Progress 2017 by Perham Focus

PAGE 2 | PROGRESS 2017

A VARIETY OF POSITIONS ON ALL SHIFTS

To apply online or view other available positions please visit:

www.shearers.com or call us at:

218-346-7000

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 3

CONTENTS

Proudly

Representing You. Please contact me with your legislative issues. 651-297-8063 BILL INGEBRIGTSEN MN STATE SENATOR

WELCOME:

Paid for by Ingebrigtsen for Senate. P.O. Box 1325, Alexandria, MN 56308 001526158r1

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LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1982

Quick looks at new and upcoming businesses in Perham ��38

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PERHAM’S BIG ‘YEAR OF RETAIL’ �� 8 WHAT’S THAT BUSINESS? ��22, 26, 48

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‘Progress’ an easy subject to tackle here in Perham �� 6

Quality schools drive a strong, healthy community ��62

PERHAM’S TOP 10 EMPLOYERS �� 68 BUSINESSES CELEBRATING LANDMARK YEARS �� 70 A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE PERHAM FOCUS, JANUARY 26, 2017

PERHAM FOCUS

Est. 1883 - Celebrating Over 130 Years Leading supplier of lumber and building materials to contractors in the Dakotas, Minnesota, and surrounding areas

222 2nd Ave. SE • Perham, MN 56573 p: 218.346.5900 • f: 218.346.5901 www.perhamfocus.com Publisher: Jason Miller jmiller@perhamfocus.com Magazine Editor: Marie Johnson mtjohnson@perhamfocus.com Contributors: Debbie Irmen dirmen@perhamfocus.com Jason Groth jgroth@perhamfocus.com

620 East Main, Perham 218-346-5555 www.cranejohnson.com

Cover Design: Troy Becker tbecker@forumcomm.com 001530300r1

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Page Design: Tasha Kenyon tkenyon@dlnewspapers.com

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 5

WELCOME

‘Progress’ an easy subject to tackle here in Perham

aybe I should play it a little more coy here for the sake of my own job security, but if I’m being honest, I have to admit that the subject of “progress” in Perham is a pretty painless one to tackle. Progress is all around us in this town, all the time. You can’t not notice it. We see it in the construction going on at our schools: An addition at Heart of the Lakes Elementary School was nearly complete at the time of this writing, and work is set to begin this summer on a brand new high school. An expansion at St. Henry’s Catholic Church and School is also in the works.

MARIE JOHNSON mtjohnson@perhamfocus.com

We see it in the construction going on at our industrial facilities: Over the past few years alone, major expansions at some of our largest manufacturing companies, such as Tuffy’s Pet Foods, Industrial Finishing Services and Kitmasters, have pumped tens of millions of dollars into the local economy. But this past year, more than anywhere else, we’ve seen it in the construction going on in our retail sector. From big new builds like Nest and Disgruntled to relocations and remodels like at Pizza Ranch and Harmonious Architecture, there’s been a remarkable spate of crowd-pleasing commercial developments in Perham in 2016. The theme of this year’s Progress

Progress is all around us in this town, all the time. You can’t not notice it.

Our Advocate at the State Capital since 1996.

ALL

District 8A State Representative

CREATURES

BUD NORNES

e-mail: rep.bud.nornes@house.mn www.house.leg.state.mn.us

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We see it in the construction going on in our neighborhoods: Two more housing developments are being built right now, continuing a pattern of major growth in the housing sector, especially rental housing, over the past several years. A 24-unit apartment complex, as well as four, six-unit townhome buildings, are both slated for early summer openings.

Guide, “Year of Retail,” grew organically out of that phenomenon. At least 14 new or expanding retail businesses have gotten construction projects kicked off, completed or something in-between over the past year – a number that Perham Economic Development Authority Director Chuck Johnson calls “astounding.” He’s held his position for 14 years, and he says, “this past year has been the busiest retail/commercial package I’ve seen.” That’s fortunate for the Perham community, which has much to gain from a thriving retail sector. Studies show that a strong local economy makes a community more prosperous, entrepreneurial, connected, and generally better-off in terms of social capital and civic engagement. From a more selfish standpoint, it’s fortunate for us here at the Perham Focus, too. We are charged with putting together this Progress Guide every year, which involves brainstorming a theme for the magazine and then coming up with multiple stories that support that theme. In a community such as ours, which consistently shows such obvious signs of progress from year to year, that assignment ends up being rather enjoyable; a celebratory recap of the year’s successes. And rather than digging deep for material, we simply had to be paying attention.

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

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PERHAM’S BIG ‘YEAR OF RETAIL’ BY MARIE JOHNSON

mtjohnson@perhamfocus.com

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hen Daniel and Holly Flatau decided to open an artisan bakery and deli in Perham, they really didn’t know what to expect. As first-time business owners, they were new to the whole process. Would it be difficult? Would the community be supportive? Would the business be a success? They knew they were taking a risk, but would it pay off? Like any small business owner, they couldn’t possibly know the answers to all these questions in advance, but they chose to take the plunge anyway. They had a dream, and they were ready to chase it. As it turned out, the Flataus became a retail success story. They opened Whisk From Scratch in July, and they say business has been “awesome.” They’ve become known for their popular caramel rolls, cookies, artisan breads and sandwiches, as well as their locally-sourced coffee and espresso drinks and craft beers. Though their business model was something entirely new to Perham – “What? A bakery that doesn’t have doughnuts?” – the community welcomed the Flataus with open arms, and that support has been crucial to their success, they said.

Above: Whisk From Scratch features a light, bright and spacious interior seating area. Right: Cookies are one of the most popular purchases at Whisk From Scratch, Perham’s new artisan bakery. MARIE JOHNSON/ FOCUS Below: Disgruntled has 12 different varieties of beer on tap at any given time. SUBMITTED PHOTO

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 9

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

A Clean Plate, which offers healthy, organic foods and other products, opened in Perham this past year. Whenever possible, A Clean Plate sells fresh, seasonal produce grown within about a 50-mile radius of Perham. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS

From the very beginning, the Flataus benefitted from the help and encouragement of Perham people and businesses. A local bank provided financing, economic development leaders offered friendly advice, and other businesses in town have been their biggest cheerleaders. “One thing that has really struck me, that I’ve been in awe of, is how much the surrounding businesses pull for us,” says Holly. “Every day, we get new customers in the store who have been recommended by other business owners in town.” That business-to-business support is a two-way street, with the Flataus using locally made products in the foods they make and sell. Dan says they use cheese from Bongards and chips from Barrel O’ Fun, and they carry Disgruntled’s beer, all in Perham. The Flataus say opening and running a small business in Perham is a uniquely cooperative effort that involves a number of people and factors in the community, with all PAGE 10 | PROGRESS 2017

“I’ve been in awe of…how much the surrounding businesses pull for us.” —Holly Flatau, Whisk From Scratch those elements coming together to help new businesses like theirs thrive and prosper. That’s part of the reason why so many new small businesses have opened up in Perham recently, and why so many other existing businesses are expanding. An impressively lengthy list of retail and commercial projects either kicked off, made significant progress or completed construction this past year, including Whisk From Scratch and other high-profile new businesses like Nest, Disgruntled and Bongards Cheese Store, as well as sizeable remodeling and relocation projects like at Dairy Queen, Pizza Ranch and Harmonious Architecture.

Kelli Wegscheid, owner of Harmonious Architecture, completed a remarkable makeover of a historic Main Street building for her new Perham office. SUBMITTED PHOTO

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 11

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

“This past year has been the busiest retail/commercial package I’ve seen. It’s been really astoundingly busy.” —Chuck Johnson, Perham EDA Director These are only a few in a long list of commercial projects that have made waves recently. Chuck Johnson, the director of Perham’s Economic Development Authority, believes the number of new and expanded businesses in town this year rivals that of any other community within Minnesota’s ninecounty west central region, which includes larger cities like Alexandria and Detroit Lakes. Johnson has dubbed 2016 “the year of retail” in Perham. He’s held his position for 14 years, and he

Top-right: Shirley Mayfield, left, and Myrna Wenaas enjoy a cup of joe and a laugh on Nest’s opening day in November. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS Above: The inside of Nest’s kitchen retail store. SUBMITTED PHOTO

Growing together.

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Perham and Bremer Bank.

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PAGE 12 | PROGRESS 2017 PerhamAreaProgressGuide.indd 1

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New York Mills, MN • 507-923-3311 • www.kandmcoatings.com PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 13

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼ says “this past year has been the busiest retail/commercial package I’ve seen. It’s been really astoundingly busy. There have been periods of busyness before, but I don’t think there’s been a collection of projects like this before. It’s been an amazing year or so.”

NO BOARDED UP STOREFRONTS HERE

Perham is generally considered to have three retail districts, which include downtown, the Highway 10 area, and the 3rd Avenue corridor, which connects the other two districts with a transitional mix of retail and residential buildings. Because it’s been such a big year for retail, Johnson says, “open storefronts and buildings almost don’t exist in Perham, currently… (Other than the former Thrifty White shop) I can’t really name an

Above: Materials for use in wedding ceremonies hang on display at A Day 2 Remember. Right: Necklaces and other jewelry are sold at A Day 2 Remember. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS

We Service All Brands 218-367-3300 24/7 Emergency Service

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DENT LAKES GRANITE 37243 State Hwy 108, Dent, MN 56528

218-758-2187

Toll Free: 800-648-7831

Offices in Dent, Anoka and Longville, MN 001530378r1

NYM ISD #553 PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE

Kindergarten Ready New York Mills has implemented an all-day pre-kindergarten program resulting in more opportunities for students and more students prepared for kindergarten. Based on established pre-kindergarten criteria, 39 of 42 students in the pre-kindergarten program were kindergarten ready. Yes! Third Grade Achieving Grade Level Literacy 69% of New York Mills’ third graders met or exceeded reading proficiency. Growth was experienced due to a greater use of data by teachers and the implementation of RtI initiatives. The New York Mills’ staff is committed to work for the success of all students. Closing the Achievement Gap 3.5% district-wide growth in math was experienced in 2015 in the percentage of free/reduced students’ proficiency. This indicates that continued progress is possible and very probable. Reading results indicate significant growth of 7.5% in the number of free/reduced students’ reading proficiency. College and Career Ready by Graduation Of the 2015 graduating class of 53, 94.3 % of students achieved our college and career readiness goals. 20 students were enrolled in a 2 year college, 18 enrolled in a 4 year college, 2 entered the military, and 10 entered the workforce. We implement-

ed a 9th grade orientation focused on high school. All 9th and 11th graders take part in required career courses. Through coursework, students take several interest inventories and self-assessments, explore post high school options, have the option to do job shadowing, participate in college representative and military visits and have the opportunity for on campus college visits. In addition, each 11th grader takes the ASVAB and the ACT. Finally, each senior has an individual meeting with the counselor and their parents. Persistence and focus on this goal continues to deliver the desired results. All Students Graduate New York Mills graduation rates continue to be over 90% with a five year average graduation rate of 93.59%. This is especially great news when compared to the average state rate. The 2014 Minnesota average state graduation rate was 81.2%. Summary Our students perform at the state average and slightly higher on Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments in Math and Reading. Data represents that New York Mills has a smaller percentage of students in the “Does not meet” category, while a greater percentage of students are meeting standards. The success of all students continues to be the goal and focus of all the staff at New York Mills Schools.

New York Mills Public School www.nymills.k2.mn.us

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 15

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

FIX ROCK CHIPS BEFORE THE COLD CRACKS THEM OUT.

“Open storefronts and buildings almost don’t exist in Perham.” —Chuck Johnson

THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR ALL GLASS REPAIR, REPLACEMENT & ROCK CHIPS CLYDE & DONNA, OWNERS 507 East Main Street, Perham, MN 56573 www.visionsglassrepair.com

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available building right now, off the top of my head, in any of those three districts.” In addition, he said, “our inventory of developable commercial lots is getting pretty skinny. That’s something we’ve been talking about here (at the city offices) recently.” That’s significant for any small town these days, where downtowns, especially, have trouble thriving and open or even boarded up storefronts are a common sight. “We’re fortunate that our downtown commercial is very robust, and that’s extremely rare in a small town,” says Johnson. “In most small towns, there are a lot of openings, and a lot of the stores that do have people in them are professional people, not retailers

218-346-2075 • Toll Free 1-800-550-2447

Live Here. Do Business Here. The Most Jobs.

Help for Businesses.

Pound for pound, Perham offers more jobs than many communities similar or larger in size, and offers a great quality of lakeside life with big city amenities.

Local tax incentives and business services can help you achieve dreams of business ownership in a town with a great quality of life and midwestern work ethic.

“This is where so many people choose to vacation and I am lucky enough to live where I also vacation.” – Sue Huebsch Owner of Wild Goose The City of Perham • 218-346-9798 • www.cityofperham.com PAGE 16 | PROGRESS 2017

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 17

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼ (attorneys, real estate agents, etc., which he says don’t feed other commercial businesses as much). We’re fortunate that almost all these new things in town are commercial.” Retail tends to cycle up and down over time, with multiple vacancies some years and fewer vacancies other years, Johnson explained. He recalled two down cycles during his tenure in Perham, but neither of those cycles, he said, ever got to the point of being a serious concern. Each time, the city offered “carrot packages,” or financial incentives, to encourage business development, and that seemed to help a little, but mostly, “the town just took care of itself,” he says.

