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What’s Happening December 2019

December 2, 2019 By

 

Annual Banquet

Are you ready for a fast-dealing, property trading game? The Chamber Annual Event will be Monopoly themed life size board game, held on Friday, January 24th, 2020. “Hutch-Opoly” will be at the Crow River Winery from 5:30PM to 10PM. Come and join us for a night of buying, selling and scheming your way to riches! Be sure to purchase your tickets and nominate someone today!!

Sponsorship Forms Available.. click here

To register for the 2020 Annual Event use our online Annual Event Registration Form or by mailing/emailing a printable Annual Event Registration Form to the Chamber by Friday, January 17, 2020.

 

This year there is no needs for a costume; no need for a suit. Come as you are and enjoy this eventful evening with us.

 

Community Awards

The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce and the Hutchinson Jaycees, in a joint effort, are proud to award deserving individuals their Community Awards. Do you know someone in our community that is doing great things? Nominate them today!

  • Submit your nomination using the online Community Award Nomination Form or by mailing/emailing a printable Community Award Nomination Form (pdf) to the Chamber by Thursday, December 19, 2019.
  • Awards are given for: Business Person of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Teacher of the Year and Young Leader of the Year (under 35 years of age).
  • A recipient can only win an award in any given category once – nominees who have won a specific award in years prior  cannot be considered for that award again.
  • Award winners will be recognized at the Chamber Annual Event on Friday, January 24, 2020.
  • Award winners will be video-taped prior to the event, as well as possibly the nominator.
  • Award winners will be informed of the awards before the event.
  • Award winners will attend the event at no charge.

 

2020 Crop Management Input Seminar

The University of Minnesota Extension and the Hutchinson Chamber are proud to be hosting the 2020 Crop Management Input Seminar. The seminar is set for Thursday, December 19, 2019 from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM at the Hutchinson Events Center. The seminar will provide educational speakers, agribusiness vendors, lunch and much more! Also, the 2019 Ag Person of the Year will be announced at the event.

Questions should be directed to the Extension Office by phone at 320-484-4334 or by emailing mnext-mcleod@umn.edu.

2020 Crop Management Input Seminar (pdf)

Taste of the Holidays – Thank You!

The Hutchinson Ambassadors and the Hutchinson Chamber would like to thank you to the businesses that participated in Taste of the Holidays! Great food, great music and great networking! Once again, a sell out event!
A special thanks goes out to everyone that attended. This event would not be such a huge success without you!

Check out the Hutchinson Ambassadors Facebook page for Taste of the Holidays – Photo’s

 

Small Business Saturday – Thank You!

What happens when you mix approximately 300+ people and roughly 200 ping pong balls? Well a great time, of course!

Thanks and gratitude go out to the everyone that came out on Small Business Saturday to shop local.  This was our second go around with the ping pong ball drop. Dare I say that everyone had a bouncing good time yet again this year? A special thanks to all the businesses that participated this year in the Chamber’s Small Business Saturday marketing campaign as well as those businesses that generously donated gift cards for the event! The day would not have “bounced” as well as it did if it wasn’t for you!!!

SHOUT OUT… to Jay Malone  for providing cookies for the event.

Small Business Saturday Thank You for Your SupportOnce again, the Chamber Board of Directors, Hutchinson Ambassadors and the thinkLOCAL Committee donned their red scarves and masqueraded as the “Red Clad Elves.” Hats (or scarves) off to them and the excellent work they do! They were out and about in Hutchinson surprising shoppers with gift cards to pay for their local purchases.

Check our the Hutchinson Chamber’s Facebook page for photos and the 2020 Ping Pong Ball Drop.

 

Business Connection – December 6th

A January Business Connection will not be hosted due to the close proximity of the Holiday.

Please join us for January’s Business Connection hosted by Jay Malone Motors on Friday, December 6 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM at 1165 Highway 7 W., Hutchinson.  Learn how Jay Malone became Hutchinson’s “Dealer for Life” and find out how the local dealership provides top-notch customer service. Sit in a new car and try out heated seats to keep you warm this winter.

Registration Link for December’s Business Connection

Business Connection is a morning networking event that takes place at a Chamber business on the first Friday of each month from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Chamber members are invited to gather, enjoy coffee and a light breakfast, share a quick update or information on their business/organization. We will always have a Chamber update for you as well.

Door prizes will be given out, so make sure you bring your business card to be entered into the drawing. The new networking opportunity is a great way to know people in the community and keep in touch with Hutch!

Business Logo for the Chamber's Business ConnectionWe are currently working to fill our 2020 Business Connection calendar, so if your Chamber business would like to learn more about becoming a Business Connection host, contact The Chamber office..

 

 

Hutchinson Ambassadors

Hutchinson Ambassadors business logoThe Hutchinson Ambassadors serve as the welcoming and social arm of the Hutchinson Chamber by actively supporting and promoting Hutchinson and its surrounding business community.

The Ambassador’s Facebook page is a great place to see photos of all the visits and other special events hosted by the Ambassadors.

You may have seen our Ambassadors around town – you can recognize them by their blue shirts and friendly smiles. They welcome new business openings, as well as, celebrate business renovations and milestones with an Ambassador Business Visit.

November’s Ambassador Business Visits:

  • Hometown Mortgage
  • Today’s Driving
  • Muddy Cow

Business After Hours – January 9

Business After Hours is a great way to learn about businesses in Hutchinson and network with fellow Chamber Members. This is a way to get behind the scenes in our local businesses… to see what they make, do or provide. This monthly event is Chamber invitation only and is open to all Chamber Member business employees. Businesses interested in a hosting Business After Hours event or would like more information should email the Ambassadors.

If you are the only primary representative with your business receiving emails from the Chamber, please invite all your employees to join us! Preregistration is strongly encouraged, so our business hosts may plan accordingly.

January’s Holiday Business After Hours will be held on

Thursday, January 9 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at

B&B Sports, located at 20271 MN-15, Hutchinson, MN.

Click here to register online for January’s Holiday Business After Hours or call the Chamber at 320-587-5252.

 

Maximize Your Membership!

Attend networks events such as Business connection, Business after hours other chamber sponsored events.  These events provide real time connections with other chamber members. Business to business contacts are knows to be vital and a key to business growth.

 

Quarter 2 Table Tent Deadline is March 1, 2020!Chamber Table Tent Entry Form - blank

The Chamber prints and delivers over 900 table tents around the community. Are you looking for a way to boost an upcoming Hutchinson event? Make sure you get your event added to the Chamber’s table tents. The cost is $30 per event listing for community members and Chamber Members receive a $10 discount per event listing.

Also, if you submit an event to our table tents, make sure to add it to our Community Calendar. The Community Calendar averages about 100 views a day, so don’t forget to utilize it! Submitting an event to the  Community Calendar may be done through your Chamber Member Portal or directly on the Community Calendar page!

The deadline for Quarter 2 (April, May & June 2020) is March 1, 2020.

If you want table tents delivered to your business or if you want to submit an event for an upcoming table tent, please contact the Chamber by phone 320-234-0786 or by email info@explorehutchinson.com.

 

New and Renewing Members

We would like to thank the following members for joining the Chamber and/or renewing their partnership with the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism!

