February 2020 – Business of the Month

February 5, 2020 By Ann Lamecker

This month’s featured business is Hager Jewelry. Hager Jewelry has served the Hutchinson area since 1913, and has been in their downtown location for over 75 years. You may recognize them by their signature piece – the clock seen along Main Street.

What You Should Know About Hager Jewelry

Mark and Deb Cormier are the welcoming owners of Hager Jewelry. They stand by their motto “We service what we sell,” and are passionate about the jewelry business. Members of the staff attend buying shows at least once a year to seek out the latest trends in the industry. They also attend educational seminars and consult with other jewelers to ensure they are using the best practices in the industry.

Hager’s sells fine jewelry, watches, and gifts in all price ranges and for all ages. They have a large selection of bridal rings for brides and grooms. And, if they don’t have the exact diamond size and shape you are looking for, they utilize trusted gem dealers to get exactly what you want. Hager’s offers an official Harley Davidson watch line for men and women, Bulova and Wittnauer brand watches, and a variety of watch band styles and materials. They recently added a new line of men’s jewelry – stop in if you haven’t seen it yet!

“We Service What We Sell”

Hager Jewelry is a full-service jeweler. Their motto “We service what we sell” is core to their business. They offer a host of services. Visit them for:

State certified watch repair

In-store jewelry repair

Custom engraving

Diamond setting

Custom jewelry design

Complimentary jewelry cleaning

Remounting your pieces to make them new again

Gold, silver, and platinum buying

Expert Advice

Mark says, “Talking to a person who has been in the jewelry business for 40 plus years is an excellent way to learn and be comfortable buying a precious gem. We have resources to get you the diamond you want at the price you can afford.” Stop in any time to their store at 138 Main Street South to have your jewelry serviced or cleaned, ask questions, or pick out a new piece for yourself or for a gift!

138 Main St S
Hutchinson, MN 55350
http://www.hagerjewelry.com
http://facebook.com/hagerjewelry

Hager Jewelry is open 6 days a week and can also be reached at (320) 587-2230.

Stop in for Valentine’s Day store specials featuring deep discounts on beautiful items for your sweetheart, or something new for you.

Filed Under: Business of the Month

February 2020 – Something From Mary!

February 3, 2020 By Ann Lamecker

Networking Is For Everyone

Have you seen the invitations for Business Connection or Business After Hours, and thought… my couch is calling me, or hmmmmm, I’ll have a headache that day?

Perhaps you even registered, but then decided last minute not to attend. (Which by the way, leaves someone hanging with extra food and costs-ooops!)

I want to give you some insight into these events. Here are questions I hear from people.

“What’s the difference between Business Connection and Business After Hours?
Business Connection is the first Friday of the month from 7-8am. It is a structured hour with time to learn about the business as well as an opportunity for each attendee to introduce themselves and share a tiny piece of their business. It might be one of our financial institutions sharing new rates for home loans, or “it’s not clean until it’s Patty Clean” from Divine Clean and a reminder of spring cleaning projects.
Business After Hours is from 4-6pm on the second Thursday of the month and is an open house, usually with a tour of some kind.
Both events provide food, and information about the business. Both give you a sense of the business and their work.

“I have plenty of business.”
Great, right now you do. You might be in over your head today, but what about this summer? Reminding people of your mere existence is important in the business world. Add some padding to relationships which you will need in the future. Being at a networking event shows you are involved in the business community. I think of Renee and Jon Hantge who have talked about being part of events simply to remind people they have Tri-County Water, and perhaps you’ll remember to order the softener salt you need. Or, next week your neighbor calls and says their water softener died….. they ask you who should they call? You’ll think of Jon and Renee since you just saw them. BOOM. I see this happen ALL THE TIME.

“Oh, I know what that business does.”
Do you really? Did you know they have a new product line they are making which uses the newest technology? Do you know who they just hired as manager? Did you realize they just renovated half their building? Have you been to their location to see them make product? Too many times we all make assumptions about what we do or don’t know about a business or business person. Did you know Jay Malone of Jay Malone Motors sleeps very little, and works in the wee wee hours of the night, because of his heart for his employees and customers? If you attended Business Connection you learned that tidbit. We meet people where they work and experience their passion.
This is building relationships.

