December2025

December 2025
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
Community Connections
Inside
This Issue
Page 2: President's Message;
New and Outgoing Chamber
Board Members
Page 3: Bureau 14 & Agri-
Business; Chamber Bucks
Page 4 & 5: Business Briefs
Page 6: Santa Fly-in pictures:
Community Calendar
Page 7: Ambassadors
Page 8: Junior Achievement
Fairmont Glows once again lit up the
community as thousands gathered on Friday, November
21, 2025, to celebrate the city’s beloved holiday tradition.
The evening featured the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus
at the Fairmont Municipal Airport, festive downtown
activities, the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the
Glows Parade from Downtown Plaza to Lincoln Park.
Local businesses and organizations helped create
a bright and memorable parade with creative floats and
sparkling lights. This year’s parade winners were:
Best Business Glow: UHD Home Health & Hospice
Best Community Glow: STEP Inc.
Grand Glow: Valero Renewable Welcome
The Salvation Army warming station welcomed
paradegoers throughout the evening with hot drinks,
treats, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Many also
enjoyed the soup suppers and boutique shopping offered
by local churches and downtown businesses.
Thanks to the participants, volunteers, and
community members who helped make Fairmont
Glows shine. We continue to accept donations to the
Holiday Street Light Fund to support the seasonal lights
that brighten the city each year.
Santa Fly-in pics on pg 6
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:
Past Chair
Vonnie Cone
ReMax Total Realty
Chair
Joe Loughmiller
Phileo by Lesaffre
Board of Directors:
Sara Barnett-Davis
Walmart
Zak Clemetson
Mayo Clinic Health
Systems
Luke Ebeling
Midco
Brittany Hartman
Visit Fairmont
Sarah McConnell
Compeer Financial
Staff:
Vice Chair and
Treasurer
Michele Miller
Kahler Electric Co.
Sierra McCraw
McDonald's
Mary Ellen Rigby
UHD Home Health
and Hospice
Nicole Simpson
Bank Midwest
Miranda Tulowetzke
CCF Bank
Brooke Wohlrabe
Fairmont Sentinel
Kandi Menne
President
president@fairmontchamber.org
Rachel Manwarren
Finance Director
finance@fairmontchamber.org
Shayla Stortenbecker
Director of Communications
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
Happy Holidays!
Kandi Menne - Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce President
The New Year is just around
the corner, and we want to thank our
Chamber members for their continued
support of the Fairmont Area Chamber
of Commerce, our mission, and our goals. Without
the support of our members, our success would not be
possible.
One might ask, “Why join the Chamber?” The
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce exists to make
our community a better place to work, live, and play.
Our members are proud to be part of an organization
that plays a vital role in the community.
As a nonprofit advocate for businesses, the
Chamber is led by a volunteer Board of Directors and
is dedicated to promoting civic, commercial, industrial,
and agricultural progress. We work diligently with
community partners and government at all levels to
support sound legislation and effective administration.
When you or your business becomes a member, you are
investing in the future of our community. Membership
benefits include referrals to potential customers, weekly
updates on local, state, and national news, events,
access to networking groups, volunteer opportunities,
committees, free monthly business updates, and much
more. If you are not already a member of the Fairmont
Area Chamber of Commerce, we encourage you to join
today. Your membership will benefit both your business
and our community for years to come. We look forward
to working for all of you.
We welcome your comments, suggestions, and ideas.
Please feel free to call or schedule a visit.
As your Chamber President, I am honored to
work alongside our dedicated Board and Chamber team,
all of whom share the vision of business growth and a
healthy community environment. Stop in and see us at
323 E. Blue Earth Avenue. You may also reach me at 507-
235-5547 or via email at president@fairmontchamber.
org.
New Chamber Board Members
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased
to share that Michele Miller of Kahler Electric Co. will now
serve as Vice Chair and Treasurer.
The Chamber also welcomes Nicole Simpson of Bank
Midwest as the newest member of the Board of Directors.
We’re excited for the experience and energy both
bring to the team, and we look forward to their contributions
in the year ahead.
