Business Showcase April-June 2012

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, April 7, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Bringing the latest in communications technologies to rural Morris and rural Appleton

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

In 2010, the Federal Government announced that Federated Telephone was awarded two loan/grant packages as part of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to build out broadband access in two areas in West Central Minnesota – rural Morris and rural Appleton.

However, a natural disaster on the other side of the world last year delayed construction of the two projects. Federated Telephone's Rural Morris and Rural Appleton projects are now back on track and moving forward to provide rural customers with an option for quality Internet services.

“Individuals who live in this area were previously without an option for quality Internet services,” said Federated Telephone Marketing/Customer Service Manager Donna Eul. “Their choices were either dialup or wireless connections. Through this fiber connection, customers are able to obtain a high quality Internet connection that is dedicated to their home or business.”

The Rural Morris project will construct a fiber optic network to areas outside the city limits of Morris within the 589 exchange, covering 136 square miles with 217 miles of fiber optic cable, connecting over 400 rural telephone customers. The project is one of just 18 in the state of Minnesota designed to bring high speed Internet to rural areas.

Rural Morris began last spring, but the project faced some unexpected delays. First, the sheer number of stimulus projects related to rural broadband access across the nation put a limit on how much fiber optic cable was initially available. Then, the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that decimated Northern Japan augmented the shortage.

Fiber optic cable consists of strands of glass the thickness of a human hair, where light pulses are sent via the cable to transmit data. Because fiber is made out of strands of glass, most of the manufacturing is done in Japan where the sand used to produce the glass fibers is available. Cable production ceased after the earthquake and has been slow to restart.

Federated Telephone is working with two contractors to work through the steps necessary to lay the cable and get customers connected. Ripley's Inc. from Erhard, Minn., has been working since last summer to lay the fiber optic cable in the ground.

“We have had great success in working with Ripley's Inc. on other projects in the past,” said Eul. “They are an excellent contractor. We're very confident in their ability and very excited that we could secure them for our projects again this year.”

A second contractor, J. Carlson Services (JCS) of Shevlin, Minn., has been hired to splice the fiber optic cable and install electronics necessary for connecting the fiber network back to the Federated switch.

As fibers are spliced and equipment is installed and tested, Federated will notify potential customers by mail when their location is ready to receive services from Federated over the new fiber network. The mailing will include an information packet with pricing as well as an application form. If you have not yet received this information in the mail, your location is not quite ready for service.

Interested customers should complete the application and return it to the Federated office located at 508 Atlantic Avenue in Morris. Once customers have signed up for services, technicians for JCS will complete the installation of communication services at the customer's home or business. (See photos of JCS Technicians).

As of last week, 46 new customers were connected in the system and convertAndy Schoumaker ed to the fiber optic connection. Ripley’s Inc. anticipates completing the burial of the fiber optic cable by the end of April.

Ripley's Inc. is scheduled to begin the Rural Appleton construction April 9th – weather permitting. Once completed, the Rural Appleton project will cover 77 square miles with 115 miles of fiber optic cable connecting over 180 locations.

Part of the project required landowners to grant Federated permission to install the cable on their property, but it doesn't require them to pay for the construction or purchase the service, Eul said.

Upon completion of the construction process, Ripley’s Inc. will come back through the construction areas to lay black dirt and reseed any grass areas where applicable. Landowners are also encouraged to contact Federated at 5854875 if there is unfinished work or cleanup left by the contractors. Eul said Federated would keep a list of concerns to ensure all issues are resolved.

FEDERATED TELEPHONE – LOCAL COMMITMENT. GLOBAL SOLUTIONS.

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Need Curb Appeal?

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

Chad Sutherland

We offer full-service c o n s t r u c t i o n o f e v e r yt h i n g f r o m w a t e r f e atures and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

Roy Schwartz

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

•

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Heather Storck or Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, April 14, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Stevens County Ambulance enriches community emergency education

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

Every community needs people who are ready for anything. All of us at some point will need the help of an emergency professional or volunteer.

To anyone facing fire, an accident or serious illness, the sound of a siren is the sound of rescue.

Stevens County Ambulance and EMS Education (SCEMS) has for decades employed emergency medical technicians and paramedics who provide advanced life support (ALS) ambulance service to Stevens County and the surrounding area. SCEMS has three overarching missions: first, to serve the community with pride, professionalism and respect both on the job and in personal life; second, to provide the highest-quality medical care to patients and their families; and finally, to provide comprehensive educational programs ranging from elementary SCEMS instructor Jess Velde assists a staff member from school students learning about first aid to safety Grant-Roberts ambulance service in Sisseton with 'delivering' a training for business and industry, and advanced baby. Photo courtesy Stevens County EMS. level EMT and paramedic training.

Stevens County EMS responds to about 900 calls for service per year, including stand-by events, 911 emergency response in and around Stevens County and inter-facility transfer services for several area hospitals.

SCEMS also offers a wide range of educational opportunities, which have helped to create and maintain a broad emergency response network for the local community.

“We try to educate as many people as we can about emergency response, CPR and first aid,” said SCEMS director Josh Fischer, “And as a result of those efforts we’re able to ‘strengthen the chain of survival’ by creating a network of people who can respond and assist in emergency situations.”

Over the last 35 years, the programs offered through SCEMS have allowed for the creation of volunteer firstresponder teams in several area cities. When an emergency call goes out, these volunteers are the first on the scene and help to take care of patients in the time the ambulance takes to get on site.

