ADVANTAGE 1

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W W W . R O C H E S T E R M N C H A M B E R . C O M

N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4

November-Events

2014-15 Board

Business News4 5 12#2 Most

Livable City 10

L to R: Jerry Williams, Lamp of Knowledge Award WinnerJim Kelly, Volunteer of the YearRory Lenton, Ambassador of the YearBrent Buchan, President’s AwardBrandHoot, Business of the Year Award

Award Winners 2014 Annual Member Celebration 2

Advantage

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 2 ADVANTAGE 3ADVANTAGE

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF SPOTLIGHT (COVER STORY)

Chair of the Board Sue Reinke Walch, Minnwest Bank Chair-Elect Dharani Ramamoorthy, Xylo TechnologiesPast ChairBrent Buchan, Energy Products & Design, Inc.TreasurerMike Busch, Paramark, Inc.SecretaryElaine Garry, People’s Energy CooperativeChamber PresidentRob Miller

Aaron Benike, Alvin E. Benike, Inc.Audrey Betcher, Rochester Public Library Angie Bowman, Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc.Mark Carlson, IBM Corporation Linda Christopherson, ImageSplash Print & Promotions/Affordable ButtonsLisa Clarke, Mayo ClinicAlan DeKeyrel, CWS, Inc. Cyle Erie, Braun IntertecSheryl Good, Grandeville at Cascade Lake Greg Griffiths, Dunlap & Seegar, P.A. Kevin Higgins, Olmsted Medical Center Jenny Hosfeld,Think Mutual BankGreg House, House Chevrolet Shannon Knoepke, Townsquare Media Tessa Leung, Sontes Michael Muñoz, Rochester Public SchoolsKevin Patton, Flowers by JerrySteve Prigge, Pro Image Promotions & ApparelMyron Salz, Centerstone Plaza Hotel Soldiers FieldAhmad Siddiqui, The UPS StoreGary Smith, Rochester Area EconomicDevelopment, Inc.

2014-2015 chamber board

OFFICERS

2014-2015 chamber

BOARD chamber

STAFF

220 South Broadway, Suite 100 Rochester, MN 55904 P: 507-288-1122 F: 507-282-8960 www.RochesterMNChamber.com

Judy Braatz, Membership Development Director jbraatz@rochestermnchamber.com | 285-1995

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

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

Paula Hofstad, Finance Coordinatorphofstad@rochestermnchamber.com | 424-5661

Melanie Hoppenworth, Controllermhoppenworth@rochestermnchamber.com | 424-5699

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

Rob Miller, President

rmiller@rochestermnchamber.com | 288-1122

Paul Richardson, Development Directorprichardson@rochestermnchamber.com | 424-5663

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

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

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chamber

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 Finance Coordinator Paula Hofstad.

the chamber’s

MISSION:To Lead, Inform, Advocate, and Advance business interests for members; and to promote a healthy community and a growing economy.

memberSmall enough to know youBig enough to provide financing for your needs

Member FDIC Loans are subject to credit approval.

6thLargest Bank Chartered in Minnesota

Dan Nistler, Business Banking(507) 535-1529

DRNistler@merchantsbank.com

Green Meadows | 1600 Greenview Drive SW | Rochester, MN 55902 | (507) 282-7535Northwest Plaza | 3586 55th Street NW | Rochester, MN 55901 | (507) 535-1520

Visit us online at www.merchantsbank.com

2014 Member Celebration Filled with PassionThe watchword at the 2014 Annual Membership Celebration was “Passion.”

In his first address to the membership, newly appointed Chamber President Rob Miller pointed out the passion his staff has for the Rochester business community and the roles they play in serving it. He gave a number of examples of passion that he’s seen in the busi-nesses and individuals he has encountered in his new hometown. Finally, he said that in the coming year his passion will be focused in three areas: meeting as many Chamber members face-to-face as he can; making sure he understands what our members expect of their Chamber, and then exceeding those expectations; and the local issue he has become most passionate about, affordable housing.