NEW

  • Collin Peterson
  • Cobblestone Hotels & Suites

RENEWING

  • River of Hope Lutheran Church
  • New Discoveries Montessori Academy
  • New Era Financial Group
  • Cal-Tex Companies
  • Harmony River Living Center
  • Southwest Initiative Foundation
  • Ecumen Oaks & Pines
  • Junior Achievement of the Hutchinson Area
  • McGraw- Mahon, P.A.
  • Meghan’s Place Inc
  • Robert Peterson

Business of the Month… All local Businesses!

As the height of retail shopping season begins, the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce wants you to think local/shop local.  The Chamber strongly encourages everyone to thinkLOCAL when making a purchase. Please consider where you will be spending your shopping dollars this holiday season! That doesn’t only mean shop small but shop LOCAL as well.

Small Business Saturday, which is Nov. 30, is a nationwide event intended to encourage residents to shop local and to shop small businesses in each participating hometown.  Previously mentioned in the Newsletter are the details of Hutchinson’s exciting plans for Small Business Saturday 2019.

Just think, if you were to switch just 50 % of your online purchases to store front pick up you could greatly impact the Hutchinson Community. When we shop local the entire community we live in is positively impacted!

Did you know?

  • If every household were to take 10 percent of what they typically spend online or out of town and spend it LOCALLY and every business spent 5 percent more locally, that would equal $42 million in annual revenue for our community.
  • Revenue from local purchases keeps tax dollars in our community. These are dollars that support our police and fire departments, our schools and parks, our streets and utilities and much more.
  • Local businesses offer great customer service. Shopping at a local store and tapping into local expertise, you’re as much as 3 times more likely to discover something new.

 

You get out what you put in….

Chamber President Mary Hodson

Something from Mary! …Change. We all have a relationship with this six-letter word: change.

Learn more in Mary’s blog!

 

Save the Date!

DECEMBER
6       Business Connection – Jay Malone Motors
12     Holiday Business After Hours- Bobbing Bobber Brewing Company                                                                                              19     2020 Crop Management Input Seminar

JANUARY
8       PULSE Lunch & Learn                                                                                                                                                                                        9       Business After Hours – B&B Sports
24     Annual Chamber Event & Community Awards- Crow River Winery

FEBRUARY
7          Business Connection
12        PULSE Lunch & Learn                                                                                                                                                                                  13        Business After Hours

March
6          Business Connection
11        PULSE Lunch & Learn                                                                                                                                                                                  12        Business After Hours

 

More Information For Your Business To Grow…

Filed Under: Newsletters

December 2019 – Something from Mary!

December 2, 2019 By

Change.

Yep…. We all have a relationship with this six-letter word; change.

Some people are open and welcoming to change: the beauty of the oncoming season, the newness of something novel, the opportunity to ride life’s rollercoaster.

Some people are completely opposite. They resist change in every way, shape, and form. Sometimes kicking and screaming, you’ve seen it. People’s perspective of change can make it feel unjust, unnecessary, or irrelevant.

I’ve heard it said before, and I say it myself, “people like to be part of change, but they don’t like when change happens to them.” There is a lot of truth to this.

In this season of change, here’s what it looks like for the chamber.

A new year coming up with a very large community project coming in 2020. The Main Street 2020 project lends itself to new ideas and opportunities* to help our businesses, but also will affect other programs and events which have been part of the chamber for a very long time.

*I like to consider challenges as opportunities. Upgrade. Improve. Shift.

But then came along a new staffing structure for the chamber. I’ve had the honor to work with incredible humans over the years, but it is now time to shift to a new model of staffing the chamber. This came out of necessity, but also as a surprise of sorts to me. The opportunity has come about…to Upgrade, Improve, and Shift. If I am going to talk the talk, I sure as heck will walk the walk.

 

Rachel Hollis, author and media mogul, recently got a wrist tattoo… ‘embrace the suck’ to remind herself of the yet undefined opportunities and blessings that come along with the suckiest of situations in life. So, if you are one of the many people who do not like change, this may be helpful. Or, you like to also complain, so my idea is stupid, has no merit, and was a waste of time.

But yet, here’s my hope for YOU:

The next time you find yourself amid the opportunities/challenges/changes of life, embrace the suck, hold your head up and walk through it. Right straight through it.

May the events of this past decade help you float into a fabulous 2020.

Filed Under: Something From Mary

November 2019 – Business of the Month

October 31, 2019 By

760 Century Ave SW

Hutchinson, MN 55350

https://hutchinsonpethospital.com/

https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonpethospital/

 

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2017-2018 pet ownership survey, nearly 57 percent of American households own a pet. It’s no wonder then that Hutchinson Pet Hospital is celebrating 35 years of serving the Hutchinson community’s furry friends.

Hutchinson Pet Hospital got its start in 1984 when Dr. Curtis Reiter purchased Dr. Carlson’s downtown veterinary practice. In 2013, Dr. Kristen Roffey purchased the practice from Dr. Reiter.

Since 1984, Hutchinson Pet Hospital has built a passionate legacy of caring for pets and keeping them healthy. Hutchinson Pet Hospital creates customized health care plans for each pet which includes vaccinations, diagnostic and early disease screenings and parasite protection programs. The entire staff works as a team with the pet owner to deliver excellent care.

Fear Free Certified

Hutchinson Pet Hospital Mission Statement

The entire staff at the Hutchinson Pet Hospital is Fear Free Certified. Their mission is to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety and stress in pets. They love pets and always want them to feel safe and as comfortable as possible while in their care. This Fear Free Car extends to their boarding and grooming departments. Hutchinson Pet Hospital groomers work to make the process pleasant so your pet can look and feel their best. This Fear Free philosophy is also applied to the training classes for puppies and kittens with behavior issues offered at Hutchinson Pet Hospital.

Proud to be AAHA accredited

Only 12 to 15 percent of veterinary practices in the United States and Canada hold the American Animal Hospital Association accredited designation. Hutchinson Pet Hospital is proud to hold the AAHA accreditation, holding their practice to a higher standard. They are the only clinic in the area to hold this designation. The AAHA is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices in the US and Canada. To earn this designation, practices are evaluated on over 900 standards of quality from pain management and patient care to team training and medical record keeping.

A variety of pet-centered services

In addition to creating customized preventative pet care, Hutchinson Pet Hospital offers regular oral health assessments, which are vital to a pet’s longevity and good health. Routine surgery and dentistry care are provided at the highest level of safety and technical skill to ensure your pet recovers as quickly as possible. With a surgery suite equipped with CO2 laser, a pet’s pain is minimized and aids in a speedy recovery.

If you pet is sick or injured, Hutchinson Pet Hospital has easy and affordable access to top notch care by Board Certified veterinarians. Care can be provided through digital radiology and ultrasound consultations, traveling Board Certified surgeons and dermatologists.

With a state of the art photobiomodulation, or cold laser, therapy, a pet will have decreased inflammation and pain and accelerated healing. This treatment modality effectively encourages healing for a wide variety of conditions including post-surgical incision sites, ear infections and orthopedic injuries.

