Rochester is leading the country in small business excellence, dominating the list of winners of the Blue Ribbon Small Business Awards chosen by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The local companies earning this prestigious honor – Custom Alarm; CWS, Inc; markit; Sontes; Stanley Jones & Associates; and Xylo Technologies – claimed six of the spots on the list of top 100 small businesses in the United States.

Rochester tied Knoxville, Tenn. (a city with a population of 179,000 vs. Rochester’s population of about 107,000) for the most winners. The next closest city was Irving, Texas (population 220,000), with five winners.

“This national recognition further illustrates what we in the community already knew: Rochester is a free

Continued on Page 3

This national recognition further illustrates what we in the community already knew.

rochestermnchamber.com | March 2013

John Wade, President, RACC 2013 Blue Ribbon Small Business of the Year Award Winners

Member Spotlight

featuresU.S. Chamber Small Business Award Winners

Marchevents

Public Affairs Issues Series

Business News4 6 122013 Golf Outing

Save the Date 9Building a competitive workforce

2 3www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out!March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

memberchamber

spotlight

HealtHcare your way in tHe skyway

Now oPEN to provide fast, quality healthcare

to University of Minnesota students and non-urgent walk-in services

to the general public!

OMC’s Skyway Clinic is now located at the skyway level of the 318 Commons build-ing, immediately above the Loop Bar + Restaurant.

Proud partner with

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS Continued from cover

Chair of the Board Scott Heck, RBC Wealth Management Chair-Elect

Brent Buchan, Energy Products & Design, Inc.Past Chair

Alan DeKeyrel, CWS, Inc.Treasurer

Sue Reinke, Minnwest BankSecretary

Elaine Garry, People’s Energy CooperativeChamber PresidentJohn Wade

Board Members

Aaron Benike, Alvin E. Benike, Inc.

Angie Bowman, Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc.

Melissa Brinkman, Custom Alarm/Custom

Communications

Mike Busch, Paramark, Inc.

Mark Carlson, IBM Corporation

Lisa Clarke, Mayo Clinic

Sheryl Good, Grandeville at Cascade Lake

Scott Hoss, Dunlap & Seeger

Greg House, House Chevrolet

Dave Kilburn, Crenlo

Shannon Knoepke, Cumulus Radio

Tessa Leung, Sontes

Paul Mackin, Think Mutual Bank

Kevin Patton, Flowers by Jerry

Steve Prigge, Pro Image Promotions & Apparel

Dharani Ramamoorthy, Xylo Technologies

Myron Salz, Best Western Soldiers Field

Duane Sauke, RE/MAX of Rochester

Ahmad Siddiqui, Sana’s Gifts & The UPS Store

Gary Smith, Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc.

Jeremy Stevens, Bird, Jacobson & Stevens

Mitch Stevenson, Rochester City LInes/Heartland Tours

Tim Weir, Olmsted Medical Center

2012-2013officers

our mission: To lead, inform, advocate and advance business interests for members; and to promote a healthy community and a growing economy.

220 S. Broadway, Suite 100 Rochester, MN 55904

P: 507-288-1122 F: 507-282-8960

Winners will be honored at America’s Small Business Summit which will be held from April 29 – May 1 in Washington, D.C.

Representatives of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce will be traveling with the winners to the Summit, an annual event open to all of our Chamber members.

“I look forward to attending the summit in Washington D.C., as this is a wonderful opportunity to network among the business community, to learn from the experiences and challenges faced by business leaders and to make new connections, “says Ramamoorthy.

The Chamber’s 2012 Business of the Year, Sontes, is also a first-time Blue Ribbon award winner. Owner Tessa Leung says, “We are honored to be recognized with these other great small businesses and we are looking forward to networking and learning from other small businesses around the country.”

As another repeat Blue Ribbon award winner, Alan DeKeyrel of CWS, Inc. encourages small business owners to consider traveling to D.C. for the Summit. “Attending the U.S. Chamber Small Business Summit is an excellent way to learn about the national business climate and network with other business owners from around the nation.”

Speakers at this year’s Small Business Summit include Linda Alvardo, President and CEO, Alvarado Construction, Inc. and Co-Owner, Colorado Rockies Major League Baseball Club; Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, Forbes, and Bob Woodward, investigative journalist and best-selling author.