LAMP OF KNOWLEDGE AWARD

Jerry Williams, who has spent a lifetime advocating for higher edu-cation opportunities for students in Southeastern Minnesota, was presented with the Lamp of Knowledge Award. As Superintendent of Schools and a community volunteer, he worked with Roches-ter’s higher education institutions on several projects, including the establishment of CTECH and the STEM Village project at Univer-sity Center Rochester. He also championed the “Common Cents” sales tax reauthorization, ensuring future growth and expansion in Rochester. As Interim President of the Chamber, Jerry continued to support the Workforce 2020 initiative, Learn.Do.Earn., and other initiatives that have positively impacted public higher education.

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR

The Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Rory Lenton, Director of Community Services for Minnesota Energy Resourc-es, whose efforts over the past year set him apart as a particularly strong Chamber champion. Rory is a perfect fit as an Ambassa-dor because he truly enjoys the interactions he has with the other Ambassadors and with the new businesses he comes in contact with as he carries out his duties. He focuses his efforts on helping new members get the most out of their membership and their businesses.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

The recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award was also a Chamber Ambassador. “Generous Jim” Kelly, Executive Director of Construction Partnership, Inc., is also a strong advocate for the Chamber with businesses who have not yet seen the importance of joining. In the past year, Jim provided Judy Braatz with more referrals than any other individual. As a volunteer, Jim is one of those people who just “gets things done.” In particular, he’s been in-strumental in organizing exhibitors for the annual STEM Summit. Finally, Jim’s organization has gone above and beyond in support-ing various non-profits, earning him his nickname.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

Each year the Business of the Year Award is presented to a Member of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce that is committed to: assisting the Chamber and community organizations; to excellence in service, business ethics and friendliness; to their employees; to business improvement; and business expansion and growth. The six finalists for the award this year all stood out with regard to these qualities. They included: Atlas Insurance Brokers, BrandHoot, Brennan Family Chiropractic and Nutrition Center, CRW Architec-ture and Design Group, Doubletree by Hilton, and Sam’s Club.

The Business of the Year Award was presented to Nate Nordstrom and his staff at BrandHoot, who are unabashedly proud to be in Rochester! They developed the “Rochester Now” app and social media spaces to promote community events, local bloggers, local news and local businesses to encourage growth and excitement for our City. In addition to serving as Chamber Ambassador, Nate has actively involved his company with Rochester Public Schools and UMR in efforts that encourage students to pursue their dreams; focus not just on grades, but on learning; and showing students how they can actually have fun in their work. BrandHoot also invests in its employees who are encouraged to use company time on continu-ing education and staying on top of industry trends, and to partic-ipate in fun monthly “recess” projects that allow them to play and learn together.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

Finally, Rob Miller presented outgoing Chair of the Board Brent Buchan, of Energy Products and Design, Inc., with the President’s Award, which is given to extraordinary people under extraordinary circumstances. Buchan, who found out shortly after taking the gavel that John Wade was leaving as Chamber President, thought he would be working with one President during his year. Instead, he helped guide the Chamber through a period of transition with interim President Jerry Williams and oversaw the extensive pro-cess that resulted in Rob’s hiring. To go above and beyond in these endeavors Brent sacrificed time he could have spent on his own business and with his family.

Whether their focus was on education, interacting with members, giving back to their community, promoting Rochester, or on the Chamber itself, each of the Members honored this year stood apart because of their passion. The passion of a new leader and an out-standing staff assures our success in the coming year!

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 2

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 4 ADVANTAGE 5

EVENTS:upcomingMARK YOUR CALENDAR CHAMBER MEMBER BENEFITS

wednesday

NOV 19

friday

NOV 14

THANKSto our

SPONSORS

Reporters Reflect on the Election 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada | 1517 16th St SW

top 100 best place to live ROCHESTER RANKED #2

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

New Members can share info about your organization and learn more about the Chamber’s programs and services. Cost: Free to new members only, registration required.

platinumSPONSOR:

hostSPONSOR:

seriesSPONSOR:

friday

NOV 7

Women’s Entrepreneurial Roundtable 7:30 - 9 a.m. Chamber Boardroom | 220 S Broadway, Suite 100

thursday

NOV 6Living Life Differently to Feel Less Stress 3 - 5 p.m. Johnny Mango’s Event Center | 1151 6th St NW

tuesday

NOV 18

AM Espresso 7:30 - 9 a.m. MN Children’s Museum Rochester | 1643 Broadway Ave N

Dr. Amit Sood will present strategies for living a more peaceful life. Keynote followed by interactive idea stations. Cost: $25 Members, $35 Non-Members. More info on pg. 8.