Outgoing Board Members
The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce thanks Jeff Militello, Owner and
General Manager of Militello Motors, for his service on the Board of Directors. Jeff
joined simply to help where he could, and his dedication has made a lasting impact.
He holds an Associate’s degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from the University of
Minnesota and a BBA in Automotive Marketing from Northwood University. Jeff
and his wife, Gwen, have two adult daughters, Maddy and Macy. A member of the
Knights of Columbus, he enjoys golf, water skiing, and flying as a private pilot. We
are grateful for Jeff’s contributions and wish him the best in all he does.
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ate by facilitating access to leaders, communication and education through programs and services for its members.
Bureau 14 and Agri-Business Combo
Each year, we combine our Bureau 14 and Agri-Business
meetings into one event during the month of December. On
December 10th, our Chamber Members were treated to guest
speakers Representative Bjorn Olson (tentative) and Senator
Rich Draheim as they discussed news and shared updates
from the Minnesota State Capitol. If you are not yet a Chamber
Member and are curious about joining to participate in events
like this, please contact us at the office.
3
See pictures from last month's meetings:
Picture right: Bureau 14; speaker Blake Potthoff
Pictured left: Agri - Business; speaker Haley Ammann-Ekstrom
Chamber Bucks Make Great Gifts!
By now, most of you have likely started
your holiday shopping and gift giving, and if
you’re still looking for the perfect present,
we have a suggestion that is simple, practical,
and sure to be appreciated: “Chamber
Bucks.” These gift certificates are incredibly
versatile and can be used at a wide variety of Martin County
businesses, making them an ideal choice for anyone on your gift list.
Who can purchase “Chamber Bucks”? The answer is simple—
anyone! They are available to the public, and we gladly accept payment
by cash or check when purchasing these certificates. Each “Chamber
Buck” is an actual check, so recipients can use them just like cash
when paying for goods or services at participating local businesses.
If your purchase exceeds the value of your “Chamber
Bucks,” the difference can easily be paid using another form
of payment, such as cash, check, or credit card. This makes
it a flexible option for both gift-givers and recipients alike.
For business owners or managers, “Chamber Bucks” offer a wonderful
opportunity to give employees a meaningful holiday bonus while
simultaneously supporting our local economy. By choosing this
option, you are investing in your community and helping local
businesses thrive. If you are a business that accepts “Chamber
Bucks,” you can deposit them just like any other check directly
into your bank account, making them easy to manage and use.
This holiday season, make your gift-giving easier, more
thoughtful, and community-focused. Thank you for shopping local
and helping make Martin County a stronger, more vibrant place for
everyone!
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
www.deerequipment.com

Business Briefs
Raider Wind Project
Coffee Chat
hosted by Next Era Energy
608-705-0054
The community gathered for coffee
and a chance to learn more about the proposed
wind project in Jackson and Martin counties.
Residents stopped in at Graffiti Corner on
Wednesday, Nov. 12, and Thursday, Nov. 13,
to meet the development team and discuss the
project. There was no formal presentation; it
was simply an opportunity for conversation
and questions. The sessions ran from 3–6 PM
on Wednesday and 8–11 AM on Thursday at
Graffiti Corner.
Sterling Pharmacy
507-238-2797
Sterling Pharmacy in Fairmont is partnering once again with the
Best Christmas Ever organization to support a local family facing a challenging
year. Now through December 10, community members can stop
by Sterling to make a donation that will contribute to a surprise Christmas
gift designed specifically for the family’s needs.
Best Christmas Ever works with local businesses each year to uplift
families who have experienced significant hardship. Families are nominated
quietly by people in the community, and the selected family receives
a personalized gift bundle meant to offer hope and a fresh start.
The Astrup Family Foundation will match all donations up to the
first $5,000, ensuring each contribution goes even further. Donations can
be made during checkout or by speaking with any team member at Sterling.
For more about the organization, visit bcemovement.org.
Vision Statement: The Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce will b
Lose this insert? Find these business briefs on our website
www.fairmontchamber.org under Member News!
