WELCOME TO STEWARTVILLE -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed "All in Stitches" to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Jarett Jones, president of the Chamber, third from left, presents Sandy Evans, owner of the new quilting and fabrics store, with a "first dollar earned" plaque. Chamber of Commerce members who were on hand for the occasion included, front row, from left, Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator; along with Earlene Wickre of All in Stitches, Jan Lubahn and Beth Schmidt. Back row, from left, Bill Schimmel Jr., Monte Beck, Greg Schimek and Rick Jaacks.
BRAND NEW BUSINESS -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Tone N Tan Fitness to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Jarett Jones, president of the Chamber, third from right, presents Brian Yennie, owner of Tone N Tan Fitness, with a "first dollar earned" plaque. Yennie immediately became a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Other members of the Chamber who were on hand for the occasion include, front row, from left, Beth Schmidt, Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator; and Margaret Nelson. Back row, from left, Greg Schimek, Bill Schimmel Jr., Monte Beck, Tom Quackenbush and Rick Jaacks.
Members of the Stewartville Chamber of Commerce gatherd at Tone-N-Tan Fitness Center for the monthly "Chamber After Hours" meeting on Oct. 25.
Members of the Stewartville Chamber of Commerce gatherd at Tone-N-Tan Fitness Center for the monthly "Chamber After Hours" meeting on Oct. 25.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce held its monthly "Chamber After Hours" meeting at Home Sweet Home last Wednesday, Nov. 28. Chamber members and friends gathered to enjoy appetizers and conversation.
A WARM WELCOME -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed two new businesses to the area business community with an official ambassador visit last week. In front, from left, Stacy Savoy, a member of the Chamber of Commerce executive board, presents a "first dollar earned" plaque to Marcia Nagel, second from left, and Suzie Diemer, third from left, co-owners of Pine Needles, a Racine sewing and embroidering business. Also, Jarett Jones, Chamber of Commerce president, far right, presents a plaque to Harla Morehart, owner of Harla's Deli & Desserts of Racine. Linda Bucknell, owner of Antique Manor of Racine, stands at Jones' right shoulder. Pine Needles, Harla's Deli & Desserts and Antique Manor are all part of the Horse Feathers Plaza, which celebrated its grand opening last week. Standing in back, from left, are Chamber members Beth Schmidt and Lloyd Anderson, along with Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator.
Tom Redmond, left, and his brother Sean welcomed customers to the grand opening of Tiger Ace Hardware last Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Redmonds say that local customers are excited about the new store. "We've had nothing but positive responses from everyone," Tom Redmond said. photo by Mark Peterson
The Podein family was honored on the main stage at Rochesterfest last week as a recipient of the annual "10 Who Make a Difference" Award, given to Rochester and area individuals, organizations or families that serve their communities in extraordinary ways. The Podeins were honored for their service as long-time volunteers with the Stewartville Fire Department. Robin Wolfram, news anchor at KTTC-TV in Rochester, left, introduced the Podeins to a large audience. The Podeins include, from left, Mike, Josh, Ryan and Mark.
Melissa Sue Martin, the purchasing manager for Teigen Paper, has been named the new administrator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Stewartville United Educators (SUE), the local teachers union, as a new member of the Chamber with an official ambassador visit two weeks ago. In the foreground at right, Mark Podein, Chamber president, far right, and Connie Grisim, past president, second from right, share a Chamber plaque with Cheri Stageberg, SUE president, second from left, and Sharon Prunty, also of SUE. Front row, from left in the background are SUE members Susan Grant, Michelle Bestor, Pam Iverson, Susan Bartels, Katie Young and Kelly Manley. Second row, from left, are SUE members David Dettmann, Brad Metter, Charlie Aitken, Dennis Kuisle and Mark Schmitz. In back, from left, are Chamber members Beth Schmidt, Lori Miller-Beach, Becky Monty, Jarett Jones and John Senjem, along with Rhonda Baldner of SUE.
Dan Svoboda, a master auto technician for House Chevrolet of Stewartville, seated at right, has earned the title of GM World Class Technician. Svoboda completed more than 450 hours of training to qualify for the honor. Svoboda is among only 1,102 of 60,000 GM technicians across the United States who have become World Class Technicians. House Chevrolet hosted a luncheon to honor Svoboda on Friday, Sept. 7. Those on hand for the celebration included Svoboda's wife Sharon, seated left; along with, back row, from left, Bob House of House Chevrolet, Jim Puff, GM zone manager for vehicle sales, service and marketing for the Minneapolis, St. Paul and Rochester markets; Daryl J. Uhrhammer, area GM service manager; Greg House of House Chevrolet, and Pete Schreiber, House Chevrolet's service manager.
Harry & Evie Sykes look back on their 21 years as owners of Stewartville's Coast-to-Coast Hardware store.
PLENTY OF GROCERIES -- Marty Hanson, co-owner of Hanson's Country Store, offers a large inventory of discount groceries which have been selling well recently. "The groceries are coming off the shelves faster than we can fill the shelves," he said.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce held its monthly "Chamber After Hours" meeting at Home Sweet Home last Wednesday, Nov. 28. Chamber members and friends gathered to enjoy appetizers and conversation.
Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator, left, and Mayor Chuck Murphy hold plans for Stewartville's new grocery store, which will be built on land to the right of First Farmers&Merchants Bank, the building at far left in the background.
Brian Yennie loves to welcome new members to Tone N Tan Fitness, a fun and friendly place to work out.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS -- Mark Rusciano, president of First Farmers&Merchants State Bank, second from right, hosted a "celebrate the holidays" open house at the bank on Wednesday, Dec. 19. Guests enjoyed breakfast pizza, hot cider and more. Glenn Belen, far left, and Greg Schimek, right, enjoyed convesation with Rusciano.
Joe Finley spins the wheel as Katie Finley and Marissa Koenigs look on at the annual Chamber of Commerce Home Show on March 13.
Cake designer Margaret Lex, at left, and Ardis Copple, dressed in 1800s fashions, cut the cake during January's opening sesquicentennial ceremony.
BACK IN TIME - Laurie Helmers of Stewartville portrayed Marcia Tysseling at the sesquicentennial cemetery walk on Sunday, July 8,
Cheryl Roeder accepts the Chamber's Volunteer of the Year Award for 2012 from Mark Podein, outgoing Chamber president.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2013 include, front row, from left, Lonnie Boe, director; Angela Carr, first vice president; Deann Stowers, president; and Melissa Sue Martin, administrator. Back row, from left, Matt Smidt and Ryan Davis, directors; Robert Hruska, second vice president; and Mark Podein, past president. Jim Kuisle, another director, was not present when the photo was taken.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Hampton Inn-South Broadway as a new Chamber member with an official Ambassador visit last week. Deann Stowers, Chamber president, third from left, presents Jim Sele of the Hampton Inn with a Chamber plaque. In front, from left, are Beth Jay and Erika Trempe of Hampton Inn. Other Chamber members include, in back, from lef<!--1up-20-->t, Mark Podein, past president; Melissa Sue Martin, Chamber administrator; and Lonnie Boe.
A GRACIOUS WELCOME -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Corner Meats -N- More to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Brian Ferson, the store's owner, standing at center right, accepts a "first dollar earned" plaque from Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator. Other Chamber members, standing in front from left, include Clair Mrotek and Sharon Moehnke. Standing in front at far right is Kay Tvedt, an employee at Corner Meats -N- More. Standing in back, from left, Bill Schimmel Jr., Larry Gray, Greg Schimek, Chris Gray, John Senjem, Margaret Nelson and Chuck Murphy.
A NEW BOARD -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2008 includes, front row, from left, Stacy Savoy, first vice president; Jodi Beck, administrator; and Stephanie Fossum, new director. Back row, from left, Chris Dahle, new director; Dr. Stephanie Lillis, president; and Jarett Jones, past president. Board members not pictured include Mark Rusciano, second vice president; along with Jim Kuisle, Morrie Schutz and Mark Podein, carryover directors.
A number of Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce members received certificates of appreciation for serving on committees during 2007. Those members include, from left, Mark Rusciano, Gene Peters, Beth Schmidt, Greg Schimek, Stephanie Fossum, Mike Wiginton, Dr. Stephanie Lillis, Paul Skifton, Judy Schroeder, Troy Peterson, Chris Dahle, Stacy Savoy, Jarett Jones.
THE NEW PRESIDENT -- Jarett Jones, Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce president for 2007, left, passes the president's gavel to Dr. Stephanie Lillis, who takes over as the organization's president in 2008.
A WARM WELCOME -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Stewie Motors to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Stacy Savoy, Chamber of Commerce vice president, front left, presents a "first dollar earned" plaque to Glen Parrett, vice president of Stewie Motors. Chamber members and others who attended include, from left, Gene Peters, Chris Dahle, Miss Stewartville Sara Zent, Monte Beck, Junior Miss Stewartville Abby Buck, Lloyd Anderson, Jodi Beck, Rick Jaacks, Stephanie Fossum, Bill Schimmel, Mike Wiginton of Stewie Motors and Joe Hughes, vice president of Stewie Motors.
Just For Kix dancer Kendall Clausen danced the Bunny Hop at the Stewartville Chamber Home Show.
Just For Kix dancers MiKenna Hettinger, Kendall Clausen and Cesca Kassel dance the Bunny Hop at the Stewartville Chamber Home Show.
Olivia Quam, 6, of Stewartville, below right, spins the wheel to win a prize at the Minnesota Crossroads-Airport View License Bureau booth at the annual Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Home Show on Saturday, March 8.
YOUR HOTEL HOSTS -- Shailesh Patel, seated at right, and his wife Nila, far left, are the owners of Stewartville's Relax Inn. Their sons are Vandan, left, and Hari.
A WARM WELCOME -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Relax Inn to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Dr. Stephanie Lillis, Chamber of Commerce president, far right, presents a "first dollar earned" plaque to Nila Patel, owner of Relax Inn, who is joined by her husband, Shailesh. Other Chamber of Commerce members who welcomed the Patels include, front row, from left, Chris Dahle, Stacy Savoy and Stephanie Fossum. Back row, from left, Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator; Frank Hough, Kurt Jorgenson, Lloyd Anderson and Jarett Jones.
CHAMBER CHEER -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed new Dairy Queen owner Jeff Bagniewski to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Dr. Stephanie Lillis, Chamber of Commerce president, third from right in foreground, presents Bagniewski with a "first dollar earned" plaque. Bruce and Paulette Teigen, standing in front at far left, owned the Dairy Queen before selling it to Bagniewski effective Jan. 1. Other Chamber members who welcomed Bagniewski include, front row, from left, Stephanie Fossum, Chris Dahle and Stacy Savoy. Back row, from left, Rick Jaacks, Lloyd Anderson, Mark Rusciano, Jarett Jones, Kurt Jorgenson and Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator.
TIME TO SOCIALIZE -- Eastwood Bank hosted a "Chamber After Hours" event at the Stewartville Civic Center on Thursday, April 17. Rick Jaacks, standing at left, and Beth Schmidt, standing at right, represented Eastwood Bank at the event. About 100 business leaders attended.
A GOOD START -- Joe Hughes, vice president of Stewie Motors, says the new business sells low-mileage, relatively new cars at reasonable prices. "I try to find exactly the car you want at the price you want," he said.
CHANGING THE OIL -- Don Schaefer offers oil changes and a wide variety of other services at Schaefer Automotive, which officially opened for business on Wednesday, April 16.
A WARM WELCOME -- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Edward Jones' Jason Geving, seated at left, and Ruth Oelkers, seated at right, to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Stacy Savoy, first vice president of the Chamber of Commerce, standing front and center, presents Geving with a "first dollar earned" plaque. Other Chamber members include, second row, from left, Larry Gray, Margaret Nelson, Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator; Mark Rusciano, Chris Dahle and Stephanie Fossum. Back row, from left, Lloyd Anderson, Chris Stafford, Bill Schimmel Jr., Monte Beck, Chris Gray and Beth Schmidt.
AT YOUR SERVICE -- Jason Geving, the new financial advisor at Edward Jones, appreciates the warm welcome he has received from Stewartville's residents. "I appreciate the community and the loyal clients," he said.
