OWATONNA, MN, December 3, 2019 – Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development is currently accepting applications to support child care start-up and expansion projects. Child care centers and family child care programs in SMIF’s 20-county region are eligible to apply. Requests of up to … [Read more...]
Flag donated to Park Lane Estates
Preston VFW Auxiliary recently donated a flag to Park Lane Estates. Pictured, left to right: Mary Munns, Lois Peterson, President DD Himli, Treasurer Roxie Knies, and Catherine Bakke. … [Read more...]
County to move forward with jail needs study
At the November 26 County Board meeting, the future of the county jail was again discussed. A contract with Tom Weber, independent contractor, to assist with a jail needs study was approved. The contract with the consultant/facilitator will run from December 1, 2019, to November 30, 2020. Sheriff John DeGeorge said we need someone during the needs study to ask the right … [Read more...]
Results of the Harmony Community Chest 2019 charity drive
The 2019 Harmony Community Chest Drive has been completed. The total for Community Chest funds was $5,735, similar to last year’s total. Of this, $5,600 was distributed, with $150 going for expenses and $35 to cover any additional expenses. Proceeds from the Drive are given to local and regional organizations and charities. The disbursement of funds to organizations went … [Read more...]
Preston Lions Club celebrates 75 years
In the grasslands of Africa, a group of lions is called a “pride.” The term “pride” also definitely fits when talking about a group of Lions that prowl the Preston area. The local Lions Club has been proudly serving since 1944, and on November 22, 2019, they held an open house for the community to help commemorate their milestone anniversary. The event included refreshments … [Read more...]
Shop small businesses to improve the holiday experience
Specific events are geared to direct shopping traffic to local businesses during the holiday season. It’s the time of year when newspapers thicken with sales circulars and holiday advertisements. Consumers looking to beat the hustle and bustle and steer clear of the crowds this year may want to pay attention to local businesses in lieu of trekking to nearby shopping … [Read more...]
studio-N-gallery opens in Rushford
The Rushford Peterson Valley Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting on November 13 to welcome new business “studio-N-gallery” in Rushford. Owner Nan Lesser cut the ceremonial red ribbon surrounded by Chamber representatives. Pictured left to right, back, Kathy Riley, Angela Colbenson, Steven Halvorson, Jennifer Hengel, Jerad Brown. Front, Beth Tudahl, Lesser, and Sally … [Read more...]
How to sustain a small business
Opening a small business can be an exciting time in the life of an entrepreneur. Part of that excitement no doubt stems from the financial risks associated with opening a new business. Keeping that business growing and thriving takes effort, but the results can be rewarding. It is reasonable to feel nervous when starting a business. Information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor … [Read more...]
Shopping small matters
As we begin the holiday shopping season, the Preston Area Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to think outside the box this year and find unique gifts at our small businesses. From gift cards to local honey to hand crafted home décor, there is something for everyone on your list! Small businesses give back BIG to the community and are the key to our success and future … [Read more...]
Lanesboro Holiday Dinner Dance December 7
The 39th Annual Holiday Dinner Dance will be Saturday, December 7, 2019, at the Lanesboro Community Center. The evening will begin with complimentary appetizers and wine served at 6 p.m. Catered dinner of beef burgundy and chicken cordon bleu will begin at 7 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Dewy. Door prizes as well! Tickets may be purchased at Granny’s Liquor by … [Read more...]