Former CEO of General Electric, Jack Welsh, once shared this business philosophy:
"Where should we be 20 years from now? What are our priorities for the next 90 days? The Middle doesn't matter."
finis
I'm outta here.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Outside Looking In
Local celebrations are a wonderful way for area communities and ethnic groups to showcase their heritage and culture. For those of us who are not 2nd or 3rd generation residents, we'll forever be outsiders to an area rich in history, and cultural nuances. And, to be able to attend these celebrations is a great chance to fully understand and appreciate these unique perspectives.
For those of you who don't have roots deep into the region, please find time to attend and enjoy these vibrant community events.
In the business world as well, newcomers to a community or corporate culture often find themselves on the outside looking in. The real challenge is the ability for folks to adopt to local customs and practices and for the locals to allow the newcomer some time to adjust to local norms. The lines occasionally blur as individuals and organizations try to determine which moves first, the mountain or the person.
It's a delicate dance.
For those of you who don't have roots deep into the region, please find time to attend and enjoy these vibrant community events.
In the business world as well, newcomers to a community or corporate culture often find themselves on the outside looking in. The real challenge is the ability for folks to adopt to local customs and practices and for the locals to allow the newcomer some time to adjust to local norms. The lines occasionally blur as individuals and organizations try to determine which moves first, the mountain or the person.
It's a delicate dance.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Keys Gone Bad
Not sure what was happening with the keys in my world, but 3 of them failed to work last week and I don't know why.
The first incident was on a hot afternoon (at least it was hot inside my truck). The key slipped into the ignition, but that's as far as it went. The ignition seemed jammed and the key wasn't going to work. After about 5 minutes of wiggling the key around, in and out, and upside down, the ignition unfroze and and I was off to more business visits.
Maybe an hour later at the post office, I was trying to insert the key into my PO Box and it too wasn't going to work. The key flat out wouldn't fit. After several attempts to make it work by postal employees and me, Carol our post mistress was kind enough to give me the "backup" key to that box and I was on my way.
Did I mention that my ATM card didn't work that day either?
Just this past Saturday, it was my turn to take the Marshall Float and drive it in the parade in Tyler for Aebleskiver Days. Had made arrangements ahead of time to get the key to the brand new pickup attached to the float as the dealership would be closed by the time that I was planning to leave for Tyler. It was going to be great! A wonderful way to spend a Saturday evening.
After climbing into the new pickup to head down the road, I inserted the key into the ignition and turned it. Nothing happened! The truck would not start. After a couple of minutes, I noticed the dash board showed an error message: "damaged key."
Sorry Tyler! Sorry Aebleskiver Days Committee. Sorry Marshall. It seems that I was just having a bad key week.
The first incident was on a hot afternoon (at least it was hot inside my truck). The key slipped into the ignition, but that's as far as it went. The ignition seemed jammed and the key wasn't going to work. After about 5 minutes of wiggling the key around, in and out, and upside down, the ignition unfroze and and I was off to more business visits.
Maybe an hour later at the post office, I was trying to insert the key into my PO Box and it too wasn't going to work. The key flat out wouldn't fit. After several attempts to make it work by postal employees and me, Carol our post mistress was kind enough to give me the "backup" key to that box and I was on my way.
Did I mention that my ATM card didn't work that day either?
Just this past Saturday, it was my turn to take the Marshall Float and drive it in the parade in Tyler for Aebleskiver Days. Had made arrangements ahead of time to get the key to the brand new pickup attached to the float as the dealership would be closed by the time that I was planning to leave for Tyler. It was going to be great! A wonderful way to spend a Saturday evening.
After climbing into the new pickup to head down the road, I inserted the key into the ignition and turned it. Nothing happened! The truck would not start. After a couple of minutes, I noticed the dash board showed an error message: "damaged key."
Sorry Tyler! Sorry Aebleskiver Days Committee. Sorry Marshall. It seems that I was just having a bad key week.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
No Elephant Ears in Marshall
Back in the early 90's the Ambassadors at the Lewiston (Idaho) chamber of commerce were famous for the Elephant Ears that they prepared during the community's largest event: The Dogwood Festival, an event welcoming in the blooming of the numerous dogwood trees around town.
Sweet dough was prepared well in advance by a local grocery store using a very secret recipe. Hundreds of pounds of dough was prepared each year for the two day arts and food event outside on the College Commons.
The ambassadors would set up a tent on the college lawn (the center point of the Dogwood Festival) and sell Elephant Ears to the public. The deep fat fried sweet dough was covered with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar and sold faster than they could be made. Oil was heated in metal pans on top of backyard bar-b-ques. The only thing that sold faster were the hand dipped in batter and fried asparagus spears sold by the local advertising club. They were using tongs, tupperware and electric skillets from home to prepare these delicious delights!
Unfortunately, Elephant Ears and Asparagus spears prepared in that manner will never be sold in Marshall, much less Minnesota as a fund raising activity for local community organizations.
Our chamber sponsored a workshop on Monday in response to concerns by community event organizers and local health officials: Cooking Safely for a Crowd. The workshop featured health inspectors from the Minnesota Department of Health and a food specialist from the U of M Extension Office. They clearly demonstrated that unless proper licensing is obtained and that food is prepared in a commercial kitchen setting, "food-based" fundraisers ever so popular at community celebrations and festivals will soon go the way of the dinosaur.
The workshop was an excellent educational program that outlined the need for proper food preparation based on public safety and health concerns. Thanks to the good folks at SMSU for providing us space and to the Health Department and the U of M Extension office for providing knowledgeable and professional staff to share their expertise.
More than one person after their presentation wondered aloud, "gee, makes you ask how we all survived as long as we have."
That's my opinion, what about yours?
Sweet dough was prepared well in advance by a local grocery store using a very secret recipe. Hundreds of pounds of dough was prepared each year for the two day arts and food event outside on the College Commons.
The ambassadors would set up a tent on the college lawn (the center point of the Dogwood Festival) and sell Elephant Ears to the public. The deep fat fried sweet dough was covered with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar and sold faster than they could be made. Oil was heated in metal pans on top of backyard bar-b-ques. The only thing that sold faster were the hand dipped in batter and fried asparagus spears sold by the local advertising club. They were using tongs, tupperware and electric skillets from home to prepare these delicious delights!
Unfortunately, Elephant Ears and Asparagus spears prepared in that manner will never be sold in Marshall, much less Minnesota as a fund raising activity for local community organizations.
Our chamber sponsored a workshop on Monday in response to concerns by community event organizers and local health officials: Cooking Safely for a Crowd. The workshop featured health inspectors from the Minnesota Department of Health and a food specialist from the U of M Extension Office. They clearly demonstrated that unless proper licensing is obtained and that food is prepared in a commercial kitchen setting, "food-based" fundraisers ever so popular at community celebrations and festivals will soon go the way of the dinosaur.
The workshop was an excellent educational program that outlined the need for proper food preparation based on public safety and health concerns. Thanks to the good folks at SMSU for providing us space and to the Health Department and the U of M Extension office for providing knowledgeable and professional staff to share their expertise.
More than one person after their presentation wondered aloud, "gee, makes you ask how we all survived as long as we have."
That's my opinion, what about yours?
Friday, July 17, 2009
Transparent Open and Upfront
Earlier this week we sent letters to our entire membership letting them know about the current "cash-flow challenges" being experienced by our chamber of commerce. Businesses large and small around the world are being challenged by the economy. The Marshall Area Chamber is no different.
It's never an easy thing to share the challenge, but the chamber's board made the right decision to be as transparent as we can with our members and community.
Does this mean we're in trouble? No. While the money-situation is very tight we have no intention to close the office doors, nor do we foresee a reduction in services to our members and the community.
What we do expect is a continued "tightening of our belt" and greater efforts from staff and leadership to reach out to our members to let them know of the many great programs and services that we will continue to offer.
Our fiscal year continues through September. This is the time of year we traditionally work on planning next year's program of work. The past year has been spent shoring up the organization's foundation and establishing some new programs. For the coming year, expect a greater emphasis and focus on member programs and services not to mention a great push towards re-emphasizing the return our members receive for their investment in our chamber of commerce.
We sincerely appreciate the continued support of our members and look forward to continue to provide them with the valuable programs and services that they've come to expect and deserve.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
It's never an easy thing to share the challenge, but the chamber's board made the right decision to be as transparent as we can with our members and community.
Does this mean we're in trouble? No. While the money-situation is very tight we have no intention to close the office doors, nor do we foresee a reduction in services to our members and the community.
What we do expect is a continued "tightening of our belt" and greater efforts from staff and leadership to reach out to our members to let them know of the many great programs and services that we will continue to offer.
Our fiscal year continues through September. This is the time of year we traditionally work on planning next year's program of work. The past year has been spent shoring up the organization's foundation and establishing some new programs. For the coming year, expect a greater emphasis and focus on member programs and services not to mention a great push towards re-emphasizing the return our members receive for their investment in our chamber of commerce.
We sincerely appreciate the continued support of our members and look forward to continue to provide them with the valuable programs and services that they've come to expect and deserve.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Can't Drive There from Here
Just about every day, someone calls the office seeking a number for the driver's license bureau. This seemingly simple request is much more complicated than it needs to be. At least it is in Marshall.
We're now accustomed to ask the caller a couple of questions about which office or service it is that they're trying to call. For those of us who live here and have had to go through the process of getting a new drivers license, take the test, and get new license plates for our vehicles know that there are three stops that need to be made. Talk about state government efficiency!
Back to our callers. If they are looking to get a new or renew their drivers license we give them the number at the County Government Center on Main Street. If they're looking to take the driver's test, they get the number for the testing office on North Highway 59. And, if they're looking for vehicle license plate information, we send them to that office on Redwood Street.
The good news is that the folks who work at each of these offices are fantastic at what they do and are very "user friendly" when it comes to each step of the process. The bad news, is that you will need a road map to find each of these different locations around town.
Just in case you're wondering:
Vehicle License Plates: 507-532-4643
Drivers Testing Office: 507-537-7024
Drivers License Applications: 507-537-6727
We're now accustomed to ask the caller a couple of questions about which office or service it is that they're trying to call. For those of us who live here and have had to go through the process of getting a new drivers license, take the test, and get new license plates for our vehicles know that there are three stops that need to be made. Talk about state government efficiency!
Back to our callers. If they are looking to get a new or renew their drivers license we give them the number at the County Government Center on Main Street. If they're looking to take the driver's test, they get the number for the testing office on North Highway 59. And, if they're looking for vehicle license plate information, we send them to that office on Redwood Street.
The good news is that the folks who work at each of these offices are fantastic at what they do and are very "user friendly" when it comes to each step of the process. The bad news, is that you will need a road map to find each of these different locations around town.
