Atypical Business Owners

Some business owners, their business issues, and their personal lives don’t fit easily into stereotypes. They are square pegs forced into round holes, the perpetual outliers, and virtually indescribable—even after an extended, attempted description. That’s our fare this issue.

Our cover story showcases Doug and Pam DeMarce, co-owners of Mankato-based Victory Bowl, Mickey’s Sports Bar & Grill, and $7 million family entertainment center Wow! Zone. Not long ago, the industry- and community-active DeMarces took home the Bowling Proprietors Association of Minnesota “2013 Proprietor of the Year Award.” In our in-depth, face-to-face interview titled “Strikes, Spares, and Splits,” they share atypical business hurdles that would challenge any business owner.

Our first company profile features St. James-based Civil Ag Group, which at first glance, and given the owners’ ages, could easily be confused for a country rock group releasing its first album. They are atypically young. (See their photo on page 30.) Also, co-owners Mike and Sheryl Gunzenhauser of Winnebago companies Mike’s Ag and M&S Fitness have been involved in more outside-the-norm business experiences than Rick and Chumlee on Pawn Stars.

Finally, see our rules to our 11th Annual Connect Business Magazine “Business Person of the Year” Awards. Last year’s winner was notable Wayne Kahler of Kahler Automation in Fairmont. This year’s winner could be you.

Sursum ad summum,
Daniel J. Vance
Editor