CONNECTIONS A PUBLICATION BY THE EDEN PRAIRIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Vol. 47, Issue 12 | December 2016
THANK YOU 2016 ANNUAL SPONSORS!
ANNUAL MEETING 2016
SILVER SPONSOR
Join us for the 2016 Annual Meeting to review the Chamber’s accomplishments and strides in 2016, and look forward to our goals and strategies for growth in 2017.
BRONZE SPONSORS
We will also hear from Doug Loon, President of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Doug will discuss the upcoming legislative session that will begin the first week of January and the important aspects of the agenda for businesses. The conversation will also feature the survey work being done on issues facing our businesses in Minnesota. You can read more from Doug’s perspective on pertinent issues facing local businesses on page 3. This program will feature extended opportunities for networking—be sure to arrive at 11:30 AM to enjoy a full hour of networking with your fellow members. 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Networking 12:30 PM: Seated for lunch 12:45 PM: Message from Doug Loon, MN Chamber of Commerce 1:30 PM: Conclusion
GENERAL SPONSOR
Connect with the Chamber
DATE: Thursday, December 15, 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM LOCATION: Bearpath Golf & Country Club (18100 Bearpath Trail, Eden Prairie) COST: $30 for members, $60 for non-members “Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce”
@EPChamber
“Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce”
YOUR CONNECTION TO THE BUSINESS & COMMUNITY SINCE 1969
@EPChamber
LEADERSHIP
epchamber.org
A Message from the Chair of the Board of Directors By: Katie Misukanis, M.P.A. Government Relations Director, Rasmussen College As a political science major and Government Relations Director, I could not let the second best day of this year go by without recognition- election day, of course! While I am confident that I am one of less than 3% of the population who enjoys the build-up and anticipation of November 8th, I also would not be a good Board Chair to not recognize its significance. While I think we can all agree that this Presidential campaign is like none other we have seen and we all may be excited for it to be done, the ending result will impact all of us. The interesting thing is that the first U.S. Presidential election in 1789 was not a contested race, the citizens knew that George Washington was the best person to be our first President. It was not until 1820 that political parties started to have a profound impact on the process. Regardless of your political leanings, I encourage you all to take a moment to do research on the candidates and vote. I encourage you to know your issues—issues that impact your business, your family, your neighborhood—today and four years from now. I encourage you to look at the candidates’ websites, google their name to find out if there are forums or debates they participated in, go to the caucus and BPOU websites for more information, understand who endorsed them and how those organizations match with your needs. We live in a democracy and this is a fragile time for business. It is imperative that you exercise your right as an American to have a voice in who represents you.
SAVE THE DATE 2017
Thursday, Jan. 19: State of the City Luncheon Saturday, March 18: Home, Landscape & Garden Expo Friday, May 19: Twin Cities Young Professionals Summit Monday, June 5: Golf Tournament Saturday, Oct. 15: Gala 2017 Interested in hosting an After Hours event in 2017? Contact Audrianna at audrianna.schenck@epchamber.org or (952) 944-2830 for more details.
LEADERSHIP
epchamber.org
A Message from the President of the MN Chamber By: Doug Loon President, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Change swept the nation in this year’s elections as America woke up to a President Donald Trump in his upset victory over Hillary Clinton. Change propelled the shakeup in Minnesota’s political landscape, too, as Minnesotans affirmed their support for divided government. The Legislature is now firmly Republican. The executive branch remains Democrat under Governor Mark Dayton. Voters were also crystal clear about their expectations that the governor and Legislature will govern—that they will work together to develop, debate and pass solutions to our state’s most pressing problems. No stalemates. No stagnation. Our policymakers must use the experience of the last two years to build a record of progress that all Minnesotans will be proud of. The Minnesota Chamber and our local partners are ready to do our part. The election offers some key takeaways: • Personal economics were on Minnesotans minds—especially health care, but also economic growth and wage growth. Everyone wants to be a part of a growing economy. • Good candidates and hard work produce solid results. • The House and Senate are mirroring each other in the state’s political landscape. Democrats are being elected primarily in the urban core and are increasingly liberal; Republicans hail in primarily the outer ring suburbs and regional centers. • Republicans are making substantive gains in the suburbs that we have not seen for years. The Senate now stands at 34 Republicans and 33 Democrats, according to unofficial results. Two races are within the vote totals that trigger automatic recounts. Margins in the House are larger with 76 Republicans and 57 Democrats elected. In addition, one House seat remains unresolved; a special election is scheduled for February 14 for District 32B.