All aspects of pet health are addressed by the highly trained Hutchinson Pet Hospital staff, from wellness exams and vaccinations to sick pets, grooming, boarding and training. The staff has a combined 218 years of experience, with 99 of those years at Hutchinson Pet Hospital!

Celebrating 35 years with Open House on Nov. 8

Serving the community’s pets since 1984, Hutchinson Pet Hospital is dedicated to a pet’s whole well-being. Celebrating the past 35 years, Hutchinson Pet Hospital is hosting an Open House on Friday, Nov. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. The public is welcome to come visit the facility and enjoy the celebration.

What does Hutchinson Pet Hospital enjoy most about their Chamber Membership?

Hutchinson Pet Hospital joined the Chamber in 2018. We know that we need to take advantage of more of what the Chamber offer, but we really like how much help the Chamber has been with advertising and promoting our business.

 

Filed Under: Business of the Month

November 2019 – Something from Mary!

October 31, 2019 By

You get out of it what you put into it.

Much like your gym membership, your results from the chamber depend on if you USE the membership.

The Hutchinson Chamber has 330 members. Of these 330 businesses run by smart, respectable people, at least half just pay the invoice and let ‘er ride.

BUT,

WHAT IF YOU…….

  • Updated your webpage on our website

(Yes, as a chamber member you have a webpage on our website!)

  • Posted job openings on our website…. Included in your membership, through your webpage!
  • Posted your sales, events, press releases to your webpage
  • Brought in brochures and business cards for us to share with new residents and Visitors
  • Attended just one networking event, such as Business Connection in the morning or Business After Hours in the afternoon/early evening

You could Possibly……

  • Reach someone new who is searching online for your service or product
  • Show up quicker on a google search because of this listing.
  • Have a position filled because someone saw your listing on the website
  • Bring in new revenue from a new customer who just didn’t realize what you do or have
  • Provide the one thing that brings someone to Hutchinson feeling confident in their decision because they know you are here
  • Start a new business relationship with someone you met while networking and sharing your story

 

Or not.

You get out of it, what you put into it.

Everything I listed above is available to all chamber members, without additional costs or fees.

If you haven’t, perhaps you should let us know you’d like to know just one more thing about your membership, because ….. membership has its privileges.

10am-4pm Monday through Friday 320-587-5252 Give us a jingle, or email us at info@explorehutchinson.com

Filed Under: Something From Mary

What’s Happening November 2019

October 18, 2019 By

Small Business Saturday

Do your holiday shopping on Small Business Saturday and support our community in a big way! Small Business Saturday is one of our favorite community events. This year the Chamber will be  hosting a block party on Saturday, November 30th at 10:00 AM on Washington Avenue/ Main. St. Come check out our annual ball drop, where we will be dropping 100+ numbered ping pong balls! Each ball dropped will be redeemable for prizes from local businesses.

Click here for the 2019 Small Business Saturday Flyer

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

 

Election of Board of Directors

In accordance with Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce & Tourism By-Laws Article V, Sections 3, 4 and 5, the following candidates have been recommended to serve on the Board of Directors for the indicated terms.

Any question or petitions may be direct to Mary Hodson by phone 320-234-0785 or by email mary@explorehutchinson.com and will be presented to the Nominating Committee.

Section 3 – Publicity
5.3.1 Upon receipt of the report of the Nominating Committee, the President shall be instructed to notify the membership of the names of the persons nominated as candidates for directors, the right of persons nominated as candidates for directors and the right of petition as provided in these By-Laws. A list of candidates so nominated shall be kept on file in the Association office.

Section 4 – Petition
5.4.1 Additional names of candidates for directors can be nominated by petition bearing the genuine signatures of at least five (5) qualified members of the Association. Such petition shall be filed with the Nominating Committee withing ten (10) days after notice has been given of the names of those nominated. The determination of the Nominating Committee as to the legality of the petition shall be final.

Section 5 – Determination
5.5.1 If no petition is filed within the designated period, the nomination shall be closed and the nominated slate of five (5) candidates shall be declared elected upon a 2/3 vote approval by the Board of Directors at their regular October Board meeting.

5.5.2 If a legal petition presents additional candidates, the names of all candidates shall be arranged on the ballot in alphabetical order. Instructions will be to select five (5). Identification shall be made on the ballot to identify those candidates nominated by the Nominating Committee. The usual election procedure shall prevail.

Recommended Candidates: Adam Fink, John Sanken & Leah Watzke

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Taste of the Holidays

Don’t wait to purchase your ticket to this year’s Taste of the Holidays!

This very popular event sells out every year!  Tickets are $15 and can be purchased from an Ambassador or at the Hutchinson Chamber office.

No tickets will be sold at the door – advanced sales only.

Come out and enjoy the evening, and hopefully you will find some great holiday gift ideas too. There will be many vendors with samples of tasty treats and beverages. Live music by Josie Sanken will be provided. Hope to see you there!

2019 Taste of the Holidays Vendor Info & Registration

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

2020 Tourism Marketing Grant

Since 2013, the Chamber has enjoyed granting money to events hosted by nonprofits and for-profits held in Hutchinson. These grants help cover the expense of marketing that covers a radius outside the Hutchinson area for the event. These events help the Chamber bring more people to our beautiful and welcoming community – there really is #MuchInHutch!

Tell your friends, co-workers, committees and organizations about the Chamber’s Tourism Marketing Grant. We love to help events as they help us and increase the traffic and awesomeness of Hutchinson!

More information about the Tourism Marketing Grant program, grant criteria and grant application can be found on our Tourism Marketing Grant blog.

2020 Tourism Marketing Grant Criteria, Deadlines and Grant Application (pdf)

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Annual Banquet & Community Awards

Are you ready for a fast-dealing, property trading game? This year’s Chamber Annual Event will be Monopoly themed life size board game, held on Friday, January 24th, 2020. “Hutch-Opoly” will be at the Crow River Winery from 5:30PM to 10PM. Come and join us for a night of buying, selling and scheming your way to riches!

Sponsorship Forms Available.. click here

To register for the 2020 Annual Event use our online Annual Event Registration Form or by mailing/emailing a printable Annual Event Registration Form to the Chamber by Friday, January 17, 2020.

The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce and the Hutchinson Jaycees, in a joint effort, are proud to award deserving individuals their Community Awards. Do you know someone in our community that is doing great things? Nominate them today!

  • Submit your nomination using the online Community Award Nomination Form or by mailing/emailing a printable Community Award Nomination Form (pdf) to the Chamber by Thursday, December 19, 2019.
  • Awards are given for: Business Person of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Teacher of the Year and Young Leader of the Year (under 35 years of age).
  • A recipient can only win an award in any given category once – nominees who have won a specific award in years prior  cannot be considered for that award again.
  • Award winners will be recognized at the Chamber Annual Event on Friday, January 24, 2020.
  • Award winners will be video-taped prior to the event, as well as possibly the nominator.
  • Award winners will be informed of the awards before the event.
  • Award winners will attend the event at no charge.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

2020 Quarter 1 – Table Tent Deadline – December 1, 2019

Are you looking for a way to boost an upcoming Hutchinson event? The Chamber prints and delivers 900 table tents around the community. Make sure you get your event added to the table tents! The cost is $30/event listing for community members and Chamber Members receive a $10 discount per event listing.