“It’s so early in the morning.”
Yep, the best part of waking up is with a bunch of business people enjoying coffee, juice and breakfast…together. (I tried to make this work in my head as a coffee jingle.) Once 8am hits, we’re done and you are off to the races, ready to make the day bright and productive. Besides…. Seeing so many smiling faces is a huge day maker. And you’re actually probably already awake, and out of bed. Several of our Business Connection attendees cannot make the afternoon events due to work schedules, and they comment frequently about the morning being such a great option for them.

“I have to drop my kids off at practice.”
Supporting your kids and your family is VERY important. But if you are dropping them off, you may be just waiting in the car. Come to Business After Hours as it is an open house format. It isn’t structured like Business Connection in the mornings. Come when you can, leave when you need to. And if your child has a game or you need to be out of town… then attend the morning events. Heidi Arndt of Vivid Image usually needs to pick up her kids by a certain time each night. She comes early, and is able to accommodate her daycare time.

“I am not the owner of the business.”
And that matters….why? You are important to the work of your organization. ANY employee of ANY Chamber Member Business is welcome to attend. This is about growing your business, growing your network. Bo Young of American Family Insurance keeps saying, “Your network is your net worth.” Ooo, so good Bo! What happens to you if the owner/manager/president/supervisor leaves? What will you do? Having a network of options to lean on is extremely important.

“Why do businesses host either of these events?”
One. They are PROUD of their work and WHO does the work. I love to listen to people who are passionate about their work. Usually I tell people I could listen all day to someone who loves to make paperclips, passion is key.
Two. What a great way to share what you do and/or make. Educating the public and other business people is rewarding as is making B2B connections. Business to Business work happens frequently in Hutchinson. You may just make a connection attending and learning what a business offers, OR, what you can offer them.

“I don’t know anyone” or “I’m kinda shy.”
Time to consider what one “hello” can do for your business. We have MANY business people attend without a plus-one with them. MANY. You don’t have to worry about being a wall flower/shy type. We don’t bite. We really don’t. You are likely to know someone and if not, you will meet people. Mackenna Koehler from RAM Buildings frequently attends and has met people without having known people previously, and you know what? She meets someone new every month.

I am personally inviting YOU to attend something new and out of the box for yourself and your team. Join us on Friday, February 7^th from 7-8am for Business Connection at St Anastasia’s, and/or Thursday, February 13^th any time from 4-6pm for Business After Hours at the newly remodeled Edina Realty. Watch your inbox for invitations or send me a note to be added to the list.

Filed Under: Something From Mary, Uncategorized

What’s Happening February 2020!

February 3, 2020 By Cegi Wassman

Thank you for your support at the Chamber Annual Event and Congratulations to the 2020 Community Award Winners!

Thank you to everyone who helped make the 2020 Chamber Annual Event – Hutch-Opoly a huge success! A special thanks to our event sponsors. Our deepest gratitude to them for supporting our event.

Visionary Sponsor: Citizens Bank and Trust Co.

Welcome Sponsor: MITGI

Event Sponsors: 3M, ATHC, Hutchinson Health, and Uponor

In-kind Sponsors: CineMagic Century 9 Theatre, Crow River Winery, Innovative Foam, Kock’s Jewelry, Muddy Cow, and Oakdale Golf Course

Image may contain: 4 people, people standing and indoor

The Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce and Hutchinson Jaycees are excited to announce the Community Award winners. The winners are (from left to right) Young Leader of the Year – Luke Krueger, Volunteer of the Year –Mavis Schwanke, Teacher of the Year – Gloriann Heikes, and Business Person of the Year – Dean Bertram.

You can find more pictures from this event here: Hutchinson Chamber’s Facebook page

Passing of the Gavel – Chamber Board Chair

The Chamber takes this opportunity to thank 2019 Chamber Board Chair Roman Bloemke for his service to the Board and to each of us in the past year; and we welcome the 2020 Chamber Board Chair Beth Gasser into that position.

The Chamber would also like to thank outgoing Chamber Board Member Keith Heikes for his committed service.