Just in case you're wondering:
Vehicle License Plates: 507-532-4643
Drivers Testing Office: 507-537-7024
Drivers License Applications: 507-537-6727
Monday, July 6, 2009
First Class Service and Stamps too
Just back from my daily walk to pick up mail at the Post Office. Once again the window clerks greeted me by name as I walked in the front door (seems like they're able to greet everyone by name)!
It occurred to me that while they can't do much about the price of a first class stamp, they sure do make the visit a bit less stressful. In addition to postage they also offer First Class Customer Service!
Hats off to Marshall Post Mistress Carol Nobel and her excellent crew. They truly understand the value of great customer service.
It occurred to me that while they can't do much about the price of a first class stamp, they sure do make the visit a bit less stressful. In addition to postage they also offer First Class Customer Service!
Hats off to Marshall Post Mistress Carol Nobel and her excellent crew. They truly understand the value of great customer service.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Out and About
Interesting feedback from our members the past few weeks. Have spent a good deal of time lately on the street visiting with our members about the local and regional economy.
Surprisingly, it's a "mixed bag" that I'm hearing. While some business owners will smile, look around, and shyly report that they're having a pretty decent '09 year, (shhh....don't tell anyone!), there are also those who are struggling daily to keep the doors open and remain viable. The majority seem to be somewhere in between.
My gut tells me that there are more local businesses that are enjoying relative prosperity than there are those who are barely keeping their business heads above water.
"It's obvious that many of the national trends are having, at best, minimal impacts on quite a few local businesses. The fact that we're now part of a global economy still has rippling affects from one end of town to the other. It's true that everyone is closely watching their bottom line. The current economic downturn has given everyone permission to be more conservative." These are just a few phrases that have common threads in the comments I'm hearing.
In Marshall, with its deep roots firmly wrapped around fiscal conservatism and risk aversion, we will probably not realize the dizzying heights of economic prosperity, nor will be subjected to the incredible impacts that the recession is having on communities elsewhere in our country.
Marshall businesses continue to stay focused on providing quality products and services. Together, our community will have a greater chance of surviving the national economic challenges. Much more so than trying to go it alone.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Surprisingly, it's a "mixed bag" that I'm hearing. While some business owners will smile, look around, and shyly report that they're having a pretty decent '09 year, (shhh....don't tell anyone!), there are also those who are struggling daily to keep the doors open and remain viable. The majority seem to be somewhere in between.
My gut tells me that there are more local businesses that are enjoying relative prosperity than there are those who are barely keeping their business heads above water.
"It's obvious that many of the national trends are having, at best, minimal impacts on quite a few local businesses. The fact that we're now part of a global economy still has rippling affects from one end of town to the other. It's true that everyone is closely watching their bottom line. The current economic downturn has given everyone permission to be more conservative." These are just a few phrases that have common threads in the comments I'm hearing.
In Marshall, with its deep roots firmly wrapped around fiscal conservatism and risk aversion, we will probably not realize the dizzying heights of economic prosperity, nor will be subjected to the incredible impacts that the recession is having on communities elsewhere in our country.
Marshall businesses continue to stay focused on providing quality products and services. Together, our community will have a greater chance of surviving the national economic challenges. Much more so than trying to go it alone.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Monday, June 29, 2009
Marshall Stands Tall and Proud
The folks from Marshall and the region stood tall on Saturday. A wonderful regional turnout was on hand for the LTD Tour as the caravan passed through our community.
While I can't speak for the participants of the caravan or the families of the soldiers whose memory and service created this wonderful event, I can share how proud I felt at the wonderful response from Marshall and the Region.
While I can't speak for the participants of the caravan or the families of the soldiers whose memory and service created this wonderful event, I can share how proud I felt at the wonderful response from Marshall and the Region.
Friday, June 26, 2009
A place on their Wall
A bit of irony you might say.
A long time member of our chamber of commerce recently told me that they no longer wanted to be a member of our organization. With a bit of prodding, I was able to learn from them that they didn't perceive that the value was there in the membership.
It was important to me to also listen to their other concerns about the community. We also discussed the value equation of what great things the chamber is currently working on and doing on a daily basis. As we got to the end of our conversation, I pointed out that the membership plaque hanging on the wall of their business was a benefit of membership along with the First Dollar Award displayed next to it.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to convince them to renew their membership. Surprisingly as I walked by the business several days later, the membership plaque was no longer on the wall, but the First Dollar Award was still proudly hanging where it had been for a number of years.
Maybe there is still value in their minds for what we do and that they will consider rejoining later in the year?
A long time member of our chamber of commerce recently told me that they no longer wanted to be a member of our organization. With a bit of prodding, I was able to learn from them that they didn't perceive that the value was there in the membership.
It was important to me to also listen to their other concerns about the community. We also discussed the value equation of what great things the chamber is currently working on and doing on a daily basis. As we got to the end of our conversation, I pointed out that the membership plaque hanging on the wall of their business was a benefit of membership along with the First Dollar Award displayed next to it.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to convince them to renew their membership. Surprisingly as I walked by the business several days later, the membership plaque was no longer on the wall, but the First Dollar Award was still proudly hanging where it had been for a number of years.
Maybe there is still value in their minds for what we do and that they will consider rejoining later in the year?
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Loud Proud and Visible
On Saturday, the communities in SW Minnesota will be paying tribute to three fallen heroes and their families.
The 4th Annual LTD Tour will be held on Saturday, June 27th. This special tribute is to honor the memories and the families of 3 Minnesota National Guardsmen who gave their lives in the war against terror in Baghdad, Iraq in February of 2005: Sgt. Jesse Lhotka; 1st LT Jason Timmerman; and SSG David Day.
The motorcycle tour and caravan travels from Montevideo to Appleton via Marshall and several other SW Minnesota Communities. Included with the caravan will be a motor coach carrying the families of these soldiers.
They will arrive in Marshall at approximately 11:15 a.m. Their route will take them from the intersection of Highways 59 and 68 through downtown Marshall, then past the National Guard Armory, heading west on Highway 19. The group turns north on the bypass and will head west on Highway 68 towards Ghent.
In Marshall, residents are encouraged to fly flags, tie yellow ribbons, line the streets along the tour route and wave, shout and help pay tribute to the memories of these brave young men.
Along the bypass, the eastern most north bound lane will be closed off from 10:30 until noon, so that commercial and emergency vehicles can park and show their respect. Honking of horns, flashing of lights, is encouraged.
Let's not forget the memory of these Minnesota Soldiers. The caravan will be passing through our community non-stop. Please take 10 minutes of your day to help honor and recognize this special event.
The 4th Annual LTD Tour will be held on Saturday, June 27th. This special tribute is to honor the memories and the families of 3 Minnesota National Guardsmen who gave their lives in the war against terror in Baghdad, Iraq in February of 2005: Sgt. Jesse Lhotka; 1st LT Jason Timmerman; and SSG David Day.
The motorcycle tour and caravan travels from Montevideo to Appleton via Marshall and several other SW Minnesota Communities. Included with the caravan will be a motor coach carrying the families of these soldiers.
They will arrive in Marshall at approximately 11:15 a.m. Their route will take them from the intersection of Highways 59 and 68 through downtown Marshall, then past the National Guard Armory, heading west on Highway 19. The group turns north on the bypass and will head west on Highway 68 towards Ghent.
In Marshall, residents are encouraged to fly flags, tie yellow ribbons, line the streets along the tour route and wave, shout and help pay tribute to the memories of these brave young men.
Along the bypass, the eastern most north bound lane will be closed off from 10:30 until noon, so that commercial and emergency vehicles can park and show their respect. Honking of horns, flashing of lights, is encouraged.
Let's not forget the memory of these Minnesota Soldiers. The caravan will be passing through our community non-stop. Please take 10 minutes of your day to help honor and recognize this special event.
Friday, June 19, 2009
SoS: Hang our hats!
Sounds of Summer is back and gaining more and more traction every day. A fun schedule of events has been outlined, with more and more community groups and organizations jumping on the bandwagon of support! Good for them!
The strategy of the new organizers of this community event is sound and viable:
"Don't bite off too much and make certain that the programs planned have both the financial and volunteer resources in place to make certain that they are successful."
Community Celebrations often give a peg to hang a hat upon. Bragging rights, civic pride and support are all components and reasons to put time, talent, energy and resources into a celebration.
Now is the time for the entire community to make the commitment to this year's Sounds of Summer Celebration. It requires an entire community to insure the success of a community celebration.
It's time to step up Marshall.
The strategy of the new organizers of this community event is sound and viable:
"Don't bite off too much and make certain that the programs planned have both the financial and volunteer resources in place to make certain that they are successful."
Community Celebrations often give a peg to hang a hat upon. Bragging rights, civic pride and support are all components and reasons to put time, talent, energy and resources into a celebration.
Now is the time for the entire community to make the commitment to this year's Sounds of Summer Celebration. It requires an entire community to insure the success of a community celebration.
It's time to step up Marshall.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Remind me again
Almost a daily question: "Remind me again why I belong to our chamber of commerce?"
Here's the short version:
We work hard every day to provide value and services to our members and the community. We're doing the things that most people just assume happens on its own.
*80 Years of Organizational Stability and Leadership
*We ARE the voice of Business in Marshall and the Region
*We provide Business Education and Training
*We lead in the areas of Legislative and Government Affairs
*Superior Business Networking Programs
*We have aggressive and effective committees
*We conduct dynamic programs and event
*Daily services to our members, community and the public
Sometimes it's not about ringing the cash register. However, most days it's about making Marshall and the region a better place to live, raise a family, and conduct business.
Here's the short version:
We work hard every day to provide value and services to our members and the community. We're doing the things that most people just assume happens on its own.
*80 Years of Organizational Stability and Leadership
*We ARE the voice of Business in Marshall and the Region
*We provide Business Education and Training
*We lead in the areas of Legislative and Government Affairs
*Superior Business Networking Programs
*We have aggressive and effective committees
*We conduct dynamic programs and event
*Daily services to our members, community and the public
Sometimes it's not about ringing the cash register. However, most days it's about making Marshall and the region a better place to live, raise a family, and conduct business.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Customer Service
In today's tight economy, business owners and managers need to be pulling out all the stops to make certain that current and potential customers have every opportunity to do business with them.
Each of us needs to take a hard look at finding ways to make it easier for our customers to do business with us. Extended hours and services are just part of the battle.
The other day I walked into a shop and greeted the clerk with an enthusiastic "hello." It was returned with a blank stare and a frown. It didn't take me long to take care of business and leave. On another occasion I called a local business and the person answering the phone gave me the impression that I had just interrupted their day. I'll probably think twice before calling them again.
One incident that just really caught be by surprise was watching the owner of a small business park their vehicle in the parking spot closest to their door at the beginning of their work day. A couple of hours later when I passed by, their vehicle hadn't moved from the busy parking lot. I wonder how many potential customers drove by and didn't stop because there wasn't a parking space close to that store?
Granted, these are probably extreme instances of poor customer service. There are plenty of folks who do an outstanding job. From time to time I'll try to identify them in this blog.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Each of us needs to take a hard look at finding ways to make it easier for our customers to do business with us. Extended hours and services are just part of the battle.