STEM Summit 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.UCR Regional Sports Center

Over 2,000 students will participate in this annual event which brings together business and higher ed institutions in a highly interactive, hands-on format. More info on pg. 8.

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 4 ADVANTAGE 5

thursday

NOV 20

New Member Luncheon 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Eastwood Grill | 3505 Eastwood Road SE

Premier monthly networking event brings hundreds of business people together for networking, door prizes, hors douvres and refreshments. Cost: Free, no registration required.

eventSPONSOR:

december SAVE THE DATES

friday

NOV 21

Comm. Matters: What’s at Stake for Your Business in the Upcoming Legislative Session 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada | 1517 16th St SW

seriesSPONSOR:

Community Matters Event: Political Reporters reflection on the election. Cost: Members $25, Non-Members $35, includes lunch. Registration required.

eventSPONSORS:

A resource for small business owners Cost: Free, registration required.

We do small business banking.

thinkbank.com/bizMember FDIC

Melanie runs a small business.She banks at Think.

Melanie is a Dr. of Physical Therapy, busy wife, mom and business owner who relies on Think to provide good solid business advice and direction. She says, “Think’s genuine care for my success gives me one less thing to worry about.”

10_Sept2014_RChamber_BizMelanie.indd 1 8/6/2014 4:31:32 PM

DEC 19 Women’s Entrepreneurial Roundtable 7:30- 9 amChamber Boardroom | 220 S Broadway Suite 100

DEC 18 Business After Hours 5 - 7 pmTextile Care Services | 225 35th St SE

DEC 5 AM Espresso 7:30 - 9 amThe Place for Everyone | 1026 E Center St

friday

NOV 21

Business After Hours 5-7 p.m. Johnny Mango’s Event Center | 1151 6th Street NW

Speaker: Laura Bordelon, Senior VP of Advocacy for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $25 Members, $35 Non-Members, includes lunch.

Rochester was ranked the second most livable small- to mid-size city in the U.S. in a study released in Septem-ber by Livability.com. (Number one ranking went to Madison, Wis.) The website's second annual list of the Top 100 Best Places to Live found Madi-son topping Rochester; Arlington, Va.; Boulder, Colo.; and Palo Alto, Calif., for the most livable city in the U.S.

Livability editor Matt Carmichael said the study evaluated more than 2,000

cities with populations between 20,000 and 350,000 using more than 40 data points, including economics, housing, infrastruc-ture and education, among others, then weighted them against a survey in which respondents were asked about factors that make their communities better places to live.

The magazine said: "The founders of the Mayo Clinic in Roch-ester believed the city needed a vibrant arts culture to attract top physicians. Today Rochester attracts many young residents who quickly fall in love with the city's creative vibe."

The article touts Rochester's average household income of $63,490, and average home price of $165,300.

"In addition to excellent health care, Rochester gives residents a stable economy, recreational assets and a large collection of restaurants and unique shops," it says.

Carmichael warned that while the plans of the Mayo Clinic and the Destination Medical Center will contribute to Rochester's vibrancy, the city could also fall victim to some of the pitfalls of a fast-growing city in the next 20 years. "Doubling the popu-lation of a city in that short of a span can knock the livability

right out of a city as we've seen in areas under going shale-based boom times. But Mayor Ardell Brede thinks the city can and will be ready for it," the website says. "I think 98 percent of the cities in the U.S. would love to have this challenge," Brede said.

FIRST EDITION OF LIVABILITY ROCHESTER MAGAZINE NOW AVAILABLEAs noted previously in the Advantage, we contracted this year with Livability.com to produce our first ever “Livability Rochester” magazine, highlighting the best of our community and Chamber businesses. We’re excited to be able to offer those seeking relocation information this new publication. The magazine is also available in a digital version online at http://livability.com/mn/rochester/digital-magazine.We have limited quantities of the magazine available in the office for Chamber Member’s use - please stop by the Chamber office to request copies, or contact Cindy Dunbar with your requests at cdunbar@rochestermnchamber.com, or call (507) 288-1122.

professional development seriesSPONSORS:

AM Espresso is a free and convenient way to network at a member’s place of business while enjoying coffee and continental breakfast. Cost: Free, no registration required.

seriesSPONSOR:

co-hostSPONSOR:

hostSPONSOR:

Eastwood Grill

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 6 ADVANTAGE 7

SCISSORS AND SHOVELS

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com ADVANTAGE6 7

MEMBER ONLY EVENT RIBBON CUTTINGS

MAKE-A-WISH MINNESOTA

ART ON THE GO

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.