A CHANCE TO NETWORK -- Willow Creek Golf Club hosted the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's "Business After Hours" last week. Many Chamber members took advantage of the opportunity to share food, drink and good conversation. Three Chamber members won prizes in a drawing. Sue Daily Lujan won a Willow Creek sweatshirt and an 18-hole green fee, John Senjem won a Willow Creek blanket and an 18-hole green fee, and Rick Jaacks won a Willow Creek hat and an 18-hole green fee.
CHAMBER CHEER-- The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Valley Trailer Sales, Bobcat of Rochester and Featherlite Coaches to the local business community with an official ambassador visit two weeks ago. Stacy Savoy, first vice president of the Chamber of Commerce, standing third from left, presents Randy Mitchell, general manager of Featherlite Coaches, with a "first dollar earned" plaque. Craig Stier, owner and manager of Bobcat and Valley Trailer Sales, stands at far right. Other Chamber of Commerce members who attended include, front row, from left, Stephanie Fossum and Jodi Beck, Chamber administrator. Back row, from left, Margaret Nelson, Chris Gray, Larry Gray, Chris Stafford, Bill Schimmel Jr. , Mark Rusciano, Lloyd Anderson and Monte Beck.
GLAD TO BE HERE -- From left, Craig Stier, owner-manager of Bobcat and Valley Trailer Sales; Randy Mitchell, general manager of Featherlite Coaches; and Jeff Thorsen, owner-manager of Bobcat and Valley Trailer Sales, are happy to be in Stewartville.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Noble RV as a Chamber member with a recent official Ambassador Visit and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Deann Stowers, Chamber president, center, presents a Chamber plaque to Pat Noble, owner, left center. Mike Noble, owner, is at right center.
Beth Schmidt
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Mystic Moon Designs Antiques & Collectibles as a new chamber member with a recent official Ambassador Visit and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Deann Stowers, Chamber President, seated at center, presents Peg Chihak a chamber plaque while Al Chihak, second from left, cuts the ribbon. Kneeling, from left, Bill Schimmel, Al Chihak, Peg Chihak, Deann Stowers, Ryan Davis. Standing, from left, Erika Trempe, Beth Schmidt, Melissa Sue Martin, Jimmie-John King, Judy Schroeder, Angela Carr, Margaret Nelson, Kim Brown.
Stewartville's first-ever cash mob paid a visit to Catch My Thrift on a cold and windy Friday, April 19. Fifty-eight shoppers spent an average of $18.50 each at the downtown store, buying books, household items, kids clothes and much more. Above, shoppers remain bundled up against the cold as they head for the store.
Speaking before a large audience of Stewartville High School seniors and their parents last week, Judy Braatz urged the graduates not to be afraid to step out of their comfort zones. See related story.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Summerfest celebration on Wednesday, July 3 and Thursday, July 4. Time Machine and the Sawtooth Bluegrass Band will play at the Chamber's annual Street Dance at Florence Park on July 3 beginning at 6 p.m. Most Fourth of July events will be held at Florence Park. From left are Kevin Torgerson, chair of the Summerfest fun runs; Melissa Sue Martin, Chamber administrator; and Deann Stowers, chair of the Summerfest Parade.
Al Chihak of Mystic Moon Antiques & Collectibles, right, completes a transaction with Mike Brainard and his daughter Mikayla of Stewartville, who were part of the Cash Mob that visited Mystic Moon last Thursday, July 18.
Alliant Energy was a Stewartville Summerfest sponsor and its donation to the Stewartville Chamber of Commerce provided a free craft station at the July 4 Arts in the Park at Florence Park called "ArtOrg." Here, Rebbecca Gisel presents a check from Alliant Energy to Chamber Administrator Melissa sue Leuning.
Work crews demolished the cabin apartments along Main Street last week. Podein's Power Equipment, located just south of the cabins, plans to expand its business onto the site where the cabins have stood for many years.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Endless Journey Child Care to the local business community with a recent ambassador visit. Melissa Sue Martin, Chamber administrator, second from right, presents a Chamber plaque to Vicky Pagel, owner of Endless Journey Child Care. Kathy Stolhanske, director of Endless Journey, is at far left. Other Chamber members include Bill Schimmel Jr., in back, and Jimmie-John King, right, both representing the city of Stewartville.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Tiger Ace Hardware to the local business community with a recent ambassador visit. Melissa Sue Martin, Chamber administrator, second from right, presents a Chamber plaque to Sean Redmond of Tiger Ace Hardware. Other Chamber members include, from left, Jimmie-John King, Bill Schimmel Jr., Margaret Nelson and Beth Schmitt.
CASH MOB BROWSERS -- From left, Ryan Jacobson, Lori Homan and Brianna Homan look for items at C&M Screen Printing as part of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Cash Mob that visited the store last Thursday, Sept. 12.
Gwen Ravenhorst, the new administrator for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, is excited about her opportunity to work with the Chamber's businesses.
Sandy TePoel, owner of Curves of Stewartville, says local and area residents can eat healthy and reduce their grocery bills by purchasing seasonal produce, making meals with fresh ingredients and buying foods in bulk.
The lobby of Stewartville's Eastwood Bank was recently completed. An open house will be held Nov. 6-8.
Workers from La Crosse Sign Co. of Onalaska, Wis. installed a new digital sign along Main Street last Thursday, Nov. 7. The city of Stewartville, the Stewartville School District and the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce paid about $8,000 each for the sign. Loren Kiefer, director of technology for the Stewartville School District, stands at far left. Jim Kuisle, a member of the city's Economic Development Authority (EDA), led the effort to purchase the new sign.
Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, has said that this year's Winterfest will also include the annual Pictures with Santa event at the Stewartville Civic Center, the Holiday Tour of Homes (see more details on today's Feature page), the Parade of Lights, a life-sized Christmas card display, vendors, concessions, a DJ with music and more. Residents will have a chance to buy the Christmas cards at auction. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display.
Ronn and Shirley Carlson, posing near a Nativity scene, live in the historic home built by the Wooldridges, a founding Stewartville family.
Liz Howe has remodeled the space that was once Ken Howe's upholstery shop into living quarters both comfortable and homey.
Wade and Bridget Neubauer bought their home from Jeff and Bonnie Hinkle, who built it in the late 1990s. The Neubauers have two sons: Reed, 7, and Chase, 10.
Mary Sackett enjoys decorating her home for Christmas. She lives across from Brin Park at 807 Fifth Avenue Southeast.
Colton Mason, left, and Kurtis Keller, juniors at Stewartville High School, earned the top prize in the Winterfest life-sized Christmas card contest with their drawing, "A Charlie Brown Christmas."
Sunshine Sanitation's brightly decorated truck, earned the first-place prize in the Winterfest parade.
Scores of Stewartville and area residents found warmth near the bonfire at Florence Park on Saturday evening, Dec. 14.
Schanielle Hayes, 3, left, and Dayton Hayes, 5, right, dressed warmly for their meeting with Santa Claus at Winterfest on Saturday evening, Dec. 14.
Julie Aldrich, left, was honored as the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Volunteer of the Year for 2013 at the Chamber's annual banquet on Saturday, Jan. 18. Deann Stowers, Chamber president for 2013, center, and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, presented the award.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Tim and Matt Fechner of Discount Mattresses & More to the local business community with a recent official ambassador visit. Robert Hruska, president of the Chamber, third from right in the front row, presented the Fechners with "first dollar earned" and Chamber membership plaques. A number of Chamber representatives were on hand to welcome the Fechners.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its first-ever Business Xposed! event at the Stewartville Heritage House last week. Lori Miller-Beach, owner of the Heritage House, seated second from left, accepts a "Business Xposed" plaque from Beth Schmidt of the Chamber's Shop Local Committee. Others seated in front include Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, left; and Maggie Beach, Lori Miller-Beach's daughter. Back row, from left, are Chamber members Chris Dahle, Stacey Schimmel, Jen Hruska and Robert Hruska; Laurie Wildeman of the Heritage House; and Joe Lawler, Chamber member.
Beth Schmidt of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, fourth from right, presents a Business Xposed! certificate to Paulette and Bruce Teigen, third and second from right, and Melissa Sue Leuning, far right, of Teigen Paper last week. Others who visited the downtown business include, in front, from left, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Arvilla Boehm, Chris Dahle and Margaret Clark. Back row, from left, Bob Baker, Brett Struhar, Theresa Hornberg, Jimmie-John King, Stacy Schimmel and Cheryl Roeder.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Summerfest celebration on Thursday, July 3 and Friday, July 4. Brad Boice of Chatfield, an Elvis tribute artist, will sing many classic songs from the King of Rock 'n' Roll at the Chamber's annual Street Dance at Florence Park on Thursday, July 3 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Time Machine, a 1980s hair band, will then play from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. A few of the Chamber leaders and chairpersons of Summerfest events who gathered at Florence Park last week include, front row, from left, Melissa Sue Leuning, Arts in the Park; and Cheryl Roeder, Street Dance. Back row, from left, Deann Stowers,Summerfest Parade; Robert Hruska, Arts in the Park; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Joe Lawler of Anthony's Wood-Fired Pizza to the local business community with an official Ambassador visit on Tuesday, July 1. Lawler, standing front and center, accepts a Chamber plaque from Melissa Sue Leuning, first vice president of the Chamber, standing third from left, and from Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, fourth from left. Other Chamber members include, from left, Jimmie-John King, Deann Stowers, Bill Schimmel Jr., Emily Christie, Becky Monty, Andrew Mai, Jarett Jones and Beth Schmidt.
Zachary Lechner, dentist and new owner of Root River Dental, center, cuts the ribbon for the new dental office in the downtown Professional Building on Tuesday, July 1. Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, shakes hands with Lechner and presents him with a Chamber plaque. Hannah Lechner, Lechner's wife and a 2002 graduate of Stewartville High School, stands at Lechner's right. The Lechners' two daughters, Reese, 2; and Kenna, 4 months, are also pictured. Lee Weinhold, who practiced dentistry in Stewartville for 41 years before retiring effective June 30, is holding one of his grandchildren as he stands at far right in the back row. Weinhold's employees, all of whom will also work for Lechner, are pictured in the first and second rows just to the left of Ravenhorst.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Troy Knutson, the new local financial advisor for Edward Jones Investments, to the local business community with a recent official ambassador visit. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, far right, presents Knutson with a Chamber plaque. Charlie Brown, Chamber member, is at far left. Becky Burdick, branch office administrator of Edward Jones Investments, stands second from right.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed JMJ Landscape Supply to the local business community with a recent official ambassador visit. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, second from right, presents a Chamber plaque to Joe Jones, owner of JMJ Landscape Supply. Charlie Brown, Chamber member, is at left. Ryan Davis of Davis WoodScapes, a customer of JMJ Landscape Supply, is at right.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed PC Applications to the local business community with a recent official ambassador visit. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, right, presents a Chamber plaque to Charlie Brown, owner of PC Applications, as employees Melanie McCarty and Dave Gleason look on.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Winterfest Committee are working on plans for the Chamber's Tea & Luncheon, to be held at the Stewartville Civic Center of Sunday, Dec. 7 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. They include, front row, from left, Jessica Fenske, Stacy Schimmel and Cheryl Roeder. Back row, from left, Melissa Sue Leuning, chair of the committee, and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. Here, more than 100 Stewartville and area residents, many of whom brought their dogs, attended the event.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. Here, a team of golden retrievers joined many other dogs for a one-mile walk from Florence Park to Bear Cave Park and back again.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. Here, Olivia Renken of Stewartville, left, stands with Otto, her basset hound. Otto, dressed as a hot dog pirate, placed second in the costume contest.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. Here, Greta Ravenhorst and Buddy, her 7-month-old "morkie," won first place in the Pets in the Park costume contest.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Minnesota Disc Dogs ran hard and leaped high to catch their owners' flying discs.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Minnesota Disc Dogs ran hard and leaped high to catch their owners' flying discs.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Minnesota Disc Dogs ran hard and leaped high to catch their owners' flying discs.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Minnesota Disc Dogs ran hard and leaped high to catch their owners' flying discs.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Minnesota Disc Dogs ran hard and leaped high to catch their owners' flying discs.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11. The Minnesota Disc Dogs ran hard and leaped high to catch their owners' flying discs.