The other day I walked into a shop and greeted the clerk with an enthusiastic "hello." It was returned with a blank stare and a frown. It didn't take me long to take care of business and leave. On another occasion I called a local business and the person answering the phone gave me the impression that I had just interrupted their day. I'll probably think twice before calling them again.
One incident that just really caught be by surprise was watching the owner of a small business park their vehicle in the parking spot closest to their door at the beginning of their work day. A couple of hours later when I passed by, their vehicle hadn't moved from the busy parking lot. I wonder how many potential customers drove by and didn't stop because there wasn't a parking space close to that store?
Granted, these are probably extreme instances of poor customer service. There are plenty of folks who do an outstanding job. From time to time I'll try to identify them in this blog.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Monday, June 8, 2009
Round Up the Weed Whackers
Last summer one thing I noticed was that several roadways coming in to our community had weed issues on the median strips. Highway 59 coming North from Slayton and Highway 19 near the High School were the most obvious.
When asked, someone with knowledge on the subject pointed out that they are State Highways and that MnDOT is responsible. They also pointed out that occasionally the City will help out too.
Last fall, Marshall City Administrator Ben Martig and I were comparing notes on a variety of subjects and the "weeds in the medians" concern showed up on both of our lists. (I suppose that when you're new to town like we are, these types of things are much more obvious). Ben confirmed that it should be MnDOT's responsibility to take care of those, but probably weren't a priority seeing how they were within the City Limits of Marshall.
We both vowed then and there that this summer would be different. Even if we both had to get out there once a month with weed spray and tools, the weeds welcoming folks to our community would not become an issue this year. Later this week we'll be meeting with MnDOT officials about this very subject.
Now if someone would just deal with the lack of "Welcome to Marshall" signs at the gateway entrances.
When asked, someone with knowledge on the subject pointed out that they are State Highways and that MnDOT is responsible. They also pointed out that occasionally the City will help out too.
Last fall, Marshall City Administrator Ben Martig and I were comparing notes on a variety of subjects and the "weeds in the medians" concern showed up on both of our lists. (I suppose that when you're new to town like we are, these types of things are much more obvious). Ben confirmed that it should be MnDOT's responsibility to take care of those, but probably weren't a priority seeing how they were within the City Limits of Marshall.
We both vowed then and there that this summer would be different. Even if we both had to get out there once a month with weed spray and tools, the weeds welcoming folks to our community would not become an issue this year. Later this week we'll be meeting with MnDOT officials about this very subject.
Now if someone would just deal with the lack of "Welcome to Marshall" signs at the gateway entrances.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Drive Time vs. Text Time
Was heading to my vehicle in the Whitney Parking lot (have you seen the new signs?) earlier this week when I was nearly run down by a speeding vehicle. From a perspective of less than five feet, it was easy to see that the driver was paying more attention to texting on their cell phone than they were (should have been!) to what was going on in the parking lot.
Surprisingly, I was the one who got the dirty look from the driver. Go figure!
While on occasion I'm just as guilty as the next person for reading messages while I'm driving, this near miss (or near hit)incident has given me pause to think more about text messages. I need to do it from the safety of driving my desk and not my vehicle. Maybe others will develop the same perspective.
Way to go City of Marshall for putting up the parking lot signs and the Information Kiosk signs around town too. If you haven't seen them, come downtown and we'll gladly point them out to you.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Surprisingly, I was the one who got the dirty look from the driver. Go figure!
While on occasion I'm just as guilty as the next person for reading messages while I'm driving, this near miss (or near hit)incident has given me pause to think more about text messages. I need to do it from the safety of driving my desk and not my vehicle. Maybe others will develop the same perspective.
Way to go City of Marshall for putting up the parking lot signs and the Information Kiosk signs around town too. If you haven't seen them, come downtown and we'll gladly point them out to you.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Liquid Gold
Developed some sort of a nasty eye infection this week. The good folks at ACMC Urgent Care took good care of me. Not sure what it was invaded just one eye, but am taking some interesting medicine.
The antibiotic is a generic medicine that goes in each eye 2 drops at a time every four hours. After insurance the cost for those drops was about $4.00. The other medicine (no generic available) is something called Patanol that is designed to keep my eye from getting "itchy." The cost for the anti-itch eye drop before insurance was just over $100 for a 5 ML bottle of the stuff.
I'm ok that we consumers pay the price for research and development of these medications. That's how this works so that science and business can march forward.
Got me to thinking though what the price of this Patanol might be per gallon. The price of gasoline has most everyone conscious of the price per gallon. My basic math tells me that there are 200 5 ML bottles in a litre. Panatol then goes for about $20,000 per litre. From there, we know that there are approximately 3.78 litres in a gallon. That takes the anti-itch meds to over $75,000 per gallon. And for a barrel of the stuff? Don't get me started! It just makes my eyes itchy.
The antibiotic is a generic medicine that goes in each eye 2 drops at a time every four hours. After insurance the cost for those drops was about $4.00. The other medicine (no generic available) is something called Patanol that is designed to keep my eye from getting "itchy." The cost for the anti-itch eye drop before insurance was just over $100 for a 5 ML bottle of the stuff.
I'm ok that we consumers pay the price for research and development of these medications. That's how this works so that science and business can march forward.
Got me to thinking though what the price of this Patanol might be per gallon. The price of gasoline has most everyone conscious of the price per gallon. My basic math tells me that there are 200 5 ML bottles in a litre. Panatol then goes for about $20,000 per litre. From there, we know that there are approximately 3.78 litres in a gallon. That takes the anti-itch meds to over $75,000 per gallon. And for a barrel of the stuff? Don't get me started! It just makes my eyes itchy.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Bleeting of the Horns
After a few months delay, the Vikings are coming to town this morning for their Community Tour.
No ice storms and or lousy weather either like what we had last November when they originally had planned to come to town.
The kids at the Middle School (600 expected for the Assembly) are fired up and ready. Even if it's not football season, they are so ready for this visit.
Even big kids are excited and looking forward to the luncheon at SMSU.
It's been a fun adventure helping the community prepare for this event. Special thanks to the Steering Committee: Jeff Helms at SMSU, Doug Goodmund at the City, and Mary Kay Thomas our Middle School Principal.
Several others to be recognized too: Mayor Bob Byrnes for taking time from his busy schedule to serve as our official Host and Tour Guide; Jim and Tom Hey for helping with the bus; and Jeremy Gossen at Wells Fargo for his behind the scenes work as the "Team Gopher."
Sshhhh! While the Vikings aren't my favorite, after this visit, they'll certainly rise closer to the top!
No ice storms and or lousy weather either like what we had last November when they originally had planned to come to town.
The kids at the Middle School (600 expected for the Assembly) are fired up and ready. Even if it's not football season, they are so ready for this visit.
Even big kids are excited and looking forward to the luncheon at SMSU.
It's been a fun adventure helping the community prepare for this event. Special thanks to the Steering Committee: Jeff Helms at SMSU, Doug Goodmund at the City, and Mary Kay Thomas our Middle School Principal.
Several others to be recognized too: Mayor Bob Byrnes for taking time from his busy schedule to serve as our official Host and Tour Guide; Jim and Tom Hey for helping with the bus; and Jeremy Gossen at Wells Fargo for his behind the scenes work as the "Team Gopher."
Sshhhh! While the Vikings aren't my favorite, after this visit, they'll certainly rise closer to the top!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Springtime Economic Recovery
Believe me. It's nothing scientific, nor remotely accurate. Call it a gut feeling, or a sharper focus on my crystal ball.
Spring Business Plantings
Now that the weather has turned nicer, some folks get to thinking about planting and growing. Is this the traditional time when folks consider new business ventures? Over the past 12 months, our office can probably count on one hand the number of calls we've received from folks thinking about bringing a new business to town. So what's different this month that's got folks not from here thinking about us?
Reeling in a Big One
Over the past few days four or five folks from outside of Marshall called to talk about bringing new businesses to our community. Several of them were specific to mention fast food operations. Granted, they were probably just "fishing expeditions," and they were looking for a new pond.
The fact that we're on so many folks' radar screen for business expansion and development can make a person downright giddy!
Maybe it's the eternal optimist, but dog gone it, here's thinking out loud that our community is getting poised for some fun new stuff.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Spring Business Plantings
Now that the weather has turned nicer, some folks get to thinking about planting and growing. Is this the traditional time when folks consider new business ventures? Over the past 12 months, our office can probably count on one hand the number of calls we've received from folks thinking about bringing a new business to town. So what's different this month that's got folks not from here thinking about us?
Reeling in a Big One
Over the past few days four or five folks from outside of Marshall called to talk about bringing new businesses to our community. Several of them were specific to mention fast food operations. Granted, they were probably just "fishing expeditions," and they were looking for a new pond.
The fact that we're on so many folks' radar screen for business expansion and development can make a person downright giddy!
Maybe it's the eternal optimist, but dog gone it, here's thinking out loud that our community is getting poised for some fun new stuff.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Bring Back the Victory Garden
The first 2
One of my mother's favorite pictures was a black and white photo that showed her mother kneeling in a garden holding a huge head of lettuce. The picture was taken in 1943 or 1944 and showed my beaming grandmother tending to her victory garden.
Plus 1
Was having lunch with our City Administrator this week and he mentioned that the City was ready to seed the lot where the former Middle School (Junior High) once stood. Seems that it will become "park area" until it can be sold or offered for some sort of development.
Plus 1
Later in the day I was visiting with someone from the Minnesota Military Family Assistance Center. He had told me about recently attending an auction where he had bought a box of old WWII military posters. He was especially proud of one that promoted the creation and maintenance of Victory Gardens. A 1940's program to support the war effort.
2 + 2
In this day and age that focuses upon "Going Green" the thought had occurred to me that couldn't that former Middle School site be tentatively used for Victory Gardens?
The one square block site could be parcelled into multiple garden sites and offered to groups, organizations, families, or individuals to turn them into our very own Victory Gardens. Plots could range in size from say 10' X 10' to possibly as large as 20' X 100'. Someone with greater Gardening experience then me would have a better idea on how to put this together.
While a green space park area in the interim sounds nice, a fully developed Victory Garden area seems to me to be even more appealing.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
One of my mother's favorite pictures was a black and white photo that showed her mother kneeling in a garden holding a huge head of lettuce. The picture was taken in 1943 or 1944 and showed my beaming grandmother tending to her victory garden.
Plus 1
Was having lunch with our City Administrator this week and he mentioned that the City was ready to seed the lot where the former Middle School (Junior High) once stood. Seems that it will become "park area" until it can be sold or offered for some sort of development.
Plus 1
Later in the day I was visiting with someone from the Minnesota Military Family Assistance Center. He had told me about recently attending an auction where he had bought a box of old WWII military posters. He was especially proud of one that promoted the creation and maintenance of Victory Gardens. A 1940's program to support the war effort.