Passing of the Gavel – Hutchinson Ambassadors

The Chamber takes this opportunity to thank 2019 Ambassador President Leah Watzke for her service to the Ambassadors and to each of us in the past year; and we welcome the 2020 Ambassador President Matt Bielke into that position.

2020 Tourism Marketing Grant Deadline – March 1st

Grant applications are due by March 1, 2020! Click the link below for more information.

Since 2013, the Chamber has enjoyed granting money to events held in Hutchinson hosted by nonprofits and for-profits. 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 applications can be found on our Tourism Marketing Grant blog. Grants will be awarded March 31, 2020 for applications returned by March 1, 2020.

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

Quarter 2 Table Tents – Deadline March 1st

The deadline for Quarter 2 Tables Tents is just around the corner, be sure to get your entry in today!

Due to a lack of entries, Quarter 1 Table Tents were not printed. We have had countless inquiries about where they are. Many people rely on them to know what is happening in Hutchinson. What a great marketing opportunity for your event! Table tents are a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to reach Hutchinson area residents and visitors. 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 per event listing for community members. Chamber Members receive a $10 discount per event listing. Submitting an event is easy… just complete the printable Table Tent Entry Form and mail, email or drop it off at the Chamber.

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) is March 1.

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 Hutchinson Chamber by phone 320-587-5252 or by email

office@explorehutchinson.com.

Please join us for March’s Business Connection hosted by Health Source Chiropractic on Friday, March 6th from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM.

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, and 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. This networking opportunity is a great way to know people in the community and keep in touch with Hutch!

If you are part of a Chamber business/organization and interested in attending, please register online via the link provided below. Multiple guests per organization are welcome, just remember to register!

Please join us for the Next Chamber Business Connection at:

HealthSource Chiropractic

Friday, March 6th from 7:00 am to 8:00 am.

Register Here for the March Business Connection

Thank you to February’s Business Connection host – St. Anastasia’s.

Invitation to Business Connection & Business After Hours

Please extend an invitation to Business Connection and Business After Hours to your employees. All Chamber Members and their employees are welcome to these programs. Please remember to register for the events through the links provided in this newsletter.

Maximize Your Membership!

Job Postings for Chamber Members — Are you looking for qualified applicants to fill open positions at your business? Post you job openings on ExploreHutchinson.com through your Chamber Membership. Use us as a trustworthy resource to get the word out about your available positions. We reference these job postings and share them on our Facebook page! Click on the image below for instructions, or call the Chamber with questions.

Business After Hours is a great way to learn about businesses in Hutchinson and network with fellow Chamber Members. Get behind the scenes access to our local businesses… see what they make, do, or provide for our community. This monthly event is open to all Chamber Member business employees or by a Chamber invitation. Registration is advised. Businesses interested in hosting a Business After Hours event, or seeking more information should email the Hutchinson 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.

February’s Business After Hours will be held on

Thursday, February 13th from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at

Edina Realty, located at 904 Highway 15 S, Hutchinson, MN

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

March’s Business After Hours will be held on

Thursday, March 12th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at

B & B Sports & RV 20271 MN-15, Hutchinson, MN

Registration coming soon!

New & Renewing Chamber Members

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

Berger Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
Larson Building Inc.

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

Ace Hardware
Adara Home Health
Applebee’s Bar & Grill
Area 22 Paintball
Buffalo Wild Wings
Cal-Tex Companies
CenBank
Cobblestone Hotel & Suites
Collin Peterson
Crow River Golf Club
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
Dostal Electronics Center
Echo Family Dental
Ecumen Oaks & Pines
Excelsior Homes, Inc.
FRF Productions
Hager Jewelry Inc
Harmony River Living Center
Hillyard, Inc.
Hjerpe Contracting, Inc.
Holiday
Hometown Realty, Inc.
Hutch Café
Hutchinson Area Dollars for Scholars
Hutchinson Bus Line, Inc.
Hutchinson Center for the Arts
Hutchinson Elks Lodge 2427
Hutchinson Health
Hutchinson Kiwanis Club
Hutchinson Lions
Hutchinson Rotary
James Young & Associates, Ltd.
Kock’s Jewelry, Inc.
Larry & Connie Fraser
Legend Companies
Little Crow Archery Club
Masterson Staffing Solutions
Maurices
McDonald’s
McLeod Cooperative Power
McLeod County Abstract & Title Services
McLeod County Fairgrounds
New Discoveries Montessori Academy
New Era Financial Group, Inc.
Nuvera
Oakdale Golf Club
Parkview Dental
Piehl, Hanson, Beckman, P.A.
Primary EyeCare
Quade Electric
RAM Buildings, Inc.
Regional Eye Specialists, P.A.
Ridgewater College
River of Hope Lutheran Church ELCA
Runnings
Sheila Murphy
SNAP Fitness
Sonora’s Mexican Restaurant
South Skyview Estates
Southwest Initiative Foundation
State Farm Insurance, Steve Kropp
Title Mark
Tri County Water Conditioning, Inc.
Uponor
Viking Signs
West Central Industries
Wetterling & Roepke Financial Services
Zellas