City Council candidates who attended a Chamber forum last week include, from left, Craig Anderson, Maren Schroeder and Dick Uptagrafft.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Stone Expressions, LLC to the Chamber with an official ambassador visit last week. Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator of the Chamber, second from left, presents a Chamber plaque to Matt Wildeman, owner of Stone Expressions. Bill Schimmel Jr., far left, represented the city of Stewartville and the Chamber at the ambassador visit. Josh Steiger, far right, works for Stone Expressions.
Halcon, city of Stewartville and area officials came together to break ground for the Stewartville company's new administrative and showcase building on a sunny and cool Tuesday morning, Nov. 4.
THE HEAT WAS ON -- Several Stewartville businesses worked together to provide the Stewartville High School varsity football team with four heaters and three generators to heat the sidelines during the Tigers' cold playoff game against Becker in Osseo on Saturday, Nov. 15. Margaret Nelson of State Farm Insurance, far left, Mike Podein, second from left, and Mark Podein, far right, of Podein's Power Equipment, Greg House of House Chevrolet, second from right, and Tory Keefe and Kim Stoltenberg, not pictured, supplied the necessary equipment. Kelly Lee, Brian Howard and Tim Swenson hauled the equipment to the game and set it up along the sidelines. Beth Schmidt of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce spearheaded the effort.
Bard leaders who celebrated the opening of the company's new $17 million catheter facility last week include, from left, Mark Thorburn, head of operations for Bard Medical Division; Jeff Ambourn, plant manager in Stewartville; and Matt Hodder, process engineer.
Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, is happy to be in the Chamber's new office in the Dahl Copiers building along Stewartville's Main Street.
Jenavieve Hepner, 3, gives Santa Claus a smiling shrug as she tries to think of the presents she wants for Christmas at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday morning, Dec. 6. Jenavieve is one of hundreds of local and area children who visited Santa during the Stewartville Kiwanis Club's annual Pictures with Santa event.
Art students from Stewartville High School greeted bidders at one of the tables displaying SHS artwork during Winterfest activities at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, Dec. 6. Proceeds from the Art Gala and Auction will pay for an art scholarship for a local student.
Quinn Pribyl, a junior at Stewartville High School, used a mix of tempera and house paint to draw The North Pole, a work that includes a tree bending in the wind, a moose and a candy cane. Pribyl's drawing was one of many available at the SHS Art Gala and Silent Auction at the Stewartville Civic Center Dec. 5-7. For more information about the event, see the feature story on Page 12. Pribyl said he likes art because there are no limits as to what students can do. "Your mind can run however you want it to," he said.
Sunshine Sanitation won the $100 first prize in the Winterfest float decoration contest with this truck blanketed by Christmas lights.
Residents stand near the bonfire at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Winterfest celebration at Florence Park on Saturday evening, Dec. 6.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, at its annual banquet on Saturday evening, Jan. 17, honored the Griffin-Gray Funeral Home for serving the Stewartville community for 100 years. The staff includes, from left, Chris Gray, Gerri Griffin-Gray, Larry Gray and Diane Gray. Kevin Gray, another staff member, is not pictured.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2015 include, front row, from left, Stacy Hanson, Melissa Sue Leuning, president; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber coordinator. Back row, from left, Al Chihak, Robert Hruska, past president; Matt Smidt and Jon Stowell, vice president. April Crom and Julie Aldrich, two other board members, are not pictured.
Melissa Sue Leuning, incoming president for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, accepts the gavel from Robert Hruska, outgoing president, at the Chamber's annual banquet at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday evening, Jan. 17.
Stacy Schimmel, center, was honored as the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Volunteer of the Year for 2014 at the Chamber's annual banquet, Summer in January, at the Civic Center on Saturday, Jan. 17. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, left, and Robert Hruska, Chamber president for 2014, presented the award. Speaking of Schimmel, Ravenhorst said, "She comes to the table eager and willing to help out."
Emily Asfeld of Rochester, seated at left, won a bag full of prizes at the Stewartville booth at the Townsquare Media Home Vacation RV Show held March 13-15. Prizes included a C&M Video bag, a beach towel and diving rings from the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, a punch card for entry into the Stewartville pool and two pounds of ground beef, two pounds of brats, two pounds of Iowa chops and two pounds of hot dogs from Fareway. Joya Stetson, community and economic development specialist for Community Economic Development Associates (CEDA), who worked at the Stewartville booth, is seated at right. Standing from left are Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, who also worked at the Stewartville booth; Robert Hruska, grocery manager at Fareway and past president of the Chamber; and Brett Struhar, meat manager at Fareway.
The Easter Bunny said hello to scores of children at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Spring into Summer Marketfest at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, March 28. Below, Grace Malone, 1 1/2, of Stewartville, selects an egg as her grandfather Dan Chase looks on.
Hundreds of local and area residents attended the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Spring into Summer Marketfest at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, March 28. Here, shoppers selected from items at a wide variety of businesses.
Hundreds of Stewartville and area shoppers searched for items at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Spring into Summer Marketfest at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, March 28. Above, Elyse Struckmann holds her son Jase, 18 months, during a visit with the Easter Bunny.
Hundreds of Stewartville and area shoppers searched for items at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Spring into Summer Marketfest at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, March 28. Above, Elyse Struckmann holds her son Jase, 18 months, during a visit with the Easter Bunny.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Joel Thiem Counselor Realty to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. From left are Andy Mai, Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president; Rick Dahl, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Joel Thiem (cutting ribbon), John Senjem, Bridget Dahle and Mayor Jimmie-John King.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed the Dahle Insurance Agency to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. From left are Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president; Pat Dahl, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; John Senjem, Bridget Dahle (cutting ribbon), Joel Thiem, Andy Mai, Mayor Jimmie-John King and Ryan Ravenhorst.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Dairy Queen to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Jeff Bagniewski, owner of Dairy Queen, third from left, accepts a Chamber plaque from Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator. Others include, from left, Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president; Rick Dahl, Ryan Ravenhorst, Paulette Teigen, John Senjem, Andy Mai and Bridget Dahle.
Cassandra Drees, center, and Amanda Jaeger, second from right, seniors at Stewartville High School, were each recognized as a winner of a $500 scholarship from the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce at the Chamber's Senior Appreciation Banquet last week. Chamber representatives include, form left, Stacy Schimmel, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; and Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president.
Vicki Snyder was the guest speaker at this year's Senior Honor Banquet.
Betty Butters of rural Stewartville, left, sold eggs, buttons, paintings and magnets made out of old jewelry at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Tuesdays off Main Farmers Market in downtown Stewartville last Tuesday, June 9. Dale and Janne Kangas of Stewartville, right, took a few moments to look over the items at Butters's booth.
Mayor Jimmie-John King, left, introduces a baby goat from his rural Stewartville farm to Madigan Lawrence, 11, of Stewartville, center, and Aryana Baerthel, 10, also of Stewartville, at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Tuesdays off Main event at the downtown city parking lot on Tuesday, June 9. Working in 90-degree heat, a number of local and area residents sold items from booths at the Farmers Market that day.
All-American Co-op provided free root beer floats to guests who stopped by Tuesdays off Main on Tuesday, June 23. Servers included Beth Pagel of All-American Co-op, Mayor Jimmie-John King and Ann Lutteke of Bremer Bank.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Fourth of July Summerfest celebration at Florence Park on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4. A few of the many individuals planning the event include, front row, from left, Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president and chair of the Summerfest Parade; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator. Back row, from left, Stacy Hanson, chair of the Street Dance; and Robert Hruska, chair of Arts in the Park.
Car enthusiasts check out a 1926 Ford Model T Coupe at the annual Stewie Cruisers Car Show. The 89-year-old car has 454 horsepower.
Eileen Whitman, foreground, who traveled from Florida to visit relatives in Stewartville, browsed among the items at "Judy's Quilts," a booth hosted by Dale and Judy Thorpe of Zumbrota, who offered quilts, potholders, towels, pillows and more.
Brad Boice, an Elvis tribute artist, delighted hundreds of his fans at the Summerfest Street Dance on July 3.
Madison Funk , 8, in blue shirt. and her friends Trinity Poncelet, 9, center, and Tiffany Poncelet, 6, pink shirt, pet a bunny at the Stewartville FFA Petting Zoo.
Three of the winners of the annual Fourth of July Summerfest Children's Fishing Contest included, from left, Raven Biffert of Winona, third place, ages 12-14; Trevor Baryenbruch, 9, of Barneveld, Wis., first place, ages 7-11; and Eva Biffert of Stewartville, third place, ages 7-11.
Matt Terhaar, seated in the foreground, joined scores of other fishermen at the annual Summerfest Fishing Contest.
Micah Truax, 7, and his younger brother Mauer Truax, 4, joined their dad in patriotic dress for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Children's Parade.
Justin Byrne, 4, of Stewartville, smiles at his cheering family as he increases his distance in the 4-year-old class at the Kids Power Pedal Tractor Pull.
Rylan Clapp, 4, greets his grandmother with a wave and a smile as he enjoys the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Summerfest celebration on Saturday, July 4. See more Summerfest photos on Page 5.
Mayor Jimmie-John King and his wife Susan greeted thousands of parade enthusiasts lined up four-and five-deep for the Chamber of Commerce Summerfest Parade.
The Stewartville Tiger offers a paw to a young fan standing along the curb during the Fourth of July Summerfest Parade.
A stilt walker dressed in red, white and blue was a favorite during the Summerfest Parade.
The Stewartville Fire Department's youth and adult water fights entertained an audience that not only enjoyed the fun event, but also benefited from the effects of the cool mist during the heat of the day.
Kayley Dahle, a henna artist, left, draws a heart of the forearm of Summer Barber, 11, who will be a sixth grader at Stewartville Middle School this fall.
Time Machine, known as a 1980s hair band, played pop, country and disco favorites for a large audience at the Summerfest Street Dance on Friday evening, July 3. Time Machine has now played at Summerfest for five consecutive years.
Summerfest race coordinator Kevin Torgerson congratulated participants at the finish line of the one-mile Kids Fun Run.
Vance Swisher of the Stewartville Fire Department hosed down the sand volleyball courts when the sand heated up during the afternoon games at the 2015 Summerfest Co-Ed Sand Volleyball tournament courts at Bear Cave Park. Tourney coordinator Trina Urban extended thanks to Swisher and the SFD as well as the city of Stewartville Park Board and Public Works Department.
More than 90 sand volleyball players on 15 teams competed at the annual Summerfest Co-Ed Sand Volleyball tournament on the city of Stewartville's new sand volleyball courts at Bear Cave Park on July 5. The tourney was enjoyed by more than 40 spectators and raised $500 for the city public works department to maintain the courts. The balance of team entry fees were awarded to the first and second place teams in the Gold and Silver Divisions.The 2015 Summerfest Co-Ed Sand Volleyball Champions are, in front, from left, Jenny Mundt, Nam Dinh, Gina Chiri-Osmond and Lisa Flynn. In back are, Andre Osmond (left) and Julian Greenup.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed A+ Nails Professional Nail Care to the Chamber with an official ambassador visit on Wednesday, July 29. Tri Nguyen, owner and manager of A+ Nails, seated in front, cuts the ribbon celebrating the official opening of his business and accepts a Chamber plaque from Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, seated at right, and Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president, standing at left in front. Other Chamber members who welcomed Nguyen include, standing in back, from left, Margaret Nelson, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Beth Schmidt and Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator. A+ Nails, which is located in the Johnson Building on Main Street, had a soft opening on June 5. "It's going good," Nguyen said. "A lot of people have been coming in and returning."