2 + 2
In this day and age that focuses upon "Going Green" the thought had occurred to me that couldn't that former Middle School site be tentatively used for Victory Gardens?
The one square block site could be parcelled into multiple garden sites and offered to groups, organizations, families, or individuals to turn them into our very own Victory Gardens. Plots could range in size from say 10' X 10' to possibly as large as 20' X 100'. Someone with greater Gardening experience then me would have a better idea on how to put this together.
While a green space park area in the interim sounds nice, a fully developed Victory Garden area seems to me to be even more appealing.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Monday, April 6, 2009
The 151. Be Strong. Stay safe. Hurry Home.
Saturday's send off ceremony was a poignant reminder that our country is still at war.
Over 100 Soldiers of the 151st Alpha Battery of the Minnesota National Guard stood at attention in the PE Gym at SMSU Saturday morning to receive their orders for deployment. How somber and prideful it was to sit in a crowded gym along with family, friends, neighbors, and citizens to demonstrate to these soldiers our community and region's support of their efforts and the sacrifice.
Having attended a number of similar send off ceremonies for deploying troops over the past 7 years, several things come to mind:
*What an incredible commitment these men and women and their families are making on our behalf.
*What can we do to be good neighbors for the families during deployment?
*Never assume that the national guard and its wonderful support group will shoulder the entire burden of helping families in need during the deployment of their loved ones
*What a terrible burden to bear for the Governor sending these men and women into a war zone
*We can only hope and pray for their safe return
*Looking forward to the summer of 2010 when we can attend a welcome home celebration
To the 151st:
Thank you.
Stay safe during your mission.
Hurry home from your deployment.
Over 100 Soldiers of the 151st Alpha Battery of the Minnesota National Guard stood at attention in the PE Gym at SMSU Saturday morning to receive their orders for deployment. How somber and prideful it was to sit in a crowded gym along with family, friends, neighbors, and citizens to demonstrate to these soldiers our community and region's support of their efforts and the sacrifice.
Having attended a number of similar send off ceremonies for deploying troops over the past 7 years, several things come to mind:
*What an incredible commitment these men and women and their families are making on our behalf.
*What can we do to be good neighbors for the families during deployment?
*Never assume that the national guard and its wonderful support group will shoulder the entire burden of helping families in need during the deployment of their loved ones
*What a terrible burden to bear for the Governor sending these men and women into a war zone
*We can only hope and pray for their safe return
*Looking forward to the summer of 2010 when we can attend a welcome home celebration
To the 151st:
Thank you.
Stay safe during your mission.
Hurry home from your deployment.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
tweet wired sputter and hooked
My good buddy Dick Hakes writes a chamber industry newsletter. Recently exchanged the following emails about him having to update the technology of writing and distributing his newsletter for chamber executives across the country. Dick has spent time in our community and knows a few folks around town:
Dan,
You asked me to update you on ChamberPost....well in the process, I was informed that our generous hosts (Buena Vista University) have decided to discontinue the listserv. Not in their game plan...which I can understand. Anyway, if I develop something new, I'll let you know. Several have suggested a LinkedIn group. Are you in that already?
Dick
Hello Dick…
This Social Networking “craze” is truly interesting. I’m on Facebook (why I don’t know)…LinkedIn (still not sure how I got onto this one) and just YESTERDAY I got invited to ConnectIN which is the US Chamber Institute’s version of one of these social networks. Within 2 hours of signing up I heard from about a dozen of my chamber buddies around the country who I had been closer to during my Institute board and attendance days. Oh, and the Minnesota Chamber also has some sort of list serve program they use for MNCCE, but haven’t formally signed up for that…all those messages come through our general email address too. Now, I’ve got board members pitching me to use Twitter, and I wonder when I’ll find the time to do my real job instead of staying linked, hooked, and wired to the networks!
I must be getting old ‘cause I remember scratching my head wondering how to use the old “heat imprinted fax” machine (you remember those don’t you where the paper comes out curled and if you leave it in the sunshine it turns brown like an old sepia toned photo)…and don’t get me started about my first computer in the office that I had no clue as to how to use it or how it might make my chamber office more efficient.
Dick, I remember thinking how amazing it was that my father was born the same year the Wright Brothers had their first flight, and he died a couple of years after man walked on the moon. How amazing it must have been to live through those industrial and technological changes! Wish I could have had conversations with him about that. I’m sure I’ll get this social networking with phones, computers, hand helds, etc figured out sometime down the road and 20 years from now will wonder at how times have changed during my lifetime!
Dan
Dan,
You asked me to update you on ChamberPost....well in the process, I was informed that our generous hosts (Buena Vista University) have decided to discontinue the listserv. Not in their game plan...which I can understand. Anyway, if I develop something new, I'll let you know. Several have suggested a LinkedIn group. Are you in that already?
Dick
Hello Dick…
This Social Networking “craze” is truly interesting. I’m on Facebook (why I don’t know)…LinkedIn (still not sure how I got onto this one) and just YESTERDAY I got invited to ConnectIN which is the US Chamber Institute’s version of one of these social networks. Within 2 hours of signing up I heard from about a dozen of my chamber buddies around the country who I had been closer to during my Institute board and attendance days. Oh, and the Minnesota Chamber also has some sort of list serve program they use for MNCCE, but haven’t formally signed up for that…all those messages come through our general email address too. Now, I’ve got board members pitching me to use Twitter, and I wonder when I’ll find the time to do my real job instead of staying linked, hooked, and wired to the networks!
I must be getting old ‘cause I remember scratching my head wondering how to use the old “heat imprinted fax” machine (you remember those don’t you where the paper comes out curled and if you leave it in the sunshine it turns brown like an old sepia toned photo)…and don’t get me started about my first computer in the office that I had no clue as to how to use it or how it might make my chamber office more efficient.
Dick, I remember thinking how amazing it was that my father was born the same year the Wright Brothers had their first flight, and he died a couple of years after man walked on the moon. How amazing it must have been to live through those industrial and technological changes! Wish I could have had conversations with him about that. I’m sure I’ll get this social networking with phones, computers, hand helds, etc figured out sometime down the road and 20 years from now will wonder at how times have changed during my lifetime!
Dan
Monday, March 30, 2009
Summit Talk and Strategy
Have had a couple of folks ask about Wednesday morning's Retail and Service Sector Summit. Here's a quick FAQ
1. Can anyone attend? Yes, we've invited member and non-member business representatives to meet on Wednesday morning at the Golf Club.
2. Do I need to make reservations? Nope! Just show up and be prepared to help shape the future of our community.
3. Can the general public attend? Sure. We're targeting business owners and managers though to get their take on what our community and immediate region needs to be doing to preserve and enhance market share.
4. Are you going to talk about recruiting new retail businesses? That may be the agenda for one or two folks, but quite frankly, we need to be able to assess what we have and maximize those resources to effectively keep Marshall as a regional retail and service sector hub. We'll probably need a different meeting to identify those businesses and services that some folks believe we need to be recruiting.
5. Is this just a one-time meeting? We believe that in order for businesses in our community and region to continue to survive, there needs to be a general consensus of what direction we as a retail and service community need to focus upon. Without agreed upon priorities and focus, along with cooperative and targeted marketing programs we run the risk of loosing market share. Therefore, we believe that this will be the first meeting leading into that coordinated effort.
6. Is the chamber trying to run this thing? The chamber's board of directors sees the need to bring the retail and service industry sectors together to discuss strategies. The role of the chamber has yet to be defined. However, we do believe it is the chamber's role to help create partnerships and to initiate collaborative efforts.
7. So, what do you hope to accomplish? We hope that a majority of business owners and operators in the retail and service sector will choose to meet and work together during these difficult economic times. In order to work together, we must first work hard to understand each others focus and priorities and find common ground on which the majority of these businesses can work in partnership for the success of the entire community.
8. How will you know if the effort is successful? The true measurable will ultimately be in the area of sales tax collections. We know what taxable sales historically were for our community and region. If we can minimize economic downtrends, or even affect positive economic growth by working together, than we can hopefully declare success.
The bottom line is to invite and encourage local business owners and operators to attend Wednesday morning's meeting.
1. Can anyone attend? Yes, we've invited member and non-member business representatives to meet on Wednesday morning at the Golf Club.
2. Do I need to make reservations? Nope! Just show up and be prepared to help shape the future of our community.
3. Can the general public attend? Sure. We're targeting business owners and managers though to get their take on what our community and immediate region needs to be doing to preserve and enhance market share.
4. Are you going to talk about recruiting new retail businesses? That may be the agenda for one or two folks, but quite frankly, we need to be able to assess what we have and maximize those resources to effectively keep Marshall as a regional retail and service sector hub. We'll probably need a different meeting to identify those businesses and services that some folks believe we need to be recruiting.
5. Is this just a one-time meeting? We believe that in order for businesses in our community and region to continue to survive, there needs to be a general consensus of what direction we as a retail and service community need to focus upon. Without agreed upon priorities and focus, along with cooperative and targeted marketing programs we run the risk of loosing market share. Therefore, we believe that this will be the first meeting leading into that coordinated effort.
6. Is the chamber trying to run this thing? The chamber's board of directors sees the need to bring the retail and service industry sectors together to discuss strategies. The role of the chamber has yet to be defined. However, we do believe it is the chamber's role to help create partnerships and to initiate collaborative efforts.
7. So, what do you hope to accomplish? We hope that a majority of business owners and operators in the retail and service sector will choose to meet and work together during these difficult economic times. In order to work together, we must first work hard to understand each others focus and priorities and find common ground on which the majority of these businesses can work in partnership for the success of the entire community.
8. How will you know if the effort is successful? The true measurable will ultimately be in the area of sales tax collections. We know what taxable sales historically were for our community and region. If we can minimize economic downtrends, or even affect positive economic growth by working together, than we can hopefully declare success.
The bottom line is to invite and encourage local business owners and operators to attend Wednesday morning's meeting.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Back on the MnDOT map
A very successful and well attended Regional Freight Transportation Study hearing in Marshall yesterday. Our chamber's transportation committee was instrumental all along the way.
First, they formally and agressively asked MnDOT, in partnership with the SW Development Commission, to hold a Freight Stakeholder Forum in our community. We weren't on the original schedule, so kudos to MnDOT for saying yes to our request.
The other key component was getting a good turnout. One MnDOT official said that it was "staggering that so many people are here!" Over 40 industry folks showed up to share their concerns and priorities about moving freight, from, to, and through our region.
Interesting that the current study has a western (Minnesota) focus from the Candian border to I-90 and from the SD and ND borders east for about 100 miles. That's a big chunk of territory.