United Hospital District
507-526-7968
United Hospital District (UHD) announced
that CEO Rick Ash has been named a 2025
Minnesota Community Star Award winner by the
Minnesota Department of Health. He is one of four
honorees recognized for significant contributions to
the health and wellbeing of rural communities. Commissioner
of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham praised
the dedication and service shown by healthcare leaders
across Greater Minnesota. Rick is being honored
for his work to expand and strengthen rural health services, as well as his
longtime involvement in organizations that support rural healthcare.
He highlighted UHD’s commitment to listening to patients, investing
in community priorities, and ensuring essential services—such
as 24/7 emergency care, obstetrics, surgery, telehealth, and modernized
facilities—remain close to home. UHD continues to focus on advancing
high-quality, local care for families.
Fairmont Chamber
507-235-5547
info@fairmontchamber.org
We are seeking ads for the Fairmont
Area Life Guide coming out in 2026.
We print ~5000 copies, most of which
stay local but some go to SD, IA, and WI
travel centers. If you would like us to save
you a spot while you prepare your ad, please
let us know.
Also, email us if you'd like to see this
year's rate sheet!
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Business Briefs are one of the many benefits of being a Chamber
member. Deadline for the December Community Connections
insert is November 26th. Please limit to 100 words or less. Lengthy
submitted briefs may be included, but only on a space-available
basis. A photo or business logo can also be included. No pricing
allowed. Things to include are: open houses, expansions, new
managers/employees, new products, milestone anniversaries,
events, awards, etc.

e recognized as the leader in assisting area businesses to prosper.
Business Briefs
5
MN Paid Leave
Paid Leave applications open soon
Minnesota Paid Leave is a new state government
program starting January 1, 2026, that will offer
payments and job protections so people can take
time off work to care for themselves or their loved
ones during some of life’s most important moments.
This month, we tested the Paid Leave application
with employees at select partner organizations. After this successful
test, we anticipate opening Bonding Leave applications in early December.
This will give workers and employees time to plan and prepare for
the start of Paid Leave.
Get ready: Be prepared when your employees apply for leave
Your employees will be able to apply in December if they welcomed
a child in 2025 and want to take Bonding Leave in a single block of
time, starting in January. They must inform you before they apply with the
state. Before Paid Leave begins, there are steps you can take to get ready.
Fairmont Salvation Army
507-238-9797
A FEW SHORT HOURS, A LIFE CHANGED
Martin Co. Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign
Volunteer signup starts Oct. 1, 2025 at:
RegisterToRing.com
Kettles run Nov. 15 - Dec. 23
Questions? Call 507-238-9797
#1 Lisa – Fairmont Case Manager | #2 Krysta –Area Manager
Visit Fairmont
507-235-8585
Fairmont is proud to
be featured on My Town Series,
a show that highlights
the unique stories, traditions,
and people of small towns
across the USA.
You’re invited to an
early public premiere on Saturday, December 13 at
2 PM at the Performing Arts Center at Fairmont Jr.-
Sr. High School. The episode will stream on YouTube
on Sunday, December 21 at 6:30 PM. In this episode,
viewers will see what it’s like to live, work, and play
in our community through different families who
choose to call Fairmont home.
MidwestIT Systems
507-526-5979
Midwest IT Systems, Inc., a leading managed technology services
provider, is urging business owners to take advantage of the 2025 IRS Section
179 tax deduction, which allows companies to immediately expense qualifying
technology and equipment purchases. For 2025, businesses can deduct up
to $2,500,000 on purchases such as servers, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity,
software licenses, and phone systems placed in service before December 31.
“Section 179 remains one of the most effective ways for businesses
to invest in growth while simultaneously reducing taxable income,” said Allen
Aukes, President at Midwest IT Systems, Inc. “While we’re not tax professionals,
we view it as our responsibility to help our clients make smart
financial and technological decisions that strengthen their operations.”
“Each year, we see companies leave money on the table simply because
they didn’t act fast enough,” Aukes added. Businesses should consult
a CPA or qualified tax advisor to determine their eligible deductions under
2025 guidelines.