1922 S Broadway | (507) 206-6575 Danielle David, Owner | New Location

(612) 767-2757Tammy Block, VP of Development | New Locationwww.mn.wish.org

Ribbon Cuttings & Ground Breakings

DANIELLE’S CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

(507) 244-1942 Nicki Novotne, Owner | New Business http://artonthegorochester.com

WAUSAU HOMES

11 2nd St NE | (507) 258-0455Darek Davidson, Owner | New Business http://wausauhomes.com

40 16th St SE Ste E | (507) 289-4500 Kirk Boyum, Financial Advisor | New Locationwww.edwardjones.com

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, INC

2500 Valleyhigh Dr NW | (507) 289-5960 Ron Buzard, Exec. Director | 30th Anniversary www.imaa.net

ABLE MARKETING

2070 College View Road SE | (507) 292-5180 Randy Johnson, Executive Director | New Location | www.workforcedevelopmentinc.org

1320 20th St NE | (507) 461-1095Aaron Louks, Owner | New Business

INTERCULTURAL MUTUAL ASSISTANCE ASSOCIATION

EDWARD JONES

Your employer is aChamber Memberand so are

YOU!

As a member of theRochester Area Chamber of Commerce,you are invited to join us for:• training opportunities• networking events• public affairs meetings• and so much more!• and so much more!You can also get more involved in the community through service on one of the many Chamber committees.

507-288-1122 www.RochesterMNChamber.com

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 8 ADVANTAGE 9

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com ADVANTAGE

FOUNDATION PROGRAMS AND EVENTS GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

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2014 STEM SUMMIT AT UCR ON NOV. 18

AFFAIRS:government

2014 ELECTIONS

Building a competitive workforce

general election

VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOV. 4To find out important voting information for your precinct, visit pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us.

Search by zip code or county to find your polling place (where you vote, map and directions), districts for your precinct (including maps) and “Candidates on My Ballot” (candidates and questions on the ballot at your next election, when available).

community matters seriesSPONSOR:

Mark Your Calendars now for our annual Chamber Day at the Capitol in St. Paul! Join us as we travel to St. Paul for lunch with the Governor, special presentations on issues important to our region and much more. More details will be announced in upcoming editions of the Chamber Advantage.

Annual Day at the Capitol7 am - 7 pm-5:30 . Annual Day at the Capitol in St. Paul, including lunch with the Governor.

friday

NOVEMBER 21Community Matters: What’s at Stake for Your Business in the Upcoming Legislative Session11: 30 a.m. - 1 p.m.Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada1517 16th St SWRochester

tuesday

MARCH 3, 2015

Speaker: Laura Bordelon, Senior Vice-President of Advocacy for the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce

The STEM Summit encourages students to pursue science, technology, engineering and math careers by connecting them to business and higher educational institutions which offer STEM courses in a highly interactive, hands-on format. The future success of greater Rochester’s economy depends on a well-prepared pipeline of students with the education and skills needed to keep Rochester area’s business and industry competitive. These summits bring together business, higher education, local government and communities to motivate and prepare our students for an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Does your business belong at the STEM Summit? The STEM Summit highlights careers that involve science, technology, engineering and math skills. Contact: Ryan Lais, rlais@rochestermnchamber.com, (507) 424-5678.

friday

NOVEMBER 14Community Matters: Political Reporters Reflect on the Election11: 30 a.m. - 1 p.m.Canadian Honker Events at the Ramada1517 16th St SWRochester

thursday

NOVEMBER 6

Keynote: Dr. Amit Sood3-5pmJohnny Mango’s Event CenterMembers $25, Non-Members $35, includes light appetizers, networking, keynote followed by idea stations. Register at www.rochestermnchamber.com.