WHAT PERHAM’S DOING RIGHT

Johnson credits Perham’s retail success to a number of factors. For one thing, the city has a steady population of people here, and the

Second Hand Rose consignment store was sold to new owners in June and quickly moved into new, larger quarters. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS

community is good at drawing in more people from other areas – all of whom contribute to the local economy. Perham has a solid job base, with a nice mix of large, mid-size and small

employers that continue to grow, which necessitates the hiring of new staff and keeps current staff gainfully employed. That provides a constant flow of customers in local shops all year long, and

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BIDONWARD.COM AUCTIONEERS

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Health Insurance Brokerage

44024 County Highway 67 New York Mills 218-298-4775 www.BidOnward.com

YEAR OF SERVICE

929 Market St Perham

Get Bent in Dent Great Food, Tiny Kitchen. Sit Back and Relax! Under New Ownership

218-346-2290 Toll Free 1-877-724-2365

Downtown, Dent, MN 218-758-9495

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YEAR OF SERVICE

REVIVE SALON SPA 650 3rd Ave. SE, Suite 6C

3350 Building Blue Sky Complex

Perham, MN 56573 001532422r1

YEAR OF SERVICE

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YEAR OF SERVICE

Call today for appointment 218-346-6860 001532430r1

Executive Residence 3350 Building 3350

3350Living Building Assisted Center Executive Executive Residence

Discovery Center Executive Residence Assisted Living Center Assisted Living Center

DiscoveryCenter Center Discovery Assisted Living Center

Serving the lakes area for over 25 years. PLANNERS / ARCHITECTS

Discovery Center

YEAR OF SERVICE

SECOND HAND ROSE

ACCRA

A Consignment Store & More

Personalized home care to children, adolescents, adults, and families of all abilities and age

120 2ND STREET SE PERHAM, MN 001529660r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

866-935-3515 www.accracare.org

YEARS OF SERVICE

DENT MONUMENT LLC Visit our Perham Office for All Your Monument Needs

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235 W. Main, Perham 218-346-2907 001530339r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

EDWARD JONES Making Sense of Investing Phil Gilbert, Financial Advisor 232 Market Drive, Suite A Perham 218-346-6727 001532943r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 19

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼ makes business owners feel more confident about opening or expanding their businesses here. In the summers, the population soars as seasonal homesteaders come back to enjoy their lake cabins, and resorts and campgrounds fill up with visitors. It’s difficult to pin down exactly how many additional people are around in the summers, but it’s commonly stated that the population nearly doubles. On paper, Perham’s population is only about 3,000, which sounds too small to support a bustling business sector, but in reality the city draws year-round retail customers from a much larger surrounding footprint that includes small cities like Dent,

The Perham Dairy Queen got a major facelift this year, inside and out. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS

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PERHAM PHYSICAL THERAPY Matthew Kaufenberg MS, PT, Cert. SMT

218-346-2464

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505 E. Main Perham

YEARS OF SERVICE

SCOTTY’S TIRES

K&M COATINGS

LEVEL III

39 years of on-the-farm service. New & used tractor, truck & automotive tires. Firestone/ Goodyear/Michelin/BKT’s, Alliance

Full service floor coating installation

Trendy Junior and Missy-sized women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories

New York Mills

Located across the street from Dot & Minnie’s at 159 1st Ave S. Downtown Perham, MN

45055 Hwy 54 Ottertail 56571 701-361-9339 Scotty 701-306-3071 Jason

507-923-3311 www.kandmcoatings.com

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ITOW VETERANS MUSEUM 805 West Main, Perham 218-346-7678

218-346-4181 www.leveliiiboutique.com

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YEARS OF SERVICE

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YEARS OF SERVICE

Throughout history war has had a profound effect on the men and women of rural America, bringing changes to them as well as to the communities from which they came. Perham’s In Their Own Words Veterans’ Museum invites you to experience the memories and events of those who were there in an auditory, and/or visual experience through the use of video documentaries and interviews as well as audio commentaries.

OPEN YEAR ROUND Established in 1998, the History Museum of East Otter Tail County is located in Perham, Minnesota in the heart of the west central lakes area. Displays tell the stories of the people, places and events of the area through interpretive exhibits, photographs, and original motion picture footage. Open to the public, the History Museum is housed in a beautiful historic stone structure.

www.historyartsculture.com hacaeotc@gmail.com

DOT & MINNIE’S BOUTIQUE

MASTERPIECE VAPORS

Classic & Unique Clothing & Accessories

157 1st Ave S Perham

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148 1st Avenue South Perham, MN 56573 (218) 346-4180 www.dotandminnies.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-7547 www.MPVapors.com

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YEARS OF SERVICE

230 1st Ave. N., Perham OPEN YEAR ROUND • 346-7676

YEARS OF SERVICE

MCDONALD’S

BUDGET BLINDS

I’m Lovin’ It

Service is Always in Style

100 Judd Street Perham

218-844-7052

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History Museum of EOT

Ask about our “No Questions Asked” Guarantee 001530324r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 21

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

Update your home with new floor coverings from Winkels Carpet Center.

MOSQUITO TRAP STORE — 8 YEARS

If you’re looking for an effective way to get those pesky little ‘Minnesota state birds’ to buzz off, look no further than the Mosquito Trap Store at Big Pine Lodge in Perham. Owned by Joe Harlow, who also owns Big Pine Lodge, The Mosquito Trap Store repairs and reconditions used Mosquito Magnet traps, and also sells new ones, all within a five-state area. Mosquito Magnets are electronic devices scientifically proven to reduce the number of mosquitoes and other biting insects from yards. Harlow has been involved in the Mosquito Trap Store for eight years. He initially offered his help as an employee of the store, and eventually acquired the business. The income is a great supplement to the resort, he says, and he is able to operate the business right from there. His son helps him run it, and will likely take it over in the future.

all in today’s richest decorator colors. ShawMark carpets ®

145 Second Ave., SE, Perham Richard Winkels 218-346-2924 HOURS: Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm

STITCHES BY SCHMITZ’S — 8 YEARS 001523263r1

DISCOVER A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES

WHAT’S THAT BUSINESS?

Choose from • Berbers • Plushes • Saxonies • Textures • Hardwood • Vinyls • And More

Stitches by Schmitz’s is a tongue-twisting rug binding business operated by Diane and Michael Schmitz. The two are in their eighth year of owning the business, and they say they’re having as much fun with it now as ever. Diane, who also works at Winkels Carpet Center in Perham, had a longtime interest in rug design and binding, and decided it would be nice to start a business on the side. She says it’s something she and Michael have enjoyed, and they are happy the business has lasted as long as it has. Diane’s favorite thing about owning Stitches by Schmitz’s is helping her customers, she says. She also loves designing different rugs. Stitches by Schmitz’s handles many different sizes and styles of residential and commercial rugs. The business offers several options for binding, and also cuts rugs to size.

100 Judd Street • Perham

Michael and Diane Schmitz have owned their rug binding business for eight years. JASON GROTH/FOCUS 001533901r1

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YEARS OF SERVICE

CHILDREN’S CORNER LEARNING CENTER

HARMONIOUS ARCHITECTURE

Furnace installation, air conditioning, boilers, duct work, water lines, drain lines, repairs

10,000 square feet of bargains!

Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 am – 5:45 pm

Kelli Wegscheid, Architect

225 East Main Perham

Perham

218-739-2847 www.childrenscornerlc.com

218-251-0081 www.harmoniousArchitecture.com

Jesse Haugan 218-205-7065

218-346-2616 001528033r1

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“RE-USE-IT” THRIFT STORE

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HAUGAN HEATING & COOLING

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It ’s Nifty to be Thrifty!

10,000 square feet with 10,000 bargains

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“Re-Use-It” Thrift Store 001529407r1

225 East Main • Perham, MN 218-346-2616 Proceeds beneﬁt Boys & Girls Club of the Perham area.

YEARS OF SERVICE

HOMETOWN REPAIR

630 W. Main, Perham Perham 218-346-3346

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Complete Car & Truck Repair • Diesels • Small Engines • Tires • Oil Changes • Auto Starts

YEARS OF SERVICE

LAKE COUNTRY HOME CARE, LLC

MOSQUITO TRAP STORE

STITCHES BY SCHMITZ’S

You have family with us. Serving Central Minnesota

43606 Mosquito Heights Road Perham

Custom Rug Binding Mike & Diane Schmitz

95 Miller Street New York Mills

218-298-2358 Toll Free: 888-526-9407

45311 455th Avenue Perham

218-385-3422

Email: info@joemosquito.com www.joemosquito.com

218-346-6359

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 23

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼ Ottertail and Richville, as well as multiple rural townships. In all, Johnson considers Perham’s total yearround customer base to be more like 11,000 people. In the summers, there are thousands more. “Our customer draw area is a lot denser than you’d expect it to be … and that’s a lot of what drives our retail district,” he says. “It especially drives our gift shops and specialty shops.” To entice people into town, local businesses and the Perham Chamber of Commerce “do a really good job of marketing,” according to Johnson, targeting both local and out-of-area shoppers. In addition, “the retailers themselves have really good leadership and good cohesiveness – that’s another factor in the success of retail here. They aren’t really territorial. They market jointly.”

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Where will you land? It all begins with an idea and a phone call.

AREA TRAVEL 650 Third Ave. SE, Perham Toll Free: 1-800-626-3801 Phone: 218-346-3933 areatravel@msn.com

New housing developments like this one, under construction near Shopko, have been going up in Perham for the past several years. Providing more housing in Perham helps the community to grow, which is good for the local economy and local retailers. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS

218-346-6275 www.truevalue.com/marksfleetsupply 001530289r1

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231 Market Drive Perham, MN 56573 218-346-2033

• Auto • Light Truck • Diesel All Makes and Models Rated #1 Repair Shop in the Perham Area!

GRANDSTAY HOTEL & SUITES Business, Family & Extended Stay

945 Market Street Perham

Repair 218-346-3346 630 W. Main, Perham • hometownrepair@hotmail.com

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MARK’S FLEET SUPPLY TRUE VALUE

YEARS OF SERVICE

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YEARS OF SERVICE

You’re on Your Way!

REAL ESTATE RESULTS 135 E Main Street Perham

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Cal Dockter, Broker

218-346-4663 contact@RealEstateResultsMN.com We’re all about results …

YEARS OF SERVICE

THRIFTY ALTERNATIVES

THE PICKLE FACTORY

PERHAM FAMILY DENTISTRY

802 Jenny Ave Perham

Full Service Menu & Bar Service Check out our many retail items inc. pickled veggies, condiments, sauces, meats, sweets, jams & syrup!

918 Market Street Perham

Enjoy Getting Pickled!

218-346-7186

218-346-3616 218-346-2131 www.paiff.org

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YEARS OF SERVICE

County Hwy. 41 • Vergas 218-758-2619

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PRAIRIE VIEW ASSISTED LIVING

YEARS OF SERVICE

MICHAELANGELO’S TAKE AND BAKE PIZZA

Kari Honer, Owner

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218-298-1140

NEW CREATION LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday Morning Worship 10:00am 295 Coney St. W. Perham 218-346-7203 garden@newcreationperham.org www.newcreationperham.org

657 W. Main St Perham

821 7th Avenue SW Perham, MN 56573

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-347-4992 001529391r1

001530374r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

CARCARE PARADISE State of the Art Touch Free Car Wash Come feel the difference - “It Rocks!” 112 Judd Street Perham (Behind NAPA) 218-346-3122

001529704r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 25

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼ 001524345r1

Tender HearTs

Home Care

PCA Choice, Homemaking, Respite Care • Private Pay • Medical Assistance • LTC Insurance • U Care • SCHS • Medica • Blue Cross/Blue Plus

MARK F. MCFARLANE, CPA

New Construction • Remodeling Cabins • Service • Drain Cleaning Water Heaters • Softeners

Accounting & Tax Service Located in Mills Office Center, New York Mills Phone 218-385-2800 Fax 218-385-2824 markm@markmcfarlanecpa.com www.markmcfarlanecpa.com

218-346-5389 Randy Januszewski Insured & Bonded, Master Plumber Lic #060559PM 001528763r1

001529387r1

WHAT’S THAT BUSINESS? SNACKS PLUS — 13 YEARS

tndhrt@arvig.net

Kerrie Steinbach, Owner Sandy Barthel, Office Manager Not pictured: Terry Nelson, RN Tabetha Boe, RN

THE LEADER IN SERVICE, PRICE AND QUALITY!

Hosting a get together, graduation or family reunion? Let Dean’s Country Market take care of the food. Dean’s now offers a full catering service. From setup, service to cleanup, Dean’s will do it all.