Business of the Month

February’s Business of the Month is Chamber Member Hager Jewelry. This locally owned full-service jeweler has been been in operation since 1913! You may recognize them by their signature clock outside their downtown location. They offer watch and ring repair, customization, and a full retail store. To learn more about Hager Jewelry click here.

138 Main St S
Hutchinson, MN 55350
http://www.hagerjewelry.com
http://facebook.com/hagerjewelry

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

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

Hutchinson Ambassadors

The 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.

January’s Ambassador Business Visits:

CorTrust Bank

Professionals 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 the 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 2nd Wednesday of the month, January – May & September – December 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.

The group also gets together at quarterly social events. Refer to the printable image below for the 2020 schedule.

Something from Mary!

Mary Hodson
Networking is for everyone

Insight into the Chamber’s networking events.

The rest of Mary’s article can be found on February’s Something from Mary blog.

Save the Date!

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

MARCH
6 Business Connection Register Here
11 PULSE Lunch & Learn PULSE Facebook
12 Business After Hours – B&B Sports & RV Register Here

APRIL
3 Business Connection
8 PULSE Lunch & Learn
9 Business After Hours

MAY
1 Business Connection
13 PULSE Lunch & Learn
14 Business After Hours
20 Leadership Institute 2018-2019 Graduation

JUNE
5 Business Connection
5 Dairy Day

JULY
27 Chamber Golf Event – Crow River Golf Club

AUGUST
7 Business Connection

SEPTEMBER
4 Business Connection
9 PULSE Lunch & Learn
18/19 46^th Arts & Crafts Festival
18/19 Taste of Hutchinson
24/25 Leadership Institute 2020-2021 Begins

OCTOBER
-Farm Fatigue Buckets Delivered-
2 Business Connection
14 PULSE Lunch & Learn
8 Business After Hours

NOVEMBER
6 Business Connection
11 PULSE Lunch & Learn
19 Taste of the Holidays
28 Small Business Saturday

DECEMBER
Crop Management Input Seminar
4 Business Connection
9 PULSE Lunch & Learn

Filed Under: Newsletters

What’s Happening January 2020

December 30, 2019 By Mary Hodson

Chamber Annual Event & Community Awards Banquet

Have you registered yet? Time is running out! Don’t miss this fast-dealing, property trading game, where local businesses have a “property” on a LIFE SIZED “Hutch-Opoly” board game. The Chamber’s Annual Event and Community Awards Banquet held on Friday, January 24th, 2020 at the Crow River Winery from 5:30PM to 10PM. Come and join us for a pasta buffet and 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.