For more information visit www.uschambersummit.com. If you’d like to attend, register through the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce by contacting Julie Fiesel at jfiesel@rochestermnchamber.com, phone (507) 424-5665.

enterprise leader where small business can develop, grow and prosper,” says John Wade, President of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Blue Ribbon honor roll was released in February by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The awards program, sponsored by Sam’s Club®, honors companies that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas including strategy, employee development, community involvement, and customer service. The award is designed to spotlight businesses with fewer than 250 employees and income of less than $25 million. This year’s 100 Blue Ribbon winners were selected from a record number of nationwide applicants.

“The Blue Ribbon Award winners show that, even facing uncertainty and economic challenges, small businesses can grow and succeed,” said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber president and CEO. “They are America’s economic engine, driving growth and job creation all across this country.”

What does this honor mean for the award winners? Pat Hanks of Stanley Jones & Associates says, “The Small Business Awards process is a great opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of SJA staff, clients and the business as a whole. Sharing the wonderful outcomes we have with our clients and our community participation is a tribute to everyone who is part of SJA!”

Nickie Froiland of markit appreciates the recognition. “Being recognized as one of the top 100 small businesses by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is flattering. Change is constant in small business and, after nearly 12 years, I feel my company has grown and adapted to change in our industry in order to better assist our clients. I am humbled by the recognition.”

As a four-time Blue Ribbon award winner, Custom Alarm CEO Leigh Johnson sees great value in vying for the award each year. “Participating in this award process has given us an opportunity to evaluate what we do as a company to retain and develop our associates and to attract and retain our customers. The application makes us perform a self evaluation of our processes and has generated ideas for areas of improvement. It is an honor for us to share this recognition with so many great small businesses in our wonderful community.”

First-time award winner, Xylo Technologies, enjoys highlighting their success alongside businesses across the country. “We wanted to apply for the small business award because this award is given to the best of small businesses in the entire U.S. We are honored and humbled to be the recipient of the prestigious Blue Ribbon Award,” says Dharani Ramamoorthy, CEO, Xylo Technologies.

Chamber Staff Contact Information Judy Braatz, Membership Development Director jbraatz@rochestermnchamber.com, 285-1995

Elizabeth Dahlen, Senior Director of Development ldahlen@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5663

Cindy Dunbar, Administrative Specialist cdunbar@rochestermnchamber.com, 288-1122

Julie Fiesel, Government Affairs Director jfiesel@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5665

Paula Hofstad, Operations Specialist phofstad@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5661

Melanie Hoppenworth, Finance & Operations Director mhoppenworth@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5699

Ryan Lais, Workforce/Advocacy Events Coordinator rlais@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5678

Laurie Mona, Communications Manager ljmona@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5683

Becca Stiles-Nogosek, Membership Events Coordinator bstiles.nogosek@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5662

Jessi Strinmoen, Workforce Development/Education Director jstrinmoen@rochestermnchamber.com, 424-5687

John Wade, President jwade@rochestermnchamber.com, 288-1122

Chamber of Commerce

Office Hours:

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Chamber office is closed on legal holidays.

Chamber Boardroom and Conference Room are available to Chamber Members by request pending availability.

To request and book usage of Chamber Boardroom or Conference Room, contact Chamber Administrative Specialist Cindy Dunbar.

Billing questions? Contact Operations Specialist Paula Hofstad.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce building facing the White House.

4 5www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out!March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

upco

min

g

eventsbusiness

Online registration available. Visit www.rochestermnchamber.com or call 507-288-1122 to register.

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Young Professionals

Updates by the Chamber’s Fuel Rochester Group

ROCHESTER

March 8 Eggs & Issues

Fuel March Events: Learn, Laugh, ConnectMarch 1 AM Espresso

Host Sponsor:AM Espresso is a free and convenient way to network at a member’s place of business while enjoying coffee and continental breakfast. Breakfast provided by Great Harvest Bread Company.