Snacks Plus is based out of Glyndon, Minn., but has branches in Fargo, N.D. as well as Perham. Snacks Plus started in 1999 as a vending company offering pop, snack and sandwich machines. It has since evolved to include Micro Market vending kiosks, or 24-hour self-checkout, automated convenience stores. Micro Markets are a growing trend in the vending machine business, and Snacks Plus currently has 23 of them, according to owner Dan McKeever. McKeever says technology is driving his business, with cash transactions quickly becoming a thing of the past. More than 300 of Snacks Plus’s vending machines accept credit and debit cards, Apple Pay and Mobile Wallets. Also, some people have their purchases deducted right from their paychecks. The company employs 13 people. Snacks Plus vending company has been around since 1999. JASON GROTH/ FOCUS

PERHAM: Mon -Sun 7am-11pm • Phone 346-6750 NEW YORK MILLS: Mon -Fri 8am-8pm; Sat 8am-6pm; Sun 9am-6pm Phone 385-2765

DEAN’S

FOOD STAMPS AND WIC COUPONS WELCOME HERE

Country Market

Serving East Otter Tail County Over 45 Years

YEARS OF SERVICE

SNACKS PLUS Full Service Vending Dan McKeever, owner

218-346-2985 Toll Free: 1-877-929-2100 snacksplusvending@gmail.com 001532388r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

BIG PINE LODGE Open Year Round, with Dining Specials and Happy Hour

105 6th Avenue SE Perham

NEW YORK MILLS AND PERHAM www.deanscountrymarket.com PAGE 26 | PROGRESS 2017

YEARS OF SERVICE

JANUSZEWSKI PLUMBING

P.O. Box 322 Perham

218-385-3466

For more information, stop in or give us a call today.

43606 Mosquito Hts. Rd Perham 001526416r1

New York Mills

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-3480 001530399r1

RED BARN GREENHOUSE

NOOTZI’S ON MAIN Hours: Mon-Fri. 6:30 am - 3:00 pm Sat-Sun. 6.30 am - 2:00 pm

49822 County Hwy 67 New York Mills

106 Main Street Dent

218-385-2934

Minnesota & Utah Permit to Carry Classes

Detroit Lakes, eCampus Fergus Falls, Moorhead Wadena

001529357r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

TDS TACTICAL DEFENSE SYSTEMS

MINNESOTA STATE COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE

877-450-3322 www.minnesota.edu

001526406r1

218-758-9492

YEARS OF SERVICE

Classes held monthly in Perham and Wadena 218-346-7723 htmnlson@arvig.net

001523815r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001523817r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001526365r1

610 3rd Avenue SE Perham 218-346-7642 Toll free 866-346-7642 www.MidwestHealthBenefits.com

SEAMLESS GUTTER SYSTEMS 001531959r1

MIDWEST HEALTH BENEFITS

YEARS OF SERVICE

TENDER HEARTS HOME CARE

RL MILLER CONSTRUCTION, LLC

Free Estimates

Let us care for you

Frazee

407 Carlund Parkway New York Mills

“You Dream It, We’ll Build It!” New Construction • Remodeling • Decks Rick Miller • Lic #BC318365

Wayne King Cell: 218-841-0232 Home: 218-334-4425

218-385-3466 tndhrt@arvig.net Call Kerrie for more information

001528375r1

001524891r1

43453 County Hwy 53 Perham 218-346-6401

001526458r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 27

It also helps that there are some “destination” businesses that attract people to town who might not come otherwise, such as Refreshing Designs or the upcoming Otter Tail Glass, which offer unique services and products that can’t be found elsewhere in the area. Several clothing retailers in Perham also lure destination shoppers; people are more willing to travel from miles away for the promise of visiting multiple shops. All these things – Perham’s solid job base, the area’s summer population bump, the community’s variety of businesses, and cooperative marketing efforts by the Chamber and local retailers – work together to drive consumers to town. Once they’re here, Johnson says, it’s the community’s responsibility to get them to stay awhile. And he feels like Perham is pretty good at that, too. People find plenty of shopping options once they get to town, and a variety of restaurants keep their appetites sated. As the Flataus have described, business-to-business referrals also help move customers from store to store. Friendly customer service and high-quality products and services keep them coming back to town again and again.

423 West Main St | Perham, MN 56573 218-346-7767 PAGE 28 | PROGRESS 2017

Hamann Dentistry

Quality Dental Care is Our Tradition Serving the area for 40+ YEARS.

New Patients Welcome GIVE KIDS A SMILE DAY on Feb. 3rd

Mike Hamann, D.D.S

Brooke Hamann, D.D.S

All ages and all services

001524297r1

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

200 1st Ave. S. • Perham (Located Conveniently Downtown Perham) 218-346-4775 • www.hamannfamilydentistry.com

PHIL’S PLUMBING

Serving the community for over 40 years!

COUNTYWIDE PLUMBING SERVICE

MASTER PLUMBER - LICS. & BONDED

SPECIALIZING IN NEW HOME PLUMBING REPAIRS • REMODELING WATER SOFTENERS & A COMPLETE LINE OF FIXTURES DRAIN CLEANING & THAWING CAMERA INSPECTIONS

218-346-5977

Prevention & Chronic Ear Diagnostic/Treatment Advanced Orthopedic Procedures Laser Surger/Procedures and Laser Declaw Dental Health - Complete Care & Restoration Digital X-Ray • Vaccinations EMERGENCY/Grooming • Safe Boarding Dr. Wm. M. Rose

License #060339PM

46414 390TH STREET, PERHAM, MN 56573

LAKELAND VETERINARY CLINIC & SURGICAL CENTER North Highway 8 • Perham, MN www.lakelandvetclinic.com Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5:30pm • Sat. 8am-11am

001531949r1

100% independently own and operated

PERHAM/OTTERTAIL AREA • 218-346-6550

“YOUR LOVED ONE NEVER LEAVES OUR CARE”

With the rise and need of cremation in our area Greg and Suzi have added a crematory on-site at their funeral home. Karvonen Funeral Home is the only funeral home on State Highway #10 from St. Cloud to Fargo complete with an onsite crematory. When a family chooses cremation for their loved one at Karvonen Funeral Home, we have a special room and we encourage families to have a final viewing before the cremation process begins. In this room is a window with pull away curtains that can offer a comfortable view of the crematorium. Greg and Suzi also offer all the amenities for a traditional funeral service with a wide range of casket selections, burial vaults, video tributes and facilities for visitation and/or funeral services. As one of the few family owned and operated funeral homes in the area, Greg and Suzi invite you to stop by to discuss the options and let us do a cost comparison and record your wishes.

LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU... New York Mills 110 S. Broadway • PO Box K (218) 385-2345

001365255r1

The Lakeland Vet Team delivers exceptional care and results the first time.

Wadena 419 2nd Street NE (218) 632-4007

Suzi & Greg, Owners

Henning 505 Holden Ave • PO Box 11 (218) 583-2511

www.karvonenfuneralhome.com PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 29

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

An expansion at Lakeside Tap was well underway by December 2016, and was slated for completion by spring. MARIE JOHNSON/FOCUS

001532429r1

“It’s tough to build new retail and make it work, but you look at the list (of new and expanded businesses) for this year, and it says a lot about our retail community,” Johnson sums up. “If it’s robust enough that people can build a new facility, that’s a healthy retail district. That’s pretty rare, I think. New retail construction, I think, is pretty rare. And that just speaks volumes about the robustness of our retail district. This has been the ‘year of retail’ in Perham, that’s for sure.”

650 3RD AVE. S.E., SUITE 6C • PERHAM, MN C ALL 218-346-6860 FOR APPOINTMENT RE VIVESALONSPA@ARVIG.NE T RE VIVE-SALON-SPA.COM SA R A H C R OOK A ND M ISSY LU B ITZ, CO- OWNERS

SERVING THE PERHAM AREA SINCE 1993

Get the Complete

Healthcare Coverage You’ve Been Missing

At Cutting Edge, we understand we all want that beautiful, lush green yard. However, with that beautiful, lush green yard comes the responsibility ... that’s where we come in!

Midwest Health Benefits offers: • Health Insurance • Life Insurance • Small Group Health Plans • Disability • Long Term Care • Medicare Supplements

Services we provide: • Fertilization • Commercial Snow Removal • Parking Lot Sweeping • ATV/UTV & Snowmobile Repair

218-346-5OO4

INDIVIDUALS - FAMILIES - BUSINESSES 001528771r1

• Lawn Mowing • Aerating/De-thatching • Weed Trimming • Blowing off Sidewalks • Weed Control

www.cuttingedgeperham.com PAGE 30 | PROGRESS 2017

001531957r1

43761 426th St., Perham, MN 56573 Rachel Staebler Lustila

Contact Rachel Staebler Lustila or Amelia Holmer today 218-346-7642 610 3rd Ave., SE, Perham, MN perham@midwesthealthbenefits.com www.MidwestHealthBenefits.com

ALL CREATURES VETERINARY HOSPITAL

JH SIGNS & DESIGNS, INC.

001524988r1

218-346-PETS (7387) Toll Free 1-866-483-7387 www.allcreaturesperham.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

Employment, Flex Plan, Payroll Administration

41357 460th Street Perham

From The Field … To The Table 105 9th Ave NE Perham

154 1st Avenue South Perham

218-346-7446 218-346-7406 fax www.jhsigns.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

J&L NUTRITIONAL CONSULTING

ROYALE RESOURCES

Justin Helmke

Dr. Raeanna Tisdell-Covington DVM 905 Jenny Ave. Perham, MN 56573

YEARS OF SERVICE

001523288r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

Ofﬁ ce 218-346-648

800-485-2875 • 218-346-3000 www.royaleresources.com

001530452r1

001527544r1

Second Hand Rose

COME SHOP, SAVE & LOOK GREAT!

WAS YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTION TO SAVE MONEY? WE HAVE THE BRANDS YOU LOVE-SOME WITH TAGS & IN NEARLY NEW CONDITION AT GREAT PRICES.

120 2ND STREET SE PERHAM MN

MENS, BOYS, WOMENS, GIRLS, JUNIORS, PLUS SIZE, PETITE & MATERNITY DECOR, SILVER & GOLD COINS AND MUCH MORE!

YEARS OF SERVICE

COLDWELL BANKER PREFERRED PARTNERS

PERHAM TRUCK SERVICE

138 W. Main St., Perham 218-346-7672

43589 Fort Thunder Road Perham

26 N. Broadway, Pelican Rapids 217-863-8723 218-346-7376

001526447r1

001528814r1

BRIGHTON, TRIBAL, KAREN KANE, MISSME, SILVER, UNDER ARMOUR, HOLLISTER, COACH, NIKE, CHRISTOPER & BANKS TO NAME A FEW!

OPEN 10 AM TO 6PM MONDAY-SATURDAY find us on

YEARS OF SERVICE

PERHAM AUTO REPAIR Fort Thunder Road Perham

VISIONS GLASS AUTO AND HOME 507 East Main Street Perham www.visionsglassrepair.com

218-346-4875 218-346-2075 Toll Free 1-800-550-2447

www.MNLakePartners.com 001530298r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001527499r1

001527513r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 31

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

COMMERCIAL BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED IN 2016 A MONTH-BY-MONTH BREAKDOWN OF COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED TO THE CITY OF PERHAM MONTH January

February March

April May

June

July August

September

October November

December

BUSINESS NAME Super 8 Dean’s Country Market Perham Health Lakeside Country Club Pine Shelter Veterinary Hospital Brew Ales & Eats Lakes Area Coop Bongards Creameries Whisk From Scratch Esser Plumbing and Heating Main Street Storage Thrifty White Pharmacy Shop Farms Simple K Bongards Creameries East Otter Tail Soil and Water Donald Meyer Matthew Marotz Harmonious Architecture Dennis Happel Perham Lakeside Country Club Dairy Queen Perham Lakeside Country Club United Community Bank

PROJECT Expanded seating area Deli & pharmacy remodel Clinic remodel Bar area remodel Garage door removal/floor elevation Kitchen remodel Exterior cooler addition Resheeting, Stork Dryers Remodel for bakery Storage building New building Sign Remodel Edward Jones Construct chemical room Drive-thru canopy removal Replace floor and ceiling of former Pizza Ranch 60x120 metal building Remodel Divide into two offices 60x124 storage shed Remodel Remodel House demolition

PERMIT VALUE $5,000 $140,362 $61,000 $30,000 $15,000 $168,932 $175,000 $511,372 $188,871 $15,500 $70,000 N/A $8,900 N/A $270,000 $10,000 $12,000 $100,000 $190,000 $2,000 $117,134 $225,000 $1,000,000 $12,000

Wild Goose Perham Egg Schoeneberger Funeral Home Perham Public Schools Crane Johnson Lumber Express Lube Productive Alternatives Hemmelgarn Builders St. Stanislaus Church N/A Bongards Creameries Central MN Credit Union Simple K Los Jalapenos Taqueria Arvig Kenny’s Candy Nutheads Kit Masters Ottertail Glass Nutheads

Remodel/updates Reroof building New funeral home Vehicle storage shed Replace concrete and partially reside Replace 21 feet of apron Concrete slab Shop/office building Handicap ramp

$27,946 $74,611 $800,000 $75,000 $14,000 $500 $1,500 $122,000 $3,535

Interior remodel Interior remodel Finish offices and breakroom Interior remodel 14x16 shed Building addition Pole building Building addition Interior remodel 22x144 pole building

$30,000 $74,000 $38,000 $10,000 $10,000 $350,000 $126,720 $1,300,000 $10,000 $126,720

Source: City of Perham *Construction value only; does not reflect total project completion costs

PAGE 32 | PROGRESS 2017

LAKES COUNTRY LANDSCAPING AND GARDEN CENTER

PHIL’S PLUMBING

BOEDY APPLIANCE

FOSTER’S MARINE SERVICE LLC

Countywide Plumbing Service

Sales & Service “Your In Home Repair Experts”

43767 Fort Thunder Road Perham, MN 56573

200 West Main • Perham

Phone: 218-346-3773 Fax: 218-346-6394

218-346-5977 “Plumb Crazy!”

