Business notes
AmericInn achieves excellence rating
JENKINS -- The AmericInn, Jenkins, was ranked in the top 10 percent in quality assurance excellence, the chain's corporate office reported.
The excellence award places the AmericInn among the chain's best for quality assurance. Luke Fowler, AmericInn chief executive officer, said the AmericInn's staff in Jenkins goes the extra mile for service, cleanliness and amenities.
AmericInn currently has 190 locations open or under development.
December CHOW Time Luncheon set
The Brainerd Lakes Area Chambers of Commerce is hosting the December CHOW Time event from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday at event sponsor -- Northwest Pizza and Boardwalk Bread and Bagel, 302 Washington St. in Brainerd. An assortment of specialty pizzas, bagels and desserts will be served.
CHOW Time is a networking lunch activity highlighting what's new at the chamber, which allows for new members to be introduced and offers an opportunity to promote businesses. The cost to attend is $2 with advance reservations or $3 at the door.
For more information, call Elaine Wagner at 800-450-2838 or 829-2838, ext. 110.
Houle receives engineer award
BAXTER -- Tim Houle of Widseth Smith Nolting, Baxter, was recently named Minnesota Project Engineer of the Year by Rural Development, a funding agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Chris English, state engineer for Rural Development, announced the award at the 2000 Rural Development Engineer's Conference in Bemidji.
Houle was recognized for his dedication and professionalism in managing the Pequot Lakes Water Treatment and Rehabilitation Project. This project received funding from Rural Development.
Houle has 13 years experience in civil engineering, including four years with WSN. He has worked with the city of Pequot Lakes as city engineer for the past two years.
This is the second consecutive year that WSN has received recognition by Rural Development for outstanding engineering achievement. WSN employs more than 130 employees providing engineering, architectural, land surveying and environmental services.