Friday, March. 1; 7:30 - 9 a.m. Marco 3416 Lakeridge Pl NW Cost: Free, no registration required

March 1 Business Public Affairs Series : The Fiscal Cliff

Fuel Professional Development: Limiting Beliefs: Are They Holding You Back from Your Goals? with Calvin Guyer

What is holding you back? How have you created a limiting narrative that keeps you from achieving your goals? Is it personal or professional? In this dynamic and interactive presentation, Calvin Guyer of CO2 Partners, an Executive Coaching firm, will help you explore and better understand limiting beliefs and the negative impact they have on both your personal and professional life - how you show up in one thing is really how you show up in all things! Guyer will help you identify those beliefs, understand the negative energy around them, and provide a few tools to overcome them. As a leader, you can also help others overcome their limiting beliefs to increase team performance and overall satisfaction with life. If you are serious about self-improvement and better team performance, you won’t miss this opportunity!

Thursday, March 7, 5:30-7 p.m. St. Mary’s University, Heintz Center, Rm HA134 1926 Collegeview Drive SE Cost: This event is FREE for Fuel Members $15 fee for non-Fuel members

March 22 Fuel Speed Networking

Share information about your organization and learn more about the Chamber’s programs and services. Cost free for new members only.

Thursday, March 21, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Johnny Mango’s Event Center, Barlow Plaza 1151 7th St NW Cost: Free for new members only, registration required

March 21 New Member Reception

State Budget & Tax Reform: Hear from Jim Schowalter, Office of Management and Budget Commissioner, Myron Franz, Department of Revenue (taxes) Commissioner and the Minnesota Chamber’s Beth Kadaun.

Friday, March 8, 7:30 - 9 a.m. Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada 1517 16th St SW Cost: Members $25, non-Members $35 (includes breakfast)

Platinum Sponsor:

Bank smart, live well.

Need room for more soles?Whether you plan to buy, build or remodel, we can help.

thinkbank.com 507-288-3425Rochester

Apple Valley Eagan Edina St Paul

Equal Housing Lender Member FDIC NMLSR ID 440195

03_Mar2013_RChamber_soles.indd 1 1/21/2013 1:26:35 PM

Public Affairs Series Sponsor:

Sponsors:

TM

PHARMACEUTICALSPECIALTIES, INC.

Chamber’s premier networking event - enjoy meeting other Chamber members, door prizes, and refreshments.

Thursday, March 21,5-7 p.m. Kruse Lumber 111 7th St NE Cost: Free, no registration required

March 21 Business After Hours

Host Sponsor:

Fuel After 5 Thursday, March 14, 5-7 p.m. Goonies Comedy Club, 7 2nd St SW Cost: free, no registration required

Bring a Buddy Night! This Fuel after 5 Event will include unique specials for those who bring a non-member with them to the event. Join us, and all your friends from Fuel, for this unique networking event! Drinks, Appetizers, and door prize drawing!

Feel free to hang out after Fuel is done for Goonie’s Open Mic night. More info at http://www.gooniescomedy.com/

Fuel Speed NetworkingMeet, Great & Repeat. Based on the ‘speed dating’ phenomenon. Bring lots of business cards, information about your business and a pen to write down unique discoveries you’ll make about other young professionals. Structured networking from Noon-12:30 p.m. with open networking from 12:30-1 p.m. Free to attend. Bring your own lunch.

Friday, March 22, Noon – 1 p.m. Chamber Boardroom 220 S Broadway, Suite 100 This event is FREE and exclusive for Fuel members Pre-Registration requested.

This event will be recurring on the 4th Friday of every other month. Upcoming dates include: May 24, July 26, Sept 27.

Tim Penny, former Congressman and President/CEO of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation will shed light on this complex issue.

Friday, March 1; 7:30 - 9 a.m. Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada 1517 16th St SW Cost: $25 Members, $35 Non-Members, includes breakfast

March 7 Fuel Professional Development EventLimiting Beliefs: Are They Holding You Back from Your Goals? with Calvin Guyer (See pg. 5.)

Thursday, March 7, 5:30 - 7 p.m. Heintz Center, Rm HA 134 1926 Collegeview Drive SE Cost: FREE for Fuel members, $15 for non-Members

March 14 Fuel After 5Bring a Buddy Night: Fuel networking night. Hang out after for Goonie’s Open Mic Night (see pg. 5.)

Thursday, March 14, 5 - 7 p.m. Goonie’s Comedy Club 7 2nd St SW Cost: FREE for Fuel members, no registration required

Host Sponsor:

Sponsors:

Sponsor:

A n i n i t i a t i v e o f t h e R o c h e s t e rA r e a C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e

Diversity in Business

The Women Entrepreneurial Roundtable is a resource for small business owners who want to grow their business.

