News
FLSA Alert: Overtime Rule Struck Down
FLSA Overtime Exemption Rule Struck DownA federal district court struck down the US Department of Labor’s 2024 rule increasing the minimum salary required for overtime exemptions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) on November 15. History:The 2024 rule increased the minimum salary required for exempt status under the administrative, executive, and professional exemptions.The ruling had three stages:Increase exempt salaries to $43,888 effective July, 1 2024Increase exempt salaries to $58,656
Corporate Transparency Act Shut Down - What Small Businesses Need to Know
From the US Chamber of Commerce Editor's Note 1/8/25: There is currently no filing deadline for the Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirement, which is currently on hold. As of this date, there is no requirement to file this report. Editor's Note 12/26/24: On December 26, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit paused the enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), thus pausing the beneficial ownership reporting requirements for U.S. small business owners. This
Love Letter To Your City
Chamber Celebrates New Businesses, New Members & a New Location
We want your help welcoming Chrissy Davenport, the new owner of SoapWerks Naturals by Re-Ewe’able, as a new Chamber member. Davenport has farmed sheep for years and understands the benefits of wool, so having her storefront is the perfect opportunity to expand her business Re-Ewe’able by purchasing SoapWerks. Davenport makes wool-felted soap (making the SoapWerks bar soap last twice as long), wool-felted decorative plant spikes, wool washcloths/scrubbers, wool car fresheners, and more.
It's a Mardi Gras Party at Our Battle of the Businesses Bowling Tournament
“Laissez les bons temps rouler! – Let the good times roll!” Bowl your way to victory at the Mardi Gras Battle of the Businesses on Saturday, February 8 at Northern Aire Lanes. Get ready to strike it rich at the most exciting bowling tournament in town, where friendly competition meets festive fun. Here’s what you can expect: Mardi Gras Madness: Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras with festive decorations, costumes, and maybe even a few beads! Dress in the official Mardi
Ignite Community Leadership Starts Today
The Chamber's new Ignite Community Leadership Program brings together emerging and existing leaders to explore leadership within themselves and for their community. Participants will develop and enhance their leadership skills, grow professional relationships, explore new leadership responsibilities, and foster an understanding of the forces affecting the Fergus Falls area. We are developing the best, brightest, and most energetic people who want to build the skills necessary to assume leadership roles
Holiday Shopping Spree Winners
Our Holiday Shopping Spree Giveaway was a great success with more than $176,250 spent at the 36 businesses on the shopping card. We hope you enjoyed collecting stamps around Fergus Falls as you shopped, ate, played, and stayed local. We also appreciate the participating businesses - we couldn't do this without you! 705 shopping cards were returned to the Chamber making local shoppers eligible for the gift cards giveaway. Winners won a combined total of more than $2,000 in prizes valued from
New Member Enhancements for 2025
The Fergus Falls Chamber offers six membership levels (Classic, Spotlight, Access, Leader, Stakeholder, and Visionary). Each level offers unique features and benefits so businesses can choose benefits that are important to them. Member fees can be paid monthly or annually. The Chamber works tirelessly to make sure our members receive a high value for their investment as members. Benefits have been announced and we want to ensure that your business makes the most of your membership. New in
Fergus Home & Hardware January Staff Spotlight
As we begin the new year, we reflect on the incredible journey of Fergus Home & Hardware and some of the individuals who have shaped our success. This month, we spotlight our owners, Eric and Kari Nelson, along with Tara Johnson. Eric & Kari Nelson – Owners Together, Eric and Kari Nelson form the backbone of Fergus Home & Hardware, combining their unique strengths to lead with vision and care. Eric is actively involved in daily operations and his hands-on approach inspires the team and sets a high
Winter Driving Tips from Fergus Home & Hardware
Winter driving can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can stay safe and confident on the road. As temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, now’s the time to ensure both you and your vehicle are ready to face the season’s challenges. Follow these essential tips to keep your winter journeys smooth and stress-free. · Check your vehicle: Make sure your tires, brakes, lights, wipers, battery, fluid levels, ignition system, fuel system, and exhaust system are in good
How to Recognize & Avoid Phishing Email Scams
In today’s digital age, email has become an essential tool for communication. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime target for scammers. Phishing emails are deceptive messages designed to trick you into revealing personal information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security numbers. Protecting yourself starts with knowing what to look for and what steps to take. Here’s how to spot and avoid phishing email scams: 1. Red Flags in the Sender’s Address Look closely at the sender’s email
Foundation for Rural Services (FRS) Scholarship – Due February 14, 2025
Foundation for Rural Services (FRS), along with the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association (NTCA) and its members, strongly promotes the continuing education of rural youth. As your local telecommunications service provider, we are happy to offer this national scholarship program to our customers’ high school seniors. To be eligible, the applicant must be a graduating high school senior whose family subscribes to at least one service from Park Region. The application window is now open and
FinCEN's BOI Filing Deadline: 01/01/2025 - Fergus Falls, MN Businesses Must File Now to Avoid Fines!
