On The Right Track

I was recently referred to as a great example of a Greater Mankato “boomerang!” I am indeed someone who spent time in Mankato many, many years ago…then returned to stay forever! (You’ve all heard that story!) But this week I experienced something that made me even more sure that I boomeranged back to the right spot.

I was a part of the Greater Mankato Growth Business Hall of Fame and Awards ceremony.

At just more than 400 attendees, it was a sold out crowd. And what a crowd it was! Dynamic yet humble, competitive yet encouraging of all those around them. Listening to the acceptance speeches that night, two themes stood out: they all said they took huge risks that ended up paying off, and they feel the greater Mankato area is, in their words, "ready to explode!" As prosperous as the community is now, I think the genuine feeling in the business community here is that this is just the beginning and we are on the cusp of something special here.

I also got a sense of respect and teamwork from all those in attendance. Two things that I think helped the community overcome obstacles that often pop up as any area tries to grow. Several of the recipients talked about partnerships they forged that helped with their success, and the need for collaboration between the city, the business community and the educational systems both Higher Ed and K through 12… to get the job done, and done well. Not all parties always agreeing, but coming together to problem solve and move on.

I am already looking forward to next year’s event! To once again reflect on the victories we will surely see in 2014, and review how we grew stronger from the road bumps that will also inevitably try to slow us down. But right now we are staying on track, a track that keeps us living The Good Life.