Table Tent poster listing criteria of programAlso, make sure to add it to the Chamber’s online Community Calendar. The Community Calendar averages about 100+ views a day, so don’t forget to utilize it. Submitting an event to the Community Calendar may be done through your Chamber Member Portal or you can go directly to the Community Calendar page.

The deadline for Quarter 1 (January – February – March 2020 events) is December 1, 2019.

Submit an event for an upcoming table tent by mailing/emailing this printable Table Tent Entry form (pdf) by the quarterly deadline to Cegi or stop by the Chamber office. If you want table tents delivered to your business or if have any questions, email Cegi
or call the Chamber.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

You get out what you put in….

Chamber President Mary Hodson

Something from Mary! …You get out of it what you put into it.  Much like your gym membership, your results from the chamber depend on if you USE the membership.

Learn more in Mary’s blog!

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Business Connection – December 6

Thank you to everyone that registered and attended the November’s Business Connection Friday, November 1, hosted at Ecumen Oaks and Pines.

Please join us for December’s Business Connection hosted by Jay Malone Motors on Friday, December 6 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM at 1165 Highway 7 W., Hutchinson.  Learn how Jay Malone became Hutchinson’s “Dealer for Life” and find out how the local dealership provides top-notch customer service. Sit in a new car and try out heated seats to keep you warm this winter.

Business Connection is a morning networking event that takes place at a Chamber business on the first Friday of each month from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Chamber members are invited to gather, enjoy coffee and a light breakfast, share a quick update or information on their business/organization. We will always have a Chamber update for you as well.

Door prizes will be given out, so make sure you bring your business card to be entered into the drawing. The new networking opportunity is a great way to know people in the community and keep in touch with Hutch!

Business Logo for the Chamber's Business ConnectionWe are currently working to fill our 2020 Business Connection calendar, so if your Chamber business would like to learn more about becoming a Business Connection host, contact Jill.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Business of the Month

November’s Business of the Month is Chamber member, Hutchinson Pet Hospital. This veterinary clinic provides comprehensive care for pets, including grooming and boarding services. They are celebrating 35 years in business with an Open House on Friday, Nov. 8 from 5-7 p.m. Learn more about Hutchinson Pet Hospital here.

The Chamber’s Business of the Month program is a free marketing opportunity that is only available to Chamber Members. The featured business is interview on KDUZ by Mary, the business logo and company information will be featured on the Chamber’s website for one month, we will put your logo and information in the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, as well as the Chamber highlighting your business in the Hutchinson Leaders’ business section.

If you are interested interested in this opportunity, please email Mary or call Mary at the Chamber.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Maximize Your Membership!

As the height of retail shopping season begins, the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce wants you to think local/shop local.  The Chamber strongly encourages everyone to thinkLOCAL when making a purchase. Please consider where you will be spending your shopping dollars this holiday season! That doesn’t only mean shop small but shop LOCAL as well.

Small Business Saturday, which is Nov. 30, is a nationwide event intended to encourage residents to shop local and to shop small businesses in each participating hometown.  Previously mentioned in the Newsletter are the details of Hutchinson’s exciting plans for Small Business Saturday 2019.

Just think, if you were to switch just 50 % of your online purchases to store front pick up you could greatly impact the Hutchinson Community. When we shop local the entire community we live in is positively impacted!

Did you know?

  • If every household were to take 10 percent of what they typically spend online or out of town and spend it LOCALLY and every business spent 5 percent more locally, that would equal $42 million in annual revenue for our community.
  • Revenue from local purchases keeps tax dollars in our community. These are dollars that support our police and fire departments, our schools and parks, our streets and utilities and much more.
  • Local businesses offer great customer service. Shopping at a local store and tapping into local expertise, you’re as much as 3 times more likely to discover something new.

Sometimes maximizing your Chamber membership is about supporting local efforts to aim to make Hutchinson the best community it can be. There are ways to promote thinkLOCAL at your Chamber business. How do you do that? We have free resources and materials available for your business right here at the Chamber office.  You can request:

  • thinkLOCAL business cards to hand out to customers. The cards feature facts that explain the value in shopping locally and thank customers for a local purchase.
  • thinkLOCAL magnets are also available and serve as a great visual reminder.
  • thinkLOCAL window clings can be put on your storefront or door.
  • a digital version of the thinkLOCAL logo to show your support on your Web site or other social media.
  • and several other promotional materials to

Want to know more? Download your copy of the thinkLOCAL Business Guide.

Contact Jill at the Chamber office or email her with questions or to work with her to maximize your membership.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

New and Renewing Members

We would like to thank the following members for joining the Chamber or renewing their partnership with the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism!

NEW

  • FireLake Manufacturing, Inc.

RENEWING

  • B&C Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
  • Hutchinson Area Community Foundation
  • Hutchinson Toastmasters II
  • Jonny Block
  • MeshedDesigns  LLC
  • New Journey UCC
  • Qdoba Mexican Grill

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

 

Business logo for PLUSEProfessionals Under 40 Leading Socializing and Educating

PULSE, a committee of the Hutchinson Chamber, is a group of  Professionals Under the age of 40 who asked themselves that same question and then created the answer. Our goal is to help young people in the Hutchinson area become better Leaders, create a concrete Social network with professional value, and continue to Educate themselves on important life and business topics.

PULSE meets for Lunch & Learn events on the second Wednesday of each month from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM at Squeaky’s Grill and Bar. The events are free to attend, a $10 lunch option is available.

Like the PULSE Facebook page to get the latest event information and registration links. Register for the Nov. 13 Lunch & Learn by Friday, Nov. 8 to be entered into a $25 gift card drawing! November 13 Lunch & Learn Registration

The group also gets together at quarterly social events  (green dates listed in calendar below). Looking ahead to the new year, PULSE has released their 2020 event calendar. New in 2020, PULSE will take the summer off. See all the 2020 events listed below.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Hutchinson Ambassadors business logoThe Hutchinson Ambassadors serve as the welcoming and social area of the Hutchinson Chamber by actively supporting and promoting Hutchinson and its surrounding business community.

The Ambassador’s Facebook page is a great place to see photos of all the visits and other special events hosted by the Ambassadors.

You may have seen our Ambassadors around town – you can recognize them by their blue shirts and friendly smiles. They host Business After Hours, welcome new business openings, as well as, celebrate business renovations and milestones with an Ambassador Business Visit.

October’s Ambassador Business Visits:

  • Queen’s Inn
  • FireLake Manufacturing, Inc.
  • Kelly’s Dance Academy

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Save the Date!

NOVEMBER
1        Business Connection – Ecumen Oaks & Pines
13     PULSE Lunch & Learn
14     Taste of the Holidays
30     Small Business Saturday

DECEMBER
6      Business Connection – Jay Malone Motors
12     Holiday Business After Hours                                                                                                                                                                      19    Crop Management Input Seminar

JANUARY
8       Business Connection                                                                                                                                                                                        8       PULSE Lunch & Learn                                                                                                                                                                                        9          Business After Hours – B&B Sports
24       Annual Chamber Event & Community Awards

FEBRUARY
7          Business Connection
12        PULSE Lunch & Learn                                                                                                                                                                                  13        Business After Hours – Edina Realty

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

More Information For Your Business To Grow…

Filed Under: Newsletters

What’s Happening October 2019

October 1, 2019 By

 Hutchinson Chamber is fully staffed!