Classes offered by SCEMS include “We depend heavily on the support of community members Emergency Medical Responder ('EMR' - foreducated through our programs,” Fischer said. “When an emer- merly first-responder) and EMT initial and gency happens in one of the surrounding towns, our first- refresher courses; American Heart responder teams are ready to handle the situation. To continue Association classes in CPR and First Aid; to successfully accomplish this, we need the involvement of advanced level classes such as ACLS and individuals interested in stepping up and helping to serve their PALS; as well as safety training for busicommunities.” nesses, customized education and more.

In the effort to provide deeper and broader educational expeThe first Aid and CPR class is offered on riences and services, SCEMS recently hired 25-year EMS vetera monthly basis or by request, the next EMT an Bob Griffith as the new education coordinator to oversee all course will begin on August 28, 2012 and of SCEMS’ education programs. Griffith’s extensive experience an initial EMR (First Responder) course will in EMS and his years working as a safety director for a local manufacturing company lend him unique qualifications and be offered beginning November 5, 2012.

Interested individuals are encouraged to leadership skills.

One of the new programs Griffith has helped develop focuses contact SCEMS for more information or to on emergency response in the workplace. He works with compa- register by calling 320-589-7421 or visiting nies on various aspects of emergency response, including CPR, stevensems.com.

First Aid, heavy equipment safety, OSHA compliance and more.

These course offerings serve to assist businesses in creating a safer work environment for their employees and customers, particularly businesses that may not be able to hire a full time safety director.

“Prevention should always be the first step, such as heart-healthy lifestyles and safety training,” Griffith said. “But beyond prevention and recognizing dangerous situations, learning how to respond in an emergency helps everyone be safer and get the care they need. It's a privilege for us to be able to provide that service to the Morris community through our education programs, and as an ambulance service."

Fisher added that educating the general public about emergency services and procedures helps improve the overall emergency readiness of the entire area. “When any ambulance service gets called to a business or other public location, it’s very helpful if that business has an emergency response plan in place and that they’ve practiced it and know it well,” Fischer said. “Bob's talent for educating people, his passion for helping people and his experience in the local manufacturing industry, helps us further develop the emergency readiness of businesses across Minnesota and the Dakotas.”

Classes at SCEMS are available to anyone in the community, and long-standing partnerships with the University of Minnesota, Morris and local high schools have provided opportunities for young people to expand their knowledge of the health care field and help them pursue careers such as paramedic, nurse or doctor.

“It’s so important to the ongoing success of the EMS system in West Central Minnesota that we are able to educate people to do this work," Fischer said. "You don’t have to become a professional paramedic—anyone can save a life if they are prepared. We try hard to provide flexible classes that work with individual’s schedules. SCEMS education programs offer something for everyone.

Funding assistance is available, as well. Take a class, join our efforts, and learn 'How To Save a Life'!”

EMT students from Ortonville, Morris and MAHS participate in the SCEMS heart and lung lab. Photo courtesy Stevens County EMS.

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

585-6888

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

•

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Heather Storck or Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, April 21, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

320.585.6888 8 Hwy 28 - East • Morris

landscaping • floral arrangements • nursery •

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Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Northern Impressions grows from nursery to full-service floral shop

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622

When Brent and Darcy Fuhrman opened Northern Impressions in 2010, they hoped the small nursery would be able to grow and fill a niche in the local floral market.

In the last two years, Northern Impressions has expanded from a single nursery into a multipronged business that offers fresh flowers, trees, and shrubs; floral arrangements; wedding rentals; home décor and local art; and landscaping with free landscape design services.

This summer, they'll grow even further, adding a custom cake design business to provide a full array of coordinated services for customers in the Morris area.

The Fuhrmans first began contemplating purchasing the nursery when Brent was deployed to the Middle East with the 1-151 Field Artillery Charlie Battery. He was a full-time employee at the Morris Armory, but was nearing the end of his years of service when the company was deployed and beginning to contemplate what he would do after retirement from the National Guard.

The nursery became available while Fuhrman Florist Sandy Thorstad has more than 20 years of experience in was overseas, and, after some deliberation, the flower design and is renowned for her talent with silk arrangefamily decided to go ahead with the investment. ments.

“My parents had a flower shop when I was growing up in Graceville, so I grew up knowing the flower shop,” said Fuhrman. “My hobby has always been plants, trees, landscaping, working outside.”

Fuhrman returned from working convoy security in Kuwait and Iraq with Charlie Battery in April 2010 and opened the nursery just in time for Mother's Day. Since Northern Impressions opened, the company has expanded into both landscaping and custom floral services, keeping Fuhrman and his staff busy throughout the year.

Part of the company's success, said Fuhrman, has been appealing to customers across the Morris community. Many of Northern Impressions' frequent customers are college students and young, working professionals in the Morris area.

Florist Sandy Thorstad has more than 20 years of experience in flower design, and regularly designs sympathy arrangements and wedding flowers, along with special arrangements for major holidays and events like prom and graduation.

This Valentine's Day, Northern Impressions sold more than 1,100 roses. Over Christmas, Thorstad is kept busy designing home décor, ornaments and silk flower arrangements for holiday decorating.

“Sandy is renowned for her ability to do silk arrangements, customized for each home,” said Fuhrman.

Northern Impressions offers consultations with each customer to work within a budget and be sure that each arrangement expresses what the family would like to say, whether the event is somber or joyous.

“For families that need to order sympathy flowers for their own families, we offer the ability to sit down in a comfortable setting and work through what it is they would like to do to honor their loved ones,” said Fuhrman. “It's a hard time, but you talk through it and try to get what it is they want to do to honor their loved one with flowers.”

Having a nursery and flower shop in the same location also allows families to choose trees or shrubs to give in honor of their loved ones. Just last weekend, Northern Impressions provided a blooming plum tree for a memorial service.

