I’ve been traveling the back roads of southwest Minnesota. I love summer and enjoy how beautiful our region is, especially this time of year. And as always, I came back to the office overwemed by how incredible the people of our region truly are and how much they’re accomplishing.
In Marshall, I had the opportunity to tour the future Brau Brothers Brewery and heard about other key business expansions. I was privileged to spend some time with new Southwest Minnesota State University President Dr. Connie Gores. She brings a new passion and commitment not only to SMSU, but our entire region.
Last weekend in Hutchinson, Bruce and I enjoyed RiverSong Music Festival. It was two days of outdoor music along the Crow River put on entirely by volunteers, and is a great example of the creative ways people build on our region’s assets. Volunteers in all of our communities make so many special and fun activities happen, from city celebrations, to music in the parks, to art festivals, to county fairs, to Relay For Life, to community theatre to baseball/softball/soccer games, golf tournaments and much more.
And this week, I spent time in the beautiful Willmar-New London-Spicer areas, bringing back many memories of summer vacations on Green Lake. I attended two Willmar Lakes Area Vision 2040 public forums and was amazed by the ideas shared by local community members and leaders. Jackie Turner-Lovsness and Sara Carlson from our staff have also attended sessions focused on economic vibrancy, inclusion, things to do, and well being. It is awesome to see community leaders from all sectors, ages, etc. coming together focused on the future of their community. I encourage you to read more about it—the West Central Tribune covered each session.
From business to family entertainment to planning for the future—southwest Minnesota really does have it all. As you visit with family and friends this summer, I hope you’re taking time to share the stories of what our areas have to offer. They’re worth hearing! PLEASE SHARE THEM WITH US, TOO!