In August, Jill Barrall (Middle) joined the chamber as the new Membership Coordinator. Jill was previously the Legal Advocate at McLeod Alliance for Victims of Domestic Violence. She is excited for this new venture at the Chamber.

On Sept. 9, Cegi Wassman (Left( joins the Chamber as the new Communications Coordinator. Cegi, pronounced CeeGee, comes to the Chamber after working at 3M in Hutchinson.

Chamber President Mary Hodson(Right) is excited to have both women join the Chamber team and looks forward to a full staff in the office!

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Annual Banquet – Save the Date!

       

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

45th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival – THANK YOU!

 

On September 13 & 14, we held our 45th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival and Taste of Hutchinson. We had a spectacular weekend! Once again the Festival was a huge success, but would not have been possible without the help of some incredible volunteers and workers.

Thank you to the MANY businesses that make adjustments to allow the Festival to bring 12,000 people to our community. 12,000 people shopping at the event (tax revenue), shopping/eating/staying/playing at local businesses (wages, tax base revenue) and TOURISM!

Did you know many people share with us that they come back to Hutchinson because they feel endeared to our community? They enjoy our shops, restaurants, trails and parks, friendly services and kindness. What a great legacy to have in the state of Minnesota!

We would like to thank the following businesses for their support at the Arts & Crafts Festival:

  • SPONSORS: Animal Medical Center on Crow River, Ashley Furniture Homestore, CenBank, Crow River Winery, Customer Elation, Goebel Fixture Company, Harmony River Living Center, Heartland Ag Systems, Main Street Sports Bar,  McCormick’s Family Restaurant, Piehl Hanson Beckman, PA,  Rahk Studios, Stamp-N-Storage, TDK/Hutchinson Technology, Walmart SuperCenter & Winn Exteriors
  • CHAMPION SPONSORS: MidCountry Bank, SouthPoint Financial Credit Union & Uponor
  • VISIONARY SPONSOR: Citizen’s Bank and Trust Co

We would also like to put a spotlight on the backstage people of Arts & Crafts. Thank you for your support, as well as a special THANK YOU to Hutchinson Police Services for keeping this event safe and for all the hard work they do during this busy weekend.

  • Cash Wise Foods, City of Hutchinson, Hutchinson Park & Rec, Hutchinson Police Services, Kwik Trip,  & West Central Sanitation

Again, THANK YOU to everyone that helped out with this event. We hope to see everyone again next year!

*Important notes about the 2020 Arts and Crafts Festival. During our usual timeline for Arts & Crafts Festival Main Street, also known as State Highway 15, will be under significant construction. The Arts & Crafts Festival will move to the McLeod County Fairgrounds for 2020.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Taste of Hutchinson– THANK YOU!

The Hutchinson Ambassadors hosted the Taste of Hutchinson on September 13 & 14 along side the Arts & Crafts Festival. Yet again,  The Taste of Hutchinson did an amazing job of organizing a wonderful variety of food options  at the Arts and Craft Festival on Sept, 13th and 14th. In addition to the tasty food, the Ambassadors added a music feature that was enjoyed by many. This years music was provided by Mona Hjerpe & Friends, Sawyer’s Dream,  Taylor Jordan, and Off Duty. Thank you for sharing your talents with our community!

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Taste of the Holidays- 2019

The Hutchinson Ambassadors will be hosting the Taste of the Holidays on Thursday, November 21st,  2019 from 5:00PM – 8:00PM at the Crow River Winery. Advance Tickets are $15 and go on sale Tuesday, October 15th. Tickets can be purchased from a Hutchinson Ambassadors or at the Chamber office.  There are limited tickets each year and this event has sold out several years.

For 2019, the Ambassadors will have Josie Sanken providing live entertainment/music during the event. Door prizes will be awarded, but you must be present to win! The Hutchinson Photography club will be in attendance taking photos throughout the event. As a result, make sure to get your tickets early! For more information, visit the Hutchinson Ambassadors Facebook Page.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Business Connection – November 1

Thank you to everyone that registered for October’s Business Connection scheduled for Friday, October 4, hosted by Adult Training and Habilitation Center.  It was great to learn how Adult Training and Habilitation Center assists people with developmental disabilities on the job to become independent, productive and self-reliant community members.

Please join us for November’s Business Connection hosted by Ecumen Oaks and Pines on Friday, November 1 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM at 1015 Century Ave. SW, Hutchinson.  Come and learn how Adult Training and Habilitation Center assists people with developmental disabilities on the job to become independent, productive and self-reliant community members.

Business Connection is a morning networking event that takes place at a Chamber business on the first Friday of each month from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Chamber members are invited to gather, enjoy coffee and a light breakfast, share a quick update or information on their business/organization. We will always have a Chamber update for you as well.

Door prizes will be given out, so make sure you bring your business card to be entered into the drawing. The new networking opportunity is a great way to know people in the community and keep in touch with Hutch!

Business Logo for the Chamber's Business ConnectionWe are currently working to fill our 2020 Business Connection calendar, so if your Chamber business would like to learn more about becoming a Business Connection host, contact Jill.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Business After Hours

After a couple months on hiatus, it’s back! The Hutchinson Ambassadors are ready to welcome you at the Oct. 10 Business After Hours from 4 p.m to 6 p.m. at Slumberland Furniture. Come learn about this local business and it’s history in Hutchinson. There will be refreshments and networking in the comfortable showroom. There will also be a chance to enter to with a $25 Slumberland Gift Card.

Business After Hours is a great way to learn about businesses in Hutchinson and network with fellow Chamber members. This is a way to get behind the scenes at our local businesses… to see what they make, do or provide. This monthly event is by Chamber invitation only and is open to all Chamber member business employees. Businesses interested in hosting a Business After Hours event or would like more information should email the Ambassadors.

Graphic for Hutchinson Ambassadors Business After Hours eventIf you are the only primary representative with your business receiving emails from the Chamber, please invite all your employees to join us! Preregistration is strongly encouraged, so our business hosts may plan accordingly.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Maximize Your Membership!

Here at the Chamber we use Email marketing efforts to reach our membership. As a Chamber member, you, too, can make the most of your membership through Email Blasts!

There are two types of Email Blasts that can benefit your business and raise your Chamber profile with the membership.

A Spotlight Message is a 1-point option that would include a message in one of our monthly Chamber emails, such as the digital newsletter email or one of our other mid-month email updates. Your business name would be in the email’s subject line and your company’s message is a main bullet point in the email.

A Custom Email is a 2-point option that features an email we send to all of the Chamber members whenever you choose. This email contains your message highlighting whatever you wish to share with Chamber members and includes an image we can include in the email.