During wedding consultations, Northern Impressions' staff works to help brides hone their vision for flowers within their budget and theme.

“We understand that flowers are just a small part of a wedding budget, so we want to help brides get the most for what they have,” said Fuhrman. “It's fun for us if somebody comes in and gives us a challenge or theme.”

This summer, Northern Impressions hopes to expand on its reputation as a single source for wedding planning by adding custom cake design with “It's a Piece of Cake!” The company, run by Fuhrman's mother-in-law, Bernie Krosch, will offer custom cake designs for all occasions and operate in a renovated kitchen at the store.

“Brides-to-be can sit down and talk about flowers and the rentals for decorating, and then cake,” said Fuhrman.

“Then everything is coordinated with the same folks so you don't have to worry. … We want to take a little of the stress off, too. It's a stressful time, but if you can do more of it in one shop, for less, why wouldn't you?”

Northern Impressions’ floral business offers sympathy arrangements and wedding flowers, as well as special holiday and event arrangements.

www.morrisautoplaza.com

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

•

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 14 - Saturday, April 28, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Knute Nelson offers around-the-clock care, new technology to help patients stay home safely

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

In the last 30 years, the number of people who receive home care services has grown from about 1.2 million to more than 12 million people. Research suggests that patients recover more quickly when they are able to stay at home, and that home care is often less expensive than extensive stays in the hospital.

In west central Minnesota, Knute Nelson Home Care offers personalized, around-theclock home care services provided by a team of local nurses and home health aids.

Knute Nelson's goal through home care services is to help people stay in their homes as long as they can safely live there.

“Home care is getting bigger because people want to stay home, they don't want to Knute Nelson staff (L to R) Kathy Riley, Tanya Freske, Dena be in assisted living or nursing homes,” said Carbert, Bonnie Bartell; (not pictured) Tracy Gahm, Alllie Welter, Bonnie Bartell, RN and branch manager of physical therapist Deb Hagel and occupational therapist Lisa Knute Nelson's Morris office.

Newbauer Knute Nelson has skilled nurses who can visit clients’ homes to take basic measurements like blood pressure and vital signs, administer and discuss medications, provide wound care or IV therapy, or help manage chronic illnesses like diabetes or cancer.

Home health aids can help with bathing, dressing and other home-making services like housecleaning and meal preparation. Knute Nelson also offers a variety of therapy options including physical, occupational and speech therapists.

The Morris office, located at 514 Atlantic Ave., has a staff of three nurses, three home health aids, one personal care attendant, one physical therapist and one occupational therapist serving about 40 clients in the area. The staff also works at local assisted living and adult foster care facilities for Medicare-certified patients.

Knute Nelson Home Care has seven offices in the region – Morris, Alexandria, Elbow Lake, Little Falls, Long Prairie, Olivia and Osakis – and serves clients located within 55 miles of Alexandria and in a 35-mile radius around the Morris and Elbow Lake branch offices.

One characteristic the company prides itself on is being available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, said Bartell. The Morris and Elbow Lake offices partner to make sure there is at least one staff member on-call over the weekend and on holidays, and work together to make sure client needs are covered.

“If a client comes home from the hospital at four o'clock in the afternoon, we usually try to get out there the same day to see them to make sure everything they need is there when they get home,” said Bartell.

In the last year, the company has embraced new technologies to help offer better home care for clients between visits.

Telehealth monitors – machines that are able to take basic measurements like weight and blood pressure – can be used to help monitor patients remotely. Information is collected and transmitted to the Knute Nelson staff to help make care decisions if the measurements change fluctuate unexpectedly.

“If they're sick enough that we want to keep track of their weights everyday or we're managing their blood pressure medications and we want to keep closer tabs on them, they can do that in their home without us coming out every day,” said Bartell.

The monitors can also offer a feeling of security for families who many not live close but feel more comfortable knowing their loved one is being checked-in on, said Bartell.

Another service available for patients is an automated medication dispenser – a lockbox with alarms that can be set to alert patients when they need to take medication. The device dispenses the medication, then resets after each use.

The device is particularly useful for patients that may have memory issues that keep them from consistently taking their medication, said Bartell. Knowing that the medications being prescribed are being taken correctly also helps physicians and family members feel more confident about patient care.

When clients approach Knute Nelson or are referred for care, staff members arrange to meet the patient and, hopefully, another family member to walk through how the care will be paid for and what types of services are needed, discuss advanced directives and other concerns, and make a head-to-toe assessment with vital signs.

Staff will also just come visit and talk with prospective clients about home care services to help try and alleviate concerns and answer questions before an agreement may be signed.

“The admission process is really pretty painless for the patient,” said Bartell. “It gets to be kind of a long day if they're coming from the hospital then have to sit with us, so we try not to overwhelm them at the beginning.”

Payment for the services that Knute Nelson offers may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance plans or waiver services.

Care can also be paid for privately. In whatever situation, Knute Nelson staff will work with potential clients to find out what services can be covered and how they will be paid for.

Knute Nelson office is located at 515 Atlantic Avenue, Suite #102, Morris

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442 Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

•

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 14 - Saturday, May 5, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Rentz Agency offers insurance and travel planning under new ownership

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Rentz Agency is now operating under new, but familiar, ownership.

Doug Wartner purchased the insurance and travel agency divisions of the company, which has been operating in Morris since 1954, effective January 1, 2012. For Doug, who has been with the company since 1991 and a co-owner since 1995, the timing was right to purchase the business.

“There were things going on in the insurance industry and in our personal lives; it was time to make a change,” he said. “Rentz Agency has been here for more than 50 years and plans to be around for another 50 years.”