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) requires businesses to report Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) to FinCEN to enhance financial transparency and deter illicit activities. As of today, November 27, 2024, Fergus Falls, Minnesota, business owners have 35 calendar days (or 25 business days) left to file their BOI report with FinCEN—act quickly to avoid $500 per day fines! What You Need to Do:1. Determine if Your Business Must File. Most LLCs, corporations, and small businesses qualify as
Pave the Way for Sustainable Growth: Essential Steps for Small Business Expansion
Growing a small business often signals a promising future, but expansion brings challenges that require thoughtful planning. The decision to scale involves more than just increasing output; it touches every aspect of the business. As growth opportunities emerge, business owners must evaluate their readiness to navigate new complexities while ensuring their core values remain intact. Planning for expansion is about laying the groundwork for sustained success rather than short-term gains.Assess Financial
Financial Mastery for Small Business Success
In the dynamic landscape of small business, financial acumen is paramount for sustainable growth. To navigate the complexities of fiscal management effectively, it's imperative to arm yourself with the requisite knowledge and strategies. Here are key steps to gaining financial wisdom and making astute decisions for your small business. Streamline Financial Processes with PDFs Small business owners must prioritize the protection of their financial documents. With PDFs, businesses can
Secret Sauce Strategies for Persuasive Sales Pitches
In business, the ability to sway decisions and win over clients is crucial to your success. Crafting persuasive sales pitches and formulating winning marketing strategies requires a deep understanding of several key elements that resonate well with your target audience. The following guidelines will help you refine your approach, ensuring you communicate value effectively and captivate your prospective customers.Understand Your Target Audience Understanding your target audience’s needs, preferences, and
Adobe Acrobat AI Assistant: All You Have to Do Is Ask Acrobat’s Generative AI Document & PDF Tool
Adobe Acrobat has long been an invaluable tool for business owners, entrepreneurs, and employees all over the world thanks to its wide array of PDF generation and editing tools. Now, Acrobat AI Assistant offers new benefits for businesses of all sizes. Acrobat AI Assistant’s revolutionary software can transform your business with its incredible features: Data Extraction: Extracting data from documents is crucial for tasks like compiling financial reports and analyzing market trends. The AI
Amplify Your Business: Mastering Public Speaking for Small Business Growth
Harnessing the power of public speaking can significantly elevate your small business's profile and reach within the market. This invaluable skill is crucial for entrepreneurs striving to assert their authority, forge meaningful connections with potential clients, and differentiate their enterprises from competitors. By articulately sharing your passion, expertise, and the distinctive benefits your business provides, you can captivate a broader audience, creating a fertile ground for growth and new
Global Freelance Team Success: Key Strategies for Unity and Productivity
In the dynamic world of business, assembling a global team of freelancers is a strategic pivot toward innovation and flexibility. The diverse talents from various corners of the world bring a wealth of perspectives and skills. However, the real challenge lies in smoothly integrating these individuals into a cohesive, productive, and happy team. This article discusses a few best practices for cultivating such a team, highlighting effective strategies for a harmonious, efficient, and successful global