Author: Lisa Cownie

Cownie Connection

Embrace Freedom From Work

Let’s face it, vacations aren’t what they used to be. It used to be, that they were regular occurances. Everyone took their yearly vacation! These days though, that is not the case. Americans just can’t seem to unplug. According to a report by the Project: Time Off Coalition, between 2000 and 2014, the number of vacation days U.S. workers took declined steadily from a long-term average of 20.3 days to 16.

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Editor's Letter

Leading by Example

The thing I admire most about the business leaders featured in this issue is that they are good at their jobs. Really, they are just good at life. They are moms who love their children as well as community advocates who embrace the region. They kick ass in their careers. They also just happen to be women.

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Connect TVCover Story

Tony Frentz

I would like to share with you a little known fact about Tony Frentz. But, I have discovered, there are no little known facts about Tony Frentz. His reputation and personality, just like the buildings he has developed, loom large in Mankato. With Tony Frentz what you see is what you get; a man with a big, genuine smile and big, genuine dreams for his hometown.

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A Day in the LifeConnect TV

Shannon Beal

Shannon Beal, Realtor at JBeal Homes, certainly believes in making the most out of life. Whether it’s helping people find their dream home, or playing the piano, or planning a performance for the Mankato Symphony Board, or being a mom of 3, she tackles each role with zesto! Here’s a glimpse into how she does it all day in and day out for family and community.

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Hot Startz!

Bailey Creek Boutique

After spending more than 25 years in the corporate world, Sandy Reinke was ready for a change. “Although I experienced much success with my corporate career, I decided that if I was ever going to venture out of my comfort zone, now would be the time,” Reinke says. And she knew exactly what she wanted to do.

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Feature Story

St. Peter Lumber Company

Chad DeBlieck grew up around the lumber yard. He didn’t really know it then, but watching his dad manage the operations of Standard Lumber was giving him tools he didn’t even know he would want or need. But that he now knows, helped get him where he is today.

DeBlieck’s father managed the yard in St. Peter for almost two decades, before purchasing it in 1988 and changing the name to St. Peter Lumber Company. And that started a new history for a new family-owned business. As his father eventually sold the business to him in 2011.

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Hot Startz!

Kuettner Legal

James Kuettner’s path to becoming an attorney is a unique one. “Prior to law school, I managed bars and restaurants for about 11 years. I encountered customers with various legal issues. I felt compelled to do something to help, so I went to undergrad and then law school,” Kuettner explains.

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