When the name “Kate Cox” is spoken in the Greater Mankato area, one word comes to mind: passion. More specifically, passion for youth. It’s that passion that drives everything Kate does and in August it culminated with the opening of PrairieCare Medical Group in Mankato.
One thing about the fashion industry, you have to be able to adapt to change with each new season. J. Longs, a locally-owned men’s clothing in Mankato has embraced a new season in its business life and purchased its own building along one of Mankato’s main shopping corridors, Madison Avenue.
In this issue, I would like to highlight a trio of collaborations from throughout our region. These three stories highlight the importance of different groups coming together to solve a common problem and along the way enriching our communities.
In 1932, the United States was in the throes of the Great Depression. Unemployment hit 24%. Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected President of the United States. Al Capone was convicted for Income Tax evasion. Indeed, these are historical events that would shape the future of our country. Events that would go down in the history books. And chances are, some of those books would be published in Mankato, Minnesota. By one of the last remaining independent publishing companies in the United States, The Creative Company.
Neck ties are how Randy Appel made his mark in the apparel world. Family ties, though, make up the fabric of his being. “I do all of this for the family,” reflects Appel, as he looks around at the rows and rows of ties, shirts and sweaters that will soon be shipped out to destinations all around the world from his 12,000sf distribution center in North Mankato. Appel owns F/X Fusion, an international apparel designer, manufacturer and distributor.
The story behind the creation of Welsh Heritage Farms is, well, a juicy one. It was not Larry and Pam Harbos’ idea to start an orchard 36 years ago. The credit for the enterprise goes to Pam’s mother, Edythe Davis Peterson. Pam explains, “I grew up in Lake Crystal, and Larry grew up on a farm near Hanska. We were teachers; I taught in an elementary school in Prior Lake, and Larry taught high school in Jordan.
“We strive to draw from art, science, business, and community to help businesses navigate complex issues,” says Hanson. “Our services currently focus on talent, culture, and story: finding and training the people who help you succeed.”
Crystal Hanson is a patient woman. While she always entertained the idea of owning her own firm, she spent more than a decade honing her skills in various corporate human resources roles before making that leap.
It’s been a labor of love for Jace Marti. Many years ago he so enjoyed the taste of “sour beers” he knew he wanted to try it himself. So he began quietly laboring away, making sure to do it right.