Three other familiar faces – licensed insurance agents Robin Smith and Mary Jo Wohlwend and travel consultant Anita Longnecker – are still with the company, offering experienced, personal service for customers in the area.

Rentz Agency offers a full line of insurance coverages for both personal and commercial needs. They offer complete packages for all your exposures. All staff members emphaDoug Wartner, who has worked for Rentz size personal service and working with customers locally.

“Our motto is 'First in service,'” said Doug. “When you Agency since 1991 with 28 years experience, specializes in business and farm call us, your call is personally answered.” insurance.

As an independent insurance agency, Rentz Agency represents several different insurance companies.

“That means when we do a quote, we're quoting to get you the best product at the best price,” said Doug.

The locally-owned company also prides itself on offering individualized, personal attention for customers.

“We like to sit down with our customers and truly find out what their needs are to design a plan that fits them,” said Doug. “We know we are dealing with our friends and neighbors and strive to provide quality insurance at an affordable price.”

Anita Longnecker represents the full-service travel agency side of the business, with more than 24 years of personal and professional travel experience. When customers work with Anita, she can accommodate all travel needs including airlines, hotels, car rentals, cruises, motor coaches and vacation packages.

Working with a travel agent provides some assurances if problems arise before or during a planned vacation and can often be more cost-effective than booking online because travel agents are able to make arrangements as part of a packaged deal, Anita said.

Travel consultant Anita Longnecker has Recently, a Rentz Agency client was in a weekend accident been with Rentz Agency since 1996 and just days before he was scheduled to take a vacation, keeping has more than 24 years of travel experihim from leaving when planned. Rentz Agency took care of ence. canceling the reservation and was even able to get credit and money back on the vacation package.

“If you would have done that online, you're sunk,” said Anita. “There's nobody to talk to, no recourse.”

Popular travel destinations for clients in the Morris area include Mexico, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Florida and California.

Customers interested in working with Rentz Agency on insurance or travel can visit their website, www.rentzagency.com or e-mail info@rentzagency.com.

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

Robin Smith, who has been with Rentz Agency since 2004 and has over 32 years of experience, specializes in personal lines.

Mary Jo Wohlwend has been with Rentz Agency since 2007 and concentrates on business and farm insurance.

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

•

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, June 16, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Skyview and West Wind Village offer continuum of care for residents As seniors age, they and their families are faced with an array of choices for how to live comfortably while still receiving the health care services they may need.

In the Morris area, senior living facilities Skyview Plaza, Skyview Court and West Wind Village offer a continuum of care that allows seniors to transition and increase their care through personalized services designed to meet each person's individual needs.

Assisted living apartments at Skyview Court and Skyview Plaza offer one and two bedroom apartments designed for seniors who are still healthy, but hoping to downsize or move to safer housing to provide peace of mind for their families.

Both apartment complexes have spacious indoor atriums for residents to walk in and have a pleasant space to congregate or visit with their families. Skyview offers three meals every day, as well as scheduled activities.

As residents age, they have the opportunity to increase services from registered nurses to help them live more comfortably and independently at Skyview. Optional services include medication reminders, blood sugar checks, housekeeping, laundry, coordinating for appointments and transportation and more. Residents can also add more extensive nursing and aid services as needed.

Skyview Court also includes a secure memory care wing with staff who specialize in working with residents suffering from memory loss or early dementia. Skyview Court's care team has been specially trained in dementia care. Six tenants share a home with a care team supervised by a registered nurse. The six apartments each include a “harmless kitchen” and surround a common dining and social area.

Skyview Court If residents begin to suffer from more severe health care issues or worsening dementia, they have the opportunity to move along the continuum of care to West Wind Village on the west side of Morris. Because doctors and nursing staff are connected between facilities, the transition from one facility to the other can be managed more efficiently for residents.

Nursing staff at West Wind Village work to create a sense of community for the center's 125 residents – almost all who come from Morris or the close surrounding area.

West Wind Village offers two specialized care centers – the Rossberg Center, which focuses on care for patients suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia, and the recentlyopened Loher Lane Rehab Suites.

The Loher Lane Rehab Suites, which are named after former West Wind Village Board Member Jerry Loher, offer comprehensive rehabilitation services including physical, occupational and speech therapies provided by Big Stone Therapies. After each rehab session, residents can return to their own private rooms.

Both Skyview and West Wind Village are operated by St. Francis Health Services and sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of St. Cloud. When residents are admitted to either facility, they are assessed for their spiritual needs. West Wind Willage and Skyview work with many churches in the community to offer weekly services, communion, Bible study, memorial services and grief counseling.

Skyview Plaza Both Skyview and West Wind Village are committed to supporting the local community and promoting economic stability in the region. West Wind Village employs around 135 employees – more than 100 from in and around the Morris area – and pays around $2.6 million each year in wages and benefits. Skyview employs 35 people and pays $540,000 each year.

Both facilities also work to purchase from local businesses, investing about $1.8 million dollars locally in the 2010 – 2011 fiscal year.

To continue to train and support staff members, the organization offers scholarship opportunities for staff to increase their training and become more specialized. Last year, staff received around $12,000 in scholarships for training and educational opportunities.

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Your New & Used GM Headquarters Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians

West Wind Village

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270 585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

•

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook or Cheryl Busch at 320-589-2525.

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, May 12, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Family-owned excavators Jim Riley & Sons stays small to remain comfortable and responsive to customers

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

www.morrisautoplaza.com

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians

For many business owners, the goal is to continually grow bigger.

But for Kirk and Kevin Riley, owners of Jim Riley & Sons Construction, expanding their small, family-owned general excavating company didn't allow them to remain comfortable and customer friendly.