Friday, March 15, 7:30 - 9 a.m. Chamber of Commerce Boardroom 220 S Broadway, Suite 100 Cost: Free (Registration required)

Mar. 15 Women Entrepreneurial Roundtable

Host Sponsor:

Platinum Sponsor:

Economic Opportunity, Environmental Challenge or Both? Panelists: Vern Baker, President, Twin Metals; Dave Christanson, Project Manager, Minnesota Department of Transportation; Jeff Broberg, Geologist, McGhie & Betts. See pg. 9 for more info.

Friday, March 22, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada 1517 16th St SW Cost: $25 Members, $35 Non-Members, includes lunch

Mar. 22 Business Public Affairs Series: Mining in MN

Public Affairs Series Sponsor:

Meet, Great & Repeat. Based on the ‘speed dating’ phenomenon. Structured networking from 11:30am-12:30pm with open networking from 12:30-1pm. Bring your own lunch. Fuel members only.

Friday, March 22, Noon - 1 p.m. Chamber Boardroom 220 South Broadway, Suite 100 Cost: Free for Fuel Members only.

Sponsor:

Sponsored by:

7www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out!6

scissors & shovels

March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

3100 19th St NW 507-287-9330

Thrive at Rochester Athletic Club

Ribbon Cuttings Around the Town

3781 Airport View Dr SW 800-657-4477 Joseph Duda

CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP

90 14th St SW Ste 500507-289-1343Lucas Heitland

The Gold Guys

Fareway Foods 3964 E Frontage Hwy 52 Rd NW507-289-1228Brian Jordahl

Residence Inn by Marriott

441 W Center St507-292-1400Dwayne Osterhout

The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes the opportunity to help you make your ribbon cutting and grand opening a special event. For guidelines that can assist you in making arrangements for your event, visit our website at www.rochestermnchamber.com or contact Becca Stiles-Nogosek at (507) 424-5662 or send an email to bstiles.nogosek@rochestermnchamber.com.

Coming Soon...

7.31.2013willow creek golf course

i spyannual golf outing

Sponsorships AvailableContact Becca Stiles-Nogosek

for more info at 507-424-5662bstiles.nogosek@rochestermnchamber.com

required summer fun

WHY DO WE NETWORK?

"Everyone goes to a networking event to better themselves in some way or another. Make sure you're prepared to help someone else get better." Jeffrey Gitomer,

author of The Little Black Book of Connections

8 9www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out!March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

Updates on Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Advocacy for our membershipRochester Chamber Foundation Programs and Events

LGR 2011 Class Update: Homeless Youth Project Update

The workforce skills gap is a critical issue that's been examined through statewide surveys and listening sessions. Participants at the Workforce Skills Gap Solutions Expo heard what local solutions are being used to develop a globally competitive workforce in southeastern Minnesota.

Rochester Mayor Ardell F. Brede welcomed the 160 attendees and Senator Dan Sparks provided introductory comments. Guest speakers Katie Clark-Sieben, Commissioner, Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and Mary Rothchild, MN State Colleges and Universities (MNSCU) Chancellor’s Office provided an opening look at the skills gap challenges and solutions of our region. Senator Carla Nelson provided closing comments.

Chamber members from healthcare, technology, manufacturing and hospitality sectors learned about current efforts in workforce development areas, including focused conversations about: •Career and Technical Education • Healthcare and Customized Training

• Manufacturing and Customized Training • Military Veterans • Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and Project Lead the Way • Critical Skills for the Emerging Workforce • Education Partnerships • Internships, Apprenticeships & On-the-Job Training • People with Disabilities: Job Assessment, Job Placement, Job Success • Social Media: How area employers are using social media to connect with customers and job seekers.

The Skills Gap Expo was sponsored in partnership and a collaboration by: Workforce Development, Inc. Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Develoment (DEED), Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Minnesota State Colleges and University system, Rochester Community and Technical College, Rochester Area Math Science Partnership (RAMSP) and Rochester Public Schools.

L E A D E R S H I P G R E A T E R R O C H E S T E R

ROCHESTER AREAC H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

March Topic: State Budget & Tax Reform

Friday, March 8, 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Hear from those who will have the Governor’s ear when it comes to creating the State budget and tax reform. Jim Schowalter, Office of Management and Budget Commissioner and Myron Franz,

Department of Revenue (taxes) Commissioner will share their thoughts, and the Minnesota Chamber’s Fiscal and Tax Policy expert, Beth Kadaun, will present a business perspective.