The Minnesota Chamber and our partners are ready to present, discuss and help pass solutions that will accelerate the development and growth of our statewide economy. Our annual Minnesota Business Benchmarks provides an excellent springboard for our legislative agenda. Our top priorities for 2017 are: • Reduce business taxes that undermine growth, entrepreneurship and expansion of Minnesota businesses • Pass long-term, comprehensive transportation package that increases investment in the state’s multimodal infrastructure. • Allow flexibility in workplace regulations and oppose one-size-fits-all mandates; pass statewide pre-emption of local labor mandates. • Provide employers with more options and greater flexibility in providing health care coverage for employees. The election provides the political landscape for the 2017 Legislature. The budget forecast will set the financial parameters. The 2016 Legislature adjourned with a $729 million surplus for FY 2016/17 which will likely change in the December 2 report. We are most effective at the Capitol when we build relationships and elect legislators who understand business issues. That’s why the Minnesota Chamber works year-round to recruit and elect pro-business leaders regardless of political affiliation. We’re pleased with our results. Our Leadership Fund PAC was victorious in 70 of 77 House contests and 32 of 39 in Senate contests. The 2017 Legislature convenes January 4, and our work has already begun. The election results are shaping our 2017 proposals. Now, policymakers and business leaders must work collectively to adopt them. That way we will be ready for the future— ready for change and ready to grow.
“Connections” (USPS 729770) is published 12 times per calendar year by the Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce, 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Periodicals postage paid at Prior Lake, MN - POSTMASTER: Send address changes to “Connections,” 11455 Viking Dr. #270, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
NETWORKING
www.epchamber.org
LOOKING BACK: EVENTS EVENTS IN LOOKING BACK: INDECEMBER DECEMBER WHAT’S HAPPENING IN DECEMBER? To register for these events and more, log on to epchamber.org/events.asp
Beers with B.E.E.R.S. The very-popular Beers with B.E.E.R.S. is back for 2016! Network and create connections with members of five different Chambers (Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, Richfield and SouthWest Metro) while you sample micro-brewed beers from local breweries. Try them all and help us crown the “Best Chamber Beer” Award! See the included flyer for participating breweries and more details. DATE: Thursday, December 1, 4:30 - 6:30 PM LOCATION: The Prairie Pub inside Brunswick Zone XL (12200 Singletree Lane, Eden Prairie) COST: $20 for members, $30 for non-members
Women’s Networking Chop & Sip After Hours Join us for a fun end to Women’s Networking events for 2016 with a holiday After Hours event! We will be teaming up to learn some simple holiday appetizer and small plate recipes from Abby Randall, Owner and Head Chef of The Tomato Vine. Everyone will get a chance to prepare the recipes, while meeting the other attendees at your table. You will then have plenty of time to network and mingle as you munch on your creations. Complimentary wine will be provided by the Warehouse Winery of St. Louis Park. Plus, every attendee will go home with a copy of the recipes created that evening. Interested in getting involved with the Women’s Networking group in 2017? Contact Sarah at sarah.ober@epchamber.org for leadership and annual sponsorship opportunities.
Thank you to our 2016 Women’s Networking Annual Sponsors:
DATE: Tuesday, December 6, 3:30 - 5 PM LOCATION: Martin Blu Apartments (14301 Martin Dr, Eden Prairie) COST: $12 for members, $17 for non-members
Business@Breakfast Do you feel like you are hitting a plateau in your goals as you near the end of the year? Don’t let the holiday season negatively affect your business! Attend Business@Breakfast to make new connections and start the conversation with potential clients. Every attendee has the chance to give a 60-second introduction about their business and services, and one member will give a featured 10-minute presentation. There’s plenty of time for one-on-one networking and to enjoy a hot, delicious breakfast. DATE: Wednesdays, 7:30 - 8:30 AM (NO B@B on Wednesday, December 21 and 28) LOCATION: Tavern 4 & 5 (16396 Wagner Way, Eden Prairie) COST: $12 for members, $17 for non-members
www.epchamber.org
Get involved in 2017
NETWORKING
Joining a Chamber committee is a great way to maximize your membership. Whether your priority is serving as a voice for your business in public policy issues or you want to help build your brand as an Ambassador, there’s a committee for you.