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-2936 boedyappliance.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

Email: foster2@arvig.net

001525238r1

001531952r1

906 2nd Ave NE, Perham 218-346-2197, Facebook: Lakes Country Landscaping

Specializing in New Home Plumbing Repairs • Remodeling • Water Softeners and a Complete Line of Fixtures

001530471r1

Full Garden Center, Landscaping, Lawn Care, Sprinklers

YEARS OF SERVICE

001526179r1

OF + YEARS SERVICE

SHOP. RELAX. PLAY. EXPLORE. PACKAGE DEALS FOR COUPLES, FAMILIES, & FRIENDS FORK & CORK PACKAGE

FAMILY FUN GETAWAY 1 night for 2 adults and 2 kids

• King Whirlpool Guest Room

• 1 night stay in a Double Queen Guest Room • 1 hour of Bowling and Shoe Rentals for 4 people • 1 Single Topping Pizza and a Pitcher of Pop • Complimentary Grand Start Breakfast • Enjoy our indoor swimming pool $ and hot tub.

• $40 Dining Card at LakeSide Tap at Perham Lakeside Golf Course or at The Cactus • Wine and Chocolates • Complimentary Grand Start Breakfast

12100

IT’S A WRAP” SHOPPING PACKAGE

WINE MAKERS WEEKEND

• 1 Night in a 2 Queen Guest Room • $25 gift card at “Goose Gang” - three level toy store • $25 gift card at “Nest” - kitchen store & coffee shop • $25 gift card at “Dot & Minnie’s” - women’s apparel & accessories $ 00 • $25 gift card at “Bay Window Quilt Shop”

141

• 1 Night Stay in a Double Queen Guest Room • “Make Me Wine” wine making class for 2 people on Saturday • “Make Me Wine” gift bag with wine, fudge and wine tote • Complimentary Grand Start Breakfast $ • Bottle of wine

ROMANTIC GETAWAY

11600

FOR MORE DETAILS GO TO GRANDSTAYHOSPITALITY.COM

• King Whirlpool Guest Room • Wine, Truffles, and Flowers • Complimentary Grand Start Breakfast

per person

13100

CALL TO BOOK YOUR PACKAGES TODAY 218-346-2033 • 231 MARKET DRIVE, PERHAM

YEARS OF SERVICE

JANUSZEWSKI ELECTRIC

ALL SEASONS HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING LLC

NORTHWOODS ELECTRICAL & CONTROL SYSTEMS

37211 South Little McDonald Drive Perham

37 years in the heating business

616 Pinewood Lane Perham

218-346-6006

216 West Main Street Ottertail, MN 56571 218-367-3300 www.allseasonsottertail.com

001527526r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

CUTTING EDGE OF PERHAM, INC. - Lawn Care - Snowmobile & ATV Repair - Parts & Accessories 43761 426th Street Perham

218-346-7763

218-346-5004 001529380r1

001528774r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001524396r1

001530437r1

12100

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 33

YEAR OF RETAIL ▼

ANNUAL COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PERMIT VALUES FROM 2006-2016

SERVICE FOOD MARKET

YEARS OF SERVICE

SMITH FAMILY DENTISTRY

Serving You Best! Best Quality Produce, Bakery, Meat and Deli Departments Certified Angus Beef Brand

For a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles 135 Third Street NE Perham 218-346-7700 Quarter Page Magazine(4.25”x5.5”) fax 218-346-5230 250 East Main Street, Perham dentalps@arvig.net 218-346-7800 001530286r1 001532399r1

DOLLARS SPENT ON CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN PERHAM OVER THE PAST DECADE

YEARS OF SERVICE

$45M

Timing counts when it comes to your social security benefit Social Security can be one of your most valuable retirement assets. The decision of when you start taking your benefit impacts how much you’ll receive.

Call or visit today, and learn how your decision impacts your overall retirement income strategy. Final decisions about Social Security filing strategies always rest with you and should always be based on your specific needs and health considerations. For more information, visit the Social Security Administration website at www.socialsecurity.gov.

$1.8M

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

COMMERCIAL

RESIDENTIAL

TOTAL

2006

$10,818,046

$3,351,955

$14,170,001

2007

$5,194,364

$1,770,997

$6,965,361

2008

$9,794,563

$4,086,592

$13,881,155

2009

$9,361,024

$1,830,097

$11,191,121

2010

$6,075,002

$2,271,676

$8,346,678

2011

$4,812,065

$2,520,114

$7,332,179

2012

$11,063,290

$3,976,041

$15,039,331

2013

$40,147,104

$4,763,283

$44,910,387

2014

$15,230,121

$2,351,000

$17,581,121

2015

$11,210,486

$2,163,266

$13,373,752

2016

$14,562,059

$8,511,386

$23,073,445

$2016 numbers are through 12/19. *Construction value only; does not reflect total project completion costs. Source: City of Perham

Phil Gilbert

Financial Advisor .

IRT-7557B-A

YEAR

232 Market Drive Suite A Perham, MN 56573 218-346-6727

YEARS OF SERVICE

PELOQUIN LAW OFFICE, PA STEVE PELOQUIN AMY JENSON 432 3rd Ave. SE, Perham 218-346-6900 15 N. Main, New York Mills 218-385-3100 602 Pleasant Ave., Park Rapids 218-237-2200

001530621r1

PAGE 34 | PROGRESS 2017

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

YEARS OF SERVICE

NEW HORIZONS REALTY OF PERHAM, INC. Building a Name You Can Trust! Chad Anderson, Broker/Owner 423 W. Main Street Perham 218-346-7767 www.perhamrealestate.ocm Email: horizons@eot.com 001530509r1

GUARDIAN CROP INSURANCE

218-346-7290 1-800-582-7290

001530251r1

Minnesota 218-346-4505 www.bhhpartners.com

Mark’s Fleet Supply True Value

YEARS OF SERVICE

Building for Perham since 1956

St. Henry’s Church

Tuffy’s Grandstand

YEARS OF SERVICE

106 Jake Street SE Perham

Independent Water Systems Water Treatment Systems, Reverse Osmosis, Bottled Water, Softener Salt

PO Box A New York Mills, MN

Perham 218-346-6445 www.BenHolzerUnlimited.com

001524375r1

LAKE COUNTRY INSURANCE

United Community Bank

YEARS OF SERVICE

BEN HOLZER UNLIMITED

001529997r1

001529455r1

Your Vision. Our Team.

SUPER 8 MOTEL & RV CAMPGROUND

218-346-7888

218-385-3339 www.kulcher.org

BUILDING TRUST

218-346-2195 www.HCI-MN.com

Kenny’s Candies

24 North Main Avenue New York Mills

Anthony J. Stoll, AIA, Principal Architect

001530486r1

Free Estimates 218-346-3890 Serving the Entire Lakes Area Since 1992

CULTURAL CENTER IN NEW YORK MILLS

BHH PARTNERS PLANNERS/ ARCHITECTS

109 Coney Street West Perham

YEARS OF SERVICE

AUTO VALUE Locally owned and operated 659 W. Main St.

New York Mills: 385-3989 Verndale: 445-5153 Motley: 352-6622

Perham, MN 218-346-3448

001523447r1

• Lawn Sprinklers • Start Ups • Sales and Service • Professional Design and Installation • Complete Line of Inventory • Commercial and Residential - Lic. #TS01383

001530785r1

AQUA LAWN, INC.

YEARS OF SERVICE

001533768r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001523435r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 35

minnesota.edu 877.450.3322 info@minnesota.edu minnesota.edu/help Minnesota State Community and Technical College is an Aﬃrma�ve Ac�on/Equal Opportunity College. This document is available in alterna�ve format to individuals with disabili�es by calling Disability Services at 218.299.6506 or the Oﬃce of Diversity and Inclusion at 218.299.6506.

Your M State

Success Story Begins Here! M State is accessible, affordable, local. Take advantage of all our sstudent tud dent life activities, including athl letics and fine arts. And with four athletics c am mpuses, online options, individual campuses, a ttention and many transfer degrees, attention what are you waiting for?

Arrange a visit today at minnesota.edu/visit. We look forward to showing you all we have to offer!

A member of the Minnesota State system

001522558R1

WINDOW SHOPPING Quick looks at new and upcoming businesses in Perham

PAGE 38 | PROGRESS 2017

Above: In addition to being a coffeehouse, Nest also features a full kitchen retail store. Below: Nest has a fun, contemporary atmosphere and design. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTOS

NEST

A cool spot where coffee fans can roost

eople in Perham were chirping about Nest before the idea for the business was even fully hatched. As soon as the possibility of getting a new coffeehouse in town was first mentioned in public last spring, Perhamites began chomping at the bit to know more. And when the building started going up on the south side of town, people’s curiosity and expectations only grew. What would it look like when it was done? What food would it serve? What things would it sell? As Nest came together, its chic, contemporary design made it stand out from the crowd, and tongues continued to wag. Later, when word got out that Nest would be more than a fun and funky coffeehouse, it would

also have a retail side with a focus on kitchenware, people got even more excited about it. When the business held its soft opening Nov. 1, a steady crowd of customers flocked through the doors, curious about its interior look and feel and wanting to sample the goods. Nest offers specialty coffee drinks as well as some light snacks like muffins and bagels. The building features a rustic-modern design with bright, bold splashes of

color throughout. The coffee shop and seating area are open and welcoming yet still offer customers the feeling of privacy. Owned by Goose Group, Nest is meant to appeal to men and women, young and old. The company wanted the space to be comfortable for anybody and everybody. Why the name Nest? Erica Martin, Goose Group’s director of marketing, explains that it fits within the company’s theme of geese while also making a statement about this particular business. “Nest symbolizes your home, a place where one feels secure and comfortable,” Martin says. “When you are in your nest, you are surrounded by family and friends.” PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 39

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

Above: Perham native Daniel Flatau and his wife, Holly, opened Whisk From Scratch in July. Below: Cupcakes are always a popular product at Whisk From Scratch. Other consistent customer favorites are chocolate chip cookies, caramel rolls, brownies and the deli’s pecan chicken sandwich. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTOS

WHISK FROM SCRATCH

A unique artisan bakery and deli

“Y

ou don’t do doughnuts?” Daniel and Holly Flatau were asked this question a lot when they first opened their artisan bakery and deli, Whisk From Scratch, in July. First-time customers were surprised to find out that they couldn’t get a typical ‘bakery box’ full of deep-fried long johns, bear claws, apple fritters and the like. But when they discovered what they could get, they quickly came around. Whisk From Scratch is like nothing Perham has ever seen before. Above and beyond a traditional bakery, the business uses no fryers (which is why there are no doughnuts, except baked doughnuts on occasion). Everything is handmade PAGE 40 | PROGRESS 2017

from scratch, as the name of the business promises, with no chemicals. Local, wholesome ingredients are used whenever possible. Holly, who comes from a large family of bakers, makes and sells scones, muffins, caramel rolls, croissants, pies, cookies, brownies, cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, breads, sandwiches and more. Baristas serve a wide variety of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as craft beer and wine.

The place feels light and open, with sunshine streaming through a big front window and a bright, spacious seating area. Overall, the couple says, things have been going well since the opening. They’ve received “a ton” of community support, they say, and have already built up a solid base of loyal customers who visit the shop three to four times a week. Regular patrons have also gotten comfortable making requests for special food items, such as gluten-free goodies, which Holly is more than happy to provide. In the future, the Flataus plan to expand on their evening event offerings – live music, for example – and want to add more evening menu options, such as a cheese and cracker platter.

HILLTOP LUMBER

OTTER TAIL COUNTY RECYCLING

Lumber • Hardware • Plumbing Heating • Electrical • Paint Glass • Household Goods

Solid Waste: (218) 998-4898

001526205r1

OTTERTAIL CABINET COMPANY Quality Custom Built Prefinished Cabinetry for: Kitchen, Baths, China Cabinets, Gun Cabinets and More! 94 Lake Avenue So. Ottertail, MN 56571-0035 Mike Sanders 218-367-2224 or Bruce Johnson 218-346-2331 Email: occ@arvig.net

Recycling Center: (218) 736-4400

108 West Main Street Ottertail 218-367-2265 www.hilltoplbr.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

Household Hazardous Waste Facility: (218) 736-2161 001530421r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

STEVE’S SANITATION, INC. Commercial & Residential Garbage & Roll-Off Service 140 6th Avenue NE Perham 001525218r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001531339r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-4834

Perham Resource Recovery Facility

218-346-4404 201 6th Ave. NE Perham, MN

001530413r1

Energy recovery is much more than just burning garbage. Learn more about waste-to-energy recovery. Tours and presentations are available for small and large groups. We encourage schools to set up tours-give us a call or stop by to set up a tour.

www.co.ottertail.mn.us/prairielakes

BEKKERUS • SCHOTT HELMEKE • DECONCINI • JOHNSON LTD.