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Daniel B. Honsey from the Kraft Walser Law Office, seated in center, to the Chamber with a recent official ambassador visit. Honsey has opened an office in the Stewartville Professional Building on Main Street. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, seated at left, and Melissa Sue Leuning, president of the Chamber, seated at right, presented Honsey with a Chamber plaque. Other Chamber members, standing from left, include Jarett Jones, Al Chihak, Beth Schmidt, Margaret Nelson, Mayor Jimmie-John King and Emily Christie.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Storage Solutions to the Chamber with an official ambassador visit on Wednesday, July 29. Jennifer Martin, the owner of Storage Solutions, joined by her dog, Jack, cuts the ribbon celebrating the official opening of her business and accepts a Chamber plaque from Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, standing in front at right, and Melissa Sue Leuning, standing in front at left. Other Chamber members who welcomed Martin include, in back, from left, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Margaret Nelson and Beth Schmidt. The business has 22 storage units, the larger of which are 10 feet by 15 feet and the smaller of which are five feet by 10 feet. The business also offers storage for boats and vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hundreds of Stewartville and area residents ate free hot dogs and sampled a number of free side items provided by seven northeast Stewartville businesses at the third annual Dog Days of Summer celebration on Thursday, Aug. 6. Above, Fareway employees serve hot dogs to guests who stood in a long line in the Fareway parking lot.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed KNXR 97.5 Radio of Rochester to the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce with an official ambassador visit last week. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, presents a Chamber plaque to members of the KNXR 97.5 administration and staff, including Beau Jensen, tri-owner of the station, third from right. Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president, is at far right.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed ActivePT to the local business community with an official ambassador visit last week. Jake Hoeppner of ActivePT, fourth from left, accepts a Chamber plaque from Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president. Other Chamber members include, from left, Joya Stetson, Robert Hruska, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Margaret Nelson, Jameson Hanson and Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator.
Aiden Timm and his dog, Sobe, right, won first place in the Pets in the Park Costume Contest. Sobe dressed as a minion. Greta Ravenhorst of Racine and her dogs, Lennon and Buddy, left, placed second. Sharon Pooler and her boxer, Chance, center, placed third.
A Minnesota disc dog in mid-flight catches a Frisbee at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's second annual Pets in the Park at Florence Park on Saturday, Oct. 10.
Emily Christie displays some of the decorations at her home at 304 Third Street Southwest.
Scott and Megan Romens, pictured with their children, Maya, 3, left, and Sadie, 5; have hung garland and lights outside their home and seven wreaths inside at 303 Third Street Southwest.
The city of Stewartville, which featured a lighted Christmas tree with a star on top, won the award for the best float in the stand-still Winterfest Parade.
Scores of residents attended the annual Winterfest Tea & Luncheon at the Stewartville Civic Center on Sunday, Dec. 6. In all, 97 individuals sat at beautifully decorated tables.
Ryan Clapp, 4, greets his grandmother with a wave and a smile as he enjoys the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Summerfest celebration on Saturday, July 4.
Observed carefully by its trainer, a Minnesota disc dog catches a Frisbee in mid-flight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's second annual Pets in the Park at Florence Park on Saturday, Oct. 10.
An open house for Sunshine Sanitation and an ambassador visit for High Point Realty & Auction were held at 520 Main Street South on Wednesday, Jan. 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Kevin and Jill Hart, owners of High Point Realty & Auction, cut the ribbon and hold a Chamber plaque as they are welcomed by, front row, from left, Chamber Administrator Gwen Ravenhorst, Mayor Jimmie-John King and Chamber President Melissa Leuning. High Point employees in matching white shirts include Jacob Hart, left, and Dave Walch. Chamber members who were on hand to welcome the new business include, in back, from left, Ryan Ravenhorst, Al Chihak, Margaret Nelson, John Senjem, Troy Knutson and Jarett Jones.
An open house and ribbon cutting for Sunshine Sanitation's new location was held at 520 Main Street South on Wednesday, Jan. 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tory Keefe, owner, second from left in the front row, cuts the ribbon as Misty Nibbe, a Sunshine Sanitation employee, holds a Chamber plaque. Holding or standing near the ribbon in the front row are, from left, Melissa Leuning, Chamber president, Mayor Jimmie-John King and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator. Chamber members on hand to welcome Sunshine Sanitation include, in back, from left, Al Chihak, Ryan Ravenhorst, Jarett Jones, Margaret Nelson, and Connie and Curt Grisim.
Ann Lutteke, center, accepts the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year Award for 2015 from Melissa Sue Leuning, 2015 Chamber president, left; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual meeting and banquet at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday evening, Jan. 30. Members of the Chamber's 2016 Board of Directors include, front row, from left, Melissa Sue Leuning, past president; Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator; April Crom and Julie Aldrich, directors. Back row, from left, Jeff Bagniewski and Troy Knutson, directors; Robert Hruska, president; and Al Chihak, director. As of last week, the Chamber was searching for an individual to serve as vice president for 2016.
Owen Sass, public works supervisor for the city of Stewartville, center, has received a special award for his work helping the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce prepare for its many local events. Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber president, left, and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, presented the award at the Chamber's annual banquet at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, Jan. 29. "Owen is incredible at his job, always thinking two or three steps ahead of what needs to be done," Leuning said. Sass plans to retire from his job with the city on June 30.
Hannah Lechner was the featured speaker at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Senior Appreciation Banquet on May 4.
Chrissy Lofgren, left, and Haley Ahart, right, seniors at Stewartville High School, each received a $500 scholarship from the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce. Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, center, presented the awards at the Chamber's Senior Appreciation Banquet on Wednesday evening, May 4.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Fourth of July Summerfest celebration at Florence Park on Saturday, July 2, Sunday, July 3 and Monday, July 4. A few of the many individuals who have helped plan the event include, front row, from left, Ryan Ravenhorst, beer tent; and Robert Hruska, chair of Arts in the Park. Back row, from left, Stacy McConnell, chair of the Street Dance; Julie Aldrich, parade security; and Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator of the Chamber of Commerce.
A sea of runners stretches backward as far as the eye can see at the start of the Summerfest three-mile run. In all, 306 runners and walkers took part in the three-mile and another 154 ran the five-mile event.
Sharon Theobald of Stewartville, at right in foreground, and Carol and Steve Denny, also of Stewartville, look over the craft items at the Arts in the Park booths along Lakeshore Drive on the Fourth of July.
Browsers inspect a classic car during the annual Fourth of July Stewie Cruisers Car Show near the Stewartville American Legion Post 164.
First-place winners in the Summerfest Kids Decathlon, held at Florence Park on Sunday, July 3, included, from left, Simon Emmanuel, ages 6-7; Cole Cropp, ages 8-9; and Brady Pickett, ages 10-13.
FISHING WINNERS -- Winners in the Summerfest Fishing Contest include, front row, from left, Ike Hengel, 3, third place, 0-6 age group; Braeden Erickson, 10, last fish caught; Hunter Karnitz, 10, first place, ages 7-11; Aidan Jahns, 11, second place, ages 7-11; and Amelia Gwilt, 2, second place, ages 0-6. Back row, from left, Nolan Light, 8, third place, ages 7-11; Taylor Peterson, 9, first fish caught; and an unidentified participant. Kyle Webb, who finished first in the 12-14 age group, is not pictured.
Stewartville Mayor Jimmie-John King and his wife Susan enjoyed their ride as part of the Summerfest Parade. The mayor thanked everyone who worked to present the three-day celebration.
All decked out in red, white and blue, participants in the Summerfest Kids Parade make their way down a path at Florence Park on the Fourth of July.
Chanielle Hayes of Stewartville moves the machine forward as she competes in the Kids Power Pedal Tractor Pull, hosted by Hammell Equipment, at Florence Park on the Fourth of July.
The 19th annual Summerfest Run was another huge success with 154 runners in the 5-mile race and 306 participants in the 3-mile event. Overall winners in the two races were, seated, from left, Kendall Pfrimmer, age 16, of Rochester, first-place female in the 3-mile race, fifth overall in a time of 19:46 and Emily Deutsch, age 30, of Rock Rapids, IA, first-place female in the 5-mile race, 17th overall in a time of 36:43. Standing, from left, Michael Glaser, age 22, of Rochester, first-place male in the 5-mile race in a time of 28:20 and Chad Couser, age 18, of Rochester, first-place male in the 3-mile race in a time of 17:12. Results of both races are posted at: www.wayzataresults.com
The Stewartville High School Band moves to the beat in front of a large audience during the annual Fourth of July Summerfest Parade.
Patty and Gary Stensrud, the grand marshals of the 2016 Summerfest Parade.
Diesel Drive, a country music band, played in front of a large and enthusiastic audience at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Summerfest Street Dance on Saturday evening, July 2.
Maci Greenwood, 5, waves to her mother as she enjoys the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Independence Day Summerfest celebration on Monday, July 4.
Jenny Mundt pounds a kill through a block attempt.
Eight teams competed in two brackets at the 2016 Summerfest Co-Ed Adult Sand Volleyball Tournament at Bear Cave Park on Saturday, July 2. The gold bracket championship team included members, from left, Lisa Flynn, Jenny Mundt, Matt Drucker, Gina Chiri-Osmond, Andre Osmond and Julian Greenup. Not pictured, Aric Swancutt.
Eight teams competed in two brackets at the 2016 Summerfest Co-Ed Adult Sand Volleyball Tournament at Bear Cave Park on Saturday, July 2. The silver bracket championship team included members, from left, Bailey Bechtold, Nate Hanson, Trevor Priestley, Chad Close, Chelsie Bethke and Micaela Kempf.
Laura Wiles digs the ball with Andrew Langseth as teammate Katie Bunne readies at the net.
Summerfest Run coordinator Kevin Torgerson (standing, far left) presented checks to, front row, from left, Boy Scout Ethan Stone, Girl Scouts Kaileigh Weber, Maya Ramp and Joey Manning, as well as Kiwanis Diane Berglund (standing, far right). Kendra Weber (standing, second from left) and Angie Manning (standing, second from right) represented the Stewartville Girl Scouts with their daughters.
Lucien Cole of Stewartville, far left, puts mustard on his hot dog at the Fareway booth at the annual Dog Days of Summer Event last Thursday, Aug. 4. Cole is one of hundreds of people who attended the annual event, hosted by seven northeast Stewartville businesses.
Dogs of all sizes enjoyed their time in the spotlight at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's first-ever Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on a beautiful autumn day on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2014. The third annual event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
City Council candidates at the Chamber-sponsored forum included, from left, Jimmie-John King, Brent Beyer, Jacob Danielson, Jeremiah Oeltgen and Daniel J. Ware.
Candidates for Stewartville School Board who attended the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored forum on Thursday, Oct. 6 included, from left, Dean Mikel, Nichol O'Neill, Rebecca L. Wortman and Will Welch.
Winners of the "Pets in the Park" talent show included, from left, Aslyn Estill of Rochester with Kiva, her pit bull, third place; Tammie Feddersen of Rochester with Bailey, her Shih Tzu-Maltese mix, second; and Corrie Hildebrandt of Stewartville with Gabby, her standard poodle, first.
Leyla Meyer, 4, smiles as Sheena Thompson of Stewartville applies Mini Mouse face paint to Leyla's forehead at "Pets in the Park."
Danielle Mullenbach, 9, of High Forest, poses with her dog Dakota, a morkie, at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's third annual "Pets in the Park" at Florence Park on Saturday, Oct. 8.
Jamie Pastika, director of the Reptile and Amphibian Discovery (RAD) Zoo of Owatonna, far left, helps seven children hold a python during a presentation at "Pets in the Park" on Saturday, Oct. 8.
Aslyn Estill of Rochester and Kiva, her pit bull, took the top prize in the pet costume contest at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's third annual "Pets in the Park" on Saturday, Oct. 8. Aslyn dressed Kiva as a woodland fairy.
Jill Hildebrandt, right, accompanied by her daughter, Corrie, entices Gabby, the Hildebrandts' standard poodle, to stand at attention for a piece of food during the Pets in the Park talent contest on Saturday, Oct. 8. Corrie and Gabby won first place in the contest.
Paulette Teigen, front left, and other dog owners begin a one-mile walk at the third annual Pets in the Park event at Florence Park on Saturday morning, Oct. 8. Scores of local and area dog owners participated.
Jostin Cody, 2, is tickled by Santa's beard as his brother Jace, 6, listens in during the Stewartville Kiwanis Club's annual Pictures with Santa event at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday morning, Dec. 3. Many more photos of children visiting Santa will be available in the Stewartville STAR's annual Holiday Section, scheduled for distribution on Tuesday, Dec. 20.
Stewartville and area residents who attended the annual Winterfest celebration on Saturday, Dec. 3 enjoyed warming themselves near a bonfire at Florence Park.
