Delano’s 2019 Business of the Year
STAHLKE BUS SERVICE
It has been 71 years since Stahlke Bus Service started
with three buses in Delano.
Over the years, community members have
complimented the bus service for having a safe record,
caring employees, and a focus on civic engagement.
An individual cited those qualities when nominating
the local transportation provider for Delano Area
Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.
The DACC announced at its general meeting
Thursday that Stahlke had been named Business of the
Year. Stahlke representatives will officially accept the
award at the DACC celebration dinner Saturday, April
6, at the Delano American Legion.
Owners Jay and Rayme Bernick are thrilled to receive
the award.
“Obviously, we’re honored, and it’s a fun honor to
have,” Jay said.
“It’s just a good feeling, when you’re the third
generation to have it, and the community supports
you through the ups and downs over the years,” Rayme
added.
Dwain and Ruth Stahlke started the company out of
a Quonset hut on Franklin Avenue in 1948, when they
transported about 50 students.
In 1956, the Stahlkes moved the business to a new
location on Highway 12 west of Delano. Due to growth
FOR ALL YOUR REAL
ESTATE NEEDS
Contact Your Hometown Team!
“BEGIN WITH US,
END AT HOME”
Serving the West Metro
& Wright County
Becky and Doug
Schaust
Becky’s cell: 612-799-7889
Doug’s cell: 612-240-9736
Submitted photo
Delano Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors chair Mike Nielsen
and DACC President Michelle Harwood are pictured with Rayme and Jay
Bernick, owners of Stahlke Bus Service, which has been named the 2019
DACC Business of the Year.
of the school district in 1971, Stahlke Bus moved to a
new location at 5280 County Line Road, where it is
located today.
In 1982, the Stahlkes’ daughter and son-in-law, Julie
and Mel Bernick, purchased the business. During their
ownership, daily ridership grew to more than 2,100
students, including Head Start and special needs
students.
With his parents operating Stahlke, Jay grew up
around the business.
He began working at the company in 2003, and
Rayme joined him in 2008. They took over the business
in 2013.
Safety is their top priority.
“We do monthly trainings with the drivers on safety:
What to do in certain situations and how to react,”
Rayme said. “Everyone helps each other out if someone
has a question or concern. It’s like a big family. Drivers
put their input in. We have drivers who have been
driving for us since 1972. They’ve experienced a lot
more than Jay and I have. Their input is valuable.”
Civic engagement is also a point of emphasis for the
Bernicks.
“It’s super important to be out there and supporting
as much as you can,” Rayme said. “It’s all about the
kids. If you’re not supporting the kids, you’re not doing
your job.”
www.SchaustTeam.com
(763) 972-4603
[email protected]
DelanoHeraldJournal.com/guide
| 55 |