Not all roads lead to the Cities
One MnDOT power point slide identified Highways 32 and 59 as having "Major Truck Highway Designation." When questioned about this, the state officials noted that the designation was for the part of the study area north of Detroit Lakes to the Candian Border. Once again focus on the part of the state agency was traffic flowing from rural Minnesota to Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Thanks to the 40+ attendees, I believe we opened the eyes of a few MnDOT officials that freight and traffic flows in every direction, and most importantly for our region, we need to place Highway 23 on the priority list for improvements and upgrades.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
First, they formally and agressively asked MnDOT, in partnership with the SW Development Commission, to hold a Freight Stakeholder Forum in our community. We weren't on the original schedule, so kudos to MnDOT for saying yes to our request.
The other key component was getting a good turnout. One MnDOT official said that it was "staggering that so many people are here!" Over 40 industry folks showed up to share their concerns and priorities about moving freight, from, to, and through our region.
Interesting that the current study has a western (Minnesota) focus from the Candian border to I-90 and from the SD and ND borders east for about 100 miles. That's a big chunk of territory.
Not all roads lead to the Cities
One MnDOT power point slide identified Highways 32 and 59 as having "Major Truck Highway Designation." When questioned about this, the state officials noted that the designation was for the part of the study area north of Detroit Lakes to the Candian Border. Once again focus on the part of the state agency was traffic flowing from rural Minnesota to Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Thanks to the 40+ attendees, I believe we opened the eyes of a few MnDOT officials that freight and traffic flows in every direction, and most importantly for our region, we need to place Highway 23 on the priority list for improvements and upgrades.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Accessible Leadership
Was hoping to send an email today one locally elected official about an issue. What was interesting about that was how easy (or difficult) it is to access email addresses and info from the various websites for elected officials in and around Marshall.
Interestingly, the Lyon County Commissioners were the easiest to access. Only 2 clicks from the web page gets me their photos and email addresses. For City Council members in Marshall, it's a 4-click process. Am still trying to find Marshall School Board members. They're probably listed, just not really obvious on the school district website, yet!
In all fairness to County, City, and School Boards...thought to do the same with our elected chamber board members. Only 2 clicks and we show on the chamber website who our board members are. Unfortunately, we don't have their photos, nor do we list email addresses.
Note to self: take pictures of board members and ask if they want their email addresses posted online?
Interestingly, the Lyon County Commissioners were the easiest to access. Only 2 clicks from the web page gets me their photos and email addresses. For City Council members in Marshall, it's a 4-click process. Am still trying to find Marshall School Board members. They're probably listed, just not really obvious on the school district website, yet!
In all fairness to County, City, and School Boards...thought to do the same with our elected chamber board members. Only 2 clicks and we show on the chamber website who our board members are. Unfortunately, we don't have their photos, nor do we list email addresses.
Note to self: take pictures of board members and ask if they want their email addresses posted online?
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
A Wee bit...
It's St. Patrick's Day! Time for everyone to be Irish, right?
Am amazed at how many folks aren't wearing green, and when asked why, they respond: "I'm not Irish." Is that a local rule that you have to be Irish to take part in the "wearin o the green."???
With a last name like mine, you might not think that there's much of the Emerald Isle in my blood stream. Actually, there is.
Family lore is that my father's favorite song was "Danny Boy." He and my mother compromised when they named me Daniel. When Mom or Dad were mad, I was "Daniel T!" and amongst close family and friends I was "Danny or DB"...
Now it's just "Dan" which doesn't sound very Irish, does it?
Further adding to my Irish background were the 3 years I spent tending bar in Deadwood at an Irish Pub called "Durty Nelly's"...if nothing else, I gained an appreciation for Irish music on the juke box; drinking Jameson's Whiskey; and making a Black and Tan.
Probably no little leprechaun's in my closet, but the fact is that 9 or 10 generations ago, the North family (on my mother's side) came to this country a few years after the Mayflower. Rumor has it that there's a wee bit of Irish ancestry after all!
Am amazed at how many folks aren't wearing green, and when asked why, they respond: "I'm not Irish." Is that a local rule that you have to be Irish to take part in the "wearin o the green."???
With a last name like mine, you might not think that there's much of the Emerald Isle in my blood stream. Actually, there is.
Family lore is that my father's favorite song was "Danny Boy." He and my mother compromised when they named me Daniel. When Mom or Dad were mad, I was "Daniel T!" and amongst close family and friends I was "Danny or DB"...
Now it's just "Dan" which doesn't sound very Irish, does it?
Further adding to my Irish background were the 3 years I spent tending bar in Deadwood at an Irish Pub called "Durty Nelly's"...if nothing else, I gained an appreciation for Irish music on the juke box; drinking Jameson's Whiskey; and making a Black and Tan.
Probably no little leprechaun's in my closet, but the fact is that 9 or 10 generations ago, the North family (on my mother's side) came to this country a few years after the Mayflower. Rumor has it that there's a wee bit of Irish ancestry after all!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Mad at March
Can't tell you how many folks have said these past couple of weeks that they're tired of winter and ready for Spring. Shoot! The fun is just beginning.
What a busy weekend we're going to have. The first ever hosting of an NCAA basketball tournament will turn this community on its ears. Motels are full, restaurants will be crowded and lots of unfamiliar faces at every turn. Marshall should be up for the challenge of being a host community for this type of event. Throughout the years we've played host to numerous youth events and activities. This weekend, we'll put out the welcome mats for March Madness.
Weekend basketball segues into Tuesday parades. While we've got a dozen entries as of Friday morning, warm weather to start the week will triple or better the amount of parade participants for the Irish and nearly-Emerald-Shamrockers!
But wait! After the luck of the Irish, local hockey tournaments and the Big Dance basketball grab folks attention. Amazing how much attention is garnered for the basketball tournaments this time of year. It surpasses the combined numbers of World Series and Super Bowl fans. Basketball bracketology becomes the number one topic at water coolers and lunch tables.
Throw in the College Hockey tournaments leading up to the Frozen Four, and there's reason what-so-ever to continue to be "Mad at March." So much to do and watch and so little time!
What a busy weekend we're going to have. The first ever hosting of an NCAA basketball tournament will turn this community on its ears. Motels are full, restaurants will be crowded and lots of unfamiliar faces at every turn. Marshall should be up for the challenge of being a host community for this type of event. Throughout the years we've played host to numerous youth events and activities. This weekend, we'll put out the welcome mats for March Madness.
Weekend basketball segues into Tuesday parades. While we've got a dozen entries as of Friday morning, warm weather to start the week will triple or better the amount of parade participants for the Irish and nearly-Emerald-Shamrockers!
But wait! After the luck of the Irish, local hockey tournaments and the Big Dance basketball grab folks attention. Amazing how much attention is garnered for the basketball tournaments this time of year. It surpasses the combined numbers of World Series and Super Bowl fans. Basketball bracketology becomes the number one topic at water coolers and lunch tables.
Throw in the College Hockey tournaments leading up to the Frozen Four, and there's reason what-so-ever to continue to be "Mad at March." So much to do and watch and so little time!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Scary and Invisible #1
According to recently released statistics from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development,(DEED), in January of this year, the unemployment rate for Marshall stood at 4.5%. The rate doesn't get any lower anywhere else in the entire state. The average unemployment rate is 7.6% for 64 cities state-wide who measure this statistic.
Fewer folks in Marshall are listed as unemployed than anywhere else in the state. Brainard sits on the opposite end of the list at 21% unemployment. The Twin Cities are in the 7+% unemployed range.
Seems pretty obvious that Brainard and other "resort cities" have seasonal jobs that keep the unemployment rate a bit inflated this time of year. Add to that the folks in the construction industry who add a fair amount of numbers to the rate as well.
For us in Marshall, the news has mixed connotations. Here's the rub as I see it:
1. The folks eligible for unemployment in Marshall may not have many jobs to pick and choose from. With such a low rate, does that mean those who chose to work are working?
2. How many folks in Marshall are currently underemployed? Some may still be taking advantage of a separation or severance package that prohibits them from officially joining the ranks of the "unemployed" (according to state rules anyway). I'd like to call these the "invisible unemployed." Hard to say how many are living in Marshall.
3. A low unemployment rate means a tougher sale to bringing new jobs to town. To an outside employer this may be seen as fewer folks in the workforce to choose from if they were to try to move jobs here.
4. Or, even more scary is that many folks in Marshall who were previously unemployed may have left and moved from our community. The upcoming census efforts may shed some light on this.
I'm not sure that having the lowest unemployment rate in the state constitutes a win-win scenario for Marshall.
Fewer folks in Marshall are listed as unemployed than anywhere else in the state. Brainard sits on the opposite end of the list at 21% unemployment. The Twin Cities are in the 7+% unemployed range.
Seems pretty obvious that Brainard and other "resort cities" have seasonal jobs that keep the unemployment rate a bit inflated this time of year. Add to that the folks in the construction industry who add a fair amount of numbers to the rate as well.
For us in Marshall, the news has mixed connotations. Here's the rub as I see it:
1. The folks eligible for unemployment in Marshall may not have many jobs to pick and choose from. With such a low rate, does that mean those who chose to work are working?
2. How many folks in Marshall are currently underemployed? Some may still be taking advantage of a separation or severance package that prohibits them from officially joining the ranks of the "unemployed" (according to state rules anyway). I'd like to call these the "invisible unemployed." Hard to say how many are living in Marshall.
3. A low unemployment rate means a tougher sale to bringing new jobs to town. To an outside employer this may be seen as fewer folks in the workforce to choose from if they were to try to move jobs here.
4. Or, even more scary is that many folks in Marshall who were previously unemployed may have left and moved from our community. The upcoming census efforts may shed some light on this.
I'm not sure that having the lowest unemployment rate in the state constitutes a win-win scenario for Marshall.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
State Connections
Governor Pawlenty is coming to town next week to speak at our chamber breakfast meeting: BOB Marshall.
Two weeks ago, a joint legislative committee from St. Paul held public listening meetings at SMSU. The following week, Minnesota Education Commissioner Shirley Seagren held a meeting at the Marshall High School.
Also a couple of weeks ago, chamber and business leaders met with Congressman Collin Peterson about the national economy and an interesting piece of legislation commonly referred to as "Card Check."
At face value one would come to believe that our Chamber of Commerce and community have a bit of political muscle to get these folks to town.
While this may or may not be accurate, what really needs to be acknowledged are the efforts the folks at the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce have made on our behalf to help make these meetings happen. That's right! These meetings would not have taken place had it not been for their influence and our positive working relationship.
Thanks Minnesota State Chamber for your hard work on our behalf!
Two weeks ago, a joint legislative committee from St. Paul held public listening meetings at SMSU. The following week, Minnesota Education Commissioner Shirley Seagren held a meeting at the Marshall High School.
Also a couple of weeks ago, chamber and business leaders met with Congressman Collin Peterson about the national economy and an interesting piece of legislation commonly referred to as "Card Check."
At face value one would come to believe that our Chamber of Commerce and community have a bit of political muscle to get these folks to town.
