Land of 10,000 Ways to Enjoy Life

In general, dictionaries peg the word recreation as meaning a ‘resource affording relaxation and enjoyment’. Relaxation and enjoyment. Hmmm, two words not generally associated with the business world. Yet this issue we’ve managed to find a few in our region combining their passions in play with their passions in business.

There’s no disguising our cover story feature is someone who has grown his business at astonishing speed, Tom Fallenstein of Fun.com. You may think you know his story, starting way back with renting costumes out of his garage with Costumes Galore. But I encourage you to read more on this man of high character…who just loves characters of all sorts! And has grown that love into an $80 million company and counting.

Kim Kroubetz grew up camping and loving the outdoors, so when she was ready to open a business of her own, it was only natural she pursue that passion. Camping is such an integral part of life for families in this region, and Kroubetz Lakeside Campers in Lake Crystal has helped many of them find their perfect place to enjoy it.

Jim Schull’s love of boating started with a simple gesture from his dad, that eventually led to the creation of Mapleton Marine. He has passed that passion down to his son. Together now, they ride the waves of the economy as boats get bigger, faster and more expensive. But, especially here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, their products remain in high demand.

Recreation is a big part of our lives in Minnesota year round and, as you’ll read in these pages, a big part of our economy.

So, happy reading…and hopefully, learning!

Lisa Cownie
Editor