Dr. Sood, a Mayo Clinic specialist in stress and resiliency, presents strategies for living a more peaceful life. Based on the highly popular stress management program offered at Mayo Clinic that Dr. Sood developed after two decades of work with tens of thousands of people.The keynote will be followed by an opportunity for attendees to network at interactive “idea stations” by Rochester area businesses sharing their ideas for dealing with stress.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: LIVING LIFE DIFFERENTLY TO FEEL LESS STRESS

Dr. Amit Sood

Over 2,300 Students Fill the Hall at the Annual STEM Summit

NEW Matching Gift Challenge! Donations to the Rochester Chamber Foundation help support the STEM program. To help us reach our goal of raising $5,000, Xylo Technologies has agreed to match dollar for dollar donations for the first $1,000.

Check out http://www.rochestermnchamber.com/pages/STEMSummitBlog for more info.

seriesSPONSORS:

Thank you to our sponsors:

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 10 ADVANTAGE 11November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com ADVANTAGE

CHAMBER BOARD NEWS CHAMBER MEMBER ANNUAL EVENTS

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CHAMBER 2014 PUBLIC POLICY SURVEY RESULTS2014-15 chamber BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Reach your target audience with FULL-COLOR ADS in our newsletter MAILED TO THOUSANDS of area business professionals each month.

Contact:Communications Manager, Rochester Area Chamber of CommercePhone: (507) 288-1122.

NEWSLETTER ADS

The results are in for the Chamber’s annual Public Policy Survey. Check out the full survey online to find out what your fellow Rochester Area Chamber members think about:

• What factors in the area business climate affect decisions to invest in their business • Health Care Reform and Costs • Hiring new employees • Transportation infrastructure investment • High Speed Rail

Sue Reinke Walch Chair of the Board Minnwest Bank

Dharani Ramamoorthy Chair-Elect Xylo Technologies

Brent Buchan Past Chair Energy Products & Design

Mike Busch Treasurer Paramark Inc.

Elaine Garry Secretary Peoples Energy Cooperative

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

Ahmad Siddiqui The UPS Store

Steve Prigge Pro Image Promotions & Apparel

Michael Muñoz Rochester Public Schools

Shannon Knoepke Townsquare Media

Greg House House Chevrolet

Jenny Hosfeld Think Mutual Bank

Kevin Higgins Olmsted Medical Center

Alan DeKeyrel CWS, Inc.

Lisa Clarke Mayo Clinic

Cyle Erie Braun Intertec

Linda Christopherson ImageSplash Print & Promotions/Affordable Buttons

Mark Carlson IBM

Audrey Betcher Rochester Public Library

Gary Smith Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc.

Myron Salz Centerstone Plaza Soldiers Field

Tessa Leung Sontes

Aaron Benike Alvin E. Benike, Inc.

Angie Bowman Bowman Tool & Machining, Inc.

Kevin Patton Flowers by Jerry

Greg Griffiths Dunlap & Seeger, P.A.

Sheryl Good GrandVille at Cascade Lake

Don’t Know19.8%

No9.1% Yes

71.1%

Do you support legislative action to develop dual training programs that incorporate on-the-job-training at a business with classroom learning &

industry-based credentials to produce skilled workers?

Don’t Know9.8%

No5.5% Yes

84.6

Do you support legislative action that improves alignment of K-12 and post-secondary education

with industry needs by strengthening opportunities for students to participate in

expanded experiential learning, such as internships, job-shadowing, or mentorships?

Keep the Same35.9%

Add39.5%

Not Applicable15.9%

Reduce3.2%

Don’t Know5.5%

Do you expect to add, reduce or keep your workforce the same in the next 12 months?

Don’t Know16.5%

No21.8%

Yes61.7%

Do you support high speed passenger rail between the Twin Cities and Rochester?

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 12 ADVANTAGE 13

Ready or not – MN winter is on the way! Is your team and business ready for inclement weather?

Plan Does your Employee Handbook have an inclement weather policy? If not, does your business have any other document that informs employees what will happen in case of a weather emergency? Who is responsible for announcing business closures? Where are employees able to find that information?

Communicate How do you let team members know whether business is open or closed? Do you have a phone tree? Is contact information readily available? Is information up to date? Can you or do you leverage your website, social media, text or email to communicate weather-related decisions?