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

New & Renewing Chamber Members

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

Muddy Cow
Wright Farms

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

Adult Training & Habilitation Center, Inc.
Albers Insurance
American Family Insurance- William “Bo” Young Agency
Animal Medical Center on Crow River
Aveyron Homes, Inc.
Bernick’s Pepsi
Bullert Hospitality Group
Cash Wise Foods
Citizens Bank & Trust Co
City of Hutchinson
CorTrust Bank
Dobratz- Hantge Funeral Chapel
E.G. Rud & Sons, Inc.
Edward Jones- Pat Chapman AAMS
Fahey Sales Agency
Hansen Gravel, Inc.
Hassan Valley Lodge #109- Odd Fellows & Rebekahs
Hutch Bowl & Squeaky’s Grill & Bar
Hutchinson Co-op
Hutchinson Countryside Retreats
Hutchinson Downtown Association
Hutchinson Family Dentistry
Hutchinson Jaycees
Hutchinson Leader
Hutchinson Public Schools
Hutchinson Theatre Company
Jay Malone Motors
Juul Contracting Co
KDUZ/KAPR/KGLB Radio
Kraft Walser Law Office
L & P Supply Co.
Laraway Roofing, Inc.
Lynn Card Company
Mathews & Vasek Construction
McKimm Milk Transit
Mediacom Communications
Melchert Hubert Sjodin
MITGI
Peace Lutheran Church
Prince of Peace Retirement Living
Pro Maintenance, Inc.
SEH of Hutchinson
Simonson Lumber Co.
Skyview Dariy, Inc.
Slumberland Furniture
Southwest Eye Care
Subway- Hwy 7
The Village Shop
Town & Country Tire
United Way of McLeod County
Wendling Insurance Services, Inc.
Westlund Associates

Meet your new Board!

The Hutchinson Chamber Board is extremely excited to introduce to you the 2020 Board!

Standing (left to Right): Sheila Murphy, Leah Watzke, Tara Tepley, John Sanken, Adam Fink, Jeremy Crosby.

Seated (left to Right): Brian Renner, Beth Gasser, Roman Bloemke, Don Martinez. Missing in the photograph is Jesse Bjur.

Hutchinson Ambassadors

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

December’s Ambassador Business Visits:

HealthSource Chiropractic of Hutchinson

Business After Hours

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 for our community. This monthly event is open to all Chamber Member business employees or by a Chamber invitation, registration is advised. Businesses interested in a hosting Business After Hours event or would like more information should email the Hutchinson Ambassadors.

January’s Business After Hours will be held on

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

Buffalo Wild Wings 1040 MN-15, Hutchinson, MN.

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

February’s Business After Hours will be held on

Thursday, February 13th from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at

Edina Realty, located at 904 Highway 15 S, Hutchinson, MN.

Registration coming soon!

Business Connection logo

Attend these networking events that take place from 7:00 am – 8:00 am on the first Friday of each month at a Chamber business. Chamber Members are invited to gather, enjoy coffee and a light breakfast, share a quick update or information on their business/organization, and learn more about the host business through a presentation. We will always have Chamber updates for you as well.

If you are part of a Chamber business/organization and interested in attending, please register online in the link provided below. Multiple guests per organization are welcome, just remember to register! Door prizes will be given out, so make sure you bring your business card to be entered into the drawing.

January Business Connection has been canceled due to the Holiday! Happy New Year!

Please join us for the Next Chamber Business Connection at

St. Anastasia

Friday, February 7th from 7:00 am to 8:00 am.

Registration Link for February’s Business Connection

2019 Ag Person of the Year is… Glenn Witte

Congratulations to the 2019 Ag Person of the Year Glenn Witte!

Thank you to the Chamber’s AgriBusiness Committee

for their work throughout the year!

Maximize Your Membership!

Does your business or organization have a special announcement or flyer that needs the attention of many? You may want to consider inserting a flyer into the Chamber’s monthly Newsletter! This is a super easy and convenient 1 point option that is available to all members. A 1-point option can get you 3 inserts plus 1 mailing list OR 4 Newsletter insets. Simply send an 8 1/2 x 11 PDF of the flyer by the 25th of the prior month if you would like to share!

If you have any addition questions or are interested in submitting a flyer please contact the Hutchinson Chamber by phone: 320-587-5252 or by email: office@explorehutchinson.com.

Quarter 1 Table Tents

****We are sad to announce that Quarter 1 Table tents will not be delivered. Due to lack of entries we were unable have them printed.

The deadline for Quarter 2 Tables Tents is just around the corner, be sure to get your entry in today!

Are you looking for a way to boost an upcoming Hutchinson event? The Chamber printers 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 per event listing for community members and Chamber Members receive a $10 discount per event listing. Submitting an event is easy… just complete the printable Table Tent Entry Form and mail, email or drop it off at the Chamber.

