CRESCO, IA/RUSHFORD, MN, March 23, 2017— MiEnergy Cooperative was one of 11 electric cooperatives awarded the Cooperative Purpose Award by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The award is given for outstanding contributions to improving the quality of life and purpose of the cooperatives in their communities. In 2013, Southern Minnesota Energy … [Read more...]
SMIF awarded emerging entrepreneurs loan funds for non-typical business owners
OWATONNA, MN, February 6 - Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) recently received a $50,000 allocation from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) through the State’s new Emerging Entrepreneurs Loan Program (EELP). The money will be used to provide loans to businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, persons with disabilities … [Read more...]
Omodt and Jorde Farms GP and its path from a family farm to 48-state business
When it comes to the Omodt family, one can undoubtedly notice the presence of the farming industry, perhaps leading to the conclusion of its possibility of running in the genes of select individuals. That is why it is no surprise to learn of Perry Omodt, grandson of the original owners of Omodt and Jorde Farms GP, now being a half of the partnership of the nationally … [Read more...]
Gehling Auction Co. bids for comfort in new building
The days of standing out in the rain, snow and heat are distant memories for those who attend auctions at Gehling Auction Co., LLC of Preston, Minn. “Technology” was the main reason a new building was necessary, states owner Ron Gehling, who operates the business with his wife Lana and son Matt. “Technology has changed it all,” says Ron, as people no longer have to deal … [Read more...]
Harmony looks to the future with potential new neighborhood
Almost a year ago, Steve and Umbelina Cremer opened the Harmony Learning Center to meet the need for childcare that they saw in the employees of their business, Harmony Enterprises and the general community. Since it opened, the center has grown and created new jobs for Harmony and the surrounding communities. “We are very blessed that the community has supported us and … [Read more...]
Chatfield Fire Department modifications
At the March 13 Chatfield City Council meeting, Fire Chief Ryan Priebe detailed recommended minimum benefit requirements, along with a proposal for an annual benefit increase. The Public Service committee recommended minimum requirements for firefighters to qualify for annual service credits. Members must at a minimum attend 18 meetings/trainings and 25% of annual calls. … [Read more...]
Minnesota ranked third best state in the nation in new study from U.S. News and World Report
ST. PAUL, MN – Citing economic opportunities, great educations, and quality health care in Minnesota, U.S. News and World Report today released a study ranking Minnesota the third best state in the nation. The study also ranked Minnesota as the best state in the region, when compared to North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri. “This … [Read more...]
Unemployment rate steady at 4% in January
Employers cut 8,300 jobs ST. PAUL, MN – Minnesota’s unemployment rate was 4% in January, unchanged from the state’s revised jobless rate in December, according to seasonally adjusted figures released today by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.8% in January. Minnesota employers eliminated 8,300 jobs … [Read more...]
College News ~ 3/13/17
Graduations Fall 2016 • Iowa State University: Ryan Mayer, Harmony, B.S., Agronomy, Seed Science • North Dakota State University: Kayla Woltz, B.S., Veterinary Technology • Rochester Community and Technical College: Erin McKay, Harmony, CERT, Advanced Hospital Nursing Assistant, Honors; Jessica Jacobsen, Mabel, AA, Liberal Arts and Sciences; Mendela Paulson, … [Read more...]
Postmaster Bill Bires brings his memorabilia collection to the Preston Post Office
When Bill Bires started veterinarian school, he had every intention of finishing. But things don’t always turn out the way you think they will. Partway through his schooling to become a veterinarian, Bires’ mother, a rural mail carrier herself, told him that the U.S. Postal Service Test was being offered in La Crosse. He decided to take it and passed. That choice changed his … [Read more...]