Sponsors:

TM

PHARMACEUTICALSPECIALTIES, INC.

Location: Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada 1517 16th St SW, Rochester Cost: Members $25, Non-Members $35, includes breakfast Register online at rochestermnchamber.com on the events tab or call (507) 288-1122.

Jim Schowalter Myron FranzBeth Kadaun

Rochester’s Local Legislative Delegation

Each year the Leadership Greater Rochester Class chooses a Community Impact Project. The 2011 LGR Class focused on the issue of Youth Homelessness.

This LGR class jumpstarted a focus on homeless youth in Rochester, and many have since remained engaged in the work. Some of the money raised by the class was used to fund surveys that were instrumental in bringing attention to this issue in Rochester. A second community homelessness survey was conducted last year, building off of the first. The data gathered in that survey allowed Center City and other service providers to put together a solid plan for a housing project and get it moving quickly. It only took one year to get the project accepted and it usually takes several years.

The LGR group was commended for doing most of the work that raised the community’s awareness of our homeless youth and family population. The Center City project: and many other things continue to happen either as a direct or secondary result of the work of the group:

• There is a new local youth homelessness committee (Rochester Area Youth Committee) that resulted from the COC committee formed because of our work.

• The Center City project was initiated. • Plans for a streamlined and collaborative tracking program continue (to help reduce the redundancy and other challenges related to working with the homeless population). • A youth Community Connect has been developed. • Surrounding communities are looking more closely at their homeless populations (especially Red Wing and Winona). • Clothing and food closets continue to grow in our schools and churches. • All high schools in Rochester are now sponsored by a church to provide clothing, food, and school supplies. • All area elementary schools are paired with a church that is supplying food and other supplies through the Backpack Program (working on extending this to middle schools). In the future, there may be opportunities to be mentors for youth in the Center City facility. Job skills training will be a part of the program and they are hoping to develop a mentorship program.

Dave Christianson

Jeff Broberg

Vern Baker

Building a competitive workforce Building a Competitive Workforce

Chamber Launches Business Public Affairs Issues Series

Skills Gap Expo Highlights Regional Solutions

affairs local state & federal issues

government

• The Fiscal Cliff Congress pushed off dealing with the Fiscal Cliff and now it must be dealt with. Tim Penny, former Congressman and President/CEO of the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, will shed light on this complex issue that will affect every American. Come learn about what will happen when and why it matters to you and your business.

Friday, March 1, 7:30 – 9am Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada 1517 16th St SW Rochester Cost: $25 members, $35, Non-members, includes breakfast

• Mining in MN: Economic Opportunity, Environmental Challenge or Both?Come hear from those in the know about the economic opportunities that can come from silica sand (frac sand) mining and also how this mining may or may not affect the environment.Panelists: Vern Baker, President: Twin Metals Dave Christianson, Project Manager: Minnesota Department of Transportation Jeff Broberg, Geologist: McGhie & Betts

Friday, March 22, 11:30am-1pm Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada 1517 16th St SW Rochester Cost: $25 members, $35, Non-members, includes lunch

Register online at rochestermnchamber.com on the events tab or call (507) 288-1122.

Business Public Affairs Issue Series Presented by:

Tim Penny

10 11www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out! 11www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out!March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

2011-2012 Annual Report

ROCHESTER AREAC H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Develop

Grow

Prosper

2011-2012

Annual Report AvailableThe 2011-12 Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Report is now available. The report highlights the Chamber’s accomplishments during the past year in our three pillars: workforce and education, advocacy and membership development. Download the report online at www.rochestermnchamber.com.

Chamber Member News & BenefitsChamber launching redesigned Website for 2013

New Online Directory Options!• Do you want to make your online business directory listing stand out from others in your category?

Upgrade to an enhanced membership listing for as little as $15/month (yearly contract), and you’ll not only get priority placement within your category, you also get an enhanced listing which includes the options of adding VIDEOS, 8 photos, 1600 character business description, 5 bullet points, logo, map link, and 20 keywords (Basic listing includes no photos, 200 character description, no bullet point, no logo, 8 keywords).

