2 minute read

Welcome to the 2023 Central Minnesota Farm Show!

CINDY BATTLESON Rapids Alterations & Repair

(320) 255-9083

Co-Chair, Central Minnesota Farm Show Committee

FRANK IMHOLTE Black Diamond

Auctions

(320) 241-1200

Co-Chair, Central Minnesota Farm Show Committee

LAURA WAGNER

St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce

(320) 656-3831

2023 Farm Show Coordinator

Many thanks to the following Champion and Advocate Sponsors:

The Central Minnesota Farm Show, brought to you by the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce, is the largest indoor show of its kind in the region. Why does such a show exist in this growing metropolitan area? Because agriculture is still one of the area’s leading industries! The St. Cloud Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has 1.5 as many people working in farming as other regions.

Since opening its doors 50+ years ago, the Farm Show has been a popular community event for Central Minnesota. The show offers something for everyone with an interest in agriculture. When you turn to the center of this program you’ll find a complete map of the show and a list of vendors to help you make the most of your visit.

The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping area farmers through organization and sponsorship of the Central Minnesota Farm Show. And there’s something else we’d like you to know. As part of our commitment to agriculture and education, each year the Chamber dedicates a portion of the proceeds from the Farm Show to student scholarships.

Volunteers have worked hard to put together a show that you will find both valuable and fun. Enjoy your visit with us and if you have questions or suggestions, please stop by the information booth. We’d like to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Cindy Battleson, Frank Imholte & Laura Wagner

Keynote Speakers

KEITH OLANDER Executive Director of AgCentric Agcentric.org

Keith Olander is the Executive Director of AgCentric, (a MN State Agricultural Center of Excellence). He also oversees strategic agricultural partnerships at Central Lakes College as a Dean of Agricultural Studies. As Executive Director of AgCentric, Keith’s major responsibilities are build partnerships, develop seamless educational pathways, and inform audiences of the agricultural web that surrounds every person who enjoys a good meal and an environment that is sustainable.

A native of Bancroft, Iowa, Bethany Cross graduated with a degree in legal studies. She obtained her law degree from the Mitchell Hamline College of Law and spent eight years as a paralegal for a renewable energy contractor. Bethany appreciates the values of teamwork, problem solving, and collaboration. These simple life lessons have helped shape Bethany’s legal practice. The most basic life lessons can assist in the most complex legal transactions.

Michael Grage, CPA, MBT is the Director of Tax Services at Schlenner Wenner & Co., CPAs. He oversees the firm’s tax policies and procedures as well as staff training and development. He provides tax consulting, planning, and preparation services for businesses, individuals, estates, trusts, and nonprofit organizations.

Mike grew up in Fergus Falls, MN and earned bachelor degrees in both accounting and finance at the Minnesota State University Moorhead.