In an effort to ensure their legacy is not lost, we continue to foster a community that honors, recognizes, and celebrates those who have and continue to serve. Greater St. Cloud has a variety of resources and support networks for area veterans, military spouses, and those currently serving. As a community, we go beyond being "military friendly", and are truly military-focused.

In 2019, Lenora Hunt started Too Much Talent, a St. Cloud group that provides culture-related programming for children, families, and young adults in Central MN. From reading to STEM programs, to dance classes (for all ages and skill levels), math workshops, and mental health resources - Too Much Talent (2MT for short) has a little something for everyone.

H.R. Pestys, lovingly referred to by some as “St. Cloud’s Five Star Dive Bar” has been around since 1990. Doug Heinen, the original owner, was retiring from a long-standing career with Viking Coke but wasn’t quite ready to retire from his love for people, spirits, and having a good time – so, H.R. Pesty’s became his place.

“We are the only Thai and Filipino restaurant in Central MN, and we’re honored to be able to share hand-crafted, made-to-order, family recipes. Thai and Filipino dishes can be made in various ways and we’re lucky to have kitchen staff trained overseas or through their family’s heritage.” 

Jason Soria, a senior at Apollo High school, is a budding sports photographer and videographer. He’s worked on his craft for years, even though he’s still a student. Passion, curiosity, and talent made for the perfect combination.

A dance team that requires no audition, no previous experience, and incorporates all kinds of dance … If you’re thinking “that doesn’t exist”, think again. These are just a few of the fundamentals the Apollo Majorettes dance team is based on.

BriAnna Rose Kruzel passed away unexpectedly on September 28, 2013, from unknown causes. She was just 18 years old. She left behind her parents, Randy and Tami Kruzel, along with her two brothers, Josh Kulus and Brandon Kruzel. Shortly after, BriAnna’s family and friends established What Would Bri Do (WWBD) - a 501(c)3 with the goal of supporting young people and organizations in need through monetary grants and scholarships.

Have you ever heard of (or participated in) the Earth Day 5k? How about the Sartell Apple Duathlon? The Clearwater Graniteman Triathlon? All of these are organized by our friends at Active Central MN. But Active Central MN is about more than a single race event. And it’s about more than five race events each year. Active Central MN exists to promote well-being — individual and community well-being — throughout Central Minnesota.

Arbor Hair Studio has been part of the Greater St. Cloud Community since 2017, but owner Michelle Meier has been in the industry since 2003. “I opened a salon that uses safe, holistic, and naturally derived ingredients in our products. We were the first Green Circle Salon in Central Minnesota, which means we recycle hair, foils, and everything else we’re able to.”

Kinder Coffee Lab started in the spring of 2020 as a coffee roaster. They were in the process of trying to open a coffee shop, but the world shut down. So, they did what many businesses had to do, and pivoted. Their business became one that roasted coffee and shipped delicious beans all over the state. No one was going out for coffee at the time, so Kinder brought the coffee to them.

Paige Meyer launched HollyBlue Permanent Jewelry less than a year ago after falling in love with the idea of permanent jewelry and finding there were no local businesses that offered it. “I had been dreaming and planning to one day own my own business - I just didn’t know to what extent that would be. I knew I wanted it to be tied to fashion in some way, and when I discovered permanent jewelry I knew it was the perfect way for me to begin a business. I started the business process in the beginning of May 2022 and by June 1st launched HollyBlue to the public.”

Every February, we honor the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape our nation by celebrating Black History Month. In addition to celebrating as a nation during the month of February, you can take part in local celebrations, too. Mark your calendars to join Higher Works Collaborative for the 4th annual Black Excellence Celebration from Friday, February 17th through Sunday, February 19th.

Originally from Nepal, Nisha moved to St. Cloud just before the COVID-19 pandemic in pursuit of higher education. Since assimilating herself into our community, she has grown a deep love for Greater St. Cloud and all we have to offer.

What are you doing for yourself in 2023? For your health, your family, your colleagues or employees … It’s a question a lot of us ask ourselves this time of year. What if this year you were more aware of the world around you? We had the opportunity to talk with Kelly Sayre, Owner & Founder of The Diamond Arrow Group and Author of Sharp Women - and it’s an enlightening perspective, to say the least.