While this may or may not be accurate, what really needs to be acknowledged are the efforts the folks at the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce have made on our behalf to help make these meetings happen. That's right! These meetings would not have taken place had it not been for their influence and our positive working relationship.
Thanks Minnesota State Chamber for your hard work on our behalf!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Tooting against the Grain
One of my favorite cartoons, Non Sequitor, awhile back ran a cartoon entitled: "Government's Biggest Agency: The Office of Justifying our Existence."
Whatever happened to the phrase: "actions speak louder than words"? In today's business world, not only must a business provide a quality product and service, but they also need to create the hype to tell the world about how good they are. Seems to go against the grain of our Midwestern heritage.
Nonetheless, our members expect to hear regularly from this organization concerning "what have you done for me lately?" There's no denying that the WIIFM (what's in it for me) factor runs strong.
There's a delicate balance between tooting one's own horn and working harder and harder so that others might do the tooting for us. Probably unrealistic. Finding more time in the day for horns becomes a must.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Whatever happened to the phrase: "actions speak louder than words"? In today's business world, not only must a business provide a quality product and service, but they also need to create the hype to tell the world about how good they are. Seems to go against the grain of our Midwestern heritage.
Nonetheless, our members expect to hear regularly from this organization concerning "what have you done for me lately?" There's no denying that the WIIFM (what's in it for me) factor runs strong.
There's a delicate balance between tooting one's own horn and working harder and harder so that others might do the tooting for us. Probably unrealistic. Finding more time in the day for horns becomes a must.
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Monday, March 2, 2009
It better stay in Vegas
Sometimes the best part of going on vacation is getting home. After 4 days in Las Vegas, it was time to come home and to be honest: I was ready.
Nascar Race Weekend there with tens of thousands of racing fans at every turn. While the economy seems to be a concern everywhere, you couldn't tell by the volume of folks arriving in Vegas that money was tight. Sure, folks probably opted for the $150 ticket package rather than the more expensive one. And, the $5 blackjack tables saw more action than the $100 tables. The local newspaper there reported on Sunday that gaming revenues were down across the board for all table games and slot machines. The 2% decline in revenues amounted to millions and millions of dollars.
Construction was at a standstill, however the weekend saw the Grand Opening for the newest hotel/casino: "M" and the crowds turned out for that too. Unemployment rates, according to the newspaper were also on the rise and the job market was tight. My informal survey of about 10 different blackjack dealers revealed that they're happy to have a job, even if they now must work longer shifts with fewer breaks. They all claimed that the volume of people was still there, they just weren't betting as much at their tables.
Even the cab driver who brought me from the hotel to the airport was happy to still have a job. He talked about the need to continue to support relatives in far away lands
TSA dutifully did their job as my carry on luggage received close attention and scrutiny every step of the way. Lines in the airport were long, but folks moved efficiently through security checks and metal detectors.
The economy is a bit stronger in Vegas for my visit, and I must admit that I forgot my dirty laundry in the back of the closet. It too should probably stay in Vegas.
As with most vacations, it's good to get away and even better to get home!
Nascar Race Weekend there with tens of thousands of racing fans at every turn. While the economy seems to be a concern everywhere, you couldn't tell by the volume of folks arriving in Vegas that money was tight. Sure, folks probably opted for the $150 ticket package rather than the more expensive one. And, the $5 blackjack tables saw more action than the $100 tables. The local newspaper there reported on Sunday that gaming revenues were down across the board for all table games and slot machines. The 2% decline in revenues amounted to millions and millions of dollars.
Construction was at a standstill, however the weekend saw the Grand Opening for the newest hotel/casino: "M" and the crowds turned out for that too. Unemployment rates, according to the newspaper were also on the rise and the job market was tight. My informal survey of about 10 different blackjack dealers revealed that they're happy to have a job, even if they now must work longer shifts with fewer breaks. They all claimed that the volume of people was still there, they just weren't betting as much at their tables.
Even the cab driver who brought me from the hotel to the airport was happy to still have a job. He talked about the need to continue to support relatives in far away lands
TSA dutifully did their job as my carry on luggage received close attention and scrutiny every step of the way. Lines in the airport were long, but folks moved efficiently through security checks and metal detectors.
The economy is a bit stronger in Vegas for my visit, and I must admit that I forgot my dirty laundry in the back of the closet. It too should probably stay in Vegas.
As with most vacations, it's good to get away and even better to get home!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Never Forget
A moment of silence.
Over the years, there have been several dates/events that I will always remember where I was and what I was doing when the news was received. JFK's assassination. Man walking on the moon. The last helicopter leaving the embassy in Saigon. Desert Storm. 9-11.
Today marks the first anniversary of a tragic crash. Many folks in this community and region will remember February 19th for many many years to come. Rightly so.
Peace for the children and their families and friends.
Over the years, there have been several dates/events that I will always remember where I was and what I was doing when the news was received. JFK's assassination. Man walking on the moon. The last helicopter leaving the embassy in Saigon. Desert Storm. 9-11.
Today marks the first anniversary of a tragic crash. Many folks in this community and region will remember February 19th for many many years to come. Rightly so.
Peace for the children and their families and friends.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Blue Collar Free Choice Chili
A few years ago, the head of a chili contest stood before our group of judges and asked us to vote for our favorite chili sample. I'm certain that his intentions were honorable, however, the fact that he was a contestant AND he was able to see how we marked our score sheets created a strong and somewhat intimidating influence for how some of the judges voted.
In Congress, the "Employee Free Choice Act" has been reintroduced. This is an essentially pro labor union piece of legislation that would allow union organizers the right to secure signed union "authorization" cards from employees...."here you go pal, sign here to let your boss know you want to be part of a union..." Gone would be the secret ballot that exists today.
If this legislation were to pass, the right for a secret ballot election for the unionization process would be eliminated and the ability to impose stiffer penalties on employers, but not on unions, for violations would be created. Government imposed binding arbitration when contract negotiations fail with the newly created unions kicks in at 120 days. And more.
The details and complexity of this legislation are immense and your chamber and others will be trying to provide more information and clarity on this topic to our members and the community over the next few months.
And what about the chili contest coordinator? He won.
In Congress, the "Employee Free Choice Act" has been reintroduced. This is an essentially pro labor union piece of legislation that would allow union organizers the right to secure signed union "authorization" cards from employees...."here you go pal, sign here to let your boss know you want to be part of a union..." Gone would be the secret ballot that exists today.
If this legislation were to pass, the right for a secret ballot election for the unionization process would be eliminated and the ability to impose stiffer penalties on employers, but not on unions, for violations would be created. Government imposed binding arbitration when contract negotiations fail with the newly created unions kicks in at 120 days. And more.
The details and complexity of this legislation are immense and your chamber and others will be trying to provide more information and clarity on this topic to our members and the community over the next few months.
And what about the chili contest coordinator? He won.
Monday, February 9, 2009
X Y and Me
Sarah Sladek will be in town tomorrow. Can't wait! She is a noted author and expert on the matter of Generational Issues in the work place. In my book: this is the #1 issue for workforce development in our community and quite frankly everywhere.
Sladek will point out (hopefully) that never before in the past 200+ years has there been such a gap between succeeding generations. As a Baby Boomer (born 1946 - 64), we pretty much learned to do things with established priorities very similar to our parents and grand parents. Not so with Generation X (born 1964 - 81) nor Generation Y (born 1981 - 95). Their value system, priorities, goals, and thinking has little if any resemblance to that of the Baby Boomer, or Greatest Generation. Quite honestly, wider gaps exist philosophically between Boomers and Y's than existed between those born in the late 1800's and Boomers.
While Baby Boomers have been the largest market segment going for a number of years, the Y Generation will soon have more in the workforce than Boomers and Gen X'ers combined.
Last summer, Ms. Sladek addressed a room full of chamber staffers from around the State of Minnesota. Like many in the room, her comments struck home in both a positive and frustrating manner. Positive in that she accurately described the generational differences, and frustrating in that the Generation X and Y priorities are so far removed from mine as a Baby Boomer.
For those attending tomorrow (or did attend) come prepared to strongly agree with her observations and be prepared to challenge those observations too.
If we as a community are to grow and prosper, it must occur with the participation and support of the members of Generation X and Generation Y. If we aren't paying attention, it's too easy for them to leave and go somewhere else that can meet their priorities. In my opinion, it's that critical.
That's my opinion, how about yours?
Sladek will point out (hopefully) that never before in the past 200+ years has there been such a gap between succeeding generations. As a Baby Boomer (born 1946 - 64), we pretty much learned to do things with established priorities very similar to our parents and grand parents. Not so with Generation X (born 1964 - 81) nor Generation Y (born 1981 - 95). Their value system, priorities, goals, and thinking has little if any resemblance to that of the Baby Boomer, or Greatest Generation. Quite honestly, wider gaps exist philosophically between Boomers and Y's than existed between those born in the late 1800's and Boomers.
While Baby Boomers have been the largest market segment going for a number of years, the Y Generation will soon have more in the workforce than Boomers and Gen X'ers combined.
Last summer, Ms. Sladek addressed a room full of chamber staffers from around the State of Minnesota. Like many in the room, her comments struck home in both a positive and frustrating manner. Positive in that she accurately described the generational differences, and frustrating in that the Generation X and Y priorities are so far removed from mine as a Baby Boomer.
For those attending tomorrow (or did attend) come prepared to strongly agree with her observations and be prepared to challenge those observations too.
If we as a community are to grow and prosper, it must occur with the participation and support of the members of Generation X and Generation Y. If we aren't paying attention, it's too easy for them to leave and go somewhere else that can meet their priorities. In my opinion, it's that critical.
That's my opinion, how about yours?
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Recharging Batteries
Here we are in Rochester for a 3-day chamber conference. Chamber Execs from around the state of Minnesota are gathered to address issues of state-wide importance, share best practices, and reconnect with old and new friends.
Some interesting stuff coming down the pike. Your chamber board will soon hear about several key issues. Card check is a major labor issue that is gaining more and more attention around the state. Huge national push is underway from US Chamber to educate and inform our members. Grass roots policy making at its best. The Executive Committee will also hear about some innovative best practices from around the state too. Some talented folks doing some fantastic stuff for their chambers of commerce.
Another matter to tackle will be our chamber's initiative to create a community wide retail committee. Stay tuned for more on this over the next few weeks.
The great part about these conferences is the way they tend to recharge everyone's batteries. That's a good thing.
Some interesting stuff coming down the pike. Your chamber board will soon hear about several key issues. Card check is a major labor issue that is gaining more and more attention around the state. Huge national push is underway from US Chamber to educate and inform our members. Grass roots policy making at its best. The Executive Committee will also hear about some innovative best practices from around the state too. Some talented folks doing some fantastic stuff for their chambers of commerce.
Another matter to tackle will be our chamber's initiative to create a community wide retail committee. Stay tuned for more on this over the next few weeks.