Instead, the brothers have worked to build a strong reputation in the community while staying heavily involved in every project they take on.

Father Jim Riley started the company in 1971 with just two pieces of equipment – a small backhoe and a gravel truck. Sons Kirk and Kevin worked for the family business when they were kids, and both began working full-time for their dad after their high school graduation. Kirk and Kevin bought the company from Jim in 1993.

Since its humble beginnings, Jim Riley & Sons has expanded to include six full-time employees, four part-time workers and a fleet of equipment that rivals a much larger operation: three excavators, five dump trucks, three payloaders, a rubber-tired backhoe, two track skid-loaders, and three bulldozers.

The company also has its own gravel pit to supply and process gravel and screen black dirt, which helps make them self-sufficient.

“We're a small company, yet we have a large fleet of equipment – we've got more equipment than guys,” said Kirk. “We can do jobs big and small; we can do about anything.”

Projects include basement work, land clearing, sand and gravel hauling, all types of site work, demolition and farm drainage. Jim Riley & Sons is also state certified for on-site sewer installation.

For Kirk, part of the appeal of continuing his father's business is the variety of work he does each day and the sense of accomplishment he gets at the end of the day.

“You can start a job and it's a complete disaster and it doesn't look like anything, but eventually it just starts to take shape and you end up with a finished project, which is really satisfying,” he said.

Although many owners would work to keep expanding their business, Kirk and Kevin have deliberately kept Jim Riley & Sons small.

About 10 years ago, the company had grown to 17 employees who worked as part of three different construction crews. But the administration for an operation that size became too much, so they've deliberately pulled back, said Kirk.

“We tried to go a little bit bigger, but found it more comfortable and more customer-friendly to be a small, hands-on company,” said Kirk. “Kevin or I have contact with every one of our customers – we talk to them and we know them.”

Over the 41 years Jim Riley & Sons has been in business, the company has been involved in a number of projects along Morris' main street. This spring, the company helped tear down the old Morris Co-op Elevator at the New Horizons site in downtown Morris.

Jim Riley & Sons also does regular work for Stevens County, the City of Morris and the University of Minnesota, Morris.

Kirk estimates that more than 80 percent of the work Jim Riley & Sons takes on comes from repeat customers or word-of-mouth recommendations based on the company's long-term reputation in the area.

“We've got a lot of loyal customers – when they have something to do they get us, which I think speaks volumes for the type of work we do too,” said Kirk.

“We're a big enough company to handle just about anything, but we're small enough to care,” he continued. “We're not a big enough company, we don't have the klout, to bully our way through something. We have to do a good job and the customer has to be satisfied. Our reputation is everything to us.”

412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

•

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 14 - Saturday, May 19, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Old #1 continues to give customers what they want

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622

In June 1997, the local VFW Post 5039 turned over the keys of its clubhouse to new owners, Donny Wohlers and Brian Solvie. The Old No. 1 Bar and Grill was born. John "Thirsty" Thorstad still stood behind the bar, ready to greet old and new faces, and Barb Riley took control of the new, small kitchen. With the opening of the bar, Donny, sought the advice of parents. His father, Mel, who has since passed way, told him "Give the customers what they want." Donny has kept that advice in mind and as a result, a lot has changed over the years.

In 2008, Donny bought out Brian and purchased the next-door bar (formerly Grady's and B Roberts). He gutted the inside, added doorways into the Old No. 1, and reopened the building as a banquet facility under the name "Southside." After additional remodeling, the Customers renting the Southside or VFW room have the option, facility now seats up to 350, but can also be at no cost, to use the Old No. 1 Bus which seats 22. divided into two separate rooms, with the smaller room comfortably hosting smaller meetings.

The banquet facility is frequently booked throughout the year with reunions, birthday parties, anniversaries, weddings and business meetings. Two large screen TVs, wireless internet, and full electronic hookups allow guests to watch PowerPoint presentations, slide shows and videos. A newly remodeled conference room in the lower level (the VFW room) seats 100 guests and provides the same amenities as the Southside.

Customers renting the Southside or VFW room have the option, at no cost, to use the Old No. 1 Bus. The limousine-style bus seats 22 and can be used to pick-up and drop off guests, or to transport the entire wedding party throughout the day.

The options for catered meals in the Southside are varied. While buffet-style service is available, the staff boasts on its ability to serve a 300-person sit down meal within 15 minutes. Some of the meal choices include: orange-glazed chicken breast, bourbon pork tenderloins, garlic and herb mashed potatoes, buttered baby red potatoes, and even a children's meal option.

In addition to on-site catering, the Old No. 1 offers off-site catering with optional bar set-up. The food choices for off-site catering are as varied as those for on-site catering. The catering service can be as extensive as providing place settings, full table set-up and food service, or as simple as putting together a meal for a graduation party.

In the main restaurant area, Old No. 1 offers a weekday noon buffet with different selections every day ranging from spaghetti and soups, to Barb's famous meatloaf. The food menu has one of the area's largest selections, and includes burgers, pastas, salads, appetizers, chicken, steak, Mexican-American food and sandwiches. Old No. 1 is currently in the process of adding handmade, freshly-baked pizza selections to the menu.

On Friday nights, the Old No. 1 serves an all-you-can-eat seafood buffet with crab legs, fish and shrimp. The buffets, along with the regular menu, include special senior-citizen prices.

While a lot has changed in the 15 years since Old No. 1 opened, some things have remained constant. The Old No. 1 has always considered itself family-friendly. Donny has four children under the age of 15, the manager, Matt Lhotka, has four children under the age of eight, and several proud parents work at Old No. 1. The selection of video games, darts and pool tables provide ample entertainment for kids during the dinner hours, and the kid's menu offers a variety of food options. Soft-serve ice cream was recently added.