Email Blasts can help get your message out to other Chamber members and connect you to other businesses. Are you ready to reach out with an Email Blast? Contact Jill at the Chamber office or email her with questions or to work with her to raise your community profile for your business and maximize your membership.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Renewing Members

We would like to thank the following members for renewing their partnership with the Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism!

  • AMS Coating Systems Inc.
  • Branded Solutions/ The Tiger Pro Shop
  • Compass Occasions
  • Crow River Nutrition
  • HealthSource of Hutchinson
  • Home State Bank
  • Hutchinson Housing & Redevelopment Authority
  • Innovation Foam Inc.
  • Jimmy’s Pizza
  • Joanie’s Catering LLC
  • Quilt Haven on Main
  • Sonora’s Mexican Restaurant
  • St. Anastasia Catholic Community
  • Terning & Company Inc.
  • Thrivent Financial
  • Wild Olive Tree

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Business logo for PLUSEProfessionals Under 40 Leading Socializing and Educating

PULSE, a committee of the Hutchinson Chamber, is a group of  Professionals Under the age of 40 who asked themselves that same question and then created the answer. Our goal is to help young people in the Hutchinson area become better Leaders, create a concrete Social network with professional value, and continue to Educate themselves on important life and business topics.

PULSE meets for Lunch & Learn events on the second Wednesday of each month from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM at Squeaky’s Grill and Bar. The events are free to attend, a $10 lunch option is available.

The group also gets together at quarterly social events  (green dates listed in calendar below). Like the PULSE Facebook page to get the latest event information and registration links. Register for the October 9 Lunch & Learn by Friday, October 2 to be entered into a $25 gift card drawing! October 9 Lunch & Learn Registration

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Yes, every day is a good day to start something new

Chamber President Mary Hodson

Something from Mary! … Why wait for New Year’s? If you started today acting on resolutions you are going to make on Jan. 1, think about how much progress you will have made by the start of 2020! Learn more in Mary’s blog!

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Farm Fatigue / Bucket of Thanks Event – THANK YOU!

Each Fall the Hutchinson Agri-Business Committee along with the Glencoe Agri-Business Committee gather donations of food, wellness and safety items from Chamber Members. The donated items are packed and hand delivered to the local farmers out in the field during harvest time. These items are sincerely appreciated by the farmers.

Thank you to all the businesses that donated items this year and a special thank you to the Agri-Business Committees for making this event such a huge success!

See below for a full list of all the businesses that graciously donated this year!

Click the image below for a full list of businesses that donated items!

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Election of Board of Directors

In accordance with Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce & Tourism By-Laws Article V, Sections 3, 4 and 5, the following candidates have been recommended to serve on the Board of Directors for the indicated terms.

Any question or petitions may be direct to Mary Hodson by phone 320-234-0785 or by email mary@explorehutchinson.com and will be presented to the Nominating Committee.

Section 3 – Publicity
5.3.1 Upon receipt of the report of the Nominating Committee, the President shall be instructed to notify the membership of the names of the persons nominated as candidates for directors, the right of persons nominated as candidates for directors and the right of petition as provided in these By-Laws. A list of candidates so nominated shall be kept on file in the Association office.

Section 4 – Petition
5.4.1 Additional names of candidates for directors can be nominated by petition bearing the genuine signatures of at least five (5) qualified members of the Association. Such petition shall be filed with the Nominating Committee withing ten (10) days after notice has been given of the names of those nominated. The determination of the Nominating Committee as to the legality of the petition shall be final.

Section 5 – Determination
5.5.1 If no petition is filed within the designated period, the nomination shall be closed and the nominated slate of five (5) candidates shall be declared elected upon a 2/3 vote approval by the Board of Directors at their regular October Board meeting.

5.5.2 If a legal petition presents additional candidates, the names of all candidates shall be arranged on the ballot in alphabetical order. Instructions will be to select five (5). Identification shall be made on the ballot to identify those candidates nominated by the Nominating Committee. The usual election procedure shall prevail.

Recommended Candidates: We will be accepting nominations for 3 individuals.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Quarter 4 Table Tents are Here!

Are you looking for a way to boost an upcoming Hutchinson event? The Chamber prints and delivers over 900 table tents around the community. Make sure you get your event added to the Chamber’s table tents. The cost is $30/event listing for community members and Chamber Members receive a $10 discount per event listing.Quarter Table Tent - Calendar of Events

Also, make sure you add your events to the Chamber’s online Community Calendar. The Community Calendar averages about 100 views a day, so don’t forget to utilize it! Submitting an event to the Community Calendar may be done through your Chamber Member Portal or you can go directly to the Community Calendar page!

The deadline for Quarter 1 (January, February & March 2020) is December 1, 2019.

If you want table tents delivered to your business or if you want to submit an event for an upcoming table tent, please email  Cegi or call her at 320-234-0786.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Business of the Month

This month’s Business of the Month is Chamber member, Heartland Ag Systems, Inc. This agriculture manufacturing business is an industry leader with a rich history and an exciting future. Learn more about Heartland Ag Systems here.

The Chamber’s Business of the Month program is a free marketing opportunity that is only available to Chamber Members. The featured business is interviewed on KDUZ by Mary, the business logo and company information will be featured on the Chamber’s website for one month, we will put your logo and information in the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, as well as the Chamber highlighting your business in the Hutchinson Leaders’ business section.

If you are interested interested in this opportunity, please email Mary or call Mary at the Chamber.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Save the Date!

  • OCTOBER
    2        Hutchinson Leadership 2.0                                                                                                                                                                              4        Business Connection – Adult Training & Habilitation Center Inc
    9        PULSE Lunch & Learn
    10      Business After Hours -Slumberland Furniture                                                                                                                                    16      Hutchinson Leadership Institute
  • NOVEMBER
    1        Business Connection – Ecumen Oaks & Pines
    13     PULSE Lunch & Learn
    21     Taste of the Holidays
    30     Small Business Saturday
  • DECEMBER
     6       Business Connection – Jay Malone Motors                                                                                                                                           10     Crop Management Input Seminar
    12    Holiday Business After Hours

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

More Information For Your Business To Grow…

 

Filed Under: Newsletters

October 2019 – Business of the Month

September 30, 2019 By

1180 State HWY 7 E

Hutchinson, MN 55350

https://www.agsystemsonline.com/

October is National Manufacturing Month, and this month’s featured business has a rich manufacturing history in Hutchinson. Our local October Business of the Month, Heartland Ag Systems, recently became the largest Case IH commercial application equipment distributorship in North America, when Ag Systems merged with Heartland Ag earlier this year.

A local start before the merge

AG Systems, Inc.  was founded, by Dick Lenz in 1965 in Hutchinson Throughout its history, Ag Systems, Inc’s reputation grew as a leading manufacturer in agriculture equipment industry. Ag Systems is know for making anhydrous ammonia equipment, liquid applicators, pull-type spreaders, nurse tanks and the legendary Brute bumper. In addition, the company is the longest-running distributor for the Case IH application equipment line in North America. The distribution covers a trade area of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan. AG Systems, Inc. also carries Snyder tanks, New Leader spreaders, a wide variety of parts for the fertilizer industry and a mobile service fleet to support the needs of its customers.