Enhanced membership listings also enjoy, at NO EXTRA CHARGE * Free Hot Deals postings * Free Job Postings access.

For more sponsorship options, contact Laurie Mona at ljmona@rochestermnchamber.com, (507) 424-5683.

Over 400 participants took part in this year’s Rochester on Tour – Innovating Growth on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013. The day began with lunch at the International Event Center in Rochester with keynote speaker Tina Flint Smith, Gov. Dayton’s Chief of Staff. Following the luncheon participants departed on buses headed for the State Capitol in St. Paul, where they enjoyed a kick-off rally in the Capitol rotunda with live music, followed by afternoon issues forums and Capitol tours. The day wrapped up with the Innovation Reception at the Wellstone Center in St. Paul.

Thoughts on Rochester on Tour: “This is the one day in St. Paul where Rochester is the focal point – being there and being a part of it shows your support for our city.” - Ed Hruska, RASC “I’ve been to all the Rochester on Tour events over the years and this year was the best. The reception was exceptional, well planned and great food.” – Richard Devlin, Olmsted County “Rochester on Tour provides the citizens of Rochester a voice at the Capitol to promote what is important to us as a community. We are an important piece of the economy of the State of Minnesota and we need the legislators to understand why our legislative issues should matter to them.” - Kristine Ihrke, ROT 2013 Committee Chair "US Bank is a proud supporter of the Chamber and we believe it is very important for our community leaders to network with State Legislators. This event gave us the opportunity to reinforce to them the significant economic impact Rochester has on the entire state of Minnesota." - Peg Mattke, Vice President, US Bank.

2013 Rochester on Tour called “Best One Yet”

Coming in March 2013: The Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce has upgraded its website to better serve our members and the many visitors who look to us to provide useful, reliable information about our community and area businesses. The new look is designed to call attention to our three pillars of service to you - membership development, legislative advocacy and education and workforce development. We’ve also combined the Chamber, Foundation and Fuel websites.

The many upgrades include a cleaner look and enhanced search capabilities in our online business directory, including new options for ugrades for photos, videos and more. Your Chamber Member login and password remain the same. You’ll still find us at www.rochestermnchamber.com - check it out today!

Enhanced listing includes top placement, more graphic options and text in category search.

Enhanced listing includes more options for graphics, videos, text and more.

12 13www.rochestermnchamber.comCome check it out!March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

local news in and around the town A+ Affordable Computer Services Derek Salsbery (507) 289-8100 www.aplusaffordable.com

Amazing Massage, LLC Denise Stegall (507) 202-1034 www.youramazingmassage.com

Dairy Queen Tim Spratte (507) 288-3863

Enagic-Kangen Water Nick Lauer (920) 202-4249 www.kangenrochester.com

Fareway Stores, Inc. Brian Jordahl (507) 289-1228 www.fareway.com

Harbor Freight Tools #359 Andy Busch (507) 292-6272 www.harborfreight.com

Krogh Tax Service Connie Kaehler

(507) 289-2132

Minnesota Veterans and Emergency Services Museum Steve Williams (507) 280-6888 www.mvesm.org

National Eagle Center Rolf Thompson (651) 565-4989 www.nationaleaglecenter.org

Noodles & Company - Shoppes on Maine Aaron Maas (507) 292-6996 www.noodles.com

Northern Sky Alpacas Laurie Weed (612) 298-2938 www.northernskyalpacas.com

Optical Vision w/Flair Linda Smith (507) 287-8444 www.opticalvisionflair.com

Personalized Assistance Liz Hall Pokorski (507) 202-0551 personalizedassistancebyliz.com

Rochester Taxi Company Darrell Sible (507) 424-8294

Root River Inspections Casey Patten (507) 254-1391 arochestermnhomeinspector.com

Side Out Rachel Prizler (507) 226-8331 www.sideoutrochester.com

Sun Home Health Care, Inc. Abdisalan Sabriye (507) 529-7999

The Gold Guys Lucas Heitland (507) 289-1343 www.goldguys.com

The Kitchen Design Studio Don Gustason, C.K.D. (507) 228-2930 www.the-kds.com

Undercover Wear Carol Pyfferoen (507) 367-4973 www.carolpyfferoen.com

Knutson Construction Services Rochester, Inc. is proud to announce that Michael Johnson has joined the firm as a Project Engineer. Michael is a 2011 graduate of Minnesota State University, Moorhead with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and comes to Knutson with 9 years of construction experience as a Project Engineer, carpenter, and concrete finisher.