WEST CENTRAL INITIATIVE Your regional community foundation serving West Central Minnesota.

Certified Public Accountants

001524340r1

218-346-4200 www.lakescpa.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

OVERLAND INSURANCE AGENCY

PERHAM RESOURCE RECOVER FACILITY

Serving the Perham area for 46 years.

Prairie Lakes Municipal Waste Authority 201 6th Ave. NE Perham, MN

255 3rd Avenue SE Perham

160 Third Avenue SW Perham, MN 56573

P.O. Box 318, Fergus Falls Toll Free: 1-800-735-2239 www.wcif.org Facebook: westcentralinitiative

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-6250 001527238r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

Representing multiple property and casualty insurance carriers. 001527522r1

218-346-4404 001530422r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 41

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

Above: Disgruntled serves a variety of pale ales, stouts and Belgian-style beers, as well as a rotation of seasonal beers. Below: Brett Doebbeling, co-owner and head brewer at Disgruntled, says the brewery business grew out of his own “determination to craft the best beer possible.” SUBMITTED PHOTOS

DISGRUNTLED BREWING

‘Grumpy is good’

fter months of construction and social media hype, Disgruntled Brewing opened its craft brewery and public taproom in Perham in early February. In terms of production and distribution, there’s nothing else like Disgruntled anywhere near the Perham area. Other breweries exist in the region, but they do not distribute their beers outside of their own taprooms. Disgruntled does. Its beers are available in bars and restaurants from Moorhead to Minneapolis. Brett Doebbeling, co-owner and head brewer, says the business “came from my determination to craft the best beer possible.” Disgruntled serves classic varieties like pale ales, stouts PAGE 42 | PROGRESS 2017

and Belgian-style beers in addition to a rotation of seasonal beers, all made with choice hops and fine malt. The business opened with six beers and has expanded to include 12 on tap at any given time. Its most popular varieties include IPAs like Stupid Good and Lingerer, as well as Guvnor, which is an English Amber ale, and Toasted Blonde, an American Blonde ale.

“It’s hard to believe that Disgruntled Brewing has been a reality for almost a year already,” Doebbeling said in December. “The support from the local community, and statewide, has been outstanding.” Located in the industrial park, Disgruntled bills itself as “a clubhouse for sophisticated beer lovers.” Its taproom has windows overlooking the brewing area so patrons can see how the beer is crafted. Doebbeling says his friends and family teased him for years about his tendency to get “disgruntled” when trying to find quality craft beer. The description stuck, and became the name and brand of his business. Soon after, a catchphrase was born: “Grumpy is good.”

YEARS OF SERVICE

AREA TRAVEL

DENT LAKES GRANITE

BLUFFTON OIL COMPANY

650 Third Ave. SE, Perham, MN

Monuments, Markers, Slants, Hearts, Benches & Custom Monuments

Bulk fuel, motor oil and tires.

37243 State Hwy 108 Dent, MN 56528

101 Prospect St. Bluffton

001527237r1

Toll Free: 1-800-626-3801 Phone: 218-346-3933 areatravel@msn.com

218-758-2187 Toll Free: 800-648-7831

YEARS OF SERVICE

HENDRICKX ELECTRIC INC. Residential Commerical Farms

LICENSED BONDED INSURED Donald J. Hendrickx 218-346-5166 • 218-371-0051

218-385-2595

001530382r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001528039r1

001530254r1

e 201 n u J g n i n e Op

Schoeneberger Funeral Home, shown from the north and designed by bhh Partners in Perham, will be located near the Super 8 Hotel on Jake Street. Construction began September of 2017 with a completion date of June 2017.

Schoeneberger

001523458r1

Funeral Home O

Serving the Perham community since 1881.

THRIFTY WHITE PHARMACY

223 West Main Perham

211 Market Drive, Perham Inside Dean’s Country Market

235 W Main Street Perham

218-346-4840

218-346-2870 www.perhamprinting.com

001526168r1

PERHAM OFFICE SUPPLY COPY CENTER & GIFT SHOP

218.346-6370 PerhamOfficeSupplyandGifts@arvig.net www.PerhamOfficeSupplyandGifts.com

001530290r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

DEAN’S APPLIANCE AND REFRIGERATION SERVICE

PERHAM PRINTING

Residential Repair Over 37 Years Experience Perham 218-346-6200

001525227r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001531313r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 43

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

Spicing up the Perham palate

new restaurant will soon be adding some Mexican flavor to Perham. Los Jalapenos Taqueria, located in the former Pizza Ranch building just a half-block off Main Street, will feature homemade authentic Mexican food, made fresh. Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, chalupas, appetizers, desserts and much more will all be on the menu. The building’s remodel took longer than expected and stalled the restaurant’s opening, but at the time this magazine went to press, Los Jalapenos Taqueria was set to open in early February – and hungry customers could hardly wait. The restaurant is owned by Yobani Melchor and Pat Strand, who have owned the Mexican restaurant in Wadena for the past five years. They said it was repeated requests from Perham residents that motivated them to open another location here. A lot of regular customers were driving to Wadena from Perham to get their spicy food fix, they said, so when they heard that the former Pizza Ranch building was available, they started making plans.

Yobani Melchor, an owner of Los Jalapenos Taqueria, holds the drink menu for Perham’s new Mexican restaurant. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

YEARS OF SERVICE

DENT LIONS

KALEVA APARTMENTS

We Serve for Now and in the Future

Affordable housing for seniors and those with disabilities

Dent

New York Mills, MN 001524384r1

LOS JALAPENOS TAQUERIA

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-385-3273 Kaleva@schuettcares.com www.schuettcares.com 001526444r1

Kaleva

Apartments Affordable housing for seniors and those with disabilities New York Mills, MN

218-385-3273

• All Utilities Included in Rent • On-Site Laundry Facilities • Elevator Access • Discounted Cable Available • Off Street Parking with Plug Ins Available

Kaleva@schuettcares.com www.schuettcares.com

• Community Social Activities • Near Shopping, Banking and Senior Center

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

001363872r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

WALT SEIFERT CONSTRUCTION

STATE FARM INSURANCE

CRANE JOHNSON LUMBER CO.

GARY WAGENMAN CONSTRUCTION

Residential & Commercial (General Contracting Work New & Remodeling Construction)

Ed Winjum, Agent

620 East Main Perham

Residential - Commercial Concrete - Poured Walls All Types of Construction

411 3rd Ave. SE Perham

218-346-5555 www.cranejohnson.com

43932 Mosquito Heights Road Perham

218-758-2757 or 218-346-6756

218-346-7855

218-346-7062 001529352r1

PAGE 44 | PROGRESS 2017

40416 Cty Hwy 34, Perham

001526733r1

001530306r1

001526411r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

NORTHERN IRRIGATION CONTRACTORS INC.

NADINE’S LADIES FASHIONS

45214 County Road 80 E Perham

145 West Main Perham

PERHAM STEEL & WELDING

218-346-2615

001529361r1

SOMEPLACE SAFE

Advocacy Office 218-346-7276 Parenting Time Center 218-298-1501 Someplace Safe 24hr Crisis Line 800-974-3359 www.someplacesafe.info

218-346-2030 001530426r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

115 5th St. NE Perham, MN

644 West Main Perham

218-346-7246 Lindsay Zimmatic John Deere • Stihl • Jonsered

YEARS OF SERVICE

001528364r1

001530894r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

NEW IN 2017 NEW REMODELED EVENT CENTER

is set to open Spring 2017

• Seating up to 450 guests • Perfect for meetings, private parties & weddings • Outdoor ceremony site • Large outdoor patio for smaller occasions. • Overlooking 27 holf golf course

Plus BANQUETS up to 450 GUESTS 001530427r1

LAKESIDE GOLF CLUBHOUSE AND EVENT CENTER

320 17th St. N.W., Perham • 346-6070

JC ELECTRIC

LAKELAND VETERINARY CLINIC

“Call us for your electrical needs.”

Wellness & Medical Center W.M. Rose, DVM

615 Pinewood Lane Perham

44344 County Hwy 8 Perham

218-346-5560

218-346-6550 001527308r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

RAE’S SHOES

YEARS OF SERVICE

BOLL REALTY Cathy Mueller, Broker

132 West Main Street Perham 001525033r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

217 Hwy 78 N Ottertail 218-367-2716

218-346-2605 001530463r1

001527323r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 45

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

Call JC Electric for all your

Dairy fans’ delight

wiring

needs

-In our 41st year of service to the community-

ass the cheese, please! Dairy lovers are already on the edge of their seats about the new Bongards retail cheese store in Perham. The company announced its plans for the store in November, and hopes to open in early spring. After years of selling cheese out of commercial coolers in a cramped area of the Bongards office building, the new store will offer much more space and many new products, all from a highly visible location right on Main Street, kitty-corner from the Perham Chamber office. Leaders at the Perham Bongards say all the company’s cheeses will be sold at the new store, including squeaky-fresh cheese curds, string cheese, shredThe new Bongards Cheese Store is ded cheese, blocks, processed slated to open this spring. PERHAM cheese and more. FOCUS FILE PHOTO

615 Pinewood Lane Perham, MN 56573

218-346-5560

001527307r1

BONGARDS CHEESE STORE

KELLERWILLIAMS REALTY PROFESSIONALS ®

650 3rd Ave SE, Suite 2 Perham, MN 56573 Each office is independently owned and operated.

Style

Travis Hemmelgarn cell 612.695.4756 office 218.346.5450

agent

is what you make of it.

Travisjhemmelgarn@gmail.com

WHETHER YOU ARE BUYING OR BUILDING, WE CAN HELP MAKE IT HAPPEN!

The area’s home to

Hemmelgarn Builders Inc. Lic. #BC003628

hbi@arvig.net Jim Hemmelgarn Cell: 218.371.1228

Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Your Hometown Builder 346.2377

Troy Hemmelgarn Cell: 218.371.6272 001365338r1

PAGE 46 | PROGRESS 2017

148 1st Ave. South Perham, MN 218.346.4180 Shop On-line www.dotandminnies.com 001531202r1

001523382r1

We help take the hassle out of financial products and services so that you can stay centered on the things that matter most to you. 108 Judd Street, Perham, MN 888.330.8482 | mycmcu.org |

pain RESTORE function BUILD strength joy EAnBETTER LIFE

If you’re injured or facing surgery, Perham Physical Therapy provides personalized care to help you recover safely. From hands-on therapy to pain management techniques, Matt Kaufenberg will put his extensive training and experience to work for you. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Financial solutions centered on you.

Centered on you.

REDUCE

Perham Physical Therapy

218-346-2464 Matthew Kaufenberg 505 East Main, Perham MS, PT, Cert. SMT Federally Insured by NCUA

001529663r1

“We’re All About Results” Robin Ecker, Agent 218-639-1419

Nick Dockter, Agent 218-298-1066

Jill Shipman, Agent 218-371-5909

Thinking of SELLING YOUR HOME?

A smile as white as the season.

135 East Main Perham, MN 56573

218-346-4663

RealEstateResultsMN.com HomesByResults.com

A Trusted Name in Real Estate Receive a FREE market analysis from one of our experienced realtors.

Smith Family Dentistry

001530285r1

Cal Dockter, Broker 218-298-2388

Ask u how yo s u whiten can w Opales ith cenc today. e

For a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

218.346.7700

smithfamilydentistryMN.com dentalps@arvig.net Dr. Dave Smith

Perham, MN

135 Third Street NE

General and Cosmetic Dentistry

New Patients Welcome!

001532404r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 47

A bigger, better building

izza fans got a nice new place to grab a slice this past summer, with the opening of Pizza Ranch’s new, expanded location in Perham. The longtime pizza joint got a serious upgrade from its former location on Second Ave. SE, which was small and dated, when it remodeled 6,000-square-feet of the old Dean’s Country Market building at the busy corner of 3rd Avenue SE and Coney Street. Featuring numerous and spacious seating areas, a large, expanded lunch buffet and all new, well, everything, the new building benefits from its well-trafficked and visible location on the corridor between Highway 10 and downtown. Since the relocation, the restaurant’s large parking lot is frequently full, and customers routinely line up almost to the door, especially at lunchtimes. The move has been heralded as a win-win for both Pizza Ranch and Perham, as the former Dean’s building sat empty for years, making that corner a ‘dead spot’ along an otherwise bustling corridor. Now, the spot is a well-populated – and popular – hub for the hungry.

The new and improved Pizza Ranch in Perham offers much more seating space than its previous building allowed for, as well as a larger buffet. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

YEARS OF SERVICE

SHEARER’S SNACKS Perham

PAGE 48 | PROGRESS 2017

YEARS OF SERVICE

FINN CREEK MUSEUM

VICTORY HOME SALES INC.