Endless Journey Child Care, with a Grinch that Stole Christmas theme, won the top prize in the Winterfest Parade float contest on Saturday, Dec. 3.
Oakley Reichel, 3, seems to be proclaiming, "Look Mom, no hands!" as she enjoys the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Independence Day Summerfest celebration on Monday afternoon, July 4.
Mary Kuhlman, the new administrator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, sits at her desk at the Chamber's office in the Dahl Copiers building on Main Street. She began her new duties in late December. "I'm looking forward to supporting our current businesses and welcoming new businesses to town, hoping they'll join the Chamber," she said.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2017 include, front row, from left, Stacy McConnell, vice president; Mary Kuhlman, administrator; April Crom, president; and Melissa Sue Leuning, director. Back row, from left, Al Chihak, director; Robert Hruska, past president; Troy Knutson, director; and Julie Aldrich, outgoing director. Beth Koster and Mike Rainey, incoming directors, were not present when the photo was taken.
Gwen Ravenhrost, center, and her husband Ryan, left, accept the Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award from Robert Hruska, right.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Summerfest celebration at Florence Park on Sunday, July 2; Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4. A few of the many individuals who have helped plan the event, posing at Florence Park, include, front row, from left, Robert Hruska, chair of Arts in the Park; and Mike Rainey, in charge of the beer tent. Back row, from left, Stacy McConnell, chair of the Street Dance; Melissa Sue Leuning, who joined April Crom as co-chair of the Summerfest Parade; and Mary Kuhlman, Chamber administrator.
Mike Podein, far left, and Mark Podein, far right, owners of Podein's Power Equipment, accept congratulations on their business's current expansion from, clockwise from second from left, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; and Gwen Stevens, director of member and community relations for People's Energy Cooperative, which provided Podein's Power Equipment with $100,000 in gap financing to help pay for the expansion.
Mike Podein, far left, and Mark Podein, far right, owners of Podein's Power Equipment, accept congratulations on their business's current expansion from, clockwise from second from left, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; and Gwen Stevens, director of member and community relations for People's Energy Cooperative, which provided Podein's Power Equipment with $100,000 in gap financing to help pay for the expansion. Crews continued working on the Podein's Power Equipment expansion last week. Podein's is building a new structure to connect two other buildings and create additional show room and shop space.
Paisley Faro, 9 months, looks up to her dad, Mason, as she seeks a bit of a mac 'n cheese hot dog at the fifth annual Dog Days of Summer event last Thursday, Aug. 3. "She loves it," Mason said.
Hundreds of Stewartville and area residents ate free hot dogs and side items from six northeast Stewartville businesses at the annual Dog Days of Summer event, held at Fareway on Thursday, Aug. 3.
Jeff Bagniewski, owner of Stewartville's Dairy Queen, center, accepts the Economic Development Authority's Business Appreciation Award from Chris Stafford, EDA president, left; and Mayor Jimmie-John King, a member of the EDA.
Seth Stier, left, and his brother Sam, owners of Sammy's Family Restaurant, the Down Under Bar and Sammy's Catering, have opened a new business, 2 Brothers Authentic BBQ. The business serves smoked turkey, ribs, brisket and pork at parties, get-togethers, festivals and more.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Thrivent Financial to the local business community with an official ambassador visit on Friday, Nov. 10. Mary Kuhlman, Chamber administrator, center, presents Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, third from left, with a "Welcome to the Chamber" plaque. Nic Hale of Thrivent Financial, second from right, cuts the ribbon to ceremoniously open the new business. Chamber members, from left, include Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber board member; Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness, Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank, and Al Chihak of Mystic Moon Antiques & Collectibles. Thrivent Financial also hosted an open house at its new office, located along Main Street just north of Grisim School Bus, Inc.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Fiddle & Frog to the Chamber with an official ambassador visit last week. April Crom, president of the Chamber, seated third from left, presents a Chamber plaque to Amy Wockenfus, second from right, and Kristin Gontea, far right, sisters and co-owners of Fiddle & Frog. Other Chamber representatives, seated from left, include Melissa Sue Leuning, Chamber Board member; and Mary Kuhlman, Chamber administrator. In back, from left, are Al Chihak of Bear Cave Estates, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Mayor Jimmie-John King and Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank. Fiddle & Frog, which opened in June, sells handmade arts and crafts. "We joined the Chamber for the networking opportunities," Gontea said. "Being a Chamber member will also give our business more exposure."
Bremer Bank welcomes donations during December to help Crisis Nursery, a child abuse prevention and family support program. Bremer employees include, front row, from left, Lori Buchholtz and Emily Churchill. Back row, from left, Heather Tesdahl, Beth Henkel and Ann Lutteke. Residents may drop off items at the bank during regular business hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Members of the Stewartville Lions Club visited Bremer Bank last week to collect items donated by Stewartville and area residents to the Lions Club's annual Christmas Anonymous gift and fund drive. Bremer Bank employees include, front row, from left, Kyle Benish, Ann Lutteke and Beth Henkel. Lions members, in back from left, include Bill Schimmel Jr., Dr. David Thompson, Mike Rainey, also a Bremer employee, and Troy Knutson.
Amber Herbrand, posing with her husband Michael, was the first-place winner of the first-ever Winterfest Ugly Sweater Run.
Mikey Crom won the prize for wearing the ugliest sweater at the first-ever Winterfest Ugly Sweater Run on Saturday, Dec. 2.
Gracey Gunderson, 8, left, smiles at her brother Gage, 4, as the siblings sit on Santa's lap during the Stewartville Kiwanis Club's annual Pictures with Santa event at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday morning, Dec. 2. About 80 groups of children, many with more than two in each group, told Santa all about what they wanted for Christmas from 9 a.m. until about 12:15 p.m. that day. Many more photos of children visiting Santa will be featured in the Stewartville STAR's annual Holiday Section, scheduled for distribution on Tuesday, Dec. 19.
Local and area residents warmed themselves near a bonfire at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Winterfest celebration at Florence Park on Saturday evening, Dec. 2.
Endless Journey Child Care was one of nine businesses or organizations that entered floats in the annual Winterfest Parade on Saturday evening, Dec. 2. The float featured a theme from the movie Frozen.
At the Tea & Luncheon, Sophie King models the wedding gown worn by her grandmother, Arlene King, in 1949.
Jackson Schmitz, 6, of Stewartville, smiles and waves as he enjoys the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Independence Day Summerfest celebration on Tuesday, July 4.
Al Chihak was honored as the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Volunteers of the Year for 2017 at the Chamber's Annual Awards Banquet and Dinner at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, Jan. 27.
Melissa Sue Leuning was honored as the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Volunteers of the Year for 2017 at the Chamber's Annual Awards Banquet and Dinner at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday, Jan. 27.
Root River Dental hosted its third annual Give Kids a Smile event on Friday morning, Feb. 2, providing free services to 12 children from low-income families who don't have access to dental care. Zachary Lechner, DDS, left, and Kayla Gibson, dental assistant, right, prepare to assist Kalin Anderson, a third grader in Kasson-Mantorville schools.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed EZ Camper Rental to the Chamber with an official ambassador visit last week. Merissa Kruger, center, with scissors, and her husband Edward, third from right, owners of the business, cut the ribbon to mark the occasion. Myrna Welter, the Chamber's membership coordinator, presents the Krugers with a "Welcome to the Chamber" plaque. Other Chamber members include, from left, Dave Hildebrandt, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Dylan Smallwood, Bill Schimmel Jr., Dave Feddersen, Nick Johnson and Jared Johnson.
Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, center, announced SHS seniors Julianne Waugh, left, and Bayli Henderson, right, as the recipients of Chamber scholarships for 2017-18 at the Chamber's Senior Appreciation Banquet last week. Each graduate will receive $500.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Summerfest celebration at Florence Park on Tuesday, July 3 and Friday, July 4. A few of the many individuals who are helping with the event include, front row, from left, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Holly Eisenman, general assistance; Julie Aldrich, parade security; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator. Back row, from left, Troy Knutson and Dave Hildebrandt, general assistance; Jared Johnson, security for the Street Dance; Mike Rainey, Street Dance beer tent; and Nick Johnson, parade.
THANKS TO THE MILITARY -- Spectators on both sides of the street removed their hats and applauded as representatives of the military marched past during the Summerfest Parade.
THE GRAND MARSHAL -- Gloria Nihart of Stewartville, host of Gospel Music Bash Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, was the grand marshal of the 2018 Summerfest Parade.
BOOTH BROWSERS -- From left, Bogdan and Katia Dzybak of Rochester show an item to their child, Slava, 11 months, at the Crafty Lizard and Crafty Turtle booths.
Hazel Kalstabakken enjoyed the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Summerfest celebration on a hot and humid Fourth of July Wednesday afternoon.
Sophie Kalstabakkenenjoyed the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Summerfest celebration on a hot and humid Fourth of July Wednesday afternoon.
FINANCIAL ADVISORS -- Nic Hale, left, and Nick Johnson offer retirement planning and financial advice at Thrivent Financial, 520 South Main St., Stewartville. The business is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. "We have felt very welcomed by the community," Johnson said. "We are very encouraged by people who come up to us and say, 'We're glad you're here.'"
Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce ambassadors welcomed Stewartville Animal Clinic to the Chamber on Wednesday, Aug. 1. The business is a small town clinic with advanced technology to provide pets with the care they require. Front row, from left, Madi Larson, CVT; Stefanie Olson, CVT; Garren Kelly, DVM, owner; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, and Katelyn Krutsinger, CVT. Back row, from left, Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness, Margaret Nelson of State Farm Insurance, Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank and Bill Schimmel, Jr., Stewartville city administrator.
Robert Hruska, grocery manager of Fareway of Stewartville, center, uses a ceremonial scissors to cut the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of Fareway Spirits & More, a new liquor store attached to Fareway's grocery store, on Wednesday morning, Aug. 22. Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, left, holds the ribbon. Hruska is flanked by his wife Jennifer, pictured to his left, Beth Koster, manager of Fareway Spirits & More, pictured to the left of Jen Hruska, and Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, pictured to the right of Robert Hruska.
Root River Dental's new 4,300 square-foot dental facility is continuing to take shape along Main Street in Stewartville. Dr. Zachary Lechner, dentist at Root River Dental, has said that the new structure is designed to fulfill Root River's mission to serve others. "Patients will have a clean, comfortable and modern facility," he said. Lechner told the EDA last week that he expects work on the structure to be finished by early December.
The construction of the new Sprouts Childcare & Early Learning Center is proceeding on schedule, Krystal Campbell told the city of Stewartville's Economic Development Authority at a recent meeting. Campbell, the co-owner and director of the new center, said the facility is scheduled to open on Monday, Oct. 29. Residents will be able to tour the new center at an open house the week before it opens, Campbell said.
Stewartville City Council candidates who attended the Oct. 4 forum at the Stewartville Civic Center include, from left, incumbent Craig Anderson, challenger Josh Arndt, incumbent Dick Uptagrafft and challenger Daniel Ware. The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the forum.
Stewartville School Board candidates who shared their views at the Oct. 4 forum at the Stewartville Civic Center include, from left, incumbents Todd Emanuel and Lori Miller-Beach; challengers Ryan Ravenhorst and Ethan Riggin, and incumbent Rebecca Wortman.
Bennett Butts, 3-1/2, peers into Santa's face with wide-eyed wonder at the Stewartville Kiwanis Club's annual Pictures with Santa event at the Stewartville Civic Center on Saturday morning, Dec. 1. Many children shared their Christmas wish list with Santa, then enjoyed a variety of games.
Brad Becker, president of ONB Bank, third from left, accepts a "Welcome to the Chamber" plaque from Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, as the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce makes an ambassador visit to the new bank on Tuesday, Dec. 4. Other Chamber members and officials, along with ONB employees, include from left, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Pete Erickson of ONB Bank; Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial; Mayor Jimmie-John King; Alisha Nelson, First American Insurance; Andrea Eickhoff, ONB Bank; Ann Lutteke, ONB Bank; Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; and Josh Buckmeier, ONB Bank.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Racine Storage to the Chamber with an ambassador visit and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 5. Allie Fryer, holding the ceremonial scissors, and Ken Smidt, holding the Chamber plaque, both of Racine Storage, celebrated the event with Chamber members and leaders, front row, from left, Ryan Ravenhorst of Insul-Seal, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; and Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator. Back row, from left, Jeff Mullenbach of Smidt Companies, Deri Nordsving, mayor of the city of Racine, Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness, and Dave Feddersen, Dylan Smallwood and Tabitha Hoffman of First Farmers&Merchants State Bank.
