Lakes Area Professional Women

05/13/2026

05/06/2026

Join us for our LAPW member luncheon, May 27, as we hear from Angela Rantasha, owner of Sota Cleaning Co.

Angie will share what she’s learned about creating a positive workplace culture in the real world! As the recipient of our 2025 LAPW Women Owned Workplace - WOW! Award, along with many other awards, she can speak to this topic well!

Angie didn’t build her business from a textbook or a corporate background — she built it from the ground up through experience, hard work, and a commitment to doing right by her people.

Since starting in 2018, she has grown Sota Cleaning Co. into an award-winning company with a strong team and a reputation for quality.

She will share what she’s learned, not theory, but what actually works when you’re leading people every day!



Did you Know? Guests are welcome to attend three LAPW meetings before making the decision to join us as a member.

RSVP by May 22 if you would like to attend!

04/30/2026

Thank you our 2026 Gala Event Sponsors for your outstanding dedication and commitment to making a difference in our community!👏

🌟Platinum Sponsor:
6th & Broadway Clothing and Decor

🌟Gold Sponsors:
Amy Christopherson - State Farm Insurance Agent
Bell Bank
Douglas Machine Inc
Gate City Bank

🌟Silver Sponsors:
Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission (AAEDC)
Living Alexandria Area
American National Bank
Country Financial - Darla Hacker
Cassey Johnson Studios
Dental Health Associates
Hubbard Radio + 2060 Digital
The How Companies
Runestone Heating & AC
True North Property Management
Vivie

🌟Bronze Sponsors:
Alex Title
Gardonville

04/24/2026

Lynn Barton, Woman of the Year, gave a great presentation at our April member luncheon. Lynn shared her story on how she has learned to Grow & Glow even through the tough times. She has touched a lot of hearts & we can’t wait to see her continue to Grow & Glow!

Lynn Barton was honored as the 2026 LAPW Woman of the Year. This award recognizes her contributions as a member of LAPW, her advocacy for women, professional achievements & active involvement in the community. Lynn exemplifies all three with humility, heart, & unwavering dedication!

Since joining LAPW in 2015, Lynn has been a driving force behind the organization’s growth. From serving on the Leadership Team to contributing her creativity on the Recognition, Marketing, & Events Committees!

Those who know Lynn say her impact goes far beyond her talent as Senior Graphic Designer at Palmer Creations. She’s known as a “quiet leader” & a “yes person,” someone who shows up, lifts others up, & gives 100% without ever seeking recognition.

Her generosity extends beyond LAPW as well. Lynn has participated in the MS Tram for several years to support multiple sclerosis research. Her commitment reflects not just passion, but purpose.

Above all, Lynn is a champion for others, welcoming new members, celebrating achievements, & building genuine connections. At home, she is a devoted mom to Ava & Wyatt, partner to Travis, & someone who finds joy in family, faith, and life’s simple moments.

Congratulations Lynn and thank you for sharing your story at our luncheon! ✨

Join us for our next LAPW member luncheon, May 27, as we hear from Angela Rantasha, owner of Sota Cleaning Co. Angela will be speaking on creating a positive workplace culture in the real world! As the recipient of the 2025 LAPW Women Owned Workplace - WOW! Award, she can speak to this! sotacleaningco

Guests are welcome to join us for up to 3 member luncheons before making the commitment to join! RSVP by May 22 if you would like to attend!

04/22/2026

We are still celebrating! ✨And we want to give another Congratulations to all of our award recipients announced at our 2026 LAPW Gala Professional!

✨Lynn Barton, our 2026 Woman of the Year will be speaking TODAY at our monthly member luncheon in the Grand Arbor Community Room from 11:30am-1:00pm! ✨

Congratulations!

2026 Woman of the Year:
✨ Lynn Barton ✨

2026 Business Awards:
✨Paying it Forward Award: Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge

✨Trailblazer Award: Car Care Program

✨WOW! Women Owned Workplace Award: Colorful Edge Photography

2026 Ovation Awards:
✨ Rising Star: Whitney Fischer
✨ Authentic Leader: Hanna Kettlehut
✨ Dream Builder: Nicole Fernholz
✨ Difference Maker: Terri Bursch

And thank you to all who joined in celebrated at The Gala Professional at Carlos Creek Winery!