The great part about these conferences is the way they tend to recharge everyone's batteries. That's a good thing.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Random Acts
Noticed that a local website has re initiated the "Make the Drive Through Difference" program. It entails buying the beverage, meal, etc. of the folks behind you in line at the drive through. You give the window staff a fl yer to be given to the folks behind you and you pay for the kids meal, etc. The vehicle behind you gets the flyer and the discount of your kindness!
Nice "random act of kindness" that we all can relate to, or "paying it forward to the vehicle behind you" so to speak!
With today's economic challenges, it is, in my opinion, especially important for businesses to make certain that quality customer service is a top priority. All it takes is one bad experience that either keeps that customer from coming back, or worse telling their friends and neighbors.
Maybe we can add to the local "drive though difference" concept and work hard to make the customer experience in our community second to nowhere!
My challenge is to see how we might recognize (and reward?) exceptional customer service. Send me or list examples of great customer service and we'll find a way to make a difference for that person and their employer. Let's find a way to tell 10 others about great customer service!
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Nice "random act of kindness" that we all can relate to, or "paying it forward to the vehicle behind you" so to speak!
With today's economic challenges, it is, in my opinion, especially important for businesses to make certain that quality customer service is a top priority. All it takes is one bad experience that either keeps that customer from coming back, or worse telling their friends and neighbors.
Maybe we can add to the local "drive though difference" concept and work hard to make the customer experience in our community second to nowhere!
My challenge is to see how we might recognize (and reward?) exceptional customer service. Send me or list examples of great customer service and we'll find a way to make a difference for that person and their employer. Let's find a way to tell 10 others about great customer service!
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Super "Toilet" Bowl Weekend
It's Super Bowl weekend and there doesn't seem to be much hype around here for the big game. Probably aren't too many Steelers or Cardinals fans in these parts either. And for me, one would hope for a competitive close game, and as most of the millions watching; the commercials are "Super Bowl" great!
Speaking of commercials is it me, or are others a bit amazed at some of the ads on TV these days? Case in point: a few weeks ago, a commercial for toilet paper started airing that made their TP, well how should I put it, poofy? The model in the terry-cloth robe made her resemble the Michelan Tire Guy. The fact that she was holding a cotton swab that looked more like a barbell than a Q-tip added to the goofy-poofy nature of the ad. Silly stuff, but not too annoying.
Last night there was commercial for a different brand of TP. This one featured a cute little puppy running through the house and neighborhood wearing various "human" outfits (you know, sweaters, shirts, boots, and the like). When it came to pitching the product, they showed the little puppy in a bathroom stall pulling on the roll of TP that was soft enough and strong enough even for the pampered puppy.
The absolute worst (in my opinion) is the animated TP commercial that's been running for some time. As if we don't all know what bears do in the woods, this commercial actually shows a "baby-bear" bending over in front of "Momma Bear." We all get to see little pieces of TP clinging to the baby bear's rear end while the announcer suggests that their brand of TP won't cling or tear while being used. Give me a break!
And while the Super Bowl is known for creative and often times off-the-wall ads (like the candle in the sleigh ride, or the baby in the swing) not all of them appeal to the masses. At nearly $3 million per 30 seconds, let's hope this year's Super Bowl ads don't end up in the Toilet Bowl.
That's my opinion, what about yours?
Speaking of commercials is it me, or are others a bit amazed at some of the ads on TV these days? Case in point: a few weeks ago, a commercial for toilet paper started airing that made their TP, well how should I put it, poofy? The model in the terry-cloth robe made her resemble the Michelan Tire Guy. The fact that she was holding a cotton swab that looked more like a barbell than a Q-tip added to the goofy-poofy nature of the ad. Silly stuff, but not too annoying.
Last night there was commercial for a different brand of TP. This one featured a cute little puppy running through the house and neighborhood wearing various "human" outfits (you know, sweaters, shirts, boots, and the like). When it came to pitching the product, they showed the little puppy in a bathroom stall pulling on the roll of TP that was soft enough and strong enough even for the pampered puppy.
The absolute worst (in my opinion) is the animated TP commercial that's been running for some time. As if we don't all know what bears do in the woods, this commercial actually shows a "baby-bear" bending over in front of "Momma Bear." We all get to see little pieces of TP clinging to the baby bear's rear end while the announcer suggests that their brand of TP won't cling or tear while being used. Give me a break!
And while the Super Bowl is known for creative and often times off-the-wall ads (like the candle in the sleigh ride, or the baby in the swing) not all of them appeal to the masses. At nearly $3 million per 30 seconds, let's hope this year's Super Bowl ads don't end up in the Toilet Bowl.
That's my opinion, what about yours?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Literacy and Library Fan
I'm a lousy speller.
No ifs ands or buts about it. I'm thankful for spell check and dictionaries. Given my lifelong passion for reading or my journalism degree, one might think otherwise. Yup, it's part memorization and part knowing the rules for spelling in the English language.
Some folks are very good at it and then there's the rest of us who can't spell worth a darn.
Back in the 80's I became involved in adult literacy programs. Partly because it was the right thing to do and partly because the father of one our office interns was functionally illiterate and I volunteered to help teach him to read.
Several years later when I lived in Idaho, the local library and newspaper there got together to promote adult literacy with a Corporate Spelling Bee. Companies sponsored 4-person teams from local businesses who competed for local bragging rights. Proceeds from the event went to benefit the library's literacy program.
One hot trend taking place on the West Coast has taken a page from Bar Trivia and Spelling Bees. The bar scene in Seattle is full of these impromptu spell-offs and the popularity is growing. We may be one of the first places in the Midwest to cash in on this new found trend!
Next month, Marshall will be hosting the first ever Corporate Spelling Bee. It'll be on Saturday the 21st with 3-person corporate teams competing for the right to say they have the best corporate spelling team. Proceeds will go to the children and young adults section of the Marshall Lyon County Library.
Find your "inner 5th grade speller" and compete! Check out the library's website www.marshalllyonlibrary.org or give me a call at the chamber office for details on how to get involved.
No ifs ands or buts about it. I'm thankful for spell check and dictionaries. Given my lifelong passion for reading or my journalism degree, one might think otherwise. Yup, it's part memorization and part knowing the rules for spelling in the English language.
Some folks are very good at it and then there's the rest of us who can't spell worth a darn.
Back in the 80's I became involved in adult literacy programs. Partly because it was the right thing to do and partly because the father of one our office interns was functionally illiterate and I volunteered to help teach him to read.
Several years later when I lived in Idaho, the local library and newspaper there got together to promote adult literacy with a Corporate Spelling Bee. Companies sponsored 4-person teams from local businesses who competed for local bragging rights. Proceeds from the event went to benefit the library's literacy program.
One hot trend taking place on the West Coast has taken a page from Bar Trivia and Spelling Bees. The bar scene in Seattle is full of these impromptu spell-offs and the popularity is growing. We may be one of the first places in the Midwest to cash in on this new found trend!
Next month, Marshall will be hosting the first ever Corporate Spelling Bee. It'll be on Saturday the 21st with 3-person corporate teams competing for the right to say they have the best corporate spelling team. Proceeds will go to the children and young adults section of the Marshall Lyon County Library.
Find your "inner 5th grade speller" and compete! Check out the library's website www.marshalllyonlibrary.org or give me a call at the chamber office for details on how to get involved.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Long Haul Health Care
Attended last night's public meeting about the proposed sale of our community owned hospital to Avera Health System, a Sioux Falls based not for profit corporation. Nice to see the meeting room was nearly full.
It's a very complicated process, and I would encourage anyone who would like to have in depth details on the proposal to review the documents which are all a matter of public record.
Here are MY "take aways" from the meeting:
1. A lengthy negotiation process has taken place and both sides seem satisfied with the proposal for the sale.
2. Outside experts were hired to provide advice to both parties.
3. Taking care of the current employees seems to be one of the top priorities.
4. Insuring continued and expanded long term health care services for our community was THE top priority.
5. The proposed sale maintains local autonomy and local governance with the goal of growing Avera Marshall Medical Center into a regional medical center.
In my opinion, these are all very positive.
What happens now?
The Hospital Board meets on Tuesday, January 20th to consider the recommendation from the Negotiating Committee. The recommendation, which is very detailed, suggests that the City sell both the Hospital and the Nursing Home to Avera Health System. The sale price and process is lengthy and complicated.
It's apparent that the Hospital Board will approve the committee's recommendation and would then forward the proposal to the City Council for their consideration on January 28th. If the City Council approves the proposal in its current form, the sale process would begin immediately and conclude on or about November 2, 2009.
The Mayor and Council must trust that due diligence has been conducted on behalf of the City and the Medical Center. The Council appointed both the Hospital Board and the Negotiating Team. Outside experts were brought on board to assist with the valuation and proposed sale process.
The Council needs to fully understand the proposal, decide on its merits (which appear to be many) and vote to either move forward with the sale (which I believe they should), or, determine a good reason or reasons why not to sell the Medical Center to Avera Health and be prepared to fully explain their apprehensions about the sale.
At last night's meeting, someone suggested that we're not receiving full financial value based on current assets. Our Hospital Board Chairman, Mike Rich, said it best: "We're not going after the highest bidder." He's right on the mark by suggesting that the priority is to find the best possible way to insure continued quality health care for the long haul.
Selling to the highest bidder reminds me of what happened in the mid 90's when I was living and working in Kansas City. The City chose to sell its municipally owned Hospital, Bethany Medical Center, to the then highest bidder: HCA of America, which at that time was the largest private for profit hospital group in the US. Within 18 months, HCA sold the hospital off to one of the local health care competitors, which in turn closed the facility less than 2 years after that sale. The hospital building was later demolished and the land is still vacant 6+ years later.
Avera Health System has a solid reputation of being good corporate neighbors, not "corporate raiders." Their faith based history and principals are solid and they've clearly demonstrated a successful track record with numerous communities throughout the region. I recently chatted with the chamber folks in Aberdeen. Avera- St. Lukes Hospital there has grown considerably over the years. They tell me it's been a wonderful and positive working relationship between the community and its primary health care facility.
The bottom line: negotiations for the sale of the medical center were based on mutual respect and the effort to reach a win-win outcome. This isn't a hostile take over as some have suggested or feared.
Some very dedicated and committed individuals worked long and hard on behalf of the Hospital Board, City Council, and most importantly the residents of our community and region. We need to trust that they represented our best interests, and therefore we need to encourage our City Council and Mayor to move forward with this effort.
Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center is in it for the long haul. Let's make certain that they're successful for every one's sake.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
It's a very complicated process, and I would encourage anyone who would like to have in depth details on the proposal to review the documents which are all a matter of public record.
Here are MY "take aways" from the meeting:
1. A lengthy negotiation process has taken place and both sides seem satisfied with the proposal for the sale.
2. Outside experts were hired to provide advice to both parties.
3. Taking care of the current employees seems to be one of the top priorities.
4. Insuring continued and expanded long term health care services for our community was THE top priority.
5. The proposed sale maintains local autonomy and local governance with the goal of growing Avera Marshall Medical Center into a regional medical center.