New York Mills

New & Reconditioned Manufactured Homes

218-385-2233 www.finncreek.com

42807 Co. Hwy. 9 Pelican Rapids, MN 56572 800-232-5270 www.victoryhomes.net

001528327r1

WHAT’S THAT BUSINESS? DAN’S SHOE REPAIR — 51 YEARS

Shoe repair is in Dan Friedsam’s sole… Er, soul. He says it’s something he simply loves to do, and has been doing for more than 50 years. When Friedsam was just 12 years old, he started working at a shoe repair business with his grandfather. He eventually bought the business for himself, in the 1970s, and has been hard at it ever since. He says most days at the shop are very busy; he just gets up and starts fixing things up. Dan’s Shoe Repair works on “a little bit of everything,” Friedsam says, including fixing shoes, putting zippers in coats, selling men’s boots and a whole lot more. The shop is located on East Main Street in Perham, where it has been since 1985. It was located downtown prior to that. Dan Friedsam has been interested in the business of shoe repair since he was 12 years old. He’s owned Dan’s Shoe Repair in Perham since the 1970s. JASON GROTH/FOCUS

YEARS OF SERVICE

STAEBLER FINANCIAL GROUP

DEAN’S COUNTRY MARKET

JIM KYTTA CONSTRUCTION

The Key to Your Success

Perham: Monday-Sunday 7am-11pm Phone 218-346-6750 New York Mills: Monday-Friday 8am-8pm; Saturday 8am-6pm; Sunday 9am-6pm Phone 218-385-2765

Jim Kytta Lic. #BC001138

610 3rd Avenue S.E. Perham 001523425r1

400 Lakeside Dr Perham, MN 56573

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-2211 staeblerfinancialgroupltd.com 001530389r1

001530445r1

PIZZA RANCH

001532397r1

59209 County Hwy 56 New York Mills 218-385-3296

001525030r1

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

HAMANN FAMILY DENTISTRY

Finding the right technology is powerful. Our performancedriven approach empowers customers and communities to work smarter.

Building Your Dreams #BC005441

43922 Mosquito Heights Road Perham

New York Mills 218-346-3916

218-346-4775 www.hamannfamilydentistry.com

218-385-2862

YEARS OF SERVICE

MARCO, INC.

001527315r1

001523838r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

KEN TERVOLA CONSTRUCTION

HUBER ELECTRIC

Conveniently located downtown 200 1st Ave. South Perham

YEARS OF SERVICE

001525037r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

800-892-8548 www.marconet.com 001528054r1

Make the Lawn of Your Dreams a Reality • LANDSCAPE DESIGN • IRRIGATION SYSTEM • LAWN SERVICE • RETAINING WALLS

Don’t leave your landscaping project to the amateurs; call the guys with over 20 years of experience

Trust the Landscape Professionals

We are expanding...

Want More Information on Our Services? Contact Us Today!

Spring of 2017 at the Blossoms, Birds & Beyond location

218-346-2197 or 218-371-5744

Lic# TS002111

001530466r1

MIDWEST MINNESOTA COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORP. Capital. Innovation. Success.

218-847-3191 www.mmcdc.com

001523307r1

119 Graystone Plaza #100 Detroit Lakes

YEARS OF SERVICE

PROFESSIONAL AGRONOMY SERVICES

GARY HONER SAW & TOOL

RICHTER’S MENS WEAR

725 East Main Street Perham 218-346-2355

Small Engine Repair TROY-BILT DEALER

Big & Tall Tuxedo Rental

34684 State Hwy 108 Dent

137 W. Main Perham

220 Bottemiller Drive Wadena 218-631-7261 001527506r1

218-758-2182

001525236r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-5575 001530409r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 49

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

Erik Knutson, an owner of Otter Tail Glass, works on a custom glass shower enclosure. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

OTTER TAIL GLASS

Breaking into new territory

YEARS OF SERVICE

HISTORY, ARTS & CULTURAL ASSOCIATION

512 East Main Perham

Beginning with the EOT Historical Society, HACA now includes In Their Own Words Veterans Museum, History Museum EOT and Pioneer Village

218-346-2609

PAGE 50 | PROGRESS 2017

001524387r1

DAN’S SHOE & CANVAS REPAIR

www.historyartsculture.com 001530287r1

001524376r1

tter Tail Glass saw a window of opportunity in Perham, and seized the chance to expand and grow into a second location. The Fergus Falls-based business announced plans in late 2016 to purchase and renovate the former Second Hand Rose consignment store on Main Street in Perham, with the intention to transform it into a retail site for custom residential and commercial glass work. Partners involved in Otter Tail Glass say they realized there was a niche market for this kind of work here after talking with local contractors and home designers. “The more business owners we talked to, the more excited people got,” Otter Tail Glass partner Mike Butler says. “The reception we are getting is pretty much over the top. We’ve never experienced this kind of excitement... It’s been shockingly positive.” The business will offer custom, heavy-duty shower panes, dual thermal pane glass, mirrors, decking, doors, transoms and commercial storefronts. At the time this magazine went to press, a March 1 opening was tentatively planned.

Call Adam or Char Holzer at 218-346-6445

Every Home Has a Story.

Happy Snacking!

Coldwell Banker Preferred Partners continues to be among the top companies in the Minnesota Lakes Region & Lakes Country Multiple Listing Service. Call us today and join a growing field of satisfied buyers and sellers.

See us for all your vending needs.

Pelican Rapids Office

FULL SERVICE VENDING COFFEE SERVICES • MICRO-MARKETS

26 North Broadway P.O. Box 623 Pelican Rapids, MN 56572 218-863-8723

Perham Office

138 W. Main Street, Suite D P.O. Box 286 Perham, MN 56573 218-346-7672

105 6th Ave. SE, Perham • 346-2985 • 1-877-929-2100 snacksplusvending@gmail.com

www.MNLakePartners.com

001526701r1

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

001530296r1

APARTMENTS APARTMENTS

HERITAGE MANORNOW NOW heritage manor AVAILABLE!!

AVAILABLE!!

001529554r1

Heritage Manor is a 20 Heritage Manor is unit a 20 unit independent housing apartment independent housing apartment building forfor lowlow income Seniors, building income Seniors, age 62+, located just just SouthSouth of age 62+, located of the Home. Residents can can theElders’ Elders’ Home. Residents contract withwith locallocal providers for contract providers for housekeeping and and personal cares cares housekeeping personal assistance. Heritage ManorManor is a is a assistance. Heritage HUD housing facility.facility. HUD housing

218-385-2005 218-385-2005

check on Heritage ToTo check on Heritage Manor Manor

APARTMENT AVAILABILITY APARTMENT AVAILABILITY

contact Housing Manager at... 105St. Edgewood St. New contact the the Housing Manager at... 105 Edgewood New York Mills, MN York 56567Mills, MN 56567

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 51

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

PERHAM LAKESIDE TAP

Expansion project hits a hole-in-one

YEARS OF SERVICE

KLN FAMILY BRANDS

ZITZOW ELECTRIC

Tuffy’s • Kenny’s Perham

All your electrical needs 24 hours a day

n expansion and improvement project at Perham Lakeside Tap is well on its way to completion. Project leaders had previously hit the ‘pause’ button on construction in order to gather more community input and polish their plans, but by September, work had started up again. As of December, things were ahead of schedule, according to Food and Beverage Manager Emma Otto, and construction was expected to be done by April. Changes will be the most obvious at the event center, where a 4,788-square-feet addition will nearly double the center’s capacity from 250 to 450. To better serve patrons, the banquet hall will feature a larger bar with stationary coolers and running water, a server-friendly layout and a completely remodeled kitchen will improve the flow of mealtimes. Artist Cindee Lundin, a Perham native, will create a nature-inspired mural along a large wall in the event center, and the décor throughout will be updated to include modern light fixtures, carpeting, fresh paint and more. A new covered entry will welcome customers into the event center, leading them through a vestibule and into a coat room. New bathrooms will be located in that area, as well. As a whole, Otto says, the improvements at the Perham municipal golf course’s restaurant and event center “will bring in a lot more in-town and out-of-town business. I already have brides from out of town wanting to book the event center next year, into 2018.”

YEARS OF SERVICE

www.klnfamilybrands.com

001532413r1

218-342-2871

001525207r1

Vergas

Specializing In Medicare Health & Prescription Plans Individual/Family Plans Annual Reviews • Home or Oﬃce Appointments • Never Any Fees • Professional Customer Service • Local Oﬃce •

218-346-2290

Toll Free 1-877-724-2365

001529615r1

232 Market Drive, Suite B, Perham, MN 56573

YEARS OF SERVICE

EAST OTTER TAIL SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

PRODUCTIVE ALTERNATIVES Yesterday’s Dreams Today’s Realities

PAGE 52 | PROGRESS 2017

801 Jenny Avenue, Suite 2 Perham

802 Jenney Ave SW Perham 218-346-2131 www.paiff.org

001526266r1

The kitchen and event center at Perham Lakeside Tap are undergoing some major renovations. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-2050 www.eotswcd.org 001528767r1

MARLO MOTORS Marlo & Paul Sonnenberg 001531113r1

1/4 mile south of Hwy 10 on Hwy 78 Perham 218-346-5888 visit us @ www.marlomotors.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

LYNN THOMPSON INSURANCE

BRETZ HARDWARE CO.

Life, Health, Group, Medicare, Long Term Care, Disability

Perham’s oldest complete hardware

32025 Finch Circle Dent

Perham

218-758-3333

YEARS OF SERVICE

ELDERS’ HOME, INC. Serving Seniors Since 1960 New York Mills 218-385-2005

218-346-4760

001525031r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

001532401r1

001529557r1

Community meal every Wednesday from 5:00-6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome Children’s Church for ages 3yrs-1st grade Sunday School/Yield to the Word ages 2nd-6th grade at 9:15am First Word (Adult Bible Study) 9:30am Worship 10:00 am Sunday worship services are on at 5:00 pm on Channel 14

YEARS OF SERVICE

HAMMERS CONSTRUCTION Design/Build Commercial Building Contractor 44434 Harvest Avenue Perham 218-346-2195 www.hci-mn.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

ESSER PLUMBING AND HEATING 542 West Main Street Perham 877-882-4822 www.perhamplumbing.com

001530370r1

Sundays at New Creation Lutheran Church

Pastor Randy Freund

295 Coney St. West Perham, MN 56573 218-346-7203 garden@newcreationperham.org www.newcreationperham.org

YEARS OF SERVICE

GENE’S SPORT SHOP Stop in and see us for your fishing needs. Check out our 2017 line of bows! 150 East Main Street Perham

YEARS OF SERVICE

GORDY’S GREENHOUSE 46608 575th Avenue New York Mills

218-837-5396

218-346-3355 001530492r1

001523477r1

001528481r1

001528352r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 53

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

A CLEAN PLATE

PINE SHELTER VETERINARY HOSPITAL

YEARS OF SERVICE

ARVIG

Kelvin Rudolph, D.V.M.

ayne and Julie Isaacson’s goal is to help their customers find fresh and healthy food that also tastes great and doesn’t break the bank. The couple has owned and operated a successful organic grocery store in Menahga, Minn., since 2012, and this past May they opened a second location in Perham. Their store, called A Clean Plate, is located on West Main Street, inside the same building as the In Their Own Words Veterans Museum. A Clean Plate has a large selection of local, organic produce, dairy, meat, snack foods, cleaning products, vitamins and supplements, beauty and hygiene items, beverages and more. The Isaacson family, which includes Wayne and Julie’s 11 children, struggled with health problems, food intolerances and weight issues in the past, all of which improved after they started eating more ‘clean,’ organic foods. They opened A Clean Plate to help other families in the area experience those same kinds of health benefits.

Phone, Television, Internet, Security, Computer Repair

670 3rd Avenue S.E. Perham

888-992-7844 arvig.com

001524892r1

Local, organic groceries

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-2120 001527546r1

Dent

MONUMENT

llc

Visit Our Perham Ofﬁce for All Your Monument Needs

YEARS OF SERVICE

MAIN STREET EXPRESS

PERHAM LAKESIDE GOLF CLUB

BAUCK BUSING LTD

Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 7 Days A Week

The areas premier 27-hole golf destination!

Serving the Perham/Dent School District since 1937

320 17th St. NW Perham, MN 56573

218-346-2210

PAGE 54 | PROGRESS 2017

001526451r1

205 East Main Perham

YEARS OF SERVICE

Perham 218-346-2422

Fort Thunder Road Perham

218-346-6070 www.perhamlakeside.com 001530431r1

218-346-4599

YEARS OF SERVICE

HANSON’S PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.

Vergas 218-342-2422 001527241r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

www.hansonplumbing.com

001526184r1

Coolers at A Clean Plate are stocked with fresh, organic produce and other items. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

001530326r1

235 W. Main, Perham 218-346-2907 www.dentmonuments.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

HEMMELGARN BUILDERS INC.

YEARS OF SERVICE

BREMER

YEARS OF SERVICE

WINKEL’S CARPET CENTER

CENTRAL MINNESOTA CREDIT UNION

801 Market St. Perham

Richard Winkels, Owner

Centered on you.

202 Fox Run Perham

218-346-1300

145 2nd Avenue S.E. Perham

106 Judd Street Perham, MN

218-346-2924

888.330.8482 mycmcu.org

24-Hour Banking 1-800-908-BANK

001527233r1

218-346-2377

bremer.com

001523373r1

License #BC003628

001523266r1

001523321r1

001526177r1

You don’t have to leave Perham to get

COMPETITIVE

PRICES and

GREAT SERVICE Everything you need from the In-Home Repair Experts!