Flavors such as cotton candy, butter pecan, and strawberry can be served as cones, sundaes or shakes.

Of course the Old No. 1 is also a full-service bar.

It carries one of the largest wine selections in the area, and has 10 varieties of beer on tap. An assortment of blended drinks and liquors round out the list. The Old No. 1 hosts softball teams in the summer, and pool and dart leagues in the winter. A recently installed online dart board, complete with live video, will allow customers to play darts with friends in other similarly set-up locations.

Throughout the years, numerous construction projects have resulted in the expansion of the kitchen and increased seating capacity. A new exterior has improved the rear entrance, and a face-lift in 2010 resulted in the addition of a deck on the front of the building. The layout inside has changed significantly over the years, but the front elevator is still available to assist customers with limited mobility.

And even though the VFW sold its clubhouse, it has always remained an active presence on site. The Old No. 1 is proud to serve as the home of the VFW Post. Donny appreciates the support he has received from the VFW members, and from the community at-large, and encourages anyone who has never been to the Old No. 1 to stop in and check it out.

www.morrisautoplaza.com

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

•

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 10 - Saturday, June 2, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Your New & Used GM Headquarters

Image Xperts works to keep pace with customer demands

Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

In the 15 years that Image Xperts has been in business in the Morris area, many changes have taken place and more are yet to come. The company's storefront in downtown Morris will be getting another upgrade soon, allowing for the recently vacated space from Meadowland Market to be used more efficiently. The former Meadowland Market storefront will house Image Xperts' expanded showroom, with more space to highlight the projects each employee works on. Image Xperts’ current office will be renovated to serve as the sign shop, which will bring all production into one building.

The business began in 1997, primarily as a sign shop – KTM Signs and Graphics – based out of a machine shed just south of Hancock. The company moved to a “home office” in 2006 and then to 5th Street in Morris in 2009 when employees were added as well. Owner Terry Timmerman purchased the building where it is currently located, corner of 7th Street and Pacific Avenue, in 2010.

The company formally changed the name to Image Xperts in 2009 when the Timmermans purchased the business in which Terry was a sales representative. While the ink was drying on that purchase another was being put together. Lakeside Image Xperts owner Terry Timmerman, his wife Connie, Embroidery (formerly located in Starbuck) was purand their three children, Tyler, Courtney and Carissa. chased and moved to Morris. Image Xperts now had embroidery and screen printing along with signage being done under one roof in one great location to better service our local community.

“We brought all aspects of the business together and we were doing everything, for the most part, in-house,” said Timmerman. Because we sell promotional products which includes a variety of widgets, thing-a-ma-jigs, and doohickeys we use vendors throughout the United States to source those product lines.

In addition to Timmerman, Image Xperts has four employees – graphic designer Leah Zierke, screen printer Suzanna Fitzgerald, office manager Whitney Riley and embroidery expert Shirley Razink.

Heather Storck was recently added as a sales representative and will be helping Terry maintain and service accounts throughout the area. “We are excited to have Leah Zierke Heather on board as she is very talented in sales and design and knows the area and people therein very well,” Terry explains.

Graphic designer Leah Zierke, who has worked at Image Xperts since 2009, is trained in web design with an emphasis in graphic design. Zierke said she loves working on billboards, although she also enjoys the other graphic projects like decals, brochures, business cards and t-shirts.

Zierke also does some billboard and project sales in Morris, Hancock and Benson.

“I really enjoy the variety – I'm in the office a lot, but it's fun to get out-and-about dealing directly with the customers when I'm doing sales, getting to know them more personally that way,” said Zierke.

Screen printer Suzanna Fitzgerald was trained in-house, and works on all of Image Suzanna Fritzgerald Xperts t-shirt and printing projects. Image Xperts is responsible for the shirts used at many local events and by local clubs. Fitzgerald also helps do some selling as well as sign work. She has been very helpful stepping in for Whitney for a couple of months while she is out.

Whitney Riley started with Image Xperts literally the day after graduating college.

She has learned the business well and certainly is responsible for many of the company's success. Whitney is currently on maternity leave, which has left a short-term void in the office, but we hope she is enjoying the time with her precious daughter.

Shirley Razink has about 26 years of embroidery experience. Because she owned her own business (Lakeside Embroidery), Shirley understands the effort and concern for Whitney Riley the customer that is essential for allowing a business to succeed. Shirley is a workhorse and can outpace most people half her age with her work ethic.

Image Xperts is also appreciative of all its local customers, especially those who have been patient during a period of transition trying to centralize employees and operations in town.

All employees take pride in offering a quick turnaround for projects. Orders for screen printing and embroidery projects are generally completed within one to two weeks.

“It has been interesting for three Shirley Razink years, not only trying to purchase stuff in town to make this happen, adding employees and being on-the-go trying to fulfill our customers needs,” said One of Image Xperts most recent signs was for Meadowland Market.

Timmerman.

The staff at Image Xperts wishes Meadowland Market success at their new location.

Heather Storck

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

•

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, May 26, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

usines

Your New & Used GM Headquarters Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622 www.morrisautoplaza.com

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians 412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

B

Showcase

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Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Affordable Floor Covering offers flooring and blinds for local renovation projects

Two years ago, do-it-yourself home improvement and renovation projects were big business for Affordable Floor Covering in downtown Starbuck.

“A lot of people were coming in here, grabbing their tile, borrowing a saw from me and installing it themselves,” said owner Terry Jones.

Today, more customers come into the store looking to take advantage of Affordable Floor Covering's inexpensive installation and extensive collection of flooring and blinds for their local projects.