Keller Williams Premier Realty of Rochester is excited to share that Keller Williams Realty, Inc. announced that WorkplaceDynamics has named it the No. 9 workplace in America – the only national real estate franchising company on the National Top 150 Workplaces list.

Eastwood Bank is pleased to announce the addition of Tammy Pfeffer as Vice President of Private Banking in Rochester. Tammy, a Southeast Minnesota native, brings over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. She has spent the past 17 years in private banking. Tammy has been active in various civic and volunteer organizations, including Ronald McDonald House and Choral Arts Ensemble.

Rochester City Lines is pleased to share that 2012 marked the first time in the company’s 47 year history that the Commuter and Charter divisions combined to provide one million miles of service in a single year. RCL’s Christian Holter said “This great achievement is a testimony to the overall quality of our entire team. Our charter coordinators, operations managers, maintenance team and especially our drivers are truly the ones who have made this milestone possible.”

Submit a Business News ItemVisit rochestermnchamber.com and click on the Marketing tab. Submission deadline is the 10th of the month prior to month of publication.

Insty-Prints is excited to announce that Stephanie Winter, a Rochester native, has joined our team as a Customer Service Representative and Lead Mailing Operations Personnel. Stephanie brings 4 years of customer service experience with her including, work as a Lab Assistant at the Mayo Clinic as well as caregiving experience at Samaritan Bethany.

C.O. Brown of Rochester, Johnson McCann of St. Paul, and the Apollo Insurance Agency of St. Cloud have joined forces to become the second largest private insurance brokerage in Minnesota. Among them, they have a dozen offices, reaching from north of St. Cloud to south of Rochester. All of the agencies offer commercial property and casualty, homeowners and auto insurance, group employee benefits and individual life and health insurance. Photo: C.O. Brown President Mark Hayford.

KBS one of the last locally owned, full-service lumberyards in southeast Minnesota, has doubled its size at a new Rochester location. Now at 3731 Enterprise Drive SW, the new space has a larger inventory, a superior showroom, and more convenient access.

WA Insurance Group was named a 2012 top-performing agency for SECURA Insurance, a super-regional property and casualty insurance company headquartered in Appleton, Wis. This is the agency’s first time earning a top-performer award from the company. WA Insurance Group has represented SECURA as an independent agency for 12 years. SECURA recognized WA Insurance Group, along with six other independent agencies, as 2012 top performers at the company’s

annual Premier Agent Professional Development Conference in January.

To earn this prestigious recognition, the agencies met specific criteria based on their premium volume, profitability, growth, retention, and loss history.

AKF Group LLC has moved has moved to a larger office at 2768 Superior Drive NW. AKF is an award-winning consulting engineering firm with offices in Rochester, Minneapolis, New York, Stamford, Princeton, Boston, Philadelphia, Arlington, and Mexico City. The firm offers a broad range of mechanical & electrical engineering and specialty services for commercial, corporate, education, healthcare, mission critical and residential market sectors.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southeast Minnesota has hired Courtney Lawson, MPH, PMP as Executive Director. NAMI improves the lives of people living with mental illness and their families through education, support, research and advocacy. Previously, Lawson led healthcare access and fund development efforts at IMAA. She holds a Master’s degree in Health Management & Policy from University of Michigan and Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Michigan State University.

Reach your target audience with full-color ads in our newsletter mailed to thousands of area business professionals, representing more than 1,360 area businesses each month. Ad space is limited, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rates start as low as $160/month. Contact Laurie Mona at ljmona@rochestermnchamber.com, phone 507-424-5683.

advertisein the Advantage

Incoming Chair of the Board, Scott Heck, first joined the Chamber nearly 20 years ago for reasons that will resonate with most members. “It was a combination – both for the networking, making contacts and having visibility in the community, and also because I’ve always been interested in trying to keep business local. With the turnover of dollars, when a dollar is spent locally, it pays the owner of the business, who pays the workers, who in turn spend their money back in the community.” Heck, of RBC Wealth Management, Inc., a full service financial institution, has been involved in small business most of his professional career. He believes networking is crucial to the success of small business. “We’ve got a fairly tight-knit community, even though we’re a city of over 100,000 people now, it has a small-town feel; everybody knows everyone.”