In my opinion, these are all very positive.
What happens now?
The Hospital Board meets on Tuesday, January 20th to consider the recommendation from the Negotiating Committee. The recommendation, which is very detailed, suggests that the City sell both the Hospital and the Nursing Home to Avera Health System. The sale price and process is lengthy and complicated.
It's apparent that the Hospital Board will approve the committee's recommendation and would then forward the proposal to the City Council for their consideration on January 28th. If the City Council approves the proposal in its current form, the sale process would begin immediately and conclude on or about November 2, 2009.
The Mayor and Council must trust that due diligence has been conducted on behalf of the City and the Medical Center. The Council appointed both the Hospital Board and the Negotiating Team. Outside experts were brought on board to assist with the valuation and proposed sale process.
The Council needs to fully understand the proposal, decide on its merits (which appear to be many) and vote to either move forward with the sale (which I believe they should), or, determine a good reason or reasons why not to sell the Medical Center to Avera Health and be prepared to fully explain their apprehensions about the sale.
At last night's meeting, someone suggested that we're not receiving full financial value based on current assets. Our Hospital Board Chairman, Mike Rich, said it best: "We're not going after the highest bidder." He's right on the mark by suggesting that the priority is to find the best possible way to insure continued quality health care for the long haul.
Selling to the highest bidder reminds me of what happened in the mid 90's when I was living and working in Kansas City. The City chose to sell its municipally owned Hospital, Bethany Medical Center, to the then highest bidder: HCA of America, which at that time was the largest private for profit hospital group in the US. Within 18 months, HCA sold the hospital off to one of the local health care competitors, which in turn closed the facility less than 2 years after that sale. The hospital building was later demolished and the land is still vacant 6+ years later.
Avera Health System has a solid reputation of being good corporate neighbors, not "corporate raiders." Their faith based history and principals are solid and they've clearly demonstrated a successful track record with numerous communities throughout the region. I recently chatted with the chamber folks in Aberdeen. Avera- St. Lukes Hospital there has grown considerably over the years. They tell me it's been a wonderful and positive working relationship between the community and its primary health care facility.
The bottom line: negotiations for the sale of the medical center were based on mutual respect and the effort to reach a win-win outcome. This isn't a hostile take over as some have suggested or feared.
Some very dedicated and committed individuals worked long and hard on behalf of the Hospital Board, City Council, and most importantly the residents of our community and region. We need to trust that they represented our best interests, and therefore we need to encourage our City Council and Mayor to move forward with this effort.
Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center is in it for the long haul. Let's make certain that they're successful for every one's sake.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Midwest of Where?
The on-line headline today read: "Blizzard that socked Northern Plains takes aim at Midwest."
OK, this may be a pet peeve of mine, or, it may just be a matter of semantics. Here's the rub. I grew up in South Dakota and have lived all but about 8 years of my life in the Dakotas, Kansas and Minnesota. I truly believe that my roots are firmly attached in the Midwest.
A couple of years ago I was being considered for a chamber job in Fort Wayne, Indiana. A professional recruiter was assisting with the process. After several weeks and a couple of conversations with the recruiter, she told me that I was no longer in the running for the job because they were looking for someone from the Midwest. I was living in North Dakota at the time. When I asked her to define geographically the Midwest she said, "you know, from the Appalachian Mountains west to the Mississippi River and north of the Kentucky and West Virginia. You live in ND which is out west."
Geez, I'd always thought that everything between the Rocky Mountains and the Mississippi River was the Midwest. Even a couple of those states on the eastern side of the river would also fall into that definition. But, Ohio or Pennsylvania...Midwest? Not in my book.
Wikipedia defines the Midwest as those north-central states from Ohio to the Dakotas and from Kansas to the Canadian Border.
I'm ready to concede Ohio, but dang it, what about Wyoming and Montana?
That's my opinion. What about yours?
OK, this may be a pet peeve of mine, or, it may just be a matter of semantics. Here's the rub. I grew up in South Dakota and have lived all but about 8 years of my life in the Dakotas, Kansas and Minnesota. I truly believe that my roots are firmly attached in the Midwest.
A couple of years ago I was being considered for a chamber job in Fort Wayne, Indiana. A professional recruiter was assisting with the process. After several weeks and a couple of conversations with the recruiter, she told me that I was no longer in the running for the job because they were looking for someone from the Midwest. I was living in North Dakota at the time. When I asked her to define geographically the Midwest she said, "you know, from the Appalachian Mountains west to the Mississippi River and north of the Kentucky and West Virginia. You live in ND which is out west."
Geez, I'd always thought that everything between the Rocky Mountains and the Mississippi River was the Midwest. Even a couple of those states on the eastern side of the river would also fall into that definition. But, Ohio or Pennsylvania...Midwest? Not in my book.
Wikipedia defines the Midwest as those north-central states from Ohio to the Dakotas and from Kansas to the Canadian Border.
I'm ready to concede Ohio, but dang it, what about Wyoming and Montana?
That's my opinion. What about yours?
Monday, January 12, 2009
Stormy impacts
Blizzard warning today and school got cancelled. Not much of a weather event, yet, but was wondering if a decision was made prematurely. Blowing snow and white-outs are a major issue when it comes to driving and out on the prairie, it's no fun getting caught in ugly weather. Better safe than sorry is a good perspective, especially when it comes to getting kids home from school.
Am just thinking about how many parents are staying home with kids and what that financial and productivity impact has on our local economy.
Another sort of storm is brewing too that has not yet received much local attention. State budget cuts are certainly going to have an across the board impact on local government. We've been reading about potential impacts to City and County services. Will jobs be on the line too?
Why aren't we having more community dialogue about the impacts state budget cuts will have at SMSU? President Danahar will soon have to make some difficult decisions. A significant portion of the SMSU budget is spent on salaries and benefits, which I'm guessing will possibly be the first area impacted by the current fiscal challenges. We should not be surprised by the tough choices he will be forced to make.
Our community is fortunate to have some very talented leaders both in the public and private sectors. Now is not the time to second guess their actions that must be made in order for our community and region to survive the tough economic times ahead.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Am just thinking about how many parents are staying home with kids and what that financial and productivity impact has on our local economy.
Another sort of storm is brewing too that has not yet received much local attention. State budget cuts are certainly going to have an across the board impact on local government. We've been reading about potential impacts to City and County services. Will jobs be on the line too?
Why aren't we having more community dialogue about the impacts state budget cuts will have at SMSU? President Danahar will soon have to make some difficult decisions. A significant portion of the SMSU budget is spent on salaries and benefits, which I'm guessing will possibly be the first area impacted by the current fiscal challenges. We should not be surprised by the tough choices he will be forced to make.
Our community is fortunate to have some very talented leaders both in the public and private sectors. Now is not the time to second guess their actions that must be made in order for our community and region to survive the tough economic times ahead.
That's my opinion. How about yours?
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Politics as Usual
Just back from St. Paul where I attended the 09 Session Priorities briefing and dinner hosted by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Nearly 1500 business people and legislators attended the briefings and dinner programs.
A small contingency of folks from Marshall were there. Our group was joined for dinner by House Minority Leader Marty Seifert and Senate President Pro-Temp Dennis Frederickson and his wife Marge. Our region really enjoys some very influential state legislators. Need to make certain that we don't take that for granted.
We listened to issues outlined by the State Chamber, heard the Governor's assessment and priorities for the upcoming session, and we watched the Legislative Leadership discuss the session in a panel format.
Here are a few of the highlights and impressions I took away from the event:
*Most in the banquet hall were astounded when Senate Majority Leader Pogemiller essentially called Marty Seifert a liar. Yikes! "I don't know if that's true or not or if it even happened," the Senator reponded to a recent experience that Marty had just shared with the audience. One could almost feel the air leave the room as the audience made a collective gasp.
*Governor Pawlenty wants to target 490+ Public and Charter School Districts across Minnesota to "encourage" them to consolidate some of their back office operations. Collective purchases, duplication of services, etc.
*The $4.8 billion projected budget deficit represents about 17% of the state's budget. Statute prohibits the State Government from deficit spending. The real debate and focus will be where the cuts in the state budget will be made. For some reason, 17% sounds much more achievable to me than $4.8 billion.
*The Legislators and Governor mainly agree that K-12 funding would be least likely to receive any budget cuts.
*The State Chamber predicts that Health Care issues will dominate budget cut debates as it represents over half of the State Buget.
*Cap-and-trade policy, (it's an environmental thing) will be hotly contested. The State Chamber and others suggest that this is a Federal issue rather than a state or regional one.
*Both Governor Pawlenty and House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher encouraged the crowd of 1500 to consume a glass of wine or two last night and then asked them to email suggestions of how to fix the budget. For those of you who want to do so, here's the link to send your ideas and suggestions (the wine is up to you to find):
tim.pawlenty@state.mn.us
-and-
www.house.leg.state.mn.us/budgetsuggestions.asp
Those are my opinions. How about yours?
A small contingency of folks from Marshall were there. Our group was joined for dinner by House Minority Leader Marty Seifert and Senate President Pro-Temp Dennis Frederickson and his wife Marge. Our region really enjoys some very influential state legislators. Need to make certain that we don't take that for granted.
We listened to issues outlined by the State Chamber, heard the Governor's assessment and priorities for the upcoming session, and we watched the Legislative Leadership discuss the session in a panel format.
Here are a few of the highlights and impressions I took away from the event:
*Most in the banquet hall were astounded when Senate Majority Leader Pogemiller essentially called Marty Seifert a liar. Yikes! "I don't know if that's true or not or if it even happened," the Senator reponded to a recent experience that Marty had just shared with the audience. One could almost feel the air leave the room as the audience made a collective gasp.
*Governor Pawlenty wants to target 490+ Public and Charter School Districts across Minnesota to "encourage" them to consolidate some of their back office operations. Collective purchases, duplication of services, etc.
*The $4.8 billion projected budget deficit represents about 17% of the state's budget. Statute prohibits the State Government from deficit spending. The real debate and focus will be where the cuts in the state budget will be made. For some reason, 17% sounds much more achievable to me than $4.8 billion.
*The Legislators and Governor mainly agree that K-12 funding would be least likely to receive any budget cuts.
*The State Chamber predicts that Health Care issues will dominate budget cut debates as it represents over half of the State Buget.
*Cap-and-trade policy, (it's an environmental thing) will be hotly contested. The State Chamber and others suggest that this is a Federal issue rather than a state or regional one.
*Both Governor Pawlenty and House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher encouraged the crowd of 1500 to consume a glass of wine or two last night and then asked them to email suggestions of how to fix the budget. For those of you who want to do so, here's the link to send your ideas and suggestions (the wine is up to you to find):
tim.pawlenty@state.mn.us
-and-
www.house.leg.state.mn.us/budgetsuggestions.asp
Those are my opinions. How about yours?
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