Affordable Floor Covering offers all types of flooring including carpet, tile, LVT, vinyl, laminate, wood and cork.

Affordable Floor Covering offers a selection of HunterDouglas blinds “We have every type of flooring and we and window coverings. Owner Terry Jones does free measurements have a lot of it in stock if you need someand free estimates for every project. thing for a weekend project,” said Jones.

“And if we don't have it, we should be able to get it.”

The store also offers Hunter Douglas blinds, and does free measurements and free estimates for all customers.

Although the store does work with homeowners building for the first time, most recent orders have included smaller renovations like bedroom or kitchen improvements or finishing basements.

“Most of ours are just small, regular projects,” said Jones.

Affordable Floor Covering has a large selection of in-stock carpeting, which is one of the store's biggest selling floor covering options. The store stocks popular carpeting from manufacturers like Mohawk, Shaw, Beaulieu of America, Best Buy and Southwind.

“I buy it by the roll, then we can sell it a little bit cheaper; I don't have to pay freight on every little piece that comes in, so I can sell it cheaper that way to save customers money,” said Jones.

“We offer better quality than the big box stores, which sell a lot of seconds,” he added. “Plus, it's surprising how well we can compete with them because we don't have the overhead.”

Products from other popular floor covering manufacturers like Nafco, Flexitec, Esquire, Congoleum and Berry are also available.

Jones purchased the store from the previous owner, Rosemary Jansen, in May 2007. Jansen still works at the store several days a week, keeping her knowledge and expertise in flooring with the business.

“She knows as much, or more, than I do,” joked Jones.

Unlike other stores in the area, the installers who work for Affordable Floor Covering are contractors who are paid directly by customers.

Jones schedules installation times with customers at the store, the installers pick up the supplies from the store, then head out to the house for each job.

Customers pay the installers directly, which helps keep installation costs down.

“I don't make a dime on our installations, so the installation costs typically are cheaper,” said Jones.

And the lead time for installations is typically quick, within one or two weeks or purchase. An extensive selection of in-stock carpeting and tile helps shorten the time between purchase and installation.

The store includes an extensive array of flooring options that can be special ordered Affordable Floor Covering to customer specifications. works with customers from around the area, including Morris, Glenwood, Alexandria and Benson.

Affordable Floor Covering is open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday. Jones is also available to meet with customers outside of business hours and on weekends by appointment.

For more information about Affordable Floor Covering, visit their website at www.afcstarbuck.com or call (320) 239-2136.

Affordable Floor Covering has a selection of in-stock carpeting options, which helps keep costs down for customers.

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

585-6888

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook at 320-589-2525

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, June 9, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Morris Auto Plaza continues to grow and change Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

Morris Auto Plaza grounds in 1994 If you’ve driven by Morris Auto Plaza lately you might have noticed some changes underway. Construction equipment and workers are busy transforming the dealership into a shiny, modern model of a General Motors dealership.

Earlier this year, General Motors Co. announced that its 4,400 dealerships will be remodeled and updated.

The push follows a company-wide initiative to create a more unified brand across the country and an improved buying experience for their customers.

Morris Auto Plaza is one of the thousands of GM dealerships currently participating in the major remodel.

The changes include updated offices and service center, a new showroom and a new building which will serve as a car-delivery area.

The road has been a long one for Morris Auto Plaza. The dealership was established in 1994 by Joel Krusemark, alongside his brother Tom, selling GMC, Buick, Pontiac and Cadillac brands. The new and used vehicle dealership began with 11 employees and 35 vehicles on their lot. Since that time, the dealership has grown to 22 employees and typically carries between 250 and 300 vehicles, providing a wide selection of new Buick and GMC brands, along with high quality used vehicles to fit any budget or need.

Since the beginning, the dealership has focused on providing a comfortable, straight-forward buying experience for their customers. Their offices provide many amenities, including free wi-fi and a courtesy shuttle service for patrons. The staff is very experienced, as well. Many employees have worked at the dealership ten years or more.

“Our buying experience is very relaxed. Many of our customers leave laughing and smiling. We always stand behind what we sell and that integrity I think is vital to our success,” Krusemark said. “Nothing is hidden, everything we do is priced immediately. All of our used vehicles are thoroughly inspected and are priced competitively. We shop nationwide to find vehicles that are competitively priced and top quality. That’s a big challenge, but it pays off in the quality of our vehicles.”

After the changes are complete, the new car delivery area will provide space for employees to present the customer’s new vehicle and give an extensive presentation of the car, which is necessary for explaining the many Remodel features on today’s vehicles. It also will allow customers project to receive their new vehicle in doors, as though it just begins April rolled off the showroom floor. The Service Center will 2012 now feature a climate controlled area where customers will be able to drive into the center and be greeted by a service consultant without having to endure the outdoor heat and cold.

“By the time the renovations are complete, our store will look identical to any other Buick GMC dealership,” Krusemark said. “We’ll be able to give a much improved buying experience, which we’re very excited about.”

Completion of the remodeled offices is slated for the end of July, including the new car delivery building. The updated showroom and service reception area are scheduled to be completed by November.

“This re-model is one of our ways of investing into the community,” he said. “It’s a large undertaking but we feel that it will enrich the buying experience for our customers and give them comfort whether they’re buying a vehicle or having it serviced.”

Morris Auto Plaza realizes that their growth and success wouldn’t be possible without the support from the Morris and surrounding communities. Because of this support, the dealership has always put community involvement and investment at the forefront of their business practices.

“For me, coming into work is a joy,” Krusmark said. “We’re passionate about helping people have an experience that isn’t just professional and easy, but also fun.”