Nora Hertel is an optimist by choice and the founder of Project Optimist. She’s an investigative reporter, “recovering” from 10 years on the politics beat. Nora is a super fan of solutions journalism and trained to teach it through the Solutions Journalism Network. Project Optimist’s newsletter features original reporting about solutions in Minnesota. Solutions journalism is rigorous, evidence-based reporting on responses to social problems. As a subscriber, you’ll see how people are taking on big problems and innovating on environmental, business, and social issues.

ILT Academy is an EdTech platform with a virtual lean startup training program that offers a practical approach for ecosystem leaders, community leaders, and business leaders to unlock the talent in their community and enable more businesses to validate their idea, launch, obtain funding and grow. 

CentraCare Gorecki Guest House is conveniently located right across the street from the St. Cloud Hospital. The 28-room guest house features private bathrooms, family-style kitchens, dining rooms to accommodate family meals, large living spaces that promote relaxation and recharge, an exercise and laundry room, free parking, and guest Wi-Fi. 

'Tis the season to spread cheer - and shine! If you’re looking for ways to make the holiday season a bright one for all, there are a number of wonderful opportunities right here in our communities. There are ways to give your time, your talent, or monetary gifts. Whichever way you choose to give back, know you’re making Greater St. Cloud shine brighter.

Feeling like you have some Thanksgiving food to walk off? Head to the JoeTown WinterWalk Festival! We sat down with Raj Chaphalkar & Marshall Herron, co-chairs of the WinterWalk Festival to learn about preparations for the annual event.

In just under 5 years of being in business, Lindsay and the White Peony team have immersed themselves in the community and become well-known for a fun, female-centric environment that cares about the community.

Trendi Trays aims to liven up any celebration with our eye-catching, mouth-watering charcuterie trays. This time of year has calendars full of gathering with friends, coworkers, clients, and loved ones, and is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Yum!

All for the love of trivia. And craft beer. Oh, and the perfect snack to accompany those two things. That’s how Firesticks Pretzels got their start.

Did you know that the world’s largest corn maze is right here in our community? Foley is home to Stoney Brook Farms, with a 110-acre corn maze featuring 32 miles of pathways.

The Jugaad Leadership Program is a leadership program that is supported by community partners and sponsors; the program ‘Train, Place & Connects’ Emerging Leaders of Color from underrepresented and marginalized communities to be professionals, leaders and advocates in their respective communities.

Awareness around mental health is essential and that those living with mental health issues are deserving of care, understanding, compassion, and pathways to hope, healing, recovery, and fulfillment. Lucky for those of us in Greater St. Cloud, Marc Van Herr is working every week of the year to end the stigma and provide resources to our communities with The Beautiful Mind Project.

If you’ve been downtown St. Cloud over the last year or two, you may have noticed that what used to be Liberty Bank’s headquarters is now the home of the Great River Children’s Museum. Though not open to the public just yet, the museum is well on its way to making a home in our community. Executive Director Cassie Miles indulged us with background, current status, and future prospects for the museum…

Nation of Patriots™ is a nonprofit organization that works on a national level to raise awareness for military issues and to gather financial support for the physical, emotional, and economic misfortune that our disabled veterans and their families live with every day.

Stearns American’s Avon Rye is their flagship whiskey and between the name and the reputation, we knew we needed more information. Jeremy Blankenship COO & Head Distiller filled our cup...

The St. Cloud Young Eagles program began in 1992 as a community outreach by local chapters of the Experimental Aviation Association (EAA). The chapters of EAA were encouraged to provide free plane rides for children interested in aviation through rallies open to the public and individual flights through personal contact. EAA 551, the St. Cloud chapter of EAA, began giving flights that same year. This summer marks 30 years of the Young Eagles!

Granite City Motor Park is an entertainment facility. They have a 3/8-mile semi-banked clay oval that hosts dirt track auto racing from early May through Labor Day. The track hosts WISSOTA sanctioned Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds, Mod Fours, and Hornets on a weekly basis.

