Community Corner
Fridley 49er Pie Baking, Key Ingredients: The Backer
Learn how this businesswoman has invested her success back to the community.
My husband is a pragmatic man. Successful in business, he has the knack for numbers and formulas, with that certain kind of logic that can guide him true north through the most difficult emotional trials. Insurance is what he describes as a “Mandatory Evil”. Like everything else, he investigates our Mandatory Evil thoroughly, and will ultimately be moved to a decision by a bottom line instead of sentiment. I know he is not alone.
Personally, I have always found this an ironic perspective about the industry of insurance, and I have the complete opposite trigger. If insurance is protecting our most valuable assets in life -- car, home, retirement, loved ones -- then this is something I want to be offered with a sympathetic heart, a trustworthy practice and a long term, locked-in partnership. If I have to purchase insurance, unless the bottom line is grossly different, it is exactly the sentiment that will move my decision.
Weather you’re “Camp Ross”, or “Camp Mandy”, Maria D State Farm Agency in Fridley has been fulfilling both camps for the past six years. She possesses that All-American, girl next door appeal that automatically pulls you in to conversation which quickly turns into an easy rapport. But don’t let her looks and her charms fool you; she is an experienced professional with a sharp intellect and deep knowledge of her profession, having 14 years of insurance tucked under her stylish belt.
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I can tell you this with confidence because I have had the good luck to serve with her in the community for the past three years, getting to know her in the ways only community service can reveal.
This year she is sponsoring the $1,000 Grand Prize for the Fridley 49er Pie Baking Contest. I went to her office to do a quick interview.
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Her office is located on the East side of Hwy 65 across from the Target Distribution Center. On the outside, her building is modest, showing tell-tale signs of a better past. Inside, a young and vibrant staff gleam like a new penny. Though they exude infectious energy and potential, they also have a serious drive to succeed in business and in life you can feel in their hand shake.
Maria ushers me in, offering me coffee or water and I sit comfortably across from her in a sunlit room and get started.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in the ‘Walleye Capital of the World’, Baudette, MN (aka: Lake of the Woods). I loved growing up in a beautiful part of Minnesota that gave me appreciation for the outdoors and shaped my definition of community.
Why did you choose to office in Fridley, Minnesota? Fridley is a big city with a small town feel. We have many multi-generational families living in this community. It’s apparent that the residents are proud to live here, and it’s that pride that is the glue of the area. I knew I wanted to be part of that, and I am so thankful to be a ‘piece of the pie’.
What does “community” mean to you? Community to me means pride, trust, and care. In Fridley I’ve seen time and time again how people truly care about their homes, their neighbors and their businesses. In today’s busy and (often) disconnected lives from others, “community” can become hard to find. But not in Fridley!
Why did you decide to sponsor the Pie Baking Contest? $1,000 is a lot of money! I’ve had success with my business here. It’s because I’m willing to work hard and serve well, but also because of the generosity of the people who live and work here. After six years, I am at a place where I can give back and that feels great! In my field, I know what $1,000 can mean for families and I’m happy to provide that, (laughing) especially in the name of pie!
What is the most common misunderstanding people have about insurance? Two of the most common misconceptions about insurance are: How no-fault insurance works, and why I buy the coverage limits that I do-- what do these limits (really) mean to me?
What is your favorite kind of pie? Oh, that’s a tough one… Strawberry rhubarb. Yes, definitely Strawberry rhubarb.
Maria D State Farm will help you understand what insurance coverage you currently have, what it means, and if it’s what you need (even if you are with a different agency), for FREE. She is also happy to come to you for your convenience. Office: 763-571-4243. Office Hours Mon - Fri 9:00am - 5:00pm. After Hours by Appointment. Saturday by Appointment.
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Think you have what it takes to win? REGISTRATION OPEN FOR A LIMITED TIME. All amateur bakers who live or work in Fridley, Coon Rapids, Columbia Heights or Blaine can enter in any of three categories: fruit, cream and original/creative. Judging is done on a point system, the most points overall will win the Grand Prize. Highest points in each category will win as well. You must register with the City of Fridley (no charge). You may also direct any questions to Event Chair, Mandy Meisner at [email protected]
You can also read about 2015 details, HERE.
Who needs a trophy when you can have ART?
Who has the final word? Read about our Judge, HERE.
Read about Contestant, Anoka County Commissioner, Robyn West, HERE.