Continued on Page 3

I’d like to encourage people to use the Chamber

rochestermnchamber.com | OCTOBER 2012

Scott Heck, RBC Wealth Management, Inc.

Chamber of Commerce 2012-13 Board Chair Scott Heck-

Member SpotlightfeaturesScott Heck

Octoberevents Hiring Our Heroes Veterans’ Job Fair

Business News

4 8 12Wellness Toolkit 10

Building a competitive workforce

14 March 2013 | www.rochestermnchamber.com

Chamber Advantage USPS 446-900 is published monthly by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at 220 S. Broadway, Suite 100 • Rochester, MN 55904 • Phone: 507-288-1122 | Issue #45Volume #5 Periodical Postage paid at Rochester, Minnesota | Annual Subscription: $20 | Scott Heck, Chair of the Board • John Wade, President • Laurie Mona, Editor | Printed by Johnson Printing | Postmaster: Send address changes to: Chamber Advantage • 220 S. Broadway, Suite 100 • Rochester, MN 55904 or email: chamber@rochestermnchamber.com.

MEMBER THANK YOU SPOTLIGHT Rochester Feed & Country Store received a hand delivered box of cookie treats from

Tank Goodness in November - a sweet reward for Chamber membership!

Next month this could be you!

33rd Company Property Management

A - Z Embroidery & Screen Printing

ABCM Corporation

ATG

Cartridge World

Catering For All It’s Worth

Curves for Women

Flapdoodles Homemade Ice Cream

Hentges Glass Company

Historic Anderson House

Lupient Nissan

Minnesota Private College Fund

National Fleet Graphics LLC

National Pawn Co. of Minnesota

Nelson Cheese Factory and Deli

Northwestern Mutual

Pine Island Bank

Quimby Insurance Agency

Rochester Branch N A A C P

Rochester Lapidary Jewelers

Rochester Lodging Association

Rodan & Fields Dermatologists

SE MN Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Assoc.

Seasons Hospice

Walgreens - North

Mr. Electric

Property Brokers of MN, Inc.

Good Feet

Eye-Q Intelligent Eyewear

Thompson’s Garage Door and Opener Company

American Turf Technicians

Realty Executives Top Results!

Huber Eyecare

AgStar Financial Services

Cannon River Winery

Panera Bread Bakery Cafe - South

Rest Assured Mattress Company

Fire Safety U.S.A.

First Student

Rochester City Lines /Heartland Tours

Apache Mall (General Growth Properties)

MGear/U of M Bookstore

Hubbell/Tyner

Johnson Controls, Inc.

D.K. Fox Hill, LLC

Apartment Finder

RSP Architects

Hegland Mainz Financial Services

KLSE / KZSE / KMSE - MN Public Radio

Thank you to these renewing Members for their continued investment:

Rosie Belle Performing Arts Theatre

Computer Resources Center

Minnesota Children’s Museum

Boldt Construction

Peace United Church of Christ

Thimijan Custom Homes LLC

Xylo Technologies Inc.

Salon Chic and Day Spa

AmericInn Rochester Airport

JAG Tours

Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Rochester

Goodin Company

Campion, Jane

Microtel Inn & Suites

Diversity Council

Quality Culture Institute

Premier Bank Rochester

Construction Collaborative, Inc.

Quality Overhead Door Co.

Quality Building Maintenance

Westwerk Design

Vikki Wolff & Associates, LLC

Gander Plumbing

Crystal Dental Clinic, LLC

Betcher, Audrey

Southern Woods Townhome Association

Stewart, Chub

Econo Lodge

Boys Scouts of America - Gamehaven Council

Inta Juice

Paws and Claws Humane Society

Ronald McDonald House

Buffalo Wild Wings Grill and Bar

Rochesterfest

Global Employment Solutions, Inc.

Coldwell Banker At Your Service Realty

Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc.

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Finished with the Advantage? Pass it on! Use the routing box above to share the wealth with your team members.

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PAIDRochester, MN

Route Around Your OfficeGet your money’s worth from your Chamber investment. Every employee in your firm is a member of the Chamber. If you can’t attend Chamber functions, help others become involved.Please route to:

220 South Broadway, Suite 100 Rochester, MN 55904

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