Liz Fiedler is a Certified Nurse Practitioner, the owner of a century farm in central Minnesota, a mom, a widow, a published author, and the owner of Sunny Mary Meadow - a flower business just outside of St. Joe. Liz and her late husband, Josh - the namesake of the century-old farm operation - started Sunny Mary Meadow in July 2020.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a growing need for registered nurses and nurse practitioners in the central Minnesota region and especially for advanced practice registered nurses to serve rural communities. In an effort to build a strong foundation for the future, St. Cloud State University collaborated with the University of Minnesota to build the SCSU Doctor of Nursing Program (DNP). The St. Cloud cohort at the University of Minnesota School of Nursing collaboration began in the fall of 2020.

The St. Joe Meat Market is more than a hundred years old. Originally a bar, it transitioned into a meat market in 1905 and has had generations of Pfannensteins working there throughout the years. The current owner, Harvey Pfannenstein, grew up working at the meat market with his 8 siblings. They now have 30 employees (3 of which are Harvey’s brothers), and many are nieces, nephews, daughters, and sons. It’s a true labor of love.

You learn something new every day – and after talking with Shannon Wiger, we learned what the term “adaptive reuse projects” means. Think of the building on the corner of 5th Ave and West Saint Germain downtown, home to GSDC and Kensington Bank… of both Hudson & Co, W | R Home Company, and KPower Yoga in St. Joseph… The Davidson Opera House downtown St. Cloud… These all had Shannon's magic touch (and vision + talent).

Summertime calls for splashing and fun in the sun! One of the many ways our area shines is the abundance of splash pads open to all. Here is a list of where you can cool off and enjoy the heat this summer.

Tucked away on a quiet, waterfront section of Middle Spunk Lake in Avon is Fisher’s Club, a charming bar and restaurant with 90 years of history. They got their start for their delicious, fresh walleye dinners and to this day any of their walleye meals are incredible.

A philosophy that is simple but effective: “hire great people, help them live their best lives.” St. Cloud’s Capital One actively promotes an open and inclusive culture where individuals can bring their diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences together to harness our collective wisdom and challenge the status quo.

Omni Training is an inclusive fitness facility in Waite Park, MN. Inclusive meaning all abilities. They specialize in adaptive training for people with different abilities. They include individuals with different abilities in all of our group classes, our training programs, and all of their events.

In 2016, the Initiative Foundation brought together St. Cloud-area partners to explore ways a partnership-based model could tap the entrepreneurial nature of local residents and accelerate them on the path to business and job creation.

The Park Event Center’s opening happened just weeks before the onset of the pandemic, in the last week of Jan 2020. They were open for about a month, still working on all of the finishing touches of the building, and then COVID hit.

The Clean Energy Resource Teams are a statewide partnership that was established in 2003 to provide clean energy assistance in Minnesota, with a mission to connect individuals and their communities to the resources they need to identify and implement community-based clean energy projects.

Meghan Kelsey opened Second Street Coffee in Sartell on the heels of 2022. Located on 2nd Street (go figure), the shop was known for over a decade as Liquid Assets. After a change of owners and closing in 2021, the centrally-located space was up for sale. Walking into the calm but buzzing coffee shop...

The St. Cloud Police Department serves the citizens and visitors of the City of St. Cloud, which includes over 41 square miles and over 68,000 citizens. The department consists of 116 sworn police officers and over 50 non-sworn civilian staff members. They have a number of open positions...

Much of the Sauk Rapids community was wiped out during the great cyclone of 1886 - but not a corner bar, now known as Jimmy’s Pour House. The building has been around since the late 1800s, and well, if those walls could talk - we know they’d have some of the best stories around.

CMBA Tools For Schools Fund recently contributed over $20,000 to 15 area high schools for their industrial tech departments to help teach the building trades. The donations from the community will put tools in the hands of future builders. 

On February 15th, GREAT Theatre brought our community together once again, celebrating their 25th season and announcing their 2022-23 shows was the real star of the show.