Interested in local happenings? Check out the new
Community Calendar at fairmontareacalendar.com to see
upcoming events in the area. From festivals and parades
to local meetings and fundraisers, there’s always something
happening in our community. You can post your own
events—just go to the website, click Submit Events, and
fill out the form.

Core Values: We value for our members, employees and community: integrity in all we do, collaboration with all our stakeholders, growth and develop
6
CHAMBER EVENTS
December 10th
Bureau 14 &
Agri-Business
December 24th & 25th
Chamber Closed
Santa Fly-In
Visit
www.FairmontChamber.org
under "Events" to find out
more about these and other
happenings
Join the
Chamber Today!
Interested
in becoming a
Chamber Member?
Contact
the Chamber
Check out our New Calendar!
Fairmont area organizations now have
an easier way to share what’s happening in
our community. The Chamber has launched
a new online events calendar; a central
hub for fundraisers, workshops, live music,
grand openings, and everything in between.
Posting an event is simple. Scan the
QR code in this newsletter to go straight to
the submission page. Fill out the form with
MERRY
CHRISTMAS!
your details, hit submit, and the Chamber will
review and approve your listing before it goes
live. No account needed, no complicated steps.
A community calendar is only as strong
as the contributions it receives. If your group
is planning something, big or smal, add it to
the calendar so more residents and visitors can
discover it. The more events shared, the more
connected and vibrant the Fairmont area becomes!
507.235.5547
info@fairmontchamber.org
Chamber Bucks
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-Thursday
8-5PM and Friday 8-3PM.
Community Calendar

ment for our members, recognition of accomplishments, effective communication, and doing all things efficiently and in a fiscally responsible manner.
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Ambassadors
- Are an owner or employee of a Chamber member
- Act as the goodwill arm of the Fairmont Area Chamber of
Commerce
- Meet the third Wednesday of every month @ 3:00PM
- 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
(507-235-5547) or email (info@fairmontchamber.org).
The business does NOT have to be a Chamber member to
receive a visit from the Ambassadors.
Chamber Ambassadors welcomed Red Star Fertilizer, a new business
in our community. Wishing them success as they begin this new
venture!
Chamber Ambassadors celebrated the Grand Opening of Goodnews
Collective. Congratulations on this exciting new addition to our
community!
Chamber Ambassadors stopped by Lakeview Funeral Home to
celebrate their newly remodeled space. Wishing continued success in
serving our community!
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Insured
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Wouldn’t it be nice to have the windows
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Sovell Jewelry
Your Professional Jeweler
Since 1954
Full Service-In House Repair
Jessica & Steve Sovell
Gemologist • Goldsmith

Junior Achievement
8
Junior Achievement has proven to be engaging and fun while stressing
the importance of an education as economic concepts and information
about the world of work are introduced to students. For the future of our
community, it is essential for businesses to work with the schools so our
children are aware of the opportunities here in virtually any occupation in
which they may be interested. Junior Achievement is an ideal way to start
this process.
The Junior Achievement program has included grades K-6. We are
still in need of 26 volunteer teachers to serve one hour each week for five
weeks, during the school day. The following sessions are available.
OCTOBER START CLASSES
3rd Grade– 3 volunteer teachers needed
4th Grade – 3 volunteer teachers needed
6th Grade – 5 volunteer teachers needed
MARCH START CLASSES
1st Grade – 4 volunteer teachers needed
5th Grade – 2 volunteer teachers needed
APRIL START CLASSES
Kindergarten – 6 volunteer teachers needed
All materials for your session are provided along with a training
manual. If you or anyone in your business is interested in volunteering for
this important community program, please call the Chamber at (507) 235-
5547.
Please consider helping the Junior Achievement program in any
way you can. Your future workforce depends on such initiatives. We appreciate
all past involvement and we hope that you can help again this year.
We cannot do it without you!
CHAMBER CLOSED
12/24 & 12/25
HAPPY
HOLIDAY
Here’s to making beautiful memories
with the ones you love
www.fairmontchamber.org
Please send your donation to:
Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 826, Fairmont, MN 56031
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.