Sales and Service.

APPLIANCE

YEARS OF SERVICE

200 WEST MAIN, PERHAM • 218-346-2936

YEARS OF SERVICE

VAUGHN’S AUTO AND MARINE CO.

PERHAM AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

SACRED HEART CHURCH

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR THREE GENERATIONS

Used Cars & Trucks Lund Boats Mercury Motors

Librarian: Susan Heusser-Ladwig

36963 State Highway 108 Dent

225 2nd Avenue NE Perham

218-758-2700 218-758-3861 Fax sacredheart@arvig.net

Greg & Suzi Karvonen New York Mills 218-385-2345 • 218-346-8536 www.karvonenandsonfuneralhome.com 001524876r1

New York Mills 218-385-2855

218-346-4892 001528383r1

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KARVONEN & SON FUNERAL HOME

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 55

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WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

A DAY 2 REMEMBER

Planning big events down to the smallest details

elissa Kunza decided on the name for her business after realizing how often she told her bride and groom clients, “I want to give you a day to remember.” The phrase stuck, and the numeral 2 represents the two people getting married. Kunza, an event designer and wedding planner, operated A Day 2 Remember out of her home for six years before opening in a new, larger location inside the In Their Own Words Veterans Museum building this past spring. She says she wanted to open a storefront in Perham because she was born and raised here: “I love the town, love the people. I just think it has so much to offer.” Kunza plans events like weddings and graduation parties from start to finish, taking care of all the details. Her store also offers giftware, décor, and event accessories like guest books, cake toppers and many other items that people might need for their special occasions.

OTTERTAIL CABINET COMPANY Quality Custom Built Prefinished Cabinetry for: Kitchen, Baths, China Cabinets, Gun Cabinets and More! FOR FREE ESTIMATES CALL: Mike Sanders 218-367-2224 or Bruce Johnson 218-346-2331 Email: occ@arvig.net 94 Lake Avenue So., P.O. Box 35, Ottertail, MN 56571-0035

Future Orchestration Tuning your

...requires some

Professional and objective financial advice, conducted on your terms, creates the critical connection to help you grow, preserve, protect and transfer the assets you have accumulated.

Owner Melissa Kunza helps her clients plan weddings, graduations and other major life events. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

SCHMITZ MOTORS Serving the area since 1920 900 West Main Street Perham 218-346-3900 www.schmitzmotor.com 001530460r1

PAGE 56 | PROGRESS 2017

YEARS OF SERVICE

That’s why we’re in business. In fact, that is our business.

LAKE REGION ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Jon Staebler is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. Securities offered through Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., Member SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor. Insurance offered through Lincoln affiliates and other fine companies. CRN-1396001-011916

Staebler Financial Group

1401 So. Broadway Pelican Rapids

Jon R. Staebler, CLU, LUTCF

staebler f inancialgroupltd.com

800-552-7658 www.lrec.coop 001530448r1

001530386r1

YEARS OF SERVICE

610 3rd Ave. SE - Perham, MN 56573 ph. 218-346-2211 - fax: 218-346-2221 Jon.Staebler@LFG.com

101

YEARS OF SERVICE

FARMERS & MERCHANTS STATE BANK AND INSURANCE AGENCY 11 North Walker New York Mills

105

107

YEARS OF SERVICE

107

YEARS OF SERVICE

UNITED COMMUNITY BANK

HOLY CROSS CHURCH

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN SCHOOL

COMMUNITY MINDED JUST LIKE YOU

– Since 1910 –

Founded in 1910 Turning today’s learners into tomorrow’s leaders

Butler 218-346-5700

218-385-2300 www.FMBankNYM.com

YEARS OF SERVICE

500 6th Avenue SW Perham

www.ucbankmn.com

001529709r1

218-385-2201

001530343r1

218-346-2300 001528432r1

001530346r1

Leader in Pet Supplies COMING SOON!

PET GROOMING STATION!

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NEW!

Stop in today for all your pet supplies and for future grooming needs

STORE REMODEL HAPPENING NOW! 105 9th Ave NE Perham, MN 56573 218-346-7487 Hours M-F 7:30-5:30 • Sat. 8-noon Check us out on the web at: www.thebackyardperham.com www.facebook.com/visitTheBackyard • www.twitter.com @TheBackyard_MN

107

YEARS OF SERVICE

VERGAS STATE BANK

108

• New Bird feeders and accessories aisle • Expanded bird feed and suet selection • Leader in pet food and supplies! • Amor Pork...Chops, Brats, Roasts, Ham and Bacon • Get your seeds for the upcoming gardening and planting season • Harry’s Frozen Pizzas Over 12 varieties, classics and specialties.

115

YEARS OF SERVICE

OTTER TAIL POWER COMPANY

115

YEARS OF SERVICE

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH

PERHAM HEALTH

Vergas Insurance Agency

Fr. Aaron Kuhn

Community Banking… Proven Success for over 100 years

Mass: Sunday 10:30 am Wednesday 8:00 am

218-347-4500 www.perhamhealth.org

001523338r1

1000 Coney Street W Perham 001531918r1

Phone: 218-342-2481 Fax: 218-342-2510 www.vergasstatebank.com

1-800-257-4044 www.otpco.com

310 Main Street • Bluffton, MN 218-385-2608 sjc428@arvig.net

001525224r1

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 57

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

SECOND HAND ROSE

THURSDAY WING SPECIAL

OPEN:

HAPPY HOUR

THURS. -SUN. THURSDAY AND FRIDAY 4-11 PM SATURDAY NOON- 11 PM SUNDAY NOON - 7 PM

ve.

Thursday - Saturday 4-6 pm

8th St. N.E.

Mosquito Heights Rd.

en and Keith Carlson took over Second Hand Rose consignment shop in late June, and by November, less than a month after they relocated the store into a new, larger building, sales had shot up by an impressive 400 percent. The couple moved the Perham shop from its previous Main Street location to 120 Second Street SW, where the business has benefitted from additional square footage and parking spaces. The new building is 600-square-feet bigger than the former location. Clothing, especially women’s and children’s clothing, is still the mainstay of Second Hand Rose, but the Carlsons have diversified with items like antique dishware, vintage toys and home decor. Jen says new consignment and consignors visit the store every day, so the inventory is always fresh.

SUNDAY $5 CA L I B U R G E R BASKET SPECIAL

1st A

Blossoming into a bigger business

001530393r1

Your Big Pine Hangout!

Big Pine Lake

PERHAM

Big Pine Lodge

43606 MOSQUITO HTS. RD. • PERHAM, MN • 218-346-3480

ADVOCACY PR OGRAMS Someplace Safe operates Advocacy Programs that offer assistance to victims, survivors, family and friends who have been affected by domestic violence, sexual assault & exploitation, human trafficking or any other crime. All advocacy services provided by Someplace Safe are free and confidential.

PARENTING TIME CENTER The Parenting Time Center (PTC) is a program of Someplace Safe and operates separately from the Advocacy programs, with separate staff to alleviate conflicts of interest and maintain confidentiality.

Advocacy Office

126

YEARS OF SERVICE

132

YEARS OF SERVICE

ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

PERHAM-DENT PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday School: 9 a.m.

progressive curriculum + proven results = student success

49658 County Highway 53, Perham, MN 56573 346-4302 www.stjohnsperham.org 001528397r1

PAGE 58 | PROGRESS 2017

Perham 218-346-4501 www.perham.k12.mn.us 001523244r1

218.346.7276 Parenting Time Center

218.298.1501

Our Parenting Time Centers are designed to assure that children can have safe and conflict-free access to parents through a variety of services. Each center provides a safe, neutral location for drop off, pick up and visitation of children.

Someplace Safe 24hr Crisis Line

800.974.3359

115 5th St. NE • Perham, MN www.someplacesafe.info

001530893r1

Jen Carlson and her husband, Keith, took over Second Hand Rose in June, moving the store to a new, larger location shortly after. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

135

ST. HENRY’S AREA SCHOOL

PERHAM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

001525229r1

218-346-7420

136

YEARS OF SERVICE

SCHOENEBERGER FUNERAL HOME Steve Sheets, Local Owner and Director Hans Larson, Funeral Director

City Offices: 125 2nd Ave N.E. Perham

254 3rd Ave. S.W. Perham

218-346-4455 www.cityofperham.com

001523465r1

223 4th Avenue S.E Perham

YEARS OF SERVICE

CITY OF PERHAM

Pastor, Rev. Greg Leslie Worship: 10:30 a.m

253 2nd St. S.W. Perham

218-346-6190

136

YEARS OF SERVICE

001530183r1

134

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-5175

001530368r1

H�P�Y H�U� 4�6 P� E�E�Y D�Y

M�A� R�F�L� & B�R�E� N�G�T W�D�E�D�Y� 5�9 P�

Domestics $2.00 • Rail Drinks $1.75

$2.00 Burger & Fries

Great Food, Tiny Kitchen. Sit back and relax!

Get Bent In Dent

Under New Ownership! � A�P�T�Z�R� � B�R�E�S E�E�Y�A� A�L � S�N�W�C�E� & W�A�S D�Y S�E�I�L�: ��I�Z� � M�X�C�N $2.00 Busch Light � W�N�S $2.00 Black Velvet J�R�M�’� F�M�U� $2.00 Miller Light B�O�D� M�R� Downtown dent, MN • Open 7 Days a Week • 218-758-9495 001532415r1

142

APOSTOLIC LUTHERAN CHURCH

ST. HENRY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH

Since 1877 Nicholas Kandoll, Pastor

234 2nd Ave. SW Perham 001524391r1

New York Mills 218-385-2166

YEARS OF SERVICE

218-346-4240

142

YEARS OF SERVICE

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

NEW YORK MILLS PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The church has served the area since 1875.

School first opened in 1874. “Come learn with us”

500 6th Avenue SW Perham

New York Mills 218-385-2553 www.NYMills.k12.mn.us

218-346-2300 001527538r1

143

YEARS OF SERVICE

001530349r1

001529717r1

140

YEARS OF SERVICE

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 59

WINDOW SHOPPING ▼

SCHOENEBERGER FUNERAL HOME

Longtime business puts down new roots

onstruction began in September on a new Schoeneberger Funeral Home building, suggesting that this longtime local business will continue to operate in Perham for many more years to come. Schoeneberger Funeral Home has been a mainstay of the area for 135 years, established in 1881 by the Schoeneberger family. The new home, being built near the intersection of Highways 78 and 10 on the south side of Perham, is a result of the sale of Schoeneberger’s present building next to St. Henry’s Catholic Church to the church parish, which plans to use the site for its own planned expansion. The existing funeral home was constructed in 1972 and remodeled in 1992. The new building will feature a spacious lobby with fireplace, a large chapel with a state of the art audio/ visual system, a fellowship hall with caterer’s kitchen, and many more improvements designed to better serve families in Perham and surrounding communities. An early summer opening is expected.

Gary Honer Saw and Tool SMALL ENGINE REPAIR 34684 State Hwy 108 Dent, MN 56528

218-758-2182

The new Schoeneberger Funeral Home, visible from Highway 10, will have many features designed to better serve families in the Perham area. PERHAM FOCUS FILE PHOTO

150

+YEARS OF SERVICE

BNSF RAILWAY Playing a vital role in building and sustaining the nation’s economy.

151

YEARS OF SERVICE

ST. LAWRENCE CATHOLIC CHURCH

The Oldest Catholic Church in Ottertail County. 001530357r1

PAGE 60 | PROGRESS 2017

WE CARRY PARTS FOR: Briggs-Stratton Kohler Honda LCT Engines MTD Troy-Bilt Poulan Honeywell Murray

Tanaka Dolmar McCulloch Pow-R-Kraft Worx Champion Campbell-Husfeld Brute Oregon

Mo-Jack Walbro Zama NGK Opti Power-Pro Atlas Glove Kershaw Core Power

RUSH LAKE 2.5 miles on Hwy 14, East of Hwy. 78 218-346-7729

800-795-2673 www.bnsf.com

Do you need a part or warranty work for a machine or engine?

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Small Engine Repair • Complete Sharpening Service We Work on All Models • A Complete Line of Belts Mower Blades • Chain Saw Chain • Air Filters Spark Plugs • Carburetor Repair Kits • Starters 001525232r1

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Thrift Store Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00 - 5:30 Sat 9:00 - 1:00

A trusted name for over 95 years!

· Great Shopping · Aﬀordable Prices · Clothing · Household · Home Decor · Donations Wanted · We Recycle

900 W. Main • Perham, MN

Donation Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30 - 2:00 or call for appointment All proceeds directly beneﬁt our programs.

Greg Schmitz

Tim Schmitz

Gary Kurtz

218-346-3900 • 866-964-3906

802 JENNY AVE • PERHAM • 346-2131

001530456r1

SEE OUR TOTAL INVENTORY AT

www.schmitzmotor.com

ZITZOW

ELECTRIC 218-342-2871 VERGAS ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS 24 HOURS A DAY CHECK WITH JEFF! • RESIDENTIAL, FARM, COTTAGE & COMMERCIAL WIRING • ELECTRIC HEAT INSTALLATION

Celebrating 52 years in business!