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians

Mark your calendars and come help celebrate on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly!

We are Celebrating

100 Years!

Need Curb Appeal?

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270 585-6888

New look for Morris Auto Plaza is underway

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

•

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook or Cheryl Busch at 320-589-2525.

MORRIS SUN TRIBUNE

Page 12 - Saturday, June 23, 2012

Morris, Minnesota 56267

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~ Fe a t u r i n g a d i f f e r e n t b u s i n e s s eve r y we e k ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

United Farmers & Mechants State Bank An independently owned, community bank Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Donnelly opened for business in Donnelly on July 1, 1912. Since then, Farmers & Merchants State Bank has been committed to remaining independent and locally owned.

To celebrate 100 years as Stevens County's only locally-owned and independent bank, United Farmers & Merchants State Bank is planning a community celebration on Friday, July 13 in Donnelly.

“We have a longevity in the industry,” says President Paul Ersted. “Not every bank remains independent. Not every bank remains locally-owned.”

“There's a continuity that goes along with local ownership,” he continues. “We still have customers that were customers when my grandfather was cashier and president of the bank. That continuity is important.

Banking is a people business, so there is a lot of knowledge to be gained through our history.”

When Farmers & Merchants State Bank was founded in 1912, Charles B. Koos was appointed as the first president, and Christian C. (C.C.) Ersted was appointed cashier. There were 27 initial investors from the Donnelly and Herman areas who purchased 150 shares of common stock at a price of $100 per share.

C.C. arrived in the Donnelly area around 1910. He tried his hand at farming, but when the local townspeople began talking about starting a bank he became a leader of the process and was an original majority stockholder. In 1946, C.C. was appointed president and served until his son, Paul, was appointed president in April 1958.

During his time as president, C.C. worked quietly and earnestly for the betterment of he community, giving sound counsel and friendly service to all as a business and civic leader in Donnelly. C.C. gave generously of his time and means to his home community and county, and helped in large measure in the development this area.

Paul joined the staff of the bank in January 1941 as the assistant cashier. He was appointed cashier in 1944 and elected executive vice president in 1950 before being appointed president in 1958. Paul worked hard for the Donnelly community, serving on the church council and as a member of the Masons. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing golf.

The bank remained under the leadership of Paul Ersted and H.W. McRoberts until 1965 when Ersted became ill. McRoberts was named CEO and ran the bank until he retired. Around this time, David (Bill) Underwood joined his wife, Evelyn, as an employee of the bank. Bill began with general banking work, sold insurance and assisted McRoberts.

In 1976, third-generation banker Paul Ersted Jr. joined Farmers & Merchants State Bank permanently.

In 1981, Paul Jr. followed in his father's and grandfather's footsteps and became president of the bank. Bill Underwood retired as vice president in 1986.

In 1992 the Board of Directors decided to expand the bank's service area in order to improve services to surrounding communities. The First State Bank in Chokio was purchased in September 1992. The two banks continued to operate as separate entities until September 1993 when they merged. The resulting bank was named Farmers & Merchants State Bank.

The new bank operated its two branches in Donnelly and Chokio until February 1994 when the bank relocated its charter from Donnelly to Morris. In addition to moving the charter, the bank changed its name to United Farmers & Merchants State Bank.

“Obviously, we've been a staple in our communities and that's a good thing,” says Ersted. “But we've continually been progressive. We have not remained stagnant and old-fashioned. We are a community bank; we are independent and we know our customers and our customers know us. We strive to provide our customers with the latest in banking technology, combined with good old fashioned customer service.”

The community celebration to honor 100 years in the area on Friday, July 13 will begin at 1 p.m. with an ice cream social, tours of the Donnelly bank, and games and activities for kids and adults including a bean bag toss, a putting contest, a frisbee toss, a money machine and rides with a horse and buggy.

There is a meal planned for 5 p.m., a dance starting at 8 p.m., and fireworks scheduled for dusk. The fireworks are being presented by RES Specialty Pyrotechnics from Belle Plaine, Minn. RES recently took first place in the Thailand International Fireworks Contest, a two-year competition that brought together teams from Thailand, Australia, China, Denmark, Italy, Japan, UAE and the United States.

“I think the longevity of reaching the milestone of 100 years of remaining in business is pretty important,” says Ersted. “I think it's noteworthy that there aren't many third or fourth generation 'family banks.'

The bank has been through some major events, and we've persevered through all of them.”

Basements Demolition Site Preparation Ground Clearing Screened Black Dirt Rock, Sand & Gravel

Celebrating Over

40 Years!

Your New & Used GM Headquarters Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8:00 - 7:00 Friday 8:00 - 6:00 Saturday 8:00 - 4:00

320.589.4622

Rentz Agency Auto, Home, Business, Travel, Life and Property Insurance Doug, Robin and Mary Jo

Make your travel arrangements with Anita.

517 Atlantic Ave Morris

320.589.2442

www.morrisautoplaza.com

Need Curb Appeal?

Food Drinks DJs Receptions Dances Catering Flat Screens Buffets Comedians

We offer full-service construction of everything from water features and retaining walls to rocks and plantings.

412 Atlantic Ave. Morris

320.589.2270

Current employees of the United Farmers & Merchants State Bank, located in Donnelly, Morris and Chokio

585-6888

AFFORDABLE Floor Covering • carpet

FRreEmEents

measu ates! and estim

•

laminate

•

tile

• Hunter Douglas blinds

103 East 5th Street, Starbuck 320.239.2136 Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-1

Emergency Dial

9-1-1

Office number: 320-589-7421

If you are interested in participating in our next showcase, please call Linda Cook or Cheryl Busch at 320-589-2525.