Employee Payment Talk with your legal counsel, human resources and payroll team to determine pay due to employees. This may be different based upon employee classification (exempt, non-exempt, union) and federal/state guidelines. For more Smart-HR insights, visit http://smart-hr.com/smart-hr-news/

Insight for business

ABLE MARKETING, LLC Aaron Louks(507) 461-1095

BRANDIX I3Aaron Epps(507) 722-1028www.brandixi3.com

BULLER, BRUCE Bruce Buller (507) 287-6707

CLARION INN Ashley Anderson (507) 288-1844www.clarionrochestermn.com

DAVIES PRINTING Tom Davies(507) 288-9297www.daviesprinting.com

ESSENCE SKIN CLINIC & MED SPAJennifer Sanneman (507) 285-5505 www.essenceskinclinic.com

FAMOUS DAVE’S Robert Chamberlain III (507) 282-4200www.famousdaves.com

FIREBRICK BREADStephan Jennebach (507) 732-4667 www.firebrickbread.com

GERRARD CORPORATIONPeter Gerrard (608) 782-4488 www.gerrardcompanies.com

LOCAL NEWSREEL

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com ADVANTAGE

LOCAL NEWS IN & ABOUT THE TOWN NEW MEMBERS

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SUBMIT A BUSINESS NEWS ITEMVisit RochesterMNChamber.com and click on the Member Center Marketing tab. Submission deadline: 10th of the month prior to month of publication.

ROCHESTER FRAMING & FINE ART PRINTING is delighted to announce that Valerie Becker has been recognized as a Master Certified Picture Framer by the Professional Picture Framers Association. There are fewer than 60 MCPF professionals world-wide and Valerie is the first recipient in Minnesota.The Master Certified Picture Framer is the most prestigious professional credential in the international framing community. It demonstrates an expert skill set at museum-level custom framing.

WIDSETH SMITH NOLTING hired Colin Eury to join the land surveying department of Widseth Smith Nolting’s Rochester office. Eury graduated from Lake Superior College in Duluth, MN, with an Associate of Applied Science in Civil Engineering and is currently completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Land Surveying at St. Cloud State University. As a Land Survey Technician at WSN, Eury is responsible for survey project management, construction staking, boundary surveys, topographic surveys, as-built/ALTA surveys, construction surveys, and CADD drafting.

CWS is excited to announce the addition of Tracy Lauritzen to the team as CWS’s Senior Digital Marketing Strategist. Tracy’s marketing experience and business savvy allow her to develop marketing strategies for clients including branding, messaging, digital and media placement. Previous experience includes: Ad agency consultant, sales management, media management and general management for B2B and Consumer products. She has already proven to be a remarkable asset to the team.

SAMARITAN BETHANY INC a senior care community serving Rochester since 1922, is pleased to announce that Dean Stenehjem has joined the organization as Development and Fundraising Leader. Dean will oversee the development office and has extensive experience in fundraising.

WARNERS’ STELLIAN APPLIANCE along with Make-A-Wish Foundation of Minnesota -- granted 13-year-old Eric’s wish to go on a Disney Cruise during a fun waffle breakfast enjoyed with local supporters and former wish families. This was Warners’ Stellian’s fourth wish granted. Following the wish reveal, Chamber staff arrived to welcome the Make-A-Wish as a member with a ribbon cutting at the appliance store, located next to Apache Mall.

INSTY-PRINTS ROCHESTER Lead Graphic Designer, Kay Gunderson, recently won an international calendar design competition sponsored by leading franchise network, Alliance Franchise Brands. Gunderson’s innovative design will be produced and displayed in the lobbies of Alliance Franchise Brand centers across North America. She also received a $1,500 cash prize. Gunderson has over seven years’ experience as a professional graphic designer, having worked for Insty-Prints for six years.

MARCO, INC. was named one of the top 50 Best Small & Medium Workplaces in the nation by Fortune Magazine. The Top 50 list, developed by independent research firm Great Place to Work, represents a broad variety of industries and locations. This national recognition follows seven honors Marco received this year for creating a culture that’s admired for its people and performance.

