Pictured at the ribbon cutting ceremony are (from left) Chamber Vice President Caitlen Schneider (Interiors by Cait), Board Member Judy Thielen, Owners Lisa and Randy Johannes, Board Member Tiffany Press (Press Agency), Board Member Kris Kelm (Thrivent) and Board Member Michelle Hanson. Submitted photo.

Eden Valley Area Chamber Ambassadors celebrated Johannes Auction Service, an online auction service and a relatively new business in Eden Valley, with a grand opening ceremony and the presentation of their first dollar win. Rodney and Lisa Johannes had their first sale at the end of February and have been enjoying the growth of their business ever since.

Rodney is especially excited to bring this ministry to Eden Valley, a town he knows as a graduate of EV-W schools. When the team arrived for the opening event on August 1st, it was clear that he was no stranger to our community. He already knows several of our Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors well, and those familiar with his auction practices are excited to have his business operating locally. We are thrilled that they have already taken steps to become members of the Eden Valley Area Chamber.

Randy has been in the auction business for several years and, after working in other industries for a while, is very happy to make a living doing what he and his wife Lisa clearly enjoy! He spoke passionately about his business, the process and his connection to Oberman Auctions in St. Augusta, owned by his long-time partner Steve Oberman.

They sell everything including cars, boats, antiques, coins and guns. To book an in-person auction (Randy is the auctioneer) or to place items on consignment, call (320) 345-1989. To view or bid on online auctions, go to www.obermanauction.com and search for Johannes Auctions.