Residents who braved a snow and sleet storm warmed themselves near the bonfire at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Winterfest celebration on Saturday, Dec. 1.
Sunshine Sanitation's entry in the Winterfest Standstill Parade was a lighted sleigh truck that included a team of garbage can reindeer.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Think Bank-Shoppes on Maine location to the Chamber with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Jan. 9. Branch Manager Jeff Sabatke (middle, with scissors) and Business Development Representative Judy Braatz (middle, holding Chamber plaque) led the celebration with Think Bank employees and Chamber members. Those attending included, from left, Allie Fryer of Smidt Companies/ Racine Storage, Anna Brouwer of Think Bank, Shanalyn Bird of Think Bank, city of Stewartville Mayor Jimmie-John King, Ross Zumbach of Think Bank, Brad Schroeder of Think Bank, Sabatke, Travis Hodny of Think Bank, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, Chris Barnick, senior vice president of consumer banking at Think Bank, Karen Golberg of Think Bank, Braatz, Kate Staffon of Think Bank, Joel McNeil of Think Bank, Zaida Garcia of Think Bank, Dillon Welter of Welter Entertainment DJ Services, and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2019 include, front row, from left, Dylan Smallwood of First Farmers & Merchants Bank and Robert Hruska of Fareway, directors; Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank, president; and Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, vice president. Back row, from left, Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator; April Crom of Wells Fargo Bank, past president; Alisha Nelson of First American Insurance Services and Megan Romans of Mary Kay Cosmetics, directors; and Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator. Jared Johnson and David Hildebrandt, directors, are not pictured.
Megan Romans, left, accepts the 2018 Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award from Gwen Ravenhorst.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Welter Entertainment DJ Services with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 25. Kevin and Samantha Welter from Welter Entertainment DJ Services (front row with scissors and plaque) were joined by Chamber members including, front row, from left, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Megan Romans of Mary Kay, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Kevin and Samantha Welter and Allie Fryer of Racine Storage. Middle row, from left, Dylan Smallwood of First Farmers & Merchant Bank, Alisha Nelson of First American Insurance Services, Hannah Lechner of Root River Dental, Zach Lechner of Root River Dental, Daniel Honsey of Kraft Walser Law Office of Stewartville and Al Chihak of Mystic Moon Antiques and Collectables. Back row, from left, Robert Hruska of Fareway, Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank, Nick Johnson of Thrivent, Ryan Ravenhorst of Insul Seal and Matt Boe of Boe Electric.
The awning at the front of the Teigen Supply building in downtown Stewartville collapsed under the weight of an extraordinary amount of snow on Saturday, Feb. 23 at about 8 p.m. A winter storm driven by 45- to 50-miles per hour winds dumped about 12 inches of snow on Stewartville and the area on Saturday evening into Sunday morning, Feb. 24, adding more weight to the significant amount of snow that had previously fallen on the awning. Melissa Leuning of Teigen Supply said sheets of tin from the awning let loose and fell, breaking most of the building's front windows. A patron at the nearby DownUnder called Leuning moments after the awning collapsed. "We were able to get everything sealed up that night," Leuning said. "Then we did more cleanup on Sunday so we were able to be back in business come Monday (Feb. 25). It was a heck of a mess and took a lot of man hours to deal with it." Teigen Supply plans to replace the glass from the broken windows after the weather takes a turn for the better. "At this time we plan on keeping the design of the large windows and an awning of some sort," Leuning said. Despite the damage, Leuning said Teigen Supply fared better in the storm than a number of other area businesses and farms. "I can't imagine the impact of having entire roofs collapse on buildings," she said.
Sean Redmond, owner of Tiger Ace Hardware, left, and Dale Kangas, store clerk, stand near the store's new sign along Main Street in Stewartville last week. Last November, the city's Economic Development Authority (EDA) unanimously approved paying Tiger Ace Hardware $907.50, or half the $1,815.00 the business needed to pay for a new "Tiger Ace Hardware, Welcome to Stewartville" sign for the front side of the business. "It looks good," Redmond said. "It's a nice change of pace. It's nice to brighten things up a little bit."
Mayor Jimmie-John King, third from right, and members of the Friends of the Dog Park gathered to cut the ribbon to officially open the city's new dog park on Saturday, June 15. Friends of the Dog Park members include, from left, Julie Ristau, Wendy Timm, Katie Johnson (holding Aubrie, Julie Ristau's daugther), Angela Meyer, Amelia Petersen (helping the mayor cut the ribbon), Maren Schroeder and Christie Petersen.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Summerfest celebration at Florence Park Tuesday through Saturday, July 2-6. A few of the many individuals helping with the event include, front row, from left, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Alisha Nelson, general activities; and Ann Lutteke, who works for ONB Bank, a Summerfest sponsor. Back row, from left, Jared Johnson, Street Dance chair; Mike Rainey, Street Dance beer tent; Nick Johnson, parade co-chair (along with April Crom, not pictured); and Sam Slightam and Griffin Slightam, representing Jimmy's Salad Dressings & Dips, a Summerfest sponsor.
Kevin Schuessler of Bloomington, Minn. lifts his grandson, E.J. Pogue, 2 1/2, high enough to give the boy a closeup view of the inside of a 1968 Mustang Fast Back GT at the Stewie Cruisers Car Show during the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Independence Day Summerfest celebration on Thursday, July 4.
Albin Jr. and Deb Timm of Zumbrota enjoy bringing Timm Custom Woodworking, a business owned by their son, Cory, to Stewartville's Fourth of July Summerfest celebration. "We like the variety of the people, meeting new faces, the comments they make about what we're selling and the suggestions or questioins they have," Deb said.
Avery Schultz, 4, churns her legs pulling weight for additional distance during the Kids Power Pedal Tractor Pull sponsored by Hammell Equipment.
James Mathison of Stewartville and Kendall Pfrimmer of Rochester pose with their trophies after they they each placed first in both the three and five-mile races of the Stewartville Summerfest Run.
Juliette Dzubay waves and hollers "Hi!" to Mom and Dad as she enjoys the swing ride during the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Independence Day Summerfest celebration on a warm and muggy Thursday, July 4.
Juliette Dzubay waves and hollers "Hi!" to Mom and Dad as she enjoys the swing ride during the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Independence Day Summerfest celebration on a warm and muggy Thursday, July 4.
Young participants sprint with all their might at the start of the Summerfest half-mile Youth Fun Run sponsored by Fareway of Stewartville.
Alex Tasa, a naturalist from the Minnesota Zoo, displays a bull snake to a large audience of children at the Stewartville Civic Center on Wednesday afternoon, June 26. "It's the largest type of snake in Minnesota," Tasa told her listeners. "The record for a bull snake is eight feet long." Tasa also brought a skink, a skunk and a tarantula to the event, sponsored by the Stewartville Public Library and the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual fishing contest at Florence Park during the Summerfest festivities on the Fourth of July. Winners in age group 12-15, from left, are Bradden Erickson, first place, catching a 6 1/2-inch bullhead, and Kenny Skare, second place, with his 4 1/4-inch sunny. The event is sponsored by the Billings family. The deck at the Florence Park Pond was built in memory of Vern Billings to honor his dedication to Stewartville's parks.
Showing off their trophies and gift certificates after winning the Summerfest Fishing Contest for ages 7-11 held July 4 at Florence Park are, from left, Caden Nagel, first place with a 9 1/4-inch bullhead; Drake , second place with a 8 3/8-inch bullhead, and Owen Nagel, third place by catching a 6 3/4-inch catfish. The event is sponsored each year by the family of Vern Billings. The deck at the Florence Park Pond was built in memory of Vern to honor his dedication to Stewartville's parks.
Three kids in age group 1-6, were the big winners during the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Fishing Contest held July 4 at Florence Park. Winners, from left, are, Adalyn Elpert, first place with her 9 1/8-inch bullhead; Ethan Elpert, second place, catching a 7 1/2-inch catfish; and Amerlia Gwilt, placing third, with a 4 3/4-inch bluegill. The family of Vern Billings sponsored the event. The deck at the Florence Park Pond was built in memory of Vern to honor his dedication to Stewartville's parks.
Despite a steady rain, scores of local and area teens attended the Summerfest Teen Dance and Pool Party at the Stewartville pool on Friday evening, July 5. Kevin Welter of Welter Entertainment DJ Service provided music for the event, sponsored by the Stewartville Area Community Foundation.
JIMMY'S DRESSINGS -- Front row, from left, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, and Mike Rainey, Chamber president. Back row, from left, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Joya Stetson of CEDA, Ryan Stangler, Jimmy's sanitation manager; Cooper Billings, assistant production manager; Sam Slightam, operations manager; and employees Brett Neubauer, Brenda Bergmann, Keith Smith, Donna Bakken and Emily Fritsch, office coordinator.
WIESER PRECAST STEPS -- Front row, from left, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Wieser employee Shane Thomson, Mayor Jimmie-John King and Dorie Byrne, Wieser employee. Back row, from left, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Wieser employees Greg Verthein, Mike Bernau, Bill Oeltjen, Brady Wolfgram, Andy Marx and Zach Struckmann; and Mike Rainey, Chamber president. Roger Davidson, another Wieser employee, is not pictured.
Myrtle Tebay, a resident of the Stewartville Care Center, seated in the foreground, wraps Rita Christian, Care Center activities assistant, in "mummy" toilet paper at a well-attended Halloween party at the Care Center on Thursday, Oct. 31. Tammy Wuerflin, activities assistant, stands behind Tebay. Care Center residents in the background, from left, beginning third from left, include Clem Snyder, Sandy Jones, Betty Fulk (partially hidden), and Betty Kraayenbrink.
Noah Johnson, a screen printer at C&M Screen Printing & Embroidery in Stewartville, dressed as Abraham Lincoln for Halloween. After growing a beard for winter, he started thinking about a Halloween costume. "I was trying to think of a costume that included a beard, and Abraham Lincoln popped into my head," he said.
Hundreds of local and area residents attended "Santa's Winterland," part of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Winterfest celebration, at Florence Park on Saturday evening, Dec. 7. Here, residents gather to warm up near a bonfire.
Hundreds of local and area residents attended "Santa's Winterland," part of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Winterfest celebration, at Florence Park on Saturday evening, Dec. 7. Here the Endless Journey Child Care float featured three snowmen, including one standing on its head.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, at its annual banquet on Saturday evening, Jan.25, welcomed Marzolf Implement of Spring Valley as a new Chamber member for 2020. Cory Marzolf of Marzolf Implement, fourth from left in the back row, joined by Kammy Fenske, fifth from left, cuts the ribbon to celebrate the occasion. Other Chamber members include, front row, from left, Ryan Mosch, Ashley Mosch, Megan Romens, Alisha Nelson, Kevin Welter and Jennifer Hruska. Back row, from left, Mike Rainey, Josh Buckmeier, Myrna Welter, Keenan Kolstad, Robert Hruska, Ross Zumbach, Nick Johnson and Gwen Ravenhorst.
Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, incoming president for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce for 2020, accepts the ceremonial gavel from Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank, who served as the Chamber's president in 2019.
Robert Hruska, grocery manager of Fareway of Stewartville, left, accepts the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Volunteer of the Year Award for 2019 from Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank, outgoing Chamber president.
Myrna Welter, membership coordinator for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, displays samples of Easter Egg drawings that will be placed on the windows of local businesses during the Chamber's Easter Egg Hunt April 10-14.
Fareway Stores, Inc. announced last week its plans for distributing $1,000 worth of gift cards to chambers of commerce in communities the store serves in Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska and South Dakota. Robert Hruska, grocery manager of Stewartville's Fareway store, center, displays the 20 Fareway gift cards, worth $50 each, distributed to Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, left, and Mryna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, right. The Chamber will give the cards to Chamber-member businesses struggling as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Welter said.