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

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 Hutchinson Chamber by phone 320-587-5252 or by email

office@explorehutchinson.com.

Professionals 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.

Like the PULSE Facebook page to get the latest event information and registration links.

The group also gets together at quarterly social events. Refer to the printable image below for the 2020 schedule.

You get out what you put in….

Something from Mary! ….

We are sliding into the new decade- the roaring twenties are back!

The new year, and in this case decade, always brings me to a place to contemplate…..

Learn more in Mary’s blog!

Save the Date!

JANUARY
8 PULSE Lunch & Learn
9 Business After Hours – Buffalo Wild Wings
24 Annual Chamber Event – Hutch-Opoly

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

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

APRIL
3 Business Connection
8 PULSE Lunch & Learn
9 Business After Hours

MAY
1 Business Connection
13 PULSE Lunch & Learn
14 Business After Hours
20 Leadership Institute 2018-2019 Graduation

JUNE
5 Business Connection
5 Dairy Day

JULY
27 Chamber Golf Event – Oakdale

AUGUST
7 Business Connection

SEPTEMBER
4 Business Connection
9 PULSE Lunch & Learn
18/19 46^th Arts & Crafts Festival
18/19 Taste of Hutchinson
24/25 Leadership Institute 2020-2021 Begins

OCTOBER
-Farm Fatigue Buckets Delivered-
2 Business Connection
14 PULSE Lunch & Learn
8 Business After Hours

NOVEMBER
6 Business Connection
11 PULSE Lunch & Learn
19 Taste of the Holidays
28 Small Business Saturday

DECEMBER
Crop Management Input Seminar
4 Business Connection
9 PULSE lunch & Learn

Filed Under: Newsletters

January 2020 – Something from Mary!

December 30, 2019 By Cegi Wassman

We are sliding into the new decade- the roaring twenties are back!

The new year, and in this case decade, always brings me to a place to contemplate ‘what did we do well and what could we have done better.’ Do you do this?

I have a couple of tools you might consider for your own analysis.

I learned from Steve Gasser, “Keep Stop Start” and have found this to be a great way to review aspects of a business. Will we keep or start doing this program? Do we need to start a program?

It is also an easy language for everyone to use in your business. It may seem simple, but we have found it to be very effective as staff evaluates programs, events, and services. Using it for specific products or product lines, service lines, territories or regions…. It has a host of opportunities for your specific industry.

Keep Stop Start also functions as a communication device when speaking with employees during evaluations or difficult conversations.

Now, you could SWOT it around. SWOT analysis goes deeper than Keep Stop Start. SWOT stands for Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities and Threats.

Strengths and Weakness are considered internal to the organization, while Opportunities and Threats are external. In an easy four-square-grid you and your team can map out and work through a SWOT analysis. You can do SWOT for several programs, services, products and then overlay the results to see what the common denominators are.

Again, a SWOT session is more in-depth; depending on what you are examining, you may find it helpful or more of a hindrance. Use what works best for you.

Engaging key stake holders…. Employees, into this conversation will do a couple of things. One: value add. Employees who are asked for their input are more engaged, and when they feel valued, they tend to stay.

Two: Many times, managers and owners do not know the ins and outs of a machine, program, or service like someone utilizing it on a regular basis. As a business owner or manager, ask those front-line workers what is and isn’t working. You will learn A LOT, and potentially save money, time, or customers by incorporating your staff in these conversations. Even if you are the owner and manager AND an operator…. Ask employees anyway. You may be very surprised at the responses you get.

If you have never done anything like this before with employees, here’s an idea for you. Along the left side of a post-it note, write Keep Stop Start, and hand it to your employee(s). Ask them to return that to you in two days with one thing they think your company should keep doing, one thing they think you should stop all together, and another thing that should be started. Give them time to think about it. You may find it to be VERY revealing, a great way to start conversations about the work environment, AND crazy enough, make your production increase as you find what is working and what might not be.

These are commonly used tools in all areas of business and you can feel confident in trying them with your business.

I pray you have a blessed 2020. Cheers to the New Year!

Filed Under: Something From Mary

What’s Happening December 2019

December 2, 2019 By Mary Hodson

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 Support Once 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!