Ambassador Committee The Ambassador Committee is the face of the Chamber in the community. They welcome and mentor new members to the Chamber, celebrate ribbon cutting ceremonies for new businesses in the community, and actively attend Chamber events. If you are looking to jump in and meet as many new and existing members as possible, this is the committee for you. Gala Committee The Gala Committee assists the staff in planning and executing the Chamber’s largest annual fundraiser. Members can take on many roles within this committee—from creative brainstorming, decorations, sponsorships, silent and live auction items and more. This committee typically meets as needed, then more frequently leading up to the Gala. If you have a creative mind or are looking to leverage your connections in and outside of the Eden Prairie business community, this is the committee for you. Golf Committee The Golf Committee assists the staff in planning and executing the Chamber’s annual Golf Tournament. The committee members can take on various roles including securing sponsorships and auction items, brainstorming fun initiatives and aspects of the day’s agenda, and recruiting golfers. They also assist at the event as needed. If you love golf (player or not!), want to meet fellow members and have a large presence at this annual event, this committee is for you. Public Policy Committee The Public Policy Committee works to discuss the issues our local businesses are facing and to grow the influence of the Eden Prairie business community through proactive advocacy and thoughtful public policy initiatives. They meet with and influence the people who are forming current policy and future legislation at the local, state and federal levels. If you have a comprehensive sense of the issues local businesses face and are passionate about leading positive change and growth, this is the committee for you. Recognition Committee The Recognition Committee works to identify exceptional programs and individuals in the educational and business systems for the Chamber’s recognition and scholarship awards. The Chamber grants seven awards and scholarships every year, and this committee helps to select the deserving recipients.This committee mostly meets virutally so it is lower committment. If you are passionate about recogizing excellence in our community, this is the committee for you. Super Bowl Committee The Super Bowl Committee focuses on Super Bowl LII and how to best leverage Eden Prairie as a destination marketplace for the millions of visitors that will be in the Twin Cities during winter 2018. If you like to think big or want to promote Eden Prairie as destination city, this committee is for you. Workforce Development Committee The Workforce Development Committee works to identify talent attraction issues and address those issues in innovative, tactful ways. They work with local schools to provide career development programs for the future leaders of the community including the annual Eden Prairie High School Career Fair. If you are passionate about recruiting the best talent to Eden Prairie and collaborating with fellow business leaders on workforce issues, this committee is for you. Young Professionals Summit Board The Twin Cities Young Professionals Board assists the staff in the brainstorming, planning and execution of the annual Twin Cities Young Professionals Summit. The board also contributes to the development of the theme each year and possible speakers for the event. If you are a young professional looking to get more involved and grow your leadership skills, this board is for you. If you’d like to nominate a young professional for this board, please contact Audrianna at
Ready to increase your influence and maximize your membership with the Chamber? Let us know on our Committee Interest form found at epchamber.org/join.asp.
MEMBERSHIP
www.epchamber.org
LOOKING BACK: IN DECEMBER NOVEMBER LOOKING BACK:EVENTS EVENTS IN LOOKING BACK: EVENTS INDECEMBER Missed an event?
You can see all of the pictures and additional information on our Facebook page: Facebook.com/EdenPrairieChamber/
Career Fair 2016
S.W.E.EP. Expo
The annual Eden Prairie Career Fair was Oct. 25 at Eden Prairie High School. We welcomed hundreds of high school students to meet with local business leaders to explore possible career paths. Thank you to all the businesses that participated in providing this opportunity to local students!
We partnered with the SouthWest Metro, Waconia and Excelsior Chambers of Commerce to bring back the annual SWEEP Expo on October 27 at Oak Ridge Hotel & Conference Center. Over 110 attendees came out to browse the many exhibitor tables to expand their network and make new contacts in the four chambers.
B.E.E.R. Luncheon
ATHENA Luncheon
November’s B.E.E.R. luncheon focused on the saturation of technology in today’s business economy. Thank you to the great speakers and all who attended!
The annual ATHENA luncheon was Nov. 10 at Grace Church. We presented the 2016 ATHENA Leadership Award to Tina Outlaw of Anagram International and heard a featured presentation by Dr. Barbara Butts Williams of Capella University.
www.epchamber.org
MEMBERSHIP
New Members Welcome to the Chamber! Profit Plus Accounts Midwest 19410 Foxfield Drive Prior Lake, MN 55372 (952) 737-9989 www.profitplusaccounts.com
Styles & Statements
Great Western Bank 3601 Minnesota Drive Bloomington, MN 55435 (952) 562-5993 www.greatwesternbank.com Fortune Financial 10261 Yellow Circle Drive Minnetonka, MN 55343 (952) 908-2506 www.fortunefin.com
Principal
Site Visits & Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies Congratulations to these Chamber members who recently celebrated an opening or re-location.
Arbonne International
AT&T - Eden Prairie
Ambassador of the Month
Roberta Fernandez The FARE Hypnosis Center
Fieldstone Architecture & Engineering
Our Ambassador Committee is a group of volunteers who serve as mentors to new members and act as good-will ambassadors on behalf of the Chamber.
This is a publication of the Eden Prairie Chamber of Commerce
11455 Viking Dr, #270 Eden Prairie, MN 55344
P: (952) 944-2830 F: (952) 944-0229
www.epchamber.org
PERIODICALS US POSTAGE PAID PRIOR LAKE, MN USPS#729770
DECEMBER 2016 - Calendar of Events Monday 28
Tuesday 29
5
6
Wednesday
Thursday
30
1
Business@Breakfast: Cultivating Connections Series 7:30 - 8:30 AM Tavern 4 & 5
Beers with B.E.E.R.S. 4:30 - 6:30 PM Brunswick Zone XL
7
8
Women’s Networking Chop & Business@Breakfast Sip After Hours 7:30 - 8:30 AM 3:30 - 5 PM Tavern 4 & 5 Martin Blu
12
13
19
20
Friday 2
9 Chamber 202: Maximize your Membership 8 - 9 AM Chamber office
14
15
Business@Breakfast: Cultivating Connections Series 7:30 - 8:30 AM Tavern 4 & 5
Annual Meeting 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM Bearpath Golf & Country Club
21
22
16
23 CHAMBER OFFICE CLOSED
26
27
28
29
30
CHAMBER OFFICE CLOSED
PLEASE RSVP/Cancel FOR ALL EVENTS BY 12 PM THE DAY PRIOR! Visit epchamber.org to view details, pricing or to RSVP today!