SHOREWOOD SENIOR CAMPUS received the Post Bulletin Readers Choice Award for Favorite Senior Living. Residents experience new and innovative approaches to health and wellness through on-site acupuncture, monthly lectures presented by RCTC’s LIFE Series, and dining on freshly prepared healthy meal options at the Shorewood Bistro. Residents experience vibrant and engaging lifestyles of independence, dignity, and care.

THE MINNESOTA SKYVAULT THEATRE COMPANY, the recently formed professional touring troupe of Words Players Theatre, received the award for best new act at Minnesota’s Renaissance Festival. Video of the event (9/27, at the Festival grounds in Shakopee) and presentation is at http://wordsplayers.smugmug.com/SkyVault/Renaissance-Festival-2014/20140927-Bottomless-Hat-Award/i-4K3cLrF/A

STANLEY JONES & ASSOCIATES is celebrating 30 years of business as a homecare agency and therapy clinic. Solely owned by women, SJA was originally established by two physical therapists. What started as a Medicare Certified homecare agency has expanded over the years to include a Medicare Outpatient Facility and numerous community and school based contracts.

SCHMIDT GOODMAN OFFICE PRODUCTS is celebrating 40 years as Rochester’s leading office furniture, design and installation source. We simply want to thank each and every incredible customer who has used our services throughout the years! We can assist in the coordination of a vibrant, thoughtful, healthy and effective space based on how you work.

NEW MEMBERS:welcome to our

HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTONDan Nelson(507) 251-6565www.homewoodrochester.com

J C WOOD COMPANY John Wood(507) 398-5252

MENSALON LLCShauna Anderson(507) 272-3832http://www.mensalonllc.com/

METROPOLITAN MARKET PLACE LLC SOUTHPeter Gerrard (507) 226-8335http://mmprochester.com/

NATURE’S BEST CLEANERSMike Suk(507) 281-5765www.naturesbestcleaners.net

NATURE’S BEST CLEANERS - 20TH AVE SWMike Suk(507) 529-7739www.naturesbestcleaners.net

NATURE’S BEST CLEANERS - 55TH ST NWMike Suk(507) 536-4049www.naturesbestcleaners.net

NATURE’S BEST CLEANERS - CROSSROADSMike Suk(507) 252-1755www.naturesbestcleaners.net

NATURE’S BEST CLEANERS - WELLNER DR NEMike Suk(507) 281-3489www.naturesbestcleaners.net

PLATINUM STUDIOS DANCE AND PAGEANTRY INC.Brittany Fenley (507) 923-6268 www.platinumstudiosdap.com

REALTY GROWTH, INC.Nick Pompeian(507) 289-8000www.rgi-group.com SILIPADA DESIGNS - RENAE SANDERRenae Sander(507) 250-1558www.lacrossescale.comwww.mysilipada.com/renae.sander1

SOUND AND MEDIA Nikki Johnson(507) 288-1177www.soundandmediasolutions.com SUPERIOR EXTERIORSBrandon Chandler(507) 316-3791www.superiorexteriorsmn.com TUXEDO PARK HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONPeggy Gray(608) 220-0359(507) 206-0974

Have you connected with the Chamber socially yet? Be sure to "like" our Facebook page, "follow" us on Twitter, and join our (members only!) LinkedIn Group! Click the icons on our website for the links.

Friend, Follow and Join Us

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 14 ADVANTAGE 15

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com the chamber ADVANTAGE14 15

Chamber Advantage USPS 446-900 is published monthly by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce at 220 S Broadway Ste 100 | Rochester, MN 55904 | Phone: 507-288-1122 | Issue #1 Volume #7 Periodical Postage paid at Rochester, Minnesota | Annual Subscription: $20 | Sue Reinke Walch, Chair of the Board | , Editor Laurie MonaPrinted by Johnson Printing | Postmaster: Send address changes to: Chamber Advantage, 220 S Broadway Ste 100, Rochester, MN 55904 or email: chamber@rochestermnchamber.com

MEMBERS:THANK YOU to these renewing members for their continued investment!

