St. Cloud named “Best”
St. Cloud was named a “Best Old House Neighborhood” in national
This Old House Magazine, and was the only Minnesota town on this year’s list. The city was noted for Victorian era homes, including Queen Annes and Richardsonian Romanesques. The complete list of 51 “Best Old House Neighborhoods” is in the March issue, available online at
www.thisoldhouse.com/best-places.
Mike Benda has joined Netgain Hosting as director of client services. Prior to joining Netgain, Benda was director of information systems at FocalPoint Marketing Group.
Ray Blaha of Western Products, Inc., was awarded the International Design Award by United States Seamless, Inc. In addition, Western Products was awarded the Director’s Award for franchisees with the highest market penetration of United States Seamless accent products.
Sister recognized; HR Director certified; spring fundraiser planned
Sister Susan Rudolph,
St. Benedict’s Senior Community, was recognized as District D Caregiver of the Year by Aging Services of Minnesota. Erin Hjort, human resources director at St. Benedict’s Senior Community, earned certification from the HR Certification Institute. Applicants must pass a comprehensive examination and demonstrate a strong background in human resource experience.
St. Benedict’s annual Progressive Garden Party is June 10 at 5 p.m. The event includes a candlelight dinner under the big tent and dancing to George Mauer in the garden. For details visit
www.centracare.com.
History DVD wins award
“The History of Richmond Chapter One” DVD, available at the
Stearns History Museum, won a Gold Award at the International Ava Awards. The color DVD traces the growth of Richmond from 1856 to 1978. Producer Mark R. Krauel’s work was chosen from 1700 entries worldwide.
Jim McAlpine was elected Quinlivan & Hughes' newest shareholder. McAlpine works with clients in civil litigation defense. Cally Kjellberg has joined Quinlivan & Hughes firm.
The Good Shepherd Community in Sauk Rapids was recognized recently at the Aging Services of Minnesota Institute with the following awards: Excellence in Practice Award in Technology;the 2010 District D, Caring Heart – Support Care award to Janet Schoenleben, a housekeeper at Shepherd Court Apartments; and the Senior Housing Leadership Award to April Myers, the director of housing.
Manager receives award; hotel welcomes staff
Melanie Hirsch,
GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel, received the Sales and Marketing Award at the ETC Enterprises, Inc. annual managers’ meeting. Awards were given in several categories and were selected from 23 properties based on outstanding performance. Jon Kennedy joins GrandStay as senior vice president of franchise development.
HatlingFlint won eight ADDY Awards from the American Advertising Federation of Central Minnesota.
Dan Bates has been promoted to director of staffing operations for Manpower US. Bates will remain in Central Minnesota but will work for Manpower’s World Headquarters in Milwaukee. He has been with Manpower since 1995.
Blooming Creations Floral & Gifts won the 2010 Florist of the Year Award from the Central Minnesota Wedding Association. This is the second consecutive year the business has won. Nominations were collected from recently married couples and other vendors, and winners chosen by a panel of judges.
J. F. Kruse Jewelers promoted Christine Frank to director of human resources and operations. Frank was hired as sales associate in 2004 and was most recently operations coordinator.
Pepsi launches Refresh Grants
Pepsi’s Refresh Project will award more than $20 million in 2010 to community projects. Individuals can apply for grants in six categories: health, arts and culture, food and shelter, the planet, neighborhoods, and education. Visitors to
www.refresheverything.com vote for the best ideas for funding.
Blue Angels head to St. Cloud
The U.S. Navy’s “Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron,” known as The Blue Angels, will perform in St. Cloud June 26-27. Their appearance is the centerpiece of the inaugural “Great Minnesota Air Show,” which also features regional and national aviation performers.