Al Chihak and Mike Ryan, at center-left with the scissors, with their wives, Peggy Chihak and Jenny Ryan, fourth and third from left, respectively, cut the ribbon to ceremoniously open R&C Storage on Wednesday, June 24. The Chihaks and Ryans bought the business from Clair Mrotek this past January. The Ryans' daughters, Claire, 3, and Kendall, 7, stand near Jenny and Peggy. Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce members who welcomed the new business owners include, from left, Josh Buckmeier of ONB Bank, Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Dylan Smallwood of First Farmers&Merchants Bank; and Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness. R&C Storage offers 89 storage units in Stewartville and 31 in Racine.
Hayden Nelson, center, and Payton Maas, right, members of the Stewartville High School class of 2020, have each received a $500 scholarship from the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce. Nelson plans to attend North Dakota State University. Maas will enroll at the University of St. Thomas. Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, president of the Chamber, left, congratulates the graduates.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, represented on parade by Myrna Welter, membership coordinator, foreground, and Gwen Ravenhorst, administrator, sponsored this year's Summerfest celebration.
Members of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 fired into the air to salute America's veterans during the Summerfest mini-parade, which started near the Legion on July 4.
Many Stewartvile residents celebrated the Fourth of July by taking part in the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Ultimate Patriotic Yard Challenge, decorating their homes in red, white and blue. Above, Julie Ristau, who lives at the 500 block of Sixth Street Northeast, holds her daughter Aubrie, 4, right, and neighbor Charlotte Doll, 21 months, as the three pose in front of the Ristau's finely decorated home.
Izabelle Welter, 6, right, and her brother Silas, 19 months, were the first-prize winners in the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Fourth of July Summerfest Virtual Kids Parade. "We enjoyed doing it, but getting two young ones to sit still was a challenge," said Samantha Welter, the children's mother
ONB Bank of Stewartville celebrated its grand opening last week by writing a $5,000 check to help pay for the new VFW Veterans Memorial Park to be built near the city's south entrance. From left, ONB representatives Ed Hruska, business development officer; Josh Buckmeier, vice president and commercial lender; Brad Becker, president and CEO; and Ann Lutteke, vice president and branch manager, present the check to Roger Peterson, commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164 and an active member of the VFW, third from right; Roger Barsness, quartermaster (treasurer) of the VFW, second from right; and Ed Krusemark, a member of the VFW and the Veterans Memorial Park Committee.
Members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Beyond Foods-Vegan Food Truck to the local business community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, July 22. The business, open near America's Stay Inn on Wednesdays through Sundays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. each day, offers fresh vegan and vegetarian food options. Nila Patel of Beyond Food-Vegan Food Truck, standing in the center with the scissors, cut the ribbon to officially open the business as her sons, Vandan Patel, third from left in front, and Hari Patel, second from right in front, assist their mother. Other Chamber members who attended the ceremony include, front row, from left, Mike Rainey of Bremer Bank, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; and Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness. In back, from left, are Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, Dylan Smallwood of Elcor Realty, and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator.
Josh Ihrke of Pizza Ranch stopped by the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's office last week to pick of a free box of masks distributed by the state of Minnesota through local Chamber offices. The Chamber will continue to hand out masks to local businesses at the Chamber office today (Tuesday, Aug. 11) from 10 a.m.to 1 p.m.
In the midst of challenging economic times caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Stewartville Area Community Foundation has donated $5,000 to the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce to encourage local businesses to support Summerfest. Al Chihak, chair of the Foundation, fourth from right in front, presents the check to the Chamber's Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness. Others include, front row, from left, Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Alisha Nelson, First American Insurance Services; and Regan Lonien, Foundation member. Back row, from left, Dan Honsey, Patty Geerdes, Robert Hruska and Jeff Beyer, all Foundation members; Ed Kruger of EZ Camper Rental; and Scott Nelson of the Foundation.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Ausrud Tile & Stone to the local business community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly built amphitheater at Bear Cave Park on Wednesday, Sept. 2. Chris Ausrud, holdng the scissors, and Taylor Ausrud, holding the banner at right, were on hand for the ceremony, along with Chamber members, from left, Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness; Adam Gehling of Country Financial; Ed Kruger of EZ Camper Rental; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Megan Romens of Mary Kay; Josh Buckmeier of ONB Bank; Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; and Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, Chamber president.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Country Financial to the local business community with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly constructed amphitheater at Bear Cave Park on Wednesday, Sept. 2. Adam Gehling, holding the scissors in the front row, along with Ryan Plattenberger and Allan Johnson, holding the banner, all of Country Financial, were on hand for the ceremony, along with Chamber members, from left, Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Ed Kruger of EZ Camper Rental; Megan Romens of Mary Kay; Josh Buckmeier of ONB Bank; Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; and Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial, Chamber president.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed First Alliance Credit Union, Stewartville branch to the Chamber with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Oct. 9. First Alliance employees include, from left, starting from third from left in the front row, Sunny Ahmed, member experience advisor; Mark Hettinger, executive vice president and chief operating officer (COO), in back; Hayley Howard, branch lead, with the ceremonial scissors in front; Jessica Wampach, member experience advisor; and Theresa Hornberg, First Alliance Board Chair, in back. Chamber representatives congratulating the First Alliance employees include, from left, Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Bill Schimmel Jr., city adminstrator, in back; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Alisha Nelson of First American Insurance Services, and Jon Buckmeier of ONB Bank of Stewartville.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed B&T Auto Finders, 102 N. Main St., Suite 150, to the Chamber with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week. Bert Robinson, with the ceremonial scissors, and Tom Syzdek, second from left, are the co-owners of the business, located in the former Stewartville STAR building. State Rep. Nels Pierson, owner of the building, is second from right. Chamber representatives include Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness, far left; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, third from right; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, far right.
Observing COVID-19 guidelines for wearing masks and keeping their distance from each other, City Council candidates, from left, Brent Beyer, Jeremiah Oeltjen and Dick Uptagrafft take part in a forum at the Stewartville Civic Center on Thursday evening, Oct. 8.
Myrna Welter, membership coordinator for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, displays a sampling of Chamber Bucks that will be taken out of circulation as of Dec. 31, 2020.
Myrna Welter, membership coordinator for the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, displays the fabric local and area residents have recently donated to the Chamber. Residents interested in making COVID-19 masks are welcome to use the donated material, available at the Chamber office/Dahl Copiers building along Main Street.
Larissa Rodriguez, co-founder and financial advisor for Salient Oils, cuts the ribbon to officially open the Main Street business last week. Joining Larissa are husband J.C. Rodriguez and the couple's two children, Daniella, 4, and Aries, 2. Myrna Welter, membership coordinator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, left, welcomes the Rodriguez's to the local business commmunity. Salient Oils offers essential oils, CBD products, natural care, diffusers, clothing, baby items and jewelry. The business is located across Main Street from the downtown Kwik Trip. "If you want all-natural products for you and your family, we're here to help," the company's brochure says.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce has welcomed Dylan Smallwood, a realtor for Elcor Realty, to the local business community with a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, right, holds the ribbon for Smallwood, far left, prepared to cut the ribbon with a pair of ceremonial scissors. Joining Smallwood are his wife, Anna, and the couple's son, Ryker, 7 months old.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Old River Valley Antique Mall as a new Chamber member with a ribbon-cutting celebration last week. Christine Kujath, co-owner of the business, center, uses a ceremonial scissors to cut the ribbon on Tuesday morning, Dec. 1. Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, left, was on hand to thank Christine Kujath and her husband, Erik, for joining the Chamber. Joan Kujath, Christine's mother-in-law and a vendor for the business, holds the ribbon at right.
Fareway, Stewartville's grocery store, has distributed 20 Fareway gift cards, worth $50 each, or a total of $1,000, to the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, which will pass along the cards to Chamber-member businesses struggling as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, in the foreground at left, accepts the cards from Stephen Heffernen, assistant manager of Fareway, in the background at left; and Robert Hruska, Fareway's grocery manager.
J.C. Rodriguez, owner of Stewartville's new U-Haul store, joined by his wife, Larissa, and children Daniella, 4, standing, and Aries, 2, cuts the ribbon to officially open the new Main Street business. Myrna Welter, membership coordinator of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomes the Rodriguez family to the local business community. The business is located across the street from the downtown Kwik Trip
Jen Schurmeier stands near the front window at C&M Screen Printing, which she decorated with bulbs made of fabric hoops, snowflakes made of hangers, and more. She thanked the owners of the businesses who welcomed her designs. "These businesses were kind enough to lend me their windows, so I could do my thing and spread a little extra joy," she said.
Jen Schurmeier, right, accepts the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Volunteer of the Year Award from Jared Johnson, Chamber president for 2021. Schurmeier earned the honor for decorating many Stewartville storefronts for Christmas and Valentine's Day
Jimmy's Salad Dressings & Dips, a longtime Stewartville business, is in the process of relocating to 1500 Second Avenue Northwest, above, a building previously occupied by Halcon, a local manufacturer of high-quality furniture. At the same time, Halcon is moving to 1711 Second Avenue Northwest, Jimmy's longtime location.
Jeremy Kane, construction manager for Schoeppner Construction of Rochester, holding the ceremonial scissors, cut the ribbon as the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Flats 55, a 55-unit, 73,000 square foot apartment complex, to the local business community on Friday, March 5. Others who attended the ceremony include, from left, Chamber members Rhonda Fuhrer of HMR Interiors, Megan Romens of Mary Kay Cosmetics and Melissa Sue Leuning of Premium Support, LLC; Bryan Schoeppner, contractor; (Kane, with the scissors), Darren Groteboer, a partner with PGGM1, LLC, the developer for the project; Mayor Jimmie-John King, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Stewartville City Councilperson Craig Anderson; Chamber member Adam Gehling of Country Financial, Dylan Carty, a licensed real estate broker and owner of Realty Growth of Rochester, and Chamber member Jared Johnson of Anytime Fitness.
Nate Carty of Realty Growth of Rochester (RGI), right, leads Mayor Jimmie-John King on a tour of a Flats 55 apartment's kitchen on Friday, March 5. Chamber of Commerce and city officials took the tours to celebrate the opening of the 55-unit, four-story, 73,000 square-foot building.
Seth Stier, left, and his brother Sam recently purchased Strikers Corner, Stewartville's bowling alley, and have set a goal to open 2 Brothers Bar & Grill and 2 Brothers Bowling on Thursday, April 1. The Stiers are excited about bowling, a traditionally popular activity in Stewartville that has been shut down by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. "We're going to push bowling hard," Sam said. "Bowling is coming back."
Cabin Coffee, located just north of First Alliance Credit Union on Main Street in Stewartville, tentatively plans to host its grand opening on Monday, June 21. The store's staff will train for two weeks leading up to the grand opening.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Neal Abbott Film & Photography to the Chamber with a ribbon-cutting event at the Chamber office on Friday, April 16. Neal Abbott, owner, seated in the center, prepares to cut the ribbon to celebrate the business's new Chamber membership. Abbott is flanked by Hannah, his wife, left, holding Stanley, the couple's 8-month old son, and Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, right. Other Chamber members on hand to welcome the Abbotts include, seated at far left, Hayley Howard of First Alliance Credit Union, and, standing from left, Josh Buckmeier of ONB Bank, Megan Romens of Mary Kay Cosmetics, Alisha Nelson of First American Insurance Services, Charlie Brown of PC Applications Consultants, Inc.; Al Chihak of R & C Storage, Bear Cave Estates and Mystic Moon Antiques; and Margaret Nelson of State Farm Insurance. Abbott says his business offers film production, commercial work for local businesses, portrait photography and business photography.
Stewartville High School graduating seniors Abby Teal, second from left, and Nick Vetsch, center, both received a $500 college scholarship from the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce at the Chamber's Senior Appreciation Banquet on Wednesday evening, May 12. Chamber members and staff who presented the scholarships include, from left, Jared Johnson of Halcon, Chamber president; Myrna Welter, membership coordinator; and Megan Romens of Mary Kay Cosmetics, vice president.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Cabin Coffee as a new Chamber member with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new business on Thursday, June 17, four days before the Cabin's official opening on Monday, June 21. Cabin Coffee owners who cut the ribbon include, beginning third from left in front, from left, Kevin and Robin Splittstoesser, Leigh Dzubay and Hannah Lechner. Others in front, from far left, are Al Chihak of Mystic Moon Antiques & Collectibles, Mayor Jimmie-John King, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Ann Lutteke of ONB Bank and Jared Johnson of Halcon.