On February 28, 2019, AG Systems, Inc. of Hutchinson, Minnesota, and Heartland Ag of Ames, Iowa, merged to create the largest Case IH commercial application equipment distributorship in North America. The new organization operates as Heartland AG Systems, Inc. The merger brings customers an expanded footprint, with nine locations across eight states, from the upper peninsula of Michigan to Colorado from east to west and from North Dakota to Missouri from north to south.

New facility offers great employment opportunities in Hutchinson

Heartland Ag Systems, Inc., strives to be the employer of choice for the Hutchinson area. The company employs approximately 100 people in Hutchinson and nearly 300 throughout the entire company.  They are investing in their future by building a new facility.  The new facility improves working conditions, allows for employment opportunities and aids in better service for our customers.  We have a great history of employee satisfaction and supporting the community through donations.

Manufacturing is done right here in Hutchinson

Heartland Ag Systems, Inc.’s sole manufacturing operations is in Hutchinson.  The products they manufacture are distributed throughout the USA and Canada.  As the largest CASE IH application equipment distributor in North America, Heartland Ag Systems is meeting the agriculture needs of the farmers through the country .  One way Heartland Ag System provides excellent customer service is through their commitment to servicing their equipment. Heartland Ag System service technicians provide a mobile service fleet, in addition to a local service center.  We have several local growers that rely on us for support of their products and farming operations.

Creating products that last and employees that stay

It may be surprising to some to learn of the geographical and agricultural impact of the product, manufactured by people of surrounding communities.  This company makes a difference for those that use it and for those that build the products. Heartland Ag Systems, Inc. takes pride in their low turnover rate and long-standing years of service of their employees.  Not only is this company assisting the ag industry, but they work to make sure their products are better for the world around them. The updated technology that is in the equipment today provides better stewardship for our environment, which in turns provides for a better tomorrow.

         

What does Heartland Ag Systems, Inc., enjoy most about their Chamber Membership?

We appreciate having the chamber as an avenue to help connect us to the community in ways that we would not be able to do without being members of the chamber. We fully intend on strengthening our partnership with the chamber as we continue to grow our company.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Business of the Month

October 2019 – Something from Mary!

September 30, 2019 By

 

Here’s an Idea:

Let’s not wait until January 2nd to make changes, get in gear, or start something new.

Three months are left of 2019.

Chamber President Mary Hodson

Chamber President Mary Hodson

THREE MONTHS. 92 DAYS.

Let’s make them count by focusing on our updates now, starting today, October 1st.

So many times our tendency is to say “I’ll do that next week,” “I’ll start on Monday,” and don’t do a thing because we are too busy with the things right in front of us. These ‘things’ suck our energy away, leaving important items by the wayside.

This could be a change in diet or exercise, but it could also be an important book to read, manuals to update, or something else random, or otherwise significant. Wouldn’t it feel great to get to January 2, and say… I have that already done, or look at the progress made in three months.

I encourage you to look for three things to consider doing:

Something for you. Something that will make you feel good or better. Something that can help you achieve peace in your life.

Something at work. What have you been putting off,

or waiting for “the time”, or is really high importance but the urgency hasn’t been equally as high.

Finally, how about something for your fellow humans. Whether it is working with a community group, donation of time, talent or treasure, help for a neighbor, or a letter to a friend you haven’t communicated with for a while. Find something to help someone and/or bring them joy.

Now…. go out and make a difference, but remember, take care of you too!

Filed Under: Something From Mary

What’s Happening in September 2019

August 30, 2019 By

45th Hutchinson Arts & Crafts Festival September 13 – 1445th Annual Logo A&C TOH

The 45th Annual Hutchinson Arts & Crafts Festival will be held on Friday, September 13 and Saturday, September 14 in beautiful Library Square Park in downtown Hutchinson.

This year we currently have more than 100 vendors  and the exciting thing is 28 new vendors will be selling their wares for the first time in Hutchinson. We are thrilled with the selection of vendors, including those returning vendors who will once again delight shoppers.

The event  features handmade crafts in the following categories: accessories, artwork, bath, clay, clothing, dolls, fabric/fiber, floral, furniture/home accents, games/toys/books, glass, gourmet, jewelry, leather, metal, painting, photography, seasonal, wood and much much more.

Come enjoy the downtown setting and shop this annual family-friendly festival!

Taste of Hutchinson

The Hutchinson Ambassadors host the Taste of Hutchinson on September 13 & 14 along side the Arts & Crafts Festival. A wonderful variety of food vendors line First Avenue ready to serve up some delicious fare. In addition to the tasty food, the Ambassadors added a music feature a couple years ago that adds to the festive atmosphere. The music line up this year includes:

Friday

Crowd of people at the 2018 Taste of Hutchinson

Crowd of people at the 2018 Taste of Hutchinson

  • 11am-2:30pm Mona Hjerpe & Friends
  • 4-7pm Sawyer’s Dream

Saturday

  • 10:45am–12:45pm Taylor Jordan
  • 1:15- 3:30pm Off Duty

 

Change is inevitable, but Blandin Leadership is planned change

Something from Mary! … I’ve been dealing with a lot of change lately, but there are different kinds of change. Some change is unplanned and unexpected and you have to deal with that. Planned change can be discovered through an amazing opportunity in our community at the upcoming Blandin Community Leadership Program. Learn more in Mary’s blog!

 

Farm Fatigue “Bucket of Thanks” Event 2019

Each harvest, our AgriBusiness Committee works hard to deliver buckets of goodies to our farmers in the fields in McLeod County.

If you business is interested in supplying goodies or money for this program, please complete the printable 2019 2019 Farm Fatigue Flyer(pdf) and mail, email or drop it off at the Chamber by the deadline, Friday, September 6.

 

Chamber welcomes new staff, bids farewell to previous employees

This summer has been a season of change at the Chamber office. Ashley Gabbert left her position as Membership Coordinator in early July and then Communications Coordinator Gina Buske exited at the end of July. Both ladies are wished well on their new positions in the community.

In August, Jill Barrall joined the chamber as the new Membership Coordinator. Jill was previously the Legal Advocate at McLeod Alliance for Victims of Domestic Violence. She is excited for this new venture at the Chamber.

On Sept. 9, Cegi Wassman joins the Chamber as the new Communications Coordinator. Cegi, pronounced CeeGee, comes to the Chamber after working at 3M in Hutchinson.

Chamber President Mary Hodson is excited to have both women join the Chamber team and looks forward to a full staff in the office, just in time for Arts and Crafts Festival!

 

Business Connection – October 6

Thank you to everyone that registered for September’s Business Connection scheduled for Friday, September 6, hosted by New Discoveries Montessori Academy.  We are excited to learn from  Dave Conrad and the staff at New Discoveries Montessori Academy how the school enables children to share and contribute their unique talents in the world.

Please join us for October’s Business Connection hosted by Adult Training and Habilitation Center on Friday, October 4 from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM at 425 California St.  Come and learn how Adult Training and Habilitation Center assists people with developmental disabilities on the job to become independent, productive and self-reliant community members.

Business Connection is a morning networking event that takes place at a Chamber business on the first Friday of each month from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. Chamber members are invited to gather, enjoy coffee and a light breakfast, share a quick update or information on their business/organization. We will always have a Chamber update for you as well.

