HOT PURSUIT
Tri M Graphics owner Mike Jensen, right, enjoys a moment at Saturday’s open house with Chamber Director Brad Meier. Tri M has been hosting the holiday event for many years.
It’s always a sure thing that the new year can’t be far off with Owatonna’s Tri M Graphics revealing a special gift for people.
In keeping with a tradition started 31 years ago by owner Mike Jensen, Tri M prints a calendar loaded with great photographs. The calendars are always kept in suspense until an open house in early November.
Tri M ended up with 663 entries from residents of all 50 states this year. All the entries are displayed during the open house. Let’s just say I wouldn’t want the incredibly tough task of picking 13 winners.
What’s even better yet Jensen gives out the calendars for free. I enjoy the calendars year-round in my offices. It’s a brilliant marketing tool that lasts all year long.
Jensen’s idea reflects the spirit of community in so many ways. Besides opening the calendar contest to photographers across the country, he also has community groups come into his printing facility as a way for them to showcase what they have to offer area residents. Several hundred people attend the open house every year.
Jensen coordinates the open house along with his wife Brenda.
The family-friendly event also featured many activities for kids to take part in during the open house. In addition, young musicians perform some of their talents on guitar, piano and even a small string ensemble.
This year Jensen added a new twist with sessions by area photographers who shared their knowledge of sports photography, wildlife and portraits. He hopes the added feature helped guests learn more about photography and possibly inspire them to participate in Tri M’s ever popular photography contest.
“I’m all about community and building relationships,” Jensen has told me in the past. “We hope this brings people together and builds relationships. That warms my heart.”
Jensen has a heart of gold and has always been a big supporter of Owatonna. His open house idea
He has wondered in the past if all the fuss with putting on such a big event is worth it. But once people start showing up and get into the holiday spirit, the answer to that becomes immediately evident.
If you missed last weekend’s open house, calendars are still available at Tri M.
Whether we’re ready or not, it’s time to go in hot pursuit of getting into the holiday spirit with the new year not far behind.