renewing

Achievement Therapy Services, LLCAdamson Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Lincoln-Mercury-Hyundai Ads & Art Allerganx Carpet and Upholstery CleaningAmerican Cancer Society Apache Mall (General Growth Properties) Appliance VillageArnold’s Supply & Kleenit Company Batteries Plus Bishop Management Co. Bouquet Companies Boys & Girls Club of Rochester Braun IntertecBullpen Wealth Advisors, LLCCady Business TechnologiesCascade Animal Medical Center Cascade Meadow Wetlands & Environmental Science Center CherryBerryCity Looks Salon & Spa College Nannies + Tutors Comfort Inn Cook’s PantryCronin Home, Inc. Danielle’s Consignment BoutiqueDigi Doodle Design Dunlap & Seeger, P.A. Edina Realty Home Services, Inc. Elcor Construction Ellingson Insurance Group, LLC

Encore Public Relations, LLC Fed Ex GroundFerguson Enterprises G & L Insurance Group Gary Kline Roofing, Inc. Gift of Life Transplant House GRAUC - Advocates for Public Higher Education Hair Studio 52 & Day Spa Heartman Insurance Hey! Original StorytellingHiawatha Homes Hiller’s Flooring America Holt Title Guaranty Company, Inc. Huber Eyecare Jeffrey D. Reimer, CPA Kentucky Fried Chicken Kwik Trip Lifetime Eye Care Lock Away Storage Company - N Lower Photography & Studio Macken Funeral Home March of DimesMaurices - Shoppes on Maine MEP Associates, LLC Michaels Restaurant MLT Group Nail Bar Beauty SalonNational Pawn Co. of Minnesota Northern Heights, North Townhouse Association Northern Valley Animal Clinic Northgate Fitness & Wellness Center

Norton, Kim Nova Academy of Cosmetology Novel Energy SolutionsO & B Shoes Athletic & Odds and Ends Bargain Room O’Brien & Wolf, L.L.P. Omni Environmental, Inc. Panera Bread Bakery Cafe - South Paper & Graphics, Inc. Paramark Corp. Personal Training with KTPinewood Estates Second Townhome Homeowners Assoc. Inc.

Planned Parenthood Servicing MN/SD/ND PMC Events & Travel Post-Bulletin Co., LLCPremier Security, Inc. Primrose School of RochesterProWeb 365 Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Homes Recover HealthRobert’s Specialty Co. Rochester Academy of Music, LLCRochester Central Lutheran School Rochester Convention & Visitors Bureau Rochester Indoor Golf Center Rochester International Youth Organization Rochester Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc. Roy Truelson Registered Patent Attorney

Ryan & Grinde, LTD Ryan Windows & Siding, Inc. Schott Distributing Co., Inc. Seneca Foods Sign Here, Inc. Smart-HRSmith Schafer & Associates, LTD Snyder, Bruce Somerby Golf Club Sontes State Farm Insurance - Sue Madden Agency Steve Yaggy Specialized Truck Services, Inc. Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated Member SIPC and NYSESuperior Mechanical Tailwind Group, Inc.The Homestead at RochesterThe Loop Bar & RestaurantThe UPS Store T-Mobile/MarketsourceTotal Image Hair Clinic Tyrol Ski and Sports University of Minnesota Rochester Virgil’s Inc. W. Mark Krupski Weis Builders, Inc. Wells Fargo Bank, NA - Rochester Main WellSpring Acupuncture Clinic Wilson Tibor & Maves, LTDZumbro Valley Mental Health Center

Chief SavingS OffiCer Develops money-saving strategies

using rebates.

Rebates are a prime way to

save your business energy

and money. Save now on

high-efficiency equipment

with our Rebates For Your

Business. And, save again

when you receive your

monthly energy bills. There

are many rebates available

from Minnesota Energy

Resources. Check it out!

A_ME04-0114 CI Rochester Newsletter Ad-Chief Savings Officer_Final.indd 1 8/15/14 8:23 AM

November 2014 | www.RochesterMNChamber.com 16

FINISHED WITH THE ADVANTAGE? PASS IT ON!

PeriodicalPostage

PAIDRochester, MN

ROUTE AROUND YOUR OFFICE

Get your money’s worth from your Chamber investment. Every employee in your firm is a member of the Chamber.

Please route to:

220 South Broadway, Suite 100 Rochester, MN 55904 P: 507-288-1122 F: 507-282-8960 www.RochesterMNChamber.com