Palmer Creations Bell Bank Living Alexandria Area Bursch Travel
😘😘

04/18/2026

✨Colorful Edge Photography✨

The 2026 WOW! Woman-Owned Workplace Award Recipient is Colorful Edge Photography.

This Award recognizes a woman-owned business that has demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and success within our community. This award celebrates the remarkable accomplishments and spirit of entrepreneurship of a woman-owned business. The sheer number of nominations we received in this category is proof of concept of everything LAPW stands for. It also highlights the passion our members and our community has to lift up these businesses in recognition, support, and celebration.

To all of these outstanding nominees, you have our respect and admiration for your bravery in starting your own business, for your tenacity in following where your heart leads you and for your talent and expertise you provide in each of your professions.

The winner of this award has been proudly serving the Lakes Area community for 7 years. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to bring joy to the lives of others.

One of her nominators shared: “I have personally watched her grow over the years, and that joy is clearly reflected in the photographs she takes, each image capturing genuine emotion and positivity that makes people feel seen and celebrated. This business represents what this award stands for: passion, professionalism, community impact, and leadership rooted in positivity. She doesn’t just take photos. She elevates people and places, and our community is better because of her.”

Join us in congratulating this year’s Woman-Owned Workplace award recipient, Susan Brown, owner of Colorful Edge Photography!

04/15/2026

Don't miss our very own Woman of the Year, Lynn Barton, tell her story at our member luncheon on April 22, 2026!

If you are not a member yet, No worries! Guests can attend up to 3 luncheons before becoming a member!

If you are joining for lunch, make sure to RSVP by April 17!

04/12/2026

✨ Car Care Program✨

The Car Care Program is the 2026 Trailblazer Award Recipient.

The Trailblazer Award recognizes a business that leads by example, inspires others through its actions, and pioneers positive change within its organization.

The Car Care Program has been in business since 2013, serving families across Douglas, Pope, Stevens, and Otter Tail Counties. This organization exists to help people move forward – literally and figuratively. They work hand-in-hand with local businesses, schools, churches, and community organizations, because they truly believe it takes all of us to help families thrive. Since 2013, this organization has facilitated over 550 gifted vehicles, and completed more than 1,000 vehicle repairs, with volunteer labor keeping costs low. They have launched hands-on automotive training, with students earning high school credit and job placements. They have even placed their first student in the Ford Asset Program, creating a direct pipeline to a rewarding automotive career.

Join us in congratulating this year’s recipient of the Trailblazer Award, Car Care Program!

04/08/2026

✨ Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge ✨

Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge is the 2026 Paying it Forward Award Recipient.

The Paying it Forward Award recognizes a business that has been highly engaged in philanthropic activities – giving of their time, talent, and treasure. This award honors a business that has made a significant positive impact in the community.

Ollie Birch was nominated multiple times and was overwhelmingly described as a tremendous advocate for our community. They were described as a true community hub, a place where families can come together for game nights, friends can meet for a cozy catch-up, and small groups can host memorable events in a safe, inviting environment. One of their nominators also shared, “To know these business owners is to experience something sweeter than all the treats, boba, and mocktails in the world. Their warmth, heart, and dedication to community make them more than deserving of this recognition.” This business gives back to the community by doing weekly fundraising events at the store for all different organizations, known as “Cheers Alexandria.” This business owner also hires and mentors young women interested in entrepreneurship.

Join us in congratulating this year’s recipient of the Paying it Forward Award, Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge!

Follow along on their social media pages And Stop in to check out the Boutique and fun community events!

IG:
FB: Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge
website: https://olliebirchmn.com
Location: 518 Broadway St. Alexandria, MN

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Event Carlos Creek Winery Photos: Stephanie Foto

04/07/2026

Please join us on April 22, 2026 from 11:30AM - 1:00PM for our next monthly member luncheon.

Our very own 2026 Woman of the Year, Lynn Barton, will be telling her story and we can't wait to hear!

Luncheons are held in the community room at Grand Arbor by Vivie.

You can attend up to 3 monthly member luncheons as a guest, before becoming a member! Let us know if you would like to attend!

Please RSVP for lunch by April 17.