Jason Welter, city public works employee, second from right, fixed the trailer on which firefighters will place the fireworks to be used for this year's Fourth of July fireworks show. Others who have supported Summerfest fireworks include, from left, Roger Peterson, outgoing commander of the Stewartville American Legion Post 164; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Ron Moore, incoming Legion commander; and firefighter Jarett Jones.
The three retiring pastors named grand marshals of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's 2021 Summerfest Parade include, from left, Byron Meline, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church for 12 years; Dr. John Grams, pastor of Grace Evangelical Free Church for 26 years; and Lyle Fritsch, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church for 20 years.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Summerfest celebration at Bear Cave Park for the first time, with most events scheduled to be held on Saturday, July 3 and Sunday, July 4. Traditionally, the event has been held at Florence Park. A few of the many Chamber-member individuals helping with the event include, front row, from left, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Alisha Nelson, general assistance; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator. Back row, from left, Jared Johnson, chair of the Summerfest Dance; Robert Hruska, chair of Arts in the Park; and Dylan Smallwood, general assistance. Other helpers not pictured include Dave Hildebrandt, Summerfest Dance spirits; Nick Johnson, chair of the Grand Parade; and Julie Aldrich, parade security.
The overall champions of the 18-team Stewartville Golf Booster Club "four-person best shot" tournament on July 3 was the team of, from left, Jeremy Ferrie, Trevor Wiles, and Todd and Nick Lechtenberg.
Aubrie Ristau, 5, of Stewartville, rides a decorated bicycle pulling a wagon carrying Ava Doll, 1, in back, and her sister Charlotte, 2, who waves an American flag to celebrate Independence Day during the Summerfest Kids Parade at Bear Cave Park on Sunday, July 4.
Jessica Gorder, in the foreground, and her sister Quillamina, in the background in pink, both of Stewartville, enjoyed the swing ride at the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce's Independence Day Summerfest celebration on a hot and humid Sunday afternoon, July 4.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Exterior Cleaning Solutions as a new Chamber member with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Bear Cave Park on Thursday, July 8. Exterior Cleaning Solutions offers a number of services, including house softwashing, roof cleaning and treatments, and window and gutter cleanng. Keenan Kolstad, owner of the business, with the scissors in the front row, cuts the ribbon to celebrate the occasion. Also in the front row, from left, holding the ribbon, are Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, and Ann Lutteke, Chamber member from ONB Bank. Back row, from left, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Dave Hildebrandt of Hildebrandt Services LLC & Rain Control Seamless Gutters LLC; Emily Bredesen (foreground), Andrea Bredesen holding Isaac Bredesen, Matt Bredesen, Ellie Horvie, Matt Jacobs, Emery Kruger (foreground), Ed Kruger of EZ Camper Rentals, Michelle and Cody Moe of Flowers & More, and Kevin Welter of Welter Entertainment.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Tulip Tree Studios as a new Chamber member with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, July 14. Tulip Tree Studios provides creative marketing and design solutions to help local businesses stand out through results-driven marketing efforts. Whitney West, owner of Tulip Tree Studios, with the scissors in the front row, cuts the ribbon to celebrate the occasion. Also in the front row, from left, are Al Chihak of R&C Storage, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, and Jared Johnson of Halcon, Chamber president. Second row, from left, are Brian Flacky, Crystal Landherr, Claire Kingsley and Jeff Sadler, all of Tulip Tree Studios. Back row, from left, are Chamber members Kevin Welter of Welter Entertainment, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Troy Knutson of Edward Jones, Nick Johnson of Thrivent Financial and Ty Bestor of Valor Mechanical. Tulip Tree Studios is located in the Valor Mechanical building across the street from and just west of 2 Brothers Bar & Grill.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome 2 Brothers Authentic BBQ as Chamber members on Wednesday evening, Aug. 18. Sam and Seth Stier, owners of the business, front and center in black, cut the ribbon to celebrate the occasion as other Chamber-member business leaders show their support, including, in front, from left, Keenan Kolstad, Exterior Cleaning Solutions; Melissa Sue Leuning and Porter, Premium Support Bookkeeping; Dave Hildebrandt, Hildebrandt Services; Charlie Brown, PC Applications; Sam Steir and Seth Steir, owners; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Samantha Welter and Izzy, Welter Entertainment; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Gwen's Confections and Chamber administrator. Back row from left, Paulette and Bruce Teigen, Premium Support Bookkeeping; Josh Buckmeier, ONB Bank; Jason Post, Carpenters Local Union #1382; Margaret Nelson, State Farm Insurance; Robert Hruska, Fareway; Al Chihak, R & C Storage; Jared Johnson, Chamber president, Halcon; Kevin Welter, Welter Entertainment; and Ryan Ravenhorst and daughter Gretta, Insul Seal.
A CHAMBER WELCOME -- The Stewartville Chamber of Commerce welcomed Premium Support Bookkeeping with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Aug. 25. Melissa Luening, fourth from right, and Paulette Teigen, sixth from right, say they come with lots of business experience and offer bookkeeping you can count on. Chamber members welcoming Premium Support Bookkeeping to the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce and the community were, from left, Dave Hildebrandt, Hildebrandt Services; Margaret Nelson, State Farm Insurance; Kevin Welter, Welter Entertainment and GEOTEK; Randy Welter, Stewartville American Legion Post 164; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Nick Hale, Thrivent Financial; Bruce Teigen, Premium Support Bookkeeping; Nick Johnson, Thrivent Financial; Paulette Teigen, Premium Support Bookkeeping owner; Bill Schimmel Jr., city of Stewartville administrator; Melissa Luening, Premium Support Bookkeeping owner; Alisha Nelson, First American Insurance Services; Jared Johnson, Chamber president, HALCON; and Megan Romans, Mary Kay.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Valor Mechanical as a new Chamber member with a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. Front and center, Ty Bestor of Valor Mechanical cuts the ribbon with a ceremonial scissors as Dacia Bestor, Ty Bestor's wife, is pictured at her husband's left. Other Valor Mechanical representatives include, from left, starting fourth from left, Bethany Carr and Patrick Johnson, and, from left, starting third from right in the second row, Jerry Jensen, Joe West and Jordan Schmidt. Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, second from right in the front row, presented Valor Mechanical representatives a Chamber membership plaque. Other Chamber members on hand to welcome Valor Mechanical include, from left, Jared Johnson of Halcon; Ann Lutteke of ONB Bank; Alisha Nelson of First American Insurance Services; Neal Abbott of Neal Abbott Film & Photography; Bill Schimmel Jr., city of Stewartville; Randy Welter, Stewartville American Legion Post 164; and Al Chihak, R&C Storage. Valor Mechanical, located in the newly renovated building just west of 2 Brothers Bar n Grill, provides heating, ventilation and air conditioning service for commercial and residential properties.
The members of the Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce Winterfest Committee who organized this year's celebration include, front row, from left, Megan Romens, chair; and Alisha Nelson, who helped with Florence Park activities. Back row, from left, Naomi Roeder, Ladies Cruise; Jen Martin, who helped with craft night at the Bonner Elementary School Book Fair; Melissa Leuning, Winterfest Tea & Luncheon; and Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator, who assisted with Chamber sponsorships, contests and at craft night.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Aflac of Rochester as a new Chamber member at an ambassador visit at the Chamber office along Main Street on Wednesday, Jan. 5. Jason Fink of Aflac, holding the scissors, prepares to cut the ribbon to celebrate Aflac's new Chamber membership. Other Chamber members on hand to welcome Aflac to the Chamber include, from left, Karli and Mark Young of Weekend Nirvana, Eric Saterdalen of Presto Softwash, Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; and Dylan Smallwood of Elcor Realty of Rochester. Aflac, which covers the entire southeastern Minnesota area, provides voluntary employee benefits for companies with three or more employees.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Weekend Nirvana as a new Chamber member at an ambassador visit at the Chamber office along Main Street on Wednesday, Jan. 5. Mark and Karli Young, owners of Weekend Nirvana, seated, cut the ribbon to celebrate the company's new Chamber membership. Other Chamber members include Jared Johnson of Halcon, standing in front at left, and Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, standing in front at right. Chamber members in back include, from left, Jason Fink of Aflac, Rochester; Bill Schimmel Jr. of the city of Stewartville, and Dylan Smallwood, Elcor Realty of Rochester. Weekend Nirvana, an event planning business, plans music concerts, comedy shows, corporate and private events, and more. "We're a company to give people a way to enjoy the weekend," Mark Young said. "We put events together for families to enjoy."
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Anytime Fitness, which has moved to a new location at 1600 Second Ave. Northwest, near Pizza Ranch in Stewartville. The newly remodeled facility, an 8,300+ square-foot structure, will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week with three suites, a full-size gym, free weight area, a purple-turf training area and a full-size private and group studio. Chamber members who welcomed Anytime Fitness to its new location include, from left, Jared Johnson of HALCON, Kevin Welter of Welter Entertainment, LLC and GEOTEK, Josh Ihrke of Pizza Ranch; Hunter Johnson, Kaitlyn Fischer and Joan Kopacz, all of ActivePT; Shawn Marg of Anytime Fitness, Dylan Smallwood of Elcor Realty of Rochester, Inc.; Zach Hodgson and Aaron Younge,along with owner Jameson Hanson, cutting the ribbon, all of Anytime Fitness; Dr. Kevin Hosch of 507 Family Chiropractic, Charlie Brown of PC Applications; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator, Peg Chihak of R & C Storage, Karli Young of Weekend Nirvana, Al Chihak of R & C Storage, and Megan Romens, Mary Kay sales director.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed 507 Family Chiropractic as a new Chamber member with a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony at the business's grand opening at 100 Second Street Southeast, Suite 2. From left are Al Chihak, R&C Storage; Jessica Gilmour, chiropractic assistant; Josh Buckmeier, ONB Bank: Theresa Hosch, holding son Kason; Dr. Kevin Hosch, DC, cutting the ribbon; Manasseh Kambaki, Hope Fuse; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Jessica Wampach, First Alliance Credit Union; Gwen Ravenhorst, Chamber administrator and Gwen's Confections; Megan Romens, Chamber president and Mary Kay sales director; Jared Johnson, HALCON; and Kevin Welter, Welter Entertainment, LLC and GEOTEK.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week to celebrate Jimmy's Salad Dressings & DIps' move to its new location, the former Halcon site. Jimmy's employees and leaders, seated in the front row, from left, include Kim Nosbisch, Sue Slightam, Tom Slightam, Griffin Slightam and Sam Slightam, sharing the scissors; Abby Rager and Dave Jensen. Chamber members on hand to celebrate the occasion include, standing from left in the second row, Kevin Welter of Welter Entertainment, LLC and GEOTEK, Lisa Lingle of Salt and Pepper Photography, Ty Bestor of Valor Mechanical, Josh Ihrke of Pizza Ranch, Mayor Jimmie-John King, city of Stewartville; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator; Eva Hygrell of JEH Properties, and Al Chihak of Mystic Moon Antiques and Collectibles. Back row, from left, Dave Hildebrandt of Hildebrandt Services, Greg House of House Chevrolet, Margaret Nelson of State Farm Insurance, Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Dr. Kevin Hosch of 507 Family Chiropractic, Jared Johnson of HALCON, along with Ann Lutteke and Josh Buckmeier of ONB Bank.
The Stewartville Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Link's Handyman Service as a new Chamber member at a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. Link's offers excavating, landscaping grading, snow removal and more. Chamber members, from left, Jared Johnson, HALCON; Bill Schimmel Jr., city administrator; Josh and Brook Ihrke, Pizza Ranch; Lincoln Ruggeberg, owner, Link's Handyman Service; Myrna Welter, Chamber membership coordinator: Eric Saterdalen, Service Solutions Center; Kevin Welter, Welter Entertainment, LLC and Geotek: and Megan Romens, Mary Kay independent sr. sales director.