Door prizes will be given out, so make sure you bring your business card to be entered into the drawing. The new networking opportunity is a great way to know people in the community and keep in touch with Hutch!

Business Logo for the Chamber's Business ConnectionWe are currently working to fill our 2020 Business Connection calendar, so if your Chamber business would like to learn more about becoming a Business Connection host, contact Jill.

 

Business After Hours

With the many festival and events that happen in Hutchinson over the summer, Business After Hours goes on hiatus in August and September –but will be back on October 10th!

Business After Hours is a great way to learn about businesses in Hutchinson and network with fellow Chamber members. This is a way to get behind the scenes at our local businesses… to see what they make, do or provide. This monthly event is by Chamber invitation only and is open to all Chamber member business employees. Businesses interested in hosting a Business After Hours event or would like more information should email the Ambassadors.

Graphic for Hutchinson Ambassadors Business After Hours eventIf you are the only primary representative with your business receiving emails from the Chamber, please invite all your employees to join us! Preregistration is strongly encouraged, so our business hosts may plan accordingly.

 

Table Tents Quarter 1 (Jan, Feb & March 2020) Deadline – December 1

Table Tent Entry Form (pdf)Are you looking for a way to boost an upcoming Hutchinson event? The  Chamber prints and delivers 900 table tents around the community. Make sure you get your event added to the table tents!

The cost is $30 per event listing for community members and $20 for Chamber member per event listing. Submitting an event is easy… just complete the printable Table Tent Entry Form (pdf) and mail, email or drop it off at the Chamber by the quarterly deadline.

Also, if you submit an event to our table tents, make sure to add it to our Community Calendar. The Community Calendar averages about 100 views a day, so don’t forget to utilize it! Submitting an event to the Community Calendar may be done through your Chamber Member Portal or directly on the Community Calendar page!

The deadline for Quarter 1 (January, February and March) is December 1.

If you want table tents delivered to your business or if you want to submit an event for an upcoming table tent, please call the Chamber or email the Chamber.

Maximize Your Membership!

A great way to get your business some positive exposure and maximize your membership is through event sponsorship. You can raise your business profile just by supporting a variety of events that will get participants thinking about your business more!

When your business sponsors a Chamber event, the Chamber will highlight your business by putting your name on all marketing materials. Your business will be highlighted as a sponsor during  the event, whether through announcements made at the event or sign placement at the event. Event sponsorship can be added to your membership as a 1-point option.

There are also some multiple point options that further increase your exposure. For example, a 2- Point Sponsorship option that increases your membership exposure could be a Staffed Hole Golf Sponsorship or Crop Management Input Seminar Bronze Sponsorship. Use of these options clearly maximizes your membership by putting a staff member at the event representing your business or organization.

At an even larger level, there are 5- and 6-Point options for Sponsorship giving your business VIP access to those events. Many of these Sponsorship options include tickets for guests of your business at the event.

Contact Jill at the Chamber office of email her with questions or to work with her to raise your community profile for your business and maximize your membership.

New & Renewing Members

We would like to welcome our new members to the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce!

  • McLeod for Tomorrow
  • Touch of Grace Dance Studio

We also want to thank the following members for renewing their partnership with us!

  • Ashley HomeStore
  • Carpets Plus ColorTile Design Showroom
  • Down with Diabetes Alliance
  • e2 Electrical Services
  • Factory Direct Furniture
  • Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp
  • Heartland Ag Sysems
  • Hutchinson Hockey Association
  • Junior Achievement of Hutchinson
  • Mini Biff
  • Wheel and Cog Children’s Museum
  • Yutzy Construction

Business of the Month

This month’s Business of the Month is Chamber member, Hutchinson Area Community Foundation. This philanthropic nonprofit organization has granted thousands of dollars to local groups and businesses. Learn more about the Hutchinson Area Community Foundation here.

The Chamber’s Business of the Month program is a free marketing opportunity that is only available to Chamber Members. The featured business is interviewed on KDUZ by Mary, the business logo and company information will be featured on the Chamber’s website for one month, we will put your logo and information in the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, as well as the Chamber highlighting your business in the Hutchinson Leaders’ business section.

If you are interested interested in this opportunity, please email Mary or call Mary at the Chamber.

Save the Date!

  • SEPTEMBER
    6        Business Connection – New Discoveries Montessori Academy
    11      PULSE Lunch & Learn
    13-14    45th Arts & Crafts Festival
    13-14    Taste of Hutchinson
    19-20    Leadership Institute 2019-2020 Begins
  • OCTOBER
    4        Business Connection – Adult Training & Habilitation Center Inc
    9        PULSE Lunch & Learn
    10      Business After Hours
  • NOVEMBER
    1        Business Connection – Ecumen Oaks & Pines
    13     PULSE Lunch & Learn
    21     Taste of the Holidays
    30     Small Business Saturday
  • DECEMBER
    6       Business Connection – Jay Malone Motors
    10     Crop Management Input Seminar
    12    Holiday Business After Hours

More Information For Your Business To Grow…

 

Filed Under: Newsletters

September 2019 Business of the Month

August 30, 2019 By

2 Main St. S.

Hutchinson, MN 55350

https://www.facebook.com/HutchinsonAreaCommunityFoundation/
https://hutchinsonareacommunityfoundation.org/

The September Business of the Month began with an initial $35,000 donation by Irvin Burich who believed Hutchinson needed a community foundation. Burich, a Hutchinson businessman, supported the community foundation concept because it provides people of any income level a way to leave a permanent legacy in the form of a financial contribution to improve the community’s quality of life. In April 1999, Burich’s initial donation started the Hutchinson Area Community Foundation.

Now in its 20th year, the HACF has awarded 218 grants totaling more than $300,000 since the first grant was made in 2004. The Foundation’s endowment balance has grown to $850,000. in 2018, more than $35,000 was given to award recipients.

       

On September 11, 2005, the Founders Pathway was dedicated. The Pathway is a granite walkway leading from Washington Avenue to the Hutchinson Brothers statue. The majority of the Foundation’s funds have been raised from the sale of pathway pavers. The pavers are available for a $5,000 donation and there are still pavers available.

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Hutchinson Area Community Foundation helps people, organizations and businesses that want to improve the community now and in the future. The HACF also has an affiliation with Southwest Initiative Foundation through its Community Foundation program. The Foundation wants everyone to join the legacy of Hutchinson by accepting donations of all amounts from individuals, families, businesses and other foundations. The capital gained through those donations is applied to endeavors that serve the best interest of the community.

The Foundation employs no staff and operates with a volunteer Board with administrative support from the Chamber and SWIF. The Foundation serves as a vehicle for donors, helping them achieve their charitable goals.

The Foundation recently has converted its grant application process to an online submission. The application can be found on their Website at https://hutchinsonareacommunityfoundation.org/. Grant applications are currently being accepted for the Foundation’s current grant cycle and will be accepted online until October 4.

What does the Hutchinson Area Community Foundation enjoy most about their Chamber Membership?

The Foundation enjoys the partnership and collaboration that is gained by our membership in the Chamber.

Filed Under: Business of the Month
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