310 Main Street Bluffton, MN 218-385-2608 Fr. Aaron Kuhn Mass times: Sunday: 10:30 am Wednesday: 8:00 am Office hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 am - 3:30 pm email: sjc428@arvig.net

FREE ESTIMATES

001363870r1 001365476r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 61

PUSHING PERHAM FORWARD BY DEBBIE IRMEN

dirmen@perhamfocus.com

PAGE 62 | PROGRESS 2017

An architect’s drawing shows what the main entrance to the new Perham High School will look like. SUBMITTED IMAGE. Below: In June, Heart of the Lakes Elementary School students took part in a groundbreaking ceremony for a $6.5 million addition at the school. DEBBIE IRMEN/FOCUS

Quality schools drive a strong, healthy community

he Perham-Dent School District’s plans to break ground on a new high school this summer, and its efforts to make major improvements at other school buildings, will have a significant and long-lasting impact on the economic and overall success of the Perham community. In terms of dollars spent, the school project ranks right up there with some of the most major developments in Perham in recent years, including the $70 million Tuffy’s Pet Foods addition in 2014, the $35 million Perham Health project in 2015, and the $10 million

Industrial Finishing Services expansion in 2010. At $45 million, the school project comes in third, according to Chuck Johnson, Perham’s economic development director.

“There have been a really impressive number of really big projects in the past decade,” Johnson says, “and now here comes another biggie in the school project.” Schools are typically an important asset in any town, part of a “bulletproof package” that indicates a strong, healthy community, Johnson says. And when budgets are consistently cut, and teachers are laid off, “it’s horrible for the school, it’s horrible for the community, and it hurts the industries.” “When I get calls asking about Perham, the first question people ask is, ‘What about the PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 63

PUSHING PERHAM FORWARD ▼

Family y With us, You’re

Adele Lausten, RN, Owner

school system?’ ” he adds. “The school is definitely in the top tier, and way out in front in terms of how important it is to the community. It’s impossible to overstate the school’s importance to Perham as an asset.” Voters approved additional classrooms for preschoolers and fourth grade students at the elementary school, along with two new gym spaces and a new high school, in a referendum held in November 2015.

“It’s impossible to overstate the school’s importance to Perham as an asset.”

Rhonda Koehler, RN, Owner

The owners of Lake Country Home Care have over 60 combined years of nursing and caregiving experience in the lakes area. • Personal Care Attendant • Companionship • Laundry/Homemaking

Lake Country HOME CARE, LLC

www.lakecountryhc.com

—Chuck Johnson, Perham EDA Director

• Grocery Shopping/Meal Prep • Mobility, Transfer & Positioning • Respite Care

Individualized. Compassionate. Serving Central MN. Call Today.

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001530320r1

Serving Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls, Alexandria, Perham, Wadena, Park Rapids, Mahnomen, Glyndon and all points in between!

PAGE 64 | PROGRESS 2017

That led to the school board and school officials approving plans for a $6.5 million elementary school addition, which was nearly complete by the close of 2016. A groundbreaking ceremony, which included about 40 students directly impacted by the addition, was held in June. The kids got to throw shovels of dirt to officially kick off the project. Next up on the construction schedule is a brand new high school. Work on that is slated to begin in the summer of 2017. With a price tag of about $38.7 million, the new facility is expected to take the district far into the future. The main level of the high school will have about 94,000 square feet of space, while the second floor will have approximately 48,000, for a total of nearly 142,000 square feet. Ideas for both the elementary school project and the new high school have come with the approval of a Project Oversight Committee, which included teachers, residents, school board members and project architects and engineers. The committee toured many other schools in order to bring back ideas, says Perham-Dent Superintendent Mitch Anderson, and then the district decided how to best incorporate those ideas, sometimes tailoring them to meet specific needs within Perham. Elementary school students were expected to be moved into their new classrooms by late February or early March, according to Principal Jennifer Hendrickson. At the start of the year, the project was ahead of schedule and on budget. “With it being ahead of schedule, and the kids excited about (the space), we decided to move in as soon as it’s ready,” Hendrickson says.

25th Annual

Great American

Many things have things change, changed since some things Farmers & stay the Farmers & Merchants Merchants same: The State Bank first started friendly faces Celebrating 100 Years serving the who are here 1916-2016 financial needs of to help answer our community in 1916. your questions; The And although dedication to support our local farmers, businesses and t consumers; And our desire to is L o D 2017 To IRA see NYM and the surrounding ey in great rates. & - Put Minon posit king No m . de an B t area grow and thrive! en ing, y Conveni

Think-Off

Has the 2016 election changed our perception of truth?

The Cultural Center encourages everyone regardless of age or background to participate. Submit an essay explaining your position in 750 words or less by April 1, 2017 for a chance to win one of four $500 cash prizes and a trip to New York Mills for the live debate.

- Enjo

ething - Try Somdeposit. Mobile ome odel the H s, MFHA ﬁx-up - Build/Remconstruction loan Low rate loans.

ays Account, get r the Holid ay - Save fo th a Holid a lit tle wi

Saturday, June 10, 2017, 7:00 pm New York Mills School Auditorium Reception following at the Cultural Center

Check Out Mobile Deposit!

Essays can be submitted online at think-off.org by email to info@think-off.org by mail to THINK-OFF, Cultural Center, P.O. Box 246 New York Mills, MN 56567

ber. Save in Novem rewarded

www.fmbanknym.com

Brought to you by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. Tickets $12 in advance or $15 at the door. Buy online at Brown Paper Tickets or call the Center at 218-385-3339.

WE’RE THERE WITH YOU. . .EVERY STEP OF THE WAY!

BUSINESS HOURS LOBBY: 8:30am - 4:30pm M-F

PHONE NUMBERS: 218-385-2300 TELEPHONE 218-385-9303 FAX WALKUP & DRIVEUP: 8am - 5pm M-F 8:30 - 11:30 am SAT

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ADDRESS: 11 NORTH WALKER P O BOX 278 NEW YORK MILLS, MN 56567

Buy tickets online on Brown Paper Tickets: http://thinkoff2017.bpt.me

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nk nings. Internet ba Mobile & ents, op en Sat. mor e-statem New

TRUTH

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 65

PUSHING PERHAM FORWARD ▼

“We all want to continue to push Perham forward.”

—Mitch Anderson, Perham-Dent Schools Superintendent Around that same time, at the high school, school board members and specific user groups for the new building were meeting to determine the specific needs of different classrooms, such as science rooms and English rooms, to hash out details before construction plans were finalized. Community trends and input influenced the project in many ways, such as in the construction of a new career tech building. The building will serve as a space to train a local workforce for jobs specific to Perham industries. According to Anderson, it is designed to expand on some local opportunities, not take anything away from other parts of the school.

The gymnasium at the elementary school, shown here while still under construction, provides a much-needed play space for children, Principal Jennifer Hendrickson says, and two skylights add plenty of natural lighting. Debbie Irmen/FOCUS

Design features of the career tech building, such as a high ceiling and open floor space, reflect the needs of local businesses and allow plenty of room for industrial-type equipment. The building will be located near the new high school to increase efficiencies.

“It’s being built to allow flexibility for future programs we don’t even know about yet,” Anderson says. “We’ve come together (with the community and businesses) with one common goal: we all want to continue to push Perham forward. One way to do that is to work together.”

001529688r1

Receive Discounts with your VIP CARD! are ards VIP C able just Refill 46-3122! Call 3

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24 HOURS 7 DAYS A WEEK 346-3122 112 Judd Street, behind Napa, Perham American Express/Mastercard/Visa/Discover credit cards accepted.

PAGE 66 | PROGRESS 2017

Plumbing Electrical Paint & Supplies Lighting

• • • •

Lawn & Garden • Animal Health Tools • Pet Supplies Rental Department • And Many Other Farm Supplies Homeowner Projects

945 Market Street • Perham 218-346-6275

www.truevalue.com/marksfleetsupply O P E N S E V E N D AY S A W E E K

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Try our “Ultimate” Wash to experience Simoniz Double Bond Teflon Protectant that lasts 30 days!

• • • •

It’s due time that you checked out the Perham Area Public Library!

OUR EXPERIENCE

• Divorce/Family • Wills & Estate Planning • Business Succession • Business/Corporate Law • Real Estate Planning • Criminal Defense • Civil Litigation • Adoption • Child Custody 218-346-6900 432 3rd Avenue SE Perham, Mn 56573 218-385-3100 218-237-2200 15 N. Main 602 Pleasant Avenue New York Mills, Mn 56567 Park Rapids, Mn 56470

STEVE PELOQUIN

Free Wi-Fi Free public computer use

AMY JENSON

225 2nd Ave. NE • Perham 218-346-4892 www.perhamlibrary.org 1922-2017

MARIA PRETZER

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Free downloadable eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines available Free weekly story time for children

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Gets Results For You

find us on Facebook under Perham Area Public Library

Now Servicing the Lakes Area! NEW LOCATION IN OTTERTAIL! 45055 HWY. 54, OTTERTAIL, MN

Close to Lakes, Golf, Restaurants and Shops Amenities & Services: Accessible Facilities • Hotel Info and Services Meeting and Event Facilities • Safety & Security Technology Services • Transportation and Parking

hotel Count on Super 8 Perham ience. to provide value and conven

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Ottertail, MN Scotty 701.361.9339 Jason 701.306.3071

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New & Used Tractor, Truck & Automotive Tires - Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin, BKT’s, Alliance Bandag Truck Retreads - New & Used Rims & Hardware 001529995r1

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 67

PERHAM’S TOP 10 EMPLOYERS

We are that small town

Community Bank that the big banks claim to be.

Visit with Our local community banking team TODAY!

Numbers are approximate and subject to change Source: City of Perham

PAGE 68 | PROGRESS 2017

218-342-2481

www.vergasstatebank.com

NMLS #802894

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New York Mills: 218-385-3989 Verndale: 218-445-5153 Motley: 218-352-6622

Servicing Central Minnesota

• HOME • AUTO • LIFE • COMMERCIAL

001533771r1

1 S HEARER’S SNACK FOODS 762 EMPLOYEES 2 PERHAM HEALTH 520 EMPLOYEES 3 TUFFY’S PET FOODS 260 EMPLOYEES 4 PERHAM-DENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 210 EMPLOYEES 5 ARVIG 190 (LOCAL) EMPLOYEES 6 KENNY’S CANDY 160 EMPLOYEES 7 KIT MASTERS/SWAN MACHINE 160 EMPLOYEES 8 BONGARDS 120 EMPLOYEES 9 PERHAM EGG 60 EMPLOYEES 10 INDUSTRIAL FINISHING SERVICES 50 EMPLOYEES

• Construction Loans • Long-Term Reﬁnancing • Local Loan Decisions

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PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 69

10 YEARS PRAIRIE VIEW ASSISTED LIVING PERHAM FAMILY DENTISTRY THE PICKLE FACTORY 25 YEARS GUARDIAN CROP INSURANCE AQUA LAWN Perham Focus Progress 2017.pdf

1/17/17

TDS

Tactical Defense Systems

BRIAN E. NELSON

One of MN’s Original CC Instructors A history of experience and service.

CLASSES HELD MONTHLY IN PERHAM AND WADENA

001523812r1

CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE BUSINESSES CELEBRATING LANDMARK YEARS

Minnesota & Utah Permit to Carry Classes

218-346-7723 htmnlson@arvig.net

8:15 PM

*From Progress Guide’s Years of Service ads

HELPING FAMILIES FOR 25 YEARS. Accra provides support to children, adolescents, adults and families that need help in their homes for a loved one with a disability. We'll help you navigate the different services available to you. PCA Choice services allows you to choose a family member or friend to be your paid caregiver.

Non-Profit Home Care Agency We accept major insurance plans; Medicaid and private pay.

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Fergus Falls: 218-736-0246 or Brainerd: 218-270-5905 SERVING PEOPLE STATEWIDE www.accracare.org

PAGE 70 | PROGRESS 2017

tion a r o p r o tC n e m p o l eve D y t i n u ity m n u m o m C m o a t C eso am h n r n e i P M e t h t s 6 n 1 i s 0 s e Midwe 2 r g o 4 Pr 1 0 2 Supports D TE

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Julia Nelmark Director New Markets Tax Credit Financing

Kathy Misson Vice President Home Loan Division

Nicole Kirchner Vice President of Business Development

We look forward to working in partnership with local financial institutions, businesses and organizations in 2016.

119 Graystone Plaza, Suite 100 | Detroit Lakes, MN 56501 | www.mmcdc.com | 218-847-3191 | info@mmcdc.com 001523314r1

PROGRESS 2017 | PAGE 71

Serving the region for 115 years is an incredible feat. The joys of childbirths, the relief that comes with standing on the winning side of a close call, the sadness when it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t and the spectrum of emotions we felt in the millions of moments shared in between, give our community character. Providing healthcare for more than a century deserves recognition, but the congratulations will be brief because we know there is more to do; more moments to embrace and memories to make. Celebrate wellness. Spread happiness. Take pride in where you live. We do, which is why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be here alongside you for the next 115 years and more.

1000 Coney Street West Perham, MN 56573 perhamhealth.org 001523348r1