Training is provided. We invite you to be one of those adults
who builds relationships with these youth and makes a difference
in their lives! For more information, contact Project Coordinator
Shelly Larsen at 507-399-1062.
Sterling Pharmacy
(507)238-2797
Are you looking for a fun event for you and your
kiddos this spring? Sterling Fairmont is hosting an Eggstravaganza kid’s
event! On March 23, between 1 pm and 3 pm, kids can spin the wheel for
prizes, enjoy craft stations, have some fun with face painting, and take
pictures with the Easter Bunny! For some shopping fun, adults can enjoy
the Eggstravaganza by saving up to 40% off throughout the store from
March 22 through 24!
Did you know there are extra benefits to being a Sterling Pharmacy customer?
Transfer today and earn a free gift with every ten prescriptions
you fill, receive a “Thank You” coupon every time you pick up a prescription,
take advantage of our monthly buy one, get one for a penny offer,
Earn double points on all non-prescription purchases, and more!

e recognized as the leader in assisting area businesses to prosper.
Business Briefs Cont.
Bravo Zulu House
(507) 400-1973
Join us at the Fairmont HS Performing Arts Center as
Jason Gray bring a concert to Fairmont to benefit the
Bravo-Zulu House.
The Bravo-Zulu House is an all-military sober house in Southern Minnesota
dedicated to serving the sober living needs of veterans. According
to the VA, most vets suffering from PTSD abuse drugs and alcohol. The
Bravo-Zulu House has partnered with the American Legion, VFW, and
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of MN.Tickets are purchased online.
Waste Management
(507)235-9898
Now Hiring CDL Drivers in Fairmont, MN $2500 Sign
on Bonus! Search wm.com/Careers Job# 2312902
ROLE HIGHLIGHTS:
Safely operate a heavy-duty truck to perform assigned duties on transfer
routes. • No prior work experience required. • Commercial Driver’s
License B (CDL) is required. Our crews are the best! Highly trained and
safety focused, and home every night!!
Profinium Insurance
(507)235-8565
Profinium Insurance would like to Congratulate
Hailey Krenz for her promotion from CSA (Customer Service Agent) in
the Fairmont location to a Selling Agent in our Truman location effective
in December 2023. Hailey will now be servicing and writing new business
out of our Truman location. Please help us congratulate Hailey on
her new promotion here at Profinium Insurance Agency.
EXIT Realty- Great Plains
(507)236-4811
EXIT Realty - Great Plains is pleased to announce that
Mary Jo Mickelson and Malia Hedlund have joined
its growing team of dedicated real estate sales professionals. EXIT Realty
- Great Plains, located at 400 South State Street, Ste #330, Fairmont,
Minnesota is a proud member of EXIT Realty Upper Midwest's rapidly
expanding network of independently owned and operated brokerages
across the region.
United Hospital District
(507)728-4000
United Hospital District (UHD) of Blue Earth
announces the expansion of their Family Medicine
department in Wells with the arrival of new
provider David Heine, a Family Medicine physician
who is now seeing patients in UHD’s Wells
Clinic Monday through Thursday. David brings the provider total to 16
in UHD’s Family Medicine department. The busy team covers all areas
of general healthcare, including pediatrics, adolescent health, men’s and
women’s health, and aging issues. They provide diagnosis and treatment
for a wide variety of issues, including routine care, and additionally provide
referrals for specialized services. David will see patients of all ages
and has special interest in managing chronic health conditions and longterm
health coaching.
Metro Sales Inc.
(507)703-2624
Known for its printers and service statewide.
Metro Sales also offers professional print services
for com-panies nationwide. Providing a wide
array of printing, scanning, service and finished
products. Metro Sales is your one stop shop for
your document solutions.
Pork Master Golf Outing
(507)235-5547
The 32nd Annual Golf Outing will be held on
Monday June 22, 2024. This event is hosted by
the Martin County Pork Producers, the Agri-
Business and Ambassadors committees of the
Chamber of Commerce. This recognizes the
importance of the pork in-dustry in Martin County and the state of Minnesota
while raising funds for Ag Scholarships. Area pork producers are
invited to join us for a day of golf and networking. For more information
or to become a sponsor email Rachel with the Chamber at finance@fairmontchamber.org
or visit their website at www.porkmasters.com
5
Business Briefs are one of the many benefits of
being a Chamber member. Deadline for the April Community
Connections insert is March 24. Please limit to 100 words or
less. Lengthy 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.

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
March 13
Bureau 14
March 19
Agri- Business
March 20
Ambassadors Meet
March 29
Office Closed (Good Friday)
WELCOME
NEW MEMBER
WEALTH
MANAGEMENT
SOLUTIONS
AMERIPRISE
FINANCIAL
Call the Chamber at
235.5547 to join
Today
507.235.5547
info@fairmontchamber.org
Area Career Exploration
ACE will be held on April 10, 2024
Our annual ace event is coming up in just
a month Ace is an annual event held on the second
Wednesday in April. The event provides students with
information about careers and jobs located in Martin
County/ South Central Region of Minnesota. The
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce partners with
businesses, educational entities, MVAC, Careerforce,
and Fairmont Area Schools in hosting their annual
Chamber Golf Outing
Chamber Bucks
Promote shopping local. They may be
spent in Martin County at most businesses.
If you have that hard to buy for personconsider
Chamber Bucks.
The Chamber of Commerce is located at
323 E. Blue Earth Ave in Fairmont
We are open Monday- Friday
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Area Career Exploration day in the Fair-mont Area
Jr./Sr. High School gymnasium. The day includes an
interactive trivea contest in the PAC.
Over 650 sophomores from 11area schools visit several
businesses, colleges, and organizations from the
area. We also host a job fair for the Fairmont Juniors
and Seniors.
We are looking got more businesess to par-ticipate
and help make this a great event for students to come
to. This is also a great way for you to network and
make a great impact on what the students choose
to do with their careers after graduate highschool.
You also can engage with the Fairmont Juniors and
Seniors and possibly get an intern or some summer
help. If your business is wanting to participate at the
ACE event should contact Sydney at the Fairmont
Area Chamber of Commerce at (507)235-5547 or
info@fairmontchamber.org
Friday June 7th is slated to be the Annual Fairmont Area Chamber of
Commerce Golf Outing at the Rose Lake Golf Club. Start getting your golf
team lined up now! Additional details will be announced soon. We are looking
for hole and green sponsors, door prize contributions, and items for the
players participation bags. If you are interested in contrib-uting or ontaining
information contact Sydney at the chamber office by phone (507)235-5547
or by email info@fairmontchamber.org
6

ment for our members, recognition of accomplishments, effective communication, and doing all things efficiently and in a fiscally responsible manner.
Chamber Ambassador Visits
7
Chamber Ambassadors went to Lori Darlings to congratulate
them on their new location. Stop in soon to see the
great things they have to offer.
Ambassadors recently visited the Quality Inn to congratulate
and welcome the Manager on the new owners.
The Ambassadors also went to Super 8 to welcome
and congratulate the Manager and new owners.
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.
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Chamber Annual Banquet
8
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