We 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

The 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.

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.

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!

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.

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….

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 Mary Hodson

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

Tourism Marketing Grant Available!

October 31, 2019 By Mary Hodson

Every event watches the bottom line to make the most out of every dollar and every event has the same need – people!

Have no Fear – Help is Here…. The Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism has a grant to help offset marketing costs to get people to come to your event- Here are the two biggest things to know:

Marketing (for the grant) must be outside a 30 mile radius of Hutchinson, MN.
The Chamber/Tourism logo has to be included in the ad or marketing medium.

Through our tourism program, we work to attract more people to Hutchinson, MN. We have much to offer, and our businesses are here to serve those who visit. More people in Hutchinson generates more revenue for our businesses…. Which generates more tax revenue…. Which repairs our streets, keeps police officers in our neighborhoods, keeps our water clean… you get where I am going with that.

Several events have applied and received Tourism Marketing Grant money – Hutchinson Area Boat and RV Show, The Big Little Hunting & Fishing Expo, Minnesota Pottery Festival, Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival, RiverSong, McLeod County Fair and Minnesota Garlic Festival.

Event Marketing Tip: When you are setting up a marketing plan, be sure to diversify. Publications, radio, posters and social media are all important in today’s world. Be sure you are doing everything to set your event up for success. Focusing too heavily on only one of these options can drastically reduce your attendance.

We look forward to receiving your application and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have.

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

Filed Under: Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Tagged With: Grants, Tourism Marketing

November 2019 – Business of the Month

October 31, 2019 By Mary Hodson

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 Mary Hodson

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 You Should Know About Hager Jewelry

“We Service What We Sell”

Expert Advice

138 Main St S Hutchinson, MN 55350 http://www.hagerjewelry.com http://facebook.com/hagerjewelry

Stop in for Valentine’s Day store specials featuring deep discounts on beautiful items for your sweetheart, or something new for you.

Networking Is For Everyone

Thank you for your support at the Chamber Annual Event and Congratulations to the 2020 Community Award Winners!

Passing of the Gavel – Chamber Board Chair

Passing of the Gavel – Hutchinson Ambassadors

2020 Tourism Marketing Grant Deadline – March 1st

Quarter 2 Table Tents – Deadline March 1st

HealthSource Chiropractic

Friday, March 6th from 7:00 am to 8:00 am.

Invitation to Business Connection & Business After Hours

Maximize Your Membership!

New & Renewing Chamber Members

Business of the Month

138 Main St S Hutchinson, MN 55350 http://www.hagerjewelry.com http://facebook.com/hagerjewelry

Hutchinson Ambassadors

Professionals Under 40 Leading Socializing and Educating

Something from Mary!

Save the Date!

Chamber Annual Event & Community Awards Banquet

New & Renewing Chamber Members

Meet your new Board!

Hutchinson Ambassadors

Business After Hours

St. Anastasia

Friday, February 7th from 7:00 am to 8:00 am.

2019 Ag Person of the Year is… Glenn Witte

Maximize Your Membership!

Quarter 1 Table Tents

Professionals Under 40 Leading Socializing and Educating

You get out what you put in….

Save the Date!

We are sliding into the new decade- the roaring twenties are back!

Annual Banquet

Community Awards

2020 Crop Management Input Seminar

Taste of the Holidays – Thank You!

Small Business Saturday – Thank You!

Business Connection – December 6th

Hutchinson Ambassadors

Business After Hours – January 9

Maximize Your Membership!

Quarter 2 Table Tent Deadline is March 1, 2020!

New and Renewing Members

Business of the Month… All local Businesses!

You get out what you put in….

Save the Date!

More Information For Your Business To Grow…

Change.

760 Century Ave SW

Hutchinson, MN 55350

Fear Free Certified

Proud to be AAHA accredited

A variety of pet-centered services

Celebrating 35 years with Open House on Nov. 8

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138 Main St S
Hutchinson, MN 55350
http://www.hagerjewelry.com
http://facebook.com/hagerjewelry

138 Main St S
Hutchinson, MN 55350
http://www.hagerjewelry.com
http://facebook.com/hagerjewelry