Did you know that just down the road in Foley is a beautiful, quiet, relaxing Bed & Breakfast? You do know. Meet the Sable Inn, run by Bill and Sandy Stevens.

Songbird Kitchens is an official Cottage Food Producer and they make everything from beautiful french macarons to cookies, and imaginative, flavor-filled cakes, truffles, and more.

The St. Cloud Figure Skating Club (SCFSC) was formed nearly 50 years ago, in 1973. They were accepted into membership of the United States Figure Skating Association shortly after, in 1976.

The Whitney Recreation Center, located on the northside of St. Cloud, was donated to the City by Mrs. Alice Whitney in 1933.

The New Year brings new priorities for many - among them, decluttering. If your home, office,...

Tron Swanson grew up in the Upsala and Pierz area of Central MN, and in 2013 he started...

Earlier this year, St. Germain Street in Downtown St. Cloud became home to the Whit Gallery....

Rock Creek Coffeehouse in Sauk Rapids first opened in 2014 and is owned by Art & Mary Buhs and Matt and Suzie Buhs. A step inside and you’ll find a comfortable, buzzing atmosphere with delicious beverage and food options. And for those of us on the go, you have the option to drive-thru, too.

Skincare and Decor and Clothing... oh my! The Pick-It Fence in Sartell is a hidden gem...

A little less than 10 years ago, Tariq Siddique and his wife Shahira - both from Saudi Arabia -...

Three kids, three dogs, and three cats… Some call it chaotic, but Bethie Gondeck calls that...

Waite Park is home to the newest brewery in town, Back Shed Brewing! They opened in August of...

On the evening of Thursday, October 14th, hundreds of friends, family, and neighbors in Central...

The Pickled Loon in downtown St. Cloud opened in December 2013. Rhiannon, Michael, Mike, and...

Dr. Amanthi Demuth grew up in Colombo, Sri Lanka. At just 17 years old, she came to the United...

More than 15 years ago, area police chiefs saw a need for transparency to the public to learn...

Sure, this time of year means all-things-pumpkin… but don’t forget that we’re in the midwest,...

On Thursday, August 26th, we gathered with our investors and partners for a joint celebration,...

Adventure: noun \ ad·​ven·​ture | \ əd-ˈven-chər \ an exciting or remarkable experience. I...

Teacher by day, and small business owner by… weekend. That’s the name of the game for Central...

Minnesota summers are great for many things - lakes, trails, beautiful sunsets and sunrises,...

Gregory Konsor was born and raised in Holdingford, MN. In 2020, after working 30 years in the...

Meet Brayden! He is 8 years old and loves animals, helping people, meeting new people, singing,...

Midwesterners are known for creative pickle recipes - whether it’s adding them to beer, rolling...

Central Canvas Manufacturing Inc. has been around for more than 30 years. Over the years they...

Five years ago at this time, Raylene Johnson was a cosmetologist but had her sights set on dog...

Mark & Cheryl Post with Gil Umerski started Pineview Park BMX park more than 20 years ago,...

Jarrod Hall first came to Central Minnesota in 1992, to play football at St. Cloud State...

In the quiet, rolling hills of St. Joseph, you’ll find Milk & Honey Ciders nestled just...

Sandy Hansen-Wolff’s passion for all-natural alternatives to traditional medications began...

If you’ve been downtown St. Cloud, you may have noticed the beautiful, historical building on...

In March we shared the story of Yuli, a young entrepreneur; we talked about her business...

Did you know that many of the engines that power Arctic Cat snowmobiles, side-by-sides, at ATVs...

As we’ve seen throughout the month of March, inspiration from strong, smart women can come from...

Brian Mozey is a prep sportswriter for the St. Cloud Times. What does that mean? He covers...

“We want to bring to life the heritage of New Orleans right here in downtown St. Joe. Combining...

Daisy A Day Floral and Gift started June 1992 in Sartell. Tom and Renee Omann purchased a...

5, 6, 7, 8 ... If you’ve had experience with dance, you know what that means - the fun is about...

Prisms are used both literally and figuratively to show how to direct and disperse a beam of...

“I grew up on a small farm just out of the Foley area. From a very young age, I was exposed to...